§ 14.01

This title, Title 14 of the San Rafael Municipal Code, shall be known and cited as "the San Rafael Zoning Ordinance," or, "the zoning ordinance."

(Ord. 1625 § 1 (part), 1992).

14.01.020 - Components.

A.

The zoning ordinance shall consist of the following components:

1.

A map, or set of maps, known as the zoning map, delineating the boundaries of zoning districts within the city of San Rafael;

2.

Regulations, known as zoning regulations, governing the use of land, and placement of buildings and improvements within the various classes of districts. Such regulations shall include, but not be limited to, property development standards for each district, parking standards, performance standards, and procedural rules for administering the ordinance.

B.

A copy of the zoning regulations and the zoning map, together with a record of all amendments, shall be kept on file with the city clerk and shall constitute the original record. A copy of the zoning regulations and zoning map currently in effect shall also be kept on file in the planning department.

3.

The Downtown San Rafael Precise Plan, Form-Based Code and downtown zoning map adopted by separate ordinance and incorporated herein by reference. The Downtown San Rafael Precise Plan and Form-Based Code include certain zoning regulations, governing the land use and placement of building and improvements for those properties within the boundaries of the downtown area, defined by the

downtown mixed use district. Where the Downtown San Rafael Form-Based Code is silent on regulations and provisions, the regulations and provisions presented in this Title 14 shall apply.

B.

A copy of the zoning regulations and the zoning map, Downtown San Rafael Precise Plan Form-Based code and downtown zoning map, together with a record of all amendments, shall be kept on file with the city clerk and shall constitute the original record. A copy of the zoning regulations and zoning map currently in effect shall also be kept on file in the community development department and office of the city clerk

(Ord. 1625 § 1 (part), 1992).

(Ord. No. 1996, div. 2(Exh. A, 1.1), 8-16-2021)

The San Rafael Zoning Ordinance is adopted to promote and protect the public health, safety, peace, comfort and general welfare. The zoning ordinance is also intended to promote the following more specific purposes:

A.

To implement and promote the goals and policies of the San Rafael general plan, so as to guide and manage future development in the city in accordance with such plan;

B.

To foster harmonious and workable relationships among land uses;

C.

To reduce or remove negative impacts caused by inappropriate location, use or design of buildings and improvements;

D.

To protect, strengthen and diversify the economic base of the city;

E.

To promote viable commercial and industrial enterprises that provide diverse employment opportunities for city residents;

F.

To ensure the adequate provision of light, air, space, fire safety and privacy between buildings;

G.

To provide adequate, safe and effective off-street parking and loading facilities;

H.

To promote a safe, effective traffic circulation system, and maintain acceptable local circulation system operating conditions;

I.

To promote design quality in all development and to preserve and enhance the city's existing historic, architectural, and cultural resources;

J.

To preserve and enhance natural resources and key visual features in the community, including the bay shoreline, canal, wetlands, and hillsides;

K.

To protect and conserve the city's existing housing stock;

L.

To promote housing development to meet housing needs, including affordable housing and special housing needs;

M.

To coordinate the service demands of new development with the capacities of existing streets, utilities and public services;

N.

To provide for effective citizen participation in decision-making.

(Ord. 1625 § 1 (part), 1992).

Chapter 14.02 - ORGANIZATION, APPLICABILITY AND INTERPRETATION