The provisions of this article are intended to establish landscaping standards that would:
(a) 
Enhance the aesthetic appearance of all development throughout the City by providing standards related to the quality, quantity, and functional aspects of landscaping;
(b) 
Increase compatibility between abutting land uses and public rights-of-way by providing landscape screening and buffering;
(c) 
Decrease the use of water for landscaping purposes by requiring the efficient use of irrigation, appropriate plant materials, and regular maintenance of landscaped areas; and
(d) 
Protect public health, safety, and general welfare by minimizing the effect of physical and visual pollution, controlling soil erosion, preserving the integrity of neighborhoods, and enhancing pedestrian and vehicular traffic and safety.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
All projects that require the installation of landscaping in compliance with the development standards of these Zoning Regulations shall provide and maintain landscaping in compliance with the provisions of this article.
(b) 
In addition to subsection (a), the following landscape projects shall include in required plan submittals the information called for in Section 10-2.1205 (Elements of the landscape documentation package):
(1) 
New construction projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review;
(2) 
Rehabilitated landscape projects with an aggregate landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review;
(3) 
Existing landscapes limited to Sections 10-2.1218 (Preservation of existing trees) and 10-2.1219 (Applicable regulations).
(c) 
Any project with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet or less must either comply with the performance requirements of Title 10, Chapter 2, Article 12 (Landscaping Standards) or the prescriptive measures contained in Section 10-2.1224 (Irrigation audit, irrigation survey, and irrigation water use analysis).
(d) 
For projects using treated or untreated gray water or rainwater captured on site, any lot or parcel within the project that has less than 2,500 square feet of landscape and meets the lot or parcel's landscape water requirement (estimated total water use) entirely with treated or untreated gray water or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to Section 10-2.1224, (Irrigation audit, irrigation survey, and irrigation water use analysis), subsection (b).
(e) 
This article shall not apply to:
(1) 
Registered local, State or Federal historic or landmark sites;
(2) 
Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system;
(3) 
Mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or
(4) 
Existing plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.
(f) 
The terms used in this article have the meaning set forth below:
"Applied water"
means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
"Automatic irrigation control"
means a timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
"Backflow prevention device"
means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
"Certificate of completion"
means the document required under Section 10-2.1211 (Certificate of completion).
"Certified irrigation designer"
means a person certified to design irrigation systems by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization or other program such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation designer certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program.
"Certified landscape irrigation auditor"
means a person certified to perform landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization or other program such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation auditor certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor Program.
"Check valve" or "anti-drain valve"
means a valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.
"Common interest developments"
means community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per California Civil Code Section 1351.
"Compost"
means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plans growth.
"Conversion factor (0.62)"
means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
"Distribution uniformity"
means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.
"Drip irrigation"
means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
"Ecological restoration project"
means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Effective precipitation (Eppt)" or "usable rainfall"
means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
"Emitter"
means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
"Established landscape"
means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
"Establishment period of the plants"
means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to five years for establishment.
"Estimated total water use (ETWU)"
means the total water used for the landscape.
"ET adjustment factor (ETAF)"
means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
"Evapotranspiration rate"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
"Flow sensor"
means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals operating master valves. This combination of flow sensor/controller may also function as a landscape water meter or submeter.
"Friable"
means a soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly planted material will be allowed to spread unimpeded.
"Fuel modification plan guideline"
means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.
"Graywater"
means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes.
"Graywater"
includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. See California Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
"Hardscape"
means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).
"Hydrozone"
means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.
"Infiltration rate"
means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).
"Irrigation audit"
means an in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification Program or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "WaterSense" labeled auditing program.
"Irrigation efficiency (IE)"
means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of this ordinance are 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.
"Irrigation survey"
means an evaluation of an irrigation system that is less detailed than an irrigation audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system test, and written recommendations to improve performance of the irrigation system.
"Irrigation water use analysis"
means an analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing data.
"Landscape architect"
means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the California Business and Professions Code Section 5615.
"Landscape area"
means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
"Landscape contractor"
means a person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
"Landscape project"
means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this section.
"Landscape water meter"
means an inline device installed at the irrigation supply point that measures the flow of water into the irrigation system and is connected to a totalizer (measuring cumulative water flow) to record water use.
"Lateral line"
means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
"Local water purveyor"
means the entity, whether public agency or private water company that provides retail water service to the subject property.
"Low volume irrigation"
means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
"Main line"
means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet.
"Master shut-off valve"
is an automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which controls water flow into the irrigation system. When this valve is closed water will not be supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a leaky station valve.
"Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA)"
means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscape area. The estimated total water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Special landscape areas (SLAs), including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with reclaimed water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0. MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
"Microclimate"
means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective surfaces.
"Mined-land reclamation project"
means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
"Mulch"
means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, or decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.
"New construction"
means, for the purposes of this article, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.
"Non-resident landscape"
means landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public assembly. It also includes portions of common areas of common interest developments with designated recreational areas.
"Operating pressure"
means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems" or "overhead spray irrigation systems"
means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
"Overspray"
means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
"Parkway"
means the area between a sidewalk and the curb or traffic lane. It may be planted or unplanted, and with or without pedestrian egress.
"Permit"
means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes.
"Pervious"
means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"
is a factor, when multiplied by ETo, that estimates the amount of water needed by plants.
"Project applicant"
means the individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation package required under Section 10-2.1203 (Compliance with landscape documentation package), to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the City. A project applicant may be the property owner or designee.
"Rain sensor" or "rain sensing shutoff device"
means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
"Record drawing" or "as-built"
means a set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the contractor.
"Recreational areas"
means areas, excluding private single-family residential areas, designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters or golf course tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
"Recycled water" "reclaimed water," or "treated sewage effluent water"
means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.
"Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo"
means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year, and is an estimate of the vapotranspiration of a large field of four inch to seven inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered.
"Rehabilitated landscape"
means any relandscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements of this section, and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.
"Residential landscape"
means landscapes surrounding single-family or multi-family homes.
"Runoff"
means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.
"Soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor"
means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.
"Soil texture"
means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.
"Special landscape area"
means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, areas irrigated with reclaimed water, water features using reclaimed water and areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface.
"Sprinkler head" or "spray head"
means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
"Static water pressure"
means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.
"Station"
means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
"Submeter"
means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
"Swing joint"
means an irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment damage.
"Totalizer"
is an instrument that measures cumulative water flow.
"Turf"
means a ground cover surface of mowed grass.
"Valve"
means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
"Water conserving plant species"
means a plant species identified as having a very low or low plant factor.
"Water feature"
means a design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape area.
"Watering window"
means the time of day irrigation is allowed.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 1, Ord. 841, eff. June 13, 2014, § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 36, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
Concept plans.
(1) 
A concept landscaping plan shall be submitted as part of a land use permit application, except for single-family dwellings not a part of an active subdivision application, in compliance with Article 18 of this chapter; provided, however, that if a precise plan of design is required pursuant to Section 10-2.2007 (Precise plans—When required), detailed landscape plans which meet the requirements of Section 10-2.1203 (Compliance with landscape documentation package), subsection (b) shall be submitted as part of the precise plan of design in accordance with Section 10-2.2008 (Precise plans—Contents), subsection (k).
(2) 
The concept landscaping plan shall:
(A) 
Meet the purpose/intent of this article by exhibiting a generalized design layout which adequately demonstrates the proposed landscaping program in terms of location, function, scale, size, theme, and similar attributes;
(B) 
Provide the review authority with a clear understanding of the landscaping program before the preparation of a detailed, comprehensive landscaping plan;
(C) 
Address the functional aspects of landscaping (e.g., drainage, dust abatement, erosion control, fire clearance zones, glare reduction, microclimate zones, and provisions for shade, screening, sound absorption, and wind barriers);
(D) 
Clearly display all trees proposed for removal as well as the size and quantity of all new trees proposed for planting;
(E) 
Be designed in compliance with the purpose and intent, and incorporate the applicable provisions, of the City's adopted landscape guidelines;
(F) 
Be designed consistent with the water efficiency standards of Section 10-2.1205 (Elements of the landscape documentation package) when applicable.
(b) 
Prior to construction of a project subject to Title 10, Chapter 2, this Article 12 (Landscaping Standards), the Community Development Department shall:
(1) 
Provide the project applicant with the ordinance and procedures for permits, plan checks or design reviews;
(2) 
Review the landscape documentation package submitted by the project applicant;
(3) 
Approve or deny the landscape documentation package;
(4) 
Issue a permit or approve the plan check or design review for the project applicant; and
(5) 
Upon approval of the landscape documentation package, submit a copy of the water efficient landscape worksheet to the local water purveyor.
(c) 
Prior to construction of a project subject to Title 10, Chapter 2, Article 12 (Landscaping Standards), the project applicant shall submit a landscape documentation package to the Community Development Department.
(d) 
Upon approval of the landscape documentation package by the Community Development Department under Title 10, Chapter 2 Article 12 (Landscaping Standards), the project applicant shall:
(1) 
Receive a permit or approval of the plan check or design review and record the date of the permit in the certificate of completion;
(2) 
Submit a copy of the approved landscape documentation package along with the record drawings, and any other information to the property owner or designee; and
(3) 
Submit a copy of the water efficient landscape worksheet to the local water purveyor.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 841, eff. June 13, 2014, § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 37, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
The following areas of the site shall be landscaped:
(1) 
All setbacks, parkways, non-work areas, and storage areas that are visible from a public street or from a parking lot available to the public;
(2) 
All remaining areas of the site not necessary to meet other standards of these Zoning Regulations (e.g., access drives, parking and loading areas) shall also be landscaped unless the Planning Commission or the Director, as appropriate, determines that a lesser amount of landscaping would be appropriate given the specific characteristics of the development;
(3) 
Areas proposed for development in another phase shall be temporarily treated to control dust and soil erosion if the phase would not begin construction within six months of completion of the previous phase.
(b) 
Trees shall be planted throughout the project in areas of public view, predominantly adjacent to and along structures and street frontages at a rate of at least one tree for each 30 linear feet of structure wall and/or street frontage.
(c) 
Landscape areas shall be a minimum of six feet wide (excluding curbs). Narrower landscape areas may be allowed subject to the approval of the Director.
(d) 
Trees and shrubs shall be planted so that at maturity they do not interfere with utility service lines, street lighting, traffic safety sight areas, on-site signs, and basic property rights of adjoining property owners, particularly the right of solar access.
(e) 
Trees planted near public curbs and sidewalks shall have a limited root structure and shall be installed so as to prevent physical damage to public improvements. A root barrier system shall be used.
(f) 
Landscape areas shall have plant material selected and plant methods used that are suitable for the soil and climatic conditions of the site. The use of water efficient, drought-tolerant plants shall be emphasized in compliance with Section 10-2.1205 (Elements of the landscape documentation package).
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 38, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
The landscape documentation package shall include the following six elements:
(1) 
Project information.
(A) 
Date,
(B) 
Project applicant,
(C) 
Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)),
(D) 
Total landscape area (square feet),
(E) 
Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed),
(F) 
Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well,
(G) 
Checklist of all documents in the landscape documentation package,
(H) 
Project contacts to include contact information for the project applicant and property owner,
(I) 
Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the water efficient landscape ordinance and submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package";
(2) 
Water efficient landscape worksheet.
(A) 
Hydrozone information table,
(B) 
Water budget calculations:
(i) 
Maximum applied water allowance (MAWA),
(ii) 
Estimated total water use (ETWU);
(3) 
Soil management report;
(4) 
Landscape design plan;
(5) 
Irrigation design plan; and
(6) 
Grading design plan.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 3, Ord. 841, eff. June 13, 2014, and § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
A project applicant shall complete the water efficient landscape worksheet, available from the City, which contains information on the plant factor, irrigation method, irrigation efficiency, and area associated with each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that the evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF) for the landscape project does not exceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, exclusive of special landscape areas. The ETAF for a landscape project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The maximum applied water allowance is calculated based on the maximum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The estimated total water use (ETWU) is calculated based on the plants used and irrigation method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the MAWA.
In calculating the maximum applied water allowance and estimated total water use, a project applicant shall use the ETo values from the reference evapotranspiration table in Section 10-2.1228.
(b) 
Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
(1) 
The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 to 0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate water use plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
(2) 
All water features shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone.
(3) 
All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use calculated in the water efficient landscape worksheet, available from the City.
(4) 
ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or designee, (unless exempted by Section 10-2.1202 (Applicability), subsection (e)), as follows:
(1) 
Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
(A) 
Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.
(B) 
The soil analysis shall include:
(i) 
Soil texture;
(ii) 
Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;
(iii) 
pH;
(iv) 
Total soluble salts;
(v) 
Sodium;
(vi) 
Percent organic matter; and
(vii) 
Recommendations.
(C) 
In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.
(2) 
The project applicant, or designee, shall comply with one of the following:
(A) 
If significant mass grading is not planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the City as part of the landscape documentation package; or
(B) 
If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the City as part of the certificate of completion.
(3) 
The soil analysis report shall be made available, in a timely manner, to the professionals preparing the landscape design plans and irrigation design plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans.
(4) 
The project applicant, or designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the City with certificate of completion.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 39, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned for the intended function of the project. A landscape design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package (unless exempted by Section 10-2.1202 (Applicability), subsection (e)).
(1) 
Plant material.
(A) 
Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the estimated total water use in the landscape area does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
(i) 
Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;
(ii) 
Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially local native plants;
(iii) 
Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;
(iv) 
Selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area;
(v) 
Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists; and
(vi) 
Selection of plants from local fuel modification plan guidelines.
(B) 
Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as specified in Section 10-2.1209 (Irrigation design plan), subsection (a)(2)(iv).
(C) 
Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
(i) 
Follow Sunset Western Garden's Climate Zone System https://www.sunsetwesterngardencollection.com/climate-zones, which takes into account the "total climate" of the area (temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate) and thus infers the optimal plant breeds to select.
(ii) 
Recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure (e.g., buildings, sidewalks, power lines); allow for adequate soil volume for healthy root growth; and
(iii) 
Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.
(D) 
Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25% means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent).
(E) 
High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.
(F) 
A landscape design plan for projects in fire-prone areas shall address fire safety and prevention. A defensible space or zone around a building or structure is required per Public Resources Code Section 4291, subdivisions (a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches. Refer to the local fuel modification plan guidelines.
(G) 
The use of invasive plant species, such as those listed by the California Invasive Plant Council (https://www.cal-ipc.org/), is strongly discouraged.
(H) 
The architectural guidelines of a common interest development, which include community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-water use plants as a group.
(2) 
Water features.
(A) 
Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
(B) 
Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water features.
(C) 
Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
(D) 
Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.
(3) 
Soil preparation, mulch and amendments.
(A) 
Prior to the planting of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition. On engineered slopes, only amended planting holes need meet this requirement.
(B) 
Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected (see Section 10-2.1207 (Soil management report).
(C) 
For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than 6% organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
(D) 
A minimum three inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to 5% of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated insect habitat must be included in the landscape design plan as such.
(E) 
Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes that meet current engineering standards.
(F) 
The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded applications shall meet the mulching requirement of MWELO or, alternatively, Section 10-2.1230, (Prescriptive compliance option), subsection (b)(3)(C).
(G) 
Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer organic products shall take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the recycled post-consumer organic products are not locally available. Organic mulches are not required where prohibited by local fuel modification plan guidelines or other applicable local ordinances.
(b) 
The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:
(1) 
Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method;
(2) 
Identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed water use. Temporarily irrigated areas of the landscape shall be included in the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation;
(3) 
Identify recreational areas;
(4) 
Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
(5) 
Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;
(6) 
Identify type of mulch and application depth;
(7) 
Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
(8) 
Identify type and surface area of water features;
(9) 
Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious);
(10) 
Identify location, installation details, and 24 hour retention or infiltration capacity of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Project applicants shall refer to the City or Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements. Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the landscape design plan and examples are provided in Section 10-2.1221 (Stormwater management and rainwater retention);
(11) 
Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies as discussed in Section 10-2.1221 (Stormwater management and rainwater retention) and their 24 hour retention or infiltration capacity;
(12) 
Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution;
(13) 
Contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan"; and
(14) 
Bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, and 7027.5 of the California Business and Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the California Food and Agriculture Code.)
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and§ 40, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
This section applies to landscaped areas requiring permanent irrigation, not areas that require temporary irrigation solely for the plant establishment period. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufacturers' recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.
(1) 
System.
(A) 
Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water service meter or private submeter, shall be installed for all nonresidential irrigated landscapes of 1,000 square feet but not more than 5,000 square feet (the level at which California Water Code Section 535 applies) and residential irrigated landscapes of 5,000 square feet or greater. A landscape water meter may be either:
(i) 
A customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the local water purveyor; or
(ii) 
A privately owned meter or submeter.
(B) 
Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems.
(C) 
If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices, the installation of a pressure regulating device is required to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for optimal performance.
(i) 
If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.
(ii) 
Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure, and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at installation.
(D) 
Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain.
(E) 
Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be required, as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an emergency (such as a main line break) or routine repair.
(F) 
Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from contamination by the irrigation system. A project applicant shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public health) for additional backflow prevention requirements.
(G) 
Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all on nonresidential landscapes and residential landscapes of 5,000 square feet or larger.
(H) 
Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features.
(I) 
The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.
(J) 
Relevant information from the soil management report, such as soil type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation systems.
(K) 
The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones of the landscape design plan.
(L) 
The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section 10-2.1206 regarding the maximum applied water allowance.
(M) 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers'/International Code Council's (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
(N) 
It is highly recommended that the project applicant or City inquire with the local water purveyor about peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
(O) 
In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
(P) 
Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations.
(Q) 
Head-to-head coverage (where each sprinkler head coverage area extends to the next sprinkler head) is recommended. However, sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution uniformity using the manufacturer's recommendations.
(R) 
Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscapes or in high traffic areas of turf grass.
(S) 
Check valves or anti-drain valves are required on all sprinkler heads where low point drainage could occur.
(T) 
Areas less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
(U) 
Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any non-permeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow non-spray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if:
(i) 
The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
(ii) 
The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or
(iii) 
The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the landscape documentation package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation system design criteria in Section 10-2-1209 (Irrigation design plan), subsection (a)(1)(I). Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
(V) 
Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with an application rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the landscape documentation package, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
(2) 
Hydrozone.
(A) 
Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.
(B) 
Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone.
(C) 
Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees. The mature size and extent of the root zone shall be considered when designing irrigation for the tree.
(D) 
Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:
(i) 
Plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective plant water uses and their plant factor; or
(ii) 
The plant factor of the higher water using plant is used for calculations.
(E) 
Individual hydrozones that mix high and low water use plants shall not be permitted.
(F) 
On the landscape design plan and irrigation design plan, hydrozone areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation. The irrigation design plan shall also designate the areas irrigated by each valve, and assign a number to each valve. This valve number must be identified in the hydrozone information table of the water efficient landscape worksheet available from the City. This table can also assist with the irrigation audit and programming the controller.
(b) 
The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:
(1) 
Location and size of separate water meters for landscape;
(2) 
Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches, quick couplers, pressure regulators, and backflow prevention devices;
(3) 
Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;
(4) 
Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station;
(5) 
Recycled water irrigation systems as specified in Section 10-2.1214 (Use of reclaimed water);
(6) 
The following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the irrigation design plan"; and
(7) 
The signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an irrigation system. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, and 7027.5 of the California Business and Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the California Food and Agricultural Code.)
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 41, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer for other local agency permits satisfies this requirement.
(1) 
The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including:
(A) 
Height of graded slopes;
(B) 
Drainage patterns;
(C) 
Pad elevations;
(D) 
Finish grade; and
(E) 
Stormwater retention improvements, if applicable.
(2) 
To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants:
(A) 
Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes;
(B) 
Avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and
(C) 
Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
(3) 
The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall bear the signature of a licensed professional as authorized by law.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 42, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
The certificate of completion, for which the form is available from the City, shall include the following six elements:
(1) 
Project information sheet that contains:
(A) 
Date,
(B) 
Project name,
(C) 
Project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address,
(D) 
Project address and location, and
(E) 
Property owner name, telephone, and mailing address;
(2) 
Certification by either the signer of the landscape design plan, the signer of the irrigation design plan, or the licensed landscape contractor that the landscape project has been installed per the approved landscape documentation package:
(A) 
Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, these "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification,
(B) 
A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes;
(3) 
Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section 10-2.1212 (Irrigation scheduling));
(4) 
Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section 10-2.1213 (Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule));
(5) 
Irrigation audit report (see Section 10-2.1224 (Irrigation audit, irrigation survey, and irrigation water analysis)); and
(6) 
Soil analysis report, if not submitted with landscape documentation package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see Section 10-2.1207 (Soil management report)).
(b) 
The project applicant shall:
(1) 
Submit the signed certificate of completion to the City for review;
(2) 
Ensure that copies of the approved certificate of completion are submitted to the local water purveyor and property owner or designee.
(c) 
The City shall:
(1) 
Receive the signed certificate of completion from the project applicant;
(2) 
Approve or deny the certificate of completion. If the certificate of completion is denied, the City shall provide information to the project applicant regarding reapplication, appeal, or other assistance.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 43, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:
(1) 
Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
(2) 
Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter of the two shall apply. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
(3) 
For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the estimated total water use. Total annual applied water shall be less than or equal to maximum applied water allowance (MAWA). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS – the California Irrigation Management Information System) or soil moisture sensor data.
(4) 
Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted for each of the following:
(A) 
The plant establishment period;
(B) 
The established landscape; and
(C) 
Temporarily irrigated areas.
(5) 
Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that apply:
(A) 
Irrigation interval (days between irrigation);
(B) 
Irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff);
(C) 
Number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff;
(D) 
Amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly basis;
(E) 
Application rate setting;
(F) 
Root depth setting;
(G) 
Plant type setting;
(H) 
Soil type;
(I) 
Slope factor setting;
(J) 
Shade factor setting; and
(K) 
Irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting.
(§ 3, Ord. 771, eff. February 13, 2004, as amended by § 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, and § 44, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the certificate of completion.
(b) 
A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection; auditing, adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components; aerating and dethatching turf areas; topdressing with compost, replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding in all landscape areas, and removing obstructions to emission devices. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
(c) 
Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.
(d) 
A project applicant is encouraged to implement established landscape industry sustainable best practices for all landscape maintenance activities.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water.
(b) 
All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and State laws.
(c) 
Landscapes using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ET adjustment factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
On all new construction, the Director may require the planting of parkway/street trees, of a variety from the City's master tree list. Street trees shall be installed in compliance with the following standards:
(a) 
Minimum spacing requirements.
(1) 
Spacing between trees will be determined by the Director during project review; and
(2) 
Spacing between trees and various circulation and utility items shall be as follows:
(A) 
Thirty-five feet from street intersections;
(B) 
Fifteen feet from street light and utility poles; and
(C) 
Ten feet from driveways, sewers, and waterlines.
(b) 
Street tree species shall be selected in compliance with the following standards/criteria:
(1) 
New street tree plantings in older areas of the City shall reflect, to the greatest extent feasible, the existing species along the street, and every effort should be made to match or effectively blend with existing plant materials;
(2) 
Street trees for a particular street shall generally require a uniform tree variety within a specified area in order to ensure ease of maintenance and maintain general aesthetic appearance;
(3) 
Trees to be located under utility wires shall be properly selected, planted, and maintained subject to the recommendations of a certified arborist. Tree topping shall be avoided; and
(4) 
Trees shall be standard single trunk, not multi-trunked, except for a limited number of specimen trees.
(c) 
A minimum size of 24 inch box with a minimum two inch trunk diameter shall be required for each street tree. Each tree shall be eight feet to 12 feet tall with a minimum four foot wide head at the time of planting. The Director may reduce the minimum size to 15 gallon in instances where a 24 inch box tree would not be appropriate for the location.
(d) 
Street trees shall not obstruct the vision of motorists or pedestrians.
(e) 
Where parkways exist between the sidewalk and curb, street trees shall use tree wells with root barriers to mitigate against uprooting of sidewalks and curbs.
(f) 
Where the parkway is located behind the sidewalk, street trees shall be planted five feet behind the sidewalk measured from the outer edge of the sidewalk to mitigate sidewalk and curb damage.
(g) 
All trees shall be free of insects, disease, mechanical injuries, and other objectionable features at the time of planting.
(h) 
Any person or firm contracting to plant street trees shall post a performance bond guaranteeing the faithful performance of all irrigation and tree maintenance for at least a one-year period. The bond shall be an amount equal to the cost of the planting, irrigation, and maintenance as determined by the City Engineer.
(i) 
Street trees shall not be removed without the approval of the City Engineer. Also, please see Section 10-2.1211 (Certificate of completion) for instructions on how to alert the City of tree removal project completion.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 45, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
All installed landscaping and irrigation systems shall be continually maintained in compliance with the following requirements:
(a) 
Landscape maintenance shall consist of regular watering, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, clearing of debris and weeds, the removal and replacement of dead plants, and the repair and replacement of irrigation system components.
(b) 
Before final inspection, the project proponent shall file, with the Department, a maintenance agreement and easement subject to the approval of the City Attorney. The agreement and easement shall ensure that if the landowner, or subsequent owner(s), fails to maintain the required or installed site improvements, the City would be able to file an appropriate lien(s) against the property in order to accomplish the required maintenance.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
These requirements apply to all new residential developments whenever two or more model homes are involved. One model home may use non-drought tolerant species; the remaining models shall be designed to meet the water-saving landscaping criteria identified in this article and in compliance with the specific requirements of this section.
(a) 
Each "water-saving" model home shall contain exclusively low-water use plant materials and efficient irrigation systems with appropriate signs and information for prospective homebuyers.
(b) 
Each model in the complex, including the high-water use model, shall be equipped with a water meter to generate records on how much water the landscape uses. The information shall be used in public information materials about the models and the water-saving potential for low-water use landscapes.
(c) 
All plants used at the water-saving models are to be water-efficient types that are readily available in Ventura County or other nearby sources. The plants used should be attractive, including some flowering types, require relatively little maintenance once established, and enhance the appearance of the model home(s).
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
All existing oak, sycamore, heritage, and other mature trees are considered significant aesthetic, ecological, and historical resources and shall be preserved in compliance with Title 4, Chapter 11 (Preservation, Cutting, and Removal of Oak, Sycamore, Heritage and Other Designated Mature Trees). All tree protection provisions and associated tree fencing plans shall be clearly shown on the required grading plans.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 46, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
All uses shall be subject to the applicable provisions of these Zoning Regulations, including the procedures identified in the following: Article 12, Landscaping Standards; Article 14, Parking and Loading Standards; Article 16, Sign Standards; Article 20, Design Review Permits; Article 22, Temporary Use Permits; Article 24, Conditional Use Permits; Article 25, Minor Variances; Article 26, Variances.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
Graywater systems promote the efficient use of water and are encouraged to assist in on-site landscape irrigation. All graywater systems shall conform to the California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5, Chapter 16) and any applicable local ordinance standards. Refer to California Code Regulations Title 23, Section 490.1, subdivision (d) for the applicability of this article to landscape areas less than 2,500 square feet with the estimated total water use met entirely by graywater.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
Stormwater management practices minimize runoff and increase infiltration which recharges groundwater and improves water quality. Implementing stormwater best management practices into the landscape and grading design plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site rainwater retention and infiltration are encouraged.
(b) 
Project applicants shall refer to the City or to the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB-LA) for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements.
(c) 
All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention and infiltration. Refer to Section 10-2.1208 (Landscape design plan), subsection (a)(3).
(d) 
It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for capture and infiltration capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from impervious surfaces (i.e., roof and paved areas) from either: (1) the one-inch, 24 hour rain event; or (2) the 85th percentile, 24 hour rain event, and/or additional capacity as required by any applicable local, regional, State or Federal regulation.
(e) 
It is recommended that stormwater projects incorporate any of the following elements to improve on-site stormwater and dry weather runoff capture and use:
(1) 
Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways, during construction to drain to vegetated areas.
(2) 
Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof and concrete driveways.
(3) 
Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize runoff.
(4) 
Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into planting beds or landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.
(5) 
Incorporate rain gardens, cisterns, and other rain harvesting or catchment systems.
(6) 
Incorporate infiltration beds, swales, basins and drywells to capture stormwater and dry weather runoff and increase percolation into the soil.
(7) 
Consider constructed wetlands and ponds that retain water, equalize excess flow, and filter pollutants.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 47, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
Publications. Education is a critical component to promote the efficient use of water in landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of design, installation, management and maintenance that save water is encouraged in the community.
(1) 
The City shall provide information to owners of permitted renovations and new, single-family residential homes regarding the design, installation, management, and maintenance of water efficient landscapes based on a water budget.
(b) 
Model homes. All model homes that are landscaped shall use signs and written information to demonstrate the principles of water efficient landscapes described in this article.
(1) 
Signs shall be used to identify the model as an example of a water efficient landscape featuring elements such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and others that contribute to the overall water efficient theme. Signage shall include information about the site water use as designed per the local ordinance; specify who designed and installed the water efficient landscape; and demonstrate low water use approaches to landscaping such as using native plants, graywater systems, and rainwater catchment systems.
(2) 
Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
This section shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before December 1, 2015 and are over one acre in size.
(1) 
For all such landscapes that have a water meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes. The maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA= (0.8) (ETo) (LA) (0.62).
(2) 
For all such landscapes, that do not have a meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation surveys and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste.
(b) 
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
(a) 
The Ojai Public Works Department shall prevent water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation by prohibiting runoff from leaving the target landscape due to low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures. Penalties for violation of these prohibitions shall be established by the City Council.
(b) 
Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff may be modified if:
(1) 
The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
(2) 
The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 48, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
The City may consider effective precipitation (25% of annual precipitation) in tracking water use and may use the following equation to calculate maximum applied water allowance:
MAWA= (ETo - Eppt) (0.62) [(0.55 x LA)+ (045 x SLA)] for residential areas.
MAWA= (ETo - Eppt) (0.62) [(045 x LA)+ (0.55 x SLA)] for nonresidential areas.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
For the purpose of determining estimated total water use, average irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip system devices.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
In addition to any other authority available to enforce violations of this Municipal Code, the City may establish and administer additional penalties to the project applicant for noncompliance with the ordinance to the extent permitted by law.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017)
Table A
OJAI VALLEY AREA REFERENCE EVAPOTRANSPIRATION
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Year
1.59
1.98
3.17
4.13
4.88
5.91
6.71
6.71
5.31
3.42
2.24
1.464
7.51
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 49, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)
(a) 
This section contains prescriptive requirements which may be used as a compliance option to the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
(b) 
Compliance with the following items is mandatory and must be documented on a landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive compliance option:
(1) 
Submit a landscape documentation package which includes the following elements:
(A) 
Date.
(B) 
Project applicant.
(C) 
Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)).
(D) 
Total landscape area (square feet), including a breakdown of turf and plant material.
(E) 
Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed).
(F) 
Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well.
(G) 
Contact information for the project applicant and property owner.
(H) 
Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the prescriptive compliance option to the MWELO."
(2) 
Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-indicated by a soil test).
(3) 
Plant material shall comply with all of the following:
(A) 
For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 75% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water. For nonresidential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 100% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water;
(B) 
A minimum three inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.
(4) 
Turf shall comply with all of the following:
(A) 
Turf shall not exceed 25% of the landscape area in residential areas, and there shall be no turf in nonresidential areas;
(B) 
Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas which exceed a slope of one foot vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length;
(C) 
Turf is prohibited in parkways less than 10 feet wide, unless the parkway is adjacent to a parking strip and used to enter and exit vehicles. Any turf in parkways must be irrigated by sub-surface irrigation or by other technology that creates no overspray or runoff.
(5) 
Irrigation systems shall comply with the following:
(A) 
Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data and utilize a rain sensor.
(B) 
Irrigation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose programming data in the event the primary power source is interrupted.
(C) 
Pressure regulators shall be installed on the irrigation system to ensure the dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers recommended pressure range.
(D) 
Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be installed as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply.
(E) 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014, "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
(F) 
Areas less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
(6) 
For nonresidential projects with landscape areas of 1,000 square feet or more, a private submeter(s) to measure landscape water use shall be installed.
(c) 
At the time of final inspection, the permit applicant must provide the owner of the property with a certificate of completion, certificate of installation, irrigation schedule and a schedule of landscape and irrigation maintenance.
(§ 2, Ord. 872, eff. June 9, 2017, as amended by § 50, Ord. 941, eff. November 10, 2023)