San Diego Municipal Code Div. 4 Institutional Use Category--Separately Regulated Uses

Airports may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Five in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Airports are not permitted within floodplains located in agriculturally zoned
areas of the Coastal Overlay Zone.

(b) The applicant shall submit a master development plan for the facility, a public
facilities program, a noise impact analysis, and a noise abatement plan to the
decision maker for consideration before approval of the Conditional Use
Permit.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Botanical gardens and arboretums may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) The design of any structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

(b) Structures and parking areas shall be located on the site away from
surrounding development that is smaller in scale and less intense.

(c) Irrigation and stormwater runoff shall be managed in a manner that protects
surrounding development from harmful pollutants, including fertilizer and
insecticide.

(d) A water reclamation plan is required before approval of the permit.

(e) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142.05F.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 1

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Cemeteries, mausoleums, and crematories may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Cemeteries, mausoleums, and crematories are not permitted in agricultural
zones in Proposition A Lands or within floodplains located in agriculturally
zoned areas of the Coastal Overlay Zone.

(b) Crematories are permitted only within cemeteries.

(c) The design of the structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

(d) Structures and parking areas shall be located on the site away from
surrounding development that is smaller in scale and less intense.

(e) Irrigation and stormwater runoff shall be managed in a manner that protects
surrounding development from harmful pollutants, including fertilizer and
insecticide.

(f) A water reclamation plan is required before approval of the permit.

(g) Off-street parking shall be significant to serve the facility without impacting
adjacent or nearby property.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

Satellite antennas are permitted as a limited use subject to Section 141.0405(b), and may be permitted with a Neighborhood Use Permit subject to Section 141.0405(c), or with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three subject to Section 141.0405(d).

(a) Exemption. The following satellite antennas are exempt from Sections
141.0405 and 141.0420:

(1) Satellite antennas that are 5 feet in diameter or smaller; and

(2) In industrial zones, satellite antennas that are accessory uses.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 2

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(b) Limited Use Regulations. Satellite antennas that exceed 5 feet in diameter are
permitted as a limited use in zones indicated with an “L” in the Use
Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the
following regulations:

(1) Satellite antennas are not permitted within the MHPA.

(2) Satellite antennas are not permitted on premises that have been
designated as historical resources.

(3) Satellite antennas shall not exceed 10 feet in diameter.

(4) Ground-mounted satellite antennas shall not exceed 15 feet in
structure height.

(5) Ground-mounted satellite antennas shall not be located in the street
yard, front yard, or street side yard of a premises.

(6) Satellite antennas shall not be light-reflective.

(7) Satellite antennas shall not have any sign copy on them nor shall they
be illuminated.

(8) Ground-, roof-, and pole-mounted satellite antennas shall be screened
by fencing, buildings, or parapets that appear to be an integral part of
the building, or by landscaping so that not more than 25 percent of the
antenna height is visible from the grade level of adjacent premises and
adjacent public right-of-way.

(c) Neighborhood Use Permit Regulations. Proposed satellite antennas that do
not comply with Section 141.0405(b) may be permitted with a Neighborhood
Use Permit subject to the following regulations:

(1) Satellite antennas are not permitted within the MHPA.

(2) Satellite antennas are not permitted on premises that have been
designated as historical resources.

(3) Satellite antennas shall not exceed 10 feet in diameter.

(4) Satellite antennas shall not be light reflective.

(5) Satellite antennas shall not have any sign copy on them nor shall they be illuminated.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 3

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(6) The visual impacts of the antenna to adjacent premises and adjacent
public rights-of-way shall be minimized by the positioning of the
antenna on the premises and the use of landscaping or other screening.

(d) Conditional Use Permit Regulations. Except where exempt in accordance
with Section 141.0405(a)(2), satellite antennas that exceed 10 feet in diameter
may be permitted only with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance
with Process Three subject to the following regulations:

(1) Satellite antennas are not permitted within the MHPA.

(2) Satellite antennas are not permitted on premises or its appurtenances
that have been designated as historical resources.

(3) The visual impacts of the antenna to adjacent premises and adjacent
public rights-of-way shall be minimized by the positioning of the
antenna on the premises and the use of landscaping or other screening.
(Amended 1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.)
(Amended 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.)
(Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.)

Correctional placement centers, including work furlough and probationary residential facilities, may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Correctional placement centers are not permitted in any of the following
locations:

(1) Within the beach impact area of the Parking Impact Overlay Zone;

(2) Within 1/4 mile of any type of residential care facility, social service
institution, welfare institution, or similar type of facility, measured
from property line to property line in accordance with Section
113.0225;

(3) Within 1 mile of another correctional placement center, measured
from property line to property line in accordance with Section
113.0225;

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 4

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(4) Within 1,000 feet of a school, library, public park, or recreation area,
measured from property line to property line in accordance with
Section 113.0225; or

(5) Within 600 feet of a property zoned for residential development,
measured from property line to property line in accordance with
Section 113.0225.

(b) The center shall provide a minimum of 60 square feet of sleeping space per
bed, not including closet space, storage space, multipurpose rooms,
bathrooms, dining rooms, and halls. There shall be no more than 64 beds per
sleeping space.

(c) The center shall provide a minimum of 10 square feet of multi-purpose space
per bed, not including sleeping space and kitchen areas, for games and
activities, dining, visiting, television lounge, meetings, and quiet space for
study, counseling and reading. This space shall be designed so that several
activities can occur simultaneously without conflict.

(d) The center shall provide a minimum of 8 cubic feet of closet and drawer space
for clothing and personal belongings per bed. The required closet and drawer
space may consist of portable or permanent fixtures and shall be located in the
sleeping space.

(e) The center shall provide a minimum of 15 square feet of dining area for each resident, not including kitchen areas and sleeping space. Centers may have food prepared off the premises if the preparation source meets all applicable requirements for commercial food service. The center shall provide adequate equipment and staff to receive and serve the food and clean up. The center shall provide and maintain adequate equipment for in-house preparation, storage, and service of food in case the residents elect to do so. For centers that have food prepared on the premises, the preparation source shall meet all applicable requirements for commercial food services and shall have equipment and staff necessary to receive, store, serve, and prepare meals and to clean up.

(f) The center shall provide at least one toilet and wash basin for every
eight beds. At least one shower or bathtub shall be provided for every 12
beds. The center shall provide for individual privacy in all toilet, shower, and
bath areas.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 5

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(g) The center shall make laundry facilities available to all residents. The center
shall provide at least one operable washer and dryer for every 16 beds, or the
center may be serviced by a commercial laundry. The space used for laundry
purposes shall not be part of an area used for storage of anything other than
clean linens and other supplies normally associated with laundry activities.

(h) Centers that have 99 or fewer residents shall provide an exercise area of at
least 900 square feet, not including required yards and required landscape
areas. Centers that have 100 or more residents shall have an exercise area of
at least 2,400 square feet, not including required yards and required landscape
areas. If an outdoor exercise area is provided, it shall be easily accessible to
residents, protected from traffic, and screened by solid fencing from the
public right-of-way.

(i) The center shall provide the following number of off-street parking spaces:

(1) At least one parking space per staff person assigned to the shift that
has the greatest number of staff persons; and

(2) For centers confining up to 24 persons, at least one parking space for every four beds or for centers confining 25 or more persons, at least one parking space for every seven beds.

(j) At least two uniformed custodial guards or monitors who are CPR-qualified
shall be on duty at the center at all times.

(k) Centers confining 25 or more persons shall provide at least one additional
uniformed custodial guard or monitor for each 64 beds, or portion thereof, to
be on duty between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. during the week and
during all hours on the weekend.

(l) The center shall maintain a list of all residents accommodated during the past
6 months and shall provide their sentence/offense analysis available upon
request.

(m) The center shall maintain records of all vehicles being driven by residents of
the facility and shall provide the records upon request.

(n) All personnel shall be trained in accordance with selection and training
requirements adopted by the Board of Corrections as set forth in the
California Code of Regulations, Subchapter 1 (commencing with Section 100)
of Chapter 1 of Division 1 of Title 15 and all other requirements outlined in
Title 15. A Certificate of Compliance issued by an institute accredited by the
State Board of Corrections shall be submitted to the City Manager.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 6

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(o) Adult offenders housed in correctional placement centers shall be regularly
employed, regularly attending job training, or regularly attending a learning
institution. The sentencing judge may determine that other similar
circumstances qualify an offender for housing in a correctional placement
center.

(p) No person convicted of any of the offenses listed in Table 141-04A, which are
defined in the California Penal Code, may be ordered by any court into a City
of San Diego Correctional Placement Center. This prohibition shall apply if
the court order is a direct sentence or the placement is a condition of
probation, regardless of whether the offense is a felony or misdemeanor. The
Correctional Placement Center shall not accept or lodge any such person
improperly placed by a court.

Table 141-04A

Excludable Offenses

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 7

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.) (Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.)

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 8

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Colleges/Universities, and Vocational/Trade Schools

Educational facilities are facilities that are designed or used to provide specialized
training or education. This section distinguishes between kindergarten to grade 12
schools, colleges and universities, and vocational schools and trade schools.
Educational facilities are permitted by right in zones indicated with a “P”, as a limited
use in the zones indicated with an “L”, and may be permitted with a Conditional Use
Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in the zones indicated with a “C” in
the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the
following regulations.

(a) Permanent development associated with educational facilities is not permitted
in agricultural zones in Proposition A Lands or within floodplains located in
the Coastal Overlay Zone.

(b) Schools for Kindergarten to Grade 12

(1) This use category applies to schools that provide instruction to
children enrolled in any grade kindergarten to grade 12.

(2) Schools for kindergarten to grade 12 are not permitted on a premises
that is identified as Prime Industrial Land in a land use plan.

(3) Limited use regulations. Schools for kindergarten to grade 12 are
permitted as limited uses in zones indicated by an “L” subject to the
following:

(A) Outside of a Sustainable Development Area, the facility design
shall not accommodate more than 300 students, except that a
new school may replace an existing school with current
enrollment over 300 students if the result is no increase in the
number of students.

(B) Within a Sustainable Development Area, the facility design
shall not accommodate more than 600 students, except that a
new school may replace an existing school with current
enrollment over 600 students if the result is no increase in the
number of students.

(C) Parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 9

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(D) Deviations from Section 141.0407(b)(3)(A) or (B) may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three and subject to the conditional use regulations in Section 141.0407(b)(5).

(4) One-on-one teaching facilities with a maximum capacity of 50
students that provide education for children enrolled in grades 6
through 12 in a traditional office building are permitted by right in
locations where business and professional offices are a permitted use
in zones indicated with a “P”, except that such facilities are not
permitted where in conflict with Section 141.0407(e)(1).

(5) Conditional use regulations. Schools for kindergarten to grade 12 are
permitted as conditional uses in zones indicated by a “C” subject to the
following:

(A) The applicant shall provide a master development plan that
includes the following:

(i) The student capacity of the campus;

(ii) The size, number, and location of all proposed
facilities;

(iii) The pedestrian and traffic circulation systems proposed
for the site;

(iv) A transportation and parking development program;
and

(v) A development phasing schedule.

(B) The design of the structures shall incorporate architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

(C) Larger structures, areas with high levels of activity, and
parking areas shall be located on the site away from
surrounding development that is smaller in scale or less intense.

(D) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table
142-05G.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 10

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(c) Colleges/Universities

(1) Colleges and universities are facilities that provide post secondary education or higher in a campus setting where the campus typically has at least one of the following accessory activities or facilities: intercollegiate athletics, fraternities and sororities, student clubs, student unions, student dormitories, a campus library, or other campus facilities to accommodate a large assembly of people.

(2) Conditional use regulations. Colleges and universities are permitted as
conditional uses in zones indicated by a “C” subject to the following:

(A) Colleges and universities are not permitted on a premises that
is identified as Prime Industrial Land in a land use plan, except
as otherwise allowed in accordance with Section 141.0407(e).

(B) Colleges and universities are subject to the conditional use
criteria applicable to schools for kindergarten to grade 12 in
Section 141.0407(b)(5).

(C) Access to colleges and universities shall be as direct as
possible from freeways and primary arterials and shall avoid
residential streets.

(D) Colleges and universities that provide education in a traditional
office building without any extracurricular facilities of a
traditional post secondary educational facility are permitted by
right where business and professional offices are permitted
uses in zones indicated with a “P”. However, this type of
educational facility is not permitted on a premises that is
identified as Prime Industrial Land in a land use plan, except
as otherwise allowed in accordance with Section 141.0407(e).

(d) Vocational and Trade Schools

(1) Vocational schools are facilities that offer instruction and practical
introductory experience in skilled trades such as mechanics, carpentry,
plumbing, or construction with training that emphasizes the skills and
knowledge needed for a particular job. Trade schools are facilities
organized by an industry or a large corporation to provide training,
apprentice education, and similar courses.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 11

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(2) Limited use regulations. Vocational schools and trade schools are
permitted as limited uses in zones indicated by an “L” subject to the
following:
(A) Vocational schools and trade schools are not permitted on a
premises that is identified as Prime Industrial Land in a land
use plan, except as otherwise allowed in accordance with
Section 141.0407(e).
(B) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table
142-05G.

(e) Educational Facilities on Prime Industrial Land

(1) Schools for kindergarten to grade 12 are not permitted on a premises
identified as Prime Industrial Land in a land use plan.

(2) Educational facilities that are limited to the instruction of adults may
be permitted on a premises identified as Prime Industrial Land in a
land use plan if:

(A) The primary emphasis of the educational facility is instruction
in subjects incidental to manufacturing and industrial uses; or

(B) A Process Two Neighborhood Development Permit is granted in accordance with Section 126.0402 for a proposed educational facility that would be located in an existing office building that is not suitable for manufacturing or research and development due to the lack of loading docks/roll up doors and insufficient height clearance on the first floor (floor to ceiling height less than 14 feet). (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) (Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.) (Amended 11-16-2012 by O-20216 N.S.; effective 12-16-2012.) (Retitled to “Educational Facilities--Schools for Kindergarten to Grade 12, Colleges/Universities, and Vocational/Trade Schools” and amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.) (Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.)

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 12

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Energy generation and distribution stations may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Activities involving aerial transmissions are not permitted.

(b) All mechanical equipment and all storage areas shall be located within an
enclosed building.

(c) The design of the structures shall incorporate architectural elements that help
to minimize conflicts in scale with surrounding development.

(d) Service areas and parking areas shall be buffered from adjacent development
that is not of a similar nature.

(e) Fences, walls, trees and other forms of landscaping shall be used to minimize
visibility of structures from adjacent public rights-of-way or adjacent
residential development.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Exhibit halls and convention facilities may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Exhibit halls and convention facilities are not permitted within floodplains
located in agriculturally zoned areas of the Coastal Overlay Zone.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 13

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(b) The proximity and capacity of freeways, primary arterials, and major streets
will be used to determine the appropriate size and intensity of the proposed
facility.

(c) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 11-16-2012 by O-20216 N.S.; effective 12-16-2012.)

Flood control facilities are permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) Flood control facilities are permitted only for essential public projects where
it has been determined that there is no feasible, less environmentally
damaging location or alternative.

(b) Flood control facilities are permitted only when mitigation measures have
been provided to minimize adverse environmental effects.

(c) Any encroachment or disturbance to environmentally sensitive lands is
subject to Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1 (Environmentally Sensitive
Lands).
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Historical buildings occupied by uses not otherwise allowed may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) In Proposition A Lands, a Conditional Use Permit shall not be approved for
historical buildings occupied by uses not otherwise allowed.

(b) The building must be designated as a historical resource by the City of San
Diego Historical Resources Board before approval of the Conditional Use
Permit.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 14

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(c) The use of the building shall be compatible with the uses in the surrounding
area or shall be consistent with the purpose for which the building was
originally designed. In order to minimize detrimental effects to neighboring
properties, any proposed separately regulated uses in a historical building
shall comply with the applicable regulations in Chapter 14, Article 1
(Separately Regulated Use Regulations).

(d) The site shall be maintained in, or restored to, its original or historical
appearance, in accordance with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 2 (Historical
Resources Regulations).

(e) Any facilities that are constructed as part of the new use shall be designed to
be similar in scale and style with the historical use, in accordance with
Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 2 (Historical Resources Regulations).

(f) Hours of operation shall be limited to conform to hours of normal activity in
the neighborhood.

(g) The decision maker may waive or modify the base zone regulations for
maximum floor area ratio.

(h) The decision maker may waive or modify the requirements for off-street
parking and landscaping. The applicant may be required to preserve existing
mature landscaping.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.)

(a) This section regulates the following homeless facilities.

(1) Congregate meal facilities: Any facility that provides scheduled meals
on a daily basis for individuals or families who are homeless or low
income or very low income, as defined in Section 113.0103.

(2) Emergency shelters: Any facility that provides housing for homeless
persons with minimal supportive services that is limited to occupancy
of six months or less. An emergency shelter may be seasonal or year-
round.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 15

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Emergency shelters operating for 30 days or less in any 365-day
period which are accessory uses to religious institutions or religious
organizations are exempt from this section.

(3) Homeless day centers: Any facility that provides basic services,
including personal hygiene, information and referral, employment,
mail, and telephone services, during daylight hours to homeless
persons.

(b) Congregate Meal Facilities

Congregate meal facilities may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit
decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in
the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to
the following regulations.

(1) No more than one congregate meal facility may be permitted within
1/4 mile of an emergency shelter, a homeless day center, or another
congregate meal facility, measured from property line to property line
in accordance with Section 113.0225.

(2) Overnight accommodations are not permitted.

(3) Drive-up or drive-through service is not permitted.

(4) Live entertainment is not permitted.

(5) Distribution or consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises is
not permitted.

(6) The facility shall provide a waiting area for clients to prevent queuing into the public right-of-way. The size of the waiting area shall be at least 5 square feet per client, based on the maximum number of clients the facility can accommodate according to Fire Department standards. Any outdoor waiting area shall be physically separated from the public right-of-way.

(7) The facility shall provide off-street parking at a rate of 1 space per
full-time-equivalent employee, calculated at 8 hours of working time
per employee per 24-hour period.

(8) Hours of operation shall be limited to the hours between 6:00 a.m. and
10:00 p.m.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 16

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(9) All activities associated with the facility, including the serving of food
and beverages, shall occur within an enclosed building.

(10) The applicant shall submit the following materials to the decision
maker for consideration:

(A) A communications plan that describes how the provider will
communicate with local community, neighborhood, and
business organizations, and with adjacent neighbors on a
regular basis, and how community issues or concerns will be
addressed;

(B) A plan to minimize loitering in the vicinity of the facility; and

(C) A litter control plan to provide for the removal of litter in the
vicinity of the facility on a regular basis.

(c) Emergency Shelters

(1) Emergency shelters are permitted as a limited use in the zones
indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13,
Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(A) Emergency shelters shall provide an on premises waiting area
of at least 10 square feet per bed to accommodate clients and to
prevent queuing into the public right-of-way. Any outdoor
waiting area shall be physically separated from the public
right-of-way.

(B) Emergency shelters shall provide off-street parking at a rate of
at least 1 space for each full-time-equivalent employee,
calculated at 8 hours of working time per employee per
24-hour period.

(C) Hours of operation shall be limited to the hours between
6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

(D) Emergency shelters shall provide on-site supervision at all
times. At least one full-time-equivalent employee shall be
provided for every 20 beds.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 17

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(E) The applicant shall submit and implement the following:

(i) A communications plan for addressing issues or
concerns regarding the emergency shelter raised by the
local community, neighborhood, business
organizations, and adjacent neighbors;

(ii) A loitering control plan to minimize the congregation
of overnight residents during daylight hours on the
premises, in parking lots serving the premises, and on
public sidewalks adjacent to the premises; and

(iii) A litter control plan to maintain the premises and any
adjacent premises in a litter free condition at all times.

(F) Adequate outdoor lighting for public safety shall be
maintained. Outdoor lighting shall comply with Section
142.0740.

(2) Emergency shelters may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit
decided in accordance with Process Five in the zones indicated with a
“C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base
Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(A) Emergency shelters are not permitted in Proposition A Lands.

(B) Emergency shelters shall provide at least 35 square feet of
sleeping area per bed.

(C) Emergency shelters shall provide a waiting area of at least 10
square feet per bed to accommodate clients and to prevent
queuing into the public right-of-way. Any outdoor waiting area
shall be physically separated from the public right-of-way.

(D) Emergency shelters shall provide at least 1 toilet for every
15 beds.

(E) Emergency shelters shall provide off-street parking at a rate of
at least 1 space for each full-time-equivalent employee,
calculated at 8 hours of working time per employee per
24-hour period.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 18

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(F) Hours of operation shall be limited to the hours between
6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

(G) Emergency shelters shall provide on-site supervision at all
times. At least one full-time-equivalent employee shall be
provided for every 20 beds.

(H) Living, dining, and kitchen areas shall be physically separated
from sleeping areas. The shelter shall provide telephone
services separate from the office phone in order to provide
privacy.

(I) The applicant shall submit and implement the following:

(i) A communications plan for addressing community-
raised issues or concerns regarding the emergency
shelter with the local community, neighborhood,
business organizations, and adjacent neighbors;

(ii) A loitering control plan to minimize the congregation
of overnight residents during daylight hours on the
premises, in parking lots serving the premises, and on
public sidewalks adjacent to the premises; and

(iii) A litter control plan to maintain the premises and any
adjacent premises in a litter free condition at all times.

(d) Homeless Day Centers

Homeless day centers may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(1) No more than one homeless day center may be permitted within 1/4
mile of an emergency shelter, a congregate meal facility, or another
homeless day center, measured from property line to property line in
accordance with Section 113.0225.

(2) Overnight accommodations and meals for transients are not permitted.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 19

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(3) The center shall provide off-street parking at a rate of at least 1 space
per full-time-equivalent employee, calculated at 8 hours of working
time per employee per 24-hour period.

(4) Hours of operation shall be limited to 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

(5) The center shall provide on-site supervision at all times. At least one
staff member shall be located on the premises 24 hours per day.

(6) The applicant shall submit the following materials to the decision
maker for consideration:

(A) A communications plan that describes how the provider will
communicate with local community, neighborhood, and
business organizations, and with adjacent neighbors on a
regular basis, and how community issues or concerns will be
addressed;

(B) A plan to minimize loitering in the vicinity of the facility; and

(C) A litter control plan to provide for the removal of litter in the
vicinity of the facility on a regular basis.
(Amended 7-31-2001 by O-18965 N.S.; effective outside the Coastal Overlay Zone on
8-30-2001; effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone on 12-12-2001.)
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.)

Hospitals may be permitted with a Process Four Conditional Use Permit in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) These facilities are not permitted in agricultural zones in Proposition A Lands
or within floodplains located in the Coastal Overlay Zone.

(b) The design of the structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 20

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(c) The location of larger structures, areas of high activity, and parking areas
shall be planned to minimize impacts to surrounding development that is
smaller is scale and less intense.

(d) Access to the site shall be as direct as possible from freeways, primary
arterials, and major streets and shall avoid residential streets.

(e) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.

(f) All storage, service, and repair areas shall be located on the premises or
screened so that they are not visible from adjacent development and public
rights-of-way.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective
1-1-2000.)
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)
(Amended 11-16-2012 by O-20216 N.S.; effective 12-16-2012.)
(Retitled from “Hospitals, Intermediate Care Facilities, and Nursing Facilities” to
“Hospitals” and amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the
Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local
Coastal Program Amendment.
Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language
http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

Interpretive centers are structures or facilities designed to inform and educate the public about the surrounding environment.

Interpretive centers may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in
accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use
Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following
regulations.

(a) The design of the structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help diminish building bulk.

(b) The location of larger structures, areas of high activity, and parking areas
shall be planned to minimize impacts to surrounding development that is
smaller in scale and less intense.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 21

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(c) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 3-1-2006 by O-19467 N.S.; effective 8-10-2006.)
(Amended 11-16-2012 by O-20216 N.S.; effective 12-16-2012.)

Museums may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) The design of the structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

(b) The location of larger structures, areas of high activity, and parking areas
shall be planned to minimize impacts to surrounding development that is
smaller is scale and less intense.

(c) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 11-16-2012 by O-20216 N.S.; effective 12-16-2012.)

These facilities may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) The structures shall be located on the site so that visibility from adjacent
public rights-of-way or adjacent residential development is minimized.

(b) Fences, walls, trees and other forms of landscaping shall be used to screen
structures from adjacent public rights-of-way or adjacent residential
development.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 22

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Social Service Institutions may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Four in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) The design of the structures shall incorporate a variety of architectural
elements that help to diminish building bulk.

(b) The location of larger structures, areas of high activity, and parking areas
shall be planned to minimize impacts to surrounding development that is
smaller in scale and less intense.

(c) Off-street parking shall be sufficient to serve the facility without impacting
adjacent or nearby property.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) This Section regulates small rooftop solar energy systems and other solar energy systems, which are collectively referred to as solar energy systems, except where specifically distinguished herein. Nothing in this Section grants any deviation from the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1) or Historic Resource Regulations (Chapter 14 Article 3, Division 2).

(1) Small rooftop solar energy systems are devices or structural design
features of a building, the primary purpose of which is to provide for
the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space
heating or cooling, electric generation, or water heating, which are not
larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30
kilowatts thermal, and are installed on a single dwelling unit or duplex
development.

(2) Other solar energy systems are any other solar energy system devices
or structural design features of a building, the primary purpose of
which is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar
energy for space heating or cooling, electric generation, or water
heating that are not within the scope of a small rooftop solar energy
system described in Section 141.0418(a)(1).

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 23

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(b) Solar energy systems are permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated
with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base
Zones), subject to the following regulations. The regulations are intended to
facilitate the use of renewable energy technology to attain environmental and
energy goals and comply with state law related to small rooftop solar energy
systems, to provide for timely administrative approvals, and to allow an
applicant to appeal a denial to the Planning Commission.

(1) A construction permit decided in accordance with Process One shall
be required for the installation of a solar energy system, in accordance
with the following:

(A) An Electrical Permit is required for a solar energy system. A Combination Building Permit and Electrical Permit is required if the scope of work also includes the development of a new structure or requires structural modifications to an existing structure to support the solar energy system.

(B) The construction permit application shall be submitted in
accordance with Sections 112.0102 and 129.0105.

(C) Within a planned district (subject to Land Development Code
Chapter 15), a separate Planned District Ordinance Permit shall
not be required in addition to the construction permit required
for a solar energy system pursuant to Section 141.0418(b)(1).

(2) Solar energy systems are exempt from the regulations requiring
undergrounding of utilities and from the screening requirements of
Section 142.0910.

(3) Solar energy systems as an accessory use are permitted to encroach
into required yards and the angled building envelope plane as follows:

(A) Solar energy systems may encroach into required side yards
and rear yards where securely attached to a previously
conforming structure or other structure that is permitted to
project or encroach into the required setback or angled building
envelope plane in accordance with Section 131.0461. Stand
alone solar energy systems may encroach into required side
yards and rear yards in compliance with Section 131.0461.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 24

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(B) Within the Mission Beach Planned District Ordinance,
proposed encroachment of a solar energy system shall comply
with Section 1513.0304(d).

(4) Solar energy systems shall comply with all applicable height limits, except that solar panels may be added to a previously conforming structure that does not conform to the existing height limit of the Coastal Height Limit Overlay Zone (Section 132.0505) or the Clairemont Mesa Height Limit Overlay Zone (Section 132.1305), if the proposed solar panels do not exceed the height of the existing structure, in accordance with the California Solar Rights Act.

(c) Small Rooftop Solar Energy Systems Permit Review

(1) In reviewing a construction permit application for a small rooftop
solar energy system, the Building Official shall evaluate only whether
the small rooftop solar energy system meets applicable health and
safety requirements of local, state, and federal law.

(2) The Building Official shall administratively approve the small rooftop
solar energy system, unless the small rooftop solar energy system
would exceed the height requirements set forth in Section
141.0418(b)(4), or the Building Official determines there is substantial
evidence of a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and
safety, which for the purpose of Section 141.0418(c) means a
significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact based on
objective, identified, and written public health and safety standards,
policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application was
deemed complete, and there is no feasible method or alternative to
satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.

(3) If the Building Official determines that the proposed small rooftop
solar energy system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the
public health and safety, then the Building Official shall make written
findings notifying the applicant that the permit for the small rooftop
solar energy system is denied, the basis for that denial in accordance
with Section 141.0418(c)(2), and the appeal rights set forth in Section
141.0418(c)(4). The applicant shall be responsible for all
administrative costs associated with processing the appeal.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 25

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(4) Applicant Appeal Process. Notwithstanding Section 112.0504, an
applicant may appeal the denial of an application for a small rooftop
solar energy system to the Planning Commission by filing an
application for a Process Two appeal hearing with the City Manager
no later than 12 business days after the decision date. The application
shall include the contents for appeal identified in Section 112.0510(a).

(A) Grounds for Appeal. A denial may only be appealed on the
grounds that the stated findings to deny the construction permit
are not supported by substantial evidence.

(B) Scheduling an Appeal Hearing. The City Manager shall assign
a date for an appeal hearing before the Planning Commission
no later than 10 calendar days after the date on which an
application for the appeal hearing is filed with the City
Manager. The appeal hearing shall generally be held within 60
calendar days following the filing of the application for the
hearing.

(C) Power to Act on the Decision at Appeal Hearing. The Planning
Commission may affirm, reverse, or modify the decision to
deny a small rooftop solar energy system in accordance with
the following:

(i) A decision to affirm the Building Official decision shall
require a finding based on substantial evidence in the
record that the proposed small rooftop solar energy
system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the
public health and safety.

(ii) If the Planning Commission determines that there is not
substantial evidence that the small rooftop solar energy
system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the
public health and safety, then the decision shall be
reversed and the construction permit shall be approved.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 26

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(iii) If the Planning Commission determines that conditions of approval would mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety, then the decision shall be reversed and the construction permit shall be conditionally approved. Any conditions imposed shall mitigate at the lowest cost possible, which generally means the permit conditions shall not cause an increase in the cost of the small rooftop solar energy system by more than 10 percent or decrease the efficiency of the small rooftop solar energy system by more than 10 percent. (“Solar Energy Systems” added 8-7-2015 by O-20555 N.S.; effective 9-6-2015.)

Electric vehicle charging stations are facilities that supply electric energy for the recharging of electric vehicles as defined in Section 86.0151(a). Nothing in Section 141.0419 grants any deviation from the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1) or Historic Resource Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 2).

Electric vehicle charging stations are permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated
with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones),
subject to the following regulations. The regulations are intended to facilitate the use
of electric vehicle charging stations and to comply with state law requirements for
timely administrative approvals and allow an applicant to appeal a denial of an
application of a construction permit for an electric vehicle charging station.

(a) A construction permit decided in accordance with Process One shall be
required for the installation of an electric vehicle charging station.

(1) An Electrical Permit shall be required for the installation of an electric
vehicle charging station.

(2) A Building Permit may be required if alterations will be made to an
existing structure or to modify or relocate an existing disabled
accessible parking space serving the premises.

(3) The construction permit application shall be submitted in accordance
with Sections 112.0102 and 129.0105.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 27

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(4) Within a planned district (subject to Land Development Code Charter
15), a separate Planned District Ordinance Permit shall not be required
in addition to the construction permit required pursuant to Section
141.0419.

(b) In reviewing the construction permit, the Building Official shall evaluate only
whether the electric vehicle charging station meets all applicable health and
safety requirements of local, state, and federal law and shall apply the
following general regulations:

(1) Electric vehicle supply equipment shall be listed and labeled by an
approved nationally recognized testing laboratory.

(2) Electric vehicle charging stations may encroach into setbacks where off-street parking spaces are permitted.

(3) Existing landscaping shall not be removed if it is required pursuant to
the Landscape Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 2 Division 4), unless it
is replaced with equivalent or greater landscape elsewhere on the
premises.

(4) The applicant shall demonstrate that an electric vehicle charging
station on private property will accommodate a vehicle to be charged
while parked without protruding into the public right-of-way.

(5) Electric vehicle charging stations located within the public right-of-
way shall comply with Section 86.0151.

(c) The Building Official shall approve, in accordance with Process One, the
electric vehicle charging station unless the Building Official determines there
is substantial evidence of a specific adverse impact upon the public health or
safety, which for the purpose of Section 141.0419(c) means a significant
quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact based on objective, identified,
and written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they
existed on the date the application was deemed complete, and there is no
feasible method or alternative to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific,
adverse impact.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 28

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(d) If the Building Official determines that the proposed electric vehicle charging
station could have a specific, adverse impact upon public health or safety,
then the Building Official shall make written findings notifying the applicant
that the construction permit for the electric vehicle charging station is denied,
the basis for that denial, and the appeal rights set forth in Section 141.0419(e).
The applicant shall be responsible for all administrative costs associated with
processing the appeal.

(e) Notwithstanding Section 112.0504, an applicant may appeal the denial of an
application for a construction permit for an electric vehicle charging station to
the Planning Commission by filing an application for a Process Two appeal
hearing with the City Manager no later than 12 business days after the
decision date. The application shall include the contents for appeal identified
in Section 112.0510(a).

(1) Grounds for Appeal. A denial may only be appealed on the grounds
that the stated findings to deny the construction permit are not
supported by substantial evidence.

(2) Scheduling an Appeal Hearing. The City Manager shall assign a date
for an appeal hearing before the Planning Commission no later than 30
calendar days after the date on which an application for the appeal
hearing is filed with the City Manager.

(3) Power to Act on the Decision at Appeal Hearing. The Planning
Commission may affirm, reverse, or modify the decision to deny an
electric vehicle charging station in accordance with the following:

(A) A decision to affirm the Building Official decision requires a
finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the
proposed electric vehicle charging station would have a
specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety and
there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid
the specific, adverse impact. In addition, the finding shall
include the basis for rejection of potential feasible alternatives
to prevent the adverse impact.

(B) If the Planning Commission determines that there is not
substantial evidence in the record that the proposed electric
vehicle charging station could have a specific, adverse impact
upon the public health or safety, then the decision shall be
reversed and the construction permit shall be approved.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 29

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(C) If the Planning Commission determines that conditions of approval would mitigate the specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety, then the decision shall be reversed and the construction permit shall be conditionally approved. Any conditions imposed shall mitigate at the lowest cost possible.

(“Electric Vehicle Charging Stations” added 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.)

Wireless communication facilities shall comply with the approval process set forth in Section 141.0420(a) through (c) as applicable to the development. All wireless communication facilities are subject to the general regulations in Section 141.0420(d), the general design requirements in Section 141.0420(e) and the Wireless Communication Facilities Guidelines in the Land Development Manual. Section 141.0420 does not apply to amateur (HAM) radio communication facilities.

(a) Limited Use Regulations

Wireless communication facilities are permitted as a limited use decided in
accordance with Process One as follows:

(1) In commercial and industrial zones on a premises that does not contain
residential development;

(2) For collocation of wireless communication facilities in any zone on
existing monopoles that does not increase the area occupied by the
antennas by more than 100 percent of the originally approved wireless
communication facilities and does not increase the area occupied by an
outdoor equipment enclosure more than 150 square feet beyond the
originally approved wireless communication facilities;

(3) In the public right-of-way provided that the wireless communication
facility is a small cell wireless communication facility as defined in
Section 141.0420(a)(3)(A) below.

(A) A small cell wireless communication facility is a wireless
communication facility on or concealed within a streetlight
pole with a cobra arm mounted working luminaire that meets
the following requirements:

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 30

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(i) The wireless communication facility is attached to an existing, replacement, or new streetlight pole that is standard for the proposed location and complies with the applicable guidelines in the Land Development Manual; the antennas and associated equipment do not exceed a total of 15 cubic feet, and no part of the wireless communication facility extends more than 24 inches from the streetlight pole in any direction; except that if the antenna is top-mounted, the antenna or any material concealing the antenna may extend vertically up to 48 inches above the highest point of the cobra arm.

(ii) The wireless communication facility includes a new
streetlight pole, within which all of the associated
equipment is completely concealed, that is consistent
with the streetlight poles located within the same block,
or if there are no streetlight poles in the same block, the
blocks adjacent to the proposed location; that complies
with the applicable guidelines in the Land Development
Manual; that has a diameter that does not exceed
18 inches at any point; and that does not include any
visible antennas that exceed 24 inches in any
dimension.

(B) A wireless communication facility that includes any ground-
mounted equipment other than the pole to which the equipment
is attached or is concealed within is not a small cell wireless
communication facility.

(4) An eligible facilities request, the approval of which is required by
47 U.S.C. § 1455 (2018), as may be amended, is permitted as a limited
use in any zone, notwithstanding any other provision of the San Diego
Municipal Code, subject to the following:

(A) For the purposes of Section 141.0420(a)(4), italicized terms
have the same meaning as in 47 C.F.R. § 1.6100(b) (2019), as
may be amended.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 31

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(B) Failure to assert in writing at the time an application is filed
that the application is an eligible facilities request shall result
in the application being processed pursuant to the regulations
that would otherwise be applicable in the absence of 47 U.S.C.
§ 1455 (2018).

(C) An application for modification of an eligible support structure
that involves the installation of more than four additional
equipment cabinets shall not be considered a substantial
change to the physical dimensions of the eligible support
structure, provided that all of the equipment cabinets are
completely concealed within the eligible support structure, and
there is no change to the physical dimensions of the eligible
support structure itself.

(5) Ground-mounted equipment required for a wireless communication
facility, other than a pole to which wireless communication facility is
attached, that meets the requirements in Sections 129.0710(a)(10) and
129.0710(b)(6).

(b) Neighborhood Use Permit Regulations

Wireless communication facilities may be permitted with a Neighborhood Use
Permit decided in accordance with Process Two, as follows:

(1) In commercial or industrial zones on a premises containing residential
or mixed-use development;

(2) With antennas located at least 100 feet from the property line of a
premises with a dwelling unit, child care center, or school with
children enrolled in any grade kindergarten through grade 8 where
located:

(A) in an agricultural zone;

(B) on dedicated parkland subject to San Diego Charter section 55,
except in an open space zone; or

(C) in a residential zone on a premises that does not contain
residential development;

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 32

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(3) In the public right-of-way when the wireless communication facilities are not small cell wireless communication facilities, provided that the wireless communication facility does not include any ground-mounted equipment other than a pole to which the wireless communication facility is attached or is concealed within.

(c) Conditional Use Permit Regulations

Wireless communication facilities may be permitted with a Conditional Use
Permit as follows:

(1) Decided in accordance with Process Three, where the development
meets the following locational criteria:

(A) Wireless communication facilities with antennas located less
than 100 feet from the property line of a premises with a
dwelling unit, child care center, or school with children
enrolled in any grade kindergarten through grade 8 where
located:

(i) in a residential zone on a premises that does not contain
residential development; or

(ii) in an agricultural zone.

(B) In the public right-of-way with ground-mounted equipment
exceeding 3 feet above the finished grade of the curb line and
greater than 4 feet in diameter; other than a pole to which the
wireless communication facility is attached.

(2) Decided in accordance with Process Four, where the development
meets the following locational criteria:

(A) On dedicated parkland subject to San Diego Charter section 55
in any zone, except on public right-of-way within dedicated
parkland, with antennas located less than 100 feet from the
property line of a premises with a dwelling unit, child care
center, or school with children enrolled in any grade
kindergarten through grade 8.

(B) In a residential zone on a premises that contains residential
development.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 33

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(C) In an open space zone.

(d) General Regulations for Wireless Communication Facilities

(1) Every application shall include documentation satisfactory to the City
Manager, as follows:

(A) Demonstrating that the wireless communication facility
complies with federal standards for radio frequency radiation
in accordance with the Telecommunication Act of 1996 and
subsequent amendments and any other requirements imposed
by state or federal regulatory agencies.

(B) Identifying the location type, capacity, field strength or power
density, and calculated geographic service of the wireless
communication facility.

(2) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, the Coastal Development Permit
regulations in Chapter 12, Article 6, Division 7, shall also apply.

(3) Wireless communication facilities located within or adjacent to the
City’s Multi-Habitat Planning Areas shall comply with the Multiple
Species Conservation Program Subarea Plan’s Land Use Adjacency
Guidelines.

(4) Wireless communication facilities located in a designated historical
district or in a historical district identified in a historical resources
survey prepared by the City, or on a premises with a historical
resource on it, must comply with the Historical Resource Regulations
and the U.S. Secretary of Interior Standards and Guidelines.

(5) At least 60 days prior to an applicant asserting that an application for a
wireless communication facility is deemed approved pursuant to
California Government Code section 65964.1, the applicant shall
provide public notice as follows:

(A) The notice shall be mailed to all persons described in Section
112.0302(b) and to the City Manager.

(B) The notice shall be posted in the manner prescribed by Section
112.0304.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 34

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(C) The notice shall include all of the information as prescribed in
Section 112.0301(a)(1)(A) through (D), and the following:

(i) The name, address, and telephone number of the
applicant; and

(ii) The following statement: “This application may be deemed approved, with no public hearing, no earlier than 60 days after this notice has been mailed and posted as required.”

(6) The applicant shall obtain all necessary construction permits to
comply with applicable building, fire, mechanical, and plumbing
codes, and state and federal disability access laws.

(7) The permittee shall provide documentation to verify that a wireless
communication facility is operating in compliance with federal
standards for radio frequency radiation in accordance with the
Telecommunication Act of 1996 and subsequent amendments and any
other requirements imposed by state or federal regulatory agencies
within 30 calendar days of receipt of a written request for such
documentation from the City Manager.

(8) The wireless communication facilities shall be maintained in good
working order, free from trash, debris, and graffiti, and designed to
discourage vandalism. The permittee or owner shall repair or replace
any damaged equipment within 30 calendar days of receipt of a
written notification from the City Manager.

(9) The permittee or owner shall remove the wireless communication
facilities from the premises and restore the premises to the condition
preceding the construction and installation of the wireless
communication facility, at the owner’s or permittee’s sole cost and
expense, if any of the following circumstances exists:

(A) The permit authorizing the wireless communication facility is
expired and a new permit has not been obtained.

(B) If no permit was granted, it has been ten years from the date
that the wireless communication facility was authorized by
federal or state law and no new permit or legal authorization
has been obtained.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 35

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(C) The City Manager determines that the wireless communication facility or components of the wireless communication facility are non-operational or no longer used.

(10) Prior to January 31 of every year, each wireless communication
facility provider shall submit documentation, satisfactory to the City
Manager, identifying the location of each wireless communication
facility in its City of San Diego network organized by community plan
area. The documentation shall include wireless communication
facilities that are approved, but not yet built, wireless communication
facilities that are currently operating, and non-operating wireless
communication facilities.

(e) Design Requirements

The following regulations apply to all wireless communication facilities:

(1) Wireless communication facilities shall utilize the smallest, least
visually intrusive antennas, components, and other necessary
equipment.

(2) The applicant shall use all reasonable means to conceal or minimize
the visual impacts of the wireless communication facilities through
integration and installation on existing structures. Integration with
existing structures or among other existing uses shall be accomplished
through the use of architecture, landscape, and siting solutions.

(3) Equipment associated with wireless communication facilities shall be
located within an existing building envelope, whenever possible. If an
equipment enclosure is necessary, it shall be of a height minimally
necessary to conceal the equipment, with an area not to exceed 250
square feet, unless a Neighborhood Development Permit is granted in
accordance with Section 126.0402.

(4) Overhead wires are not permitted.

(5) Equipment located on the roof of an existing structure shall be set
back or located to minimize visibility, especially from the public right-
of-way or public places.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 36

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(6) Faux landscaping may be used on premises where natural vegetation similar in size and species exists or is proposed as part of the development. The applicant shall provide sufficient samples, models, or other means to demonstrate the quality, appearance, and durability of the faux vegetation.

(7) If trees with a trunk width of 4 inches or more (measured by caliper,
4 feet above grade) are removed or significantly trimmed for the
installation or operation of the wireless communication facility, then
replacement trees of a similar size shall be planted to the satisfaction
of the City Manager.

(8) Antennas shall comply with the following design requirements:

(A) Each antenna, including any concealment measures, shall
appear as an integral part of the structure, except for public
right-of-way site installations as set forth in Section
141.0420(f).

(B) No portion of an antenna, including any concealment
measures, shall be more than 12 inches away from the
structure, unless the applicant provides evidence
demonstrating to the satisfaction of the City Manager that the
wireless communication facilities cannot operate without
exceeding 12 inches, in which case no portion of the antenna
shall be more than 18 inches away from the structure.

(C) Each antenna, including any concealment measures, shall fit
into the design of the structure, shall be no longer or wider
than the portion of the structure upon which it is mounted, and
shall not interrupt the architectural lines of the structure.

(D) Associated mounting brackets and coaxial cable shall be
concealed from view.

(E) Any pipes or similar apparatus used to attach antennas,
including any concealment measures, to the structure shall not
extend beyond the length or width of the antenna.

(9) Vertical elements, designed as flagpoles or light standards, shall
replicate the design, diameter, and proportion of the vertical element
they are intending to imitate. Flagpoles shall maintain a tapered
design.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 37

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(10) Use of or replacement of any building facade or mechanical screen
with fiberglass reinforced panels or similar industry standard material
for purposes of concealing antennas shall not result in any noticeable
lines or edges in the transition to the original structure. All screening
material shall be painted and textured to match the original structure.

(11) All equipment, including transformers, emergency generators, and air
conditioners, shall be designed and operated consistent with the Noise
Ordinance in Chapter 5, Article 9.5 of the Municipal Code. Ventilation
openings shall be baffled and directed away from residential areas.
Vibration resonance of operating equipment in the equipment
enclosures shall be eliminated.

(f) Public Right-of-Way Installations

Wireless communication facilities may be installed in the public right-of-way
in the parkway. Wireless communication facilities located in the public right-
of-way are subject to all other applicable requirements of the Municipal Code
and the following additional design requirements:

(1) Antennas associated with wireless communication facilities, other than
those allowed pursuant to Section 141.0420(a)(3), shall be vertically
mounted to the pole in compliance with any applicable separation
requirements and shall not exceed 6 inches in distance from the pole.

(2) No more than four panel antennas or two omni-directional antennas
shall be mounted on any utility pole by any one wireless
communication facilities provider.

(3) Antennas shall be painted to match the color of the surface of the pole
on which they are attached.

(g) Park Site Installations

The following additional design requirements apply to wireless
communication facilities in parks within the City of San Diego:

(1) Where practicable, antennas shall be mounted on sports field light poles, security light poles, or inside foul line poles or flagpoles. Antennas shall not be mounted above the light source on any light poles. All antennas on flagpoles or foul line poles shall be concealed within the pole.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 38

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(2) If the proposed wireless communication facility would be located on
dedicated parkland subject to San Diego Charter section 55, equipment
enclosures shall be placed underground unless the Parks and
Recreation Department Director, or their designee, determines that an
above-ground equipment enclosure would not violate Charter
section 55, and a Neighborhood Development Permit is granted in
accordance with Section 126.0402.
(“Wireless Communication Facilities” added 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective
4-11-2007.)
(Amended 5-3-2005 by O-19369 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.)
(Amended 9-29-2006 by O-19545 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.)
(Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.)
(Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21117 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.)
(Amended 4-27-2021 by Emergency Ordinance O-21315 N.S.; effective 4-27-2021.)

[Editors Note: This Ordinance is effective citywide, including inside the Coastal
Overlay Zone, which is subject to California Coastal Commission jurisdiction. The
Coastal Commission determined the Ordinance did not require certification on
April 23, 2021. The Ordinance is effective for 45 days from the effective date, unless
extended pursuant to California Government Code section 65858.]

(Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21417 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)
(Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.)

Placemaking on private property is permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones), subject to the following regulations:

(a) Written permission from the record owner of the property is required.

(b) Off-street parking spaces are not required, but may be permitted as an
accessory use to serve the placemaking use if the square footage designated
for the off-street parking spaces does not exceed 25 percent of the total square
footage designated for the placemaking use.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 39

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(c) A Temporary Use Permit shall be obtained in accordance with
Section 123.0402.

(d) At the expiration of the term of the Temporary Use Permit, the placemaking
project shall be removed and the permit holder shall return the premises to its
original condition, to the satisfaction of the City Manager. Removal shall not
be required if a new Temporary Use Permit is obtained prior to its expiration.

(e) The Temporary Use Permit permit holder shall be responsible for maintaining
the placemaking project. Maintenance shall include, but not be limited to,
posting of the name, phone number, and email address of the party
responsible for the placemaking project in a location visible from the public
right-of-way, keeping the placemaking project area free of litter, and
preventing litter attributable to the placemaking project from occurring on
adjacent properties.

(f) A placemaking project shall only occur on premises that are vacant at the time
the Temporary Use Permit application is submitted or within parking lots on
premises within Sustainable Development Areas, except in existing disabled
accessible parking spaces serving the premises.

(1) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, a Coastal Development Permit for
outdoor dining on private property shall be issued as a Building Permit
in accordance with Process One as specific in Chapter 12, Article 9,
Division 2.

(2) Within the Beach Impact Area of the Parking Overlay Zone (Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 8), an applicant that removes automobile parking spaces for outdoor dining that would be required by Parking Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 5) shall provide for the duration of the placemaking project:

(A) Standard regional adult monthly transit passes to requesting
employees or tenants equal to 2 passes for each automobile
parking space replaced, up to the number of on-site employees
and tenants. Notice of the availability of monthly transit passes
shall be posted by the applicant in an area on the premises
where it can easily be seen by the employees or tenants. The
notice shall include a statement that the monthly transit passes
are required for placemaking pursuant to the San Diego
Municipal Code; and

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 40

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(B) One of the following vehicle miles traveled reduction measures
on the premises:

(i) Shared bicycle fleet equal to 2 bicycles for each
automobile parking space replaced, or 5 bicycles,
whichever is greater;

(ii) Electric battery charging stations for micro-mobility
devices that are available to the public equal to
1 charging station for each automobile space replaced,
or 5 charging stations, whichever is less;

(iii) Micro-mobility parking area that is available to the
public with a minimum of 2 micro-mobility parking
spaces for each automobile parking space replaced;

(iv) Carpool parking spaces with a minimum of 1 carpool
parking space for each automobile parking space
replaced; or

(v) Long-term bicycle parking (covered, lockable
enclosures for bicycles) equal to 2 per the number of
automobile parking spaces replaced, or 5 long-term
bicycle parking spaces, whichever is less.

(3) The vehicle miles traveled reduction measures required in Section 141.0421(f) shall be in addition to the requirements to minimums required in the Parking Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 5).

(g) A placemaking use that also qualifies as another separately regulated use shall
also be subject to those separately regulated use regulations. A placemaking
use that contains elements governed by other laws and regulations shall also
be subject to those laws and regulations.

(h) A placemaking project on a premises within a Sustainable Development Area
that was a parking lot of a permitted eating and drinking establishment shall
not include retail or commercial services uses except for outdoor dining
operating in association with the permitted eating and drinking establishment
in accordance with Section 141.0628.

(i) Placemaking on private property in Open Space and Residential Base Zones
shall not include commercial services or assembly and entertainment uses as
accessory uses.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 41

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(j) In the Coastal Overlay Zone, an applicant for a placemaking project on
private property shall obtain a Coastal Development Permit pursuant to
Section 126.0702.
(“Placemaking on Private Property” added 5-22-2018 by O-20928 N.S.; effective
6-21-2018.)
(Amended 10-24-2019 by O-21142 N.S.; effective 2-14-2020.)
(Amended 2-1-2021 by O-21288 N.S.; effective 3-3-2021.)
(Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.)
(Amended 3-4-2024 by O-21770 N.S.; effective 4-12-2024.)
(Retitled from “Placemaking on Private Property” to “Placemaking on Private
Property” and amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the
Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local
Coastal Program Amendment.
Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language
http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

This section regulates utility-serving battery energy storage facilities which store energy within enclosed buildings or modular containers and then solely release the energy directly back to the electrical grid. Battery energy storage facilities do not include behind the meter battery installations that provide energy to the same premises on which they are located.

This section distinguishes between small-scale battery energy storage facilities with a development footprint of one-quarter acre or less, medium-scale battery energy storage facilities with a development footprint of more than one-quarter acre but less than one acre, and large-scale battery energy storage facilities with a development footprint of one acre or more. Battery energy storage facilities shall comply with the approval process set forth in Section 141.0422(a) through (c) as applicable to the development. All battery energy storage facilities are subject to the general regulations in Section 141.0422(d) and the general design requirements in Section 141.0422(e).

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 42

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(a) Small-scale battery energy storage facilities

The following regulations apply to battery energy storage facilities with a
development footprint of one-quarter acre or less.

(1) Limited Use Regulations

Small-scale battery energy storage facilities are permitted as a limited
use decided in accordance with Process One in zones indicated by an
“L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base
Zones) subject to the following:

(A) In residential, commercial, and mixed-use base zones that
permit residential development, battery energy storage facilities
shall be limited to no more than 25 percent of the allowable
development area and allowable gross floor area, unless the
premises cannot be developed with residential uses due to site
constraints, except for the presence of environmentally
sensitive lands, beyond the applicant’s control, such as the
presence of utilities, in which case the 25 percent limitation
shall not apply.

(B) In the IL (Industrial – Light) and IS (Industrial – Small Scale)
Zones, battery energy storage facilities shall be limited to no
more than 25 percent of the allowable development area and
gross floor area, unless the premises cannot be developed with
industrial uses due to site constraints except for the presence of
environmentally sensitive lands beyond the applicant’s control,
such as the presence of utilities, in which case the 25 percent
limitation shall not apply.

(2) Conditional Use Permit Regulations

Small-scale battery energy storage facilities may be permitted with a
Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with Process Three in
zones indicated by a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13,
Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following:

(A) In the OP (Open Space – Park) and OR (Open Space –
Residential) Zones, battery energy storage facilities may be
permitted only as follows:

(i) If they do not result in loss of any publicly accessible
active or passive recreation area; and

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 43

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(ii) Within previously disturbed areas with existing
electrical utility easements.

(B) In the OP (Open Space – Park) and OR (Open Space –
Residential) Zones within the Coastal Overlay Zone, battery
energy storage facilities may be permitted only as follows:

(i) Within a distance of 500 feet or less of an existing
electrical distribution facility; and

(ii) Within a distance of 500 feet or greater from environmentally sensitive lands.

(C) In the AR (Agricultural-Residential) Zone within the Coastal
Overlay Zone, battery storage facilities may be permitted only
on premises not containing agricultural land as identified by
the California Department of Conservation as Prime Farmland,
Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland,
Farmland of Local Importance, or Farmland of Local Potential
as defined in the California Public Resources Code section
10213.

(D) In the CV (Commercial-Visitor) Zone within the Coastal
Overlay Zone, battery storage facilities shall not be allowed on
the ground floor of any development on the premises.

(b) Medium-scale battery energy storage facilities

The following regulations apply to battery energy storage facilities with a
development footprint of more than one-quarter acre but less than one acre.

(1) Limited Use Regulations

Medium-scale battery energy storage facilities are permitted as a
limited use decided in accordance with Process One in zones indicated
by an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base
Zones).

(2) Conditional Use Permit Regulations

(A) Medium-scale battery energy storage facilities may be
permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance
with Process Two in industrial zones indicated by a “C” in the
Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1, Division 6.

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 44

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(B) Medium-scale battery energy storage facilities may be
permitted with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance
with Process Three in zones indicated by a “C” in the Use
Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) as
follows:

(i) In commercial base zones that do not permit residential
development.

(ii) In residential, commercial, and mixed-use base zones that permit residential development if the premises cannot be developed with residential uses due to site constraints, except for the presence of environmentally sensitive lands, beyond the applicant’s control, such as the presence of utilities.

(c) Large-scale battery energy storage facilities

The following regulations apply to battery energy storage facilities with a
development footprint of one acre or more.

(1) Conditional Use Permit Regulations

(A) Large-scale battery energy storage facilities may be permitted
with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with
Process Three in industrial zones indicated by a “C” in the Use
Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1, Division 6.

(B) Large-scale battery energy storage facilities may be permitted
with a Conditional Use Permit decided in accordance with
Process Four in zones indicated by a “C” in the Use
Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) as
follows:

(i) In commercial base zones that do not permit residential
development.

(ii) In residential, commercial, and mixed-use base zones
that permit residential development if the premises
cannot be developed with residential uses due to site
constraints, except for the presence of environmentally
sensitive lands, beyond the applicant’s control, such as
the presence of utilities.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 45

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(d) General Regulations

The following regulations apply to all battery energy storage facilities
regardless of their size.

(1) Use Regulations

The premises shall not contain a child care facility or school.

(2) Operational, Safety and Decommissioning Regulations

(A) Every application shall provide the following documentation to the satisfaction of the Chief Building Official:

(i) Demonstrating that the battery energy storage facility
complies with all applicable requirements imposed by
state or federal regulatory agencies; and

(ii) Identifying the facility type/application, total rated
battery power capacity in kilowatts or megawatts,
energy capacity in kilowatt-hours or megawatt-hours,
storage duration, cycle life/lifetime, and type of battery
chemistry.

(B) The applicant shall submit and implement an emergency
response plan for battery storage fire events and other
emergency events consistent with state and national standards
and regulations to the satisfaction of the Fire Marshal.

(C) The applicant shall obtain all necessary construction permits to
comply with applicable building, fire, mechanical, electrical,
and plumbing codes, and state and federal laws.

(D) The applicant shall comply with all applicable state and
national standards and requirements for the design,
construction, installation, commissioning, operation,
maintenance, and decommissioning of the battery energy
storage facility.

(E) Battery energy storage facilities shall be maintained pursuant
to title 24, part 9, of the California Fire Code, as amended, and
be in good working order, free from trash, debris, and graffiti,
and designed to discourage vandalism. The permit holder or
record owner shall repair or replace any damaged walls,
fences, landscaping, buildings, structures, and equipment

Ch. Art. Div. within 30 calendar days of receipt of a written notification 14 1 4 46 from the City Manager.

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(F) The permit holder or record owner shall remove and decommission the battery energy storage facility from the premises and restore the premises to the condition preceding the construction and installation of the battery energy storage facility, at the sole cost and expense of the permit holder or record owner, if any of the following circumstances exists:

(i) The permit authorizing the battery energy storage
facility is revoked or expired and a new permit has not
been obtained; or

(iii) The City Manager determines that the battery energy
storage facility or components of the battery energy
storage facility are non-operational or no longer in use;
or

(iv) The City Manager determines that the battery energy
storage facility is a public nuisance; or

(iv) The Fire Code Official determines that the facility
constitutes a distinct hazard to life or property.

(G) The applicant shall submit a Hazard Mitigation Analysis when
technologies are not specifically identified in title 24, part 9, of
the California Fire Code or when more than one technology is
provided in a room or enclosed area where there is a potential
for adverse reactions between technologies.

(3) Noise Regulations. Noise generated from battery energy storage
facilities shall not exceed the noise limits for the zone as established in
the Noise Abatement and Control Regulations (Chapter 5, Article 9.5,
Division 4: Limits).

(e) General Design Requirements

The following design requirements apply to all battery energy storage
facilities regardless of their size.

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 47

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(1) Overhead wires connecting the battery energy storage facility to an energy generation station or substation are not permitted, unless the premises containing the energy generation station or substation immediately abuts the premises on which the battery energy storage facility is proposed and existing overhead connections are present on the premises containing the energy generation station or substation. Overhead wires shall not be permitted to cross other private property, public property, or public right-of-way to connect with an energy generation station or substation.

(2) Access to a battery energy storage facility shall conform to title 24,
part 9, of the California Fire Code and be as direct as possible from
primary arterials and major streets and shall avoid residential streets
unless no other feasible options exist. Shared access with an adjacent
energy generation station or substation is permitted.

(3) The development shall comply with the Street Tree and Public Right-
of-Way Requirements in Section 142.0409.

(4) All mechanical equipment and storage areas shall be located within an
enclosed building or modular container, as follows:

(A) The building or modular container, or both, shall be located on
the premises so that visibility from adjacent public rights-of-
way or adjacent development that is not of a similar nature is
minimized.

(B) Battery energy storage facilities located on the same premises
as residential uses shall be located within an enclosed building
that is designed to be architecturally consistent with the
primary structure.

(C) Mechanical equipment that supports the battery energy storage
facility, such as HVAC equipment, may be located outside of a
building or modular container, provided that the mechanical
equipment is completely screened on all sides with a solid wall
or fence that is painted or texturized to match the primary
building on the premises, if one is present.

(5) Battery energy storage facilities that are not located within a building
shall be enclosed and screened from the public right-of-way and
adjacent properties by walls or fences with a minimum height of 6 feet
that incorporate finishes and architectural detailing that are consistent
with any buildings on the premises or any applicable design standards.

Ch. Art. Div. The walls or fences shall be screened by landscaping as follows: 14 1 4 48

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

(A) Along the street frontage, the walls or fences shall be screened
from the public right-of-way with plant material that includes
24-inch box evergreen canopy form trees separated by a
maximum distance of 30 feet; and

(B) Along the side and rear yards, the walls or fences shall be
screened from adjacent properties by 10-foot wide landscape
strips that include 24-inch box evergreen species separated by
a maximum distance of 30 feet along the side and rear yards.
For premises less than 10,000 square feet, the landscape strips
may be reduced to 5-feet in width.

(6) Brush Management Regulations

(A) Battery energy storage facilities in High or Very High Fire
Hazard Severity Zones shall meet the City’s defensible space
brush management regulations and landscape standards.

(i) If unable to meet the brush management regulations and landscape standards, the agent or owner shall be required to provide a technical report from a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory, or fire safety organization acceptable to the Fire Code Official. The Fire Code Official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by and bear the stamp of a registered design professional, as defined in Title 24, Part 9, Chapter 2 of the California Fire Code. The technical report shall be reviewed by the Fire Code Official.

(“Battery Energy Storage Facilities” added 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective
5-6-2023.)
(Amended 12-18-2024 by O-21905 N.S.; effective 2-6-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div.
14 1 4 49

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Intermediate care facilities and nursing facilities may be permitted with a Process Four Conditional Use Permit in the zones indicated with a “C” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) or as a limited use in zones indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations.

(a) These facilities are not permitted in agricultural zones in Proposition A Lands.

(b) Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 142-05G.
(“Intermediate Care Facilities and Nursing Facilities” added 7-22-2024 by
O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the
Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local
Coastal Program Amendment.
Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language
http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 50

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (8-2025)

Article 1: Separately Regulated Use Regulations