Glendale Municipal Code Ch. 30.17 Objective Design Standards

A. The purpose and intent of this chapter is to establish objective and quantifiable design standards for new multi-family residential and residential mixed-use development to ensure high quality projects that are well-articulated, properly scaled to fit with adjacent development, and designed to promote activated, pedestrian-oriented ground floors. Such standards are also intended to provide property owners and developers with clear and predictable requirements for such development.

B. The objective design standards established in this section are supplemental to the development standards applicable to residential development in GMC Chapter 30.11 "Residential Districts" and to residential development and mixed-use residential development in GMC Chapter 30.12 "Commercial Districts."

C. This chapter also establishes standards for processing housing projects consistent with Government Code Section 65913.4, Government Code Section 65589.5, and Government Code Sections 65912.155 through 65912.162 (Transit-Oriented Development), as may be amended thereafter, as well as any future State laws that require the application of objective design standards.

(Ord. 6052, 5/19/2026)

A. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all new residential developments containing three or more units, as permitted in Chapters 30.11 and 30.12, and as may be permitted by state law. Residential development subject to this section shall include multi-family residential projects, residential congregate care and senior housing buildings, and multi-family residential mixed-use projects.

B. Streamlining Eligibility. Affordable residential projects that are consistent with State Density Bonus Law and GMC Chapter 30.36 "Density Bonus", including projects in accordance with Government Code Chapter 65912.155 through 65912.162 (Transit-Oriented Development), as may be amended thereafter, and that comply with all applicable development standards and objective design standards set forth in Title 30, with or without concessions, shall be eligible for streamlined ministerial processing per Government Code Sections 65913.4 and 65589.5.

C. Design Review. Affordable residential projects eligible for streamlined ministerial processing pursuant to this section shall not be subject to GMC Chapter 30.47 Design Review.

Projects requesting waivers from any applicable development standard or objective design standard shall not be eligible for streamlined ministerial processing and shall be subject to GMC Chapter 30.47 (Design Review).

Any residential development that does not qualify for streamlined ministerial processing pursuant to this section shall be subject to GMC Chapter 30.47 Design Review.

D. Approved Design Compliance. All architectural features, façade articulation elements, materials, colors, roof forms, shading devices, and other design elements identified on the approved architectural plans and required to comply with this section shall be incorporated into the final construction of the building.

Substitution, elimination, or modification of these elements shall not be permitted unless the proposed change demonstrates equal compliance with the applicable objective design standards of this chapter and is approved through the applicable plan revision process.

(Ord. 6052, 5/19/2026)

For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed to them unless otherwise noted:

"Architectural shading device"

means architectural sun protection element, such as brise soleil, louvers, architectural screens, fins and window awnings, that provides for passive cooling and decorative detailing, and that is attached to an exterior wall to shield windows and walls from direct sunlight.

"Articulation"

means the three-dimensional detailing of the external walls of a building. Façade articulation may include notched setbacks, projecting bays, balconies, screening devices, etc.

"Ground floor façade recess"

means a setback or indentation of the building's street-facing facade(s) at the ground level, intended to create entry alcoves, covered outdoor areas, or enhanced pedestrian experience. This articulation element helps define building entrances, improve building scale, and promote architectural variety.

"Modulation, horizontal"

means variations across a façade based on defined segments, including offsets, protrusions, projections, recesses, or indentations of all fronting building floor area, as a means of breaking up the apparent bulk of a building.

"Modulation, vertical"

means variations in building height, such as by stepping a portion of the façade upward or downward from the predominant building height or stepping upper floors back from the façade plane below, as a means of breaking up the apparent bulk of a building.

"Plate line"

means a horizontal structural member that provides the bearing and anchorage or the trusses of a roof or the rafters above. The top plate line is defined as the top of the highest horizontal framing member or solid wall of a building or structure or part thereof, upon which roof beams or ceiling rafters rest.

"Projected bay"

means an architectural element that extends outward from the primary plane of the building facade, typically beginning at or above the ground floor. Projected bays shall be integrated into the overall building design and may include windows or other glazing.

"Step-back"

means the setback of a building's upper floors from the lower floors.

"Vertical recessed notch"

means a continuous vertical indentation in the building façade that creates a visible break in massing and contributes to façade articulation. This element is used to divide large building elevations into smaller, more human-scaled components, and to reduce the perceived bulk of multi-story structures.

(Ord. 6052, 5/19/2026)

The provisions of this section apply to all new residential development and multi-family residential dwelling buildings containing three or more units in multi-family residential districts.

A. Site Planning in Residential Districts. The intent of the site development standards is to address the site configurations and conditions for residential development. The standards ensure that sites can accommodate density, foster compatibility with adjacent residential developments, and maximize livability for residents and guests.

1. Site planning — General building location standards. Site planning shall address all setback and common open space amenity (COSA) area requirements, as codified in Table 30.11-B and Section 30.11.050. In addition to providing residential amenity areas for residents and guests, COSA areas provide opportunities for additional separation, sunlight, and air flow between the new development and adjacent buildings. Building locations and COSAs shall be limited to one of the following options, depending on lot width, as identified in Table 30.11-D.

2. Site planning — Common open space amenity (COSA) area standards. Each COSA area shall comply with the following standards:

a. Programming. A COSA area shall be designed to accommodate a mix of active and passive uses and/or activities.

b. Amenity features. Each COSA area shall include a minimum of one amenity feature, including but not limited to a pergola, barbeque area, water feature, 36-inch box specimen shade tree within a minimum 48 by 48 by 36-inch planter, or other similar element that shall serve as a focal point for common area gathering. A seating area with a minimum of four fixed or movable chairs or benches shall be provided for each COSA.

c. Landscaping. Landscaping within all COSA areas shall comply with the following:

i. Area. A minimum of 25% of each COSA area shall be landscaped with live plant materials and permanently maintained.

ii. Planters. All planters must be constructed of permanent masonry or concrete materials and shall drain directly into a drainage system.

iii. Trees. A minimum of one 24-inch box tree shall be provided for every 600 square feet of COSA area. At the time of planting, trees shall be at least 12 feet tall with a two-inch caliper, measured six inches above the topmost root. Permitted tree species include Chinese Pistache, Crape Myrtle, Japanese Maple (partial shade), Saucer Magnolia, Palo Verde and Fruitless Olive; other trees may be permitted when proposed by a licensed landscape architect and identified in a tree palette schedule as having characteristics substantially similar to those listed.

iv. Minimum dimensions. Permanent landscaped areas shall be provided at grade or within planters having a minimum soil length, width, diameter, and depth of 24 inches, except where a tree is required, in which case the soil area shall be increased to a minimum of 42 inches by 42 inches by 36 inches. Except for the planter dimensions above, all other provisions of Section 30.31.020 shall apply.

d. Paving. A minimum of 25% of all COSA area paving shall consist of decorative paving materials, including, but not limited to, tinted and stamped concrete, brick, stone paving, or permeable pavers.

3. Site planning — Parking and vehicular access. Parking access and screening standards are intended to promote pedestrian safety, support active ground floor uses, and reduce the visual impact of on-site parking. All new driveways for vehicular ingress and egress shall comply with the following:

a. Access to parking. Curb cuts and vehicular entries shall be limited to the minimum number necessary to provide access to the site. Driveways shall be designed to maintain a continuous pedestrian path of travel along adjacent sidewalks.

i. Driveway locations. For properties located at street intersections, driveways shall be located no further than 25 feet from an interior lot line to ensure adequate vehicular queuing and visibility from the intersection.

ii. Parking access from alley. Except for corner lots, vehicular access shall be provided from an existing alley if the alley has an adequate width to provide such access in compliance with the department of public works standards for alley width and capacity. See Chapter 12.12.

iii. Parking access from streets. Street access is permitted on sites where no alley is present, or where the alley width and capacity do not comply with Chapter 12.12, per the following:

(A) Sites with only one street frontage of 200 linear feet or less shall be limited to one driveway.

(B) Sites with one street frontage greater than 200 linear feet shall be permitted a maximum of two driveways.

(C) Sites with two or more frontages may be permitted one driveway per street frontage.

iv. Parking garage openings. Garage doors and gates shall be set back a minimum of three feet from the adjacent building façade. Wall surfaces surrounding garage driveway openings shall incorporate materials, colors, and details consistent with the exterior building façades.

4. Site planning — Landscaping. Landscaping shall be provided to enhance streetscape aesthetics, provide visual screening for existing adjacent uses, reduce solar gain, and promote energy conservation through shading and wind protection. The following standards shall apply to all multi-family development:

a. Required areas. Landscaping shall be provided within street-front, street-side, and interior setback areas in accordance with Section 30.31.020.

b. Variety. All landscaped street setback areas shall include a combination of drought-tolerant ground cover, ornamental grasses, shrubs of varying heights, and tree plant materials.

c. Trees. A minimum of two 24-inch box canopy trees is required for each street front and street side setback area. For lots with street frontage greater than 50 feet, one additional minimum 24-inch box canopy tree shall be provided for every additional 50 linear feet of frontage. Permitted species include Bay Laurel, Brisbane Box, California Redbud, Camphor, Crepe Myrtle, Desert Willow, Flowering Pear, Fruitless Olive, Japanese Maple, Magnolia(s), Oak(s), Palo Verde, Pink Trumpet, Sycamore(s), Strawberry, Toyon, or other equivalent species approved when proposed by a licensed landscape architect and identified in a tree palette schedule to have similar characteristics to the ones listed. Root barriers shall be placed where trees are planted within five feet of any hardscape element or building.

5. Site planning — Freestanding walls, fences and gates. The standards shall apply to all new walls, fences and gates for multi-family residential for at-grade visual and privacy screening and access barriers between buildings, and the public right-of-way.

a. Treatment. Fences, walls and gates shall use materials and colors that match or are complementary to those used on the building façade or trim. Both sides of all freestanding walls and fences shall be finished with the same material and color treatment. Boundary walls and fences that are required to have equal treatment on both sides shall be located entirely on the subject property and positioned so that maintenance of both sides can occur without encroaching onto adjacent property, unless a recorded maintenance easement or written agreement with the adjoining property owner is provided.

b. Materials. No fence, wall or gate shall be electrically charged or made of any sharp-edged materials, barbed wire, razor wire, chicken wire or fiber glass. Chain link, vinyl, or wood materials are prohibited along street frontages. Wrought iron shall be prohibited along street frontages unless used in combination with landscaping screening.

c. Parking gates and garage doors. Parking lot gates and parking structure garage doors or gates shall be mechanically controlled. Parking gates and doors shall be set back a minimum of five feet behind the adjacent building façade.

6. Site planning — At-grade utilities and mechanical equipment. All new developments shall comply with utility service provider requirements for access, maintenance, and service, and with applicable city design standards and specifications. Utility equipment and service connections shall be located and screened so that they are not visible from adjacent public streets or public open spaces to the maximum extent feasible and shall not obstruct required pedestrian access or circulation areas. All rooftop screening shall comply with Section 30.30.020B. Utility facilities that cannot feasibly be installed underground shall comply with following standards:

a. Location. All exterior utility equipment, including but not limited to gas and electric utility meters, telecommunication equipment, backflow prevention devices, assemblies, irrigation control valves boxes, and electrical transformers shall be located outside of any required street-front or street-side setback, and-shall not be located on street-facing building elevations, except as permitted in subsection A.6.b.

b. Visibility and screening. All exterior utility equipment shall be prohibited on street facing elevations and be located on building façades facing interior setbacks, unless screened from the street and/or integrated into the building design. Screening shall include architectural screens or decorative walls and/or landscaping in the form of a solid hedge. Walls, landscaping, or the combination of these screens shall have a minimum of 75% opacity and shall be equal to or exceed the height of the screened utilities. Screening walls shall utilize the same materials or colors or details of the building.

c. Electrical transformers. Transformers shall be located with access from an alley or within a parking garage, to the satisfaction of Glendale Water and Power. Where such locations are not feasible, electrical transformers shall comply with one of the following:

i. Integrated location. Transformers shall be located within a building and enclosed within a dedicated room that is integrated into the building façade. The exterior of the transformer enclosure shall be finished with the same façade materials, colors, and/or architectural detailing as the adjacent building façade.

ii. Exterior location. Transformers located outside of a building shall be located outside of all required setbacks and fully screened in accordance with subsection A.6.b.

7. Site planning — Outdoor lighting. All new projects shall comply with the following illumination requirements to ensure nighttime safety for residents and other users while preventing light pollution.

a. General provisions. All exterior lighting shall be designed, located and installed in order to prevent light trespass, energy waste and glare. Architectural and landscape feature lighting is permitted where it complies with the shielding and orientation standards below.

b. Light fixtures. Lighting for sites and building façades shall comply with the following standards:

i. Shielding. All parking lot and common area light fixtures shall be fully shielded to minimize light pollution. Accent uplighting or downlighting may be used to highlight façade articulation, artwork, or landscape plantings, provided the fixtures are glare-free and shielded to prevent spill onto adjacent properties.

ii. Orientation. Light fixtures shall be directed away from adjoining properties and public rights-of-way. Fixture placement shall limit light spillover onto adjoining properties and public areas.

iii. Timers and sensors. Exterior lighting shall include timers, motion sensors, or other controls to minimize energy use and reduce unnecessary illumination.

B. Massing and Scale in Residential Districts. The intent of the massing and scale standards is to minimize the bulk of buildings, avoid massive, boxy structures, and provide transitions in height between new and existing buildings. New multi-family residential buildings shall be modulated both horizontally and vertically, articulated with architectural elements and enhanced through window design and placement. All new buildings shall meet the following modulation standards:

1. Massing and scale — Horizontal modulation. The primary intent of the horizontal modulation standards is to reduce the perceived with of building façades by incorporating recesses and projections along building walls. Recesses and projections forming building segments shall be organized to express a sense of rhythm, continuity, and order along the entirety of a façade width. The following modulation standards shall apply to all street-facing façades, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-A. The standards shall also apply to all façade utilizing the six-foot minimum interior setback option as per Table 30.11-B, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-B.

a. Applicability and modulated segments. Building façades greater than 50 feet in length shall be horizontally modulated width façade segments that comply with subsections A.7.b and c. Façades greater than 50 feet but less than 100 feet in length shall be divided into a minimum of two façade segments. Façade lengths 100 feet or greater shall be divided into a minimum of three façade segments.

b. Minimum dimensions. The recessed or projected façade segments shall be offset from the adjacent façade plane by a minimum depth of four feet and have a minimum width of 10 feet. These segments shall extend uninterrupted from the finished grade adjacent to the façade segment to the top of the parapet or to the top plate line for pitched roofs.

c. Modulation area. The recessed or projected façade segments required by subsection A.7.a shall constitute at least 15% of the total façade area of each building façade parallel to an adjacent property line. The total façade area shall be calculated vertically from the lowest point of the building to the top of the parapet or to the top plate line for pitched roofs, and horizontally between the two outermost edges of the same building façade.

d. COSA areas. COSA areas provided in compliance with Section 30.17.040A.2 may be counted toward the required modulation for any applicable building façade.

e. Differentiation. Recessed or projecting façade segments shall be visually differentiated from the adjacent building plane using at least one of the following: change in cladding material, change in architectural treatment (example: shingles versus vertical or horizontal siding) or change in color. The change in material, architectural treatment or color shall be applied to a minimum 50% of the entire recessed or projecting façade segment area.

2. Massing and scale — Vertical modulation. The purpose of the vertical modulation standards is to provide transitions in height, vary building volumes to reduce perceived bulk of buildings, and preserve the privacy of adjacent residential uses. Vertical modulation shall be achieved through building step-backs and volume offsets as required below. Compliance with the standards of this section shall be deemed to satisfy the privacy and transition objectives of this subsection.

a. Applicability. Vertical modulation is not required for projects three stories or less, except where required adjacent to single-family residential zones, as specified in Table 30.11-B.

b. Upper-story step-backs. Residential developments that exceed the number of stories identified in Table 30.11-B shall provide vertical modulation. All building stories located above the third story or above 41 feet in height, whichever occurs first, shall be stepped back a minimum of 10 feet horizontally from the exterior façade plane of the story directly below. The required step-back shall apply to at least 60% of the length of each applicable building elevation.

i. On sites 90 feet or less in width. Step-backs shall be provided on the front and rear elevations, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-C. Step-back shall also be provided on street side elevations on corner lots.

ii. Sites greater than 90 feet in width. Step-backs shall be provided on all building elevations for portions of the building located within 15 feet of an interior property line.

iii. Additional massing reduction for wide buildings. For buildings with street-facing façades greater than 120 feet in length, at least one of the following shall be provided:

(A) An additional five-foot minimum step-back for the fifth story and above; or

(B) A vertical volume break at least 15 feet wide and 10 feet deep extending from the fourth story to the roofline.

c. Vertical transition to single-family zones. Portions of new multi-family buildings located within 15 feet of an interior property line abutting a single family zone shall provide a vertical transition, per the standards below and as illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-D.

i. Maximum height near property line. The portion of a building located within 15 feet of the interior property line abutting a single-family residential zone shall not exceed 25 feet, pursuant to the definition of height set forth in this title (plus three feet for any roofed area having a minimum pitch of three feet in 12 feet).

ii. Step-back. All stories above the second story shall be stepped back a minimum of 10 feet from each required setback line that abuts a single-family zone.

iii. Privacy. Rooftop common open space shall be prohibited within the required 10-foot step-back area. Private open space, including balconies and decks serving individual units, may project a maximum of five feet into the additional 10-foot step-back.

3. Massing and scale — Façade articulation. These standards are intended to reduce perceived building mass, establish human scale, and create visually engaging building elevations. Each façade segment shall include a minimum of one and a maximum of two façade articulation options, as listed below and illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-E. Building elevations not subject to the Horizontal Modulation standards, per Section 30.17.040B.1, shall incorporate a minimum of two and a maximum of three façade articulation options from the list below.

a. Projected bay.

i. Quantity. A maximum of one projected bay shall be permitted per building façade segment less than 20 feet in width. For façade segments 20 feet or greater in width, a maximum of one projected bay shall be permitted for every 20 linear feet of façade width.

ii. Dimensions. Projected bays shall have a minimum width of six feet and a minimum height of five feet and may extend across multiple stories.

iii. Projection. Projected bays shall project a minimum of one foot and a maximum of four feet horizontally from the adjacent façade plane and shall comply with applicable setback standards.

iv. Differentiation. Projected bays shall be differentiated from the façade plane by a change in cladding material and/or color.

b. Ground floor façade recess.

i. Width. A ground floor façade recess shall extend the full width of the façade segment in which it is located.

ii. Height. A ground floor façade recess shall extend the full height of the ground floor and shall maintain a consistent height across the façade segment.

iii. Depth. A ground floor façade recess shall be recessed from the adjacent façade plane above by a minimum depth of three feet for façade segments less than 75 feet in width, and a minimum depth of four feet for façade segments 75 feet or greater in width.

iv. Differentiation. The recessed ground floor façade shall be differentiated from the façade plane above by a change in cladding material or color.

v. Corner condition. At a street corner intersection, the ground floor façade recess shall wrap around the corner along both street-facing façade and terminate at an interior corner junction or changes in the façade plane.

vi. Columns. Structural columns no greater than two feet in width are permitted within a ground floor façade recess greater than 50 feet in width and such columns shall be set back a minimum of 12 inches from the outer edge of the recess.

c. Vertical recessed notch.

i. Quantity. A maximum of one vertical recessed notch shall be permitted per building façade segment. A horizontal modulation segment per Section 30.11.090B.1.a shall not be considered a vertical recessed notch for purposes of this section.

ii. Height. Vertical recessed notches shall extend the full height of a façade segment measured from the second floor plate to the roof eave or parapet line of that façade segment, excluding any required upper story step-backs. Recessed notches may extend to the ground floor.

iii. Width. Vertical recessed notches shall have a minimum width of four feet and a maximum width of 10 feet.

iv. Depth. Vertical recessed notches shall have a minimum recessed depth of two feet and a maximum depth of four feet, measured horizontally from the adjacent façade plane.

v. Differentiation. Vertical recessed notches shall be differentiated from the adjacent façade plane by a change in cladding material and/or color.

d. Frame projection.

i. Location. Frame projections shall be located along the top and at least one vertical side of a façade segment, forming a frame around a portion of the façade.

ii. Framed area. Frame projections shall define a framed façade area with a minimum width of 20 feet.

iii. Frame width. Frame projections shall have a minimum width of six inches and a maximum width of 18 inches, measured parallel to the framed surface.

iv. Projection depth. Frame projections shall project a minimum of one foot perpendicularly from the adjacent plane. No maximum projection depth is required.

v. Setback encroachment. Frame projections may encroach a maximum of 18 inches into required setback areas, as per Section 30.11.070.

e. Architectural shading devices.

i. General. Architectural shading devices may be oriented horizontally, vertically perpendicular to the façade plane, or parallel to the façade plane. Additional standards for each orientation are provided below.

ii. Horizontally oriented architectural shading devices. Horizontally oriented shading devices shall include canopies (closed top, slatted, or louvered), window awnings, and similar overhangs, shall project a minimum of 30 inches from the building façade. These shading devices shall:

(A) Project a minimum of 30 inches from the building façade.

(B) Where window awnings are used to satisfy this requirement, at least 25 percent of window openings on the façade shall include a horizontally oriented shading device. These awnings shall have a minimum width equal to or greater than the window opening below and may extend across multiple openings.

iii. Vertically oriented architectural shading devices. Vertically oriented shading devices perpendicular to the façade plane shall include building wall fins, window fins, and similar vertical projections and shall project a minimum of 12 inches from the building façade. These shading devices shall:

(A) Project a minimum of 18 inches from the building façade.

(B) When located adjacent to a window, the shading device shall have a minimum height equal to that of the window and may extend across multiple stories.

iv. Architectural shading devices parallel to the façade. Shading devices parallel to, or angled less than 10% from, the adjacent façade plane shall include perforated architectural screens, sliding shutter panels, and similar shading devices. These shading devices shall:

(A) Be attached to the exterior wall with a minimum separation of eight inches and a maximum separation of five feet.

(B) Cover a minimum of 40% of total area of the façade segment, including doors and windows.

(C) Extend vertically a minimum of two floors and horizontally a minimum of 10 feet in width.

v. Materials. Architectural shading devices used to satisfy this section shall be permanently attached to the building façade and constructed of durable materials such as metal, wood, or fiber cement. Shading devices constructed of plastic or vinyl shall be prohibited.

4. Massing and scale — Corner elements. Corner elements are intended to enhance building aesthetics, provide visual prominence at intersections for primary entrances, and create variation in building massing. Corner elements also contribute to a sense of place within the public realm by incorporating distinct architectural features.

a. Applicability. Buildings located at the intersection of two or more streets shall provide a corner element at each street intersection.

b. Design requirements. The corner element shall be visibly differentiated from the primary massing of the building through height, form and/or architectural detailing. Each required corner element shall incorporate a minimum of two from the following design elements:

i. Vertical articulation feature: tower, pilaster, or vertical projection that extends a minimum of three feet above the adjacent roofline, has a minimum width of five feet and is visibly diffrentiated from the primary building mass through a change in plane, material or form;

ii. Horizontal articulation feature: cornice, horizontal banding, balcony, or frame projection that extends a minimum of 12 inches from the façade plane and continues along both street facing elevations for a minimum distance of 10 feet from the corner;

iii. Fenestration provided on both street-facing elevations within the corner element area, such that a minimum of 20% of the wall area is within the corner element frontages with minimum 20% glazing;

iv. Distinct cladding material and color that is visibly differentiated from from adjacent façades and extends a minimum of 10 feet along each street-facing elevation from the corner;

v. Ground-floor corner feature oriented towards the intersection, including one or more of the following: a primary building entrance within 10 feet of the corner, outdoor seating area, or canopy or awning projecting a minimum of three feet over the sidewalk at the corner;

C. Architectural Elements in Residential Districts. The intent of these standards is to establish minimum requirements for façade treatments, including materials, colors, roofs, window fenestration, balconies, entries, and other architectural elements, to articulate modulated façades and create visual interest in a building. The following standards shall apply to all new buildings:

1. Architectural elements — Façade cladding materials and colors. Materials and colors are significant design features that contribute to a building's aesthetic quality and character. All building façades shall comply with the following cladding material and color standards:

a. Façade cladding materials.

i. Durability. Exterior building walls shall be clad with materials and finishes that have a minimum manufacturer warranty or durability rating of 20 years, as specified in manufacturer cut sheets and consistent with industry standards.

ii. Minimum number of materials. Buildings one or two stories in height shall incorporate a minimum of two distinct façade cladding materials. Buildings three or more stories in height shall incorporate a minimum of three distinct cladding materials. Each façade cladding material shall cover a minimum of 10% of the area of each building elevation on which it is used.

iii. Prohibited materials. Engineered wood siding (e.g., plywood), field-finished foam trim, and plastic or vinyl siding are prohibited.

iv. Stucco limitations. Stucco products, including Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS), are prohibited at the ground level for all residential and mixed-use residential buildings. Above the ground floor, no more than 60% of the total façade area facing a street shall be clad with stucco products.

v. Stucco articulation. Any uninterrupted stucco-clad wall area greater than 20 feet in width or height shall incorporate score lines with a minimum depth of one-half inch.

vi. Corner treatment. Façade cladding materials shall wrap around exterior corners and terminate only at interior corner junctions or changes in façade plane.

b. Façade colors.

i. Prohibited colors. Neon or fluorescent colors, which are defined as extremely bright versions of primary and secondary colors, shall be limited to trim details only.

ii. Accent colors. Accent colors are encouraged for doors, window trims, railings, fascia boards, shutters, canopies, rafter tails, and building hardware and other architectural elements to contrast these features from the exterior building walls.

2. Architectural elements — Roof forms and materials. All new buildings shall comply with the following roof form and material standards:

a. Roof forms.

i. Permitted roof forms. Roof forms may include, but are not limited to, pitched roofs (e.g., hipped, gable, shed, butterfly, mansard), flat roofs, and rounded roofs (e.g., barrel and dome). A maximum of three roof forms shall be permitted per building.

ii. Flat roof lengths. Flat rooflines along street-facing façades shall not exceed 50 feet in horizontal length without incorporating one of the following:

(A) A change in roof height of at least 12 inches, or

(B) A change in roof form.

Façade segments that comply with Section 30.17.040B.1 shall be considered a break in roofline length and shall not be included in the 50-foot maximum length.

iii. Mansard roofs and parapets. Mansard roofs and parapets, when provided, shall extend continuously along all building elevations or along the entire portion of the building where they are applied, regardless of visibility from the street.

b. Roof materials.

i. Cool roof compliance. All roofing systems shall comply with applicable cool roof standards. Green roofs or rooftop gardens are encouraged.

ii. Durability. Roofing materials shall have a minimum manufacturer warranty or durability rating of 30 years, as specified in manufacturer documentation and consistent with industry standards.

3. Architectural elements — Fenestration. Fenestration refers to the arrangement, proportioning, and design of exterior windows and doors on a building. Window placement and design define building character, break up massing, and enhance façade modulation through variations in materials, scale, and the balance of solid and transparent surfaces. All window and door openings for new buildings shall comply with the following standards:

a. Required openings. A minimum of 20% of the total façade area of any façade facing a public street or COSA area shall consist of window openings. Individual window openings used to meet the required opening area shall be a minimum of four square feet in area.

b. Recess depth. All window and door openings shall be recessed by a minimum of two inches to provide depth, shadow, and shade. Recess depth shall be measured from the outer face of the glazing to the outer edge of the adjacent primary façade cladding surface. Curtain wall systems shall be exempt from this requirement.

c. Shape. All window shapes shall be permitted, including but not limited to rectangular, square, arched round, and angled windows.

d. Prohibited element. Internal grid windows, field-finished stucco-and-foam trim window surrounds, and mirror-finish glazing shall be prohibited.

e. Arrangement. Each façade segment shall include a maximum of one window arrangement for segments 20 feet or less and no more than two window arrangement options for façade segments greater than 20 feet in width, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.040-F, except for the pattern offset window arrangement. Where a pattern offset window arrangement is used, no additional window arrangement types shall be permitted for the façade segment.

i. Stacked window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be aligned vertically on all floors within the same façade segment.

(B) Windows within each vertical stack shall be uniform in size.

(C) Windows shall be aligned horizontally at a consistent head height across each floor.

ii. Pattern offset window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be offset horizontally every other floor by a minimum of 50% of the window width of the window in the floor above or below, measured at the side edge.

(B) A maximum of two window sizes shall be permitted within a façade segment.

iii. Framed Grouped window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be located within a frame element that is differentiated from the adjacent wall plane by either a different cladding material and color, or a minimum offset of four inches from the adjacent wall plane.

(B) No more than two window sizes shall be permitted within a framed group.

(C) Frame elements shall extend vertically to include a minimum of two floors within a single differentiated frame or extend horizontally on a single floor to include a minimum of three windows within a single differentiated frame.

(D) Windows of the same size within a vertical frame shall be stacked and aligned vertically along the side edges within that frame.

(E) Windows of the same size within a horizontal frame element shall be aligned horizontally along the top and bottom edges within that frame.

iv. Unframed grouped window arrangement.

(A) An unframed grouped window arrangement shall consist of a minimum of two and a maximum of four windows with consistent height dimensions.

(B) No more than two window widths shall be permitted per group.

(C) Window within a group shall not be spaced horizontally more than two feet apart within a group.

(D) Grouped windows shall be aligned vertically along a common edge or on-center of the group across all floors.

v. Curtain wall systems.

(A) Curtain wall vision and spandrel glazing systems shall be permitted only when located within a horizontal or vertical recessed notch or projected bay.

(B) Curtain wall systems shall extend vertically for minimum of two floors and may extend to the roofline.

4. Architectural elements — Building entries and lobbies. Multi-family residential building lobbies and/or individual unit entries on the exterior of the building provide visual cues identifying building entrances and serve as landmarks for residents and guests. All building entries and lobbies shall comply with the following:

a. Orientation. Primary ground-floor residential building entries and exterior individual unit entries shall face and provide direct pedestrian access to a public street, COSA area, and/or common pedestrian walkway. Entries shall not be oriented towards or directly accessed from alleys, driveways, or parking areas.

b. Entry design. Ground-floor building lobby entries and exterior individual unit entries shall incorporate at least one of the following design features: front porch, stoop, canopy, marquee, awning, or other comparable form of weather protection. As an alternative, an entry may be defined by a recess or projection with a minimum depth of four feet from the adjacent façade plane. Where applicable, a canopy or awning shall have a minimum projection of two feet.

c. Individual entry area. Entry porches and stoops serving as exterior individual unit entries shall have a minimum uninterrupted area of 20 square feet.

5. Architectural elements — Balconies. Balconies provide required private outdoor space for residential units and contribute to façade articulation by creating depth, rhythm and visual interest. All new balconies shall not project into any required setback area, except that balconies may project up to 12 inches into required interior setback areas, and shall comply with the following standards:

a. Location and configuration. Balconies providing required private outdoor space in accordance with Section 30.11.050 shall be fully recessed or partially recessed a minimum of two feet from at least one adjacent façade plane that is parallel to a property line. Where partially recessed, balconies shall not project more than four feet from the adjacent façade plane. For the purposes of this section, balconies located within a frame projection (façade articulation option) are permitted, provided that the balcony does not project beyond the outer edge of the frame projection.

b. Minimum width. Balconies shall have a minimum clear width of eight feet parallel to the façade plane.

6. Architectural elements — Awnings and canopies. Awnings and canopies provide visual emphasis for entrances, windows and other important façade elements, as well as weather and solar protection. All new awnings and canopies shall comply with the following:

a. Projection. Awnings and canopies shall project a minimum of two feet and a maximum of six feet horizontally from the building façade.

b. Width. Awnings and canopies shall have a minimum width equal to the width of the opening they serve and may extend across multiple openings.

c. Prohibited materials. Plastic and vinyl awning materials and internally illuminated translucent fabric awnings shall be prohibited.

d. Details. All awning and canopy frames and associated hardware systems shall be painted to match the color of adjacent window and door systems or approved trim colors. Poles or ground-mounted support systems shall not be located within required pedestrian walkways or common areas.

7. Architectural elements — Vents, gutters and downspouts.

a. Color. Gutters, downspouts, flashing, and vents shall be painted to match the adjacent wall or trim color.

b. Roof drainage. All new buildings shall utilize internal roof drainage systems (internal leaders).

c. Vent integration. Vents on street-facing elevations shall be architecturally integrated into the building design.

d. Location. Where soffits or balcony ceilings are provided on street-facing elevations, vents shall be located within such soffits or ceilings rather than on the exterior building wall.

(Ord. 6052, 5/19/2026)

A. Site Planning in Commercial Districts. The intent of the site planning standards is to regulate site configurations and associated site improvements along commercial thoroughfares. The following standards shall apply to multi-family residential and residential mixed-use development located in commercial districts.

1. Site planning — Setbacks and right-of-way improvements. All new development shall comply with the minimum setback requirements of the applicable zoning district and the requirements of Section 30.12.040E, Public Realm Area Improvements.

2. Site planning — Freestanding walls, fences and gates. These standards shall apply to all new walls, fences and gates used for screening, security, or access control.

a. Design consistency. Fences, walls and gates shall be constructed of materials and finished in colors that are consistent with the primary building façade or trim. Both sides of all freestanding walls and fences shall use the same material, colors and level of finish quality.

b. Materials. No fence, wall or gate shall be electrically charged or made of any sharp-edged materials, barbed wire, razor wire, chicken wire or fiber glass. Chain link and vinyl fencing are prohibited along street frontages. Wrought iron shall be prohibited along street frontages unless used in combination with vertically-oriented landscaping screening.

c. Parking gates and garage doors. Parking lot gates and parking structure garage doors shall be mechanically operated. Parking gates and doors shall be located a minimum of five feet behind the public realm setback or the adjacent building façade, whichever is closer.

3. Site planning — At-grade utilities and mechanical equipment. All new development shall comply with utility service provider requirements for access, maintenance, and service, and city design standards for installation of utilities and mechanical equipment. Utility equipment and service connections shall be located and screened so that they are not visible from adjacent public streets or public open spaces to the maximum extent feasible and shall not obstruct required pedestrian access or circulation areas. All rooftop screening shall comply with Section 30.30.020B. Utilities and mechanical equipment that cannot feasibly be installed underground shall comply with following standards:

a. Location. All exterior utility equipment, including, but not limited to, gas and electric utility meters, telecommunication equipment, assemblies, irrigation control valves boxes, and electrical transformers shall be located outside of any required street front or street side setback, and shall not be located on street-facing building elevations, except as permitted in subsection A.3.b.

b. Visibility and screening. All exterior utility equipment shall be screened from public streets and common open space areas or integrated into the building design to minimize their visual impact. Screening shall include architectural screens or decorative walls, and/or landscaping in the form of a solid hedge. Walls, landscaping, or the combination of these screens shall have a minimum of 75% opacity and shall be equal to or exceed the height of the screened utilities. Screening walls shall utilize materials and colors consistent with the primary building materials. Architectural screens and decorative walls shall not be located within required street front or street side setbacks.

c. Electrical transformers. Electrical transformers shall be located with access from an alley or within a parking garage, to the satisfaction of Glendale Water and Power. Where such locations are not feasible, electrical transformers shall comply with one of the following:

i. Integrated location. Transformers shall be located within a building and enclosed within a dedicated room that is integrated into the building façade. The exterior of the transformer enclosure shall be finished with the same façade materials, colors, and/or architectural detailing as the adjacent building façade.

ii. Exterior location. Transformers located outside of a building shall be located outside of all required setbacks and fully screened in accordance with subsection A.3.b.

4. Site planning — Outdoor lighting. All new projects shall comply with the following illumination requirements to ensure nighttime safety for residents and other users while preventing light pollution.

a. General provisions. All exterior lighting shall be designed, located and installed in order to prevent light trespass, energy waste and glare. Architectural and landscape feature lighting is permitted where it complies with the shielding and orientation standards below.

b. Light fixtures. Lighting for sites and building façades shall comply with the following standards:

i. Shielding. All parking lot and common area light fixtures shall be fully shielded to minimize light pollution. Accent uplighting or downlighting may be used to highlight façade articulation, artwork, or landscape plantings, provided the fixtures are glare-free and shielded to prevent spill onto adjacent properties.

ii. Orientation. Light fixtures shall be directed away from adjoining properties and public rights-of-way. Fixture placement shall limit light spillover onto adjoining properties and public areas.

iii. Timers and sensors. Exterior lighting shall include timers, motion sensors, or other controls to minimize energy use and reduce unnecessary illumination.

B. Massing and Scale in Commercial Districts. The intent of the standards is to minimize the bulk of buildings, avoid massive, boxy structures, and provide appropriate transitions in height and scale between new and existing development. New multi-family residential and residential mixed-use buildings shall be modulated both horizontally and vertically, articulated with architectural elements, and enhanced through window design and placement. All new buildings shall meet the following standards on all building façades.

1. Massing and scale — Horizontal modulation. The primary intent of the horizontal modulation standards is to reduce the perceived width of building façades through the use of recesses and projections along building walls. Recesses and projections organized as building segments shall be designed to establish rhythm, continuity, and order across the façade width. The following horizontal modulation standards shall apply to all façades:

a. Applicability. Street-facing building façades greater than 90 linear feet in width and interior façades greater than 140 linear feet in width shall be horizontally modulated. Applicable façades shall be divided into a minimum of three façade segments, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.050-A. Each façade segment shall comply with the following:

i. Dimensions. Each façade segment shall be a minimum of 30 feet in width and include a minimum horizontal offset of 10 feet from the adjacent façade segment, measured perpendicular to the façade plane.

ii. Mixed-use buildings. For mixed-use buildings:

(A) Nonresidential ground floors shall have a minimum floor-to-floor height of 15 feet, measured from the adjacent finished grade or sidewalk.

(B) Horizontal modulation shall extend uninterrupted from the floor plate of the second floor to the top of parapet or eave line, excluding any required step-backs of the upper floors.

(C) Recessed façade segments may extend to the sidewalk level.

iii. Residential Buildings. For buildings containing only residential uses, recessed façade segments shall extend continuously from the ground floor to the top of parapet or eave line for the applicable façade segment, excluding any required step-backs of the upper floors.

2. Massing and scale — Vertical modulation. The purpose of the vertical modulation standards is to provide transitions in height, vary building volumes to reduce perceived bulk of buildings, create visual interest and preserve the privacy of adjacent residential uses. Vertical modulation shall be achieved through building step-backs and volume offsets as required below. Compliance with the standards of this section shall be deemed to satisfy the privacy and transition objectives of this subsection. All new buildings shall comply with the following vertical modulation standards:

a. Applicability. Vertical modulation is not required for buildings less than than 45 feet in height. All full stories above 45 feet in height shall be stepped back a minimum of 10 feet horizontally from the exterior façade plane of the story directly below for all street-facing elevations, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.050-B. For corner lots, all elevations abutting a public street shall be considered street-facing elevations. No solid guardrails, walls or similar features exceeding 42 inches in height shall be permitted within this required step-back area. This additional step-back requirement shall not apply to properties located in the C3 Height District III zone.

b. Adjacent to residential zones. For building façades facing a residential zone, a minimum 10-foot step-back from the exterior façade plane of the story directly below shall be required for the third story and above, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.050-C.

i. The additional 10 feet shall be applied to both minimum and average setbacks, where applicable.

ii. For elevations directly abutting a single-family residential zone, an additional minimum five-foot step-back from the exterior façade plane of the story directly below shall be required for the fifth story and above. This requirement shall be cumulative, resulting in a minimum total step-back of 15 feet at the fifth story and above.

c. Sloped lots zoned CH adjacent to residential zones. Notwithstanding subsection (b) above, for CH-zoned sites with an average current slope of 10% or greater, building stories facing a residential zone that are located at the second floor or above or that are located above 25 feet in height, measured from the lowest point of the exterior façade wall to the finished ceiling height of that full story, whichever is less in height, shall be stepped back a minimum of five feet. An additional minimum five-foot step-back shall be provided for the third story and above on the elevation adjacent to the residential zone. See Figure 30.17.050-D.

For the purposes of this section, all step-backs shall be measured from the exterior façade plane of the story directly below.

3. Massing and scale — Façade articulation. These standards are intended to further reduce the perceived building mass, establish human scale, and create visually engaging building elevations. Each façade segment shall include a minimum of one and a maximum of two façade articulation options, as listed below and illustrated in Figure 30.17.050-E. Building elevations not subject to the Horizontal Modulation standards, per Section 30.17.040B, shall incorporate a minimum of two and a maximum of three façade articulation options from the list below.

a. Projected bay.

i. Quantity. A maximum of one projected bay shall be permitted per building façade segment less than 20 feet in width. For façade segments 20 feet or greater in width, a maximum of one projected bay shall be permitted for every 20 linear feet of façade width.

ii. Dimensions. Projected bays shall have a minimum width of six feet and a minimum height of five feet and may extend across multiple stories.

iii. Projection. Projected bays shall project a minimum of one foot and a maximum of four feet horizontally from the adjacent façade plane and shall comply with applicable setback standards.

iv. Differentiation. Projected bays shall be differentiated from the façade plane by a change in cladding material and/or color.

b. Ground floor façade recess.

i. Width. A ground floor façade recess shall extend the full width of the façade segment in which it is located.

ii. Height. A ground floor façade recess shall extend the full height of the ground floor and shall maintain a consistent height across the façade segment.

iii. Depth. A ground floor façade recess shall be recessed from the adjacent façade plane above by a minimum depth of three feet for façade segment less than 75 feet in width, and a minimum depth of four feet for façade segments 75 feet or greater in width.

iv. Differentiation. The recessed ground floor façade shall be differentiated from the façade plane above by a change in cladding material and/or color.

v. Corner condition. At a street corner intersection, the ground floor façade recess shall wrap around the corner along both street-facing façades and terminate at an interior corner junction or change in façade plane.

vi. Columns. Structural columns no greater than two feet in width are permitted within a ground floor façade recess greater than 50 feet in width and such columns shall be set back a minimum of 12 inches from the outer edge of the recess.

c. Vertical recessed notch.

i. Quantity. A maximum of one vertical recessed notch shall be permitted per building façade segment. A horizontal modulation segment per Section 30.11.090B.1.a shall not be considered a vertical recessed notch for purposes of this section.

ii. Height. Vertical recessed notches shall extend the full height of a façade segment measured from the second floor plate to the roof eave or parapet line of that façade segment, excluding any required upper story step-backs. Recessed notches may extend to the ground floor.

iii. Width. Vertical recessed notches shall have a minimum width of four feet and a maximum width of 10 feet.

iv. Depth. Vertical recessed notches shall have a minimum recessed depth of two feet and a maximum depth of four feet, measured horizontally from the adjacent façade plane.

v. Differentiation. Vertical recessed notches shall be differentiated from the adjacent façade plane by a change in cladding material and/or color.

d. Frame projection.

i. Location. Frame projections shall be located along the top and at least one vertical side of a façade segment, forming a frame around a portion of the façade.

ii. Framed area. Frame projections shall define a framed façade area a minimum of 20 feet in width.

iii. Frame width. Frame projections shall have a minimum width of six inches and a maximum width of 18 inches, measured horizontal to the framed surface.

iv. Projection depth. Frame projections shall project a minimum of one foot horizontally from the adjacent plane. No maximum projection depth is required.

v. Setback encroachment. Frame projections may encroach a maximum of 18 inches into required setback areas, as per Section 30.12.050.

e. Architectural shading device.

i. General. Architectural shading devices may be oriented horizontally or vertically perpendicular to the building façade, or parallel to the building façade. See additional standards below for each of the orientations.

ii. Horizontally oriented architectural shading devices. Horizontally oriented architectural shading devices include canopies (closed top, slatted, or louvered), window awnings, and similar overhangs. These devices shall:

(A) Project a minimum of 30 inches from the building façade.

(B) Where window awnings are used to satisfy this requirement, at least 25% of window openings on the façade shall include a horizontally oriented shading device. These awnings shall have a minimum width equal to or greater than the window opening below and may extend across multiple openings.

iii. Vertically oriented architectural shading devices. Vertically oriented shading devices, installed perpendicular to the façade plane, include building wall fins, window fins, and similar vertical projections. These devices shall:

(A) Project a minimum of 12 inches from the building façade.

(B) When located adjacent to a window, the shading device shall have a minimum height equal to that of the window and may extend across multiple stories.

iv. Architectural shading devices parallel to the façade. Shading devices parallel to, or angled less than 10% from, the adjacent façade plane, include perforated architectural screens, sliding shutter panels, and similar shading devices. These devices shall:

(A) Be attached to the exterior wall with a minimum separation of eight inches and a maximum separation of five feet.

(B) Cover a minimum of 40% of total area of any façade segment, including doors and windows.

(C) Extend vertically a minimum of two floors and horizontally a minimum of 10 feet in width.

v. Materials. Architectural shading devices used to satisfy this section shall be permanently attached to the building façade and constructed of durable materials such as metal, wood, or fiber cement. Shading devices constructed of plastic or vinyl shall be prohibited.

4. Massing and scale — Corner elements. Corner elements are intended to enhance building aesthetics, provide visual prominence at intersections for primary entrances, and create variation in building massing. Corner elements also contribute to a sense of place within the public realm by incorporating distinct architectural features.

a. Applicability. Buildings located at the intersection of two or more streets shall provide a corner element at each street intersection.

b. Design requirements. The corner element shall be visibly differentiated from the primary massing of the building through height, form and/or architectural detailing. Each required corner element shall incorporate a minimum of two from the following design elements:

i. Vertical articulation feature: tower, pilaster, or vertical projection that extends a minimum of three feet above the adjacent roofline, has a minimum width of five feet and is visibly diffrentiated from the primary building mass through a change in plane, material or form;

ii. Horizontal articulation feature: cornice, horizontal banding, balcony, or frame projection that extends a minimum of 12 inches from the façade plane and continues along both street facing elevations for a minimum distance of 10 feet from the corner;

iii. Fenestration provided on both street-facing elevations within the corner element area, such that a minimum of 20% of the wall area is within the corner element frontages with minimum 20% glazing;

iv. Distinct cladding material and color that is visibly differentiated from from adjacent façades and extends a minimum of 10 feet along each street-facing elevation from the corner;

v. Ground-floor corner feature oriented towards the intersection, including one or more of the following: a primary building entrance within 10 feet of the corner, outdoor seating area, or canopy or awning projecting a minimum of three feet over the sidewalk at the corner;

C. Architectural Elements in Commercial Districts. The intent of these standards is to establish minimum requirements for façade treatment, including materials, colors, roofs, window fenestration, balconies, entries and other architectural elements, to articulate modulated façades and create visual interest. The following standards shall apply to all new buildings:

1. Architectural elements — Façade cladding materials and colors. Materials and colors are significant design features that contribute to a building's unique aesthetic quality and character. All building façades shall comply with the following cladding materials and color standards:

a. Façade cladding materials.

i. Durability. Exterior building walls shall be clad with materials and finishes that have a minimum manufacturer warranty or durability rating of 20 years, as specified in manufacturer cut sheets and consistent with industry standards.

ii. Minimum number of materials. Buildings one or two stories in height shall incorporate a minimum of two distinct façade cladding materials. Buildings three or more stories in height shall incorporate a minimum of three distinct cladding materials. Each façade cladding material shall cover a minimum of 10% of the façade area on which it is used.

iii. Prohibited materials. Engineered wood siding (e.g., plywood or particle board), field-finished foam trim, plastic or vinyl siding are prohibited.

iv. Stucco limitations. Stucco products, including Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS), are prohibited at the ground level for all residential and mixed-use residential buildings. Above the ground floor, no more than 60% of the total façade area facing a street shall be clad with stucco products.

v. Stucco articulation. Any uninterrupted stucco-clad wall area greater than 20 feet in width or height shall incorporate score lines with a minimum depth of 1/2 inch.

vi. Corner treatment. Façade cladding materials shall wrap around exterior corners and terminate only at interior corner junctions or changes in façade plane.

b. Façade colors.

i. Prohibited colors. Neon and fluorescent colors, which are defined as extremely bright versions of primary and secondary colors, shall be limited to trim details only.

ii. Accent colors. Accent colors are encouraged for doors, window trim, railings, fascia boards, shutters, canopies, rafter tails, building hardware and other architectural elements to contrast these features from the exterior building walls.

2. Architectural elements — Roof forms and materials. All new buildings shall comply with the following roof form and material standards:

a. Roof forms.

i. Permitted roof forms. Roof forms may include, but are not limited to, pitched roofs (e.g., hipped, gable, shed, butterfly, mansard), flat roofs, and rounded roofs (e.g., barrel and dome). A maximum of three roof forms shall be permitted per building.

ii. Flat roof lengths. Flat rooflines along street-facing façades shall not exceed 50 feet in horizontal length without incorporating one of the following:

(A) A change in roof height of at least two feet; or

(B) A change in roof form.

Façade segments that comply with Section 30.17.050B.1 shall be considered a break in roofline length and shall not be included in the 50-foot maximum length.

iii. Mansard roofs and parapets. Mansard roofs and parapets, when provided, shall extend continuously along all building elevations or along the entire portion of the building where they are applied, regardless of visibility from the street.

b. Roof materials.

i. Cool roof compliance. All roofing systems shall comply with applicable cool roof standards. Green roofs or rooftop gardens are encouraged.

ii. Durability. Roofing materials shall have a minimum manufacturer warranty or durability rating of 30 years, as specified in manufacturer documentation and consistent with industry standards.

3. Architectural elements — Fenestration. Fenestration refers to the arrangement, proportioning, and design of exterior windows and doors in a building. Window placement and design define building character, break up massing, and enhance façade modulation through variations in materials, scale, and the balance of solid and transparent surfaces. All window and door openings for new buildings shall comply with the following standards:

a. Required openings. A minimum of 20% of all residential façade areas on the second floor and above shall consist of window openings. For ground floor fenestration standards, see Section 30.17.050C.4, Ground Floor Treatment.

b. Recess depth. All window and door openings shall be recessed by a minimum of two inches to provide depth, shadow, and shade. Recess depth shall be measured from the outer face of the glazing to the outer edge of the adjacent primary façade cladding surface. Curtain wall systems shall be exempt from this requirement.

c. Shape. All window shapes shall be permitted, including, but not limited to, rectangular, square, arched, round, and angled windows.

d. Prohibited. Internal grid windows, field-finished stucco-and-foam trim window surrounds, and mirror-finish glazing shall be prohibited.

e. Arrangement. Each façade segment shall include a maximum of one window arrangement for segments 40 feet or less and no more than two window arrangement options for façade segments greater than 40 feet in length, as illustrated in Figure 30.17.050-F, except for the pattern offset window arrangement. Where a pattern offset window arrangement is used, no additional fenestration options shall be permitted for the façade segment.

i. Stacked window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be aligned vertically on all floors within the same façade segment.

(B) Windows within each vertical stack shall be uniform in size.

(C) Windows shall be aligned horizontally at a consistent head height across each floor.

ii. Pattern offset window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be offset horizontally on every other floor by a minimum of 50% of the window width of the window in the floor above or below, measured at the side edge.

(B) A maximum of two window sizes shall be permitted for each façade segment.

iii. Framed grouped window arrangement.

(A) Windows shall be located within a framing element that is differentiated from the adjacent wall plane using a different cladding material and color, or minimum offset of four inches from the adjacent wall plane.

(B) No more than two window sizes shall be permitted in a framed group.

(C) Frames shall extend vertically a minimum of two or more floors within a single differentiated frame or extend horizontally on a single floor to include a minimum of three windows within a single differentiated frame.

(D) Windows of the same size within a vertical frame shall be stacked and aligned vertically along the side edges within that frame.

(E) Windows of the same size within a horizontal frame element shall be aligned horizontally along the top and bottom edges within that frame.

iv. Unframed grouped window arrangement.

(A) An unframed grouped window arrangement shall consist of a minimum of two and a maximum of four windows with consistent height dimensions.

(B) No more than two window widths shall be permitted per group.

(C) Window within a group shall not be spaced horizontally more than two feet apart within a group.

(D) Grouped windows shall be aligned vertically along a common edge or on-center of the group across all floors.

v. Curtain wall systems.

(A) Curtain wall vision and spandrel glazing systems shall be permitted within a horizontal or vertical recessed notch, or projected bay. A curtain wall system shall also be permitted when it spans across the entire width and height of a façade segment above the ground floor and may extend to the ground floor.

(B) Except for curtain walls within a horizontal recessed notch, curtain wall systems shall extend vertically to include two or more floors for projected bays and extend to the roof line for vertical recessed notches. Curtain walls within a horizontal recessed notch shall extend across the entire façade segment.

4. Architectural elements — Ground floor treatment. All street-facing ground floor façades shall be designed to provide direct pedestrian access, visibility, and physical and visual connection between the public right-of-way and ground-floor uses through building entrances, glazing, and frontage design. Street-facing ground floor façades shall comply with the following standards:

a. Main entries and lobbies.

i. All primary building lobby entrances shall be located on the ground floor and shall be directly accessible from and oriented toward a public street frontage.

ii. Exterior building entrances shall incorporate at least one prominent architectural feature to enhance visibility and sense of entry. Such features include a canopy, marquee, awning or other permanent form of weather protection, and/or a recess or projection with a minimum depth of four feet, measured from the adjacent wall plane, that clearly delineates the entrance from the remainder of the façade.

b. Exterior residential unit entries.

i. Entries to individual ground-floor residential units shall be directly accessible from a public street or a pedestrian pathway connected to a public sidewalk and shall be oriented parallel or perpendicular to the street-facing façade. This requirement shall not apply to ground-floor residential units accessed from an interior hallway.

ii. Exterior individual unit entries shall incorporate at least one of the following design features: entry porch, stoop, canopy, awning, or other comparable form of weather protection. As an alternative, an entry may be defined by a recess or projection with a minimum depth of four feet from the adjacent façade plane. Where applicable, entry porches and stoops for exterior individual unit entries shall have a minimum area of 20 square feet, while a canopy or awning shall have a minimum projection of two feet.

iii. Residential entries shall not be accessed from alleys, driveways, at-grade parking lots, or parking structures.

c. Façade transparency. Street-facing ground-floor façades shall provide visual connection between pedestrian areas and ground-floor uses to support safety and visibility, and, except for ground-floor residential units, shall comply with the following transparency standards.

i. Minimum transparency area. A minimum of 50% of the ground floor façade area shall consist of transparent glazed doors and window openings.

(A) Transparency area shall be calculated by multiplying the horizontal width of the ground floor street frontage, excluding stairs, elevator shafts, driveways, garage doors, utility rooms, by the vertical height measured from the adjacent grade to the finished ceiling height of the ground floor.

(B) All window and door components, including frames, jambs, heads, sills, mullions, muntins, and glazing, shall be included as part of the opening area. Decorative window trim and surrounds shall not be included as part of the opening calculation.

ii. Transparency. Dark-tinted, opaque or reflective glazing is prohibited for all required ground-floor street-facing openings. For the purposes of this section, dark-tinted and opaque windows shall be defined as glazing with a visible transmittance of less than 70%, in accordance with standards established by the National Fenestration Rating Council.

d. Landscaping. All areas on private property directly adjacent to ground floor residential units shall include a landscape buffer, provided either at-grade or within planters, except where walkways or building entrances are required.

i. Landscape buffers shall not exceed 30 inches in height measured from the adjacent grade and shall have a minimum interior soil width of 24 inches.

ii. Landscape buffers shall be planted with vertically oriented shrubs to provide visual screening while maintaining visibility between the building and the street.

5. Architectural elements — Balconies. Balconies provide required outdoor private space for residential units and contribute to façade articulation by creating depth, rhythm and visual interest. All new balconies shall not project into any required setback area and shall comply with the following standards:

a. Location and configuration. Balconies providing required private outdoor space in accordance with Section 30.11.050 shall be fully recessed or partially recessed a minimum of two feet from at least one adjacent façade plane that is parallel to a property line. Where partially recessed, balconies shall not project more than four feet from the adjacent façade plane. For the purposes of this section, balconies located within a frame projection (façade articulation option) are permitted, provided that the balcony does not project beyond the outer edge of the frame projection.

b. Minimum width. Balconies shall have a minimum clear width of eight feet parallel to the façade plane.

6. Architectural elements — Awnings and canopies. Awnings and canopies provide visual emphasis for entrances, windows and other façade elements, as well as shading and weather protection. All new awnings and canopies shall comply with the following:

a. Projection. Awnings and canopies shall project a minimum of two feet from the building façade.

b. Width. Awnings and canopies shall have a minimum width equal to the width of the opening they serve and may extend across multiple openings.

c. Prohibited materials. Plastic and vinyl awning materials and internally illuminated translucent fabric awnings shall be prohibited.

d. Details. All awning and canopy frames and associated hardware systems shall be painted to match the color of adjacent window and door systems or approved trim colors. Poles or ground-mounted support systems shall not be located within required pedestrian walkways or common areas.

7. Architectural elements — Vents, gutters and downspouts.

a. Color. Gutters, downspouts, flashing, and vents shall be painted to match the adjacent wall or trim color.

b. Roof drainage. All new buildings shall utilize internal roof drainage systems (internal leaders).

c. Vent integration. Vents on street-facing elevations shall be architecturally integrated into the building design.

d. Location. Where soffits or balcony ceilings are provided on street-facing elevations, vents shall be located within such soffits or ceilings.

(Ord. 6052, 5/19/2026)