HomeMy WebLinkAboutZOA 15-03 - Reflect the New Specific Plan OrdCITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A NOTICE OF DETERMINIATION
OF A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR AN ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT TO REPEAL PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE
SECTION 25.72.040 "DEVELOPMENT PLANS" AND ADOPT A NEW
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.78.080 "SPECIFIC PLANS" AND
MAKE MINOR AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS
25.28.060, 25.28.070, 25.60.060, AND 25.99.020 TO REFLECT THE
NEW SPECIFIC PLAN ORDINANCE
SUBMITTED BY: Eric Ceja, Associate Planner
APPLICANT: City of Palm Desert
CASE NO: ZOA 15-03
DATE: January 28, 2016
CONTENTS: 1. City Council Ordinance No. 1303
2. City Council Resolution No. 2016- 17
3. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2659
4. Exhibit A — Section 25.78.080 "Specific Plans"
5. Exhibit B — Section 25.28.060 "Planned Community Overlay District'
6. Exhibit C — Section 25.28.070 "Freeway Commercial Overlay District'
7. Exhibit D — Section 25.60.060 "Public Hearings and Public Notice"
8. Exhibit E — Section 25.99.020 "Land Use Definitions"
9. Desert Sun Legal Notice
10. Notice of Determination — Negative Declaration
Recommendation
Waive further reading and adopt and;
1. Pass Ordinance No. 1303 to second reading, approving Zoning
Ordinance Amendment 15-03 to repeal Section 25.72.040 and to establish
Section 25.78.080 for Specific Plans, and make minor amendments to
Section 25.28.060, 25.28.070, 25.60.060, and 25.99.020 to make them
consistent with the new Specific Plan Ordinance.
2. Adopt Resolution No. 2016- 17 approving a Notice of Determination
of a Negative Declaration for Zoning Ordinance amendment 15-03.
Staff Report
ZOA 15-03: Specific Plan Ordinance
Page 2 of 5
January 28, 2016
Executive Summary
Staff is recommending that the City Council consider repealing the existing "Development
Plan" ordinance and adopt a new "Specific Plan" ordinance with minor code amendments to
make the zoning ordinance consistent. Specific Plans are long-range planning documents
that establish goals, policies, and a land use pattern over a geographic area. These
documents are helpful in considering larger and more complex development proposal, such
as The Millennium Palm Desert Specific Plan.
Planninq Commission
On December 1, 2015, the Planning Commission reviewed staff proposed ordinance
amendments and voted in favor of recommending approval of the request to the City
Council with a 5-0 vote.
Backqround
In March 2015, the City Council approved The Millennium Palm Desert Specific Plan to
establish a land use plan that covered 150 acres bounded by Gerald Ford Drive to the
south, Portola Avenue to the west, Technology Drive to the east, and Union Pacific Railroad
to the north. This specific plan document was approved by ordinance with a Development
Agreement and in accordance with state specific plan guidelines published by the
Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR). The City is currently processing
another specific plan to establish a land use plan for over 170 acres previously controlled by
the former Redevelopment Agency. These types of long-range planning documents are
useful in todays development environment, as such, staff wishes to establish a specific plan
ordinance to establish guidelines for the processing of such documents.
Proiect Description
Specific Plans are a planning tool for the implementation of the General Plan within a
defined geographic area. They may be general to establish planning and policy concepts to
a particular area, or very detailed to direct specific development proposals. Specific Plan
documents allow public agencies to create flexible standards for the development of a wide
range of projects and to execute long-term goals of the General Plan. Specific plans are
enabled by the state under Government Code sections 65450 - 65457 and are used to:
• Establish land use distribution, intensity, and location.
• Establish utility and infrastructure distribution and location.
• Establish development and design standards for development.
• Review implementation measures, project financing, and phasing.
• Include statements of their relationship to General Plan policies and goals.
Staff Report
ZOA 15-03: Specific Plan Ordinance
Page 3 of 5
January 28, 2016
The proposed specific plan ordinance was prepared in accordance with the Government
Code sections listed above. The ordinance also includes special considerations of staff to
make the ordinance consistent with other municipal code sections. As proposed, the
ordinance includes:
• Purpose of specific plan documents.
• Requirements for the preparation of specific plan documents.
• Who may initiate the specific plan process.
• Findings required supporting approval of specific plan documents.
Master plan and specific plan are used interchangeably in the City's Zoning Ordinance and
throughout the development community. However, specific plans are distinct from master
plans in that the state's Government Code Sections 65450 — 65457 established guidelines
for the preparation and applicability of specific plan documents. As part of this application,
amendments to the City's Zoning Ordinance are proposed to replace "master plan" with
"specific plan."
In order to ensure consistency within the municipal code staff's is proposing several other
code modifications as described below.
Section 25.72.040 — Development Plans
This section of the municipal code is proposed for deletion.
Section 25.28.060 — Planned Community Development Overlay District
Staff is proposing amendments to Section 25.28.060 "Planned Community Development
Overlay District' (PCD) to replace "master plan" with "specific plan." Replacing this wording
makes this section consistent with the specific plan ordinance and continues existing
policies for the development of land within this zoning district. Minor amendments to this
section are also proposed to clarify the applicability and the requirements and procedures,
for processing applications within the PCD.
Section 25.28.070 — Freeway Commercial Overlay District
Amendments to Section 25.28.070 "Freeway Commercial Overlay District" (FCOD) are
proposed to replace "master plan" with "specific plan." New language is inserted to clarify
the applicability of the FCOD based on property proximity to Interstate 10. Many properties
with this designation are developed. Staff is recommending changes to clarify that specific
plan documents are only necessary for new developments within this zone. Existing
developments are not required to prepare specific plans and may continue to operate and
develop in accordance with previously approved plans.
Section 25.60 — Procedures
Staff Report
ZOA 15-03: Specific Plan Ordinance
Page 4 of 5
January 28, 2016
Section 25.60.060 "Public Hearing and Public Notice" describes the process for noticing
public hearing applications. Subsection 25.60.060A — "Public hearing required' lists both
"master plan" and "specific plan." Staff proposes to strike "master plan" to make this section
consistent with the specific plan ordinance.
Section 25.99.020 — Land Use Definitions
"Specific Plan" is currently defined in the City's Zoning Ordinance. Staff proposes to expand
on this definition to clarify its' definition and to reference that the documents be prepared in
accordance with the requirements of the State's Government Code sections.
Other amendments to land use definitions include replacing the term "development plan"
with "specific plan" for the "Planned Development," "Planned Unit Development Industrial,"
and "Planned Unit Development Residential' definitions.
Analvsis
Specific Plan
The Specific Plan Ordinance was prepared in compliance with the requirements contained
in Government Code Sections 65450 — 65457 and in accordance with the guidelines
published by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR). Staff researched
specific plan ordinances from around the state and compiled a list of their requirements and
formats. This information was used to evaluate which topics and criteria should be included
in the City's ordinance. As proposed, the ordinance includes: statements regarding the
purpose for preparing specific plans; it provides references to state law allowing the
preparation of specific plan documents; it lists when specific plans are required; it
establishes who may initiate the specific plan process; and it requires that the City Council
make specific findings when reviewing specific plan proposals. The language contained in
the ordinance is unambiguous and clearly indicates when a specific plan application is
required.
The specific plan ordinance is a beneficial planning tool that provides the City flexibility in
evaluating larger, more complex development scenarios. The ordinance provides for long-
term planning, anticipation of phasing plans, and consideration for the timing of
infrastructure improvements along the development timeline. The language in the ordinance
is broad enough to allow multiple parties to apply for a specific plan. Property owners and
developers may initiate the process for specific developments; the City Council and
Planning Commission may initiate it for specific purposes; and the Director of Community
Development may initiate it for governmental purposes; such as the case with the land
controlled by the City' former Redevelopment Agency.
Development Plan
The proposal to eliminate the City's "development plan" process was reviewed by staff in
conjunction with preparing the specific plan ordinance. Development Plans are a redundant
Staff Report
ZOA 15-03: Specific Plan Ordinance
Page 5 of 5
January 28, 2016
application process with limited applicability. With a specific plan process, development
plans will become obsolete, as specific plans will establish all design criteria and
development standards within the project area. Staff believes that the same procedures for
review, processing, and public hearings will remain materially unchanged by eliminating the
development plan section of the zoning ordinance.
Other Code Amendments
"Master plan" and "specific plan" are used interchangeably in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
Amendments to Sections 25.28.060 and 25.28.070 are made to make them consistent with
the specific plan ordinance. In addition, minor amendments are made to these code
sections to clarify existing language within the ordinance.
Fiscal Impact
There is no direct fiscal impact to the City to establish this ordinance. In the future, should
the City choose to execute its own specific plan document, cost associated with that
document will be brought forward for City Council approval.
Environmental Review
According to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), staff must determine
whether a proposed activity is a project subject to CEQA. In this case, staff completed an
initial study to review the potential impacts of the Zoning Ordinance Amendment. Staff has
determined that there are no significant impacts associated with the proposed code
changes. All new projects subject to specific plan approval will be reviewed under a new
application and brought forward to the City Council for their consideration. Therefore, staff
has prepared a notice of intent to adopt a negative declaration for CEQA purposes.
Submitted By:
Eric Ceja, Ass ate Planner
C anager:
J n Wohlmutii, City Manager
Department Head:
Ryan Ste dell, Director of Community Development
RESOLUTION NO. 2016- 17
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION
FOR ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 15-03 TO REPEAL PALM
DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.72.040 "DEVELOPMENT
PLANS" AND ADOPT A NEW MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.78.080
"SPECIFIC PLANS" AND MAKE OTHER MINOR AMENDMENTS TO
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 25.28.060, 25.28.070, 25.60.060, AND
25.99.020 TO REFLECT THE NEW SPECIFIC PLAN ORDINANCE
WHEREAS, the City desires to repeal Municipal Code Section 25.72.040, and
establish a new Specific Plan Ordinance under Municipal Code Section 25.78.080, and
make other minor municipal code amendments to Sections 25.28.060, 25.28.070,
25.60.060, and 25.99.020 through adoption of a zoning ordinance amendment known
as 15-03 (the "Project"); and
WHEREAS, the proposed Project will make certain changes to the Palm Desert
Municipal Code Section to establish a Specific Plan Ordinance in accordance with State
Government Code Sections 65450 - 65457; and
WHEREAS, the Specific Plan Ordinance provides proper planning tools for the
initiation, review and processing of larger, more complex, development proposal; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public
Resources Code, § 21000 et seq.), the State CEQA Guidelines (California Code of
Regulations, title 14, § 15000 et seq.), and the City's local CEQA Guidelines
(collectively, "CEQA"), the City is the lead agency for the proposed Project; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15063, an initial study
("Initial Study") was prepared for the Project to analyze whether the Project may cause
a potentially significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the City, as lead agency, has determined that a Negative
Declaration ("ND") should be prepared in order to analyze the Project's potential
environmental effects; and
WHEREAS, the City circulated the ND and Initial Study for public review in the
manner required by CEQA for a twenty -day review and comment period pursuant to
Public Resources Code section 21091(b); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed the Project, the ND, the
Initial Study, all comments received on the documents, and all other information
contained in the record regarding the Project; and
RESOLUTION NO. 2016. 17
WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have
occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. Compliance with the California Environmental Qualitv Act. As
the decision -making body, the City Council has reviewed and considered the
information contained in the record as a whole in connection with the Project and the
ND. The City finds that the ND, Initial Study, and administrative record contain a
complete and accurate reporting of the environmental impacts associated with the
Project. The City Council further finds that the ND and Initial Study have been
completed in compliance with CEQA.
SECTION 2. Findings on Environmental Impacts. Based on the whole record
before it, including the ND, the Initial Study, the administrative record, and all other
written and oral evidence presented to the City Council, the City Council finds that all
environmental impacts of the Project are less than significant. The City Council further
finds that there is no substantial evidence in the administrative record as a whole
supporting a fair argument that the Project may result in any potentially significant
environmental impacts. The City Council finds that the ND contains a complete,
objective, and accurate reporting of the environmental impacts associated with the
Project and reflects the independent judgment and analysis of the City Council.
SECTION 3. Adoption of ND. The City Council hereby adopts the ND prepared
for the Project, a copy of which has been provided to each City Council Member and is
on file at the City's offices.
SECTION 4. Approval of the Proiect. The City Council hereby approves the
Project.
SECTION 5. Notice of Determination. The City Council directs staff to prepare
and file a Notice of Determination with the Riverside County Clerk within five (5) working
days of the approval of the Project.
SECTION 6. Custodian of Records. The custodian for the documents and
materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings are based is
Associate Planner Eric Ceja, and the documents are available for public review at the
Palm Desert Civic Center.
SECTION 7. Execution of Resolution. The Mayor shall sign this Resolution and
the City Clerk shall certify this Resolution was duly and properly adopted by the City
Council.
G \Planning\Enc Ceta\Case Files\ZOA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Heanngs\C ty Councd\CC - Resolution.cloc
RESOLUTION NO. 2016- 17
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 281h day of Januarv, 2016, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ROBERT A. SPIEGEL
MAYOR
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, MMC
CITY CLERK, CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
GAPlannmg\Enc Cela\Case Files2OA\ZOA 15-003 Speafic Plans\Public Heanngs\Cty Council\CC - Resolution doc
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2659
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL
TO APPROVE A NOTICE OF DETERMINIATION OF A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION FOR AN ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO REPEAL PALM
DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.72.040 "DEVELOPMENT
PLANS" AND ADOPT A NEW MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.78.080
"SPECIFIC PLANS" AND MAKE MINOR AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL
CODE SECTIONS 25.28.060, 25.28.070, 25.60.060, AND 25.99.020 TO
REFLECT THE NEW SPECIFIC PLAN ORDINANCE
CASE NO: ZOA 15-03
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the
1 sc day of December, 2015, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the
City of Palm Desert for approval of the above noted; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California has
determined that Section 25.72.040 "Development Plan" creates a redundant application
process already covered by the City's precise plan application process; and
WHEREAS, establishing a Specific Plan Ordinance provides the City an additional
planning tool for the initiation, review and processing of larger, more complex, development
proposals; and
WHEREAS, amendments to Section 25.28.060 "Planned Community Development
Overlay District," Section 25.28.070 "Freeway Commercial Overlay District," Section 25.60.060
"Public Hearing and Public Notice," and Section 25.99.020 "Land Use Definitions" are minor in
nature and reflect changes implemented by the removal of the Section 25.27.040
"Development Plan" and the addition of Section "25.78.080 "Specific Plans;" and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm
Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act," Resolution
No. 2015-75, the Director of Community Development has determined that the project will not
have a negative impact on the environment and has prepared a Notice of Determination of a
Negative Declaration in accordance CEQA; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning Commission
did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify the recommendation to the City
Council of said request:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of the
Planning Commission in this case.
PLANNING COMMISSIC. - RESOLUTION NO.2659 f
2. That the Planning Commission does hereby recommend approval of Zoning
Ordinance Amendment 15-03 as proposed.
}
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, at its regular meeting held on the 15t day of December 2015, by
the following vote, to wit:
AYES: CAMPBELL, DE LUNA, GREENWOOD, PRADETTO, and STENDELL
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
K N STEf�yDELL, CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST:
TONY BAGATO, ACTING SECRETARY
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
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PLANNING COMMISSIO, RESOLUTION NO.2659
EXHIBIT A
25.78.080 Specific Plans
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish a process for preparing,
processing, reviewing, adopting, and amending specific plans in compliance with
State law (Government Code Section 65450 et. seq.). When required by subsection
C of this Section, the General Plan, or this title to systematically implement the
General Plan for any part of the City, a specific plan shall be prepared, processed,
approved and implemented, or disapproved, either by resolution or ordinance, and in
compliance with this Chapter. Specific plans may be required for the development of
properties as identified in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
B. Applicable State Law. Specific plan applications and documents shall be prepared
and submitted in compliance with California Government Code Section 65450 et.
seq. Specific Plans shall be considered by the Planning Commission with a
recommendation to the City Council. The Council may act either by resolution or
ordinance and may amend the specific plan as often as deemed necessary by the
Council.
C. Specific Plan Required. Specific plans shall be required for development in certain
districts, as referenced in the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to, the
City's Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay District and the Freeway
Commercial Overlay (FCOZ) District.
D. Initiation. A specific plan or specific plan amendments may be initiated by the
following:
1. The Council.
2. The property owner or property owner's agent.
3. The Commission; or
4. The Director.
E. Required Findings. The following findings shall be made by the Council prior to
approval of any specific plan or specific plan amendment:
1. Consistent with the General Plan. The specific plan or amendment is
consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan.
2. Public Welfare. The specific plan or amendment will not create conditions
materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and general welfare.
3. Land Use Compatibility. The specific plan or amendment is compatible with
zoning on adjacent properties, and ensures development of desirable
character that will be harmonious with surrounding properties.
4. Property Suitability. The specific plan or amendment is suitable and
appropriate for the location, access, and topography for the development of
the subject property.
5. CEQA. The specific plan or amendment has been reviewed in compliance
with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
GAPlanningWlonica OReilly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
3
PLANNING COMMISSI�_. RESOLUTION NO.2659
EXHIBIT B
25.28.060 Planned Communitv Development Overlav District
A. Purpose and applicability. The Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay
district allows the Council to establish lard areas for coordinated land use, and
Raster specific planning purposes that may include multiple properties. Appreval of
a-Sevelepnt Plan Specific plan approval, as outlined in Section 25.'71-TT .040
25.78.080, is required for the development 444o Plannad-Comm unity
Overlay diset of parcels within the PCD Overlay district.
B. Requirements.
1. Site area. A minimum of 499 10 acres shall be required for a planned
community development.
2. Maste Specific plan required. Any application for c plsnnQd-Eommunity the
development of a parcel(s) in the PCD overlay zone shall be accompanied by
a rRaster specific plan for the entire area covered by the application. The
specific plan shall be prepared in accordance with Section 25.78.080 of the
City's Zoning Ordinance.
3. Ownership. All land in a proposed overlay zone shall be held in er►e single
ownership or under unified control or have the written consent or agreement
of all owners of property proposed for inclusion in the overlay zone.
4. Utilities. The existing utility systems (water, sewer, drainage, electrical, gas,
and communications facilities) shall be adequate, or new systems shall be
designed and constructed to adequately serve the development. Master plans
for utility systems may be required along with the application for the PCD
overlay zone if determined necessary by the Director.
C. Application. A Change of Zone application to apply the overlay zone to a property
or properties shall be submitted by the owner, his or her authorized agent, or the
purchaser of the land(s) with the consent of the owner. The application shall be
accompanied by a Roaster specific plan application prepared by a qualified team of
professionals, such fees as may be established by the City Council, and other
information as required by the Director.
andSpedf4o r10n demeRtthe Dciztr+mont oh/all raview- th v-z lisat+eR
n 26.71.E
2. The Plcnning-Gvmmiuci \n J�all hsk c pOli
th,E--C�ommicrir'n fiRds the nriteria 6 forth in this
25 7-8 nQn have heen mot' it mQy—coW I`oh the overlay Bonn 06k-lCstW SUGh
setnditisnz Lc it d-a-.\-nj naeessary—T-fie—Gommivsn may deRy the
applica. icnc if it findr. aRy of the Grit,-,ric he\,e-net-beeR-met, „r that the i
GAPlanningWonica OReilly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
IR
PLANNING COMMISSION oESOLUTION NO. 2659 �.
air- ewal of th ontal to tht p<ipeaGe h
safety, welfare.
elfare
3 GhaRge of ZGRe and Spec fio Plan appliGationo ohcll be rded-fer a pu"lie,
heaFiRg with the City . oil, in
25.78.090, may appravo, aplx.ave ;i� ,---m9diif+eat;GRS, er—deRly the
ounoil shall a�
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o null snd-Agd if tho p
Feselutier+orzlahlichmg 4hn nnn_
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Gommioei^" `" hen evte", iatinn oumotan-^oo r,;;n. hn nle^rly shGWR by the
app-i+oant. T vo ohall ybe c%.r mitted to the
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G S.,e e o maintain the,
the oil in the fern; of a Znr,ir,n ameRd not io required to alter the
be61adaFix, mastaar- ; plan, ar develepnt otandards.
G1PlanningWlonica ORedly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
5
PLANNING COMMISSIG.. RESOLUTION NO. 2659
EXHIBIT C
r
25.28.070 Freewav Commercial Overlav District
A. Purpose and applicability. The purpose of the Freeway Commercial Overlay Zone
(FCOZ) district is to provide optional standards and incentives for the development
of a variety specific types of commercial uses on commercially zoned properties with
freeway frontage, and/or properties within one signalized intersection of an
interchange and intersecting cross street. Whenever the FCOZ has been added to a
base zone, the owner/applicant may choose whether to use the optional FCOZ
standards or the standards of the base zone. In order to obtain approval of uses e4-y
conditionally permitted in the FCOZ, the project must utilize FCOZ standards and
have an approved specific plan.
B. Conditional uses. Uses permitted by an approved conditional use permit shall be
are as follows:
1. Restaurants, general, including drive -through restaurants.
2. Automobile service stations without regard to the required separation
distance provisions per Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
3. Convenience stores.
4. Car washes.
5. Combinations of two or more of the above uses. -
6. Hotels per Section 25.34.070 (Hotels).
7. Commercial recreation and amusement establishments. �._.
8. Mini storage.
9. Outdoor recreational vehicle and boat storage.
C. Development standards. PFejeGts pFepesed 6IRGIor this ter shall hru msctcr
plaRRed and tht mxtcr pin ahcll ",
Prior to development of vacant parcel(s) within the FCOZ, the
Council shall concurrently approve a specific plan, a precise plan application and a
conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed above. For existing
commercial developments with no approved specific plan, the applicant may apply
for a precise plan and conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed
above. Approval of these applications is subject to the following standards:
ithin tho c :pr
c Ick,.,n preeess.
7 PFepeFty to be maa cr pl annsd :hQll h-at4ovj . E es�Foc in :lie ohall hQv-e
rivl ctmet-.
3. Drive -up lanes and window facilities shall be designed in a manner that they
are not visible from an arterial street.
4. Development standards shall generally be flexible to ensure efficient site
planning and to foster the creation of attractive developments.
5. Automobile service stations shall comply with the requirements of Section '
25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
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PLANNING COMMISSIO'► yESOLUTION NO. 2659
6. Specific plan documents shall be approved in accordance with Section
25.78.080 of the Zoning Ordinance.
D. Required on -site parking. The required number of parking spaces for a combined
development shall be cumulative for all proposed uses. The Commission may
reduce the required parking where it is clearly demonstrated that a shared use will
occur (i.e., a restaurant which serves a hotel), or with a showing of good cause, the
Commission may increase the number of parking spaces required.
E. Setbacks. Setbacks shall be as prescribed in the base zone and/or automobile
service stations pursuant to Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations) and/or
as approved in the specific plan document.
F. Landscaping. All masWr plannsd commercial projects approved through the FCOZ
process shall provide a minimum of at least 30 percent landscaped open space, of
which at least half of the common usable public space can include a picnic area, a
dog park, or a kids land, as well as landscaped setback areas. With a showing of
good cause, the Commission may decrease the minimum landscaped open space
requirement.
GAPlanning\Monica OReilly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
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PLANNING COMMISSIC.. RESOLUTION NO.2659
EXHIBIT D
r-
1
25.60.060 Public Hearing and Public Notice
A. Public hearing required. The following procedures shall govern the notice and
public hearing, where required pursuant to this title. The designated approving
authority shall hold a public hearing to consider all applications for a conditional use
permit, variance, architectural review, precise plan, planned development, Master
plaR, specific plan, zoning code and/or map amendment, pre -zoning, development
agreement, and General Plan amendment considered by the Commission or
Council.
B. Notice of hearing. Pursuant to California Government Code Sections 65090 to
65094, not less than 10 days before the scheduled date of a hearing, public notice
shall be given of such hearing in the manner listed below. The notice shall state the
date, time, and place of hearing, identify the hearing body, and provide a general
description of the matter to be considered and the real property which is the subject
of the hearing.
1. Notice of public hearing shall be published in at least one newspaper of
general circulation in the City.
2. Except as otherwise provided herein, notice of the public hearing shall be
mailed, postage prepaid, to the owners of property within a radius of 300 feet -
of the exterior boundaries of the property involved in the application, using for
this purpose the last known name and address of such owners as shown
upon the current tax assessor's records. The radius may be increased as
determined to be necessary and desirable by the Director based on the
nature of the proposed project. If the number of owners exceeds 1,000, the
City may, in lieu of mailed notice, provide notice by placing notice of at least
one -eighth (1/8) page in one newspaper of general circulation within the City.
3. Notice of the public hearing shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the owner of
the subject real property or the owner's authorized agent and to each local
agency expected to provide water, sewerage, streets, roads, schools, or other
essential facilities or services to the proposed project.
4. Notice of the public hearing shall be posted at City Hall.
5. Notice of the public hearing shall be mailed to any person who has filed a
written request for notice.
6. In addition to the notice required by this section, the City may give notice of
the hearing in any other manner it deems necessary or desirable.
C. Notice of Zoning Administrator decision.
1. Notice. The notice of decision shall be provided, in writing, to the applicant,
interested parties, neighborhood associations within proximity of the subject
site, and properties within 300 feet of the property. The notice shall include:
r
t
i. A brief statement explaining the criteria and standards considered
relevant to the decision.
GAPlanningWonica OReilly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
R
PLANNING COMMISSION , IESOLUTION NO. 2659
ii. A statement of the standards and facts relied upon in rendering the
decision.
iii. Findings as listed for each entitlement or justification for the decision
based on the criteria, standards, and facts set forth.
iv. An explanation of appeal rights and appeal deadlines.
2. Decision. The ZA may approve, approve with conditions, or deny the
application. Decisions shall be based on standards and criteria set forth within
this code and shall be accompanied by brief, written findings and a
determination.
3. Appeal. A ZA determination may be appealed to the Commission for a final
determination according to Section 25.60.080.
D. Requests for notification. Any person who requests to be on a mailing list for
notice of hearing shall submit such request in writing to the Department. The City
may impose a reasonable fee for the purpose of recovering the cost of such
notification.
E. Receipt of notice. Failure of any person or entity to receive any properly issued
notice required by law for any hearing required by this title shall not constitute
grounds for any court to invalidate the actions of a designated approving authority for
which the notice was given.
F. Hearing procedure. Hearings as provided for in this chapter shall be held at the
date, time, and place for which notice has been given as required in this chapter.
The approving authority shall conduct the public hearing and hear testimony from
interested persons. The summary minutes shall be prepared and made part of the
permanent file of the case. Any hearing may be continued to a date certain. If the
hearing is not continued to a specific date/time, then the hearing shall be re -noticed.
GAPlanningWonica OReilly\Planning Commissiont2015\Resolutions\Res. No. 2659 Specific Plan.docx
PLANNING COMMISSI& . RESOLUTION NO.2659
EXHIBIT E
25.99.020 Land Use Definitions
A. Specific Plan. A detailed plan covering a selected area of the City for the purposes
of implementation of the General Plan, while also providing flexibility in development
standards, innovative land uses and developments, and a variety of housing and
other development types definite statement-adeptedby ^rdi^a^^e of —;SIT^
standards -Intl regulations, together ith s map
eilsloa, atsnderds, and regulatieRS ago &pplioabla pursuant to the
requirements of the Government Code of the state.
B. Planned Development. A development of parcels of land as a coordinated project
which has been developed according to an approved develepmeRt plaR specific
plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in order to maintain aesthetic
values and to protect the investment of developers as well as the community as a
whole. Planned developments may be residential, commercial, or industrial in nature
or a combination of any two or more.
C. Planned Unit Development industrial. A development of industrial parcels of land
as a coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved
deuelepmcnt Peen specific plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in
order to maintain aesthetic values and to protect the investment of developers as
well as the community as a whole.
D. Planned Unit Development residential. A development of residential parcels of
land as a coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved
develepmsnt p!cn specific plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in
order to maintain aesthetic values and to protect the investment of developers as
well as the community as a whole.
GAPlanningWonica OReilly\Planning Commission\2015\Resolutions\Res. No 2659 Specific Plan.docx
10
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA REPEALING PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 25.72.040 "DEVELOPMENT
PLANS" AND ADOPTING A NEW MUNICIPAL CODE
SECTION 25.78.080 "SPECIFIC PLANS" AND MAKE MINOR
AMENDMENTS TO MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS
25.28.060, 25.28.070, 25.60.060, AND 25.99.020 TO
REFLECT THE NEW SPECIFIC PLAN ORDINANCE
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California ("City Council") did
on the 28th day of January, 2016, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by
the City of Palm Desert for approval of the above noted; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the
1s' day of December, 2015, hold a duly noticed public hearing and recommended approval of
the request by the City of Palm Desert of the above noted; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California has determined that
Section 25.72.040 "Development Plans" of the Palm Desert Municipal Code creates a
redundant application process already covered by the City's Precise Plan application process;
and
WHEREAS, an Ordinance to establish a process for Specific Plans is supported by
State Government Code Title 7 — "Planning and Land Use", Chapter 3, Article 1 — "Local
Planning", sections 65450 — 65457 — "Specific Plans", which allow local legislative bodies to
carry out planning functions within their jurisdictional boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, wishes to establish
a Specific Plan Ordinance to provide proper tools for the initiation, review and processing of
larger, more complex, development proposal; and
WHEREAS, amendments to Section 25.28.060 "Planned Community Development
Overlay District," Section 25.28.070 "Freeway Commercial Overlay District," Section 25.60.060
"Public Hearing and Public Notice," and Section 25.99.020 "Land Use Definitions" are minor in
nature and reflect the changes proposed in the Specific Plan Ordinance;
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find
the following facts and reasons to exist to approve said request:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California as follows:
SECTION 1. Adoption of Recitals. The City Council hereby adopts the foregoing
recitals as its findings in support of the following regulations and further finds that the
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
following regulations are beneficial and appropriate to protect the health, safety and welfare
of the residents and businesses of Palm Desert within the City limits.
SECTION 2. Repeal of Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 25.72.040
"Development Plans".
SECTION 3. Adoption of a Specific Plan Ordinance as Palm Desert Municipal
Code Section 25.78.080 "Specific Plans". Section 25.78.080, of the Palm Desert
Municipal Code is hereby adopted to read as follows:
25.78.080 Specific Plans
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish a process for preparing,
processing, reviewing, adopting, and amending specific plans in compliance with
State law (Government Code Section 65450 et. seq.). When required by subsection
C of this Section, the General Plan, or this title to systematically implement the
General Plan for any part of the City, a specific plan shall be prepared, processed,
approved and implemented, or disapproved, either by resolution or ordinance, and in
compliance with this Chapter. Specific plans may be required for the development of
properties as identified in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
B. Applicable State Law. Specific plan applications and documents shall be prepared
and submitted in compliance with California Government Code Section 65450 et.
seq. Specific Plans shall be considered by the Planning Commission with a
recommendation to the City Council. The Council may act either by resolution or
ordinance and may amend the specific plan as often as deemed necessary by the
Council.
C. Specific Plan Required. Specific plans shall be required for development in certain
districts, as referenced in the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to, the
City's Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay District and the Freeway
Commercial Overlay (FCOZ) District.
D. Initiation. A specific plan or specific plan amendments may be initiated by the
following:
1. The Council.
2. The property owner or property owner's agent.
3. The Commission; or
4. The Director.
E. Required Findings. The following findings shall be made by the Council prior to
approval of any specific plan or specific plan amendment:
1. Consistent with the General Plan. The specific plan or amendment is
consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan.
2. Public Welfare. The specific plan or amendment will not create conditions
materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and general welfare.
GAP Ian ning\Eric Ceja\Case Files\ZOA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Hearings\City Council\City Council Ordinance.doc
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
3. Land Use Compatibility. The specific plan or amendment is compatible with
zoning on adjacent properties, and ensures development of desirable
character that will be harmonious with surrounding properties.
4. Property Suitability. The specific plan or amendment is suitable and
appropriate for the location, access, and topography for the development of
the subject property.
5. CEQA. The specific plan or amendment has been reviewed in compliance
with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
SECTION 4. Amendment to the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Section 25.28.060,
of the Palm Desert Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
25.28.060 Planned Community Development Overlav District
A. Purpose and applicability. The Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay
district allows the Council to establish areas for coordinated land use, and specific
planning purposes that may include multiple properties. Specific plan approval, as
outlined in Section 25.78.080, is required for -the development of parcels within the
PCD Overlay district.
B. Requirements.
1. Site area. A minimum of 10 acres shall be required for a planned community
development.
2. Specific plan required. Any application for the development of a parcel(s) in
the PCD overlay zone shall be accompanied by a specific plan for the entire
area covered by the application. The specific plan shall be prepared in
accordance with Section 25.78.080 of the City's Zoning Ordinance.
3. Ownership. All land in a proposed overlay zone shall be held in single
ownership or under unified control or have the written consent or agreement
of all owners of property proposed for inclusion in the overlay zone.
4. Utilities. The existing utility systems (water, sewer, drainage, electrical, gas,
and communications facilities) shall be adequate, or new systems shall be
designed and constructed to adequately serve the development. Master plans
for utility systems may be required along with the application for the PCD
overlay zone if determined necessary by the Director.
5. Development Plans. Development Plans previously prepared and adopted for
developments within the PCD shall remain valid for all existing development
projects. However, amendments to these plans will require preparation of a
Specific Plan document to be approved in accordance with Section 25.78.080.
C. Application. A Change of Zone application to apply the overlay zone to a property
or properties shall be submitted by the owner, his or her authorized agent, or the
purchaser of the land(s) with the consent of the owner. The application shall be
accompanied by a specific plan application prepared by a qualified team of
professionals, such fees as may be established by the City Council, and other
information as required by the Director.
GAPlanning\Eric Ceja\Case Files\ZOA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Hearings\City Council\City Council Ordinance.doc
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
SECTION 5. Amendments to the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Section
25.28.070, of the Palm Desert Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
25.28.070 Freewav Commercial Overlav District
A. Purpose and applicability. The purpose of the Freeway Commercial Overlay Zone
(FCOZ) district is to provide optional standards and incentives for the development
of specific types of commercial uses on commercially zoned properties with freeway
frontage, and/or properties within one signalized intersection of an interchange and
intersecting cross street. Whenever the FCOZ has been added to a base zone, the
owner/applicant may choose whether to use the optional FCOZ standards or the
standards of the base zone. In order to obtain approval of uses GlPlIY conditionally
permitted in the FCOZ, the project must utilize FCOZ standards and have an
approved specific plan.
B. Conditional uses. Uses permitted by an approved conditional use permit are as
follows:
1. Restaurants, general, including drive -through restaurants.
2. Automobile service stations without regard to the required separation
distance provisions per Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
3. Convenience stores.
4. Car washes.
5. Combinations of two or more of the above uses.
6. Hotels per Section 25.34.070 (Hotels).
7. Commercial recreation and amusement establishments.
8. Mini storage.
9. Outdoor recreational vehicle and boat storage.
10. Automotive sales new and used (Outdoor/Indoor).
C. Development standards. Prior to development of vacant parcel(s) within the FCOZ,
the Council shall concurrently approve a specific plan, a precise plan application and
a conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed above. For existing
commercial developments with no approved specific plan, the applicant may apply
for a precise plan and conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed
above. Approval of these applications is subject to the following standards:
1. Drive -up lanes and window facilities shall be designed in a manner that they
are not visible from an arterial street.
2. Development standards shall generally be flexible to ensure efficient site
planning and to foster the creation of attractive developments.
3. Automobile service stations shall comply with the requirements of Section
25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
4. Specific plan documents shall be approved in accordance with Section
25.78.080 of the Zoning Ordinance.
D. Required on -site parking. The required number of parking spaces for a combined
development shall be cumulative for all proposed uses. The Commission may
reduce the required parking where it is clearly demonstrated that a shared use will
GAPlanning\Eric Ceja\Case Files\ZOA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Hearings\City Council\City Council Ordinance.doc
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
occur (i.e., a restaurant which serves a hotel), or with a showing of good cause, the
Commission may increase the number of parking spaces required.
E. Setbacks. Setbacks shall be as prescribed in the base zone and/or automobile
service stations pursuant to Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations) and/or
as approved in the specific plan document.
F. Landscaping. All commercial projects approved through the FCOZ process shall
provide a minimum of at least 30 percent landscaped open space, of which at least
half of the common usable public space can include a picnic area, a dog park, or a
kids land, as well as landscaped setback areas. With a showing of good cause, the
Commission may decrease the minimum landscaped open space requirement.
SECTION 6. Amendments to the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Section
25.60.060, subsection A, of the Palm Desert Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
A. Public hearing required. The following procedures shall govern the notice and
public hearing, where required pursuant to this title. The designated approving
authority shall hold a public hearing to consider all applications for a conditional use
permit, variance, architectural review, precise plan, planned development, specific
plan, zoning code and/or map amendment, pre -zoning, development agreement,
and General Plan amendment considered by the Commission or Council.
SECTION 7. Amendments to the Palm Desert Municipal Code. The following
definitions are hereby amended in the Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 25.99.020
"Land Use Definitions" in alphabetical order:
"Planned Development." A development of parcels of land as a coordinated project which
has been developed according to an approved specific plan. Adequate control of the
development is provided in order to maintain aesthetic values and to protect the investment
of developers as well as the community as a whole. Planned developments may be
residential, commercial, or industrial in nature or a combination of any two or more.
"Planned Unit Development industrial." A development of industrial parcels of land as a
coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved specific plan.
Adequate control of the development is provided in order to maintain aesthetic values and
to protect the investment of developers as well as the community as a whole.
"Planned Unit Development residential." A development of residential parcels of land as
a coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved specific plan.
Adequate control of the development is provided in order to maintain aesthetic values and
to protect the investment of developers as well as the community as a whole.
"Specific Plan." A detailed plan covering a selected area of the City for the purposes of
implementation of the General Plan, while also providing flexibility in development
standards, innovative land uses and developments, and a variety of housing and other
development types pursuant to the requirements of the Government Code of the state.
GAPlanning\Eric Ceja\Case Files\ZOA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Hearings\City Council\City Council Ordinance.doc
ORDINANCE NO. 1303
SECTION 7. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance or the application
thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other
provisions or applications of the ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid
provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are severable. The
City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance irrespective of the
invalidity of any particular portion thereof.
SECTION 8. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, is
hereby directed to publish this ordinance in The Desert Sun, a newspaper of general
circulation, published and circulated in the City of Palm Desert, California, and shall be in full
force and effect thirty (30) days after its adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, at its regular meeting held on the 281h day of January. 2016, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ROBERT A. SPIEGEL, MAYOR
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
GAPlanning\Eric Ceja\Case Files2OA\ZOA 15-003 Specific Plans\Public Hearings\City Council\City Council Ordinance.doc
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
EXHIBIT A
25.78.080 Specific Plans
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish a process for preparing,
processing, reviewing, adopting, and amending specific plans in compliance with
State law (Government Code Section 65450 et. seq.). When required by subsection
C of this Section, the General Plan, or this title to systematically implement the
General Plan for any part of the City, a specific plan shall be prepared, processed,
approved and implemented, or disapproved, either by resolution or ordinance, and in
compliance with this Chapter. Specific plans may be required for the development of
properties as identified in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
B. Applicable State Law. Specific plan applications and documents shall be prepared
and submitted in compliance with California Government Code Section 65450 et.
seq. Specific Plans shall be considered by the Planning Commission with a
recommendation to the City Council. The Council may act either by resolution or
ordinance and may amend the specific plan as often as deemed necessary by the
Council.
C. Specific Plan Required. Specific plans shall be required for development in certain
districts, as referenced in the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to, the
City's Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay District and the Freeway
Commercial Overlay (FCOZ) District.
D. Initiation. A specific plan or specific plan amendments may be initiated by the
following:
1. The Council.
2. The property owner or property owner's agent.
3. The Commission; or
4. The Director.
E. Required Findings. The following findings shall be made by the Council prior to
approval of any specific plan or specific plan amendment:
1. Consistent with the General Plan. The specific plan or amendment is
consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan.
2. Public Welfare. The specific plan or amendment will not create conditions
materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and general welfare.
3. Land Use Compatibility. The specific plan or amendment is compatible with
zoning on adjacent properties, and ensures development of desirable
character that will be harmonious with surrounding properties.
4. Property Suitability. The specific plan or amendment is suitable and
appropriate for the location, access, and topography for the development of
the subject property.
5. CEQA. The specific plan or amendment has been reviewed in compliance
with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
EXHIBIT B
25.28.060 Planned Community Development Overlay District
A. Purpose and applicability. The Planned Community Development (PCD) Overlay
district allows the Council to establish lager areas for coordinated land use, and
maste specific planning purposes that may include multiple properties. Appreval of
s Do,.,elepmcn! Plan Specific plan approval, as outlined in Section 25.72!2110
25.78.080, is required for roval of a the development in the Pl Rned Gomm, �ni y
of parcels within the PCD Overlay district.
B. Requirements.
1. Site area. A minimum of 4W 10 acres shall be required for a planned
community development.
2. Master Specific plan required. Any application for a-planno� semmuni`y the
development of a parcel(s) in the PCD overlay zone shall be accompanied by
a waste specific plan for the entire area covered by the application. The
specific plan shall be prepared in accordance with Section 25.78.080 of the
City's Zoning Ordinance.
3. Ownership. All land in a proposed overlay zone shall be held in ene single
ownership or under unified control or have the written consent or agreement
of all owners of property proposed for inclusion in the overlay zone.
4. Utilities. The existing utility systems (water, sewer, drainage, electrical, gas,
and communications facilities) shall be adequate, or new systems shall be
designed and constructed to adequately serve the development. Master plans
for utility systems may be required along with the application for the PCD
overlay zone if determined necessary by the Director.
5. Development Plans. Development Plans previously prepared and adopted for
developments within the PCD shall remain valid for all existing development
projects. However, amendments to these plans will require preparation of a
Specific Plan document to be approved in accordance with Section 25.78.080.
C. Application. A Change of Zone application to apply the overlay zone to a property
or properties shall be submitted by the owner, his or her authorized agent, or the
purchaser of the land(s) with the consent of the owner. The application shall be
accompanied by a master specific plan application prepared by a qualified team of
professionals, such fees as may be established by the City Council. and other
information as required by the Director.
1. 'Upon rzce4"f o ccmplet❑ Chcngc of Zor/j ca-F ation fu aa-oyerlAy zone
snd opocific przn "6.�,n� a Cupartmentsha'�oVie`/l the ��l+satie
materials and propore s rccvmmendation to he Planning �i rmr��^n^"ririu
City GAI 16,I in a----cordonoo "4h-Sootion 25.7R �99.
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
2. Trio Pla-nning Co-mmi-s6on a publio hoaring on :.uoh applim:kw�#
the-✓ommiccon firOt tho critoria zc� fcrth in thi[, ohR-ver cnd in iootion
19.79.M' havo boon rr�ot, it mey "--�e,:Iich tho cN --rlay zaoru v.Ikjva tc --wch
seRditier►o sc it doemo rvvQooary, Tho Ccmm„ssiGn may dons• tHr
appliGartiono if it fiFxdo R,ny of tho oritori& rra�\3 not boep-4Rct, or that the
approvcl of the applicction would tQ �otrimantsl to tho publio pogo, h& lth,
ocfri)N or viel-far4a-
2. Chongc c{ 1ona and &po3ifio flan ej.:ai "icns-shaP re frvwQr' c'j for it pOD�k
lao inC Wth too rite{--Counail. Thy ✓oun3il, in c000r�anao with geotien
22.78.980, may cpp, ovo, approvo with modifioaticnz, or alone th
appiiorat4ono. Tho cf the-Ceur►oil ha!I ba fines.
E. T^.: m'nat'on of rivefflay zone.
1. The c�`c lvy zono and and, m"�cr cpu-,dfio plan er c�hlv mcit•3rici spprevvc "c
a pert theroof ohsll b000mo null e,id v3id if tho phyaicQ1 6o\t^ pmv\nt of the
riot io not oommon�� within two (2) yoaro from data of adoption of the
rornolution eotp.-1\4 +ng th. ---,ono.
2. An wd ncien of tim3, nat to oi1G\0ed ona may be graMcon' by tho
wh n ontonuating &oum3.er000 oan bo oloerly ohe*vn by the
appiioant. Tho roqumt for an oxonubn of time chcll "c v&mittc� to trr
micven in writing prier to the c�xj ire icn data are 3h2;1 3loarly Jwte the
mono why the physiool devolopmont of tho dio.riot hcc not Commoncvc cnd
ou3h ovorlsy era hao not h^ftxn v`iliz�.
3,4Aortial phyoi3a; d3;�o1opmr3nt vir,thin tho ov3day and/or ma3tor opoo fio plan is
cone;c!i&\,tid cufficont to me;ntc*4hrc ovw!cy zenv &- i5nctien, and
tto Councl in the form cf a rani , nt is rogcirD,� tc after tkae
boundoric❑, mackor gpcoifio plan, er &-vck1 nient otan&ram.
K
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
EXHIBIT C
25.28.070 Freeway Commercial Overlay District
A. Purpose and applicability. The purpose of the Freeway Commercial Overlay Zone
(FCOZ) district is to provide optional standards and incentives for the development
of -a- mfiet specific types of commercial uses on commercially zoned properties with
freeway frontage, and/or properties within one signalized intersection of an
interchange and intersecting cross street. Whenever the FCOZ has been added to a
base zone, the owner/applicant may choose whether to use the optional FCOZ
standards or the standards of the base zone. In order to obtain approval of uses er4y
conditionally permitted in the FCOZ, the project must utilize FCOZ standards and
have an approved specific plan.
B. Conditional uses. Uses permitted by an approved conditional use permit shall be
are as follows:
1. Restaurants, general, including drive -through restaurants.
2. Automobile service stations without regard to the required separation
distance provisions per Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
3. Convenience stores.
4. Car washes.
5. Combinations of two or more of the above uses.
6. Hotels per Section 25.34.070 (Hotels).
7. Commercial recreation and amusement establishments.
8. Mini storage.
9. Outdoor recreational vehicle and boat storage.
10. Automotive sales new and used (Outdoor/Indoor).
C. Development standards. Projvotc primed—undor this for chi!;—;sue-�^ter
piawiod t-nd th_--ma:tor plan Oall be ctp'pro� Ly thv to any
oonotruotion aotiv#�F, Prior to development of vacant parcel(s) within the FCOZ, the
Council shall concurrently approve a specific plan, a precise plan application and a
conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed above. For existing
commercial developments with no approved specific plan, the applicant may apply
for a precise plan and conditional use permit for any of the proposed uses listed
above. Approval of these applications is subject to the following standards -
a, Development of indi idol pro aata within the a1�ovcd mask-W plan chat/ -be
pr ovoc€cd through tha provivo plae-pReGe6s:
'arty W ba maotor pl3rw ed-shad bo at lGa3t 5 ao�1* in oizo and ahag-have
ftenta gc en a �c ' isl ctre/it.
3. Drive -up lanes and window facilities shall be designed in a manner that they
are not visible from an arterial street.
4. Development standards shall generally be flexible to ensure efficient site
planning and to foster the creation of attractive developments.
5. Automobile service stations shall comply with the requirements of Section
25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations).
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
6. Specific plan documents shall be approved in accordance with Section
25.78,080 of the Zoning Ordinance.
D. Required on -site parking. The required number of parking spaces for a combined
development shall be cumulative for all proposed uses. The Commission may
reduce the required parking where it is clearly demonstrated that a shared use will
occur (i.e., a restaurant which serves a hotel), or with a showing of good cause, the
Commission may increase the number of parking spaces required.
E. Setbacks. Setbacks shall be as prescribed in the base zone andlor automobile
service stations pursuant to Section 25.34.090 (Automotive Service Stations) and/or
as approved in the specific plan document.
F. Landscaping. All ma ter plcnnvd commercial projects approved through the FCOZ
process shall provide a minimum of at least 30 percent landscaped open space, of
which at least half of the common usable public space can include a picnic area, a
dog park, or a kids land, as well as landscaped setback areas. With a showing of
good cause, the Commission may decrease the minimum landscaped open space
requirement.
F,
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE No.
Exhibit D
25.60.060 Public Hearing and Public Notice
A. Public hearing required. The following procedures shall govern the notice and
public hearing, where required pursuant to this title. The designated approving
authority shall hold a public hearing to consider all applications for a conditional use
permit, variance, architectural review, precise plan, planned development, master
plan, specific plan, zoning code and/or map amendment, pre -zoning, development
agreement, and General Plan amendment considered by the Commission or
Council.
B. Notice of hearing. Pursuant to California Government Code Sections 65090 to
65094, not less than 10 days before the scheduled date of a hearing, public notice
shall be given of such hearing in the manner listed below. The notice shall state the
date, time, and place of hearing, identify the hearing body, and provide a general
description of the matter to be considered and the real property which is the subject
of the hearing.
1. Notice of public hearing shall be published in at least one newspaper of
general circulation in the City.
2. Except as otherwise provided herein, notice of the public hearing shall be
mailed, postage prepaid, to the owners of property within a radius of 300 feet
of the exterior boundaries of the property involved in the application, using for
this purpose the last known name and address of such owners as shown
upon the current tax assessor's records. The radius may be increased as
determined to be necessary and desirable by the Director based on the
nature of the proposed project. If the number of owners exceeds 1,000, the
City may, in lieu of mailed notice, provide notice by placing notice of at least
one -eighth (1/8) page in one newspaper of general circulation within the City.
3. Notice of the public hearing shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the owner of
the subject real property or the owner's authorized agent and to each local
agency expected to provide water, sewerage, streets, roads, schools, or other
essential facilities or services to the proposed project.
4. Notice of the public hearing shall be posted at City Hall.
5. Notice of the public hearing shall be mailed to any person who has filed a
written request for notice.
6. In addition to the notice required by this section, the City may give notice of
the hearing in any other manner it deems necessary or desirable.
C. Notice of Zoning Administrator decision.
Notice. The notice of decision shall be provided, in writing, to the applicant,
interested parties, neighborhood associations within proximity of the subject
site, and properties within 300 feet of the property. The notice shall include:
A brief statement explaining the criteria and standards considered
relevant to the decision.
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE No.
ii. A statement of the standards and facts relied upon in rendering the
decision.
iii. Findings as listed for each entitlement or justification for the decision
based on the criteria, standards, and facts set forth.
iv. An explanation of appeal rights and appeal deadlines.
2. Decision. The ZA may approve, approve with conditions, or deny the
application. Decisions shall be based on standards and criteria set forth within
this code and shall be accompanied by brief, written findings and a
determination.
3. Appeal. A ZA determination may be appealed to the Commission for a final
determination according to Section 25.60.080.
D. Requests for notification. Any person who requests to be on a mailing list for
notice of hearing shall submit such request in writing to the Department. The City
may impose a reasonable fee for the purpose of recovering the cost of such
notification.
E. Receipt of notice. Failure of any person or entity to receive any properly issued
notice required by law for any hearing required by this title shall not constitute
grounds for any court to invalidate the actions of a designated approving authority for
which the notice was given.
F. Hearing procedure. Hearings as provided for in this chapter shall be held at the
date, time, and place for which notice has been given as required in this chapter.
The approving authority shall conduct the public hearing and hear testimony from
interested persons. The summary minutes shall be prepared and made part of the
permanent file of the case. Any hearing may be continued to a date certain. If the
hearing is not continued to a specific date/time, then the hearing shall be re -noticed.
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO.
EXHIBIT E
25.99.020 Land Use Definitions.
A. Specific Plan. A detailed plan covering a selected area of the City for the purposes
of implementation of the General Plan, while also providing flexibility in development
standards, innovative land uses and developments, and a variety of housing and
other development types definite statamont cdcp\'1od by a7dinanoo cf polici ,
Standardo, and rogula h a map ✓ ^*� doocrA,,�o^iiC tho Iccsticn
whoro ounh pGko;b3, 3tandafdo, and rcgulatiena a,0 OppliGable pursuant to the
requirements of the Government Code of the state.
B. Planned Development. A development of parcels of land as a coordinated project
which has been developed according to an approved drr,Ueopmont plan specific
plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in order to maintain aesthetic
values and to protect the investment of developers as well as the community as a
whole. Planned developments may be residential, commercial, or industrial in nature
or a combination of any two or more.
C. Planned Unit Development industrial. A development of industrial parcels of land
as a coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved
devdbprr/ant plan specific plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in
order to maintain aesthetic values and to protect the investment of developers as
well as the community as a whole.
D. Planned Unit Development residential. A development of residential parcels of
land as a coordinated project which has been developed according to an approved
dev-e?c�pmont plan specific plan. Adequate control of the development is provided in
order to maintain aesthetic values and to protect the investment of developers as
well as the community as a whole.
CITY OF PALM DESERT
LEGAL NOTICE
CASE NO. ZOA 15-03
NOTICE OF INTENT RECOMMENDING APPROVAL TO THE CITY COUNCIL FOR ADOPTION
OF A ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO REPEAL PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE
SECTION 25.72.040 "DEVELOPMENT PLANS" AND ADOPT A NEW MUNICIPAL CODE
SECTION 25.78.080 "SPECIFIC PLANS" AND MAKE MINOR AMENDMENTS TO
MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 25.28.060. 25.28.070, 25.60.060. AND 25.99.020 TO
REFLECT THE NEW SPECIFIC PLAN ORDINANCE
The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), completed an Initial Study to review the potential
environmental impacts of adopting a Specific Plan Ordinance and have determined that the
proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment will not have a negative impact on the environment as
individual development proposals, which may utilize the Specific Plan process, will undergo
additional environmental review as part of the Specific Plan process and prior to any
development within a Specific Plan area.
Proiect Location: City-wide
Code Amendment:
Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 25.72.040 "Development Plans" is being repealed and a
new Municipal Code Section for "Specific Plans" is being introduced. The Specific Plan
Ordinance complies with State statutes and guidelines for the preparation of specific plan
documents for master planning purposes. Minor amendments to the zoning ordinance will
include replacing all references to "development plans" with references to "specific plans", and
amending municipal code definitions accordingly. The proposed code amendment reads as
follows:
25.78.080 Specific Plans
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish a process for preparing,
processing, reviewing, adopting, and amending specific plans in compliance with State law
(Government Code Section 65450 et. seq.). When required by subsection C of this Section, the
General Plan, or this title to systematically implement the General Plan for any part of the City, a
specific plan shall be prepared, processed, approved and implemented, or disapproved, either
by resolution or ordinance, and in compliance with this Chapter. Specific plans may be required
for the development of properties as identified in the City's Zoning Ordinance.
B. Applicable State Law. Specific plan applications and documents shall be prepared
and submitted in compliance with California Government Code Section 65450 et. seq. Specific
Plans shall be considered by the Planning Commission with a recommendation to the City
Council. The Council may act either by resolution or ordinance and may amend the specific plan
as often as deemed necessary by the Council.
C. Specific Plan Required. Specific plans shall be required for development in certain
districts, as referenced in the Zoning Ordinance, including but not limited to, the City's Planned
Community Development (PCD) Overlay District and the Freeway Commercial Overlay (FCOZ)
District.
D. Initiation. A specific plan or specific plan amendments may be initiated by the following
1. The Council;
2. The property owner or property owner's agent;
3. The Commission; or
4. The Director.
E. Required Findings. The following findings shall be made by the Council prior to
approval of any specific plan or specific plan amendment:
1. Consistent with the General Plan. The specific plan or amendment is consistent with
the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan.
2. Public Welfare. The specific plan or amendment will not create conditions materially
detrimental to the public health, safety, and general welfare.
3. Land Use Compatibility. The specific plan or amendment is compatible with zoning
on adjacent properties, and ensures development of desirable character that will be
harmonious with surrounding properties.
4. Property Suitability. The specific plan or amendment is suitable and appropriate for
the location, access, and topography for the development of the subject property.
5. CEQA. The specific plan or amendment has been reviewed in compliance with the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
Recommendation: Staff is recommending that the City Council adopt the changes to Zoning
Ordinance as proposed.
Public Hearing: The public hearing will be held before the City Council on January 28, 2016, at
4:00 pm.
Comment Period: Based on the time limits defined by CEQA, your response should be sent at
the earliest possible date. The public comment period on this project is from January 15, 2016
to January 28, 2016.
Public Review: The Zoning Ordinance Amendment is available for public review daily at City
Hall. Please submit written comments to the Planning Department. If any group challenges the
action in court, issues raised may be limited to only those issues raised at the public hearing
described in this notice or in written correspondence at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. All
comments and any questions should be directed to:
Eric Ceja, Associate Planner
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-0611
eceja@cityofpalmdesert.org
PUBLISH: DESERT SUN RACHELLE KLASSEN, City Clerk
January 15, 2016 Palm Desert City Council
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
1. Name or description of project: Specific Plan Ordinance
2. Project Location - Identify street City-wide
address and cross streets or attach a
map showing project site (preferably
a USGS 1 5' or 7 1 /2' topographical
map identified by quadrangle name):
3. Entity or Person undertaking project:
A. City of Palm Desert
Eric Ceja. Associate Planner
B. Other (Private)
The Lead Agency. having reviewed the Initial Study of this proposed project, having reviewed the written comments
received prior to the public meeting of the Lead Agency, and having reviewed the recommendation of the Lead Agency's
Staff. does hereby find and declare that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. A brief
statement of the reasons supporting the Lead Agency's findings are as follows:
The Specific Plan ordinance allows the City to establish processing and plan guidelines for the development of
specific plan documents. Individual development projects which choose to utilize the specific plan process will be
reviewed in accordance with CEQA for specific environmental impacts as they relate to that development. The ordinance.
by itself, will not have a negative impact on the environment.
The Lead Agency hereby finds that the Negative Declaration reflects its independent judgment. A copy of the Initial
Study is attached.
The location and custodian of the documents and any other material which constitute the record of proceedings upon
which the Lead Agency based its decision to adopt this Negative Declaration are as follows:
Phone No—L 60L346-0.1 1—
Date Received
for Filing:
Staff
Negative Declaration FORM "E"