Part IV — Regulations Applying in All Districts

Article 18

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

OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS

Sections:

  • § 38-113. Specific Purposes.

  • § 38-114. Basic Requirements for Off-Street Parking and Loading.

  • § 38-115. Off-Street Parking and Loading Spaces Required.

  • § 38-116. Adjustments to Parking Standards.

  • § 38-117. Reduced Parking for Other Uses.

  • § 38-118. Parking In-Lieu Payments.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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  • § 38-119. Parking Spaces for the Handicapped.

  • § 38-120. Bicycle Parking.

  • § 38-121. Size and Access.

  • § 38-122. Design Standards.

  • § 38-123. Parking Area Screening: Walls and Fences.

  • § 38-124. Lighting.

  • § 38-125. Location and Design of Off-Street Loading Spaces.

  • § 38-126. Safe Parking Program.

Sec. 38-113. Specific Purposes.

In addition to the general purposes listed in Article 1, the specific purposes of the off-street parking and loading regulations are to:

A. Ensure that off-street parking and loading facilities are provided for new land uses and for major alterations and enlargements of existing uses in proportion to the need for such facilities created by each use.

B. Establish parking standards for commercial uses consistent with need and with the feasibility of providing parking on specific commercial sites.

C. Ensure that off-street parking and loading facilities are designed in a manner that will ensure efficiency, protect the public safety, and, where appropriate, insulate surrounding land uses from adverse impacts.

Sec. 38-114. Basic Requirements for Off-Street Parking and Loading.

A. When Required. At the time of initial occupancy of a site, construction of a structure, or enlargement of a site or structure, off-street parking facilities and off-street loading facilities shall be provided in accord with the regulations prescribed in this article. If all off-street parking regulations are not met, an application must be made for a parking adjustment. For the purposes of these requirements, “alteration or intensification” shall mean a change of use or an addition that would increase the number of parking spaces or loading berths required.

B. Nonconforming Parking or Loading. No existing use of land or structure shall be deemed to be nonconforming solely because of the lack of off-street parking or loading facilities required by this article.

C. Spaces Required for Alteration or Enlargement or Change in Occupancy or Use. The number of parking spaces or loading berths required for an alteration or enlargement of an existing use or structure, or for a change of occupancy or use, including intensification of use, shall be in addition to the number of spaces or berths existing prior to the alteration, enlargement, or change of occupancy unless the preexisting number is greater than the number prescribed in this article. In this case, the number of spaces or berths in excess of the prescribed minimum shall be counted in determining the required number of spaces or berths.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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D. Common Loading Facilities. The off-street loading facilities requirements of this article may be satisfied by the permanent allocation of the prescribed number of berths for each use in a common truck loading facility, provided that the total number of berths shall not be less than the sum of the individual requirements. As a requirement of approval, an attested copy of a contract between the parties concerned setting forth an agreement to joint use of the common truck loading facility shall be filed with the application for a zoning permit.

E. Computation of Spaces Required If, in the application of the requirements of this article, a fractional number is obtained, one parking space or loading berth shall be required for a fraction of one-half or more, and no space or berth shall be required for a fraction of less than one-half. (Ord. 3404, 2008)

F. Parking standards for the downtown, North Fremont and Lighthouse areas are as indicated in the respective specific plans. (Ord. 3550 § 2, 2016; Ord. 3404, 2008)

  • G. Cannery Row.

    1. The Cannery Row parking area is established as shown in the map below.

==> picture [408 x 317] intentionally omitted <==

  1. With the exception of visitor accommodation facilities, cultural institutions and residential uses, all uses in the Cannery Row parking area shall provide parking to meet the following schedule: one space per 400 square feet for the first 1,000 square feet of floor area and one space per 500 square feet over 1,000 square feet of floor area. The parking standard for visitor accommodation facilities, cultural institutions, residential

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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uses and the residential portion of mixed-uses in these mapped areas shall provide parking in accordance with the schedules for off-street parking contained in Section 38-115.

  1. All construction that increases building area or removes existing on-site parking spaces shall provide new off-street parking spaces in accordance with adopted plans and standards.

  2. No additional parking is required when: a) the use of an existing building changes and/or intensifies; or b) the building area (gross square footage) in an existing building is replaced or rebuilt.

  3. Residential Parking Plan. Planning Commission approval of a residential parking plan shall be required for any change in use in an existing building that includes new residential uses. The residential parking plan shall identify means to provide parking for all of the residential units. Residential parking plan locations may include on-site lot, another lot under same ownership, off-site private lots with parking agreement or permit spaces in a public lot with fee and agreement. On-street residential parking permits will not be granted.

  4. Employee Parking Plan. Planning Commission approval of an employee parking plan shall be required for a) removal and replacement of a building or buildings through demolition and reconstruction; b) a new use that requires a Use Permit; and c) a change in use that requires a use permit. The employee parking plan shall describe how a business or occupant in the reconstructed or new building will handle employee parking. The employee parking plan locations may include on-site lot, another lot under same ownership, off-site private lots with parking agreement, and permit spaces in public lot with fee and agreement. (3404, 02/2008)

  5. Parking Adjustment. As an alternative to providing new or replacement off-street parking spaces, the Planning Commission may consider approving a parking adjustment that allows payment of a fee in lieu of providing the required parking. Such fee agreements shall run with the land and required fee payments shall be made to the transportation management fund. (Ord. 3550 § 3, 2016)

Sec. 38-115. Off-Street Parking and Loading Spaces Required.

Off-street parking and loading spaces shall be provided in accord with the following schedules. For off-street loading, references are to Schedule B which sets space requirements and standards for different groups of use classifications and sizes of buildings. References to spaces per square foot are to be computed on the basis of gross floor area.

Where the use is undetermined, the Community Development Director shall determine the parking requirements based on (1) primary use, and (2) what use has the most parking demand (unless they are equal). In order to make this determination, the Community Development Director may require the submission of survey data from the applicant or collected at the applicant’s expense. (Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

The Community Development Director may also require a Parking Management Plan for appropriate projects to minimize parking impacts, protect air quality, and encourage alternative transportation modes. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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Maintenance of Parking Areas. No parking area of parking space provided for the purpose of complying with the provisions of this chapter shall be eliminated, reduced, or converted in any manner below the requirements established in this chapter, unless equivalent facilities are provided elsewhere in conformity with this chapter.

Location. Off-street parking facilities shall be located, as specified below, subject to review by the Planning Commission on a site-specific basis. Where a distance is specified, the distance shall be measured from the nearest point of the parking facility to the nearest point of the building that the facility is required to serve:

  1. For single- or multiple-family dwellings, parking facilities shall be located on the same lot or building site as they are required to serve; provided, however, that no required uncovered parking to service such dwelling or dwellings shall be located in the required front yard setback for the dwelling or dwellings.

  2. For hospitals, rooming houses, lodging houses, and clubs, not more than 150 feet from the building they are required to serve.

  3. For uses other than those specified above, not over 400 feet from the building they are required to serve. Off-site parking lots shall be located within reasonable walking distance of alternative transportation stops, as specified by the Planning Commission on a site specific basis.

OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Residential
Day Care, Limited 1 (residential driveway may be used)
Group Residential 1 per guest room 1
Single-family Dwelling
Lot 3,600 sq.ft. or more 2, including 1 covered (both behind front
yard setback)
Lot less than 3,600 sq.ft. 1 covered (behind front yard setback)
Guest House 1 (behind front yard setback)
Multi-family, Rental
Studios 1.2, including 1 covered
One-Bedroom 1.5, including 1 covered

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Two-Bedroom 2, including 1 covered
Three or More Bedrooms 2.5, including 1 covered
Building with 25 units or more 2 per unit
Multi-family, Condominium
Studios 2, including 1 covered
One-Bedroom 2, including 1 covered
Two-Bedroom 2, including 1 covered
Three or More Bedrooms 3, including 1 covered
Conversions 2 per unit, regardless of number of
bedrooms
Residential Care, Limited 1 per 3 beds
Senior Citizen Housing 0.5 for Senior Citizen housing projects with
any public participation
Elderly Housing 0.5 per unit, as required by additional study
Public and Semi-public
Clubs and Lodges 1 per 50 sq.ft. used for assembly purposes 3
Cultural Facilities 1 per 300 sq.ft. gross foor area 3
Day Care, General, and
Day Care, Large Family 1 per 6 children; maximum enrollment 2
based on maximum occupancy load
Government Ofces 1 per 275 sq.ft. gross foor area 2

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Hospitals 1 per 175 sq.ft. gross foor area for out- 3
patient clinics and out-patient facilities plus 1
per 1.75 beds
Maintenance and Service Facilities 1 per 500 sq.ft. of developed site 1
Park and Recreation Facilities As specifed by zoning permit or use permit
for private facilities
Public Safety Facilities As specifed by use permit 3
Religious Assembly 1 per 50 sq.ft. moveable seating area, or 1 3
per 5 fxed seats
Residential Care, General 1 per 3 beds 3
Schools, Public or Private As specifed by use permit 1
Utilities, Major As specifed by use permit 1
Commercial
Adult Businesses 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Ambulance Services 1 per 500 sq.ft.; plus 2 storage spaces 1
Animal Sales and Services
Animal Boarding 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Animal Grooming 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Animal Hospitals 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Animals, Retail Sales 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Artists’ Studios 1 per 1,000 sq.ft. without retail use; if retail
use, 1 per 500 sq.ft.
Banks and Savings & Loans 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 2

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Drive-Up Service 1 per 500 sq.ft. over 1,000 sq.ft.
Building Materials and Services 1 per 2,500 sq.ft. for sales, display, and yard
storage area
Catering Services 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Cemetery As specifed by use permit
Commercial Recreation and
Entertainment
Billiard Parlor 1 per table
Bowling Alley 5 per alley 1
Electronic Game Centers 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 1 per
500 sq.ft. over 1,000 sq.ft.
Hot Tubs 2.5 per tub
Ice Skating Rinks 1 per 100 sq.ft. 1
Roller Rinks 1 per 50 sq.ft.
Tennis and Racquetball Clubs 6 per court 1
Theaters 1 per 5 fxed seats, or 1 per 50 sq.ft. of 1
seating area, if there are no fxed seats
Other Commercial Recreation and As specifed by use permit
Entertainment
Communications Facilities 1 per 500 sq.ft. 2
Eating and Drinking Establishments 1 per 50 sq.ft. of seating area
Bars with Live Entertainment/Dancing 1 per 50 sq.ft. of seating area and dance
foor

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Seating, Outside, Major 1 per 100 sq.f.t of seating area over 150
sq.ft.
Food and Beverage Sales 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 1 per 1
500 sq.ft. over 1,000 sq.ft.
Convenience Market with Gas Pump 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 1 per
500 sq.ft.over 1,000 sq.ft.; with a minimum
of 2 spaces; plus 1.5 spaces per
gas pump servicing area, with adequate
access and circulation for convenience
market. Gas pump servicing area shall not
be used as back-up or circulation area for
parking spaces.
Funeral and Interment 1 per 50 sq.ft. moveable seating area; or one
per fve fxed seats.
Health Club 1 per 100 sq.ft. of weight room, 1 per 50
sq.ft. of aerobics area, and 3 per racquetball
court
Horticulture, Limited As specifed by the Community Development
Director
Laboratories 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Maintenance and Repair Services 1 per 500 sq.ft.; plus 1 per 500 sq.ft. of 1
outdoor storage area
Massage Establishments 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Mixed-Use Projects Business and professional ofces, 1 space
per 275 sq.ft.; commercial retail uses, 1
space per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.
of foor area, and 1 per 500 sq.ft. of foor
area thereafter; residential apartment units

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
-- all units shall have a minimum of 1
permanently assigned parking space for
each unit (no covered parking spaces
required). Units that exceed 1,000 sq. ft. may
be required to conform to Multi-family,
Rental and Multi-family, Condominium
requirements in this section. Additional
parking may also be required if it is
determined that the amount of residential
space is disproportional to the amount of
commercial space and the potential for
shared parking is therefore minimal in the
mixed-use project. Parking adjustments and
shared parking may be used for both
commercial and residential parking
requirement in a mixed-use project.(3342,
05/2004)
Nurseries 1 per 2,500 sq.ft. of space devoted to sales,
display and yard storage
Ofces, Business and Professional 1 per 275 sq.ft. 2
Ofces, Medical and Dental 1 per 275 sq.ft.
Ofces Medical and Dental -- As specifed by use permit
Extended Care
Pawnshops 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Personal Improvement Services 1 per 50 sq.ft. of assembly area
Dance or Music Studio 1 per 50 sq.ft. of assembly area
Personal Services 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1
Laundromats, self service 1 per 5 washers

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Of-street
Use Classifcations Of-street Parking Spaces:
Schedule A
Loading
Spaces:
Schedule B
Group Number
Research and Development Services 1 per 500 sq.ft.
Retail Sales Not Listed Under Another 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 1
Use Classifcation 1 per 500 sq.ft. over 1,000 sq.ft.
Vehicle/Equipment Sales and
Services:
Automobile Rentals 1 per 275 sq.ft.; plus 2 storage spaces 1
Automobile Washing 1 per 275 sq.ft. of sales, ofce, or lounge
area; plus space per washing station as
required by use permit
Service Stations 1.5 spaces per pump servicing area
Shopping Centers As specifed by Shopping Center plan
Vehicle/Equipment Repair 1 per 400 sq.ft. for the frst 1,000 sq.ft.; 1
1 per 500 sq.ft. over 1,000 sq.ft.
Vehicle/Equipment Sales and Rentals 1 per 1,000 sq.ft.; gross foor; minimum 5 1
spaces
Vehicle Storage 1 per 275 sq.ft. of ofce space; plus storage
spaces
Vehicle/Equipment Sales and Rentals 1 per 1,000 sq. ft.; gross foor; minimum 5 1
-- Limited spaces
Visitor Accommodations
Bed and Breakfast Inns 1 per guest room plus 2 for the resident
family; over 8 rooms, add 1 space for
employee parking; for 10 rooms, add 1 space
for visitor parking

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING SPACES REQUIRED

Off-street Loading Off-street Parking Spaces: Use Classifications Spaces: Schedule A Schedule B Group Number Hotels and Motels 1 per guest room; plus 2 for every 50 rooms 1 for hotels and motels with over 49 rooms; plus parking, as required for accessory uses Warehousing and Storage, Ltd. 1 per 500 sq.ft. of sales area; plus 1 per 2,500 sq.ft. for warehouse and outside storage area Mini Storage 1 per 500 sq.ft. Industrial Industry, Custom and General 1 per 500 sq.ft. Industry, Limited 1 per 500 sq.ft. Industry, Research, and Development 1 per 500 sq.ft. Wholesaling, Distribution and Storage 1 per 500 sq.ft. 1

(Ord. 3715 § 16, 2025; Ord. 3678 § 2, 2024; Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3625 § 5, 2020; Ord. 3593 § 5, 2019; Ord. 3588 § 6, 2018; Ord. 3560 § 9, 2017; Ord. 3544 § 10, 2016; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

SCHEDULE B:

SCHEDULE B:
LOADING SPACES REQUIRED
Number of Spaces Required
10' x 20' x 10' 12' x 25' x 14'
Gross Floor Area (sq.ft.) Vertical Clearance
Vertical Clearance
Use Classifcation Group 1
0 to 10,000 0
10,001 to 15,000 1
15,001 to 50,000 2
50,001 and over 3
Use Classifcation Group 2

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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SCHEDULE B:
LOADING SPACES REQUIRED
0 to 10,000 0 0
10,001 to 20,000 1
20,001 and over 1 1
Use Classifcation Group 3
0 to 10,000 0
10,001 to 30,000 1
30,001 to 100,000 2
100,001 and over 3

(Ord. 3625 § 5, 2020; Ord. 3436 § 2, 2009; Ord. 3424 § 1, 2009)

Sec. 38-116. Adjustments to Parking Standards.

A. Spaces Required for Multiple Uses. If more than one use is located on a site, the number of off-street parking spaces and loading berths to be provided shall be equal to the sum of the requirements prescribed for each use. If the gross floor area of individual uses on the same site is less than that for which a loading berth would be required by Schedule B of Section 38-115, but the aggregate gross floor area of all uses is greater than the minimum for which loading berths would be required, the aggregate gross floor area shall be used in determining the required number of loading berths.

B. Joint Use. Off-street parking and loading facilities required by this article for any use shall not be considered as providing parking spaces or loading berths for any other use on the same site, except where a joint facility exists. Such a facility shall contain not less than the total number of spaces or berths as determined individually, or fewer spaces may be permitted where adjoining uses on the same site have different hours of operation and the same parking spaces or loading berths can serve both without conflict. A determination of the extent, if any, to which joint use will achieve the purposes of this article shall be made by the Community Development Director, who may require submission of survey data necessary to reach a decision. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

C. Location and Ownership. Parking required to serve a nonresidential use may be on the same or a different site under the same or different ownership as the use served; provided, that parking shall be within the following distances of the use served, measured from the near corner of the parking facility to the main public entrance of the use served via the shortest pedestrian route:

Customer/Visitor Spaces Employee Spaces 150 ft. 400 ft.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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D. Life of Facility. Facilities for off-site parking shall be restricted to that use by a recorded deed, lease, or agreement for a minimum period of 10 years from the date a zoning permit requiring the parking is issued; provided, that the Community Development Director may waive the restriction upon finding that substitute parking facilities meeting the requirements of this article are provided. No use shall be continued if the parking is removed unless substitute parking facilities are provided. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

E. Shared Parking. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 38-114 (E), a use permit may be approved for parking serving more than one use or site and located in a district in which parking for the uses served is a permitted or conditional use. The maximum allowable reduction in the number of spaces to be provided shall not exceed 20 percent of the sum of the number required for each use served.

Shared Parking. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 38-114 (E), a use permit may be approved for parking serving more than one use or site and located in a district in which parking for the uses served is a permitted or conditional use. The maximum allowable reduction in the number of spaces to be provided shall not exceed 20 percent of the sum of the number required for each use served.

An applicant for a use permit for shared parking may be required to submit survey data substantiating a request for reduced parking requirements. A use permit for shared parking shall describe the limits of any area subject to reduced parking requirements and the reduction applicable to each use.

A Use Permit for shared off-street parking may reduce the total number of spaces required by this article, if the following findings are made:

  1. The spaces to be provided will be available as long as the uses requiring the spaces are in operation;

  2. The peak hours of parking demand from all uses do not coincide so that peak demand is greater than the parking provided;

  3. The adequacy of the quantity and efficiency of parking provided will equal or exceed the level that can be expected if collective parking is not provided; and

Any Use Permit approved for shared parking shall be conditioned on the following:

  1. A written agreement between landowner(s) and the City, in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney, is approved by the Planning Commission. This agreement shall be in the form capable of and subject to being recorded to constitute a covenant running with the land and shall include:

(a) A guarantee that there will be no substantial alteration in the uses that will create a greater demand for parking;

  • (b) A guarantee among the landowner(s) for access to and use of the shared parking facilities;

(c) A provision that the City may require parking facilities in addition to those originally approved upon finding by the Planning Commission that adequate parking to serve the use(s) has not been provided; and

(d) A provision stating that the City, acting through the Planning Commission, may for due cause and upon notice and hearing, unilaterally modify, amend, or terminate the agreement at any time. (Ord. 3424 § 1, 2009)

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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Sec. 38-117. Reduced Parking for Other Uses.

A use permit may be approved for nonresidential uses, reducing the number of parking spaces or loading spaces to less than the number and size specified in the schedules in Section 38-115; provided, that the following findings are made:

  • A. The parking demand will be less than the requirement in Schedule A or B; and

  • B. The probable long-term occupancy of the building or structure, based on its design, will not generate additional parking demand; or

C. There is significant public parking within a reasonable distance that has been provided or will be provided within a reasonable time. In reaching a decision, the Planning Commission shall consider survey data submitted by an applicant or collected at the applicant’s request and expense. (Ord. 3678 § 3, 2024)

Sec. 38-118. Parking In-Lieu Payments.

Within designated parking districts established by the City Council, a parking requirement serving nonresidential uses on a site may be met by a cash in-lieu payment to the City. In establishing such parking districts, the City may set limitations on the number of spaces or the maximum percentage of parking spaces required for which an inlieu fee may be tendered.

Sec. 38-119. Parking Spaces for the Handicapped.

All parking facilities shall comply with the requirements of the California Code of Regulations (Title 24, Part 2, Article 2-71) and with the sign requirements of the California Vehicle Code, Section 22507.8.

A. All uses, except privately-funded multi-family and single-family uses, will require the establishment of at least one handicapped parking space within the required off-street parking facility. The Community Development Director will determine the necessity for handicapped spaces, as well as an appropriate number to be provided, using the following table:

Total Number
of Parking Number of Handicapped/Disabled Parking Spaces Required
Spaces
1-40 1
41-80 2
81-120 3

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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Total Number of Parking Number of Handicapped/Disabled Parking Spaces Required Spaces 121-160 4 161-300 5 301-400 6 401-500 7 over 500 1 for each 200 additional spaces provided

(Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

B. Spaces for handicapped parking shall be located directly adjacent to a walkway or other area marked for pedestrian use, and directly adjacent to uses for which access is provided. Walkway access is to be provided in accord with applicable state and local regulations. Spaces shall be located so that any user is not required to walk or wheel behind any other vehicles other than his or her own. (Ord. 3424 § 1, 2009)

Sec. 38-120. Bicycle Parking.

A. Bicycle Parking -- Where Required. Bicycle parking spaces shall be provided in C and PS districts as required by this section.

  • B. Bicycle Parking -- Number Required.

    1. Public and Semipublic Use Classifications. As specified by use permit.

    2. Commercial Use Classifications. Two percent of the requirement for automobile parking spaces, except for the following classifications, which are exempt:

      • a. Ambulance Services;

      • b. Animal Boarding and Animal Grooming;

      • c. Catering Services;

      • d. Commercial Filming;

      • e. Horticulture, Limited;

      • f. Funeral and Interment Services;

      • g. Swap Meets, Recurring;

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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  • h. Vehicle/Equipment Sales and Services (all classifications).

  • C. Bicycle Parking -- Design Requirements.

For each bicycle parking space required, a stationary object shall be provided to which a user can secure both wheels and the frame of a bicycle with a 6-foot cable and lock. The stationary object may be either a freestanding bicycle rack or a wall-mounted bracket. The following alternative facilities may be provided, subject to approval of the Community Development Director: (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022)

  1. An enclosed bicycle locker; or

  2. A fenced, covered, locked or guarded bicycle storage area. Spacing of the bicycle units shall be figured on a handle width of three feet, distance from bottom of wheel to top of handlebar, three feet six inches, and a maximum wheel distance of 6 feet. (Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012; Ord. 3424 § 1, 2009)

Sec. 38-121. Size and Access.

Parking space dimensions and access requirements shall be as specified by the Planning Commission in standards for off-street parking and loading, adopted by resolution.

Sec. 38-122. Design Standards.

All driveways and off-street parking areas shall be surfaced with all weather surface meeting the requirements of the Engineering and Maintenance Department. All driveways and surface parking areas shall be graded and drained to dispose of surface water accumulated in the area. Each parking space and loading space shall be identified by surface markings that are readily visible at all times. The spaces and markings shall be arranged to provide for orderly and safe loading and unloading of vehicles.

Sec. 38-123. Parking Area Screening: Walls and Fences.

A parking area for five or more cars serving a nonresidential use shall be screened from an adjoining R district or a ground floor residential use by a solid wall and landscaping six feet in height, and constructed to withstand a 15 pound per square foot wind load, except that the height of a wall adjoining a required front yard in an R district shall be four feet. A carport or open parking area for five or more cars serving a residential use shall be screened from an adjoining lot in an R district or a ground floor residential use by a solid wall or fence six feet in height, except that the height of a wall or fence adjoining a required front yard in an R district shall be three feet.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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Sec. 38-124. Lighting.

Parking structure and all project lighting shall be screened so the light source will not be visible off site.

Sec. 38-125. Location and Design of Off-Street Loading Spaces.

Required spaces shall not be within buildings, but shall be on the site of the use served on an adjoining site. A required loading space shall not be located in a required front or street side yard or within 50 feet of any lot in an R district unless enclosed by a solid masonry or concrete wall at least eight feet high. On a site adjoining an alley, a required loading space shall be accessible from the alley, unless alternative access is approved by the Community Development Director. A required loading space shall be accessible without backing a truck across a street property line unless the Community Development Director determines that provision of a turn-around space is infeasible and approved alternative access. An occupied loading space shall not prevent access to a required offstreet parking area. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3472 § 1, 2012)

A loading area visible from a street shall be screened on three sides by a fence, wall or hedge at least six feet high. (Ord. 3424 § 1, 2009)

Sec. 38-126. Safe Parking Program.

A. Purpose and Intent. Safe parking provides homeless individuals and families with a safe place to temporarily park overnight. The provisions set forth in this section enable safe parking programs to operate in the City subject to specific performance standards and permit requirements. These standards and requirements are intended to ensure that safe parking facilities will be compatible with surrounding uses and effective at facilitating participants’ transition to permanent housing.

  • B. Definitions.
  1. “Safe parking program” means a parking program operated on an existing parking lot located outside of the public right-of-way and managed by a social service provider that provides individuals and families with vehicles a safe place to park overnight.

  2. “Social service provider” means an agency or organization that has demonstrated experience with the homeless population by assisting individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency and selfdetermination through a comprehensive array of programs and actions.

C. Use Permit Required. The establishment of a safe parking program in any zoning district shall require a use permit pursuant to Article 22. The use is prohibited in the clear and safety zones of the Monterey Peninsula Airport as shown in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the Monterey Peninsula Airport. In all residential zones, safe parking programs shall only be permitted on properties with the following classifications: Religious assembly, clubs and lodges, and cultural institutions.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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  1. Exception. Safe parking shall be principally permitted on the following City parking lots or on those later approved by the City Council by resolution: 735 Pacific Street.

  2. Standards. Principally permitted safe parking programs on City parking lots shall:

    • a. Have a maximum of six vehicles per site;

    • b. Have hours of operation which in no case may exceed 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.

    • c. Ensure all vehicles shall park in existing parking spaces. Over-sized vehicles shall not extend into drive aisles;

    • d. Operate in a safe and sanitary manner. Examples include adequate trash and recycling services, port-a-potty maintenance, general site cleanliness;

    • e. Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act;

    • f. Conduct online criminal background checks on applicants as part of the intake interview;

    • g. Secure the port-a-potty to the satisfaction of the City Permit and Inspection Services Department;

    • h. Ensure the onsite port-a-potty shall be available only for safe parking guests;

    • i. Conduct random site visits to check for rule compliance;

    • j. Not allow drug or alcohol use or possession on site;

    • k. Not allow weapons or firearms of any kind in program vehicles;

    • l. Require vehicles to be registered and insured;

  • m. Not preclude participation in the program based on a person’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or medical condition; and

    - n. Enter into a license agreement with the City of Monterey. 
    
    - o. The City Manager, or designee, is authorized to execute the license agreement. 
    
  • D. Application Requirements. In addition to the requirements contained in Section 38-158, the use permit application shall include the following:

    1. Proposed hours of operation, which in no case may exceed 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.

    2. The social service provider’s proposed monitoring and oversight plan for the safe parking program.

    3. Site plan indicating the location of trash and recycling facilities, water, restroom facilities, location and distances to residential properties, and location of designated overnight parking spaces.

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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  1. Written documentation establishing that the property owner is a social service provider or that the social service provider’s use of the property has been authorized by the property owner.

  2. Written approval by the Community Services Department head indicating that the proposed social service provider meets the definition under this section of a “social service provider.”

  3. Any other information the Community Development Department may determine is necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions of this section. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022)

E. Use Permit Considerations. Items to be considered by the Planning Commission as part of the use permit review process shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

  1. The total number of vehicles allowed at each safe parking program facility, which shall be determined based on the size of the parking area available for such activity.

  2. The days and hours of operation of the safe parking program facility.

  3. The restroom, water, and trash and recycling facility plan, which shall include the location, hours of availability, and maintenance program for the facility.

  4. Whether there exists sufficient distance between existing and proposed safe parking program facilities.

  5. Whether there exists sufficient distance between the designated spaces at a proposed safe parking program facility and real property being used for a residential purpose.

  6. Whether adequate monitoring and oversight is provided by the social service provider.

  7. The existing noise levels and groundborne vibration; and the potential noise impacts of the proposed safe parking program.

  8. Whether the proposed safe parking program facility is listed as a hazardous material site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5.

  9. Whether there is adequate emergency access at the proposed safe parking program facility.

  10. Whether the proposed safe parking program conflicts with express conditions imposed by the City on a prior use permit for the use of the real property.

  11. On intake, the social service provider shall conduct an online criminal background check on applicants as part of the intake interview. Participant exclusion based on background check results shall be determined by the social service provider on a case-by-case basis.

F. Permit Revocation. The use permit can be referred to the Planning Commission if determined by the head of the Community Development Department, upon receipt of a written substantiated complaint from any citizen, code enforcement officer, or police department officer, which includes information and/or evidence in support of the complaint, that a violation of the use permit, or of any City ordinances or regulations applicable to the

property or operation of the facility, has occurred. At the time of the use permit review, to ensure compliance with

The Monterey City Code is current through Ordinance 3716, passed February 3, 2026.

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applicable laws and conditions of the use permit, conditions of approval may be added, deleted, modified, or the use permit may be revoked. (Ord. 3653 § 19, 2022; Ord. 3562 § 2, 2017; Ord. 3522 § 2, 2015)