ARTICLE 200
DEFINITIONS

25-200-1 GENERAL:

For general terminology used throughout this zoning code, refer to section 25-1-8 of this chapter. For terminology used in this zoning code but not defined in this article or in section 25-1-8 of this chapter, the definitions used in the uniform building code or accepted dictionaries of the English language shall govern.

ABANDONED:

The cessation of the use of a property by the owner with the intention neither of transferring rights to the property to another owner nor of resuming the use of the property.

ABUTTING LAND:

A parcel of land having a common boundary with another parcel of land, including parcels which have no common boundary other than a common corner.

ACCESSORY BUILDING OR STRUCTURE:

A building or structure detached from, on the same lot as, and customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal building.

ACCESSORY USE:

A use of a portion of land or building that is customarily and clearly incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the land or building and is located on the same lot with such principal use. Accessory uses typically are very small in proportion to the principal use.

ACREAGE, GROSS:

The total land area within a defined boundary (i.e., before the exclusion of areas including, but not limited to, slopes, public rights of way, public parks, public school sites, and sites for other public facilities).

ACREAGE, NET:

That portion of gross acreage exclusive of public streets and all public lands and rights of way. The area within the lot lines of a lot exclusive of any dedications for slopes, public rights of way, public parks, public school sites, and sites for other public facilities.

ADDITION:

Any construction that is attached to an existing building or facility and which increases the size or capacity of a building or facility in terms of site coverage, height, length, width, or gross floor area.

ADJOINING:

Refers to a lot or parcel of land which shares all or part of a common lot line with another lot or parcel of land.

ADULT BUSINESS:

Refer to the definitions contained in article 85 of this chapter.

ADULT DAYCARE FACILITY:

See definition of Daycare Center, Adult.

AGENT:

Any person showing written verification that he/she is acting for, and with the knowledge and consent of, a property owner.

AGRICULTURE:

The use of land for the production of food and fiber, including the growing of crops and/or the grazing of animals on natural prime or improved pastureland.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OFF SITE SALES:

The sale of packaged alcoholic beverages for consumption at an off site location.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ON SITE SALES:

The sale of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and mixed drinks, for consumption at the point of sale. “Sales to persons over the legal drinking age exclusively”, refers to any facility which restricts entry to persons of legal drinking age, as established by state law.

ALLEY:

A narrow serviceway, either public or private, that provides a permanently reserved but secondary means of public access. Alleys are not intended for general traffic circulation, but for services and delivery access. Alleys typically are located along rear property lines.

ALTERATION:

Any change or rearrangement in the supporting members of an existing building, such as bearing walls, columns, beams, girders, or interior partitions, as well as any change in doors or windows, or any enlargement to or diminution of a building or structure, whether horizontally or vertically, or the moving of a building or structure from one location to another.

AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNICATION FACILITY:

A facility for amateur radio communications that includes noncommercial antennas operated by a federally licensed amateur radio operator.

AMENITY:

A natural or manmade feature which enhances a particular property.

AMUSEMENT PARK:

A commercial center comprised of a variety of family oriented entertainment uses, predominated by uses which occur outside. A local example is the “Castle Park” amusement center in the city of Riverside.

ANIMAL:

Unless otherwise stated for a specific situation, “animal” includes birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles.

ANTENNA:

A device used in communications that transmits and/or receives radio, satellite or television signals, including but not limited to panel parabolic, antenna panels and whip antennas.

ANTENNA ARRAY:

Several antennas connected and arranged in a regular structure to form a single antenna and installed simultaneously by single carrier, provider or business.

ANTIQUE SALES (REFINISHED):

Any premises used for the sale of articles that are one hundred (100) or more years old or are collectable. An antique shop does not include a “secondhand store” as defined in this section.

APARTMENT:

One or more rooms with private bath and kitchen facilities comprising an independent, self-contained dwelling unit in a building containing three (3) or more dwelling units for rent. See also definition of Dwelling Unit.

APARTMENT BUILDING:

A structure containing three (3) or more apartment units which is intended for rental purposes.

APPLICANT:

A person who requests in writing the approval of a lease, permit, license, certificate, or other entitlement from public agencies.

APPLICATION:

The form, information, and fees submitted by an applicant for purposes of requesting an entitlement from a public agency.

ARCADE:

A principal commercial entertainment land use consisting of five (5) or more amusement machines located within one building or structure and operated in exchange for financial or other considerations. In addition to any other principal use of the land, any use or business with five (5) or more amusement machines shall be considered an arcade.

AUTOMOBILE DETAILING:

Auto detailing means an establishment which performs hand washing, waxing, and interior cleaning of passenger vehicles.

AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION:

See definition of Service Station.

AUTOMOBILE/TRAILER SALES AREA:

The use of any building, land area, or other premises for the display and sale of new or used automobiles, panel trucks, vans, trailers, or recreation vehicles, including any repair service conducted as an accessory service.

AUTOMOBILE/TRUCK DEALERS:

A facility that sells automobiles and/or trucks of one ton or less capacity, both new and used, including the repairing of same. Trucks of more than one ton or one and one-half (1.5) ton capacity are not included in this term.

AUTOMOBILE/TRUCK REPAIRING:

A facility that provides to such vehicles of any capacity repair services, which may include tire shops, muffler shops, transmission shops, upholstery shops, and accessory shops.

AUTOMOBILE WRECKING:

The dismantling or wrecking of two (2) or more used motor vehicles or trailers; or the storage, sale, or dumping of one or more dismantled, partially dismantled, obsolete, or wrecked vehicles or their parts.

BAIL BOND ESTABLISHMENT:

Any business or establishment that collects a fee or acts as a surety by pledging money or property as a guarantee for obtaining the release of a criminal defendant and for the appearance of that defendant in court.

BALCONY:

A structure with a walking surface at least thirty inches (30") above adjacent grade which extends from a building without support from the ground. See also definitions of Deck and Platform.

BASEMENT:

Basement shall be defined according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

BAY WINDOW:

A group of windows projecting from a room in a floor level recess.

BED AND BREAKFAST:

A house, or portion thereof, where rooms and meals are provided for short term stays. The operator of the bed and breakfast shall live on the premises or adjacent premises.

BEDROOM:

Any habitable room used for sleeping purposes other than a living room, family room, or den.

BILLBOARD:

Any large sign or board erected by the side of a road or on a building used for displaying advertisements.

BILLIARD PARLOR, FAMILY:

Any place of business where any of several games are played on a table by driving small balls against one another or into pockets with a cue and where no alcoholic beverages are offered for sale. Such place of business may include, as an accessory use, any mechanical amusement device not otherwise prohibited by a city ordinance.

BILLIARD/POOL HALL:

Any place of business where any of several games are played on a table by driving small balls against one another or into pockets with a cue and where alcoholic beverages are offered for sale. Such place of business may include, as an accessory use, any mechanical amusement device not otherwise prohibited by a city ordinance. See also definition of Billiard Parlor, Family.

BODY OR HEARING BODY:

The individual or group duly authorized by this zoning code to grant changes to, relief from, or special consideration under this zoning code.

BREWERY:

A facility where beer is brewed for off site distribution and delivery. A brewery does not contain a restaurant or tavern.

BUILDING:

Building shall be defined according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

BUILDING COVERAGE:

The percentage of the net lot area which is covered by all the buildings on a lot, as seen from a plan view.

BUILDING HEIGHT:

Shall be defined and measured according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

BUILDING PAD:

The area of a lot designed for the construction of buildings and structures.

CAR WASH, FULL SERVICE:

A structure containing employees and facilities for washing automobiles using a chain conveyor or other method of moving the cars along, and automatic or semiautomatic application of cleaner, brushes, rinse water, and heat for drying.

CAR WASH, SELF-SERVICE:

A structure containing facilities for washing stationary automobiles, including the semiautomatic application of cleaner, rinse water, and possibly heat for drying. No car washing employees are located at a self-service car wash.

CARETAKER’S RESIDENCE:

A dwelling unit accessory to the principal use on a site which is intended for occupancy by a caretaker, security guard, worker, or similar person generally requiring residence on the site.

CARPORT:

A roofed structure providing space for the parking or storage of motor vehicles and open on at least one side. A three-sided building with an opening on the fourth which is not provided with a closable door is a carport.

CATERING SERVICE:

An establishment that prepares and delivers food for consumption off the premises, for example, for banquets or luncheons. A catering establishment may contain kitchen facilities and may also provide dining supplies such as place settings, tablecloths, and beverage dispensers.

CELLAR:

See definition of Basement.

CEMETERY:

Property, including columbariums and mausoleums, that is used for the interring of the deceased.

CENTERLINE:

The centerline of a street, as referred to in this zoning code, shall mean the right of way centerline as established by the county engineer of the county, by the city engineer of the city, or by the state division of highways of the state; in any case in which the foregoing definition is not applicable, the planning commission shall designate the centerline.

CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY:

As defined by the latest adopted edition of the uniform building code.

CHECK CASHING ESTABLISHMENT

Any business or establishment that, for compensation, engages, in whole or in part, in the business of cashing checks, warrants, drafts, money orders, or other commercial paper serving the same purpose, as provided in Civil Code Section 1789.31.

 

A check cashing establishment does not include a state or federally chartered bank, savings association, credit union, or industrial loan company, or a retail seller engaged primarily in the business of selling consumer goods to retail buyers that cashes checks or issues money orders for a fee not exceeding two dollars ($2.00) as a service to its customers that is incidental to its main purpose.

CHIEF OF POLICE:

That person or agency designated by the city of Lynwood as the person or agency responsible for providing law enforcement to the city.

CHILD DAYCARE FACILITY:

See definition of Daycare Center, Child.

CHRISTMAS TREE SALES FACILITY:

A retail sales operation, generally conducted wholly out of doors, that offers for sale on a temporary, limited basis Christmas trees and related holiday items such as wreaths and Christmas tree stands. The allowable sales period is defined in article 75 of this chapter.

CHURCH:

An assemblage of people for worship, or an institution facilitating worship, including personal counseling and education, and the building or buildings where such activities take place.

CITIZEN BAND (CB) RADIO SERVICE:

A two-way voice communication service that does not require a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

CLINIC:

An organized outpatient health facility for patients who remain less than twenty four (24) hours. Clinics provide direct medical, surgical, dental, optometric, podiatric, or psychological advice, services, or treatment. Clinics may also provide diagnostic or therapeutic services to patients in the home as an incident to care provided at the clinic.

CLUB:

A group of people organized for a common purpose to pursue common goals, interests, or activities and usually characterized by certain membership qualifications, payment of dues, regular meetings, a constitution, and bylaws.

CO-LOCATION:

The locating of multiple antennas on a single ground-mounted, roof-mounted, or structure-mounted facility.

COMMERCIAL KENNEL:

See definition of Kennel.

COMMERCIAL USE:

An activity that includes the buying and selling of commodities and services.

COMMON AREA:

Land in a residential development held in common and/or single ownership which is not reserved for the exclusive use or benefit of an individual tenant or owner.

COMMUNAL HOUSING:

Housing for nonfamily groups with common kitchen and dining facilities but without medical, psychiatric, or other care. Communal housing includes boarding houses, lodging houses, dormitories, fraternity/sorority houses, communes, and religious homes.

COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY:

Any facility, place, or building which is maintained and operated to provide nonmedical residential care, day treatment, adult daycare, or foster family agency services for children, adults, or children and adults, including, but not limited to, physically handicapped, mentally impaired, incompetent persons, and abused or neglected children; and which includes residential facilities, adult daycare facilities, day treatment facilities, foster family homes, small family homes, social rehabilitation facilities, community treatment facilities, and social daycare facilities.

COMMUNITY CENTER:

A facility operated by the city which provides recreational, cultural, or other similar community activities.

CONDITIONAL USE:

A use permitted on a particular site and within a zoning district only upon a finding that such use in a specified location will comply with all the conditions and standards for the location or operation of such use as specified in this zoning code and authorized by the planning commission.

CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT:

An approval that is required for a conditional use to be carried out in a particular zoning district.

CONDOMINIUM:

The interior airspace of two (2) or more dwelling units that are individually owned and where the balance of the property is owned in common by the owners of the units.

CONFORMING:

Fully meeting the requirements of the city of Lynwood building regulations and all property development regulations and requirements prescribed for the applicable zoning district. See also definitions of Nonconforming Land, Nonconforming Structure, and Nonconforming Use.

CONGREGATE RESIDENCE:

Housing, often for senior citizens, arranged in a group setting that includes independent living and sleeping accommodations in conjunction with shared dining and recreational facilities.

CONVALESCENT FACILITY:

A state licensed facility that provides long term nursing, dietary, and other medical services, except surgery or primary treatments customarily provided in a hospital, to convalescents or invalids.

COUNTRY CLUB:

A facility operated primarily for social and outdoor recreation purposes. Country club includes incidental accessory uses and structures.

COURT:

Any open space, unobstructed from ground to sky other than a yard, that is on the same lot and bounded on two (2) sides by the walls of a building.

COVERED PARKING:

A parking space(s) that is within a garage or carport or under the overhanging portion of a building.

DANCE FLOOR:

An area that is in excess of three hundred (300) square feet or in excess of fifteen percent (15%) of the public area of a building and is used as a dance area, whether as a primary or accessory use.

DANCE HALL:

A public hall that is primarily and predominately devoted to dancing.

DAY TREATMENT FACILITY:

Any facility that provides nonmedical care, counseling, educational or vocational support, or social rehabilitation services on less than a twenty four (24) hour basis to persons under eighteen (18) years of age who would otherwise be placed in foster care or who are returning to families from foster care.

DAYCARE CENTER, ADULT:

Any facility that provides nonmedical care, on less than a twenty four (24) hour basis, to persons eighteen (18) years of age or older who are in need of personal services, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living or for the protection of the individual.

DAYCARE CENTER, CHILD:

Any child daycare facility with a capacity of more than twelve (12) children. Daycare centers include infant centers, preschools, and extended daycare facilities. Such a facility provides nonmedical care, on a less than a twenty four (24) hour basis, to persons under eighteen (18) years of age in need of personal services, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living or for the protection of the individual.

DAYCARE HOME, LARGE FAMILY:

A residential home that provides family daycare, in the provider’s own home, to seven (7) to twelve (12) children, inclusive, including children under the age of ten (10) years who reside at the home.

DAYCARE HOME, SMALL FAMILY:

A residential home that provides family daycare, in the provider’s own home, to six (6) or fewer children, including children under the age of ten (10) years who reside at the home.

DECIBEL (dB):

A unit used to express the intensity of a sound wave.

DECK:

A structure projecting from a building (typically a home) at least thirty inches (30") above adjacent grade which is supported from the ground. See also definitions of Balcony and Platform.

DEDICATION:

The release by an owner or developer of private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency having jurisdiction over the public function for which it will be used.

DEMOLISH:

To remove more than seventy five percent (75%) of the exterior walls of an existing building or structure, as measured by the linear length of the walls.

DENSITY:

The number of permanent residential dwelling units per gross acre of land.

DEPENDENT HOUSING:

A dwelling unit provided either as a detached or attached accessory unit to a primary residence on a parcel zoned for one single-family residence, provided the accessory unit is intended for:

 

A. Occupancy by one or two (2) adults of minimum age of sixty (60) who are dependents of the residents of the primary unit; or

 

B. Are court appointed conservatees of a resident of the primary unit; or

 

C. Are members of a very low income household as specified in section 50105 of the Health and Safety Code and are related to the primary unit residents by birth, marriage, or adoption.

DETACHED BUILDING:

A building that does not have a building wall of four feet (4') or more in length in common with another building.

DEVELOPER:

The individual or organization who is responsible for the planning, design, and construction of an applicable development project. A developer may be responsible for implementing the provisions of this zoning code as determined by the property owner.

DISCOUNT STORE:

A store advertising a wide variety of merchandise for sale at less than retail cost.

DISTRIBUTION FACILITY:

A use engaged primarily in the storage and wholesale distribution of manufactured products, supplies, and equipment, including incidental sales activities, but excluding bulk storage of materials which are flammable or explosive.

DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT:

See definition of Restaurant, Drive-In.

DRIVE-IN THEATER:

An outdoor movie theater where patrons view movies or any other form of entertainment on a screen or stage from their vehicles. This definition does not include an adult theater.

DRIVEWAY:

A private roadway or accessway providing vehicular access to a parking space, parking lot, garage, dwelling, or other structure.

DRUG ABUSE RECOVERY OR TREATMENT FACILITY:

Any facility, place, or building which is maintained and operated exclusively to provide twenty four (24) hour residential, nonmedical services in a group setting to adults which may include, but need not be limited to, mothers under eighteen (18) years of age and their children, who are recovering from alcohol, drug, or drug and alcohol misuse and are currently capable of meeting their life support needs independently, but who temporarily need guidance, counseling, or other alcohol or drug recovery services.

DRUGSTORE:

A store where the primary business is the filling of medical prescriptions and the sale of drugs, medical devices and supplies, and nonprescription medicines, but where nonmedical products such as cards, candy, and cosmetics also are sold. Off site sale of alcoholic beverages is permitted as an incidental use in drugstores of at least ten thousand (10,000) square feet in size.

DRY CLEANING PLANT:

A facility where dry cleaning is performed on the premises. A dry cleaning plant may also contain retail laundry service.

DWELLING:

As defined in the latest edition of the uniform building code.

DWELLING, DUPLEX:

A detached building that is designed for occupation as the residence of two (2) families living individually from each other.

DWELLING, MULTI-FAMILY:

A building or portion thereof used and/or designed as a residence with three (3) or more separate dwelling units (for example, apartments or cooperatives).

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHED:

A dwelling unit occupied or intended for occupancy by only one household which is structurally connected with at least one other such dwelling unit (for example, townhouse or condominium).

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED:

A detached building containing no more than one dwelling unit which, regardless of form of ownership, is designed and/or used to house not more than one household including all domestic employees of such family.

DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY:

A building containing no more than two (2) dwelling units.

DWELLING UNIT:

Any mobilehome or building or portion thereof, including a manufactured home or portion thereof, which contains the following: sleeping and eating areas, sanitation as required by the uniform building code, and one kitchen area. For the purposes of this definition, a kitchen area intended solely for use by the domestic employees of the household shall not be counted in determining the number of dwelling units. (See also definition of Kitchen.)

EASEMENT:

A grant of one or more of the property rights by the property owner to and/or for the use of the public, a corporation, or another person or entity.

EAVE:

See definition of Overhang, Roof.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION:

An institution such as a private or public school, college, or university qualified by the state board of education to give academic instruction.

ELEVATION:

A. A scale drawing of the front, rear, or side of a building or structure.

 

B. Height above mean sea level.

EMERGENCY SHELTER:

A facility that provides immediate and short term housing and supplemental services to homeless persons or families. Supplemental services may include food, counseling, and access to other social programs.

EMPLOYEE:

Any person employed by a firm, person(s), business, educational institution, nonprofit agency or corporation, government agency, or other entity.

EMPLOYER:

Any person(s), firm, business, educational institution, government agency, nonprofit agency or corporation, or other entity which employs persons at a single work site, and may either be a property owner or tenant of an applicable development project.

ENCLOSED PARKING STRUCTURE:

A building or structure used for the parking of motor vehicles, having exterior enclosure walls which have less than twenty five percent (25%) of the total wall area open to the atmosphere at each level on at least two (2) sides of the structure.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER:

A commercial center or complex containing a variety of family oriented entertainment uses, predominated by uses which occur indoors. Examples of uses in this type of center could include motion picture theaters, arcades, and gift shops.

EQUESTRIAN FACILITY:

A structure or area the use of which is devoted to activities involving horses, mules, donkeys, ponies, or similar barnyard animals.

EQUIPMENT SHELTER:

The room, cabinet or building used to house equipment, cabling or other devices related to or associated with an antenna(s) or communications facility.

EQUIPMENT STORAGE YARD OR CONTRACTOR YARD:

A use providing for maintenance, servicing, or storage of motor vehicles, equipment, or supplies; or for the dispatching of service vehicles; or for distribution of supplies or construction materials required in connection with a business activity, public utility service, transportation services, or similar activity. The term “contractor yard” shall include a construction materials yard, vehicular service center, or similar use.

EROSION, ACCELERATED:

Erosion of the soil, caused by human activity, which is greater than that which would normally occur under natural conditions. Causes of accelerated erosion may include, but not be limited to, diversion and/or concentration of drainage flows, the removal of plant cover, any land disturbing activity, or the creation of new drainage courses which are not prepared to accommodate flows without erosion.

FACADE:

A building’s exterior wall which is exposed to public view.

FACILITY(IES):

The total of all buildings, structures and grounds that encompass a work site, at either single or multiple locations, which comprises or is associated with an applicable development project.

FAMILY:

Any group of individuals living together as the functional equivalent of a family where the residents may share living expenses and chores, eat meals together and are a close group with social, economic and psychological commitments to each other. A family includes, for example, the residents of residential care facilities and group homes for people with disabilities. A family does not include larger institutional group living situations such as dormitories, fraternities, sororities, monasteries or nunneries.

FARM:

An area or parcels of land used for agricultural activities.

FAST FOOD RESTAURANT:

See definition of Restaurant, Fast Food.

FENCE:

A solid or open barrier aboveground intended to enclose or mark a boundary.

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION:

An establishment or facility for the custody, loan, exchange, or issue of money; for the extension of credit; and for facilitating the transmission of funds.

FIRE AUTHORITY:

That person or agency designated by the city of Lynwood as the person or agency responsible for providing firefighting and other emergency response services to the city.

FLAG LOT:

See definition of Lot, Flag.

FLOOD:

For the definition of flood and related terms, the definitions contained in this municipal code shall apply.

FLOOR AREA, GROSS:

The total horizontal area of a building, in square feet, including the exterior walls of all floors.

FLOOR AREA RATIO:

The total gross floor area of all buildings on a lot divided by the lot area.

FOSTER FAMILY HOME:

Any residential facility providing twenty four (24) hour care for six (6) or fewer foster children which is owned, leased, or rented by, and is the residence of, the foster parents, including their family, and in whose care the foster children have been placed.

FRONT YARD:

See definition of Yard, Front.

GARAGE:

An enclosed deck, building, or structure, or part thereof, used or intended to be used for the parking and storage of vehicles which is not a carport. See also definition of Carport.

GARAGE, PRIVATE:

As defined in the latest edition of the uniform building code.

GARAGE, PUBLIC:

As defined in the latest edition of the uniform building code.

GENERAL PLAN:

The general plan of the city of Lynwood, adopted pursuant to the state of California Government Code section 65301 et seq., and adopted by the city council.

GOLD BUYING AND SELLING ESTABLISHMENT

Any business or establishment whose primary business is to purchase precious metals (e.g., gold, platinum, silver) and resell said precious metals for a profit.

GOVERNMENT OFFICES:

The working location of any department, commission, independent agency, or instrumentality of the United States, of a state, county, incorporated or unincorporated municipality, township, authority, district, or other governmental unit.

GRADE:

Grade and all related terms shall be defined according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

GRANNY HOUSING:

See definition of Dependent Housing.

GROUND-MOUNTED:

Mounted to a pole, monopole, lattice tower, or other freestanding structure specifically constructed for the purposes of supporting antennas and/or microwave dishes.

GROUP HOME:

Any residential care facility for six (6) or fewer persons which is licensed by the state.

GUEST PARKING:

Parking spaces provided with a residential unit for intermittent use by visitors.

GUESTHOUSE:

Living quarters with bathroom plumbing only located on the same lot as the primary dwelling unit and intended for temporary occupancy by family members, guests, or persons employed on the premises.

GUESTROOM:

Any room which is used or designed to provide transient occupancy and sleeping accommodations for one or more paying guests. Guestrooms occur in hotels, motels, timeshares, bed and breakfasts, private clubs, lodges, fraternal organizations, and other transient occupancy facilities.

HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN SALES FACILITY:

A retail sales operation, generally conducted wholly out of doors, that offers for sale on a temporary, limited basis pumpkins and related holiday items. The allowable sales period is defined in article 75 of this chapter.

HAZARDOUS FIRE AREA:

Any land that is covered with grass, grain, brush, or forest, whether privately or publicly owned, and which is so situated or inaccessible that a fire originating upon such land would present an abnormally difficult job of suppression or would result in great and unusual damage through fire and resulting erosion.

HAZARDOUS WASTE FACILITY:

Defined pursuant to the state Health and Safety Code, section 25125.1.

HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER:

A retail service engaged in providing retail sale, rental, service, or repair and installation of home improvement products including building materials; paint and wallpaper; carpeting and floor covering; decorating materials; heating, air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical equipment; roofing; yard and garden supplies; home appliances; and similar home improvement products.

HOME OCCUPATION:

A commercial activity conducted solely by the occupants of a particular dwelling unit as defined in article 95 of this chapter.

HORTICULTURAL SERVICES:

An establishment that provides gardening and landscaping services. The establishment shall not contain a nursery.

HOSPITAL, CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY RECOVERY:

A health facility that provides twenty four (24) hour inpatient care for persons who have a dependency on alcohol or other drugs, or both alcohol and other drugs. Such care shall include, but not be limited to, the following basic services: patient counseling, group therapy, physical conditioning, family therapy, outpatient services, and dietetic services.

HOSPITAL, GENERAL ACUTE CARE:

A health facility having a duly constituted governing body with overall administrative and professional responsibility and an organized medical staff which provides twenty four (24) hour inpatient care, including the following basic services: medical, nursing, surgical, anesthesia, laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, and dietary services.

HOTEL:

A building or group of buildings containing six (6) or more guestrooms offering transient lodging accommodations to the general public and incidental services that are customarily provided by a hotel, for the convenience of hotel guests, such as food service, recreational facilities, and retail services; and public banquet, reception, and meeting rooms. The incidental services that may be provided by a hotel shall be limited to the services permitted under an approved plan.

IMPERVIOUS SURFACE:

Any surface, including concrete, asphalt, paving blocks, bricks, waterproof plastic, or other materials, which cover the soil with a surface impervious to water.

IMPROVEMENT:

The addition of one or more features, structures, or utilities on a parcel of land.

INFRASTRUCTURE:

Basic facilities and services needed to sustain development.

INSTITUTIONAL USE:

An organizational use or a public character including governmental, educational, religious, medical, scientific research, cultural, social, charitable, nonprofit, and sometimes recreational or entertainment uses.

JUNK OR SALVAGE YARD:

Any area, lot, parcel, building, or structure, or part thereof, used for the storage, collection, processing, purchase, sale, or abandonment of wastepaper, rags, scrap metal, or other scrap or discarded goods, materials, machinery, two (2) or more unregistered and inoperable motor vehicles, or other types of junk.

KENNEL:

Shall be defined as established in the city’s animal control ordinance.

KITCHEN:

In a dwelling unit, any room or portion of a room which contains the following combination of facilities of sufficient size for the preparation of meals for the household: a) one or more sinks, b) a stove, and c) utilities and location(s) for a refrigerator. (See also definition of Stove.)

LANDSCAPING:

Areas devoted to, or developed and maintained predominately with, native or exotic plant materials including lawn, ground cover, trees, shrubs, and other plant materials. Landscaping may also include small amounts of accessory decorative outdoor landscape elements such as pools, fountains, and paved or decorated surfaces, all of which are suitably designed, selected, installed, and maintained to enhance a site.

LAUNDROMAT:

An establishment providing washing and drying machines on the premises for rental use to the general public for laundering of family clothes.

LAUNDRY SERVICE:

An establishment that dry cleans, washes, and dries clothes, either brought in and carried away by the customer or collected and delivered primarily by laundry employees.

LOADING SPACE:

An off street space or berth which is on the same lot as the building(s) it services; abuts a street, alley, or other appropriate means of access; and is used for the temporary parking of a commercial vehicle that is being loaded or unloaded with merchandise, materials, or people.

LOT:

Land which abuts at least one public street or any numbered or otherwise designated parcel of land which is shown on: a) a recorded tract map, b) a record of survey map recorded pursuant to an approved division of land, or c) a parcel map.

LOT AREA OR SIZE, NET:

The area within a lot exclusive of any dedications for public rights of way, public parks, and public school sites.

LOT, CORNER:

A lot or parcel of land abutting upon two (2) or more streets at their intersection, or upon two (2) parts of the same street forming an interior angle of less than one hundred thirty five degrees (135°).

LOT COVERAGE:

The area of a lot covered by the combination of buildings and impervious surfaces. See also definitions of Building Coverage and Impervious Surface.

LOT, CUL-DE-SAC:

A lot located at any position on the circular portion of a cul-de-sac street.

LOT DEPTH:

The average linear measurement between the front and rear lot lines when measured at ninety degree (90°) angles from the front lot line.

LOT, FLAG:

A lot having access to a street by means of a private driveway access easement, or parcel of land not meeting the requirements of this zoning code for lot width but having a dimension of at least twenty feet (20') at its narrowest point.

LOT FRONTAGE:

The length of the defined front lot line measured at the street right of way line.

LOT, INTERIOR:

A lot other than a corner lot.

LOT, KEY:

The first interior lot to the rear of a reversed corner lot which is not separated therefrom by an alley.

LOT LINE:

The lines bounding a “lot” as defined herein.

LOT LINE, FRONT:

The line separating the narrowest street frontage of the lot from the street right of way.

LOT LINE, REAR:

The lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot line; or in the case of an irregularly

 

shaped lot, a straight line not less than ten feet (10') long within the lot and most nearly parallel to, and at the maximum distance from, the front lot line.

LOT LINE, SIDE:

Any lot lines other than the front or rear lot lines.

LOT MERGER:

The joining of two (2) or more contiguous parcels of land under one ownership into one parcel pursuant to the subdivision map act.

LOT OR BUILDING COVERAGE:

The percentage of the net lot area that is covered by all the buildings on a lot, as seen from a plan view.

LOT, REVERSED CORNER:

A corner lot in which the rear lot line abuts the side lot line of the nearest lot to its rear.

LOT, SUBSTANDARD:

Any lot that does not meet the minimum dimensions required by this municipal code. The area of any easement which restricts the normal usage of the lot may be included in the dimensions.

LOT, THROUGH:

A lot that fronts upon two (2) streets that do not intersect at the boundaries of the lot.

LOT WIDTH:

The average linear distance between side lot lines when measured parallel to the front lot line.

MANUFACTURED HOME:

A dwelling unit certified under the national manufactured housing construction and safety standards act of 1974 and pursuant to section 18551 of the Health and Safety Code.

MANUFACTURING:

A use engaged in the manufacture, predominantly from previously prepared materials, of finished products or parts, including processing, fabrication, assembly, treatment, and packaging of such products, and incidental processing of extracted or raw materials.

MAP ACT:

The subdivision map act of the state of California.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES:

Any establishment or location where marijuana is distributed, transmitted, given to, or otherwise provided to qualified patients or primary caregivers in accordance with California Health and Safety Code sections 11362.5 through 11362.83, inclusive, commonly referred to as the “compassionate use act of 1996” and “senate bill 420”.

MERGER:

See definition of Lot Merger.

MICROWAVE:

Spectrum frequencies from one to three hundred (300) gigahertz; highly directional when used for radio frequency transmissions. Uses relatively low transmitter power levels when compared to other forms of transmission.

MINIWAREHOUSE:

A structure containing separate storage spaces of three hundred (300) square feet or less which are designed to be leased or rented individually.

MIXED USE:

The development in a compact urban form of a structure or site with two (2) or more different uses such as, but not limited to, residential, commercial, recreational, office, manufacturing, or public uses.

MOBILEHOME:

A structure designed for single-family detached residential use that has been manufactured pursuant to the national manufactured housing construction and safety standards act of 1974.

MOBILEHOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION:

A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two (2) or more mobilehome lots for sale or rent.

MONOPOLE:

A structure composed of a single spire used to support antennas and related equipment.

MOTEL:

An establishment otherwise defined as a hotel with at least twenty five percent (25%) of all rooms having direct access to the parking areas without the necessity of persons passing through the main lobby of the building.

MOTOR VEHICLE:

A machine capable of self-propulsion, with or without human guidance, whether for the performance of work or as a mode of transportation.

MULTI-FAMILY:

Where referenced in this code to determine applicable development standards and requirements, “multi-family” shall apply to all uses in the R3-8, zone districts, regardless of the type of housing (i.e., attached or detached).

NIGHTCLUBS, TAVERNS, BARS:

Establishments providing the preparation and retail sales of alcoholic beverages, as licensed by the alcoholic beverage control department.

NOISE:

Any sound that is undesirable because it is annoying, interferes with speech or hearing, or is intense enough to damage hearing.

NOISE, AMBIENT:

The all encompassing noise level associated with a given environment, being a composite of sounds from all sources, excluding alleged offensive noises, at the location and approximate time at which a comparison with alleged offensive noises is to be made.

NONCONFORMING LAND:

A parcel, the size, dimensions, or use of which was lawful prior to the adoption of, revision of, or amendment to this zoning code, but which fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment, to conform to the present requirements of this zoning code.

NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE:

A structure or building, the size, dimensions, or location of which was lawful prior to the adoption of, revision of, or amendment to this zoning code, but which fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment, to conform to the present requirements of this zoning code.

NONCONFORMING USE:

A use or activity which was lawful prior to the adoption of, revision of, or amendment to this zoning code, but which fails, by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment, to conform to the present requirements of this zoning code.

NURSERIES AND HORTICULTURE, RETAIL:

Land, gardens, orchards, or greenhouses used to raise flowers, shrubs, and plants, including the sale of those items on the premises.

OFF STREET PARKING SPACE:

A permanent parking space for a motor vehicle which is to city standards and not located on a dedicated street right of way.

OFFICE, PROFESSIONAL:

An office in which professional or consulting services are provided, such as in the fields of law, architecture, design, engineering, accounting, and similar professions.

ON STREET PARKING SPACE:

A designated area for parking a motor vehicle which is located on a dedicated street right of way.

OPEN SPACE:

Any parcel or area of land or water set aside, dedicated, designated, or reserved for public or private use or enjoyment.

OPEN SPACE, ACTIVE:

Any parcel or area of land or water which is set aside, dedicated, designated, or reserved for public or private use or enjoyment, or for the use and enjoyment of owners and occupants of land adjoining or neighboring such open space, and which contains recreational facilities such as pools and swimming areas, courts and other game areas, playing fields and equipment, or other required facilities for various active activities.

OPEN SPACE, COMMON:

Land within or related to a development, not individually owned or dedicated for public use, which is designed and intended for the common use or enjoyment of the owners of the development and which may include such complementary structures and improvements as are approved as necessary and appropriate.

OPEN SPACE, PASSIVE:

Any parcel or area of land or water which is essentially unimproved and set aside, dedicated, designated, or reserved for nonstructured recreational activities in order to preserve the natural and aesthetic qualities of the area.

OPEN SPACE, PRIVATE:

An open space, fenced or otherwise, designed to promote privacy, and which is reserved for the exclusive use of by the occupants of specified dwelling units.

OPEN SPACE, PUBLIC:

Open space owned and maintained by a public agency for the use and enjoyment of the general public.

OVERHANG, ROOF:

The lower part of a roof which extends beyond the facade of a lower wall.

OVERHANG, VEHICLE:

The allowed two foot (2') portion of a parked vehicle which extends over a curb and/or planted area.

OVERLAY ZONING DISTRICT:

A zoning district established by ordinance which may be applied to properties only when combined with a base zoning district.

OWNER OF PROPERTY:

The owner of record of any parcel of real property as designated on the county assessor’s tax roll, or a holder of a subsequently recorded deed to the property.

OWNER’S AUTHORIZED AGENT:

Any person authorized to act for the owner of a property by virtue of a notarized statement of authorization, or a proof of contract to purchase.

PARCEL:

An area of land, the boundaries of which have been legally established in conformance with the state subdivision map act.

PARCEL MAP:

A map that is made for the purpose of showing the design and improvement of a proposed subdivision of four (4) or fewer lots and the existing conditions in and around it, and which need not be based upon an accurate or detailed final survey of the property.

PARCEL MAP, VESTING:

A parcel map which meets the requirements of section 66452 of the California Government Code and which confers a vested right to develop in compliance with the standards described in section 66474.2 of the California Government Code.

PARK, PUBLIC:

An open space intended for public recreational use which is operated by another government agency.

PARKING AREA, PRIVATE:

An area, other than a street, designed or used primarily for the parking of private vehicles and not open to general public use.

PARKING AREA, PUBLIC:

An area, other than a private parking area or street, used for the parking of vehicles and available for general public use, either free or for a fee.

PARKING SPACE:

A permanent area for the parking of one vehicle which meets the minimum dimensions, access, and surfacing requirements established by the city.

PARKING SPACE, COVERED:

A parking space(s) within a garage, carport, or parking structure.

PATIO:

Patio, open and closed, shall be defined according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

PAWN SHOP:

Any business or establishment wherein a person or entity lends money in exchange for personal property pledged to such person or entity, or deposited with such person or entity as security until redeemed or, if unredeemed within a certain period of time, sold.

PAYDAY LOAN ESTABLISHMENT:

Any business or establishment that offers, originates, or makes a deferral of a customer’s personal check until a specific date, pursuant to a written agreement for a fee or other charge, who arranges for the same, who acts as an agent for the same, or who assists in the same. A payday loan establishment does not include a state or federally chartered bank, savings association, credit union, or industrial loan company, or a retail seller engaged primarily in the business of selling consumer goods to retail buyers that cashes checks or issues money orders for a fee not exceeding two dollars ($2.00) as a service to its customers that is incidental to its main purpose.

PERMIT:

Written governmental permission issued by an authorized official, empowering the holder thereof to do some act not forbidden by law, but not allowed without such authorization.

PERMITTED USE:

Any use allowed in a zoning district by right and subject to the restrictions applicable to that zoning district.

PERVIOUS SURFACE:

Any porous covering of the soil which allows water to pass through. See also definition of Impervious Surface.

PET SHOP:

Any premises primarily used for the sale of household pets and pet supplies.

PHASE:

Any independent and contiguous part or portion of a project which is developed as a unit in the same time period.

PLANNING COMMISSION:

The planning commission of the city of Lynwood, established pursuant to the provisions of section 65101 of the Government Code.

PLATFORM:

A structure less than thirty inches (30") above grade which extends outward from a building (typically a home), and which has a walking surface. Platforms do not require a building permit. See also definitions of Balcony and Deck.

PORCH:

A covered pedestrian entrance to a building which is located on the first floor level.

PREEXISTING USE:

The use of a lot or structure prior to the enactment of specific zoning code provisions.

PREMISES:

A lot or building site, or a specified portion of a lot or building site, that meets the requirements needed for the location, maintenance, and operation of a use on the property.

PRINCIPAL BUILDING/STRUCTURE:

The primary or predominant building or structure on a lot.

PRINCIPAL USE:

The primary or predominant use of any lot.

PROJECT:

The entire parcel of real property, including all structures thereon, all or part of which undergoes or is proposed to undergo construction, demolition, or a change in ownership status.

PROPERTY OWNER:

The legal owner of the applicable development project who serves as the lessor to an employer or tenant.

QUASI-PUBLIC:

A use owned or operated by a nonprofit, religious, or charitable institution and providing educational, cultural, recreational, religious, or similar types of public programs.

RADIO FREQUENCY EMISSIONS OR RF EMISSIONS:

An emission of wireless communication caused by the movement of electromagnetic energy through space, which lies in the frequency range from three (3) kilohertz to three hundred (300) gigahertz. This term is also used interchangeably with electromagnetic fields (EMF).

REAR YARD:

See definition of Yard, Rear.

REBUILD:

To undertake construction within and/or on an existing building that has a valid construction permit.

RECEPTION WINDOW:

The area within the direct line between a satellite antenna and those orbiting communication satellites carrying available programming.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE:

A vehicular portable structure without permanent foundation which can be towed, hauled, or driven; which is primarily designed as a temporary living accommodation for recreational, camping, and travel use; and which may include, but is not limited to, travel trailers, truck campers, camping trailers, boats, and self-propelled motorhomes.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK:

An area used or intended to be used for camping in recreational vehicles.

RECYCLING FACILITIES:

Any center for the collection of recyclable materials. A recycling facility does not include storage containers on commercial property which are used solely for the recycling of material generated by that business. Recycling facilities include reverse vending machines, small collection recycling facilities, mobile recycling units, and large collection recycling facilities.

RECYCLING FACILITIES, COMMERCIAL:

A for profit recycling facility. See also definition of Recycling Facilities.

REPLACEMENT COST:

The actual cost to replace or reconstruct a damaged structure, facility, or feature, as determined by the appraisal of a qualified and approved appraiser.

RESTAURANT, DRIVE-IN:

A building or portion thereof in which food and/or beverages are sold in a form ready for consumption and where all or a significant portion of the consumption of food takes place outside the confines of the building, often in a motor vehicle.

RESTAURANT, FAST FOOD:

A restaurant that supplies food and beverages primarily in disposable containers, and which is characterized by high automobile accessibility, self-service, and short stays by customers.

RESTAURANT, SIT DOWN:

An establishment where food and drink is prepared, served, and consumed primarily within the principal building.

RESTAURANT, WALK-UP:

Any establishment where food and/or beverages are sold to the consumer and provision is made for the serving and consumption of food or beverages outside the confines of the main building, but not usually in.

RETAIL:

The selling of goods, wares, or merchandise directly to the ultimate consumer.

REVERSE VENDING MACHINE:

A machine that dispenses money to consumers in exchange for glass bottles, aluminum cans, and other recyclable containers.

RIDING AND HIKING TRAILS:

A trail or way designed for or used by equestrians, pedestrians, and/or cyclists using nonmotorized bicycles.

RIGHT OF WAY:

A defined area of land, either public or private, on which a right of passage has been recorded.

RIPARIAN HABITAT:

An environment associated with freshwater watercourses, including perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, and other bodies of fresh water, and characterized by plants and animals which are dependent upon the availability of water in the resource.

ROOM:

An area of a building fully enclosed by walls, windows, doors, a roof, and a floor.

ROOM, PRIMARY:

A living room, dining room, or family room.

ROOM, SECONDARY:

All rooms other than primary rooms.

SALVAGE:

The recovery of waste materials.

SCENIC HIGHWAY:

A highway, road, drive, or street which, in addition to its transportation function, provides opportunities for the enjoyment of natural and manmade scenic resources and access to, or direct views to, areas or scenes of exceptional beauty or historic or cultural interest. The aesthetic values of scenic routes often are protected and enhanced by regulations governing the development of property or the placement of outdoor advertising.

SCREENING:

A method of visually shielding or obscuring one abutting or nearby structure or use from another by fencing, walls, berms, or densely planted vegetation.

SECOND DWELLING UNIT:

A second permanent dwelling that is accessory to a primary dwelling on the same site. A secondary unit provides complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.

SECONDHAND STORE:

Any premises used for the sale or handling of used goods. A secondhand store includes an establishment for the sale or trade of used clothing, furniture, and appliances. A secondhand store does not include an establishment selling primarily used jewelry, old coins, or old stamps.

SERVICE STATION:

A retail place of business engaged primarily in the sale of petroleum products, and goods and services required in the operation and maintenance of motor vehicles under one and one-half (1.5) ton capacity as the same is defined by the state’s motor vehicle code and in which maintenance, minor repairs, washing, and lubrication services are conducted wholly within the service station building.

SETBACK:

The distance from a defined point or line governing the placement of buildings, structures, parking, or uses on a lot.

SETBACK LINE:

A line within a lot, parallel to and measured from a corresponding lot line, forming the boundary of a required yard and governing the placement of buildings, structures, parking, or uses on a lot.

SHOPPING CENTER:

A group of three (3) or more commercial establishments planned, constructed, and managed as a total entity including: customer and employee parking provided on site; provision for goods delivery separated from customer access; aesthetic design considerations; and protection from the elements.

SIDE YARD:

See definition of Yard, Side.

SIDEWALK:

A paved surface or leveled area used as a pedestrian walkway which parallels and is usually separated from the street.

SIGN:

Signs are defined as established in article 70 of this chapter, and in this article.

SIGN, NONCOMMERCIAL:

Any sign which does not advertise a commercial enterprise. This shall include signs advertising political parties or candidates, ballot measures, or expressions of opinion.

SIGN, TEMPORARY:

Any sign designed and/or manufactured to be displayed for a period of one year or less. These signs will typically be made of fabric or canvas, or of wood or a similar material.

SINGLE-FAMILY:

Where used in this code to determine appropriate development standards and requirements, “single-family” shall refer only to development in the R-1 zone district.

SINGLE-ROOM OCCUPANCY (SRO) HOUSING:

Single-room occupancy (SRO) housing, also known as an efficiency unit, means housing consisting of single-room dwelling units typically with no more than four hundred (400) square feet of habitable space that is the primary residence of its occupant or occupants. The unit must contain either food preparation or sanitary facilities (and may contain both). An accessory structure such as a garage, storage room, play room, pool house or rumpus room does not qualify as an SRO.

SITE:

Any lot or parcel of land, or combination of contiguous lots or parcels of land, used or intended for a particular use or group of uses.

SITE COVERAGE:

The amount of a lot or lots covered by buildings, pavement, and other impervious surfaces.

SITE PLAN:

A plan drawn to scale, showing uses and structures proposed for a property as required by the applicable regulations, including lot lines, streets, grades, building sites, reserved open space, and other specific development proposals.

SKILLED NURSING FACILITY:

A health facility that provides skilled nursing care and supportive care to patients whose primary need is for availability of skilled nursing care on an extended basis.

SLOPE:

The degree of deviation of a surface from the horizontal, usually expressed in percent or degrees.

SOLID FENCE:

A wooden fence or wall with no openings.

SPECIFIC PLAN:

Under article 8 of the Government Code (section 65450 et seq.), a legal tool for detailed design and implementation of a defined portion of the area covered by a general plan. A specific plan may include all detailed regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation which may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any general plan element(s).

STABLE, PRIVATE:

A building or portion of a building used to shelter and feed horses or ponies which are used exclusively by the occupants of the property on which the stable is situated.

STABLE, PUBLIC:

A stable other than a private stable.

STANDARDS, DEVELOPMENT:

Requirements in this zoning code that govern building and development, including, but not limited to, lot area, height limits, frontage, landscaping, and floor area ratio.

STEALTH FACILITY:

A communications facility that is designed to blend into the surrounding environment and to be visually unobtrusive. Examples of stealth facilities may include architecturally screened roof-mounted antennas, and facade-mounted antennas painted and treated as architectural elements to blend with an existing structure. Also known as concealed communications facilities.

STOCK COOPERATIVE:

A corporation that holds title to improved real property, either in fee simple or for a term of years. All or substantially all of the shareholders have a right of exclusive occupancy in a portion of the property, and the right of occupancy is transferable only concurrently with the transfer of the corporate stock.

STORY:

Story and all related terms shall be defined according to the definition contained in the uniform building code.

STOVE:

This includes any type of built-in or installed appliance utilizing gas or electric heat for the external heating and cooking of food. A stove may include a range top and an oven in a single unit or in separate units; the presence of either a built-in or installed range top or oven shall qualify as a stove. For the purposes of this definition, the following are not considered to be stoves: a) microwave ovens and b) hot plates, toaster ovens, or other countertop devices utilizing one hundred twenty (120) volt current. See also definitions of Dwelling Unit and Kitchen.

STREET:

A publicly accessible vehicular right of way, other than an alley, which affords a primary means of access to abutting property.

STREETSCAPE:

That portion of a lot’s net area and improvements which is exposed to view from the street.

STRUCTURE:

A combination of materials which is assembled for use, occupancy, or ornamentation, whether installed on, above, or below the surface of land or water. Includes, but is not limited to, any building, road, pipe, flume, conduit, siphon, aqueduct, telephone line, or electrical power transmission and distribution area.

STRUCTURE-MOUNTED:

Mounted to, or as part of, a structure (e.g., a building, church steeple, freestanding sign, water tank, etc.).

SUBDIVISION:

The division of a tract of land into defined lots, either improved or unimproved, which can be separately conveyed by sale or lease, and which can be altered or developed. “Subdivision” includes a condominium project as defined in section 1350 of the California Civil Code and a community apartment project as defined in section 11004 of the Business and Professions Code.

SUPERMARKET:

A retail store of at least fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet in size selling a full range of food products for household use, including groceries, produce, dairy products, meats, and related items. The sale of food products shall be the primary use, in terms of floor area devoted to display space; the sale of alcoholic beverages (for off site consumption only) is permitted, so long as it is incidental to the sale of groceries and food.

SUPPORTING USES:

Uses of land or buildings which are important, but not necessarily essential, to the primary use.

SUPPORTIVE HOUSING:

Housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied by the target population, and that is linked to on-site 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 and, when possible, work in the community.

SURFACE, IMPERVIOUS:

See definition of Impervious Surface.

SURFACE, PERVIOUS:

See definition of Pervious Surface.

SWAP MEET:

A business or businesses conducted for the purpose of selling new or used merchandise in a parking lot, drive-in theater, or common room(s) where two (2) or more individual sellers rent, lease, or otherwise purchase the right to sell their products at the location. A flea market (open air sale of used goods) is considered a swap meet.

SWIMMING POOL, PRIVATE:

A water filled enclosure, permanently constructed or portable, having a depth of more than twenty-four inches (24") below the level of the surrounding land, or an above surface pool, having a depth of more than twenty-four inches (24"), designed, used, and maintained as an accessory use for swimming and bathing by not more than three (3) owner families and their guests and intended for noncommercial use.

SWIMMING POOL, PUBLIC:

Any swimming pool other than a private pool.

TEMPORARY SIGN:

See definition of Sign, Temporary.

TEMPORARY STRUCTURE:

A structure without any foundation or footings which will be removed when the designated time period, activity, or use for which the temporary structure was erected has ceased.

TEMPORARY USE:

A use established for a fixed period of time with the intent to discontinue such use upon the expiration of the time period.

TENANT:

The lessee of facility space at an applicable development project who also serves as an employer.

TOWER:

A structure intended to support equipment used to transmit and/or receive signals including monopoles, guyed and lattice construction steel structures.

TOWNHOUSE:

A single-family attached dwelling organized in a row of at least three (3) such units in which each unit has its own front and rear access to the outside, no unit is located over another unit, and each unit is separated from any other unit by one or more common and fire resistant walls.

TRACT:

An area, parcel, site, piece of land, or property which is the subject of a development application.

TRACT HOUSE:

A dwelling in a comprehensively designed residential development that contains lots and houses similar in size and appearance.

TRAILER:

A structure standing on wheels which can be towed or hauled by another vehicle and which is used for short term human occupation; carrying of materials, goods, or objects; or as a temporary office.

TRAILER, CONSTRUCTION:

A trailer, the use of which is incidental to new construction on a site, including, but not limited to, temporary office space for the direction of on site construction activities.

TRANSITIONAL HOUSING:

“Transitional housing” and “transitional housing development” means 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.

TRUCK TERMINAL:

A lot, lot area, or parcel of land used, designed, or maintained for the purpose of storing, parking, refueling, repairing, dispatching, servicing, or keeping motor trucks and associated equipment together with those facilities necessary to service, dispatch, store, or maintain such vehicles, their cargos and crews.

ULTIMATE RIGHT OF WAY:

The defined future right of way shown on an adopted precise plan of highway alignment, or the street rights of way shown within the boundary of a recorded tract map, a recorded parcel map, or other recorded permit. The latest adopted or recorded document in the above case shall take precedence. If none of these exist, the ultimate right of way shall be considered the right of way required by the roadway classification as shown in the circulation element of the general plan.

UNDERGROUND OR SUBTERRANEAN PARKING:

Parking areas located below grade, used solely for parking purposes.

UNDEVELOPED LAND:

Land in its natural state without any infrastructure, buildings, or other improvements.

USE:

The purpose for which land or a building is used, arranged, designed, or intended, or for which the land or building is or may be occupied or maintained.

USE, PERMITTED:

A use listed by the provisions of any particular district as a permitted use within that district and permitted therein as a matter of right and/or subject to planning use permit review when conducted in accord with the regulations established by this zoning code.

USE, PRINCIPAL:

A use that fulfills a primary function of a household, establishment, institution, or other entity.

UTILITY MOUNTED:

An antenna attached to a public utility structure.

UTILITY, PRIVATE OR PUBLIC:

Any closely regulated agency which, under public franchise or ownership, or under certificate of convenience and necessity, provides the public with electricity, gas, heat, steam, communication, rail transportation, water, sewage collection, or other similar service.

UTILITY SERVICES:

Establishments engaged in the generation, transmission, and/or distribution of electricity, gas, or steam, including water and irrigation systems, and sanitary systems used for the collection and disposal of garbage, sewage, and other wastes by means of destroying or processing materials.

VARIANCE:

Permission to depart from the provisions of this zoning code when, due to special circumstances applicable to the property, strict application of the requirements deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity which is under identical zoning (see articles 135 and 140 of this chapter).

VESTED RIGHT:

A right which has been legally established and cannot be revoked by subsequent conditions or changes in law without due process of law.

VETERINARIAN:

A licensed doctor who operates a medical facility licensed by the state department of public health for the treatment of household pets, excluding species of equine. The use may include the overnight care of household pets.

WALL:

A substantial solid barrier intended to enclose, separate, or surround, and typically four inches (4") or more in thickness.

WHOLESALE:

A sale of commodities or goods to others for resale and not normally to the ultimate consumer.

WINDOW:

An opening which is in a wall of a building, designed to allow light and/or ventilation into the building, enclosed by casement or sash, and containing glass or other similar transparent or semitransparent material.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY OR COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY:

A public or private structure that supports antennas, microwave dishes, and other related equipment for sending and/or receiving radio and television signals. These facilities may support a variety of services, including: cellular telephone; personal communication services (PCS) and networks; paging; dispatching enhanced specialized mobile radio; distributed antennas system (DAS); television; radio; Internet or broadband services; and all other wireless communications, except for satellite earth stations antennas, amateur (ham) radio communication facilities, and citizen band radio antennas which are incidental to the primary use and meet the standards in section 25-80-7 (Satellite Antennas, Amateur Radio Communication Facilities, And Citizen Band (CB) Radio Antennas).

XERISCAPE:

Landscaping characterized by the use of vegetation that is drought resistant or low water use in character.

YARD:

An open space on a developed lot that, except as otherwise provided in this zoning code, is unoccupied or unobstructed from the ground upwards; and, when a yard dimension is given, it represents the minimum horizontal distance between the lot line from which the distance must be measured and a line parallel to the lot line.

YARD, FRONT:

The open space extending across the full width of the front of the lot, the depth of which is the horizontal distance between the front lot line and the front setback line.

YARD, REAR:

The open space extending across the full width of the rear of the lot, the depth of which is the horizontal distance between the rear lot line and the rear setback line.

YARD, SIDE:

The space between the side lot line and the side yard setback line, extending from the front setback line to the rear setback line.

ZONING DISTRICT:

A specifically delineated area or district within a municipality in which regulations and requirements uniformly govern the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings. Also known as zone district.

ZONING MAP:

The map or maps which are a part of this zoning code and delineate the boundaries of zoning districts. (Ord. #1563, §3; Ord. #1632, §2; Ord. #1633, §§2, 3; Ord. #1645, §2; Ord. #1659, §2 (Exh. 1 §1)