A. 
Specific Purposes. In addition to the general purposes listed in Section 18.05.020 (Purpose, Intent, and Authority), the specific purposes of commercial, retail business, neighborhood business, office, and light industrial districts regulations are to:
1. 
Provide appropriately located areas consistent with the General Plan for a full range of office, retail commercial, industrial, and service commercial uses needed by the city's residents, businesses, and workers.
2. 
Strengthen the city's economic base and provide employment opportunities close to home for residents of the city and surrounding communities.
3. 
Create suitable environments for various types of commercial, office, and industrial uses and protect them from the adverse effects of inharmonious uses.
4. 
Minimize the impact of commercial, office, and industrial development of adjacent residential zoning districts.
5. 
Ensure that the appearance and effects of commercial, office, and industrial buildings and uses are consistent with City-Wide Design Guidelines and are harmonious with the character of the area in which they are located.
6. 
Ensure the provision of adequate off-street parking and loading facilities.
B. 
Summary of Commercial, Office, and Industrial Zoning Districts. The additional purposes of each zoning district are as follows:
1. 
NB – Neighborhood Business Zoning District. The purpose of the NB zoning district is to provide for areas of the city that accommodate small format, day-to-day convenience shopping and services to meet the needs of local residents and designed in a way that is compatible and in scale with the surrounding neighborhood. Examples of neighborhood-serving uses include, but are not limited to, local retail businesses, florists, grocery stores, restaurants, drug stores, banks, barbershops, beauty shops, dry cleaners, and small repair facilities. The NB zoning district implements the Neighborhood Business (NB) land use designation of the General Plan.
2. 
RB – Retail Business Zoning District. The purpose of the RB zoning district is to provide areas of the city that accommodate commercial and retail businesses intended to serve the city and the region as a whole, including, but not limited to, shopping centers containing a wide variety of commercial establishments, such as retail stores and businesses selling home furnishings, apparel, durable goods and specialty items, restaurants, commercial recreation, service stations and business, and personal and financial services. The RB zoning district implements the Commercial and Retail (CR) land use designation of the General Plan.
3. 
PAO – Professional and Administrative Office Zoning District. The purpose of the PAO zoning district is to provide areas for office buildings containing business, medical, and professional uses on a scale compatible with adjacent zoning districts. The PAO zoning district implements the Office (O) land use designation of the General Plan.
4. 
C – General Commercial Zoning District. The purpose of the C zoning district is to provide areas for higher intensity service commercial uses, including automobile sales and services, animal sales and services, building materials, retail sales, storage, and similar uses. The C zoning district implements the Commercial and Retail (CR) land use designation of the General Plan.
5. 
LI – Light Industrial Zoning District. The purpose of the LI zoning district is to provide for areas of the city for research and development facilities, construction yards, warehousing, and light industrial activities in a landscaped setting, including the manufacture, assembly, distribution and storage of goods, but excluding raw materials processing or bulk handling. The LI zoning district implements the Light Industrial (I) land use designation of the General Plan.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Classifications. Table 18.25-A (Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Regulations) establishes the land uses allowed within each commercial, office, and industrial zoning district and any required permits. Descriptions of each land use can be found in Chapter 18.210 (Land Use Classifications).
B. 
Zoning Permit Required. Each land use listed in Table 18.25-A (Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Regulations) as permitted "P" shall require the issuance of a Zoning Permit in compliance with Chapter 18.170 (Zoning Permit) before establishment.
C. 
Other Permits and Entitlements. In addition to the permits listed in Table 18.25-A (Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Regulations), additional permits or entitlements, such as Architectural Review Permits, Building Permits, or Zoning Permits, may be required before a land use can be established. The approval or issuance of one permit or entitlement does not exempt the requirement to obtain any other necessary permits or entitlements.
D. 
Uses Not Listed. Land uses not listed in Table 18.25-A (Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Regulations) are not allowed unless authorized by the Zoning Administrator through resolution.
E. 
Additional Use Regulations. The right-hand column includes specific limitations applicable to the use classification or refers to regulations located elsewhere in this Title.
Table 18.25-A: Commercial, Office, and Industrial Land Use Regulations
Key
P = Permitted; U = Use Permit Required; T = Temporary Use Permit Required; (-) = Not Allowed; L = Permitted with Limitations, P/U = Permitted on site of a permitted use
Land Use
Permit Requirement by Zoning District
Additional Use Regulations
NB
RB
PAO
C
LI
Residential Uses
Bed and breakfast
–
P
P
–
–
Emergency shelter
–
L-17
–
–
L-15
Section 18.15.120
Employee housing
–
L-17
–
–
–
Home occupation
–
P
P
–
–
Section 18.15.130
Low barrier navigation center
–
P
P
–
–
Mobile/manufactured housing
–
P
–
Multifamily residential
Two-unit
–
L-17
U
–
–
Three-unit
–
L-17
U
–
–
Four-unit
–
L-17
U
–
–
Five or more units
–
L-17
U
–
–
Residential care facility, small, licensed
–
P
P
–
–
Residential care facility, small, unlicensed
–
P
P
–
–
Single-family residential
–
L-17
–
–
–
Single-room occupancy
–
L-17
–
–
–
Section 18.15.170
Supportive housing
–
P
P
–
–
Transitional housing
–
P
P
–
–
Public and Semipublic Uses
Community center
P
P
P
P
–
Cultural institutions
U
U
U
–
–
Day care, general
–
U
U
–
–
Emergency medical care facility
–
U
P
–
–
Government offices
U
U
P
–
–
Park and recreational facilities
–
U
U
–
–
Place of assembly
U
U
U
U
–
Public safety facilities
U
U
U
U
U
Offender rehabilitation services
–
–
–
–
U
Residential care facility, large, licensed or unlicensed
U
U
U
U
–
School, college and university
–
U
U
–
–
School, private
–
U
U
–
–
School, technical/trade and vocational
–
U
U
–
–
Utilities, major
U
U
U
U
U
Section 18.25.140
Utilities, minor
P
P
P
P
P
Section 18.25.140
Wireless telecommunications facility
L-6
L-6
L-6
L-6
L-6
Chapter 18.110
Commercial Uses
Adult businesses
–
U
U
U
U
Chapter 18.115
Ambulance services
–
–
U
U
–
Animal boarding
U
U
U
U
U
Animal clinic
U
U
U
P
–
Animal day care
U
U
U
U
U
Animal grooming
U
P
U
P
–
Animal hospitals
U
U
U
P
–
Animals: retail sales
P
P
–
–
–
Artists' studio
P
P
P
P
–
Automobile maintenance, limited
–
P
–
P
P
Automobile service station
U
P
–
P
P
Section 18.25.150
Automobile, vehicle/equipment broker
P
L-3
P
–
L-3
Automobile, vehicle/equipment repair
–
–
–
P
P
With body and fender work
–
–
–
U
P
Automobile, vehicle/equipment sales and rentals
–
U
–
P
P
Automobile, vehicle/equipment wholesaler
–
–
–
P
P
Section 18.25.160
Automobile washing and exterior protection
–
U
–
P
P
Banks and savings and loans
P
P
U
–
–
With drive-up service
U
U
U
–
–
Building materials and services
–
U
–
U
U
Cannabis retailer, medical
–
L-18
U
U
U
Chapter 18.65
Cannabis retailer, adult-use
–
–
–
–
–
Chapter 18.65
Cardrooms
–
U
–
–
–
Catering services
P
P
–
P
–
Commercial filming
–
U
U
U
U
Commercial parking facility
–
U
U
U
P
Commercial recreation and entertainment
U
U
L-1
–
L-12
Communications facilities
U
U
P
–
P
Eating and drinking establishments
L-7
P
L-2
–
L-2
Section 18.25.070
with drive-through service
–
U
–
–
–
with live entertainment/dancing inside of a building
Type A
–
P
P
–
–
Section 18.25.070 and Chapter 18.25.110
Type B
–
U
U
–
–
Section 18.25.070 and Chapter 18.25.110
Type C
–
U
–
–
–
Section 18.25.070 and Chapter 18.25.110
With up to 12 outdoor seats
P
P
P
–
–
Section 18.25.070
With more than 12 outdoor seats
U
U
U
–
–
Section 18.25.070
Equipment and appliance maintenance and repair services
U
P
P
–
P
Fitness studio
U
U
U
–
L-12
Food and beverage sales
P
P
U
–
–
Funeral and interment services
–
U
–
–
U
Horticultural, limited
–
–
–
–
–
Hotels
–
P
P
–
–
Laboratories
–
–
–
U
P
Live entertainment
Type A
–
P
P
–
–
Section 18.25.110 and Chapter 18.60
Type B
–
U
U
–
–
Section 18.25.110 and Chapter 18.60
Type C
–
U
–
–
–
Section 18.25.110 and Chapter 18.60
All types, outside of a building
–
U
–
–
–
Section 18.25.110 and Chapter 18.60
Maintenance and service facility
–
U
U
–
P
Maintenance services establishment
–
–
–
P
P
Section 18.25.150
Motels
–
P
–
–
–
Nurseries
–
P
P
–
–
Offices, general and medical
P
L-3
P
–
L-3
With bail bonds
–
–
U
–
–
Pawn shops
–
U
–
–
–
Personal improvement services
U
U
U
–
–
Personal services
P
P
U
–
–
Pharmacy
P
P
L-2
P
L-4
Wholesale (no retail services)
P
P
U
P
L-4
Research and development services
–
–
U
–
P
Retail sales, less than 20,000 square feet
P
P
L-2
P
L-4
Firearms sales
–
L-16
L-16
L-16
L-16
This regulation also applies to firearms sales in any planned unit district (PUD).
With enclosed or unenclosed outdoor drop-off, display or storage of goods
U
U
–
U
–
Retail sales, more than 20,000 square feet
L-5
P
L-2
P
L-4
Automobile parts and accessory sales with incidental installation located entirely within an enclosed building
–
P
–
P
P
Firearms sales
–
L-16
L-16
L-16
L-16
This regulation also applies to firearms sales in any planned unit district (PUD).
With enclosed or unenclosed outdoor drop-off, display or storage of goods
U
U
–
U
–
Theaters
–
P
–
–
–
Travel services
P
P
–
P
–
Industrial Uses
Fuel storage and distribution
–
–
–
–
U
Industry, custom
–
–
–
U
P
Artisan/custom products
–
–
–
P
P
Industry, custom, small-scale
–
–
–
P
P
Industry, limited
–
–
–
U
P
small-scale
–
–
–
P
P
Research and development industry
–
–
U
P
P
Vehicle storage facilities
–
–
–
P
P
Section 18.25.160
Warehousing and storage, limited
–
–
–
P
P
Wholesaling, distribution and storage
–
–
–
P
P
Up to one dwelling unit allowed per site as caretaker housing
Temporary Uses
Agricultural sales
T
T
–
–
–
L-10.
Animal shows or sales
T
T
–
–
–
L-8.
Arts and crafts shows, outdoors
–
T
–
–
–
L-10.
Civic and community events
T
T
T
–
–
L-10.
Commercial filming, limited
T
T
T
T
T
L-8.
Eating and drinking use
T
T
T
T
T
Farmer's market
–
T
–
–
–
L-11.
Group assembly events
–
T
–
–
–
L-8.
Live entertainment events
–
T
–
–
–
L-8 and L-13.
Real estate sales
T
T
T
T
T
Recreational events
T
T
T
–
–
L-10.
Retail sales, outdoor
T
T
–
T
–
L-10 and L-14.
Street fairs
–
T
–
–
–
L-10.
Swap meet
–
T
–
T
–
L-9.
Trade fairs
–
U
–
–
–
Limitations on Specific Use Classifications
L-1
Only tennis/racquetball courts are allowed subject to approval of a use permit.
L-2
Permitted as an accessory use if limited to the ground floor, as specified in Section 18.25.050.
L-3
Permitted on the second floor and above as the primary use, or on the ground floor when conducted as accessory to a permitted primary use, and occupying no more than 25% of the floor area of the primary use. Additional office floor area may be allowed upon approval of a use permit, or as part of a planned unit district (PUD).
L-4
Permitted as accessory to the primary use, occupying no more than 25% of the floor area of the primary use. Retail sales by separate tenants are not allowed.
L-5
Limited to use with fewer than 20,000 square feet. Uses in excess of 20,000 square feet shall be required to obtain a use permit and the user shall have to demonstrate that the use provides for the day-to-day convenience shopping and services of the neighborhood. Supermarkets are compatible with the neighborhood business district.
L-6
Permitted, subject to a setback of 200 feet from any residential use.
L-7
Use permit approval is required if the use is within 100 feet of a residential property line, the establishment conducts business between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and the establishment serves alcoholic beverages.
L-8
Not more than four events during any calendar year for not more than seven consecutive or nonconsecutive days per event.
L-9
Not more than four events during any calendar year for not more than two consecutive days per event.
L-10
Not more than six events during any calendar year for not more than 14 consecutive or nonconsecutive days per event.
L-11
Permitted as a regularly scheduled weekly event not to exceed 45 times a calendar year.
L-12
Only allowed through approval of a use permit, in the light industrial overlay zoning district. On-site childcare/day care is not permitted.
L-13
See Section 18.25.110 for live entertainment standards.
L-14
See Section 18.25.120 for outdoor sales standards. (Note that for temporary uses, the temporary use permit procedures apply and not the minor use permit mentioned in that section.)
L-15
Emergency homeless shelters are permitted "by right" in the limited industrial district (LI) subject to the development standards and regulations noted in Section 18.15.120. However, once the city's local need for providing emergency homeless shelters is satisfied (based on the most current homeless Point-in-Time Count census data), a conditional use permit is required for any additional beds or emergency homeless shelters. In addition, no emergency homeless shelter is permitted on the Iron Horse Corridor (the area of the former Southern Pacific right-of-way owned by Contra Costa County as identified in Record of Survey RS 2330, filed for record on June 3, 1998, in Book 113 of Land Survey Maps at Page 46, Contra Costa County records) or on any parcel abutting the Iron Horse Corridor.
L-16
Permitted, subject to the requirements in Section 18.25.080 for firearm sales uses.
L-17
Only allowed through approval of a use permit when the underlying general plan land use designation is mixed use, otherwise not permitted.
L-18
Allowed on the second floor and above, through approval of a use permit.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Table 18.25-B (Development Standards – Commercial, Office, and Industrial Zoning Districts) establishes the development regulations for the NB, RB, PAO, C and LI districts. Letters in parentheses in the "Additional Development Regulations" column refer to regulations following Table 18.25-B or to regulations located elsewhere in this Chapter.
B. 
Supplemental Development Standards. Sections 18.25.050 through 18.25.160 include supplemental development standards applicable to all development in the NB, RB, PAO, C and LI zoning districts; they establish requirements for accessory structures; accessory uses in commercial, office and light industrial districts; eating and drinking establishments with take-out service; hazardous materials storage; live entertainment; outdoor facilities; recycling facilities; and service stations and automobile washing.
C. 
Additional Regulations. The following development standards that are applicable to all zoning districts can be found in Part 3 and Part 5 of this Title:
1. 
General Site and Development Standards (Chapter 18.55);
2. 
Off-Street Parking and Loading (Chapter 18.80);
3. 
Signs (Chapter 18.95);
4. 
Nonconforming Provisions (Chapter 18.200); and
5. 
Adult Businesses (Chapter 18.60).
Table 18.25-B (Development Standards – Commercial, Office, and Industrial Zoning Districts)
Development Standard
(minimum unless stated otherwise)
Zoning District
Additional Development Regulations
(see corresponding letter in Section 18.25.040)
NB
RB
PAO
C
LI
Parcel Dimensions
Lot Area (sq. ft.)
7,500
7,500
10,000
7,500
20,000
Lot Width (ft)
75
75
100
50
100
Setbacks
Front (ft)
25
25
20
10
20
(F)
Side (ft)
–
–
5
–
–
(A), (F)
Corner Side (ft)
25
25
20
10
20
(F)
Rear (ft)
–
–
20
–
–
(A), (F)
Aggregate Side (ft)
–
–
15
–
–
(F)
Creek Setbacks
See Chapter 18.70 regarding creek setbacks.
Scenic Route Setback (ft)
25
25
25
25
25
Chapter 18.90
Height and Lot Coverage (maximum)
Building Height (ft)
35
35
35
35
35
Gross Floor Area Ratio (commercial)
0.35
0.4
0.35
0.35
0.4
Other Standards
Minimum Site Landscaping
25%
25%
30%
20%
20%
Section 18.25.040B
Amenities for Bicyclists
Section 18.80.090
Building Design
(D)
Employee Eating Area
(C)
Storm Drain Outlets
(E)
Supplemental Regulations
Section 18.25.040 through 18.25.160 and Part 4.
Nonconforming Structures
Section 18.200.040.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Developments Adjoining Residential Districts. Any proposed nonresidential use in a NB, RB, PAO, C, and LI zoning district that adjoins a residential zoning district, or mixed-use zoning district that only includes residential uses, shall comply with all of the following standards.
1. 
Setbacks. The side or rear setback along the property line(s) adjoining a residential zoning district or residential use shall be 25 feet in the RB, PAO, C, and LI zoning districts, and 15 feet in the NB zoning district.
2. 
Planting Area. A continuous planting area having at a minimum width of five feet and at least five trees per 100 linear feet shall be provided along interior property line(s) adjoining a residential zoning district or mixed-use zoning district that includes a residential use.
3. 
Daylight Plane Requirement. Structures shall not intercept a 30-degree daylight plane inclined inward from a height of six feet above existing grade at the property line of the residential zoning district or mixed-use district that include a residential use. See Figure 18.25-1.
4. 
Fences and Walls. A property line of a NB, RB, PAO, C, or LI zoning district abutting a residential zoning district, or mixed-use district that includes a residential use, shall be enclosed by a solid wood, concrete, or masonry wall at least six feet but not more than eight feet in height, except that a wall within 15 feet of a street property line shall not exceed three feet in height (see Figure 18.25-2). This standard is not required for sides of the property that are abutting a nonresidential use. See also Section 18.75.030 (Fence and Wall Standards).
Figure 18.25-1: Required Daylight Plane at Adjoining Residential Districts
Figure 18.25-2: Required Walls: Residential Use Abutting Nonresidential Use
B. 
Minimum Site Landscaping.
1. 
Decorative hardscape or pervious pavement may not be used to meet minimum landscape requirements established in Table 18.25-B (Development Standards – Commercial Zoning Districts), except as follows:
a. 
Up to 50% of the required landscaping area may be provided through the use of decorative hardscape, and/or pervious pavement areas, subject to Architectural Review Commission or Planning Commission approval as part of a proposed project.
b. 
The Architectural Review Commission and/or Planning Commission shall establish guidelines related to the use of decorative hardscape, mulch and pervious pavement.
2. 
PAO Zoning District. On lots zoned PAO, at least 50% of each required interior side and rear setback shall be planting area.
C. 
Office Building Amenities.
1. 
Office buildings over 5,000 square feet shall include eating facilities for employees.
2. 
Office buildings over 50,000 square feet shall include, in addition to the requirements in Subsection C.1 of this Section, showers, changing rooms, and lockers.
D. 
Design Compatibility. The design of all buildings shall be consistent with the City-Wide Design Guidelines.
E. 
Storm Drains. All storm drain inlets in the NB, RB, PAO, C, and LI districts shall comply with the City's national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) regulations established in Chapter 15.05.
F. 
Vehicular Easements. A minimum required setback shall be provided and measured from any public or private vehicular easement boundary on the property.
G. 
Windows and Visibility. Not more than 30% of any storefront exterior door and/or window pane shall be blocked or made opaque through the use of window treatments, paint, vinyl applications, furniture, or any other method that would obstruct visibility into the building unless approved by the Architectural Review Commission or otherwise required by another Section of this Title. Any existing use that is not in compliance with this requirement at the time of adoption of the Ordinance codified in this Section shall bring the use into compliance within 12 months of the date of Ordinance adoption. The following exceptions apply:
1. 
Obstructions more than three feet away from windows are exempt from the requirement established in Subsection G of this Section.
2. 
Product display spaces are allowed and subject to review and approval by the Zoning Administrator or Architectural Review Commission.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Development Standards. Accessory structures shall comply with the development standards established in Section 18.25.030 (Development Standards for Commercial, Office, and Industrial Districts).
B. 
On-Site Accessory Uses. The following accessory uses are allowed on site; no accessory uses are permitted off site.
1. 
Uses intended to serve only occupants of the building within which such uses are located. These uses may include, but are not limited to, restaurants, cafeterias, galleries, specialty shops, gift shops, employee fitness facilities, first aid stations, community facilities, and business services necessary for the functioning of office uses or other commercial uses. The combined square footage of the accessory use(s) does not exceed 25% of the gross floor area of the ground floor level.
2. 
Parking facilities in conjunction with a principal use.
3. 
Uses noted in Subsection B.1 of this Section that primarily serve the general public and/or that exceed 25% of the ground level square footage may be allowed subject to approval of a Use Permit from the Planning Commission and compliance with parking provisions established in Chapter 18.80 (Off-Street Parking and Loading).
C. 
Off-Site Accessory Uses. No accessory uses are allowed off-site.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following supplemental regulations apply to containers and storage units, as defined in Section 18.215.030 ("C" Definitions), in the NB, RB, PAO, C and LI zoning districts:
A. 
Permit Required. A container or storage unit is not allowed unless there is a Grading Permit or Building Permit for construction on the site and a zoning permit has been issued for the container or storage unit. The permitted container or storage unit will be allowed only during the construction period.
B. 
General Standards. The container or storage unit shall comply with the following standards:
1. 
Be located at least five feet from the property line of any adjacent residential use;
2. 
Have a maximum height of 16 feet;
3. 
Comply with the Traffic Safety Visibility Area requirements established in Section 18.55.070 in Part 3 of this Title and must not impede emergency access; and
4. 
Not displace necessary parking spaces.
C. 
Exception. A transport trailer located inside a loading dock is not subject to the requirements of this Section.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following supplemental development regulations shall apply to eating and drinking establishments with regularly scheduled live entertainment, outdoor seating, or take-out service, except for limited take-out service, as defined in Section 18.210.030 (Commercial Land Use Classifications):
A. 
Live Entertainment. Establishments that offer live entertainment or dancing inside of the building shall comply with all applicable standards established in Section 18.25.110 (Live Entertainment).
B. 
Take-Out Service. The area within at least a 300-foot radius of an establishment with take-out service shall be maintained free of debris originating from the establishment. If a Use Permit is required, the Use Permit may contain a condition requiring the operator to retain a contracted litter cleanup service or use identifiable containers and napkins for all carry-out food if the Zoning Administrator determines that a litter problem exists.
C. 
Outdoor Seating.
1. 
Up to 12 Outdoor Seats. An establishment is allowed to provide up to 12 outdoor seats if all of the following are met:
a. 
No required parking spaces are eliminated or restricted in order to provide the outdoor seating;
b. 
All legal requirements for alcoholic beverage sales or services are being met; and
c. 
The use does not violate State, Federal, or local laws for handicapped accessibility.
2. 
More than 12 Outdoor Seats. An establishment may be allowed to provide more than 12 outdoor seats with the approval of a Use Permit.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Purpose and Applicability.
1. 
The following standards apply to businesses that provide firearm sales as defined in Section 18.210.030 (Commercial Land Use Classifications). The findings established in Section 9.35.010A (Findings) of Chapter 9.35 (Firearms) are hereby incorporated by reference.
2. 
The purpose of this Section is to advance the public health, safety, and welfare by imposing reasonable locational restrictions on any entity that establishes a firearm sales business in the city.
B. 
Locational Restrictions.
1. 
Allowed Zoning Districts. Subject to the other limitations of this Chapter and the Pleasant Hill Municipal Code, firearm sales may be located in the RB, PAO, C, and LI zoning districts provided all standards and requirements of this Section are met.
2. 
General Requirements. It shall be unlawful to establish any firearm sales business in any zoning district where firearm sales are permitted unless the applicant provides proof that the property where the proposed firearm sales will be conducted is not:
a. 
Within 150 feet from any residence, when measured from the nearest property line of any residence to the door of the firearm sales business;
b. 
Within 1,000 feet of any site occupied by a day care, as defined in Section 18.210.050 (Public and Semi-Public Land Use Classifications), when measured from the closest points of the exterior property lines or area boundaries of the parcels or properties involved, except that when an applicant occupies one unit of a multi-unit structure located on a single parcel, distances shall be measured from the exterior boundaries of the unit so occupied;
c. 
Within 1,000 feet of school (public or private), as defined in Section 18.210.050 (Public and Semi-Public Land Use Classifications), or any college or university when measured from the closest points of the exterior property lines or area boundaries of the parcels or properties involved, except that when an applicant occupies one unit of a multi-unit structure located on a single parcel, distances shall be measured from the exterior boundaries of the unit so occupied;
d. 
Within 500 feet of the property line of a public park, when measured from the closest points on the exterior property lines or area boundaries of the parcels or properties involved, except that when an applicant occupies one unit of a multi-unit structure located on a single parcel, distances shall be measured from the exterior boundaries of the unit so occupied.
3. 
C, RB, and Commercial PUD Zoning Districts. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section, a firearm sales business may be located on any part of a lot in a C, RB, or Commercial PUD zoning district if an applicant provides proof that any portion of said lot is not within the locational restrictions in Subsections B.2.a through B.2.d of this Section.
4. 
PAO Zoning District. Consistent with the use regulations in this Chapter for any retail sales in a PAO zoning district (see L-2 in Table 18.25-A), a firearm sales business may only be located in a PAO zoning district as an accessory use if limited to the ground floor, as specified in Section 18.25.050 (Accessory Structures and Uses: Commercial, Office, and Industrial Districts).
5. 
LI Zoning District. Consistent with the use regulations in this Chapter for any retail sales in the LI zoning district (see L-4 in Table 18.25-A), a firearm sales business may only be located in the LI zoning district as an accessory use to the primary use, occupying no more than 25% of the floor area of the primary use. Retail sales by separate tenants are not allowed.
C. 
Timing and Nonconforming Use.
1. 
The locational restrictions in Subsections B.2.a through B.2.d of this Section shall apply as of the date the applicant submits an application for a Zoning Permit in accordance with Chapter 18.170 (Zoning Permit) to establish a firearm sales business.
2. 
Subject to Subsection D of this Section, the establishment of any firearm sales business shall include the opening of such a business as a new business, the relocation of the business, conversion of an existing business to any firearm sales use, or the transfer or sale of a firearm sales business to a new owner. Expansion or relocation of a firearm sales business at an existing location, including within the same shopping center or site, is not deemed a change in business location or relocation of such a business.
3. 
Any firearm sales business operating as a conforming use under this Chapter with all applicable licenses and permits, including businesses pursuant to Subsection D.1 of this Section, shall not be rendered a legal nonconforming use as specified in Section 18.200.050 (Nonconforming Uses) by the location of a residence, day care, school, or public park.
D. 
Continued Operation for Existing Firearm Sales Businesses.
1. 
The locational restrictions in Subsections B.2.a through B.2.d of this Section shall be inapplicable to any entity engaged in the business of firearm sales in the city and who or which has all valid permits and licenses required by the City, and by State and Federal law as of the effective date of the Ordinance codified in this Section. Any such entity may continue firearm sales at its existing location pursuant to any valid permits and licenses so long as the operator remains fully licensed by all agencies (including, without limitation, obtaining and maintaining the permit required by Chapter 9.35), and has not sold, transferred, or assigned operation of the business after the effective date of this Chapter to any other entity. If any such licenses or permits are revoked, the provisions of this Subsection are inapplicable and the locational restrictions in Subsections B.2.a through B.2.d of this Section shall apply.
2. 
The locational restrictions in Subsections B.2.a through B.2.d of this Section shall be inapplicable to the sale or transfer to a new owner of any existing firearm sales business that meets the requirements of Subsection D.1 of this Section if the operation of the firearm sales business by the new owner is at the same location or within the same shopping center or site as the prior owner's permitted business.
E. 
Zoning Permit Required. No firearm sales business may be established in the city by right. All persons wishing to establish a firearm sales business within the city must submit an application for a Zoning Permit in accordance with Chapter 18.170 (Zoning Permit). It is the burden of the applicant to supply evidence to justify the approval of a Zoning Permit.
F. 
Applicability of Other Regulations. The provisions in this Chapter are not intended to provide exclusive regulation of firearm sales businesses. Any entity engaged in the business of firearms sales must comply with any and all applicable regulations imposed in other parts of the Zoning Ordinance, other City ordinances (including, but not limited to, Chapter 9.35), and State and Federal law.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
A. 
Purpose. The regulations established in this Section are intended to ensure that the use, handling, storage, and transport of hazardous substances comply with all applicable requirements of the California Health and Safety Code and that the City is notified of emergency response plans, unauthorized releases of hazardous substances, and any substantial changes in facilities or operations that could affect the public health, safety, or welfare. It is not the intent of this Section to impose additional restrictions on the management of hazardous wastes.
B. 
Permit Required. A Use Permit is required for any new commercial, industrial, or institutional use or accessory use, including a major addition or alteration to an existing use, that involves the manufacture, storage, handling, or processing of hazardous substances in sufficient quantities to require a permit for hazardous chemicals under the California Fire Code. Consumer propane tank collection facilities are allowed subject to review and approval of a Zoning Permit by the Zoning Administrator.
C. 
Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans. Each business located in the city and required by the California Health and Safety Code to prepare a hazardous materials release response plan shall submit copies of all such approved plans, including any corrected plans or revised plans, to the Zoning Administrator once reviewed and approved by the public agency administering these provisions of the California Health and Safety Code. These submittal requirements shall be a condition of approval of a Zoning Permit for all new development where space may be occupied by such a business, and any alteration or addition to an existing building or structure occupied by a business subject to these provisions of the California Health and Safety Code.
1. 
Notify the Fire District of any unauthorized release of hazardous substances within 24 hours after the release has been detected and the steps taken to control the release; and
2. 
Notify the Fire District and the Public Works Director of any proposed abandoning, closing, or ceasing operation of an underground storage tank and the actions to be taken to dispose of any hazardous substances.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following regulations apply to any use offering scheduled live entertainment, as defined in Section 18.210.030 (Commercial Land Use Classifications).
A. 
General Requirements.
1. 
Exits, not limited to emergency use only, shall be directed away from any residential zoning district adjoining the site.
2. 
The live entertainment use shall be conducted in a manner that does not result in significant negative effects related to litter, noise, loitering, parking, or traffic circulation.
B. 
Types of Live Entertainment. Approval of a live entertainment use applies only to the type of entertainment specified on the permit, a change in the type of live entertainment use requires a separate permit approval from the City in accordance with Subsection D of this Section.
C. 
Permit Required. The following permits are required for the different live entertainment types. The zoning districts in which live entertainment is allowed are identified in the land use regulations table for the underlying zoning district.
1. 
Type A live entertainment requires the review and approval of a Zoning Permit.
2. 
Type B live entertainment requires the review and approval of a Use Permit.
3. 
Type C live entertainment requires the review and approval of a Use Permit.
4. 
Permanent outdoor live entertainment of any type requires the review and approval of a Use Permit.
5. 
Temporary live entertainment events, as defined in Section 18.210.070 (Temporary Land Use Classifications) require the review and approval of a Temporary Use Permit;
D. 
Additional Requirements for Type B and Type C Live Entertainment Uses. The applicant and any employees, partners, directors, officers, or managers, may not have been convicted of any of the following offenses within the prior five years. The Police Department shall conduct a background investigation, which may be waived at the discretion of the Police Department.
1. 
A crime requiring registration under Penal Code Section 290;
2. 
A violation of Penal Code Sections 311.2 and 311.4 through 311.7;
3. 
Violation of Penal Code Sections 313.1 through 313.5;
4. 
Violation of Penal Code Section 647, paragraph a, b, or d;
5. 
Violation of Penal Code Section 315, 316, or 318;
6. 
A crime involving the use of force or violence on another; or
7. 
The maintenance of a nuisance in connection with the same or similar business operation.
E. 
Adult Entertainment Uses. Any live adult entertainment must comply with Chapter 18.60 (Adult Businesses).
F. 
Permit Modification. The Zoning Administrator, at their discretion, may review and modify the permit for live entertainment if more than three separate and verified complaints are received during any 30-day period, or refer the matter to the Planning Commission.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following standards apply to outdoor sales facilities in the NB, RB, PAO, C, and LI zoning districts and any applicable mixed-use zoning districts.
A. 
Where Permitted.
1. 
A Minor Use Permit is required, in accordance with Chapter 18.155 (Use Permit), for outdoor display of sales of merchandise, materials, or equipment in an RB, C or LI zoning district, including display of merchandise, materials, and equipment for customer pick-up.
2. 
A sidewalk cafe and outdoor food service accessory to an eating and drinking establishment are permitted by-right in the NB, RB, and PAO zoning districts, subject to limitations imposed in Section 18.25.020 (Land Use Regulations for Commercial, Office, and Industrial Districts), provided no outdoor preparation of food or beverages is allowed.
B. 
Permit Conditions – Grounds for Denial. A Minor Use Permit for uses established in Subsection A.1 of this Section may include a condition to require setbacks, screening, or planting areas necessary to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties and the visual character of scenic areas as identified in the General Plan. If such impacts cannot be prevented, the Zoning Administrator shall deny the Minor Use Permit application.
C. 
Screening.
1. 
Screening shall be provided as prescribed by the Minor Use Permit.
2. 
Each vending machine located or within 300 feet of a residential use, except for a machine located on the site of a service station, shall be buffered from view from the public right-of-way.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following standards apply to outdoor donation collection facilities in the NB, RB, PAO, C and LI zoning districts and any applicable mixed-use zoning districts:
A. 
Where Permitted. A Minor Use Permit, in accordance with Chapter 18.155 (Use Permit) is required for outdoor donation collection of clothes, books, equipment, merchandise, or similar items.
B. 
Permit Conditions – Grounds for Denial. A Minor Use Permit for outdoor donation collection facilities may include a condition to require setbacks, screening, or planting areas necessary to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties and the visual character of scenic areas as identified in the General Plan. If such impacts cannot be prevented, the Zoning Administrator shall deny the Use Permit application.
C. 
Screening.
1. 
Screening shall be provided as prescribed by the Minor Use Permit.
2. 
Any outdoor donation collection facility located within 300 feet of a residential use shall be buffered from view from the public right-of-way.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following standards govern recycling facilities including collection and processing facilities.
A. 
Permits Required. The placement, construction, or operation of any recycling facility requires a Minor Use Permit (MUP) and, if required, an Architectural Review Permit (ARP) as follows:
Table 18.25-C
Recycling Facility Permit Requirements
Type of Facility
Zoning Districts
Permit Required
Single-Feed Reverse Vending Machine(s)
RB, NB, C and LI
None
Bulk Reverse Vending Machine and Small Collection Facilities (500 sq. ft. or less)
RB, NB and LI
MUP, ARP
Large Collection Facility (Over 500 sq. ft.)
RB, NB, and LI
MUP, ARP
Light Processing Facility (Less than 45,000 sq. ft.)
C and LI
MUP, ARP
Heavy Processing Facility (Over 45,000 sq. ft.)
LI
MUP, ARP
B. 
Permits for Multiple Sites. The Zoning Administrator may grant a Minor Use Permit to allow more than one reverse vending machine or small collection facility located on different sites, provided the operator of each of the proposed facilities is the same and the proposed facilities are determined by the Zoning Administrator to be similar in nature, size, and intensity of activity. All other facility types require separate permit applications for each site.
C. 
Design Criteria and Standards.
1. 
Setbacks.
a. 
All collection facilities shall be set back at least 20 feet from a street property line and 10 feet from an interior property line. In addition, a collection facility with more than 500 square feet of floor area shall be located at least 150 feet from a residential zoning district.
b. 
A container for the 24-hour donation of materials shall be at least five feet from the boundary of a residential zoning district.
2. 
Machine Signs. Each machine in a collection facility shall be clearly marked with a sign that identifies the type of material to be deposited, operating instructions, and the identity and phone number of the operator or responsible person to call if the machine is inoperative.
3. 
A reverse vending machine installation shall use exterior materials and colors that are compatible with adjacent residential uses and other businesses on the site.
4. 
No collection facility shall be used at any time for collection of refuse or hazardous waste, except used motor oil accepted for recycling in accord with California Health and Safety Code Section 25250.11.
5. 
Processing Facilities.
a. 
In a processing facility, mechanical operations such as flattening, sorting, compacting, bailing, shredding and grinding shall take place within a fully enclosed building or within an area enclosed by a solid wood or masonry fence at least eight feet in height and at least 150 feet from a residential zoning district.
b. 
A processing facility shall be buffered by a landscape strip at least 10 feet wide along each property line.
c. 
No processing facility shall operate between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. if the facility is located within 500 feet of residential zoning district.
D. 
Site Clean-Up Required. The operator and host business of any recycling, collection or processing facility shall, on a daily basis, remove any and all recyclable materials or refuse which has accumulated or is deposited outside the containers, bins or enclosures intended as receptacles for such materials. Failure to remove such materials or refuse after notice by the City shall constitute grounds for permit revocation, in accordance with Section 18.190.140 (Revocation or Modification of Discretionary Permits).
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following development standards shall apply to the "automobile service station" and "automobile washing and exterior protection" use classifications.
A. 
Landscaping.
1. 
Perimeter planting areas shall comply with the standards for parking lots as established in Section 18.80.120 (Screening, Lighting, and Landscaping), except where a building adjoins an interior property line.
B. 
Storage of Materials and Equipment. A display rack for automobile products no more than four feet wide may be maintained at each pump island of a service station. If a display rack is not located on a pump island, it shall be placed within three feet of the principal building, and there may be no more than one per street frontage.
C. 
Storage of Vehicle Parts and Dismantled Vehicles. All discarded parts, dismantled vehicles, wrecked vehicles, or vehicles under repair shall be stored or located in an enclosed storage area.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)
The following standards apply to any areas designated for vehicle storage use:
A. 
The vehicle storage lot area shall be entirely screened with a solid, aesthetically pleasing barrier at least eight feet in height.
B. 
The storage facilities shall incorporate sound attenuation solutions to comply with Chapter 18.85 (Performance Standards).
C. 
When within 100 feet of a residential zoning district, the use shall not operate between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. without the approval of a Use Permit.
D. 
The use shall comply with the City's national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) regulations as established in Chapter 15.05.
(Ord. 978, 11/17/2025)