The City finds that:
A. 
The waters of the state are of limited supply and are subject to ever increasing demands; therefore:
1. 
The continuation of California's and the City's economic prosperity is dependent on the availability of adequate supplies of water for future uses;
2. 
It is the policy of the state and City to promote the conservation and efficient use of water and to prevent the waste of this valuable resource;
3. 
Landscapes are essential to the quality of life in California and the City by providing areas for active and passive recreation and as an enhancement to the environment by cleaning air and water, preventing erosion, offering fire protection, and replacing ecosystems lost to development;
4. 
Landscape design, installation, maintenance and management can and should be water efficient; and
5. 
The City recognizes that Section 2 of Article X of the California Constitution specifies that the right to use water is limited to the amount reasonably required for the beneficial use to be served and the right does not and shall not extend to waste or unreasonable method of use.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
Water efficient landscaping. Consistent with the above findings, the purpose of this chapter of the Zoning Code is to:
1. 
Promote the values and benefits of landscaping practices that integrate and transcend 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 using a whole system watershed approach in landscapes of any size and scale that require cross-sector collaboration 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 a maximum applied water allowance as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount;
5. 
Promote the benefits of consistent landscape ordinances with neighboring local and regional agencies;
6. 
Encourage local agencies and water purveyors to use economic incentives that promote the efficient use of water, such as implementing a tiered-rate structure;
7. 
Encourage local agencies to designate the necessary authority that implements and enforces the provisions of this Chapter 17.325 (Water Efficient Landscape and Irrigation);
8. 
Require landscapes that are planned, designed, installed, managed and maintained with the watershed based approach can improve California's and the City's environmental conditions and provide benefits and realize sustainability goals. Such landscapes will make the urban environment resilient in the face of climatic extremes; and
9. 
Recognize that the conditions in the urban setting will be improved by:
a. 
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 esthetic benefits;
b. 
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;
c. 
Conserving water by capturing and reusing rainwater and graywater wherever possible and selecting climate appropriate plants that need minimal supplemental water after establishment;
d. 
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; and
e. 
Protecting existing habitat and creating new habitat by choosing local native plants, climate adapted non-natives and avoiding invasive plants. Utilizing integrated pest management with least toxic methods as the first course of action. (CCR, Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, § 490)
B. 
Landscaping standards. the purpose of this chapter of the Zoning Code is to
1. 
Enhance the aesthetic appearance of the City by providing standards related to the quality and functional aspects of landscaping;
2. 
Increase the compatibility between abutting land uses and public rights-of-way by providing appropriate and suitable landscape screening and buffers;
3. 
Provide for the conservation and protection of water resources through the efficient use of water, as required by Government Code Section 65595 and Municipal Code Chapter 13.04.070 (Rationing of water–Authority), and the appropriate use of plant materials suitable for climate and location, and regular maintenance of landscaped areas; and
4. 
Protect public health, safety, and welfare by preserving property values and enhancing pedestrian and vehicular traffic and safety.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
Water efficient landscaping.
1. 
This chapter, consistent with Executive Order No. B-29-15, shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
a. 
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;
b. 
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;
c. 
Existing landscapes that were installed before December 1, 2015, and are over one acre in size (subject to Sections 17.325.100 and 17.325.140 only); and
d. 
Cemeteries (subject to Sections 17.325.060B, 17.325.090, and 17.325.100 only) and existing cemeteries (subject to Sections 17.325.100 and 17.325.140 only).
2. 
This chapter may apply to any project with an aggregate landscape area of 2,500 square feet or less by complying with the performance requirements of this chapter or conforming to the prescriptive measures contained in Section 17.325.180 (Prescriptive Compliance Option).
3. 
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 Section 17.325.180 (Prescriptive Compliance Option).
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
The following areas or projects shall be exempt from the landscaping requirements in this section:
A. 
Registered local, state or federal historical sites;
B. 
Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system;
C. 
Mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or
D. 
Existing plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
The terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:
A. 
"Applied water"
means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
B. 
"Automatic irrigation controller"
means an automatic 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.
C. 
"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.
D. 
"Certificate of completion"
means the document required under Section 17.325.070 (Certificate of Completion).
E. 
"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 US Environmental Protection Agency's Water Sense Irrigation Designer Certification Program and Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer Program.
F. 
"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 US Environmental Protection Agency's Water Sense Irrigation Auditor Certification Program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor Program.
G. 
"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 the sprinkler heads when the system is off.
H. 
"Common interest developments"
means community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section 1351.
I. 
"Compost"
means the safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
J. 
"Conversion factor (0.62)"
means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year. Check with the water purveyor as they may have a different conservation factor (CF).
K. 
"Distribution uniformity"
means the measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.
L. 
"Drip irrigation"
means any non-spray low-volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low-volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
M. 
"Ecological restoration project"
means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
N. 
"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt)
means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth. Effective precipitation (25% of annual precipitation) in tracking water use and shall 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.
O. 
"Emitter"
means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
P. 
"Established landscape"
means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the site. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
Q. 
"Establishment period of the plants"
means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may need three to five years for establishment.
R. 
"Estimated total water use" (ETWU)
means the total water used for the landscape as described in Section 17.325.060B (Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet).
S. 
"ET adjustment factor" (ETAF)
means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for nonresidential areas, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
T. 
"Evapotranspiration rate"
means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
U. 
"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.
V. 
"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.
W. 
"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.
X. 
"Fuel Modification Plan Guideline"
means guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.
Y. 
"Graywater"
means untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. "Graywater" includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers, bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. See Health and Safety Code Section 17922.12.
Z. 
"Hardscapes"
means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).
AA. 
"Hydrozone"
means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or nonirrigated.
BB. 
"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).
CC. 
"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. It also means those invasive plant species noted in Table 6-2 (Plants That Should be Avoided Adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area).
DD. 
"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 Water Sense Labeled Auditing Program.
EE. 
"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 is 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems.
FF. 
"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.
GG. 
"Irrigation water use analysis"
means a review of water use data based on meter readings and billing data.
HH. 
"Landscape architect"
means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the state of California Business and Professions Code, Section 5615.
II. 
"Landscape area"
means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other nonirrigated areas designated for nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
JJ. 
"Landscape contractor"
means a person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
KK. 
"Landscape and irrigation submittal package"
means the documents required under Section 17.325.060 (Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package Requirements).
LL. 
"Landscape project"
means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this chapter, meeting requirements under Section 17.325.030 (Applicability).
MM. 
"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.
NN. 
"Lateral line"
means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
OO. 
"Local water purveyor"
means any entity, including a public agency, city, county or private water company that provides retail water service.
PP. 
"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.
QQ. 
"Main line"
means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet.
RR. 
"Master shutoff 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.
SS. 
"Maximum applied water allowance" (MAWA)
means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as specified in Section 17.325.060B (Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet). 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)].
TT. 
"Median"
is an area between opposing lanes of traffic that may be unplanted or planted with trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses.
UU. 
"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.
VV. 
"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.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Cal. Pub. Res. Code §§ 2710 through 2796.
WW. 
"Mulch"
means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, or decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.
XX. 
"New construction"
means, for the purposes of this chapter, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building.
YY. 
"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.
ZZ. 
"Operating pressure"
means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate.
AAA. 
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems"
means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
BBB. 
"Overspray"
means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
CCC. 
"Permit"
means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes.
DDD. 
"Pervious"
means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
EEE. 
"Plant factor" or "plant water use factor"
is a factor, 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).
FFF. 
"Project applicant"
means the individual or entity submitting a Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package required under Section 17.325.060 (Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package Requirements) 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.
GGG. 
"Rain sensor" or "rain sensing shutoff device"
means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
HHH. 
"Record drawing" or "as-builts"
means a set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the contractor.
III. 
"Recreational 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 courses tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
JJJ. 
"Recycled water", "reclaimed water", or "treated sewage effluent water"
means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.
KKK. 
"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 the table below, 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. A landscape architect may adjust the ETo based upon their expertise of the area and proposed plant materials.
REFERENCE EVAPOTRANSPIRATION (ETo) TABLE
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Annual ETo
2.3
2.4
4.1
4.9
6.4
6.9
7.7
7.5
6.0
3.9
2.6
2.1
56.8
LLL. 
"Rehabilitated landscape"
means any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements of Section 17.325.030 (Applicability), and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet.
MMM. 
"Residential landscape"
means landscapes surrounding single- or multi-family homes.
NNN. 
"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.
OOO. 
"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.
PPP. 
"Soil texture"
means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.
QQQ. 
"Special landscape area (SLA)"
means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water.
RRR. 
"Sprinkler head"
means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
SSS. 
"Static water pressure"
means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing.
TTT. 
"Station"
means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
UUU. 
"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.
VVV. 
"Sub-meter"
means a metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after the primary utility water meter.
WWW. 
"Turf"
means a ground cover 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 grass, Zoysia grass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.
XXX. 
"Valve"
means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
YYY. 
"Water conserving plant species"
means a plant species identified as having a very low or low plant factor.
ZZZ. 
"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.
AAAA. 
"Watering window"
means the time of day irrigation is allowed.
BBBB. 
"WUCOLS"
means the "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, and the Department of Water Resources 2014. (CCR, Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, § 491)
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
An applicant proposing any new or rehabilitated landscape subject to this chapter shall prepare and submit an application to the City for review and approval by the Director or his/her designee. The planting plan, irrigation plan, and soils management plan shall be reviewed to ensure that all components of the plans adhere to the requirements of this chapter. No certificate of occupancy or other final City approval shall be issued until the City reviews and approves the landscape and irrigation plans and the landscape and irrigation are installed in accordance with the approved plans. A copy of the approved landscape and irrigation plans and conditions of approval shall be provided to the property owner or site manager along with any other information normally forwarded to the property owner or site manager.
A. 
The Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package. A landscape and irrigation plan shall be approved by the Director or his/her designee. Submittal shall be required before the issuance of a building or grading permit. Approval shall be required before the issuance of a business license, or certificate of occupancy for any applicable project [Section 17.325.030 (Applicability)].
1. 
Area requirements. Unless exempt in compliance with Section 17.325.040 (Exemptions from Landscaping Requirements) the following landscaping shall be provided:
a. 
Minimum percentage area. Each residential and nonresidential land use shall provide and maintain minimum landscaped areas based on the lot coverage and impervious surface coverage standards in Article 2 (Zones, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone-Specific Standards).
b. 
Parking areas. Parking areas shall be landscaped in compliance with Section 17.330.090 (Landscaping Standards for Parking Areas). Parking lot areas shall be counted as part of the total lot area when computing the minimum landscaped area.
c. 
Minimum dimensions. Landscaped areas shall measure at least five feet in any direction in order to be counted as meeting the minimum requirements.
2. 
Content. Landscape plans, including fuel modification plans, shall be prepared in compliance with the City's Landscape Design Guidelines.
3. 
Review. After initial application, the Director, or his/her designee, shall review the plans for compliance with the requirements of this chapter. In addition, plans for projects in wildland fire hazard areas or hillside locations shall be submitted to the Fire Chief for approval before final approval of the landscape and irrigation plans.
4. 
Installation. Landscaping shall be installed:
a. 
Only after the applicant receives approval of the landscape plans; and
b. 
Before issuance of the final certificate of occupancy or final building permit, except for extensions granted by the Director due to exceptional and unforeseen circumstances (e.g., seasonal conditions).
5. 
Changes to approved landscape plans. Changes to the approved landscape and irrigation plans that affect the character or quantity of the plant material or irrigation system design are required to be resubmitted for approval before installation.
6. 
Statement of surety. A statement of surety in the form of cash, performance bond, letter of credit, or certificate of deposit in an amount equal to 120% of the total value of all plant materials, irrigation, installation, water, and maintenance shall be posted with the City for a two-year period. The Director, or his/her designee, may require statements of surety for phased development projects.
7. 
General design standards. The following features shall be incorporated into the design of landscaped areas and shall comply with the specifications in the City's Landscape Design Guidelines.
a. 
Landscaping shall be planned as an integral part of the overall project design and not simply located in excess space after parking areas and structures have been planned.
b. 
Landscaped areas shall be provided with an automatic irrigation system(s) per Section 17.325.060E (Irrigation design plan).
c. 
Landscaping may also include small amounts of accessory decorative outdoor landscape elements (e.g., ponds, fountains, sculpture, and paved or decorated surfaces) excluding driveways, parking, and storage areas.
d. 
Front setbacks and other required landscaped areas shall be landscaped and maintained. A minimum of 50% of the area required to be landscaped shall consist of live plants.
e. 
Sidewalks providing pedestrian access shall be considered in the design of all landscaped areas, including the need to locate plants, utility boxes, backflow devices and fire backflow preventers, so as not to interfere with the ability of pedestrians to have an adequate view of paths and surrounding areas to ensure their safety.
f. 
Landscape planting shall include adjacent public street rights-of-way, in compliance with the City's Landscape Design Guidelines.
g. 
Landscaping over 30 inches in height shall not be allowed within a traffic visibility area formed by the intersection of public rights-of-way, parking lot entrances and exits, pedestrian rights-of-way, driveways, or alleys as determined by the Director in compliance with Section 17.305.150 (Traffic Visibility Area).
h. 
Landscaping shall be required to screen storage areas, trash enclosures, and parking areas in compliance with Section 17.305.110 (Screening and Buffering).
i. 
Graded areas proposed for development in a later phase shall be planted with native vegetation specified in an approved revegetation plan and shall be maintained in a weed-free condition until development occurs, if the later phase will not begin construction within six months of completion of the previous phase.
j. 
Graded slopes in excess of 15-feet in vertical height shall be landscaped and irrigated in accordance with Section 15.04.020 (2022 Building Code Adopted–Modifications).
8. 
The Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package shall include:
a. 
A completed application packet provided by the City;
b. 
The Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet, including the MAWA and ETWU;
c. 
The soils management report;
d. 
Landscape design plan;
e. 
Irrigation design plan; and
f. 
The grading plan.
B. 
Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
1. 
The project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet in the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package 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.
a. 
In calculating the maximum applied water allowance and estimated total water use, the project applicant shall use the ETo values from the Reference Evapotranspiration Table in Section 17.325.050JJJ. For geographic areas not covered in Section 17.325.050JJJ 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.
2. 
Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
a. 
The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 to 0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate water use plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
b. 
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.
c. 
All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use calculated as shown in the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package provided by the City.
d. 
ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
C. 
Soils Management Report.
1. 
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:
a. 
Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
i. 
Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.
2. 
The soil analysis shall include:
a. 
Soil texture;
b. 
Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;
c. 
pH;
d. 
Total soluble salts;
e. 
Sodium;
f. 
Percent organic matter; and
g. 
Recommendations.
3. 
In projects with multiple landscape installations (i.e. production home developments) a soil sampling rate of one in seven lots or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape projects shall sample at a rate equivalent to one in seven lots.
4. 
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 City as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package; or
b. 
If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the City as part of the certificate of completion.
5. 
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.
6. 
The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the City with certificate of completion.
D. 
Landscape design plan.
1. 
For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned for the intended function of the project and all requirements of Article 2 (Zones, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone-Specific Standards), Article 3 (Site Planning and Development Standards) and Article 4 (Standards for Specific Land Uses) of the Development Code should be included in the design, including but not limited to, the landscaping requirements for parking lots, trash enclosures, and the like. The City's Landscape Design Guidelines, as may be periodically amended by the Director, are incorporated by reference to assist in designing, constructing, and maintaining a water efficient landscape and irrigation system. A landscape design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package.
a. 
Plant material.
i. 
Only plant materials listed on the City's approved plant list shall be accepted, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Director or his/her designee. The approved plant list is contained in the City's Landscape Design Guidelines.
ii. 
An appropriate mix of plant materials shall be provided.
iii. 
Trees and shrubs shall be planted so that at maturity they do not interfere with service lines and traffic visibility areas.
iv. 
Trees and shrubs shall be planted and maintained in a manner that protects the basic rights of adjacent property owners, particularly the right to solar access.
v. 
Trees planted near public sidewalks or curbs shall be of a species and installed in a manner that prevents physical damage to the sidewalks, curbs, gutters and other public improvements.
vi. 
Any plant may be selected for the landscape providing the estimated total water use in the landscape area does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
(A) 
Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;
(B) 
Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and turf species, especially local native plants;
(C) 
Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;
(D) 
Selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area:
(E) 
Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists;
(F) 
Selection of plants from local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines; and
(G) 
Turf shall only be permitted in medians if permitted under current state drought regulations. Check with the water purveyor to determine current regulations for planting medians.
vii. 
Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as specified in Section 17.325.060E.2.d (Irrigation design plan).
viii. 
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:
(A) 
Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;
(B) 
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
(C) 
Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.
ix. 
Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25% means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent) and shall be limited in public medians in accordance with current water drought restrictions.
x. 
High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.
xi. 
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.
xii. 
The use of invasive plant species, such as those listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, is strongly discouraged.
xiii. 
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.
b. 
Water features.
i. 
Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
ii. 
Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water features.
iii. 
Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high-water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
iv. 
Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.
c. 
Soil preparation, mulch and amendments.
i. 
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.
ii. 
Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected [see Section 17.325.060C (Soils Management Report)].
iii. 
For landscape installations, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with greater than 6% organic matter in the top six inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
iv. 
A minimum three-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to 5% of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated insect habitat must be included in the landscape design plan as such.
v. 
Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes that meet current engineering standards.
vi. 
The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded applications shall meet the mulching requirement.
vii. 
Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer 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.
d. 
The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:
i. 
Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method;
ii. 
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;
iii. 
Identify recreational areas;
iv. 
Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
v. 
Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;
vi. 
Identify type of mulch and application depth;
vii. 
Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
viii. 
Identify type and surface area of water features;
ix. 
Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious);
x. 
Identify location, installation details, and twenty-four-hour retention or infiltration capacity of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Project applicants shall refer to the City or Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements. Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the landscape design plan and examples are provided in Section 17.325.130 (Stormwater Management and Rainwater Retention);
xi. 
Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies as discussed in Section 17.325.130 (Stormwater Management and Rainwater Retention) and their twenty-four-hour retention or infiltration capacity;
xii. 
Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and area(s) of distribution;
xiii. 
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";
xiv. 
Bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, 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); and
xv. 
Identify compliance with Section 15.04.020 (2022 Building Code Adopted–Modifications) for graded slopes in excess of 15 feet in vertical height.
E. 
Irrigation design plan.
1. 
This section applies to landscaped areas requiring permanent irrigation, not areas that require temporary irrigation solely for the plant establishment period. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufacturers' recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package.
a. 
System.
i. 
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:
(A) 
A customer service meter dedicated to landscape use provided by the local water purveyor; or
(B) 
Aprivately-owned meter or sub-meter.
b. 
Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems.
c. 
If the water pressure is below or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices, the installation of a pressure regulating device is required to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for optimal performance.
i. 
If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.
ii. 
Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at installation.
d. 
Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain.
e. 
Manual shutoff 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 City code (i.e., public health) for additional backflow prevention requirements.
g. 
Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all on nonresidential landscapes and residential landscapes of 5,000 square feet. or larger.
h. 
Master shutoff valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features.
i. 
The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, 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 Section 17.325.060B (Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet) regarding the maximum applied water allowance.
m. 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers'/International Code Council's (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard. All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
n. 
It is highly recommended that the project applicant or City inquire with the local water purveyor about peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
o. 
In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
p. 
Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations.
q. 
Head to head coverage is recommended. However, sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution uniformity using the manufacturer's recommendations.
r. 
Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to hardscapes or in high traffic areas of turf grass.
s. 
Check valves or anti-drain valves are required on all sprinkler heads where low point drainage could occur.
t. 
Areas less than 10 feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
u. 
Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any non-permeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low-flow non-spray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if:
i. 
The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
ii. 
The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or
iii. 
The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation system design criteria in Section 17.325.060E.1.i. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
v. 
Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with an application rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
w. 
Graded slopes in excess of 15 feet in vertical height shall be landscaped and irrigated in compliance with Section 15.04.020 (2022 Building Code Adopted–Modifications).
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 Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package provided by the City). This table can also assist with the irrigation audit and programming the controller.
3. 
The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:
a. 
Location and size of separate water meters for landscape;
b. 
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;
c. 
Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;
d. 
Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station;
e. 
Recycled water irrigation systems as specified in Section 17.325.110 (Recycled Water);
f. 
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 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, 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).
F. 
Grading design plan.
1. 
For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer for other City permits satisfies this requirement. Check with the City Engineer for requirements on preparation of a grading plan.
a. 
The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including:
i. 
Height of graded slopes;
ii. 
Drainage patterns;
iii. 
Pad elevations;
iv. 
Finish grade;
v. 
Stormwater retention improvements, if applicable; and
vi. 
Compliance with Section 15.04.020 (2022 Building Code Adopted–Modifications) for graded slopes in excess of 15 feet in vertical height.
b. 
To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants:
i. 
Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes;
ii. 
Avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and
iii. 
Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
c. 
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. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
The certificate of completion (see Certificate of Completion Form of the Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package provided by the City for a sample certificate) shall be filled out by the applicant upon completion of the landscape project and 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 and Irrigation Submittal Package;
a. 
Where there have been, significant changes made in the field during construction, these "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification;
b. 
A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.
3. 
Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller [see Section 17.325.080 (Irrigation Scheduling)];
a. 
Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule [see Section 17.325.090 (Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule)];
b. 
Irrigation audit report [see Section 17.325.100 (Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation Water Use Analysis)]; and
c. 
Soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations [see Section 17.325.060C (Soils Management Report)].
B. 
The project applicant shall:
1. 
Submit the signed certificate of completion along with the statement of surety to the City for review and approval;
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 and statement of surety from the project applicant;
2. 
Approve or deny the certificate of completion and statement of surety. If the certificate of completion and/or the statement of surety are denied, the City shall provide information to the project applicant regarding reapplication or other assistance.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:
1. 
Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
2. 
Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter of the two shall apply. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
3. 
For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the estimated total water use. Total annual applied water shall be less than or equal to maximum applied water allowance (MAWA). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS) 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. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the certificate of completion.
B. 
A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection; auditing, adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components; aerating and dethatching turf areas; topdressing with compost, replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding in all landscape areas, and removing obstructions to emission devices. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
C. 
Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.
D. 
A project applicant is encouraged to implement established landscape industry sustainable best practices for all landscape maintenance activities.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a City 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 ([.e., production home developments) an auditing rate of one in seven lots (as long as at least one of each typical landscape design is audited] or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement. Should the landscape review and/or installation occur in phases then this requirement will apply to each phase.
C. 
For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after December 1, 2015, as described in Section 17.325.030 (Applicability);
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 run off 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 City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the maximum applied water allowance.
3. 
If the local water purveyor has stricter requirements than called for in this chapter, the project applicant is responsible for contacting the water purveyor to determine what the requirements are and designing the plans to those requirements. The City will work with the project applicant to implement the water purveyor's requirements.
D. 
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 that have a water meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes. The maximum applied water allowance for existing landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA = (0.8) (ETo)(LA)(0.62).
2. 
For all landscapes that do not have a meter, the City shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation surveys and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
Recycled/reclaimed water shall be utilized whenever available, and reclaimed irrigation equipment shall be specified on the landscape plans.
B. 
The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water.
C. 
All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and state laws.
D. 
Landscapes using recycled water are considered special landscape areas. The ET adjustment factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) special landscape areas shall not exceed 1.0.
E. 
Applicants using recycled water for their landscape and irrigation plans shall consult with the appropriate water purveyor early in the development review process to ensure that future recycled water facilities meet the projected demand and that the plans, when submitted, comply with the applicable standards, approvals, and implementation requirements of this chapter, the water purveyor and any applicable maintenance entity.
F. 
Water systems for common open space areas shall use non-potable water if approved facilities are made available by the water purveyor. Provisions for a non-potable water system shall be provided within the irrigation design plan. Water systems designed to utilize non-potable water shall be designed to meet all applicable standards of the Regional Water Quality Control Board, the Riverside County Health Department, and the appropriate water purveyor.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
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 Section 17.325.030A.3 (Applicability) 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. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
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 Chapter 13.04 (Water Service System Generally), Section 13.44.060 (Discharge of pollutants) and Section 13.44.130 (New development and redevelopment) of the Municipal Code for information on any applicable stormwater technical requirements ordinances and stormwater.
C. 
All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize water retention and infiltration. Refer to Section 17.325.060D.1.c (Landscape design plan).
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, twenty-four-hour rain event or the 85th percentile, twenty-four-hour rain event, and/or additional capacity as required by any applicable local, regional, state or federal regulation.
E. 
It is recommended that storm water projects incorporate any of the following elements to improve on-site storm water 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 storm water 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. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
Landscape areas shall be designed and maintained to ensure water efficiency, avoid runoff, and promote conservation in compliance with the City's Landscape Design Guidelines and this chapter. Suggested methods include checking, adjusting, and repairing irrigation equipment; resetting automatic controllers; installing precipitation sensors; aerating and detaching turf areas; adding or replenishing mulch, fertilizer, and soil amendments; and pruning and weeding all landscaped areas.
B. 
Water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation leading to excessive runoff, low head drainage, overspray, and other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, sidewalks, roadways, or structures is prohibited. An estimated annual water use budget shall be prepared for the entire landscape area in compliance with the City's Landscape Design Guidelines and landscape water use efficiency requirements in this chapter.
C. 
The City 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. Violation of these prohibitions shall be subject be penalized in accordance with Section 13.04.070 (Rationing of water–Authority).
D. 
Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff may be modified if:
1. 
The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
2. 
The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
All installed landscaping and irrigation systems shall be continually maintained. Maintenance shall consist of regular watering, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, clearing of debris and weeds, monitoring for pests and disease, the removal and timely replacement of dead plants, and the repair and timely replacement of irrigation systems, and integrated architectural features.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
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 or water suppliers/purveyors will 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 shall 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 this chapter; 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. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
In compliance with Public Resources Code Section 25982, a structure, fence, or wall shall not be constructed or modified, and vegetation shall not be placed or allowed to grow after the effective date of this chapter, so as to obstruct more than 10% of the absorption area of a solar energy system on a neighboring parcel at any one time between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)
A. 
This appendix contains prescriptive requirements which may be used as a compliance option to this chapter.
B. 
Compliance with the following items is mandatory and must be documented on a landscape plan in order to use the prescriptive compliance option:
1. 
Submit a Landscape and Irrigation Submittal Package which includes the following elements:
a. 
Date.
b. 
Project applicant.
c. 
Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)).
d. 
Total landscape area (square feet), including a breakdown of turf and plant material.
e. 
Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed).
f. 
Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well.
g. 
Contact information for the project applicant and property owner.
h. 
Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the prescriptive compliance option of Chapter 17.325 (Water Efficient Landscape and Irrigation Chapter)."
2. 
Incorporate compost at a rate of at least four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of six inches into landscape area (unless contra-indicated by a soil test);
3. 
Plant material shall comply with all of the following;
a. 
For residential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 75% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water;
b. 
For nonresidential areas, install climate adapted plants that require occasional, little or no summer water (average WUCOLS plant factor 0.3) for 100% of the plant area excluding edibles and areas using recycled water;
c. 
A minimum three-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.
4. 
Turf shall comply with all of the following:
a. 
Turf shall not exceed 25% of the landscape area in residential areas, and there shall be no turf in nonresidential areas;
b. 
Turf shall not be planted on sloped areas which exceed a slope of one-foot vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length;
c. 
Turf is prohibited in parkways less than 10 feet wide, unless the parkway is adjacent to a parking strip and used to enter and exit vehicles. Any turf in parkways must be irrigated by subsurface irrigation or by other technology that creates no overspray or runoff.
5. 
Irrigation systems shall comply with the following:
a. 
Automatic irrigation controllers are required and must use evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data.
b. 
Irrigation controllers shall be of a type which does not lose programming date in the event the primary power source is interrupted.
c. 
Pressure regulators shall be installed on the irrigation system to ensure the dynamic pressure of the system is within the manufacturers recommended pressure range.
d. 
Manual shutoff valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be installed as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply.
e. 
All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014, "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard." All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
6. 
At the time of final inspection, the permit applicant must provide the owner of the property with a certificate of completion, certificate of installation, irrigation schedule and a schedule of landscape and irrigation maintenance.
(Ord. 24-13, 10/1/2024)