Article I — Specific Plan Area No. 1

Editor's Note: Exhibits "A" and "B" referred to herein can be found at the end of this article.

Specific plan area No. 1 applies to the area bounded on the west by Norwalk Boulevard, on the north by Civic Center Drive, on the east by Lot Nos. 222 to 234 and 322 to 330 of Tract No. 15205, on the south by Dace Street, and on the southwest by the Santa Ana Freeway. The location is depicted on the map identified as Exhibit "A."

EXHIBIT "A" AREA MAP, SPECIFIC PLAN AREA NO. 1

==> picture [404 x 475] intentionally omitted <==

(Prior code § 27-31.1; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

This specific plan area is an instrument for guiding, coordinating and regulating development as authorized in Article 8 of Chapter 3 of the State Planning and Zoning Law. In the specific plan area zone, no building shall be erected, constructed, reconstructed or structurally altered, nor shall any building or land be used, except as hereinafter specifically provided and allowed by this chapter and by other relevant chapters of the Norwalk Municipal Code. (Prior code § 27-31.2; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

The purpose of the specific plan area is to facilitate the systematic implementation of the general plan and to serve as a basis for review of more detailed plans. It is intended to establish a pattern for the appropriate design, arrangement and relationship of buildings, open space, circulation, land use

and other features as necessary to coordinate development and achieve a functionally and visually integrated development. It is also intended to assure adequate design and controls to mitigate factors such as noise, vibration, dust, odors, and visual features detrimental to the project and its residents, tenants or users. It is intended to capitalize upon certain special qualities and opportunities of a designated area while permitting a degree of flexibility favorable to unique and imaginative designs. It is further intended to encourage and promote a high quality of design and environment.

(Prior code § 27-31.3; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

Specific plan area No. 1 consists of slightly more than 20 acres of topographically flat land and constitutes an extension of the existing Civic Center complex which includes both public and private buildings. The subject area consists of the former Wright Intermediate School, which is no longer in active use and has been declared surplus by the Norwalk La Mirada School District, and an adjacent parcel owned by the Southern California Water Company. The subject area is ideally situated being adjacent to the heavily traveled Santa Ana Freeway, which serves as the primary freeway connecting Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The site is also located at the fringe of a developing Civic Center complex. The subject property is unique in that the majority of the site is under single ownership.

The Santa Ana Freeway is adjacent to the southwesterly portion of the area and affords the area ready visibility from the freeway. Freeway access to the area is provided by an existing ramp system using the San Antonio Drive-Norwalk Boulevard corridor.

A major highway, the San Antonio Drive-Norwalk Boulevard corridor is adjacent to the west side of the area and is fully improved including landscaped medians. It serves to link the Civic Center complex with central portions of the City. Civic Center Drive is adjacent to the north side of the area and is fully improved. It serves as a collector road within the Civic Center complex. Volunteer Avenue and Dace Street are local streets along the easterly and southerly sides of the area, respectively.

Existing development on the west side of Norwalk Boulevard consists of a mixture of uses, including office buildings, apartments and commercial uses. The Civic Center complex lies on the north side of Civic Center Drive. Existing development consists of several high rise buildings, including the seven story Southeast Superior Court building, the six-story IBM Corporation office building, and two seven-story office buildings at the Bechtel Power Corporation's complex. Norwalk City Hall, the Norwalk branch of the Los Angeles County Public Library and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Substation are also located in this area. Along the east and a portion of the south sides of the area, existing development consists of single-family residences. (Prior code § 27-31.4; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

• A. This specific plan area is adopted in, order to establish objectives, policies, regulations, development standards and review criteria for the implementation of a compatible blend of mutually supporting land uses consisting of a multi-story hotel, a wide array of professional offices and retail commercial uses, complementary commercial entertainment uses and residential condominiums. Traditional zoning practice is less capable of encouraging the desired land use mix and is less favorable to the use of unique and imaginative designs.

• B. This specific plan area is adopted in order to capitalize upon certain unique site characteristics and opportunities in a manner which will assure that eventual development will contribute to the long-term enhancement of the community. The primary advantages of the site include its proximity to the heavily traveled Santa Ana Freeway, the location of the site adjacent to existing and future major developments in the City Centre area, the capability of a well-planned major development to serve as a focal point for community identity, the potential to complement other

major development within the City Centre area, and the fact that the developable portion of the site is owned by a single entity.

• C. This specific plan area is adopted in order to further the systematic implementation of the goals and objectives identified in the general plan. Among the adopted policies of the general plan is the mandate to improve the City of Norwalk as a convenient, desirable and pleasant place in which to live, work, shop, and raise a family; to achieve a high standard of beauty in all existing and future development within the City; and to advance Norwalk's position in commerce, industry, recreation and culture. Furthermore, the general plan provides for the utilization of the specific plan approach to facilitate design of an integrated development in a limited land area without the constraints imposed by traditional zoning lines, setbacks, and use restrictions.

• (Prior code § 27-31.5; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

Specific plan area No. 1 is of critical importance to the long-term future of the City of Norwalk as a result of its location, size, ownership and potential, indicating that a maximum effort to capitalize on these opportunities, is essential. The major objectives of this specific plan area are as follows:

• A. To assure the development is substantial with highly desirable characteristics and attributes of excellence of design and execution in order to promote a quality civic image;

• B. To encourage the development of multi-story structures, for the main buildings, in order to foster a highly visible City core;

• C. To selectively limit the range of permitted uses to those which are mutually supporting and complementary to existing and future uses in the City Centre area;

• D. To provide a secure, quiet environment for residential development free from any obnoxious noise, dust and odors;

• E. To provide a highly attractive, stimulating, and innovative living environment that will tend to stimulate the surrounding area and improve the development characteristics of the area;

• F. To minimize any potential adverse impacts on surrounding residential areas especially as they relate to visual, aesthetic and traffic effects;

• G. To establish a long range and on-going source of revenue to the City in terms of employment opportunities and municipal revenues;

• H. To facilitate the safe and convenient movement of vehicular and other traffic to and from the site and throughout the City Centre area;

• I. To allow for imaginative and qualitative site planning and architectural design creating a unique and individual character within the development and contributing to the overall enhancement of the City Centre environment.

(Prior code § 27-31.6; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

In order to effectively achieve the foregoing objectives, the following policies shall be applied in designing, managing, and regulating developments and uses within specific plan area No. 1.

• A. Project unit and identity shall be achieved through the careful siting of building and parking areas, the development of an effective internal circulation system, the coordination and control

of building design, landscaping, and attention to the details of lighting, signing, and similar features.

• B. Main commercial structures and primary activity areas shall be oriented toward the interior of the site and in a manner which effectively utilizes the exposure of the heavily traveled Santa Ana Freeway corridor. Minor commercial structures and secondary activity areas may be oriented to the perimeter of the site. Architectural and landscape treatment shall be designed to provide an attractive environment along all street frontages including the Santa Ana Freeway.

A substantial landscaped setback shall be provided adjacent to Norwalk Boulevard and Civic Center Drive. This area shall include mounds, decorative fencing and a substantial amount of trees, shrubs and ground cover plant materials.

• C. The main structures within the development shall be multi-story buildings similar in height to existing multi-story buildings in the City Centre.

• D. Sound attenuation walls, arrangement of buildings, arrangement of rooms, and sound attenuation measures in construction shall be used to assure quiet living conditions both indoors and outdoors on the residential portion of the site.

• E. Walls, fencing, gates and access to the site shall be arranged to provide security to residents of the property.

• F. Entryways to the development shall be designed to create an aesthetically pleasing environment. The main entrance to both the commercial and residential portions of the site shall be located on Civic Center Drive, as depicted on Exhibit "A."

• G. Special attention shall be given to the provision for substantial visual and acoustic buffering between the development and adjacent residential areas.

• H. The design and control of pedestrian and vehicular circulation shall be coordinated in order to provide safe and convenient access to the development and existing facilities nearby. A private, interior street shall be provided; access to existing perimeter streets shall be limited in number, preferably to the interior street openings only; and access to the uses within the development shall be primarily through the interior street. Other appropriate traffic control measures including, but not limited to, deceleration lanes, reverse curve drive openings, signalization, and signing shall also be considered.

• I. The ownership of the area shall be retained in large parcels with the creation of small parcels being restricted or prohibited unless a showing is made that a smaller parcel and/or parcels will complement rather than disrupt the integrity of unified large-scale development.

• J. Particularly high standards of development shall be applied to realize the unique potential of the area, to attract suitable hotel, professional office and commercial uses, to provide an attractive residential neighborhood, and to enhance the environment for surrounding residents.

• K. The maximum degree of flexibility, consistent with the type of development and protection expressed herein, shall be allowed to encourage imaginative design.

• (Prior code § 27-31.7; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

The map entitled "Illustrative Plan, Specific Plan Area No. 1" is adopted as part of the specific plan area and is attached as Exhibit "B." This illustrative plan represents a concept for implementation of the objectives, policies, standards and regulations of this specific plan area, and is not necessarily intended to serve as a guide for development.

EXHIBIT "B" ILLUSTRATIVE PLAN, SPECIFIC PLAN AREA NO. 1

==> picture [412 x 474] intentionally omitted <==

(Prior code § 27-31.8; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

This specific plan area provides for the following categories of land uses: hotel, office, retail, accessory commercial, residential condominiums and water wells and appurtenant structures. Uses shall be located as shown on Exhibit "A." (Prior code § 27-31.9; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

• A. Unless specified below no category of use shall be established and no building shall be constructed in specific plan area No. 1 zone except upon the issuance, existence, and validity of a conditional use permit as provided for in Section 17.02.210 of the Norwalk Municipal Code and upon review and approval of a precise development plan as provided for in Section 17.02.205 of this code. The criteria for approval shall include the following:

  1. The general requirements for a conditional use permit as set forth in Section 17.02.210 are satisfied;

  2. The general requirements for a precise development plan as set forth in Section 17.02.205 are satisfied;

  3. The use(s) conform to and promote the objectives, policies, standards; regulations, purpose and intent provided for in this specific plan area;

  4. The use(s) will serve to enhance the special identity of the area ensuring that the physical design follows the theme for the development;

  5. The use(s) will be functionally located and integrated with respect to other uses within this specific plan area;

  6. Sufficient evidence will be provided to assure that no unmitigated adverse environmental effects caused by odor, noise, glare, traffic, vibrations, fumes, smoke, particulate matter or unsafe storage of hazardous materials will occur.

• B. In conjunction with the approval of a conditional use permit, the use(s) approved may include the range of uses within the same land use category as the approved use or uses for the purpose of a change in tenants without another conditional use permit provided that the Director of the Department of Community Development determines that the new use is substantially similar to the approved use and is otherwise included in the listing of uses permitted in this specific plan area. It shall be the responsibility of the developer, project manager, leasing agent, or other authorized representative to obtain said approval prior to exercising any lease or rental agreement, securing a City business license, obtaining a building permit, and/or receiving any other City approvals that are necessary. The decision of the Director of the Department of Community Development may be appealed to the Planning Commission and the Planning Commission's decision is subject to appeal to the City Council.

ive to obtain said approval prior to exercising any lease or rental agreement, securing a City business license, obtaining a building permit, and/or receiving any other City approvals that are necessary. The decision of the Director of the Department of Community Development may be appealed to the Planning Commission and the Planning Commission's decision is subject to appeal to the City Council.

• C. In conjunction with the approval of a conditional use permit, the use(s) approved may include the range of uses within the same land use category as the approved use or uses for the purpose of a change in tenants without another conditional use permit provided that the Director of the Department of Community Development determines that the new use is substantially similar to the approved use and is otherwise included in the listing of uses permitted in this specific plan area. It shall be the responsibility of the developer, project manager, leasing agent, or other authorized representative to obtain said approval prior to exercising any lease or rental agreement, securing a City business license, obtaining a building permit, and/or receiving any other City approvals that are necessary. The decision of the Director of the Department of Community Development may be appealed to the Planning Commission and the Planning Commission's decision is subject to appeal to the City Council.

(Prior code § 27-31.10; Ord. 21-1722 § 2; Ord. 23-1746, 12/5/2023; Ord. 24-1747, 10/1/2024)

In the specific plan area No. 1 zone, the following uses may be permitted subject to any conditions deemed necessary to accomplish the objectives and policies of this specific plan area:

• A. Designated Commercial Area and Parking/Utility Area (refer to Exhibit "A"):

  1. Hotel or motor inn;

  2. Business and professional offices, including administrative, financial, executive, regional and corporate headquarters. Permitted uses shall include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

Accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping services, Advertising and public relations services,

Architectural, engineering and planning services,

Attorneys,

Billboards subject to an approved Sign Use Permit (SUP)

Brokers, except truck brokers where truck traffic would be generated,

Business and management consulting services,

Data processing services,

Doctors, dentist, optometrists, chiropractors and others licensed by the State to practice the healing arts for human beings, and accessory uses such as oculists, medical laboratories, and pharmacies dispensing only medical products,

Duplication, mailing and stenographic services,

Employment services,

Escrow and title companies,

Financial institutions,

Insurance services, Interior decorator, Investment services,

Photographic services, Public utility offices, Real estate services, Research services,

Travel agency;

3. Retail stores and services that will complement and support the hotel, office and professional uses in the commercial portion of the site. Permitted uses shall include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

Antique stores,

Arcades, Bowling Alley, Entertainment venues, such as small amphitheater venues for cultural, music and other entertainment events,

Arcades, and Outdoor events, subject to a Special Event Permit,

Art galleries or shops,

Automobile rental agency (provided no cars are serviced or stored on the site),

Bakeries,

Barber/beauty shops, Book stores,

Candy, nut and confectionery stores,

Computer and electronic equipment sales,

Clothing stores, Clubs, Curio shops, Department stores, Drug stores,

Dry cleaning/laundry, plant off-premises,

Dry goods stores, Florist, Furniture stores, Gift shops, Instrument sales, Jewelry stores, Lounges, Museums

Music stores,

Outdoor events, subject to a Special Event Permit, and Restaurants, with or without the sales of beer/wine or alcoholic beverage,

Photograph galleries,

Photographic equipment sales,

Radio and television sales, Shoe repair, Specialty retail stores, Sporting goods stores, Stationery stores, Tailor shops, Ticket sales.

4. Accessory Commercial:

On-sale alcoholic beverage establishments provided such uses are part of a bona fide eating place, or conducted within a hotel or motion picture theater, subject to the requirements of Section 17.04.140 , except subsection (E)(1) (distance requirement) of that section shall not apply to:

Delicatessens,

Motion picture theaters, excluding drive-in theaters,

Museums,

Restaurants;

5. Convention center;

6. Comparable uses not specified may be determined to be permitted conditional uses by the Planning Commission if they comply to the following criteria:

   • a. The use will not create circumstances, effects or situations considered undesirable, heavier, or substantially different from other uses in this category. Factors to consider will include all aspects of traffic, hours of operation, equipment, and the conduct of such use,

   • b. The use will be highly compatible with other uses in this category,

   • c. The use is similar in scope, purpose, intent, operations and objectives to uses listed,

   • d. The use will promote the intended objectives of this specific plan,

   • e. The use is not otherwise prohibited by Section 17.09.120 .

• B. Designated Parking/Utility Area (refer to Exhibit "A"):

Surface parking; Landscaping; Walls and fences; Water wells and appurtenant structures.

• C. Designated Residential Area (refer to Exhibit "A"):

  1. Condominiums;

  2. Accessory uses and structures:

     • a. Recreation rooms,

     • b. Pools and/or spas,

     • c. Tennis courts,

     • d. Garages.

(Prior code § 27-31.11; Ord. 15-1668 § 4; Ord. 15-1670 § 1; Ord. 21-1722 § 2; Ord. 24-1747, 10/1/2024)

All uses are prohibited unless provided for and authorized under the specific plan area. Under no circumstances shall the following uses or activities be permitted either as a principal or accessory use:

Adult-oriented businesses including book stores, drive-in theaters, indoor theaters, and massage parlors;

Automobile parts and accessories, except as an accessory use to a permitted principal use;

Automobile repair and service;

Bail bonds office;

Collection agencies;

Credit services;

Detective and protective services;

Off-sale alcoholic beverage establishments;

On-sale alcoholic beverage establishments which are not part of a bona fide eating place, or conducted within a hotel, entertainment venue, lounge, club or motion picture theater;

Billiard parlor;

Christmas tree sales lots;

Churches, synagogues, temples and other buildings primarily devoted to religious worship;

Educational institutions;

Fireworks sales stands;

Game arcade (as a principal use);

Gasoline stations;

Home occupations, except for office use only, subject to the requirements of Section 17.02.150 ;

Hospitals, sanitariums, child care centers, homes for the aged and other similar uses;

Ice sales (from dispensers);

Industrial and manufacturing uses;

Laundry business; Laundry, self-service; Liquor stores; Manufacturing and commercial services; Mobilehome and trailer parks; News and magazine stands; Outdoor sales establishments;

Pawnshops; Security and commodity brokers, dealers, and exchanges; Tax consultation; Telephone answering service. (Prior code § 27-31.12; Ord. 15-1670 § 2; Ord. 21-1722 § 2; Ord. 24-1747, 10/1/2024)

The following site development standards shall apply to areas designated for commercial and parking/utility uses as depicted on Exhibit "A." In conjunction with the review of a conditional use permit or precise development plan, conditions establishing additional or more stringent site development standards may be applied if deemed necessary to assure the attainment of objectives and policies expressed within this specific plan area.

• A. Intensity. Provision shall be made for at least one main structure which shall be a multistory building similar in height to existing multistory buildings in the City Centre area.

• B. Site Design.

  1. Main or multistory structures shall be located on the site to facilitate internal circulation and to minimize visual impacts on adjacent single story residential, uses while still taking advantage of visibility from the Santa Ana Freeway.

  2. All main or multistory buildings shall be oriented to the interior of the site rather than to existing perimeter streets. Primary access to the buildings and parking areas shall be through an interior street circulation system.

  3. Principal activity areas, including but not limited to the primary entrances to buildings, shall be oriented away from existing residential uses with more passive activities being located nearer to those residential uses.

  4. Open and landscaped areas shall be provided around buildings and shall be employed to highlight primary entrances.

  5. Parking areas shall be located to provide safe and convenient access to uses and to contribute to an overall circulation pattern.

• C. Parcelization.

  1. Since one of the major advantages of the site is its ownership and since the intent of this specific plan area can be seriously compromised by excessive and/or inadequate division of land contributing to piecemeal development, no parcel shall be divided in ownership prior to submission and approval of a precise development plan for the entire specific plan area. It is the intent of this specific plan area to avoid, whenever possible, the unnecessary division of land in a manner which would be contrary to the objectives and policies expressed within this article.

  2. Due to the number of buildings and variety of uses proposed on the site, it is important that parking remain undesignated. For this reason, parcels created for financing purposes shall include reciprocal easement agreements to ensure mutual ingress, egress, parking and maintenance of common areas.

  3. All parcels should have a minimum size of one acre, except within the designated parking/utility area. A parcel may be allowed which does not have frontage on or approved access to a dedicated public street, but which does have frontage on a private street constructed and designed in a manner deemed satisfactory by the City Engineer and Director of the Department of Community Development to provide safe, continued, and adequate access for the parcel.

ept within the designated parking/utility area. A parcel may be allowed which does not have frontage on or approved access to a dedicated public street, but which does have frontage on a private street constructed and designed in a manner deemed satisfactory by the City Engineer and Director of the Department of Community Development to provide safe, continued, and adequate access for the parcel.

4. Any division of land shall be accomplished in accordance with regulations of the Norwalk Municipal Code and the State Subdivision Map Act.

• D. Setbacks.

  1. Adjacent to Norwalk Boulevard:

     • a. Primary structures shall maintain a setback equal to 100 feet or the height of the building, whichever is greater.

     • b. Single story accessory structures shall maintain a minimum setback of 20 feet.

     • c. Parking areas shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the property line. Parking areas shall be screened from the street by landscaped berms.

  2. Adjacent to Civic Center Drive:

     • a. Primary structures shall maintain a setback equal to 100 feet.

     • b. Single story accessory structures shall maintain a minimum setback of 20 feet.

     • c. Parking areas shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the property line. Parking areas shall be screened from the street by landscaped beams.

  3. Adjacent to the westerly boundaries of Lot Nos. 322 to 330 of Tract No. 15205: permitted uses on this parcel need not be set back from the property line.

  4. Adjacent to the Santa Ana Freeway and its ramp system: no minimum building or parking setback is required except that, as part of the review and approval of a conditional use permit and/or precise development plan, additional setbacks may be required.

  5. Adjacent to any interior street:

     • a. Buildings shall maintain a setback of 15 feet.

     • b. Parking areas shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet.

  6. Adjacent to an interior property line:

     • a. Buildings shall maintain a minimum setback of 10 feet, unless a lesser distance is approved in conjunction with the review and approval of a conditional use permit and/or precise development plan.

     • b. Parking areas need not be set back from interior property lines.

All required setback areas shall be fully landscaped except for permitted driveways and sidewalks.

7. Some adjustment to the setbacks may be granted to accommodate development that would not be contrary to the objectives and policies set forth in this chapter.

• E. Building Height.

  1. Primary structures (generally intended to be a hotel and/or at least one office building):

     • a. The minimum building height shall be six stories.

     • b. A main structure may be allowed at less than the minimum building height specified herein if specifically allowed for and approved by a conditional use permit provided that it is clearly demonstrated that the objectives and policies expressed within this chapter will not be detrimentally affected.

     • c. An extension, wing, or other portion of a main structure may be less than the minimum building height.

2. Accessory structures (generally intended to be a restaurant, theater, retail shops, secondary office building, or other permitted commercial use): no minimum building height is required.

• F. Architectural Considerations.

  1. General Requirements. Architectural designs shall contribute to the harmonious blending of building masses, materials, offsets, colors and textures, roofs and signs within the site to achieve an overall integrated appearance. Design components shall be applied to all building elevations rather than on the front elevation only.

  2. Motif. While no specific architectural motif is required, the use of similar architectural features and design elements is encouraged.

  3. Materials. Building materials used shall contribute to the unity of the overall development and the use of natural materials such as wood, brick and stone is encouraged.

  4. Colors. Preference shall be given to the use of softer, earth tone colors although brighter, primary colors are acceptable for accents.

  5. Roofs. Special attention shall be given to the use of common roof styles and materials especially for any clustered buildings.

  6. Signs. All signs shall be designed to contribute to, rather than detract from, the overall architectural approach.

  7. Landscaping. The landscaping materials used shall be complementary to building architecture.

  8. Exterior Equipment. Air conditioners, duct work and similar equipment may be mounted on the roof of a building only if effectively screened from public view. Screening materials shall contribute to the architectural design. The use of parapets extending a minimum of six inches above the height of roof mounted equipment shall be encouraged.

• G. Off-Street Parking.

  1. Parking shall be provided as follows:

     • a. Hotel or motor inn: one space for each two guest rooms. In addition, parking shall be provided for various uses within the hotel in accordance with standards set forth in this section.

     • b. Administrative, professional and business offices: one space for each 250 square feet of gross floor area.

     • c. Medical offices: five spaces per doctor or six spaces for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, whichever is greater.

  • d. High public contact government offices: one space for each 75 square feet of floor area for the first 20,000 square feet of floor area plus one space for each 250 square feet of gross floor area for the remaining floor area.

  • e. Places of public assembly (including theatres): one space for each five fixed seats or one space for each 50 square feet of gross floor area, whichever is greater.

  • f. Restaurant: one space for each 100 square feet of gross floor area.

  • g. Bar or cocktail lounge: one space for each 80 square feet of gross floor area.

  • h. Retail and service related commercial: one space for each 250 square feet of gross floor area.

  • i. Uses not specified shall be determined by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

2. Parking requirements may be modified for common facilities as provided by Section 17.03.060 in conjunction with the review of a precise development plan. The City may require the preparation of a report and recommendation by a consulting traffic engineer to substantiate a request for such modification. The developer shall be responsible for the consultant's fees.

3. The parking lot design shall conform with the following standards set forth in Section 17.03.050 of the Municipal Code, except as noted in the following conditions:

   • a. Compact Parking Stalls.

     • i. Up to 20% of the total number of parking spaces provided may be compact stalls.

     • ii. The location of the compact stalls shall be approved in conjunction with the review of a precise development plan for the site and shall be appropriately signed or identified as such.

     • iii. Compact parking stalls shall generally be designated for employee parking in a manner acceptable to the Director of the Department of Community Development.

   • b. Handicapped Parking.

     • i. Spaces reserved for the physically handicapped shall be located in close proximity to the entrance to each building.

     • ii. The number, size, designation and location of handicapped parking stalls shall conform with State regulations.

   • c. Parking areas shall be landscaped as set forth in subsection (M)(4) of this section.

   • d. Proximity to Buildings. Parking spaces required for each use and/or building shall be located in reasonable proximity to the building entrances.

   • e. Parking Structure. In the event that a parking structure is provided, special attention shall be given to its siting, its architectural character, the design of the ramp systems, lighting, security and other related features.

   • f. Loading Areas. Loading, unloading and service activities shall be provided as necessary for various uses and shall be effectively screened, oriented away from adjacent residential uses and located for convenient use by service vehicles.

   • g. Illumination. Illumination of parking lots and pedestrian and vehicular circulation areas shall be designed to prevent the spillage of light and glare onto adjacent streets and properties. Energy efficient lamps shall be used.

• H. Vehicular Circulation.

  1. Points of ingress and egress to and from existing perimeter streets shall generally be as shown on Exhibit "A." A maximum of one major opening per street frontage shall be allowed with those major openings being limited to the interior street system unless modification(s) is determined to be appropriate through the precise development plan process.

  2. It is intended that the interior street system be private rather than dedicated for public purposes, but it shall be designed in terms of width, construction, medians, stripping, signing and similar traffic controls according to established City standards. The interior street system shall provide primary access to all uses within the development and parking thereon may be prohibited.

3. Major openings to existing perimeter streets shall be treated with landscaping and decorative paving materials in order to highlight entrances to the development. Openings from the interior street system to the various uses may also be similarly designed.

   4. Dedication of right-of-way for street widening purposes and construction of deceleration lanes on Norwalk Boulevard and Civic Center Drive shall be required to increase the capacity of perimeter streets and to guide vehicles directly and safely to their destinations.

• I. Traffic Management Plan. Implementation of this specific plan is expected to substantially increase traffic in the City Centre area, especially during peak hours. The dedication of right-ofway along the northerly property line to widen Civic Center Drive will only partially alleviate anticipated traffic congestion. Therefore, the City finds it necessary to require the Planning Commission and the City Council to review and approve a traffic and parking management plan (TPMP) prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any building.

  1. Preparation. The TPMP shall be prepared by a professional traffic engineer at the property owner's expense.

  2. Content. At a minimum, the TPMP shall include the following information:

     • a. An analysis of existing traffic volumes on Civic Center Drive, Norwalk Boulevard, Volunteer Avenue, Bloomfield Avenue, Imperial Highway and the Santa Ana Freeway; intersection capacities; and the business hours of major employers;

     • b. An analysis of anticipated project-generated traffic;

     • c. Suggested enforceable measures designed to regulate the number of vehicles entering and leaving the site during morning and evening peak hours. Possible measures include requirements to stagger work hours and/or hours of operation; implementation of carpools and vanpools; means to encourage use of public transit; and/or any other measures deemed advisable;

     • d. An analysis of the demand for parking generated by all uses on the site at various times of the day. If on-site parking may not be adequate to meet demand, the TPMP must include suggestions to reduce demand during peak hours.

  3. City Review.

     • a. Prior to consideration by the Planning Commission and the City Council, the Director of the Department of Community Development and the City Engineer shall review the TPMP to evaluate the impact the proposed mitigation measures will have on traffic congestion.

     • b. The Planning Commission shall review the TPMP and may recommend changes or additions to the proposed traffic management measures. The Planning Commission shall forward a written recommendation to the City Council within 10 days of completion of its review.

     • c. The City Council shall review the TPMP and the Planning Commission's recommendations. The Council may adopt a resolution approving the TPMP subject to reasonable conditions deemed necessary to ensure the success of the plan. If the TPMP is not satisfactory, the property owner shall be directed to revise the proposal to address the City's concerns.

• d. Amendment to the TPMP shall not be made without prior review and approval by the City as set forth in subsection (I)(5)(b) of this section.

  4. Enforcement.

     • a. Enforcement of the approved TPMP shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

     • b. The provisions within the TPMP shall be included in all leases and in any conditions, covenants and restrictions recorded against the property.

  5. Evaluation of Plan's Effectiveness.

     • a. The City Council may require periodic review of the effectiveness of the TPMP.

     • b. In the event that the TPMP fails to mitigate traffic impacts to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and/or the Director of the Department of Community Development, the matter shall be referred to the Planning Commission for review. If the Commission determines that changes to the TPMP are warranted, the Commission's recommendations shall be forwarded to the City Council for disposition.

• J. Public Transit. Bus or other transit stops for both local and regional transit systems, including appropriate improvements such as shelters, may be required along the perimeter and/or interior of the development as deemed necessary in conjunction with the precise development plan review process.

• K. Pedestrian Circulation.

  1. A plan providing for pedestrian circulation throughout the entire specific plan area shall be reviewed in conjunction with a precise development plan for the site.

  2. Pedestrian ways shall provide for safe and efficient access between uses on the site and between the site and nearby uses and shall consist of separate walkways to minimize pedestrian traffic through the parking lots.

  3. The minimum width of pedestrian walks shall be six feet. A curvilinear design, decorative surfacing and other similar features may be required.

  4. Pedestrian ways shall be provided along all street frontages and generally around the exterior of all buildings.

• L. Street Furniture. A plan identifying and locating all street furniture shall be submitted for review and approval by the Director of the Department of Community Development, who may establish any conditions deemed necessary to limit and coordinate street furniture in order that it complements the architectural character of the development and that it is not haphazardly sited. Street furniture shall generally include, but not be limited to, fire hydrants, traffic signs, benches, lighting and light standards, mail boxes, trash receptacles, phone booths, newspaper racks, kiosks, and similar structures.

• M. Landscaping.

  1. Attractive streetscapes shall be provided including extensive landscaping of setback areas as specified in subsection D of this section. Special consideration shall be given to the use of a simple landscaping treatment generally including a pattern of berms with lawn or groundcover, and groupings of trees, shrubs, and decorative rocks. A substantial proportion

of quality plant materials of larger than one gallon size shrubs and larger than 15 gallon size trees shall be used.

2. A landscaped median may be required within the interior street system.

3. Special attention shall be given to the use of landscaping materials to emphasize entrances to the parking areas of various uses along the interior street system and building entrances. Base shrubs shall receive extensive consideration in this situation.

   4. At least five percent of the parking area shall be devoted to landscaping.

   5. Portions of the southerly portion of the site designated for parking/utility use on Exhibit "A" that are not paved to provide parking stalls or vehicular maneuvering areas shall be appropriately landscaped.

   6. All landscaped islands shall be a minimum of five feet wide.

   7. Planters shall be permitted to extend 30 inches into the required depth of parking stalls.

   8. Efforts to retain as many of the existing mature trees on the site shall be encouraged.

   9. A landscape and irrigation plan for the development shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect. Such plan shall show the location of turf, trees, shrubs, walks, fences, and any ponds, fountains, or other decorative features. The plan shall clearly portray a permanent automatic irrigation system with separate electrical meter(s), identify all plants by their botanical and common names, and indicate the location, number and container size of all shrubs and trees. The plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of Community Development.

   10. A minimum of one specimen tree shall be provided for each 2,000 square feet of gross floor area within the development, excluding nonpublic areas within the hotel. For the purposes of this chapter, a specimen tree shall include 15 gallon size trees up to a maximum of 50% of the required number; All other required trees shall be 24 inch box or larger. The species of said trees shall be approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

   11. A substantial landscaped setback area of at least 500 square feet shall be provided adjacent to the intersection of Norwalk Boulevard and Civic Center Drive. The landscaping treatment in this area shall include specimen trees, shrubs, groundcover, seasonal color and other materials which will create a strong focal point and identify the project.

   12. The number, size, location and species of theme trees shall be approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

   13. A portion of the landscaped areas adjacent to the primary and secondary entrances on Civic Center Drive and Norwalk Boulevard shall be planted with seasonal color. One or more areas within the planter adjacent to the intersection of these two streets shall also be reserved for seasonal color.

• N. Walls and Fences.

  1. A solid, decorative masonry wall shall be provided along the easterly boundary of the designated parking area (the westerly boundaries of Lot Nos. 322 to 330 of Tract No. 15205). The fence shall be between six and eight feet in height measured from the highest finished grade on either side of the wall.

  2. All fence materials and designs shall be architecturally compatible with the commercial buildings.

3. No walls and/or fences shall be constructed without prior approval of the Planning Commission.

• O. Signs.

  1. A master sign plan establishing conditions, standards and regulations for all signs within the development shall be approved by the Planning Commission prior to the establishment of any signs, including temporary signs, within the entire development.

  2. All signs and billboards shall be designed to enhance the architectural quality of the development through use of similar materials, colors, motifs and design elements used in the buildings and shall be coordinated throughout the site.

  3. All wayfinding and modifications to wayfinding signage will be subject to Director Approval Request (DAR).

• P. Refuse Storage Areas.

  1. Refuse storage areas shall be conveniently located throughout the site.

  2. Refuse storage areas shall be located within or adjacent to buildings. Freestanding enclosures shall not be located in the parking lot.

  3. Trash storage areas shall be fully enclosed with solid masonry walls, solid gates and a roof.

  4. The number, size and location of refuse storage areas shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of Community Development.

  5. Gates shall not be permitted to open into required parking stalls or vehicular maneuvering areas.

• Q. Utilities. All utilities shall be underground. All transformer pads and similar facilities shall be shown on plans and be effectively screened.

• R. Parcelization. Any division of land shall be accomplished in accordance with regulations of the Norwalk Municipal Code, and the State Subdivision Map Act.

(Prior code § 27-31.13; Ord. 21-1722 § 2; Ord. 24-1747, 10/1/2024)

The following standards shall apply to the portion of the specific plan area No. 1 designated for residential development:

• A. Density. The maximum density allowed shall be determined by plans and designs that meet all open space, parking, setback and dwelling unit area requirements, with consideration given to the height of the buildings, whether parking is attached to each unit, grouped or provided underground, and other design features of the proposed development.

• B. Setbacks.

  1. Building. All habitable buildings shall maintain a 20 foot setback from Civic Center Drive, a 15 foot setback from the easterly property line (western boundaries of Lot Nos. 222 to 234 of Tract No. 15205), a 15 foot setback from the westerly property line, and a 10 foot setback from Dace Street. Bay-type windows and fireplaces may extend a maximum of two feet into the required setbacks adjacent to a public street. Garages may have a zero setback from the westerly property line, but must maintain a 15 foot setback from the easterly property line.

  2. Perimeter/Security Fencing. Perimeter fencing shall be set on the easterly and westerly property lines. Fencing shall be set back a minimum of five feet from Civic Center Drive. Fencing along Dace Street may have a zero setback provided that a four-foot wide planter

facing Dace Street is set back in the wall at the ends of any driveway aisles. The total length of such landscaped setbacks shall not be less than 30% of the length of the wall.

• C. Open Space. An area equal to 25% of the area of the site shall be provided as open space. Parking areas, driveways and required front yard setback areas shall not be included in the calculation of required open space.

  1. Private open space in the form of a patio or balcony shall be provided adjacent to each dwelling unit. Each patio or balcony shall contain a minimum of 85 square feet and shall have a minimum dimension of at least seven feet in every direction.

  2. Common open space for active and passive recreational purposes shall contain a minimum of 10,000 square feet and shall maintain a minimum dimension of at least 25 feet in every direction.

  3. Pedestrian circulation shall be provided on-site so as to link residences with common activity and recreation areas. All walkways shall be a minimum of four feet wide and shall be constructed with accents of brick, stone, pebble aggregate concrete or decorative type paving.

• D. Building Dimensions. In general, no building shall have a horizontal dimension greater than 160 feet unless, at the time of precise development plan review, a greater length is found to be in conformance with the intent of this plan. No building shall have a horizontal dimension in excess of 100 feet without two offsets of at least five feet unless, at the time of precise development plan review, it is determined that other architectural features are provided which give interest and relief to the building facade in conformance with the intent of this chapter.

• E. Distance Between Structures. There shall be a minimum distance of 10 feet between detached structures.

• F. Maximum Building Height. No building or structure shall exceed two and one-half stories or 35 feet in height, whichever is less. Residential structures equipped with elevators may exceed the permitted height limit if the Planning Commission determines that adequate building setbacks have been provided.

• G. Size and Mix of Dwelling Units. The development shall include three or more different floor plans. One bedroom units shall contain a minimum of 870 square feet excluding garages, patios and balconies; two-bedroom units shall contain a minimum of 940 square feet; and three bedroom units shall contain a minimum of 1,450 square feet for townhouse units and a minimum of 1,200 square feet for a flat. The number of units containing one bedroom shall not exceed 15% of the total number of units; the number of units containing two bedrooms, two baths, shall not exceed 30% of the total number of units, and the number of townhouse units containing three bedrooms, two and one-half baths, shall not be less than 15% of the total number of units.

• H. Architecture. All roof surfaces visible from ground level shall consist of concrete or clay tile, dimensional fiberglass shingles, or other comparable material which may be approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development. All roofs shall be Class A fire rated.

• I. Access and Circulation.

  1. Primary vehicular access to the site shall be provided from the private street terminating at Civic Center Drive, as depicted on Exhibit "A." Secondary vehicular egress may be permitted at the northeast corner of the site, as depicted on Exhibit "A." No access shall be permitted from Dace Street.

  2. Pedestrian access between the residential and commercial sites shall be provided near the primary vehicular entrance of the residential site and may be permitted at another location subject to the approval of the Director of the Department of Community Development.

  3. All driveways adjacent to parking stalls shall be at least 26 feet wide. Access drives shall be at least 18 feet wide, unless a greater width is required by the Fire Department. All driveways shall be designed to support a 17 ton fire truck. Entrances and walkways shall be paved or surfaced with accents of a decorative material such as brick, pebble aggregate or Bomanite. The material shall be similar to paving materials used at the intersections of public streets and private streets on the commercial portion of the site.

• J. Parking.

  1. Parking shall be provided at the following ratio:

     • a. Covered parking within an enclosed garage: 2.0 spaces per unit;

     • b. Guest parking: 0.2 spaces per unit.

Notwithstanding these minimum standards, the overall parking ratio for the condominium development shall not be less than 2.2 spaces per dwelling unit, including guest spaces. In addition, the development shall be designed so that uncovered guest parking spaces are located in close proximity to all units with a minimum of 20 spaces being distributed throughout the development behind the security gates.

hstanding these minimum standards, the overall parking ratio for the condominium development shall not be less than 2.2 spaces per dwelling unit, including guest spaces. In addition, the development shall be designed so that uncovered guest parking spaces are located in close proximity to all units with a minimum of 20 spaces being distributed throughout the development behind the security gates.

2. All covered parking shall be provided in double-car garages with minimum inside dimensions of at least 20 feet wide by 20 feet deep. Garage doors shall have a minimum length of 16 feet. Uncovered parking spaces shall be at least nine feet wide by 18 feet deep. Spaces located adjacent to a wall, fence or building shall be at least 10 feet wide.

3. No parking spaces may be located within the required setback areas adjacent to Dace Street and Civic Center Drive.

4. All parking spaces shall be arranged so that vehicles are not required to back onto a public street.

5. Tandem parking shall be prohibited.

• K. Walls and Fences.

  1. Walls and/or fences between six and eight feet in height shall be constructed along the perimeter of the site. The height of the wall shall be measured from the highest finished grade on either side of the wall.

  2. Walls adjacent to public streets shall maintain the setbacks set forth in subsection (B)(1) of this section.

  3. A combination of solid walls and open fencing may be provided adjacent to Dace Street to screen parking and circulation areas from adjacent single-family residences. If provided, ornamental iron fencing shall be located at the ends of the landscaped areas between buildings. The remaining portions of the fence along this property line shall be of a solid material that complements the project's exterior elevations. Solid walls shall be treated with an anti-graffiti coating approved by the City Engineer.

  4. An ornamental iron fence shall be provided along Civic Center Drive. Solid pilasters may be utilized.

  5. Fencing along the boundary between the commercial and residential portions of the site shall be solid.

  6. A solid wall shall be provided along the northeast property line adjacent to existing singlefamily residences (Lot Nos. 222 to 234 of Tract No. 15205).

  7. All walls and fences constructed on the site shall be of similar design, color and material. The design and location of walls and fences, including walls surrounding trash storage

areas, shall be approved by the Planning Commission.

• L. Landscaping.

  1. All streetside setback areas shall be landscaped.

  2. Landscaped planters including tall trees shall be provided between residential buildings and the northeast property line to provide a visual buffer between the existing single-family dwellings and the proposed apartments.

3. A landscape and irrigation plan for the development shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect. Such plan shall show the location of turf, trees, shrubs, walks, fences, and any ponds, fountains, or other decorative features. The plan shall clearly portray a permanent automatic irrigation system with separate electrical meter(s), identify all plants by their botanical and common names, and indicate the location, number and container size of all shrubs and trees. The plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

   4. A minimum of one specimen tree shall be provided for each dwelling unit within the development. For the purposes of this chapter, a specimen tree shall include 15 gallon size trees up to a maximum of 50% of the required number. All other required trees shall be 24 inch box or larger. The species of such trees shall be approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

   5. The number, size, location and species of theme trees shall be approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

• M. Storage.

  1. All outdoor storage areas, including refuse storage sites, shall be screened and maintained in a manner that prevents the creation of any nuisance or otherwise detracts from the property value or residential character of the neighborhood.

  2. Refuse storage areas shall be conveniently located throughout the development.

     • a. Refuse storage areas shall be located within or adjacent to residential or accessory buildings.

     • b. Refuse storage areas shall be surrounded by solid decorative masonry walls and solid gates and shall be roofed.

     • c. The size, location and number of trash enclosures shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

     • d. Gates shall not be permitted to open into driveways or parking stalls.

  3. A minimum of 90 cubic feet of storage area shall be provided for each unit. Such storage area shall be located within the garage or adjacent to the balcony or patio.

• N. Ceiling and Wall Soundproofing. Soundproofing between dwelling units shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of Section 17.04.220(C)(5) of the Norwalk Municipal Code.

• O. Retention of Control and Maintenance of Common Areas and Facilities. All parking and vehicular areas and common open spaces shall be maintained and preserved for the purposes shown in the precise development plan.

• P. Cable Television Conduit. The developer shall be required to install and stub a conduit system to each dwelling unit for future installation of a community antenna television system. The City has granted a franchise to a community antenna television corporation and intends to provide for this system in advance in order to alleviate the burden of installation after construction of a residential development. The conduit system shall be in accordance with the current

development standards for cable television. The specifications for the conduit system shall be subject to the approval of the Director of Public Services.

• Q. Signs. The provisions of Chapter 17.03 , Article III, of the Norwalk Municipal Code shall apply to this area.

• R. Mechanical Equipment.

  1. All permanent mechanical equipment, including fixed and built-in domestic appliances, shall be shock-mounted if determined to be a source of structural vibration or noise.

  2. Air Conditioning and Filtration Systems.

     • a. Equipment shall be permitted on the roof only if the buildings are specifically designed to accommodate such equipment, and the unit(s) are not visible or audible from an adjacent property, structure or street. Plans for the installation of such rooftop equipment shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of the Department of Community Development.

     • b. No noise shall be generated which causes the maximum noise level at any point on the property lines surrounding the site to exceed the ambient (background) noise level, including traffic noise, by five dBA measured at the same point, or to exceed 55 dBA, whichever is greater.

     • c. Units shall be mounted on a concrete slab and/or platform determined to be structurally sound.

     • d. To reduce the noise and visual impacts of the units, all equipment shall be screened in a manner acceptable to the Director of the Department of Community Development.

     • e. Units shall be carefully sited so as to minimize noise impacts on adjacent properties. The ARI sound rating numbers of any air-conditioning unit shall be 8.0 or less as identified in the most recent publication of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) Directory of Certified Sound-Rated Outdoor Unitary Equipment.

     • f. Units shall have fans located on the top of the unit. Fans are prohibited from being located on the sides of a unit.

     • g. Portable window and wall units shall be prohibited.

  3. Solar Energy Systems. Solar energy systems, if installed, shall be designed so as to be an integral part of the roof on which they are mounted. Installation of solar energy systems shall be in accordance with the provisions of Planning Commission Policy Statement No. 25.

• S. Structural Soundproofing. Soundproofing shall be provided to attenuate noise generated by traffic traveling on the adjacent freeway. The amount and type of soundproofing for walls, roofs and windows shall be sufficient to maintain a maximum ambient noise level in living areas of no greater than 45 CNEL with all windows, doors and other openings closed. Specific soundproofing requirements shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

  1. Windows. To meet the required ambient noise level in living areas, all windows within 65 CNEL contours, both fixed and openable, shall be required to consist of either doublestrength glass or double-paned glass.

  2. Doors. Doors shall be acoustically designed with gasketed stops and an integral drop seal.

  3. Roofs and Ceilings. Special insulation or design features may be required for roofs and/or ceilings to meet the required interior ambient noise level.

4. Walls. Exterior walls of living areas shall be of a special type of construction and/or include special insulation depending on the maximum ambient noise levels generated at any time.

Occupancy shall be withheld or a bond not to exceed $10,000 shall be filed with the City to guarantee that all acoustical standards and acoustical requirements set forth in this chapter are met; and a final investigation and acoustical tests shall be made prior to final approval to determine compliance.

• T. Laundry Facilities. Laundry facilities shall be provided within each unit or in one or more centrally located building(s) within the development. If provided within each unit, the developer need only provide the appropriate utility connections.

• U. All Utilities Shall Be Underground. All transformer pads and similar facilities shall be shown on plans and be effectively screened. Individual utilities to each unit shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of Section 17.04.200(D) of the Norwalk Municipal Code.

• V. Security. The design of the residential development shall include fencing, electronic gates, a visitor call system and/or other features necessary to provide adequate security. The location of access gates, if proposed, shall be reviewed and approved by the Directors of the Department of Community Development and Public Services.

• (Prior code § 27-31.14; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

If the City determines that consultant services are necessary to evaluate the environmental impact of or to a proposed or existing use, the City may retain an expert consultant or consultants to study and report on the compliance or noncompliance of the proposed or existing use with required standards, and to advise how a proposed or existing use, if found to be at variance, can be brought into compliance with standards.

Such consultants shall be fully qualified to provide the required information and shall be persons or firms mutually agreeable to the Director of the Department of Community Development and to the owner or operator of the use in question. In the event of inability to select a mutually agreeable consultant, the City shall select the consultant. The cost of the consultant's services shall be borne by the owner or developer of the property in question, who shall file with the City a bond in an amount not to exceed $10,000 to guarantee payment of such costs. The owner or developer of the use in question shall be required to comply with any reasonable request for information considered useful by the consultant in determining the environmental impact of a proposed use. Failure to provide any required bond or information shall constitute a violation of this code and shall constitute cause for denying a precise development plan application or other City permits. (Prior code § 27-31.15; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

Any expansion of the boundaries or any amendment to the objectives, policies, standards, and regulations of this specific plan area shall be accomplished in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 17.02 , Article I of the Norwalk Municipal Code. (Prior code § 27-31.16; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

In order to equitably and effectively protect public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community in conjunction with development and use of the specific plan area property, compliance

with other applicable provisions of the Norwalk Municipal Code shall be required as deemed appropriate. (Prior code § 27-31.17; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)

If any part or provision of this plan, or any application thereof, is held to be contrary to law by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision or application will not be deemed valid and subsisting, excepting to the extent permitted by law, but all other provisions or applications will continue in full force and effect.

(Prior code § 27-31.18; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)