Within the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan area are four separate Planning Areas, each of which is described below. See Figure 3, Planning Areas. Each Planning Area has a special character which is addressed in regard to policy and development standards. Within each Planning Area, zoning regulations reflect the desired character and use of the area, with standards that may differ from the current citywide zoning regulations.
Each of the four Planning Areas is described below, but in general:
Planning Area
Current Use/Future Character
1
Residential, small scale commercial and office use.
2
Both large and small scale commercial and office use.
3
Primarily small scale commercial and office use.
4
Primarily residential with small scale commercial and office use.
_CSP--Image-3.tif
3.1.1 
Planning Area 1 (PA 1)
Planning Area 1 is roughly bound by Mozart Avenue on the north, Montgomery Avenue on the east, Birmingham Drive on the south, and San Elijo Avenue on the west.
Single and multi-family housing, professional and administrative offices, and restaurants define this Planning Area. In the future, each use is expected to occupy approximately the same general area as it did in 2006. Residential uses are expected to cluster in the northern portion of the Planning Area with general commercial uses along San Elijo Avenue. Office uses will remain along Birmingham Drive.
Retail and restaurant activities are especially appropriate along the southern portion of San Elijo Avenue, due to open views to the ocean which appeal to both residents and visitors.
3.1.2 
Planning Area 2 (PA 2)
Planning Area 2 is bound by Birmingham Drive on the north, the alley between Newcastle Avenue and Manchester Avenue on the east, Liverpool Drive on the south, and San Elijo Avenue on the west. It includes the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Town Center and the narrow block east of the Town Center.
The scale and bulk of the Town Center is significantly larger than other structures in the area, making it a dominant visual feature. The Town Center is similar in layout to shopping centers found in older suburban communities, with its large surface parking lot adjacent to the street, high visibility from passing vehicles, and limited though highly organized landscaping. Buildings are clustered at the eastern portion of the site. Pathways surrounding the perimeter of the shopping center are contiguous, straight, and except for curb cuts, encompass the entire block.
In the future, shop entrances, pedestrian passageways, and other physical changes along the east side of the Town Center site are encouraged to connect Newcastle Avenue to the Town Center. The intention is to more fully integrate uses along Newcastle Avenue with the Town Center, enliven the Newcastle Avenue frontage, and enhance pedestrian access to the Town Center. New commercial activity along the east side of the Town Center site can include store entrances and additional passageways.
3.1.3 
Planning Area 3 (PA 3)
Planning Area 3 is bound by Liverpool Drive on the north, the alley between Newcastle Avenue and Manchester Drive on the east, Chesterfield Drive on the south, and San Elijo Avenue on the west.
PA 3 epitomizes the unexpected character valued by the Cardiff-by-the-Sea community. Inconsistency in architecture styles, site planning, landscaping, and streetscape is a definable area feature and is considered a distinctive asset. All development should encourage and engage pedestrian traffic.
3.1.4 
Planning Area 4 (PA 4)
Planning Area 4 is bound by Chesterfield Drive on the north, the alley between Newcastle Avenue and Manchester Drive on the east, Orinda Drive on the south, and San Elijo Avenue on the west.
This Planning Area functions as a transition between the residential area to the south and the commercial area to the north and is expected to continue in the same role in the future. More than half the area is developed residentially, with general commercial occupying the balance of PA 4.
3.2.1 
General Provisions
The general provisions of Chapter 30.01 of Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code shall apply.
3.2.2 
Definitions
Except as contained in this Specific Plan, the definitions of Chapter 30.04 of Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code shall apply.
3.2.3 
Urban Agriculture
Chapter 30.33 (Urban Agriculture) of Title 30 of the Municipal Code shall be incorporated by reference into the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan.
3.2.4 
Reasonable Accommodation
Chapter 30.86 (Reasonable Accommodation) of Title 30 of the Municipal Code shall be incorporated by reference into the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan.
3.2.5 
Planning Areas and Zones
3.2.6 
Zones and Development Standards
_CSP--Image-4.tif
Planning Area
Zone Designation*
PA 1
C-R-11
Cardiff – Residential 11
C-GC-1
Cardiff – General Commercial 1
C-OP
Cardiff – Office Professional
PA 2
C-GC-1
Cardiff – General Commercial 1
C-GC-2
Cardiff – General Commercial 2
PA 3
C-GC-1
Cardiff – General Commercial 1
C-GC-2
Cardiff – General Commercial 2
PA 4
C-GC-1
Cardiff – General Commercial 1
C-GC-2
Cardiff – General Commercial 2
C-R-11
Cardiff – Residential 11
* A "C" precedes the zone code designations in order to distinguish properties within the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan area.
Zone Designation
Summary Characteristics
C-R-11
Residential-11 du/ac
This zone is intended to provide for residential development including single-family detached and attached housing, and multi-family housing. The planned density is 8.01 to 11 dwelling units per net acre.
C-OP
Office Professional
This zone is intended to provide primarily for the development of professional and administrative offices, with some accessory retail and service uses.
Office Element: Permits the development of professional and administrative offices, with some accessory and service uses.
Commercial Element: Permits the development of retail commercial uses and services as an element within an office project.
C-GC-1
General Commercial 1
This zone is intended to create a primarily retail commercial district.
Commercial Element: Permits the development of retail commercial activities and services as ground floor and/or upper level uses.
Office Element: Permits development of professional and administrative offices in a retail property. With the exceptions listed in the Zoning Use Matrix (Table 3-1).
C-GC-2
General Commercial 2
This zone is intended to create a retail commercial and office professional district. Retail commercial and office uses may occupy the same or separate structures.
Commercial Element: Permits the development of retail commercial activities and services as ground floor and/or upper level uses.
Office Element: Permits the development of professional and administrative offices as ground floor and/or upper level uses.
3.2.5 Zones and Development Standards
In order to classify, designate, regulate and restrict the uses of land, buildings, and other structures to achieve the purposes of this Specific Plan and of the General Plan of the City of Encinitas, the zones and development standards described in the following sections were established. The development standards are minimum unless otherwise stated.
A. 
Permitted, Conditionally-Permitted and Prohibited Uses - General
Only those uses listed in Table 3-1 shall be permitted in the zones identified. Uses are designated as permitted, conditionally permitted (a minor or major use permit may be required) or as secondary, ancillary, or accessory to a principal use. Uses are also limited in regard to ground or upper floor location in order to maintain and enhance a pedestrian-oriented environment and economically viable down-town. Table 3-1 also identifies prohibited uses in certain zones. In addition, agricultural uses are permitted in accordance with Chapter 30.33 (Urban Agriculture) of the Encinitas Municipal Code. All other uses not listed in Table 3-1 are expressly prohibited. Except however, in the event a use is not specifically permitted within a zone but is similar in character to a use which is listed, a determination of allowable use may be applied for as per Municipal Code Section 30.01.030.
TABLE 3-1
Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan Area Zoning Matrix - Use Comparison
P = Permitted by Right
P 1 = Permitted on ground floor only
Cm 2 = Upper floor only
C = Major Conditional Use Permit
P 2 = Upper floor only
A = Ancillary (see EMC 30.04)
Cm = Minor Conditional Use Permit
C 2 = Upper floor only
X = Prohibited
Use
ZONE
Notes
C-R-11
C-OP
C-GC-1
C-GC-2
Acupuncture (Ord. 2015-01)
X
P
P
P
 
Alcoholic Beverage, Sales-off premises (Ord. 91-03)
X
X
P
X
 
Antique Sales, Retail
X
X
P*
P*
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08
Appliance Sales & Repairs (Household & Small Appliances)
X
X
P
P
 
Aquarium, Comm.
X
X
P
P
 
Arcade Accessory (Non-Adult)
X
X
P*
P*
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08. Only when accessory to permitted primary use.
Art Gallery
X
X
P
P
 
Artisan/Craftsman (Sales & Studio)
X
X
P
P
 
Auction House
X
X
Cm*
Cm*
* Requires operations permit as per Chapter 6.08
Bakery (Retail)
X
A
P*
P*
* Ancillary wholesaling allowed
Bank/Savings & Loan
X
P
P
P
 
Barber & Beauty Shop (Cosmetologist)
X
A
P
P
 
Bed & Breakfast
Cm
X
X
Cm
 
Bicycle Sales, Rental & Service
X
X
P
P
 
Billiard, Pool Hall
X
X
P*
X
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08
Blueprinting & Photostatting
X
P
P
P
 
Bookbinding
X
X
P
P
 
Book Sales
X
P
P
P
 
Bowling Alley
X
X
P1
X
 
Building Materials Sales Enclosed
X
X
P*
P*
* Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Candle Shop
X
X
P*
P*
* Ancillary manufacturing allowed
Candy & Confectionery Sales
X
X
P*
P
* Ancillary manufacturing allowed
Cannabis - Retailer
X
X
P
P
See Chapter 9.25 of the Municipal Code for specific provisions on cannabis and hemp-related uses.
Catering Service
X
X
P
P
 
Chiropractor (Ord. 2015-01)
X
P
P
P
 
Clothing Rental
X
X
P
P
 
Club, Private
X
C
Cm
C
 
Club, Athletic or Recreational
X
C
Cm
C
 
Club, with Alcohol Sales
X
X
C
C
 
Coins & Stamps, Purchase and Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Computer Sales & Service
X
X
P
P
 
Conservatory of Music
X
X
P
P
 
Convenience Store
X
X
P
P
 
Convent and Monastery
C
X
X
X
 
Cosmetic Design Studio
X
A
P
P
 
Costume Rentals
X
X
P
P
 
Cottage Food Operations (Ord. 2015-01)
P*
X
X
P*
*Accessory to a residential use per EC 30.48.040L
Courts, Commercial (Badminton, Tennis, Racquetball, Others)
X
C
Cm
Cm
 
Co-Working Space
X
P
P
P
 
Custom Manufacturing (Ord. 91-103)
X
X
P
Cm
 
Day Care Center
Cm
Cm
Cm
Cm
 
Dance Hall
X
X
P*
P*
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08
Delicatessen
X
A
P
P
 
Dental Clinic
X
P*
P*
P*
*Includes Dental Clinic, Canine/Feline (Ord. 2015-01)
Dressmaking Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Drug Store
X
X
P*
P*
* Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Dry Cleaning, Retail and self-service w/on site cleaning permitted
X
X
P
P
 
Dwelling Unit, Caretaker-Accessory to the principal use. (Ord. 97-17)
P
X
P2*/**
P2*/**
*Permitted as accessory use in conjunction with a Major or Minor Use
Permit. (Ord. 97-17)
**Not permitted within coastal zone ecological resource areas
Dwelling Unit(s), One-Family and Multi-Family
P
X
X
X
 
Education Institution, Private
X
C
C
C
 
Educational Institution, Public (Ord. 95.04)
X
P
P
P
 
Electrical Distribution Substation
C
C
C
C
 
Electrical Transmission Substation
X
C
C
C
 
Employment Agency
X
P
P
P
 
Family Day Care Home, Large (Seven to 12 children. 13+ children See Day Care Center)(Ord. 92-28)
P*
P*
P*
P*
*Accessory to a single-family home
Family Day Care Home, Small (Six or fewer children) (Ord. 92-28)
P
P
P
P
 
Family Day Care Home, Small (Six or fewer children) (Ord. 92-28)
 
 
 
 
 
Farmers' Market
X
X
A
A
 
Finance Company
X
P
P
P
 
Fire Prevention Equipment, Sales and Service
X
X
P
P
 
Fire Station
Cm
P
P
P
 
Floor Covering, Retail
X
X
P
P
 
Florist Shop
X
A
P
P
 
Furniture Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Garage, Public Parking
X
C
C
C
 
Garden Supplies
X
X
P
P
 
Gem/Precious Stone Retail
X
X
P
P
 
Gift Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Glass and Mirrors, Retail
X
X
P
P
 
Grocery Store
X
X
P*
P*
* Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Glass Edging and Beveling
X
X
P
P
 
Glass Studio (Stained and others)
X
X
P
P
 
Group Exercise (including but not limited to dance studio, yoga, martial arts, Pilates or other similar group exercise class) (Ord. 2015-01)
X
Cm
P
P
 
Group Residential (Ord. 2005-03)
C
X
X
X
See Section 3.5 regarding residential use limitations in this zone.
Gymnasium, Public Health Club
X
Cm
Cm
C
 
Hair Salon (Ord. 91-03)
X
A
P
P
 
Hardware Store
X
X
P*
P*
*Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Hat Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Health Food Store
X
X
P*
P*
*Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Hobby Supply Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Home & Business Maintenance Service
X
X
P
P
 
Home Occupations
P*
X
X
P*
*Accessory to a residential use per EMC 30.48.040 (L)
Hotel
X
X
C
C
 
Ice Cream Parlor
X
A
P
P
 
Ice Sales, Storage and Retail
X
X
P
P
 
Interior Decorating Service
X
P
P
P
 
Janitorial Supplies/Sale
X
X
P
P
 
Jewelry Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Laboratories (medical, dental)
X
P
C
X
 
Laboratories (biochemical, film, other)
X
X
Cm
Cm
 
Lapidary Shop, Retail (Gems)
X
X
P
P
 
Laundry
X
X
P
P
 
Laundromat
X
X
P
P
 
Library
C
P
P
P
 
Locksmith
X
X
P
P
 
Mail Order House
X
P
P
P
 
Market (food)
X
X
P*
P*
* Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require Major Use Permit.
Medical Equipment Sales
X
C
P
P
 
Medical/Dental Office
X
P
P
P
 
Medical/Dental Clinic
X
P
P
P
 
Mobile Home (including dwelling unit)
P
X
X
X
 
Motel
X
X
C
C
24-hour on-site management required.
Motor Vehicle Parts Store
X
X
P
X
 
Music/Record Store
X
X
P
P
 
Museum (Ord. 95-04)
X
Cm
P
P
 
Newsstand
X
A
P
P
 
Nurseries, Horticultural
X
Cm
Cm
X
 
Office (Business and Professional)
X
P
P2
P
 
Office Equipment/Supplies Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Optical Products Sales
X
P
P
P
 
Orthopedic Devices Sales
X
P
P
P
 
Outdoor Sales (Ord. 91-03)
X
X
Cm
Cm
 
Paper Product Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Parcel Delivery Service Office Only
X
P
P
P
 
Parking Lot, Commercial
X
C
C
C
*Amended Ord. 90-12
Parks and Recreational Areas (Ord. 95-04)
X
Cm
Cm
Cm
 
Pawnshop
X
X
Cm*
X
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08
Pet Shop/Pet Grooming
X
X
P
P
 
Pharmacy
X
Cm
P
P
 
Photocopy Shop
X
A
P
P
 
Photoengraving & Finishing
X
X
P
P
 
Photofinishing, Retail
X
X
P
P
 
Photographic Supplies
X
X
P
P
 
Photographic Studio
X
P
P
P
 
Police/Sheriff Station/Jail
X
C
C
C
 
Post Office
X
P
P
P
 
Postal Annex, Private Ownership
X
P
P
P
 
Pottery Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Printing
X
P
P
P
 
Public Utilities: Office
X
P
P2
P
 
Qualified Employee Housing – Seven Employees or More
P*
X
X
X
*Permitted as an accessory use in conjunction with an approved agricultural use. See EMC Section 30.48.040R for specific requirements
Qualified Employee Housing – Six Employees or Fewer
P*
X
X
X
*Shall be deemed a single-family residence and subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone.
Radio/Television Broadcasting Studio
X
C
C
C
 
Radio/Television Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Radio/Television Transmitter
X
C
C
C
 
Real Estate Office
X
P
P
P
 
Recording Studio
X
Cm
Cm
Cm
 
Recreational Facilities (Private / Public)
X
C
Cm
Cm
 
Religious Institution
C
C
C
C
 
Residential Care, limited (6 or fewer)
P
X
X
X
 
Residential Case, general (7 or more)
C
X
X
X
 
Restaurant – No Alcohol Sales. (Ord. 97-17)
X
P*/**
P*/**
P*/**
*Permitted as an accessory use up to 10% of leasable sq. ft. of an office development, not to exceed 1,500 sq. ft. unless approved by a Minor Use Permit.
** Outdoor dining permitted with Design Review Permit.
Restaurant - With Alcohol Sales. (Ord. 97-17)
X
Cm*/**
Cm**
Cm**
*Conditionally permitted as an accessory use up to 10% of leasable sq. ft. of an office development, not to exceed 1,500 sq. ft. unless approved by a Minor Use Permit.
**Outdoor dining permitted on private property with Design Review Permit. On public right-of-way, see "Sidewalk Dining."
Retail Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Schools Private: (Elem., Jr. High, H.S.)
X
C
C
C
 
Schools Public (Ord. 95-04)
X
P
P
P
 
Schools, Technical
X
C
C
C
 
Scientific Instruments Sales
X
C
P
P
 
Second Hand Store
X
X
P*
P*
* Requires Operations Permit per EMC Chapter 6.08
Shoe Repair/Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Sidewalk Dining
X
X
P*
P*
* Encroachment Permit required, no alcohol permitted.
Silk Screen Printing Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Sign Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Single Room Occupancy Housing
P*
X
X
X
* Single room occupancy housing is subject to all municipal codes, regulations and other standards generally applicable to multiple-family residential buildings in the same zone and specific standards per EMC Section 30.16.050.
Small Animal Hospital
X
X
Cm
Cm
 
Sporting Goods Sales
X
X
P*
P*
* Total floor area greater than 20,000 square feet shall require a Major Use Permit
Stationery Store
X
A
P
P
 
Supportive Housing
P*
X
X
X
*Supportive Housing is a residential use and is subject to only those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone.
Surf Shop Recreational Retail/Rental
X
X
P
P
Incidental repair with Cm
Swimming Pool Supplies/Equipment Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Tailor Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Telephone Answering Service
X
P
P
P
 
Theaters and Places of Public Assembly (Ord. 95-04)
X
X
C
X
 
Title Sales
X
X
P
P
 
Transient Habitation (Ord. 91.03)
X
X
C
C
24-hour on-site management required.
Transitional Housing
P*
X
X
X
*Transitional Housing is a residential use and is subject to only those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone.
Tutoring Center (Ord. 2015-01)
X
Cm
Cm
Cm
 
Utility Lines-Sewer, Gas, Petroleum, Telephone, Elec.
P
P
P
P
 
Vending Machine Sales and Service
X
X
P
P
 
Veterinarian
X
Cm
P
P
 
Video Production Studio
X
Cm
Cm
Cm
 
Video Sales & Rentals
X
X
P
P
 
Wearing Apparel Shop
X
X
P
P
 
Wholesale Business
X
X
Cm
Cm
 
Wine Bar
X
X
Cm
Cm
 
Wireless Communication Facilities
C*
P/C*
P/C*
P/C*
*See EMC Chapter 9.70 for specific requirements
Wood Prod. Sales Retail
X
X
P
P
 
(Ord. 2016-08; Ord. 2017-03; Ord. 2019-14; Ord. 2019-15; Ord. 2019-16; Ord. 2021-04)
3.3.1 
Description of Zone
A. 
Zone: Residential 11 (C-R-11)
This zone is intended to provide for residential development including detached or attached single-family housing and multi-family housing. Maximum density is 11 dwelling units per net acre. Mid-range density is 9.5 dwelling units per net acre. Except as otherwise specified herein, all provisions of Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code applicable to the R-11 zone shall apply to the C-R-11 zone.
3.3.2 
Permitted, Conditionally Permitted, and Prohibited Uses
For permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses in the C-R-11 zone, see Table 3-1 above.
3.4.1 
Description of Zones
A. 
Zone: Office Professional (C-OP)
C-OP is intended to provide professional and administrative offices, with some accessory and service uses, which are generally permitted by right and may occur within any structure, whether at the ground or upper levels. Retail commercial uses and services may occur as an element within an office project.
B. 
Zone: General Commercial1 (C-GC-1)
C-GC-1 is intended to create a primarily retail commercial district with professional and administrative offices. The zone permits a variety of development opportunities including retail commercial activities and services as ground floor, upper level, or stand-alone uses; professional and administrative offices. This zone is intended to accommodate citywide and community needs as well as business and recreational visitors.
C. 
Zone: General Commercial 2 (C-GC-2)
C-GC-2 is intended to create a primarily retail commercial and office professional district. Retail commercial and office uses are permitted in the same or separate structures and may occupy any floor.
3.4.2 
Permitted, Conditionally Permitted, and Prohibited Uses
For permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses in the C-OP, C-GC-1, and C-GC-2 zones, see Table 3-1 above.
The development standards contained in this Specific Plan consist of three parts: a) zone-specific standards controlling land use density and intensity, and structure height; b) planning area-specific overlay requirements controlling lot configuration and structure siting; and c) other site planning requirements such as access, circulation and parking, building design and use, landscaping, lighting, and the like.
Table 3-2 below summarizes development standards, followed by detailed discussion and illustration of all development standards in this Specific Plan. The development standards described herein shall apply to all new development within the Specific Plan area. Unless otherwise indicated, the development standards below apply to all zones and planning areas in the Specific Plan area. Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code standards shall apply when referenced. If there is a conflict between the development standards of this Specific Plan and Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code, the development standards of this Specific Plan supersede.
TABLE 3-2 ZONE SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARD SUMMARY
ZONE
C-R-11
C-OP
C-GC-2
C-GC-1
Residential Density (dwelling units/net acre)
9.5 mid-range 11 max.
n/a
n/a
n/a
Residential Restrictions
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Residential Location restriction
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Lot Coverage
40%
40%
30%
30%
Floor Area Ratio
0.6/0.51
.75
0. 62
0.62
Building Height
22 ft./26 ft., per Section 30.16.010.B.6, Title 30 of the Municipal Code
18 ft.2 30 ft. or two stories, whichever is less
18 ft.2 30 ft. or two stories, whichever is less
18 ft.2 30 ft. or two stories, whichever is less
Lot Configuration—Minimum (Section 3.5)
Net Lot Area7
3,950 s.f.
5,000 s.f.
5,000 s.f.
5,000 s.f.
Width
40 ft.
50 ft.
50 ft.
50 ft.
Depth
90 ft.
100 ft.
100 ft.
100 ft.
Building Setbacks—Minimum (Section 3.5.2)
Front
20 ft.
20 ft.
10/20 ft.3
0/10/20 ft.3
Side Yard, Interior
5/0-5 ft.4
0-10 ft.5, 6
0-10 ft.5
0-10 ft.5, 6
Side Yard, Street
10 ft.
20 ft.
0/10/20 ft.3
10/20 ft.3
Rear
20 ft.
5 ft.6
5 ft.3
5/20 ft3, 6
Alley
20 ft.
5 ft.
5 ft.
5 ft.
Stepbacks (Section 3.5.2)
Second Floor only
n/a
n/a
10/20 ft.3, 8
10/20 ft.3, 8
Corner Setbacks—Minimum (Section 3.5.2)
Primary San Elijo Ave.
20 ft.
20 ft.
20 ft.
20 ft.
Secondary Newcastle Ave. Alleys at Newcastle, Liverpool, Aberdeen, and Chesterfield
10 ft.
10 ft.
10 ft.
10 ft.
1
FAR of 0.5 for substandard lots refers to a lot that does not meet the minimum standards for lot area.
2
The following are incentives for 1-story development:
 
a.
18 ft. height limit for 1-story structures with an additional 2 ft. in height permitted for 20% of the façade (on the front of the building) for exceptional architectural details.
 
b.
60% Lot Coverage and 0.6 FAR with an additional 0.10 FAR permitted for lofts or open patios.
3
See Figure 5, for front, rear and street side yard setbacks and stepbacks.
4
For zero lot line development, a 5 ft. minimum side yard setback is required for one side yard with a zero side yard setback where the two units have common units.
5
Interior side yard setbacks shall be determined through Design Review and based on existing on and off-site conditions, prevailing commercial district character, project building and site design, and traffic/circulation.
6
A minimum setback of 25 ft. shall be required whenever a lot in a general commercial 1 or office professional zone abuts a lot in any residential zone.
7
The resulting size of lot consolidations proposed after the adoption date of this Specific Plan, shall be limited to a maximum of 10,000 square feet.
8
Stepbacks shall apply to 50% of the front building face to allow for variation in building massing.
3.5.1 
Land Use Density, Intensity and Building Height
A. 
Density
Residential densities for the residential zone shall be as specified in Table 3-2 above, and shall be calculated pursuant to Section 30.16.010.B (1) and (2) of the Encinitas Municipal Code. Mid-range density requirements of the Encinitas Municipal Code shall apply to the C-R-11 zone.
B. 
Intensity
For all zones, Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio limits shall be as specified in Table 3-2 above.
C. 
Height
In all zones, the maximum height shall be as specified in Table 3-2 above. (amended 1/13)
3.5.2 
Overlay Requirements
The provisions, restrictions, and requirements of the following overlays apply in addition to site-specific zoning established under this Specific Plan. See Figure 5, Setbacks & Stepbacks.
A. 
Setback and Lot Dimension Overlay.
The Setback and Lot Dimension Overlay is intended to recognize that different standards must apply in different Planning Areas based on community objectives. Minimum lot size, dimensions, and setbacks vary by Planning Area in order to reinforce the desirable characteristics of the existing development pattern, encourage more pedestrian activity, and provide adequate buffers between non-residential and adjacent residential uses.
(1) 
Setbacks. Setback shall mean the area which defines the depth of the required front, side, or rear yard, as defined as per Municipal Code Section 30.04. All new construction must adhere to the minimum setback requirements of this Specific Plan.
Figure 5, Setbacks & Stepbacks, illustrates the required pattern of building setbacks for new development within the Specific Plan area. Detailed minimum lot size, lot dimension, and building setback requirements for each zone are shown in Table 3-2 above.
_CSP--Image-5.tif
Figure 5: Setbacks and Stepbacks
(2) 
Lot Size and Dimensions. New subdivisions of land and/or lot line adjustments must comply with the minimum lot size and dimensions of this Specific Plan.
B. 
Stepbacks
A stepback is a setback located on the second floor of a building, typically to reduce the bulk and mass of a building or to provide outdoor floor space.
In the C-GC-1 and C-GC-2 zones only, a stepback of 10-20 feet shall be required on the second story for specific locations as shown on Figure 5, Setbacks & Stepbacks, and shall apply to 50% of the front building face to allow for variation in building massing.
C. 
Corner Setback Overlay
Corner Setback Overlay is intended to recognize that street corner setbacks in the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan area provide opportunities for views of the ocean, views into alleys, visual sight lines for pedestrians and vehicles, and pedestrian gathering spaces. Implementation of corner setbacks will protect important public views, increase safety, and improve the built environment for pedestrians.
Figure 6, Corner Treatments, illustrates the locations of corner setbacks. Corner setbacks, classified as either primary or secondary, are considered minimums, and may be increased by the Setback Overlay requirements in the preceding section. Figure 7, View Corridors - Sight Lines at Streets, details the minimum dimensions of corner setbacks, while Figure 8, View Corridors and Open Corners, General Concepts, details concepts that allow the opportunity to maintain ocean views.
_CSP--Image-6.tif
_CSP--Image-7.tif
_CSP--Image-8.tif
In addition to these minimum requirements, corner setbacks may be increased to achieve a minimum visibility triangle as required in Chapter 14.54 of the Encinitas Municipal Code.
(1) 
Primary Corner Setbacks
(a) 
These regulations apply to San Elijo Avenue at Birmingham Drive, Liverpool Drive, Aberdeen Drive, and Chesterfield Drive.
(b) 
No building may encroach within a triangular area created by connecting two imaginary points, each measured 20 feet back from the property corner. This area is designated a Primary Corner.
(c) 
Within any Primary Corner, no portion of any fence, wall, or similar construction shall exceed three feet in height.
(d) 
Within all Primary Corners, acceptable uses include activities which require no permanent structures such as:
*
Retail, restaurant, and gathering spaces for public and/or private functions; and,
*
Surface parking lots
(2) 
Secondary Corner Setbacks
(a) 
These regulations apply to corners where alleys intersect with the public right-of-way, specifically:
On Newcastle Avenue between Liverpool and Aberdeen, and between Aberdeen and Chesterfield;
On Liverpool Drive between San Elijo and Newcastle;
On Aberdeen Drive between San Elijo and Newcastle; and
On Chesterfield Drive between San Elijo and Newcastle.
(b) 
These regulations apply to corners where Newcastle intersects with Birmingham, Liverpool, Aberdeen, and Chesterfield.
(c) 
No building may encroach within a triangular area created by connecting two imaginary points, each measured 10 feet back from the property corner. This area is designated a Secondary View Corner.
(d) 
Within all Secondary View Corners, acceptable uses include activities which require no permanent structures such as:
Retail, restaurant, and gathering spaces for public and/or private functions in the General Commercial 1 (C-GC-1) and General Commercial 2 (C-GC-2) zones; and
Surface parking lots.
(3) 
Coastal View Corner
(a) 
These regulations shall apply to San Elijo Avenue at Birmingham Drive (southeastern corner only) and to San Elijo Avenue at Chesterfield Drive (southeastern corner only).
(b) 
No building may encroach within a triangular area created by connecting two imaginary points, each measured 100 feet back from the property corner. This area is designated a Coastal View Corner.
(c) 
Within the Coastal View Corner, no portion of any fence, wall, or similar construction shall exceed three feet in height in order to protect public views to the ocean.
(d) 
Within the Coastal View Corner, all landscaping shall be maintained at a height 3 feet or lower (including raised planters) and/or shall consist of tall trees with taller canopy areas (rather than short bushy trees) to preserve and enhance public views of the ocean. Landscaping shall be designed to effectively enhance existing public views or provide new public view corridor opportunities of the ocean.
(e) 
Within the Coastal View Corner, permitted uses shall be:
Landscaping; and
Surface parking lots; and
General seating
3.5.3 
Other Requirements: Access, Circulation, and Off-Street Parking
A. 
Where vehicular access from San Elijo Avenue is necessary, access shall be limited to one point for each 300 feet of frontage or one point per parcel if frontage is less than 300 feet.
B. 
Access points to adjoining lots shall be shared wherever feasible. Reciprocal ingress and egress, circulation, and parking arrangements shall be required to facilitate the ease of vehicular movement between adjoining properties where feasible.
C. 
In all zones, off-street parking requirements are described in Section 5.6 of this Specific Plan.
D. 
On-site parking areas abutting all roads within the Specific Plan area shall be screened by landscaping, low decorative walls, lowering the parking area below street grade, or a combination of any of these methods so long as required sight lines are not diminished.
3.6.1 
All Site Planning
A. 
Site planning shall include consideration of adjoining parcels in terms of building configuration, building design, and scale of landscaping materials, circulation/parking configuration and access.
B. 
All commercial uses, including storage, shall be located within an enclosed building unless authorized by a minor use permit, or as otherwise permitted by this Specific Plan. This requirement does not apply to agriculture uses authorized per Chapter 30.33 (Urban Agriculture) of Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code.
3.6.2 
Building Design and Use
A. 
Visual relief shall be provided for linear buildings by the use of architectural projections or recessed areas which create the appearance of smaller adjoining buildings.
B. 
Energy consumption in buildings should be minimized using the following features where feasible:
Cogeneration
Solar power or other energy saving devices
South facing windows with eave coverage
Double glazed windows
Deciduous shade trees
Natural ventilation
Efficient lighting
Day lighting
C. 
All signage associated with the buildings and site shall be integrated in terms of both architecture and color and shall be consistent with applicable provisions of Section 3.7 Signage Recommendations.
3.6.3 
Auxiliary Structures/Equipment and Utilities
A. 
All roof appurtenances including, but not limited to, air conditioning units, and mechanical/electrical equipment shall be shielded and architecturally screened from view from public view at on-site parking areas, adjacent public streets and adjacent properties.
B. 
All ground-mounted mechanical/electrical equipment, including heating and air conditioning units, and trash receptacle areas, shall be completely screened from surrounding properties by use of a wall, fence, or landscaping, or shall be enclosed within a building.
C. 
All utility connections shall be designed to coordinate with the architectural elements of the site so as not to be exposed except where necessary. Pad-mounted transformers and/or meter box locations shall be included in the site plan with an appropriate screening treatment. All new and existing utility connections within the boundaries of the project shall be placed underground, with the exception of existing overhead power transmission lines with voltage levels exempted by the Municipal Code, and long distance and main trunk communications facilities. Transformers, terminal boxes, meter cabinets, pedestals, ducts and other facilities may be placed above ground provided they are screened from public view at on-site parking areas, adjacent public streets, and adjacent properties by use of a wall, fence, or landscaping.
D. 
Trash receptacles shall be located behind the building, where possible. In all locations, trash receptacles shall be enclosed by a six-foot high decorative masonry wall with view-obstructing gates and covered per SWPC standards.
E. 
Outdoor storage areas, when approved by minor use permit, shall be located to the rear of a building and shall be enclosed by solid decorative masonry walls and view-obstructing gates, both to be not less than six feet in height to adequately screen such areas from public view. Reasonable substitutions such as masonry, wood or metal pilasters with wrought iron or vinyl-clad chain link and view obscuring material may be approved through Design Review. This requirement does not apply to agriculture uses authorized per Chapter 30.33 (Urban Agriculture) of Title 30 of the Encinitas Municipal Code.
3.6.4 
Landscaping
A. 
A minimum of 10 percent of the site area shall be landscaped. Pedestrian plazas or decorative landscaping, which include site amenities such as sculpture, fountains, enhanced paving, etc., may be counted towards meeting up to one-half the required minimum.
B. 
Site landscaping shall include a combination of naturalized or native trees, shrubbery, vines, or groundcovers all of which shall be drought-tolerant, where feasible. Landscaping in parking areas shall be predominantly trees to provide shade and visual relief.
C. 
Where feasible, landscaping in parking areas shall include one 24" box tree for every four parking spaces distributed throughout the parking area.
D. 
All landscaped areas shall be watered by an automatic irrigation system with underground piping (excluding drip or soaker irrigation systems) and regularly maintained in a healthy and thriving condition free of weeds, trash, and debris.
E. 
Street trees shall be provided in accordance with Section 4.12, Streetscape and Parking Area Recommendations.
F. 
Landscaping shall be in accordance with Section 4.11, Landscape Recommendations and Municipal Code Section 30.54.60.
3.6.5 
Noise Attenuation
Properties which front on San Elijo Avenue or are adjacent to the railroad right-of-way may be subject to noise impacts from rail and transit operations. Proposed new development on such properties for noise-sensitive uses as determined under the Noise Element of the Encinitas General Plan, including residential, shall provide an analysis by an acoustical engineer to demonstrate compliance with the maximum interior noise average of LDN 45dB.
3.6.6 
Lighting
A. 
Lighting placed upon the building shall be architecturally integrated. Freestanding lamp posts shall be no taller than 18 feet.
B. 
Provisions of Section 30.40.010(I) of the Encinitas Municipal Code regarding lighting standards shall apply to new development in the Specific Plan area.
3.6.7 
Architectural Features, Accessory Structures and Walls/Fences
A. 
Accessory structures shall not be located in front of or on the street side of the main building(s).
B. 
Accessory structures shall meet the setback requirements for main building(s) as found in the setbacks overlay zone.
C. 
Between any street property line and a principal structure on that property, no wall or fence shall exceed four feet in height, except that within a Primary Corner Setback, as described in Section 3.5.2(B)(2) above, no wall or fence shall exceed three feet in height. Additional restrictions may apply in order to maintain adequate sight distance. Where a retaining wall is used to increase usable lot area, the height of said retaining wall between any street property line and the principal structure shall not exceed four feet above the adjacent street grade.
D. 
Where a commercial development abuts property in any residential zone, a masonry wall of no less than six feet in height is required along the property line between the commercial development and the residentially-zoned property, and may be increased to eight feet through Design Review to resolve any noise or visual impacts. Said wall shall be measured from the highest finished grade at the property line, and shall be erected and maintained as separation between the commercial and residential uses. Said wall shall be stepped down to no more than four feet in height within 10 feet of the front property line. For purposes of this section "abut" shall be as defined in Chapter 30.04 of the Encinitas Municipal Code.
E. 
The use of chain link fencing within public view shall be prohibited.
F. 
Barbed wire or razor wire fencing shall be prohibited.
3.6.8 
Design Recommendations
In all zones, applicable provisions of Chapter 4 Plan Design Recommendations shall apply to proposed development. If a conflict arises between provisions of the design recommendations and the development standards of this zone, the development standards shall take precedence.
(Ord. 2016-08)
Except as otherwise specified in this Section and Chapter 4 of this Specific Plan, the signage standards and review and approval procedures of Chapters 23.08 and 30.60 of the Encinitas Municipal Code shall apply for all signs within the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Specific Plan area.
3.7.1 
Window Signs
In addition to the provisions of Chapter 30.60 of the Encinitas Municipal Code, the following standards for window signs in the Specific Plan area shall apply:
A. 
When used in conjunction with wall signs, permanent window signs shall not occupy more than the lesser of four square feet or 20% of the total window area located on the same side of the tenant space of the building on which the sign is placed.
B. 
When used in lieu of wall signs, permanent window signs may occupy up to 50% of a window's area, with the aggregate area of window signs not to exceed the maximum area allowed for walls signs, as per Chapter 30.60 of the Encinitas Municipal Code.
3.7.2 
Freestanding A-frame Signage
A. 
General
In a commercial zone, freestanding A-frame signs shall be allowed, subject to the following standards:
(1) 
One sign per business.
(2) 
Maximum size is two and one-half (2 1/2) feet in height by two feet in width.
(3) 
Maximum of two faces per sign, back-to-back.
(4) 
There shall be no external or internal illumination.
(5) 
Sign shall not be permanently affixed to any object, structure or the ground, including utility poles, light poles, trees or any merchandise or products displayed outside of buildings.
(6) 
Sign shall be portable, self-supporting, stable and weighted or constructed to withstand overturning by wind or contact.
(7) 
Sign shall not be on display during non-business hours.
(8) 
Sign shall be located directly in front of the building/business it is advertising.
(9) 
Sign shall not be placed in such a way as to interfere with pedestrian or vehicular sight lines or corner clear zone requirements as specified by the City.
(10) 
Sign shall not be placed in such a way as to obstruct access to a public pathway, public street, driveway, parking space, fire door, fire escape, handicapped access or in such a way that it obstructs free passage over any public right-of-way.
(11) 
Sign shall not obscure or interfere with the effectiveness of any official notice or public safety device.
(12) 
Placement of sign shall maintain at least a four foot width for pedestrian clearance over the entire length of the pathway or the public right-of-way in front of the business, free of all obstructions such as planter areas, fire hydrants, street lights, other street furniture, on-street parking overhang, and any approved public right-of-way dining area.
B. 
Placement of A-frame Signs in the Public Right-of-Way
In addition to meeting the above standards, A-frame signs which encroach into the public right-of-way are allowed with the issuance of an encroachment permit from the Engineering Services Department. Encroachment permits for A-frame signs in the public right-of-way shall require the submittal of the following information and are subject to the following limitations:
(1) 
Submit a brief description of the proposed encroachment and its proposed location in the public right-of-way.
(2) 
Submit a site plan, in a form acceptable to the Engineering Services Department and the Planning and Building Department, showing local conditions, including street and pathway width, and location/dimensions of all street furniture and elements on the pathway.
(3) 
The description and site plan shall be reviewed and accepted by the Planning and Building Department prior to the issuance of an encroachment permit by the Engineering Services Department.
(4) 
A liability insurance policy naming the City as additionally insured shall be provided as specified by the Engineering Services Department.
(5) 
An issued encroachment permit may be revoked by the City after a 30 day written notice.
In the General Commercial 1 (C-GC-1) and General Commercial 2 (C-GC-2) zones and except as otherwise specified herein, all provisions of Section 30.48.050 (A) of the Encinitas Municipal Code applicable to sidewalk/outdoor cafes shall apply in addition to the following provisions:
(1) 
Chapter 9.28 of the Encinitas Municipal Code and City Council policy prohibiting alcohol sales and consumption within the public right-of-way shall apply.
(2) 
A liability insurance policy naming the City as additionally insured shall be provided as specified by the Engineering Services Department.
In the General Commercial 1 (C-GC-1) and General Commercial 2 (C-GC-2) zones, outdoor displays of merchandise accessory to a legally established retail or wholesale business, is permitted within the front yard setback subject to the following limitations:
(1) 
Contiguous property owners shall be notified in accordance with Section 30.01, General Provisions, of the Encinitas Municipal Code, if the outdoor display of merchandise is located on private property/commercial complex of five or fewer tenants. If the outdoor display area is in a commercial complex of six or more tenants, then the remaining tenants in the commercial complex shall be notified in accordance with Section 30.01 of the Encinitas Municipal Code, provided that the notification shall only include the tenants in the commercial complex where the proposed outdoor display of merchandise is to be located.
(2) 
The outdoor display of merchandise shall be limited to the hours of operation of the associated retail or wholesale establishment.
(3) 
No sound amplification device, musical instrument or sound reproduction device shall be operated or used with the outdoor display of merchandise and any outdoor lighting shall comply with performance standards.
(4) 
The outdoor display area shall not adversely affect the neighborhood nor be detrimental to persons residing, visiting or working in the area.
(5) 
The area of the outdoor display of merchandise shall not remove any required parking areas and the display area shall not block access to the entrance of the building or surrounding areas. The area for pedestrian access must remain as least 5 feet in width.
(6) 
The outdoor display area and types of merchandise must be reviewed by and found to meet the standards of the Encinitas Fire Marshal relative to access and flammability.
(7) 
All other appropriate provisions of the Specific Plan, including sign regulations, must be met.
(8) 
Outdoor display shall not require additional parking.