Chapter 23.719
PARKING AND LOADING
Sections:
23.719.030 Permit requirements.
23.719.050 Use and general requirements for parking lots.
23.719.060 Requirements for off-street parking spaces.
23.719.070 Vehicle parking requirements.
23.719.080 Reductions and exceptions to minimum parking requirements.
23.719.090 Design standards for surface parking lots.
23.719.100 Design standards for parking structures.
23.719.110 Bicycle parking requirements.
23.719.120 Design standards for bicycle parking facilities.
23.719.130 Standards for off-street parking for private residences.
23.719.140 Trip reduction requirements.
23.719.150 Off-street loading requirements.
23.719.160 Electric vehicle parking spaces.
23.719.010 Purpose.
This chapter establishes standards for the amount, location, and development of motor vehicle parking, bicycle parking, and on-site loading areas. The purpose of the standards is to provide for safe vehicular parking, circulation, and loading requirements supportive of a variety of uses in an increasingly pedestrian, bicycle-friendly, and transit-oriented community. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.010)].
23.719.020 Applicability.
Off-street parking and loading provisions of this chapter shall apply as follows:
A. New Development. For all buildings or structures erected and all uses of land established after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, parking for vehicles and bicycles and loading facilities shall be provided as required by this chapter.
B. Change in Use. When the use of any building, structure, or premises is changed, resulting in an increase of more than 10 percent in the required number of off-street parking spaces, additional off-street parking shall be provided consistent with Table 23.719-1 (Required Minimum Vehicle Ratios) and required bicycle parking, and the parking lot design shall comply with the requirements of this code.
C. Change of Occupancy. Where a new business license is required, additional parking spaces shall be provided if the new occupancy would result in an increase of more than 10 percent in the required number of off-street parking spaces. The director or his/her designee shall review the parking requirements of the proposed use and must approve the parking plan before a new business license is issued.
D. Modification to Existing Structures. Whenever an existing building or structure is modified such that it creates an increase of more than 10 percent in the number of off-street parking spaces required, additional off-street parking spaces shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of this chapter. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.020)].
23.719.030 Permit requirements.
New parking lots and modifications or expansions to existing parking lots require the following permits:
A. Building Permit. New parking lot design and modifications to existing parking lots in conjunction with a substantial change in use to an existing structure shall be reviewed in conjunction with the building permit and any other land use or development permit required for the project.
B. Zoning Certification. Modification or improvement to an existing parking lot that impacts the parking space layout, configuration, number of stalls, landscape planters, etc., shall require zoning certification as provided in Chapter 23.113 RCMC (Zoning Certification) to authorize the change as consistent with the zoning code.
C. Exempt Activities. Parking lot improvements listed below shall be considered minor in nature in that they do not alter the number or configuration of parking stalls. Such improvements shall be exempt from permit requirements.
1. Repairing any defects in the surface of the parking area, including holes and cracks.
2. Resurfacing, slurry coating, and restriping of a parking area with identical delineation of parking spaces.
3. Repairing or replacing in the same location damaged planters and curbs.
4. Working in landscape areas, including sprinkler line repair, replacement of landscape materials, or refurbishment. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.030)].
23.719.040 Calculations.
A. If the calculation for parking needs results in the requirement for a fraction of a parking space, the value shall be rounded to the nearest whole number as provided in RCMC 23.107.020 (Rules of interpretation).
B. Seating capacity shall be based upon the actual number of seats or one seat per 18 inches of bench or pew length and one seat per 24 inches of booth length for dining. For other areas where seating is not fixed, the seating capacity shall be determined as indicated by the Uniform Building Code. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.040)].
23.719.050 Use and general requirements for parking lots.
A. All vehicular parking areas shall be maintained by the owner of the property, kept free of garbage and debris, and free of damage to asphalt, concrete surface, landscape areas, and curbing.
B. Required off-street parking spaces and parking areas shall be used only for parking operable vehicles of residents, employers, employees, customers, and visitors as appropriate to the allowed uses of the applicable zone.
C. Required off-street parking spaces shall not be used for the storage of vehicles or materials, or for the parking of trucks used in conducting business. Parking spaces not needed to meet minimum requirements may be used for alternative uses subject to the provisions of this title (e.g., temporary use permit, permanent or semi-permanent display of merchandise).
D. No sales, storage, repair work, dismantling, or servicing of any kind shall be permitted in parking spaces without necessary permits for such use.
E. All required off-street parking shall be kept clear of temporary or permanent obstructions.
F. Existing parking shall not be reduced below the requirements of this section.
G. Living, sleeping, or housekeeping in any vehicle, trailer, or vessel is prohibited.
H. For residential tenant and guest parking, the spaces must be marked pursuant to the required minimum standards for tenant and guest parking. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.060). Formerly 23.719.060].
23.719.060 Requirements for off-street parking spaces.
A. Required off-street parking spaces shall not be located within any required front yard or required street side yard setback of any parcel (see RCMC 23.719.130 (Standards for off-street parking for private residences) for additional allowances and requirements).
B. Parking may not occur within any required clear vision triangle area on a corner lot.
C. Parking spaces shall not preclude direct and free access to stairways, walkways, elevators, any pedestrian accessway, or fire safety equipment. Such access shall be a clear minimum width of 44 inches, no part of which shall be within a parking space. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.070). Formerly 23.719.070].
23.719.070 Vehicle parking requirements.
A. Minimum Requirements. Minimum vehicle and parking space requirements are listed in Table 23.719-1 (Required Minimum Vehicle Ratios). Where there is more than one parking ratio listed in the table, the greater of the two applies.
B. For the purpose of calculating parking ratios in all districts, the following types of parking are considered outdoor storage and are not considered parking:
1. Fleet vehicle parking.
2. Parking for vehicles that are for sale, lease, or rent.
C. Parking areas that exceed minimum vehicle parking requirements are subject to the following requirements:
1. All projects that exceed the minimum parking requirement by more than 125 percent shall demonstrate how the property can be developed in the future to utilize the additional parking areas for structures, landscaping, plazas, or other active use.
2. The number of vehicle spaces provided shall not exceed 150 percent of the minimum parking ratio.
3. In the downtown district, the number of vehicle parking spaces provided shall not exceed 125 percent of the minimum parking ratio. Where no parking is required, the maximum parking allowance is two spaces.
D. Similar Use. For a use not listed in Table 23.719-1 (Required Minimum Vehicle Ratios), the required vehicle shall be the same as for the most similar use listed, as determined by the director.
E. Compact Car Spaces.
1. Up to 25 percent of the required number of parking spaces may be sized for compact cars.
2. Compact car parking spaces shall be at least eight feet in width and 16 feet in length, and shall be clearly marked “COMPACT CARS ONLY,” “COMPACT,” or “C.”
3. Compact car spaces shall be distributed throughout the parking lot.
4. Where an entire section of the parking lot is restricted to compact parking with an angle of 90 degrees, the aisle width may be reduced from the standard 25 feet to 21 feet. Such compact sections should be located so as to minimize the distance from the parking lot section to the appropriate building or activity.
F. Disabled Parking. All off-street parking areas of multifamily, mixed use, and nonresidential properties must comply with the requirements of the Disabled Access Regulations, California Building Code, Title 24.
G. Tandem parking may be used in apartment and condominium developments.
H. Mechanical or automated parking may be used in apartment and condominium developments.
|
Land Use Category |
Vehicle Parking Spaces |
|---|---|
|
Residential Uses |
|
|
Adult Day Care Home |
None beyond single-family |
|
Caretaker Housing |
1/bedroom |
|
Dwelling, Multifamily |
|
|
Studio and one-bedroom units |
1/unit |
|
Two- and three-bedroom units |
2/unit |
|
Four- or more bedroom units |
2/unit |
|
+ Guest parking |
0.2/unit |
|
Accessory Dwelling Unit11 |
1/unit |
|
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit |
No minimum |
|
Dwelling, Single-Family1,2 |
2/unit |
|
Dwelling, Two-Family1,2 |
2/unit |
|
Family Day Care Home, Large |
1 additional |
|
Family Day Care Home, Small |
No minimum |
|
Dormitories |
1 space/3 occupants |
|
Group Residential |
None beyond single-family |
|
Guest House |
0 additional |
|
Home Occupations3 |
1 additional |
|
Live-Work Facility |
2/unit (plus 0.25/unit for guests) |
|
Manufactured Home |
2/unit |
|
Mobile Home |
2/unit |
|
Mobile Home Park |
2/unit |
|
Residential Care Home |
1 space per employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 persons at facility capacity |
|
Senior Independent Living Facility |
0.5/unit (plus 0.1 per unit for guests) |
|
Agriculture, Resource, and Open Space Uses |
|
|
Equestrian Facility |
1/4 stables |
|
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly Uses |
|
|
Cemeteries, Mausoleums |
1/4 seats5 |
|
Clubs, Lodges, and Private Meeting Halls |
1/3 seats5 |
|
Community Centers/Civic Uses |
4/1,000 sf |
|
Community Garden |
1/5,000 sf lot area4 |
|
Correctional Institution |
Parking Study Required |
|
Golf Courses6 |
10/hole |
|
Indoor Amusement/Entertainment Facility |
4/1,000 sf |
|
Indoor Fitness and Sports Facility |
4/1,000 sf |
|
Libraries and Museums |
3/1,000 sf |
|
Outdoor Commercial Recreation |
2/1,000 sf7 or 1/4 seats or person capacity, whichever is greater |
|
Parks and Public Plazas (less than 10 acres) |
No minimum |
|
Parks (10 acres or larger) |
5% of total site area4,7 |
|
Public Safety Facility |
4/1,000 sf |
|
Recreational Vehicle Parks |
1.5/site |
|
Religious Institutions |
0.3/seat |
|
Resource-Related Recreation |
1/10,000 sf land area, minimum 4 spaces |
|
Schools, Public |
|
|
Preschool facilities and kindergartens |
1/employee plus 1 per classroom, or 1/3 seats in assembly area, whichever is greater |
|
Elementary or middle schools |
1/employee plus 1 per classroom, or 1/3 seats in assembly area, whichever is greater |
|
High schools |
1/employee plus 1/3 students in 11th and 12th grades; or 1/3 seats in main auditorium |
|
Colleges |
1 space/employee + 1 space/2 students; or 1/3 seats in largest assembly area |
|
Schools, private and special/studio |
1 space/employee + 1 space/2 students; or 1/3 seats in largest assembly area |
|
Stadiums/Arenas |
Special review of parking required |
|
Theaters and Auditoriums |
0.3/seat10 |
|
Utility, Transportation, and Communication Use Listings |
|
|
Airport |
Parking Study Required |
|
Broadcasting and Recording Studios |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Heliports |
1/landing pad |
|
Park and Ride Facility |
N/A |
|
Parking Facility |
N/A |
|
Telecommunication Facility |
0.5/1 employee |
|
Utility Facilities and Infrastructure |
0.5/1 employee |
|
Retail, Service, and Office Uses |
|
|
Adult Day Care Facility |
1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 persons at facility capacity |
|
Alcoholic Beverage Sales |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Ambulance Service |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Animal Sales and Grooming |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Art, Antique, Collectable |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Artisan Shops |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Banks and Financial Services |
3/1,000 sf |
|
Bars and Nightclubs |
1 per 3 fixed seats, or 1/50 sf of net floor area of assembly space |
|
Bed and Breakfast Inns |
1/room |
|
Building Materials Stores and Yards |
1/1,000 sf |
|
Business Support Services |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Call Centers |
5/1,000 sf |
|
Child Day Care Facility |
1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 persons at facility capacity |
|
Convenience Stores |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Drive-In and Drive-Through Sales and Service (not including restaurants) |
1 space/2 employees during period of greatest employment |
|
Equipment Sales and Rental8 |
1/250 sf interior sales area, plus 1/1,000 sf exterior display area |
|
Furniture, Furnishings, and Appliance Stores |
1/1,000 sf |
|
Garden Center/Plant Nursery |
1/300 sf retail sales area, plus 1/1,000 sf exterior display area |
|
Grocery Stores/Supermarket |
3.5/1,000 sf |
|
Home Improvement Supplies |
2/1,000 sf |
|
Hotels and Motels |
1/room |
|
Kennels, Commercial |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Maintenance and Repair, Small Equipment |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Medical Services, General |
3.9/1,000 sf |
|
Medical Services, Extended Care |
1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 persons at facility capacity |
|
Medical Services, Hospitals9 |
2/bed or 2/1,000 sf |
|
Mortuaries and Funeral Homes5 |
1/3 seats |
|
Neighborhood Market |
3/1,000 sf |
|
Offices, Business and Professional12 |
3/1,000 sf |
|
Offices, Accessory |
3/1,000 sf |
|
Personal Services |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Residential Care Facility |
1 space/employee, plus 1 space/facility vehicle, plus 1 space/8 persons at facility capacity |
|
Restaurants |
1/3 seats |
|
Retail, Accessory |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Retail, General |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Retail, Warehouse Club |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Veterinary Facility |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Regional Shopping Center |
5.5/1,000 sf |
|
Tasting Room13 |
1 space/300 sf |
|
Vehicle Uses |
|
|
Vehicle Dismantling |
3 spaces, plus 1 space/employee |
|
Vehicle Sales and Rental |
2.5/1,000 sf, plus 1 space per rental vehicle |
|
Vehicle Sales, Wholesale |
1/1,000 sf, minimum 2 spaces |
|
Vehicle Storage |
1/2,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Vehicle Parts Sales |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Car Washing and Detailing |
3 spaces minimum + 2 per bay |
|
Service Stations |
3 spaces minimum + 2 per bay |
|
Vehicle Services |
2 per service bay |
|
Industrial, Manufacturing, and Processing Uses |
|
|
Agricultural Products Processing |
1.6/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Manufacturing14 |
1/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Office (as accessory to a use in this category) |
2.7/1,000 sf |
|
Printing and Publishing |
1/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Recycling Facility, Processing |
1/200 sf office space, plus 1 space/employee |
|
Recycling Facility, Scrap and Dismantling Facility |
1/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Research and Development |
2.5/1,000 sf |
|
Storage, Personal Storage Facility15 |
1/2,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Storage, Warehouse |
0.5/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Wholesaling and Distribution |
0.5/1,000 sf, plus 1 space/company-operated vehicle |
|
Special Regulated Uses |
|
|
Card Rooms |
1/2 seats in play area |
|
Check Cashing Businesses |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Massage Parlor |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Pawnshops |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Recycling Facility, Collection Facility |
3.2/1,000 sf |
|
Sexually Oriented Businesses |
1/3 fixed seats or 4/1,000 sf, whichever is greater |
|
Smoke Shops |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Tattoo Parlors |
3.6/1,000 sf |
|
Thrift Store |
3.6/1,000 sf |
Notes:
1. See RCMC 23.719.130.
2. Parking may be reduced to one space per unit for residential units for low or moderate income subsidized homeownership units.
3. Additional parking for home occupations is not required to be covered or enclosed and may occur within the front or street-side yard setback on a driveway or other paved surface.
4. On-street parking space adjacent to park property may be credited toward parking requirement.
5. Applies to seating in main or largest assembly area only.
6. Clubhouse calculated as retail and provided in addition to required spaces for golf courses. Additional parking not required for accessory uses (e.g., driving ranges, putting greens, maintenance shops, equipment storage).
7. Parking based on area of active recreation only.
8. Indoor and outdoor merchandise display areas.
9. Calculate associated medical office facilities as medical services, general.
10. If fixed seating is not used, then parking shall be provided at a ratio of one space/30 square feet of floor area in the assembly hall(s).
11. Parking requirements shall be in compliance with Government Code Section 65852.2. No additional parking shall be required for an accessory dwelling unit if: the unit is located within one-half mile of public transit, the unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant district; the unit is part of the existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure; or there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the unit.
12. Office, business and professional shall be allowed up to 200 percent of minimum required parking by right with no additional approvals.
13. Required parking spaces for adjacent uses can be counted towards the required parking for a tasting room as long as the hours of operations for the use do not overlap with the tasting room hours.
14. Manufacturing shall be allowed up to 300 percent of minimum required parking by right with no additional approvals.
15. Personal storage facilities with internally accessed storage units (units not directly accessed from internal drive aisles) shall provide loading zones at each building with number of loading spaces determined during project review.
[Ord. 15-2023 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 3-2019 § 5 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2018 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.080). Formerly 23.719.080].
23.719.080 Reductions and exceptions to minimum parking requirements.
The following are exceptions or reductions to minimum parking requirements that are available:
A. Parking District Waiver. Minimum off-street parking requirements may be waived for properties that have access to public parking facilities. The waiver may be granted by the director.
B. Parking Reduction. Parking may be reduced by the approval authority according to the following provisions. Total parking reductions may not exceed 20 percent of required parking:
1. Reduction for Special Motor Vehicles. Up to five percent of the off-street parking may be provided by smaller parking spaces for special or alternative motor vehicles (e.g., golf carts, motorcycles, motorized scooters).
2. Reduction for Secure Bicycle Parking. Developments which provide additional secure bicycle parking facilities over and above the minimum requirement may reduce their parking requirement by one vehicle space for every two additional bicycle spaces provided.
3. Reduction for Parking Near Major Transit Stops (e.g., light rail stations, BRT stations, or significant bus facilities). Parking requirements may be reduced by 25 percent within one-half mile or 50 percent when within one-quarter mile of a major transit stop.
4. Reduction for Existing Uses to Enable Property Enhancements. Parking requirements for existing nonresidential development may be reduced by up to 10 percent if spaces are replaced with either or both of the following:
a. Landscaping.
b. On-site pedestrian plazas, seating areas, shelters, bicycle racks, and/or walkways.
5. Shower/Locker Facilities. Developments with 100 or more employees may reduce their parking requirement by providing shower and clothing locker facilities for bicycle-commuting employees. Maximum reduction: five percent of required parking.
6. Preferred Carpool/Vanpool Parking Spaces. Office or industrial developments which guarantee preferred parking spaces (e.g., covered, shaded, or near building entrance) to employees who participate regularly in a carpool or vanpool may reduce their parking requirement by one vehicle space for every one space which is marked and reserved for carpools/vanpools at a preferred location. Maximum reduction: five percent of required parking.
C. Joint Vehicle Parking Lot or Structure. Required parking for two or more freestanding uses on adjacent or nearby sites may be satisfied by the use of a joint vehicle parking facility to the extent that it can be shown by the owners or operators that the demand for parking in the joint facility does not materially overlay (e.g., uses primarily of a daytime versus a nighttime or weekday versus weekend nature); and provided, that such right of joint use is evidenced by a deed, lease, contract, or similar written instrument upholding such joint use. In this situation, the size of the joint parking lot shall be at least as large as the number of vehicle parking spaces required by the largest user.
D. Parking in Mixed-Use Projects. In mixed-use projects with residential, office and/or commercial components it is assumed that some parking spaces will be shared due to the difference in peak parking demand and required motor vehicle parking may be reduced according to the following formula:
1. Calculation of the minimum vehicular parking for the portion of the building occupied by the primary is based on 100 percent of the floor area.
2. Calculation of the minimum vehicular parking for the portion of the building occupied by secondary or subsequent uses may be calculated at 80 percent of the floor area.
E. Available parking in public or common parking lots and structures.
F. Additional parking reductions may be permitted as part of an adjustment process. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.100). Formerly 23.719.090].
23.719.090 Design standards for surface parking lots.
A. All vehicular parking spaces shall be on the same lot as the main structure they serve, on an abutting lot, or within 1,000 feet, subject to the following requirements:
1. There is a safe, direct, attractive, lighted, and convenient pedestrian route between the vehicle parking area and the use being served.
2. There is an assurance in the form of deed, lease, contract, or other similar document that the required spaces will continue to be available for off-street parking use according to the required standards.
B. Special Requirement for Parking in Downtown District.
1. Vehicle parking lots shall be located behind or beside buildings on one or both sides.
2. Vehicle parking and maneuvering areas (including any permitted drive-through service lanes) shall not be located between the street and the building facade with the primary entrance.
3. Vehicle parking and maneuvering areas located to the side of a building cannot occupy more than 50 percent of the site’s frontage onto an arterial or collector roadway. When a site has more than one frontage on an arterial or collector roadway, then the vehicle parking lot located to the side of a building may occupy more than 50 percent of the site’s frontage on the secondary street.
4. Vehicle parking and maneuvering areas on corner lots shall not be located adjacent to intersections.
C. Parking Lot Design.
1. Surfacing and Striping. Areas used for parking and maneuvering of vehicles shall be paved with a minimum of two-inch asphalt, concrete, or equivalent surface. All parking areas shall be appropriately striped, marked, and signed.
2. Curb Cuts/Access Points. Street access points shall be the minimum necessary to provide access while not inhibiting the safe circulation and carrying capacity of the street. Curb cuts must comply with city street improvement standards.
3. Driveways/Driveway Approach Width and Grade. The minimum driveway width shall comply with public improvement and fire safety standards.
4. Back-Out Parking. With the exception of duplexes and single-family residences, all parking areas shall be designed so that vehicles are not permitted to back out of the parking area onto a public street.
5. Driveway/Drive Aisle Width. Driveways shall have a minimum paved width of 20 feet for two-way circulation and 14 feet for one-way circulation or according to Table 23.719-2 (Angle Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions), whichever is greater. Driveways shall not occupy a yard setback or buffer except to pass through the yard in order to connect directly to a public street or as necessary for shared driveways and internal access between uses on abutting lots.
6. See RCMC 23.910.030 for drive-in and drive-through sales and services design standards.
7. Turnaround Areas. Parking spaces shall be provided with adequate drive aisles or turnaround areas so that all vehicles may enter the street in a forward manner.
8. Setback Restrictions for Parking Spaces and Drive Aisles. Parking areas including spaces, aisles, and turnaround and maneuvering areas shall not occupy the required setbacks.
9. Connect Parking Lots. Vehicle parking areas shall be designed to connect with vehicle parking areas on adjacent sites to eliminate the necessity of utilizing the public right-of-way for cross movements. Joint or shared access, internal circulation, or parking is encouraged with adjacent uses.
10. Minimum Clearance. Driveways, aisles, turnaround areas, and ramps shall have a minimum vertical clearance of 12 feet for the entire length and width, but such clearance may be reduced in parking structures.
11. Drainage. Adequate drainage shall be provided to dispose of the runoff generated by the impervious surface area of the parking area. Provision shall be made for the on-site collection of drainage waters to eliminate sheet flow of such waters onto sidewalks, public rights-of-way, and abutting private property.
12. Clear Vision Area. See RCMC 23.731.060 (Height measurement) for driveway clearance vision area requirements.
13. Service and Loading Areas. Service and loading areas shall not be located on the frontage of a light rail station or adjacent street.
D. Parking Space Dimensions and Aisle Standards for Surface Parking Lots.
1. All surface parking lots shall be designed in accordance with city standards for stalls and aisles as set forth in Tables 23.719-2 (Angle Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions) and 23.719-3 (Parallel Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions) and Figures 23.719-1 (Angle Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions) and 23.719-2 (Parallel Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions).
|
Angle |
Stall Width |
Stall to Curb |
Aisle |
Two Rows + Aisle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
90° |
9'-0" 9'-6" 10'-0" |
19'-0" 19'-0" 19'-0" |
25'-0"** 24'-8"** 24'-0"** |
63'-0" 62'-6" 62'-0" |
|
60° |
9'-0" 9'-0" 9'-6" 10'-0" |
21'-0" 21'-0" 21'-3" 21'-6" |
20'-0"** 19'-0"* 18'-6"* 18'-0"* |
62'-0" 61'-0" 61'-0" 61'-0" |
|
45° |
9'-0" 9'-0" 9'-6" 10'-0" |
19'-10" 19'-10" 20'-2" 20'-6" |
20'-0"** 16'-4"* 15'-2"* 14'-0"* |
59'-8" 56'-0" 55'-6" 55'-0" |
|
* One-way aisle. ** Two-way aisle. |
||||
Figure 23.719-1: Angle Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions
|
Stall Width |
Stall Length |
Aisle |
Two Rows + Aisle |
|---|---|---|---|
|
9'-0" |
24'-0" |
12'-0"* |
30' |
|
9'-6" |
24'-0" |
12'-0"* |
31' |
|
10'-0" |
24'-0" |
12'-0"* |
32' |
|
*One-way |
|
|
|
Figure 23.719-2: Parallel Parking Space and Drive Aisle Dimensions
E. A minimum of 75 percent of vehicle parking stalls shall be of standard size (the remainder may be compact). See RCMC 23.719.070(E) (Compact Car Spaces).
F. Landscaping of Parking Lots. See RCMC 23.716.070 (Parking lot landscape).
G. Pedestrian Circulation/Walkways. Pedestrian circulation/walkways shall be designed to the requirements specified in RCMC 23.722.050 (Standards for on-site pedestrian pathways).
H. Vehicular Overhang.
1. Vehicular overhang is permitted, provided no vehicle shall overhang into a sidewalk which would reduce the unencumbered width of a sidewalk to less than four feet.
2. A vehicle is permitted to overhang into a landscaped area by two feet; provided, that the required landscaped area is extended by two feet.
3. The overhang shall not count as part of the parking space dimension.
I. Lighting of Parking Lot. See Chapter 23.725 RCMC (Outdoor Lighting). [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.110). Formerly 23.719.100].
23.719.100 Design standards for parking structures.
A. Ground Floor Active Use. For all new multi-level parking structures, a minimum of 50 percent of the total ground floor street frontage, excluding driveway entrances and exits, stairwells, elevators, and centralized payment booths, shall be designed to accommodate commercial, retail, office, or residential floor space.
B. Ground Floor Facades. Blank, flat walls are prohibited on all parking structure facades that face public rights-of-way. The following are acceptable methods to avoid blank, flat walls. One or more of these methods shall be incorporated along the entire facade:
1. Street-facing ground floor active uses (see subsection (A) of this section, Ground Floor Active Use).
2. Ground floor windows, doors, or display areas.
3. A repeating pattern of color change, texture change, and material change, each of which should be integral parts of the structure and not superficially applied trim, graphics, or paint.
4. The use of reveals, projecting ribs, or offsets which should be no less than 12 inches in width. All elements should repeat at intervals of 30 feet or less.
C. Lighting. Metal halide lighting shall be used for all parking structures, with uplighting being the preferred method of lighting. This allows for a more even lighting distribution across the floor and field of vision for users, accurate color rendition, and protection from lighting elements.
D. All parking structures are subject to design review as described in Chapter 23.140 RCMC (Minor Design Review) or Chapter 23.141 RCMC (Major Design Review).
Figure 23.719-3: Parking Structure Design Requirements
[Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 13-2013 § 4 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.120). Formerly 23.719.110].
23.719.110 Bicycle parking requirements.
A. Short-Term Bicycle Parking. If a land use or project is anticipated to generate visitor traffic, the project must provide permanently anchored bicycle racks within 100 feet of the visitors’ entrance. To enhance security and visibility the bicycle racks shall be readily visible to passersby. The bicycle capacity of the racks must equal an amount equivalent to 10 percent of all required motorized vehicle parking. There shall be a minimum of one rack with capacity for two bicycles.
B. Long-Term Bicycle Parking. Buildings with over 10 tenant-occupants (e.g., multifamily tenants, owners, employees) shall provide secure bicycle parking for five percent of required motorized vehicle spaces for employees/residents, with a minimum of one space. Acceptable parking facilities shall be convenient from the street and include one or a combination of the following:
1. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored racks for bicycles.
2. Lockable bicycle rooms with permanently anchored racks.
3. Lockable, permanently anchored bicycle lockers.
4. In the case of residential development a standard garage is sufficient, if available. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 23.719.115].
23.719.120 Design standards for bicycle parking facilities.
All developments shall meet the following minimum requirements for bicycle parking and design. The purpose of these design standards is to ensure that bicycle parking is visible from the buildings served, is convenient to cyclists, and provides sufficient security from theft and damage.
A. Minimum Required Bicycle Parking. Minimum required bicycle parking spaces are required as designated in RCMC 23.719.110 (Bicycle parking requirements).
B. Bicycle Parking Location and Access.
1. Use. Areas set aside for required bicycle parking must be clearly reserved for bicycle parking only.
2. Lighting. See RCMC 23.725.060 (General lighting standards).
3. Location.
a. Outdoor bicycle parking should be located within 100 feet, or as close as possible to the primary building entrance, without impeding pedestrian circulation or emergency access.
b. Bicycle parking must be visible from within on-site buildings or the street.
c. Bicycle parking may be located within a building if access is readily available from an outdoor entrance.
d. Bicycle parking is prohibited within 100 feet of a trash or recycling enclosure.
4. Amenities. Bicycle parking areas are encouraged to include a bench and bicycle rack screened with 30- to 36-inch shrubs from any parked cars or arterial streets.
5. Pedestrian Conflicts. Bicycle parking and bicycle racks shall be located to avoid conflicts with pedestrian movement and accessibility requirements.
C. Covered Bicycle Parking Spaces for All Uses. All required employee bicycle parking spaces and 50 percent of all visitor bicycle parking must be sheltered from precipitation by means such as roof extensions, overhangs, awnings, arcades, carports, roofed enclosures, lockers, or indoor bicycle rooms. These may be Class I parking spaces (e.g., bike lockers) or other suitable alternative.
D. Bicycle Parking for Residential Uses. When required, 25 percent of all bicycle parking for residential uses shall be provided as Class I facilities (locker, bike room, etc.).
Figure 23.719-4: Acceptable Covered Bicycle Parking Options (Bicycle Parking Near Entry Door, Freestanding Bicycle Parking Enclosure, and Indoor Bicycle Room)
Bicycle Parking Near Entry Freestanding Bicycle Parking Enclosure Indoor Bicycle Room
E. Bicycle Rack Types and Dimensions.
1. Security. Bicycle parking facilities shall offer security in the form of either a lockable enclosure in which the bicycle can be stored or a rack upon which the bicycle can be locked. Bicycle parking racks, shelters, or lockers must be securely anchored to the ground or to a structure. Bicycle racks must hold bicycles securely by the means of the frame. The frame must be supported so that the bicycle cannot be pushed or fall to one side in a manner that will damage the wheels.
Figure 23.719-5a: Acceptable Bicycle Rack Options
Bicycle Racks That Support Bicycle Lockers Sheltered Parking
Both Sides of a Bicycle
2. Unique artistic design facilities are encouraged. The racks/facilities should be easily identified as a bike rack.
Figure 23.719-5b: Artistic Bike Rack Design Options
3. Standards. Bicycle parking shall be at least one and one-half feet wide by six feet long for a single bicycle parking space or two and one-half feet wide by six feet long for two paired bicycle racks (as pictured in Figure 23.719-6) and, when covered, provide a minimum vertical clearance of seven feet. An access aisle of at least five feet wide shall be provided and maintained beside or between each row of bicycle parking. Each required bicycle space must be accessible without moving another bicycle. Bicycle parking spaces required by this chapter may not be rented or leased.
Figure 23.719-6: Bicycle Parking Area Design Requirements
F. Paving and surfacing of bicycle parking areas shall be surfaced with hard surfacing of at least two inches minimum (i.e., pavers, asphalt, concrete, or similar material). This surface must be designed to maintain a well-drained condition.
G. Exemptions. The following uses are exempt from bicycle parking requirements:
1. Temporary uses.
2. Agriculture.
3. Mini-storage facilities.
4. Home occupations. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 13-2013 § 4 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.130)].
23.719.130 Standards for off-street parking for private residences.
Off-street parking and driveways for detached dwellings, manufactured homes, single-family attached dwellings, and two-unit attached dwellings shall meet the following requirements:
A. Any vehicle, trailer, or vessel which is inoperable or vehicles that are certified as nonoperation or planned nonoperation certified with the Department of Motor Vehicles shall be stored entirely within an enclosed structure, where it is not visible from the street or other public or private property and shall not be parked or stored in any yard within a residential zoning district or neighborhood.
B. Unless specifically permitted by this code, required off-street parking spaces shall not be located within any required front yard or required street side yard setback of any parcel. Required parking must be provided within a fully enclosed garage or carport (see RCMC 23.734.040, Development standards).
C. Parking in excess of the required parking (e.g., driveways) may be provided within the front and street side yard setback, as follows:
1. Vehicle parking (including driveways) within the front yard area or as seen by the public street in residential areas shall be provided on a lasting, durable surface (e.g., concrete, asphalt, or similar material). Permeable paving materials, such as paver stones, pervious concrete, or interlocking grids with gravel, are permitted as an alternative to a standard asphalt or concrete surface. Use of grasscrete, ribbon drive (Hollywood strips) or other acceptable alternatives as determined by the director may be allowed for purposes of a driving surface that leads to a legal parking area outside of the front yard area or as seen by the public street. No parking is allowed on these features within the front yard area or as seen by the public street.
2. Parking areas shall not exceed the maximum impervious surface allowed on a parcel (e.g., impervious surface in front yards is limited to 40 percent coverage).
3. Parking may not occur within any required clear vision triangle area on a corner lot.
D. Each parking space shall be at least eight and one-half feet wide by 18 feet deep.
E. Tandem (end-to-end) parking is allowed to meet the minimum off-street parking requirements.
F. Required parking may be provided in the rear yard only when an alley is available for access.
G. The minimum driveway width is 10 feet. Driveway pavement shall be five feet from the side property line in order to provide an area of landscaping between adjacent lots. Deviations from these standards may be allowed through site plan and architecture review for small-lot single-family developments at the time of master home plan review where these standards cannot be attained due to design. Remaining unpaved portion shall be landscaped, irrigated, and maintained. See Figure 23.716-2 (Nonpervious Surface Limits in Single-Family and Two-Family Residential Zones).
H. The use of structures, temporary canopies, tarps, and other similar types of covering for vehicles is strictly prohibited within the front setback.
I. Commercial vehicles shall not be parked on residential property.
J. Parking of RVs, trailers, and vessels shall conform with the following additional regulations:
1. Parking on a lasting, durable surface (e.g., concrete, asphalt, grasscrete, or permeable paving material) is required.
2. Parking within the clear vision area is prohibited. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 11-2020 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 15-2018 § 4 (Exh. A); Ord. 7-2018 § 3; Ord. 4-2018 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.140)].
23.719.140 Trip reduction requirements.
A. Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all major development projects defined as follows:
1. Any commercial, industrial, institutional, or other use which is expected to employ 200 or more persons, as determined by either actual employee projections or equivalent development size.
2. Any existing facility or development which increases its gross floor area and, after such increase, exceeds the minimum equivalent development size.
3. The director may, if projected traffic conditions warrant, apply the provisions of this section to developments smaller than those specified.
B. Exempt Projects. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, the following uses and activities shall be specifically exempt from the provisions of this section:
1. Development projects expected to employ fewer than 200 persons.
2. Temporary construction activities on any affected project, including activities performed by engineers, architects, contractors, subcontractors, and construction workers.
C. Equivalent Development Size. For the purpose of this section, the standards listed in Table 23.719-4 (Equivalent Development Size) shall be considered equivalent to the 200-employee threshold.
|
Type of Use |
Minimum Development Size (in square feet) Equivalent to 200 Employees |
|---|---|
|
Office (excluding medical) |
50,000 |
|
Industrial Office Park (MP) |
60,000 |
|
Hospital and Medical Offices |
80,000 |
|
Commercial |
100,000 |
|
Light Industrial (M-1) |
95,000 |
|
Heavy Industrial (M-2) |
130,000 |
|
Mixed or Multiple Uses |
1 |
|
Notes: |
|
|
1. The minimum development size for mixed- or multiple-use developments shall be calculated based on the employment equivalent of the square footage or areas devoted to each type of use. |
|
D. Passenger Loading Areas. Parking areas for major development projects shall designate a passenger loading area or areas for embarking and disembarking passengers from ridesharing vehicles. Such passenger loading areas shall be located at the point(s) of primary pedestrian access from the parking area to the adjacent building(s) and shall be designed in such a manner that vehicles waiting in the loading area do not impede vehicular circulation in the parking area. The passenger loading areas shall be designed as a turn-out as indicated by Figure 23.719-7 and shall be large enough to accommodate the number of waiting vehicles equivalent to one-half percent of the required parking for the project. See Figure 23.719-7 (Passenger Loading Areas).
Figure 23.719-7: Passenger Loading Areas
E. Preferential Parking Spaces for Carpool and Vanpool Vehicles. All major development projects shall reserve and designate at least 10 percent of the employee parking spaces for the project for ridesharing vehicles by marking such spaces “Carpool/Vanpool Only.” The number of preferential parking spaces must be increased above 10 percent of the employee parking as necessary to accommodate all legitimate carpools and vanpools. Such spaces shall be located near the building entrance(s), covered, shaded, or in some other obvious way be determined as preferential. For purposes of this section, the factors listed in Table 23.719-5 (Employee Parking Ratios) shall be used to determine the number of employee parking spaces.
|
Type of Use |
Percentage of Total Parking Devoted to Employee Parking |
|---|---|
|
Office (excluding medical) |
70% |
|
Hospital and Medical Office |
50% |
|
Commercial |
30% |
|
Industrial |
70% |
F. Shower and Locker Facilities. All development projects above the minimum development size threshold shall provide shower and locker facilities for use by employees or tenants who commute to the site by bicycle or walking. Such facilities shall be clearly indicated on all development/improvement plans. One shower and eight lockers with minimum dimensions of 12 inches by 18 inches by 36 inches shall be provided for each 200 employees or fraction thereof, based on the equivalent development size data. The shower and locker facilities must be located convenient to one another and should be located near the employee bicycle parking facilities whenever possible. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.150)].
23.719.150 Off-street loading requirements.
A. Purpose of Loading Area Requirements. The purpose of these regulations is to provide the number, size, location, and screening requirements for loading areas in mixed-use, commercial, and industrial uses. The intent of these regulations is to minimize disruptions of traffic flow by freight-carrying vehicles blocking the public right-of-way and to minimize impacts to vehicular and pedestrian conflicts.
B. When Loading Regulations Apply. This regulation applies to all nonresidential development in mixed-use commercial and industrial districts, whether or not a permit or other approval is required for the development. Buildings smaller than 8,000 square feet in size are exempt from the requirements of this section.
C. General Loading Area Requirements.
1. The number of required loading spaces is based on the use of the building and the building size minus any residential component square footage.
2. Where two or more uses are located on the same premises, the number of loading area spaces required is the sum of the spaces required for each use.
3. The provision for maintenance of off-street loading facilities is a continuing obligation of the property owner.
4. Loading and maneuvering areas shall be hard-surfaced unless a permeable surface is required to reduce surface runoff, as determined by the director.
5. Parking of passenger vehicles may be allowed in off-street loading areas subject to specific time limits to prevent conflicts with off-street loading activities. If parking is allowed, the parking time limits shall be clearly posted. These parking spaces shall not count toward meeting the general parking requirements.
6. Off-Street Loading Standards.
a. Each required off-street loading space in an industrial area shall have a minimum length of 60 feet, a minimum width of 12 feet, and a minimum vertical clearance of 15 feet inside dimensions. Off-street loading spaces in industrial zones shall also provide a 60-foot maneuvering apron in addition to the minimum length of the loading space. These requirements apply to all off-street loading spaces in industrial zones including at-grade and depressed loading docks.
b. Each required off-street loading space, other than in industrial zones, shall have a minimum length of 30 feet, a minimum width of 12 feet, and a minimum vertical clearance of 14.5 feet inside dimensions. Off-street loading spaces shall also provide a 30-foot maneuvering apron in addition to the minimum length of the loading space. These requirements apply to all off-street loading spaces including at-grade and depressed docks.
7. Loading areas must comply with the setback and perimeter landscaping and screening standards. When parking areas are prohibited or not allowed between a building and a street, loading areas are also not allowed.
Figure 23.719-8: Typical Loading Area
Off-Street Loading Spaces in an Industrial Area
Off-Street Loading Spaces in a Nonindustrial Area
8. For uses not specifically mentioned, the requirements for off-street loading facilities shall be the same as the closest approximate use as determined by the director.
D. Location of Required Loading Facilities.
1. The off-street loading facilities, including the required maneuvering apron, in all cases, shall be on the same lot or parcel of land as the structure they are intended to serve.
2. The off-street loading facilities shall be designed and located so that loading vehicles do not encroach upon required setbacks, driveways, or required parking spaces during maneuvering and loading activities.
3. No loading space, including the required maneuvering apron, shall be located so that a vehicle using such loading space projects into any public street or any adjoining property except in the case of a reciprocal access agreement or similar mechanism.
4. Loading spaces shall be provided with access to an alley when alley access is available.
5. Bays and doors shall be located in a manner that would preclude any possibility for trucks to back into bays from arterial streets. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 4-2017 § 3 (Exh. B); Ord. 12-2011 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 27-2008 § 1 (Exh. A § 4.7.160)].
23.719.160 Electric vehicle parking spaces.
A. Applicability. The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) requires that new construction and major alterations include adding “EV capable” parking spaces which have electrical panel capacity, a dedicated branch circuit and a raceway to the EV parking spot to support future installation of charging stations. All new construction and qualifying additions or alterations must comply with CALGreen, Title 24, Part 11.
B. Parking Requirements and Location of Electric Vehicle Spaces.
1. As part of the minor and major design review process, the city shall require that parking facilities be provided to accommodate electric or other alternative fuel vehicles.
2. The location of the electrical outlets shall be specified on building plans, and proper installation shall be verified by the building division prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
3. Electric-vehicle-ready charging infrastructure shall be provided in multifamily housing developments and nonresidential developments according to the standards outlined by CALGreen.
4. Electric vehicle charging stations may be provided in any area designed for the parking or loading of vehicles.
5. Where electric vehicle recharging stations are provided, they shall follow the space requirements and development standards outlined in CALGreen.
6. Parking spaces with electric vehicle charging shall be counted as a standard parking space for the purposes of providing required parking per this code.
C. Exemptions.
1. Electric vehicle charging stations shall not apply to temporary parking lots.
2. Other exemptions may be granted by the director, where the director determines that compliance with the requirements of this section is technically infeasible. [Ord. 1-2022 § 3 (Exh. A)].