HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 614ORDINANCE NO. 614
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE ATASCADERO MUNICIPAL CODE
TITLE 9 ZONING REGULATIONS
WHEREAS, an application has been received from the City of Atascadero (6500 Palma
Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422), to consider Zoning Regulations Text Amendments to Title 9,
Chapters 1-4, 6, 9 and 15 (PLN 2017-1650 / ZCH 2017-0186); and
WHEREAS, the amendment to the Zoning Regulations will provide for the orderly and
efficient interpretation of land use policies where such development standards are applicable; and
WHEREAS, a Notice of Exemption was prepared for the project and made available for
public review in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA); and,
WHEREAS, the laws and regulations relating to the preparation and public notice of
environmental documents, as set forth in the state and local guidelines for implementation of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) have been adhered to; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has determined that it is in the best interest of the
City to enact these amendments to Title 9, Zoning Regulations of the Atascadero Municipal
Code; and,
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed public hearing, on the subject of amending
the Zoning Regulations, was held by the Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero at
which hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said Planning and
Zoning text amendments; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, at a public hearing
held on November 7, 2017, studied and considered PLN 2017 -1650 and recommends that the
City Council approve the proposed amendments; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Atascadero, at a public hearing held on
November 28, 2017, studied and considered PLN 2017-1650.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO
HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. The City Council finds as follows:
1. The Planning and Zoning Text Change is consistent with General Plan policies and
all other applicable ordinances and policies of the City.
2. This Amendment of the Zoning Ordinance will provide for the orderly and efficient
use of lands where such development standards are applicable.
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Ordinance No.614
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3.The Text Change will not,in itself,result in significant environmental impacts.
SECTION 3.A categorical exemption for the Zoning Regulations amendments has been
prepared and adopted as shown in Exhibit A on file in the City Clerk’s Office and incorporated
herein by reference.
SECTION 4.Atascadero Municipal Code Title 9 Zoning Regulations is amended as
detailed in Exhibit B on file in the City Clerk’s Office and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 5.The City Council of the City of Atascadero,in a regular session assembled
on November 28,2017 resolved to introduce for first reading,by title only,an Ordinance
amending Atascadero Municipal Code Title 9 Zoning Regulations as shown in Exhibit B on file
in the City Clerk’s Office and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 6.A summary of this Ordinance,approved by the City Attorney,together
with the ayes and noes,shall be published twice:at least five days prior to its final passage in the
Atascadero News,a newspaper published and circulated in the City of Atascadero,and;before
the expiration of fifteen (15)days after its final passage in the Atascadero News,a newspaper
published and circulated in the City of Atascadero.A copy of the lull text of this Ordinance
shall be on file in the City Clerk’s office on and after the date following introduction and passage
and shall be available to any interested member of the public.
SECTION 7.This Ordinance shall take effect 30 days from the date of final passage.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on November 28,2017,and
PASSED and ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Atascadero,State of California,on
December 12,2017,by the following roll call vote:
AYES:Council Members Bourbeau,Moreno,Sturtevant,Mayor Pro Tern Fonzi and
Mayor O’Malley
NOES:None
ABSTAIN:None
ADOPTED:December 12,2017
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brian A.Pierik,City Attorney
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
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EXHIBIT A. Notice of Exemption
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Ordinance No. 614
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EXHIBIT B: Proposed Amendments to Title 9 Zoning Regulations
Amend the following subsections of Chapter 1, Section 9-1.112; and Chapter 2, Sections 9-
2.108 and 9-2.110; and Chapter 3, Sections 9-3.104, 9-3.230, 9-3.242, 9-3.243, 9-3.244, 9-
3.252, 9-3.262, 9-3.330, 9-3.347, and 9-3.500; Chapter 4, 9-4.106, 9-4.113, 9-4.115, 9-4.118, 9-
4.119, 9-4.120, 9-4.127, and 9-4.128; Chapter 6, Sections 9-6.105, 9-6.106, 9-6.108, 9-6.110,
9-6.112, 9-6.117, and 9-6.140; Chapter 9, Section 9-9.102; and Chapter 15, Sections 9-15.007
and 9-15.008 as shown:
9-1.112 Administrative use permit.
An administrative use permit is intended to allow for public review of land use proposals which are
not of sufficient magnitude or complexity to warrant a Planning Commission hearing, but which could
have a noticeable impact in the neighborhood. It provides flexibility in the regulation of certain standards
set forth in Chapters 9-4, 9-6, 9-14 and 9-15 of this title. This procedure ensures public review of
proposed uses so that they will be compatible with existing or desired conditions in their neighborhoods.
(a) When Allowed. When a standard of Chapter 9-4, 9-6, 9-14 or 9-15 identifies specific
circumstances under which reduction or modification of the standards may be appropriate, an applicant
may make application for an administrative use permit.
(b) Application. An administrative use permit application shall be filed with the Community
Development Department as an attachment to its respective project application, and shall include
appropriate supporting materials. Supporting materials shall include, but not be limited to, a plot plan,
written description of activities proposed, rationale for relaxation or modification of the applicable
standard, and mailing labels with the names and addresses for all property owners located within three
hundred (300) feet of the subject property. The hearing officer may require additional information as
necessary.
(c) Processing. The Community Development Department hearing officer shall hold a public
hearing to review whether findings can be made to approve the application. Notice of the hearing shall be
given to adjacent property owners as provided in Section 9-1.110.
Approval of the application may be made contingent upon conditions of approval. The applicant, or
any aggrieved party, may appeal the hearing officer’s decision and/or conditions of approval to the
Planning Commission. The hearing officer’s decisions shall be final unless appealed as provided in
Section 9-1.111 of this title.
An additional fee shall not be charged if the application for administrative use permit is considered
in conjunction with a plot plan, precise plan or conditional use permit.
(d) Findings for Approval. An administrative use permit shall be approved only if the following
findings are made in the affirmative by the hearing officer:
(1) Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent with the
General Plan;
(2) Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent with the
character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly development;
(3) Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is not in compliance
with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or resolution of the City Council; and
(4) Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the authorization of a use not
otherwise allowed; and
(5) Any other findings deemed necessary.
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9-2.108 Plot plan.
A plot plan is a ministerial approval. When a plot plan is required by this title to authorize a project
proposal, its approval certifies that the land use or development will satisfy all applicable provisions of
this title. Plot plan approval is required when a development or use of land is listed in a particular zoning
district as an allowable use and when it is determined by the Planning Director that the development
project, or the establishment of a use of land which is not a development project, is eligible for a
categorical exemption pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21084 and the State EIR Guidelines.
Approval of a plot plan enables issuance of a building permit under Title 8 of this Code, or the
establishment of a land use which does not require a building permit, but is still subject to the standards of
this title.
(a) Plot Plan Application. Plot plan applications shall include the forms provided by the Planning
Department, and the drawings listed in subsection (b) of this section. Drawings must be neatly and
accurately prepared and at a scale acceptable to the Planning Director which will enable ready
identification and recognition of submitted information.
(b) Plot Plan Content. Drawings filed with plot plan applications shall include the following, using
multiple sheets if necessary:
(1) Site Location and Dimensions. Location, exterior boundaries and dimensions of the entire
property which is the subject of the application shall be depicted. The scale of the drawing and a north
arrow shall be indicated. An area location map showing the proposed project site and its distance from
nearby cross streets, and natural or man-made landmarks, as necessary to readily locate the site, may be
included.
(2) Street Improvements. The location, name, width, and pavement type of adjacent street(s) or
alleys as well as the location of existing or proposed curbs, gutter or sidewalk improvements, if any, shall
be indicated.
(3) Buildings and Structures. The location, dimensions, and use of all existing and proposed
structures on the property, including accessory structures, decks, balconies, fences, walls and other
structural elements that protrude into yard areas shall be indicated. When the use of a proposed structure
is not certain at the time of application, the occupancy-type as defined by the Uniform Building Code may
be substituted for use. The height of buildings and structures and elevations (relative height) of the finish
floor to the edge of the pavement or road at the driveway entrance shall be shown.
(4) Utilities. The location, dimensions and type of utilities proposed including water supply,
sewage disposal facilities, electricity, gas or similar shall be shown.
(5) On-Site Improvements. The location and dimensions of existing or proposed driveways and
parking areas (enclosed or open), including type of surfacing materials, and identification of any driveway
grades over twelve percent (12%) shall be made. The location and dimensions of areas proposed for
grading and landscaping shall also be indicated.
(6) Landforms. The generalized location of any major topographic or man-made features on the
site, such as rock outcrops, bluffs, streams and watercourses, or graded areas shall be shown.
(7) Additional Information. Shall be included with plot plan applications in the following specific
cases:
(i) Grading Plan. When required by Section 9-4.138;
(ii) Drainage Plan. When required by Section 9-4.148;
(iii) Sign Information. When any use is proposed to have signs, a description of their location, size,
design and copy shall be provided;
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(iv) Trees. Applications shall show the location of trees existing on the site in or within fifty (50)
feet of the area proposed for grading or other construction, which are eight (8) inches or larger in diameter
at four (4) feet above natural grade. Trees proposed to be removed shall be specifically identified. Any
tree removal is subject to the requirements of Chapter 9-11.
(c) Plot Plan Review and Approval. The Planning Director shall approve a plot plan application
when the proposed project or use satisfies all applicable provisions of this title.
9-2.110 Conditional use permit.
(a) The conditional use permit is the process used to review land use proposals of a nature or
magnitude which could significantly affect their surroundings. Such land use proposals include:
(1) Uses that are shown as conditional uses in a particular zoning district; or
(2) Multiple-family residential developments consisting of twelve (12) or more units, even if such
a development is listed as an allowed use in a particular zoning district; or
(3) Nonresidential development containing fifty thousand (50,000) square feet or more of building
footprint area, even if such a development is listed as an allowable use in a particular zoning district; or
(4) Outdoor commercial and industrial sales and storage developments as defined by Section 9-
9.102 of ten thousand (10,000) square feet or more, even if such a development is listed as an allowable
use in a particular zoning district.
(b) Because of the intensity of such uses, public review and input into decisions on whether to
approve such proposals is needed. That input is given in a public hearing before the Planning
Commission. The conditional use permit is a discretionary approval and the Planning Commission may
approve or disapprove a conditional use permit or may adopt additional conditions of approval.
Conditional use permit applications may be denied by the Planning Commission because of specific
findings identified through public hearing testimony or because of provisions of this title. When
conditional use permit approval is required, preparation and processing of the application shall be as
follows:
(1) Conditional Use Permit Content. The content of a conditional use permit application is to be
the same as required for the precise plan use by Section 9-2.109(a).
(2) Conditional Use Permit Processing. Conditional use permit applications shall be submitted to
the Planning Department and shall be processed as follows:
(i) Environmental Determination. A conditional use permit application accepted for processing as
set forth in Section 9-2.102 shall receive an environmental determination as required by the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Planning Department shall process the application concurrently
with the environmental determination.
(ii) Staff Report. The Planning Department shall prepare a staff report which:
a. Describes the characteristics of the proposed land use or development project, as well as the
project site and its surroundings; and
b. References applicable policies and regulations; and
c. Determines whether the proposed use or project satisfies at minimum the provisions of this title;
and
d. Recommends whether, and on what basis the proposal should be approved, conditionally
approved or disapproved.
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(iii) Public Hearing. The Planning Director shall schedule the conditional use permit for public
hearing before the Planning Commission as set forth in Section 9-1.110.
(3) Approval. The authority to take final action on a conditional use permit as set forth in this
subsection is assigned to the Planning Commission, provided that such decisions may be appealed to the
City Council (Section 9-1.111, Appeal).
(i) Conditions of Approval. After the conclusion of a public hearing, the Planning Commission
may approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the conditional use permit. In conditionally approving
a conditional use permit, the Planning Commission shall designate such conditions to satisfy any
requirements of CEQA, and to:
a. Secure compliance with the objectives and requirements of this title and the General Plan; and
b. Designate time limits or phasing schedules other than those specified in Section 9-2.112 for the
completion of projects when deemed appropriate.
(ii) Additional Conditions. In addition to the conditions of Section 9-2.110(b)(3)(i), the Planning
Commission may adopt other conditions, including but not limited to:
a. Requiring that security be provided to guarantee performance and/or compliance with
conditions of approval, as set forth in Section 9-2.121;
b. Requiring installation of specific on-site or off-site improvements;
c. Requiring periodic review or limiting the permit to a specified period of time;
d. Requiring that the permit be personal to the applicant or be applicable to the property;
e. Any other conditions as are judged by the Planning Commission to be necessary to achieve
compatibility between the proposed use and its site, its immediate surroundings, and the community.
(iii) Effect of Conditions. Whenever a conditional use permit approval is granted or amended
subject to conditions, use or enjoyment of the conditional use permit approval in violation, or without
observance of any conditions shall constitute a violation of this title. In the event of such a violation, the
approval may be revoked or modified as provided in Section 9-8.105. The duration of conditions is
established in Section 9-2.118. Any change in the conditions of approval of a conditional use permit shall
only be allowed after following all procedures undertaken for the original approval.
(iv) Required Findings. If the Planning Commission approves or conditionally approves a
conditional use permit, it shall first find that:
a. The proposed project or use is consistent with the General Plan; and
b. The proposed project or use satisfies all applicable provisions of this title; and
c. The establishment, and subsequent operation or conduct of the use will not, because of the
circumstances and conditions applied in the particular case, be detrimental to the health, safety or welfare
of the general public or persons residing or working in the neighborhood of the use, or be detrimental or
injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity of the use; and
d. The proposed project or use will not be inconsistent with the character of the immediate
neighborhood or contrary to its orderly development; and
e. The proposed use or project will not generate a volume of traffic beyond the safe capacity of all
roads providing access to the project, either existing or to be improved in conjunction with the project, or
beyond the normal traffic volume of the surrounding neighborhood that would result from full
development in accordance with the land use element; and
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f. The proposed project is in compliance with any pertinent city policy or criteria adopted by
ordinance or resolution of the city council; and
g. Any additional findings deemed necessary.
(4) Effective Date. The approval of a conditional use permit shall become final and effective for
the purposes of issuing a construction permit or establishing a nonstructural use fourteen (14) days
following the Planning Commission approval unless prior to that time an appeal to the decision is filed as
set forth in Section 9-1.111(b).
9-3.104 Symbols used.
(a) Zoning Districts. The letter symbols listed after each zoning district in Section 9-3.102(a)
through (c) shall be used to designate the location of various zoning districts on the official zoning maps
(Section 9-1.102).
(b) Overlay Districts. The letter symbols listed after each overlay district in Section 9-3.103(a)
shall be appended to the base zoning district and be placed in parentheses thereafter to designate the
location of various overlay districts on the official zoning maps (Section 9-1.102). Example: Residential
Suburban as the base zone within a Flood Hazard and Geologic Hazard overlay area would show on the
official zoning maps as RS (FH) (GH).
(c) Density in Residential Multiple-Family Zoning District. A number specifying the maximum
permitted number of dwelling units per net acre in multiple-family residential zoning districts shall be
appended to the base zoning district to designate the density on the official zoning maps (Section 9-
1.102). Example: Residential Multiple-Family allowing twenty-four (24) units per net acre within a
Historic Site overlay area would show on the official zoning maps as RMF-24 (HS).
(d) Minimum Lot Size in Residential and Agricultural Zoning District Areas. A symbol specifying
the minimum lot size in acres in certain residential zoning districts shall be appended to the base zoning
district and be placed following a hyphen thereafter where necessary to designate the minimum lot size on
the official zoning maps (see Section 9-1.102).
Example: Residential Single-Family with a one-half (1/2) acre minimum lot size in a Flood Hazard
Overlay Zone would show on the official zoning maps as RSF-X(FH). Minimum lot size will not always
be shown on the official maps especially in zoning districts where the minimum size is uniform, in
circumstances where Chapter 9-6 establishes minimum sizes for some, but not all, uses within a zoning
district, and where performance standards identified for certain zoning districts in this chapter are used to
establish the minimum lot size.
9-3.230 Agriculture & Residential district allowable land uses.
Table 3-1 identifies the uses of land allowed this Zoning Code in each agriculture and residential
district, and the planning permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 9 -1 and
Section 9-2 of this code. Where the last column in the tables (“Specific Use Regulations”) includes a
section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use. Provisions in other sections of
this article may also apply.
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Table 3-1 – Agriculture & Residential Land Uses
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Agriculture / Residential Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s)
A RS RSF LSF RMF
Agricultural Related Uses
Agricultural Accessory Uses A A A 9-6.109
Agricultural Produce Stands A A A AUP AUP 9-6.117
Agriculture Employee Housing A 9-6.107
Farm animal raising A A A AUP 9-6.112
Horticultural specialties A A 9-6.116
Large Scale Ag Manufacturing A CUP 9-6.103
Livestock Specialties A CUP 9-6.115
Personal Cannabis Cultivation A A A A A 9-17
Small Scale Ag Processing A A A AUP AUP 9-6.103
Natural Resources and Processing
Resource Extraction CUP CUP 9-6.147- 9.6-61
Residential Uses
Multi-Family Housing A 9-3.175
Manufactured Home / Mobile Home A A A A A 9-6.143
Mobile Home Parks CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.142, 9-6.143
Organizational Houses CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-3.175
Residential accessory uses A A A A 9-6.106
Single-family dwelling A A A A 9-6.143, 9-6.184
Secondary Residential Units A A A 9-5
Temporary dwelling A A A A 9-6.175
Recreation, Education, & Public Assembly
Churches and related activities CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.121
Parks & Playgrounds AUP AUP AUP AUP
Schools CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.125
Schools – Business and Vocational CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.125
Temporary events A A A A A 9-6.177
Tourism, Lodging, & Dining
Bed and Breakfast CUP CUP CUP CUP
Services-Professional
Day Care – Small Family Day Care Home A A A A 9-6.125
Day Care – Large Family Day Care / Child
Care Center
CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.125
Kennels CUP CUP 9-6.111
Medical Extended Care Services, six (6)
clients or less
A A A CUP 9-6.134
Medical Extended Care Services, seven (7)
clients or more
CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.134
Residential Care, six (6) clients or less A A A A 9-6.135
Residential Care, seven (7) clients or more CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.135
RCFE – Assisted Living, six (6) clients or less A A A A 9-6.135
RCFE – Assisted Living, seven (7) clients or
more
CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.135
RCFE – Independent Living Center / Senior
Apartments
CUP
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Table 3-1 – Agriculture & Residential Land Uses
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Agriculture / Residential Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s)
A RS RSF LSF RMF
RCFE – Retirement Hotel CUP
Transportation, Infrastructure & Communication
Pipelines Utility Infrastructure CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Utility Transmission Facilities A A A A A
Wireless Communication Facilities CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Notes:
Zoning Districts Abbreviations
A – Agriculture; RS-Residential Suburban ; RSF-Residential Single Family Residential ; LSF – Limited
Single Family Residential ; RMF – Residential Multi-Family
9-3.242 Minimum lot size—RS Zone.
The minimum lot size in the Residential Suburban Zone shall be two and one-half (2 1/2) acres and
may range up to ten (10) acres depending upon conformance with performance standards established in
this section.
(a) Performance Standards. The following performance standards shall be evaluated for each lot in
determining its minimum lot size:
(1) Distance from the Center of the Community. Using the Atascadero Administration Building as
the center of the community, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
Distance* Lot Size Factor
0 — 8,000′ 0.20
8,000′ — 10,000′ 0.25
10,000′ — 12,000′ 0.30
12,000′ — 14,000′ 0.40
14,000′ — 16,000′ 0.50
16,000′ — 18,000′ 0.60
18,000′ — 20,000′ 0.75
20,000′ + 0.90
* To be measured as radial distance using map maintained in Planning Department.
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(2) Septic Suitability. Using generalized soils data from the Natural Resources Conservation
Service Reports, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
NRCS Rating* Lot Size Factor
Well suited 0.50
Moderate 0.75
Slow 1.00
Severe 1.50
* Refer to map maintained in Community Development Department.
Percolation tests may be substituted for the Natural Resources Conservation Service Reports. These
shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer or licensed sanitarian. The following conversion chart
shall be used to determine the appropriate lot size factor:
Percolation Rating Minutes Per Inch
Well suited Less than 20
Moderate or slow 20 to 39
Slow 40 to 59
Severe Greater than 60
(3) Average Slope. Using the Basic, Sectional or Contour Measurement Method, the lot size factor
based on this performance standard shall be:
Slope Lot Size Factor
0 — 10% 0.50
11 — 20% 0.75
21 — 25% 1.00
26 — 30% 1.25
31 — 35% 1.75
36 — 40% 2.00
40% + 2.25
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(4) Condition of Access. Using the road right-of-way with the shortest accessible distance
between a lot and an improved collector road, the lot size factor based on this performance
standard shall be:
Condition Lot Size Factor
City accepted road 0.40
Paved road, less than 15% slope 0.40
Paved road, greater than 15% slope 0.50
All-weather road, less than 15% slope 0.75
All-weather road, greater than 15% slope 1.00
Unimproved road, less than 15% slope 1.25
Unimproved road, greater than 15% slope 1.50
(5) General Neighborhood Character. Using the average lot size of existing lots which are zoned
for single-family residential use (except that lots larger than fifteen (15) acres shall be excluded unless
they constitute more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the total number of lots) within a one thousand
five hundred (1,500) foot radius, the minimum lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be
determined by multiplying the average lot size by two-tenths (0.2).
(b) Determination of Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size shall be determined by the sum of
each of the lot size factors for the performance standards set forth in subsection (a) of this section,
however in no case shall the minimum lot size be less than two and one-half (2-1/2) acres in size.
(1) The most current information shall be used to determine the lot size factor. Where information
is not available, the Planning Director shall determine which lot size factor shall apply.
(2) If more than one (1) lot size factor can be applied to a lot, the less restrictive factor shall be
used.
(3) Lot size factors shall be based on conditions in existence at the time of filing an application
unless information is included with the application which will alter a lot size factor.
9-3.243 Minimum lot size—RSF Zone.
The minimum lot size in the Residential Single-Family Zone shall be one-half (1/2) acre and may
range up to two and one-half (2-1/2) acres. The size of a lot shall be consistent with the land use
designation set forth in the General Plan and shall be indicated by the symbols set forth in the following
chart, which shall be shown on the official zoning maps as provided by Section 9-3.104(d).
Symbol Minimum Lot Size
X 1/2 acre net area (excluding land needed for street rights-of-way whether publicly or
privately owned).
Y 1 acre gross area.
Z 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 acres gross based on performance standards set forth in this section.
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(a) Performance Standards. The following performance standards shall be evaluated for each lot
which is appended with the “Z” symbol in determining its minimum lot size:
(1) Distance from the Center of the Community. Using the Atascadero Administration Building as
the center of the community, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
Distance* Lot Size Factor
0—4,000′ 0.08
4,000′—6,000′ 0.10
6,000′—8,000′ 0.12
* To be measured as radial distance using map maintained in the Planning Department.
(2) Septic Suitability. Using generalized soils data from the Natural Resources Conservation
Service Reports, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
NRCS Rating* Lot Size Factor
Well suited 0.30
Moderate or slow 0.50
Severe 0.70
* Refer to map maintained in Community Development Department.
Percolation tests may be substituted for the Natural Resources Conservation Service reports. These
shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer or licensed sanitarian. The following conversion chart
shall be used to determine the appropriate lot size factor:
Percolation Rating Minutes Per Inch
Well suited Less than 20
Moderate 20 to 39
Slow 40 to 59
Severe Greater than 60
(3) Average Slope. Using the basic, sectional or contour measurement method, the lot size factor
based on this performance standard shall be:
Slope Lot Size Factor
0—20% 0.30
21—30% 0.50
31%+ 0.70
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(4) Condition of Access. Using the road right-of-way with the shortest accessible distance between
a lot and an improved collector road, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
Condition Lot Size Factor
Paved with slope of less than 15% or City-accepted 0.15
Paved with slope of greater than 15% 0.20
All-weather surface with slope of less than 15% 0.25
All-weather surface with slope of greater than 15% 0.30
Unimproved surface 0.40
(5) General Neighborhood Character. Using the average lot size of existing lots (except that lots
larger than five (5) acres shall be excluded unless they constitute more than twenty-five percent (25%) of
the total number of lots) within a one thousand (1,000) foot radius, the minimum lot size factor based on
this performance standard shall be determined by multiplying the average lot size by two -tenths (0.2).
(b) Determination of Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size shall be determined by the sum of
each of the lot size factors for the performance standards set forth in subsection (a) of this section.
(1) The most current information shall be used to determine the lot size factor. Where information
is not available, the Planning Director shall determine which lot size factor shall apply.
(2) If more than one (1) lot size factor can be applied to a lot, the less restrictive factor shall be
used.
(3) Lot size factors shall be based on conditions in existence at the time of filing an application
unless information is included with the application which will alter a lot size factor.
9-3.244 Minimum lot size—LSF Zone.
The minimum lot size in the Limited Residential Single-Family Zone shall be twenty thousand
(20,000) square feet with sewer, one-half (1/2) acre where sewer is not available and may range up to two
and one-half (2-1/2) acres. The size of a lot shall be consistent with the land use designation set forth in
the General Plan and shall be indicated by the symbols set forth in the following chart, which shall be
shown on the official zoning maps as provided by Section 9-3.104(d).
Symbol Minimum Lot Size
X 1/2 acre net area (excluding land needed for street rights-of-way whether publicly or
privately owned).
Y 1 acre, when sewers are available. 1-1/2 acres, when sewers are not available.
Z 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 acres based on performance standards set forth in this section.
(a) Performance Standards. The following performance standards shall be evaluated for each lot
which is appended with the “Z” symbol in determining its minimum lot size:
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 15 of 87
(1) Distance from the Center of the Community. Using the Atascadero Administration Building as
the center of the community, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
Distance* Lot Size Factor
0—4,000′ 0.08
4,000′—6,000′ 0.10
6,000′—8,000′ 0.12
* To be measured as radial distance using map maintained in the Planning Department.
(2) Septic Suitability. Using generalized soils data from the Natural Resources
Conservation Service Reports, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
NRCS Rating* Lot Size Factor
Well suited 0.30
Moderate or slow 0.50
Severe 0.70
* Refer to map maintained in Community Development Department.
Percolation tests may be substituted for the Natural Resources Conservation Service Reports. These
shall be prepared by a registered civil engineer or licensed sanitarian. The following conversion chart
shall be used to determine the appropriate lot size factor:
Percolation Rating Minutes Per Inch
Well suited Less than 20
Moderate 20 to 39
Slow 40 to 59
Severe Greater than 60
(3) Average Slope. Using the Basic, Sectional or Contour Measurement Method, the lot size factor
based on this performance standard shall be:
Slope Lot Size Factor
0—20% 0.30
21—30% 0.50
31%+ 0.70
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 16 of 87
(4) Condition of Access. Using the road right-of-way with the shortest accessible distance between
a lot and an improved collector road, the lot size factor based on this performance standard shall be:
Condition Lot Size Factor
Paved with slope of less than 15% or City-accepted 0.15
Paved with slope of greater than 15% 0.20
All-weather surface with slope of less than 15% 0.25
All-weather surface with slope of greater than 15% 0.30
Unimproved surface 0.40
(5) General Neighborhood Character. Using the average lot size of existing lots (except that lots
larger than five (5) acres shall be excluded unless they constitute more than twenty-five percent (25%) of
the total number of lots) within a one thousand (1,000) foot radius, the minimum lot size factor based on
this performance standard shall be determined by multiplying the average lot size by two -tenths (0.2).
(b) Determination of Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size shall be determined by the sum of
each of the lot size factors for the performance standards set forth in subsection (a) of this section.
(1) The most current information shall be used to determine the lot size factor. Where information
is not available, the Planning Director shall determine which lot size factor shall apply.
(2) If more than one (1) lot size factor can be applied to a lot, the less restrictive factor shall be
used.
(3) Lot size factors shall be based on conditions in existence at the time of filing an application
unless information is included with the application which will alter a lot size factor.
9-3.252 Density—RMF Zone.
The maximum allowable density in the Residential Multiple-Family Zone shall be designated on the
official zoning maps as provided by Section 9-3.104(c) and be consistent with the General Plan for new
residential subdivisions as follows:
(a) Areas Designated Low Density Multiple-Family Residential. The minimum number of
dwelling units per net acre is two (2). The maximum number of dwelling units per net acre is ten (10).
(b) Areas Designated High Density Multiple-Family Residential. The minimum number of
dwelling units per net acre is twenty (20). The maximum number of dwelling units per net acre is twenty-
four (24).
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 17 of 87
(c) Hillside Density Standards. The densities permitted by subsections (a) and (b) of this section
shall be modified to the following densities based on site topography, as follows:
Average Slope Low Density Multiple-
Family (units/acre)
High Density Multiple-Family (units/acre)
Minimum Maximum
0—10.99% 10 20 24
11—15.99% 7 14 17
16—20.99% 5 10 12
21—25.99% 3 6 7
26—30.0% 2 4 5
> 30% 1 2 2
(d) For medical extended care services, where residents are primarily nonambulatory, the
following maximum bed/net acre densities may be permitted, where subject to Planning Commission
conditional use permit approval:
RMF-10 District 34 beds/net acre
RMF-24 District 55 beds/net acre
Such approval shall require a finding that the average daily traffic generated by the project would not
exceed that of a multifamily project. The project would be further subject to the “percentage coverage”
constraints of subsection (a) of the district. Off-street parking requirements would be as established by the
Planning Commission.
(e) Sewer Service. Sewer service and the inclusion of property within the urban services line
(USL) shall be a prerequisite to developing multiple-family projects to the density standards of the RMF
zone.
(f) Density Bonus. A density bonus may be granted, subject to approval by the City Council
through a master plan of development (CUP), consistent with Sections 9-3.801 through 9-3.806.
(g) In lieu of granting a density bonus, the Planning Commission shall consider other bonus
incentives allowable under Government Code Section 65915.
9-3.262 Property development standards—RMF.
In addition to the standards specified in Chapter 4 of this title, General Site Design and Development
Standards, the following development standards shall apply to mobile home and multiple-family
residential projects:
(a) Percent Coverage. The maximum percent of a lot that may be covered by structures (excluding
decks less than thirty (30) inches from the ground) shall be forty percent (40%) for low density multiple-
family projects and fifty percent (50%) for high density multiple-family projects.
(b) Enclosed Storage. Each dwelling unit shall be provided a minimum of one hundred (100) cubic
feet of enclosed storage space, exclusive of closets, which may be located in either a principal or
accessory building.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 18 of 87
(c) Outdoor Recreation Areas. For developments of four (4) to seven (7) dwelling units, outdoor
recreational open space shall be provided at a ratio of three hundred (300) square feet per unit. This open
space may be provided either as: (1) a private amenity designed for exclusive use of a dwelling unit; or
(2) as common open space provided that no individual open space is less than one thousand (1,000)
square feet. For developments of eight (8) or more dwelling units, outdoor recreational open space shall
be provided at a ratio of three hundred (300) square feet per unit. This common open space may be
provided in more than one (1) location provided that no individual open space area is less than one
thousand (1,000) square feet.
(d) Screening Wall. A solid wall or fence not less than six (6) feet in height shall be placed and
maintained on interior lot lines abutting property zoned for single-family residential use.
(e) Covered Parking. One (1) covered parking space (carport or garage) shall be required per
dwelling unit of the total off-street parking required by Section 9-4.118.
(f) Laundry Facilities. Laundry facilities shall be provided in the form of either: (1) laundry hook-
ups within each individual dwelling unit; or (2) a shared laundry facility equipped with washers and
dryers.
(g) Appearance Review. All projects shall be consistent with the multifamily design and landscape
requirements of the Appearance Review Manual.
(h) Maintenance Requirement. A maintenance agreement for all landscaping, building exteriors,
accessory structures, parking areas and other common facilities shall be approved by the Community
Development Director and City Attorney prior to final occupancy.
(i) RMF-24 properties identified in Appendix 1, Table V-45 (Vacant Residential Parcels RMF-
20), of the General Plan Housing Element shall be permitted “by right” and will not be subject to
conditional use permit or specific plan. Proposed planned development projects or other relief from
property development standards on these parcels shall be subject to discretionary review per the
requirements of the Municipal Code.
9-3.330 Nonresidential district allowable land uses.
Table 3-2 identifies the uses of land allowed by this Zoning Code in each nonresidential
district, and the planning permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Chapters 9-1
and 9-2 of this code. Where the last column in the tables (“Specific Use Regulations”) includes a
section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use. Provisions in other
sections of this article may also apply.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 19 of 87
Table 3-2 – Non-Residential Use Table
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Non-Residential
Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Use Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s) CN CP CR CS CT CPK DC DO IP I
Agricultural Resources
Agricultural
Produce Stands
A A A A 9-6.117
Farm Equipment
& Supplies
A A A A A
Farmer’s Market CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP A A
Horticultural
specialties
A A A A A 9-6.116
Large Scale Ag
Manufacturing
CUP CUP A 9-6.103
Residential Uses
Age Restricted
Housing
CUP
Care Taker’s
Residence /
Employee Unit
CUP CUP CUP
Live/Work Unit A1
Multi-family
Dwellings
CUP2 CUP2 CUP2 CUP2 A1 A1
Single-family
dwelling
A1 A1
Single-Room
Occupancy Units
CUP 9-6.184
Recreation, Education, & Public Assembly
Amusement
Services
A A A A A A
Churches &
Related Activities
CUP CUP 9-6.121
Indoor Recreation
Services
CUP CUP CUP A
A CUP CUP CUP
Libraries,
Museums
A A A A A A
Membership
Organizations
A A CUP CUP
Outdoor
Recreation
Services
CUP CUP A 9-6.123
Parks &
Playgrounds
A A
Public Assembly
& Entertainment
CUP CUP A CUP CUP
Schools -Business
& Vocational
A A A A CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.125
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 20 of 87
Table 3-2 – Non-Residential Use Table
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Non-Residential
Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Use Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s) CN CP CR CS CT CPK DC DO IP I
Schools A A A CUP CUP 9-6.125
Recreation, Education, & Public Assembly
Social & Service
Organizations
A A A
Sports Assembly CUP CUP A
Temporary Events A/
CUP3
CUP A/
CUP3
A/
CUP3
A/
CUP 3
A/
CUP3
A/
CUP3
A/
CUP3
A A 9-6.177
Tourism, Lodging, & Dining
Bar/Tavern CUP CUP CUP A
Bed and Breakfast CUP CUP CUP CUP
Drive-Through
Sales or Services
CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-4.122
Eating & Drinking
Places
A A A A A A A A A A
Hotels, Motels CUP A A A CUP
Microbrewery -
Brewpub
A CUP A A A A A A A A
Recreational
Vehicle Parks
A 9-6.180
Tasting Room A CUP A A A A A A A A
Retail Trade and Sales4
Accessory Storage A A A A A A A 9-6.103
Adult Oriented
Business
A A A A 9-16
Artisan Foods and
Products
A A A A5 A A
Auto Dealers
(New & Used) &
Supplies
CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP 9.6.163
Building Materials
& Hardware
A A A A A A 9-6.165
Fuel Dealer A A A A A 9-6.129
General Retail A A A A A A A
General Retail
greater than 50,000
sf
CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Mobile eating and
drinking vendors6
A A A A A A A A
Retail Sales -
Restricted
A CUP CUP
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 21 of 87
Table 3-2 – Non-Residential Use Table
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Non-Residential
Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Use Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s) CN CP CR CS CT CPK DC DO IP I
Sales Lots CUP CUP CUP CUP 9-6.139
Service Stations CUP CUP CUP A 9-6.164
Temporary or
Seasonal Sales
A A A A A A A A A 9-6.174
Services-Business, Financial & Professional
ATM A A A A A A A A A A
Financial Services
& Banks
A A A A A A CUP A
Government
Offices &
Facilities
A A A A A A A A A A
Health Care
Services
A A A CUP A A A
Offices A A A A A A A A
Temporary Offices A A A 9-6.176
General Services
Animal Hospitals CUP7 CUP A CUP 9-6.110
Auto Repair and
Services
CUP A A CUP A A 9-6.168
Business Support
Services
A A A A A A A A
Contract
Construction
Services
A A A A
Day Care
Childcare
Center
A A A CUP 9-6.125
Large Family
Day Care
CUP8 CUP8 9-6.125
Small Family
Daycare
A8 A8 A8 A8 A8
Adult Day Care
Facility
A A A CUP
Kennels CUP A 9-6.111
Laundromat /
Coin-Operated
Laundry
A A A A A CUP A A
Medical Extended
Care Services: 6
Residents or Less
A A 9-6.134
Medical Extended
Care Services: 7
A A 9-6.134
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 22 of 87
Table 3-2 – Non-Residential Use Table
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Non-Residential
Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Use Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s) CN CP CR CS CT CPK DC DO IP I
Residents or More
Mini-Storage CUP CUP A A
Mortuary Services A A
Personal Services A A A A A CUP A
Personal Service
Restricted
A CUP CUP
Printing &
Publishing
CUP CUP A A A
RCFE – Assisted
Living
A A A 9-6.135
RCFE –
Independent living
/ Senior
Apartments
CUP CUP CUP 9-6.135
RCFE –
Retirement Hotel
CUP CUP CUP 9-6.135
Residential Care: 6
Residents or Less
A1 A1 9-6.135
Vehicle &
Equipment
Storage4
CUP CUP A A 9-6.183
Industrial, Wholesale, Manufacturing Uses
Brewery –
Production
CUP CUP A A
Collection Stations A A A A A A A A 9-6.130
Laundries & Dry
Cleaning Plants
A A A A
Medical Research CUP A A CUP A A
Manufacturing &
Processing - Low
Intensity
CUP CUP A A A A
Manufacturing &
Processing – High
Intensity4
CUP CUP AUP AUP
Recycling & Scrap CUP CUP 9-6.131
Recycling Centers CUP CUP 9-6.132
Research &
Development
CUP A A CUP A A A
Storage, Recycling
and Dismantling of
Vehicles and
Material
CUP A A 9-6.131
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 23 of 87
Table 3-2 – Non-Residential Use Table
Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements
Non-Residential
Zones
A Allowed Use, Zoning Clearance Required
CUP Conditional Use Permit Required
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required
Not Permitted
Use Permitted Uses By Zones Special Use
Regulation(s) CN CP CR CS CT CPK DC DO IP I
Warehousing CUP CUP A A
Wholesaling &
Distribution
Center4
AUP AUP A A A A
Winery - Boutique A A A A A A A
Winery –
Production
CUP CUP A A
Transportation Communication & Infrastructure
Broadcast Studios A A
Data and
Computer Services
Center
AUP AUP CUP A A
Parking Lots AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
Telecommunicatio
n Facility
CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Transit Stations CUP CUP A CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Utility Facilities CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Vehicle & Freight
Terminals
CUP CUP CUP
Utility
Infrastructure
A A CUP A A A CUP CUP A A
Notes: (These notes apply only to Table 3-2).
1 Residential uses allowed only on second and third floors, except sites north of Olmeda Avenue. If a project is required to
provide a unit in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the handicapped accessible unit may be located on
a first floor. A first floor unit shall be located in a non-storefront location within a tenant space.
2 Multi-family dwellings permitted when located on the second floor or above, or within an existing residential structure of
historical significance.
3 Temporary events requiring more than 3 days for onsite setup or 3 days for teardown require the approval of a conditional
use permit (Section 9-2.110).
4 Outdoor commercial and industrial sales and storage developments (as defined by Section 9 -9.102) of ten thousand
(10,000) square feet or more require the approval of a conditional use permit (Section 9 -2.110), even if such a development
is listed as an allowable use in a particular zoning district.
5 Handcrafted and artisan food production shall be ancillary to the retail component.
6 Mobile Food vending permitted if use is located outside of right-of-way and located on private property
7 When no overnight stays of animals are included.
8 Permitted when in association with conforming and legal non -conforming residences.
Zoning District
Abbreviations
CN – Commercial Neighborhood; CP – Commercial Professional; CR – Commercial Retail; CS – Commercial Service;
CT – Commercial Tourist; CPK – Commercial Park; DC – Downtown Commercial; DO – Downtown Office; IP –
Industrial Park ; I – Industrial
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 24 of 87
9-3.347 DC/DO Zone.
The following are property development standards for both the DC and DO zoning districts, in
addition to those found in Chapters 9-4, 9-6, and other special use regulations found in this title.
Development Feature
Requirement by Zoning District
DC DO
Downtown Commercial Downtown Office
Minimum lot size No minimum
Setbacks Minimum and maximum setbacks required. Refer to Section 9-4.103
for setback requirement, allowed projections into setbacks, and
exceptions to setbacks.
Front None allowed, except for building
insets designed to accommodate
outdoor eating and seating areas, and
except for East and West Mall
between El Camino Real and Palma
Avenue, where a minimum of 20
feet is required.
As required by Section 9-
4.106 when adjacent to a
residential zone, none
required otherwise.
Sides (each) None required
Rear None required
Creek To be determined through Design Review
Height limit 45 feet not to exceed 3 stories; 18
feet on the west side of El Camino
Real between Atascadero Creek and
the lot line common to Lots 19 and
20, Block H-B, Atascadero Colony
Map.
35 feet
Landscaping As required by Section 9-4.124 et seq. (Landscaping, screening and
fencing)
Off-street parking None required, except as required by
Section 9-4.114 for hotels, motels,
and residential uses, and for all
development east of Atascadero
Creek.
As required by Sections 9-
4.114 et seq.
Signs Refer to Chapter 9-15
Density 20 dwelling units/acre maximum 20 dwelling units/acre
maximum
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 25 of 87
9-3.500 Definitions.
As used in Title 9, the following terms and phrases shall have the meaning ascribed to them in this
Section, unless the context in which they are used clearly requires otherwise.
A. Definitions “A”
Accessory Storage. The indoor or outdoor storage of various materials on the same site as a
principal building or land use which is other than storage, which supports the activities or conduct of the
principal use.
Adult-Oriented Business. Any business defined by Chapter 19 of Title 9 in the Atascadero
Municipal Code, or subsequent code section, as an adult arcade, adult bookstore, adult novelty store, adult
video store, adult cabaret, adult motel, adult motion picture theater, adult theater, massage parlor
(excluding State-licensed massage therapy), sexual encounter establishment, or nude model studio is an
adult oriented business.
Age Restricted Housing. Residential multifamily or single-family units that restrict occupancy
based on age. This use typically consists of senior housing which restricts age for fifty-five (55) and
older.
Agricultural Accessory Uses. Uses that are customarily part of an agricultural activity including
structures that are designed to house farm implements, hay, grain, poultry, livestock, or other horticulture
products, including noncommercial greenhouse that are incidental and secondary to a residential use. This
does not include garages, workshops, or other similar residential accessory structures.
Agricultural Produce Stands. Open structures for the retail sale of agricultural products (except
hay, grain and feed sales which are included under “Farm Equipment and Supplies”) which are grown on
the site in residential or agriculture zones. This does not include farmers’ markets or “seasonal sales”
located in nonresidential zoning districts, defined under “temporary sales.”
Agriculture Employee Housing. Includes single-family dwellings, or other lodging
accommodations provided as a part of farming operations, as regulated under the California Health and
Safety Code, employees on land owned by the owner of the building site on which the lodging is located.
Amusement Services. Establishments providing indoor amusement, entertainment, or personal
enrichment services on payment of a fee or admission charge, such as: arcades and coin-operated
amusements; dance halls, and ballrooms which are principal uses rather than being subordinate to an
eating or drinking place; health and exercise facilities including yoga, dance, martial arts and similar
small studios that do not include courts or similar facilities; and music and arts and crafts instruction.
Athletic facilities with basketball, racquetball or similar indoor participation sports are classified as
“indoor recreation services”. Card rooms, billiard and pool halls as a primary use are classified as
“Personal services-restricted”.
Animal Hospitals. Establishments primarily engaged in performing services for animals, including
veterinary services and animal hospitals. Does not include kennels, which are listed as a separate
category.
Artisan Foods and Products. An establishment that specializes in artisan food production, art glass,
ceramics, jewelry, paintings, sculpture, and other handcrafted items, where the facility includes a retail
component.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 26 of 87
Auto Dealers (New and Used) and Supplies. Retail and wholesale trade establishments selling new
and used automobiles, including, but not limited to, light trucks (US DOT Class 1, 2, and 3), boats (FBSA
Class A and Class 1 boats (under twenty-six (26) feet in length)), recreational vehicles, recreational/utility
trailers, motorcycles and mopeds. Also includes establishments selling new parts and accessories within a
building for the above. Does not include establishments dealing exclusively in used parts. Includes
automobile repair shops only when maintained by establishment engaged in the sale of vehicles on the
same site. Does not include “service stations,” which are separately defined.
Auto Repair and Services. Service establishments primarily engaged in the repair, alteration,
painting, washing or waxing of automobiles, and lube services. May also include rental of cars, trucks or
trailers; leasing of cars and trucks. Does not include repair shops which are subordinate to and maintained
by a vehicle dealership.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM). Computerized, self-service machines used by banking
customers for financial transactions, including deposits, withdrawals and fund transfers, without face-to-
face contact with financial institutions personnel. The machines may be located at or within banks, or in
other locations.
B. Definitions “B”
Bar/Tavern. Establishments where alcoholic beverages are sold for on-site consumption, which is
not part of a larger restaurant. Includes bars, taverns, pubs, night clubs, and similar establishments where
any food service is subordinate to the sale of alcoholic beverages. Does not include adult entertainment
businesses or uses defined under microbreweries or tasting rooms.
Bed and Breakfast. Transient lodging establishments primarily engaged in providing overnight or
otherwise temporary lodging for the general public. Such establishments provide limited meal service,
generally breakfast, for lodgers.
Brewery – Production. An establishment which produces ales, beers, meads, hard ciders, and/or
similar beverages on-site. Production breweries are classified as a use which requires a Class 01 type
licensure from Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC). Breweries may also serve beverages on-site, and sell
beverages for off-site consumption in keeping with the regulations of the Alcohol Beverage Control
(ABC) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF).
Broadcasting Studios. Commercial and public communications uses including radio, television
broadcasting and receiving stations and studios with facilities entirely within buildings. Does not include
antennas and towers, which are defined under “telecommunications facilities.”
Building Materials and Hardware. Retail trade establishments primarily engaged in the sale of
lumber and other building materials, including paint, wallpaper, glass, hardware, nursery stock, lawn and
garden supplies. Includes all such stores selling to the general public, even if sales to contractors account
for a larger proportion of total sales. Establishments primarily selling plumbing, heating, and air
conditioning equipment and electrical supplies are classified in “wholesaling and distribution centers.”
Business Support Services. An establishment or business located entirely within a building that is
open to customer visitation and with limited or no storage, which provides services to other business
including, but not limited to:
• Blueprinting and reprographics, copying and quick printing services;
• Computer related services repair and rental;
• Private mail and mailbox service not affiliated with federal mailing agency;
• Co-working spaces, incubator-type services that provide office-type working spaces for a fee.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 27 of 87
C. Definitions “C”
Caretaker Residence/Employee Unit. A permanent residence that is secondary or accessory to the
primary use of the property, and used for housing a caretaker employed on the site of any nonresidential
use where a caretaker is needed for security purposes or to provide twenty-four (24) hour care or
monitoring of plants, animals, equipment, or other conditions on the site. Does not include housing for
caretaker-type employees in the Agriculture Zone which is defined as “agriculture employee housing.”
Cemeteries. Interment establishments engaged in subdividing property into cemetery lots and
offering burial plots or air space for sale. Includes animal cemeteries and cemetery, mausoleum and
columbarium operations. Excludes funeral parlor and related facilities which are listed under “mortuary
services.”
Churches and Related Activities. Religious organization facilities operated for worship or for
promotion of religious activities, including churches and religious Sunday-type schools. Other
establishments maintained by religious organizations, such as educational institutions, hospitals and other
operations that may be considered commercial in nature if not run by the religious organization (such as a
recreational camp) are classified according to their respective activities.
Collection Stations. Facilities for the temporary accumulation and storage of recyclable discarded
materials, which are subsequently transported to recycling centers or solid waste disposal sites for further
processing. Does not include automobile wrecking yards or any recycling processing facilities, which are
listed under “recycling and scrap.” Does not include temporary storage of toxic, mutagenic or radioactive
waste materials.
Contract Construction Services. Office uses with indoor/or outdoor facilities operated by, or on
behalf of a building contractor, exterminator, janitorial service or similar for storage of large equipment,
vehicles, and/or other materials commonly used in the individual contractor’s type of business and can
include the storage of materials used for repair and maintenance of contractor’s own equipment; and
buildings or structures for uses by the contractor.
D. Definitions “D”
Data and Computer Services/Center. A use where the majority of the space is occupied by
computers and/or related equipment and where information is processed, transferred, and/or stored (also
commonly referred to as “server farms.)” Data and computer service/centers may contain data technology
centers, internet service providers (ISPs), network operation centers, web hosting facilities and other
similar establishments primarily engaged in providing direct access through telecommunication networks
to computer-held information.
Day Care. Facilities that provide nonmedical care and supervision of individuals for periods of less
than twenty-four (24) hours. These facilities include the following, all of which are required to be licensed
by the California State Department of Social Services or successor agency. Day care uses include the
following:
• Child Care Center. Child day care facilities designed and approved to accommodate fifteen
(15) or more children. Includes infant centers, nursery schools, preschools, sick-child centers, and
school-age day care facilities. These may be operated in conjunction with a school or church facility,
or as an independent land use.
• Large Family Day Care Home. As provided by Health and Safety Code Section 1596.78 or
successor provision, a home that regularly provides care, protection, and supervision for seven (7) to
twelve (12) children, including up to two (2) children under the age of ten (10) years who reside in
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the home, for periods of less than twenty-four (24) hours per day, while the parents or guardians are
away.
• Small Family Day Care Home. As provided by Health and Safety Code Section 1596.78 or
successor provision, a home that provides family day care for six (6) or fewer children, including
two (2) children under the age of ten (10) years who reside in the home.
• Adult Day Care Facility. A day care facility providing care and supervision for adult clients.
Drive-Through Sales or Services. A facility where food or other products may be purchased or
where services may be obtained by motorists without leaving their vehicles. Examples of drive-through
sales facilities include fast-food restaurants, drive-through coffee, photo-stores, pharmacies, etc.
Examples of drive-through service facilities include drive-through bank teller windows, automated teller
machines (ATM), dry cleaners/laundromats, etc., but do not include service stations or other vehicle
services, which are separately defined.
E. Definitions “E”
Eating and Drinking Places. Restaurants and other establishments selling prepared foods and
drinks for consumption on the premises, as well as facilities for dancing and other entertainment which
are secondary and subordinate to the principal use of the establishment as an eating and drinking place.
Also includes lunch counters and refreshment stands selling prepared goods and drinks for immediate
consumption. Restaurants, lunch counters, and drinking places operated as subordinate service facilities
within other establishments are not included here unless they are operated as leased departments by
outside operators. Does not include establishments with drive-through facilities or uses defined under
adult oriented business.
EV Charging Site. Electric Vehicle (EV) charging site includes level one, level two, and level three
charging sites that are an accessory use to a primary use, such as a parking lot, building, or multi -family
residence. These charging sites are incidental uses and may or may not charge a fee for use. Does not
include stand-alone EV charging station as defined in “service stations.”
F. Definitions “F”
Farm Animal Raising. The keeping, feeding or grazing of animals as an avocation, hobby, or
school project, subordinate to the principal residential use of a property, includes species commonly
considered as farm animals as well as exotic species, but does not include household pets. This includes
the raising or feeding of beef cattle, sheep and goats by grazing or pasturing. Does not include uses
defined as “livestock specialties.”
Farm Equipment and Supplies. Establishments primarily engaged in the sale or rental of
agricultural machinery and equipment for use in the preparation and maintenance of the soil, the planting
and harvesting of crops, and other operations and processes pertaining to work on the farm; also dairy and
other livestock equipment including trailers. Includes agricultural machinery, dairy farm machinery and
equipment, irrigation equipment, poultry equipment and frost protection equipment; hay, grain and feed
sales.
Farmers’ Market. The temporary and intermittent use of a public or private property for the
outdoor sales of food and farm produce in compliance with California Food and Agriculture Code Section
1392 et seq., and artisan products or similar farmers’ markets products that include multiple sales
vendors.
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Financial Services. Service establishments primarily engaged in the field of finance, including:
banks and trust companies; credit agencies other than banks; brokers and dealers in securities and
commodity contracts; security and commodity exchanges; holding (but not predominantly operating)
companies; and other investment companies.
Fuel Dealers. Retail trade establishments primarily engaged in the sale to consumers of liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG), propane, bottled or other fuels in bulk. Does not include accessory uses as part of a
service station.
G. Definitions “G”
General Retail. Stores and shops selling either many lines of merchandise, or specialized type of
merchandise, where the retail sales are conducted primarily within a building. Examples include, but not
limited to:
• Antique stores, second hand stores, jewelry stores, hobby materials, specialty stores;
• Art galleries, art supplies, collectibles, hobby materials;
• Bicycles, toys, games, sporting goods and equipment;
• Department stores, drug stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, groceries stores, specialty food
markets, membership warehouse clubs;
• Florists, house plant stores (indoor sales), small house wares;
• Home furniture stores, consumer electronic/audio visual goods, bookstores, home and/or office
appliance stores (excludes wholesale sales not open to the general public);
• New clothing, shoes, and accessory retail stores;
• Stationery, dry goods, fabric stores and sewing supplies, and variety stores;
• Stand-alone convenience markets (excludes fuel sales), warehouse retail stores, building
supply hardware stores where outdoor sales are limited to under ten thousand (10,000) square feet.
Pawn shops and retail stores that sell smoking, tobacco and vaping products as the primary use are
included in “retail sales–restricted.”
Government Offices and Facilities. Administrative, clerical, or public contact and/or service
offices of recognized local, state, or federal agencies. Includes post offices, City Hall, municipal
corporation yards, etc.
H. Definitions “H”
Health Care Services. Service establishments primarily engaged in furnishing medical, mental
health, surgical and other personal health services including: medical, dental, and psychiatric offices
(mental health) related services, including various types of counseling practiced by licensed individuals
other than medical doctors or psychiatrists, medical and dental laboratories; outpatient care facilities; and
allied health services. Associations or groups primarily engaged in providing medical or other health
services to members are included. Also includes hospitals and similar establishments primarily engaged in
providing diagnostic services, extensive medical treatment including surgical and other hospital services;
such establishments have an organized medical staff, inpatient beds, and equipment and facilities to
provide complete health care. Nursing homes and similar long-term personal care facilities are classified
in “residential care.”
Home Occupations. The gainful employment of the occupant of a dwelling, with such employment
activity being subordinate to the residential use of the property.
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Horticultural Specialties. Businesses engaged in the production of ornamental plants, tree farms,
and other products, grown under cover or outdoors. Also includes establishments engaged in the sale or
on-site production of such product.
Hotels, Motels. Commercial transient lodging establishments, including hotels, motor hotels,
motels, tourist courts or cabins, primarily engaged in providing overnight or otherwise temporary lodging,
with or without meals, for the general public. Such establishments shall not provide kitchen facilities in
more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the units.
I. Definitions “I”
Indoor Recreation Services. Facilities for various indoor sports and recreation, including: bowling
alleys; ice skating and roller skating; gymnasiums, health and athletic clubs; tennis, handball, racquetball
and similar indoor sports; shooting and archery ranges; recreation and community centers. Smaller
fitness studios without courts are classified as “amusement services”.
J. Definitions “J”
K. Definitions “K”
Kennels. A lot, building, structure, enclosure or premises where four (4) or more dogs or cats (four
(4) months of age or older) are kept or maintained, including the keeping of such animals for sale, for
commercial breeding or for lodging and care. Does not include dogs and cats kept for noncommercial
purposes.
L. Definitions “L”
Large Scale Ag Manufacturing. The large scale processing of agriculture products subsequent to
their harvest, with the intent of preparing them for market or further processing including: alfalfa cubing;
hay baling and cubing; corn shelling; drying of corn, rice, hay, fruits and vegetables; grain cleaning and
custom grinding; custom grist mills; custom milling of flour, feed and grain; sorting, grading and
packaging of fruits and vegetables; tree nut hulling and shelling; cotton ginning; and wineries in excess of
one thousand (1,000) square feet in total use area. This does not include the growing, harvesting, and
production of medical marijuana, or legally approved uses of marijuana by either the State of California
or Federal Government.
Laundries and Dry Cleaning Plants. Service establishments primarily engaged in high volume
laundry and garment services, including: power laundries (family and commercial); garment pressing and
dry cleaning; linen supply; diaper service; industrial laundries; carpet and upholstery cleaners. Does not
include coin-operated laundries or dry cleaning pickup stores without dry cleaning equipment, which are
classified in “personal services.”
Laundromat / Coin-Operated Laundry. Facilities providing washing and drying machines for use
by customers for a fee as a primary use. Dry cleaning pick-up stores are classified as “personal services”.
Libraries, Museums. Permanent public or quasi-public facilities generally of a noncommercial
nature such as libraries, museums, art exhibitions, planetariums, aquariums, botanical gardens,
arboretums and zoos. Also includes historic sites and exhibits.
Livestock Specialties. Agricultural establishments primarily engaged in commercial livestock
keeping or feeding as a principal land use which, because of operational characteristics, may generate
dust, odors or visual impacts which could have an adverse effect upon adjacent properties. Such uses
include dairies; chicken, turkey and other poultry farms; animal specialties (such as rabbit farms and other
fur-bearing animals); other specialties such as bee farms, aviaries, worm farms, etc.
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Live/Work Units. An integrated housing unit and working space, occupied and utilized by a single
household in a structure, either single-family or multifamily, that has been designed or structurally
modified to accommodate joint residential occupancy and work activity, and which includes:
• Complete kitchen space and sanitary facilities in compliance with the Building Code;
• Working space reserved for and regularly used by one or more occupants of the unit;
• Working space includes uses that are permitted within the zoning district.
M. Definitions “M”
Manufacturing, Repair, and Processing – High Intensity. A facility or establishment that
accommodates manufacturing processes that involve and/or produce building materials, fabricated metal
products, machinery, and other similar manufacturing uses, where the intensity or scale of operations is
determined to be greater than those classified under “manufacturing and processing – low intensity,” but
where impacts to surrounding neighborhoods, businesses, and the community may cause a significant
impact. Uses may have an indoor setting, however uses may also be conducted outdoors. Examples of
manufacturing and processing uses that are considered high-intensity include the following, but are not
limited to:
• Machinery manufacturing that makes or process raw materials into products;
• Metal fabrication and welding shops engaged in the production and/or assembly of metal, and
other similar metal shops;
• Manufacturing that cuts, shapes, and/or finishes building materials used in home or
nonresidential construction;
• Chemical product manufacturing that produces or uses basic chemicals and other
establishments creating products predominantly by chemical processes;
• Product manufacturing that produces bulk concrete, asphalt, and other paving materials;
• Paving and roof materials manufacturing of various common paving and petroleum-based
roofing materials including bulk asphalt, paving blocks made of asphalt, creosote wood, and various
compositions of asphalt and tar;
• Plastics, other synthetics and rubber manufacturing;
• Primary metal industries engaged in smelting, refining of ferrous and nonferrous metals;
• Other similar heavy intensive uses.
Manufacturing, Repair, and Processing – Low Intensity. A facility or business that engages in the
assembly, fabrication, and conversion of already processed raw materials into products, where the
operational characteristics of the manufacturing process and the materials used are unlikely to cause
significant impacts to the existing surrounding neighborhood or businesses in a indoor setting. Examples
of manufacturing and processing uses that are considered low intensity include the following, but are not
limited to:
• Artisan manufacturing and production where no retail component exists;
• Production, assembly, and/or repair where no raw materials are manufactured;
• Production and assembly of precision electronics and scientific instruments, including on-site
offices;
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• Producing or processing of foods and beverages for human consumption where no retail
component exists and does not include noxious odors or excessive noise and no slaughter occurs on-
site;
• Repair and service of small consumer products;
• Small scale manufacturing where assembling and/or manufacturing is completed by hand or
precision tools;
• Small product manufacturing not classified in another major manufacturing group.
Medical Extended Care Services. Residential facilities providing nursing and health-related care as
a primary use with in-patient beds. Examples of these uses include: board and care homes; convalescent
and rest homes; extended care facilities; and skilled nursing facilities. Long-term personal care facilities
that do not emphasize medical treatment are included under “residential care.”
Medical Research. Establishment related to medical and/or dental research, testing and analysis,
including but not limited to trial and clinical research. Biomedical and pharmaceutical research and
development facilities are not included in this definition. Medical research does not include the storage or
use of quantities of hazardous materials nor any toxic gas. Additionally, medical research may include
storage and use of etiological (biological) agents up to and including Risk Group 2 or Bio Safety Level 2
(Center for Disease Control). Typically uses are a part of a campus-like setting such as a business park or
stand-alone building.
Membership Organizations. Organizations operating on a membership basis for the promotion of
the interests of the members, including: business associations; professional membership organizations;
labor unions and similar labor organizations; civic, social and fraternal organizations (not lodging);
political organizations and other membership organizations.
Micro-Brewery/Brewpub. An establishment that produces ales, beers, meads, hard ciders/and or
similar beverages to serve on-site. Sale of beverages for off-site consumption is also permitted consistent
with the regulations of the Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and
Firearms (ATF). Food service for on-site consumption is allowed as an ancillary use. Brewpubs and
microbreweries are considered small operations consistent with ABC license type 23, 40, or 42 or State
similar licensures.
Mini-Storage. Buildings containing individual storage areas rented or leased to the general public.
Does not include warehousing or exterior storage facilities.
Mobile Eating and Drinking Vendors. Any vehicle, wagon, or pushcart that is self-propelled or
can be pushed/pulled down a street or sidewalk, on which food is displayed, prepared, or processed for
the purpose of selling food or drinks to a consumer.
Mobile Home/Manufactured Home. A modular structure that is transportable in one or more
sections, that is certified under the Nation Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act
of 1974, is tied down to a permanent foundation with wheels removed and skirted. A mobile home on a
permanent foundation is considered a single-family dwelling.
Mobile Home Park. Any site that is planned and improved to accommodate two (2) or more mobile
homes used for residential purposes, or on which two (2) or more mobile homes, as the term “mobile
home” is defined in California Civil Code Section 798.3 or successor provision of the California
Mobilehome Residency Law, for nontransient use, are rented, leased, or held out for rent or lease, or were
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formerly held out for rent or lease and later converted to a subdivision, cooperative, condominium, or
other form of resident ownership, to accommodate mobile homes used for residential purposes.
Mortuary Services. Establishments with facilities for the preparation of the dead for burial,
cremation and for the holding of funeral observances and services. Accessory facilities may include a
cemetery, columbarium or mausoleum. Includes: funeral homes and parlors, mortuaries and related
facilities.
Multiple-Family Dwelling. Two (2) or more dwelling units located on a single lot, each occupied
by a single housekeeping unit; includes buildings or groups of buildings designated as apartments,
duplexes, triplexes and condominiums, but not including motels, hotels, dormitories, or RV parks as
herein defined. Also includes transitional housing, supportive housing and single room occupancy
housing where people live as independently as possible with the assistance of social services tailored to
each person’s needs as defined in Section 9-9.102 of the Zoning Ordinance. This does not include
secondary units in single-family zoning districts.
N. Definitions “N”
O. Definitions “O”
Offices. Establishments engaged in performing a service in a professional office including:
engineering, architectural and surveying services; real estate agencies; noncommercial educational,
scientific and research organizations; accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping services; authors, writers,
artists, etc.; advertising agencies; photography studios and small commercial art studios; employment
agencies and stenographic services; reporting services; data processing and computer services;
management, public relations, and consulting services; detective agencies and other similar professional
services; attorneys; and counseling services provided by individuals other than licensed psychiatrists,
which are included under “health care services.”
Organization Houses. Residential lodging houses operated by membership organizations for the
benefit of their constituents and not open to the general public. Also includes fraternity and sorority
residential houses and religious residential retreats.
Outdoor Recreation Services. Facilities for various outdoor sports and recreation, including:
amusement and kiddie parks; golf courses, golf driving ranges and miniature golf courses; skateboard
parks; go-cart and miniature auto race tracks; tennis courts, swim and tennis clubs and facilities; play lots,
playgrounds and athletic fields; recreation and community centers.
P. Definitions “P”
Parking Lot. An open area, excluding a street or other public right -of-way, for the exclusive use of
parking as a primary use for automobiles and available to either to the public or patrons of adjacent
buildings or structures. Parking lots can either be free for use, or may charge a fee for compensation.
Long-term parking and storage of inoperable vehicles is classified in “vehicle and equipment storage”.
Parks and Playgrounds. A public outdoor recreational facility that may provide a variety of
recreational activities including playground equipment, open space areas for passive recreation including
hiking and biking trails, zoos, picnicking, and sport and active recreation facilities dedicated for use to the
public.
Personal Cannabis Cultivation. As defined by Chapter 9-17.
Personal Services. Service establishments primarily engaged in providing nonmedical services as a
primary use and may include accessory retail sales of products related to the services provided. These
uses include the following: beauty shops (includes permanent makeup when less than ten percent (10%)
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of overall sales), barber shops, day spas and massage therapy where each massage therapist is
certified/licensed by a State-recognized organization, shoe repair shops, dry cleaning pickup stores,
clothing rental, tailors, tanning salons, pet grooming services, nail salons, and other similar uses.
Personal Services—Restricted. Service establishments that may have a blighting and/or
deteriorating effect upon the surrounding area which may need to be dispersed in order to minimize their
adverse impact. Examples of these uses include, but are not limited to, the following: check cashing
and/or payday/same day loans; fortunetellers, psychics; palm, tarot and card readers; card rooms, billiard
and pool halls as a primary use; tattoo and body piercing services; and hot tubs and saunas that are not an
accessory to a permitted use.
Printing and Publishing. An establishment engaged in printing letter press, lithography gravure,
screen offset or electrostatic copying and other establishments serving the printing trade such as
bookbinding, typesetting, engraving, photoengraving, and electrotyping. The use also includes
establishments that publish newspapers, books, and periodicals; establishments manufacturing business
forms and binding devices. “Quick printing” services are included in the definition “business support
services.”
Public Assembly and Entertainment. Facilities for public assembly and group entertainment such
as: public and semi-public auditoriums; exhibition and convention halls; civic theaters and meeting halls;
motion picture theaters; legitimate theater facilities for live theatrical presentations or concerts by bands
and orchestras; amphitheaters; meeting halls for rent and similar public assembly uses.
Q. Definitions “Q”
R. Definitions “R”
Recreational Vehicle Parks. Transient lodging establishments primarily engaged in renting, leasing
or otherwise providing overnight or short-term sites for trailers, campers, or tents, with or without
individual utility hookups, but with other facilities such as public restrooms. Does not include incidental
camping areas, which are included under “rural sports and group facilities.”
Recycling and Scrap. Establishments primarily engaged in assembling, breaking up, sorting,
temporary storage and distribution of recyclable or reusable scrap and waste materials, including auto
wreckers engaged in dismantling automobiles for scrap. Does not include waste disposal sites, which are
separately defined. Does not include temporary storage of toxic or radioactive waste materials.
Recycling Centers. An establishment, which is larger than a “collection station,” that serves as a
community-wide center for the collection and/or processing of recyclable materials such as glass, paper,
plastic, aluminum and metal cans.
Research and Development. Research and development offices, devoted to scientific and
engineering research and the design, development and testing of new technology and products; usually
includes laboratory space or small-scale manufacturing operations.
Residential Accessory Uses. Includes any use that is customarily part of a residence and is clearly
incidental and secondary to a residence and does not change the character of the residential use.
Residential accessory uses include the storage of vehicles and other personal property and accessory
structures including garages, studios and workshops.
Residential Care. A single-family or multiple-family dwelling unit that is licensed or supervised by
a Federal, State, or local health/welfare agency that provides nonmedical care of unrelated persons who
are in need of personal service, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining activities of daily living
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or for the protection of the individual. Use includes the following: children’s homes; halfway houses;
rehabilitation centers; self-help group homes.
Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE). A housing arrangement chosen voluntarily by
the residents or the residents’ guardians, conservators or other responsible person(s) where the following
occurs: where seventy-five percent (75%) of the residents are at least sixty-two (62) years of age, or, if
younger, have needs compatible with other residents; and where varying levels of care and supervision
are provided, as agreed to at the time of admission or as determined necessary. RCFE uses may include
basic services and community space. RCFE uses include the following:
• Assisted Living Facility. A residential building or buildings that also provide housing,
personal and health care, as permitted by the Department of Social Services, designed to respond to
the daily, individual needs of the residents. Assisted living facilities may include kitchenettes (small
refrigerator, sink and/or microwave oven) within individual rooms. Assisted living facilities are
required to be licensed by the California Department of Social Services, and do not include medical
extended care services.
• Independent Living Center/Senior Apartment. Independent living centers and senior
apartments are multifamily residential projects reserved for senior citizens, where common facilities
may be provided (for example, recreation areas), but where each dwelling unit has individual living,
sleeping, bathing, and kitchen facilities.
• Retirement Hotel. Establishments primarily engaged in providing lodging facilities limited to
the aged where no medical care is provided. Such establishments may provide housekeeping and
meals to the residents.
Resource Extraction. Uses primarily engaged in resource extraction, including, but not limited to,
mining, developing mines or exploring for metallic minerals (ores), coal and nonmetallic minerals), or
surface mines extracting crushed and broken stone, dimension stone or sand and gravel.
Retail Sales–Restricted. Stores and shops selling products that may have a blighting and/or
deteriorating effect upon the surrounding area and may need to be dispersed in order to minimize their
adverse impact. Examples of these uses include, but are not limited to, the following: selling smoking,
tobacco and vaping products as a primary use; and pawn shops, in which the business of pawn brokering,
or the business of lending money upon personal property, pawns or pledges is done.
Rural Sports and Group Facilities. Establishments supporting special group activities such as:
archery, pistol, rifle, and skeet clubs and facilities; dude ranches; health resorts including outdoor hot
spring, spa or hot tub facilities; hunting and fishing clubs; recreational camps; group or organized camps;
incidental, seasonal camping areas without facilities; equestrian facilities, including riding academies,
schools, stables and exhibition facilities.
S. Definitions “S”
Sales Lots. Sales lots consist of any outdoor sales area for permanent display of motorized farm
equipment, boats (FBSA Class 3 and 4 boats (over twenty-six (26) feet in length)), heavy commercial
trucks (US DOT Class 4 through 8), mobilehomes, construction equipment, or other heavy equipment;
outdoor equipment rental yards.
Schools. An institution or establishment that provides a program of instruction and teaching services.
Includes: preschools, elementary and secondary schools serving grades K through 12 (or portions
thereof); junior colleges, colleges and universities; and similar education institutions. Does not include
Sunday schools which are permitted under “churches and related facilities.”
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Schools—Business and Vocational. Business and secretarial schools; vocational schools offering
specialized trade and commercial courses; specialized nondegree granting schools, such as: music
schools; dramatic schools; language schools; driver education schools; ballet and other dance studios; and
establishments furnishing educational courses by mail.
Secondary Residential Unit. Second residential units are defined as residential occupancy
constructions (R) with a kitchen and full bathroom that is accessory to the primary unit and intended for
permanent occupancy by a second housekeeping unit.
Service Stations. Retail trade establishments primarily engaged in the sale of gasoline, which may
also provide lubrication, oil change and tune-up services incidental to gasoline sales. May also include a
towing service but does not include storage of wrecked or abandoned vehicles. Does not include uses
defined as auto repair and service, or vehicle equipment storage.
Single-Family Dwelling. An attached or detached building not to contain more than one (1) kitchen
wherein the occupants of the dwelling unit are living and functioning together as a single housekeeping
unit, meaning that they have established ties and familiarity with each other, jointly use common areas,
interact with each other, membership in the single housekeeping unit is fairly stable as opposed to
transient, and members have some control over who becomes a member of the single housekeeping unit.
Also includes factory-built, manufactured housing units and mobile homes constructed in compliance
with Title 25 of the California Health and Safety Code, or successor provision as defined in Section 9-
9.102 of the Zoning Ordinance; transitional housing and supportive housing serving six (6) or fewer
persons as defined in Section 9-9.102 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Single Room Occupancy Unit (SRO). A structure that provides separate, single room, residential
living units with no on-premises residential medical care. Units within the structure may have individual
bathroom facilities, shared bath or toilet facilities for the residents, or any combination thereof. SRO may
include structures commonly called rooming houses or boarding houses. SRO facilities shall not be age
restricted. Age restricted SRO facilities shall be considered a residential care facility for the elderly
(RCFE).
Small Scale Ag Processing. The small scale processing of agriculture products grown or produced
on-site, bottling, canning, or storage of agriculture products grown and processed on-site, where the
processing or storage shall not exceed one thousand (1,000) square feet (sf) in total use areas. This does
not include tasting rooms.
Social and Service Organizations. Public or quasi-public establishments providing social services
and rehabilitation services to such as counseling centers, welfare offices, job counseling and training
centers, or vocational rehabilitation agencies, persons with social or personal problems requiring special
services and to the handicapped and the disadvantaged. Also included are organizations soliciting funds to
be used directly for these related services. Also includes establishments engaged in community
improvement and neighborhood development. Does not include child day care services which are
classified under “schools.”
Sports Assembly. Facilities for spectator-oriented specialized group sports assembly that includes:
stadiums and coliseums; arenas and field houses; race tracks (auto and animals); motorcycle racing and
drag strips; and other sports that are considered commercial.
Storage, Recycling and Dismantling of Vehicles and Material. Establishments primarily engaged
in the storage, assembling, dismantling, sorting, and distribution of materials, equipment and vehicles.
This use may be located either outdoors or indoors and includes, but is not limited to, auto wrecking
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yards, vehicle storage areas, vehicle impound lots, recyclable/waste material storage and transfer
facilities. This does not include waste disposal sites, which are separately defined, or temporary storage of
toxic or radioactive waste materials.
T. Definitions “T”
Tasting Room. Establishment that allows for beer, wine, or spirit tasting on-site with off-site sales
directly to the public. Tasting rooms must meet the requirements of the Alcoholic Beverage Control
(ABC) license type (Type 02, Type 23, Type 40, Type 42 or Type 74 license, or similar). Tasting rooms
may operate within a large scale brewing, winery, or distillery facility as an ancillary.
Telecommunication Facility. Public, commercial and private electromagnetic and photoelectrical
transmission, broadcast, repeater and receiving stations for radio, television, telegraph, telephone, cellular
data network, and wireless communication towers (cellular phones), including commercial earth stations
for satellite-based communications. Includes antennas, commercial satellite dish antennas, and equipment
buildings. Does not include telephone, telegraph, and cable television transmission facilities utilizing
hard-wired or direct cable connections. Does not include data processing centers.
Temporary Dwelling. Includes the temporary use of a mobilehome or recreational vehicle as a
dwelling unit, following the issuance of a building permit for a permanent residence while the permanent
residence is under construction.
Temporary Events. Any use of a structure or land for an event for a limited period of time where
the site is not to be permanently altered by grading or construction of accessory facilities. Events include:
art shows; rodeos; religious revivals; tent camps; outdoor festivals and concerts.
Temporary Offices. The utilization of a mobilehome or recreational vehicle as a temporary office
during the period of a construction of a permanent office facility on the same site.
Temporary or Seasonal Retail Sales. Retail trade establishments primarily engaged in the sale of
Christmas trees or other seasonal items; or semiannual sales of art or handcrafted items in conjunction
with community festivals or art shows. Does not include farmers’ markets or agricultural roadside stands.
Transitional Housing. Buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under
program requirements that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of the assisted unit to
another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time, which shall be no less than
six (6) months (Health and Safety Code Section 50675.2(h)). This definition excludes housing for
halfway houses intended for occupancy by parolees or convicted persons, children’s homes, halfway
houses, rehabilitation centers, and self-help group homes.
Transit Stations. Passenger stations for vehicular, bus, and rail mass transit systems; also terminal
facilities providing maintenance and service for the vehicles operated in the transit system.
U. Definitions “U”
Utility Facilities. A fixed-base structure or facility serving as a junction point for transferring
electric utility services from one transmission voltage to another or to local distribution and service
voltages, and similar facilities for water supply, natural gas distribution, wastewater pump station, fiber
optics junction box, or other similar facilities that are not exempted from land use permit requirements by
California Government Code Section 53091 or successor code.
Utility Infrastructure. Pipelines for water, natural gas, sewage collection and disposal; and
facilities for the transmission of electrical energy for sale, including transmission lines for a public utility
company. Also include telephone, cable television, and other communications transmission facilities
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
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utilizing direct physical conduits. Does not include offices or service center as defined under “offices” or
distribution substations (“utility facilities”).
V. Definitions “V”
Vehicle and Equipment Storage. Service establishments primarily engaged in the business of
storing cars, buses and other motor vehicles; recreational vehicles (such as campers, motor homes, boats);
construction equipment; and farm equipment. Does not include wrecking yards, which are classified in
“recycling and scrap”.
Vehicle and Freight Terminals. Transportation establishments furnishing services incidental to
transportation, including: freight forwarding services; transportation arrangement services; parking,
crating, inspection and weighing services; freight terminal facilities; joint terminal and service facilities;
trucking facilities, including transfer and storage; public warehousing and storage. Includes both railroad
transportation and motor freight transportation.
W. Definitions “W”
Warehousing. Uses engaged in storage of manufactured products, supplies, and equipment
excluding bulk storage of materials that are flammable or explosive or that present hazards, or conditions
commonly recognizable as offensive. Does not include personal storage as defined as “mini-storage”.
Wholesaling and Distribution Centers. Establishments engaged in selling merchandise to retailers;
to industrial, commercial, institutional, farm, or professional business users; or to other wholesalers; or
acting as agents or brokers in buying merchandise for or selling merchandise to such persons or
companies.. Also includes storage, processing, packaging, and shipping facilities for mail order and e-
commerce retail establishments.
Winery – Boutique. Winery or distillery production for no more than three thousand (3,000) cases
of wine per year. Uses include fruit processing, fermentation pressing, barrel and bottle storage, bottling,
wine tasting, and direct retail sale of wine. Does not include winery production in residential zones, which
is defined as small scale agriculture.
Winery – Production. Winery or distillery production of more than three thousand one (3,001)
cases of wine per year. Uses include fruit processing, fermentation pressing, barrel and bottle storage,
bottling, wine tasting, and direct retail sale of wine. This also includes uses that produce 3,001 cases of
beverages or less, but do not meet the requirements for “winery – boutique,” “winery – production,” or
“brewery – production.”
X. Definitions “X”
Y. Definitions “Y”
Z. Definitions “Z”
9-4.106 Front setbacks.
The front setback is measured at right angles from the nearest point on the front property line to the
building line. All structures are to be set back a minimum of twenty-five (25) feet from the nearest point
on the front property line, except where this section establishes other requirements. Front setback
landscaping and fencing standards are in Sections 9-4.125(a) and 9-4.128 of this chapter, respectively.
(a) A, RS, RSF, and LSF Zones. All residential uses shall have a minimum front setback of
twenty-five (25) feet, except as follows:
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(1) Shallow Lots. The front setback shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet for any lot less than
ninety (90) feet deep.
(2) Flag Lots and Lots without Street Frontage. Determination of that portion of the site to
constitute the required front yard within the flag shall be at the discretion of the applicant. The front
setback of the flag of the lot shall be a minimum of 10 feet. The front setback within the accessway shall
be as in subsection (a) of this section.
(3) Sloping Lot Adjustment. Where the elevation of the natural grade on a lot at a point fifty (50)
feet from the centerline of the adjacent street right-of-way is seven (7) feet above or below the elevation
of the centerline, a private garage may be located, at the discretion of the applicant, as close as five (5)
feet to the street property line, subject to the approval of an administrative use permit (Section 9-1.112 of
this title), provided that portions of the dwelling other than the garage shall be established at the setback
otherwise required.
(4) Variable Setback Block. Where a residential block is partially developed with single-family
dwellings having less than the required front setbacks and no uniform front setback is established, the
front setback may be adjusted by approval of an administrative use permit (Section 9-1.112 of this title) at
the option of the applicant, as follows:
(i) Prerequisites for Adjustment. Adjustment may be granted only when twenty-five percent (25%)
of the lots on the block with the same frontage are developed and the entire block is within a single zone.
(ii) Allowed Adjustment. The normally required minimum front setback is to be reduced to the
average of the front setbacks of the existing dwellings, which include attached garages but not detached
garages, to a minimum of ten (10) feet.
(5) The Design Review Committee (DRC) may grant an exemption to the front setback
requirement based on neighborhood compatibility for structures that meet the following criteria:
(i) Structures are no greater than ten (10) feet in height;
(ii) Structures do not exceed front yard coverage of more than fifty percent (50%);
(iii) Structures do not impair sight distances for vehicular traffic as reviewed by the City Engineer.
(b) RMF Zone and Residential Uses in Commercial and Industrial Zones. All residential units shall
have a minimum setback of fifteen (15) feet. All garages shall have a minimum front setback of twenty
(20) feet.
(c) CN, CP, CR, CS, CT, CPK, IP and I Zones. No front setbacks are required. Ground floor
residential uses are subject to the setback requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(1) Adjacent to Residential Zone. Where a commercial or industrial zone has a front setback,
including a double frontage setback, on a street where more than fifty percent (50%) of the lots in the
same block are zoned for residential use, the front setback shall be twenty-five (25) feet, except that a
one-story building or parking may encroach into one-half (1/2) the required front setback depth.
(d) L, LS and P Zone. A minimum ten (10) foot front setback is required, provided that residential
uses are subject to the setback requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(e) Flag Lots. Any accessway adjacent to a public street shall be subject to the f ront setback
requirements of subsections (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this section. Determination of that portion of the site
to constitute the required front yard within the flag shall be at the discretion of the applicant. The front
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
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setback of the flag of the lot shall be subject to the side setback requirements of Section 9-4.107 of this
chapter.
(f) Double Frontage Lots.
(1) Selecting the Setback Location. Where double frontage setback locations are not specified by
subdivision requirements or other applicable regulations, the applicant may select the front setback street
unless fifty percent (50%) of the lots on a double frontage block are developed with the same front yard
orientation. In that case, all remaining lots are to orient their front setbacks with the majority.
(2) Double Frontage Setback Requirements. A full-front setback is to be provided adjacent to one
frontage, and a setback of one-half (1/2) the required front setback depth adjacent to the other frontage.
(g) Establishment of Front Setback on Zoning Map. The Planning Commission may establish
greater front setbacks than those required in this section by delineating the setback on the zoning map.
Procedures specified by Section 9-1.115 of this title shall be followed in establishing such setbacks.
9-4.113 Height limitations.
The maximum height for new structures is as follows:
(a) Limitation by Zone.
Zone Maximum Height
A, RS, RSF, LSF 30 feet
CN, CP, CR, CS, CT 35 feet
CPK, IP, I 45 feet
LS, L, P 35 feet
RMF 30 feet (not to exceed two stories)
(b) Exceptions to Height Limitations.
(1) Planning Commission Waiver. The height limitations of this section may be modified through
conditional use permit approval, provided the Planning Commission first finds the project will not result
in substantial detrimental effects on the enjoyment and use of adjoining properties and that the modified
height will not exceed the lifesaving equipment capabilities of the Fire Department.
(2) Height Adjustment. The height limitations specified by subsection (a) of this section may be
adjusted by approval of an administrative use permit (Section 9-1.112) for a single-family residential
building to allow additional height, to a maximum of forty (40) feet, provided that the required side and
rear setbacks are increased one (1) foot in width for each foot of height over thirty (30) feet.
(3) Downhill Lot. Where the average front-to-back slope of a lot is greater than one (1) foot of fall
in seven (7) feet of distance from the centerline of the street to the rear face of the proposed building, up
to ten (10) feet may be added to the rear building face, which is to be excluded from the height
measurement (Section 9-4.112).
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(4) Uninhabited Structures. The height limits specified in subsection (a) of this section do not
apply to the following structures (measurement of height is to be from the ground, as set forth in Section
9-4.112):
(i) Radio and television receiving antennas of the type customarily used for home radio and
television receivers, when fifty (50) feet or less in height.
(ii) Transmitting antennas used by licensed amateur (ham) radio operators when fifty (50) feet or
less in height.
(iii) Flagpoles fifty (50) feet or less in height.
(iv) Grain elevators, silos, water tanks, windmills, wind generators and all other similar structures
not containing residential uses and located in the A, RS, CR, CS, CPK, IP and I Zones.
(v) Chimneys no more than one hundred (100) feet in height located in the CPK, IP and I Zones
and all other chimneys and roof vents extending no more than two (2) feet above the height limit specified
in subsection (a) of this section.
(vi) Industrial towers, nonportable equipment and other uninhabited structures no more than sixty
(60) feet in height located in the CPK, IP and I Zones.
(vii) All portable construction equipment.
(viii) Public utility poles and structures for providing electrical and communications services.
(ix) Solar collectors not more than five (5) feet above the height limit specified in subsection (a) of
this section.
(x) Satellite receiving and similar communication dishes and devices in commercial and industrial
zones, when no more than ten (10) feet above the maximum height in the zone.
9-4.115 Off-street parking required.
All uses requiring an entitlement shall be provided off-street parking as set forth in this section,
except parking lots in the following situations:
(a) Compact Car Spaces. Lots with twenty (20) or more spaces may substitute compact car spaces
for up to twenty percent (20%) of the total number of spaces. Compact car spaces shall be a minimum of
eight (8) by fourteen (14) feet in size. Compact spaces shall be designated by painting the word
“compact” or similar, on the surface of the space.
(b) Motorcycle Parking. Lots with twenty (20) or more spaces may replace regular spaces with
motorcycle spaces at a ratio of one (1) motorcycle space for each twenty (20) spaces. Motorcycle spaces
shall be a minimum size of three (3) by six (6) feet. Motorcycle spaces shall be designated by painting the
word “motorcycle,” or similar, on the surface of the space.
(c) Bicycle Spaces. Lots with twenty (20) or more spaces may substitute a bicycle rack providing
space for at least five (5) bicycles at a ratio of one (1) bicycle rack for each twenty (20) spaces. It is
recommended that all shopping centers provide some bicycle spaces in the project.
(d) Parking District. Parking requirements may be modified within a parking district where the
district provides adequate parking within the limits of the district and the parking requirements of a new
use are accommodated by the parking district.
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(e) Shared On-Site Parking Adjustment. Where two (2) or more nonresidential uses are on a single
site, the number of parking spaces may be reduced through administrative use permit approval (Section 9-
1.112) at a rate of five percent (5%) for each separate use, up to a maximum of twenty percent (20%); as
long as the total number of spaces is not less than required for the use requiring the largest number of
spaces.
(f) Shared Peak-Hour Parking. In addition to the reduction of required parking allowed by
subsection (e) of this section, where two (2) or more uses have distinct and differing peak traffic usage
periods (for example, a theater and a bank), the required number of parking spaces may be reduced
through conditional use permit approval, provided that the parking lots of each use are located within
three hundred (300) feet of each other (as measured along the most direct pedestrian path). The amount of
reduction may be up to seventy-five percent (75%) of the amount of spaces required for the most
intensive of the two (2) or more uses sharing the parking.
(g) On-Street Parking Adjustment. Where a proposed driveway from a street to a new parking area
would eliminate on-street parking spaces equal to or greater in number than the off-street spaces required,
the requirement for off-street spaces may be eliminated through administrative use permit approval
(Section 9-1.112 of this title) where the access or proposed building cannot reasonably be redesigned to
avoid a net loss of parking.
(h) Planning Commission Modification. The parking standards of this title may be modified
through conditional use permit approval based upon specific findings of fact that the characteristics of a
use or its immediate vicinity do not necessitate the number of parking spaces, type of design, or
improvements required by this title and that reduced parking will be adequate to accommo date on the site
all parking needs generated by the use.
4.118 Required number of parking spaces.
All land uses requiring approval under this title shall provide off-street parking spaces as specified in
subsections (b) and (c) of this section:
(a) Use of Charts. The charts in subsection (c) of this section determine the number of parking
spaces required for each use of land, as follows:
(1) Uses Not Listed. For uses not specifically listed in this subsection that do not have parking
requirements set by Chapter 9-6, the same parking and loading space is required as for the most similar
use of equivalent intensity; except where a use not listed requires conditional use permit approval, in
which case the amount of parking and loading space required shall be as determined by the Planning
Commission.
(2) Parking and Loading Intensity. Parking lot and loading bay intensity describes the rate of
vehicle turnover in parking and loading areas. Turnover factors are assigned to each use by the charts in
subsection (c) of this section. High intensity areas have rapid turnover; medium intensity areas are those
where vehicles are parked from two (2) to four (4) hours; low intensity areas have minimum turnover and
few repeat users, such as long-term and employee parking lots. Loading bay intensity is used in Section 9-
4.121.
(3) Mixed Use Sites. Where a site contains more than one principal land use (such as a shopping
center), the amount of parking required shall be the total of that required for each individual use, except as
otherwise provided by Section 9-4.115.
City of Atascadero
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(4) Mixed Function Buildings. Where a building occupied by a single use contains several
functions, such as sales, office and storage areas, parking shall be as required for the principal use for the
gross floor area (total area of all internal functions); except that when storage areas are larger than two
thousand (2000) square feet, the parking requirement is to be determined separately for those areas, as
specified for warehousing.
(5) Terms Used in Charts.
(i) Active Use Area. All developed areas of a site and buildings except storage, parking and
landscaping.
(ii) Floor Area. Gross floor area within buildings.
(iii) Site Area. Gross site area.
(iv) Use Area. All developed areas of a site and buildings, except parking and landscaping.
(v) Number of Spaces. Where Section 9-4.118 (c) sets parking requirements based on building area
(square footage), site or use area, the number of spaces is to be as set forth for each footage increment
specified or fraction thereof.
(b) Company Vehicles. Commercial or industrial uses shall provide one parking space for each
company vehicle which is parked on the site during normal business hours. Such space may be located
within a building.
(c) Parking Requirements by Land Uses.
(1) Agricultural Uses. Except for the specific uses listed in this subsection, improved off -
street parking and loading spaces are not required for an agricultural use, as long as sufficient
usable area is provided to meet the parking needs of all employees, visitors and loading activities
entirely on the site of the use.
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot Intensity Loading Bay Intensity
Ag. Processing: Packing
and processing
1 per 1,000 s.f. of use
area
Low High
Wineries 1 per 1,000 s.f. of active
use area and 1 per 3,000
s.f. of storage, and 1 per
100 s.f. of tasting room
Low / Medium High
Animal husbandry, farm
equipment and supplies
1 per 500 s.f. of floor
area, and 1 per 1,000 s.f.
of outdoor use
Low Low
(2) Communication Uses. Broadcasting studios are to provide parking as required for offices (see
subdivision (8) of this subsection). Transmission facilities are not required to have identified spaces, as
long as sufficient usable area is provided to meet the parking needs of all employees entirely on the site of
the use.
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(3) Cultural, Educational, and Recreation Uses:
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Active Recreation
Facilities:
Amusement
parks/fairgrounds
1 per 75 s.f. of use
area
Medium Medium
Arcades (games) and
billiards
1 per 100 s.f. of
floor area
Medium N.A.
Bowling alleys 4 per lane Medium Low
Dance Clubs 1 per 25 s.f. of dance
floor
Medium N.A.
Dance studios 1 per 200 s.f. of
floor area
Low N.A.
Golf studios 5 per hole plus any
required for
clubhouse uses
Low N.A.
Golf driving ranges
(separate from golf
courses)
2 per tee Low N.A.
Miniature golf 2 per hole Medium N.A.
Skateboard parks 1 per 500 s.f. of use
area
Medium N.A.
Skating rinks 1 per 400 s.f. of use
area
Medium N.A.
Swimming pools
(public or member)
1 per 100 s.f. of pool
area, and 1 per 300
s.f. of deck area
Medium N.A.
Tennis courts,
racquetball
2 per court Medium N.A.
Libraries 1 per 500 s.f. Medium N.A.
Public Assembly:
Exhibit facilities
(including museums)
1 per 150 s.f. of
exhibit floor
High Low
Seated spectator
facilities (including a
church, theater, other
1 per 4 fixed seats,
or 1 per 40 s.f. of
spectator area if
High Low
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Ordinance No. 614
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auditoriums and
meeting halls, sports
assembly)
seats not fixed
Schools:
Preschools, day care As required by
Section 9-6.125.
Elementary and high
school
As required by
Section 9-6.125.
Business and
vocational
As required by
Section 9-6.125.
College and
University
As determined by
Planning
Commission
(4) Manufacturing and Processing Uses. Parking lot turnover is low; loading by intensity is
medium. Parking spaces are required as follows:
(i) One space per five hundred (500) square feet of active use area within a building; and
(ii) One space per one thousand (1000) square feet of storage area within a building; and
(iii) One space per two thousand (2000) square feet of outdoor active use area; and
(iv) One space per five thousand (5000) square feet of outdoor storage area.
(5) Residential Uses.
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Active Recreation
Facilities:
Single-family
dwellings (including
mobilehomes)
2 per dwelling,
except 1 per
dwelling is required
where the site is less
than 4,000 s.f. in
area
N.A. N.A.
Multifamily
dwellings (including
condominiums and
other attached
ownership
dwellings)
Residential Parking: Low N.A.
1 b.r. unit: 1.5
spaces
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
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2 b.r. unit: 2.0
spaces each
additional bedroom:
0.5 space
Guest Parking:
1 space per 5 units,
or fraction thereof
Group quarters
(including boarding
houses, rooming
houses, dormitories,
and organizational
houses)
1 per bed, plus Low N.A.
1 per eight beds
(6) Resource Extraction. No improved parking is required, provided that sufficient usable area is
available to accommodate all employee and visitor vehicles entirely on the site.
(7) Retail Trade Uses. Parking required for a retail use shall be a minimum of two (2) spaces for
each use or separate tenancy, except where more spaces are required as follows:
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Auto and vehicle
dealers
1 per 400 s.f. of
showroom, 2 per
service bay, 1 per
3,000 s.f. of outdoor
use area
Medium Medium
Building materials
and hardware,
nurseries
1 per 500 s.f. of
floor space, 1 per
3,000 s.f. of outdoor
use area
Medium Medium
Eating and Drinking
Places:
Restaurants and bars
(on-site
consumption. With
dancing facilities,
are also to meet
dance club parking
requirements)
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Customer Spaces: 1 per patron table, High Medium
1 per 2 counter
stools, plus
Employee Spaces: 1 per 6 tables, 1 per
100 s.f. of kitchen
Fast food (includes
drive-ins. If patron
tables provided, use
must also meet
restaurant customer
space requirement)
1 per 25 s.f. of
kitchen
High Medium
Food and beverage
retail sales
1 per 200 s.f. of
floor area, 1 per
checkstand
High Medium
Furniture, home
furnishings and
equipment
1 per 500 s.f. of
sales area, 1 per
1,000 s.f. of storage
area
Low Medium
General merchandise
stores
1 per 300 s.f. of
sales area, 1 per 600
s.f. of storage area
Medium Low
Mail order and
vending
1 per 1,000 s.f. of
use area
Low Low
(8) Service Uses. Parking required for a service use is to be a minimum of two (2) spaces for each use or
separate tenancy, except where more spaces are required as follows:
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Auto repair and
service
4 per service bay, 1
per 1,000 s.f. of
outdoor active use
area
Medium Low
Equipment rental 1 per 500 s.f. of
floor area, 1 per
2,000 s.f. of
outdoor use area
Medium Low
Copying and
reproduction
1 per 400 s.f. of
floor area
Medium Low
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Contract
construction
services
1 per 500 s.f. of
floor area
Low Low
Correctional
institutions
As determined by
Planning
Commission
Financial services
service desk
5 per teller
window, 3 per
High Low
Health care 1 space per 200 s.f.
of floor area
High Low
Hospitals 1 per bed, 1 per
office space
High Low
Laundries and Dry
Cleaning Plants:
1 per 1,000 s.f. of
floor area, plus 2
per office space
Low High
Pick-up 2 per check stand High Low
Offices:
Accounting,
advertising,
agencies,
architecture,
government,
insurance law
offices, real estate
1 per 400 s.f. Medium N.A.
Other offices 1 per 500 s.f. of
floor area
Low N.A.
Photography
studios,
commercial art
studios
1 per 400 s.f. of
floor area
Low N.A.
Post offices 5 per service
window, 1 per 500
s.f. of floor area
other than customer
area
High High
Personal Services:
Barbershops 2 per chair Medium N.A.
Beauty shops 3 per chair Medium N.A.
Dry Cleaners 1 per 500 s.f. of Medium Low
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floor area
Funeral and
crematory services
1 per 4 seats in
each assembly
room, 2 per office
or 1 per 40 s.f. of
floor area in
assembly rooms,
whichever is
greater
Medium Medium
Health spas 1 per 300 s.f. of
floor area
Medium N.A.
Laundromats 1 per 2 washers High N.A.
Other personal
services
1 per 500 s.f. of
floor area
Medium N.A.
Public safety
facilities
As determined by
Planning
Commission
Repair service
(consumer)
1 per 400 s.f. of
floor area
Low Low
Waste disposal site As determined by
Planning
Commission
(9) Transient Lodgings.
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Hotels, motels 2 spaces, plus 1 per
unit, plus 1 per 10
units
High Low
(10) Transportation Uses.
Use Parking Spaces
Required
Parking Lot
Intensity
Loading Bay
Intensity
Public utility
terminals
None, provided
sufficient usable area
is available to
accommodate all
employee and visitor
Low Low
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vehicles entirely on-
site
Transit stations and
terminals
1 per 20 s.f. of
waiting area, 1 per
300 s.f. of office
space; additional
spaces as required
for accessory uses
(restaurants, etc.)
High High
Truck stops 1 per 1,000 s.f. of
use area for first
5,000 s.f., 1 per
3,000 s.f. of use
thereafter
Medium High
Vehicle and freight
terminals
2 per loading bay, 1
per 300 s.f. of office
space
High High
Vehicle storage None, provided
sufficient usage area
is available to
accommodate all
employee and visitor
vehicles entirely on-
site
Low Low
(11) Wholesale
Trade.
Warehousing:
Commercial storage 1 per 2,000 s.f. of
use area for first
10,000 s.f., 1 per
5,000 s.f. of use area
thereafter
Low High
Ministorage 2 spaces for manager
office
Low Low
Wholesaling and
distribution
1 per 1,000 s.f. of
use area for first
10,000 s.f. of use
area, 1 per 3,000 s.f.
of use thereafter
Low High
City of Atascadero
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Page 51 of 87
9-4.119 Parking lot construction standards.
All parking areas containing three (3) or more off-street parking spaces are to be improved as
follows, except as otherwise provided by this section.
(a) Surfacing. All parking areas are to be surfaced with an asphalt, concrete, chip seal, or crushed
rock surface, as specified in the following chart or as required by property development standards listed in
this Code. Where concrete or asphalt is required, brick or other masonry paving units may be substituted,
including turf block.
Minimum Required Surface
Parking Lot Turnover
Location High Medium Low
Inside urban services line Asphalt or concrete Asphalt or concrete Asphalt or concrete
Outside urban services line Asphalt or concrete Asphalt or concrete Crushed rock or chip seal
(b) Lining and Marking. Parking spaces in paved parking areas shall be marked with paint striping,
a minimum of two (2) inches in width. Parking spaces in other types of lots may be identified by wheel
stop barriers.
(c) Wheel Stops. Wheel stops or continuous concrete or asphalt curbing are required in all parking
lots to define the perimeter of the parking area and to protect landscaping from vehicle encroachment. In
addition, wheel stops are required for each parking space in a high turnover parking lot. Wheel stops shall
be provided as follows:
(1) Materials and Installation. Wheel stops shall be constructed of concrete, continuous concrete
curbing, asphalt, timber, or other durable material not less than six (6) inches in height, or an approved
functional equivalent. Wheel stops are to be securely installed and maintained as a safeguard against damage
to adjoining vehicles, machinery or abutting property.
(2) Setback. Wheel stops or other vehicle barriers shall be located approximately three (3) feet
from the front of the parking space.
(3) Functional Equivalent. Wherever possible, functional equivalents in the form of raised
sidewalks or curbs surrounding planters or similar may be used in lieu of wheel stops.
(d) Vertical Clearance. Covered parking spaces are to have a vertical clearance of at least seven (7)
feet six (6) inches above the parking lot surface for all uses, except residential.
(e) Slope. The finished grade of a parking lot is not to exceed five percent (5%) slope,
unless approved by an administrative use permit (Section 9-1.112 of this title).
(f) Landscaping. A minimum of ten percent (10%) of the interior of all parking lots shall be
landscaped, in addition to any perimeter landscaping required by subsection (g) of this section. Shade
trees are to be provided at approximately thirty- (30) foot intervals along parking rows. Landscape fingers
shall be a minimum of six (6) feet wide shall be provided every eight (8) parking spaces. These
landscaping requirements do not apply to parking lots that are underground or within buildings.
(g) Screening.
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(1) From Residential Areas. Parking lots that abut a residential zone shall be separated from such
property by a landscaping strip with a minimum width of five (5) feet and a six- (6) foot high solid fence
or wall.
(2) From Streets. Parking lots abutting a public street shall be separated from the street ri ght-of-
way by a landscaping strip with a minimum width of ten (10) feet; and, where parking spaces are
arranged to head toward the street, by a minimum three- (3) foot high solid fence decorative wall or
landscape equivalent located on the parking lot side of the landscaping strip.
9-4.120 Off-site parking.
(a) Where it is not feasible to provide sufficient on-site parking, an administrative use permit
(Section 9-1.112) may be granted to allow the required parking to be located off-site, provided that:
(1) The most distant parking space is not more than four hundred (400) feet from the use; and
(2) The site of the parking lot is in the same ownership as the principal use, or is under a recorded
lease or similar agreement, with the use that provides that the parking will exist as long as the use it
serves, unless the parking is replaced with other spaces that satisfy the requirements of this title; and
(3) The site of the parking is not located in a residential zone unless the principal use requiring the
parking is allowable in a residential zone. Where any such principal use is subject to conditional use
permit approval, the off-site parking shall be subject to conditional use permit approval.
(b) Where off-site parking is a conditionally allowed use in a multiple family zoning district, the
following criteria and minimum design standards shall be applied:
(1) The site for the proposed off-site parking shall be adjacent to the commercial use;
(2) The off-site parking shall be maintained for employee use only and shall be supplemental to the
normally required parking provided on the commercial site;
(3) The off-site parking shall not be used to increase the density of commercial development
normally allowed;
(4) All vehicular access to the off-site parking area shall be from the commercial site. No access to
the off-site parking lot shall be taken from a residential street;
(5) A minimum of one-half (½) of the site shall be developed for residential use. The residential
use shall be so situated that the off-site parking lot is not visible form the street. A minimum of one-half
(½) of the allowable residential density shall be provided.
(6) The residential portion of the site shall be developed prior to use of the off-site parking facility;
(7) Site specific design standards such as landscaping, lighting, and security shall be established
through the conditional use permit process.
9-4.127 Landscaping plans.
The purpose of a landscaping plan is to identify the placement and type of plant materials as features
of project design. By detailing the plantings and method of irrigation proposed, a landscaping plan
provides an effective means for evaluating whether chosen plant materials will: survive in the climate and
soils of a given site; satisfy the functional objectives of landscaping (such as erosion control, screening
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and shade) within a reasonable time; and whether a proposed irrigation system will adequately support
landscaping while conserving water. Landscaping plans shall be prepared, processed and used as follows:
(a) Where Required. Landscaping plans are required for all approved precise plan and conditional
use permit applications prior to issuance of a building permit, except for:
(1) Residential projects of two (2) units or less;
(2) Agricultural uses not involving buildings and agricultural accessory buildings.
(b) Landscaping Plan Content. Landscaping plans are to be neatly and accurately drawn, at an
appropriate scale, that will enable ready identification and recognition of information submitted. Where a
project covers only a portion of a site, the landscaping plan need show only the areas where existing soil
contours and vegetation will be disturbed by construction or use, or other areas where landscaping is
required. Landscaping plans shall show:
(1) The location of all trees existing in or within fifty (50) feet of areas proposed for grading or
other construction that are eight (8) inches or larger in diameter at four (4) feet above natural grade. Trees
proposed to be removed are to be identified (refer to Section 9-11.105 for tree removal standards);
(2) Any shrubs or plants identified as rare, endangered or critical by the San Luis Obispo County
Native Plant Society;
(3) Proposed landscaping details, including the location, species, container size, and number of
trees, shrubs and groundcover, and provisions for irrigation;
(4) Details and location of proposed fencing, entries, trash collection areas and freestanding signs;
(5) Walkways, plazas and sitting areas, play areas, including related street furniture and permanent
outdoor equipment;
(6) Outdoor light fixtures, including their location, height and wattage;
(7) Irrigation system details, where an automatic irrigation system is proposed or required.
Irrigation plan details shall include:
(i) A plan and schedule of equipment, including gate valve, backflow preventer, control valves,
piping, sprinkler heads, meter size and location,
(ii) Water source, including type, size of service connection, flow in gallons per minute (GPM),
static water pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI), and maximum pressure in PSI required to operate
the irrigation circuit with the greatest pressure loss in the system.
(c) Landscaping Plan Review and Approval.
(1) Timing of Review. Landscaping plans shall be reviewed and approved prior to the issuance of a
building permit which they accompany.
(2) Method of Review. Planning Department review of landscaping and irrigation plans will be by
a registered landscape architect or other
person(s) designated by the Planning Director; provided, however, that when the landscaping plans are
prepared by a landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor or nurseryman, the landscape plan review
will be limited to an evaluation of landscaping impacts on adjoining properties and public ways,
verification of plant material placement, the adequacy of irrigation proposals, and compliance with
applicable provisions of this title.
(3) Criteria for Approval. Landscaping and irrigation plans shall be approved when:
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(i) The proposed plant and materials will survive in the climate and soils of the site;
(ii) The proposed plant materials and their planned locations will satisfy the landscaping
requirements of Section 9-4.127 of this chapter (e.g., screening, shade, maintenance of permeable soil);
(iii) The proposed means of irrigation will adequately support the landscaping materials proposed.
9-4.128 Fencing and screening.
Standards for fencing and screening are established by this section to protect certain uses from
intrusion, to protect the public from uses that may be hazardous, and to increase compatibility between
different land uses by visual screening. Fencing is the enclosure of an area by the materials identified in
subsection (c) of this section. Screening is the enclosure of an area by a visual barrier, which may include
solid fencing or other materials, as specified in subsection (c) of this section.
(a) Fencing and Screening—Where Required. Within the urban services line, the uses and areas
listed in this subsection shall be fenced and/or screened, as indicated. Unless otherwise specified, fencing
and screening are to be a minimum height of six (6) feet. Fencing and screening materials of a height
greater than three (3) feet shall not be located within a required front setback or side setback adjacent to a
street.
(1) Mechanical Equipment. When located outside of a building, support equipment, including air
conditioning and heating devices, but not including plumbing or exhaust vents, or chimneys, shall be
screened to the height of the particular piece of equipment, as follows:
(i) Roof-Mounted Equipment. To be screened by architectural features from the view of abutting
streets.
(ii) Equipment at Grade. When located on the ground adjacent to a building, mechanical equipment
shall be screened by landscaping, a solid wall or fencing from the view of the street or surrounding
properties.
This subsection does not apply to single-family residential uses.
(2) Outdoor Storage. To be screened on all sides by a wall or fencing.
(3) Public Utility Substations. To be screened on all sides in a manner that will provide an effecti ve
visual barrier as well as the necessary safety clearances required by order of the California Public Utilities
Commission.
(4) Side and Rear Lot Lines. The side and rear property lines of all nonresidential uses are to be
screened as follows:
(i) Adjacent to a Residential Use or Zone. A solid wall or fencing shall be located on side and rear
property lines of any nonresidential or nonagricultural use abutting a residential use or zone.
(5) Swimming Pools. Yard areas with private swimming pools are to be fenced to discourage
unsupervised access and use by small children. Such fencing is to be constructed per building code
requirements.
(b) Exceptions to Fencing and Screening Requirements.
(1) Buildings Abutting Property Lines. Required screening or fencing may be omitted along any
lot line where a building wall exists immediately abutting the lot line.
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(2) Location Adjustment. Where property fencing or screening is required, the location may be
adjusted by approval of an administrative use permit (refer to Section 9-1.112 of this title), so the fencing
may be constructed at or within the setback line, provided the areas between the fence and the property
lines are landscaped, or in rural areas, retained in their natural vegetative state.
(3) Planning Commission Modification. Any of the requirements of this section may be waived or
modified through conditional use permit approval, provided the Planning Commission first finds that
specifically identified characteristics of the site or site vicinity would make required fencing or screening
unnecessary or ineffective.
(c) Standards for Fencing and Screening Materials. All fencing and screening shall be allowed as
follows:
(1) Height. Fence and screen height shall be permitted as follows:
(i) RS/RR/RSF-Z/RSF-Y (with one (1) acre net or larger) Zones.
a. Fencing within a required front or corner yard setback may be up to five (5) feet in height,
provided that the top two (2) feet remain a minimum of eighty percent (80%) visibility. The fence shall
not impair safe sight distance for vehicular traffic nor result in any other potential adverse impact on
human health and safety (refer to engineering standard: Minimum Sight Distance for Driveways and
Intersecting Roads with Stop Control).
b. Fencing associated with agriculture type activities including, but not limited to, “deer fencing”
and other fencing that is a minimum of eighty percent (80%) visible may be up to seven (7) feet in height.
Chain link fencing, wrought iron fencing, and any other decorative type of fencing is not considered
“agriculture” type fencing for the purposes of this subsection.
c. Fencing within a required side or rear setback may be a maximum of six (6) feet in height.
(ii) RSF-Y (less than one (1) acre net) /RSF-X/LSF-Z/LSF-Y/LSF-X/RMF-10/RMF-20.
a. Fencing within a required front or corner yard setback can be a maximum of four (4) feet in
height.
b. Fencing within a required side or rear yard setback shall be a maximum of six (6) feet in height.
(iii) Gateposts and other superstructures over site entrances and exits may be up to twelve (12) feet
in height.
(iv) Height Measurement. Fencing and screening materials shall be measured from the finished
grade of the uphill lot.
(2) The Design Review Committee (DRC) may grant an exemption to the front setback fencing
requirement to a maximum of six (6) feet in height if proposed fence would be consistent with the
neighborhood character and does not impair site distance for vehicular traffic, as reviewed by the City
Engineer.
(3) Permit to Exceed Height. A minor conditional use permit approval is required where fencing is
proposed to be greater than six (6) feet in height within or outside any required setback, with the
exception of fencing described in subsection (c)(1)(i)(b).
(4) Screening Materials Substitution. Where screening is required to be a solid wall or fence, the
following materials may be substituted through adjustment (see Section 9-1.112 of this title), except
where screening is required adjacent to a residential use or zone:
(i) Landscape Screen. Screening plant materials may be substituted for a wall or fence, where:
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a. Proposed plant materials are certified in writing by a registered landscape architect as having
the capability of achieving sixty percent (60%) of total view blockage within eighteen (18) months of
planting, and one hundred percent (100%) of total view blockage within thirty-six (36) months of
planting; and
b. The applicant agrees in writing to install solid fencing after the expiration of thirty-six (36)
months, in the event that the landscaping has not totally blocked the view of areas required to be screened.
(ii) Berms. A landscaped berm may be substituted for a wall or fence, provided that the
combination of berm and landscaping is no less than the required height of the fence or wall, and that the
berm is constructed with a maximum slope of three to one (3:1), with side slopes designed and planted to
prevent erosion, and with a rounded surface a minimum of two (2) feet in width at the highest poi nt of the
berm, extending the length of the berm. The berm shall be planted with shrubs, lawn or groundcover.
(iii) Chain-Link Fencing. Vinyl-coated, chain-link fencing with evergreen landscape screen
planting may be substituted for a solid wall or fence in commercial and industrial zones, except where
screening fencing is required adjacent to residential uses and zones.
9-6.105 Home occupations.
An accessory use of a dwelling unit for gainful employment involving the manufacture, provision, or
sale of goods or services is subject to the standards of this section.
(a) Appearance, Visibility and Location. The standards of this section determine what physical
changes may occur in a dwelling unit to accommodate a home occupation and where on a residential site
a home occupation may be conducted.
(1) Changes to the Dwelling. The home occupation is not to change the residential character of the
outside appearance of the building, either:
(i) By the use of colors, materials, lighting, signs or by the construction of accessory structures or
garages visible from off-site and not of similar character as the residence; or
(ii) By the emission of noise, glare, flashing lights, vibrations or odors not commonly experienced
in residential areas.
(2) Display of Products. The display of home occupation products for sale, in a manner visible
from the public street or adjoining properties, is prohibited.
(3) Outdoor Activities. On sites of less than one (1) acre, the use shall be conducted entirely within
a principal or accessory structure except instructional activities that may be performed outdoors. Outdoor
storage of materials related to the home occupation is allowed only on one (1) acre or larger
(except as otherwise provided by Section 9-6.103), where such storage is to be screened from view of any
street or adjacent property.
(4) Use of Garage or Accessory Structure. The use of a garage or accessory structure is allowed
subject to Section 9-6.106, except that the conduct of the home occupation shall not preclude the use of
the garage for vehicle parking.
(b) Area Devoted to a Home Occupation. The home occupation shall be incidental and subordinate
to the principal use of the site as a residence.
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(c) Employees. No person other than members of the household residing on the premises may be
employed and working on the site, except that employees, including independent contractors, partners,
and similar employee-type relationships, may be permitted through administrative use permit approval
(refer to Section 9-1.112) as follows:
(1) The number of employees shall be unlimited, if the following criteria can be complied with:
(i) The employees do not work at or report to the site of the home occupation during, or
immediately before or after, the normal operating hours of the business.
(ii) No additional vehicles, equipment, or outside storage shall occur at the residence as a result of
the increased number of employees.
(2) A maximum of two employees, if the following criteria can be complied with:
(i) No additional client vehicles are generated to the premises as a result of the increased number
of employees.
(ii) The function of the employees in working on the site is to provide direct service to the
employee rather than to the clients of the business.
(iii) It is necessary for the operation of the business to have the employees working at the site of the
home occupation.
(iv) Any additional vehicles, equipment, or outside storage can be maintained on the site in
compliance with subsection (a) of this section.
(v) The allowance of employees will not have any adverse effect on the surrounding residential
area.
(d) Hours of Operation. Hours of operation are unrestricted except that home occupations which
generate sounds audible from off-site shall be limited to the hours from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., provided
that such home occupation complies with the standards of Chapter 9-14.
(e) Limits on the Kinds of Home Occupations Allowable. Subject to all of the standards of this
section, allowable home occupations consist of:
(1) Office-type personal or business services (including personal instruction such as music lessons
or contracting services not involving on-site storage of materials or equipment) that do not involve the
presence of more than one client vehicle at any one time;
(2) Handcraft or artwork production, including but not limited to pottery and ceramics, artistic
glass or metalwork, electronic components, woodcarving and woodworking (except for mass-production
operations such as cabinet shops), antique furniture restoration, painting and photography, except when
such use involves on-site use of equipment requiring more than standard household electrical current at
110 or 220 volts or that produces noise (refer to Chapter 9-14), dust, odor or vibration detrimental to
occupants of adjoining dwellings.
(3) The personal sale of cosmetics, personal or household products (except appliances), or other
goods or products; when such sales occur on the premises of the purchaser, provided that wholesale sales
may occur pursuant to subsection (f) of this section, or occur off the premises in some other approved
location.
(f) Sale of Products. On-site retail sales of the products of a home occupation are prohibited,
except:
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(1) Garage sales or the sale of handcrafted items and artwork produced on-site are allowed not
more than twice per year, for a maximum of two days per sale; and
(2) Home distributors of cosmetics and personal or household products may supply other approved
home occupation proprietors.
(g) Signing. One identification sign with a maximum area of two square feet may be erected
pursuant to Chapter 9-15. A commercial vehicle carrying any sign identifying the home occupation and
parked on or adjacent to the residential site visible from the public street is included in determining the
maximum allowable area of on-site fixed signs.
(h) Parking and Traffic. Traffic generated by a home occupation is not to exceed the volume
normally expected for a residence in a residential neighborhood. All parking needs of the home
occupation are to be met off the street. For purposes of this section, normal residential traffic volume
means up to ten (10) trips per day. This subsection does not apply to garage or handcraft sales pursuant to
subsection (f)(1) of this section.
9-6.106 Residential accessory uses.
The standards of this section apply to the specific types of residential accessory structures listed.
Agricultural accessory structures for the keeping of animals are subject to Section 9-6.109.
(a) Swimming Pools. Swimming pools, including hot tubs, spas, and related equipment, may be
located within any required side or rear setback, provided that they are no closer than eighteen (18) inches
to a property line (additional setbacks may be required by the adopted building code), and provided that
they are fenced as required by Section 9-4.128.
(b) Detached Accessory Structures. Any detached accessory structure intended for residential
accessory uses and accessory storage.
(1) Limits on Use. An accessory structure may be constructed or used solely for noncommercial
hobbies or amusements; for maintenance of the principal structure or yards; for artistic endeavors such as
painting, photography or sculpture; maintenance or mechanical work on vehicles owned or operated by
the occupants; for an approved home occupation; or for other similar purposes.
(2) Floor Area. The gross floor area of a detached accessory structure is not to exceed fifty percent
(50%) of the gross floor area of the principal structure.
(3) Residential accessory structures one hundred twenty (120) square feet or less are exempt from
requiring a permit if the structure is incidental to the primary use and meets the following requirements:
(i) The structure does not create a nuisance;
(ii) The use of the structure is permitted under its zoning;
(iii) The structure meets the property’s rear and side yard minimum setback requirement of three
(3) feet if the structure is less than twelve (12) feet in height;
(iv) If the structure is more than twelve (12) feet in height, standard setback shall be required
regardless of exemption;
(v) The accessory structure is located outside of the required front yard setback;
(vi) A minimum six (6) feet of separation is required between accessory structures regardless of
exemption, unless otherwise noted by the adopted Building Code. If the accessory structures have less
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than a six (6) foot setback, the aggregate area of the buildings shall be considered one (1) building and
shall require a building permit.
(4) Number of Structures. The number of non-exempt accessory structures requiring a building
permit shall be limited to two (2) structures.
(c) Mini-bike, motorcycle, dirt bike or similar two (2) or more wheel motor vehicle riding is
allowed subject to the following limitations:
(1) No more than two (2) such vehicles shall be operating at the same time.
(2) Operation is limited to a maximum of two (2) hours in a day—Limit applies even if only one
(1) such vehicle is being operated.
(3) Operation is limited to a maximum of eight (8) hours in a week.
(i) This limit applies even if only one (1) such vehicle is operated;
(ii) A week shall be measured from Monday through Sunday.
(4) Notwithstanding the above, no such use shall be allowed prior to noon on Sundays.
(5) Any violations to the above-mentioned limitations are subject to cost recovery for responses to
disturbances, as listed in Section 9-14.14.
(d) Exceptions to Accessory Structure Standards.
(1) Detached accessory structures that deviate from requirements are subject to the approval of a
minor conditional use permit.
(2) Any detached accessory structure in excess of the two (2) structures permitted or when multiple
exempt accessory structures (less than one hundred twenty (120) square feet) are constructed on the
premises that are no longer accessory uses to the primary unit as determined by the Community
Development Director is subject to the approval of a minor conditional use permit.
9-6.108 Agricultural uses: Specialized.
Specialized agricultural uses other than crop production are subject to the provisions of the following
sections:
9-6.109 Agricultural accessory buildings.
9-6.110 Animal hospitals.
9-6.111 Kennels.
9-6.112 Farm animal raising.
9-6.113 Interim agricultural uses.
9-6.115 Livestock specialties.
9-6.116 Horticultural specialties.
9-6.117 Agricultural produce stands.
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9-6.110 Animal hospitals.
Animal husbandry facilities, including animal and veterinary hospitals, are subject to the following
standards:
(a) Building Setbacks. Any building used to treat or board animals shall comply with the following
additional setbacks. Any other buildings shall comply with the setbacks established for the particular
zoning district in which the use is located.
(1) A and RS Zone. Setbacks shall be the same as for agricultural accessory buildings (Section 9-
6.109) provided that the front setback may be reduced to twenty-five (25) feet and the rear setback may
be reduced to ten (10) feet, if there are no door or window openings along the common property line with
the adjacent residential use.
(2) Commercial Zones. None.
(b) Outside Animal Enclosures. Any outside animal enclosures which are accessory to animal
husbandry facilities shall have a one hundred (100) foot setback from adjacent property for any
enclosures used for boarding of large animals and shall have a twenty-five (25) foot setback for any
outside areas used for short-term treatment activity. Boarding of small animals in outside enclosures shall
not be permitted.
(c) Noise Control. As provided by Section 9-4.163.
(d) Access. Shall be from a paved road.
(e) Operation. The premises shall be continuously maintained in a clean and sanitary condition by
daily removal of waste and by the use of spray and disinfectants to prevent the accumulation of flies, the
spread of disease or offensive odor. Incineration is not permitted.
9-6.112 Farm animal raising.
The raising or keeping of animals incidental to a residential use is allowed subject to the standards of this
section, provided that these standards do not apply to domesticated household pets such as cats and dogs.
(a) Minimum Site Area. The minimum site area of a parcel used for farm animal raising shall be as
specified in this subsection, unless a smaller site area is allowed as set forth in subsection (h) of this
section. Adjacent parcels may be used to achieve the minimum site area by administrative use permit
approval (Section 9-1.112) provided that there is a written agreement with the owner of the adjacent
parcel(s); that said adjacent property is accessible for use by the animals for corrals, pens, pasturing or
similar activity; that said adjacent property is not necessary to comply with minimum site area or animal
density requirements for animals on its own site; and that any such adjustment shall only be valid for the
duration of the agreement.
(1) Large Animals.
(i) Horses, burros, donkeys, and similar equines: One acre.
(ii) Cows, steer, and similar bovines: One acre.
(iii) Pigs and swine: One acre.
(2) Small Animals.
(i) Goats, sheep and similar ovines: One-half acre.
(ii) Poultry (and similar ground birds): None.
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(iii) Rabbits (and other noncarnivorous animals of similar size): None.
(iv) Turkeys: One-half acre.
(v) Birds (including pigeons and other caged birds): None.
(b) Setbacks. All buildings used to house farm animals including livestock and poultry buildings,
barns, stables, lofts, coops, and similar accessory structures are subject to the setback requirements of
Section 9-6.109. All other animal enclosures including corrals, pens, feed areas, paddocks, uncovered
stables and similar enclosures are subject to the setback requirements of this subsection. The occasional
grazing of domestic animals in these setbacks is allowed provided that the pasture area is adequately
fenced or that the grazing animal is securely restrained. Setbacks shall be measured from the nearest
building used for residential purposes on adjacent property. Animals may be maintained at lesser setbacks
when they were established prior to the residence on the adjacent property provided that the animals are
continuously in compliance with subsection (c) of this section. If the animals are not so maintained, they
may be required to comply with these setbacks.
(1) Large Animals.
(i) Equines: Fifty (50) feet.
(ii) Bovines: Fifty (50) feet.
(iii) Swine: One hundred (100) feet.
(2) Small Animals.
(i) Ovines: Fifty (50) feet.
(ii) Poultry: Twenty-five (25) feet.
(iii) Rabbits: Twenty-five (25) feet.
(iv) Turkeys: Fifty (50) feet.
(v) Birds: None.
(c) Maintenance. All buildings housing domestic animals, all animal enclosures, and all pasture
areas shall be maintained free from litter, garbage and the accumulation of manure. Premises shall be
maintained in a neat and sanitary manner. If farm animals are not maintained in compliance with these
standards, or are otherwise allowed to become a nuisance, the Planning Department shall initiate
enforcement proceedings as provided by Chapter 9-8.
(d) Special Requirements. The keeping of specific domestic animals is subject to the special
standards in this subsection in addition to other standards set forth in this section.
(1) Equines. None.
(2) Bovines. None.
(3) Swine. The maximum number of swine allowed on any parcel is three (3) sows and one boar. A
greater number of swine constitute a hog ranch which is not permitted in any zoning district.
(4) Ovine. None.
(5) Poultry. All poultry shall be contained in coops or pens and not be allowed to run free on a site.
The maximum number of poultry allowed on any parcel is forty (40) (two animal equivalency units). A
greater number of poultry constitute a chicken ranch and shall be subject to Section 9-6.115 if allowed by
a particular zoning district.
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(6) Rabbits. All rabbits shall be contained in coops or pens and not be allowed to run free on a site.
The maximum number of rabbits allowed on any parcel is forty (40) (two animal equivalency units). A
greater number of rabbits constitute a rabbit farm and shall be subject to Section 9-6.115 if allowed by a
particular zoning district.
(7) Turkeys. All turkeys shall be contained in coops or pens and not be allowed to run free on a
site. The maximum number of turkeys allowed on any parcel is eight (8) (four animal equivalency units).
A greater number of turkeys constitute a turkey ranch and shall be subject to Section 9-6.115 if allowed
by a particular zoning district.
(8) Birds. None.
(e) Establishment of Animal Equivalency Units. Animal equivalency units are established in this
subsection in order to define relationships among domestic animals of various sizes for use in determining
allowable animal density.
(1) Large Animals.
(i) Equines: Each equine equals one animal equivalency unit.
(ii) Bovines: Each bovine equals one animal equivalency unit.
(iii) Swine: Each swine equals one animal equivalency unit.
(2) Small Animals.
(i) Ovine: Two (2) ovine equal one animal equivalency unit.
(ii) Twenty (20) poultry equal one animal equivalency unit.
(iii) Rabbits: Twenty (20) rabbits equal one animal equivalency unit.
(iv) Turkeys: Two (2) turkeys equal one animal equivalency unit.
(v) Birds: Not applicable.
(f) Allowable Animal Density. The maximum allowable animal density for a site is established by
this subsection, unless a larger number is allowed as set forth in subsection (h) of this section.
(1) A Zone. No density limitations.
(2) RS Zone. Three (3) animal equivalency units per acre, provided that, for the first two (2) acres,
no more than one large animal shall be allowed for each full half acre.
(3) RSF Zone. Two (2) animal equivalency units per acre, provided that no more than one large
animal shall be allowed for each full half acre.
(g) Method of Calculating Animal Density. The method of calculating animal density is
established by this subsection. The lot size (in gross acres) is multiplied by the allowable animal density
(in animal equivalency units per acre) for the particular zoning district. The product is the maximum
number of animal equivalency units allowed on the site. As an example, a 1.9 acre parcel in the RS Zone
would allow 5.7 animal equivalency units which can be rounded off to six (6) as provided by Section 9-
1.109(b)(4). This would allow two (2) equivalency units for large animals and four (4) equivalency units
for small animals.
(1) Birds. Birds shall not be restricted as to density and shall not affect the allowable animal
density on a parcel.
(2) Fraction of an Equivalency Unit. Since rounding off to whole numbers is provided for (Section
9-1.109), there will be no fractional equivalency units. Small animal equivalency units may not be divided
between the various small animal subcategories. For example, ten (10) rabbits does not equal 0.5 animal
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equivalency units and ten (10) rabbits and ten (10) poultry do not add together as one animal equivalency
unit.
(3) Unweaned Offsprings. Unweaned offsprings are permitted and shall not affect the allowable
animal density on a parcel.
(h) Modification of Certain Standards. The minimum site area and allowable animal density
standards set forth in this section may be adjusted through administrative use permit approval (refer to
Section 9-1.112) subject to compliance with the criteria set forth in this section, except that these
standards may also be modified through conditional use permit approval (refer to Section 9-2.110) if these
criteria cannot be satisfied. The setback, maintenance and special requirements standards may not be
modified by administrative use permit or conditional use permit.
(1) Youth Projects. An adjustment not to exceed one additional animal equivalency unit per acre or
an adjustment to reduce the minimum site area by no more than twenty-five (25) percent may be granted
for a youth project sponsored by a recognized organization, subject to the following criteria:
(i) The project is for a limited duration with a known termination date at which time the project
animal will be removed from the site and the site brought into conformance with all applicable standards;
and
(ii) There is an adult project supervisor who has reviewed and approved, in writing, the project and
who can take corrective action if necessary regarding the project; and
(iii) All other standards of the section including setbacks, maintenance and special standards
applicable to the project are and will be continuously satisfied; and
(iv) The site otherwise conforms to the standards set forth in the section; and
(v) All animals maintained on the site are owned by the residents of the premises; and
(vi) The youth involved in the project has demonstrated in prior adjustments, if applicable, the
responsibility to maintain the project in a satisfactory manner.
(2) Small-scale Breeding. An adjustment not to exceed one animal equivalency unit for each of the
first two (2) acres and two (2) animal equivalency units for each remaining acre may be granted for small-
scale breeding for commercial purposes which does not exceed the special standards of subsection (d) of
this section, subject to the following criteria:
(i) The site is located outside the urban services line; and
(ii) The site contains a minimum of three (3) acres; and
(iii) Secure enclosures are provided for any stud animals; and
(iv) Setbacks for any agricultural accessory buildings and animal enclosures are one hundred (100)
feet from adjacent property lines; and
(v) A business license and home occupation permit (Section 9-6.105) can be secured.
(i) Other Animals. Domestic animals not specified in this section shall be reviewed by the
Planning Director and shall be placed in the category which the animals most closely resemble.
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9-6.117 Agricultural produce stands.
These standards apply to the retail sale of agricultural products except hay, grain and feed, in open
structures constructed for agricultural product merchandising. Temporary or seasonal sales are also
subject to Section 9-6.174.
(a) Limitation on Use.
(1) Residential Zones. Where stands are permitted, all products sold must be grown on the site of
the stand, on adjacent contiguous parcels, or on other agricultural parcels in the city owned or leased by
the owner of the site on which the stand is located. Permanent roadside stands are not allowed.
(2) A Zone. At least fifty (50) percent of all products for sale must be grown on the site of the
stand, on adjacent contiguous parcels, or on other agricultural parcels in the city owned or leased by the
owner of the site on which the stand is located.
(3) Temporary Stands. A temporary roadside stand is a facility where retail sales are conducted for
a period less than sixty (60) days. A temporary stand maintained for a period greater than sixty (60) days
which is in a vacant or unused condition for a period exceeding fourteen (14) days is to be entirely
removed from the site or shall be authorized as a permanent stand. It may be reestablished at any time
pursuant to this section. Reestablishment of a temporary stand previously authorized does not require a
new permit in an A Zone, provided that all structures and parking areas are exactly as originally
approved, and a building permit is obtained if required by the building and construction ordinance (Title 8
of this code).
(b) Location. A roadside stand in a residential zone is to be located on a collector or arterial, at
least two hundred (200) feet from any residence other than that of the applicant.
(c) Sales Area. To be limited to five hundred (500) square feet.
(d) Setbacks.
(1) Temporary Stand. None required, except when parking is proposed in front of a stand, setbacks
are to be adequate to assure safe parking for at least three (3) vehicles in front of or nearby the stand,
outside the public road right-of-way.
(2) Permanent Stand.
(i) Front Setback. Twenty-five (25) feet.
(ii) Side and Rear Setbacks. Twenty-five (25) feet.
(e) Parking. Temporary stands are to provide three (3) off-street spaces. Permanent stands are to
provide five (5) spaces, located in off-street area accessed by a driveway a minimum of eighteen (18) feet
wide. The parking area for a permanent stand is to be surfaced with crushed rock or better.
9-6.140 Storage yards.
Outdoor storage yards, excluding the storage of vehicles in a day use parking lot or garage, are
subject to the provisions of this section. The storage of vehicles in a public or commercial parking lot or
garage is subject to Section 9-4.114; the storage of wrecked, abandoned or vehicles being dismantled, is
subject to Section 9-6.131, in addition to this section.
(a) Site Design Standards.
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(1) Access. There shall be only one (1) access point to a storage yard for each three hundred (300)
feet of street frontage. Such access point is to be a maximum width of twenty (20) feet and shall be
provided with a solid gate or door.
(2) Screening. A storage yard, except a temporary offsite construction yard, is to be screened from
public view on all sides by solid wood, painted metal or masonry fencing, with a minimum height of six
(6) feet. All required screening shall be continuously maintained in good condition to assure that its
intended purpose is accomplished. This requirement may be waived through administrative use permit
approval (Section 9-1.112), when:
(i) The side of a storage yard abuts a railroad right-of-way; or
(ii) The surrounding terrain, existing vegetation intended to remain or other conditions would make
fencing ineffective or unnecessary for the purpose of screening the storage yard from the view of public
roads.
(3) Parking Requirement. None, provided that sufficient usable area is available to accommodate
all employee and user parking needs entirely on-site.
(4) Site Surfacing. A storage yard shall be surfaced with concrete, asphalt paving, crushed rock, or
oiled earth, and be maintained in a dust-free condition.
(5) Office Facilities. When no buildings exist or are proposed on a storage yard site, one (1)
commercial coach may be utilized for an office, provided that such vehicle is equipped with skirting, and
installed pursuant to the permit requirements of Title 8 of this code (the Building and Construction
Ordinance).
(b) Operation. Except for vehicles or freestanding equipment, materials within a storage yard are
not to be stacked or stored higher than six (6) feet, unless screening requirements have been waived or
modified pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(ii) of this section, or unless a higher wall or fence is constructed at
the required setback line under an approved building permit.
9-9.102 General definitions.
A-weighted sound level. The sound level in decibels as measured on a sound level meter using the
A-weighting network. The level so read is designated “db(A)” or “dbA.”
Above grade. Any elevation higher than the natural ground contour.
Access. The safe, adequate, usable means of vehicular or pedestrian entrance or exit to a site.
Agriculture. The science and art of farming, producing crops, floriculture, horticulture and animal
husbandry.
Agricultural accessory building. An uninhabited structure, designed and built to store farming
animals, implements, supplies, or products (not including commercial greenhouses or buildings for
agricultural processing activities), which is not used by the public.
Agricultural products. Food and fibre in their raw, unprocessed state (except for such field
processing that may occur in conjunction with harvesting) and ornamental plant materials.
Air contaminant. Any combination of smoke, charred paper, dust, soot, carbon, noxious acids,
fumes, gases, or particulate matter.
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Ambient noise level. The composite of all noises from all sources near and far. In this context, the
ambient noise level is the normal or existing level of environmental noise at a given location.
Apartment. A room or flat occupied or designed to be occupied by one (1) family for living or
sleeping purposes with cooking facilities.
Apartment house or multiple dwelling unit. A building or portion of a building designed or used
for occupancy by three (3) or more families living independently of each other and containing three (3) or
more dwelling units.
Appeal, scope of. The matters to be heard on appeals filed pursuant to this title shall be confined to
the project as proposed to the original or first decision maker, without change. However, the applicant, or
person appearing on appeal, shall not be prevented from submitting information concerning the
unchanged proposal which had not been submitted with the original proposal.
Arcade. Any site or business providing in part or as a whole, an amusement service consisting of
coin-operated games or devices, where more than five (5) coin-operated games or devices are present or
where more than twenty-five (25) percent of the public area is used for the placement or operation of such
games or devices.
Archeological resource. Any Native American or pre-Columbian artifact or human remains.
Basement. That portion of a building between the floor and ceiling that is partly below and partly
above grade so located that the vertical distance from grade to the floor below is less than the vertical
distance from grade to ceiling.
Billboard. See “Sign, off-premises.”
Boardinghouse. A boardinghouse is a structure where lodging and meals are furnished for
compensation to at least five (5) persons.
Buildable area (developable area). The area of the site in which structures may be located, not
including required yard areas (see Figure 9-A).
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Building. Any structure having a roof supported by columns and/or walls and intended for shelter,
housing, and/or enclosure of any person, animal or chattel, but not including tents or mobilehomes.
Building, accessory. A detached subordinate building the use of which is incidental to that of a main
building on the same lot.
Building and construction ordinance. Title 8 of this code.
Building face. The exterior walls of a building extending vertically from the building line.
Building height. The vertical distance from the average level of the highest and lowest point of that
portion of the lot or building site covered by the building to the topmost point of the structure, excluding
chimneys or vents (see Figure 9-B).
Building, main or principal. A building where the principal use of its lot and or building site is
conducted.
Building site. The area within a lot of record (or contiguous lots under single ownership) actually
proposed for development with buildings or structures, including areas immediately adjacent to the
buildings or structures to an extent equivalent to any required setback areas.
Carport. A permanent roofed structure with not more than two (2) enclosed sides, which is used or
intended to be used for automobile shelter or storage.
Channel. The area occupied by the normal flow of an intermittent of perennial stream during
nonflood conditions.
Combustible liquid. Any liquid having a flash point at or above one hundred (100) degrees
Fahrenheit and below two hundred (200) degrees Fahrenheit, including, but not limited to, diesel fuel,
kerosene and Jet A.
Commercial coach. A vehicle, with or without motive power, including any mobilehome or
recreational vehicle, designed and equipped for human occupancy.
Commission. The Planning Commission of the City.
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Common wall development. Two (2) residences on adjoining lots, constructed so that they abut
each other at their common property line (see Figure 9-C).
Communication towers. Any tower or other structure erected for the purpose of radio, television or
microwave transmission or line-of-sight relay devices.
Community sewer system. A sewage effluent collection network, treatment and disposal facilities
provided within a prescribed service boundary, which results in the primary, secondary, or tertiary
treatment of such effluent.
Community water system. A water storage and distribution network for the provision of potable
water to the public for human consumption within a prescribed service boundary, operated and
maintained by the Atascadero Mutual Water Company.
Construction. Any site preparation, assembly, erection, substantial repair, alteration or similar
action, for or of rights-of-way, structures, utilities or similar property.
Construction permit. Any or all of the various entitlements established by Title 8 of this code that
authorize commencement of construction activities, including but not limited to building permits, grading
permits, electrical and plumbing permits, demolition permits and moving permits.
Convalescent hospital. A place or institution which provides for bed care or for chronic
convalescent care for two (2) or more persons, exclusive of relatives, who by reason of illness or physical
infirmity are unable to care for themselves.
Council. The City Council of the City.
County. The County of San Luis Obispo.
Coverage. Site or lot coverage means the extent of a lot of record occupied by structures and paving.
Crop production. Includes the following crop types and activities and further defined as indicated:
(a) Specialty Crops. Strawberries, herb crops, flower seed and cut flower crops (open field), kiwi
vines, edible pod peas, bushberry crops, Christmas trees and other outdoor ornamentals, intensive
horticulture, sod farms, clover seed, hops, and wholesale nurseries (see separate definition).
(b) Row Crops. All vegetable truck crops except edible pod peas. Includes lima and snap beans.
(c) Orchards. All fruit and nut tree crops. Does not include kiwi, berry, or other vine crops.
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(d) Field Crops. Beans other than snap or lima beans, barley, oats, safflower, wheat, grain and hay
including alfalfa, silage and grain corn, sugar beets, melons, cotton.
(e) Rangeland. Grazing of livestock on grasses without irrigation.
(f) Pasture (Irrigated). Grazing of livestock on irrigated grasses.
(g) Vineyards. Grapevines.
(h) Preparation For Cultivation. Land-contouring, clearing, irrigation construction and other
preparation of soil for crops.
(i) Field Processing. Mechanical processing of crops in the field at harvest, when such activities
do not involve a permanent structure. Such activities include, but are not limited to, hay baling and field
crushing of grapes.
Dance club or nightclub. Establishment providing for live or recorded music and an area for
dancing, including disco.
Dance studio or school. An establishment where instruction in the dance arts (ballet, modern dance
or any other dance form) is provided students for a fee, except where instruction in predominantly social
dance is provided on the premises of a dance club as defined by this title.
Density. The measure of the ratio of population to the area of land occupied by that population,
which may be expressed as dwelling units per acre, families per acre, persons per acre, or conversely as
acres per dwelling unit or square feet per dwelling unit. “Gross density” is the number of lots derived
from dividing the area of a site by the area required for each lot or dwelling unit. “Net density” is the
number of lots resulting from subtracting the area required for streets from the total area of the undivided
site, and then dividing the remaining area by the area required for each lot.
Density bonus. A density increase over the otherwise maximum allowable residential density under
the applicable Municipal Code ordinance and Land Use, Open Space, and Conservation Element of the
General Plan as of the date of application by the developer to the City (Government Code Section
65915(f)). Density bonuses shall either be in the form of a “State Density Bonus” as defined by Article 30
in Chapter 3, Zoning Districts, or as specified in the Land Use, Open Space, and Conservation Element of
the General Plan for exceptionally high design quality.
Development. Any activity or alteration of the landscape, its terrain contour or vegetation, including
the erection or alteration of buildings or structures. New development is any construction, or alteration of
an existing structure or land use, or establishment of a land use after the effective date of this title.
Discretionary permit. An entitlement that may be issued under the provisions of this title, but
requires the exercise of judgment and the resolution of factual issues to determine if the application and
requested entitlement conform with the provisions of this title. Generally, a discretionary permit consists
of any entitlement that requires a decision to approve, approve subject to conditions or disapprove, based
on the judgment of the Planning Commission after a hearing (see “Ministerial Permit”).
Drainage facilities. Constructed improvements for the storage or conveyance of storm runoff in
drainage channels, including channels, culverts, ponds, storm drains, drop-inlets, outfalls, basins, pumps,
gutter inlets, manholes, and conduits.
Dredging. Mechanical alteration of the grade of bottom sediments in any body of water.
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Drive-in restaurant. Any building or structure in which food or drink are prepared for service to
customers outside such buildings or structure or to customers occupying vehicles outside such structure,
even though food and drink are served to customers inside such building or structure. Shall include self-
service restaurants for food take-out.
Driveway. A road providing access to a site or land use from a street. A driveway serves no more
than four (4) separately owned parcels (see also, “Road, Private”).
Dude ranch. Transient guest occupancy facilities incidental to a working ranch, which may include
other accessory recreational facilities and common eating facilities open to overnight guests only.
Dwelling unit. An independent, attached or detached residential building designed to house and
provide living space, including kitchen and bathroom facilities, for an individual family.
Entitlement. Authority acquired by an applicant after receiving approval of an application. For the
purposes of this title, land use entitlements are the plot plan, precise plan and conditional use permit (see
“Zoning Approval”).
Exploration. The search for minerals by geological, geophysical, geochemical or other techniques
including, but not limited to, sampling, assaying, drilling, or any surface or underground works used to
determine the type, extent, or quantity of minerals present (includes prospecting).
Extraction. The removal from the earth of oil, gas or geothermal resources by drilling, pumping or
other means, whether for exploration or production purposes.
Family. A “family” is a “single housekeeping unit” defined as the functional equivalent of a
traditional family, whose members are an interactive group of persons jointly occupying a single dwelling
unit, and where, if the unit is rented, all adult residents have chosen to jointly occupy the entire premises
of the dwelling unit, under a single written lease with joint use and responsibility for the premises, and the
makeup of the household occupying the unit is determined by the residents of the unit rather than the
landlord or property manager.
Family, immediate. Relatives of an applicant or spouse of applicant, limited to grandparents,
parents, children, and siblings.
Flammable liquid. Liquids with flash points below one hundred (100) degrees Fahrenheit,
including, but not limited to, gasoline, acetone, benzene, ethyl ether and ethyl alcohol.
Flash point. The minimum temperature of a liquid at which sufficient vapor is given off to form an
ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid.
Flood, 100-year. A flood inundation event, the extent of which has a statistical probability of
occurring once every one hundred (100) years.
Flood fringe. That portion of the floodplain outside the floodway.
Floodplain. Land that has been or may be hereafter covered by flood water, including but not
limited to the one hundred (100) year flood.
Flood profile, storm. A graph or longitudinal profile showing the relationship of the water-surface
elevation of a flood event to location along a stream or river.
Floodproofing. Any combination of structural provisions or adjustments in areas subject to flooding
primarily to reduce or eliminate flood damage to properties, water and sanitary facilities, structures, and
the contents of buildings in a flood hazard area.
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Floodway. The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be
reserved to discharge the one hundred (100) year flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface
elevation more than one (1) foot.
Floor area. Includes the total floor area of each floor of all buildings on a site, including internal
circulation, storage and equipment space, as measured from the outside faces of the exterior walls,
including halls, lobbies, stairways, elevator shafts, enclosed porches and balconies.
Frontage. A property line of a lot that abuts a street. Primary frontage is indicated by the street for
which the property is given a street number. Secondary frontage includes all other frontages.
Garage, private. A building for storing self-propelled vehicles that is not open to the public, which
may include an accessory workshop.
Garage, public. Any premises (except a private garage) used for the storage and/or care of self-
propelled vehicles, or where such vehicles are equipped for sale or lease.
General Plan. The City of Atascadero General Plan, including all elements thereof and all
amendments thereto.
Government Code. The Government Code of the State of California.
Grazing. For the purposes of this title, grazing means the keeping for commercial purposes of cattle,
horses or sheep using feed produced on the site.
Greenhouse. See “Nursery.”
Guesthouse. Sleeping facilities detached from a principal residence and occupied for the sole use of
members of the family, temporary guests or persons temporarily employed on the premises; which may
include a bathroom and other living space, but not kitchen facilities.
Health Department. The County of San Luis Obispo Health Department under contract to the City
of Atascadero.
Home occupation. Any use customarily conducted entirely within a dwelling or building accessory
thereto and carried on by the inhabitants thereof, which use is clearly incidental and secondary to the
structure for dwelling purposes and which use does not change the character thereof and does not
adversely affect the uses permitted in the zone of which it is a part.
Hospital. An institution providing physical or mental health services inpatient or overnight
accommodations and medical or surgical care of the sick or injured.
Hotel. A building containing six (6) or more rooms intended or designed to be used, or which are
used, rented or hired out to be occupied for sleeping purposes by guests.
Impulsive sound. Sound of short duration, usually less than one (1) second, with an abrupt onset
and rapid decay. Examples of sources of impulsive sound include explosions, hammering, and discharge
of firearms.
Inoperative vehicle. Any vehicle which is not currently registered or which is not capable of self-
propulsion.
Irrigated. A lot having existing wells, water storage, and/or drip irrigation system adequate to
support any crop suited to the soil type and climate of a site.
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Junk yard. An area improved or unimproved in excess of two hundred (200) square feet:
(a) Upon or in which is stored or kept junk salvage materials, scrap metals, inoperative vehicles
and equipment or any combination thereof; or
(b) Upon or in which vehicles, equipment or other property is dismantled or wrecked; or
(c) Upon or in which salvage materials, inoperative vehicles or equipment, or parts therefrom, or
scrap metals, or any combination thereof, is kept for resale.
Materials or equipment kept on any premises for use in the construction of any building on such
premises, and any materials or equipment customarily used on a farm or ranch, and so situated, shall not
be deemed “junk” or “salvage material” within the meaning of this section.
Light source. A device that produces illumination, including incandescent light bulbs, fluorescent
and neon tubes, halogen and other vapor lights and reflecting surfaces or refractors incorporated into a
lighting fixture. Any translucent enclosure of a light source is considered to be part of the light source.
Loading space. A space used exclusively for loading or unloading of other than passengers from
vehicles into the floor area, use area, or storage area of a building.
Lot, corner: Side and front. A corner lot is located immediately adjacent to the intersection of two
(2) public vehicular rights-of-way, including railroads. The narrowest frontage of a corner lot facing the
street is the front and the longest frontage facing the intersecting street is side, regardless of the direction
in which the dwelling faces (see Figure 9-D).
Lot depth. The horizontal distance between the front and rear lot lines, measured in the mean
direction of the side lot lines.
Lot, double-frontage. A lot extending between two (2) streets, so that both front and rear yards abut
a street (see Figure 9-E).
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Lot, flag. A lot which lies substantially behind another lot and is served by an accessway or access
easement (refer to Figure 9-F).
FIGURE 9-F: FLAG LOT
Lot, key. The lot located immediately adjacent to a corner lot, oriented so the narrowest dimension
of one of the corner lot side yards is adjacent to the narrowest dimension of the front yard of the key lot
(see Figure 9-D).
Lot width. Distance between interior property lines measured along the front setback line.
Manufactured housing. Residential structures that are constructed entirely in the factory, and which
since June 15, 1976, have been regulated by the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety
Standards Act of 1974 under the administration of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD).
Mined lands. Includes the surface, subsurface. and groundwater of an area where surface mining
operations will be, are being, or have been conducted, including all accessory access roads, land
excavations, workings, mining waste, and areas where structures, facilities, and surface mining
equipment, machines, tools or other material or property are located.
Minerals. Any naturally occurring chemical element, compound or groups of elements and
compounds, formed from inorganic processes or organic substances, including, but not limited to, coal,
granite, limestone, metals, peat, “redrock” sand and gravel, tar sand and bituminous sandstone, but
excluding geothermal resources, natural gas, and petroleum.
Mining waste. Includes residual soil, minerals, liquid, vegetation, tailings, abandoned equipment,
tools, other materials or physical conditions directly resulting from or displaced by mining.
Ministerial permit. Any permit that may be issued under the provisions of this title without review
by the Planning Commission or City Council. A ministerial decision involves only the evaluation of a
proposal with respect to fixed standards or objective measurements, without the use of subjective criteria.
Mobile home. A trailer, transportable in one (1) or more sections, that is certified under the National
Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, which is over eight (8) feet in
width and forty (40) feet in length, is tied down: (a) to a permanent foundation on a lot either owned or
leased by the homeowner; or (b) is set on piers, with wheels removed and skirted, in a mobile home park
and not including recreational vehicle, commercial coach or factory-built housing. A mobile home on a
permanent foundation is included under the definition of “single-family dwellings.”
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Nonresidential use. All uses of land including agricultural, communication, cultural, educational,
recreation, manufacturing, processing, resource extraction, retail trade, services, transient lodging,
transportation and wholesale trade uses.
Nursery school. See “Preschool.”
Obstruction in floodway. Any dam, wall, wharf, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment,
projection, excavation, channel rectification, bridge, conduit, culvert, building, wire fence, rock, gravel,
refuse, fill, structure or matter in, along, across, or projecting into any channel, watercourse, or flood
hazard areas that may impede, retard or change direction of flow, either in itself, or by catching or
collecting debris carried by such water, or that is placed where it might be carried downstream and
damage life or property.
Occupant. The person occupying, or otherwise in real or apparent charge and control of, a premises.
Official plan line. A line adopted by the City Council to indicate the area proposed to be acquired
for an enlarged right-of-way.
Open area. All areas of a lot not included within the definition of floor area: parking, recreation
spaces, passive open areas landscaped areas and other open, unpaved areas of the site.
Outdoor activity area. Any part of a site where commercial, industrial, recreation or storage
activities related to the principal use of a site are conducted outdoors, except for parking.
Owner. The person or persons, firm, corporation or partnership that is the owner of record of a
premises identified on the last equalized assessment roll.
Ownership. Ownership of one (1) or more parcels of land (or possession under a contract to
purchase or under a lease the term of which is not less than ten (10) years) by a person or persons, firm,
corporation or partnership, individually, jointly, in common or in any other manner whereby such
property is under single or unified control.
Parcel.
(a) A parcel of real property shown on a subdivision or plat map, required by the Subdivision Map
Act or local ordinance adopted pursuant thereto, to be recorded before sale of parcels shown on the map
or plot, at the time the map was recorded;
(b) A parcel of real property that has been issued a certificate of compliance pursuant to
Government Code Section 66499.35; or
(c) A parcel of real property not described in subsection (a) or (b) of this definition, provided the
parcel resulted from a separate conveyance or from a decree of a court of competent jurisdiction which
was recorded before the requirement of the filing of the subdivision map by the Subdivision Map Act or
local ordinance adopted pursuant thereto.
Person. Any individual, firm, copartnership, corporation, company, association, joint stock
association, city, county, state or district; and includes any trustee, receiver, assignee, or other similar
representatives thereof.
Planning Department. The City of Atascadero Planning Department, including the Planning
Director and all subordinate employees.
Planning Director. The Planning Director of the City of Atascadero. As used in this title, Planning
Director may include designated staff of the Planning Department when acting in an official capacity.
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Porch. Outdoor steps, stairs, and/or a raised platform less than one hundred (100) square feet in area,
located immediately adjacent to the entry of a building for the purpose of providing pedestrian access
from the outdoor ground elevation to a building interior. If the platform portion of a porch, not including
steps, is more than one hundred (100) feet, it is considered a deck.
Preschool. Any type of group child day care programs including nurseries for children of working
mothers, nursery schools for children under the minimum age for education in public schools, parent
cooperative nursery schools and programs covering afterschool care for school children provided such
establishments are institutional in character and are licensed by the State or County and conducted in
accordance with State requirements.
Project. Any land use, activity, construction or development which is required to be authorized by a
zoning approval pursuant to this title before beginning construction or establishment of the use.
Property line. The recorded boundary of a lot of record.
Property line, front. The recorded boundary between the front yard of a lot of record and the
abutting public or private street right-of-way.
Property line, interior. The recorded boundary between two (2) or more lots of record.
Property line, street frontage. The recorded boundary between a lot of record and a street right-of-
way.
Public Resources Code. The Public Resources Code of the State of California.
Public utility. A company regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission.
Reader board. A sign that accommodates changeable copy and which displays information on
activities and events on the premises, but not including a marquee.
Reclamation. The process of land treatment that minimizes and mitigates otherwise unavoidable or
existing water degradation, air pollution, damage to aquatic or wildlife habitat flooding, erosion, and other
adverse effects from surface or underground mining operations, including adverse surface effects
incidental to underground mines, so that mined lands are reclaimed and restored to a usable condition
readily adaptable for alternate land uses and that will constitute no danger to public health or safety. The
process may extend to affected lands surrounding mined lands, and may require backfilling, grading,
resoiling, revegetation, soil compaction, stabilization, or other measures.
Reclamation plan. A mine operator’s completed and approved plan for reclaiming the lands
affected by mining operations conducted after January 1, 1976, as called for in Section 2772 of the Public
Resources Code.
Recreational vehicle. A motorhome, house car, travel trailer, truck camper or camping trailer, with
or without motive power, designed for human habitation or recreational or emergency occupancy, eight
(8) feet or less in width and forty (40) feet or less in length.
Recycling facility. Any lot or portion of a lot used for the purpose of outdoor storage, sorting,
handling, processing, dismantling, wrecking, keeping or sale of inoperative, discarded, wrecked, or
abandoned appliances, vehicles, boats, building materials, machinery, equipment, or parts thereof,
including but not limited to scrap materials, wood, lumber, plastic, fiber, or other tangible materials that
cannot, without further reconditioning, be used for their original purposes. Includes wrecking yards for
vehicles.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 76 of 87
Residential care facility. Any facility, place, or building that is maintained and operated to provide
nonmedical residential care or day care, services for children or adults (except for preschools which are
separately defined) who are physically handicapped or mentally retarded.
Resource extraction well. Any facility constructed or installed for the purpose of extracting
minerals from the earth that occur in a fluid or gaseous state, or minerals converted to a gaseous or
semifluid state through extraction processes, which involve the penetration of subterranean regions by
means of drilling apparatus. For the purposes of this definition only, mineral resources include oil, gas,
geothermal steam, or other subterranean deposits, except water. Extraction wells as defined herein may be
for purposes of exploration or production.
Rest home. See “Residential care facility.”
Revegation. Any combination of mechanical or other means by which a graded surface is returned
to a condition where it supports significant natural vegetation.
Right-of-way. A road, alley, pedestrian or other access right-of-way with width described in
recorded documents.
Road, private. A road providing vehicular access to four (4) or more lots of record that is not in the
City-maintained road system.
Road, public. A road providing vehicular access that is in the City-maintained road system.
Scrap. Used metal including appliances and machine parts, which can be recycled or reused only
with repair, refurbishing, or attachment to other such materials.
Sedimentation. The addition of soil materials through erosion to a stream or water body that
increases the turbidity of the water.
Setback. An open area on a lot between a building and a property line unoccupied and unobstructed
from the ground upward, except as otherwise provided in Section 9-4.103 (refer to Figure 9-G).
FIGURE 9-G: SETBACKS AND BUILDABLE AREA
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 77 of 87
Setback, front. An open area without structures, extending across the front of a lot between the side
property lines. The front of a lot is the most narrow dimension of the lot parallel to a street and adjacent to
that street, except as provided for flag lots with both fee title and easement access strips where applicant
may determine that portion of the flag to constitute the front yard.
Setback, interior. Any open area of a site not within a required front, rear, or side setback area (see
Figure 9-F).
Setback line. The line formed by the measurement of required front, side, or rear yard areas required
by this title. All setback lines together define the buildable area.
Setback, rear. A primarily open area without principal structures, extending across the full width of
the lot and measured between the rear line of the lot and the nearest line of the building (see Figure 9-F).
Setback, side. A primarily open area without principal structures, between the side line of the lot
and the nearest line of the building and extending between the required front and rear setbacks (see Figure
9-F).
Sign. Any visual device or representation designed or used for communicating a message, or
identifying or attracting attention to a premises, product, service, person, organization, business or event,
not including such devices visible only from within a building.
Sign area. The area of the smallest rectangle within which a single sign face can be enclosed.
Sign copy. The information content of a sign, including text, illustrations, logos, and trademarks.
Sign, directory. A sign identifying the location of occupants of a building or group of buildings
which are divided into rooms or suites used as separate offices, studios or shops.
Sign, exterior-illuminated. Any sign, any part of which is illuminated from an exterior artificial
light source mounted on the sign, another structure, or the ground.
Sign face. The visible portions of a sign including all characters and symbols, but excluding
structural elements not an integral part of the display.
Sign, freestanding. A sign not attached to any buildings and having its own support structure.
Sign, freeway identification. An on-site sign permitted for a highway-oriented use.
Sign height. The vertical distance from average adjacent ground level to the top of the sign
including the support structure and any design elements.
Sign, identification. Any sign identifying an occupant, apartment, residence, school, church, or
certain business uses and not advertising any product or service.
Sign, interior-illuminated. A sign with any portion of the sign face or outline illuminated by an
interior light source.
Sign, monument. A self-supported sign with its base on the ground, not exceeding six (6) feet in
height.
Sign, nonilluminated. A sign illuminated only incidentally by ambient light conditions.
Sign, off-premises. A sign directing attention to a business, service, product, or entertainment not
sold or offered on the premises on which the sign is located.
Sign, political. A sign drawing attention to or communicating a position on any issue, candidate, or
measure in any national, State, local or school campus election.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 78 of 87
Sign, price. A sign on the premises of a gasoline service station, identifying the cost and type or
grade of motor fuel only.
Sign, roof. Any sign located on, or attached to the roof of a building.
Sign, suspended. A sign attached to and located below any permanent eave, roof, or canopy.
Sign, temporary. A sign used not more than sixty (60) days, or other period limited by the duration
of a temporary use.
Sign, wall. A single-faced sign painted on or attached to a building or wall, no part of which extends
out from or above a wall more than six (6) inches.
Sign, window. A sign displayed within a building or attached to a window but visible through a
window or similar opening for the primary purpose of exterior visibility.
Single room occupancy unit (SRO). A structure that provides separate, single room, residential
living units with no on-premises residential medical care. Units within the structure may have individual
bathroom facilities, shared bath or toilet facilities for the residents, or any combination thereof. SRO may
include structures commonly called rooming houses or boarding houses. SRO facilities shall not be age
restricted. Age restricted SRO facilities shall be considered a residential care facility for the elderly
(RCFE).
Site area, gross. The total area of a legally created parcel (or contiguous parcels of land in single or
joint ownership when used in combination for a building or permitted group of buildings), including any
ultimate street right-of-way, existing rights-of-way deeded to the parcel, and all easements, except open
space easements, across the site.
Site area, net. The gross site area minus any ultimate street rights-of-way and all easements, except
open easements, that limit the surface use of the site for building construction.
Site area, usable. Net site area minus any portions of the site that are precluded from building
construction by natural features or hazards, such as areas subject to inundation.
Slope, average. The characteristic slope over an area of land, expressed in percent as the ratio of
vertical rise to horizontal distance. Average slope is to be determined based on the most accurate
available topographic information for each proposed new lot. One of the following methods for
determining average slope is to be used:
(a) Basic Method. Where a line drawn between highest and lowest points on a parcel is adequate to
represent direction and extent of slope for the entire parcel, the difference in elevation between the high
and low points, divided by the distance between the points, will determine the average slope.
(b) Sectional Method. Where the parcel contains distinct sections of differing slope, the average
slope of each section may be determined according to either the basic method in subsection (a) of this
definition or the contour measurement method in subsection (c) of this definition. The average slope of
each section is then used in proportion of the section’s area to the total area to determine the average
slope of the entire parcel.
(c) Contour Measurement Method. Where precise measurement of the average slope is required
due to varied slope conditions or complex topography, the following formula will be used:
S= (2.29 X 10 - 3) I L
A
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 79 of 87
Where S = Average slope of parcel in percent
A = Total number of acres in the parcel (or section of parcel)
L = Length of contour lines in scaled feet
I = Vertical distance of contour interval in feet
Sound level meter. Any instrument including a microphone, amplifier, output meter and frequency
weighing networks for the measurement of sound levels, which meets or exceeds the requirements
pertinent for type S2A meters in ANSI specifications for sound level meters, S1.4-1971, or the most
recent revision thereof.
State Board. The State Mining and Geology Board, in the Department of Conservation, State of
California.
State Geologist. The individual holding office as structured in Section 677 of the Public Resources
Code.
Storage area. An area proposed or used for the outdoor storage of supplies or equipment, or goods
for sale, lease, or incidental use.
Story. Usable floors of a building, except that where this ordinance uses stories as a measurement of
a building height. Basements or building floors six (6) feet or more below street level are not included.
Structural alteration. Any change in the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls,
columns, beams or girders.
Structure. Any artifact constructed or erected, the use of which requires attachment to the ground,
including any building, but not including fences or walls six (6) feet or less in height.
Structure, accessory. A structure, the use of which is incidental to that of a principal structure on
the same lot. May be either detached or attached if part of the principal structure.
Subject site. A parcel or parcels of land which are the intended or actual location of a land use or
land development project which is the subject of an application for zoning approval, construction permit,
variance or adjustment, or an amendment to the land use element.
Substation. Any public utility electrical substation, pumping station, pressure regulating station, or
similar facility.
Supportive housing. Housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the clients of
social services, such as persons with medical or mental health conditions, and that is linked to on- or off-
site services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his or her
health status, and maximizing his or her ability to live in and, when possible, work in the community,
where no on-site medical care is provided. This definition excludes housing for halfway houses intended
for occupancy by parolees or convicted persons, children’s homes, halfway houses, rehabilitation centers,
and self-help group homes.
Surface mining operations. All or any part of the process involved in the mining of minerals or
construction materials on mined lands by removing overburden and mining directly from the mineral
deposits, open-pit mining of minerals naturally exposed, mining by the auger method, dredging and
quarrying, or surface work incidental to an underground mine. In addition, surface mining operations
include, but are not limited to:
(a) In place distillation, retorting, or leaching.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 80 of 87
(b) The production and disposal of mining waste.
(c) Prospecting and exploratory activities.
(d) Extractions of natural materials for building, construction, etc.
Temporarily deactivated operation. A surface mine that has been closed down and which the
operator has maintained in the expectation of reopening it when conditions justify.
Terrace.
(a) In the case of a grading or surface mining operation, a terrace is a relatively level step
constructed in the face of a graded slope surface for drainage and maintenance purposes.
(b) A terrace is also an outdoor living or activity area constructed with tile, asphalt, concrete or
other paving laid upon continuous base material or fill, placed directly on grade.
Transitional housing. Buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under
program requirements that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of the assisted unit to
another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time, which shall be no less than
six (6) months (Health and Safety Code Section 50675.2(h)). This definition excludes housing for
halfway houses intended for occupancy by parolees or convicted persons, children’s homes, halfway
houses, rehabilitation centers, and self-help group homes.
Use. The purpose for which a parcel of land, a premises or building is designed, arranged or
intended, or for which it is or may be occupied or maintained.
Use, accessory. A use accessory to any permitted use and customarily a part thereof, which is clearly
incidental and secondary to the permitted use and does not change the character of the main use.
Use, allowable. A use of land identified in Chapter 9-3 being appropriate in a given zoning district
subject to the standards of this title.
Use, approved. A use of land authorized to be constructed and/or established through issuance of an
approved plot plan, precise plan or conditional use permit.
Use, area. The area of a site used for buildings (main or accessory) and storage area or other
incidental use, but not including parking or landscaping.
Use area, active. All portions of a site and buildings included in the use area, except storage,
parking and landscaping.
Use, new. A use of land which is proposed to be established or constructed after the adoption of this
title.
Use, principal or main. The primary purpose for which a building, structure, or lot is designed,
arranged, or intended, or for which they may be used, occupied, or maintained under this title.
Use, structural. A use of land accompanied by a building or structure (not including fences), on the
same lot of record.
Wall, building. The length of a building wall is the horizontal distance from corner to corner
measured from a plan parallel to the appropriate side, rear or front lot lines.
Watercourse. The normal channel or limits of an intermittent or perennial stream, or other body of
water, during nonflood conditions.
Yard. An open space, other than a court, on a lot which space is unoccupied and unobstructed from
the ground upward.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 81 of 87
Zero lot line development. A residential project where dwelling units on individual lots of record
are located so they all abut one side property line, without a setback (refer to Figure 9-H).
FIGURE 9-H: ZERO LOT LINE DEVELOPMENT
Zoning approval. Same as entitlement.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 82 of 87
9-15.007 Allowed Signs By Zone
(a). Permitted Signs by Zones. The following are the signs types that are permitted by zone as
shown in Table 15.1.
Table 15.1 – Allowed Sign Types Based On Zone
Sign Type
P Permitted Sign**
AUP Administrative Use Permit Required**
(blank) Not Permitted
**building permit requirements per section 9-15.005 and 9-15.007**
Total Aggregate Sign Area (square feet)
(may be divided by using one (1) or more sign types)
Based on
Sign Type
Based on
Sign Type 150 sf 50 sf 100 sf
Ag Zone Residential
Zones
Non-Residential Zones
(CS, CN, CR, CPK, CT, IP, I)
Downtown Zones
(DC, DO)
Public Zones
(P, OS, L, LS)
1. A-Frame P P P P
2. Art & Murals AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
3. Awning P P P P
4. Banner P P P
5. Building Name P P P P P
6. Changeable Copy AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
7. Freeway Facing1 AUP
8. Home Occupation P P
9. Information Kiosks AUP AUP AUP AUP AUP
10. Private Light Pole P P P P
11. Ground Monument Sign P P P P
12. Multi-Tenant
Freestanding
P
13. Projecting P P P
14. Projected Image P P P P
15. Off-Site Subdivision AUP AUP AUP
16. Neighborhood
Identification
P
17. Single Tenant
Freestanding Sign
P P P P
18. Suspended P P P
19. Temporary For-Sale P P P P P
20. Temporary Non-
Commercial
P P P P P
21. Tenant Directional P P P P P
22. Wall P P P P
23. Window Lettering P P P
Notes:
1 Freeway signs are regulated by section 9-15.009
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 83 of 87
9-15.008 Types of Signs & Standards
(a) Allowed Signs and Standards. The following signs are permitted within the City of Atascadero as
shown in Table 15.2. Additional standards may be applicable as contained in this chapter.
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number of
sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
1. A-Frame None All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
10 sf 1 per street
frontage
5 ft. (a) Must be located outside of Right-of-
way on business property, except as
allowed by encroachment permit in
the East Mall and West Mall
parkway area.
(b) Minimum height is 3-feet.
2. Art and Murals Yes All Zoning
Districts
N/A N/A N/A (a) AUP required prior to installation
for review limited to size,
placement, and duration.
3. Awning Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
50% of
awning face
1 per
Business
Based on
building
height
(a) Minimum vertical clearance from
the ground of eight (8) feet.
(b) May project a maximum of five (5)
feet into the public right-of-way
with approved encroachment permit
(c) Shall be securely attached to the
buildings and well maintained.
(d) No supports or poles may be located
in the public right-of-way.
(e) Shall complement the building they
are attached to.
4. Banner No All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
40 sf 1 per Public
street
frontage
N/A (a) May be in place for a maximum of
thirty (30) days.
(b) All banners must be down a
minimum of sixty (60) days before
any new banner may go up
(c) Banners must be secured flat against
a building or secure structure placed
in the ground.
(d) Nonprofit events shall be exempt
from size and number of banners
(e.g., farmers market).
5. Building Name Yes All Zoning
Districts
20 sf 1 per
building
Based on
building
height
(a) Signage used to identify the building
not the tenant(s).
6. Changeable Copy Yes All Zoning
Districts
Based on
AUP
1 per
business
12 ft. (a) AUP required.
(b) Size of changeable copy to be
determined by the AUP.
(c) Design of changeable copy sign
shall be determined by AUP.
(d) Sign is non-digital.
7. Freeway Oriented Yes * * * *Refer to section 9-15.010
8. Home Occupation No All Ag &
Residential
Zoning
Districts
2 sf 1 per
residential
unit
4 ft (a) Requires issuance of a valid
business license prior to placement.
(b) Signage is permitted as a part of a
residential occupancy in a mixed-use
development.
9. Information
Kiosks
Yes All Zoning
Districts
Based on
AUP
Based on
AUP
Based on
AUP
(a) For the permanent and / or
temporary display of information.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 84 of 87
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number of
sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
(b) Limited to civic activities,
advertising for local events.
(c) AUP required.
10. Private Light
Pole3
Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
6 sf for each
pole
25% of the
total
number of
light poles;
Based on
Light
Pole
Height
(a) A permanent light pole within a
parking lot or property may be
utilized for temporary banner or
signage that does not count towards
total aggregate sign area.
(b) Eight (8) feet minimum vertical
clearance or as required by the
California Building Code, whichever
is greater.
(c) Light Pole located on private
property.
(d) A maximum of two (2) signs per
pole.
(e) Signage on poles shall be placed
within decorative frames or
brackets.
11. Ground
Monument Sign
Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
60 sf
CN, CP,
CR, CS, CT,
CPK, IP, I
1 per 200
lineal foot
6 ft. (a) Minimum base height shall be one
(1) foot.
(b) Maximum base height shall be four
(4 feet)
(c) Base does not count towards sign
face area.
(d) Base shall have decorative
hardscaping and shall be consistent
with the architecture of the
building(s) it serves.
(e) Bases shall be located in a landscape
planter.
(f) Cabinet type signs shall be
prohibited.
(g) Monument signs in DO/DC require
a building to be setback a min. of
10-feet from back of walk.
(h) Bases shall be located in a landscape
planter and setback three (3) feet
from the back of sidewalk in the
DO/DC zone.
50 sf
L,LS,P,OS
40 sf
DC, DO,
AG
12. Multi-Tenant
Freestanding
Yes Non-
Residential
Zoning
Districts
50 sf
+ additional
10 sf per
tenant
Max. 100 sf
1 per
property
12 ft (a) Two (2) or more tenants required.
(b) Minimum base height shall be four
(4) feet.
(c) Base does not count towards sign
face.
(d) Base Articulation. Base shall be
consistent with architecture of multi-
tenant building.
(e) Bases shall be located in a landscape
planter and setback five (5) feet
from the back of sidewalk.
(f) Cabinet monument type shall be
prohibited.
(g) A singular pole is prohibited.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 85 of 87
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number of
sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
13. Projecting Yes All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
15 sf 1 per
business
N/A (a) Minimum ground clearance must be
eight (8) feet, or as regulated by the
California Building Code.
(b) May encroach up to five (5) feet
within the public right-of-way with
issuance of an encroachment permit.
14. Projected Image No*
*Electrical
permit may
be required.
All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
N/A 1 per
business /
residence
N/A (a) Laser lights or projected image signs
used to project an image, logo, or
other graphic in a building,
structure, sidewalk or other surface.
(b) Project image signs may be in place
a maximum of thirty (30) calendar
days and not be utilized for a
minimum of sixty (60) days
thereafter.
(c) Installation of new electrical
components shall be consistent with
the California Building Code or
successor code.
(d) Flashing , distracting lights shall not
be utilized.
15. Off-Site
Subdivision
Yes Ag,
Residential
and Non-
Residential
Zoning
Districts
40 sf 3 per
subdivision
10 ft. (a) Subdivision tracts of five (5) or
more lots may be permitted to install
off-site directional advertising
signage.
(b) Subject to the approval of an AUP.
(c) Subdivision shall be located within
the City of Atascadero.
(d) No flags, banners or other
decorations shall be affixed to the
sign.
(e) The signs shall not be illuminated.
(f) All signs shall be located on private
property with written permission
from the property owner provided to
the City.
(g) The signs shall be removed prior to
final occupancy of the last unit in
the tract or after a period of three (3)
years whichever is less.
(h) The applicant may apply annually
for a one (1) year time extension for
active construction projects.
16. Neighborhood
Identification
Yes Residential
Zoning
Districts
36 sf 1 per
arterial /
collector
street
frontage
6 ft (a) Residential Single Family / Multi-
Family Developments of five (5)
units or more.
(b) Minimum base height shall be one
(1) foot.
(c) Maximum base height shall be three
(3 feet)
(d) Base does not count towards sign
face area.
(e) Base shall have decorative
hardscaping and shall be consistent
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 86 of 87
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number of
sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
with the architecture of the
building(s) it serves.
(f) Bases shall be located in a landscape
planter on private property,
(g) Cabinet type signs shall be
prohibited.
(h) Signs shall front on either an
designated arterial or collector road.
17. Single Tenant
Freestanding
Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
60 sf 1 per
property
6 ft (a) Sign face shall be elevated, a
minimum of one (1) foot off the
ground.
(b) Bases shall be located in a landscape
planter and setback a minimum of
two (2) feet from the back of
sidewalk.
(c) Cabinet monument type shall be
prohibited.
(d) A singular pole is prohibited.
(e) Freestanding signs in DO/DC
require a building to be setback a
minimum of ten (10) feet from the
back of sidewalk.
18. Suspended Yes All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
15 sf 1 per public
street
frontage
N/A (a) Minimum ground clearance of eight
(8) feet or as regulated by the
California Building Code or
successor code.
19. Temporary For-
Sale
No All Zoning
Districts
6 sf all other
lots
1 sign per
street
frontage;
1 sign per
highway
frontage
6 ft. (a) Signs must be removed fourteen
(14) days after close of sale.
32 sf for lots
fronting a
highway
20. Temporary
Non-
Commercial
No All Zoning
Districts
6 sf for yard
sign
1 per
property
5 ft (a) A maximum of nine (9) months.
(b) Must be removed a minimum of
ninety (90) days before any new
non-commercial signage may be
placed.
(c) Prohibited in the public right-of-
way.
32 sf
freestanding
21. Tenant
Directional
No All Zoning
Districts
N/A N/A 5 ft. (a) Does not count against total
aggregate sign area.
(b) Design shall be consistent with the
architectural style and features of the
building façade.
22. Wall Yes All Zoning
Districts
except
Residential
40 sf in P, L,
LS zones
1 per
building
face with a
public street
frontage or
parking lot
Based on
building
height
(a) May not exceed one (1) square foot
per lineal foot of building frontage.
(b) For tenants greater than 10,000
square feet in size, an additional one
hundred and fifty percent (150%)
more sign area may be permitted.
City of Atascadero
Ordinance No. 614
Page 87 of 87
Allowed Signage Types – Table 15.2
Sign Type Permit
Required
Zones
Allowed
Max. Sign
Area1
Number of
sign(s)
permitted
Max.
Height2 Special Requirements
Based on
building
frontage
for all other
non-
residential
zones
(c) Wall signs shall be located below
the top of the parapet or roofline on
single story buildings and below the
second floor sill on multi-story
buildings.
(d) Painted signs do not require building
permits but required planning
review.
23. Window
Lettering
No All Zoning
Districts
except Ag
&
Residential
Not to
exceed 1/2
of window
area in all
other zones
* * *Refer to section 9-15.004(f)
Not to
exceed 1/3
of window
area in
DC/DO
Zone
Notes:
1.Maximum Sign Area measured in square feet (sf).
2.Maximum Height measured in feet (ft) and from finished grade for all sign types.
3.Additional Light Pole signage regulations contained in subsection 9-15.007(b)(2).
(b) Special Sign Types and Criteria. The following are additional signage types defined by the City
and criteria required for their uses.
(1) Gas Station Canopies. In addition to the signs allowed above, a maximum of twenty (20)
square feet of signs, logos and or color banding shall be permitted on no more than two (2) sides of a
pump island canopy structure. The remainder of the pump canopy fascia shall be of an architectural
treatment consistent with site architecture.
(2) Light Pole Signage. The following shall be prohibited to be placed on light poles:
(a) Posting of signage or messages above the height of the light pole structure;
(b) Digital display message signs;
(c) Internally illuminated signage;
(d) Changeable copy signage;
(e) Faded, torn, or otherwise damaged signage.