Title 16

Chapter 16.45 — R-MU RESIDENTIAL MIXED USE DISTRICT

Menlo Park Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · ingested 2026-07-06 · Menlo Park

§ 16.45.010. Purpose.

The purpose and intent of the residential mixed use district is to:

  • (1) Provide high density housing to complement nearby employment;

  • (2) Encourage mixed use development with a quality living environment and neighborhoodserving retail and services on the ground floor that are oriented to the public, and promote a live/work/play environment with pedestrian activity;

  • (3) Blend with and complement existing neighborhoods through site regulations and design standards that minimize impacts to adjacent uses.

  • (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.015. Definitions.

Terms are as defined in Chapter 16.04, Definitions, unless otherwise stated in this chapter. (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.020. Permitted uses.

Permitted uses in the residential mixed use district are as follows:

  • (1) Multiple dwellings, which are a required component of any development in the R-MU district;

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

  • (3) Banks and other financial institutions. For purposes of this chapter, "financial institutions" include only those institutions providing retail banking services engaged in the on-site circulation of money, including credit unions);

  • (4) Retail sales establishments, twenty thousand (20,000) or less square feet of gross floor area and excluding the sale of beer, wine and alcohol;

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

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

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

  • (8) 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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.030

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.050

§ 16.45.030. Administratively permitted uses.

Uses allowed in the residential mixed use district, subject to obtaining an administrative permit per Chapter 16.82, or in the case of home occupations, a home occupation permit, are as follows:

  • (1) Eating establishments, including beer and wine only, and/or that have live entertainment;

  • (2) Child care center;

  • (3) Outdoor seating;

  • (4) Diesel generators. (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.040. Conditional uses.

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

  • (1) Home occupations in accordance with Section 16.04.340;

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

  • (3) Research and development uses, excluding uses involving hazardous materials;

  • (4) Eating and drinking establishments, including alcohol, or establishments that are portable;

  • (5) Retail sales establishments, including the sale of beer, wine and alcohol, greater than twenty thousand (20,000) square feet of gross floor area;

  • (6) Personal services, including tattooing, piercing, palm-reading, or similar services;

  • (7) Movie theater;

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

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

  • (10) Uses identified in Sections 16.45.020 and 16.45.030 and this section proposing bonus level development, in accordance with Section 16.45.060;

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

  • (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.050. Development regulations.

Development regulations in the residential mixed use district are as follows:

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.050

§ 16.45.050

==> picture [424 x 589] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Regulation Definition Base Level Bonus Level Notes/Additional Requirements
Minimum lot area Minimum area of 20,000 square 25,000 square
building site (includes feet feet
public access
easements).
Minimum lot Minimum size of a lot 100 feet width 100 feet width
dimensions calculated using lot 100 feet depth 100 feet depth
lines.
Minimum setback Minimum linear feet 0 feet 0 feet Setbacks shall be measured from
at street building can be sited the property line. In instances
from property line where there will be a public
adjacent to street. access easement, measure the
setback from the back of the
easement. See build-to area
requirements in Section
16.45.120(1).
Maximum Maximum linear feet 25 feet 25 feet See build-to area requirements in
setback at street building can be sited Section 16.45.120(1).
from property line Maximum setback may be 50
adjacent to street. feet along Willow Road for
surface parking where ground
floor commercial uses are
provided.
Maximum setback requirement
does not apply to additions of
less than 10,000 square feet.
Minimum interior Minimum linear feet 10 feet 10 feet See Section 16.45.120(5) when
side and rear building can be sited property is required to have a
setbacks from interior and rear paseo. Interior side setback may
property lines. be reduced to zero feet for the
entire building mass where there
is retail frontage.
Maximum Maximum permitted 60% to 90% >90% to 225% Floor area ratio shall increase on
residential floor ratio of residential an even gradient from 60% for
area ratio (FAR) square footage of the 20 du/ac to 90% for 30 du/ac.
gross floor area of all Floor area ratio shall increase on
buildings on a lot to the an even gradient from >90% for
square footage of the >30 du/ac to 225% for 100 du/ac.
lot.
Density The number of dwelling 20 du/acre to >30 du/acre to A percentage of total dwelling
units in an acre. 30 du/acre 100 du/acre units built in bonus level shall be
affordable per Section 16.45.060.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.050

§ 16.45.055

==> picture [424 x 438] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Regulation Definition Base Level Bonus Level Notes/Additional Requirements
Maximum Maximum permitted 15% 25% Nonresidential uses permitted
nonresidential ratio of nonresidential subject to residential
floor area ratio square footage of the development.
gross floor area of all FAR may be calculated across
buildings on a lot to the contiguous properties of the same
square footage of the zoning district designation and
lot. owned by the same entity or
wholly owned affiliated entities.
Height "Height" is defined as Height: 35 feet Height: 52.5 feet A parapet used to screen
average height of all Maximum Maximum mechanical equipment is not
buildings on one site, height: 40 feet height: 70 feet included in the height or
where a maximum maximum height. The maximum
height cannot be allowed height for rooftop
exceeded. Maximum mechanical equipment is 14 feet,
height does not include except for elevator towers and
roof-mounted associated equipment, which may
equipment and utilities. 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.
Bonus level development on
Jefferson Drive, Constitution
Drive or Independence Drive is
allowed to be a maximum height
of 85 feet.
Minimum open Minimum portion of the 25% 25% See Section 16.45.120(4) for
space requirement building site open and open space requirements.
unobstructed by fully
enclosed buildings.
----- End of picture text -----

(Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.055. Master planned projects.

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

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.055

§ 16.45.070

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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.060. Bonus level development.

As described in Section 16.45.070, as a threshold requirement for utilizing bonus level development in the residential mixed use-bonus (R-MU-B) zoning district, the applicant must construct the below market rate units required pursuant to Chapter 16.96 on site rather than utilizing an alternative means of compliance per Section 16.96.070, unless otherwise approved by the city council. Any such units will be sold or rented with a preference for current or recently displaced Belle Haven residents, followed by the preferences provided in the city's below market rate housing guidelines. If and when Chapter 16.96 becomes void or unenforceable, the community amenity provided must be a minimum of fifteen percent (15%) of the total units on site for affordable housing units in accordance with the city's below market rate housing ordinance and guidelines.

(Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016; Ord. 1047 § 2, 2018)

§ 16.45.070. Community amenities required for bonus level development.

Bonus level development allows a project to develop at a greater level of intensity with an increase in density, floor area ratio and/or 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, specifically including affordable housing, 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, density, 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

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.070

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.070

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 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. As a threshold for utilizing bonus level development, any affordable housing required pursuant to Chapter 16.96 shall be designed and constructed on site as part of the project; the applicant shall not be allowed to utilize an alternative means of compliance, unless otherwise approved by the city council. These affordable housing units shall be sold or rented with a preference for current or recently displaced Belle Haven residents, followed by the preferences provided in the city's below market rate housing guidelines. The community amenity provided as part of the project shall be from the list of community amenities adopted by city council resolution, with a preference for including additional affordable housing units; for example, additional housing such that twenty percent (20%) of the development is affordable (fifteen percent (15%) inclusionary plus five percent (5%) additional affordable units). 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

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.070

§ 16.45.080

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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016; Ord. 1047 § 3, 2018; Ord. 1077 § 4, 2021; Ord. 1100 § 4, 2023)

§ 16.45.080. Parking standards.

Development in the R-MU district shall meet the following parking requirements:

==> picture [424 x 330] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Minimum Spaces Maximum Spaces
(Per Unit or 1,000 (Per Unit or 1,000
Land Use Sq. Ft.) Sq. Ft.) Minimum Bicycle Parking
Residential units 1 per unit 1.5 per unit 1.5 long-term2 per unit; 10%
additional short-term2 for guests
Office 2 3 1 per 5,000 sq. ft. of gross floor
Research and 1.5 2.5 area
Minimum 2 spaces for office
development
and research 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 16.45.120(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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.080

§ 16.45.090

  • (1) Parking spaces shall be unbundled from the price of residential units such that parking is sold or rented separately, except in cases where parking is physically connected to only one (1) unit. However, the planning commission may grant an exception from this requirement for projects which include financing for affordable housing that requires that costs for parking and housing be bundled together.

  • (2) 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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.090. Transportation demand management.

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. Each individual applicant will prepare its own TDM plan and provide an analysis to the satisfaction of the city's transportation manager of the impact of that TDM program.

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

    • (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;

    • (G) Provision or subsidy of carpool, vanpool, shuttle, or bus service, including transit passes for site occupants;

    • (H) Required alternative work schedules and/or telecommuting for nonresidential uses;

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

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

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

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.090

§ 16.45.110

  • (L) Emergency ride home programs;

  • (M) 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 city's transportation manager;

    • (C) Required to be replaced by appropriate substitute measures if unable to achieve intended trip reduction in any reporting year;

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

  • (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.100. New connections.

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 16.45.120. 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 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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.110

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.110. Required street improvements.

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 16.45.070. 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;

  • (3) 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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.120. Design standards.

All new construction, regardless of size, and building additions of ten thousand (10,000) square feet or more of gross floor area adhere to the following design standards, subject to architectural control established in Section 16.68.020. For building additions, 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.

  • (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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 485] 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
Build-To Area The minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum 60% of
Requirement building frontage at 40% of 40% of street street frontage
Figure 1 the ground floor or street frontage
podium level, as a frontage
percentage of the
street frontage
length, that must be
located within the
area of the lot
between the
minimum and
maximum setback
lines parallel to the
street.
Frontage The percentage of Minimum of Minimum of Minimum of 25% Setback areas
Landscaping the setback area 40% (50% 40% (50% of (50% of which adjacent to
devoted to ground of which which shall should provide on- active ground
cover 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 and eating and
landscaped area. For of runoff) drinking
this requirement, the stormwater establishments
setback area is the runoff) are excepted.
area between the
property line and
the face of the
building.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 633] 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 Uses Allowable frontage No No Setback areas Nonresidential
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 16.45.120(4).
spaces (e.g., plazas,
gathering areas,
outdoor seating
areas), access to
parking, bicycle
parking, or other
uses that the
planning
commission deems
appropriate
Surface Parking Surface parking Maximum Maximum of Maximum of 25%
Along Street may be located of 35% 35%
Frontage along the street if
Figure 2, 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 2, label adjacent to the street
B that surface parking
must be set back.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

Notes:

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

Figure 1. Build-To Area

==> picture [113 x 81] intentionally omitted <==

Figure 2. Surface Parking

==> picture [109 x 76] 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 § 16.45.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 477] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Bonus Thoroughfare,
Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or
Base Local Neighborhood Notes/Additional
Standard Definition Level Street* Street* Requirements
Base Height The maximum 40 feet 45 feet 45 feet Properties within the
Figure 3, label A height of a flood zone or subject
building at the to flooding and sea
minimum setback level rise are allowed
at street or before a 10-foot height
the building steps increase.
back the minimum
horizontal distance
required.
Minimum The horizontal N/A 10 feet for a 10 feet for a A maximum of 25%
Stepback distance a minimum of minimum of 75% of the building face
Figure 3, label B building's upper 75% of the of the building along public street(s)
story(ies) must be building face along public may be excepted
set back above the face along street(s) from this standard in
base height. public order to provide
street(s) architectural
variation.
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

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 363] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Bonus Thoroughfare,
Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or
Base Local Neighborhood Notes/Additional
Standard Definition Level Street* Street* Requirements
Major Building A major Minimum of one recess of 15 feet wide by Modulation is
Modulations modulation is a 10 feet deep per 200 feet of facade length required on the
Figure 3, label C break in the building facade(s)
building plane facing publicly
from the ground accessible spaces
level to the top of (streets, open space,
the building's base and paseos).
height that Parking is not
provides visual allowed in the
variety, reduces modulation recess.
large building When more than
volumes, and 50% of an existing
provides spaces for building facade that
entryways and faces a publicly
publicly accessible accessible space is
spaces. altered, it must
comply with these
modulation
requirements.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 467] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Bonus Level
Fronting a
Boulevard,
Bonus Thoroughfare,
Level Mixed Use
Fronting a Collector, or
Base Local Neighborhood Notes/Additional
Standard Definition Level Street* Street* Requirements
Minor Building Minimum recess of 5 feet wide by 5 feet Modulation is
Modulations deep per 50 feet of facade length required on the
Figure 3, label D building facade(s)
facing publicly
accessible spaces
(streets, open space,
and paseos).
Parking is not
allowed in the
modulation recess.
When more than
50% of an existing
building facade that
faces a publicly
accessible space is
altered, it must
comply with these
modulation
requirements.
Building projections
spaced no more than
50 feet apart with a
minimum of 3-foot
depth and 5-foot
width may satisfy
this requirement in
lieu of a recess.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

Notes:

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

Figure 3. Building Mass and Scale

==> picture [147 x 98] 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 street:

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 633] 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
Building The minimum ratio One One entrance One entrance every Entrances at a
Entrances of entrances to entrance every 100 100 feet of building building corner
Figure 4, label building length every 100 feet of length along a may be used to
A along a public street feet of building public street or satisfy this
or paseo. building length along paseo. A minimum requirement for
length along a public street of one is required both frontages.
a public or paseo. A along each length. Stairs must be
street or minimum of located in
paseo. A one is locations
minimum of required convenient to
one is along each building users.
required length.
along each
length.
Ground Floor The minimum 30% for 30% for 30% for residential Windows shall
Transparency percentage of the residential residential uses; 50% for not be opaque
Figure 4, label ground floor facade uses; 50% uses; 50% for commercial uses or mirrored. For
B (finished floor to for commercial the purpose of
ceiling) that must commercial uses this chapter,
provide visual uses "commercial" is
transparency, such defined as uses
as clear-glass enumerated in
windows, doors, etc. this chapter,
except office
and research
and
development.
Minimum The minimum N/A 10 feet for 10 feet for Where
Ground Floor height between the residential residential uses; 15 individual
Height Along ground-level uses; 15 feet feet for commercial residential
Street Frontage finished floor to the for uses units' entries
Figure 4, label second-level commercial face a street,
C finished floor along uses finish floor
the street. shall be
elevated 24
inches
minimum
above sidewalk
level.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [400 x 472] 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
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 4, 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

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

Notes:

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

Figure 4. Ground Floor Exterior

==> picture [161 x 126] intentionally omitted <==

  • (4) Open Space. All development in the residential mixed use district shall provide a minimum amount of open space equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the total lot area, with a minimum amount of publicly accessible open space equal to twenty-five percent (25%) 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) Residential developments shall have a minimum of common open space and private open space. These requirements are counted towards the minimum amount of open space equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the total lot area.

  • (i) One hundred (100) square feet of open space per unit shall be created as common open space or a minimum of eighty (80) square feet of open space per unit created as private open space, where private open space shall have a minimum dimension of six (6) feet by six (6) feet;

    - (ii) In the case of a mix of private and common open space, such common open space shall be provided at a ratio equal to one and one-quarter (1.25) square feet for each one (1) square foot of private open space that is not provided.
    

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

  - (iii) Depending on the number of dwelling units, common open space shall be provided to meet the following criteria: 

     - a. Ten (10) to fifty (50) units: minimum of one (1) space, twenty (20) feet minimum dimension (four hundred (400) square feet total, minimum); 

     - b. Fifty-one (51) to one hundred (100) units: minimum of one (1) space, thirty (30) feet minimum dimension (nine hundred (900) square feet total, minimum); 

     - c. One hundred one (101) or more units: minimum of one (1) space, forty (40) feet minimum dimension (one thousand six hundred (1,600) square feet total, minimum). 
  • (D) All open spaces 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 and five (5) feet in depth for infiltration planting;

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

  • (E) 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 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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [376 x 610] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Base and Bonus
Standard Definition Levels Notes/Additional Requirements
Paseo Width The minimum 20 feet
Figure 5, 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 5, label maximum width of the feet maximum connected to building entrances
B hardscape portion of the with hardscaped pathways.
paseo. 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 include
Zones pockets of hardscape of 5 feet wide by 20 benches or other type of seating
Figure 5, label areas dedicated to feet long, provided at and pedestrian-scaled lighting.
C seating, adjacent to the a minimum interval of
main pedestrian 100 feet
pathway area.
Paseo Frontage The minimum setback 5 feet A minimum of 50% of the
Setback for adjacent buildings setback area between the building
Figure 5, label from the edge of the and paseo shall be landscaped
D paseo property line. (50% of which 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 of Small canopy trees Trees must be planted within the
Figure 5, label trees that are required with a maximum paseo width, with the tree canopy
E along the paseo. mature height of 40 allowed to overhang into the
feet and canopy setback.
diameter of 25 feet,
planted at maximum
intervals of 40 feet
Landscaping The minimum 20% On-site infiltration of stormwater
percentage of the paseo runoff is required.
that is dedicated to
vegetation.
----- End of picture text -----

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

==> picture [376 x 77] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Base and Bonus
Standard Definition Levels Notes/Additional Requirements
Lighting Pedestrian-oriented One light fixture Use energy-efficient lighting per
street lamps. every 40 feet Title 24. Lights shall be located a
minimum of 20 feet from trees.
----- End of picture text -----

Figure 5. Paseos

==> picture [143 x 105] 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.

  • (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 6). 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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

Figure 6. Rooflines

==> picture [127 x 96] intentionally omitted <==

  • (7) Access and Parking.

    • (A) Shared entrances to parking for nonresidential and residential 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 and paseos.

    • (E) Surface parking lots shall be buffered from adjacent buildings by a minimum six (6) feet of paved pathway or landscaped area (see Figure 7, label A).

    • (F) Surface parking lots shall be screened with landscaping features such as trees, 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 paseos (see Figure 7, 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 7, 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 7, label D).

    • (I) Short-term bicycle parking shall be located within fifty (50) feet of lobby or main entrance. 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 8):

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

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.120

§ 16.45.120

  • (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 access 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.

Figure 7. Surface Parking Access

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

==> picture [145 x 77] intentionally omitted <==

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.120

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.130

Figure 8. Bicycle Parking

==> picture [99 x 101] intentionally omitted <==

  • (Ord. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016)

§ 16.45.130. Green and sustainable building.

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 Tables 16.45.130(1)(B) and 16.45.130(1)(C).
  • (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;

      • (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:

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.130

§ 16.45.130

  • 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 Tables 16.45.130(1)(B) and 16.45.130(1)(C):

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

==> picture [380 x 364] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
TABLE 16.45.130(1)(B): RESIDENTIAL GREEN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
NEW CONSTRUCTION ADDITIONS AND/OR ALTERATIONS
1 sq. 10,000 sq.
ft.—9,999 sq. ft.—25,000 25,001 sq. ft.
ft. of sq. ft. of and above of
10,000 sq. 25,001 sq. conditioned conditioned conditioned
Green Building ft.—25,000 ft.—100,000 100,001 sq. ft. area, volume area, volume area, volume
Requirement sq. ft. sq. ft. and above or size or size3 or size3
Green Building Designed to Designed to Designed to CALGreen Designed to Designed to
meet LEED meet LEED meet LEED mandatory meet LEED meet LEED
Silver BD+C1 Silver BD+C1 Gold BD+C1 Silver ID+C1 Gold ID+C1 or
or update core update core
and shell of and shell of
entire building entire building
to current to current
California California
Energy Code2 Energy Code2
and meet and meet
Section Section
16.45.130(2)(B) 16.45.130(2)(B)
Electric Vehicle The electric vehicle charging spaces requirements in Section 16.72.010 apply.
(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 § 16.45.130

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.130

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 16.45.130(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 16.45.130(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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.130

§ 16.45.130

==> picture [380 x 364] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
TABLE 16.45.130(1)(C): NONRESIDENTIAL GREEN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS
NEW CONSTRUCTION ADDITIONS AND/OR ALTERATIONS
1 sq. 10,000 sq.
ft.—9,999 sq. ft.—25,000 25,001 sq. ft.
ft. of sq. ft. of and above of
10,000 sq. 25,001 sq. conditioned conditioned conditioned
Green Building ft.—25,000 ft.—100,000 100,001 sq. ft. area, volume area, volume area, volume
Requirement sq. ft. sq. ft. and above or size or size3 or size3
Green Building Designed to Designed to Designed to CALGreen Designed to Designed to
meet LEED meet LEED meet LEED mandatory meet LEED meet LEED
Silver BD+C1 Silver BD+C1 Gold BD+C1 Silver ID+C1 Gold ID+C1 or
or update core update core
and shell of and shell of
entire building entire building
to current to current
California California
Energy Code2 Energy Code2
and meet and meet
Section Section
16.45.130(2)(B) 16.45.130(2)(B)
Electric Vehicle The electric vehicle charging spaces requirements in Section 16.72.010 apply.
(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 -----

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 16.45.130(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 16.45.130(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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA § 16.45.130

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.130

Notes:

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.

  • (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 or more 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 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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

ZONING

§ 16.45.130

§ 16.45.130

  • (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 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.

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

City of Menlo Park, CA

MENLO PARK CODE

§ 16.45.130

§ 16.45.130

  • (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. 1026 § 3 (part), 2016; Ord. 1050 § 10, 2018)

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

City of Menlo Park, CA