This Chapter provides site design standards which are applicable to all projects. Many of these standards focus on the concept of "livability," as it pertains to a person's home and neighborhood. Desirable livability design features include landscape, access to light and air, attenuation of noise, safety, and privacy to and from neighboring properties. The standards ensure that new development makes a positive contribution to the development patterns of the area; and does not adversely affect neighboring properties, with "adversely affect" meaning to impact in a substantial, negative manner the livability of properties adjacent to new development.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Applicability. This Chapter includes development and site standards that apply to development in all ODDS zones. These standards are to be used in conjunction with Chapter 30.140 (General Site Regulations), Chapter 28.87 (General Provisions), and Title 22 (Environmental Policy and Construction), as applicable.
B. 
Storm Water. Storm water runoff requirements are site design element and best management practices to satisfy the Storm Water Management Program's standards for peak runoff discharge management, runoff volume reduction, and water quality treatment as specified in the Storm Water Best Management Practices (BMP) Guidance Manual. Development shall comply with the storm water runoff requirements applicable to the activity as provided in the BMP Guidance Manual in compliance with Chapter 22.87 (Storm Water Management).
C. 
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources. Development shall be designed and constructed wherever feasible to avoid destruction of archaeological and paleontological resources in compliance with Chapter 22.12 (Archaeological and Paleontological Resources).
D. 
Floodplain Management. Notwithstanding the ground floor finish height standards in Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection C (Building Form) of the Zone, or the frontage finish level above sidewalk in Chapter 25.05 (Frontages), Subsection B (Required Elements) of the Frontage, development in areas of special flood hazards shall be designed and constructed in compliance with Chapter 22.24 (Floodplain Management).
E. 
Undergrounding of Utilities. All service connections for utilities, except for distribution facilities, shall be installed underground, unless undergrounding of utilities is exempted in compliance with Chapter 22.38 (Undergrounding of Utilities).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards are designed to protect areas of biological significance with the use of buffers and development restrictions.
B. 
Inland Creek Buffer Area. No development shall be located within the development limitation area in compliance with Section 30.140.050 (Development Along Mission Creek) or any other Inland Creek Buffer Area, as may be established by ordinance. Top of bank must be measured in compliance with Section 30.15.040 (Determining Creek Top of Bank) or any other ordinance which may be adopted establishing measurement of top of bank.
1. 
A project may not include a request for an exception to this standard by applying for a variance, modification, exception, waiver, or other approval.
C. 
Applicability. The Inland Creek Buffer Area standard shall be repealed and replaced with applicable creeks standards when adopted in Title 22 (Environmental Policy and Construction) of the Municipal Code.
D. 
Coastal Creek, Wetlands, and Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area (ESHA) Buffer Areas. Development in the Coastal Zone shall comply with coastal creek, wetlands, and ESHA habitat buffer area policies of the Coastal Land Use Plan in compliance with Section 25.01.050 (Relationship to Local Coastal Program).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards provide space for recreational and leisure activities, allow for increased light and air, provide permeable surfaces for storm water retention, improve the visual environment, and increase livability.
B. 
Standards. All open yard minimum area and dimensions shall be in compliance with Section 30.140.140 (Open Yards) except as noted below.
1. 
The minimum common and private open yard must be located within the design site boundary for each building type.
2. 
Design sites developed with the Duplex Side-by-Side, Duplex Stacked, and Duplex Court Building Types must provide open yard in compliance with Section 30.140.140C.1 (Open Yards).
3. 
Projects on design sites in the Mixed-Use Corridor (MUC), Downtown Edge (DE), and Downtown Core (DC) zones may provide an alternative common open yard in compliance with Section 30.150.090G.2.b (Additional Development Incentives).
4. 
All other Building Types must provide common and private open yard in compliance with Section 30.140.140C.2 (Open Yards).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards are intended to enhance the natural environment, create a successful pedestrian experience, and promote the efficient use of water resources. These standards are also intended to improve air quality, absorb storm water runoff, protect environmentally sensitive areas, and increase tree planting to provide shade and reduce the urban heat island effect.
B. 
Landscape Areas to Be Unobstructed. Required landscape areas must be provided on the ground level and must be open, unenclosed, and unobstructed by structures from the ground upward, except as provided in Section 30.140.090 (Encroachments into Setbacks and Open Yards).
C. 
Minimum Percentage and Dimensions. Landscape shall be provided and maintained in compliance with Table 25.03.050.A (Minimum Landscaped Areas by Zone).
1. 
The minimum area of a design site to be landscaped can be combined with the minimum area of common or private ground level open yard in compliance with Section 25.03.040 (Open Yards) and setbacks.
Table 25.03.050.A: Minimum Landscaped Areas by Zone
Zones
Landscape Requirements
NM
NL
MUC, DE, and DC
Minimum Landscape Area (as percent of Design Site)
20%
15%
No minimum, except compliance with Section 25.03.050D (Required Landscape Areas)
Minimum Dimension of Landscape Area
2 feet wide in any direction
D. 
Required Landscape Areas. Each design site shall provide and maintain the following required landscape areas, even if there is no minimum percentage of design site area that must be landscaped pursuant to Table 25.03.050.A (Minimum Landscaped Areas By Zone). The following locations on a design site shall be landscaped on the ground level, and may count toward the minimum percentage of design site landscape:
1. 
Front Setback. All front setbacks, except areas used for exit, entry, and frontages shall be landscaped.
(a) 
Shade Trees. In the Neighborhood Medium (NM) Zone, at least one 24-inch box tree shall be planted in the front setback, unless approved as an exception due to site constraints per Chapter 25.07 (Exceptions).
2. 
Driveways and Parking Lots. Driveways and parking areas shall be landscaped per Section 30.175.080 (Parking Area Landscape and Fence Standards).
3. 
Parkway Planting. In addition to on-site landscape, parkway planting consistent with Chapter 15.20 (Tree Planting and Maintenance) shall be provided.
4. 
Retaining Walls. Multiple terraced retaining walls shall be landscaped in the entire horizontal area between retaining walls.
E. 
Landscape Design Standards. Landscape shall comply with the following:
1. 
Plant Material.
(a) 
Landscape may consist of any combination of living groundcovers, shrubs, vines, and trees. Plant size and spacing shall be based on the species selected and shall be installed to achieve intended coverage of the landscaped area within three years.
(b) 
Landscape and groundcover shall consist of live plant material. The use of indoor/outdoor carpeting, synthetic turf, or artificial shrubs, flowers, trees, or vines instead of living plants is prohibited.
(c) 
Hardscape featuring pervious paver stones, gravel, sand, wood, and decomposed granite may be used to satisfy up to 50% of the required landscape area. Landscape may include benches and sculptures placed within the landscaped setting.
2. 
Species Selection. Plant species shall be selected in compliance with the City's Water Efficient Landscape Standards.
3. 
Existing Vegetation.
(a) 
Trees protected by Chapter 15.24 (Preservation of Trees) shall not be removed or adversely affected without a permit.
(b) 
Trees allowed to be removed with a permit must be replaced on site on a minimum one-to-one basis.
F. 
Landscape and Irrigation Plans. Landscape and irrigation plans must be prepared in compliance with the City's Water Efficient Landscape Standards and submitted with each development application.
G. 
Storm Water Management. Landscape may be used for Storm Water Best Management Practices (BMPs) using biofiltration and retention and detention areas in compliance with Chapter 22.87 (Storm Water Management).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards to promote high quality exterior lighting and efficient use of energy to reduce light pollution, glare, and light trespass.
B. 
Exterior Lighting. Exterior Lighting shall be provided in compliance with the following:
1. 
Lighting body, mount, and shield materials shall be selected from Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style.
2. 
All lighting shall be designed, located, and lamped with the light directed downward.
3. 
Uplighting of the building façade, internally illuminated fascia, wall, roof, awning or other building parts and spot lighting or broadcast lighting are prohibited.
4. 
Light fixtures shall use refractors, louvers, patterned, or translucent glass to obscure view of the lamp. Lamps that are not fully shielded shall not exceed 1,200 lumens.
5. 
All lighting shall use lower color temperature lamps of no more than 3,000 Kelvin to minimize blue light emissions.
6. 
All parking lot lights shall be full cutoff luminaires, as certified by the manufacturer, with the light source directed downward and away from adjacent residences.
7. 
Bollard and other path light fixtures shall be black, bronze, or Malaga green (i.e., RAL 6012, also known as black green) in color.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards for fences and hedges to support pedestrian-oriented development, protect property, enhance privacy, attenuate noise, and improve the visual environment.
B. 
Retaining Walls. Refer to Section 25.03.120 (Retaining Walls).
C. 
Height Limitations.
1. 
Fences and hedges shall not exceed 42 inches in height within the first 10 feet of the front design site line, and shall not exceed five feet in height within the front setbacks, the façade zone, and frontages.
2. 
Fences and hedges shall not exceed eight feet in height within interior setbacks.
3. 
Maximum height of fences and hedges may be further limited in compliance with Section 30.140.230 (Visibility at Driveways and Intersections).
D. 
Measuring the Height of Fences and Hedges. The height of fences and hedges must be measured consistent with Section 30.15.090 (Measuring Height).
1. 
In situations where a hedge is located above a retaining wall, or within five feet of a fence, the overall combined height shall be the same as the maximum allowed height of a hedge for that location.
E. 
Fence Elements. Pilaster caps, finials, posts, and lighting fixtures shall not exceed the maximum height by more than 12 inches in compliance with the following:
1. 
Each element shall not exceed nine inches by nine inches wide.
2. 
Each element shall be spaced a minimum of six feet apart, measured on-center.
3. 
Elements must match the materials allowed for the architectural style.
F. 
Materials. Refer to Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style.
G. 
Temporary Fencing. Temporary fencing may be used to provide security for construction sites, or vacant structures and land, which cannot otherwise be secured. All temporary fencing shall be in compliance with this section and the following standards:
1. 
Must be green mesh, wood, or chain link with vine planting;
2. 
Must not exceed six feet in height;
3. 
Must not include signage, banners, or graffiti; and
4. 
Must be removed when use is not longer required.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards for screening to minimize visual, noise, and privacy impacts to surrounding properties and rights-of-way and improve the overall visual environment.
B. 
Height Maximums. Fences and hedges used for screening shall not exceed the maximum heights identified in Section 25.03.070 (Fences and Hedges).
C. 
Landscape Screening. Landscape used for screening shall be installed in compliance with Section 25.03.050 (Landscape).
D. 
Trash Enclosures. All refuse bins, containers, and bundles must be within a walled or fenced enclosure with one or more gates for access in compliance with Section 25.03.090 (Trash Enclosures) or screened from public view by a fence or hedge in compliance with Section 25.03.070 (Fences and Hedges).
E. 
Mechanical and Other Equipment Screening.
1. 
New or relocated mechanical equipment shall be located and screened in compliance with Section 30.140.130 (Mechanical and Other Equipment) and the following standards:
(a) 
Roof-Mounted Equipment. Building parapets or other architectural elements in the building's architectural style shall screen roof-mounted equipment.
(1) 
Buildings shall be designed to provide a parapet or other architectural element that is as tall or taller than the highest point on any mechanical equipment to be located on the roof of the building.
(b) 
Attached and Freestanding Equipment.
(1) 
Attached equipment shall be screened or painted the color of the main building, unless a different color is required by code.
(2) 
Freestanding equipment screened by landscape shall be painted black or black green (i.e., RAL 6012), unless a different color is required by code.
(3) 
All screen devices shall be as high as the highest point of the equipment being screened.
2. 
The following mechanical equipment is exempt from screening:
(a) 
Freestanding or roof-mounted solar energy systems; and
(b) 
Electric vehicle charging equipment.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards for trash enclosures consistent with City standards for screening such facilities from public view; and providing space efficiency, sufficient capacity, and access.
B. 
Capacity and Design. All waste, recycling, and trash enclosure areas must comply with the City's Trash and Recycling Enclosure Design Guide regarding distance from building, truck access point, siting considerations for driveways and parking lots, requirements for parking garages and indoor locations, capacity, size, and number of containers, container layout, and roof clearance and drainage.
C. 
Location. Trash enclosures must be located within 50 feet from the truck access point and shall not be located in any of the following:
1. 
Required setbacks;
2. 
Between the main building and the right-of-way;
3. 
Within any open yard, pedestrian pathway, or community open space;
4. 
Within any frontage type; or
5. 
Within any parking space.
D. 
Screening. All waste, recycling, and trash enclosure areas shall comply with the requirements of Section 25.03.080 (Screening).
E. 
Height Limitations. Trash enclosures must comply with all height limitations pursuant to Section 30.140.230 (Visibility at Driveways and Intersections).
F. 
Maintenance. Trash enclosures must be maintained in good condition, free of visible debris, and shall not be used for anything other than storing waste and recycling receptacles. Trash enclosures storage areas shall not create a nuisance, hazard, or other objectionable condition, pursuant to Chapter 30.180 (Performance Standards).
G. 
Materials and Colors. Enclosure wall, roof materials, and colors shall be selected from the materials listed in Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style. Materials for enclosure floors and gates must be in compliance with the Trash and Recycling Enclosure Design Guide.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards for functional parking techniques to enhance pedestrian-oriented development and minimize the visual impact of automobiles and parking structures.
B. 
Number of Spaces and Location. Number of spaces is regulated by Chapter 30.175 (Parking Regulations) and Chapter 28.90 (Automobile Parking Requirements). All parking shall be located in compliance with Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection E (Parking) of the Zone.
C. 
Bicycle Parking. Bicycle parking location and other standards shall be provided in compliance with Chapter 30.175 (Parking Regulations) and the City's Access and Parking Design Standards.
D. 
Type of Allowed Parking. See Chapter 25.04 (Building Types), Subsection E (Vehicle Access and Parking) of the Building Type.
E. 
Parking Techniques. The following techniques may be applied individually or in combination in compliance with Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection E (Parking) of the Zone:
1. 
Minimum dimensions and maneuvering areas for all parking techniques shall be in compliance with the City's Access and Parking Design Standards.
2. 
Visibility at driveways shall be maintained in compliance with Section 30.140.230 (Visibility at Driveways and intersections).
3. 
Driveways and parking areas may be shared among adjacent design sites on the same lot or in an off-site facility in compliance with Section 30.175.060 (Location of Required Automobile and Bicycle Parking).
4. 
Design sites with alley access must be accessed from the alley unless approved as an exception per Chapter 25.07 (Exceptions).
5. 
Corner design site parking access must be from the secondary front unless access from the primary front can be approved as an exception per Chapter 25.07 (Exceptions).
6. 
Uncovered Parking.
(a) 
Uncovered parking areas shall be landscaped in compliance with Section 30.175.080 (Parking Area Landscape and Fence Standards).
7. 
Covered Parking.
(a) 
Any parking structure, including individual garages and carports, shall be designed in compliance with the architectural style described in Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design).
(b) 
A stacked parking system may be allowed if within a fully enclosed structure, not publicly visible along the primary front, and designed in compliance with the parking lifts and machines standards in the City's Access & Parking Design Standards.
(c) 
Tuck-under, subterranean, and podium parking shall not be publicly visible along the primary front and the automobile entry shall be setback a minimum 10 feet from the building façade.
(d) 
Subterranean Parking.
(1) 
Subterranean parking is not counted as a story if in compliance with determining the number of stories in a building pursuant to Section 30.15.090 (Measuring Height).
(2) 
Subterranean parking counted as a story in compliance with Section 30.15.090 (Measuring Height) must comply with building form and placement standards in Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection C (Building Form) and Subsection D (Building Placement) of the Zone.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides the standards for development in all zones on design sites with sloped topography consistent with City policies and standards for grading and development that considers visual impacts and geologic conditions such as erosion, landslides, and drainage.
B. 
Building Height.
1. 
Maximum Building Height. Building height is regulated by Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection C (Building Form) of the Zone. The maximum allowed height of a building shall follow the existing or finished grade of the design site in compliance with the allowed building height.
(a) 
Figure 25.03.110.1 (Site Grading for House-Scale Building Forms) and Figure 25.03.110.2 (Site Grading for Block-Scale Building Forms) illustrate allowed and non-allowed site grading methods.
2. 
Exposed Basements. Basements are not counted as a story if in compliance with Determining the Number of Stories in a Building pursuant to Section 30.15.090 (Measuring Height).
Figure 25.03.110.1: Site Grading for House-Scale Building Forms
The following examples apply to the following building types: Duplex Side-by-Side, Duplex Stacked, Cottage Court, Medium Multiplex, Duplex Court, Side Court, and Medium Courtyard.
Allowed. Grading that results in each new building reflecting the topography of the design site, connecting each building with the adjacent street.
Not Allowed. Grading that does not result in each new building reflecting the topography of the design site, disconnecting one or more buildings from the adjacent street.
Figure 25.03.110.2: Site Grading for Block-Scale Building Forms
Allowed Site Grading. The following examples apply to the following building types: Large Multiplex, Large Courtyard, and Downtown Building.
Allowed. Grading that results in each new building fronting on the adjacent street, connecting the building façades to the adjacent street, and avoiding retaining walls taller than four feet along a street or community open space.
Not Allowed. Grading that disconnects one or more new building façades from the adjacent public realm, resulting in retaining walls taller than four feet along a street or community open space.
C. 
Topography and Required Location of Main Building. Sloped topography can present issues with locating the main building on a design site in compliance with Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection D (Building Placement) of the Zone. Chapter 25.07 (Exceptions) provides administrative exceptions for sloped topography.
D. 
Parking on Slopes.
1. 
Parking lot slopes shall not exceed five percent (after grading).
2. 
Sloped topography can present issues with locating parking on a design site in compliance with Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection E (Parking) of the Zone. Chapter 25.07 (Exceptions) provides administrative exceptions for parking location.
E. 
Grading or Regrading of Design Sites. When existing design site topography is proposed to be changed, grading shall not result in any of the following:
1. 
Creation of grade difference of more than four feet outside of any building footprint;
2. 
Terraced design sites that result in a vertical difference of more than four feet between the adjacent right-of-way and the finished grade of the design site;
3. 
Grading beyond the building pad and the required access drive;
4. 
Cut exceeding 16 feet in height from top to toe;
5. 
Cut slope exceeding two horizontal to one vertical;
6. 
Graded slopes exceeding 30 percent;
7. 
Graded slopes not contoured to blend with existing terrain, such that proposed cuts and fills exceed one foot of added/subtracted rise for each one and one-half feet of run;
8. 
Graded slopes not screened from view under or behind buildings with landscape or natural topographic features; or
9. 
Graded slopes not revegetated with a mixture of grass seed or shrubs as identified by Chapter 22.10 (Vegetation Removal) and Chapter 22.85 (Erosion and Sedimentation Control Standards for Construction).
F. 
Sloped Parcels Measurement Methods. The following methodology shall be used to identify slopes and steep slopes protected in compliance with this section. An example of the methodology is shown in Figure 25.03.110.3 (Example for Defining Sloped and Steeply Sloped Design Sites). All areas not identified as steep slopes are considered "sloped".
Figure 25.03.110.3: Example for Defining Sloped and Steeply Sloped Design Sites
1. 
Use the methodology of Section 30.15.030 (Determining Average Slope) to calculate slopes.
2. 
To qualify as a steep slope, the slope shall be over 10 percent average with a 10-foot vertical drop over a 100-foot horizontal distance parallel to at least one common contour line. The horizontal measurement shall cross property lines to establish if a steep slope may exist on a design site (i.e., the 100-foot minimum width calculation shall cross a property line if necessary for area calculation). Steep slope areas are calculated based on the linear feet (horizontal distance) of steep slope on the design site.
(a) 
First, calculate the linear feet of slopes with the greatest percentage from Table 25.03.110.A (Maximum Amount of Sloped Areas Allowed to be Developed) for the design site size. Determine the square footage of each area as well as the sum of these areas for the total site.
3. 
Based on the calculations in Section 25.03.110F.2, above, Table 25.03.110.A (Maximum Amount of Sloped Areas Allowed to be Developed) shows the percentage of slope area that is allowed to be developed. The steep slope areas to be undeveloped shall be included in the survey.
Table 25.03.110.A: Maximum Amount of Sloped Areas Allowed to be Developed
Design Site Size
Portions of Existing Slope
Less than 1 acre
1+ acres
0 – 5.99%
100% max.
100% max.
6 – 9.99%
100% max.
70% max.
10 – 14.99%
100% max.
50% max.
15 – 19.99%
75% max.
25% max.
20 – 29.99%
25% max.
5% max.
>30%
0% max.
0% max.
Figure 25.03.110.4: Example for a Sloped Design Site (<1 acre)
Key
Existing Slope
Developable Area1
0-5.99%
100% max.
6-9.99%
100% max.
A
10-14.99%
100% max.
B
15-19.99%
75% max.
C
20-29.99%
25% max.
> 30%
0% max.
Design Site Line
–
Slope Designations
Note:
1
In compliance with the setbacks of the zone, required community open space, this section, and the maximum building footprint standards in Chapter 25.04 (Building Types).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards are designed to minimize visual intrusion of retaining walls with requirements for length, height, and elements to reduce perception of height and bulk.
B. 
Grading. Retaining walls shall be in compliance with developable area on sloped parcels in Section 25.03.110 (Sloped Parcels).
C. 
Height. The height of retaining walls shall be measured in compliance with Section 30.15.090D (Measuring the Height of Fences and Hedges) and limited as follows.
1. 
Retaining walls within any front setback, façade zone, or publicly visible shall not exceed three feet in height.
2. 
All other retaining walls shall not exceed six feet in height.
D. 
Design. Retaining walls must:
1. 
Include buttress or pilasters spaced a minimum of six feet apart, for the full length of the wall, if over 50 feet, in length;
2. 
Include a landscape planter in front of the wall when not within the building. The planter shall be at least three feet deep measured perpendicular to the wall; and
3. 
Be comprised of materials consistent with Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style.
E. 
Terraced Retaining Walls. In addition to the maximum heights as specified above, multiple terraced retaining walls, in compliance with Section 30.15.090D1 (Multiple Fences and Hedges), shall also be limited to the following cumulative heights:
1. 
Fill Slope Retaining Walls. Measure no more than 12 cumulative feet as measured from the lowest finished grade to the top of the upper wall, with a single retaining wall being no more than six feet as measured from the lower finished grade to the top of wall; or
2. 
Cut Slope Retaining Wall. Measure no more than 16 cumulative feet as measured from the lowest finished grade to the top of the upper wall, with a single retaining wall being no more than six feet as measured from the lower finished grade to the top of wall; and
3. 
Have a minimum horizontal distance, as measured perpendicular to the walls, that is at least equal to the average height of the vertical walls; and
4. 
Include landscape in the entire horizontal area between retaining walls in compliance with Section 25.03.050 (Landscape).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards are designed to locate upper-story windows, balconies and decks to minimize loss of privacy for neighboring properties.
B. 
Windows/Glazed Openings. All upper-story windows/glazed openings within 15 feet of an interior lot line must comply with one of the following:
1. 
A minimum sill height of 42 inches; or
2. 
Window is placed at an angle of at least 30 degrees, measured perpendicular to the adjacent interior property line; or
3. 
Oriented toward the front or rear of the building or offset horizontally at least 12 inches edge to edge so that they do not face directly opposite any existing upper-story window on an adjacent residential structure.
C. 
Landings, Decks, and Balconies.
1. 
Facing Adjoining Property. Upper-story unenclosed landings, decks, and balconies greater than 20 square feet, that face or overlook the adjoining property, shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from the interior lot lines.
2. 
Not Facing Adjoining Property. Upper-story unenclosed landings, decks, and balconies, that do not face or overlook the adjoining property due to orientation or topography, may be located at the minimum interior setback line if an architectural screening element such as enclosing walls, trellises, awnings, or perimeter planters with a five-foot minimum height is incorporated into the unenclosed landing, deck, or balcony.
Figure 25.03.130.1: Sill Height Standards along Interior Lot Line
Key
Interior Lot Line
Area Within 15' of Interior Lot Line
A
Window without Privacy Restrictions
B
Window with Sill Height Limit
C
Window with Angle Limit
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. These standards are designed to provide functional outdoor space while minimizing visual, noise, and privacy impacts to surrounding properties and rights-of-way.
B. 
General Standards.
1. 
Rooftop decks are only allowed on block-scale buildings.
2. 
Rooftop decks shall not be enclosed or covered, except with the following:
(a) 
Trellises can be 12 feet maximum in height, measured from floor to top of trellis.
(b) 
Guardrails, surrounding walls, or solid windscreens shall not exceed 42 inches in height. A transparent windscreen shall not exceed six feet in height.
3. 
Materials for walls, trellis, pergola, windscreens, and lighting shall match those used for the main building.
C. 
Deck Placement.
1. 
Rooftop deck shall be located on roof of main building, not including cupolas or towers.
2. 
Rooftop deck shall be located 15 feet minimum from building edge on primary and secondary front and 10 feet minimum from building edge on interior.
3. 
The rooftop deck footprint shall be maximum of 25 percent of total roof area at level of rooftop deck.
4. 
The finish floor deck height shall not exceed one foot above the roof surface.
Figure 25.03.140.1: Rooftop Deck Placement and Elements
Key
Roof
Deck
A
Min. distance from building edge, Primary or Secondary Front
B
Min. distance from building edge, Interior
C
Rooftop deck max. footprint
D. 
Stair Penthouse, including Roof Hatches.
1. 
Stair penthouses shall follow the rooftop deck setbacks from the building edge.
2. 
Overall height of stair penthouses shall be no greater than 10 feet. Stair penthouses are exempt from building height limitations, consistent with Section 30.15.090C2 (Architectural Elements).
3. 
The penthouse must be attached to the delineated area for the rooftop deck.
4. 
The penthouse shall be designed in the same style, materials, and finishes as the main building. See Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style.
E. 
Windscreen.
1. 
Glass or other reflective materials used on windscreens or guardrails shall be oriented or treated to prevent glare that may affect streets, pedestrians, or surrounding structures.
2. 
Windscreens shall be located only within or along the edges of the maximum allowed area for the rooftop deck.
F. 
Furniture and Elements.
1. 
Furnishings (e.g., chairs, tables, stoves, barbecues, swimming pools, hot tubs) are allowed only within the delineated area for the rooftop deck.
2. 
Permanent items (such as pergola, trellis, shade devices, and/or swimming pools) are allowed.
3. 
Temporary items (such as fabric awnings and umbrellas) are not allowed.
G. 
Compliance with Building and Fire Codes. All rooftop decks shall be designed in compliance with building and fire safety requirements.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards to support pedestrian-oriented development and improve the visual environment.
B. 
Applicability. Ground surfaces and paving are required for plazas, forecourts, courtyards, terraces, gateways, arcades, paseos, pedestrian pathways, and vehicle circulation areas.
1. 
Vehicular parking and circulation areas shall be paved in compliance with the City's Access and Parking Design Standards.
2. 
Paved public improvements shall comply with Section 22.44.070 (Public Improvement Standards).
C. 
Allowed Materials.
1. 
Ground surfaces and paving may be brick, stone, colored and textured concrete, terra-cotta tile, or buff colored permeable pavers.
2. 
Pedestrian pathways may be untextured, poured concrete.
(a) 
Shared vehicle driveway and pedestrian pathways in the Side Court building type shall consist of a maximum 20 percent asphalt or untextured, poured concrete.
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)
A. 
Intent. This Section provides standards for development on large sites to ensure development delineates existing and proposed blocks, streets, and open space to preserve and enhance sense of place, provide opportunities for healthy living, increase connectivity and accessibility, add open space, and create a compact, walkable neighborhood. Streets within large sites are intended to generate one contiguous pedestrian network throughout the development site and adjacent public rights-of-way.
B. 
Applicability.
1. 
Projects on sites of two or more acres shall set aside a minimum of 10 percent of the net developable lot area as community open space, in compliance with Section 25.03.160D (Community Open Space).
2. 
Projects on sites of four or more acres are subject to the requirements for a Sustainable Neighborhood Plan, in compliance with Section 25.03.160C (Sustainable Neighborhood Plan).
C. 
Sustainable Neighborhood Plan (SNP).
1. 
Each SNP shall show the proposed physical character of the development, in plan view:
(a) 
Boundaries of the proposed development;
(b) 
Existing and proposed blocks and streets within a 1,500-foot radius of the development boundaries, in compliance with Section 25.03.160C.3 (Block and Street Standards);
(c) 
Existing trees and other natural features;
(d) 
New or modified community open space, in compliance with Section 25.03.160D (Community Open Space);
(e) 
Proposed trees and landscape along streets and in community open spaces; and
(f) 
Identification of the proposed design sites, building types, and frontage types on each design site in compliance with the zone standards.
2. 
Access and Visibility Standards. Public access and visibility is required in and along existing natural open spaces, including creeks and storm water management areas, and the community open space. These areas shall be fronted by:
(a) 
Single-loaded frontage streets (those with development on one side and open space on the other);
(b) 
Bike and pedestrian pathways; or
(c) 
Other methods of frontage that provide similar access and visibility to the open space, as zone standards allow, such as through public easements.
3. 
Block and Street Standards.
(a) 
New blocks and streets shall be designed in compliance with the streets and roads standards pursuant to City Council Resolution No. 8096.
(b) 
Individual block lengths and the total block perimeter shall be in compliance with the standards in Table 25.03.160.A (Block Size Standards).
(1) 
An attached half-block is allowed to adjoin an existing half-block.
Table 25.03.160.A: Block Size Standards
Block Length
Block Perimeter
Depth of Attached Half-Block1
500' max.
1,800' max.
Min. is min. design site depth for the selected building type for the zone; 250' max.
Note:
1
Distance from street or right-of-way to shared property line
Figure 25.03.160.1: Block Size
(c) 
The new street network shall connect to the existing street network through multi-modal connections.
(1) 
New streets shall align with and continue existing or proposed streets by extending to or along adjoining property boundaries. New dead-end streets and cul-de-sacs are not allowed. See Section 30.140.180 (Street Frontage and Access).
(2) 
New streets shall provide connecting pedestrian and bicycle routes to all adjacent public, non-limited-access rights-of-way, and dead-end streets.
(3) 
The pedestrian network shall be composed of sidewalks as provided in Chapter 22.44 (Streets Dedication and Improvement Requirements for Building Permits) and Chapter 22.60 (Streets and Sidewalks) and community open spaces as provided in Section 25.03.160D (Community Open Space). The pedestrian network shall incorporate crosswalks as provided in Chapter 10.32 (Crosswalks) where pedestrian pathways intersect vehicular travel lanes.
4. 
Design Site Standards. New design sites shall be delineated in accordance with Section 25.02.040 (Design Sites) and the following standard:
(a) 
Design sites must front onto a street, pedestrian pathway, courtyard, or community open space.
5. 
Building Types and Frontage Types Standards.
(a) 
The SNP shall maintain a mix of at least two different building types within each block, using only the types allowed in the zone. Half-blocks adjoining existing development are exempt from the requirement for mixed building types.
(b) 
Along each block face containing more than one building entrance, the SNP shall maintain a mix of at least two different frontage types, using only the types allowed in the zone.
6. 
Revisions to a SNP. As individual needs of a development may change over time, a request for a change to the approved building types specified in the SNP may be made in compliance with the zone standards. Such request shall require approval by the original Review Authority and shall be processed in the same manner as the original approval.
Figure 25.03.160.2: Sustainable Neighborhood Plan Design Process Overview
1
Blocks
Divide development area to create smaller blocks and a network of interconnected streets, see Table 25.03.160.A (Block Size Standards).
2
Circulation Network
Introduce new streets from the allowed types in Section 25.03.160C.3 (Block and Street Standards). If rear vehicular access is desired, introduce alleys to provide access to design sites and maintain a continuous streetscape without the interruption of driveways.
3
Open Space
Identify at least 10% of the net developable area as community open space (calculated after subtracting street and alley ROWs).
The community open space is allowed to be distributed throughout the development in compliance with requirements in Table 25.03.160.B (Community Open Space Types Overview).
4
Design Sites
Identify building types, and introduce design sites within each block based on the minimum required design site width and depth for each selected building type.
5
Buildings
Show the building types in each block, and identify the selected frontage types for each design site. See Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection B (Building Types and Design Site Size) and Subsection F (Frontages) of the Zone.
D. 
Community Open Space. Community open spaces provide pedestrian-oriented amenities in connection with the City's established network of pedestrian facilities and open spaces; promote the health benefits of walkable environments; and reinforce the unique identity of Santa Barbara.
1. 
One or more community open spaces shall be used to satisfy the minimum community open space area requirement, in compliance with Table 25.03.160.B (Community Open Space Types Overview).
Table 25.03.160.B: Community Open Space Types Overview
Zones
Specific Standards
NM
NL
MUC
DE
DC
Green
§ 25.03.160D.6
A
A
A
–
–
Plaza
§ 25.03.160D.7
–
–
–
A
A
Paseo
§ 25.03.160D.8
A
A
A
A
A
Key
A = Allowed
– = Not Allowed
2. 
Public access and visibility are required in and along community open spaces. Community open spaces may be closed after business hours or at night consistent with City park hours of operation.
3. 
Colors, materials of outdoor furniture, and barriers shall be in compliance with Chapter 25.06 (Architectural Design), Subsection Q (Materials) of the Architectural Style.
4. 
Hardscape areas and pedestrian pathways shall be in compliance with Section 25.03.150 (Ground Surfaces and Paving).
5. 
All community open spaces shall be on grade and shall be level with the right-of-way and not enclosed with fences or other obstructions.
6. 
Green. A mostly landscaped area to provide access to shade, resting areas, and plants within the built environment.
(a) 
A Green must by a minimum of 3,000 square feet with one dimension at least 50 feet. At least one entire side of the Green shall abut and be accessible from the right-of-way.
(b) 
More than 50 percent shall consist of landscape in compliance with Section 25.03.050 (Landscape) with pedestrian pathways.
(c) 
Up to 50 percent of the area may double as storm water retention.
(d) 
Shade from canopy trees or trellis and seating must be provided.
7. 
Plaza. A mostly hardscaped area that provides pedestrians a gathering space away from the street.
(a) 
A Plaza must be a minimum of 2,500 square feet in area with a minimum 30 feet clear dimension in length and width.
(b) 
The Plaza shall be accessible from the sidewalk, paseo, or gateway.
(c) 
Pedestrians shall be separated from adjacent vehicular activity by any combination of at least two of the following: walls up to 30 inches tall, landscape, street furniture, curbside parking.
(d) 
A minimum of 50 percent of the Plaza must be hardscape area and a minimum of 10 percent landscape area, in the ground or as potted plants.
(e) 
Seating must be provided as individual or group seating.
8. 
Paseo. A part of a network of pedestrian pathways that extend from the public right-of-way. The pedestrian pathway is lined by shopfronts or residential ground floors and pedestrian entries as required by the zone.
(a) 
A Paseo must be a minimum of 12 feet wide between buildings, or through buildings as a breezeway, with an 8-foot minimum unobstructed through pedestrian pathway, and a minimum of 8 feet vertical clearance.
(b) 
A Paseo may be up to 150 feet long. A paseo length may be unlimited if extending from one public sidewalk or community open space to another.
(c) 
Paseos are required to connect from a street to another street, to a public parking lot, or to community open space.
(d) 
An entrance transition to the paseo is required, through an entry arch, accent paving, signage, or gateway.
(e) 
No more than 25 percent of the Paseo surface may consist of untextured poured concrete.
(f) 
A minimum of 10 percent of the Paseo must be landscape, in the ground or as potted plants.
(g) 
Paseos are required on any project that includes an area identified as a proposed or future paseo connection on the City's Paseos Plan Maps in the Pedestrian Master Plan.
(h) 
Edges of the Paseo must be lined by ground floor façades in compliance with Façade Zone in Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection D (Building Placement) of the Zone or frontages allowed in Chapter 25.02 (Zones), Subsection F (Frontages) of the Zone.
(i) 
Paseos shall not include trash enclosures or public utility equipment.
(j) 
Paseos may include benches/seating, awnings, outdoor dining, or other elements to activate that do not infringe on the unobstructed pedestrian pathway.
(1) 
Areas within the public right-of-way proposed for outdoor dining are required to be in compliance with Chapter 9.95 (Use of City Sidewalks and Rights-of-Way for Dining Purposes).
(Ord. 6170, 2/25/2025)