Chapter 18.30 — GENERAL PROVISIONS—MISCELLANEOUS

This Chapter is intended to set forth those provisions of a general nature which apply to uses in all zone classifications. It shall also be the purpose of this part to set forth standards and conditions which shall apply to various uses and terms wherever found in this Ordinance.

Wherever any provisions of this Ordinance impose more stringent requirements, regulations, restrictions, or limitations than are imposed or required by the provisions of any other law, ordinance, restriction, or covenant, then the provisions of this Ordinance shall govern.

No building, or part thereof, shall hereafter be erected, altered, or used, and no parcel of land shall be used, except in conformity with the provisions of this ordinance.

The express enumeration and authorization in this Ordinance of a particular class of building, structure, or use in a designated zone shall be deemed a prohibition of such building, structure, or use in all other zones, except as otherwise specified.

• (1) Uses other than those specifically mentioned in this Ordinance as uses permitted in each of the zones may be permitted therein provided such uses are similar to those mentioned and are, in the opinion of the City Planning Commission, as evidenced by resolution of record, not more obnoxious or detrimental to the welfare of the community than the permitted uses, specifically mentioned in any zone. The requirements of Chapter 18.42 (SIMILAR USES) shall govern this procedure.

• (2) The Planning Department shall maintain a permanent list of additional permitted uses, together with the date of determination and the resolution number.

• (3) The Planning Commission shall not, under the provisions of this sub-section, authorize a use or activity which is expressly authorized in a more intense zone to which the property could be reclassified. The express enumeration of permitted uses in all districts shall be construed to include necessary accessory uses.

• (4) The express enumeration of permitted uses in all districts shall be construed to include necessary accessory uses.

Except where otherwise provided for in this Ordinance, every dwelling shall face or front upon a street or permanent means of access to a street, and in no event shall the access to any dwelling be only from an alley.

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.16

ZONING

§ 18.30.30

Any lot shown upon an official subdivision map or parcel map duly approved and recorded, or any nonconforming lot for which a bona fide deed has been duly recorded prior to the effective date of the Ordinance rendering said lot non-conforming, may be used as a building site; provided, however, that all development standards of this ordinance shall apply thereto.

• (1) Lot Configuration: Each proposed lot shall wholly contain within its perimeter a rectangle whose dimensions consist of the minimum lot width and lot depth required within the base zone district except as otherwise provided.

• (2) Lot Area, Depth, Width and Frontage Calculation–Exclusions: Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Ordinance, the required lot area, depth, width and frontage of any lot in any zone of City shall be determined by excluding therefrom any portion of such lot which is subject to an easement or easements for ingress and egress to particular property, or an easement for street purposes, including vehicular and pedestrian rights of way or an easement for equestrian right-of-way purposes, irrespective of whether said easements are for public or private purposes and whether created by dedication, prescription, or written conveyance by deed or otherwise.

Notwithstanding the provisions hereof, any lot or frontage where an easement for equestrian right-of-way purposes existed, and said lot or frontage was legally conforming to applicable laws and ordinances of the City prior to the adoption of this Section, and which would become legally nonconforming if said easement were excluded in computing the lot or frontage, said lot shall continue as a legally conforming lot or frontage and said easement shall not be excluded therefrom in computing the area and/or frontage thereof.

(Ord. 367 Sec. 1, 1976; Ord. 546 Sec. 1, 1985)

Where any parcel in the same ownership contains two different zones, nothing herein shall be construed to prevent access to a public right-of-way, regardless of the uses permitted in this zoned area used for access. Access for the purpose of the section means the right to transport materials, products, and persons necessary to the use conducted over a defined right-of-way.

Vehicle access to lots shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of Section 17.12.060 of the Norco Municipal Code.

(Ord. 584 Sec. 1(Exh. I Sec. 2), 1988)

Notwithstanding any procedural time limitations for zoning actions, as provided in Title 18 of the Norco Municipal Code, including but not limited to Chapter 18.43 thereof, or any other provision of said Code, as to the initiation of or applications for changes of zone, conditional use permits, variances, zone text amendments, similar use findings or any other project, said time limitations

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.30

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.34

shall be tolled and suspended from the date of their commencement until all the objectives, criteria and procedures as provided in City's Resolution 74-9 and any amendments thereto have been met and completed, including the preparation and certification of Environmental Impact Reports, if required. Upon the tolling and suspension of said time limitations, the time shall not resume to run until the environmental evaluation has been completed. (Ord. 300 Sec. 1, 1974)

• (1) For the purpose of this ordinance, a mobile home, recreational vehicle, or commercial coach shall not be deemed to be a structure suitable for residential use. It shall be unlawful to use such vehicles for residential purposes, except when said vehicle is located in a designated Mobile Home Park, or as permitted pursuant to Sections 18.30.34 and 18.30.35.

• (2) A mobile home, recreational vehicle, or commercial coach may be used as temporary structures for the housing of tools, equipment, or containing supervisory offices in connection with construction, construction projects, or for educational displays or demonstrations. These vehicles may be established and maintained during the progress of such construction or such project, and shall be abated within 60 days after completion, or 60 days after cessation of work.

• (Ord. 471 Sec. 10, 1982; Ord. 544 Sec. 1, 1985)

• (1) ELIGIBILITY A mobile home may be installed on lots in agriculture or residential zones if it meets the following conditions:

  • (a) The mobile home shall be certified under the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standard Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C., Section 5401 et seq.) and shall bear a California insignia or Federal label as required by Section 18550 (b) of the Health and Safety Code.

  • (b) The mobile home has not been altered in violation of applicable codes.

  • (c) The mobile home is to be secured to a foundation system in compliance with all applicable building regulations, and Section 18551 of the Health and Safety Code.

  • (d) The mobile home shall meet minimum floor area of the zone. Porches, garages, patios and similar features, whether attached or detached, shall not be included when calculating the minimum floor area.

  • (e) The mobile home shall have a roof overhang of not less than 18 inches unless it is determined that it is not compatible to the neighborhood in which the mobile home is being located.

  • (f) The mobile home shall have roofing material and siding material that is compatible with the neighborhood in which the mobile home is to be located.

  • (g) The mobile home shall be used only as a single-family residential use and shall comply with all requirements of the zone in which it is located.

  • (h) No mobile home shall be permitted on a lot that is within 800 feet of a lot that is on the same street containing a mobile home permitted by this same section.

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City of Norco, CA

ZONING

§ 18.30.34

§ 18.30.34

• (2) APPLICATIONS Applications to install a mobile home shall be made to the Director of Community Development, including the following:

  • (a) Name and address of the applicant and all owners of the subject property, including evidence that all owners agree to the application.

  • (b) Location or address legal description and zoning of property on which the mobile home is to be located.

  • (c) A site plan of the entire property showing location of mobile home and all accessory buildings, including all dimensions and setbacks.

  • (d) Certification that the mobile home complies with the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974.

  • (e) Photographs that show the mobile home in sufficient detail with regard to siding material, roof overhang and roof materials.

  • (f) Photographs that depict the type of structures, siding and roofing materials and roof overhang of structures in the neighborhood in which the mobile home is to be located.

• (3) PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS Within 10 days following the acceptance of an application as being complete, the Director of Community Development shall determine whether the request meets all of the requirements of this ordinance and shall determine if the roof overhang, roofing and siding materials and automobile enclosure is compatible with the neighborhood. Upon approval of the application, the Director of Community Development shall forward the original thereof to the Building Department, file one copy to the applicant, who shall then obtain all necessary installation and construction permits from the Building Department. If the Community Development Director is unable to approve the application, it shall be returned to the applicant, along with a statement of the reasons therefore.

• (4) APPEAL If the Director of Community Development does not approve the application, or requires conditions which the applicant believes are not necessary to achieve compatibility with the neighborhood, the action may be appealed to the City Council within 15 days following the mailing of the final decision by the Director of Community Development by filing a letter with the City Clerk stating the reasons why the applicant believes the action to be improper. The City Clerk shall cause the appeal to be set for hearing at a regular meeting of the Council, held not less than 13 nor more than 30 days after receiving the appeal and shall mail or deliver written notice of the hearing to the Director of Community Development and to the applicant or permittee at least 10 days before the hearing. At the conclusion of the hearing or any continuance thereof, the City Council shall finally decide the matter.

• (5) SURRENDER OF REGISTRATION Subsequent to applying for the required building permits, and prior to occupancy, the owner shall request a certification from the Building Department that a Certificate of Occupancy be issued pursuant to Section 18551 (b) (2) of the California Health and Safety Code. Thereafter, any vehicle license plate, certificate of registration issued by a State agency is to be surrendered to the appropriate State agencies. Any mobile home which is permanently attached with underpinning or foundation to the ground must bear a California insignia or Federal label, pursuant to Section 18550 (b) of the Health and Safety Code.

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City of Norco, CA

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.34

§ 18.30.35

• (6) EFFECTS ON CONVERSION: A mobile home which is placed on a foundation system pursuant to this ordinance shall be deemed to be a mobile home and subject to local property taxation pursuant to Section 18551 of the Health and Safety Code and Section 5800 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

• (7) INSTALLATION Prior to installation of a mobile home, the mobile home owner or a licensed contractor shall obtain a building permit from the Department of Building and Safety. To obtain such a permit, the owner or contractor shall comply with all requirements of Section 18551 (a) of the State Health and Safety Code.

• (Ord. 471 Sec. 11, 1982; Ord. 783, Sec. 35, 2001)

This section applies only to temporary mobile homes for the elderly approved under the provision of this section and in existence prior to the effective date of Ordinance 1082, approving Zone Code Amendment 2022-01. New temporary mobile homes for the elderly after the effective date of Ordinance 1082 are prohibited. An existing temporary mobile home for the elderly is not in addition to the provisions of the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance, in Section 18.30.46. A temporary mobile home must comply with Section 18.30.45 for conversion to an ADU or be removed if a separate ADU is installed/constructed.

Any existing temporary mobile home for the elderly approved under a conditional use permit is allowed to continue and modifications are permitted, provided the following is met:

• A. The mobile home is for the exclusive use of a maximum of two aged family members of the owner occupant of a main use dwelling on the same property.

• B. At least one of two occupants allowed in the mobile home shall be 62 years of age and the applicant shall continue to demonstrate the need for the family member's care.

• C. The existing conditional use permit was granted for a maximum one-year period and may be extended on a year-to-year basis. The Planning Commission may, if deemed necessary, call for a public hearing prior to approving any extension.

• D. The minimum lot size for lots eligible for temporary mobile homes shall continue to be 20,000 square feet.

• E. The mobile home shall continue to be placed to the rear of the main dwelling. Modifying the location of a temporary mobile home on a property requires a modification to the approved conditional use permit.

• F. The mobile home shall be constructed either after September 15, 1971, and be issued an insignia of approval by the California Department of Housing and Community Development or be constructed after July 1, 1976, and be issued an insignia of approval by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In addition the applicant shall provide a State inspection certificate that the mobile home meets all code requirements at the time the conditional use permit is granted. Mobile units constructed prior to these dates may be permitted; provided, that the unit is certified by the State inspector that it meets all current code.

• G. The floor area of the mobile home shall not be less than 350 square feet nor larger than 900 square feet. Modifying the size of an approved temporary mobile home requires a

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City of Norco, CA

ZONING

§ 18.30.35

§ 18.30.40

modification to the approved conditional use permit.

• H. The temporary mobile home shall be connected to the City sewer system. If sewer service does not exist, the mobile home shall be connected to the existing septic system or a separate septic system if it is not practical to hook up to the existing system. A cash bond shall be deposited for the removal of any required new septic system for the mobile home.

• I. Home occupation shall not be permitted from the mobile home.

• J. The mobile home, although temporary, shall be secured to withstand wind loads in accordance with the Uniform Building Code calculations but not be placed on a permanent foundation. In addition, all utility connections serving the unit shall meet applicable building codes.

• K. Notwithstanding Chapter 18.44 there shall be no zone code variance granted to the regulations contained herein.

• (Ord. 544 Sec. 2, 1985; Ord. 1082 Sec. 1, 2022)

Factory-built housing shall be permitted in all zones permitting residential uses providing the following is met:

• (1) Approval shall be obtained from the City Engineer and Fire Chief for the route and time that the structure or components thereof are to be transported upon City streets. The delivery and unloading of the structure or components thereof shall not block a City Street or cause rerouting of traffic.

• (2) All units of a factory-built house shall bear an insignia of approval issued by the Department of Housing and Community Development of the State of California.

• (3) Factory-built housing units shall not in any way be modified prior to installation unless approval is first obtained from the Department of Housing and Community Development of the State of California.

• (4) No factory-built housing shall be in any way modified during installation unless approval for such modification is first obtained from the City Building Official.

• (Ord. 471 Sec. 12, 1982; Ord. 482 Sec. 1 (part), 1983)

Commercial coaches are permitted as main structures in all commercial and industrial zones and permitted as accessory structures in all residential and agricultural zones providing the following is met:

• (1) A moving permit is obtained pursuant to Chapter 10.18 of the Norco Municipal Code

• (2) The commercial coach is placed on permanent foundation meeting all City building regulations; and

• (3) The commercial coach meets all current building codes at time of issuance of permit. (Ord. 471 Sec. 13, 1982; Ord. 482 Sec. 1 (part), 1983)

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City of Norco, CA

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.40

§ 18.30.42

(Ord. 479 Sec. 1, 1983; Deleted by Ord. 815, 2003)

• (1) Intent and Purpose. These regulations are intended to provide uniform criteria and standards for the development and operation of senior citizen housing projects, and to assure the long-term availability and affordability of said units which due to the special needs of its residents, merit unique design and locational considerations. Because of these special needs, senior citizens housing is considered a unique use subject to special provisions, provided the housing remains consistent with the rural atmosphere of the community. The number of dwelling units and location of senior citizen housing shall be guided by the policies adopted within the General Plan Housing Element. Further, the number of dwelling units approved during any one year shall be based upon the yearly commitments within the Housing Element.

• (2) Applicability. The standards established in this section shall govern the development of senior citizen housing within any zone of the City and location the Planning Commission by resolution has deemed appropriate.

• (3) Minimum Development Standards. Senior citizen housing developments constructed under the privileges of this ordinance shall generally meet the development standards as are required within the zone. However, recognizing a lower intensity of development that found in typical developments, the following incentive standards are enacted. These incentive standards are set as absolute minimums. In its review of the required Conditional Use Permit, the City may require more stringent standards than these dependent upon the quality, size, nature, and scope of the project proposed and in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the project's residents and surrounding community. The ultimate project design should result in a senior development no more intensive or impact producing than the surrounding and/or adjacent developments.

  • (a) Density. The number of dwelling units in any one senior citizen housing complex shall be compatible with existing and planned development in the area it is located in as determined by the Planning Commission.

  • (b) Lot Size. The minimum lot size per project shall be 40,000 square feet.

  • (c) Yard Spaces. Notwithstanding zone district requirements, the Planning Commission may reduce yard space requirements provided that such reduction will not adversely affect adjacent properties.

• (d) Parking On-site. Parking shall be provided at a ratio of not less than 0.75 parking spaces per dwelling unit. Two of these parking spaces shall be designated for the manager's unit. Not less than 10% of the total number of required parking spaces shall be designed and designated as handicapped spaces. Included within the total number of required parking spaces, one handicapped passenger loading space measuring at least 20 feet by 10 feet shall be designed and designated for every 25 dwelling units or for every 5,000 square feet of area designated for multi-tenancy use. The Planning Commission may require additional spaces if it is found that because of design, multitenancy rooms there could be additional tenants thereby increasing the parking demand.

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City of Norco, CA

ZONING

§ 18.30.42

§ 18.30.44

• (e) Common Activity Areas. There shall be a ratio of at least 20 square feet of indoor and 30 square feet of outdoor common activity area for each unit or for every 200 square feet within rooms designated for multi-tenancy.

• (f) Dwelling Unit Size. Each dwelling unit shall have at least one bedroom and contain 400 square feet of habitable floor area, plus at least 100 square feet additional floor area for each additional bedroom.

• (g) Other. All other development requirements such as landscaping, trash enclosures, driveway locations, handicapped accessibility, shall be determined by the Planning Commission.

• (h) Minimum Tenant Age. The minimum age of any senior citizen that is a tenant of a senior housing project shall be fifty-five years. This age restriction shall not apply to a spouse or a legally appointed guardian of a senior tenant.

• (4) Plan Approval. The provisions of Chapter 18.45 (Conditional Use Permit) and Chapter 18.41 (Architectural Review) shall apply.

• (5) Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). In order to ensure the necessary compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, and in order to ensure the proper maintenance of developments constructed under these privileges, covenants, conditions and restrictions shall be required prior to development construction. Said CC&Rs shall make provision for enforcing age limitations, relocation when household survivor is not a senior citizen, maximum occupancy limitations, long term project maintenance and repair, and shall make the City a part to such with regard to enforcement, right-of-entry, and enforcement of local traffic/parking regulations.

No such CC&Rs shall be acceptable until approved by the City Council as to suitability for the proposed use and maintenance, and the City Attorney as to legal form and effect. Such CC&Rs shall be recorded with the County Clerk's Office, either separately or with subdivision map, prior to issuance of building permit.

• (6) Annual Review. It shall be the responsibility of the owner and/or lessor of this development to submit to the City of Norco on an annual basis, a statement of proof that units are occupied by at least one member who is a senior citizen, or the unit is occupied by the manager.

• (7) Fees. Processing, building and development fees may be reduced to encourage the construction of senior citizen housing by City Council resolution.

• (Ord. 509 Sec. 2, 1984; Ord. 555 Sec. 1, 1985; Ord. 757 § 2, 2000)

• (1) Intent and Purpose: In order to assure that mini-warehouses are compatible with adjacent land uses and that the public's health and welfare is protected, the following use limitations and development standards are necessary.

• (2) Development Requirements: Mini-warehouses shall only be established and maintained provided the standards contained in this section are met in addition to those standards of the base zone. A Site Plan adopted per Chapter 18.40, Site Plan Review, shall be required for the construction and/or occupancy of a mini-warehouse. The Site Plan shall contain

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.44

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.46

provisions meeting the following:

• (a) The site shall have a minimum net area of 40,000 square feet.

• (b) A dwelling, where used by a proprietor, manager, or custodian of the mini-warehouse, may be erected in conjunction with this use. However, said dwelling shall be an integral part of the mini-warehouse, and may not be a separate structure.

• (c) A minimum of four parking spaces outside the secured storage area shall be provided for office and visitor use and two additional spaces shall be located within a garage for use by the resident. Additional parking may be required if the intensity of the use warrants additional parking to reduce potential congestion.

• (d) Other site development requirements may be established by special conditions of approval.

• (3) Prohibited Materials: The following materials are prohibited in mini-warehouses:

  • (a) Bulk storage of flammable, explosive, dangerous and/or hazardous materials;

  • (b) Storage of matter or material which creates obnoxious dust, odor, or fumes.

  • (c) Outside Storage: Outside storage may be permitted if determined to be compatible with adjacent land uses and is properly situated and screened from public view and adjacent land uses.

• (Ord. 528 Sec. 7, 1984)

• A. Intent and Purpose. This section is intended to provide for the creation of accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units as accessory uses to primary dwellings that meet the intent of State laws regarding accessory dwelling units while maintaining the rural and low-density character of Norco's residential neighborhoods to minimize adverse impacts to surrounding residents and the community. This section is intended to retain the maximum ability of the City to regulate accessory dwelling units and to comply with the requirements of State law.

• B. Definitions. For the purposes of this section the following definitions shall apply:

  1. "Accessory dwelling unit (ADU)" means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. An accessory dwelling unit also includes an "efficiency unit" and a manufactured home as defined in State Health and Safety Code Section 18007.

     • a. "Attached accessory dwelling unit" means an ADU that is i) attached to, or located within, a proposed or existing primary dwelling, or ii) attached to, or located within, an existing accessory structure.

     • b. "Detached accessory dwelling unit" means an ADU that is detached from the proposed or existing primary dwelling and located on the same lot as the

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.46

ZONING

§ 18.30.46

proposed or existing primary dwelling. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an accessory dwelling unit that is detached from a primary dwelling shall not be considered a "detached" ADU if it is attached to, or located within, an existing accessory structure.

2. "Accessory structure" means a structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling located on the same lot.

3. "Efficiency unit" means a unit for occupancy by no more than two persons which has a minimum floor area of 150 square feet, and which may also have partial kitchen or bathroom facilities.

4. "High-quality transit corridor" shall have the same definition as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21155.

5. "Impact fee" means a "fee" as defined in Government Code Section 66000(b), except that it also includes fees specified in Government Code Section66477. "Impact fee" does not include any connection fee or capacity charge.

6. "Interior livable space" shall have the same meaning as "floor area, gross," as defined in the California Building Code, as such definition may be amended from time to time.

7. "Junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU)" means a unit that is no more than 500 square feet of interior livable space in size and contained entirely within a single-family residence. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include separate sanitation facilities or may share sanitation facilities with the existing structure.

8. "Living area" means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, including basements and attics, but does not include a garage or any accessory structure.

9. "Major transit stop" shall have the same definition as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21155.

10. "Nonconforming zoning condition" means a physical improvement on a property that does not conform with current zoning standards.

11. "Objective standards" means standards that involve no personal or subjective judgment by a public official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant or proponent and the public official prior to submittal.

12. "Passageway" means a pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one entrance of the accessory dwelling unit.

13. "Proposed dwelling" means a dwelling that is the subject of a permit application and that meets the requirements for permitting.

14. "Public transit" means a location, including, but not limited to, a bus stop or train station, where the public may access buses, trains, subways, and other forms of transportation that charge set fares, run on fixed routes, and are available to the public. Public transit does not include private rideshares and scooter (i.e., e-scooters) pickups and drop-offs.

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City of Norco, CA

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.46

§ 18.30.46

15. "Tandem parking" means that two or more automobiles are parked on a driveway or in any other location on a lot, lined up behind one another.

• C. Occupancy. Except as otherwise provided by law, accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units may be rented separate from the primary residence for a minimum period of 30 days. Furthermore, accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units may not be sold or otherwise conveyed separate from the primary residence, except as provided by Government Code Section 66341.

• D. Application Review Procedures for Accessory Dwelling Unit and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit.

  1. Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units are permitted in all zones where single-family and multifamily residential uses are allowed subject to the issuance of a building permit. Any application for an accessory dwelling unit that meets the unit size standards and development standards of this section shall be approved ministerially by applying the standards herein and without a public hearing.

  2. An application for an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit permit shall be made by the owner of the parcel on which the primary unit sits and shall be filed on a City-approved application form (a building permit application) and subject to the established fee set by City Council resolution, as it may be amended from time to time.

  3. Applications for an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit shall conform to the requirements for, and shall obtain, a building permit consistent with the California Building Code.

  4. The city shall notify an applicant for a building permit for an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit whether their application is complete or incomplete within 15 business days after the city received the application. If determined to be incomplete, the city shall provide the applicant with a list of incomplete items and a description of how the application can be made complete concurrently with the determination of incompleteness. The city shall have 15 business days to review any resubmittal and determine whether the identified deficiencies have been cured. The city shall not require an applicant to provide any item that was not included in the initial determination of incompleteness. If the city does not make a timely determination of completeness or incompleteness for an application or resubmitted application, the application or resubmitted application shall be deemed complete.

  5. An application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit or a junior accessory dwelling unit shall either be approved or denied within 60 days from the date the City receives a completed application if there is an existing single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot. If the application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit is submitted in conjunction with an application to create a new single-family or multifamily dwelling unit on the lot, the City may delay approving or denying the application for the accessory dwelling unit until the City approves or denies the application to create or serve the new single-family or multifamily dwelling, but the application to create or serve the accessory dwelling unit shall be considered without discretionary review or hearing. If the applicant requests a delay, the 60-day time period shall be tolled for the period of the agreed-upon delay. If the City has not approved or denied the completed application within 60 days, the application shall be

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.46

ZONING

§ 18.30.46

deemed approved.

6. Denial of an ADU application shall be accompanied with a full set of comments listing the specific items that are defective or deficient. These comments shall also describe how the application can be remedied by the applicant. An application to create an ADU shall not be denied because corrections are needed to address nonconforming zoning conditions, building code violations, or unpermitted structures elsewhere on a lot that do not present a threat to public health and safety and are not affected by the construction of the ADU.

   7. An applicant may appeal a determination that their application for a building permit for an ADU or JADU is incomplete, and/or may appeal the denial of a building permit for an ADU or JADU, to the planning commission. The applicant shall file a written notice of appeal stating the grounds therefor with the City Clerk within 10 days from the date of the determination that is the subject of the appeal accompanied with the appeal fee set by resolution of the City Council. A final written determination on the appeal shall be issued no later than 60 business days after receipt of the applicant's written appeal unless the applicant agrees in writing to an extension of time.

   8. A demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU shall be reviewed with the ADU application and issued at the same time. The permit applicant shall not be required to provide a written notice or posted placard for the demolition of a detached garage that is to be replaced with an accessory dwelling unit, unless the property is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.

• E. Accessory Dwelling Units—Development Standards. Accessory dwelling units shall be permitted in those zones where single-family and multifamily residential uses are permitted subject to compliance with the requirements of this subsection E except as provided in subsection E.19.

  1. Maximum ADU Size. An attached or detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 850 square feet of interior livable space for an ADU with up to one bedroom, or 1,000 square feet of interior livable space for an ADU with two or more bedrooms.

     • a. If there is an existing primary dwelling on the property an attached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 50% of the interior livable space of the existing primary dwelling, or the square footages stated in the previous sentence, whichever is less, subject to the limitation in subsection E.19.a below.

     • b. A detached ADU may include exterior living areas such as entry patios and covered porches. Any exterior living area such as an individual patio or a covered porch shall be limited to 50 square feet each.

  2. Setback and Lot Coverage Requirements.

     • a. No setback is required for existing living area that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit or a portion of an accessory dwelling unit.

     • b. No setback is required for an existing accessory structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing accessory structure, that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit or a portion

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City of Norco, CA § 18.30.46

NORCO CODE

§ 18.30.46

of an accessory dwelling unit.

• c. A setback of four feet from the side and rear lot lines is required for an accessory dwelling unit or a portion of an accessory dwelling unit that is not subject to subsection E.2.a or b.

• d. The required minimum distance between an accessory dwelling unit and all other buildings on the property shall be 10 feet.

• e. All existing and proposed buildings on the property, including the proposed accessory dwelling unit, shall not exceed the lot coverage requirement of the underlying zone.

• f. An ADU shall not be allowed in any portion of the front yard setback area.

3. Primary Dwelling. The lot upon which the accessory dwelling unit shall be allowed must contain a single-family or multifamily residence as an existing or proposed primary unit on the lot.

4. Separate Address. Detached accessory dwelling units shall be assigned an address separate from that of the primary dwelling unit.

• Number of Accessory Dwelling Units per Lot.

• a. For lots with a proposed or existing single-family residence: one accessory dwelling unit and one junior accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on each lot.

  • i. An additional accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on a lot if the accessory dwelling unit meets the requirements of either Government Code Section 66323(a)(1) or (a)(2), as referenced in subsection E.19 below, provided that no more than one attached accessory dwelling unit and no more than one detached accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on any lot with a proposed or existing single-family residence.

  • ii. An existing single-family primary dwelling unit that meets the applicable development standards for an accessory dwelling unit may be designated as one of the permitted ADUs on a lot in conjunction with the construction of a new primary dwelling unit.

• b. For lots with existing multifamily residential dwellings: accessory dwelling units totaling no more than 25% of the number of existing multifamily dwelling units, but at least one unit, shall be permitted constructed within the portions of the existing multifamily structures not used as livable space (e.g., the space not intended for human habitation, including living, sleeping, eating, cooking, or sanitation). In addition, up to eight detached accessory dwelling units shall be permitted, provided that the total number of detached accessory dwelling units shall not exceed the number of existing units on the lot.

• c. For lots with proposed multifamily residential dwellings: not more than two detached accessory dwelling units shall be permitted.

6. Underlying Zoning. Except as otherwise provided in this section, accessory dwelling

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units shall comply with all development requirements for new single-family dwelling units as specified for the land use district in which they are located, except for minimum lot size.

7. Building Codes. All new accessory dwelling units must comply with California Building Code standards as adopted in Title 15. Fire sprinklers shall not be required for an ADU if they are not required for the primary residence. The construction of an accessory dwelling unit shall not trigger a requirement for fire sprinklers to be installed in the existing primary dwelling. Accessory dwelling units shall not be constructed on utility and flowage easements. Accessory dwelling units shall comply with local building code requirements that apply to detached dwellings, except that the construction of an accessory dwelling unit shall not constitute a Group R occupancy change under the local building code, as described in Section 310 of the California Building Code (Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations), unless the building official makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the construction of the accessory dwelling unit could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to prevent a local agency or the City from changing the occupancy code of a space that was inhabitable space or was only permitted for nonresidential use and was subsequently converted for residential use pursuant to this section.

8. Parking. Parking for accessory dwelling units shall be as listed below:

   • a. Parking spaces for an accessory dwelling unit shall be nine feet by 20 feet and are not required to be covered or within a garage. A detached accessory dwelling unit shall not be attached to a garage or carport.

   • b. The number of required spaces for the accessory dwelling unit shall be equal to one space per accessory dwelling unit.

   • c. Parking can be provided in tandem in the existing driveway of the primary dwelling provided it does not encroach onto a public trail or sidewalk and otherwise complies with City parking requirements. Parking is allowed in the required front or side yard setbacks if it is within the existing driveway of the primary dwelling unless specific findings are made that parking in setback areas or tandem parking is not feasible based upon specific site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions.

   • d. Parking requirements will not be imposed in any of the following instances:

     • i. The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit.

     • ii. The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.

     • iii. The accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.

     • iv. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.

     • v. When there is a designated, fixed pick-up or drop-off location for a car

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share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.

• vi. When a permit application for an accessory dwelling unit is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family dwelling or a new multifamily dwelling on the same lot; provided, that the accessory dwelling unit or the parcel satisfies any other criteria listed in subsection E.8.d of this section.

  • e. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure or an existing accessory dwelling is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit or converted to an accessory dwelling unit, those off-street parking spaces do not have to be replaced.

9. Siting. A detached accessory dwelling unit may not be located within the area between front property line and the line parallel to, and touching, the back of the primary residence. This shall not apply to an existing accessory structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing accessory structure, that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit or a portion of an accessory dwelling unit.

10. Exterior Entrance. For attached ADUs, the exterior entrance shall not be on the front of the primary dwelling, or on any street side of the primary dwelling if the primary dwelling also has exterior access on the street side. No exterior stairway to an attached ADU shall be located on the front of the primary dwelling, where feasible. No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction of an ADU.

11. Wall and/or Fence Requirement. A wall or fence meeting at least the minimum building code standards shall be constructed and maintained along that portion of a side or rear yard boundary where an accessory dwelling unit is closer than five feet to the boundary, subject to the issuance of a building permit as needed.

12. Windows. Windows are permitted along walls adjacent to the side or rear property lines in compliance with building code standards.

13. Height. The maximum height of an accessory dwelling unit shall be as follows:

• a. A detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single family or multifamily dwelling unit shall not exceed 16 feet in height measured from finished floor to the tallest roof peak, except as provided in subsection E.13.b or c below.

• b. A detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multifamily dwelling shall not exceed 18 feet in height measured from finished floor to the tallest roof peak, if the lot is within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor. The ADU may be up to two feet taller (for a maximum of 20 feet) to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling.

• c. A detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily, multistory dwelling shall not exceed 18 feet in height measured from finished floor to the tallest roof peak.

• d. An attached ADU that is attached to a primary dwelling shall not exceed 25 feet

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in height or the height limitation that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is lower, measured from finished floor to the tallest roof peak. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no case shall an ADU exceed two stories.

• e. An attached ADU that is not attached to a primary dwelling shall be subject to the height standards for a detached ADU in subsections E.13.a, b, and c above.

14. Objective Design Criteria. All accessory dwelling units must comply with the following objective design requirements unless the proposed accessory dwelling unit is a conversion of an existing structure and no change to the exterior of the existing structure is proposed other than windows and doors.

• a. The exterior materials (i.e., stucco on the main house will require a stucco exterior on the accessory dwelling unit), colors, roof pitch and architecture style shall match the primary unit.

• b. Any attached accessory dwelling unit shall be attached to the living area of the primary dwelling unit or existing accessory structure by a common wall or floor/ ceiling.

15. Water and Sewer. An accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a new residential unit for purposes of calculating connection fees or capacity fees for water and sewer services. Attached accessory dwelling units are not required to be metered separately from the primary dwelling for any City utility or other public utility unless being built concurrently with a new primary dwelling. Detached accessory dwelling units are required to be metered separately from the primary dwelling for water services. No new private wastewater disposal systems shall be permitted for accessory dwelling units. For accessory dwelling units proposed on lots with existing septic systems, the existing septic system shall be expanded to accommodate the accessory dwelling unit unless sewer service is available within 200 feet of the property line. Where sewer service is available within 200 feet of the property line, one sewer connection to serve both units shall be installed prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit for the accessory dwelling unit.

16. Variances. Notwithstanding Chapter 18.44, there shall be no variance or exemption granted from the requirements contained in this section.

17. Impact Fees. The accessory dwelling unit shall be assessed all applicable building permit and impact fees.

• a. Accessory dwelling units up to 750 square feet are exempt from impact fees.

• b. Accessory dwelling units 750 square feet or greater are subject to impact fees that are proportional to the relationship of the accessory dwelling unit to the primary dwelling.

18. Open Space Animal-Keeping Area. To preserve the health, welfare and safety of large and small animals and agricultural lifestyle, the location of the accessory dwelling unit must preserve the recorded lot coverage and open space standards for a primary animal keeping area (PAKA) if the ADU is proposed on a lot with a recorded PAKA. For lots that do not have a recorded PAKA, the proposed location of the accessory dwelling unit must comply with the lot coverage and open space animal keeping area

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requirements of the zoning of the lot. To preserve the health, welfare and safety of the animals in case of an emergency, a minimum 12-foot-wide (or as required in the underlying zone, whichever is more) clear and unobstructed access shall be maintained to the required animal area or existing PAKA.

19. Exemptions.

• a. Any standard in this subsection E regarding the minimum or maximum size for an accessory dwelling unit, size based upon a percentage of the proposed or existing primary dwelling, or limits on lot coverage, floor area ratio, open space (including animal keeping areas), front setbacks, and minimum lot size, for either attached or detached dwellings, shall be waived if its application to a lot would preclude an accessory dwelling unit with at least 800 square feet of interior livable space and with four-foot side and rear setbacks from being constructed in compliance with all other development standards.

• b. The standards in this subsection E shall not be imposed on any accessory dwelling unit meeting the requirements of Government Code Section 66323(a)(1) through (4) to the extent the standards conflict with said statute. Notwithstanding the foregoing, for lots subject to the open space animalkeeping area requirements in subsection E.18, the City will require compliance with that subsection for accessory dwelling unit meeting the requirements of Government Code Section 66323(a)(1) through (4) so long as compliance with the requirements of that subsection would not preclude construction of the proposed accessory dwelling unit elsewhere on the lot.

• F. Junior Accessory Dwelling Units—Development Requirements. Junior accessory dwelling units shall be permitted in those zones where single-family residential uses are permitted subject to compliance with the requirements of this subsection F.

  1. Interior to Single-Family Dwelling. Junior accessory units must be constructed within the walls of an existing or proposed single-family residence. Enclosed uses within a residence, such as attached garages, are considered part of the existing or proposed single-family residence.

  2. Maximum Size. A junior accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 500 square feet in size.

3. Owner Occupancy. The owner of a parcel proposed for a junior accessory dwelling unit shall occupy as a primary residence either the primary dwelling unit or the junior accessory dwelling unit. Owner occupancy is not required if the owner is a governmental agency, land trust, or "housing organization" as that term is defined in Government Code Section 65589.5(k)(2), as that section may be amended from time to time, or if the junior accessory dwelling unit has separate sanitation facilities from the primary residence.

   4. Sale Prohibited. A junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold independently of the primary dwelling on the parcel.

   5. Short-Term Rentals. The junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be rented for periods of 30 days or less.

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6. Access. A separate entrance from the main entrance to the proposed or existing single-family residence is required. If the junior accessory dwelling unit shares a bathroom with the primary dwelling, an interior entry to the primary dwelling's main living area shall also be required.

7. Kitchen Requirements. The junior accessory dwelling unit shall include an efficiency kitchen, including a food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit.

8. Parking. No additional parking is required beyond that already required for the primary dwelling.

9. Fire Protection—Utility Service. For the purposes of any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation or for the purposes of providing service for water, sewer, or power, a junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit, unless the junior accessory dwelling unit was constructed in conjunction with a new single-family dwelling. No separate connection between the junior accessory dwelling unit and the utility shall be required for a junior accessory dwelling unit, unless the junior accessory dwelling unit is being constructed in connection with a new single-family dwelling. Fire sprinklers shall not be required for a junior accessory dwelling unit if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence.

10. Fees. A junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a new residential use for purposes of calculating connection fees or capacity charges for utilities, including water and sewer service, unless the unit was constructed with a new single-family dwelling. Junior accessory dwelling units shall be exempt from the payment of impact fees.

• G. Codes, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). CC&Rs that either effectively prohibit or unreasonably restrict the construction or use of an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit on a lot zoned for single-family residential use are void and unenforceable.

• H. Compliance with General Plan. An accessory dwelling unit and/or junior accessory dwelling unit which conforms to the standards of this section shall not be considered to exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which it is located and shall be deemed to be a residential use which is consistent with the existing General Plan and land use designation for the lot.

• I. Legalization of ADUs. The city shall not deny a permit to legalize an existing but unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if denial is based on either of the following grounds: (i) the ADU or JADU violates applicable building standards, or (ii) the ADU or JADU does not comply with state ADU law or this section. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the city may deny a permit to legalize an existing but unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the city makes a finding that correcting a violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3. This subsection I does not apply to a building that is deemed to be substandard in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.

  1. A homeowner applying for a permit for a previously unpermitted accessory dwelling

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unit or junior accessory dwelling unit constructed before January 1, 2020, shall not be required to pay impact fees or connection or capacity charges except when utility infrastructure is required to comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 and when the fee is authorized by California Government Code Section 66324(e).

2. Upon receiving an application to permit a previously unpermitted accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit constructed before January 1, 2020, an inspector from the city may inspect the unit for compliance with health and safety standards and provide recommendations to comply with health and safety standards necessary to obtain a permit. If the inspector finds noncompliance with health and safety standards, the city shall not penalize the applicant for having the unpermitted accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit and shall approve necessary permits to correct noncompliance with health and safety standards.

• (Ord. 674, 1993; Ord. 814, 2003; Ord. 969 Sec. 1, 2014; Ord. 1015 Sec. 1, 2017; Ord. 1067 Sec. 1, 2021; Ord. 1091 Sec. 2, 2022; Ord. 1093 Sec. 1, 2023; Ord. 1111 Sec. 1, 2024; Ord. 1117 Sec. 1, 2024; Ord. 1138, 2/4/2026)

The new model home sales complex shall be required to meet approval of the Planning Commission and City Council prior to opening. Approval will be based on the following requirements:

• (1) Sales brochures shall contain information disclosing Norco's history, as well as the rural, animal-keeping lifestyle;

• (2) All new model home sales complexes shall be required to have large animal keeping amenities. The amenities shall be physical improvements that adequately demonstrate and encourage large animal keeping, such as (but not limited to) barns, shade structures, corrals, arenas, and hot walkers;

  • (a) Not less than 51 percent of all model lots within the model home sales complex shall have large animal keeping amenities and physical improvements. The model home sales complex shall be subject to the review and approval of the Planning Commission and City Council prior to any building permits being issued;

  • (b) A minimum 15-foot side yard setback shall be provided on at least one side of the dwelling. This side yard setback shall be graded for vehicular access to the rear yard, shall be free and clear from the eave line to the property line, and shall have a vertical clearance of at least 16 feet;

• (3) The equestrian trail shall be identified as such with signage;

• (4) Model homes may be used as offices solely for the first sale of homes within a recorded tract subject to the following conditions:

  • (a) The sales office may be located in a garage, trailer, or dwelling;

  • (b) Approval shall be for a period not to exceed a two-year period, at which time the sales office use shall be terminated and the structure restored back to its original condition. Extensions may be granted by the Board for good cause shown in one-year increments

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not to exceed a total of four years or until 90 percent of the development is sold; whichever is less;

• (c) A cash deposit, letter of credit, or any security determined satisfactory to the City shall be submitted to the City of Norco, in an amount set by Council resolution, to ensure the restoration or removal of the structure;

• (d) The sales office is to be used only for transactions involving the sale, rent or lease of lots and/or structures within the tract in which the sales office is located, or contiguous tracts;

• (e) Failure to terminate sales office and restore structure or failure to apply for an extension on or before the expiration date will result in forfeiture of the cash deposit, a halt in further construction or inspection activity on the project site, and enforcement action to ensure restoration of structure;

• (f) Street improvements and temporary off-street parking at a rate of two spaces per model shall be completed to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and City Planner prior to commencement of sales activities or the display of model homes;

• (g) All fences proposed in conjunction with the model homes and sales office shall be located outside of the public right-of-way;

• (h) Flags, pennants, or other on-site advertising shall be regulated pursuant to the Site Regulation of the Municipal Code;

• (i) Use of signs shall require submission of a sign permit application for review and approval by the Planning Department prior to installation. (Ordinance 781, 2001).

• A. Purpose and Intent. To limit outdoor light pollution and light trespass onto adjacent properties in order to preserve the nighttime environment for residents, animals and wildlife in rural residential zones. To provide regulations which limit the pollution and trespass of modern, high efficiency lighting sources, such as LED, that emit a large lumen output which was once limited to high voltage sources.

• B. Applicability. This section applies to:

  1. New private (property) residential outdoor lighting mounted on freestanding poles; other than street lights. This section does not apply to commercial and industrial facilities, as more restrictive lighting regulations for those uses already exist, on a case-by-case basis via a project resolution, the California Energy Code, etc.;

  2. Line voltage high output (greater than 2,000 lumens) lighting replacements, upgrades/ modifications or additions to outdoor lighting. Exception: This section does not apply to low voltage landscape lighting or solar powered stand-alone devices;

  3. Building-mounted lighting.

• C. Definitions.

  1. Decorative Lighting. Lighting meant to provide accent decoration and not installed for the purpose of viewing or utility. Decorative lighting is generally low voltage and

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exempt from requiring a permit.

2. Fully Shielded Lighting. A lighting fixture constructed with a shield or shields that do not allow lighting to project above a horizontal plane below the lowest point of the fixture from which light is emitted.

3. Landscape Lighting. Low lumen output (less than 100 lumens) accent lighting meant to enhance or highlight landscaping features for the purpose of decoration.

4. Light Emitting Diode (LED). A type of lighting which uses no filament bulb or gas for illumination.

5. Low Voltage Lighting. Lighting operated by a transformer whose wiring and power supply conducts 36V (volts) or less of electrical supply.

6. Lumens. A measure of light output from the International System of Units that is equal to the amount of light emitted per second from a uniform source of one candle in a solid angle.

7. Luminaire. A complete lighting unit consisting of a lamp, housing and ballast. A complete lighting unit.

8. Lighting Shield. A fully opaque surface obstruction meant to shield, limit or direct light.

9. Lighting Trespass. Lighting lumens that project or flood over property lines or are visible from a great distance beyond the property from which they are emitting.

10. Pole (Freestanding) Height Measurement. The dimension in feet from the natural grade to the extreme top of the light fixture.

• D. Permits Required and Planning Division Review. Building permits are required for line voltage lighting per the California Building Code for the structures (i.e., freestanding pole) if applicable and the lighting. In addition to a building permit being required for electrical installation, structural calculations are also required for poles and stand-alone light supporting structures greater than 12 feet in height (the structures themselves and the lighting). Planning Division approval will be required for outdoor lighting through the building permit process for compliance of this chapter. Along with the application for a building permit, a photometric plan/analysis of the proposed lighting on the property shall be provided to show exact amount of light in outdoor areas of the property. Lighting trespass over property lines will not be permitted in any instance and must be measurable at 0 (zero) candle feet on the neighboring side of all property lines. Submittal of photometric plan can be waived at the discretion of the Planning Director or designee, should it be demonstrated (though the use of appropriate light shielding) that there is no light spill onto adjacent properties.

Exemptions: Temporary lighting installed for the purposes of construction or emergency repair of a facility. Lighting temporarily installed for a specific event or purpose that has been approved under another use or authorization.

• E. Shielding. All lighting units shall require light shielding to prevent it from being seen at a distance and to keep the light from bleeding onto adjacent properties. Lighting installed on free-standing poles shall be fully shielded lighting so that it cannot be observed at a

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distance. Such shielding will be designed to limit the angle of the light projection to direct light only onto approved areas.

• F. Height. Outdoor lighting installed on a building or on a freestanding pole shall be limited to a total height of 18 feet above finish grade (pole and base) and any lighting proposed to be mounted higher than 18 feet above grade will require a variance from the City Planning Commission prior to installation.

• G. Setbacks. Lighting greater than 12 feet in height shall not be installed within five feet of a property line. Lighting over 12 feet shall be set back from property lines a minimum distance of one-half of its height above grade.

• H. Nuisance. Any modification or addition to exterior lighting on a building or property which creates a distinguishable nuisance for adjoining properties or public ways can be considered to be in violation of this section. Any festoon lighting hung on common property like property line fences or walls can be considered to be a public nuisance under this chapter or if this lighting visibly bleeds over property lines.

• I. Violation. Any property owner who constructs, alters or adds on to lighting in violation of the requirements of this section and allowing light pollution to leave their property will be subject to penalties as described in the Norco Municipal Code including administrative citation and legal action. Any property owner who constructs or installs pole lighting without a building permit will also be considered in violation of the California Building Code Section (CBC) 114.1 and will be subject to the penalties as described in the CBC and under State and municipal law. Notices of violation shall be delivered by hand or regular mail.

• (Ord. 1085 Sec. 1, 2022)

§ 18.30.49. Farmworker/Agricultural Housing Development Standards Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 17021.6.

Health and Safety Code Section 17000 et seq., known as the Employee Housing Act, includes regulations that require local jurisdictions to allow the development and use of employee housing. The purpose of this section is to promote the development of, and to establish development standards for, farmworker housing consistent with State law. If any provision in this chapter conflicts with the mandates of the Employee Housing Act as it relates to employee housing, the provisions of the Employee Housing Act shall govern.

• A. All agricultural employee housing shall comply with the setback, building lot coverage, height, and other development standards applicable to the underlying zone in which it is located, and the following development standards, unless otherwise indicated in this section:

• B. For the purposes of this section, "agricultural employees" shall have the same meaning as defined in Section 1140.4(b) of the Labor Code, as may be amended, which includes those engaged in "agriculture" as such term is defined in Section 1140.4(a) of the Labor Code. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1140.4(a), "agriculture" means farming in all its branches, including the cultivation and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural or horticultural commodities (including commodities defined as agricultural commodities in 12 U.S.C. Section 1141j(g)), the raising of livestock, bees, furbearing animals, or poultry, and any practices (including any

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forestry or lumbering operations) performed by a farmer or on a farm as an incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations, including preparation for market and delivery to storage or to market or to carriers for transportation to market.

• C. Agricultural employee housing may be developed and maintained for the purpose of providing permanent, seasonal or temporary employee housing.

• D. Agricultural employee housing shall consist of no more than 36 beds in a group quarters or 12 units or spaces designed for use by a single family or household, or that is approved pursuant to Section 17021.8 of the Health and Safety Code, shall not be deemed a land use under this chapter that implies that such housing is an activity that differs in any other way from an agricultural land use.

• E. Agricultural employee housing that meets the criteria specified in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.8, as may be amended, shall be subject to review and approval by the Planning Division via a business license and the building permit process.

• F. Agricultural employee housing shall comply with the general requirements set forth below:

  1. New agricultural worker housing shall not be located on land classified as "Prime" or "Statewide Importance" by the California Department of Conservation Important Farmland Inventory, unless no other feasible alternative location exists on site.

  2. Agricultural worker housing shall not be located on areas utilized for active crop production on the parcel.

  3. New agricultural worker housing shall be clustered together, if feasible, and sited near existing roads and other structures to reduce grading, landform alteration, the need for construction of new roads, and potential impacts to agricultural soils and operations.

  4. New exterior lighting for agricultural worker housing shall be of a low profile and limited to security needs only (and incompliance with Section 18.30.48, Residential Lighting Standards); all exterior lights shall be directed downward and fully shielded from streets and any off-site residences.

• G. Agricultural employee housing designed as housing complexes shall meet the following development standards:

  1. Minimum Parcel Size. A farmworker housing complex is allowed on a parcel with a minimum parcel size of five acres.

  2. Units in a farmworker housing complex may include studios, one, two or three bedrooms.

  3. A farmworker housing complex shall be prohibited in any location designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.

  4. Open Space Requirements. Recreational facilities and open space shall be provided for the benefit and recreational use of the residents in accordance with the following standards:

     • a. The development shall be landscaped pursuant to Chapter 18.55 (Water Efficient Landscaping) and pursuant to the following:

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• i. No land use may be inaugurated, or structure occupied, until a final inspection has been completed verifying that the landscape area has been installed as required by the approved entitlement.

• ii. All existing invasive and watch list species as inventoried by the California Invasive Plant Council shall be properly disposed of and removed from the landscape area before the installation of the approved landscaping.

• iii. Landscaping installed within a Hazardous Fire Area, Wildland Urban Interface Zone, or Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall be subject to all applicable Riverside County Fire Protection District landscaping requirements.

  • iv. Landscape Design Elements.

    • (A) Vines, shrubs, and on-site trees shall be used to visually soften and deter graffiti on walls and fences. Vines shall not be used where they will cause structural damage to walls or obstruct traffic safety sight areas when adjacent to a roadway or driveway. Shrubs shall be installed a minimum size of five gallons.

    • (B) Plants shall be grouped according to hydrozones and other environmental conditions (soil, slope, sun exposure) that are appropriate for their survival.

    • (C) On-site trees visible from the street shall be planted at a minimum 36-inch box. All other trees shall be planted at a minimum of 24-inch box or 15 gallon. Trees shall be planted in all parkway areas between curbs and horse trails for review and approval by the Public Works Division, who shall also determine the size of trees per the approved City standard.

    • (D) Trees and shrubs shall be planted so that at maturity they do not interfere with service lines, sewer lines or on-site wastewater treatment system areas, traffic safety sight areas, public works facilities and rights-of-way, or safety lighting.

    • (E) Landscape areas shall include permanent irrigation systems.

    • (F) Landscaping shall be maintained by the permittee according to the approved landscape plan and any permit conditions for the life of the permitted land use.

• b. All recreational areas and landscaping shall be installed prior to occupancy of the final unit within the complex. Landscaped areas shall be maintained.

• c.

• Outdoor Common Area.

• i. At least 20 percent of the area set aside for housing shall be outdoor common area.

• ii. At least 50 percent of the area designated as outdoor common area shall be comprised of land with slopes of 10 percent or less.

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• iii. Agricultural worker housing shall include recreational areas developed for use with activities such as baseball, basketball, soccer or horseshoes. Farmworker housing complexes intended for families shall also include children's play equipment.

• iv. Permittee shall be responsible for the maintenance of all outdoor common areas.

• d. Outdoor Private Area. Outdoor private area shall be provided for each unit in the development in the form of outdoor patios, decks and/or balconies and shall be directly and exclusively accessed by the unit it is intended to serve.

  • i. Ground Floor Units. Private outdoor areas must be at least 80 square feet per unit and all dimensions must be at least eight feet.

  • ii. Upper-Level Units. Private outdoor areas shall be provided as balconies or loggias, and must be at least 40 square feet per unit, with a minimum fivefoot depth dimension.

• H. Agricultural employee housing designed as group quarters shall meet the following development standards:

  1. Farmworker group quarter facilities are a group of structures, or a single structure in the form of single room occupancy, dormitories, boarding houses, barracks or bunkhouses, consisting of either individual or shared facilities for the purpose of providing housing or services for farmworkers. These facilities are generally designed as a combination of sleeping rooms or bunk beds and may include a shared kitchen, mess hall and bathroom facility. This type of agricultural worker housing is designed for, and may only be occupied by, individual farmworkers and not their families; and may, but is not required to, be owned or managed by an entity or organization. Farmworker group quarters are subject to the following additional standards:

     • a. Minimum Lot Size. Farmworker group quarters shall be located on lots with a minimum area of five acres.

     • b. Minimum Unit Size. For dormitory-style housing, a minimum of 50 gross square feet of personal living space shall be required for each occupant.

     • c. Setbacks. Farmworker group quarters shall adhere to the setbacks of the underlying zone.

     • d. Open Space Requirements. Recreational facilities and open space shall be provided for the benefit and recreational use of the residents in accordance with the standards listed in subsections (G)(4)(a), (G)(4)(b) and (G)(4)(c) of this section.

     • e. Accessory Uses and Structures. The following accessory uses and structures are allowed for farmworker group quarter facilities if specifically authorized by the Planning Director-approved architectural review permit. Such accessory uses and structures must be located either in a single community building or in a permitted location outdoors, and such uses and structures may not be used by the general public:

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City of Norco, CA

ZONING

§ 18.30.49

§ 18.30.49

• i. Food service for residents of the group quarters, which may include kitchen facilities and a dining hall;

• ii. Laundry facilities for residents of the group quarters;

• iii. Enclosed storage facilities for each resident or dwelling unit;

• iv. Facilities primarily used to provide residents of the group quarters with information regarding and referral to employment, social and community, education, health and other services.

• I. Agricultural employee housing may, but is not required to, be developed or provided by the employer, or located on the same lot where the qualifying agricultural work is being performed.

• J. Within 30 days after obtaining the appropriate permit from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to operate the agricultural employee housing, and thereafter on an annual basis, the applicant shall submit evidence that the HCD permit for the agricultural employee housing is current and valid.

• K. Deed Restriction. Within 30 days after receiving approval for permanent or seasonal employee housing from the Planning Division, and before issuance of the building final, the applicant shall record with the County Recorder a deed restriction in a form approved by the County that runs with the land on which the agricultural employee housing is located declaring that:

  1. The agricultural employee housing will continuously be maintained in compliance with this section and all other applicable sections of the Norco Municipal Code; and

  2. The applicant will obtain and maintain, for as long as the agricultural employee housing is operated, the appropriate permit(s) from HCD pursuant to the Employee Housing Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder;

  3. The deed restriction shall not be amended, released, terminated, or removed from the property without the prior written consent of the City. In the event the agricultural employee housing use is terminated and/or structures are removed in accordance with this chapter and other applicable law as confirmed in writing by the Planning Director, the deed restriction that accompanies the development shall be released and removed from the property.

• L. Signed Affidavit for Temporary Employee Housing. Within 30 days after receiving approval for temporary employee housing from the Planning Division, the applicant shall submit a signed affidavit, in a form approved by the City, affirming that:

  1. The agricultural employee housing will only be used as temporary employee housing; and

  2. The applicant will obtain and maintain, for as long as the temporary employee housing is operated, the appropriate permit(s) from HCD pursuant to the Employee Housing Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

• (Ord. 1114 Sec. 1, 2024)

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City of Norco, CA § 18.31.02

ZONING

§ 18.31.08