ARTICLE 7. COMMERCIAL USES AND STANDARDS

DIVISION 1. C-1 COMMERCIAL ZONE

10-1-701: PURPOSE:

The C-1 Commercial Retail-Professional Zone is intended for commercial and business establishments which are primarily engaged in the buying and selling of goods and services. [Formerly numbered Section 31-76; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058, eff. 2/21/87.]

10-1-701.5: GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:

In the C-1 Zone, all uses shall be consistent with the maximum FAR and maximum residential density, as prescribed in the General Plan, as follows:

General Plan Land Use Designation

Maximum FAR

Maximum Residential Density1

Corridor Commercial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Regional Commercial

1.25 FAR

58 units/acre

Downtown Commercial

2.5 FAR

87 units/acre

South San Fernando Commercial

1.25 FAR

43 units/acre

North Victory Commercial/Industrial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Rancho Commercial

0.6 FAR

20 units/acre

Media District Commercial

1.1 FAR

58 units/acre

Golden State Commercial/Industrial

1.25 FAR

27 units/acre

Institutional

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Open Space

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Airport

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

1 with discretionary approval

[Added by Ord. No. 3839, eff. 5/24/13.]

10-1-702: USES IN THE C-1 ZONE:

In The C-1 Zone, uses are allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. [Formerly numbered Section 31-77; Amended by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98; 3465, 3464, 3457, 3452, 3439, 3400, 3376, 3335, 3058, 3050, 2423.]

10-1-703 AND 704:  

[Deleted by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98.]

10-1-705: PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS:

The following property development standards shall apply in a C-1 Zone:

A.    STRUCTURE HEIGHT.

1.    The maximum height of a structure shall be determined by its distance from the closest lot line of any property zoned for residential uses as follows:

DISTANCE FROM R-1, R-1-H OR R-2 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

DISTANCE FROM R-3 OR R‑4 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

MAXIMUM HEIGHT

(i) 0 - less than 25 feet

 

1 foot height per 1 foot distance for any part of the structure (roof and architectural features must also comply with maximum height restrictions within first 25 feet)

(ii) 25 - less than 50 feet

 

25 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iii) 50 - less than 150 feet

 

35 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iv) 150 - less than 300 feet

0 - less than 300 feet

50 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(v) 300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vi) 300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vii) Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Maximum height limit to be determined through the Conditional Use Permit

2.    The maximum height of a building, for those portions more than 25 feet from a R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to the ceiling height of the highest room permitted for human occupancy. The maximum height of a structure, for those portions of a structure less than 25 feet from R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to any part of the structure.

3.    Conditional Use Permit is required for structure height greater than 35 feet.

4.    Structure height shall be measured from grade as defined by this chapter.

5.    For structures or portions of a structure between 25 feet and 50 feet from the R-1, R-1-H, R-2, or comparable PD zone, roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained.

6.    The portion of a structure within the distance requirement (e.g. 25 to less than 50 feet) shall meet the height requirement for that section (e.g. 25 feet). Should a structure extend beyond one (1) or more of the distance requirements, the portions of that structure may meet each height requirement separately.

B.    OPEN SPACE.

1.    Distance Requirements.

Each lot which abuts or is adjacent to an R-1, R-1-H or R-2 lot shall provide open space not less than 20 feet wide along the area that abuts the residential property. Lots abutting or adjacent to R-3 and R-4 lots shall provide a minimum of ten (10) foot open space between the properties.

2.    Determination of Open Space.

This open space shall be measured from the lot line of the residential property to the commercial structure. Public rights-of-way may be included within the calculation of such area, except as otherwise provided in this section.

3.    Landscaping Requirement.

When the commercial property abuts or is adjacent to R-1, R-1-H, or R-2 property, a five (5) foot strip of the open space which lies adjacent to the residential property shall be landscaped, unless a public right-of-way is utilized in the calculation of the open space. This landscaping is intended to provide screening between the different zones.

4.    Parking Allowed in Open Space.

When the commercial property abuts property other than R-1, R-1-H, or R-2, the entire open space may be used for parking.

C.    YARDS.

1.    Front Yard - Definition.

For the purpose of this section, side yards on corner lots shall be considered as front yards.

2.    Setbacks.

a.    All structures, including semi-subterranean garages, but excluding above-grade parking structures, shall be set back at least five (5) feet from the front lot line or 20 percent of the building height, whichever is greater; this setback requirement may be averaged. Such setback shall be required for that portion of a building that is within 20 feet above grade and shall be calculated for the length of the building frontage only. Any open space or surface parking lots not in front of a structure shall not be included in calculating average setbacks. Portions of buildings over 20 feet in height may extend over required front yard setbacks, except in areas where required trees are planted.

b.    Structures, except above-grade parking structures, on lots with less than 75 feet, have no required front or street side yard setbacks on those frontages of 75 feet or less.

Above-grade parking structures shall be set back from the front lot line at least five (5) feet or 20 percent of building height, whichever is greater, but in no event shall the setback be less than three (3) feet. This setback requirement may be averaged.

c.    When abutting or adjacent R-1, R-1-H or R-2 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback 20 feet from the residential property line. When abutting or adjacent R-3 or R-4 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback ten (10) feet from the residential property line. Public rights-of-way may be used in this calculation.

d.    For setbacks for surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

3.    Landscaping.

a.    A minimum of 50 percent of front and exposed side yards shall be landscaped.

b.    The provision of outdoor amenities and decorative hardscape, such as outdoor seating areas with benches permanently affixed to the ground or hardscaped areas enriched with decorative materials which are under a tree canopy, shall be credited toward up to 50 percent of the required landscaping in all yards. Vehicular access areas may not be considered as decorative hardscape.

c.    The planting of vines on masonry buildings is encouraged.

d.    To qualify as landscaped area, all areas not occupied by trees or shrubs must be planted with turf or other ground cover with a minimum soil depth of 12 inches. All planters must be a minimum of 18 inches deep and two (2) feet in their smallest inside dimension, unless a tree is required, in which case a three (3) foot planter depth shall be required and the planter must have a minimum inside dimension of four (4) feet.

e.    In required front and exposed side yards, a minimum of one (1) tree shall be planted for every 40 linear feet of street frontage or fraction thereof. Turf is allowed in up to 50 percent of required landscaped areas. In shrub areas, a minimum of one five (5) gallon shrub is required for every ten (10) square feet of shrub area.

f.    A minimum of 50 percent of required trees shall be a minimum 36-inch box size, with the remainder a minimum 24-inch box size. The required 36-inch box trees shall be equally distributed in required front or street side yards.

g.    If trees are planted in planters, the planters must have a minimum length and width of five (5) feet.

h.    For additional landscaping requirements for above-grade parking structures and surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

4.    Retail Structures.

On retail structures, bay windows at least three (3) feet high may be allowed to project over 75 percent of the required front yard. The bay windows shall be spaced to allow adequate sunlight to reach required landscaping.

D.    ADDITIONAL STANDARDS.

For additional standards see Articles 11 through 16 of this chapter.

E.    Mixed-Use and Multifamily Residential-Only Development. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section shall not apply to the following projects:

1.    Mixed-use developments (multifamily residential with nonresidential use) allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 9, Division 4 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-915.

2.    Multifamily residential-only developments allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6, Division 3.5 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-621. [Formerly numbered Section 31-80; amended by Ord. No. 23-3,996, eff. 7/7/23; 23-3,994; 15-3,860; 3810, 3548, 3491, 3488, 3297, 3136, 3058.]

10-1-706: DEVELOPMENT REVIEW:

Unless specifically exempted by Section 10-1-1914 of this Code, no structure shall be erected in a C-1 Zone, nor shall any permits related thereto be issued until an application for Development Review has been submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in Division 2, Article 19 of this chapter. These permits include but are not limited to site preparation permits such as demolition permits and grading permits. [Formerly numbered Section 31-81; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058; Amended by Ord. No. 3587, eff. 11/3/01; 3190.]

10-1-707: DESIGN CRITERIA FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN C-1 ZONE:

The following design criteria shall apply to proposed improvements in the C-1 Zone:

1.    The plan for the proposed improvement shall be compatible with the design, purpose and architectural characteristics of the Golden Mall.

2.    The proposed improvement shall be in proportion to its building site and have a balance and unity among its external features so as to present a harmonious appearance.

3.    Exterior materials and colors and any exterior lighting or landscaping shall be in keeping with the materials, colors, lighting, and landscaping of the Golden Mall.

4.    The proposed improvement, in its exterior design and appearance, shall not cause any significant depreciation in the value of other property located on or in the vicinity of the Golden Mall. [Formerly numbered Section 31-81.2; Added by Ord. No. 2259; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058, eff. 2/21/87.]

DIVISION 2. C-2 COMMERCIAL ZONE

10-1-708: PURPOSE:

The C-2 or Commercial Limited Business Zone is intended for the development of retail centers serving the shopping and personal service needs of the surrounding residential areas. [Formerly numbered Section 31-82; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058, eff. 2/21/87.]

10-1-708.5: GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:

In the C-2 Zone, all uses shall be consistent with the maximum FAR and maximum residential density, as prescribed in the General Plan, as follows:

General Plan Land Use Designation

Maximum FAR

Maximum Residential Density1

Corridor Commercial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Regional Commercial

1.25 FAR

58 units/acre

Downtown Commercial

2.5 FAR

87 units/acre

South San Fernando Commercial

1.25 FAR

43 units/acre

North Victory Commercial/Industrial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Rancho Commercial

0.6 FAR

20 units/acre

Media District Commercial

1.1 FAR

58 units/acre

Golden State Commercial/Industrial

1.25 FAR

27 units/acre

Institutional

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Open Space

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Airport

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

1 with discretionary approval

[Added by Ord. No. 3839, eff. 5/24/13.]

10-1-709: USES IN THE C-2 ZONE:

In the C-2 Zone, uses are allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. [Formerly numbered Section 31-83; Amended by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98; 3465, 3457, 3404, 3263, 3058, 3050, 2588, 2423.]

10-1-710, 710.5 AND 711:  

[Deleted by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98.]

10-1-712: PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS:

The following property development standards shall apply in a C-2 Zone:

A.    STRUCTURE HEIGHT.

1.    The maximum height of a structure shall be determined by its distance from the closest lot line of any property zoned for residential use as follows:

DISTANCE FROM R-1, R‑1‑H OR R-2 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

DISTANCE FROM R-3 OR R‑4 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

MAXIMUM HEIGHT

(i) 0 - less than 25 feet

 

1 foot height per 1 foot distance for any part of the structure (roof and architectural features must also comply with maximum height restrictions within first 25 feet)

(ii) 25 - less than 50 feet

 

25 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iii) 50 - less than 150 feet

 

35 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iv) 150 - less than 300 feet

0 - less than 300 feet

50 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(v) 300 feet or greater (Not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vi) 300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vii) Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Maximum height limit to be determined through the Conditional Use Permit

2.    The maximum height of a building, for those portions more than 25 feet from a R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to the ceiling height of the highest room permitted for human occupancy. The maximum height of a structure, for those portions of a structure less than 25 feet from R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to any part of the structure.

3.    Conditional Use Permit is required for structure height greater than 35 feet.

4.    Structure height shall be measured from grade as defined by this chapter.

5.    For structures or portions of a structure between 25 feet and 50 feet from the R-1, R-1-H, R-2, or comparable PD zone, roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained.

6.    The portion of a structure within the distance requirement (e.g. 25 to less than 50 feet) shall meet the height requirement for that section (e.g. 25 feet). Should a structure extend beyond one (1) or more of the distance requirements, the portions of that structure may meet each height requirement separately.

B.    OPEN SPACE.

1.    Distance Requirements.

Each lot which abuts or is adjacent to an R-1, R-1-H or R-2 lot shall provide open space not less than 20 feet wide along the area that abuts the residential property. Lots abutting or adjacent R-3 and R-4 lots shall provide a minimum of ten (10) foot open space between the properties.

2.    Determination of Open Space.

This open space shall be measured from the lot line of the residential property to the commercial structure. Public rights-of-way may be included within the calculation of such area, except as otherwise provided in this section.

3.    Landscaping Requirement.

When the commercial property abuts or is adjacent to R-1, R-1-H or R-2 property, a five (5) foot strip of the open space which lies adjacent the residential property shall be landscaped, unless a public right-of-way is utilized in the calculation of the open space. This landscaping is intended to provide screening between the different zones.

4.    Parking Allowed in Open Space.

When the commercial property abuts property other than R-1, R-1-H or R-2, the entire open space may be used for parking.

C.    YARDS.

1.    Front Yard - Definition.

For the purpose of this section side yards on corner lots shall be considered as front yards.

2.    Setbacks.

a.    All structures, including semi-subterranean garages, but excluding above-grade parking structures, shall be set back at least five (5) feet from the front lot line or 20 percent of the building height, whichever is greater; this setback requirement may be averaged. Such setback shall be required for that portion of a building that is within 20 feet above grade and shall be calculated for the length of the building frontage only. Any open space or surface parking lots not in front of a structure shall not be included in calculating average setbacks. Portions of buildings over 20 feet in height may extend over required front yard setbacks, except in areas where required trees are planted.

b.    Structures, except above-grade parking structures, on lots with less than 75 feet of street frontage and with a height of no more than 25 feet, have no required front or street side yard setbacks on those frontages of 75 feet or less.

Above-grade parking structures shall be set back from the front lot line at least five (5) feet or 20 percent of building height, whichever is greater, but in no event shall the setback be less than three (3) feet. This setback requirement may be averaged.

c.    When abutting or adjacent R-1, R-1-H or R-2 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback 20 feet from the residential property line. When abutting or adjacent R-3 or R-4 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback ten (10) feet from the residential property line. Public rights-of-way may be used in this calculation.

d.    For setbacks for surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

3.    Landscaping.

a.    A minimum of 50 percent of front and exposed side yards shall be landscaped.

b.    The provision of outdoor amenities and decorative hardscape, such as outdoor seating areas with benches permanently affixed to the ground or hardscaped areas enriched with decorative materials which are under a tree canopy, shall be credited toward up to 50 percent of the required landscaping in all yards. Vehicular access areas may not be considered as decorative hardscape.

c.    The planting of vines on masonry buildings is encouraged.

d.    To qualify as landscaped area, all areas not occupied by trees or shrubs must be planted with turf or other ground cover with a minimum soil depth of 12 inches. All planters must be a minimum of 18 inches deep and two (2) feet in their smallest inside dimension, unless a tree is required, in which case a three (3) foot planter depth shall be required and the planter must have a minimum inside dimension of four (4) feet.

e.    In required front and exposed side yards, a minimum of one (1) tree shall be planted for every 40 linear feet of street frontage or fraction thereof. Turf is allowed in up to 50 percent of required landscaped areas. In shrub areas, a minimum of one five (5) gallon shrub is required for every ten (10) square feet of shrub area.

f.    A minimum of 50 percent of required trees shall be a minimum 36-inch box size, with the remainder a minimum 24-inch box size. The required 36-inch box trees shall be equally distributed in required front or street side yards.

g.    If trees are planted in planters, the planters must have a minimum length and width of five (5) feet.

h.    For additional landscaping requirements for above-grade parking structures and surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

4.    Retail Structures.

On retail structures, bay windows at least three (3) feet high may be allowed to project over 75 percent of the required front yard. The bay windows shall be spaced to allow adequate sunlight to reach required landscaping.

D.    ADDITIONAL STANDARDS.

For additional standards see Articles 11 through 16 of this chapter.

E.    Mixed-Use and Multifamily Residential-Only Development. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section shall not apply to the following projects:

1.    Mixed-use developments (multifamily residential with nonresidential use) allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 9, Division 4 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-915.

2.    Multifamily residential-only developments allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6, Division 3.5 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-621. [Formerly numbered Section 31-86; amended by Ord. No. 23-3,996, eff. 7/7/23; 23-3,994; 15-3,860; 3810, 3548, 3491, 3488, 3297, 3136, 3058.]

10-1-713: DEVELOPMENT REVIEW:

Unless specifically exempted by Section 10-1-1914 of this Code, no structure shall be erected in a C-2 Zone, nor shall any permits related thereto be issued until an application for Development Review has been submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in Division 2, Article 19 of this chapter. These permits include but are not limited to site preparation permits such as demolition permits and grading permits. [Formerly numbered Section 31-87; Amended by Ord. No. 3587, eff. 11/3/01; 3190, 3058, 3017, 2930, 2193.]

DIVISION 3. C-3 COMMERCIAL ZONE

10-1-714: PURPOSE:

The C-3 or Commercial General Business Zone is intended for general business establishments and other commercial uses which are related directly to the highway for patronage. [Formerly numbered Section 31-88; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058, eff. 2/21/87.]

10-1-714.5: GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:

In the C-3 Zone, all uses shall be consistent with the maximum FAR and maximum residential density, as prescribed in the General Plan, as follows:

General Plan Land Use Designation

Maximum FAR

Maximum Residential Density1

Corridor Commercial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Regional Commercial

1.25 FAR

58 units/acre

Downtown Commercial

2.5 FAR

87 units/acre

South San Fernando Commercial

1.25 FAR

43 units/acre

North Victory Commercial/Industrial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Rancho Commercial

0.6 FAR

20 units/acre

Media District Commercial

1.1 FAR

58 units/acre

Golden State Commercial/Industrial

1.25 FAR

27 units/acre

Institutional

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Open Space

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Airport

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

1 with discretionary approval

[Added by Ord. No. 3839, eff. 5/24/13.]

10-1-715: USES IN THE C-3 ZONE:

In the C-3 Zone, uses are allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. [Formerly numbered Section 31-89; Amended by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98; 3113, 3058, 3050, 2588, 2423.]

10-1-716, 716.5 AND 717:  

[Deleted by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98.]

10-1-718: PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS:

The following property development standards shall apply in a C-3 Zone:

A.    STRUCTURE HEIGHT.

1.    The maximum height of a structure shall be determined by its distance from the closest lot line of any property zoned for residential uses as follows:

DISTANCE FROM R-1,
R-1-H OR R-2 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

DISTANCE FROM R-3 OR R‑4 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

MAXIMUM HEIGHT

(i) 0 - less than 25 feet

 

1 foot height per 1 foot distance for any part of the structure (roof and architectural features must also comply with maximum height restrictions within first 25 feet)

(ii) 25 - less than 50 feet

 

25 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iii) 50 - less than 150 feet

 

35 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iv) 150 - less than 300 feet

0 - less than 300 feet

50 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(v) 300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vi) 300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vii) Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Maximum height limit to be determined through the Conditional Use Permit

2.    The maximum height of a building, for those portions more than 25 feet from a R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to the ceiling height of the highest room permitted for human occupancy. The maximum height of a structure, for those portions of a structure less than 25 feet from R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to any part of the structure.

3.    Conditional Use Permit is required for structure height greater than 35 feet.

4.    Structure height shall be measured from grade as defined by this chapter.

5.    For structures or portions of a structure between 25 feet and 50 feet from the R-1, R-1-H, R-2, or comparable PD zone, roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained.

6.    The portion of a structure within the distance requirement (e.g. 25 to less than 50 feet) shall meet the height requirement for that section (e.g. 25 feet). Should a structure extend beyond one (1) or more of the distance requirements, the portions of that structure may meet each height requirement separately.

B.    OPEN SPACE.

1.    Distance Requirements.

Each lot which abuts or is adjacent to an R-1, R-1-H or R-2 lot shall provide open space not less than 20 feet wide along the area that abuts the residential property. Lots abutting or adjacent to R-3 and R-4 lots shall provide a minimum of ten (10) foot open space between the properties.

2.    Determination of Open Space.

This open space shall be measured from the lot line of the residential property to the commercial structure. Public rights-of-way may be included within the calculation of such area, except as otherwise provided in this section.

3.    Landscaping Requirement.

When the commercial property abuts or is adjacent to R-1, R-1-H, or R-2 property, a five (5) foot strip of the open space which lies adjacent to the residential property shall be landscaped, unless a public right-of-way is utilized in the calculation of the open space. This landscaping is intended to provide screening between the different zones.

4.    Parking Allowed in Open Space.

When the commercial property abuts property other than R-1, R-1-H, or R-2, the entire open space may be used for parking.

C.    YARDS.

1.    Front Yard - Definition.

For the purpose of this section, side yards on corner lots shall be considered as front yards.

2.    Setbacks.

a.    All structures, including semi-subterranean garages, but excluding above-grade parking structures, shall be set back at least five (5) feet from the front lot line or 20 percent of the building height, whichever is greater; this setback requirement may be averaged. Such setback shall be required for that portion of a building that is within 20 feet above grade and shall be calculated for the length of the building frontage only. Any open space or surface parking lots not in front of a structure shall not be included in calculating average setbacks. Portions of buildings over 20 feet in height may extend over required front yard setbacks, except in areas where required trees are planted.

b.    Structures, except above-grade parking structures, on lots with less than 75 feet of street frontage and with a height of no more than 25 feet, have no required front or street side yard setbacks on those frontages of 75 feet or less.

Above-grade parking structures shall be set back from the front lot line at least five (5) feet or 20 percent of building height, whichever is greater, but in no event shall the setback be less than three (3) feet. This setback requirement may be averaged.

c.    When abutting or adjacent R-1, R-1-H or R-2 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback 20 feet from the residential property line. When abutting or adjacent R-3 or R-4 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback ten (10) feet from the residential property line. Public rights-of-way may be used in this calculation.

d.    For setbacks for surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

3.    Landscaping.

a.    A minimum of 50 percent of front and exposed side yards shall be landscaped.

b.    The provision of outdoor amenities and decorative hardscape, such as outdoor seating areas with benches permanently affixed to the ground or hardscaped areas enriched with decorative materials which are under a tree canopy, shall be credited toward up to 50 percent of the required landscaping in all yards. Vehicular access areas may not be considered as decorative hardscape.

c.    The planting of vines on masonry buildings is encouraged.

d.    To qualify as landscaped area, all areas not occupied by trees or shrubs must be planted with turf or other ground cover with a minimum soil depth of 12 inches. All planters must be a minimum of 18 inches deep and two (2) feet in their smallest inside dimension, unless a tree is required, in which case a three (3) foot planter depth shall be required and the planter must have a minimum inside dimension of four (4) feet.

e.    In required front and exposed side yards, a minimum of one (1) tree shall be planted for every 40 linear feet of street frontage or fraction thereof. Turf is allowed in up to 50 percent of required landscaped areas. In shrub areas, a minimum of one five (5) gallon shrub is required for every ten (10) square feet of shrub area.

f.    A minimum of 50 percent of required trees shall be a minimum 36-inch box size, with the remainder a minimum 24-inch box size. The required 36-inch box trees shall be equally distributed in required front or street side yards.

g.    If trees are planted in planters, the planters must have a minimum length and width of five (5) feet.

h.    For additional landscaping requirements for above-grade parking structures and surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

4.    Retail Structures.

On retail structures, bay windows at least three (3) feet high may be allowed to project over 75 percent of the required front yard. The bay windows shall be spaced to allow adequate sunlight to reach required landscaping.

D.    ADDITIONAL STANDARDS.

For additional standards see Articles 11 through 16 of this chapter.

E.    Mixed-Use and Multifamily Residential-Only Development. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section shall not apply to the following projects:

1.    Mixed-use developments (multifamily residential with nonresidential use) allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 9, Division 4 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-915.

2.    Multifamily residential-only developments allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6, Division 3.5 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-621. [Formerly numbered Section 31-92; amended by Ord. No. 23-3,996, eff. 7/7/23; 23-3,994; 15-3,860; 3810, 3548, 3491, 3488, 3297, 3136, 3058.]

10-1-719: DEVELOPMENT REVIEW:

Unless specifically exempted by Section 10-1-1914 of this Code, no structure shall be erected in a C-3 Zone, nor shall any permits related thereto be issued until an application for Development Review has been submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in Division 2, Article 19 of this chapter. These permits include but are not limited to site preparation permits such as demolition permits and grading permits. [Formerly numbered Section 31-93; Amended by Ord. No. 3587, eff. 11/3/01; 3190, 3058, 2930.]

DIVISION 4. C-4 COMMERCIAL ZONE

10-1-720: PURPOSE:

The C-4 Commercial Unlimited Business Zone is intended for general commercial uses, including wholesale and warehousing establishments and certain restricted manufacturing activities. [Formerly numbered Section 31-94; Renumbered by Ord. No. 3058, eff. 2/21/87.]

10-1-720.5: GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:

In the C-4 Zone, all uses shall be consistent with the maximum FAR and maximum residential density, as prescribed in the General Plan, as follows:

General Plan Land Use Designation

Maximum FAR

Maximum Residential Density1

Corridor Commercial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Regional Commercial

1.25 FAR

58 units/acre

Downtown Commercial

2.5 FAR

87 units/acre

South San Fernando Commercial

1.25 FAR

43 units/acre

North Victory Commercial/Industrial

1.0 FAR

27 units/acre

Rancho Commercial

0.6 FAR

20 units/acre

Media District Commercial

1.1 FAR

58 units/acre

Golden State Commercial/Industrial

1.25 FAR

27 units/acre

Institutional

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Open Space

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

Airport

Max. floor area determined by Zoning

--

1 with discretionary approval

[Added by Ord. No. 3839, eff. 5/24/13.]

10-1-721: USES IN THE C-4 ZONE:

In the C-4 Zone, uses are allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502.

[Formerly numbered Section 31-95; Amended by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98; 3180, 3113, 3058, 2588, 2423, 2194.]

10-1-722, 722.5 AND 723:  

[Deleted by Ord. No. 3504, eff. 12/26/98.]

10-1-724: PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS:

The following property development standards shall apply in a C-4 Zone:

A.    STRUCTURE HEIGHT.

1.    The maximum height of a structure shall be determined by its distance from the closest lot line of any property zoned for residential uses as follows:

DISTANCE FROM R-1,
R-1-H OR R-2 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

DISTANCE FROM R-3 OR R‑4 LOT LINE (OR COMPARABLE PD ZONE)

MAXIMUM HEIGHT

(i) 0 - less than 25 feet

 

1 foot height per 1 foot distance for any part of the structure (roof and architectural features must also comply with maximum height restrictions within first 25 feet

(ii) 25 - less than 50 feet

 

25 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iii) 50 - less than 150 feet

 

35 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(iv) 150 - less than 300 feet

0 - less than 300 feet

50 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(v) 300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 feet or greater (not located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vi) 300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

300 to 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

70 feet (roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 15 additional feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained)

(vii) Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Greater than 500 feet (located in an adopted specific planning or redevelopment planning area)

Maximum height limit to be determined through the Conditional Use Permit

2.    The maximum height of a building, for those portions more than 25 feet from a R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to the ceiling height of the highest room permitted for human occupancy. The maximum height of a structure, for those portions of a structure less than 25 feet from R-1, R-1-H, and R-2 lot line, shall be measured to any part of the structure.

3.    Conditional Use Permit is required for structure height greater than 35 feet.

4.    Structure height shall be measured from grade as defined by this chapter.

5.    For structures or portions of a structure between 25 feet and 50 feet from the R-1, R-1-H, R-2, or comparable PD zone, roof and architectural features may exceed the maximum height, up to 35 feet, if a 45 degree angle as depicted in Diagram No. 1 is maintained.

6.    The portion of a structure within the distance requirement (e.g. 25 to less than 50 feet) shall meet the height requirement for that section (e.g. 25 feet). Should a structure extend beyond one (1) or more of the distance requirements, the portions of that structure may meet each height requirement separately.

B.    OPEN SPACE.

1.    Distance Requirements.

Each lot which abuts or is adjacent to an R-1, R-1-H or R-2 lot shall provide open space not less than 20 feet wide along the area that abuts the residential property. Lots abutting or adjacent R-3 and R-4 lots shall provide a minimum of ten (10) foot open space between the properties.

2.    Determination of Open Space.

This open space shall be measured from the lot line of the residential property to the commercial structure. Public rights-of-way may be included within the calculation of such area, except as otherwise provided in this section.

3.    Landscaping Requirement.

When the commercial property abuts or is adjacent R-1, R-1-H or R-2 property, a five (5) foot strip of the open space which lies adjacent the residential property shall be landscaped, unless a public right-of-way is utilized in the calculation of the open space. This landscaping is intended to provide screening between the different zones.

4.    Parking Allowed in Open Space.

When the commercial property abuts property other than R-1, R-1-H or R-2, the entire open space may be used for parking.

C.    YARDS.

1.    Front Yard - Definition.

For the purpose of this section side yards on corner lots shall be considered as front yards.

2.    Setbacks.

a.    All structures, including semi-subterranean garages, but excluding above-grade parking structures, shall be set back at least five (5) feet from the front lot line or 20 percent of the building height, whichever is greater; this setback requirement may be averaged. Such setback shall be required for that portion of a building that is within 20 feet above grade and shall be calculated for the length of the building frontage only. Any open space or surface parking lots not in front of a structure shall not be included in calculating average setbacks. Portions of buildings over 20 feet in height may extend over required front yard setbacks, except in areas where required trees are planted.

b.    Structures, except above-grade parking structures, on lots with less than 75 feet of street frontage and with a height of no more than 25 feet, have no required front or street side yard setbacks on those frontages of 75 feet or less.

Above-grade parking structures shall be set back from the front lot line at least five (5) feet or 20 percent of building height, whichever is greater, but in no event shall the setback be less than three (3) feet. This setback requirement may be averaged.

c.    When abutting or adjacent R-1, R-1-H or R-2 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback 20 feet from the residential property line. When abutting or adjacent R-3 or R-4 zones, above-grade parking structures must be setback ten (10) feet from the residential property line. Public rights-of-way may be used in this calculation.

d.    For setbacks for surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

3.    Landscaping.

a.    A minimum of 50 percent of front and exposed side yards shall be landscaped.

b.    The provision of outdoor amenities and decorative hardscape, such as outdoor seating areas with benches permanently affixed to the ground or hardscaped areas enriched with decorative materials which are under a tree canopy, shall be credited toward up to 50 percent of the required landscaping in all yards. Vehicular access areas may not be considered as decorative hardscape.

c.    The planting of vines on masonry buildings is encouraged.

d.    To qualify as landscaped area, all areas not occupied by trees or shrubs must be planted with turf or other ground cover with a minimum soil depth of 12 inches. All planters must be a minimum of 18 inches deep and two (2) feet in their smallest inside dimension, unless a tree is required, in which case a three (3) foot planter depth shall be required and the planter must have a minimum inside dimension of four (4) feet.

e.    In required front and exposed side yards, a minimum of one (1) tree shall be planted for every 40 linear feet of street frontage or fraction thereof. Turf is allowed in up to 50 percent of required landscaped areas. In shrub areas, a minimum of one five (5) gallon shrub is required for every 10 square feet of shrub area.

f.    A minimum of 50 percent of required trees shall be a minimum 36-inch box size, with the remainder a minimum 24-inch box size. The required 36-inch box trees shall be equally distributed in required front or street side yards.

g.    If trees are planted in planters, the planters must have a minimum length and width of five (5) feet.

h.    For additional landscaping requirements for above-grade parking structures and surface parking lots, see Article 14, Division 4 of this Chapter.

4.    Retail Structures.

On retail structures, bay windows at least three (3) feet high may be allowed to project over 75 percent of the required front yard. The bay windows shall be spaced to allow adequate sunlight to reach required landscaping.

D.    ADDITIONAL STANDARDS.

For additional standards see Articles 11 through 16 of this chapter.

E.    Mixed-Use and Multifamily Residential-Only Development. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section shall not apply to the following projects:

1.    Mixed-use developments (multifamily residential with nonresidential use) allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 9, Division 4 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-915.

2.    Multifamily residential-only developments allowed as set forth in Section 10-1-502. These projects shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6, Division 3.5 of this Code, commencing with Section 10-1-621. [Formerly numbered Section 31-98; amended by Ord. No. 23-3,996, eff. 7/7/23; 23-3,994; 15-3,860; 3810, 3548, 3491, 3488, 3297, 3136, 3058.]

10-1-725: DEVELOPMENT REVIEW:

Unless specifically exempted by Section 10-1-1914 of this Code, no structure shall be erected in a C-4 Zone, nor shall any permits related thereto be issued until an application for Development Review has been submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in Division 2, Article 19 of this chapter. These permits include but are not limited to site preparation permits such as demolition permits and grading permits. [Formerly numbered Section 31-99; Amended by Ord. No. 3587, eff. 11/3/01; 3190, 3058, 3017, 2930, 2193.]