Chapter II — Alternative Energy Structures

Contents:

D4-21 - Purpose D4-22 - Solar Energy System D4-23 - Wind Energy Equipment

D4-21 - Purpose

This Chapter provides regulations for alternative energy structures and equipment, including solar power equipment and windmills (wind energy conversion systems), to assist residents and businesses in reducing the consumption of electricity produced by sources outside of the community.

D4-22 - Solar Energy System

The provisions of this Section are intended to ensure that solar energy systems are protected from shading, conform in appearance to the surrounding neighborhood, and to provide design guidelines and installation standards.

• A. Definitions.

Solar Energy System means either:

1. Any solar collector whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for space heating, space cooling, electric generation, or water heating.

2. Any structural design feature of a building, whose primary purpose is to provide for the collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for electricity generation, space heating or cooling, or for water heating.

(CA Civil Code Section 801.5)

Solar Collectors include:

1. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System,

2. Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV),

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

138

3. Solar Thermal Panels, and like systems; or

4. other solar energy device

Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy System means all of the following:

1. A solar energy system that is no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal.

2. A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the city, and meets all applicable safety and performance standards established by the State.

3. A solar energy system installed on a single or duplex family dwelling unit

4. A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction

• B. Protection of solar access. A structure, fence, or wall shall not be constructed or modified in a residential zone, and vegetation may not be placed or allowed to grow after the effective date of this Chapter, so as to obstruct more than 10 percent of the absorption area of a solar energy system on a neighboring parcel at any time.

• C. Solar Energy System design and installation standards. Solar energy system, except Small Residential Rooftop Solar Energy System, shall be designed and installed in compliance with the following standards:

  1. Solar collectors.

     • a. Roof-mounted collectors shall be placed in the location least visible from public streets without reducing the operating efficiency of the collectors, unless they are integrated into the design of the structure as an architectural element.

     • b. Wall-mounted and ground-mounted collectors shall be screened from public view.

• c. Roof-mounted collectors shall be mounted at the same angle or as close as possible to the pitch of the roof.

  2. Appurtenant equipment. Equipment appurtenant to solar collectors, including plumbing, and related fixtures, shall be installed within a structure on which the collectors are mounted, where feasible, or shall be screened from public view. Appurtenant equipment outside of a building shall comply with applicable setback requirements.

  3. Accessory fixtures. Large accessory fixtures that generally require exposure (e.g., storage tanks) shall be screened through architectural features that harmonize with other elements of the structure.

  4. Exterior finishes. Where feasible, exterior surfaces should have a matte finish and should be color-coordinated to harmonize with roof materials or other dominant colors of the structure.

D4-23 - Wind Energy Equipment

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), a windmill proposed for the generation of electricity, hereafter referred to as a "windmill," shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Application requirements. The Use Permit application shall include all information and materials required by Section D6-16, and the following.

  1. Standard drawings and an engineering analysis of the system's tower, showing compliance with the Uniform Building Code (UBC), and certification by a California-licensed professional mechanical, structural, or civil engineer. A "wet stamp" shall not be required on the drawings and analysis if the application demonstrates that the system is designed to meet

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

139

the most stringent wind requirements (UBC wind exposure D), the requirements for the worst seismic class (UBC Seismic 4), and the weakest soil class, with a soil strength of not more than 1,000 pounds per square foot.

2. Information demonstrating that the system will be used primarily to reduce on-site consumption of electricity.

3. Evidence that the provider of electric utility service to the site has been informed of the applicant's intent to install an interconnected customer-owned electricity generator, unless the applicant intends, and so states in the application, that the system will not be connected to the electricity grid.

4. Evidence that the proposed height of the windmill tower does not exceed the height recommended by the manufacturer or distributor of the system.

• B. Minimum site area. A windmill shall only be located on a parcel of one acre or larger.

• C. Limitations on location. No more than one windmill shall be approved on a single parcel, or closer than 500 feet from another windmill.

• D. Windmill design standards.

  1. Setback requirements. A windmill shall not be located closer to a property line than the height of the windmill (the distance from the ground to the topmost point of the windmill blades.

  2. Height limit. A windmill tower shall not exceed the maximum height allowed by the applicable zone.

3. Windmill turbine. The turbine proposed for the system shall have been approved by the California Energy Commission (CEC) as qualifying under the Emerging Renewables Fund of the CEC's Renewables Investment Plan, or certified by a national program recognized and approved by the CEC.

• E. Noise standards. A windmill shall be designed, installed, and operated so that noise generated by the system shall not exceed the lesser of 60 decibels (dBA), or the maximum noise levels established by the Noise Ordinance for the applicable zone, as measured at the property line, except during short-term events including utility outages and severe wind storms.

• F. Required findings for approval. The approval of a Use Permit for a windmill shall require that the Review Authority first find that the location and design of the windmill will not produce excessive visual impact or cause the windmill to be the dominant visual feature on a ridgeline when viewed from a public right-of-way, in addition to the findings required for Use Permit approval by Section D6-28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits).

Chapter III - Standards for Specific Land Uses Contents: D4-24 - Purpose D4-25 - Applicability D4-26 - Accessory Structures D4-27 - Bed and Breakfast Inns and Short-Term Rentals D4-28 - Card Rooms D4-29 - Reserved D4-30 - Reserved D4-31 - Employee Eating Areas D4-32 - Heliports

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

140

D4-33 - Home Occupations

D4-34 - Live Entertainment

D4-35 - Outdoor Display, Storage, and Vending

D4-36 - Mobile Homes and Mobile Home Parks

D4-37 - Recycling Facilities

D4-38 – Reserved

D4-39 - Accessory Dwelling Units

D4-40 - Service Stations and Car Washes

D4-24 - Purpose

This Chapter provides site planning, development, and/or operating standards for certain land uses that are allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards) within individual or multiple zones, and for activities that require special standards to mitigate their potential adverse impacts.

D4-25 - Applicability

The land uses and activities covered by this Chapter shall comply with the provisions of each Section applicable to the specific use, in addition to all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Ordinance.

• A. Where allowed. Each use shall be located only where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards).

• B. Planning permit requirements. Each use shall be authorized by the planning permit required by Division D2, except where a planning permit requirement is established by this Chapter for the specific use.

• C. Development standards. The standards for specific uses in this Chapter supplement and are required in addition to all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Ordinance (e.g., Divisions D2 and D3, etc.).

  1. The land use tables in Division D2 determine when the standards of this Chapter apply to a specific land use.

  2. In the event of any conflict between the requirements of this Chapter and those of Divisions D2 or D3, the requirements of this Chapter shall control.

D4-26 - Accessory Structures

The purpose of this Section is to establish standards for usage, construction timing, projections into required setbacks, siting, design, and lot coverage of accessory structures. Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), accessory structures shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Requirements for all accessory structures.

  1. Relationship to primary use. An accessory use and/or structure shall be incidental to the primary use of the site, and shall not alter the character of the primary use.

  2. Timing of installation. An accessory structure shall only be constructed concurrent with or after the construction of the primary structure on the same site except that construction trailers may be placed on a site at the time site clearance and grading begins, and may remain on the site only for the duration of construction.

  3. Allowed projections into setbacks. An architectural feature of an accessory structure may extend into a required front, side or rear setback in compliance with Table 4-1.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

141

• B. Exemptions - Decks. A deck shall be exempt from the provisions of section D4-26 only if constructed with an approved Development Plan.

• C. CC, CT, CCMU, CR, MC, DMU-N, DMU-S, MUX, MUR, OA, and OL zones. An accessory structure shall comply with the following standards, in addition to those in Subsection A.

1. Setback requirements. An accessory structure shall not occupy a required front or corner side setback, or project beyond the front building line of the primary structure on the site. In addition, an accessory structure located to the rear of a primary structure shall be set back from the interior side and rear property lines by a minimum of five feet, unless the accessory structure complies with the height limit requirements of Subsection C.2.

   2. Height limit. An accessory structure shall not exceed a maximum height of 16 feet, provided that:

      • a. A structure placed at a property line shall not exceed six feet in height at the property line, and shall not intercept an inclined daylight plane sloping inward from a point six feet above the property line and rising one foot for each foot of distance from the property line.

• D. AG, OS, P, GC, M-1, and M-2 and PS zones. Accessory structures shall comply with all regulations applicable to the principal primary structure. Off-site accessory uses may be allowed only with a Minor Use Permit approval.

• E. R zones. Each accessory structure within a residential zone shall comply with the following requirements.

  1. Maximum total floor area. The total floor area of all accessory structures on the site with a solid roof over four feet in height and/or deck structures over four feet in height shall not exceed three percent of the lot area. Common areas owned by homeowners’ associations are exempt from the maximum floor area (i.e. pool house, etc.).

An accessory structure with operable louver roofing, which is capable of opening the roof to the sky, is exempt from this total floor area limitation.

2. Height limit. An accessory structure shall not exceed the height limit as stated in Table 4-2. See Section D3-6.D. (Height Limits and Exceptions) to determine how height is measured.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

142

3. Setback requirements. Accessory structures shall comply with the following setback requirements.

   • a. Front setback. An accessory structure shall be set back from a front property line by a minimum distance:

     1. As required by Subsection D.3.c for animal structures.

4. An accessory structure in a required front yard setback shall comply with the driveway visibility requirements of Section D3-10 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions), and the site obstruction requirements of Section D3-37 (Driveways and Site Access).

   • b. Side and rear setbacks. An accessory structure shall be set back from the side and rear property line as follows.

     1. If the structure is of 18 inches or less in height, no setback is required;

     2. If the structure is greater than 18 inches but 6 feet or less in height, a three-foot setback is required; and

     3. If the structure is greater than 6 feet in height, the setback shall be equal to the height less three feet.

   • c. Setbacks for animal keeping structures.

     1. Small animal structures. The minimum setback for structures housing small domestic animals shall be 60 feet from the front property line; and 40 feet from both the side and rear property lines (small structures housing dogs are excluded from this standard). For chicken coops, see Division D4, Chapter VII.

     2. Large animal structures. The minimum setback for barns, stables, and similar accessory structures housing large animals shall be 100 feet from the front property line; and 50 feet from both side and rear property lines.

• F. PD zone . The size and location of accessory structures shall comply with the requirements of the adopted PD or specific plan for the applicable PD zone. If the PD standards do not address standards for accessory structures, then the requirements of R zone apply to residential developments and C zone standards apply to commercial developments.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-27 - Bed and Breakfast Inns and Short-Term Rentals

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), Bed and Breakfast Inns and Short-Term Rentals (internet based or otherwise), shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

143

• A. Definitions. Except where the context otherwise requires, the following definitions are applicable to this Section:

Short-term rental (STR). A dwelling that is leased or rented in full or in part for the purpose of overnight lodging for less than thirty (30) consecutive day terms. Short-term rentals are not considered home occupations for permitting and are treated separately.

Bed and Breakfast Inn (B&B). A residential structure with one or more bedrooms rented for overnight lodging throughout the year, where meals may be provided subject to applicable Environmental Health Department regulations.

Dwelling. Any structure, or any portion of any structure, which is occupied or intended or designed for exclusively residential occupancy by transients for habitation, lodging or sleeping purposes. Dwellings include single-family and multifamily uses, but do not include a hotel, motel or boarding house.

Transient. Any person who exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy by reason of concession, permit, right of access, license or other agreement for a period of twenty-nine (29) consecutive calendar days or less, counting portions of calendar days as full days. Any such person so occupying space in a short term rental shall be deemed a transient until the period of twenty-nine (29) days has expired unless there is an agreement in writing between the operator and the occupant providing for a longer period of occupancy.

Occupancy. The use or possession, or the right to the use or possession of any room or rooms or portion thereof, in any dwelling for habitation, lodging or sleeping purposes.

Operator. The person who is proprietor of the bed and breakfast inn or short term rental, whether in the capacity of owner, lessee, sub-lessee, mortgagee in possession, licensee, or any other capacity. Where the operator performs his or her functions through a managing agent of any type or character other than an employee, the managing agent shall also be deemed an operator for the purposes of this chapter and shall have the same duties and liabilities as his or her principal. Compliance with the provisions of this Chapter by either the principal or the managing agent shall, however, be considered to be compliant by both.

Person. Any individual, firm, partnership, joint venture, association, social club, fraternal organization, joint stock company, corporation, estate, trust, business trust, receiver, trustee, syndicate, or any other group or combination acting as a unit.

Rent. The consideration charged, whether or not received, for the occupancy of space in a short-term rental valued in money, whether to be received in cash, credits and property and services of any kind or nature.

Hosted short-term rental. The renting of a room or portion in a dwelling in which the Operator is living onsite and actively managing the activities that occur on the property.

Un-hosted short-term rental. The renting of a whole dwelling, room(s) or property in which the Operator is not onsite to manage the activities that occur on the property, but has provided a local contact to address potential issues.

• B. Bed and Breakfast Inns.

  1. Owner occupancy required. A bed and breakfast inn shall be operated by the property owner living on the site. This requirement may be waived by the Planning Commission.

  2. Limitation on number of guest rooms. A bed and breakfast inn shall be limited to a maximum of six guest rooms for lodging.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

144

3. Signs. Signs shall be limited to a single sign with a maximum area of six feet. The face of the sign may be indirectly illuminated by an exterior light source entirely shielded from view, but no internal illumination from an interior light source shall be permitted.

• C. Short-Term Rentals

1. Registration Required. It is unlawful for any person to operate a short-term rental within any residential district as defined by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards) in the City without first registering the short term rental pursuant to this section.

   2. Registration Application Requirements. Each short-term rental shall be registered annually with the City or by completing a City-provided registration form containing the following information:

      • a. The physical address and type of the short-term rental (hosted or un-hosted).

      • b. The name, address, telephone number, and signature of the property owner of the short-term rental for which the registration is sought.

      • c. The name, address, telephone number, and signature of the short-term rental operator (if different than the property owner) who will be responsible for operating the rental.

      • d. The name and telephone number of local contact person(s) who can be available twenty-four (24) hours a day to accept telephone calls and respond physically to the short-term rental within thirty (30) minutes when the short-term rental is rented.

      • e. The number of bedrooms in the short-term rental which will be used to calculate the occupancy limit for the short-term rental when it is being rented in full or in part.

      • f. Acknowledgement that the owner/operator shall include the City short-term rental registration number provided with the proof of registration on any written advertisements (whether in paper or electronic form) for use of the short-term rental.

      • g. Acknowledgement that all construction at the property containing the short-term rental was conducted in compliance with building codes applicable at the time.

      • h. Acknowledgement that the short-term rental does and shall comply with all Terms of Use requirements set forth in Subsection D below.

      • i. Proof of insurance that demonstrate that the property is insured for the use of a shortterm rental.

      • j. Acknowledgement of the requirement to hold harmless, indemnify and defend the City and staff against claims and litigations arising from or related to the issuance of the short-term rental registration.

• D. Terms of Use/Conditions of Operation. In the registration filed with the City, the owner and Operator (if different from the owner) shall acknowledge the following requirements and conditions:

  1. When any portion of the short-term rental is rented, the total maximum occupancy of the dwelling containing the short-term rental is limited to the maximum number specified on the proof of registration. That maximum is calculated as follows: two (2) adults per bedroom.

  2. The short-term rental shall not be rented for the purpose of holding special events such as weddings, conferences, parties, etc.

  3. All short-term rentals shall be associated with a habitable structure/dwelling. No tents, RVs or camping shall be allowed as a short-term rental.

  4. The owner/operator of a short-term rental on any given lot may only arrange for one rental contract to take place at any given time on that property.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

145

5. The short-term rental owner and operator are jointly responsible for ensuring the shortterm rental complies with all local, state and federal health and safety requirements, including those regarding smoke detectors, fire alarms and fire extinguishers.

6. The short-term rental owner and operator are jointly responsible for compliance with all City regulations including those regarding noise, property maintenance, trash and occupancy.

7. Parking for short-term rentals shall utilize the onsite parking (garage and driveway), as provided for by the property design and layout. Street parking shall be utilized only after the onsite options have been exhausted. No oversized vehicle shall be parked on the property associated with a short-term rental and there shall be no parking on landscape areas.

8. No signage shall be permitted in association with short-term rentals.

9. The Operator shall register with the City for the collection and remittance of Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT) associated with the operation of the short-term rental. The Operator shall be responsible for annual payments of TOT less any TOT payments collected by host websites which are subject to a separate agreement with the City.

10. The short-term rental registration is non-transferable.

11. The Operator shall be responsible for providing the renter copies of the Terms of Use, any additional house rules, and ensuring compliance with those standards.

12. The renting of un-hosted short-term rentals shall be limited to a maximum of 12 weeks per year. Hosted short-term rentals, with onsite live-in Operators, are not subject to specific limitations on the renting of rooms, etc.

13. No short-term rentals shall be allowed within a dwelling unit that is subject to an affordable housing agreement which restricts the dwelling unit from being rented.

14. Any modification, improvements and conversions within the dwelling unit shall be made in compliance with the Uniform Building Code and subject to the building permitting process.

• E. Application Review. The Director (or designee), shall be responsible for reviewing the site conditions and verifying the veracity of the information provided on the registration applications. Based on that review, the Director shall have the authority to impose additional conditions on the Terms of Use based on site conditions or other concerns that result from the application review. Any additional conditions imposed by the Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission.

• F. Registration and Renewal Fee Required. At the time of registration or renewal, the owner/operator shall pay a registration fee in an amount set from time to time by Resolution of the City Council to reimburse the City for the cost of processing the registration. Registration shall be initiated only upon the successful payment of the registration fee and a complete registration packet. An annual renewal application and fee shall be submitted 30 days prior to the expiration of the current short-term rental registration. The registration and renewal fees are non-refundable.

the City Council to reimburse the City for the cost of processing the registration. Registration shall be initiated only upon the successful payment of the registration fee and a complete registration packet. An annual renewal application and fee shall be submitted 30 days prior to the expiration of the current short-term rental registration. The registration and renewal fees are non-refundable.

• G. Enforcement. Violations of this Section may be enforced pursuant to TITLE B of the Municipal Code. Upon a determination of a violation of the short-term rental standards or the determination that the operation of the short-term rental constitutes a public nuisance, a public hearing may be scheduled by the Zoning Administrator to consider revocation of the registration and the ability to operate a short-term rental at the subject property per Section D7-32 of the Zoning Ordinance. A revoked short-term rental registration shall not be considered for reissuance for a period of 12 months following the effective date of the revocation.

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020)

Effective on: 2/27/2020

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

146

D4-28 - Card Rooms

Card rooms shall comply with the requirements of Municipal Code DIVISION B1, Chapter I (Cardrooms).

D4-29 - Reserved

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025) Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-30 - Reserved

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025) Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-31 - Employee Eating Areas

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), outdoor employee eating areas shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Standards.

  1. A minimum of 150 square feet of outdoor eating facilities shall be provided for office buildings of 10,000 gross sq. ft. or greater, excluding warehouse and storage space. A larger outdoor eating area shall be required for larger buildings in an amount to be determined by the Zoning Administrator. Credit toward the required amount of square footage will be given for indoor eating facilities as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

  2. The area shall be easily accessible to employees and shall be located to offer a sense of privacy.

  3. The area shall be landscaped and provided with attractive outdoor furniture, i.e., metal, wood, or concrete picnic tables, benches/chairs and trash receptacles.

  4. A site plan showing the location, landscaping and facilities required above shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator for approval as part of the development application.

• B. Exceptions. This Section shall not apply to industrial/office buildings that are located within 1,000 feet of an approved mini-park or a City park that include facilities for eating and are accessible by walking as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

D4-32 - Heliports

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), heliports shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Purpose. These regulations establish location criteria and development standards for helicopter takeoff and landing areas to protect the public health, safety and welfare, and to minimize landuse conflicts, noise impacts, and operational hazards.

• B. Permit required. A Use Permit shall be issued by the Planning Commission, for the construction and operation of a heliport, helipad, or helistop upon finding that:

  1. The helipad, heliport, or helistop conforms to the location criteria and standards established in Subsections D. and E., and the requirements of the California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics;

  2. The heliport, helipad, or helistop is compatible with the surrounding environment; and

  3. The proposed operation of the helicopter facility does not pose a threat to public health, safety or welfare.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

147

The Planning Commission may impose conditions on approval of the Use Permit to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties; if such impacts cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level, the Use Permit application shall be denied.

• C. Location criteria.

  1. Relation to transportation system. The heliport, helipad, or helistop shall be located within 3,000 feet of a freeway as designated on the General Plan.

  2. Minimum separation. Minimum separation between heliports, helipads, and helistops shall be 1.5 miles, except for facilities specifically intended for emergency use, such as medical evacuation, and temporary landing sites.

  3. Protected areas. No heliport, helipad, or helistop shall be located within 1,000 feet of an R zone or the site of a public or private school or within 500 feet of a park provided that heliports, helipads or helistops specifically intended for emergency use may be within 500 feet of an R zone, a park or a public or private school. Temporary landing sites within 1,000 feet of a public or private school may be allowed with a temporary Use Permit subject to approval of: (a) the City of San Ramon; (b) the San Ramon Valley Unified School District; and (c) the California Department of Transportation.

• D. Site development standards.

  1. Approach and departure paths 65 feet wide shall be free of obstruction for a minimum distance of 400 feet.

  2. Setbacks from property lines shall be as follows:

     • a. Takeoff and landing area - 100 feet;

     • b. Helicopter maintenance facilities - 25 feet;

     • c. Administrative or operations building - 15 feet.

  3. Any lighting used for nighttime operations shall be directed away from adjacent properties and public rights-of-way.

  4. A telephone shall be provided on or adjacent to the heliport, helipad or helistop.

  5. Helipads, heliport or helistops intended for emergency use shall have a landing pad with a standard landing area designated and the words "Emergency Only". The initial direction of the departure routes shall be indicated on the takeoff and landing area.

• E. Application requirements. The following additional information shall be submitted with a Use Permit application:

1. An area map, at a scale of 1" = 800' showing existing land use within a two-mile radius of the facility site and the proposed flight paths.

   2. A plot plan of the site and vicinity, including all land within a 400-foot radius of the takeoff and landing area, that shows clearly the height of the takeoff and landing area; the height of existing, approved and proposed structures and trees within 100 feet of the approach and takeoff flight paths; and the maximum allowable building height under existing zoning.

   3. A description of the proposed operations, including the type of use, names and descriptions of helicopters expected to use the facility, and anticipated number and timing of daily flights.

   4. A helicopter noise study including a map of the approach and departure flight paths at a scale of 1" = 800' showing existing day/night average noise levels in decibels (LDN noise contours), future day/night average noise levels with the proposed facility and anticipated flight operations, and single-event maximum sound levels associated with the types of helicopters expected to use the facility.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

148

• F. Appeals. Decisions of the Commission may be appealed to the Council in compliance with Chapter D7-II (Appeals and Calls for Review).

D4-33 - Home Occupations

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), home occupations and Cottage Food Operations shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Permit required. A home occupation or Cottage Food Operation in a residential zone shall require a home occupation permit unless a minor use permit is required by subsection D4-33.D (Minor Exceptions) or subsection D4-33.E (Cottage Food Operation). The Zoning Administrator shall issue the permit upon determining that the proposed home occupation complies with the requirements of this section.

• B. Application contents. An application for a home occupation permit shall contain the information as required by the Zoning Administrator.

• C. Required conditions. Home occupations shall comply with the following regulations:

  1. No clients may come to the home.

  2. The use is incidental to the residential use of the dwelling.

  3. The use shall be conducted entirely within a portion of the main building, not within any required parking facility and shall not exceed 20 percent of the building's floor area, excluding garage square footage. No outside storage shall be permitted.

  4. No article shall be sold or offered for sale on the premises.

  5. No person other than a resident of the dwelling shall be employed on-site or report to work at the site in the conduct of the home occupation This prohibition also applies to independent contractors.

  6. The use will not generate vehicular or pedestrian traffic in excess of that which is normally associated with residential uses in the same zone.

  7. No parking space will be obstructed and no additional parking space will be required for the home occupation.

  8. There is no exterior indication of the home occupation, including signs.

9. The use will not create noise, odor, dust, fumes, vibration, smoke, electrical interference, or any other interference with residential uses of adjacent property.

   10. No motor vehicle repair shall be permitted at operator’s residence. Auto cleaning, detailing, and minor replacement or repair of glass or accessory parts may be performed off-site.

   11. No personal services shall be permitted on-site.

   12. The address of the home occupation will not be advertised in any publication. Business cards and letterhead are not included in this requirement.

• D. Minor Exceptions. Any minor exception to a home occupation such as, but not limited to client visits, outdoor uses, etc. shall require a Minor Use Permit in accordance with Chapter D6-28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits). The Zoning Administrator may impose conditions as deemed necessary to protect the best interests of the surrounding area for a home occupation requiring approval of a Minor Use Permit.

  1. Factors to be considered. The Zoning Administrator may consider factors such as, but not limited to the following during review of a home occupation requiring a Minor Use Permit:

     • a. Parking;

     • b. Traffic control;

     • c. Noise Control;

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

149

  - d. Operating characteristics; 

  - e. Hours of operation; 

• E. Cottage Food Operation. A Cottage Food Operation with client visits and/or up to one nonresident employee in a residential zone shall require a Minor Use Permit, in accordance with Chapter D6-28 (Use Permits and Minor Use Permits).

  1. Standards. The Zoning Administrator may consider reasonable standards, restrictions, and requirements related to the following:

     • a. Spacing and Concentration. A Cottage Food Operation with client visits and/or up to one non-resident employee shall be a minimum of 300 feet from any other legally established Cottage Food Operation with client visits and/or up to one non-resident employee. The 300 foot minimum distance shall be measured from the subject site property lines to the property lines of any other legally established Cottage Food Operation with client visits and/or up to one non-resident employee;

     • b. Traffic control ;

     • c. Parking;

     • d. Noise Control

• F. Discontinued Use. As determined by the Zoning Administrator, all permits issued pursuant to this section may become null and void if the business license for a home occupation or Cottage Food Operation is discontinued for a period of one year.

• G. Revocation. A permit granted pursuant to this section may be revoked by the Zoning Administrator pursuant to the procedures established by Zoning Ordinance Division D7, Chapter V (Enforcement).

• H. Appeals. In accord with Chapter D7-II (Appeals and Calls for Review), decisions of the Zoning Administrator may be appealed to the Planning Commission.

D4-34 - Live Entertainment

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), live entertainment shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Exits not limited to emergency use only shall generally be directed away from an R zone adjoining the site.

• B. A Use Permit shall establish conditions ensuring that no litter problem will exist.

• C. A Use Permit for live entertainment shall apply only to the type of entertainment approved, and a different type of entertainment shall require approval of a separate Use Permit.

• D. Noise requirements and other limitations. Approval shall include conditions addressing:

  1. Hours of operation;

  2. Transferability; and

  3. The temporary vs. permanent nature of the use.

D4-35 - Outdoor Display, Storage, and Vending

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), outdoor display and sales shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

A. Outdoor display and storage.

1. Where permitted. The outdoor storage and display of merchandise, materials, or equipment, including display of merchandise, materials, and equipment for customer pick-up may occur only

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

150

where allowed by the allowable land use tables in Division D2 for the specific zone applicable to the site.

2. Permit conditions. A permit for outdoor display and storage may require yards, screening, or planting areas necessary to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties.

3. Exceptions. Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsections A.1 and A.2 above, outdoor storage and display shall be permitted in conjunction with plant nurseries in zones where plant nurseries are allowed by Division D2, provided that the outdoor storage and display is limited to plants only.

4. Screening. Except for the land uses excepted by Subsection A.3 above, each outdoor storage and display area shall be screened from the view of streets by a solid fence or wall. Screening shall be provided as prescribed by the permit.

5. Coin-Operated Vending Machines. Each machine located in an R zone or within 300 feet of an R zone, except for machines located on the site of a service station, shall be buffered from view from public rights-of-way.

6. Outdoor eating areas. Sidewalk cafes and outdoor food service accessory to an Eating and Drinking Establishment shall include no outdoor preparation of food or beverages.

7. Appeals. Decisions of the Zoning Administrator may be appealed to the Planning Commission in compliance with Chapter D7-II (Appeals and Calls for Review).

B. Outdoor vending.

1. Purpose. To provide opportunities for outdoor vendors to operate where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards) and to ensure that such operations are properly regulated in such a manner that their benefits to the City are realized and at the same time adverse impacts are minimized.

2. Definitions.

Vendor. A person with a current business license who sells, or offers to sell any type of merchandise, including food, beverages or edibles of any type whether hot, cold, fresh, prepared or packaged, from a mobile food truck, or at an approved location other than within a building or structure constructed on a permanent foundation that is rented, leased, or owned by that person.

Vending. Selling or offering to sell any type of merchandise, including food, beverages or edibles of any type, at any location other than within a building or structure constructed on a permanent foundation, which is rented, leased, or owned by the person selling or offering to sell the merchandise.

Vending equipment. Includes, but is not limited to any materials, merchandise, tools, vehicles, carts, tables, chairs, or other items owned by, in the possession of or associated with a licensed vendor.

3. Permits required.

• a. Where permitted. The outdoor vending land use may occur only where allowed by the allowable land use tables in Division D2 for the specific zone applicable to the site.

• b. Business License. Every vendor shall obtain a City Business License prior to operation.

• c. County Health Department. If food and/or beverages are being sold, a valid permit from the County Health Department is required.

• d. Building and Fire Departments. All necessary permits and approvals from the Building and Fire Departments shall be obtained prior to operation of a vending business.

• e. Permit and license display. At all times while vending, a valid Business License and Permit shall be displayed at the vending site.

• f. Adverse Impacts. The Zoning Administrator may impose conditions of approval on the Permit to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding uses.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

151

4. Location criteria and hours of operation.

• a. Hours. Hours of operation for vending businesses shall be as determined by the Permit.

b. Vendors shall not operate:

1. at a location where space for pedestrian passage will be reduced to less than four feet;

2. at a location which obstructs access to any entrance to any building or facility used by the public, including but not limited to doors and emergency exits;

3. within 10 feet of any handicap access ramp, pedestrian crosswalk, or fire hydrant;

4. within any landscaped area;

5. within the public right-of-way including streets and sidewalks;

6. within 100 feet of the frontage of a store or restaurant selling food and/or beverages for onsite consumption, in the case of a vendor selling food and/or beverages; or within 100 feet of the frontage of a store selling a similar commodity, in the case of a vendor selling commodities other than food and/or beverages;

7. within a public park or recreation area, except when licensed by the City as a concessionaire or when authorized by the City to vend at special events; and

8. within 200 feet of another approved vending location.

5. Standards and design criteria.

• a. Vendors shall maintain their immediate sales location in a clean and hazard free condition; failure to so maintain and failure to clean the vending location of all waste shall be cause for revocation of the Use Permit.

• b. Vendors selling food and/or beverages shall maintain garbage container(s) immediately adjacent to the vending location for use by customers.

• c. No vendor shall use, play or employ any sound, outcry, amplifier, loudspeaker, radio or any other instrument or device for the production of sound in connection with the promotion of a vending operation.

• d. No vendor shall sell any merchandise to any person who is in a motor vehicle at the time of sale.

• e. Every food vendor shall be required to have a written agreement giving the vendor the right to use permanent sanitary facilities located no more than 200 feet from the approving vending location.

• f. No off-site signage advertising the vending operation is permitted.

• g. The maximum sign area is eight square feet per vendor.

• h. All signage shall be located on the vending equipment.

• i. Vending equipment shall be easily moved and self-supporting; at no time shall vending equipment be attached, tied, or locked to trees, hydrants, or other permanent vertical structures or benches.

• j. After the permitted hours of operation, all vending equipment shall be stored off-site or within an enclosed structure on-site.

• k. No vendor shall sell alcoholic beverages.

• l. Vendors cooking food shall maintain a fire extinguisher at the vending location at all times.

• m. Vendors operating within a parking lot shall not inhibit traffic circulation and shall maintain the minimum required on-site parking stalls during operation.

6. Exceptions. The Zoning Administrator may grant minor exceptions to the regulations contained in Subsections D. and E. above, provided that the Required Findings can still be made.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

152

7. Contents of application. An application shall contain the information as required by the Zoning Administrator.

8. Findings required. The Zoning Administrator shall make the following findings:

   • a. The proposed vendor operation will maintain location and separation standards at all times.

   • b. The vending equipment and operation will be aesthetically pleasing

   • c. The vending operation will not adversely impact automobile and pedestrian safety, and will have minimal impacts on parking.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-36 - Mobile Homes and Mobile Home Parks

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), mobile homes and mobile home parks shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Purpose.

It is the intent of the City to provide opportunities for the placement of mobile homes in R zones and to insure that such mobile homes are designed and located so as to be harmonious within the context of the surrounding houses and neighborhood.

B. Definitions:

Mobile Home: A Mobile Home means a Manufactured Home as defined in the California Health and Safety Code Section 18008, which is a structure that was constructed on or after June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight feet or more in width, or 40 feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein. (Recreational Vehicles are not classified as Mobile Homes.)

Tiny House: A Tiny House is considered as a Recreational Vehicle when it is designed and built on a single chassis to be towed and used as a dwelling unit, provided that it contains less than 320 sq. ft. of interior living room area including wardrobe, closets, cabinets, kitchen fixtures, and bath or toilet room (see Section D3-41 E.). If a Tiny House is designed and constructed on a permanent foundation with a minimum floor area of 150 sq. ft. including a kitchen sink, cooking appliance and refrigeration facilities, it is considered as an efficiency unit (see Section D4-39 Accessory Unit).

Mobile Home Park: A Mobile Home Park is a site planned and improved to accommodate two or more mobile homes used for residential purposes, or on which two or more mobile home lots are rented, leased, or held out for rent or lease, or were formerly held out for rent or lease and later converted to a subdivision, cooperative, condominium, or other form of resident ownership, to accommodate mobile homes used for residential purposes.

C. General Requirements

1. Mobile home parks are allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards) and shall comply with the requirements of this Section, except:

   • a. On substandard lots that do not meet the dimensional standards of Division D2.; or

   • b. On lots with an average slope of more than 10 percent, or on any portion of a lot where the slope exceeds 15 percent.

2. A mobile home may be used for residential purposes if:

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

153

• a. Such a mobile home has been approved with an Architectural Review application as a primary structure in an R zone; or

• b. Such a mobile home has been approved with an applicable building permit as an Accessory Dwelling Unit in an R zone; or

• c. Such a mobile home has been approved with a Minor Use Permit by the Zoning Administrator as caretaker housing for their locations in an AG zone or PS zone.

3. Mobile homes may be used for temporary uses, subject to the requirements of a Temporary Use Permit issued under Chapter D6-27 (Temporary Use Permits).

D. Design Criteria

The location and design of mobile homes for permanent installation shall comply with the following criteria in order to protect neighborhood integrity, provide for harmonious relationship between mobile homes and surrounding uses, and minimize problems that could occur as a result of locating mobile homes on residential lots.

1. Installation of mobile homes shall be consistent with the same restrictions on density and to the same property development standards and shall meet the following standards:

   • a. A mobile home must have been constructed on or after June 15, 1976, and must be certified under the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Act of 1974;

   • b. A mobile home must be built on a permanent foundation approved by the Chief Building Official;

   • c. The unit's skirting must extend to the finished grade;

   • d. Exterior siding must be compatible with adjacent residential structures, and shiny or metallic finishes are prohibited;

   • e. The roof must have a pitch of not fewer than three inches vertical rise per 12 inches horizontal distance; and

   • f. The roof must be concrete or asphalt tile, shakes or shingles complying with the most recent edition of the Uniform Building Code fire rating.

2. For a mobile home park, or in a case where a mobile home is used as the primary structure on a single-family residential property, mobile homes shall be compatible in design and appearance with residential structures in the vicinity and shall meet the following standards:

   • a. Each mobile/manufactured home (once assembled) must be at least 24 feet wide;

   • b. The roof should have eaves or overhangs of not less than one foot, unless it would be incompatible with the existing architectural characteristics of the community;

   • c. Required covered parking shall be compatible with the mobile home design and with other buildings in the area.

3. If a mobile home is used as an Accessory Dwelling Unit, as per Section D4-39 of this division, the location and the size shall be consistent with the applicable setback requirements for the subject property and shall be compatible in design and appearance with the primary residential structure on the subject property.

E. Surrender of State Vehicle Registration

Whenever a mobile home is installed on a permanent foundation, any registration of said mobile home with the State of California shall be surrendered, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 185519. Prior to issuance of any certificate of occupancy for the use of the mobile home, the owner shall provide the Chief Building Official with an evidence showing that the state registration of the mobile home has been or will be surrendered with certainty. If the mobile home is new and has never been registered with the state, the owner shall provide the Chief Building Inspector with a statement to that effect from the dealer selling the mobile home.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

154

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-37 - Recycling Facilities

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), recycling facilities shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

A. Definitions.

Recyclable Material. Reusable material including, but not limited to metals, glass, plastic and paper which are intended for reuse, remanufacture, or reconstitution for the purpose of using the altered form. Recyclable Material may include electronic waste and universal waste provided that it is collected, handled, transported and recycled in accordance with California Universal Waste Regulations. Recyclable material does not include clothing and small goods covered under D4-37(A)(5) or refuse or hazardous materials, but may include used motor oil collected and transported in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Sections 25250.11 and 25143.2(b)(4).

Recycling Facility. A center for the collection and/or processing of recyclable materials.

A Certified Recycling Facility or Certified Processor. A recycling facility certified by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) as meeting the requirements of the California Beverage Container Recycling and Litter Reduction Act of 1986.

• a. Collection Facility. A center for the acceptance of donation, redemption, or purchase of recyclable materials from the public.

  1. Small collection facilities occupy less than 500 square feet and may include:

     • A mobile unit;

     • Bulk reverse vending machines or a grouping of reverse vending machines occupying more than 50 square feet;

     • Kiosk-type units that may include permanent structures; or

     • Unattended containers placed for the donation of recyclable materials.

  2. Large collection facilities occupy more than 500 square feet and may include permanent structures as well as mobile units, bulk reverse vending machines, Kiosk-type units.

• b. Processing Facility. A building or enclosed space used for the collection and processing of recyclable materials. Processing means the preparation of material for efficient shipment, or to an end-user's specifications, by such means as baling, briquetting, compacting, flattening, grinding, crushing, mechanical sorting, shredding, cleaning, and remanufacturing.

  1. A light-processing facility occupies less than 45,000 square feet and includes equipment for baling, briquetting, crushing, compacting, grinding, shredding and sorting of sourceseparated recyclable materials, except ferrous metals other than food and beverage containers, and repairing of reusable materials.

  2. A heavy-processing facility is any processing facility larger than a light-processing facility.

Reverse Vending Machine. An automated mechanical device that accepts at least one or more types of empty containers including aluminum cans, glass and plastic bottles, and issues a cash refund or a redeemable credit slip. A reverse vending machine may sort and process containers mechanically, provided that the entire process is enclosed within the machine.

• a. A single-feed revenue vending machine is designed to accept individual containers one at a time.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

155

• b. A bulk reverse vending machine is designed to accept more than one container at a time and to compute the refund or credit due on the basis of weight.

Mobile Recycling Unit. An automobile, truck, trailer, or van and appurtenant bins, boxes or containers used for the collection of recyclable materials.

Unattended Donation and Collection Boxes. Unattended donation and collections box or bin means any unattended container, receptacle, or similar device that is located on any lot within the City and that is used for soliciting and collecting donations of clothing or other small scale salvageable personal property. This term does not include recycle bins for the collection of “recyclable material” as defined by Section D4-37 A. (1) or any unattended donation or collection box located inside a building.

• B. Permits required. No person shall place, construct, or operate any recycling facility without first obtaining a permit as follows:

C. Permits for multiple sites.

1. A Use Permit or Minor Use Permit as indicated in Table 4-3 may be granted to allow more than one reverse vending machine or small collection facility located on different sites under the following conditions:

   • a. The operator of each of the proposed facilities is the same;

   • b. The proposed facilities are determined by the Zoning Administrator to be similar in nature, size and intensity of activity; and

   • c. All the applicable criteria and standards set forth in this Chapter are met for each such proposed facility.

2. Unattended Donation and Collection Boxes shall require a Minor Use Permit for each commercial property or shopping center for which a box or boxes are located.

D. Design criteria and standards.

1. Reverse vending machines.

• a. Each machine shall be located within 30 feet of the entrance to the primary commercial use on the site and shall not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular circulation, not within a landscaped area.

• b. No required parking space for the development shall be used for the reverse vending machine.

• c. Each machine shall occupy no more than 50 square feet of space, including any protective enclosure, and shall not exceed eight feet in height.

• d. Each machine shall be clearly marked to identify the type of material to be deposited, operating instructions, and the identity and phone number of the operator or responsible person to call if the machine is inoperative.

• e. The maximum sign area is four square feet per machine, exclusive of operating instructions of Subsection D.1.d.

• f. Adequate nighttime lighting shall be provided, if warranted.

2. Small collection facilities.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

156

• a. Small collection facilities shall be no larger than 500 square feet, shall be set back at least 10 feet from a front or side property line, and shall not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular circulation.

• b. No power-driven processing equipment shall be used except for reverse vending machines.

• c. All containers shall be constructed and maintained with durable waterproof and rustproof material, covered when the site is not attended, secured from unauthorized entry or removal of material, and of a capacity sufficient to accommodate materials collected.

• d. All recyclable material shall be stored in containers or in a mobile unit vehicle.

• e. Personnel attended facilities located within 100 feet of the boundary of an R zone shall operate only between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

• f. Containers for the 24-hour donation of materials shall be at least 100 feet from the boundary of an R zone unless there is a recognized service corridor and acoustical shielding between the containers and residential use.

• g. Containers shall be clearly marked to identify the type of material that may be deposited; the facility shall be clearly marked to identify the name and telephone number of the facility operator and the hours of operation, and display a notice stating that no material shall be left outside the recycling enclosure or containers.

• h. The maximum sign area shall be 16 square feet exclusive of informational requirements and operational instruction of Subsection D.2.g. above. Directional signs bearing no advertising message may be installed with the approval of the Zoning Administrator if necessary to facilitate traffic circulation, or if the facility is not visible from the public right-of-way.

• i. No additional parking spaces will be required for customers of a small collection facility located at the established parking lot of a host use. One space will be provided for the attendant, if needed.

• j. Mobile recycling units shall have an area clearly marked to prohibit other vehicular parking during hours when the mobile unit is scheduled to be present.

• k. No required parking spaces shall be occupied by the facility.

3. Large collection facilities.

• a. A large collection facility shall be located at least 250 feet from an R zone.

• b. Each facility shall be in an enclosed building or within an area enclosed by an opaque fence at least six feet in height with landscaping.

• c. Six parking spaces shall be for customers and one parking space shall be provided for each commercial vehicle operated by the recycling facility.

• d. Power-driven processing, including aluminum foil and can compacting, baling, plastic shredding, or other light-processing activities necessary for efficient temporary storage and shipment of material may be allowed if noise and other conditions are met.

4. Processing facilities.

• a. Processors will operate in a wholly enclosed building except for incidental storage, or within an area enclosed on all sides by an opaque fence or wall not less than eight feet in height and landscaped on all street frontages located at least 250 feet from an R zone.

• b. Power-driven processing shall be permitted provided all noise-level requirements are met. Light-processing facilities are limited to baling, briquetting, crushing, compacting, grinding, shredding and sorting of source-separated recyclable materials and repairing of reusable materials.

• c. If the facility is open to the public, space will be provided for a minimum of 10 customers or the peak load, whichever is higher, except where the Zoning Administrator determines that allowing overflow traffic is compatible with surrounding businesses and public safety.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

157

• d. One parking space will be provided for each commercial vehicle operated by the processing center.

5. All collection and processing facilities.

• a. No facility or storage area shall occupy a required front or corner side yard, and all regulations applicable to the principal structure on the site shall apply to collection and processing facilities except as provided in this section.

• b. A large collector or processing facility may accept used motor oil for recycling from the generator in compliance with California Health and Safety Code Section 25250.11.

• c. All exterior storage of material shall be in sturdy containers or enclosures that are fully covered, secured, and maintained in good condition. Storage containers for flammable material shall be constructed of non-flammable material. No storage, excluding truck trailers and overseas containers, will be visible above the height of the fencing.

• d. Noise levels generated by the facility shall not exceed 60 dBA as measured at the property line of an R zone or otherwise shall not exceed 70 dBA.

• e. All facilities shall be administered by on-site personnel during hours the facility is open. If a large collection or processing facility is located within 500 feet of an R zone, it shall not be in operation between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• f. Any containers provided for after-hours donation of recyclable materials shall be of sturdy, rustproof construction; shall have sufficient capacity to accommodate materials collected; and shall be secure from unauthorized entry or removal of materials.

• g. The site of the facility shall be kept free of litter and any other undesirable material. Containers shall be clearly marked to identify the type of material that may be deposited. The facility shall display a notice stating that no material shall be left outside the recycling containers.

• h. Sign regulations shall be those provided for the zone in which the facility is located. In addition, each facility shall be clearly marked with the name and phone number of the facility operator and the hours of operation.

• i. No dust, fumes, smoke vibration or odor above ambient level may be detectable on neighboring properties.

6. Unattended Donation and Collection Boxes.

• a. No more than two (2) unattended donation and collection boxes shall be located on each parcel of real property.

• b. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be no more than eighty-two (82) inches high, fifty-six (56) inches wide and forty-nine (49) inches deep.

• c. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be located in a well-lit area that is visually unobtrusive and minimizes any negative aesthetic and view impact to the property and public right of way. Boxes should not be located in the front setback, unless no practical alternative is available and findings are included as part of the approval.

• d. No unattended donation and collection box shall be placed in required parking spaces, required landscaping, ADA path of travel, stormwater detention area or the public right of way.

• e. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be subordinate and accessory to the principal use of the property.

• f. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be maintained in good condition and appearance with no structural damage, holes, or visible rust, and shall be free of graffiti;

• g. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be locked or otherwise secured;

• h. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be marked clearly to identify the type of material to be deposited.

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

158

• i. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall contain the following contact information in two (2") inch type visible from the front of each unattended donation box: the name, address, and phone number of both the permittee and operator;

• j. The front of every unattended donation and collection box shall display conspicuously a statement in at least two-inch font that either reads, "This collection box is owned and operated by a for-profit organization." or "This collection box is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization." A commercial fundraiser shall be classified as a for-profit organization.

• k. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be free of any advertising which is unrelated to the business of the operator of the unattended donation and collection box.

• l. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall be serviced and emptied as needed, but not less than once every seven (7) days.

• m. The permittee shall maintain or cause to be maintained the area surrounding the unattended donation and collection box(es) free of any junk, debris or other material and shall be responsible to the extent provided by law for the cost to abate any violation.

• n. The Applicant for unattended donation and collection boxes shall provide and maintain a $2,000 dollar per site maintenance or removal deposit should it become necessary for the City or property owner to abate a maintenance violation. The Applicant will be refunded the balance of the deposit provided upon removal of the box(es).

• o. Unattended donation and collection boxes shall remain only in the exact location for which they have been permitted and may not be relocated on the property without prior property owner and City approval.

(Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-38 – Reserved

(Ord. No. 496, § 2, 01/28/2020; Ord. No. 534, § 1 (Exh. A-3), 10/14/2025)

Effective on: 11/13/2025

D4-39 - Accessory Dwelling Units

• A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to:

  1. Implement California Government Code Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7, as amended from time to time, for the development of accessory dwelling units (including junior accessory dwelling units).

  2. Increase overall supply and range of housing options for all economic segments of the community.

  3. Streamline small-scale infill development and to minimize governmental constraints on residential development while ensuring such housing remains compatible with the existing neighborhood.

  4. Support Housing Element goals of facilitating construction of accessory dwelling units and increasing the number of housing units that are more affordable to San Ramon residents.

  5. Encourage development of accessory dwelling units in zoning districts with compatible land uses and infrastructure.

• B. Definitions. Unless otherwise specified in this Title, the definitions found in California Government Code Section 66313 et seq. shall apply to the terms contained herein.

• C. Applicability. The provisions of this Section apply to all parcels with at least one existing or proposed dwelling unit.

• D. Review procedure. Prior to building permit issuance for an accessory dwelling unit and/or a junior accessory dwelling unit, a Zoning Clearance (Section D6-30) application for an accessory dwelling unit

City of San Ramon, CA | Municipal Code

159

and/or junior accessory dwelling unit shall be processed and approved in compliance with California Government Code Sections 66317 and 66335 et seq. Accessory dwelling units shall be allowed byright (ministerially permitted) in any zone which allows for residential uses. This includes mixed-use zoning districts which allow residential and non-residential land uses.

(Ord. No. 522, § 6, 12/12/2023)

Effective on: 1/11/2024

D4-40 - Service Stations and Car Washes

Where allowed by Division D2 (Allowable Land Uses and Zoning Standards), service stations and car washes shall comply with the requirements of this Section.

• A. Minimum separation. Minimum separation between site boundaries shall be 500 feet, except that one such use may be located at each corner of a street intersection.

• B. Site layout. Conditions of approval of a Use Permit may require buffering, screening, planting areas, or hours of operation necessary to avoid adverse impacts on properties in the surrounding area.

• C. Planting areas. Perimeter planting areas shall be as required for parking lots by Chapter D-33 (Landscape Design Standards) and Chapter D-34 (Parking and Loading), except where a building adjoins an interior property line. Required interior planting areas may adjoin perimeter planting areas.

• D. Storage of materials and equipment. The provisions of Section D4-35 (Outdoor Display, Storage, and Vending) shall apply, except that a display rack for automobile products no more than 4 feet wide may be maintained at each pump island of a service station. If display racks are not located on pump islands, they shall be placed within three feet of the principal building, and shall be limited to one per street frontage. The Storage of inoperative vehicles is prohibited. The location of display racks and vending machines shall be specified by the Use Permit.

• E. Hours of Operation. The provisions of Subsection D3-8 H. [Hours of operation] shall apply.

• F. Unattended Service Stations. Operation of an unattended service station shall be prohibited, except for the dispensing of Alternative Fuels (see Vehicle Fueling-Alternative Fuels) as approved by a Land Use Permit. Unattended Service Stations dispensing Alternative Fuels, when specifically approved as part of a Land Use Permit, shall consider the following factors/plans:

  • Location on site, site circulation and relationship to adjacent properties and land uses,

  • Hours- Primary facility and accessory fueling,

  • Noise control,

  • Hazardous materials storage and containment,

  • Hazardous Material Business Plan,

  • Security Plan- including daytime and afterhours contacts,

  • Maintenance and Liter Control Plan,

  • Other site specific conditions or programs, as applicable.

Exceptions:

• a. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations (Accessory) in existing commercial, office, mixed use or multifamily developments.

• b. Private and restricted access fueling stations (corporate yards and fleet vehicles) are not subject to the Unattended Service Station standards.