Petaluma Municipal Code Ch. 7 Standards for Specific Land Uses

Sections:

7.010 Purpose.

7.020 Applicability.

7.030 Accessory Dwelling Units.

7.035 Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.

7.040 Dwelling Group.

7.050 Home Occupation Permit.

7.060 Large Family Child Day Care.

7.070 Short-Term Activities.

7.080 Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, and Spas.

7.090 Telecommunications Facilities.

7.100 Bed & Breakfast Inns.

7.110 Short-Term Vacation Rentals.

7.120 Objective Design Standards for Qualifying Residential Projects.

This Chapter provides site planning, development, and/or operating standards for certain land uses that are

allowed by Chapter 4 (Zoning Districts and Allowable Land Uses) within individual or multiple zoning districts, and

for activities that require special standards to mitigate their potential adverse impacts.

The land uses and activities covered by this Chapter shall comply with the provisions of the Sections applicable to

the speciQc use, in addition to all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Ordinance.

A. Where allowed. The uses that are subject to the standards in this Article shall be located in compliance with

the requirements of Chapter 4 (Zoning Districts and Allowable Land Uses).

B. Land use permit requirements. The uses that are subject to the standards in this Article shall be authorized by

the land use permit required by Chapter 4, except where a land use permit requirement is established by this

Article for a speciQc use.

C. Development standards. The standards for speciQc uses in this Chapter supplement and are required in

addition to those in Chapter 4 (Zone Districts) and the City Code. In the event of any conRict between the

requirements of this Chapter and those of Chapter 4, the requirements of this Chapter shall control.

All accessory dwelling units must comply with the following standards:

A. Zoning. An accessory dwelling unit may be created within a residential or mixed-use zone, including planned

unit developments.

B. Type of Unit. An accessory dwelling may be created within an existing or proposed principal dwelling or

accessory structure on the property; may be added to a principal dwelling or accessory structure; or may be built

as a structure separate from any existing or proposed structure on the property. Accessory dwelling units

proposed in multifamily dwelling structures must comply with state building standards for dwellings and may not

convert portions of the existing structure that are used for livable space.

C. Number of Units Allowed. Notwithstanding the development standards included in this section or elsewhere in

the Implementing Zoning Ordinance, the requirements for the number of accessory dwelling units allowed on a lot

are as follows:

1. Single-Family Lots. One detached accessory dwelling unit is permitted on a lot with a proposed or existing

single-family dwelling.

One accessory dwelling unit and one junior accessory dwelling unit may be permitted on a lot with a

proposed or existing single-family dwelling if all of the following standards are met:

a. Either the accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit is within the existing or proposed

single-family dwelling or accessory structure on the lot;

b. Any addition beyond the existing single-family dwelling or accessory structure to accommodate the

accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit does not exceed 150 square feet and is limited

to accommodate ingress and egress;

c. The accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling has exterior access from the existing or

proposed single-family dwelling;

d. The side and rear yard setbacks comply with all applicable Qre and safety requirements; and

e. The junior accessory dwelling unit meets all other requirements of Section 7.035.

2. Multifamily Lots. One accessory dwelling unit is permitted on a lot with a proposed or existing multifamily

dwelling.

A maximum of two detached accessory dwellings are permitted on a multifamily lot if each unit is limited to

16 feet in height and provides four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.

If the accessory dwelling units are provided within an existing multifamily dwelling structure, the maximum

number of accessory dwelling units may not exceed 25 percent of the existing number of multifamily dwelling

units, or one unit, whichever is greater.

D. Size of Unit. The maximum allowable living area of an accessory dwelling unit is 1,000 square feet; provided,

however, that if a proposed accessory dwelling unit is to be attached to an existing or proposed primary residence,

then the accessory dwelling unit total living area may not exceed 50 percent of the total living area of the primary

residence, unless the accessory dwelling unit has a total living area no greater than 800 square feet, a height no

greater than 16 feet, and minimum four-foot side and rear yard setbacks. “Living area” is the interior habitable

area of the accessory unit including basements and attics but not including garages. Living area shall be measured

from the interior side of the exterior walls of the building.

E. Existing Parking. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted in

conjunction with the establishment of an accessory dwelling unit the oT-street parking spaces formerly provided

by the demolished structure are not required to be replaced. If replaced, parking may be located in any

conQguration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit, including, but not limited to, as covered spaces,

uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or by the use of mechanical automobile parking lifts (Consistent with Section

11.070).

F. Foundation Required. Accessory dwelling units must be permanent structures located on a permanent

foundation.

G. Setbacks. An accessory dwelling unit must provide setbacks of no less than four feet from the side and rear lot

lines. No setback shall be required for the conversion or in-kind reconstruction of existing living area or

noncomplying detached structures to accommodate a new accessory dwelling unit. In-kind reconstruction shall

mean the same location, building footprint and height. Any construction proposing expansion to a nonconforming

structure, such as a second story, must provide setbacks of no less than four feet from the side and rear lot lines.

H. Parking. No additional parking is required for new accessory dwelling units.

I. Open Space. Parcels on which accessory dwellings are built shall have a minimum of 100 square feet of

useable open space available for use by occupants of the unit, independent of the primary residence’s

requirement.

J. Development Standard Exceptions. Limits on lot coverage, Roor area ratio (FAR), and open space do not apply to

accessory dwelling units that are less than 800 square feet, do not exceed 16 feet in height, provide minimum

four-foot side and rear yard setbacks, and comply with all other local development standards. On multifamily

development lots this exception may only apply to two detached units that meet the scale and setback parameters

noted in this section.

K. Fire Sprinklers and Fire Attenuation. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide Qre sprinklers if

Qre sprinklers are not required for the primary residence.

L. Architectural Compatibility. An accessory dwelling is encouraged to be designed to be compatible with the

architectural richness of existing development in the immediate vicinity and principal dwelling on the site.

M. Privacy. New accessory dwellings constructed above the ground Roor shall also be designed to reasonably

preserve the privacy of adjacent property owners. Appropriate design techniques to preserve privacy include

obscured glazing, window placement above eye level, screening treatments, or locating balconies, windows and

doors toward the existing on-site residence.

N. Construction Prior to Principal Dwelling. A certiQcate of occupancy for an accessory dwelling unit may not be

issued before the issuance of a certiQcate of occupancy for the primary dwelling.

O. Historic. The following criteria apply to all applications for accessory dwelling units on designated landmark

sites or within a designated historic district:

1. The accessory dwelling unit shall not include the use of plastic or vinyl in exterior materials, architectural

features, windows, fencing, or other treatment;

2. The accessory dwelling unit shall not be a replica of the architectural style of the historic primary

structure on the site; and

3. The accessory dwelling unit must demonstrate architectural compatibility with the existing site or district

by complying with one of the two requirements listed below:

a. Matching each of the following qualities of the accessory dwelling unit to the proposed or existing

primary dwelling unit: (1) color, (2) siding material and pattern, and (3) window type; or

b. Submittal of a historic resource survey by a qualiQed professional that concludes the proposed

accessory dwelling unit will not negatively impact historic resources on the property or in the district and

will be consistent with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties.

P. Rentals. All accessory dwelling units permitted after September 7, 2017, shall only be rented for a term of

more than 30 days. No accessory dwelling units permitted after September 7, 2017, shall be permitted as a short

term vacation rental under Section 7.110.

Q. Ownership. Accessory dwelling units may be rented separate from the primary residence, but may not be sold

or otherwise conveyed separate from the primary residence unless all the following criteria are met:

1. The property was built or developed by a qualiQed nonproQt corporation.

2. There is an enforceable restriction on the use of the land pursuant to a recorded contract between the

qualiQed buyer and the qualiQed nonproQt corporation that satisQes all of the requirements speciQed in

paragraph (10) of subdivision (a) of Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

a. A “qualiQed buyer” means persons and families of low or moderate income, as that term is deQned

in Section 50093 of the California Health and Safety Code.

b. A “qualiQed nonproQt corporation” means a nonproQt corporation organized pursuant to Section

501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code that has received a welfare exemption under Section 214.15 of

the Revenue and Taxation Code for properties intended to be sold to low-income families who

participate in a special no-interest loan program.

3. The property is held pursuant to a recorded tenancy in common agreement that includes all of the

following:

a. The agreement allocates to each qualiQed buyer an undivided, unequal interest in the property

based on the size of the dwelling each qualiQed buyer occupies.

b. A repurchase option that requires the qualiQed buyer to Qrst oTer the qualiQed nonproQt

corporation to buy the property if the buyer desires to sell or convey the property.

c. A requirement that the qualiQed buyer occupy the property as the buyer’s principal residence.

d. ATordability restrictions on the sale and conveyance of the property that ensure the property will be

preserved for low-income housing for 45 years for owner-occupied housing units and will be sold or

resold to a qualiQed buyer.

4. A grant deed naming the grantor, grantee, and describing the property interests being transferred shall

be recorded in the county in which the property is located. A preliminary change in ownership report shall be

Qled concurrently with this grant deed pursuant to Section 480.3 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

5. Notwithstanding Section 65852.2(f)(2)(A) of the California Government Code, if requested by a utility

providing service to the primary residence, the accessory dwelling unit has a separate water, sewer, or

electrical connection to that utility. (Ord. 2738 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2711 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2690 § 2, 2019.)

All junior accessory dwelling units shall comply with the following standards:

A. Zoning. A junior accessory dwelling unit may be created within a residential or mixed-use zone, including

planned unit developments.

B. Number of Units Allowed. Only one junior accessory dwelling unit may be located within an existing or

proposed single-family dwelling.

C. Owner Occupancy. The owner of a parcel with a single-family dwelling and a proposed junior accessory

dwelling unit shall occupy as a principal residence either the primary dwelling or the accessory dwelling, except

when the home is owned or operated by a government agency, land trust, or nonproQt housing organization for

use as aTordable housing.

D. Location of Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit. A junior accessory dwelling unit must be created within the existing

walls of an existing or proposed primary dwelling.

E. Separate Entry Required. A separate exterior entry shall be provided to serve a junior accessory dwelling unit.

F. Kitchen Requirements. Junior accessory dwelling units shall include an eSciency kitchen, which complies with

any applicable requirements of the Building Code, and includes the following components:

1. A cooking facility with appliances, and

2. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are reasonable to size of the unit.

G. Existing Parking. When an attached garage that provides existing parking is converted in conjunction with the

establishment of a junior accessory dwelling unit, the oT-street parking spaces formerly provided by the converted

area are not required to be replaced. If provided, replacement parking may be located in any conQguration on the

same lot as the accessory dwelling unit, including, but not limited to, as covered spaces, uncovered spaces, or

tandem spaces, or by the use of mechanical automobile parking lifts (consistent with Section 11.070).

H. Parking. No additional parking requirements apply for creation of a junior accessory dwelling unit.

I. Maximum Unit Size. The maximum unit size for a junior accessory dwelling unit is 500 square feet.

J. Setbacks. Setbacks are as required for the primary dwelling unit.

K. Fire Sprinklers and Fire Attenuation. For the purposes of any Qre or life protection ordinance or regulation, a

junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit.

L. No Water Connection Fees. No water connection fee is required for the development of a junior accessory

dwelling unit.

M. No Sewer Connection Fee. No sewer connection fee is required for the development of a junior accessory

dwelling unit.

N. Rentals. All rentals of accessory dwelling units shall be for a term of more than 30 days. (Ord. 2738 § 4, 2020;

Ord. 2711 § 4, 2020.)

The following requirements apply to more than (1) one detached dwelling on a parcel:

A. The additional dwelling must be allowed by the General Plan density for the parcel.

B. The minimum lot size for a dwelling group shall be determined by the minimum lot size required by the

zoning district in which the parcel is located multiplied by the number of dwelling units in the dwelling group.

C. With the addition of the additional dwelling unit, the parking requirements of this Ordinance shall be met for

both the existing dwelling(s) and the proposed dwelling.

D. The dwelling units shall be detached.

E. The proposed dwelling shall comply with the development standards for the zoning district in which it is

located.

F. Site Plan and Architectural Review approval is required in accordance with Section 24.050. (Ord. 2811 § 4,

2022.)

A. Purpose. It is the intent of this section to preclude incompatible home occupations from occurring in

residential neighborhoods and to permit only those uses which conform to the standards of this section. Custom,

tradition, and precedence are excluded as criteria for approval. In general, a home occupation shall be located and

conducted such that the average neighbor, under normal circumstances, would be unaware of its presence. The

standards applied are intended to insure compatibility with other permitted uses in residential areas and preserve

the residential character of the neighborhood. The City Council favors home occupations that do not disrupt the

neighborhood.

B. Permit Required. No activity subject to the provisions of this section shall be conducted without review by the

Planning Division and the issuance of a home occupation permit. Said permit shall be a conditional permit, issued

by the Director or a designated representative, acting as the Zoning Administrator. A limited period of approval

may be imposed by the Zoning Administrator.

C. Application for Permit. Application for a home occupation permit shall be made to the Zoning Administrator

(Director) on a form provided by the City of Petaluma.

D. Fee. The fee for a home occupation permit shall be established by resolution of the City Council from time to

time hereinafter enacted.

E. Requirements and Conditions. The home occupation shall be subject to the following requirements and others

as imposed by the Zoning Administrator to further the purposes of Section 7.050(A).

1. The use shall be conducted primarily within the main dwelling structure and shall not involve the use of

any yard space or outside area. Accessory structures such as garages may be used but not in such a way as to

preclude required vehicular parking.

2. The home occupation shall not be identiQable from the property line by any means including, but not

limited to, sight, noise, light, smoke, odor, vibration, electrical interference, dust, glare, liquid or solid waste. A

person standing on the boundary line of the property should not be aware of the home occupation.

3. Commercial vehicles excepting pick-up trucks of three-fourths (3/4) ton or less shall not be used in

conjunction with the home occupation.

4. No internal or external alterations for the home occupation shall be made to the dwelling unit that are

not customarily found in or to serve residences.

5. There shall be no outside storage of equipment or supplies.

6. Articles oTered for sale shall be limited to those produced on the premises, except where the person

conducting the home occupation serves as an agent or intermediary between oT-site suppliers and oT-site

customers, in which case all articles, except samples, shall be received, stored and sold to customers at oT-

premises locations.

7. The home occupation shall not create pedestrian, automobile, or truck traSc or parking in residential

neighborhoods in excess of that normally associated with residential use, with no more than two non-

occupant vehicles present on the street at any given time.

8. No advertising shall be used which informs the public of the address of the home occupation (business

cards and stationery letterhead excluded).

9. Residents and not more than two non-residents may work at a home occupation location.

10. A non-illuminated identiQcation sign of not more than 1-1/2 square feet in area may be placed Rat

against an outside wall of the house to advertise the home occupation.

F. Examples of uses which will not be considered as home occupations. The uses speciQed below shall not be

permitted as home occupations because by their nature they have one or more of the following characteristics:

equipment or machinery of a type or quantity not typically found in the home; need for outside storage; parking

needs greater than what can be provided on-site; need for special permits (e.g., health, ABC, Federal Firearm, etc.);

need for extensive alteration to the residence or lot. The uses speciQed below shall not be permitted as home

occupations:

1. Auto or vehicle repair, or tune-up.

2. Barber shop/beauty salon.

3. Card-reading astrological services.

4. Class instruction on premise with more than two students at any time.

5. On-site painting services (auto, boat, appliances, etc.).

6. Care, treatment, or boarding of animals for a fee.

7. Gun repair, sale of guns or ammunition (sale of Qve or fewer guns a year is exempt from this section).

8. Activities involving substantial amounts of dangerous or hazardous materials, including but not limited

to pesticides, herbicides, poisons, and highly Rammable materials.

9. Any food handling, processing, or packing, except for cottage food operations as deQned in California

Government Code section 113758 that must be permitted pursuant to the Cottage Food Act, California

Government Code section 51035.

G. Advertising. There shall be no outside advertising of the use other than within the phone book and then no

address of the premises shall be listed, only a telephone number.

H. Revocation of Permit. Upon receipt of a complaint regarding the operation of the home occupation or upon

observation of a violation of City ordinances, the Director or a designated representative, shall determine whether

the subject home occupation is in compliance with the provisions of this section. If the use is found not to be in full

compliance with the Zoning Ordinance or conditions of approval, the Director shall have cause to suspend or

revoke the zoning permit or amend operational conditions. Once a zoning permit for a home occupation has been

revoked, continued practice of the home occupation at that location is no longer permitted and subsequent

applications shall not be Qled within one (1) year from the date of revocation.

I. Appeal. As prescribed in Section 24.090. (Ord. 2811 § 4, 2022.)

A large family child day care shall be operated in compliance with all of the following requirements:

A. Permit Required. No activity subject to the provisions of Section 7.060 shall be conducted without application

for and approval of a business license.

B. Location. In no case shall a residential property be directly abutted by large family day care properties on two

or more sides.

C. Parking. All dwellings used for large family day care facilities shall provide at least three oT-street automobile

parking spaces, no more than one of which may be provided in a garage or carport. These may include spaces

already provided to fulQll residential parking requirements.

D. Drop-o8 and Pick-up.

1. Drop-oT and pick-up of children at a proposed day care home shall be staggered.

2. Residences located on arterial streets (as shown on the General Plan Circulation Map) must provide a

drop-oT/pick-up area designed to prevent vehicles from backing onto the arterial roadway. Regularly

available on-street parking stalls adjacent to the site may be considered to satisfy this requirement.

E. Fencing and Barriers. Any side or rear yard area intended for day care use shall be surrounded by a barrier to

separate the children from neighboring properties unless the Director determines that a barrier is not necessary;

e.g., for properties not bordering developed properties. Examples of acceptable barriers include hedgerows,

chainlink or wood fences, walls, and the like. Fences shall be installed to protect the children from possible

hazards (e.g., swimming pools, ravines, vicious animals, etc.).

F. Recreation Equipment. Recreation equipment exceeding eight feet in height located in any yard area intended

for day care use shall be kept a minimum distance of Qve feet from perimeter property lines.

G. Noise. Noise generated from the proposed day care home must not exceed established standards and

policies as set forth in the General Plan, i.e., not to exceed Ldn 60 as measured outside on neighboring property.

H. Fire and Building Code. Day care homes shall comply with applicable building and Qre code provisions, with

applicable Building Codes, Fire Code standards adopted by the State and administered by the City Fire Marshal,

and with Social Services Department licensing requirements (California Administrative Code, Title 22, Division 2).

I. Performance Standards. The facility shall be operated in a manner consistent with the City’s Performance

Standards and not adversely aTect adjoining residences.

J. Garage Conversions. Conversion of a garage to living space requires a building permit and compliance with the

parking requirements of this ordinance.

No property owner shall conduct or permit to be conducted a special activity as deQned in this section of the

Zoning Ordinance on his/her land without Qrst obtaining a Zoning Permit from the Director.

A. Special Activity. A special activity is any of the following temporary (60 consecutive days or less unless

otherwise restricted) uses of private property:

1. Outdoor sale of Christmas trees, pumpkins, or other produce, goods or merchandise.

2. Outdoor swap meets or Rea markets.

3. Carnivals, circuses, rodeos, fairs, festivals, tent sales, open air theaters, exhibits, games of skill, rides,

booths, concession stands and other temporary entertainment events open to the public which are held out-

of-doors.

B. Application. An application for a zoning permit shall be Qled with the Director by the owner of the property

where the special activity will occur or their agent. An application for a zoning permit shall be Qled no less than

thirty (30) days nor more than six months prior to the date the special activity is to commence. Upon a showing of

good cause, the Director may process an application Qled less than 30 days before the activity date if suScient

time remains to investigate the application. Waiver of application fee may be permitted by the Director upon proof

of non-proQt status of the applicant.

C. Accompanying Documents. The application shall be accompanied by drawings and a plot plan showing the lot

lines and dimensions and locations of improvements with dimensions and any other necessary data.

D. Issuance of Permit. The Director shall issue a zoning permit unless it is determined from a consideration of the

application or other pertinent information, that:

1. The operation or location of the proposed special activity would violate any provision of the Petaluma

Municipal Code and Petaluma Zoning Ordinance including, but not limited to, the Performance Standards

speciQed in Chapter 21 of the Zoning Ordinance.

2. The operation or location of the proposed special activity would adversely aTect surrounding uses or

structures.

E. Permit Conditions. The Director may condition the issuance of a zoning permit by imposing reasonable

requirements with respect to location, construction, maintenance, operation and duration to insure compliance

with the Zoning Ordinance and to protect surrounding uses and the safety of persons and property. Such

conditions include but are not limited to:

1. Restrictions as to proximity to adjacent land.

2. Restrictions on hours of operation and duration of the special activity.

3. Restrictions to insure compliance with the performance standards in Chapter 21 of the Zoning Ordinance

including restrictions on noise generating equipment and ampliQed sound systems.

4. OT-street parking requirements and conditions concerning accommodation of pedestrian and vehicular

traSc in the vicinity of the special activity.

5. Restrictions on use and placement of signs.

6. Requirements and restrictions on use of lighting.

7. Requirements for the use of garbage containers and cleanup during the special activity, and clean-up/

restoration of the property immediately following the termination of the special activity.

F. Duration of Permit. The zoning permit shall be issued by the Director for a period not to exceed 60 consecutive

days in any one calendar year.

G. Revocation. The Director may revoke a zoning permit for failure of the permittee to comply with all the terms

and conditions of the permit or for violating the Petaluma Municipal Code, or the Zoning Ordinance.

H. Appeal. As prescribed in Section 24.090. (Ord. 2811 § 4, 2022.)

Private swimming pools, hot tubs or spas shall be allowed in any R District as an accessory residential use when in

compliance with the following requirements:

A. A private swimming pool, hot tub or spa is intended and is to be used solely for the enjoyment of the

occupants and guests of the occupants of the principal use of the property on which it is located.

B. In no case shall a swimming pool, hot tub or spa or accessory mechanical equipment be closer than six (6)

feet to any property line of the property on which it is located.

C. The swimming pool, hot tub or spa, or the entire property on which it is located, shall be so walled or fenced

as to prevent uncontrolled access by children from the street or from adjacent properties.

The following requirements apply to Telecommunications Facilities as deQned by the City’s Telecommunications

Ordinance (Municipal Code 14.44).

A. De7nitions. The types of facilities regulated by this section are deQned in the City’s Telecommunications

Ordinance (Municipal Code 14.44).

B. Telecommunications facilities are allowed only as described in Table 7.090(B).

Table 7.090B

Type of Telecommunications Facility
Zoning

District
Exempt Mini Minor Major

OSP A A CUP CUP

AG A A — —

RR A A — —

R1 A A — —

R2 A A — —

R3 A A — —

R4 A A — —

R5 A A — —

Table 7.090B

Type of Telecommunications Facility
Zoning

District
Exempt Mini Minor Major

C1 A A CUP CUP

C2 A A CUP CUP

MU1A A A CUP CUP

MU1B A A CUP CUP

MU1C A A — —

MU2 A A CUP CUP

BP A A CUP CUP

I A A CUP CUP

CF A A CUP CUP

C. Where a telecommunications facility is permitted by Table 7.090B, the approval(s) required prior to the

commencement of the operation of a Telecommunications Facility are as prescribed in subsections 1-4 below.

1. Exempt Facility. An Exempt facility is an Accessory Use and no special permit is required, except when an

Exempt facility is located in a Historic District. An Exempt facility located in a Historic District or on the site of a

designated landmark is considered a Mini Facility subject to administrative Historic and Cultural Preservation

approval as prescribed in Section 15.050.

2. Mini Facility. A Mini Facility is an Accessory Use subject to administrative site plan and architectural review

approval as prescribed by Section 24.050. When a Mini facility is located in a Historic District or on the site of a

designated landmark, the following special permits are required:

a. A Minor conditional use permit as prescribed in Section 24.060; and

b. Administrative Historic and Cultural Review as prescribed in 15.030.

3. Minor Facility. A Minor facility requires approval of a minor conditional use permit as prescribed in

Section 24.060 and administrative site plan and architectural review approval as prescribed in Section 24.050.

When a Minor facility is located in a Historic District or on the site of a designated landmark, approval of a

major conditional use permit as prescribed in Section 24.060 and Historic and Cultural Preservation

Committee approval as prescribed in Section 15.030 are required.

4. Major Facility. A major facility requires approval of a major conditional use permit as prescribed in

Section 24.060 and Planning Commission approval as prescribed in Section 24.050.

D. A Telecommunication facility shall comply with the development standards (Tables 4.6 – 4.13) for the zoning

district in which the facility is located, the City’s Telecommunications Ordinance, and all other applicable City

requirements. (Ord. 2811 § 4, 2022.)

This Section provides requirements and conditions for the establishment and operation of a bed and breakfast inn

(B&B) within a residential zoning district.

A. Purpose. The intent of this section and the standards outlined below are to assist in preservation and adaptive

reuse of the city’s historic resources, to serve visitors of Petaluma, to ensure that bed and breakfast inns are

compatible with the residential area and to preserve the residential character of the neighborhoods in which they

are located.

B. Permit Required. No bed and breakfast inn shall be established within a residential zoning district where

otherwise allowed as outlined in Tables 4.1 and 4.2 without application for and approval of a Conditional Use

Permit in compliance with Section 24.060.

C. Findings. In addition to standard use permit Qndings in Section 24.060, the decision making body shall make

the following Qndings prior to approval of a use permit for the establishment of a bed and breakfast inn in a

residential zoning district:

1. The establishment of the bed and breakfast inn is consistent with General Plan policies regarding historic

preservation;

2. The bed and breakfast inn use will not be detrimental to the historic or architectural character of the

existing building(s); and

3. The bed and breakfast inn use is compatible with and will not be detrimental to the character of the

neighborhood and surrounding land uses.

D. Requirements and Conditions. The following requirements and conditions apply to all bed and breakfast inns

within residential zoning districts:

1. Adaptive Reuse. Establishment of bed and breakfast inns shall be limited to the adaptive reuse or

conversion of an historic or architecturally unique residential structure and shall not require signiQcant

exterior modiQcations that would diminish the uniqueness or signiQcance of the residential structure or

surrounding neighborhood.

2. Concentration. When a new bed and breakfast inn is proposed within 300 feet of another bed and

breakfast inn, the decision-making body shall make an additional Qnding prior to approval of the use that the new bed and breakfast inn does not harm the character and/or use of adjacent residential properties. In

considering the Qndings required by this subsection and subsection 7.100.C above, the decision maker shall

also consider the number of existing and proposed bed and breakfast inns within 300 feet of the proposed

use in determining whether the proposed use is compatible with and not detrimental to the character of the

neighborhood and surrounding land uses and/or not harmful to the character and/or use of adjacent

residential properties.

3. Modi7cations. New structures or additions to the existing structure shall be designed to maintain the

established residential character and scale of the individual property and the surrounding neighborhood.

4. Limit on Maximum Number of Guest Rooms. The number of guest rooms permitted shall be determined in

the Conditional Use Permit process based on the size of the existing building, grounds and site; the

relationship of the site to the character, size and scale of surrounding neighborhood buildings; and visitor

access and parking. In general, the number of guest rooms should not exceed 7.

5. On-Site Manager. An on-site manger shall maintain residence on the site.

6. Length of Stay. Visitor occupancy shall be limited to a maximum of twenty-nine consecutive days.

7. Food Service. Food service shall be limited to registered overnight guests only and shall not include an

independent restaurant. Cooking facilities in individual guestrooms are prohibited (with the exception of

microwaves and coTee makers).

8. Events. AmpliQed music, lawn parties, outdoor weddings, and other similar activities shall not occur on

site unless speciQcally allowed through the approved Conditional Use Permit. All such ancillary uses shall

comply with City Performance Standards, including but not limited to the Performance Standards in Chapter

21.

9. Signs. One on-site sign shall be allowed on each street frontage. If illuminated, signs shall be indirectly

illuminated, and each sign shall not exceed two square feet in area, consistent with Section 20.110(B)(4).

10. Parking. On-site parking shall be provided as required in Table 11.1 for Bed and Breakfast Inns.

11. Transient Occupancy Tax. Bed and breakfast rentals shall be subject to the City’s transient occupancy tax.

E. Public Notice. Noticing for bed and breakfast inn applications shall include mailed notice to properties within

1,000 feet of the proposed use. (Ord. 2811 § 4, 2022.)

This Section establishes requirements and conditions for the establishment and operation of short-term vacation

rentals within residential, planned unit development, and mixed-use zoning districts.

A. Purpose. The purpose of this section and the standards outlined below is to serve visitors of Petaluma, to

ensure that short-term vacation rentals are compatible with residential and mixed use, and planned unit districts,

and to preserve the character of the neighborhoods in which they are located.

B. Permit Required.

1. Short-term vacation rentals. Short-term vacation rentals are a permitted use only in residential, planned

unit development, and mixed use zoning districts and only pursuant to a valid Short-Term Vacation Rental

Permit issued in accordance with this section by the Planning Director or designee of the Planning Director.

2. Notice to Neighbors. Upon approval of a Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit, all property owners within

100 feet of the permitted Short-Term Vacation Rental shall be noticed in writing. Such notice shall include the

location of the short-term vacation rental, number of rooms available for short-term vacation rental, and

contact information of the locally-available manager.

C. Requirements Applicable to All Short-Term Vacation Rentals.

1. Guest Manual. The Host shall provide a written manual to guests providing the local manager’s contact

information, the Performance Standards set forth in Chapter 21 of the Implementing Zoning Ordinance,

parking limitations, and other helpful information to minimize conRict within the neighborhood.

2. Signs. On-site signage is prohibited.

3. Business License. All short-term vacation rentals require a valid Business License issued in accordance

with Chapter 6.01 of the Petaluma Municipal Code.

4. Transient Occupancy Tax. Short-term vacation rentals are subject to and must satisfy all applicable

requirements of the City’s transient occupancy tax.

5. Adversiting Short-Term Rentals. In every advertisement for the Short-Term Vacation Rental, the Permittee

shall include the City issued Permit Number. It is a violation of this code to advertise a unit that does not have

a valid short-term vacation rental permit.

6. Accessory Dwelling Units. An accessory dwelling unit permitted after September 7, 2017, shall not be

permitted as a short-term vacation rental, consistent with Section 7.030(K).

D. Requirements Applicable to Hosted Short-Term Vacation Rentals. A Short-Term Vacation Rental in which the

permittee occupies the property with the guests and is subject to the following requirements:

1. Limit on Maximum Number of Occupants. No more than 2 overnight occupants per bedroom plus 2

additional occupants are permitted.

a. No more than two bedrooms in the dwelling may be furnished for compensation. (See section 7.100

for Bed and Breakfast requirements.)

b. If the entire dwelling is an accessory/secondary unit, it may be furnished for compensation as a

Hosted Short-Term Vacation Rental, provided that the guests constitute one party, which may be

evidenced through a single rental agreement for the entire dwelling.

2. Manager. The permittee must be available at all times and be able to respond to complaints within 1

hour.

E. Permit Requirements Applicable to Non-Hosted Short-Term Rentals. A Short-Term Vacation Rental in which the

permittee does not occupy the property with the guests and is subject to the following requirements:

1. Limits on Occupants.

a. The entire dwelling may be furnished for compensation, provided that the guests constitute one

party, which may be evidenced through a single rental agreement for the entire dwelling.

b. No more than 2 overnight occupants per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants are permitted.

2. Limitation on Days. The dwelling as a non-hosted vacation rental may be furnished for compensation for

no more than 90 days during any calendar year.

3. Manager. A manager located within 45 miles of the City must be available at all times and be able to

respond to complaints within 1 hour.

F. Short-Term Vacation Rentals in Planned Unit Developments. A permit shall be issued for a Short-Term Vacation

Rental in a Planned Unit Development unless said PUD guidelines explicitly prohibit short-term vacation rentals.

Consistency with CC&Rs or other private covenants shall be the responsibility of the permittee and are not

regulated by the City as part of the permitting process.

G. Dispute Resolution. Upon receipt of three or more complaints in a calendar year about a Short Term Vacation

Rental, with the consent of the parties involved, the City may refer the parties to a third party mediator. The cost

shall be shared equally by the parties involved, unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.

H. Application Process. The application process for a Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit shall be as follows:

1. Application for Permit. Application for a Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit shall be made to the Director

on a form provided by the City.

2. Fee. The fee that applies to process applications for Short-Term Vacation Rental Permits shall be set by

the City Council resolution.

3. Parking. The application must show that the applicant can provide:

a. Parking. On-site parking for the existing residential use shall be provided as required in Table 11.1

for Dwelling Single Family or Multiple Household, as applicable. The Planning Manager, in his or her sole

discretion, may give credit for up to two uncovered spaces on the abutting public street if there is legal

non-conforming parking on the site; or

b. Parking Exception. Applicants that are unable to meet the parking requirements in Section H.3.a. due

to existing legal non-conforming parking and/or site constraints, may obtain a Parking Exception upon

approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit as prescribed in Section 24.060. Applications for a Parking

Exception must provide documentation demonstrating that adequate on-street parking is available to

accommodate the proposed short term vacation rental and the other existing uses on the site.

4. Safety. All short-term vacation rentals must provide smoke detectors, CO2 detectors, be adequately

heated, and otherwise satisfy all applicable requirements of the California Building Standards Code as in

eTect in the City.

5. Duration. Short-Term Vacation Rental Permits shall be valid through the end of the calendar in which

they are issued. All Short-Term Vacation Rental Permits shall expire on December 31, unless a renewal

application is approved.

6. Permit Approval. A Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit application shall be approved if all applicable

requirements are satisQed; otherwise, the application shall be denied.

I. Renewal of Permit.

1. Permittees may apply to renew Short-Term Vacation Rental Permits on forms provided by the City.

2. Permit renewal applications do not require notice in accordance with Section B.

3. The Director shall issue a renewal of a Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit if the permittee satisQes all

applicable requirements pursuant to this Chapter; otherwise such renewal applications shall be denied. The

Director may deny a renewal application if he or she determines that any of the following have occurred

during the 12 months prior to the renewal application:

a. Failure to timely remit Transient Occupancy Taxes; or

b. More than three veriQed violations of this section; or

c. The Director determines that permittee has provided false information in the application or

previous renewal application; or

d. An authorized oScial has given notiQcation or health or safety violations or non-compliance on the

property.

J. Revocation of Permit. Upon conQrmation of three or more veriQed violations of this section or other

information alleging that a short -term vacation rental has violated or is in violation of any applicable laws,

regulations, or other requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of this section, the Planning

Director or a designee of the Planning Director may commence permit revocation proceedings in accordance with

Section 24.060(G). Once a Short-Term Vacation Rental Permit has been revoked, continued use of the Short –Term

Vacation Rental at that location is prohibited and subsequent applications may not be Qled within one (1) year

from the date of revocation.

K. Appeal. Appeal of decisions of the Planning Director pursuant to this section may be brought pursuant to

L. Enforcement. The City may seek remedies for any violations of this section pursuant to any applicable

authorities, including, but not limited to, those contained in Chapter 26 and those contained in Title 1 of the

Petaluma Municipal Code. (Ord. 2811 § 4, 2022; Ord. 2785 § 2, 2021; Ord. 2690 § 3, 2019.)

A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide objective design standards for the review of residential

developments that qualify for streamlined or ministerial planning permit review pursuant to the laws of the State

of California and/or regulations of the City of Petaluma. These standards contain concise and quantiQable

language that is designed for consistent interpretation by applicants, reviewers, and approval bodies alike.

The objective standards herein are intended to achieve Qve core goals in the development of qualifying residential

projects:

1. Strengthen Community Character and the Public Realm. Design developments that reRect the Petaluma

community and contribute to its physical, economic, social, and cultural character.

2. Design for People. Emphasize a pedestrian-oriented environment where buildings and public realm

design are cohesive and complementary to a diverse range of uses.

3. Design Equitable Places. Make spaces that recognize and support residents’ and workers’ activities across

age, ability, culture, race, gender, and income.

4. Support Connectivity. Design safe, functional, and comfortable multimodal connections between activities

that are accessible and easy to navigate by walking, bicycling, and public transit.

5. Design for Sustainability. Support sustainable building practices and site design approaches to enhance

Petaluma’s resilience and resource stewardship - now and into the future.

B. Applicability. The City of Petaluma’s Objective Design Standards apply to qualifying residential projects for

which the state requires review for compliance using only objective standards. This includes residential projects,

which upon applicant request and demonstration of eligibility, qualify for streamlined and/or ministerial

processing. Alternatively, projects subject to these objective standards may opt to apply for permit processing

under discretionary site plan and architectural review (SPAR) in accordance with Section 24.050.

The standards in this section apply in addition to any applicable objective standards in the adopted City

documents, including but not limited to the documents referenced in subsection (F) of this section. Should there

be any conRicting objective standards in the SmartCode or IZO Historic District Standards, the SmartCode and

Historic District standards shall take precedence over the standards within this section. Unless expressly

prohibited by or in conRict with the standards in this or another applicable regulatory plan or code, additional

architectural or design features are allowable.

C. De7nitions. The deQnitions in this subsection (C) are intended to apply speciQcally to the objective standards in

this section. If a deQnition is not in this section, the deQnition in Chapter 28, Glossary, shall apply. If a deQnition is

not listed in this section or the glossary, the commonly used deQnition shall apply.

Accent Materials. Distinct materials used to provide emphasis of architectural features or areas of the

building. Qualifying accent materials must either be a diTerent material type, have a diTerent cut size, or use

a diTerent installation technique.

Arterial Street. Streets designated as an arterial street in the City’s General Plan Mobility Element and which

provide relatively high-capacity access to regional transportation facilities. Access to arterials is generally from

collector and local streets.

Articulation. Dividing a building’s mass into smaller parts through the placement of architectural features

such as windows, doors, molding, columns, or other three-dimensional façade enhancements that create a

clear and distinct section of the building.

ArtiCcial Turf. A surface of synthetic Qbers made to look like natural grass.

Class I Bikeway (Bike Path). Provides a completely separated right-of-way for the exclusive use of bicycles

and pedestrians with crossRow traSc minimized.

Class II Bikeway (Bike Lane). Provides a striped lane for one-way bicycle travel on a street or highway.

Class III Bikeway (Bike Route). Provides for shared use with pedestrian or motor vehicle traSc.

Class IV Separated Bikeway. A bikeway for the exclusive use of bicycles and includes a separation required

between the separated bikeway and the through vehicular traSc.

Common Open Space. Restricted access outdoor space available for all residents in the development.

Creeks. For the purposes of this section creeks means a creek with a proposed or existing public pathway as

identiQed in the General Plan on Figure 5-2, Proposed and Existing Bicycle Facilities, or as updated from time

to time.

Cupola. A relatively small, most often rounded or dome-like structure on top of a building.

Full CutoD Downcast Lighting. Lighting Qxtures that have no direct uplight (no light emitted above

horizontal) and limited intensity of light from the Qxture in the region between 80 degrees and 90 degrees.

Ground Floor Activating Strategies. Uses that generate daily pedestrian activity. These may include but are

not limited to retail, restaurants, personal services, oSces (including medical), residential entryways, Qtness

centers, lobbies, resident services, etc. Ground Roor activating strategies shall be compatible with residential

uses.

Inactive Frontages. Sections of the building with no active use, including blank walls, service entrances with

access to trash, utilities, service areas, and garage entrances.

Internal Road. See: Private Street.

Landscape Area. All the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan are subject

to the maximum applied water allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include footprints of

buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious

or nonpervious hardscapes, and other nonirrigated areas designated for nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces

and existing native vegetation).

Multi-Use Path. See: Class I Bikeway.

Natural Habitat. The natural environment of a plant or animal.

Occupied Roofs. Roofs planned for occupancy as either open space, assembly or other functional purpose

beyond maintenance or repair access.

Open Space. Any park, right-of-way, City-owned property, utility corridor, publicly used land, school yard, or

natural habitat area which is open land on which there is no structure.

Planting Area (Landscaping). Unpaved areas of the site with prepared soils and irrigation systems intended

to support the establishment and long-term health of intentionally selected and installed plant materials.

Primary Building Façade. The side of the building oriented toward the front lot line.

Primary Entrance. The entrance to the building through which most users are expected to travel and which

shall be located on the primary building façade.

Primary Street Frontage. The area between the primary building façade and the front lot line.

Private Open Space. A private outdoor space designated for no more than one residential unit and not

accessible to other units. A private balcony also qualiQes as private open space.

Private Pathway. A thoroughfare on private property designed for pedestrians and bicyclists where access is

limited to residents or individuals with speciQc permission.

Private Street. A street located solely on private property, owned and maintained by either a property owner

or homeowners association.

Public Open Space. The area outside the footprint of the building on a site that may include parks, green

spaces, squares, plazas, playgrounds, and/or trails, and which are accessible to all members of the public. The

Petaluma River is considered public open space.

Public Pathway. A thoroughfare designed for pedestrians and bicyclists and accessible to the public. This

includes bike paths, walking paths, trails, and sidewalks.

Public Realm. The area fronting or physically accessible to the public, including the street, sidewalk, and

adjacent parks and building frontages.

Public Street. A street owned and maintained by the City of Petaluma or another public agency.

Qualifying Residential Development. Residential development that, under state law, is required to be

processed through ministerial review using only objective standards.

Secondary Entrance. Any entrance, other than a service entrance, to a building not designated as the

primary entrance.

Secondary Building Façade. Any side of a building facing a public street (not including alleys) that is not the

primary façade.

Secondary Street Frontage. The area between a secondary building façade and a public street that is not the

primary street or alley.

Sensitive Habitat. Sensitive habitats are those areas in which plant or animal life or their habitats are either

rare or especially valuable because of their special nature or role in the ecosystem.

Turret. A small tower at the corner of a building.

Unused Area. A vacant or nonfunctional area of a site that does not have a structure, sidewalk, roadway,

parking stall, aisle, or other function. There is no minimum size and unused areas may include spaces

between buildings, spaces between pathways and structures, or similar locations.

D. Site Design.

1. Building Orientation.

a. Orientation. The primary building façade, which includes the primary entrance and the primary

street frontage, shall be oriented to the front lot line as deQned by Chapter 28.

b. Activation. At least one ground Roor activating strategy shall be integrated into the primary building

façade and secondary building façade.

Figure 1 Ground Floor Activation

2. Circulation and Access.

a. Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Routes. For projects with more than two separate dwelling structures, all

structures shall be internally connected by pedestrian pathways and each building shall have a

pedestrian pathway that connects to the public sidewalk.

Figure 2 Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Routes

b. Crosswalks. For mixed-use or residential projects with internal streets or surface parking areas, a

crosswalk shall be provided at a maximum distance of 190 feet between crosswalks along internal

streets or drive aisles and comply with Caltrans and Federal Accessibility Standards.

c. Driveway Location. Driveways shall not be located adjacent to the Petaluma River or a creek.

d. Short-Term Parking. For developments with 10 or more units, a passenger loading and residential

delivery zone (yellow curb marking) shall be designated at the curb along the primary frontage and shall

comply with Petaluma Municipal Code Sections 11.48.030 and 11.48.070. This requirement shall be

waived if there is not suScient space to accommodate both short-term parking and emergency vehicle

access. A waiver will be granted based on a written communication from the Fire Marshal stating that

short-term parking would inhibit emergency vehicle access and no other alternatives are available.

3. General Parking Standards.

a. Parking Location. Parking lots and structures are prohibited in the following locations:

1) Between the building and the primary street frontage.

2) Between the building and an adjacent river or creek unless no other feasible location for

parking exists.

3) For multifamily dwelling structures containing more than two units, parking within a front or

side street setback is prohibited.

b. Parking Spaces.

1) The width of a parking space shall be increased by one foot if either side of the space is

adjacent to a wall, fence, support column or other structure.

2) Two feet of the parking stall depth may be landscaped with low-growth, hearty materials in lieu

of paving, allowing a two-foot bumper overhang while maintaining the required parking dimensions.

3) Electric vehicle parking, and charging infrastructure, shall be provided as required by the City of

Petaluma Building Code; provided, that at least 50 percent of minimum required parking spaces are

Level 2 Electric Vehicle Ready as deQned by CalGreen regulations.

4) The size of parking spaces shall comply with the following dimensions based on angle of

parking and standard or compact in Table 1.

Table 1. Parking Space Size Requirements

Width of Length of Minimum
Angle of Parking Width of Length of
Angled Angled Back up
Space Space (ft) Space (ft)
Space (ft) Space (ft) Length (ft)

Standard Cars

Parallel Parking 9 22 - - -

30 Degree Angle 9 19 18 17.3 11.5
Parking 9.5 19 19 17.7 11.5

10 19 20 18.2 11.5

45 Degree Angle 9 19 12.7 19.8 13
Parking 9.5 19 13.4 20.2 13

10 19 14.1 20.5 13

60 Degree Angle 9 19 10.4 20.9 17.5 Parking 9.5 19 11 21.2 17.5

10 19 11.5 21.4 17.5

90 Degree Angle 9 19 9 19 26
Parking 9.5 19 9.5 19 24

Table 1. Parking Space Size Requirements

Width of Length of Minimum
Angle of Parking Width of Length of
Angled Angled Back up
Space Space (ft) Space (ft)
Space (ft) Space (ft) Length (ft)

10 19 10 19 23

Compact Cars

Parallel Parking 8 20 - - -

30 Degree Angle 8 16 15.9 14.1 12

Parking

45 Degree Angle 8 16 11.2 16.9 12

Parking

60 Degree Angle 8 16 9.2 18.4 14

Parking

90 Degree Angle 8 16 8 16 22

Parking

Unistall 60 Degree 8.5 18 8.5 18 26

Parking

Unistall 90 Degree 8.5 18 8.5 18 26

Parking

c. Parking Screening. Parking lots or structures shall be screened by 42 inches high solid fencing that

complies with subsection (D)(5) of this section or plants with a minimum expected height of 42 inches at

maturity.

d. Parking Structure Massing and Façade Articulation. Parking structures facing the primary or secondary

street frontage shall comply with the façade design requirements in subsection (E)(1) of this section.

e. Landscaping. Surface parking areas shall be landscaped in accordance with site design landscaping

subsection (D)(7) of this section and as follows:

1) Residential parking areas for more than four cars and parking lots in all commercial and

industrial zones shall be screened from the street right-of-way through the use of decorative walls,

fences, and/or landscaping with a height of at least 42 inches at maturity.

2. Parking areas shall include 100 square feet of planting area for every six parking spaces. This

   may be accomplished through landscape strips that are no less than 100 square feet, or through a larger landscaped area within the parking lot. Vehicle overhang space (see subsection (D)(3)(b)(2) of

   this section) shall not be used to Qll this requirement. Parking lot landscaping does not count toward

   open space requirements.

   3) Shade trees shall be provided in parking lots so that the average estimated canopy diameter at

   15 years of age covers 50 percent of the parking surface when viewed directly from above. The

   estimated canopy size shall be determined using the City of Petaluma List of Approved Street Trees.

   Figure 3 Parking Lot Landscaping and Shade Trees

   4) Shade structures with integrated solar panels may be used to provide up to 100 percent of

   required shading as long as trees are planted around the perimeter of the parking area at a ratio of

   one tree per 30 linear feet.

   Figure 4 Solar Carports with Shade Trees

   5) All exterior areas that are not used for parking stalls, walkways, or driveways shall be planted

   with ground cover or topdressed mulch.

   4. Bicycle Parking.

      a. Residential Bicycle Parking. Long-term bicycle parking shall be located in a secure weather-protected

   area on-site.

   1) Acceptable parking facilities include:

   a) Controlled Access Fenced Area. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored

   racks for bicycles using allowable short-term designs in the section below; or

   b) Controlled Access Bike Room. Lockable bicycle room with permanently anchored racks; or

   c) Bike Lockers. Lockable, permanently anchored individual bicycle lockers;

   d) An area of a parking garage that is separated from vehicle traSc and that has a

   pedestrian/bike walkway between the storage area and the public street.

   2) Electric bicycle charging ports shall be provided for a minimum of 25 percent of the required

   number of bicycle spaces.

   b. Access. Racks shall not be located in a place that requires the use of stairs or lifting of the bicycle in

   order to access the racks.

   c. Number of Residential Bicycle Parking Spaces Required. At least one bicycle parking space shall be

   required for all units with up to two bedrooms. Two bicycle parking spaces shall be required for each

   unit with more than two bedrooms. Each bicycle parking space may be located on a shared rack that

   accommodates more than one parking space.

   d. Size of Bicycle Parking Spaces. Bicycle parking spaces shall have a minimum of the following sizes:

   Table 2. Bicycle Parking Dimensions

   Spacing Minimum Space (in inches)

   Length of parking space for each bike 72"

   Distance from a bike rack to a wall 24"

   Distance between two racks (horizontal) 36"

   Distance between two bike racks (length) 72"

   e. Age-Restricted Developments. In developments where age is restricted to senior citizens, the

   minimum number of required bicycle parking spaces may be reduced by up to 25 percent. At least 50

   percent of spaces shall be sized as follows:

   Table 3. Bicycle Parking Dimensions for Age Restricted Development

   Spacing Minimum Space (in inches)

   Length of parking space for each bike 72"

   Distance from a bike rack to a wall 36"

   Distance between two racks (horizontal) 60"

   Distance between two bike racks (length) 72"

   f. Aisle. An aisle or other space shall be provided for bicycles to enter and leave the facility. This aisle

   shall have a width of at least Qve feet to the front or rear of a standard six-foot bicycle parked in a facility.

   g. Surface Material. Areas containing bicycle spaces shall be surfaced with durable surfaces such as

   concrete or permeable pavers.

   h. Bu8er. When located within or adjacent to a vehicle parking area, barriers such as curbs, fences,

   planter areas, or wheel stops shall be installed and maintained between bicycle and automobile parking.

   i. Means of Securing. Except in the case of individual locking bicycle lockers and attended bicycle

   parking, all bicycle parking spaces shall have a closed loop to allow a single u-lock to capture one wheel

   and one closed section of the bike frame to attach to a securely anchored tamper-resistant rack. The loop shall have a minimum outside diameter of two inches and be constructed from a minimum of

   11-gauge steel tubing.

   j. Mounting. Bicycle racks shall be surface-mounted to the ground with security fasteners, such as

   concrete spikes, or tamper-resistant nuts on wedge anchors.

   k. Rack Shape. Bicycle racks shall use one of the following designs and be constructed from steel,

   stainless steel, or another equivalent material with equal strength, longevity, and tamper-resistance:

   Figure 5 Allowable Bike Rack Styles

   1) Alternative bike racks are allowed provided that they meet the criteria in subsections (D)(4)(i),

   (j), and (k) of this section, and do not use any of the prohibited styles listed below. Bicycle racks that

   require lifting the bicycle or any portion thereof, shall not be used.

   2) The following designs are prohibited:

   Figure 6 Prohibited Bicycle Rack Styles

   5. Fencing.

      a. Prohibited Materials. The use of chain link with more than a one-inch opening, vinyl, barbed wire, and

   razor wire fencing is prohibited.

   b. Design. Solid fences more than 42 inches high and more than 25 feet long that are located adjacent

   to the public right-of-way shall incorporate one or more of the following:

   1) Vertical change in pattern or material along the entire horizontal length of the fence.

   2) A post or column every 25 feet that projects at least two inches from the face of the fence.

   3) Stucco or concrete fences shall not have an unarticulated surface for more than 25 linear feet.

   4) Murals or public art covering a minimum of 50 percent of the area of the fence.

   5) Horizontal members or courses.

   6) Laser-cut metal panels.

   6. Facility and Equipment Screening.

      a. Screening. All exterior utility facilities and equipment shall be screened. This includes:

      1) Garbage, compost, and recycling areas or receptacles.

      2) Utility boxes, electric and gas meters, transformers, and similar equipment.

      3) Rooftop mechanical equipment, not including solar panels or other green infrastructure that

      relies on access to the sun or wind for power generation.

      4) Air conditioning units, heat pumps, and similar equipment.

   b. Coverage. All equipment shall be fully screened from view by an architectural or landscape screen.

   1) The point of view for determining visibility on the roof shall be Qve feet above grade at a

   distance of 200 feet.

3. The point of view for determining visibility at street level shall be Qve feet above grade at a

   distance of 50 feet.

   Figure 7 Equipment Screening

   c. Speci7c Waste, Compost, and Recycling Enclosure Requirements. An enclosure for waste, compost, and

   recycling collection shall be provided and screened. The enclosure(s) shall have the following

   characteristics and design standards:

   1) A concrete slab that extends through the full area of the enclosure, including the access

   through the service gates.

   2) Fully enclosed in a wood or concrete structure with walls at least seven feet in height on three

   sides connected to a solid roof.

   3) A solid metal gated entry painted to match the other materials of the enclosure.

   4) Water outlets (hose bibs) for Qre safety and sanitation within 40 feet of enclosures for refuse

   containers of total capacity greater than Qve 30-gallon cans.

   5) The enclosure shall incorporate a sewer drain to allow the enclosure to be washed down.

   Storm water shall be prevented from getting into the sewer system.

   6) Enclosures shall be designed and managed to prevent animal entry and shall be screened to

   prevent odors, Ries, and other nuisance conditions from disturbing residents and the public.

   7) Screening and gates shall be of a durable construction; fences, walls, footings, slabs and curbs

   shall meet City Building Code requirements. Gates shall be constructed of heavy-gauge metal or of a

   heavy-gauge metal frame with covering of wood or other suitable material. Gates shall be secured

   with sturdy hinges or sliders, and latches. For enclosures of six cans or more and for bins, the

   screening shall be protected at its base by curbs. If screening is to be situated directly adjacent to parking spaces or drives, it shall be protected by a concrete-curbed buTer strip (minimum three feet

   wide) of landscaping or pavement.

   8) The location of waste, compost, recycling collection shall not conRict with circulation or parking

   conditions on site. If exterior facilities are used, a clear pathway that does not cross traSc, with a

   minimum width of Qve feet shall be provided for tenant access to the disposal location.

   9) Enclosures shall comply with the following dimensions:

   Table 4. Waste, Recycling, and Compost Enclosure Dimensions

Bin Size (in cubic Height of Enclosure Depth of Enclosure Width of Enclosure yards)

1.5 43 inches 36 inches

2.0 47 inches 39 inches
80 inches
3.0 58 inches 48.5 inches

4.0 64 inches 53.5 inches

d. Above-Ground Equipment. Utility transformers, telecommunications equipment, back-Row

preventers, HVAC equipment, water or sewer lifts or pumps, and large utility devices shall not be located

in front of buildings on primary frontages, unless fully enclosed by an enclosure that uses the same

materials and style as the building façade.

7. Landscaping. These standards are in addition to any applicable objective landscaping standards in the

Chapter 14, Landscaping and Screening. Landscaping within the public right-of-way shall comply with the

City’s Landscape and Irrigation Standards (series 100).

a. Landscape Standards. Landscaping shall comply with Petaluma’s List of Approved Street Trees,

Petaluma’s Tree Technical Manual as referenced in Section 17.035 and with the City’s Landscape Water

Use ESciency Standards in the City of Petaluma Municipal Code Section 15.17.050.

b. Placement/Location. The following areas shall be landscaped:

1) Any unused area of the site shall be topdressed with bark mulch or have ground cover. Bare

ground is not permitted.

2) A minimum Qve-foot-wide planting area shall be installed between parking areas and adjacent

public rights of way (not including alleys).

3) Comply with subsection (D)(3)(e) of this section for additional landscaping requirements for

parking areas.

c. Plant Material. The following materials are prohibited:

1) The use of plants identiQed as invasive by the California Invasive Plant Council are prohibited.1

2) ArtiQcial plants and turf are prohibited.

d. River and Creek Adjacent. For properties adjacent to the Petaluma River, or a creek, the landscaping

shall only use plants identiQed as native to Petaluma on the California Native Plant Society’s Calscape

website, within 50 feet of the sensitive habitat area.

e. Tree Planting. Trees planted as part of the project shall comply with the following:

1) Trees shall be planted so that the average estimated canopy diameter after 15 years of age

covers 30 percent of the combined ground level common open space and landscape areas when

viewed directly from above. Estimated canopy size shall be determined using the City of Petaluma’s

List of Approved Street Trees.

2) Place trees in a planting area with a minimum size of 36 square feet unless otherwise speciQed

in the SmartCode.

3) Tree planters that are outside of the public right-of-way and within six feet of public or private

sidewalks or paved areas shall be planted with root barriers. An alternative method of sidewalk/

pavement protection may be used provided that it is equally or more eTective than root barriers.

4) Trees planted under powerlines shall have a maximum expected height of no less than Qve feet

below the existing power lines and shall use only trees from the City of Petaluma List of Trees

Approved for Planting Adjacent to Public Streets and Sidewalks.

Figure 8 Tree Planters

f. Open Space Separation. Private open space on the ground level shall be separated from public or

common open space by either a landscaping strip or a fence in compliance with subsection (D)(5) of this

section.

g. Integrated Pest Management. An Integrated Pest Management Plan that provides for zero use of

chemical pesticides herbicides, fertilizers, or other synthetic chemicals shall be included with the

landscaping plan and implemented.

h. Groundcover. All planting areas shall be top-dressed with a minimum layer of three inches of either

bark mulch or a natural low carbon alternative or groundcover. Crushed rock, mulch, pebbles, stones, or

similar nonplant material may be used on up to 10 percent of the landscaped areas. Landscaped areas

adjacent to and up-slope from pedestrian pathways shall include edging to prevent materials from

encroaching onto the pathways.

i. High Maintenance Plants and Trees. The mature canopy dripline of plants or trees which drop seed

pods or fruit shall not extend over a sidewalk, pathway, or street.

j. Planting Size. To achieve the maximum plant survival and eSciency in landscape growth, the

following minimum sizes are required:

Table 5. New Planting Container Size Requirements

Plant Type Minimum Size at Planting

Shrubs and perennials 1 gallon

Table 5. New Planting Container Size Requirements

Plant Type Minimum Size at Planting

Plants required for screening 5 gallons

Trees 15 gallons

Grasses and annual herbaceous plants No minimum

8. Open Space. Open space shall be provided as required in the Chapter 4 tables.

a. Usable Common Open Space. At least 25 square feet per unit of the open space required by the

Chapter 4 tables shall be used for a common open space area which shall have a minimum length of 10

feet on any side.

Figure 9 Common Usable Open Space

b. Outdoor Seating. Outdoor seating shall be provided at a ratio of one six-foot-long bench or two seats

per every 200 square feet of required common usable open space or fraction thereof. Seats and benches

shall be constructed of stainless steel, wood or a recycled material of comparable quality and durability.

Seats shall be either a single chair or stool. Benches shall accommodate at least two seated adults.

c. Required Play Areas. Developments that include 25 or more dwelling units shall include at least one

play area for children unless the development is located within 0.25 mile of a public park with play

structure(s). Such play area shall:

1) Have a minimum dimension of 15 feet in any direction and a minimum area of 600 square feet

with a pour-in-place recycled rubber surface or similar surface with a minimum projected lifespan of

at least 10 years.

2) Contain play equipment, including equipment designed for children Qve years and younger and

for all abilities.

3) Be protected from any adjacent streets or parking lots with a fence or other barrier at least

four feet in height. Fencing shall allow visibility into the play area.

d. Senior Citizen Developments. For developments with 25 or more dwelling units and age-restricted to

senior citizens, the play area shall be replaced with a communal garden area or an outdoor recreational

area of the same size and dimensions.

9. Lighting.

a. Lighting Location. Lighting shall be provided in the following locations:

1) All parking areas and structures.

2) All pedestrian paths of travel.

3) Points of conRict where vehicular traSc Row crosses paths with pedestrian and/or bicycle

facilities.

4) All service yards and access to services and utilities including waste enclosures.

b. Fixtures. All lighting shall use full cutoT downcast lighting Qxtures that horizontally shield the light

source. Spotlights are prohibited.

1) Lighting for parking and internal circulation shall be no taller than 20 feet.

2) The primary bicycle and pedestrian pathways within the development shall be lit by Qxtures no

taller than 36 inches.

3) Lighting used to illuminate landscaped areas or other open areas shall be placed at a

maximum height of 36 inches.

4) Lighting for the public right-of-way shall comply with the City’s Street Standards.

c. Lighting Brightness. Where required, lighting shall provide a minimum average of 0.5 foot candles

and a maximum of three foot candles at ground level. Lighting shall not exceed one foot-candle at the

property line unless required for street lighting by the City’s street light standards.

d. Lighting Color. Exterior lighting Qxtures shall not exceed 3,500K.

10. Parcels Fronting the Petaluma River and City Creeks. The following standards apply to parcels that are

fronting either the Petaluma River or a creek where a public pathway is identiQed or proposed in the City’s

General Plan in Figure “Proposed and Existing Bicycle Facilities” or Active Transportation Plan as updated from

time to time.

a. Riverfront Building Façade Detailing. Building façades facing the Petaluma River or a creek with an

existing or proposed public pathway shall comply with the building design requirements for a primary

frontage in subsection (E)(1) of this section.

b. Lighting. Lighting along the river or creek shall be placed to face away from the waterway and shall

comply with above lighting requirements in subsection (D)(9) of this section.

c. Views of River and Creeks. Fencing between the public right-of-way and the river over 42 inches shall

be transparent using either open wire or wrought iron.

d. Waterway Accessibility.

1) A public pathway is required for the entire river/creek frontage of the parcel if a pathway does

not exist and is identiQed in General Plan Figure 5-2 “Proposed and Existing Bicycle Facilities” on

Page 5-15 or as updated from time to time in the future.

2) The pathway shall be constructed as the class of trail identiQed on the General Plan “Proposed

and Existing Bicycle Facilities Map” using the standards in the CalTrans Highway Design Manual

Chapter 1000, Topic 1003.

3) If there is no existing pathway up or down river from the project site, the new pathway shall be

connected to the publicly accessible sidewalk via a public pathway on the site.

4) The public pathway shall be recorded as a public access easement on the property deed and

maintained by the property owner or homeowners association as applicable.

5) If sensitive habitat would be impacted by operation of the pathway and not by any other site

element, an alternative public pathway location shall be permitted; provided, that the applicant

provides all of the following:

a) A wetland delineation and a biologist’s report demonstrating that the pathway and no

other element of the project would be within the buTer zone of a sensitive habitat area.

b) A preservation and protection plan for the habitat area.

c) Alternative design for an equivalent pathway with a minimum separation of a six-foot-wide

planter strip between the pathway and the street.

6) A raised boardwalk may be used in place of a paved pathway for sections of the pathway

located within the buTer zone of an environmentally sensitive habitat area. The boardwalk shall

have the following characteristics:

a) Shall be a minimum of six feet wide.

b) Shall be raised a minimum of 12 inches above the natural grade.

c) Shall be constructed from ADA compliant materials with a projected minimum longevity of

50 years and shall not contain creosote, formaldehyde or other chemicals that could leach into

the habitat area.

d) Handrails shall be installed on both sides of the boardwalk for the entire length.

e) Signs requiring bicyclists to dismount and walk bicycles on the boardwalk shall be installed

on both sides of both entrances to the boardwalk.

f) Permanent habitat protection fencing with a six-inch bottom clearance shall be installed to

prevent the public from walking/riding in sensitive habitat areas.

g) Any habitat disturbed during construction shall be restored in compliance with state and

federal regulations.

E. Building Design.

1. Façade Design.

a. Length. The maximum length of a primary façade shall not exceed 250 linear feet.

b. Façade. All exterior walls must incorporate changes of plane representing 30 percent of wall surface

area on primary façade, 20 percent of the wall surface area on all other facades. This may be achieved

through any of the following methods or combination of methods:

1) Balconies that either project at least three feet from the façade or balconies that are recessed

at least four feet from the façade.

2) Box/bay windows with a minimum depth of 18 inches on all facets.

3) Ground Roor street-facing courtyard(s).

4. Architectural stepbacks or projections that are a minimum of 24 inches.

   5) Front porches.

   6) Colonnade, arcade, or covered walkway along the ground Roor with a minimum depth of Qve

   feet.

   Figure 10 Change of Plane on Primary Façade

   c. Windows. Windows ion facades made of stucco, whether cement plaster or EIFS, shall be recessed a

   minimum of two inches.

   d. Vinyl Materials. Vinyl materials are prohibited and shall not be used on the façade of the building.

   e. Transparency at Street Level.

   1) For residential buildings, including live/work and work/live, along any façade facing a public or

   private street, public open space, the Petaluma River, or a creek designated for a public pathway in

   the General Plan, shall provide doors and/or windows for a minimum of 25 percent of the linear

   frontage on the ground Roor.

   2) For mixed-use buildings, along any façade facing a public or private street, public open space,

   river, or creek with a proposed or existing public pathway, shall provide doors and/or windows for a

   minimum of 50 percent of the ground-Roor façade.

   Figure 11 Ground Floor Transparency

   f. Ground Floor Residential on Arterial Roadways. Ground Roor residential units with entrances on an

   arterial street shall have a separation to visually delineate public versus private space along the arterial

   frontage through one of the following design elements:

   1) Finished Roor height of at least 24 inches above the grade of the public sidewalk.

   2) Low wall no more than 42 inches in height.

   3) A three-foot-wide landscaping strip.

   4) Permanent above-ground planters no less than three feet wide.

   5) A change in paving surface material.

   g. Inactive Frontages. No more than 50 feet along the primary façade shall be occupied by inactive

   frontages.

   2. Entryway.

      a. Location. Buildings must have a primary entrance on a street-facing façade but may also have an

      articulated entrance on each street facing façade. The primary building entrance and associated access

   path shall be directly accessible from the public street.

   b. Entrance Emphasis. The primary building entrance shall be articulated, using at least three of the

   following design features:

   1) Accent materials.

   2) Public art.

   3) Non-membrane and nonvinyl awnings.

   4) Sidelights or accent lighting.

   5) Arches.

   6) Columns.

   7) Insets in the façade around the door frame.

   8) Transom windows above or to the sides of the door.

   9) Porch or stoop.

   10) Entrance doors recessed from the wall plane at least six inches.

   11) Change in pavement surfacing.

   Figure 12 Entryway Articulation

   3. Building Corner Treatments.

      a. Building corners at a street intersection shall incorporate at least one of the following corner

   treatments:

   1) Turret or cupola at least two feet higher than the highest roof point.

   2) Roof variation.

   3) Building recess.

   4) Variance in building materials.

   5) Corner plaza or public space.

   6) Corner entryway.

   7) Curved corner wall with windows.

   4. Occupied Roofs.

      a. Rooftop Planters. Ten percent of occupied rooftops shall be landscaped with rooftop planters.

      b. Rooftop Open Space. If an occupied roof will be used to meet the common usable open space

   requirement, the following shall apply:

   1) At least 30 percent of the open space shall incorporate above-ground planters that are no less

   than three feet wide and three feet long.

   2) Permanent nonmembrane shading devices shall be installed to cover at least 15 percent of the

   required open space square footage.

   3) Seating shall be provided in compliance with subsection (D)(8)(b) of this section.

   Figure 13 Rooftop Open Space

F. Other Applicable Objective Standards. All projects subject to this chapter shall comply with the objective design,

development, and subdivision standards within the Implementing Zoning Ordinance or SmartCode (as applicable),

the General Plan (or applicable SpeciQc Plan), and the Municipal Code as well as any adopted standards in

supplemental documents including but not limited to:

1. Chapter 4, Zone Districts and Allowable Land Uses.

2. Chapter 6, Floodway and Flood Plain Districts.

3. Chapter 11, Parking and Loading Facilities, OT-Street, or SmartCode Section 6, Parking Standards and

Procedures.

4. Chapter 13, Placement of Fences and Walls.

   5. Chapter 14, Landscaping and Screening.

   6. Chapter 15, Preservation of the Cultural and Historic Environment.

   7. Chapter 16, Hillside Protection.

   8. Chapter 17, Tree Preservation.

   9. Chapter 21, Performance Standards.

   10. City of Petaluma Municipal Code Section 15.17.050, Landscape water use eSciency standards.

   11. City of Petaluma Municipal Code Title 17, Building and Construction.

   12. City of Petaluma Municipal Code Title 20, Subdivisions.

   13. City of Petaluma Landscape and Irrigation Standards.

   14. City of Petaluma Street Light Standards.

   15. City of Petaluma Street Standards.

1 California Invasive Plant Council https://www.invasive.org/species/list.cfm?id=64

(Ord. 2879 § 3 (Exh. A), 2024.)

The Petaluma Implementing Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 2907, passed September 8,

Disclaimer: The city clerk’s oSce has the oScial version of the Petaluma Implementing Zoning Ordinance. Users

should contact the city clerk’s oSce for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.

City Website: cityofpetaluma.net

Hosted by General Code.