It is determined by the City Council that appropriate action must be taken in order to protect and preserve desert vegetation, and particularly Joshua trees, so as to retain the unique natural desert aesthetics in some areas of this City, and to promote the general welfare of the community. Although it may not be feasible, practicable, or in the public interest to preserve all healthy desert vegetation regulated under this chapter due to reasonable planning, developmental or property rights considerations, the design of development projects should strive to protect and maintain the most desirable and significant of the healthy desert vegetation in a manner consistent with the City general plan and the California Environmental Quality Act.
(Ord. 952 § 2, 1992)
(A) 
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Palmdale native desert vegetation ordinance."
(B) 
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all public and private property within the City which contains Joshua trees or other desert vegetation as defined by this chapter.
(Ord. 952 § 2, 1992)
For purposes of this chapter, certain words and phrases shall be defined as follows unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
(A) 
"Damage"
means any action which may cause injury, death, or disfigurement to desert vegetation. This includes, but is not limited to, cutting, mutilating, harvesting, overwatering and excavating.
(B) 
"Desert native plant specialist"
means:
(1) 
A certified arborist;
(2) 
An individual with a four-year college degree in ecology or fish and wildlife related biological science and at least two years of professional experience with relocation or restoration of native California desert vegetation; or
(3) 
An individual with at least five years of professional experience with relocation or restoration of native California desert vegetation.
(C) 
"Desert vegetation"
shall mean California juniper as defined by this chapter, and other living plants identified pursuant to the California Desert Native Plants Act (Food and Agricultural Code Section 80001, et seq.) as protected or designated on any state or federal rare and endangered species list.
(D) 
"Development proposal"
means an application for approval of a specific plan, a subdivision, conditional use permit, tentative tract map, parcel map or any other development permit or entitlement application which has been filed with and is pending for consideration by the City.
(E) 
"Growing season"
means the period of time each year from March 1st through August 31st.
(F) 
"Joshua tree"
means a living tree of botanical name of Yucca brevifolia, including Y. brevifolia var. Herbertii, and all other varieties and forms thereof.
(G) 
"California juniper"
means a living tree of the botanical name of Juniperus californica.
(H) 
"Maintenance"
shall mean all actions needed for the continued good health of desert vegetation, including, but not limited to, insect control, spraying, and removal of dead wood.
(I) 
"Native desert vegetation preserve"
means a site accepted by the City containing stands of native desert vegetation that will be preserved in a natural condition for passive recreation uses.
(J) 
"Remove"
means the physical removal of desert vegetation by grading or any other method likely to cause death of the vegetation.
(K) 
"Tree bank"
means a site accepted by the City for management and maintenance that will be utilized for the temporary storage of native desert vegetation until permanent transplantation sites can be located.
(L) 
"Accessory structure"
means a subordinate structure, the use of which is incidental to an existing single-family residence, and includes: an accessory dwelling unit, garage, carport, swimming pool, patio, greenhouse, storage shed, gazebo, septic tank, or gravel or paved driveway.
(M) 
"Developed parcel"
means a parcel with an existing single-family residence.
(N) 
"Project proponent"
means the owner of a project site for a single-family residence or accessory structure or the owner's agent or the public agency undertaking a public works project.
(O) 
"Project site"
means the parcel or parcels on which a project proponent proposes to construct a single-family residence or accessory structure or on which a public agency proposes to undertake a public works project.
(P) 
"Public works project"
means a project for the erection, construction, alteration, maintenance, or repair of any public structure, sewer connection, building, or road or other public improvement of any kind.
(Q) 
"Single-family residence"
means a single detached building that will be constructed or has already been constructed, regardless of whether it was constructed as part of a subdivision or development, and used as living facilities, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation as required by the California Building Code for not more than one household.
(R) 
"Size class"
means the classification of western Joshua trees by the following two sizes:
(1) 
Less than four meters in height; and
(2) 
Four meters or greater in height.
(S) 
"Undeveloped parcel"
means a parcel without an existing single-family residence.
(T) 
"Western Joshua tree"
means an individual western Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) that has emerged from the ground, regardless of age or size, and that includes all stems that have emerged from the ground within a one-meter radius measured from a single point at the base of the largest stem.
(U) 
"Western Joshua Tree Mitigation Fund"
means the fund established pursuant to California Department of Fish and Game.
(Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
(A) 
Desert vegetation shall not be removed, nor caused to be removed, on or from any parcel of land, except as provided by the provisions of this chapter.
(B) 
A native desert vegetation removal permit shall be obtained from the City's Landscape Architect, or in lieu thereof, the Director of Public Works' designee, prior to the removal of any native desert vegetation as defined in this chapter.
(C) 
The project proponent or its agent may remove a detached dead western Joshua tree or detached limb of a western Joshua tree. All other removals and all trimming of western Joshua trees authorized by permits issued pursuant to this subsection shall be completed by a desert native plant specialist. A permit may be issued, without payment of mitigation fees, provided that the dead western Joshua tree or the limb(s) to be removed:
(1) 
Has fallen over and is within 30 feet of a structure;
(2) 
Is leaning against an existing structure; or
(3) 
Creates an imminent threat to public health or safety.
(D) 
Census.
(1) 
The project proponent proposing to relocate or remove a western Joshua tree shall cause a census of western Joshua trees to be conducted on the project site. The census shall count all western Joshua trees on the project site and classify them by size class.
(2) 
Prior to receiving take authorization from the participating agency, the project proponent shall submit to the participating agency a census report that shall include the following:
(a) 
The name of the desert native plant specialist who conducted the census and the employer of the desert native plant specialist.
(b) 
The name of the desert native plant specialist who will relocate western Joshua trees, if applicable, and the employer of the desert native plant specialist.
(c) 
The date of the census.
(d) 
The date or dates of the proposed relocation of western Joshua trees, if applicable.
(e) 
A map of the project site that depicts: the location of the proposed single-family residence, accessory structure, or public works project; the number and location of all western Joshua trees on the project site; and the proposed placement of each relocated western Joshua tree.
(f) 
Photographs of each western Joshua tree on the project site, including a visual representation of the scale of the height of each tree.
(E) 
Avoidance. To the maximum extent practicable, the project proponent shall avoid take of western Joshua trees on the project site.
(F) 
Minimization.
(1) 
The project proponent shall avoid all ground-disturbing activities within 10 feet of any western Joshua tree if those activities will disturb the soil to a depth of greater than 12 inches.
(2) 
To the maximum extent feasible, the project proponent shall relocate all western Joshua trees that cannot be avoided to another location on the project site.
(3) 
For purposes of this subsection, relocation of a western Joshua tree shall be determined to be infeasible if either of the following applies:
(a) 
Relocation of the western Joshua tree on the project site would pose a threat to public health or safety.
(b) 
Relocation of the western Joshua tree on the project site would interfere with existing roadways, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, utility lines, sewer lines, drainage improvements, foundations, existing structures, or setbacks to any of those structures or improvements.
(c) 
There is no location on the project site that satisfies the requirements listed above.
(4) 
The project proponent shall ensure that relocation of western Joshua trees pursuant to this section satisfies the following requirements:
(a) 
All western Joshua tree relocations shall be completed by a desert native plant specialist.
(b) 
All western Joshua trees to be relocated shall be placed at least 25 feet from any existing or proposed structure or improvement and at least 10 feet from any other western Joshua tree.
(c) 
Within 30 days of completing the relocation, the project proponent shall provide the participating agency with a map of the project site indicating where each western Joshua tree was relocated.
(G) 
Removal. A project proponent may remove western Joshua trees that cannot feasibly be avoided or relocated.
(H) 
Mitigation. Prior to receiving take authorization from the participating agency, the project proponent shall pay mitigation fees to the participating agency for deposit into the Western Joshua Tree Mitigation Fund as follows:
(1) 
For single-family residential projects undertaken on undeveloped parcels and public works projects to erect or construct a new public structure, building, road, or improvement, the project proponent shall pay mitigation fees.
(2) 
For accessory structure projects undertaken on developed parcels and for public works projects to alter, maintain, or repair an existing public structure, building, road, or improvement, the project proponent shall pay mitigation fees.
(I) 
All projects not identified above will be required to obtain an Incidental Take Permit (2081) from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
(Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
All development proposal applications for sites containing native desert vegetation shall include a desert vegetation preservation plan, submitted with the development application, containing the following:
(A) 
A written report and a site plan which depicts the location of each Joshua tree and California juniper, discusses their age and health, identifies and locates all trees and shrubs which can be saved in place or relocated. The report shall be prepared by a desert native plant specialist.
(B) 
A site landscaping plan showing the proposed location of those Joshua trees or California junipers, and any other native desert vegetation that will remain on-site.
(C) 
A long-term maintenance program for any desert vegetation preserved on the site. The minimum term of any maintenance program shall be two growing seasons, unless a shorter length of time is determined by the City's Landscape Architect, or in lieu thereof, the Director of Public Works' designee in cases where the trees retained on the site are of such health and vigor after one growing season that their survival is assured.
(D) 
Such other and further information as the Economic and Community Development Director may deem necessary to fulfill the purposes and intent of this Chapter in a particular case.
(Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1614 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
(A) 
A tree spade shall be used to prepare the transplant site and excavate the Joshua tree and root system. Soil profile can influence Joshua tree root mass and should be taken into consideration when selecting tree spade size. General tree spade sizing guidelines as follows:
(1) 
Forty-two-inch spade for western Joshua trees under one meter in height.
(2) 
Fifty-four-inch spade for western Joshua trees one to two meters in height.
(3) 
Ninety-inch spade for western Joshua trees two to four and one-half +/- meters in height.
(B) 
Joshua trees to be transplanted shall be prepared by creating earthen berms around the perimeter of the tree for pre-soaking operations.
(C) 
The northern face of each tree shall be marked at the base with spray paint to aid in proper orientation during transplanting. The trees shall be orientated at the receiving site in the same direction as the original location.
(D) 
Only trees less than or equal to 15 feet in height, and in good condition are recommended for transplanting. Each western Joshua tree that is transplanted shall have tree inventory data collected according to the tree inventory technical specifications.
(E) 
A water regimen shall be conducted to ensure survivability. All trees shall receive a pre-soaking approximately one week prior to transplanting. Each tree shall have an earthen berm built around the perimeter, large enough to accommodate 20 gallons of water to ensure the root ball will hold together and to minimize transplant shock.
(F) 
Each tree shall be placed in the receiving hole in the appropriate geographic orientation and backfilled with native or mineral amended soil. The original soil line on the trunk should be slightly higher than adjacent grade to allow the transplanted tree to settle to the appropriate grade. The hole shall be filled with water and the tree will be slightly agitated to dislodge any air bubbles that could create root rot.
(G) 
Earthen berms shall be created around each tree after transplant to ensure western Joshua trees can receive up to five gallons of water per watering event. Each western Joshua tree will be hand watered (top to bottom) every two weeks for up to six weeks following transplanting. All trees shall be watered for one year: The trees should be watered three times in the spring, one time in the summer, and one time in the fall with three gallons of water per watering event. The proponent must notify the Landscape Superintendent, City Arborist or appointed designee in advance of each watering event to ensure compliance with the watering regimen maintenance period.
(H) 
A daily pre-transplant operation safety briefing shall be conducted to ensure all applicable safety regulatory requirements have been met. All personnel working in and around equipment shall wear hard hats, reflective safety vests and protective eye wear.
(I) 
Protection of Public and Private Property. The proponent shall be responsible for the protection of all public and private property and improvements within and adjacent to all work areas including but not limited to: plant material, lawns, sprinkler systems, drains, fencing, block walls, brick or masonry work, sidewalks, street paving, street lights, traffic signals, utility pedestals and all other public or private improvements.
(J) 
Restitution for Public or Private Property Damage. Any improvements removed or damaged, other than those scheduled for removal shall be replaced in kind at the proponent's expense to the absolute satisfaction of the Grounds and Green Spaces Superintendent and/or private property owner. Replacement shall take place no later than five working days from the date of damage, unless otherwise authorized by the Grounds and Green Spaces Superintendent.
(K) 
Underground Service Alert. The proponent shall be responsible for contacting Underground Service Alert, securing a dig-alert ticket, and allowing the time required by law for members to respond and mark their underground infrastructure prior to conducting any western Joshua tree transplanting operations. The proponent shall analyze and respect all utility markings and transplant western Joshua trees with care to avoid contact with any underground infrastructure within the transplant zone.
(Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020; Ord. 1614 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
All development proposals for land which contains desert vegetation shall be subject to the following provisions regarding the preservation of native desert vegetation both on- and off-site:
(A) 
The minimum standard of preservation shall be:
(1) 
Two California junipers per gross acre, averaged for the gross site area covered by the development application; or
(2) 
Where soil conditions or conditions of the California juniper prohibit the preservation of two trees per acre, or where the total number of healthy trees per gross acre is not equal to two per acre, the minimum standard of preservation will be determined by a desert native plant specialist and confirmed by the City's Landscape Architect, or in lieu thereof, the Director of Public Works' designee, in accordance with the following criteria:
(a) 
Soil characteristics of a proposed area for relocation of vegetation,
(b) 
Health of the native desert vegetation, including damage to trunk or root system,
(c) 
Size of the Joshua tree and the location to where the tree will be transplanted,
(d) 
A suitable top-root ratio;
(3) 
Where possible, a minimum of two California juniper trees per gross acre shall be retained undisturbed on site. California junipers are valuable components of the native desert vegetation and it is desirable to retain specimens whenever possible. However, California junipers do not transplant well, are large plants which are difficult to incorporate into landscaping and are not readily available as nursery stock;
(4) 
To enhance the likelihood of survival, native desert vegetation that cannot be fenced and left undisturbed will not be left in place while grading. The options for preserving trees on site after grading are the following:
(a) 
Move the vegetation slated to remain on site to a holding area. After grading has been completed, move vegetation once again to a permanent location.
(b) 
Grade in Phases. Ready the area to receive vegetation first, then transplant and complete grading.
(B) 
The quantity of California junipers calculated under the minimum standard of preservation as determined above shall be preserved by any combination of the following means:
(1) 
The development proposal shall be prepared in a manner which retains on site those plants that can be incorporated into the design of the development. Development proposals should use native desert vegetation to landscape on-site detention basins, entry statement areas, and other open space sites whenever possible, where xeric landscaping is appropriate;
(a) 
California junipers retained on site shall be credited toward the two trees per gross acre or other minimum standard of preservation,
(b) 
Other methods of preservation as shown in subsection (B)(2) shall not apply to California junipers;
(2) 
Only after all other options are exhausted, proponents may pay an in-lieu fee to the City to fulfill their obligation of preservation of native desert vegetation. The fee will be used to provide partial funding for the maintenance and coordination of the native desert vegetation banks and preserves. The in-lieu fee will be accepted only when preservation of Joshua and/or juniper trees is not possible due to site constraints that preclude the feasible preservation of desert vegetation, and no alternative preservation options remain. When a proponent must pay an in-lieu fee, the fee shall be calculated on the minimum standard of two trees per acre, less any trees preserved by other means. The in-lieu fee amount shall be determined by resolution of the City Council;
(a) 
Where California junipers are retained on site, they shall be credited toward the minimum standard or two trees per acre. However, where they cannot be retained undisturbed on site, no in-lieu fee is required;
(3) 
Any native desert vegetation in excess of the minimum standard for preservation may be removed after the public has had the opportunity to transplant native desert vegetation per subsection (B)(2)(a) of this section, and after the native desert vegetation preservation plan and native desert vegetation removal permit has been approved by the City, or, if applicable, after the payment of the in-lieu fee.
(Formerly 14.04.060; Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
Upon completion of construction of the development proposal and after final inspection and acceptance by the City, the following standards relative to ongoing maintenance of native desert vegetation shall apply:
(A) 
Provisions shall be made assuring, at the expense of the proponent of the development, that desert vegetation preserved on site, in landscape easements, or landscape assessment districts are maintained in a healthy condition for a minimum of two growing seasons.
(B) 
After one year, an inspection and evaluation of desert vegetation retained on site will be performed by a desert native plant expert, at the expense of the proponent of the development. Based upon this evaluation, if it is determined that any quantity of desert vegetation has died, it will be the responsibility of the proponent to provide replacement desert vegetation as determined by the City Landscape Architect, or in lieu thereof, the Director of Public Works' designee.
(C) 
The Director shall require posting of a bond or other appropriate security at the time of development proposal approval to assure maintenance of on-site trees, or trees in landscape easements or assessment districts, for a period of two years. If the project is otherwise required to have a bond posted for landscape maintenance requirements, this requirement shall be incorporated into the same bond.
(Formerly 14.04.070; Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020; Ord. 1614 § 4 (Exh. I), 2023)
(A) 
Except as provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to damage any desert vegetation as defined in this code.
(B) 
It is unlawful for any person to falsify any oral statement, paper or document issued to give permission for any person to remove desert vegetation or fail to comply with all conditions or stipulations of this chapter.
(Formerly 14.04.100; Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
Penalties for violations of this chapter shall be as specified in Chapter 1.12 PMC.
(A) 
In addition to other penalties imposed by this code, any person, company, organization, firm or corporation shall be required to replace any damaged, illegally cut, destroyed, killed, removed, mutilated or harvested California junipers, or other desert vegetation pursuant to the recommendation of an authorized desert native plant specialist, to be retained at the expense of the violator. Such specialist shall determine the appropriate number, size, species, location and make written recommendations regarding the replacement of said trees or other desert vegetation. Replacement shall be in sufficient quantities to revegetate the illegally disturbed area either on site or off site within six months of adjudication.
(B) 
Should the person, company, organization, firm or corporation who committed the violation fail to replace the damaged, cut, destroyed, killed, removed, mutilated or harvested desert vegetation within six months after adjudication, the City may contract to have such plants replaced and the violator shall be charged the replacement costs. Said costs may be placed as a lien on real property.
(Formerly 14.04.110; Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
Nothing in the provisions of this chapter shall relieve nor be interpreted to exempt a proponent of a development proposal from complying with the requirements of the California Desert Native Plants Act, Food and Agricultural Code Section 80001, et seq., and/or any applicable federal laws and regulations. Nor shall any provision of this chapter be construed so as to conflict with, duplicate, or otherwise interfere with general law preemptive of local regulation.
(Formerly 14.04.120; Ord. 952 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1556 § 1, 2020)
(A) 
The purpose of this model ordinance is to:
(1) 
Promote the values and benefits of landscaping practices that integrate and go beyond the conservation and efficient use of water;
(2) 
Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects by encouraging the use of a watershed approach that requires cross-sector collaboration of industry, government and property owners to achieve the many benefits possible;
(3) 
Establish provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention for existing landscapes;
(4) 
Use water efficiently without waste by setting an estimated total water use as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount.
(B) 
Landscapes that are planned, designed, installed, managed and maintained with the watershed based approach can improve California's environmental conditions and provide benefits and realize sustainability goals. Such landscapes will make the urban environment resilient in the face of climatic extremes. Consistent with the legislative findings and purpose of the ordinance, conditions in the urban setting will be improved by:
(1) 
Creating the conditions to support life in the soil by reducing compaction, incorporating organic matter that increases water retention, and promoting productive plant growth that leads to more carbon storage, oxygen production, shade habitat and aesthetic benefits.
(2) 
Minimizing energy use by reducing irrigation water requirements, reducing reliance on petroleum based fertilizers and pesticides, and planting climate appropriate shade trees in urban areas.
(3) 
Conserving water by capturing and reusing rainwater and graywater wherever possible and selecting climate appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental water after establishment.
(4) 
Protecting air and water quality by reducing power equipment use and landfill disposal trips, selecting recycled and locally sourced materials, and using compost, mulch and efficient irrigation equipment to prevent erosion.
(5) 
Protecting existing habitat and creating new habitat by choosing local native plants, climate adapted nonnatives and avoiding invasive plants. Utilizing integrated pest management with least toxic methods as the first course of action.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
The terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:
(A) 
"Application rate"
means the depth of water applied to a given area, measured in inches per minute, inches per hour, or gallons per hour.
(B) 
"Applied water"
means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
(C) 
"Automatic irrigation controller"
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.
(D) 
"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.
(E) 
"Best management practices for water waste"
means those practices contained within the City of Palmdale Engineering Design Standards Section VI: Landscape and Irrigation that reduce or prevent water waste and promote water conservation.
(F) 
"Certificate of completion"
means the document required under PMC § 14.05.120.
(G) 
"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.
(H) 
"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.
(I) 
"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.
(J) 
"Common interest developments"
means community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section 1351.
(K) 
"Compost"
means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
(L) 
"Controller"
means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves or heads to set an irrigation schedule. A weather-based controller is a controller that used evapotranspiration or weather data. A self-adjusting irrigation controller is a controller that uses sensor data i.e., soil moisture sensor.
(M) 
"Conversion factor (0.62)"
means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
(N) 
"Development proposal"
means an application for approval of a specific plan, subdivision, conditional use permit, site plan review, tentative tract map, parcel map or any other discretionary development permit or entitlement application which has been filed with and is pending consideration by the City.
(O) 
"Distribution uniformity"
means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.
(P) 
"Drip irrigation"
means any nonspray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate (equal to or less than two gallons per hour) 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.
(Q) 
"Ecological restoration project"
means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
(R) 
"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall"
(EPPT) means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
(S) 
"Emitter"
means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
(T) 
"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.
(U) 
"Established 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.
(V) 
"Estimated total water use"
(ETWU) means the total water used for the landscape as described in PMC § 14.05.070.
(W) 
"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 (nonrehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing nonrehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
(X) 
"Evapotranspiration rate"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
(Y) 
"Flow rate"
means the rate at which water flows through pipes, valves and emission devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.
(Z) 
"Flow sensor"
means an inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and operating master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also function as a landscape water meter or sub-meter.
(AA) 
"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.
(BB) 
"Fuel modification plan guide"
means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in fire hazard severity zone.
(CC) 
"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 unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthy 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. Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
(DD) 
"Hardscapes"
means any durable material (pervious and nonpervious).
(EE) 
"Hydrozone"
means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs that are served by a valve or set of valves with the same schedule and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or nonirrigated. For example, a naturalized area planted with native vegetation that will not need supplemental irrigation once established is a nonirrigated hydrozone.
(FF) 
"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).
(GG) 
"Invasive plant species"
means species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be regulated by County agricultural agencies as noxious species. Lists of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and USDA invasive and noxious weeds database.
(HH) 
"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.
(II) 
"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 chapter are 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.
(JJ) 
"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.
(KK) 
"Irrigation water use analysis"
means a review of water use data based on meter readings and billing data.
(LL) 
"Landscape architect"
means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the State of California Business and Professions Code Section 5615.
(MM) 
"Landscape area"
means all the irrigated planting areas, turf areas, and water features and up to 10 percent of the square footage of pervious nonirrigated planting areas in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance (MAWA) calculation. The 10 percent of nonirrigated planting area shall be added to the low water use hydrozone area, used in the landscape documentation package. The landscape area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or nonpervious hardscapes, and other nonirrigated areas designated for nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation). Designated recreation areas and areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens are subject to the MAWA with an ET adjustment factor not to exceed 1.0.
(NN) 
"Landscape contractor"
means a person licensed (i.e., C-27) by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems and facilities per Business and Professional Code Sections 7058 and 7059.
(OO) 
"Landscape document package"
means the documents required under PMC § 14.05.060.
(PP) 
"Landscape irrigation audit"
shall mean a process to perform site inspection, evaluate irrigation systems, and develop efficient irrigation systems. At a minimum, the audit shall be in accordance with the California landscape water management program as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook, the entire document that is hereby incorporated by reference. (See Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook, Department of Water Resources, Water Conservation Office, 2004.)
(QQ) 
"Landscape project"
means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this chapter, meeting requirements under PMC § 14.05.030.
(RR) 
"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 to record water use.
(SS) 
"Lateral line"
means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
(TT) 
"Local agency"
means a city or county, including a charter city or charter county, that is responsible for adopting and implementing the ordinance. The local agency is also responsible for the enforcement of this chapter, including, but not limited to, approval of a permit and plan check or design review of a project.
(UU) 
"Local water purveyor"
means any entity, including a public agency, city, county or private water company, that provides retail water service.
(VV) 
"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. Any irrigation system with a flow rate equal to or less than 0.75 inches per hour, including drip irrigation, subsurface drip, micro-sprinklers and similar irrigation types.
(WW) 
"Main line"
means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet.
(XX) 
"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.
(YY) 
"Maximum applied water allowance"
(MAWA) means for design purposes the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as specified in PMC § 14.05.070. 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, including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled 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].
(ZZ) 
"Median"
is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
(AAA) 
"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.
(BBB) 
"Mined-land reclamation projects"
means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
(CCC) 
"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 temperatures, and preventing soil erosion.
(DDD) 
"New construction"
means, for the purpose of this chapter, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.
(EEE) 
"Nonresidential 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.
(FFF) 
"Operating pressure"
means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
(GGG) 
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems"
means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
(HHH) 
"Overspray"
means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area, wetting pavements, walks, structures, or other nontargeted areas.
(III) 
"Permit"
means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes.
(JJJ) 
"Pervious"
means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
(KKK) 
"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"
is a factor that, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor range for very low water use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.1 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6, and the plant factor range for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species." Plant factors may also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
(LLL) 
"Precipitation rate"
means the rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.
(MMM) 
"Project applicant"
means the individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation package required under PMC § 14.05.060 to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the City. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.
(NNN) 
"Rain sensor" or "rain sensing shut-off device"
means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
(OOO) 
"Record drawing" or "as-builts"
means a set of reproductive 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.
(PPP) 
"Recreation area"
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.
(QQQ) 
"Recycled water," "reclaimed water," or "treated sewage effluent water"
means treated or recycled wastewater of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.
(RRR) 
"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 as represented in PMC § 14.05.260, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four-to-seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the maximum applied water allowance so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated.
(SSS) 
"Regional water efficient landscape ordinance"
means a local ordinance adopted by two or more local agencies, water suppliers and other stakeholders for implementing a consistent set of landscape provisions throughout a geographical region. Regional ordinances are strongly encouraged to provide a consistent framework for the landscape industry and applicants to adhere to.
(TTT) 
"Rehabilitated landscape"
means any modification to existing relandscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements of PMC § 14.05.030, and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.
(UUU) 
"Residential landscape"
means landscapes surrounding single or multifamily homes.
(VVV) 
"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.
(WWW) 
"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.
(XXX) 
"Soil texture"
means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.
(YYY) 
"Special landscape area"
(SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.
(ZZZ) 
"Sprinkler head"
means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
(AAAA) 
"Static water pressure"
means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.
(BBBB) 
"Station"
means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
(CCCC) 
"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.
(DDDD) 
"Sub-meter"
means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
(EEEE) 
"Turf"
means a groundcover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, red fescue, and tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass, seashore paspalum, St. Augustine's grass, zoysia grass, and buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.
(FFFF) 
"Valve"
means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system. It may also mean all of the sprinklers or emitters in a line controlled by the valve.
(GGGG) 
"Water conserving plant species"
means a plant species identified as having a very low or low plant factor.
(HHHH) 
"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. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.
(IIII) 
"Water use efficiency statement"
means a narrative summary of the water use efficiency practices to be applied in the landscape project.
(JJJJ) 
Reserved.
(KKKK) 
"Water efficient landscape worksheet"
means the document required as part of the documentation package.
(LLLL) 
"Watering window"
means the time of day irrigation is allowed.
(MMMM) 
"WUCOLS"
means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension and the Department of Water Resources, 2014.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
After December 1, 2015, and consistent with Executive Order No. B-29-15, this chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
(1) 
New development 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 PMC § 14.05.220 and 14.05.230; and
(4) 
Cemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to PMC § 14.05.070, 14.05.150 and 14.05.160; and existing cemeteries are limited to PMC § 14.05.220 and 14.05.230.
(B) 
Any project with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet or less may comply with the performance requirements of this chapter.
(C) 
For projects using treated or untreated graywater 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 graywater or through stored rainwater captured on site is subject only to City of Palmdale Engineering Standards Section VI.
(D) 
This chapter does not apply to:
(1) 
Registered local, State or Federal historical 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
Prior to construction, the City shall:
(1) 
Provide the project applicant with the ordinance and procedures for permits, plan checks, or design review;
(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, file a copy of the water efficient landscape worksheet in the project file for future reference.
(B) 
Prior to construction, the project applicant shall:
(1) 
Submit a landscape documentation package to the City.
(C) 
Upon approval of the landscape documentation package by the City, 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; and
(2) 
Submit a copy of the approved landscape documentation package along with the record drawings, and any other information to the property owner or his/her designee.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
The City may establish and administer penalties to the project applicant for noncompliance with the ordinance to the extent permitted by law.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 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) 
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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
A project applicant shall complete the water efficient landscape worksheet in City of Palmdale Engineering Standards Section VI 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.
(1) 
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 PMC § 14.05.260. For geographic areas not covered in PMC § 14.05.260, use data from other cities located nearby in the same reference evapotranspiration zone, as found in the CIMIS Reference Evapotranspiration Zones Map, Department of Water Resources, 1999.
(B) 
Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
(1) 
The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researches 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 as shown in City of Palmdale Engineering Standards Section VI.
(4) 
ETAF for new and existing nonrehabilitated special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her designee, 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 (percent clay, silt, sand), indicating the percentage of organic matter;
(ii) 
Approximate soil infiltration rate either measured or derived from the soil texture infiltration rate tables. A range of infiltration rates shall be noted where appropriate, determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;
(iv) 
Total soluble salts;
(v) 
Sodium;
(vi) 
Percent organic matter;
(vii) 
Recommendations; and
(viii) 
Other soil physical or chemical properties relevant to improving water use efficiency and maintaining plant health (e.g., conductivity, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulfur, etc.).
(c) 
In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.
(d) 
A laboratory soil analysis may be excluded if a qualified soil specialist or scientist provides a certified statement addressing reasons for not completing such a soil analysis.
(e) 
Prior to installation, an on-site assessment by a qualified soil specialist that identifies soil attributes or conditions that may minimize water use efficiency or limit plant growth shall be required. The on-site soil assessment shall:
(i) 
Identify planting or turf areas that may need amendment;
(ii) 
Provide a statement of recommendations to correct or improve soil conditions (i.e., applying organic compost as a soil amendment in planting and turf areas);
(iii) 
Conduct a further analysis of soil conditions (i.e., soil profile, hardpan, bulk density, soil toxicity, salinity, etc.) where applicable; and
(iv) 
A project applicant shall implement the recommendations from the on-site soil assessment and apply any relevant information from the on-site soil assessment to the design plans.
(2) 
The project applicant, or his/her 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 local agency as part of the landscape documentation package; or
(b) 
If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency 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 his/her designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the local agency with certificate of completion.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 and specifications shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package:
(1) 
Plant Material.
(a) 
Any plant may be selected from the City of Palmdale approved plant list for the landscape providing the estimated applied total water use recommended for the project site 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 species, 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 the City of Palmdale approved tree list, 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 PMC § 14.05.100(A)(2)(d).
(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) 
Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System (which lists the City of Palmdale as Zone 11) which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;
(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) 
There will be no turf permitted in any single-family residential front yard. There will be no turf permitted in that portion of street side yards located between the back of curb and any perimeter fence, wall or structure, and visible from the right-of-way of single-family residences, whether new construction or rehabilitated landscaping.
(e) 
No turf permitted on any multifamily project, except for designated active recreational areas.
(f) 
No turf permitted on any commercial or industrial project, unless specifically approved by the Director of Planning and/or City Engineer on designated recreational areas only.
(g) 
Turf areas shall be sized and shaped to minimize irrigation overspray and runoff.
(h) 
Installation of turf on slopes greater than 4:1 (horizontal to vertical) shall not be permitted.
(i) 
Installation of long, narrow, or irregularly shaped turf areas less than eight feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other low volume irrigation technology.
(j) 
Irrigated areas (including turf) within 24 inches of nonpermeable hardscape shall be irrigated with drip irrigation or subsurface irrigation technology unless waived by the Public Works Director, Director of Planning, or City Engineer.
(k) 
High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.
(l) 
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(a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches. Refer to the local fuel modification plan guidelines.
(m) 
The use of invasive plant species, such as those listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, is strongly discouraged. Invasive species of plants shall be avoided especially near parks, buffers, greenbelts, water bodies, and open spaces because of their potential to cause harm in sensitive areas.
(n) 
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 decorative 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 maximum applied water allowance (MAWA) high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation. The evaporation rate for all water features shall be equivalent to the evapotranspiration rate of a high water use plant.
(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 PMC § 14.05.080).
(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 six percent organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
(d) 
A minimum of 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. In mulched planting areas, the use of drip irrigation is highly recommended. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to five percent 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.
(g) 
Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer 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 shall be drawn on project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies the following specifications, where applicable, at a minimum:
(1) 
Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method;
(2) 
Indicate the square footage of each hydrozone;
(3) 
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;
(4) 
Identify recreational areas;
(5) 
Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
(6) 
Identify any other pertinent factors (e.g., sun exposure, microclimate, etc.);
(7) 
Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;
(8) 
Identify type of mulch and application depth;
(9) 
Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
(10) 
Identify type and surface area of water features;
(11) 
Identify hardscapes (pervious and nonpervious);
(12) 
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 local agency 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 PMC § 14.05.200;
(13) 
Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies as discussed in PMC § 14.05.200 and their 24-hour retention or infiltration capacity;
(14) 
Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution;
(15) 
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";
(16) 
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, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, and 7027.5 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agriculture Code);
(17) 
Location map with north arrow, scale, and legal description of the property;
(18) 
Project name;
(19) 
Title block with name, license number, mailing address, email address, and telephone number of licensed landscape architect;
(20) 
Total landscape area (square feet);
(21) 
Benchmark name, elevation, and location;
(22) 
Topography with proposed contour lines and elevations;
(23) 
Property lines and setbacks;
(24) 
Street names;
(25) 
Location of all utilities (e.g., telephone, electrical, gas, sewer, drainage, etc.). The use of this information is limited to the landscape design and installation;
(26) 
Location and details of existing and proposed public improvements within right-of-way (e.g., curb, gutter, sidewalk, street light, fire hydrants, driveways, or approaches, etc.);
(27) 
Location of all plant material (e.g., turf, annuals, perennials, groundcovers, shrubs, trees, and other vegetation, etc.);
(28) 
Detailed legend explaining all the symbols used in the landscape design plan including botanical names, common names, quantity, container size, etc.;
(29) 
Mulch types and depths (inches);
(30) 
Design elements: water features, hardscapes (pervious and nonpervious), existing natural features including, but not limited to, rock outcropping, creeks or streams, wetlands, and plant materials that will remain;
(31) 
Installation details for the landscape including soil preparation, plant material installation, tree planting and staking, and any other applicable details;
(32) 
Location and installation details of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Examples include, but are not limited to:
(a) 
Infiltration beds, swales, and basins that allow water to collect and soak into the ground.
(b) 
Constructed wetlands and retention ponds that retain water, handle excess flows and filter pollutants.
(c) 
Pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete, etc.) that minimize runoff (volume and velocity).
(d) 
Each sheet of the landscape design plan shall contain the following statement along with a licensed landscape architect's or licensed landscape contractor's stamp and signature: "I have agreed to comply with the criteria and specifications of the ordinance and I have applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan."
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
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 irrigation design criteria and specifications, manufacturer's specification, any City of Palmdale code requirements, the requirements listed in this section, and the manufacturer's 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 and specifications shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package:
(A) 
Criteria.
(1) 
System.
(a) 
Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water service meter or private sub-meter, 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 Water Code 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 sub-meter.
(b) 
Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing nonvolatile 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 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 shutdown features.
(i) 
The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto nontargeted areas, such as adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.
(j) 
Relevant information from the soil management plan, 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 PMC § 14.05.070 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 Agriculture 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 local agency 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 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 turfgrass.
(s) 
Check valves or anti-drain valves are required on all sprinkler heads where low point drainage could occur.
(t) 
Areas less than eight feet in width in any direction or irregularly shaped areas 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 nonpermeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from nonpermeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow nonspray 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 nonpermeable 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 subsection (A)(1)(i) of this section. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
(v) 
Slopes greater than 25 percent 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 specified 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. On the irrigation design plan, designate the areas irrigated by each valve, and assign a number to each valve. Use this valve number in the Hydrozone Information Table (see City of Palmdale Engineering Design Standards, Section IV). 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 PMC § 14.05.180;
(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 Business and Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agricultural Code).
(C) 
Site.
(1) 
Location map with north arrow, scale, and legal description of the property;
(2) 
Project name;
(3) 
Title block with name, license/certificate number, mailing address, email address, and phone number of licensed landscape architect or certified irrigation designer, etc.;
(4) 
Benchmark name, elevation, and location;
(5) 
Topography with proposed contour lines and elevations;
(6) 
Property lines and setbacks;
(7) 
Street names;
(8) 
Location of all utilities (e.g., telephone, electrical, gas, sewer, drainage, etc.). The use of this information is limited to the landscape design and installation;
(9) 
Location and details of existing and proposed public improvements within right-of-way (e.g., curb, gutter, sidewalk, streetlight, fire hydrants, driveways, or approaches, etc.).
(D) 
Irrigation System.
(1) 
Layout of the irrigation system and all related components;
(2) 
Detailed legend explaining all the symbols used in the irrigation design plan;
(3) 
Location, manufacturer, model, type and size of all components of the irrigation system such as:
(a) 
Water meters;
(b) 
Controllers;
(c) 
Valves;
(d) 
Check valves;
(e) 
Main lines and lateral lines (indicate depth);
(f) 
Swing joints or other riser-protection components;
(g) 
Sprinkler heads, drip emitters and other emission devices;
(h) 
Sensors (e.g., rain, freeze, wind, etc.);
(i) 
Soil moisture sensors;
(j) 
Pressure regulators;
(k) 
Pumps;
(l) 
Backflow prevention devices;
(m) 
Quick couplers;
(n) 
Other related components.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 design plan meeting the following design criteria and specifications shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. A comprehensive grading plan with permits prepared by a civil engineer 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 onto nonpermeable 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
The certificate of completion (see City of Palmdale Engineering Standards Section VI for a sample certificate) 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 PMC § 14.05.140);
(4) 
Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see PMC § 14.05.150);
(5) 
Irrigation audit report (see PMC § 14.05.160); and
(6) 
Soil analysis report, if not submitted with landscape documentation package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see PMC § 14.05.080).
(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 his or her 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
The City may administratively waive or modify one or more requirements of the ordinance when unusual difficulties make their strict application impossible, and upon determination that the waiver or variance is consistent with the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 incorporate the use of evapotranspiration data such as those from the California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS) weather stations or other validated weather data or soil moisture monitoring systems to apply the appropriate levels of water for different climates. CIMIS data for Palmdale is available in the Engineering Design Standards for Landscape and Irrigation, Section VI.
(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. Exceptions for large projects are subject to approval by the Director of Public Works, City Engineer, Director of Planning, or the local water purveyor.
(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) 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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; conducting water audits; prescribing the amount of water applied per landscaped acre; 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 specified installed components or their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.
(D) 
A project applicant is encouraged to implement established landscape industry sustainable or environmentally friendly best practices for all landscape maintenance activities.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a local agency landscape irrigation auditor or a third party certified landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
(B) 
In large projects or projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e., production home developments) an auditing rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15 percent will satisfy this requirement.
(C) 
For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed (subsequent to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter) after December 1, 2015, as described in PMC § 14.05.030:
(1) 
The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the certificate of completion to the City that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule, including configuring irrigation controllers with application rate, soil types, plant factors, slope, exposure and any other factors necessary for accurate programming;
(2) 
The local agency shall administer programs that may include, but is not limited to, irrigation water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the maximum applied water allowance.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
The installation of recycled water irrigation systems (i.e., dual distribution systems) shall (be required to) allow for the current and future use of recycled water (unless a written exemption has been granted).
(B) 
All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all City of Palmdale and State codes.
(C) 
Landscapes using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ET adjustment factor for new and existing (nonrehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
(D) 
Irrigation systems shall make use of recycled water unless a written exemption has been granted by the local water agency, stating that recycled water meeting all public health codes and standards is not available and will not be available in the foreseeable future.
(E) 
If the irrigation water (recycled water or blended water) has electrical conductivity equal to or greater than three deciSeimens per meter (dS/m) or three millimhos per centimeter (mmh/cm) or 2,000 mg per liter total dissolved solids (TDS), a leaching fraction of up to 10 percent may be included in the MAWA calculation. The leaching fraction shall not exceed 10 percent of MAWA. For more information on recycled water, see the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources "Landscape Plant Salt Tolerance Selection Guide for Recycled Water Irrigation (2005)," the entire document, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
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 PMC § 14.05.030(C) for the applicability of this chapter to landscape areas less than 2,500 square feet with the estimated total water use met entirely by graywater.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater ordinances and stormwater management plans or technical requirements.
(C) 
All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention and infiltration. Refer to PMC § 14.05.090(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: the one-inch, 24-hour rain event or (2) the eighty-fifth 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 of Palmdale 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 shall be landscaped and use signs and written information to demonstrate the principles of water efficient landscapes described in this chapter.
(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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(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 landscapes in this subsection (A) that have a water meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but are not 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 landscapes in this subsection (A) that do not have a meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but are not 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.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
The City of Palmdale 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, nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures.
(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 nonpermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping.
(C) 
Failure to comply with the direction of the Director of Public Works within a period of 30 days after receipt of such notice shall be deemed a violation of this chapter.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
The City may consider effective precipitation (25 percent 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) + (0.45 x SLA)] for residential areas. MAWA = (ETo – Eppt) (0.62) [(0.45 x LA) + (0.55 x SLA)] for nonresidential areas.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
(A) 
Local agencies shall report on implementation and enforcement by December 31, 2015. Local agencies responsible for administering individual ordinances shall report on their updated ordinance, while those agencies developing a regional ordinance shall report in their existing ordinance. Those agencies crafting a regional ordinance shall also report on their new ordinance by March 1, 2016. Subsequently, reporting for all agencies will be due by January 31st of each year. Reports should be submitted as follows:
(B) 
Local agencies are to address the following:
(1) 
State whether you are adopting a single agency ordinance or a regional agency alliance ordinance, and the date of adoption or anticipated date of adoption.
(2) 
Define the reporting period. The reporting period shall commence on December 1, 2015, and end on December 28, 2015. For local agencies crafting regional ordinances with other agencies, there shall be an additional reporting period commencing on February 1, 2016, and ending on February 28, 2016. In subsequent years, all local agency reporting will be for the calendar year.
(3) 
State if using a locally modified water efficient landscape ordinance (WELO) or the MWELO. If using a locally modified WELO, how is it different than MWELO, is it at least as efficient as MWELO, and are there any exemptions specified?
(4) 
State the entity responsible for implementing the ordinance.
(5) 
State number and types of projects subject to the ordinance during the specified reporting period.
(6) 
State the total area (in square feet or acres) subject to the ordinance over the reporting period, if available.
(7) 
Provide the number of new housing starts, new commercial projects, and landscape retrofits during the reporting period.
(8) 
Describe the procedure for review of projects subject to the ordinance.
(9) 
Describe actions taken to verify compliance. Is a plan check performed; if so, by what entity? Is a site inspection performed; if so, by what entity? Is a post-installation audit required; if so, by whom?
(10) 
Describe enforcement measures.
(11) 
Explain challenges to implementing and enforcing the ordinance.
(12) 
Describe educational and other needs to properly apply the ordinance.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)
Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Annual ETo
Palm-dale
2.0
2.6
4.6
6.2
7.3
8.9
9.8
9.0
6.5
4.7
2.7
2.1
66.2
Notes:
* The values in this table were derived from:
1. California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS);
2. Reference EvapoTranspiration Zones Map, UC Dept. of Land, Air and Water Resources and California Dept. of Water Resources, 1999;
3. Reference Evapotranspiration for California, University of California, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (1987) Bulletin, 1922; and
4. Determining Daily Reference Evapotranspiration, Cooperative Extension UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (1987), Publication Leaflet 21426.
(Ord. 1475 § 1, 2015)