§ 33-1576. Guidelines. — Escondido Zoning Code

Development project(s) within the overlay zone shall be as compatible as possible with the Lake Hodges/East Lake Hodges master plan goals and objectives. In addition to other applicable city ordinances, standards and design guidelines, all development should be designed according to the following criteria:

(1) Grading.
- (A) Grading designs should be limited to the minimum extent possible and retain the natural shape of the landform. The type of proposed construction should be designed to reflect the topographic constraints of the terrain. Creative landform using contour grading and incorporating existing significant natural features should be utilized wherever possible in accordance with the following techniques (See Article 55, excavation and grading as amended by the Hillside/Ridgeline Ordinance):

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City of Escondido, CA

ESCONDIDO CODE

§ 33-1576

  - (i) Design slopes to blend with the natural topography, 

  - (ii) Use varied slopes with smooth, rounded cuts, 

  - (iii) Round off toe and crest of slopes, 

  - (iv) Utilize vegetation to alleviate sharp, angular slopes, 

  - (v) Locate manufactured slopes behind structures, 

  - (vi) Preserve natural and significant geologic features, 

  - (vii) Design drainage courses to blend with the environment,

(B) Retaining walls located on slopes in view of the park should not exceed six feet in height and should conform to the natural contour of the topography and be screened with landscaping. Earthtone colors and decorative natural materials, such as stone construction should be used to blend with the natural landscape.
(2) Design.
- (A) The form, mass and profile of the individual buildings and architectural features should be designed to blend with the natural terrain and preserve the character and profile of the natural slope.
- (B) Use of color should be limited to subtle earthtone hues, with style and texture that reflects the traditional/rural character of the proposed community park and natural environment. Colors should not be bright, reflective, metallic or otherwise visually out of character with the community or natural setting. The use of natural materials is encouraged.

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Recommended Colors Discouraged Colors
Off-whites (flat) Pinks
Earth tones Red
Browns Yellow
Beige Purple
Tans Bright gloss white
Natural green hues Orange
Grays Fluorescent colors
Terracotta
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(C) The visible area of the buildings and uses should be minimized through a combined use of regrading and landscaping techniques.
(D) Structures located within view of the park should be generally low in profile and utilize upper story setbacks so as not to be visually prominent.

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City of Escondido, CA § 33-1576

ZONING