Chapter 40 — Zoning

Article 40.14 — SUPPLEMENTAL TO DOWNTOWN ZONES

Davis Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · ingested 2026-07-06 · Davis

§ 40.14.010. Purpose and applicability.

This article sets forth the standards for the development of each building type, frontage type, civic space type, and sign type within downtown zones. These standards supplement the standards for each zone in which the building, frontage, civic space, and sign types are allowed. These standards are intended to ensure development that establishes and/or reinforces the highly-valued character and scale of Davis' walkable urban center, neighborhoods, and corridors.

  • (a) Applicability.

    • (1) The standards in this article apply to all proposed development within Downtown Davis Zones (Article 40.13) and shall be considered in combination with the standards for the applicable zone.
  • (2) Development with education, public assembly, transportation, communications and/or infrastructure uses shall comply with the standards of the zone, but is not required to meet the standards of Section 40.14.070 (Specific to building types).

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.020. Site standards.

  • (a) Purpose. The provisions of this section are intended to ensure the development of property within downtown zones accomplishes the following:

    • (1) Makes a positive contribution to the development pattern of the area;

    • (2) Ensures that new or altered structures are compatible with the design and use of existing structures on neighboring properties;

    • (3) Respects the existing conditions and safety of neighboring properties; and

    • (4) Does not adversely affect neighboring properties, with "adversely affect" meaning to impact in a substantial, negative manner the habitability or enjoyability of these properties.

  • (b) Allowable Exceptions in Downtown Zones. The exceptions listed in Table 40.14.020.A (Downtown Zone Exceptions) shall be allowed without additional discretionary review if the requested exception meets the required findings.

Table 40.14.020.A: Downtown Zone Exceptions Table 40.14.020.A: Downtown Zone Exceptions
Types of Exceptions Allowed Required Findings Exception
Building Site
Building Site Dimensions. A decrease in
the minimum required or maximum
allowed depth or width.
The exception accommodates an
existing feature such as a tree, or
utility.
Up to 10%
Table 40.14.020.A: Downtown Zone Exceptions Table 40.14.020.A: Downtown Zone Exceptions
--- --- ---
Types of Exceptions Allowed Required Findings Exception
An existing or new building site can
be developed following the intent of
the zone and meet all other
applicable standards for the zone.
Building Setbacks
Front, Side Street, Side or Rear. An
increase or decrease of the minimum to
maximum required setback areas for
main structures.
The exception accommodates an
existing feature such as a tree, or
utility.
The proposed development is
visually compatible with the adjacent
development and intent of the zone.
Up to 5' or 40%
which ever is
greater.
Facade within Facade Zone. A reduction
of the amount of facade required within
the facade zone.
The exception accommodates an
existing feature such as a tree, or
utility.
The proposed development is
visually compatible with the adjacent
development and intent of the zone.
Up to 30% for up
to half of the
facade's length.
Building Footprint
Size of Main Body or Wing(s). An
increase in the allowed size.
The exception accommodates an
existing feature such as a tree, or
utility.
The proposed development is
visually compatible with the adjacent
development and intent of the zone.
Up to 20%
Parking Location
1
Front Setback.
A reduction in the parking setback.
The exception accommodates an
existing feature such as a tree, or
utility. Parking shall not be visible
from the front property line.
The ground foor space shall remain
habitable.
Up to 20%

Note:

  • 1 Frontage requirement still apply.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.030. Screening.

  • (a) Purpose. This section prescribes standards for screening, fences, and walls for the conservation and protection of property, the assurance of safety and security, the enhancement of privacy, the attenuation of noise, and the improvement of the visual environment of the neighborhood.

  • (b) Design Standards for Screening. Screening shall comply with the following:

    • (1) Zone Height Maximums. Screening shall not exceed the maximums identified in Section 40.14.090(f) through Section 40.14.120(f), titled "Encroachments" of the applicable zone.

    • (2) Screening Height Measurement. Screening height shall be measured as the vertical distance between the finished grade at the base of the screen and the top edge of the

screen material.

  • (c) Reduction of Required Screening or Screening Design Standards. The director may completely or partially waive required screening and associated standards in cases where the director deems the relief necessary to maintain or enhance the architectural character of the surrounding neighborhood.

  • (d) Additional Screening Requiring Administrative Permit. The following screening types shall comply with the specified requirements and shall require director approval prior to issuance of a building or landscape permit, as applicable.

    • (1) Courtyard. Fences, walls and other screening installed to create a courtyard without a roof shall be a maximum of five feet in height and be set back a minimum of ten feet from the front property line or back of sidewalk, whichever is the least. In reviewing the plan for the proposed courtyard, the director shall consider, but not be limited to, the following:

      • (A) Building characteristics including the dimensions, color and architectural design;

      • (B) Compatibility of the architectural and design features of the proposed courtyard with the features of the adjoining, as well as neighboring buildings; and

      • (C) Landscaping, including the effort to minimize removal of existing vegetation and to match replacements with vegetation of the site.

  • (e) Screening on Retaining Walls. The total height of screens and the retaining walls that they are mounted on or attached to is six feet. However, the director may approve higher screening if it is determined that there will be little or no impact on the adjoining properties or the surrounding neighborhood and the height is necessary to achieve the objectives of this section or is required for health and safety.

  • (f) Mechanical Equipment Screening.

    • (1) Mechanical equipment exempt from screening:

      • (A) Freestanding or roof-mounted solar equipment; and

      • (B) Vents less than four feet in height may be exempt from the requirements in Section 40.14.030(e) (Screening on Retaining Walls), subject to director review.

    • (2) For all new installation or relocation of existing mechanical equipment, the equipment shall be screened.

      • (A) Roof-Mounted Equipment. Building parapets or other architectural elements in the building's architecture style shall screen roof-mounted equipment.
  • (i) New buildings shall be designed to provide a parapet or other architectural element that is as tall or taller than the highest point on any new mechanical equipment to be located on the roof of the building; and

       - (ii) For existing buildings with no or low parapet heights, mechanical equipment shall be surrounded on all sides by an opaque screen wall as tall as the highest point of the equipment. The wall shall be architecturally consistent with the building and match the existing building with paint, finish, and trim cap detail. All new roof screens are subject to administrative review and may be referred to the planning commission, as determined by the director. 
    
    - (B) Wall- and Ground-Mounted Equipment. 
    
       - (i) Shall not be located between the face of the building and the street; 
    
       - (ii) All screen devices shall be as high as the highest point of the equipment being screened. Equipment and screening shall be in compliance with the setbacks of the zone; 
    
       - (iii) Screening shall be architecturally compatible and include matching paint, finish and trim cap of the building; and 
    
       - (iv) All new mechanical screens for ground or wall-mounted equipment are subject to director review. 
    
  • (g) Temporary Fencing. Temporary fencing may be used to provide security for approved special events, construction sites, or vacant structures and land, which cannot otherwise be secured. All temporary fencing shall:

    • (1) Consist of chain link fencing or other materials as approved by the director;

    • (2) Not exceed six feet in height;

    • (3) Be removed at the conclusion of the special event or completion of construction activities (i.e., final inspection) for which it was approved; and

    • (4) All approved fencing for construction sites shall not be installed until a building permit or grading permit has been issued and shall be removed prior to final inspection. The use of temporary fencing around occupied structures that can be secured by other means is prohibited. The use of temporary fencing around vacant land or vacant structures is subject to the terms and conditions specified in an administrative permit authorizing this fencing.

  • (h) Barbed Wire, Razor Wire, and Chain Link. Barbed wire, razor wire, and chain link screening is not allowed.

  • (i) Safety. Fences, walls, other screening and landscaping, whether provided in accordance with the provisions of this section or provided in addition to those provisions, are subject to review by the traffic engineer in the following areas:

    • (1) Within ten feet of the point of intersection of:

      • (A) A vehicular access way or driveway and a street; or a vehicular access way or driveway and a sidewalk;

      • (B) Within twenty feet of the point of intersection of two or more vehicular access ways, including driveways, alleys, or streets;

      • (C) A shared use path and a street.

    • (2) As used in this section, "point of intersection" is measured from the face of curb or if none, from the edge of pavement.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.040. Landscaping.

  • (a) Purpose. This section prescribes landscaping standards for protection and enhancement of the environmental and visual quality of the community, enhancement of privacy, and the control of dust.

  • (b) Required Landscaping. The landscaping required by this section shall be installed as part of the project or improvement requiring the landscaping. Requirements for landscaping in parking and loading areas shall be considered with Section 40.14.050 (Parking and loading).

  • (c) Landscape Plan Requirement. Landscaping plans are required for development in all zones. A landscape design plan shall be submitted for projects requiring a landscape permit, plan check or site development plan review.

  • (d) Design Standards.

    • (1) Acceptable required landscaping materials are defined as follows:

      • (A) Shrubs, of one-gallon size or larger;

      • (B) Street trees, of fifteen-gallon size or larger, and double staked;

      • (C) Ground cover; and

      • (D) Decorative nonliving landscaping materials such as sand, stone, gravel, wood or water may be used to satisfy a maximum of twenty-five percent of required landscaping area when approved by the director.

    • (2) Species Selection. Native and drought tolerant species are encouraged to increase native plants and pollinator species.

    • (3) Separation. Any landscaped area shall be separated from an adjacent vehicular area by a wall or curb at least six inches higher than the adjacent vehicular area.

    • (4) Existing Vegetation. Every effort shall be made to incorporate mature on-site trees into the required landscaping, subject to approval by the director.

  • (5) Maintenance. Required landscaping shall be maintained in a neat, clean and healthy condition. This shall include pruning, mowing of lawns, weeding, removal of litter, fertilizing, replacement of plants when necessary, and the appropriate watering of all plantings.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.050. Parking and loading.

  • (a) Purpose. This section prescribes standards for and limits on the development of motor vehicle and bicycle parking, loading and access drives; and standards for reducing motor vehicle trips per capita to and from development. These standards are intended to ensure that development of property within downtown zones accomplishes the following:

    • (1) Establishes and/or reinforces the character and scale of Downtown Davis as a walkable, urban neighborhood environment, where development supports and is within a short walking distance of retail and services;

    • (2) Ensures the provision of appropriately designed bicycle parking, in order to increase bicycle trips and reduce motor vehicle trips per capita;

    • (3) Appropriately limits, screens and landscapes motor vehicle parking, in order to reduce motor vehicle trips per capita, protect and enhance the environmental and visual quality of the community, enhance privacy, attenuate noise, and control dust; and

    • (4) Reduces motor vehicle trips per capita to and from development.

  • (b) On-site parking is allowed in all zones subject to the standards set forth in this section.

  • (c) General Parking Standards.

    • (1) On-Site Parking. Sharing of motor vehicle parking between different land uses and developments is allowed. Standards set forth elsewhere in the Municipal Code which limit

or restrict the sharing of parking between different land uses and developments shall not apply to development in downtown zones.

  • (2) Sharing of Nonresidential Parking Required. If on-site parking spaces for nonresidential uses are provided, such spaces shall be made available for use by the general public during at least one of the following time periods:

    • (A) Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; or

    • (B) Monday through Friday, 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.

Owners and operators of these shared parking spaces may charge a fee for use of these spaces.

  • (3) Larger Vehicle Parking. Trucks, tractors or tractor-trailers having a capacity of more than a one-and-one-half-ton load, front- and rear-end loaders, or any kind of commercial, industrial, agricultural or transportation vehicles/equipment used primarily for business purposes, shall not be parked or stored in the N-M, N-L, and MS-M zones for purposes other than immediate unloading, loading or delivery services.

Automobiles, small trucks, vans, vehicle trailers permitted in conjunction with an approved home occupation, and recreational vehicles, utilized for personal or business use, are excluded from the provisions of this subsection.

  • (4) Storage of Unregistered or Inoperable Motor Vehicles. Automotive vehicles, trailers, or vehicles of any kind or type, requiring licenses, but without current plates or inoperable, shall be only parked within completely enclosed buildings.

  • (5) Cargo or Freight Container. Portable cargo or freight storage containers in any zone for purposes of loading or unloading, may be parked or stored on-premises for a period not to exceed ten days in any one calendar year.

  • (6) Commercial Auto Repairs. New businesses offering commercial repair service and/or restoration of vehicles are not allowed.

  • (d) Number of Motor Vehicle Parking Spaces Allowed.

    • (1) Allowed Spaces. The maximum number of parking spaces allowed is listed in DMC Sections 40.13.090 through 40.13.120 , subsection E (Parking) of the applicable zone. For any use not listed in that section, parking shall not exceed a ratio equivalent to the average peak parking occupancy rate for the most comparable land use in the Institute of Transportation Engineers Parking Generation report. The community development department shall determine the most comparable land use.

    • (2) Maximum Number of Parking Spaces in Downtown Zones. When calculating the maximum number of parking spaces, numbers shall be rounded to the closest whole number.

    • (3) Exception In the Event of Changes of Use or Alterations to Existing Buildings or Structures. If an existing building or structure is altered or existing land uses are changed, the existing number of parking spaces on a property may be retained, even if the resulting building, structure or land use would ordinarily be subject to a lower maximum parking allowance.

    • (4) No Minimum Requirement. There shall be no requirement for a minimum number of automobile parking spaces at any land use.

  • (e) Electric Vehicle Charging. If parking is provided at a development, electric vehicle charging facilities shall be provided in compliance with the requirements of the City of Davis Electric Vehicle Charging Facilities Plan.

  • (f) Traffic-Minimizing Parking Standards.

  • (1) Carshare Parking Spaces.

    • (A) If parking is provided at a development, carshare parking spaces shall be provided in the amounts specified in Table 40.14.050.A (Required Carshare Parking Spaces).
Table 40.14.050.A: Required Carshare Parking Spaces Table 40.14.050.A: Required Carshare Parking Spaces
Land Use Carshare Parking Spaces Required
Residential
0-49 units None
50-100 units 1
101 or more units 2 + 1 per additional 200 units
Offce/Research & Development
<10,000 sf None
> 10,000 sf 1/10,000 sf
  • (B) The required carshare spaces shall be made available, at no cost, to a carshare service for purposes of providing carshare services to its members. At the election of the property owner, the carshare spaces may be provided on the building site; or on another off-street site within eight hundred feet of the building site.

  • (C) Required carshare space or spaces shall be designed in a manner that will make the spaces accessible to nonresident subscribers from outside the building as well as building residents.

  • (D) Prior to city approval of the first building or site permit for a building subject to the carshare requirement, a notice of special restriction on the property shall be recorded indicating the nature of requirements of this section and identifying the minimum number and location of the required carshare parking spaces. The form of the notice and the location or locations of the carshare parking spaces shall be approved by the city.

building or site permit for a building subject to the carshare requirement, a notice of special restriction on the property shall be recorded indicating the nature of requirements of this section and identifying the minimum number and location of the required carshare parking spaces. The form of the notice and the location or locations of the carshare parking spaces shall be approved by the city.

  • (E) If it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the city that no carshare service can make use of the dedicated carshare parking spaces, the spaces may be occupied by noncarshare vehicles; provided, however, that upon ninety days of advance written notice to the property owner from a carshare service, the property owner shall terminate any non-carsharing leases for such spaces and shall make the spaces available to the carshare service for its use of such spaces.

  • (2) Carpool Spaces. If parking is provided at a development, parking spaces reserved for use by carpool/vanpool vehicles shall be designated in preferred locations (such as closest to building entries). The locations of these spaces shall be approved by the city. The minimum number of carpool spaces required is listed in Table 40.14.050.B (Required Carpool Parking Spaces).

Table 40.14.050.B: Required Carpool Parking Spaces Table 40.14.050.B: Required Carpool Parking Spaces
Land Use Carpool Parking Spaces Required
Offce/Research & Development
<10 parking spaces None
> 10 parking spaces 10% of the total number of spaces
All other land uses None
  • (3) Parking Costs Unbundled from the Cost of Other Goods and Services.

    - (A) Residential Uses. All off-street parking spaces accessory to residential uses in structures of four dwellings or more shall be leased or sold separately from the rental or purchase fees for dwellings for the life of the dwellings, such that potential renters or buyers have the option of renting or buying a residential unit at a price lower than would be the case if there were a single price for both the residential unit and the parking space. Renters or buyers of on-site inclusionary affordable units shall have an equal opportunity to rent or buy a parking space on the same terms and conditions as offered to renters or buyers of other dwellings. Additionally the prices charged for unbundled parking to renters or buyers of onsite inclusionary affordable units shall be reduced proportionally to their affordable income level. 
    
    - (B) Exception. The director may grant an exception from this requirement for developments which include financing for affordable housing that requires that costs for parking and housing be bundled together. 
    
    - (C) Nonresidential Uses. All off-street parking spaces accessory to nonresidential uses shall be leased or sold separately from the rental or purchase fees for nonresidential building space for the life of the building, such that potential renters or buyers have the option of renting or buying building space at a price lower than would be the case if there were a single price for both the building space and the parking space.
    

ff-street parking spaces accessory to nonresidential uses shall be leased or sold separately from the rental or purchase fees for nonresidential building space for the life of the building, such that potential renters or buyers have the option of renting or buying building space at a price lower than would be the case if there were a single price for both the building space and the parking space.

  - (D) Below-Cost Pricing Prohibited. Where parking is required to be leased or sold separately, below-cost pricing is prohibited. Minimum rates for parking spaces shall be set initially at not less than the equivalent of three hundred dollars per month per space for rented spaces and not less than fifty thousand dollars per space for sold spaces, except as required for renters or buyers of inclusionary units. Thereafter, the city may annually review and adjust these rates to achieve the goal of ensuring that parking spaces are not rented or sold at below-cost prices. The city may also approve daily and/or hourly rental rates equivalent to the minimum monthly rate. 

  - (E) Exception. Off-street parking spaces accessory to retail uses are not required to be leased or sold separately from retail space and may be offered to shoppers and other visitors free of charge for stays of up to two hours. 
  • (4) Parking Cash Out Required. Each employer who provides a parking subsidy to employees working within the Downtown Code boundaries shall offer a parking cash-out program. "Employee" means any person, including regular employees, contract employees and contractors, who regularly works within the Downtown Code boundaries. "Parking cash-out program" means an employer-funded program under which an employer offers to provide a cash allowance to an employee equivalent to the parking subsidy that the employer would otherwise pay to provide the employee with a parking space. "Parking subsidy" means the difference between the out-of-pocket amount paid by an employer on a regular basis to secure the availability of an employee parking space not owned by the employer and the price, if any, charged to an employee for use of that space.

  • (g) Parking Spaces, Building Site Design and Layout.

    • (1) Access. The following standards are applicable to on-site parking lot access design:

      • (A) All on-site parking facilities shall be designed with an appropriate means of vehicular access to a thoroughfare or to an alley to cause the least interference with traffic flow.

      • (B) Parking spaces in any parking lot or parking structure shall not be designed or located so as to permit a vehicle to enter or exit a parking space directly from a public thoroughfare. Ingress to and egress from parking spaces shall be from an on-site aisle or driveway, except parking spaces within building sites may be designed or located so as to permit a vehicle to enter or exit a parking space directly from a public alley or rear lane.

(C) On-site loading space(s) is not required.

  • (2) Driveways.

    • (A) Access to Driveways.
  • (i) Developments of Two or Fewer Dwelling Units. Access to and from driveways onto public thoroughfares shall be where practical by forward motion of the vehicle.

    - (ii) All Other Developments. Access to and from driveways onto public thoroughfares shall be by forward motion of the vehicle. 
    
    • (B) Driveways shall extend to and include the area between the building site line and the edge of the street pavement.

    • (C) The design and construction of all on-site parking access drives shall meet city standards.

  • (3) Identified as to Purpose and Location. On-site parking areas of four or more spaces shall include painted lines, wheel stops, or other methods of identifying individual parking spaces and loading areas, while distinguishing such spaces from aisle and other circulation features.

  • (4) Materials.

    • (A) All on-site parking areas and driveways shall be surfaced with materials as approved by the city engineer and maintained in compliance with the city standards.

    • (B) The use of pervious or semi-pervious parking area surfacing materials, including, but not limited to, "grasscrete," or recycled materials such as glass, rubber, used asphalt, brick, block and concrete, is subject to approval by the director and city engineer. Where possible, such materials should be used in areas in proximity to and in combination with on-site stormwater control devices.

  • (5) Landscaping, Fencing, and Screening. The landscaping, fencing and screening requirements identified in Table 40.14.050.C (Required Parking Lot Landscaping) shall be applied with the standards of Section 40.14.030 (Screening), Section 40.14.040 (Landscaping) and Article 40.42 (Water Efficient Landscaping).

Table 40.14.050.C: Required Parking Lot Landscaping

Table 40.14.050.C: Required Parking Lot Landscaping Table 40.14.050.C: Required Parking Lot Landscaping
Number of Parking Spaces Percent of Gross Parking Area Required to be
Landscaped
6 or fewer 0%; 5' min. wide planter between every 5 spaces,
property line, building(s).
7 to 15 4%; 5' min. wide planter between every 5 spaces,
property line, building(s).
16 to 30 8%; 5' min. wide planter between every 5 spaces,
property line, building(s).
31 to 70 12%; 5' min. wide planter between every 5 spaces,
property line, building(s).
71 and over 16%; 5' min. wide planter between every 5 spaces,
property line, building(s).
Required Shade Trees
Amount 1 tree per 2,700 sf of gross site area acre, minus
building coverage (footprint).
Can size 15 gallon.
Table 40.14.050.C: Required Parking Lot Landscaping Table 40.14.050.C: Required Parking Lot Landscaping
--- ---
Number of Parking Spaces Percent of Gross Parking Area Required to be
Landscaped
Caliper 3/4" min.
Height at installation 6-8' min.
Required shade 50% of parking lot. See Section 40.25.100(f).
Characteristics High branching, broad headed, shading form.
Location Evenly spaced throughout the parking lot to provide
uniform shade.
Required border 6" high curb or equivalent.
Border and stormwater Curbs shall provide breaks every 4" to provide
drainage to retention and fltration areas.
Tree well size
1
5' min. in any direction.
Car overhangs Must be prevented by stops.

Note:

  • 1 Any vehicle overhang requires the minimum planter area width to be expanded by an equivalent dimension.

    - (A) Parking and loading areas shall be screened from adjacent residential zones by a sixfoot wall, fence, or evergreen, subject to approval by the director. 
    
    - (B) Screening is not required when parking area(s) is adjacent to an alley. 
    
    - (C) Landscaping areas shall accommodate stormwater management features to the extent feasible as determined by the city. 
    
    - (D) For the portion of a parking area over which photovoltaic solar collectors are installed where they also function as shade structures, the minimum requirement for trees shall be waived, and shrubs and ground covers shall be planted in compliance with Article 40.42 (Water Efficient Landscaping) for every eight parking spaces. 
    
    • (6) Location. Location of required on-site parking in all zones is regulated by setbacks set forth in Article 40.13 (Downtown Davis Zones) and the following:

      • (A) Parking lots with twenty or fewer spaces shall have all on-site parking areas separated at least five feet from buildings in order to provide a sidewalk between the building and parking area;

      • (B) Parking lots with more than twenty spaces shall have all on-site parking areas separated at least ten feet from buildings in order to make room for a sidewalk, landscaping, and other planting between the building and the parking area; and

      • (C) This separation may be eliminated to the rear of buildings in areas designed for unloading and loading of materials.

  • (7) Size of Parking Lot. Parking lots larger than one-quarter of an acre in size, except for those located under a building, shall be broken down into smaller parking areas with planted landscape areas with a minimum width of fifteen feet between them to minimize the perceived scale of the total field of stalls.

    • (8) Tandem Parking. Tandem parking is allowed in all zones for all uses.

(h) Bicycle Parking Requirements.

  • (1) Applicability. Bicycle parking requirements apply in all zones.

  • (2) Number of Bicycle Parking Spaces and Standards. Bicycle parking shall be provided in compliance with the requirements of the Municipal Code, Article 40.25A (Bicycle Parking Standards).

  • (i) Transit Passes for Employees and Residents—Free Transit for Employees and Residents. Developers shall be required to provide passes for local transit service to the development's employees and residents free of charge. This requirement may be satisfied by enrolling the development in a deep-discount group pass program. Each employee shall be provided with a transit pass, and a minimum of one transit pass per dwelling shall be provided.

  • (j) ADA Compliance. The director may grant a variance to the parking lot design variables if it can be shown that the requirement limits the ability to comply with accessibility requirements.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.060. Live/work units.

  • (a) Purpose. This section provides standards for the construction and operation of live/work units and for the reuse of existing buildings to accommodate live/work opportunities where allowed in the zone.

  • (b) Permit Required. See Table 40.13.130 (Permitted/Conditional Uses) for permits required for live/work units.

  • (c) Allowed Zones. Live/work is allowed in existing or new buildings as allowed by the zone.

  • (d) Application Requirements. In addition to the information and materials required for an administrative use permit, the city may require an application for a live/work unit to include a Phase I Environmental Assessment for the site, including an expanded site investigation to determine whether lead based paint and asbestos hazards are present in an existing structure proposed for conversion to live/work. The purpose of this requirement is to assess whether there are any hazardous or toxic materials on the site that could pose a health risk to the residents. If the Phase I Environmental Assessment shows potential health risks, a Phase 2 Environmental Assessments shall be prepared and submitted to the department to determine if remediation may be required.

  • (e) Limitation on Use. The nonresidential ("work") component of a live/work unit shall be a use allowed within the zone. A live/work unit shall not be established or used in conjunction with any of the following activities:

    • (1) Adult-oriented businesses;

    • (2) Vehicle maintenance or repair (such as body or mechanical work, including boats and recreational vehicles, vehicle detailing and painting, upholstery, etc.);

    • (3) Storage of flammable liquids or hazardous materials beyond that normally associated with a residential use; and

    • (4) Any other activity or use, as determined by the director to not be compatible with residential activities and/or to have possibility of affecting the health or safety of live/work unit residents, because of the potential for the use to create dust, glare, heat, noise, noxious gasses, odor, smoke, traffic, vibration, or other impacts, or would be hazardous because of materials, processes, products, or wastes.

  • (f) Occupancy Requirements. The residential ("live") component of a live/work unit shall be the principal residence of at least one individual employed in the business conducted within the live/work unit.

(g) Operating Requirements.

  • (1) Sale or Rental of Portions of Unit. No portion of a live/work unit may be separately rented or sold as a commercial or industrial space for any person not living in the premises or as a residential space for any person not working in the same unit.

  • (2) Notice to Occupants. The owner or developer of any structure containing live/work units shall provide written notice to all live/work occupants and users that the surrounding area may be subject to levels of dust, fumes, noise, or other effects associated with commercial and industrial uses at higher levels than would be expected in more typical residential areas. State and federal health regulations notwithstanding, noise and other standards shall be those applicable to commercial and industrial properties in the applicable zone.

    • (3) On-Premises Sales. On-premises sales of goods are limited to those produced within the live/work unit; provided, that retail sales activity shall be incidental to the primary production work within the unit. Open studio programs and gallery shows may be included as allowed by the zone.

    • (4) Nonresident Employees. Up to two persons who do not reside in the live/work unit may work in the unit, unless this employment is otherwise prohibited or limited by the administrative use permit. The employment of three or more persons who do not reside in the live/work unit may be allowed based on an additional finding that the employment will not adversely affect parking and traffic conditions in the immediate vicinity of the unit. The employment of any persons who do not reside in the live/work unit shall comply with all applicable Uniform Building Code (UBC) and Uniform Fire Code (UFC) requirements.

    • (5) Client and Customer Visits. Client and customer visits to live/work units are allowed subject to any applicable conditions of the administrative use permit to ensure compatibility with adjacent commercial or industrial uses, or adjacent residentially-zoned areas.

  • (h) Changes in Use. A live/work unit shall not be converted to either entirely residential use or entirely business use unless approved by the city. No live/work unit shall be changed to exclusively residential use in any structure where residential use is not allowed.

  • (i) Additional Standards.

    • (1) Main Street Medium and Main Street Large Zones. In commercial live/work occupancies, the "work" component shall be located in the front or public portion of the building or unit in which the combined use is located.

    • (2) Floor Area Requirements. The floor area of each unit's work space shall be at least thirty percent of the total floor area of the unit.

    • (3) Separation and Access. Each live/work unit shall be separated from other live/work units or other uses in the building. Access to each live/work unit shall be provided from a public street, or common access area, corridors, or halls. The access to each unit shall be clearly separated from other live/work units or other uses within the structure.

    • (4) Facilities for Commercial or Office Activities. A live/work unit shall be designed to accommodate commercial or office uses as evidenced by the provision of flooring, interior storage, ventilation, and other physical improvements of the type commonly found in exclusively commercial or office facilities used for the same work activity.

  • (5) Integration of Living and Working Space. Areas within a live/work unit that are designated as living spaces shall be integral to the live/work unit. The living space of a live/work unit shall be accessed only by means of an interior connection from the work space, and shall have no exterior access except as required by the Building Code.

    • (6) Mixed-Occupancy Buildings. If a building contains mixed occupancies of live/work units and other nonresidential uses, occupancies other than live/work shall meet all applicable

requirements for those uses, and proper occupancy separations shall be provided between the live/work units and other occupancies, as determined by the building official. (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.070. Specific to building types.

(a) Overview.

  • (1) Building types are important for providing affordable housing opportunities and incubating small businesses as amenities within walkable neighborhoods.

  • (2) This section sets forth standards for the development of each building type. Table 40.14.070.A (Overview of Building Types) provides an overview of the allowed building types. The names of the building types are not intended to limit uses within a building type. For example, a detached house may have nonresidential uses within it, such as a restaurant or office, as allowed by the zone.

  • (3) Building types are categorized into two groups: house-form buildings and block-form buildings. House-form buildings are those that are the size of a house, typically ranging in footprint from as small as twenty-five feet up to eighty feet overall. Block-form buildings are individually as large as most or all of a block or, when arranged together along a street, appear as long as most or all of a block.

  • (4) The building site size standards for each building type are set in the Downtown Zones, see Sections 40.13.090 through 40.13.120 to generate pedestrian-oriented buildings. The building site size designates the range of building site sizes on which the given building type is allowed to be built. If the subject building site is smaller than the allowed building site size, a different building type must be selected.

  • (5) Each building site shall have only one primary building type, except as follows:

    • (A) Where allowed by the zone and as allowed in Section 40.26.010 , one accessory dwelling unit is allowed in addition to the primary building type;

    • (B) More than one building type is allowed on a parcel that identifies proposed multiple building site lines that meet the requirements of this article. See Figure 40.14.070.A (Example of Multiple Building Sites on an Existing Parcel).

    • (C) Notwithstanding subsection (B), if an existing lot contains a building that is considered non-conforming as listed in Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code, more than one building type is not allowed on a parcel that identifies proposed multiple building site lines that meet the requirements of this Article."

Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types
1. Building Types (Legal Non-Conforming)
Zones
Building Type Detached House Duplex (Stacked) Duplex (Side-by-Side)

Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types

==> picture [111 x 108] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [105 x 92] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [111 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types
Form House-Form Building House-Form
Building
House-Form Building
Description 40.14.070.A.1:
Detached House.
A small-to-medium-
sized detached
structure with one unit
and private open
space. It is typically
located within a lower-
intensity residential
neighborhood in a
walkable urban setting,
potentially near a
neighborhood main
street.
This Building Type is
classifed as Legal
Non-Conforming as
consistent with Section
40.28 of the Davis
Municipal Code.
40.14.070.A.2:
Duplex (Stacked).
A small-to-medium-
sized detached
structure that consists
of two stacked
dwelling units, both
facing the street and
within a single building
massing. This Type
has the appearance of
a medium-to-large
single-family home
and is appropriately
scaled to ft within
lower-intensity
residential
neighborhoods. Each
unit has private open
space.
This Building Type is
classifed as Legal
Non-Conforming as
consistent with
Section 40.28 of the
Davis Municipal Code.
40.14.070.A.3: Duplex
(Side-by-Side).
A small-to-medium-
sized detached
structure that consists
of two side-by-side
dwelling units, both
facing the street and
within a single-building
massing. This Type
has the appearance of
a medium-to-large
single-family home and
is appropriately scaled
to ft within lower-
intensity residential
neighborhoods. Each
unit has private open
space.
This Building Type is
classifed as Legal
Non-Conforming as
consistent with Section
40.28 of the Davis
Municipal Code.
Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued)
--- --- --- ---
2. Building Types
Zones
Building Type Cottage Court Multiplex: Small Multiplex: Large
Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued)
--- --- --- ---
Illustration
Form House-Form Building
Syn:Bungalow Court
House-Form
Building Syn: Triplex
to Sixplex
House-Form Building
Syn:Mansion
Apartment
Description 40.14.070.B: Cottage
Court.
A group of small,
detached structures,
providing multiple units
arranged to defne a
shared court that is
typically perpendicular
to the street. The
shared court is
common open space
and takes the place of
a private rear yard,
thus becoming an
important community-
enhancing element.
Private open space is
not required. This Type
is appropriately-scaled
to ft within low-to-
moderate-intensity
neighborhoods and can
be applied in non-
residential contexts.
40.14.070.C:
Multiplex: Small.
A medium-sized
structure that consists
of 3 to 6 side- by-side
and/or stacked
dwellings, typically
with one shared entry
or individual entries
along the front. This
Type has the
appearance of a
medium-sized single-
family home and is
appropriately scaled
to ft as a small portion
of low- to moderate-
intensity
neighborhoods.
Private open space is
not required.
40.14.070.D:
Multiplex: Large.
A medium-to-large-
sized structure that
consists of 7 to 18
side-by-side and/or
stacked dwellings,
typically with one
shared entry. This Type
is appropriately scaled
to ft in within
moderate-intensity
neighborhoods or as a
small portion of lower-
intensity
neighborhoods.
Zones
Building Type Townhouse Courtyard Main Street
Illustration
Form House-Form2 to 3
units;
House-Form
Building
Block-Form Building

Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued)

Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued) Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued) Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued) Table 40.14.070.A: Overview of Building Types (Continued)
Block-Form4 to 8
units
Syn:Rowhouse
Syn:Courtyard
Apartment
Description 40.14.070.E:
Townhouse.
A small-to-large-sized
typically attached
structure that consists
of up to 3 or up to 8
Townhouses placed
side-by-side. Each
townhouse may consist
of one unit or up to two,
stacked units. As
allowed by the zone,
this Type may also
occasionally be
detached with minimal
separations between
buildings. Each unit
has private open
space. This Type is
typically located within
moderate-to-high
intensity
neighborhoods, or near
or on a neighborhood
main street.
40.14.070.F:
Courtyard.
A building comprised
of one to three
structures typically
detached but may be
attached that contain
multiple attached
and/or stacked units,
accessed from one or
more shared
courtyards. The
shared court is
common open space.
Private open space is
not required.
This Type is typically
integrated as a small
portion of lower-
intensity
neighborhoods or
more consistently into
moderate-to-high
intensity
neighborhoods and
can be applied in non-
residential contexts.
40.14.070.G: Main
Street.
A small-to-large-sized
structure, typically
attached, but may be
detached, intended to
provide a vertical mix
of uses with ground-
foor retail or service
uses and upper-foor
service or residential
uses. This Type makes
up the primary
component of portions
of neighborhood and
downtown main
streets, therefore being
a key component to
providing walkability.

40.14.070.A.1: Detached House

==> picture [460 x 256] intentionally omitted <==

Two-Story Detached House with Small Engaged Porch

==> picture [469 x 188] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.070.A.1: Detached House
Two-Story Houses with Projecting Porches
----- End of picture text -----

1. Description.

A small- to medium-sized detached structure with one unit and private open space. It is typically located within a lower-intensity residential neighborhood in a walkable urban setting, potentially near a neighborhood main street. This Building Type is classified as Legal Non-Conforming as consistent with Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code.

2. Number of Units.

House Form Building

==> picture [460 x 20] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 288] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.

Height

Max. Number of Stories 2 Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 24'

Rooftop Room allowed on uppermost roof per Table 40.14.080.D (Rooftop Room Standards).

Main Body
Size
36' x 48' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
1
Width
15' max.
Depth
20' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).

==> picture [460 x 255] intentionally omitted <==

4. Frontage Types.
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B
5. Pedestrian Access.
Main Entrance Location Front Street
6. Vehicle Access and Parking.
Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections
40.13.09040.13.120, subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the
property is located.
7. Private Open Space.
Width 20' min.
Depth 20' min.
Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the private open space area
calculation.
Required private open space shall be located behind the main body.

Note:

1Secondary wings limited to 1 story. Max. 14' to highest top plate.

40.14.070.A.2 Duplex (Stacked)

==> picture [463 x 266] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 152] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description

A small-to-medium-sized detached structure that consists of two stacked dwelling units, both facing the street and within a single building. This Type has the appearance of a medium to large singlefamily home and is appropriately scaled to fit within lower-intensity residential neighborhoods. Each unit has private open space. This Building Type is classified as Legal Non-Conforming as consistent with Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code.

2. Number of Units Units per Building 2 max. Duplexes per Building site 1 max. House-Form Building.

==> picture [219 x 26] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [380 x 410] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [461 x 14] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing
Height
Max. Number of Stories 2
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 24'
Rooftop Room allowed on uppermost roof per Table 40.14.080.D (Rooftop
Room Standards).
Main Body
Size 36' x 48' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
Depth 24' max.
Width 18' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements).

4. Frontage Types Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A

Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B
Stoop 40.14.090.C
Dooryard 40.14.090.D

==> picture [354 x 412] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 20] intentionally omitted <==

5. Pedestrian Access Main Entrance Location Front street1 Ⓓ Each unit shall have an individual entry facing the street on, or within 10' of the front facade. 1On corner building sites, each unit shall front a different street. 6. Vehicle Access and Parking Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Subsection E Ⓔ (Parking) of the zone where the property is located. 7. Private Open Space Width 15' min. Ⓕ Depth 15' min.

t street1 Ⓓ Each unit shall have an individual entry facing the street on, or within 10' of the front facade. 1On corner building sites, each unit shall front a different street. 6. Vehicle Access and Parking Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Subsection E Ⓔ (Parking) of the zone where the property is located. 7. Private Open Space Width 15' min. Ⓕ Depth 15' min.

Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the private open space area calculation.

Required private open space shall be located behind the main body.

40.14.070.A.3 Duplex (Side by Side)

==> picture [463 x 268] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [229 x 154] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [229 x 157] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description

A small-to-medium-sized detached structure that consists of two side-by-side dwelling units, both facing the street and within a single building. This Type has the appearance of a medium to large single-family home and is appropriately scaled to fit within lower-intensity residential neighborhoods. Each unit has private open space. This Building Type is classified as Legal NonConforming as consistent with Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code.

2. Number of Units

Units per Building 2 max.
Duplexes per Building Site 1 max.
House-Form Building.

==> picture [233 x 28] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [223 x 22] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [380 x 410] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 14] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing
Height
Max. Number of Stories 2
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 24'
Rooftop Room allowed on uppermost roof per Table 40.14.080.D (Rooftop Room Standards).
Main Body
Size 36' x 48' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
Depth 24' max.
Width 18' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in
(Specifc to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements).
compliance with Section40.14.080
4. Frontage Types
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B

Stoop Dooryard

40.14.090.C 40.14.090.D

==> picture [354 x 412] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 20] intentionally omitted <==

5. Pedestrian Access

Main Entrance Location Front Street1

Each unit shall have an individual entry facing the street on, or within 10' of front facade. 1On corner building sites, each unit shall front a different street.

6. Vehicle Access and Parking

Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Ⓔ Subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the property is located.

7. Private Open Space

Width 15' min.
Depth 15' min.

Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the private open space area calculation.

Required private open space shall be located behind the main body.

40.14.070.B: Cottage Court

==> picture [460 x 249] intentionally omitted <==

A Five-Building, One-Story Cottage Court With Projecting Porches Along a Court Leading to Entries

==> picture [226 x 144] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 142] intentionally omitted <==

One-Story Cottage Court With Stoops

1. Description.

A group of small, detached structures, arranged to define a shared court that is typically perpendicular to the street. The shared court is common open space and takes the place of a private rear yard, thus becoming an important community-enhancing element. Private open space is not required. This type is appropriately-scaled to fit within low- to moderate-intensity neighborhoods and can be applied in nonresidential contexts.

2. Number of Units.

Units per Building 1 max.
Cottages per Building site (up to 1 Cottage may 3 min.
contain up to 3 units as allowed by the zone)
Syn: Bungalow Court

House-Form Buildings

==> picture [460 x 38] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 319] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.
Height
Max. Number of Stories 2
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 24'
Main Body
Width 32' max.
Depth 24' max
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).
The separation between cottages shall be a minimum of 7'.
4. Allowed Frontage Types.
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Stoop 40.14.090.C
Dooryard 40.14.090.D

==> picture [460 x 276] intentionally omitted <==

5. Pedestrian Access.

Shared court shall be accessible from front street. Ⓒ

Main entrance location to units from shared court.

Units on a corner may enter from the side street.

Pedestrian connections shall link all buildings to the public ROW, shared court, and parking areas.

6. Vehicle Access and Parking.

Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections Ⓓ 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection E (Parking) of the applicable zone.

Spaces may be individually accessible by the units and/or a common parking area located at the rear or side of the building site.

7. Common Open Space.

7. Common Open Space.
Width 20' min.
Depth 30' mins. (3 units);
40' min. (5 to 9 units)
Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the common open space area
calculation.

==> picture [469 x 442] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.070.C: Multiplex Small
----- End of picture text -----

1. Description.

A medium-sized structure that consists of a minimum of 3 side-by-side and/or stacked dwellings, typically with one shared entry or individual entries along the front. This type has the appearance of a medium-sized single-family home and is appropriately scaled to fit as a small portion of low- to moderate-intensity neighborhoods. Private open space is not required.

2. Number of Units.

2. Number of Units.
Units per Building 3 min.
Multiplexes per Building Site 1 max.
Syn: Triplex to Sixplex
House-Form Building

==> picture [460 x 300] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.
Height
Max. Number of Stories 3
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 32'
Main Body
Width 48' max.
Depth 48' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
Width 24' max.
Depth 30' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).
4. Allowed Frontage Types.
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B
Stoop 40.14.090.C
Dooryard 40.14.090.D

==> picture [460 x 240] intentionally omitted <==

5. Pedestrian Access.
Main Entrance Location Front street
Each unit may have an individual entry.
6. Vehicle Access and Parking.
Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections
40.13.09040.13.120, subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the
property is located.
7. Common Open Space.
Width 25' min.
Depth 12' min.
Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the common open space area
calculation.
Required common open space shall be located behind the main body.

40.14.070.D: Multiplex Large

==> picture [460 x 415] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A medium- to large-sized structure that consists of a minimum of 7 side-by-side and/or stacked dwellings, typically with one shared entry. This type is appropriately scaled to fit in within moderateintensity neighborhoods or as a small portion of lower-intensity neighborhoods.

2. Number of Units.

2. Number of Units.
Units per Building 7 min.
Multiplexes per Building Site 1 max.
Syn: Mansion Apartment
House-Form Building

==> picture [460 x 333] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.
Height N-M N-L MS-M
Max. Number of Stories 3; (4) 4 4; (5)
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 35'; (45') 45' 45'; (58')
Main Body
Width 80' max.
Depth 60' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
Width 30' max.
Depth 40' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).

==> picture [460 x 261] intentionally omitted <==

4. Allowed Frontage Types.

Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A Stoop 40.14.090.C Terrace 40.14.090.H 5. Pedestrian Access. Main entrance location Ⓔ Units located in the main body shall be accessed by a common entry along the front street. On corner building sites, units in a secondary wing may enter from the side street.

6. Vehicle Access and Parking.

Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the property is located. 7. Common Open Space. Common open space is not required.

==> picture [469 x 396] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.070.E: Townhouse
----- End of picture text -----

1. Description.

A small- to large-sized typically attached structure that consists of up to 3 or up to 8 townhouses placed side by side. Each townhouse may consist of one unit or multiple, stacked units. As allowed by the zone, this type may also occasionally be detached with minimal separations between buildings. Each unit has private open space. This type is typically located within moderate- to highintensity neighborhoods, or near or on a neighborhood main street.

2. Number of Units.

Max. Townhouses per Building Site 1

Syn: Rowhouse

==> picture [460 x 96] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 280] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.
Height N-M N-L MS-M
Max. Number of Stories 3 5 1 4
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 34' 60' 45'
Main Body
Townhouse Width 18' min.; 30' max.
Townhouse Depth 50' max.
Width per Run House-form: 75' max;
Block-form: 180' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
The footprint area of secondary wing(s) may not exceed the footprint area of the main body.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).

==> picture [460 x 277] intentionally omitted <==

4. Allowed Frontage Types.

4. Allowed Frontage Types.
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B
Stoop 40.14.090.C
Dooryard 40.14.090.D
Terrace 40.14.090.H
5. Pedestrian Access.
Main Entrance Location Front street
Each unit shall have an individual entry facing a street.
6. Vehicle Access and Parking.
Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections
40.13.09040.13.120, subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the property
is located.
7. Private Open Space.
Width 8' min.
Depth 8' min.
Required street setbacks and driveways shall not be included in the private open space area
calculation.
Required private open space shall be located behind the main body.

Note:

1 Each Townhouse may be divided vertically into 3 units.

==> picture [469 x 448] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.070.F: Courtyard
----- End of picture text -----

1. Description.

A building comprised of one to three structures typically detached but may be attached that contain multiple attached and/or stacked units, accessed from one or more shared courtyards. The shared court is common open space. Private open space is not required. This type is typically integrated as a small portion of lower-intensity neighborhoods or more consistently into moderate- to highintensity neighborhoods and can be applied in nonresidential contexts.

2. Number of Units.

2. Number of Units.
Units per Building Site Unrestricted
Courtyard Buildings per Building Site 1 max.
Syn: Courtyard Apartment
House-Form Building

==> picture [460 x 306] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.

Height N-M N-L MS-M MS-L
Max. Number of Stories 3 4 3 5
Max. Height to Highest Top 24' 45' 34' 60'
Plate
Rooftop room allowed on uppermost roof per Table 40.14.080.D (Rooftop Room Standards).
Main Body/Secondary Wing(s)
Size 150' max.
65' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).
4. Allowed Frontage Types.
Porch: Projecting 40.14.090.A
Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B
Stoop 40.14.090.C
Shopfront 40.14.090.G
Terrace 40.14.090.H

==> picture [460 x 307] intentionally omitted <==

5. Pedestrian Access.

The main entry of ground floor units shall be directly off of a courtyard or street, whichever is closer.

closer.
Courtyards shall be accessible from the front street.
Multiple courtyards required to be connected via a passage through or between buildings.
6. Vehicle Access and Parking.
Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections40.13.090
40.13.120, subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the property is located.
7. Common Open Space.
Main Body Height
1
Size
1 to 2 Stories (min./max.) 20' to 40' by 20' to 85'
3 Stories (min./max.) 25' to 50' by 30' to 105'
4+ Stories (min./max.) 25' to 50' by 40' to 135'
Building shall defne at least two walls of a courtyard.
Side(s) of courtyard not defned by building shall be defned by 2'-6" to 6' tall wall with entry
gate/door.

Notes:

1 Height measured at the highest story along courtyard.

40.14.070.G: Main Street

==> picture [460 x 404] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A small- to large-sized structure, typically attached, but may be detached, intended to provide a vertical mix of uses with ground-floor retail or service uses and upper-floor service or residential uses. This type makes up the primary component of portions of neighborhood and downtown main streets, therefore being a key component to providing walkability.

2. Number of Units.

Units per Building Main Street Buildings per Building Site Block-Form Building

==> picture [255 x 25] intentionally omitted <==

Unrestricted1 1 max.

==> picture [199 x 16] intentionally omitted <==

40.14.070.G: Main Street

==> picture [460 x 312] intentionally omitted <==

3. Building Size and Massing.
Height MS-M MS-L
Max. Number of Stories 4; (5) 2 5; (7) 2
Max. Height to Highest Top Plate 50; (65) 2 60; (90) 2
Main Body
Size
150' max.
120' max.
Secondary Wing(s)
3
Size
100' max.
65' max.
Facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with Section40.14.080
(Specifc to massing, facades and architectural elements).

40.14.070.G: Main Street

==> picture [460 x 274] intentionally omitted <==

4. Allowed Frontage Types.

4. Allowed Frontage Types.
Dooryard
4
40.14.090.D
Forecourt 40.14.090.E
Shopfront 40.14.090.G
Terrace 40.14.090.H
Gallery 40.14.090.I
5. Pedestrian Access.
Upper foor units shall be accessed by a common entry along the front
street.
Ground foor units may have individual entries along the front street or side
street.
On corner building sites, units in a secondary wing or accessory structure
may enter from the side street.
6. Vehicle Access and Parking.
Driveway and parking location shall comply with standards in Sections
40.13.09040.13.120, subsection E (Parking) of the zone where the
property is located.
7. Common Open Space.
Common open space is not required.

Note:

  • 1 Number of units restricted by UBC and UFC requirements.

  • 2 Additional height is allowed, see Official City of Davis Zoning Map.

  • 3 Required on corner building sites.

  • 4 Only on side streets.

  • (b) Compliance of Existing Structures. Buildings that existed prior to the adoption of the Form Based Code, and which became non-conforming by reason of the adoption of the Form Based Code, shall be permitted to continue in use as listed in Section 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code.

    • (1) Non-conforming structures which are damaged or demolished more than 60%, as defined in Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code, must establish a new building type and comply with the applicable zone.

    • (2) An enlargement or alterations to a non-conforming structure shall be consistent with Article 40.28 of the Davis Municipal Code. A non-conforming structure may be increased by a total of no more than 15% of the gross square footage existing at the time of the adoption of the Form Based Code, as determined by the Community Development Director. An alteration is permitted if the addition results in greater conformance with the zoning and building type specifications of the code.

    • (3) Pursuant to Section 8.19.010 of the Davis Municipal Code, non-conforming structures with exterior walls that are demolished by more than 25%, must establish a new building type with the reconstruction. Exterior changes that are equate to 25% or less of the perimeter walls are allowed.

  • (c) Limited Exception for Involuntary Destruction. Notwithstanding subsection (b) above, if a Detached House Building Type is Owner-Occupied as of March 4, 2025 and is involuntarily damaged or destroyed, the property owner may rebuild the same Building Type on the same footprint and with equivalent square footage as the previous structure. This exemption shall only apply where the property owner can demonstrate that they have continuously occupied the structure as their primary residence since March 4, 2025, and shall not apply to properties that are transferred through sale, inheritance, or any other mechanism after that date.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023; Ord. 2674, 3/18/2025)

§ 40.14.080. Specific to massing, facades and architectural elements.

  • (a) Overview. This section sets forth standards that supplement the zone standards to further refine building form and physical character per Downtown Davis Specific Plan vision. Table 40.14.080.A (Overview of Specific to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements) provides an overview of the requirements. Historic resource buildings are exempt from these standards.

  • (b) Massing and Facade Articulation Standards. As required by Section 40.14.070 , subsection 3 (Building Size and Massing) of the standards of each building type, facades on a street or civic space shall be designed in compliance with the standards identified in Table 40.14.080.B (Massing and Facade Articulation Standards).

  • (c) Historic Resource Adjacency Standards. As required by Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection C (Building Form) and subsection D (Building Placement) of each zone, all building sites adjacent to a Designated Historical Resource shall comply with all additional massing standards identified in Table 40.14.080.C (Historic Resource Adjacency Standards).

  • (d) Rooftop Room Standards. As identified in Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection 3 (Building Size and Massing) of the standards of each building type in Section 40.14.070 (Specific to Building Types), one rooftop room is allowed on the uppermost roof in compliance with the standards identified in Table 40.14.080.D (Rooftop Room Standards).

Table 40.14.080.A: Overview of Specifc to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements Table 40.14.080.A: Overview of Specifc to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements Table 40.14.080.A: Overview of Specifc to Massing, Facades and Architectural Elements
Scenario Minimum Requirements
(Section 40.14.070)
Reference (Table)
Massing and Facade Articulation Standards
All Buildings All items of subsection 1 40.14.080.B.1
a. Tripartite Facade Design
Buildings over 3 stories At items of subsection 2 40.14.080.B.2
a. Change in Color or Material
Buildings over 75 feet long
1
All items of subsection 3 40.14.080.B.3
a. Vertical Articulation
Corner Elements; as identifed
in Figure 40.13.070.B
All items of subsection 4 40.14.080.B.4
a. Corner Elements
Historic Resource Adjacency Standards
House-Form Buildings All items of subsection 1 40.14.080.C.1
a. Side Stepbacks
b. Side Setbacks
Block-Form Buildings All items of subsection 2 40.14.080.C.2
a. Main Body and Wing(s)
b. Side Setbacks
Rooftop Room Standards
Buildings up to 2 stories; as
allowed by Sections40.13.090
40.13.120, subsection C
(Building Size and Massing) of
the building type.
All items of subsection 1 40.14.080.D.1
a. General
b. Room Form
c. Room Placement
d. Room Openings

Note:

1 As measured along street or civic space.

Table 40.14.080.B: Massing and Facade Articulation Standards

1. All Buildings 2. Buildings Over 3 Stories

==> picture [227 x 153] intentionally omitted <==

a. Tripartite

New facades and renovations along a street or civic space shall be designed with tripartite architecture. An expression line, setback or other architectural element shall be used to delineate the base and top.

==> picture [228 x 155] intentionally omitted <==

a. Change in Color or Material

New facades and renovations along a street or civic space on buildings over 3 stories shall be designed to modulate the apparent size and scale of the building by changing colors and/or

Table 40.14.080.B: Massing and Facade Articulation Standards

materials. This may be applied throughout the building but is required above the third story.

==> picture [203 x 149] intentionally omitted <==

Distinct Base Ⓐ Middle Ⓑ Top Ⓒ

3. Buildings over 75 Feet Long

==> picture [227 x 142] intentionally omitted <==

a. Vertical Articulation

New facades and renovations along a street or civic space shall modulate the apparent size and scale of the building by stepping a portion of the facade upward or downward from the predominant building height by at least one story. This technique offers the opportunity to organize a long building into multiple apparent buildings to avoid the appearance of a blocklong building.

==> picture [225 x 159] intentionally omitted <==

Change in Color and/or Material Ⓐ Vertical or horizontal articulation Ⓑ as applicable. Stepback required by zone Ⓒ

4. Corner Elements

==> picture [224 x 149] intentionally omitted <==

a. Corner Elements

Where required on the Zoning Map, new facades and renovations shall include a corner element to give visual importance to corner and further shape the public realm.

Table 40.14.080.B: Massing and Facade Articulation Standards

==> picture [227 x 170] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [228 x 154] intentionally omitted <==

Vertical stepping Width: 25% min. to 30% max.
of longest associated facade.
Depth: 2' min. Width: 25' min.
Stepping must compromise 50% Projection Depth: 12' max.
min. of facade.
Depth: 10' min. Top story height: 14' max.
Unbroken façade: 20' max. Stepback required by zone
Stepback required by zone
5. Rear and Side Elevations
Where the rear or side elevation of any building will be exposed to public view, whether the
exposure is permanent or temporary (blocked by a future potential building), said rear or side
elevation shall have similar architectural treatment as the front or street side of the building. Large
fat, unadorned elevations will not be acceptable.

Table 40.14.080.C: Historic Resource Adjacency Standards

1. House-Form Buildings

a. Side Stepbacks

==> picture [460 x 130] intentionally omitted <==

A front and side stepback is required above the 2nd story or above the top story of the adjacent historic resource building if over 2 stories.

historic resource building if over 2 stories.
Front Stepback: 15' min.
Side Stepback: 25' min.
b. Side Setbacks

Table 40.14.080.C: Historic Resource Adjacency Standards

==> picture [460 x 150] intentionally omitted <==

Minimum 10' side setback is required on the side facing the adjacent historic resource building for a minimum depth of 25' measured from the front setback.

a minimum depth of 25' measured from the front setback.
Side Setback: 10' min.
Depth: 25' min. or to align with adjacent front facade of main body.
Resulting facade shall be treated as a front or side street facade.
2. Block-Form Buildings
a. Main Body and Wing(s)
Within 35 feet of the adjacent historic resource building's building site, the new building or addition
is required to reduce in size through a wing extending from the larger building mass. Additional
wings are allowed but must be separated by the distance below.
Wing Width: 20' max.
Wing Depth: 25' min.
Wing Height: 2 stories max.
Distance Between Wings: 25' min.
b. Side Setbacks

Table 40.14.080.C: Historic Resource Adjacency Standards

==> picture [460 x 137] intentionally omitted <==

Minimum 10' side setback is required on the side facing the adjacent historic resource building for a minimum depth of 25' measured from the front setback.

Side Setback: 10' min. Ⓔ Depth: 25' min. or to align with adjacent front facade of main body. Ⓕ

Depth: 25' min. or to align with adjacent front facade of main body.

Resulting facade shall be treated as a front or side street facade.

Table 40.14.080.D: Rooftop Room Standards 1. Buildings Up to 2 Stories.

==> picture [270 x 298] intentionally omitted <==

a. General
Max. Rooftop Rooms per Building 1 (must be allowed by the building type)
Materials shall be consistent with the main building.
Exterior access is allowed in compliance with UBC and UFC standards.
b. Room Form
Interior clear dimensions 12' max.
Floor-to-ceiling height 10' max.

Table 40.14.080.D: Rooftop Room Standards

Overall height

14' max.

When room is present, roof shall be consistent with roof style of main building.

==> picture [324 x 246] intentionally omitted <==

c. Room Placement

Side setback
10' min.
Rear setback
15' min.
Shall be located in uppermost roof of main building.
d. Room Openings
Opening or glazing on each side
75% min.
Openings shall be vertically proportioned, not square or horizontal.
Openings may be glazed.
Examples of Rooftop Rooms and their limited footprint compared to the main building.

(Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023; Ord. 2674, 3/18/2025)

§ 40.14.090. Specific to frontage types.

(a) Overview.

  • (1) This section sets forth standards applicable to all frontages in downtown zones. Frontages are the components of a building that provide the transition and interface between the public realm (street and sidewalk) and the private realm (yard or building). Table 40.14.090.A (Overview of Frontage Types) provides an overview of the allowed frontage types. The names of the frontage types indicate their particular configuration or function and

are not intended to limit uses within the associated building. For example, a porch may be used by nonresidential uses such as a restaurant or office as allowed by the zone.

  • (2) Each building shall have at least one frontage type along each street frontage or along a civic space.

  • (3) Frontage types not listed in Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection G (Frontages) of the applicable zone standards are not allowed in that zone.

  • (4) Frontage types not listed in subsection 4 (Allowed Frontage Types) of the applicable building type standards are not allowed on that building type.

  • (5) Each building may have multiple frontage types in compliance with the allowed types in subsection 4 (Allowed Frontage Types) of each building type standards.

  • (6) Each frontage type shall be located in compliance with the facade zone per Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection D (Building Placement) of the zone standards.

  • (7) Standards are stated for the front of a building site and are to be adjusted for side street facades in compliance with the setbacks of the zone.

Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types
Zones
Frontage Type Porch: Projecting Porch: Engaged Stoop Dooryard
Section
Plan
Description 40.14.090.A: Porch:
Projecting.
The main facade of
the building is set back
from the front building
site line with a porch
encroaching into the
front setback. The
resulting front yard is
typically small and can
be defned by a fence
or hedge to spatially
maintain the edge of
the street. The porch
may be one or two
stories, is open on
40.14.090.B: Porch:
Engaged.
A portion of the main
facade of the building
is set back from the
front building site line
to include a porch
that projects from the
facade that is set
back. The porch may
project into the front
yard. The resulting
yard is typically small
and can be defned
by a fence or hedge
to spatially maintain
40.14.090.C:
Stoop.
The main facade of
the building is near
the front or side
street building site
line with an elevated
stoop, leading to the
sidewalk. The stoop
is elevated above
the sidewalk to
provide privacy
along the sidewalk-
facing rooms. Stairs
or ramps from the
stoop may lead
40.14.090.D:
Dooryard.
The main facade
of the building is
set back from the
front building site
line, which is
defned by a low
wall, hedge, or
other allowed
screening,
creating a small
dooryard. Each
dooryard is
separated from
adjacent

Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types three sides, and all the edge of the directly to the dooryards. The habitable space is street. The porch sidewalk or may be dooryard may be located behind the may be one or two side accessed. The raised or at grade building setback line. stories and has two stoop is typically and is appropriate adjacent sides that used for residential for ground-floor are engaged to the uses with small residential or building while the setbacks. nonresidential. other two sides are open. Zones Frontage Type Forecourt Maker Shopfront Shopfront Section Plan Description 40.14.090.E: Forecourt. 40.14.090.F: Maker 40.14.090.G: Shopfront. The main facade of the building Shopfront. The main facade of the is at or near the front building The main facade of the building is at or near the site line and a portion is set building is at or near the front building site line with back, creating a small court, front building site line with at-grade entrance along extending the public realm into an at-grade or elevated the sidewalk. This type is the building site. The space may entrance from the intended for service, be used as an entry court or sidewalk. This type is retail, or restaurant use. shared garden space for intended for industrial This type includes housing, or as an additional artisan businesses to substantial glazing shopping or restaurant seating show their activity to between the shopfront area within retail and service people passing by on the base and the ground floor areas. sidewalk as well as for ceiling and may include retail sales of products an awning that overlaps made on site. This type the sidewalk. may include a decorative roll-down or sliding door, including glazing and an

Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types Table 40.14.090.A: Overview of Frontage Types
awning that overlaps the
sidewalk.
Zones
Frontage Type Terrace Gallery Arcade
Section
Plan
Description 40.14.090.H: Terrace.
The main facade is at or near
the front or side street building
site line with an elevated terrace
providing public circulation along
the facade. This type is used to
provide at-grade access while
accommodating an existing or
intended grade change.
40.14.090.I: Gallery.
The main facade of the
building is at or near the
front building site line and
the gallery element
overlaps a sidewalk not in
the right-of-way. This type
may be one or two
stories. When used in
nonresidential settings,
the shopfront type is
included, When used in
residential settings,
stoops, dooryards, and
forecourts are included.
40.14.090.J: Arcade.
The main facade of the
building is at or near the
front building site line and
the arcade element,
including habitable
spaces, overlaps a
sidewalk not in the right-
of-way. When used in
nonresidential settings,
the shopfront type is
included, When used in
residential settings,
stoops, dooryards, and
forecourts are included.

==> picture [469 x 707] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.090.A: Porch: Projecting
1. Description.
The main facade of the building is set back from the front building site line with a porch
encroaching into the front setback. The resulting front yard is typically small and can be defined by
a fence or hedge to spatially maintain the edge of the street. The porch may be one or two stories,
is open on three sides, and all habitable space is located behind the building setback line.
2. Size.
Width, Clear 10' min. Ⓐ
Depth, Clear 6' min. Ⓑ
Height, Clear 8' min. Ⓒ
Finish Level above Sidewalk 0" min. Ⓓ
Stories 2 max.
Pedestrian Access 3' wide min. Ⓔ
Distance between Porch and Sidewalk 6' min. Ⓕ
Depth 15' min. Ⓖ
3. Miscellaneous.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.090.A: Porch: Projecting

Porch must be open on three sides and have a roof.

Porches are an allowable encroaching element, see Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection F (Encroachments) of zone.

When ramps are included Design Review is required.

40.14.090.B: Porch: Engaged

==> picture [460 x 182] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 207] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [208 x 25] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [246 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A portion of the main facade of the building is set back from the front building site line to include a porch that projects from the facade that is set back. The porch may project into the front yard. The resulting yard is typically small and can be defined by a fence or hedge to spatially maintain the edge of the street. The porch may be one or two stories and has two adjacent sides that are engaged to the building while the other two sides are open.

2. Size.

2. Size.
Width, Clear 8' min.
Depth, Clear 6' min.
Height, Clear 8' min.
40.14.090.B: Porch: Engaged 40.14.090.B: Porch: Engaged
--- --- ---
Finish Level above Sidewalk 0" min.
Stories 2 max.
Pedestrian Access 3' wide min.
Distance between Porch and Sidewalk 6' min.
3. Miscellaneous.
Up to 20% of the building facade and porch(es) may project beyond the setback
line into the encroachment area for the zone.
Porch must be open on two sides and have a roof.
When ramps are included Design Review is required.

40.14.090.C: Stoop

==> picture [460 x 183] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 208] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [213 x 26] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [241 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

The main facade of the building is near the front or side street building site line with an elevated stoop, leading to the sidewalk. The Stoop is elevated above the sidewalk to provide privacy along the sidewalk- facing rooms. Stairs or ramps from the stoop may lead directly to the sidewalk or may be side-accessed. The Stoop is typically used for residential uses with small setbacks.

40.14.090.C: Stoop

2. Size.

2. Size.
Width, Clear 5' min.
Depth, Clear 5' min.
Height, Clear 8' min.
Stories 1 max.
Depth of Recessed Entries 12' max.
Finish Level above Sidewalk 0" min.
3. Miscellaneous.
Stairs may be perpendicular or parallel to the building facade.
Ramps shall be parallel to facade or along the side of the building.
Entry doors are covered or recessed to provide shelter from the elements.
Gates are not permitted.
All doors shall face the street.
When ramps are included Design Review is required.

40.14.090.D: Dooryard

==> picture [460 x 176] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 201] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [217 x 26] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [237 x 23] intentionally omitted <==

40.14.090.D: Dooryard

1. Description.

The main facade of the building is set back from the front building site line, which is defined by a low wall, hedge, or other allowed screening, creating a small dooryard. Each dooryard is separated from adjacent dooryards. The dooryard may be raised or at grade and is appropriate for groundfloor residential or nonresidential.

2. Size.

2. Size.
Depth, Clear 8' min.
Length 15' min.
Distance between Glazing 4' max.
Depth of Recessed Entries 12' max.
Pedestrian Access 3' wide min.
Finish Level above Sidewalk 0" min.
Height of Dooryard Fence/Wall above Finish 36" max.
Level
3. Miscellaneous.
For live/work, retail, service, and restaurant uses, the shopfront frontage type is to be applied.
Each dooryard shall provide access to only one ground foor entry.
When ramps are included Design Review is required.

40.14.090.E: Forecourt

==> picture [460 x 188] intentionally omitted <==

40.14.090.E: Forecourt

==> picture [460 x 212] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [217 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [237 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

The main facade of the building is at or near the front building site line and a portion is set back, creating a small court, extending the public realm into the building site. The space may be used as an entry court or shared garden space for housing, or as an additional shopping or restaurant seating area within retail and service areas.

2. Size.

Width, Clear 15' min.
Depth, Clear 15' min.
Ratio, Height to Width 2:1 max.
Height from Sidewalk Flush with sidewalk
3. Miscellaneous.
May be utilized to group several entries at a common elevation in compliance with the zones'
ground foor fnish level standards.
The proportions and orientation of these spaces shall comply with the diagram below for solar
orientation and user comfort.

==> picture [469 x 714] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.090.F: Maker Shopfront
1. Description.
The main facade of the building is at or near the front building site line with an at-grade or elevated
entrance from the sidewalk. This type is intended for industrial artisan businesses to show their
activity to people passing by on the sidewalk as well as for retail sales of products made on site.
This type may include a decorative roll-down or sliding door, including glazing and an awning that
overlaps the sidewalk.
2. Size.
Distance between Glazing 8' max. Ⓐ
Ground Floor Glazing between Sidewalk and 30% min.
Finished Ceiling Height
Depth of Recessed Entries No max.
Shopfront Base (if used) 36" max. Ⓑ
3. Awning.
Depth 5' min. Ⓒ
Setback from Curb 2' min. Ⓓ
Height, Clear 8' min. Ⓔ
4. Miscellaneous.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.090.F: Maker Shopfront

Rounded and hooped awnings not allowed.

Decorative accordion-style doors/windows or other operable windows that allow the space to open to the street require director approval.

==> picture [469 x 633] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.090.G: Shopfront
1. Description.
The main facade of the building is at or near the front building site line with at-grade entrance
along the sidewalk. This type is intended for service, retail, or restaurant use. This type includes
substantial glazing between the shopfront base and the ground floor ceiling and may include an
awning that overlaps the sidewalk.
2. Size.
Distance between Glazing 2' max. Ⓐ
Ground Floor Glazing Between top of 75% min.
shopfront base and Finished Ceiling Height
Depth of Recessed Entries 5' max.
Shopfront base 6" min.; 30" max. Ⓑ
3. Awning.
Depth 5' min. Ⓒ
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.090.G: Shopfront
Setback from Curb
2' min.
Height, Clear
8' min.
4. Miscellaneous.
Residential types of windows are not allowed.
Rounded and hooped awnings are not allowed unless part of a historically designated building.
Decorative accordion-style doors/windows or other operable windows that allow the space to open
to the street are subject to director approval.

40.14.090.H: Terrace.

==> picture [460 x 172] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 205] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [217 x 23] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [237 x 22] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

The main facade is at or near the front of side street building site line with an elevated terrace providing public circulation along the facade. This type is used to provide at-grade access while accommodating an existing or intended grade change.

2. Size.

2. Size.
Depth of Terrace 8' min. residential
12' min. nonresidential
Finish Level above Sidewalk 24" max.

40.14.090.H: Terrace.

Length of Terrace 100' max.
Distance between Stairs 25' max.
3. Miscellaneous.
These standards are to be used with those for the shopfront frontage type where the zone requires
the shopfront type.
Where the frontage type requires the ground foor to be fush with the sidewalk, the terrace shall be
considered to be the sidewalk.
Low walls used as seating are allowed.
May be utilized to group several entries at a common elevation in compliance with the zones'
ground foor fnish level standards.

40.14.090.I: Gallery

==> picture [415 x 292] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 204] intentionally omitted <==

40.14.090.I: Gallery

==> picture [250 x 26] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [204 x 20] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description. .

The main facade of the building is at or near the front building site line and the gallery element overlaps a sidewalk not in the right-of-way. This type may be one or two stories. When used in nonresidential settings, the shopfront type is included, When used in residential settings, stoops, dooryards, and forecourts are included.

2. Size.

2. Size.
Depth, Clear 8' min.
Ground Floor Height, Clear 12' min.
Height 2 stories max.
Setback from Public ROW 0 min.
3. Miscellaneous.
In the MS-M and MS-L zones, galleries shall also follow the regulations for
the shopfront frontage type.
Galleries shall have a consistent depth.
Galleries shall not project over the sidewalk in the public right-of-way.

40.14.090.J: Arcade

==> picture [361 x 276] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [469 x 507] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.090.J: Arcade
1. Description.
The main facade of the building is at or near the front building site line and the arcade element,
including habitable spaces, overlaps a sidewalk not in the right-of-way. When used in
nonresidential settings, the shopfront type is included, When used in residential settings, stoops,
dooryards, and forecourts are included.
2. Size.
Depth, Clear 8' min. Ⓐ
Ground Floor Height, Clear 12' min. Ⓑ
Upper Floor Height, Clear 9' min. Ⓒ
Height 2 stories max. Ⓓ
Setback from public ROW 0 min. Ⓔ
3. Miscellaneous.
In the MS-M and MS-L zones, arcades shall also follow the regulations for Ⓕ
the shopfront frontage type.
Arcades shall have a consistent depth.
Arcades shall not project over the sidewalk in the public right-of-way.
----- End of picture text -----

(Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023; Ord. 2674, 3/18/2025)

§ 40.14.100. Specific to civic spaces.

  • (a) Purpose. This section sets forth the standards applicable to existing and new civic spaces and civic buildings. These standards supplement the standards for each zone. Civic space is land that is improved for civic gathering purposes per one of the allowed types in this section.

    • (1) Amount of Civic Space Required. Sites of at least one and one-third acres are required to include a minimum of five percent of the site as civic space. One or more civic spaces may be used to meet this requirement.

    • (2) Building Frontage Along or Adjacent to a Civic Space. The facades on building sites attached to or across a street from a civic space shall be designed as a "front" on to the civic space, in compliance with Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection F (Building Placement) and subsection G (Frontages) of the zone standards.

Figure 40.14.100

==> picture [421 x 211] intentionally omitted <==

  • (b) Overview. This section identifies the allowed civic space types and standards for improvements to existing civic spaces and for construction of new civics paces. Civic space types identified in Table 40.14.100 (Overview of Civic Space Types).

Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types Zones Civic Space Type Pocket Park/Plaza Playground Passage Illustration Description 40.14.100.A: Pocket 40.14.100.B: Playground. 40.14.100.C: Passage. Park/Plaza. A small-scale space A pedestrian pathway that A small-scale space, designed and equipped for extends from the public serving the immediate the recreation of children. sidewalk into a civic space neighborhood, available for These spaces serve as and/or across the block to informal activities in close quiet, safe places another public sidewalk. proximity to neighborhood protected from the street The pathway is lined by residences, and civic and typically in locations nonresidential shopfronts purposes, intended as where children do not have and/or residential ground to cross any major streets.

Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types

Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types Table 40.14.100: Overview of Civic Space Types
intimate spaces for seating
or dining.
An open shelter, play
structures, or interactive art
and fountains may be
included with landscaping
between. Playgrounds may
be included within all other
civic space types.
foors and pedestrian
entries.
Zones
Civic Space Type Community Garden Plaza Green
Illustration
Description 40.14.100.D: Community
Garden.
A small-scale space
designed as a grouping of
garden plots available to
nearby residents for small-
scale cultivation.
Community gardens may
be fenced and may include
a small accessory structure
for storage. Community
gardens may be included
within all other civic space
types.
40.14.100.E: Plaza.
A community-wide focal
point primarily for civic
purposes and commercial
activities. Plazas are
typically hardscaped with
planting as accents.
Commercial activities are
subordinate to civic activity.
40.14.100.F: Green.
A large space available for
unstructured and limited
amounts of structured
recreation.

40.14.100.A: Pocket Park/Plaza

==> picture [463 x 246] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 126] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [463 x 37] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A small-scale space, serving the immediate neighborhood, available for informal activities in close proximity to neighborhood residences, and civic purposes, intended as intimate spaces for seating or dining.

2. General Character.

Accessory structure(s). < 200 sf

Formal or informal, urban. Combination of planted areas and hardscape. Spatially defined by building frontages and adjacent street trees. Walkways along edges or across space.

3. Size and Location.

40' min. in any direction.

25' min. in any direction between 2nd and 3rd and E and F Streets.

4. Typical Uses.

Civic activity. Passive recreation, outdoor seating.

Commercial uses in support of civic activity.

==> picture [469 x 712] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.100.B: Playground
1. Description.
A small-scale space designed and equipped for the recreation of children. These spaces serve as
quiet, safe places protected from the street and typically in locations where children do not have to
cross any major streets. An open shelter, play structures, or interactive art and fountains may be
included with landscaping between. Playgrounds may be included within all other civic space
types.
2. General Character.
Focused toward children.
Play structure, interactive art, and/or fountains.
Shade and seating provided.
May be fenced.
Spatially defined by trees.
3. Size and Location.
No minimum.
4. Typical Uses.
Active and passive recreation.
Casual seating.
----- End of picture text -----

ds may be included within all other civic space
types.
2. General Character.
Focused toward children.
Play structure, interactive art, and/or fountains.
Shade and seating provided.
May be fenced.
Spatially defined by trees.
3. Size and Location.
No minimum.
4. Typical Uses.
Active and passive recreation.
Casual seating.
----- End of picture text -----

==> picture [469 x 714] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.100.C: Passage
1. Description.
A pedestrian pathway that extends from the public sidewalk into a civic space and/or across the
block to another public sidewalk. The pathway is lined by nonresidential shopfronts and/or
residential ground floors and pedestrian entries.
2. General Character.
Formal, urban.
No accessory structure(s).
Primarily hardscape with landscape accents.
Spatially defined by building frontages.
Trees and shrubs in containers and/or planters.
3. Size and Location.
15' min. between or through buildings.
4. Typical Uses.
Civic activity.
Commercial in support of civic activity.
Casual seating and/or outdoor dining.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.100.C: Passage

Ground floor residential.

40.14.100.D: Community Garden

==> picture [460 x 254] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 143] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [226 x 25] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 23] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A small-scale space designed as a grouping of garden plots available to nearby residents for small-scale cultivation. Community gardens may be fenced and may include a small accessory structure for storage. Community gardens may be included within all other civic space types.

2. General Character.

Accessory structure(s). < 2,000 sf Plant beds (in-ground or raised). Decorative fencing, when fencing present. Spatially defined by adjacent buildings and street trees.

3. Size and Location.

No minimum within any building site as allowed by the zone.

4. Typical Uses.

40.14.100.D: Community Garden

Food production.

Passive recreation.

40.14.100.E: Plaza

==> picture [460 x 251] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 130] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [226 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 22] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A community-wide focal point primarily for civic purposes and commercial activities. Plazas are typically hardscaped with planting as accents. Commercial activities are subordinate to civic activity.

2. General Character.

Accessory structure(s). < 1,500 gsf; fountains, benches Formal, urban.

Hardscaped and planted areas in formal patterns.

Spatially defined by buildings and tree-lined streets.

3. Size and Location.

100 ft. min. in any direction.

Streets required on two of the Plaza's sides. Facades, on building sites attached to or across a street, shall "front" on to the Plaza.

40.14.100.E: Plaza

4. Typical Uses.

Civic uses.

Commercial uses in support of civic uses.

Passive recreation.

40.14.100.F: Green

==> picture [460 x 255] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 130] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [226 x 22] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 22] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A large space available for unstructured and limited amounts of structured recreation.

2. General Character.

Accessory structure(s). < 5,000 gsf; fountains, benches Informal or formal.

Primarily planted areas with paths to and between recreation areas and civic buildings. Spatially defined by tree-lined streets and adjacent buildings.

3. Size and Location.

150' min. in any direction.

40.14.100.F: Green

Streets required on at least 2 sides of the Green. Facades, on building sites attached to or across a thoroughfare, shall "front" onto the Green.

4. Typical Uses.

Unstructured passive and active recreation.

Civic uses.

Temporary commercial uses.

(Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14.110. Specific to sign types.

  • (a) Purpose. This section sets forth the standards for new and modified signage in support of the community vision as follows:

    • (1) Provide property owners and occupants an opportunity for effective identification;

    • (2) Provide reasonable, yet appropriate conditions for identifying allowed goods sold or produced or services rendered in all downtown zones;

    • (3) Maintain and enhance the quality of the city's appearance by:

      • (A) Controlling the size, location and design of temporary and permanent signs so that the appearance of such signs will reduce sign clutter, be aesthetically harmonious with their surroundings, and will enhance the overall appearance of the built environment,

      • (B) Preserving and perpetuating uncluttered and natural views, significant architecture and cultural resources for the enjoyment and environmental enrichment of the citizens of the community and visitors, and

      • (C) Protecting residential neighborhoods from adverse impacts of excessive signs;

    • (4) Ensure that signs are located and designed to:

      • (A) Maintain a safe and orderly pedestrian and vehicular environment, and

      • (B) Reduce potentially hazardous conflicts between commercial or identification signs and traffic control devices and signs;

    • (5) All signs require the review and approval of the director.

  • (b) Exempt Signs. The following signs are exempt from the permit standards of this section and are permitted in any downtown zone.

    • (1) Street address numbers, house numbers, "No Trespassing," "No Parking," and other warning signs.

    • (2) Days and hours of operation.

    • (3) Public information, identification, special event, directional, and other signs erected by:

      • (A) A government agency, or

      • (B) A public utility or other quasi-public agent in the performance of a public duty.

    • (4) City entry, community or district identification signs.

    • (5) Names of buildings, dates of erection, commemorative tablets and the like, when carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent

type material.

  • (6) Credit card, or trade association signs not exceeding one-half square foot each and not exceeding five per establishment.

  • (7) Directional on-site signs, provided that such signs are limited to a maximum of six square feet. If constructed as a ground mounted sign, the maximum height is four feet.

  • (8) Real Estate Sign.

    • (A) The sign may be a ground sign, a window sign, or a wall sign. Only one such sign is allowed per site per street frontage. If a ground sign, it shall follow the standards for 40.14.110.A (Yard/Porch Sign).

    • (B) All signs shall be removed within fourteen days after the sale, lease, or rental has occurred. These signs may only be installed on the property to which they refer.

  • (C) Temporary open house signs are allowed, provided that they are limited in number to a maximum of four per event. An open house sign may only be installed the day before the open house and shall be removed the same day of the open house after its conclusion. In no case shall an open house sign be installed for more than 48 continuous hours.

  • (c) Prohibited Locations and Features for Signs.

    • (1) Prohibited Locations.

      • (A) No permanent sign shall be installed within the public right-of-way unless displayed by a governmental entity or pursuant to a revocable encroachment permit.

      • (B) Signs shall not be located on property without prior authorization from the property owner, or in the case of public parks or any public property without the permission of the city.

      • (C) Signs shall not be located where the view of approaching or intersecting traffic would be obstructed, in compliance with the Davis Municipal Code.

      • (D) Signs shall not be located as to interfere with the safe movement of vehicles, bicycles, and/or pedestrians entering, leaving, or crossing a public right-of-way.

      • (E) Signs shall not be located on the roofs of buildings or structures except as allowed by 40.14.110.K (Roof Sign).

      • (F) Signs shall not be attached to any traffic control sign, utility pole, street sign, or tree, except for temporary signs installed by a government agency for public information and/or special events.

      • (G) Signs shall not be mounted, attached, or painted on a trailer, boat, or motor vehicle when parked, stored, or displayed conspicuously on private premises close to the public right-of-way or within public right-of-way in a manner intended to attract the attention of the public for advertising purposes. Signs indicating only the name and or phone number of the owner or business are allowed if the following standards are met:

        • (i) The sign is painted on, adhered with vinyl film, or magnetically attached to motor vehicles and/or trailer; and

        • (ii) The motor vehicle and/or trailer is regularly and consistently used to conduct normal business activities.

    • (2) Prohibited Features and Signs.

      • (A) Moving, flashing, or animated signs including but not limited to searchlights, streamers and spinners;

      • (B) Inflatable signs, such as, but not limited to, balloons, gas inflated signs or similar inflated signs;

      • (C) Portable signs, except for sidewalk signs as allowed in 40.14.110.G (Sidewalk Sign);

      • (D) Cabinet signs;

      • (E) Vinyl materials on signs within twenty-five feet of the sidewalk, except window signs; and

      • (F) Outdoor image projections (signs projected from an external light source onto a building or structure) or any other similar devices.

  • (d) Permanent Signs.

    • (1) Permanent signs shall meet the standards set forth in Table 40.14.110.A (Overview of Sign Types).

    • (2) The number of allowed permanent signs is stated in Sections 40.13.09040.13.120 , subsection I (Signage) of the Zone.

  • (e) Temporary Signs. Temporary signs are allowed in all downtown zones and shall meet the following standards:

    • (1) Temporary sign permit or a certificate of compliance required as determined by the director; and

    • (2) Shall only be externally illuminated.

  • (f) Illumination. Where allowed, illumination is required to be indirect (e.g. gooseneck fixtures) hololit, reserve-lit letters, logos, or other unique sign features are subject to director review and approval. Box signage and visible raceways are not allowed.

  • (g) Upper Story Tenants. Upper story signage for individual tenants or groups of tenants is allowed only on a building directory near the building entrance.

  • (h) Overview. This section identifies the sign types allowed in each zone. See Table 40.14.110.A (Overview of Sign Types) for descriptions and reference to standards.

==> picture [469 x 136] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types
Zones
Sign Type Yard/Porch Sign Projecting Sign Awning/Canopy Wall Sign
Sign
----- End of picture text -----

Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types Illustration Description 40.14.110.A: 40.14.110.B: Projecting 40.14.110.C: 40.14.110.D: Wall Yard/Porch Sign. Sign. Awning/Canopy Sign . A sign mounted on a A sign mounted Sign. A sign flat against porch or in a yard perpendicular to a A sign on the the facade, between the public building's facade, by awning or canopy consisting of ROW and the building decorative brackets that of a shopfront that individual cut facade. This sign is may allow the sign to is a pedestrianletters applied pedestrian-scaled and swing slightly. This sign scaled and is read directly to the easily read from the is small in size, along the building or painted sidewalk. pedestrian scaled; and sidewalk or from directly on the easily read along the the other side of surface of the sidewalk. the street. building, and pedestrian-scaled if on the ground floor and larger if on upper stories. Wall signs are placed above shopfronts and run horizontally along the "expression line," entablature of traditional buildings, or decorative cornice or sign band at the top of the building.

==> picture [460 x 28] intentionally omitted <==

Zones: Sign Type Wall Mural Sign Window Sign Sidewalk Sign Directory Sign Illustration Description 40.14.110.E: 40.14.110.F: Window 40.14.110.G: 40.14.110.H: Wall/Mural Sign. Sign. Sidewalk Sign. Directory.

Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types

Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types Table 40.14.110.A: Overview of Sign Types
A sign fat against a
secondary facade,
typically along a side
street, alley, or on the
front facade of a maker
shopfront or, along the
side of a vacant lot or
building site. These
signs are typically
painted directly on the
building, pedestrian-
scaled if on the ground
foor and larger if on
upper stories. These
signs are intended to
be visible from a
greater distance and in
addition signage on the
primary facade at the
business entrance.
A sign consisting of
individual letters and
designs applied directly
on the inside of a
window.
A sign that
provides
secondary
signage and may
be used to
announce daily
specials, sales, or
point to shops off
the sidewalk.
A sign that
provides a listing of
establishments
within a building or
series of buildings,
entrances and
parking locations.
Zones:
Sign Type Changeable Copy
Sign
Marquee Sign Roof Sign
Illustration
Description 40.14.110.I:
Changeable Copy.
A sign that is designed
so that characters,
letters, numbers, or
illustrations can be
manually changed or
rearranged without
altering the face or
surface of the sign.
40.14.110.J: Marquee.
A vertically-oriented sign
located either along the
face where it projects
perpendicular to the
facade, or at the corner
of the building where it
projects at a 45 degree
angle. These signs may
extend beyond the
parapet of the building
but may also terminate
below the cornice or
eave.
40.14.110.K: Roof Sign.
A sign on the roof of a six or seven-
story building intended for viewing from
a distance of one or multiple blocks.
These signs are required to have
distinctive physical character in
exchange for it being mounted on the
roof.

==> picture [469 x 519] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.A: Yard/Porch Sign
1. Description.
A sign mounted on a porch or in a yard between the public ROW and the building facade. This sign
is pedestrian-scaled and easily read from the sidewalk.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.A: Yard/Porch Sign

==> picture [460 x 260] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size.
Signable Area 6 sf max.
Width 36" max.
Height 36" max.
Max one sign allowed per building
3. Location.
Clear Height
Mounted on Porch 6'8" min.
Mounted in Yard 12" min.
Overall Height
Mounted in Yard 5' max
Distance from Sidewalk 24" min.
4. Miscellaneous.
Yard/porch signs are allowed within the public ROW.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

==> picture [469 x 518] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.B: Projecting Sign
1. Description.
A sign mounted perpendicular to a building's facade, by decorative brackets that may allow the
sign to swing slightly. This sign is small in size, pedestrian scaled; and easily read along the
sidewalk.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.B: Projecting Sign

==> picture [460 x 257] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size.
Area 6 sf per side, max.; 12 sf
total, max.
Width 36" max.
Height 36" max.
Thickness 4" max. 1
Max one sign allowed per business.
3. Location.
Clear Height 8' min.
Projection 4' max.
4. Miscellaneous.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsection F(Illumination).

Note:

1 Creative signs that have a three-dimensional quality may have a greater thickness subject to director approval.

40.14.110.C: Awning/Canopy Sign

==> picture [460 x 268] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 155] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A sign on the awning or canopy of a shopfront that is a pedestrian-scaled and is read along the sidewalk or from the other side of the street.

40.14.110.C: Awning/Canopy Sign

==> picture [460 x 236] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size

Canopy Sign

Canopy Sign
Signable Area 1 sf per linear foot of shopfront,
max.
Lettering Height 16" max.
Lettering Thickness 6" max.
Sloping Plane Sign
Signable Area 25% coverage of sloping plane,
max.
Lettering Height 18" max.
Valance Sign
Signable Area 75% coverage max. ofⒼXⒽ
Width Shopfront width, max.
Height 8" min.; 12" max.
Lettering Height 8" max.
Max one sign allowed per business.
3. Location.
Clear Height 8' min.
Signs per Awning 1 Canopy, or 1 Valance and 1 Sloping Plane,
max.
4. Miscellaneous.
Only the tenant's store name, logo, and/or address shall be applied to the awning. Additional
information is prohibited.
Open-ended awnings are allowed by right.
Vinyl or plastic awnings are not allowed.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

40.14.110.C: Awning/Canopy Sign

==> picture [226 x 25] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 28] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [469 x 539] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.D: Wall Sign
1. Description.
A sign flat against the facade, consisting of individual cut letters applied directly to the building or
painted directly on the surface of the building, and pedestrian-scaled if on the ground floor and
larger if on upper stories. Wall signs are placed above shopfronts and run horizontally along the
"expression line," entablature of traditional buildings, or decorative cornice or sign band at the top
of the building.
----- End of picture text -----

==> picture [469 x 591] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.D: Wall Sign
2. Sign Size.
Signable Area 1 sf per linear foot of Ⓐ
shopfront; width up to 80
sf, max.
Width Shopfront width, max. Ⓑ
Height 12" min.; 3' max. Ⓒ
Lettering/Image Width 75% of signable width, Ⓓ
max.
Lettering/Image Height 75% of signable height or Ⓔ
18" max. (whichever is
lesser)
Max one sign allowed per building except on MS-L.
3. Location.
Projection 8" max.
4. Miscellaneous.
Sign shall not protrude beyond the cornice.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsection F (Illumination).
----- End of picture text -----

==> picture [469 x 530] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.E: Wall Mural Sign
1. Description.
A sign flat against a secondary facade, typically along a side street, alley, or on the front facade of
a maker shopfront or, along the side of a vacant lot or building site. These signs are typically
painted directly on the building, pedestrian-scaled if on the ground floor and larger if on upper
stories. These signs are intended to be visible from a greater distance and in addition signage on
the primary facade at the business entrance.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.E: Wall Mural Sign

==> picture [460 x 311] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size.

2. Sign Size.
Number of Stories
1
2
3-5
Signable Area 1,000 sf max.
2,000 sf max.
3,000 sf max.
Width Length of facade
Height 15' max.
25' max.
30' max.
Max one sign allowed per building.
3. Location.
Wall mural signs are to be located on secondary facades. Where the maker shopfront is allowed,
the wall mural sign is allowed on the main facade subject to director approval.
Projections are not allowed.
4. Miscellaneous.
Billboards are not considered wall mural signs and are prohibited.
The logo of a business may be used as part of a mural subject to the director approval.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

==> picture [469 x 495] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.F: Window Sign
1. Description.
A sign consisting of individual letters and designs applied directly on the inside of a window.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.F: Window Sign

==> picture [460 x 275] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size.
Signable Area per Shopfront Window 25% max.
Width 75% max. of width,Ⓦ
Height 24" max.
Max one sign allowed per business.
3. Location.
Height Above Ground 5' min.
Window signs shall be applied directly to the inside of the glass.
4. Miscellaneous.
Window signs shall have a clear background.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

40.14.110.G: Sidewalk Sign

==> picture [460 x 281] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 158] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A sign for ground floor business that provides secondary signage and may be used to announce daily specials, sales, or point to shops off the sidewalk.

==> picture [469 x 582] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.G: Sidewalk Sign
2. Sign Size.
Signable Area 6 sf per side, max. Ⓐ
Width 24" max. Ⓑ
Height 36" max. Ⓒ
Max one sign allowed per ground floor business establishment.
3. Location.
Sidewalk signs shall be located within the furniture zone to not interfere with Ⓓ
pedestrian travel or encroach upon the required accessible path.
Sidewalk signs shall only be displayed during business hours and removed when the business is
closed.
Sidewalk signs shall be located in front of the building containing the advertised ground floor
business.
4. Miscellaneous.
Illuminated signs are not allowed.
Requires minimum sidewalk width of 8 feet.
----- End of picture text -----

==> picture [469 x 512] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.H: Directory Sign
1. Description.
A sign that provides a listing of establishments within a building or series of buildings, entrances
and parking locations.
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.H: Directory Sign 2. Sign Size. Signable Area 6 sf max. Ⓐ Max one sign allowed per building. 3. Location. Height 8' max. Ⓑ Freestanding directory signs are not allowed. 4. Miscellaneous. May include the name of the business and address. Shall not include any other words. Illumination shall be in compliance with subsection F (Illumination).

==> picture [226 x 25] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [227 x 27] intentionally omitted <==

40.14.110.I: Changeable Copy Sign

==> picture [460 x 266] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 154] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A sign that is designed so that characters, letters, numbers, or illustrations can be manually changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign.

==> picture [469 x 508] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.I: Changeable Copy Sign
2. Sign Size.
Signable Area Total of 2 square feet per linear foot of shopfront.1
Height 3' max. Ⓐ
Max one sign allowed per business.
3. Location.
Clear Height 8' min. Ⓑ
Signs per 50' of Street Frontage 3 max.
Signs may have up to 3 sides when mounted to project from the building. Ⓒ
4. Miscellaneous.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsection F (Illumination).
----- End of picture text -----

Note:

  • 1 Does not apply to signs required by law.

==> picture [469 x 300] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
40.14.110.J: Marquee Sign
----- End of picture text -----

40.14.110.J: Marquee Sign

==> picture [332 x 439] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A vertically-oriented sign located either along the face where it projects perpendicular to the facade, or at the corner of the building where it projects at a 45 degree angle. These signs may extend beyond the parapet of the building but may also terminate below the cornice or eave.

40.14.110.J: Marquee Sign

==> picture [460 x 273] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size

2. Sign Size
Signable Area
Width 24" max.
Depth 10" max.
Lettering Width 75% of sign width max.
Max one sign allowed per building.
3. Location.
Clear Height above Sidewalk/Ground 12' min. 1
Extension above Top of Facade 10' max.
Projection from Facade 3' max.
Signs per 200' Street Frontage 1 max.
Signs must be placed at highest story of building.
4. Miscellaneous.
Only allowed along a street frontage.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

Note:

1 When located over driveways or alleys, minimum clear height of 16'.

40.14.110.K: Roof Sign

==> picture [460 x 270] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [460 x 158] intentionally omitted <==

1. Description.

A sign on the roof of a six- or seven-story building intended for viewing from a distance of one or multiple blocks. These signs are required to have distinctive physical character in exchange for it being mounted on the roof.

40.14.110.K: Roof Sign

==> picture [460 x 232] intentionally omitted <==

2. Sign Size.

Height 8' max.
Width 25' max.
Max. Signable Area ⒶxⒷ
Lettering Height 75% of max.
Lettering Thickness 8" max.
Special feature max. 20% of sign, subject to director approval.
Max one sign allowed per building.
3. Location.
Signs per Building 1 max.
4. Miscellaneous.
Only allowed on buildings at least 6 stories tall.
Illumination shall be in compliance with subsectionF(Illumination).

(Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023; Ord. 2674, 3/18/2025)

§ 40.14.120. Downtown Outdoor Dining Program.

  • (a) Purpose. The provisions of this section are intended to ensure consistency and equity for all brick-and-mortar restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments in the Downtown Specific Plan Area (being all the land within the plan area boundary shown on Exhibit A of Ordinance 2637) that request to construct, install and/or utilize or already utilize specific parts of the public right-of-way, public property, or urban open space for outdoor dining.

  • (b) Eligible Public Spaces for Outdoor Dining. Use of the public right-of-way, public property, or urban open space for outdoor dining shall be restricted to sidewalk zones A, C, and D in the Downtown zones as shown in Figure 40.14.120.A: Sidewalk Design Elements.

Figure 40.14.120.A: Sidewalk Design Elements

==> picture [442 x 195] intentionally omitted <==

  • (1) Zone A: Frontage Zone. The space immediately adjacent to a building that serves the functions of the building. This zone can include building entryways, outdoor dining, or sandwich boards. For the purposes of this section, the Frontage Zone shall have a minimum width that permits a clear opening of the building entryway along the face of the building.

  • (2) Zone B: Pedestrian Through Zone. The primary pedestrian travel way running the length of the sidewalk. This zone shall be kept clear of obstructions (both within and immediately adjacent to the zone) to ensure that pedestrians have a safe and adequate place to walk. Pedestrian Through Zones in the downtown zones shall provide a minimum of five feet of clear area, however, wider Pedestrian Through Zones (ten to fifteen feet) are preferred in locations with higher pedestrian volumes.

  • (3) Zone C: Furniture Zone. The space between the Pedestrian Through Zone and the curb. This zone typically accommodates street furniture and amenities, as well as green infrastructure elements. For the purposes of this section the Furniture Zone shall have a minimum width that coincides with any existing tree wells.

  • (4) Zone D: Enhancement Zone: The space immediately next to the sidewalk and can accommodate a variety of uses including parklets, bicycle facilities, and green infrastructure. For the purpose of this section, the Enhancement Zone shall not exceed the minimum area needed to provide emergency vehicles access.

  • (c) Design Standards. All furnishings placed in the eligible public spaces for outdoor dining described in subsection (b) shall be consistent with the provisions set out in the Downtown Outdoor Dining Furnishing Standards and Guidelines, which shall be adopted by resolution of the city council.

  • (d) License Agreement. All parties must enter into a Downtown Outdoor Dining License Agreement with the city to utilize any portion of a public right-of-way, public property, or urban open space for outdoor dining in the downtown zones. The city manager is hereby permitted to enter into revocable license agreements with private parties for the purposes of this section.

  • (e) Existing Permits or Agreements for Outdoor Dining. To the extent permitted by law, all agreements entered into before the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section that permit the construction, installation, and/or operation of an outdoor dining area in specific parts of the public right-of-way, public property or urban open space in the Downtown Zones shall expire on July 1, 2026.

  • (Ord. 2668, 11/12/2024)

Article 40.14A. DOWNTOWN AND TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD OVERLAY DISTRICT (DTRN)

§ 40.14A.010. Purpose.

The purpose of the downtown and traditional residential neighborhood overlay district and design guidelines are as follows:

  • (a) Conserve the traditional neighborhood character, fabric and setting while guiding future development, reuse, and reinvestment;

  • (b) Discourage the demolition of structures consistent with the district's historic character by providing incentives for reuse of nondesignated contributing structures;

  • (c) Plan for new commercial and residential infill construction that is compatible and complementary to the character of existing neighborhood areas within the district;

  • (d) Foster reinvestment and economic development in the core that is consistent with historic conservation; and

  • (e) Provide guidelines to clarify the community's expectations for the type and quality of development within the district.

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)

§ 40.14A.020. Applicability.

  • (a) The DTRN overlay district shall be applied to the area defined on the downtown and traditional residential neighborhood district map (as shown on Figure 40.14A.020).

  • (b) Wherever the guidelines for the DTRN conflict with the existing zoning standards including planned development, the more restrictive standard shall prevail.

Figure 40.14A.020: Downtown and Traditional Neighborhood Overlay District (DTRN) Map

==> picture [463 x 407] intentionally omitted <==

  • (Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023; Ord. 2653, 1/9/2024)

§ 40.14A.030. Architectural standards and approval.

  • (a) The city council has adopted design guidelines for this district at a public hearing. All proposed new structures or additions to existing structures consistent with the adopted guidelines may be approved by the community development department or planning commission subject to site plan and architectural review as identified in Section 40.31.040(r) of this Code and further prescribed in the guidelines;

  • (b) The director or designee shall utilize the downtown and traditional residential design guidelines in reviewing public and private projects within the district boundary for which site plan and architectural approval is required;

  • (c) Site plan and architectural approval shall be required for all projects as specified in the design review process section of the guidelines;

  • (d) The DTRN design guidelines have been adopted by the city to serve as a guide to the city staff, citizen and project proponent in regard to development within the downtown and traditional residential neighborhood district boundary; and

  • (e) The DTRN design guidelines are approved to be consistent with and implement the general plan and core area specific plan, applicable zoning regulations, and other applicable land use regulations.

(Ord. 2637, 1/17/2023)