The following glossary of terms is based on several sources.
The sources for the glossary include the California Planning Roundtable,
a nonprofit association affiliated with the California Chapter of
the American Planning Association. In addition, the glossary also
includes terms and definitions developed by the League of California
Cities and the City of Calabasas.
The purpose of this glossary is to define the terms used to
describe the City of Malibu's policy commitments.
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Adaptive Reuse
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The conversion of an existing building from one
type of use to another type of use. The purpose of adaptive reuse
is to encourage retaining the primary constructed structure while
minimizing new construction. Examples include, but are not limited
to the following: (a) converting a church sanctuary to a performing
arts theater; (b) converting an elementary school to an office complex;
(c) converting a gas station to a restaurant; (d) converting retail
space to residential uses; and other similar conversions.
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Adverse Impact
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A negative consequence for the physical, social,
or economic environment resulting from an action or project.
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Adopt
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Action will be undertaken to formulate policy, guidelines,
or ordinances or revisions thereto. The expectation is that resources
would be devoted to creating the policy, guidelines, ordinances, or
revisions, and that they will be formally enacted by appropriate City
decision makers.
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Affordable Housing
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Housing capable of being purchased or rented by
a household with very low, low, or moderate income, based on a household's
ability to make monthly payments necessary to obtain housing. Housing
is considered affordable when a household pays less than 30% of its
gross monthly income for housing including utilities.
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Affordability Requirements
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Provisions established by a public agency to require
that a specific percentage of housing units in a project or development
remain affordable to very low-and low-income households for a specified
period.
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Alluvial
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Soils deposited by stream action.
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Ambient
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Surrounding on all sides; used to describe measurements
of existing conditions with respect to traffic, noise, air and other
environments.
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Annex
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To incorporate a land area into an existing district
or municipality, with a resulting change in the boundaries of the
annexing jurisdiction.
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Applicant
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A person proposing development (see proposed development).
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Aquifer
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An underground, water-bearing layer of earth, porous
rock, sand or gravel, through which water can seep or be held in natural
storage. Aquifers generally hold sufficient water to be used as a
water supply.
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Archaeological
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Relating to the material remains of past human life,
culture, or activities.
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Articulation
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Variation in the depth of the building plane, roof
line, or height of a structure that breaks up plain, monotonous areas
and creates patterns of light and shadow.
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Avoid
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To keep away from, or to prevent the occurrence
or effectiveness. Development in areas to be avoided will be subject
to additional conditions requiring mitigation of the impact of that
development on public services, facilities and resources. Areas to
be avoided would be among those included in the last phase of a growth
management study.
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Base Flood
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In any given year, a 100-year flood that has one
percent likelihood of occurring, and is recognized as a standard for
acceptable risk.
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Basic Biogeographic Planning Area
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A geographic area which is united by common biological
and geophysical processes, which creates a natural planning unit for
evaluating and implementing natural resource protection. The basic
biogeographic resource planning area for the Malibu coastal zone is
defined as the individual watershed.
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Biota
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All the living organisms of a particular area; the
combined flora and fauna of a region.
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Blue Line Stream
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Those drainage pathways identified by a "blue line"
on U.S.G.S. topographic maps.
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Bluff
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A cliff, head land or hill with a broad steep face.
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Buildout
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Development of land to its full potential or theoretical
capacity as permitted under the provisions of the General Plan.
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Bulk Envelope
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The space remaining on a site for structures after
all building setback, height limit and bulk requirements.
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California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
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A state law requiring state and local agencies to
regulate activities with consideration for environmental protection.
If a proposed activity has the potential for a significant adverse
environmental impact, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) must be
prepared and certified as to its adequacy before taking action of
the proposed project.
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Caltrans
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California Department of Transportation.
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Capital Improvement Program
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A budgetary program that schedules the construction
of public facilities to fit its fiscal capability some years into
the future. Capital improvement programs are usually projected five
or six years in advance and should be updated annually.
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Carrying Capacity
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The level of land use, human activity, or development
for a specific area that can be accommodated permanently without an
irreversible change in the quality of air, water, land, or plant and
animal habitats. Carrying capacity also refers to the upper limits
beyond which the quality of life, health, welfare, safety or community
character within an area will be impaired.
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Character
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Special physical characteristics of a structure
or area that set it apart from its surroundings and contribute to
its individuality.
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Circulation Element
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One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation
programs (or measures) for the planning and management of existing
and proposed thoroughfares, transportation routes, and terminals,
as well as local public utilities and facilities, all correlated with
the land use element of the general plan.
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Coastal Morphology
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The biological characteristics of the coastal area,
including the relationships between terrestrial and marine plants
and animals in the coastal zone.
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Commercial Strip
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Commercial development, usually one store deep,
that fronts on a major street for a distance, usually one block or
more. Includes individual buildings on their own lots, with or without
on-site parking, and small linear shopping centers with shallow on-site
parking in front of the stores.
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Common Open Space
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Land within or related to a development, not individually
owned or dedicated for public use, which is designed and intended
for the common use or enjoyment of the residents of the development.
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Community
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The recognizable unit of a given geographic area,
produced by interaction of climatic factors, biota, and substrate,
usually designated according to the characteristic adult or climax
vegetation, such as deciduous forest, grassland, chaparral, and the
like.
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Community Noise Equivalency Level (CNEL)
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A 24-hour energy equivalent level derived from a
variety of single-noise events, with weighing factors of 5 and 10
dBA applied to the evening (7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and nighttime
(10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) periods, respectively, to allow for the
greater sensitivity to noise during these hours.
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Composting
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The treatment of solid organic refuse through aerobic,
biologic decomposition.
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Congestion Management Plan (CMP)
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A mechanism employing growth management techniques,
including traffic level of service requirements, development mitigation
programs, transportation systems management (TSM), and capital improvement
programming, for the purpose of controlling and/or reducing the cumulative
regional traffic impacts of development. AB 1791, effective August
1, 1990, requires all cities, and counties that include urbanized
areas, to adopt and annually update a CMP.
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Conservation Element
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One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation
programs for the conservation, development, and use of natural resources
including water and its hydraulic force, forests, soils, rivers and
other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals, and other natural
resources.
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Coordinate
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Action will be taken to expend time and money in
jointly pursuing an implementing activity with other entities. The
expectation is that implementation will definitely result, and that
it will be accomplished cooperatively with other organizations, possibly
with the City in the lead.
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Cumulative Effect or Cumulative Impact
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"Cumulative impacts" refers to two or more individual
effects which, when considered together, are considerable or which
compound or increase other environmental impacts. The incremental
effects of an individual project are reviewed in connection with the
effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and
the effects of probable future projects.
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dB
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Decibel; a unit used to express the relative intensity
of a sound as it is heard by the human ear.
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dBA
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The "A-weighted" scale for measuring sound in decibels;
weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies in order
to simulate human hearing. Every increase of 10 dBA doubles the perceived
loudness though the noise is actually ten times more intense.
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Dedication
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An action by a property owner which turns over private
land for a public use, and its acceptance for such use by the government
agency in charge of the public function for which it will be used.
Dedications for streets, parks, school sites, or other public uses
are often made conditions for the approval of a development.
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Density Transfer
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A process permitting unused allowable densities
in one area to be used in another area. Where density transfer is
permitted the average density over an area would remain constant,
but allow internal variations. Within a single development, the result
would normally be a clustering of buildings on smaller lots with some
land retained as open space.
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Development
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The physical extension and/or construction of structures,
subdivision of land, roads or other facilities, installation of septic
systems; grading which requires a permit; and deposit of debris or
fill materials. Additions to existing structures that do not exceed
10% of the original floor area, routine repair, maintenance and remodel
are not "development."
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Development (Proposed)
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Development for which an application for approval/permits
has been submitted to the City, but not yet approved.
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Dispersion
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A measure of the "scattering" of a component of
water (e.g., pathogens or nitrates) in various directions.
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District
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1.
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An area of a city or county that has a unique character identifiable
as different from surrounding areas because of distinctive architecture,
streets, geographic features, culture, landmarks, activities, or land
uses.
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2.
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A portion of the territory of a city or county within which
uniform zoning regulations and requirements apply; a zone.
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Disturbed Sensitive Resource Areas (DSRAs)
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Those areas which would historically have met the
Coastal Act definition of an environmentally sensitive habitat but
which have been substantially modified as a result of coastal development.
DSRs typically possess remnant biota which remain important biological
resources.
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Diversity
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Differences among otherwise similar elements that
give them unique forms and qualities, e.g., housing diversity can
be achieved by differences in unit size, tenure, or cost.
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Downzoning
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A change in the zoning classification of land to
a classification permitting development that is less intensive or
dense, such as from multifamily to single-family or from commercial
to residential. A change in the opposite direction is called "upzoning."
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Drainfield
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A means to finally treat and dispose of septic tank
effluent by means of subsurface soil-absorption and adsorption. Also
known as disposal field or leachfield.
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Dwelling Unit
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A room or group of rooms (including sleeping, eating,
cooking and sanitation facilities, but not more than one kitchen),
which constitutes an independent housekeeping unit, occupied or intended
for occupancy by one household on a long-term basis.
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Easement
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The portion of a property for which access or use
is allowed by a person or agency other than the owner.
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Easement, Conservation
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A tool for acquiring open space with less than full-fee
purchase, whereby a public agency buys only certain specific rights
from the land owner. These may be positive rights (providing the public
with the opportunity to hunt, fish, or ride over the land), or they
may be restrictive rights (limiting the uses to which the land owner
may devote the land in the future).
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Ecology
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The interrelationship of living things to one another
and their environment; the study of organisms as affected by the factors
of their environments.
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Ecosystem
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The fundamental unit in ecology, comprising the
living organisms and the nonliving elements interacting in a certain
defined area.
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Effluent
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Water, sewage, or any other liquid (partially treated
or in its natural state) that is flowing out of a reservoir, septic
tank, or treatment plant.
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Eminent Domain
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The legal right of government to acquire or take
private property for public use or public purpose upon paying just
compensation to the owner. While originally used only when land was
to be kept in public ownership, i.e., for highways, public buildings
or parks, property has been condemned under eminent domain powers
for private use in the public interest, such as urban renewal.
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Encourage
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The action will receive positive treatment in written
policy, and will be transmitted as appropriate to influence others.
In cases where the City can compel action, such as in the application
review process, the City will commit resources to assist others to
achieve the action or condition being encouraged. The expectation
is that, to the extent that the action or condition meets both the
objectives of the City and the other party, that the action or condition
will occur. In cases where the City cannot compel the actions of others,
encourage is synonymous with support.
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Endangered Species
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A species of animal or plant that is considered
to be endangered when its prospects for survival and reproduction
are in immediate jeopardy from one or more causes. Both the California
Department of Fish and Game (pursuant to Title 14 of the California
Administrative Code) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (pursuant
to the Federal Endangered Species Act) identify endangered species.
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Endemic
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A species or habitat type that is restricted to
a particular geographic area or soil type and which occurs in no other
area.
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Encroachment
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Any obstruction or protrusion into a right-of-way
or adjacent property, whether on the land or above it.
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Enhance
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To improve existing conditions by increasing the
quantity or quality of beneficial uses or features. Action will be
taken to improve existing conditions by increasing the quantity or
quality of beneficial uses or existing actions. The expectation is
that a desirable condition exists, and is to be improved by the action.
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Ensure
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Action will be taken to guarantee a certain outcome
or result. The expectation is that, in guaranteeing a particular result,
the City will commit resources, and has the legal right to compel
other parties to take a particular action or perform in a prescribed
manner.
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Environmentally Sensitive Area or Environmentally Sensitive
Habitat Area (ESHA)
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Any area in which plant or animal life or their
habitats are either rare or especially valuable because of their special
nature or role in an ecosystem and which could be easily disturbed
or degraded by human activities and developments. Malibu's ESHAs include,
but are not limited to, the following:
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1.
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Those areas designated as such on the Sensitive Environmental
Resources and Marine Resources Maps.
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2.
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Habitat for species and plant communities recognized as threatened
or endangered by the state or federal governments; plant communities
recognized by the State of California (in the Terrestrial Natural
Communities Inventory) as restricted in distribution and very threatened;
those habitat types of limited distribution recognized to be of particular
habitat value including wetlands, riparian scrub, riparian woodlands,
oak woodlands, and oak savannahs (Table 3-5).
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3.
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Those areas designated by the County of Los Angeles as Significant
Ecological Areas (SEAs) which meet the definition of environmentally
sensitive habitat areas as defined in Section 30107.5 of the Coastal
Act (Table 3-4).
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4.
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Any areas which through professional biological evaluation meet
the criteria enumerated in (2) and (3), above.
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5.
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Those marine areas designated by the State of California as
areas of Special Biological Significance (ASBS).
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Evapotranspiration
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The actual loss of water by evaporation from soil
and water bodies as well as transpiration from plants.
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Exclusionary Zoning
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Zoning regulations which result in the exclusion
of low-and moderate-income or minority persons from a community.
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Expansive Soils
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Soils which swell when they absorb water and shrink
as they dry.
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Feasible
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Capable of being accomplished in a successful manner
within a reasonable period of time taking into account economic, environmental,
social, and technological factors.
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Fiscal Impact Analysis
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A projection of the direct public costs and revenues
resulting from population or employment change to the local jurisdiction(s)
in which the change is taking place. Enables local governments to
evaluate relative fiscal merits of general plans, specific plans,
or projects.
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Flood - 100 Year (Base Flood)
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The magnitude of a flood expected to occur on the
average every 100 years, based on historical data. The 100-year flood
has a 1/100, or one percent, change of occurring in any given year.
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Floodplain
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The land area on either side of the banks of a stream
regularly subject to flooding from any source. That part of the flood
plan subject to a one percent chance of flooding in any given year
is designated as an "area of special flood hazard" by the Federal
Insurance Administration.
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Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
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The gross floor area permitted on a site divided
by the total net area of the site, expressed in decimals to one or
two places. For example, on a site with 10,000 net sq. ft. of land
area, a Floor Area Ratio of 1.0 will allow a maximum of 10,000 gross
sq. ft. of building floor area to be built. On the same site, a FAR
of 0.5 would allow 5,000 sq. ft. of floor area; an FAR of 0.25 would
allow 2,500 sq. ft.; and an FAR of 0.15 would allow only 1,500 sq.
ft. Also, as commonly used in zoning, FARs typically are applied on
a parcel-by-parcel basis to an average FAR for an entire land use
or zoning district.
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"Granny Flats"
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A secondary housing unit, no greater than 1,200
sq. ft. in floor area, developed on a residential lot or parcel for
the purpose of providing additional affordable housing opportunities,
typically for extended elderly family members. Granny flats include
kitchen and bathroom facilities.
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Grasslands
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Lands in which grasses are the predominant vegetation.
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Greywater
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"Wastewater" generated by household appliances and
fixtures with the exception of the toilet, possibly the garbage grinder
(garbage disposer), and non-bathing water bodies (jacuzzis, swimming
pool, spas).
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Ground Failure
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Ground movement or rupture caused by strong shaking
during an earthquake. Includes landslide, lateral spreading, liquefaction,
and subsidence.
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Ground Shaking
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Ground movement resulting from the transmission
of seismic waves during an earthquake.
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Groundwater
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Water under the earth's surface, often confined
to aquifers capable of supplying wells and springs.
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Groundwater Recharge
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The natural process of infiltration and percolation
of rainwater from land areas or streams through permeable soils into
water-holding rocks which provide underground storage ("aquifers").
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Growth Management
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Policy for future growth to be controlled or otherwise
regulated by various ordinances and programs. The land use element
of the general plan identifies future growth, including both residential
and nonresidential development. Growth management is a process, through
ordinances and programs, to ensure that the growth identified in the
general plan's land use element occurs at a pace consistent with the
agency's objectives.
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Habitat
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The physical location or type of environment in
which an organism or biological population lives or occurs.
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Heritage Tree
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Any tree over 24 inches in dbh as a single truck
or multiple trunks that cumulatively add up to 24 inches dbh.
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Hillside
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Land which has an average percent of slope equal
to or exceeding 10%.
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Home Occupation
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A commercial activity conducted solely by the occupants
of a particular dwelling unit in a manner incidental to residential
occupancy.
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Hotel
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A facility offering transient lodging accommodations
to the general public and providing additional services, such as restaurants
and meeting rooms.
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Households, Number of
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The count of all year-round housing units occupied
by one or more persons. The concept of households is important because
the formation of new households generates the demand for housing.
Each new household formed creates the need for one additional housing
unit or requires that one existing housing unit be shared by two households.
Thus, household formation can continue to take place even without
an increase in population, thereby increasing the demand for housing.
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Household, Low-Income
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A household with an annual income usually no greater
than 80% of the area's median family income adjusted by household
size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or
a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest
available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development.
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Household, Moderate-Income
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A household with an annual income between the lower
income eligibility limits and 120% of the area's median family income
adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted
by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on
the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department
Of Housing and Urban Development.
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Household, Very-Low Income
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A household with an annual income no greater than
50% of the area's median family income adjusted by household size,
as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county,
or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available
eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development for the Section 8 housing program.
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Housing and Community Development, Department of (HCD)
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The state agency that has principal responsibility
for assessing, planning for, and assisting communities to meet the
needs of very-low, low-and moderate-income households.
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Housing Element
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One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it assesses the existing and projected housing needs
of all economic segments of the community, identifies potential sites
adequate to provide the amount and kind of housing needed, and contains
adopted goals, policies, and implementation programs for the preservation,
improvement, and development of housing. Under State law, Housing
Elements must be updated every five years.
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Impact
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The effect of any direct man-made actions or indirect
repercussions of man-made actions on existing physical, social or
economic conditions.
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Impact Fee
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A fee, also called a development fee, levied on
the developer of a project by a city, county or other public agency
as compensation for otherwise-unmitigated impacts the project will
produce. California Government Code Section 66000, et. seq., specifies
that development fees shall not exceed the estimated reasonable costs
of providing the service for which the fee is charged. To lawfully
impose a development fee, the public agency must verify its method
of calculation and document proper restrictions on use of the fund.
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Impervious Surface
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Surface through which water cannot penetrate, such
as roof, road, sidewalk, and paved parking lot. The amount of impervious
surface increases with development and established the need for drainage
facilities to carry the increased runoff.
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Implementation Measures
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Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that
carry out policies.
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Incorporation
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Creation of a new city.
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Infill Development
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The development of new housing or other buildings
on scattered vacant sites in a built-up area. Infill development is
usually considered the development of vacant parcels or lots in an
area that is primarily developed.
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Influent
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Water, wastewater or other liquid flowing into a
reservoir, basin or treatment plant.
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Infrastructure
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Includes, but is not limited to: road, schools,
public utilities (such as water, natural gas, telephone, electricity,
etc.), parks and playgrounds, waste disposal, sewers and/or septic
systems.
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Intertidal
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That portion of the shore or structures in the ocean
which is between high and low tide levels; the substrate and organisms
in the intertidal are alternately covered by seawater and exposed
to the air.
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Jobs/Housing Balance; Jobs/Housing Ratio
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The availability of affordable housing for employees.
The jobs/housing ratio divides the number of jobs in an area by the
number of employed residents. A ratio of 1.0 indicates a balance.
A ratio greater than 1.0 indicates a net in-commute (that is, workers
commute to the area because there are more jobs available than residents
to fill the jobs); a ratio less than 1.0 indicates a net out-commute
(that is, residents commute out of the area to find employment).
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Joint Power Agency (JPA)
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A legal arrangement that enables two or more units
of government to share authority in order to plan and carry out a
specific program or set of programs that serves both units of government.
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Lagoon
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A shallow lake or pond, especially one connected
with a larger body of water.
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Landmark
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1.
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A building, site, object, structure, or significant tree, having
historical, architectural, social, or cultural significance and marked
for preservation by the local, state, or federal government.
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2.
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A visually prominent or outstanding structure or natural feature
that functions as a point of orientation or identification.
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Landslide
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Downslope movement of soil and/or rock, which typically
occurs during an earthquake or following heavy rainfall.
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Lateral Spreading
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Lateral movement of soil, often as a result of liquefaction
during an earthquake.
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Level of Service (LOS)
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A scale that measures the amount of traffic a roadway
may be capable of handling on a roadway segment or at an intersection
of roadways; typically measured by a ratio of traffic volume to roadway
capacity (V/C), as follows:
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Level of Service A: indicates a
relatively free flow of traffic, with little or no limitation on vehicle
movement or speed; the V/C is 0.60 or less.
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Level of Service B: describes a
steady flow of traffic, with only slight delays in vehicle movement
and speed. All queues clear in a single signal cycle; the V/C is 0.61
to 0.70.
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Level of Service C: denotes a reasonably
steady, high-volume flow of traffic, with some limitations on movement
and speed, and occasional backups on critical approaches; V/C is 0.71
to 0.80.
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Level of Service D: denotes the
level where traffic nears an unstable flow. Intersections still function,
but short queues develop and cars may have to wait through one cycle
during short peaks; V/C is 0.81 to 0.90.
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Level of Service E: describes traffic
characterized by slow movement and frequent (although momentary) stoppages.
This type of congestion is considered severe, but is not uncommon
at peak traffic hours, with frequent stopping, long-standing queues,
and blocked intersections; V/C is 0.91 to 1.00.
| |
|
Level of Service F: describes unsatisfactory
stop-and-go traffic characterized by "traffic jams" and stoppages
of long durations. Vehicles at signalized intersections usually have
to wait through one of more signal changes, and "upstream" intersections
may be blocked by the long queues; V/C is greater than 1.00.
| |
|
Some communities in California are developing standards
for levels of services relating to municipal functions, such as police,
fire, and library service. These standards are incorporated in the
general plan or in separate "Level of Service Plans."
| |
|
Liquefaction
| |
|
The transformation of loose, wet soil from a solid
to a liquid state, often as a result of ground shaking during an earthquake.
| |
|
Littoral
| |
|
A segment of coast that has definable sand sources
and sand sinks, and into which and out of which the quantity of sand
moving along the coast is known. Most littoral cells are bounded on
either end by complete barriers to the long shore movement of sand.
| |
|
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo)
| |
|
A five member commission within each county that reviews and
evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts, incorporation
of cities, annexations to special districts or cities, consolidation
of districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county's LAFCo
is empowered to approve, disapprove or conditionally approve such
proposals. The five LAFCo members generally include two county supervisors,
two City Council members and one member representing the general public.
Some LAFCos include members who are directors of special districts.
| |
|
Maintain
| |
|
Action will be taken to continue ongoing City programs
or services. The expectation is that active means may be employed
to continue such programs or services.
| |
|
Marine Area of Special Biological Significance (MASBS)
| |
|
An area designated by the State Water Resources
Control Board requiring protection of species or biological communities
to the extent that alteration of natural water quality is undesirable.
| |
|
Minimize
| |
|
Action will be taken to reduce or lessen, but not
necessarily eliminate, an existing condition or action to the greatest
feasible extent. The expectation is that positive action will be undertaken
to improve existing conditions by reducing the negative consequences
of a particular situation.
| |
|
Mitigate
| |
|
Action will be taken to ameliorate, alleviate, or
avoid to the extent feasible, an undesirable situation or consequence
of action. The expectation is that negative consequences will be reduced
to a level of insignificance.
| |
|
Mitigation
| |
|
Actions, improvements, features, modifications or
requirements intended to eliminate or reduce the significant environmental
effects of a project.
| |
|
Mixed-Use Development
| |
|
The development of a tract of land, parcel or building
with two or more different uses. Mixed-use zoning permits a combination
of usually separate uses within a single development or building.
| |
|
Motel
| |
|
A group of attached or detached buildings containing
guest rooms, some or all of which have a separate entrance leading
directly from the outside of the building to automobile parking space
conveniently located on the lot or parcel of land and which is designed,
used or intended to be used wholly or in part for the accommodation
of automobile transients.
| |
|
Natural Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
| |
|
Standards for waste discharges from point and non-point
sources to surface waters (rivers, lakes, bays, oceans, etc.) controlled
by state or federal agencies under provisions of the federal Clean
Water Act.
| |
|
Native Plant
| |
|
Any plant indigenous to the Santa Monica Mountains
and its Coastal Region, existing before European settlement, as identified
in the Flora of the Santa Monica Mountains (Raven, Thompson, and Prigge,
1986. Southern California Botanists Special Publication #2).
| |
|
Neighborhood
| |
|
A planning area commonly identified as such in a
community's planning documents, and by the individuals residing and
working within the neighborhood. Documentation may include a map prepared
for planning purposes, on which the names and boundaries of the neighborhood
are shown.
| |
|
Noise Element
| |
|
One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it assesses noise levels of highways and freeways, local
arterials, railroads, airports, local industrial plants, and other
ground stationary sources, and adopts goals, policies, and implementation
programs to reduce the community's exposure to noise.
| |
|
Open Space Element
| |
|
One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it contains an inventory of privately and publicly owned
open-space lands, and adopted goals, policies, and implementation
programs for the preservation, protection, and management of open
space lands.
| |
|
Open Space, Public
| |
|
Open space is any parcel of land or water which
is essentially in its natural condition, and is devoted to an open
space use for the purposes of: (a) preservation of natural resources;
(b) managed production of resources; (c) outdoor recreation; or (d)
public health and safety. "Public open space" is open space that is
owned by a public agency and available to the public.
| |
|
Ordinance
| |
|
A law, or regulation, set forth and adopted by a
governmental authority, usually a city or a county.
| |
|
Overlay Zone
| |
|
A specifically defined area wherein a set of zoning
requirements in addition to those of the underlying district apply.
Developments within an overlay zone must conform to the requirements
of both zones or the more restrictive of the two. It usually is employed
to deal with special physical characteristics such as flood plains
or historical areas.
| |
|
Pathogen
| |
|
An organism or virus producing or capable of producing
a disease (e.g., polio virus).
| |
|
Payment in lieu
| |
|
Payments of cash which are authorized in subdivision
regulations when requirements for mandatory dedication of land cannot
be met because of physical conditions of the site or other reasons.
| |
|
Peak Hour/Peak Period
| |
|
For any given roadway, a daily period during which
traffic volume is highest, usually occurring in the morning and evening
commute periods. Where "F" Levels of Service are encountered, the
"peak hour" may stretch into a "peak period" of several hours' duration.
| |
|
Percolation
| |
|
The downward movement of water through porous soils
or filtering medium. The liquid may or may not fill all the pores
of the medium.
| |
|
Planned Development (P-D)
| |
|
A self-contained development, often with a mixture
of land uses and densities, in which the subdivision and zoning controls
are applied to the project as a whole rather than to individual lots.
Commercial and even industrial uses are combined with different types
of residential uses. A planned development with just residential uses
is referred to as "residential planned development" (RP-D).
| |
|
Planned Unit Development (PUD)
| |
|
Land use zoning which allows the adoption of a set
of development standards that are specific to a particular project.
PUD zones usually do not contain detailed development standards; those
are established during the process of considering proposals and adopted
by ordinance upon project approval.
| |
|
Plant Community
| |
|
A recognizable combination of native or naturalized
plant species that is produced by the interaction of climate, biota,
and substrata and is usually designated according to the characteristic
adult a climate vegetation.
| |
|
Policy
| |
|
A statement of principle or of guiding actions which
implies clear commitment but does not mandate specific actions. A
general direction that the City sets to follow in order to meet its
goals and objectives which direction is realized through implementation
measures.
| |
|
Pollution, Non-Point Source
| |
|
In reference to water quality, sources for pollution
which can not be traced to a single source location and usually cover
broad areas of land, and which are primarily carried from the land
by runoff to receiving waters. Examples include fertilizers from agricultural
land and petrochemicals from roads and parking lots.
| |
|
Pollution, Point Source
| |
|
In reference to water quality, a discrete source
from which pollution is generated before it enters receiving waters,
such as a sewer outfall, a smokestack, or an industrial waste pipe.
| |
|
Preserve
| |
|
Action will be taken to maintain beneficial uses
or features in their present condition as nearly as possible. The
expectation is that the feature itself will endure over time as the
result of that action.
| |
|
Prohibit, Prevent
| |
|
Action will be taken to compel others not to take
a particular action or perform in a prescribed manner. The expectation
is that the City will commit resources, and has the legal right to
compel other parties in this manner.
| |
|
Promontory
| |
|
A high point of land or rock projecting into a body
of water or a mass of land overlooking or projecting into a lowland.
| |
|
Proposed Development
| |
|
See Development
| |
|
Protect
| |
|
Action will be taken to keep a feature safe from
destruction or decay, or to keep that feature intact. The expectation
is that the positive qualities of that feature will endure over time
as the result of the action.
| |
|
RPA
| |
|
Resource Protection Area
| |
|
Rare
| |
|
To be scarce or uncommon, or of limited distribution.
| |
|
Rare or Endangered Species
| |
|
A species of animal or plant listed in: Section 670.2 or 670.5, Title 14, California Administrative Code; or Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 17.11 or Section 17.2, pursuant to the Federal Endangered Species Act designating species as rare, threatened or endangered.
| |
|
Reclaim
| |
|
To bring back to a natural condition.
| |
|
Reclamation
| |
|
The reuse of resources, usually those present in
solid wastes or sewage.
| |
|
Recreation, Passive
| |
|
Type of recreation or activity which does not require
the use of organized play areas.
| |
|
Recreation, Active
| |
|
A type of recreation or activity which requires
the use of organized play areas including, but not limited to, softball,
baseball, football and soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts,
and various forms of children's play equipment.
| |
|
Remodel
| |
|
The upgrade of the interior or exterior faces of
a building or structure without altering the existing foundation,
footprint or building envelope. Remodeling may include the replacement
of exterior walls within the limitations described herein and according
to the requirements of the Building Code provided that such remodeling
can meet the standards for zone clearance or plot plan review.
| |
|
Retrofit
| |
|
To add materials and/or devices to an existing building
or system to improve its operation, safety, or efficiency. For example,
buildings have been retrofitted to use solar energy and to strengthen
their ability to withstand earthquakes.
| |
|
Resource Protection Area
| |
|
A geographic area which contains significant natural
resources that have been identified in the Conservation Element of
the Malibu General Plan and for which specific resource protection
policies have been established. Resource protection areas in the Malibu
coastal zone include Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs),
Significant Watersheds, Wildlife Habitat Linkages, Disturbed Sensitive
Resource Areas (DSRAs), and Blueline Streams.
| |
|
Ridgeline
| |
|
A line connecting the highest points along a principal ridge
separating watershed areas.
| |
|
Riparian
| |
|
Habitat occurring along the bank of a natural and
freshwater waterway (e.g., river, stream or creek) which provides
for high density, diversity and productivity of plant and animal species.
| |
|
Riparian Areas
| |
|
Areas that contain vegetation adapted to basic soil
conditions adjacent to perennial and intermittent streams. Riparian
areas are delineated by the existence of plant species normally found
near freshwater.
| |
|
Riparian Corridor
| |
|
The band of riparian vegetation which occurs along
perennial or intermittent stream courses.
| |
|
Runoff
| |
|
That portion of rain or snow which does not percolate
into the ground and runs over the ground onto abutting property or
is discharged into streams.
| |
|
Rural
| |
|
Respect for nature; proximity and ease of access
to the shore, ocean and mountains; a sense of open space, residential
privacy and closeness to nature from within and without the dwelling;
predominance of natural topography and vegetation over the built environment
creating the feeling, scent, sound and visual presence of "country";
low-density and low-intensity land uses subordinate to the natural
setting; a non-urban environment characterized by the minimization
of urban services and facilities; and unobtrusive commercial signs
as well as low levels of artificial light and sound.
| |
|
Safety Element
| |
|
One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local
general plan, it contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation
programs for the protection of the community from any unreasonable
risks associated with seismic and geologic hazards, flooding, and
wildland and urban fires. Many safety elements also incorporate a
review of police needs, objectives, facilities, and services.
| |
|
SEA
| |
|
See Significant Ecological Area.
| |
|
Scenic Highway/Route
| |
|
A highway, road, drive or street which, in addition
to its transportation function, provides opportunities for the enjoyment
of natural and man-made scenic resources and access or direct views
to areas or scenes of exceptional beauty or historic or cultural interest.
The aesthetic values of scenic routes often are protected and enhanced
by regulations governing the development of property or the placement
of outdoor advertising.
| |
|
Second Unit
| |
|
A self-contained living unit, either attached to
or detached from, and in addition to, the primary residential unit
on a single lot; sometimes called "Granny Flat."
| |
|
Seepage Pit
| |
|
When the shape of the drainfield receiving septic
tank effluent is a cylindrical excavation, the drainfield is called
a seepage pit.
| |
|
Seiche
| |
|
An earthquake-generated wave in an enclosed body
of water such as a lake, reservoir, or bay.
| |
|
Sensitive
| |
|
An adjective for plant or animal life or their habitats
which are either rare or especially valuable because of their nature
or role in an ecosystem and which could be easily disturbed or degraded
by human activities and development.
| |
|
Service
| |
|
Includes, but is not limited to: police/sheriff,
fire, libraries, and city administration.
| |
|
Shall
| |
|
The action referred to is mandatory, and there is
a positive obligation to undertake the action (see also definition
of policy).
| |
|
Significant Ecological Areas
| |
|
Lands designated by Los Angeles County as ecologically
fragile or important areas which are valuable as plant or wildlife
habitat. See Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area (ESHA) definition.
| |
|
Significant Oak Woodlands and Oak Savannahs
| |
|
Defined as oak woodlands (non-riparian) or oak savannahs
located outside the major riparian woodland corridors. These are considered
to be an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area.
| |
|
Significant Watersheds
| |
|
Those watershed which contain significant development
of environmentally sensitive riparian or woodland habitat; those watershed
which drain a watershed area of greater than 1 square mile; or those
from which runoff could impact particularly sensitive marine resource
areas. These include but are not limited to: Arroyo Sequit, Zuma Canyon,
Solstice Canyon, Corral Canyon, Malibu Canyon, Tuna Canyon, Trancas
Canyon, Ramirez Canyon, Las Flores Canyon, Encinal Canyon, San Nicholas
Canyon, Los Alisos (Decker) Canyon, LaChusa Canyon, Escondido Canyon,
Latigo Canyon, Puerco Canyon, Carbon Canyon, Topanga Canyon and its
tributaries.
| |
|
Solid Waste
| |
|
Any unwanted or discarded material that is not a
liquid or gas. Includes organic wastes, paper products, metals, glass,
plastics, cloth, brick, rock, soil, leather, rubber, yard wastes,
and wood, but does not include sewage and hazardous materials. Organic
wastes and paper products comprise about 75% of typical urban solid
waste.
| |
|
Specific Plan
| |
|
A plan adopted by a city or county to implement
their adopted general plan for a specifically designated area. It
contains the locations and standards for land use densities, streets,
and other public facilities in greater detail than the general plan
map and text.
| |
|
Sphere of Influence
| |
|
The probable ultimate physical boundary and service
limits of a local agency as approved by the Local Agency Formation
Commission (LAFCo). It identifies the area available to a city for
future annexation. However, unless another arrangement has been made
with LAFCo, the City has no actual authority over such area outside
its city limits.
| |
|
Storm Runoff
| |
|
Surplus surface water generated by rainfall that
does not seep into the earth but flows overland to flowing or stagnant
bodies of water.
| |
|
Stringline Rule
| |
|
A line drawn between the nearest adjacent corners
of the adjacent structures. Separate stringlines shall be drawn for
both enclosed living spaces and decks. Enclosed living spaces and
decks shall not extend farther than the applicable stringline at any
point along the stringline. Within infill areas, the Planning Director
shall determine the applicable properties to be utilized in the event
that the nearest properties create an unreasonable hardship on development
of an infill lot.
| |
|
Subdivision
| |
|
The division of a tract of land into defined lots,
either improved or unimproved, which can be separately conveyed by
sale or lease, and which can be altered or developed. "Subdivision"
includes a condominium project (as defined in Section 1350 of the
California Civil Code) and a community apartment project (as defined
in Section 11004 of the Business and Professions Code).
| |
|
Subsidence
| |
|
The sudden sinking or gradual downward settling
and compaction of soil and other surface material with little or no
horizontal motion. Subsidence may be caused by a variety of human
and natural activity, including earthquake.
| |
|
Support
| |
|
The action will receive positive treatment in written
policy, but will receive no further action or commitment of resources
other than transmitting the policy as appropriate to influence others
to take specific actions.
| |
|
Synergistic
| |
|
Acting together, enhancing the effect of another
force or entity, wherein the combined effect is greater than the sum
of their individual effects.
| |
|
Terrestrial
| |
|
Land living or dwelling plants or animals.
| |
|
Thermal Mass
| |
|
Large quantities of heavy or dense material with
a high heat capacity, used in solar buildings to absorb heat, which
is then stored and re-radiated as needed for heating and cooling.
| |
|
Tidepool
| |
|
Pools of the rocky intertidal left behind by the
receding tide.
| |
|
Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
| |
|
A strategy for reducing demand on the road system
by reducing the number of vehicles using the roadways and/or increasing
the number of persons per vehicle. TDM attempts to reduce the number
of persons who drive along on the roadway during the commute period
and to increase the number in carpools, vanpools, buses and trains,
walking and biking. TDM can be an element of TSM (see below).
| |
|
Transportation Management System (TSM)
| |
|
A comprehensive strategy developed to address the
problems caused by additional development, increasing trips, and a
shortfall in transportation capacity. TSM focuses on more efficiently
utilizing existing highway and transit systems rather than expanding
them. TSM measures are characterized by their low costs and quick
implementation time frame, such as computerized traffic signals, metered
freeway ramps, and one-way streets.
| |
|
Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)
| |
|
Development rights are separated from the land in
an area in which a community wishes to limit development. The concept
permits these rights to be sold for use in an area desirable for development.
It has been promoted as a way to retain farmland, preserve endangered
natural environments, protect historic areas, stage development, promote
low- and moderate-income housing, and achieve other land- use objectives.
| |
|
Trip Generation
| |
|
The dynamics that account for people making trips
in automobiles or by means of public transportation. Trip generation
is the basis for estimating the level of use for a transportation
system and the impact of additional development or transportation
facilities on an existing, local transportation system. Trip generations
of households are correlated with destinations that attract members
for specific purposes.
| |
|
Tsunami
| |
|
A great change in sea-level, usually manifested
as a wave, caused by submarine earth movement or volcanic eruption.
| |
|
Vehicle Trip
| |
|
A one-way journey that proceeds from an origin to
a destination via a single mode of transportation; the smallest unit
of movement considered in transportation studies. Each trip has one
"production end" (or origin, usually from home but not always) and
one "attraction end" (or destination).
| |
|
View Corridor
| |
|
The line of sight —identified as to height,
width, and distance —of an observer looking toward an object
of significant to the community (e.g., ridgeline, river, historic
building, etc.); the route that directs the viewer's attention.
| |
|
Viewshed
| |
|
The area within view from a defined observation
point.
| |
|
Visitor-Serving
| |
|
Non-residential land uses (included but not limited
to restaurants, stores, motels, etc.) that are primarily oriented
to visitors to the City of Malibu.
| |
|
Volume-to-Capacity Ratio (V/C)
| |
|
A measure of the operation capacity of a roadway
or intersection, in terms of the number of vehicles passing through,
divided by the number of vehicles that theoretically could pass through
when the roadway or intersection is operating at its designed capacity.
Abbreviated as "V/C." At V/C ratio 1.0, the roadway or intersection
is operating at capacity. If the ration is less than 1.0, the traffic
facility has additional capacity. Although rations slightly greater
than 1.0 are possible, it is more likely that the peak hour will elongate
into a "peak period." (See "Peak Hour" and "Level of Service.")
| |
|
Wastewater Irrigation
| |
|
The process by which wastewater that has undergone
appropriate treatment is used to irrigate land.
| |
|
Watershed
| |
|
The total area above a given point on a watercourse
that contributes water to its flow; the entire region drained by a
waterway or watercourse which drains into a lake, ocean or reservoir.
| |
|
Wave Uprush Study
| |
|
A study that identifies the potential area that
would be inundated along the coast from ocean waves, accounting for
the typical wave height of typical storms. The purpose of the study
is to identify areas that may be affected by and potentially at risk
from ocean waves.
| |
|
Wetland
| |
|
Lands which may be covered periodically or permanently
with shallow water and include saltwater marshes, freshwater marshes,
open or closed brackish water marshes, swamps, mudflats, fens, and
perennial streams.
| |
|
Wildlife Habitat Linkages
| |
|
Areas of relatively undeveloped open space which,
by virtue of their geographic location or habitat characteristics,
have the potential to facilitate wildlife or plant migration between
major habitat areas in the Malibu Coastal Zone including Topanga State
Park, Malibu Creek State Park, Zuma/Trancas, Leo Carrillo and Mugu
State Park. They are identified on Figure CO-3 of the Conservation
Element of the Malibu General Plan.
| |
|
Zoning
| |
|
A measure enacted by a city or county to divide
a community into districts or zones within which permitted and special
uses are established, as well as regulations governing lot size, building
bulk, placement and other development standards. Requirements vary
from district to district, but they must be uniform within districts.
The zoning ordinance consists of two parts: the text and the map.
Zoning a program to implement policies of the general plan.
| |
|
Zoning Map
| |
|
Government Code Section 65851 permits a legislative
body to divide a county, a city or portions thereof, into zone of
the number, shape, and area it deems best suited to carry out the
purposes of the zoning ordinance. These zones are delineated on a
map, or maps, called the "Zoning Map."
| |
|
AAQS
|
Ambient Air Quality Standards.
|
|
ADT
|
Average daily trips made by vehicles in a 24-hour period
|
|
AQMD
|
South Coast Air Quality Management District
|
|
AQMP
|
South Coast Air Quality Management Plan
|
|
ASB
|
Marine Areas of Special Biological Significance
|
|
BMP
|
Best Management Practices
|
|
Caltrans
|
California Department of Transportation
|
|
CARB
|
California Air Resources Board
|
|
CC
|
Commercial, Community
|
|
CC&Rs
|
Codes, Covenants and Restrictions
|
|
CDBG
|
Community Development Block Grant
|
|
CEQA
|
California Environmental Quality Act
|
|
CG
|
Commercial, General
|
|
CIP
|
Capital Improvements Program
|
|
CMP
|
Congestion Management Plan
|
|
CN
|
Commercial, Neighborhood
|
|
CNEL
|
Community Noise Equivalent Level
|
|
CR
|
Commercial, Recreational
|
|
CUP
|
Conditional Use Permit
|
|
CV
|
Commercial, Visitor
|
|
dB
|
Decibel
|
|
dBA
|
Decibels on the "A-weighted" decibel scale
|
|
DEIR
|
Draft Environmental Impact Report
|
|
DSRA
|
Disturbed Sensitive Resource Area
|
|
ESHA
|
Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area
|
|
FAR
|
Floor Area Ratio
|
|
FEIR
|
Final Environmental Impact Report
|
|
FEMA
|
Federal Emergency Management Agency
|
|
FHA
|
Flood Hazard Area
|
|
FHWA
|
Federal Highway Administration
|
|
FIRM
|
Flood Insurance Rate Map
|
|
HCD
|
California Department of Housing and Community Development
|
|
HOV
|
High Occupancy Vehicle
|
|
I
|
Institutional
|
|
ITE
|
Institute of Transportation Engineers
|
|
JPA
|
Joint Powers Authority
|
|
LAFCo
|
Local Agency Formation Commission
|
|
LCP
|
Local Coastal Program
|
|
Ldn
|
Day and Night Average Sound Level
|
|
Leq
|
Sound Energy Equivalent Level
|
|
LOS
|
Level of Service
|
|
LUP
|
Land Use Plan
|
|
MCFZ
|
Malibu Coastal Fault Zone
|
|
MCZ
|
Malibu Coastal Zone
|
|
MF
|
Multifamily
|
|
MH
|
Mobile Home
|
|
MLC
|
Malibu Littoral Cell
|
|
MRU
|
Mixed Residential Use
|
|
MTA
|
Metropolitan Transportation Authority
|
|
MWD
|
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
|
|
NPDES
|
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
|
|
OPR
|
Office of Planning and Research, State of California
|
|
OS
|
Open Space
|
|
PCH
|
Pacific Coast Highway
|
|
PD
|
Planned Development
|
|
PRF
|
Private Recreational Facility
|
|
PUD
|
Planned Unit Development
|
|
RPA
|
Resource Protection Area
|
|
RR
|
Rural Residential
|
|
RR1
|
Rural Residential, 1 unit/acre
|
|
RR2
|
Rural Residential, 1 unit/2 acres
|
|
RR5
|
Rural Residential, 1 unit/5 acres
|
|
RR10
|
Rural Residential, 1 unit/10 acres
|
|
RR20
|
Rural Residential, 1 unit/20 acres
|
|
RVP
|
Recreational Vehicle Park
|
|
RWQCB
|
Regional Water Quality Control Board
|
|
SCAG
|
Southern California Association of Governments
|
|
SCE
|
Southern California Edison Company
|
|
SCS
|
Soil Conservation Service
|
|
SEA
|
Significant Ecological Areas
|
|
SF-L
|
Single-Family, Low
|
|
SF-M
|
Single-Family, Medium
|
|
SMARA
|
Surface Mining and Reclamation Act
|
|
SMMNRA
|
Santa Monica-Malibu National Recreational Area
|
|
SP
|
Specific Plan overlay
|
|
TDM
|
Transportation Demand Management
|
|
TDR
|
Transfer of Development Rights
|
|
TSM
|
Transportation Systems Management
|
|
TWRF
|
Tapia Water Reclamation Facility
|
|
UBC
|
Uniform Building Code
|
|
USGS
|
U.S. Geological Service
|
|
VMT
|
Vehicle Miles Traveled
|
|
V/C
|
Volume-to-Capacity Ratio
|
(Resolution No. 09-43, 7/13/09)
