Chapter 2.22 — ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION

The architectural review commission ("commission") is hereby established for the city of Palm Desert ("city"). The provisions set forth in Chapter 2.34 of this code shall apply to this commission, except as otherwise required by state law. If there are any conflicts between this chapter and Chapter 2.34 of this code, the provisions of this chapter shall control. (Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

The architectural review commission reviews the building architecture and landscape design of commercial, office, industrial, and residential development, deviations, or otherwise as stated in the municipal code and modifications to previously approved projects to assure compatibility with the city's policies and objectives.

(Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

• A. The architectural review commission shall consist of seven regular members.

• B. At all times the commission shall strive to maintain a membership composition that includes:

  1. The following professionals:

     • a. Architect, three members;

     • b. Landscape architect/designer, one member;

  2. And may include three members of the following:

     • a. Development industry professional;

     • b. Member of the public who represents the community at large and is knowledgeable in the design or architectural field;

     • c. Nonresident with professional expertise as an architect or landscape architect/ designer.

• (Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

The architectural review commission may hold two regular meetings per month at such date, time, and place as set by commission resolution or minute order. (Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

• A. Any commission member who is employed to execute a plan, building, or structure of any kind requiring commission approval or who will take part in competition for any such

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City of Palm Desert, CA

ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL

§ 2.22.050

§ 2.22.060

building or structure, shall be disqualified from voting, recuse oneself, and step down from proceedings on that item.

• B. Commission members with projects before the ARC shall file projects under the same rules, procedures, and guidelines as set forth in Title 25 of this code.

• (Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

The architectural review commission has the following responsibilities:

• A. Review and make recommendations to the planning commission for precise plans, development plans, conditional use permits, variances, and planned community developments, and/or as otherwise indicated in Section 25.60.050;

• B. Conduct final approval for design review and sign design review pursuant to Chapter 25.68, and/or as otherwise indicated in Chapter 25.60.050;

• C. Recognize the interdependence of land values and aesthetics and provide a method by which the city may implement this interdependence to its benefit;

• D. Ensure the architectural design of buildings or structures and landscaping developed areas and open spaces are visually harmonious with surrounding development and the natural environments;

• E. Promote high quality aesthetics and visual interest when considering developments to attain the most desirable use of land and improvements; and

• F. Encourage the development of private and public property in harmony with the desired character of the city and in conformance with the guidelines provided in Title 25 (Zoning) with due regard for the public and private interests involved.

• (Ord. 1390 § 5, 2023)

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City of Palm Desert, CA

ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL

§ 2.24.010

§ 2.24.040