§ 19.555

This chapter sets forth standards for the outdoor equipment (mechanical and utilities) screening to ensure that such features are aesthetically pleasing and adequately screen the equipment without obstructing views or causing a public safety hazard or nuisance.

(Ord. 7331 §90, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

A.

General. All outdoor equipment, whether on a roof, side of a structure, or on the ground, shall be appropriately screened from public view. The method of screening shall be architecturally integrated with the adjacent structure in terms of materials, color, shape and size. Where individual equipment is provided, a continuous screen is desirable.

B.

Exterior mechanical equipment.

1.

Exterior mechanical equipment, except solar collectors, shall be screened from view on all sides by architectural features that are compatible in color and design with the primary structure. For rooftop equipment, the screening materials shall be at least as high as the equipment being screened. Equipment requiring screening includes, but is not limited to, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration equipment, plumbing lines, ductwork, and transformers.

2.

Where design review is required for the primary structure or use pursuant to Chapter 19.710 (Design Review) of this title, such review shall include review of required mechanical equipment screening for conformance with the provisions of this paragraph.

3.

Mechanical equipment shall not be permitted on any exposed portion of a pitched roof, except as may be approved through the design review process (Chapter 19.710).

C.

Ground-mounted utility equipment.

1.

Ground-mounted utility equipment such as, but not limited to, cable television boxes, electric power transformers and distribution facilities, water pumps, and telecommunications facilities (not including pole-mounted equipment) shall be located at the rear of the primary structure and away from public view if feasible.

2.

If not feasible, equipment shall be screened from view on all sides with solid masonry walls or similar permanent structures and/or mature landscaping, color blending to match surroundings, or artwork.

a.

Any such masonry walls or structures shall be of a neutral color.

b.

Screening with chain-link, or similar fencing materials shall not be permitted.

3.

Electric and other metering equipment and panels shall be painted to match adjacent building and wall surfaces.

4.

Where design review is required for the primary structure or use pursuant to Chapter 19.710 (Design Review) of this title, such review shall include review of required mechanical equipment screening for conformance with the provisions of this paragraph.

(Ord. No. 7701, § 34, 2025; Ord. 7331 §90, 2016; Ord. 6966 §1, 2007)

Chapter 19.556 - OUTDOOR LIGHTING[[9]]

Footnotes:

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Editor's note— Ord. No. 7447, § 1(Exh. A), adopted Nov. 27, 2018, repealed Ch. 19.556, §§ 19.556.010 and 19.556.020, and replaced in its entirety a new chapter 19.556, §§ 19.556.010—19.556.090, as set out herein. Former Ch. 19.556 pertained to lighting and derived from Ord. 6966 § 1, adopted in 2007.