Chapter 16.44 — LS LIFE SCIENCES DISTRICT

The purpose and intent of the life sciences district is to:

• (1) Attract research and development and light industrial uses, particularly those that support bioscience and biomedical product development and manufacturing and/or are potentially revenue generating businesses;

• (2) Allow administrative and professional office uses and other services that support light industrial and research and development sites nearby;

• (3) Provide opportunities for quality employment and development of emerging technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation;

• (4) Facilitate the creation of a thriving business environment with goods and services that support adjacent neighborhoods as well as the employment base.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Terms are as defined in Chapter 16.04, Definitions, unless otherwise stated in this chapter. (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Permitted uses in the life sciences district are as follows:

• (1) Light industrial and research and development and accessory uses, except when requiring hazardous material review;

• (2) Administrative and professional offices in buildings, twenty thousand (20,000) or less square feet of gross floor area;

• (3) Retail sales establishments, excluding the sale of beer, wine and alcohol;

• (4) Eating establishments, excluding the sale of beer, wine, and alcohol or live entertainment, and/or establishments that are portable. For the purpose of this chapter, an eating establishment is primarily engaged in serving prepared food for consumption on or off the premises;

• (5) Personal services, excluding tattooing, piercing, palm-reading, or similar services;

• (6) Recreational facilities privately operated, twenty thousand (20,000) or less square feet of gross floor area;

• (7) Community education/training center that provides free or low-cost educational and vocational programs to help prepare local youth and adults for entry into college and/or the local job market.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.030

§ 16.44.050

Uses allowed in the life sciences district, subject to obtaining an administrative permit, are as follows:

• (1) Any outside storage of material, equipment or vehicles associated with the main use;

• (2) Eating establishments, including the sale of beer and wine only, and/or that have live entertainment;

• (3) Outdoor seating;

• (4) Research and development and light industrial uses, requiring hazardous material review;

• (5) Diesel generators.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Conditional uses allowed in the life sciences district, subject to obtaining a use permit per Chapter 16.82, are as follows:

• (1) Administrative and professional offices and accessory uses, greater than twenty thousand (20,000) square feet of gross floor area;

• (2) Eating establishments, including alcohol, and/or establishments that are portable;

• (3) Drinking establishments, including beer, wine and alcohol. For purposes of this chapter, a drinking establishment is a business serving beverages for consumption on the premises as a primary use;

• (4) Retail sales establishments, including the sale of beer, wine and alcohol;

• (5) Recreational facilities, privately operated, greater than twenty thousand (20,000) square feet of gross floor area;

• (6) Special uses, in accordance with Chapter 16.78;

• (7) Uses identified in Sections 16.44.020 and 16.44.030 and this section proposing bonus level development, in accordance with Section 16.44.060;

• (8) Public utilities, in accordance with Chapter 16.76.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Development regulations in the life sciences district are as follows:

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.050

§ 16.44.050

==> picture [424 x 410] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Notes/Additional
Regulation Definition Base Level Bonus Level Requirements
Minimum lot Minimum area of 25,000 square 25,000 square feet
area building site (includes feet
public access
easements).
Minimum lot Minimum size of a lot 100 feet width 100 feet width
dimensions calculated using lot lines. 100 feet depth 100 feet depth
Minimum Minimum linear feet 5 feet 5 feet Setbacks shall be measured
setback at street building can be sited from the property line. In
from property line instances where there will be
adjacent to street. a public access easement,
measure the setback from the
back of the easement. See
build-to area requirements in
Section 16.44.120(1).
Minimum Minimum linear feet 10 feet 10 feet See Section 16.44.120(5)
interior side and building can be sited when property is required to
rear setbacks from interior and rear have a paseo. Interior side
property lines. setback may be reduced to
zero feet for the entire
building mass where there is
retail frontage.
Maximum floor Maximum permitted 55% plus 10% 125% plus 10% For purposes of this chapter,
area ratio ratio of the total square commercial commercial "commercial" is defined as
footage of the gross floor uses enumerated in this
area of all buildings on a chapter, except office, light
lot to the square footage industrial, and research and
of the lot. development.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.050

§ 16.44.060

==> picture [424 x 368] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Notes/Additional
Regulation Definition Base Level Bonus Level Requirements
Height "Height" is defined as Height: 35 feet Height: 67.5 feet Properties may calculate
average height of all Maximum Maximum height: height amongst multiple
buildings on one site, height: 35 feet 110 feet properties in the same zoning
where a maximum height district, subject to a deed
cannot be exceeded. restriction and approval by
Maximum height does the planning commission or
not include roof-mounted city council.
equipment and utilities. A parapet used to screen
mechanical equipment is not
included in the maximum
height. The maximum
allowed height for rooftop
mechanical equipment is 14
feet, except for elevator
towers and associated
equipment, which may be 20
feet. Properties within the
flood zone or subject to
flooding and sea level rise are
allowed a 10-foot increase in
height and maximum height.
Minimum open Minimum portion of the 20% 20% See Section 16.44.120(4) for
space building site open and open space requirements.
requirement unobstructed by fully
enclosed buildings.
----- End of picture text -----

(Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

The purpose of a master planned project is to provide flexibility for creative design, more orderly development, and optimal use of open space, while maintaining and achieving the general plan vision for the Bayfront Area. Master planned projects for sites with the same zoning designation (O, LS or R-MU) in close proximity or for contiguous sites that have a mix of zoning designations (O or R-MU) that exceed fifteen (15) acres in size and that are held in common ownership (or held by wholly owned affiliated entities) and are proposed for development as a single project or single phased development project are permitted as a conditional use; provided, that sites with mixed zoning are required to obtain a conditional development permit and enter into a development agreement. For master planned projects meeting these criteria, residential density, FAR and open space requirements and residential density, FAR and open space requirements at the bonus level, if applicable, may be calculated in the aggregate across the site provided the overall development proposed does not exceed what would be permitted if the site were developed in accordance with the zoning designation applicable to each portion of the site and the proposed project complies with all other design standards identified for the applicable zoning districts.

(Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.060

§ 16.44.070

A development in a location identified as life sciences-bonus (LS-B) on the adopted city of Menlo Park zoning map may seek an increase in floor area ratio and/or height per Section 16.44.050, subject to obtaining a use permit or conditional development permit per Chapter 16.82 and providing community amenities consistent with Section 16.44.070. (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Bonus level development allows a project to develop at a greater level of intensity with an increased floor area ratio and/or increased height. There is a reasonable relationship between the increased intensity of development and the increased effects on the surrounding community. The required community amenities are intended to address identified community needs that result from the effect of the increased development intensity on the surrounding community. To be eligible for bonus level development, an applicant shall provide one (1) or more community amenities. Construction of the amenity is preferable to the payment of a fee.

• (1) Amenities. Community needs were initially identified through the robust community engagement process generally referred to as ConnectMenlo. The city council of the city of Menlo Park adopted by resolution those identified community needs as community amenities to be provided in exchange for bonus level development. The identified community amenities may be updated from time to time by city council resolution. All community amenities, except for affordable housing, shall be provided within the area between U.S. Highway 101 and the San Francisco Bay in the city of Menlo Park. Affordable housing may be located anywhere housing is allowed in the city of Menlo Park.

• (2) Application. An application for bonus level development is voluntary. In exchange for the voluntary provision of community amenities, an applicant is receiving a benefit in the form of an increased floor area ratio and/or increased height. An applicant requesting bonus level development shall provide the city with a written proposal, which includes but is not limited to the specific amount of bonus development sought, the value of the amenity as calculated pursuant to subsection (3) of this section, and adequate information identifying the value of the proposed community amenities. An applicant's proposal for community amenities shall be subject to review by the planning commission in conjunction with a use permit or conditional development permit. Consideration by the planning commission shall include differentiation between amenities proposed to be provided on site and amenities proposed to be provided off site, which may require a separate discretionary review and environmental review per the California Environmental Quality Act.

ject to review by the planning commission in conjunction with a use permit or conditional development permit. Consideration by the planning commission shall include differentiation between amenities proposed to be provided on site and amenities proposed to be provided off site, which may require a separate discretionary review and environmental review per the California Environmental Quality Act.

• (3) Value of Amenity. The value of the community amenities to be provided shall equal fifty percent (50%) of the fair market value of the additional gross floor area of the bonus level development. The value shall be calculated as follows: The applicant shall provide, at their expense, an appraisal ("applicant's appraisal") on or after the application date by a licensed appraisal firm that sets a fair market value in cash of the gross floor area of the bonus level of development ("bonus value"). The bonus value shall be determined without consideration of the community amenities requirement established under this section. The applicant's appraisal shall be based on a date of value that is within ninety (90) days of the date of the applicant's appraisal, but in no event shall the date of value be earlier than the application date. The form and content of the applicant's appraisal must be approved by the community development director. The city council shall adopt regulations providing for a

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.070

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.080

process by which the community development director shall determine a final appraised value. The final appraised value shall be based on the same date of value as the applicant's appraisal and shall constitute the city's final determination of the bonus value. Fifty percent (50%) of the total bonus value is the value of the community amenity to be provided.

• (4) Form of Amenity. A community amenity shall be provided utilizing any combination of the following mechanisms:

  • (A) Include the community amenity as part of the project. The community amenity designed and constructed as part of the project shall be from the list of community amenities adopted by city council resolution. The value of the community amenity provided shall be at least equivalent to the value calculated pursuant to the formula identified in subsection (3) of this section. Once any one (1) of the community amenities on the list adopted by city council resolution has been provided, with the exception of affordable housing, it will no longer be an option available to other applicants. Prior to approval of final inspection for the building permit for any portion of the project, the applicant shall complete (or bond for) the construction and installation of the community amenities included in the project and shall provide documentation sufficient for the city manager or their designee to certify compliance with this section.

no longer be an option available to other applicants. Prior to approval of final inspection for the building permit for any portion of the project, the applicant shall complete (or bond for) the construction and installation of the community amenities included in the project and shall provide documentation sufficient for the city manager or their designee to certify compliance with this section.

• (B) In-Lieu Payment. An applicant for bonus development may elect to pay one hundred ten percent (110%) of the value of the community amenity to be provided, as calculated pursuant to subsection (3) of this section. An in-lieu payment may be made in combination with the provision of a community amenity as a part of the project, as long as the in-lieu payment portion is equal to one hundred ten percent (110%) of the value of the community amenity to be provided, minus the value of the community amenity provided as calculated pursuant to subsection (3) of this section. The applicant shall provide documentation sufficient for the city manager or their designee to certify compliance with this section. In-lieu payments shall be made prior to building permit issuance for the project. The city shall place all in-lieu payments in a restricted community amenities fund to be used to implement community amenities identified in the list adopted by city council resolution.

• (C) Enter into a development agreement. An applicant may implement community amenities that are not on the list of community amenities adopted by city council resolution, by entering into a development agreement for the bonus level project and the community amenities, pursuant to Article 2.5 of Chapter 4 of Division 1 of Title 7 (Section 65864 et seq.) of the California Government Code and any city ordinances, resolutions, and procedures governing development agreements.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016; Ord. 1077 § 3, 2021; Ord. 1100 § 3, 2023)

Development in the life sciences district shall meet the following parking requirements:

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.080

§ 16.44.090

==> picture [424 x 280] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Minimum Spaces Maximum Spaces
Land Use (Per 1,000 Sq. Ft.) (Per 1,000 Sq. Ft.) Minimum Bicycle Parking
Office 2 3 1 per 5,000 sq. ft. of gross floor
area; minimum 2 spaces
Light industrial, research 1.5 2.5
For office and research
and development
development:
Retail 2.5 3.3 80% for long-term2 and 20% for
Banks and financial 2 3.3 short-term2
institutions For all other commercial uses:
Eating and drinking 2.5 3.3 20% for long-term2 and 80% for
establishments 2
short-term
Personal services 2 3.3
Private recreation 2 3.3
Child care center 2 3.3
Public parking lot or 1 space per 20 vehicle spaces
structure
Other At transportation At transportation At transportation manager's
manager's discretion manager's discretion discretion
----- End of picture text -----

Notes:

1 See Section 16.44.120(7) and the latest edition of best practice design standards in Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals Bicycle Parking Guidelines.

2 Long-term parking is for use over several hours or overnight, typically used by employees and residents. Short-term parking is considered visitor parking for use from several minutes to up to a couple of hours.

Parking facilities may be shared at the discretion of the city's transportation manager if multiple uses cooperatively establish and operate the facilities, if these uses generate parking demands primarily during different hours than the remaining uses, and if a sufficient number of spaces are provided to meet the maximum cumulative parking demand of the participating uses at any time. An individual development proposal may incorporate a shared parking study to account for the mixture of uses, either on site or within a reasonable distance. The shared parking supply would be subject to review and approval based on the proposed uses, specific design and site conditions. Project applicants may also be allowed to meet the minimum parking requirements through the use of nearby off-site facilities at the discretion of the transportation manager. (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

All new construction, regardless of size, and building additions of ten thousand (10,000) or more square feet of gross floor area, or a change of use of ten thousand (10,000) or more square feet of gross floor area shall develop a transportation demand management (TDM) plan necessary to reduce associated vehicle trips to at least twenty percent (20%) below standard generation rates for uses on the project site.

(1) Eligible TDM measures may include but are not limited to:

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.090

§ 16.44.100

• (A) Participation in a local transportation management association (TMA) that provides documented, ongoing support for alternative commute programs;

• (B) Appropriately located transit shelter(s);

• (C) Preferred parking for carpools or vanpools;

• (D) Designated parking for car share vehicles;

• (E) Requiring drivers to pay directly for using parking facilities;

• (F) Public and/or private bike share program; Provision or subsidy of carpool, vanpool, shuttle, or bus service, including transit passes for site occupants;

• (G) Required alternative work schedules and/or telecommuting;

• (H) Passenger loading zones for carpools and vanpools at main building entrance;

• (I) Safe, well-lit, accessible, and direct route to the nearest transit or shuttle stop or dedicated, fully accessible bicycle and pedestrian trail;

• (J) Car share membership for employees or residents;

• (K) Emergency ride home programs;

• (L) Green trip certification.

• (2) Measures receiving TDM credit shall be:

  • (A) Documented in a TDM plan developed specifically for each project and noted on project site plans, if and as appropriate;

  • (B) Guaranteed to achieve the intended reduction over the life of the development, as evidenced by annual reporting provided to the satisfaction of the city's transportation manager;

  • (C) Required to be replaced by appropriate substitute measures if unable to achieve intended trip reduction in any reporting year; failure to do so will result in revocation of permit;

  • (D) Administered by a representative whose updated contact information is provided to the transportation manager.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

Proposed development will be required to provide new pedestrian, bicycle, and/or vehicle connections to support connectivity and circulation as denoted in the city zoning map. These connections may be in the form of either a public street or a paseo as denoted in the city zoning map and are pursuant to the standards in Section 16.44.120. Streets shall meet the requirements of the adopted city of Menlo Park street classification map in the general plan circulation element.

• (1) If the location of a new connection is split between parcel/ownership, the first applicant must set aside the required right-of-way through dedication or a public access easement

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.100

§ 16.44.120

and bond for the completion of the new connection, or reach agreement with the other property owner(s) to allow the first applicant to complete the entire new connection;

• (2) If the location of a new connection is located on multiple properties with the same owner, applicant may move the connection up to fifty (50) feet in either direction from what is shown on the city zoning map for enhanced connectivity, and/or other considerations, subject to the review and approval of the city's public works director;

• (3) For phased implementation of a development project, applicant must show an implementation plan for the new connection and the city may require a bond or right-ofway dedication or public access easement prior to the completion of the first phase;

• (4) The land area dedicated for new connections in the form of public streets (right-of-way) will be subtracted from the total lot area to determine the site's floor area ratio;

• (5) The land area dedicated for new connections in the form of paseos will require a public access easement (PAE). The area of the PAE is included in the total lot area to determine the site's floor area ratio.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

For new construction and/or building additions of ten thousand (10,000) or more square feet of gross floor area or for tenant improvements on a site where the cumulative construction value exceeds five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) over a five (5) year period, the public works director shall require the project to provide street improvements on public street edges of the property that comply with adopted city of Menlo Park street construction requirements for the adjacent street type. When these are required by the public works director, the improvements do not count as community amenities pursuant to Section 16.44.070. The threshold for the value of improvements shall be adjusted annually on the first day of July, based on the ENR Construction Cost Index.

• (1) Improvements shall include curb, gutter, sidewalk, street trees, and street lights;

• (2) Overhead electric distribution lines of less than sixty (60) kilovolts and communication lines shall be placed underground along the property frontage;

  • (A) The public works director may allow a deferred frontage improvement agreement, including a bond to cover the full cost of the improvements and installation to accomplish needed improvements in coordination with other street improvements at a later date.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

All new construction, regardless of size, and building additions of ten thousand (10,000) square feet or more of gross floor area shall adhere to the following design standards, subject to architectural control established in Section 16.68.020. For building, the applicable design standards apply only to the new construction. The existing building and new addition shall have an integrated design. Design standards may be modified subject to approval of a use permit or a conditional development permit per Chapter 16.82.

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

• (1) Relationship to the Street. The following standards regulate the siting and placement of buildings, parking areas, and other features in relation to the street. The dimensions between building facades and the street and types of features allowed in these spaces are critical to the quality of the pedestrian experience.

==> picture [400 x 576] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Thoroughfare,
Bonus Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or Notes/
Local Neighborhood Additional
Standard Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Frontage The percentage of Minimum of Minimum of Minimum of 25% Setback areas
Landscaping the setback area 40% (50% 25% (50% of (50% of which adjacent to
devoted to of which which should should provide on- active ground
groundcover and shall provide on- site infiltration of floor uses,
vegetation. Trees provide on- site stormwater runoff) including
may or may not be site infiltration of lobbies, retail
within the infiltration stormwater sales, and
landscaped area. For of runoff) eating and
this requirement, the stormwater drinking
setback area is the runoff) establishments
area between the are excepted.
property line and
the face of the
building.
Frontage Uses Allowable frontage No No Setback areas Commercial
uses in order to restrictions restrictions parallel to street not uses shall be a
support a positive used for frontage minimum of 50
integration of new landscaping must feet in depth.
buildings into the provide pedestrian Publicly
streetscape circulation (e.g., accessible open
character. entryways, space is further
stairways, defined and
accessible ramps), regulated in
other publicly Section
accessible open 16.44.120(4).
spaces (e.g., plazas,
gathering areas,
outdoor seating
areas), access to
parking, bicycle
parking, or other
uses that the
planning
commission deems
appropriate.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

==> picture [400 x 378] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Thoroughfare,
Bonus Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or Notes/
Local Neighborhood Additional
Standard Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Surface Parking Surface parking Maximum Maximum of Maximum of 25%
Along Street may be located of 35% 35%
Frontage along the street if
Figure 1, label set back
A appropriately. The
maximum
percentage of linear
frontage of property
adjacent to the street
allowed to be off-
street surface
parking.
Minimum The minimum Minimum Minimum 20 Minimum 20 feet
Surface Parking dimension from 20 feet feet
Setback property line
Figure 1, label adjacent to the street
B that surface parking
must be set back.
Notes:
----- End of picture text -----

• See the general plan circulation element street classification map for street types.

Figure 1. Surface Parking

==> picture [131 x 90] intentionally omitted <==

• (2) Building Mass and Scale. The following standards regulate building mass, bulk, size, and vertical building planes to minimize the visual impacts of large buildings and maximize visual interest of building facades as experienced by pedestrians:

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

==> picture [400 x 355] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Thoroughfare,
Bonus Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or Notes/
Standard and Local Neighborhood Additional
Figure Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Base Height The maximum 35 feet 45 feet 45 feet Properties
Figure 2, label height of a building within the flood
A at the minimum zone or subject
setback at street or to flooding and
before the building sea level rise
steps back the are allowed a
minimum horizontal 10-foot height
distance required. increase.
Building The maximum 6 feet 6 feet 6 feet
Projections depth of allowable
building projections,
such as balconies or
bay windows, from
the required
stepback for
portions of the
building above the
ground floor.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

==> picture [400 x 428] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Thoroughfare,
Bonus Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or Notes/
Standard and Local Neighborhood Additional
Figure Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Building A building Minimum of Minimum of Minimum of one Modulation is
Modulations modulation is a one recess one recess of recess of 15 feet required on the
Figure 2, label break in the of 15 feet 15 feet wide wide by 10 feet building
C building plane from wide by 10 by 10 feet deep per 200 feet of facade(s) facing
the ground level to feet deep per deep per 200 facade length publicly
the top of the 200 feet of feet of facade accessible
building's base facade length spaces (streets,
height that provides length open space, and
visual variety, paseos).
reduces large Parking is not
building volumes, allowed in the
and provides spaces modulation
for entryways and recess. When
publicly accessible more than 50%
spaces. of an existing
building facade
that faces a
publicly
accessible
space is altered,
it must comply
with these
modulation
requirements.
----- End of picture text -----

Notes:

• See the general plan circulation element street classification map for street types.

Figure 2. Building Mass and Scale

==> picture [155 x 102] intentionally omitted <==

• (3) Ground Floor Exterior. The following standards regulate the ground floor facade of buildings in order to enhance pedestrian experience, as well as visual continuity along the

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

street:

==> picture [400 x 542] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Bonus Level Boulevard,
Fronting a Thoroughfare,
Local or Mixed Use
Interior Collector, or Notes/
Access Neighborhood Additional
Standard Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Building The minimum ratio One One entrance One entrance per Entrances at a
Entrances of entrances to entrance per per public public street building corner
Figure 3, label building length public street street frontage may be used to
A along a public street frontage frontage satisfy this
or paseo. requirement for
both frontages.
Stairs must be
located in
locations
convenient to
building users.
Ground Floor The minimum 25%; 50% 25%; 50% for 40%; 50% for Windows shall
Transparency percentage of the for commercial commercial uses not be opaque
Figure 3, label ground floor facade commercial uses or mirrored. For
B (finished floor to uses the purpose of
ceiling) that must this chapter,
provide visual "commercial" is
transparency, such defined as uses
as clear glass enumerated in
windows, doors, etc. this chapter,
except office,
light industrial,
and research
and
development.
Minimum The minimum N/A 15 feet 15 feet
Ground Floor height between the
Height Along ground-level
Street Frontage finished floor to the
Figure 3, label second-level
C finished floor along
the street.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

==> picture [400 x 472] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Bonus Level Boulevard,
Fronting a Thoroughfare,
Local or Mixed Use
Interior Collector, or Notes/
Access Neighborhood Additional
Standard Definition Base Level Street* Street* Requirements
Garage Width of garage Maximum Maximum Maximum 12-foot Garage
Entrances entry/door along 12-foot 12-foot opening for one- entrances must
street frontage. opening for opening for way entrance; be separated by
one-way one-way Maximum 24-foot a minimum of
entrance; entrance; opening for two- 100 feet to
Maximum Maximum way entrance ensure all
24-foot 24-foot entrances/exits
opening for opening for are not grouped
two-way two-way together or
entrance entrance resulting in an
entire stretch of
sidewalk unsafe
and undesirable
for pedestrians.
Awnings, Signs, The maximum 7 feet 7 feet 7 feet Horizontal
and Canopies depth of awnings, projections
Figure 3, label signs, and canopies shall not extend
D that project into the public
horizontally from right-of-way.
the face of the A minimum
building. vertical
clearance of 8
feet from
finished grade
to the bottom of
the projection is
required.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

Notes:

• See the general plan circulation element street classification map for street types.

Figure 3. Ground Floor Exterior

==> picture [141 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

• (4) Open Space. All development in the life sciences district shall provide a minimum amount of open space equal to twenty percent (20%) of the total lot area, with a minimum amount of publicly accessible open space equal to fifty percent (50%) of the total required open space area.

  • (A) Publicly accessible open space consists of areas unobstructed by fully enclosed structures with a mixture of landscaping and hardscape that provides seating and places to rest, places for gathering, passive and/or active recreation, pedestrian circulation, or other similar use as determined by the planning commission. Publicly accessible open space types include, but are not limited to, paseos, plazas, forecourts and entryways, and outdoor dining areas. Publicly accessible open space must:

    • (i) Contain site furnishings, art, or landscaping;

    • (ii) Be on the ground floor or podium level;

    • (iii) Be at least partially visible from a public right-of-way such as a street or paseo;

    • (iv) Have a direct, accessible pedestrian connection to a public right-of-way or easement.

  • (B) Quasi-public and private open spaces, which may or may not be accessible to the public, include patios, balconies, roof terraces, and courtyards.

  • (C) All open space shall:

    • (i) Interface with adjacent buildings via direct connections through doors, windows, and entryways;

    • (ii) Be integrated as part of building modulation and articulation to enhance building facade and should be sited and designed to be appropriate for the size of the development and accommodate different activities, groups and both active and passive uses;

    • (iii) Incorporate landscaping design that includes:

      • a. Sustainable stormwater features;

      • b. A minimum landscaping bed no less than three (3) feet in length or width

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

and five (5) feet in depth for infiltration planting;

  - c. Native species able to grow to their maximum size without shearing. 

• (D) All exterior landscaping counts towards open space requirements.

• (5) Paseos. A "paseo" is defined as a pedestrian and bicycle path, as shown on the adopted of city of Menlo Park zoning map, that provides a member of the public access through one (1) or more parcels and to public streets and/or other paseos. Paseos must meet the following standards:

  • (A) Paseos must be publicly accessible, established through a public access easement, but they remain private property;

  • (B) Paseos count as publicly accessible open space.

==> picture [376 x 360] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Base and Bonus Notes/Additional
Standard Definition Levels Requirements
Paseo Width The minimum 20 feet
Figure 4, label dimension in overall
A width of the paseo,
including landscaping
and hardscape
components.
Pathway Width The minimum and 10 feet minimum; 14 The paseo pathway shall be
Figure 4, label maximum width of feet maximum connected to building
B the paved, hardscape entrances with hardscaped
portion of the paseo. pathways. Pathways may be
used for emergency vehicle
access use and allowed a
maximum paved width
exemption to accommodate
standards of the Menlo Park
Fire Protection District with
prior approval by
transportation manager.
Furnishing Requirements for Minimum dimension Furnishing zones must
Zones pockets of hardscape of 5 feet wide by 20 include benches or other
Figure 4, label areas dedicated to feet long, provided type of seating and
C seating, adjacent to at a minimum pedestrian-scaled lighting.
the main pedestrian interval of 100 feet
pathway area.
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

==> picture [376 x 378] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Base and Bonus Notes/Additional
Standard Definition Levels Requirements
Paseo Frontage The minimum 10 feet A minimum of 50% of the
Setback setback for adjacent setback area between the
Figure 4, label buildings from the building and paseo shall be
D edge of the paseo landscaped (50% of which
property line. should provide on-site
infiltration of stormwater
runoff.) Plants should be
climate-adapted species up
to 3 feet in height.
Trees The size and spacing Small canopy trees Trees must be planted
Figure 4, label of trees that are with a maximum within the paseo width, with
E required along the mature height of 40 the tree canopy allowed to
paseo. feet and canopy overhang into the setback.
diameter of 25 feet,
planted at maximum
intervals of 40 feet
Landscaping The minimum 20% On-site infiltration of
percentage of the stormwater runoff is
paseo that is required.
dedicated to
vegetation.
Lighting Pedestrian-oriented One light fixture Use energy-efficient
street lamps. every 40 feet lighting per Title 24. Lights
shall be located a minimum
of 20 feet from trees.
----- End of picture text -----

Figure 4. Paseos

==> picture [139 x 109] intentionally omitted <==

(6) Building Design.

• (A) Main building entrances shall face the street or a publicly accessible courtyard. Building and/or frontage landscaping shall bring the human scale to the edges of the street. Retail building frontage shall be parallel to the street.

• (B) Utilities, including meters, backflow prevention devices, etc., shall be concealed or integrated into the building design to the extent feasible, as determined by the public works director.

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.120

• (C) Projects shall include dedicated, screened, and easily accessible space for recycling, compost, and solid waste storage and collection.

• (D) Trash and storage shall be enclosed and attractively screened from public view.

• (E) Materials and colors of utility, trash, and storage enclosures shall match or be compatible with the primary building.

• (F) Building materials shall be durable and high quality to ensure adaptability and reuse over time. Glass paneling and windows shall be used to invite outdoor views and introduce natural light into interior spaces. Stucco shall not be used on more than fifty percent (50%) of the building facade. When stucco is used, it must be smooth troweled.

• (G) Rooflines and eaves adjacent to street-facing facades shall vary across a building, including a four (4) foot minimum height modulation to break visual monotony and create a visually interesting skyline as seen from public streets (see Figure 5). The variation of the roofline's horizontal distance should match the required modulations and stepbacks.

• (H) Rooftop elements, including stair and elevator towers, shall be concealed in a manner that incorporates building color and architectural and structural design.

• (I) Roof-mounted equipment shall meet the requirements of Section 16.08.095.

Figure 5. Rooflines

==> picture [161 x 85] intentionally omitted <==

• (7) Access and Parking.

  • (A) Shared entrances to retail and office uses shall be used where possible.

  • (B) Service access and loading docks shall be located on local or interior access streets and to the rear of buildings, and shall not be located along a publicly accessible open space.

  • (C) Aboveground garages shall be screened (with perforated walls, vertical elements, landscaping or materials that provide visual interest at the pedestrian scale) or located behind buildings that are along public streets.

  • (D) Garage and surface parking access shall be screened or set behind buildings located along a publicly accessible open space or paseo.

  • (E) Surface parking lots shall be buffered from adjacent buildings by a minimum six (6) feet of paved pathway or landscaped area (see Figure 6, label A).

  • (F) Surface parking lots shall be screened with landscaping features such as trees,

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.120

planters, and vegetation, including a twenty (20) foot deep landscaped area along sidewalks, as measured from the property line or public access easement adjacent to the street or paseo (see Figure 6, label B). The portion of this area not devoted to driveways shall be landscaped. Trees shall be planted at a ratio of one (1) per four hundred (400) square feet of required setback area for surface parking.

, and vegetation, including a twenty (20) foot deep landscaped area along sidewalks, as measured from the property line or public access easement adjacent to the street or paseo (see Figure 6, label B). The portion of this area not devoted to driveways shall be landscaped. Trees shall be planted at a ratio of one (1) per four hundred (400) square feet of required setback area for surface parking.

• (G) Surface parking lots shall be planted with at least one (1) tree with a minimum size of a twenty-four (24) inch box for every eight (8) parking spaces (see Figure 6, label C). Required plantings may be grouped where carports with solar panels are provided.

• (H) Surface parking can be located along a paseo for a maximum of forty percent (40%) of a paseo's length (see Figure 6, label D).

• (I) Short-term bicycle parking shall be located within fifty (50) feet of lobby or main entrances. Long-term bicycle parking facilities shall protect against theft and inclement weather, and consist of a fully enclosed, weather-resistant locker with key locking mechanism or an interior locked room or enclosure. Long-term parking shall be provided in locations that are convenient and functional for cyclists. Bicycle parking shall be (see Figure 7):

  • (i) Consistent with the latest edition of the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals Bicycle Parking Guide;

  • (ii) Designed to accommodate standard six (6) foot bicycles;

  • (iii) Paved or hardscaped;

  • (iv) Accessed by an aisle in the front or rear of parked bicycles of at least five (5) feet;

  • (v) At least five (5) feet from vehicle parking spaces;

  • (vi) At least thirty (30) inches of clearance in all directions from any obstruction, including but not limited to other racks, walls, and landscaping;

  • (vii) Lit with no less than one (1) foot candle of illumination at ground level;

  • (viii) Space-efficient bicycle parking such as double-decker lift-assist and vertical bicycle racks are also permitted.

• (J) Pedestrian connections shall be provided, with a minimum hardscape width of six (6) feet, from sidewalks to all building entries, parking areas, and publicly accessible open spaces, and shall be clearly marked with signage directing pedestrians to common destinations.

• (K) Entries to parking areas and other important destinations shall be clearly identified for all travel modes with such wayfinding features as marked crossings, lighting, and clear signage.

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.120

§ 16.44.130

Figure 6. Surface Parking Access

==> picture [137 x 79] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [143 x 75] intentionally omitted <==

Figure 7. Bicycle Parking

==> picture [85 x 87] intentionally omitted <==

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016)

In addition to meeting all applicable regulations specified in Title 12 (Buildings and Construction), the following provisions shall apply to projects. Implementation of these provisions may be subject to separate discretionary review and environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.

• (1) Green Building.

  • (A) Any new construction, addition or alteration of a building shall be required to comply with Table 16.44.130(1)(B).

• (2) Energy.

  • (A) For all new construction, the project will meet one hundred percent (100%) of energy demand (electricity and natural gas) through any combination of the following measures:

    • (i) On-site energy generation;

    • (ii) Purchase of one hundred percent (100%) renewable electricity through Peninsula Clean Energy or Pacific Gas and Electric Company in an amount equal to the annual energy demand of the project;

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.130

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.130

• (iii) Purchase and installation of local renewable energy generation within the city of Menlo Park in an amount equal to the annual energy demand of the project;

• (iv) Purchase of certified renewable energy credits and/or certified renewable energy offsets annually in an amount equal to the annual energy demand of the project.

If a local amendment to the California Energy Code is approved by the California Energy Commission (CEC), the following provision becomes mandatory:

The project will meet one hundred percent (100%) of energy demand (electricity and natural gas) through a minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the maximum feasible on-site energy generation, as determined by an on-site renewable energy feasibility study and any combination of the measures in subsections (2)(A)(ii) to (iv) of this section. The on-site renewable energy feasibility study shall demonstrate the following cases at a minimum:

  - a. Maximum on-site generation potential. 

  - b. Solar feasibility for roof and parking areas (excluding roof mounted HVAC equipment). 

  - c. Maximum solar generation potential solely on the roof area. 

• (B) Alterations and/or additions of ten thousand (10,000) square feet or larger where the building owner elects to update the core and shell through the option presented in Table 16.44.130(1)(B):

  • (i) The project will meet one hundred percent (100%) of energy demand (electricity and natural gas) through any combination of the measures listed in subsections (2)(A)(i) to (iv) of this section.

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.44.130

§ 16.44.130

==> picture [359 x 416] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
TABLE 16.44.130(1)(B): NONRESIDENTIAL GREEN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
NEW CONSTRUCTION ADDITIONS AND/OR ALTERATIONS
1 sq. 10,000 sq.
ft.—9,999 ft.—25,000 25,001 sq. ft.
sq. ft. of sq. ft. of and above of
conditioned conditioned conditioned
Green 10,000 sq. 25,001 sq. 100,001 sq. area, area, area,
Building ft.—25,000 ft.—100,000 ft. and volume or volume or volume or
Requirement sq. ft. sq. ft. above size size3,4 size3,4
Green Designed to Designed to Designed to CALGreen Designed to Designed to
Building meet LEED meet LEED meet LEED mandatory meet LEED meet LEED
Silver Silver Gold BD+C1 Silver ID+C1 Gold ID+C1
BD+C1 BD+C1 or update or update
core and core and
shell of shell of
entire entire
building to building to
current current
California California
Energy Energy
Code2 and Code2 and
meet Section meet Section
16.44.130(2)(B) 16.44.130(2)(B)
Electric The electric vehicle charging spaces requirements in Section 16.72.010 apply.
Vehicle (EV)
Charging
Spaces
Energy Enroll in EPA Energy Star Building Portfolio Manager and submit documentation of
Reporting compliance as required by the city
----- End of picture text -----

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.130

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.130

Notes:

1 "Designed to meet LEED standards" is defined as follows: (a) applicant must submit appropriate LEED checklist and verifying cover letter from a project LEED AP with the project application and (b) applicant must complete all applicable LEED certification documents prior to approval of the final inspection for the building permit to be reviewed either for LEED certification, or for verification by a third party approved by the city for which the applicant will pay for review and/or certification.

hecklist and verifying cover letter from a project LEED AP with the project application and (b) applicant must complete all applicable LEED certification documents prior to approval of the final inspection for the building permit to be reviewed either for LEED certification, or for verification by a third party approved by the city for which the applicant will pay for review and/or certification.

2 Building owners may choose to have additions and/or alterations follow the LEED ID+C path, or alternatively, building owners may upgrade the entire existing building's core and shell to the current California Energy Code standards and follow the city's requirements listed in Section 16.44.130(2)(B). If the building owner chooses to upgrade the entire building's core and shell to current California Energy Code standards and follow the city's requirements listed in Section 16.44.130(2)(B), additions and alterations of that building will be exempt from the LEED ID+C requirement for three (3) code update cycles beginning with the upgrade cycle and ending with the two (2) cycles following the upgrade cycle. If this option is selected by the applicant, the building owner must upgrade to the Energy Code in effect at the time of the first building permit application for interior alteration and/or additions. Building permits for the core and shell upgrade must be initiated and satisfactory progress must be made on the core and shell upgrade project before occupancy for the additions and/or alterations shall be granted by the city's building department. If the building owner fails to complete these core and shell upgrades within one (1) year of permit initiation, or receive a written letter from the community development director or his/her designee extending the deadline, the building owner shall be subject to typical permit violation penalties, including but not limited to stop work orders on any construction on the subject property, fines, and legal action.

3 If over a period of five (5) years (or sixty (60) months) the subject property makes smaller additions and/ or alterations that cumulatively equal or exceed the trigger square footage listed above (i.e., ten thousand (10,000) square feet or twenty-five thousand one (25,001) square feet), the subject property shall be required to comply with the green and sustainable building requirements of this table.

4 For this calculation, laboratory space as defined in the building code is included in the addition and/or alteration square foot total, but exempt from the ID+C requirement.

• (3) Water Use Efficiency and Recycled Water.

  • (A) Single pass cooling systems shall be prohibited in all new buildings.

  • (B) All new buildings shall be built and maintained without the use of well water.

• (C) Applicants for a new building more than one hundred thousand (100,000) square feet of gross floor area shall prepare and submit a proposed water budget and accompanying calculations following the methodology approved by the city. For all new buildings two hundred fifty thousand (250,000) square feet or more in gross floor area, the water budget shall account for the potable water demand reduction resulting from the use of an alternative water source for all city approved nonpotable applications. The water budget and calculations shall be reviewed and approved by the city's public works director prior to certification of occupancy. Twelve (12) months after the date of the certification of occupancy, the building owner shall submit data and information sufficient to allow the city to compare the actual water use to the allocation in the approved water budget. In the event that actual water consumption exceeds the water budget, a water conservation program, as approved by the city's public works director, shall be implemented. Twelve (12) months after city approval of the water conservation program, the building owner shall submit data

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.130

ZONING

§ 16.44.130

and information sufficient to allow the city to determine compliance with the conservation program. If water consumption exceeds the budgeted amount, the city's public works director may prohibit the use of water for irrigation or enforce compliance as an infraction pursuant to Chapter 1.12 until compliance with the water budget is achieved.

• (D) All new buildings shall be dual plumbed for the internal use of recycled water.

• (E) All new buildings two hundred fifty thousand (250,000) square feet or more in gross floor area shall use an alternate water source for all city approved nonpotable applications. An alternative water source may include, but is not limited to, treated nonpotable water such as graywater. An alternate water source assessment shall be submitted that describes the alternative water source and proposed nonpotable application. Approval of the alternate water source assessment, the alternative water source and its proposed uses shall be approved by the city's public works director and community development director. If the Menlo Park Municipal Water District has not designated a recycled water purveyor and/or municipal recycled water source is not available prior to planning project approval, applicants may propose conservation measures to meet the requirements of this section subject to approval of the city council. The conservation measures shall achieve a reduction in potable water use equivalent to the projected demand of city approved nonpotable applications, but in no case shall the reduction be less than thirty percent (30%) compared to the water budget in subsection (3)(C) of this section. The conservation measures may include on-site measures, off-site measures or a combination thereof.

• (F) Potable water shall not be used for dust control on construction projects.

• (G) Potable water shall not be used for decorative features, unless the water recirculates.

• (4) Hazard Mitigation and Sea Level Rise Resiliency.

  • (A) The first floor elevation of all new buildings shall be twenty-four (24) inches above the Federal Emergency Management Agency base flood elevation (BFE) to account for sea level rise. Where no BFE exists, the first floor (bottom of floor beams) elevation shall be twenty-four (24) inches above the existing grade. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for projects on sites of two (2) acres or less, the first floor elevation shall be the maximum height reasonably practicable as determined by the city, but in no case less than six (6) inches above BFE or existing grade where no BFE exists. The building design and protective measures shall not create adverse impacts on adjacent sites as determined by the city.

  • (B) Prior to building permit issuance, all new buildings shall pay any required fee or proportionate fair share for the funding of sea level rise projects, if applicable.

• (5) Waste Management.

  • (A) Applicants shall submit a zero-waste management plan to the city, which will cover how the applicant plans to minimize waste to landfill and incineration in accordance with all applicable state and local regulations. Applicants shall show in their zerowaste plan how they will reduce, recycle and compost wastes from the demolition, construction and occupancy phases of the building. For the purposes of this chapter, "zero-waste" is defined as ninety percent (90%) overall diversion of nonhazardous

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.44.130

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.44.130

materials from landfill and incineration, wherein discarded materials are reduced, reused, recycled, or composted. Zero-waste plan elements shall include the property owner's assessment of the types of waste to be generated during demolition, construction and occupancy, and a plan to collect, sort and transport materials to uses other than landfill and incineration.

• (6) Bird-Friendly Design.

  • (A) No more than ten percent (10%) of facade surface area shall have non-bird-friendly glazing.

  • (B) Bird-friendly glazing includes, but is not limited to, opaque glass, covering the outside surface of clear glass with patterns, paned glass with fenestration, frit or etching patterns, and external screens over nonreflective glass. Highly reflective glass is not permitted.

  • (C) Occupancy sensors or other switch control devices shall be installed on nonemergency lights and shall be programmed to shut off during nonwork hours and between ten (10) p.m. and sunrise.

  • (D) Placement of buildings shall avoid the potential funneling of flight paths towards a building facade.

  • (E) Glass skyways or walkways, freestanding (see-through) glass walls and handrails, and transparent building corners shall not be allowed.

  • (F) Transparent glass shall not be allowed at the rooflines of buildings, including in conjunction with roof decks, patios and green roofs.

  • (G) Use of rodenticides shall not be allowed.

• (H) A project may receive a waiver from one (1) or more of the items listed in subsections (6)(A) to (F) of this section, subject to the submittal of a site specific evaluation from a qualified biologist and review and approval by the planning commission.

• (Ord. 1025 § 3 (part), 2016; Ord. 1050 § 9, 2018)

Downloaded from https://ecode360.com/ME4536 on 2026-05-11

City of Menlo Park, CA