HomeMy WebLinkAboutZOA - 25.25.016 - Height ExceptionsCITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: REQUEST FOR APPROVAL TO INITITATE A ZONING
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT ADDING PROVISIONS FOR HEIGHT
EXCEPTIONS WITHIN THE OFFICE PROFESSIONAL ZONE
(P.D.M.C. 25.25.016)
SUBMITTED BY: Ryan Stendell, Director of Community Development
DATE: February 11, 2016
CONTENTS: Exhibits: Map of O.P. Zoning, Building Sections
P.D.M.C. 25.25.016 (O.P. Zone: Development Standards)
Recommendation
By Minute Motion, direct staff to initiate a Zoning Ordinance Amendment
(ZOA) to add an exception section to the Office Professional Zone (P.D.M.C.
25.25.016).
Background
At its January 28, 2016 meeting, Councilmember Jonathan requested staff to look into the
possibility of adding a height exception section to the Office Professional (O.P.) zone when
deemed appropriate. The current O.P. zone development standards (P.D.M.C. 25.25.016)
list a maximum building height of 25 feet when more than 65 feet from residential zones.
There is currently no language in this chapter of the municipal code that would allow the
Planning Commission or City Council to approve a height exception.
Prior to 2009, this discussion was a regular topic as many developers argued the existing
25-foot height limit restricts high quality building design. Some of the reasoning behind
these claims relates to the desire for greater interior ceiling heights, adequate room for
internal mechanical equipment, and having enough height to adequately screen roof
mounted equipment (see attached exhibit).
In many cases, previous Councils have been sensitive to areas of the City where O.P.
zones are directly adjacent to low density residential housing. However, there are some
instances where O.P. zones are not adjacent to residential uses and additional height could
lend itself to more attractive buildings. Having a tool in place to consider a height exception
when a high quality project is proposed is seemingly a benefit.
Staff Report
OP Zone Height Exceptions
Page 2 of 2
February 11, 2016
Analvsis
Staff believes that the addition of an exception process to the O.P. zone will add to the
flexibility in design that property owners enjoy in Palm Desert. If directed, staff would look
to create language that preserves the sensitivity of taller buildings adjacent to residential
zones while allowing the Planning Commission or City Council to review and approve a
request, if deemed appropriate.
If approved by the Council, staff will prepare a ZOA which will need to be approved by the
Planning Commission and City Council.
Fiscal Analysis
There is no fiscal impact relating to staffs request.
Submitted By:
Ryan Stendell, Director of Community Development
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