Yuba County Municipal Code Ch. 11.73 List of Terms and Definitions

Abutting or adjoining

Access

Accessory building

Accessory structure

Accessory use

Acre, gross

Acre, net

Adjacent

Address coordinator

Aggrieved person

Agricultural Commissioner

Agriculture

Community garden

Garden/home produce

Urban agriculture

Agricultural (farm) employee

Agricultural employee housing

Farmworker dwelling unit

Farmworker housing complex

Alley

Alteration

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Arborist

Area, gross

Balcony

Base district

Basement

Bedroom

Bicycle parking, long-term

Bicycle parking, short-term

Block

Board

Buffer

Building

Building, accessory

Building, main

Building code

Building footprint

Building front

Building frontage

Building height

Building site

Build-to line

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

Canopy

Carport

Chief building official

Community Development and Services Agency (CDSA)

Compatible

Conditionally permitted

Construction

Conversion

County

County surveyor

Circulation terms

Highway

Freeway

Arterial

Collector road

Local road

Decision-making authority

Discretionary decision

Legislative action

Ministerial decision

Quasi-judicial action

Deck

Demolition

Density, gross

Density, net

Development

Development agreement

Director of Community Development And Services Agency (CDSA)

Director of environmental health

Director of planning

Director of public works

Director of office of emergency services

District

Double frontage lot

Drive-through facilities

Driveway

Dwelling unit

Guest quarters

Easement

Effective date

Electrical code

Emergency

Environmental review

Environmental Impact Report (EIR)

Erect

Façade

Family

Fence

Feasible

Firearm

Flex space

Floor area

Floor Area Ratio (FAR)

Footprint

Frontage, street (frontage, lot)

Garage

General Plan

Glare

Government code

Grade

Existing or natural grade

Finished grade

Grading

Grading plan

Grading work

Ground floor

Habitation

Hazardous materials

Heat

Hedge

Height

Home occupation

Household

Illegal use

In-lieu fees

Intensity of use

Intersection, street

Kitchen

Outdoor kitchen

Land division terms

Advisory agency

Bikeway

Block

Community apartment

Condominium

Construction costs

Conversion

Cooperative, stock

Cul-de-sac

Final map

Improvement

Improvement plan

Local public parks agency

Lot line adjustment

Merger

Parcel

Parcel map

Pedestrian way

Planting strip

Private street

Record of survey

Remainder

Standard specifications

Subdivider

Subdivision

Subdivision design

Subdivision Map Act (SMA)

Tentative map

Tentative parcel map

Tentative subdivision map

Tract map

Vesting tentative map

Landscaping

Landscaping terms

Anti-drain (check) valve

Automatic controller

Backflow prevention device

Drip irrigation

Emitter

Homeowner-provided landscaping

Hydrozone

Irrigation efficiency

Mulch

Operation pressure

Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems

Overspray

Pervious

Rain sensor

Runoff

Soil moisture sensor

Lighting terms

Foot-candle

Light fixture

Light fixture cutoff

Shielded fixture

Living room

Lot

Lot coverage

Lot depth

Lot frontage

Lot line

Lot line types

Front lot line

Interior lot line

Rear lot line

Side lot line

Street side lot line

Lot types

Lot, abutting

Lot, corner

Lot, flag

Lot, interior

Lot, key

Lot, reversed corner

Lot, through

Lot width

Maintenance and repair

Manufactured home

Mezzanine

Mining

Mobile home

National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA)

Neighborhood services

Noise terms

Ambient noise level

Decibel

Noise

Noise Level Reduction (NLR)

Nonconforming use and development terms

Abandoned

Nonconforming building or structure

Nonconforming lot

Nonconforming sign

Nonconforming use

Nuisance

Official plan line

On-Site

Open space types

Private open space

Common open space

Usable open space

Outdoor storage

Owner

Parcel (lot)

Parking area

Parking space, off-street

Peak hour

Permit

Permitted use

Person

Personal use

Persons with disabilities

Pre-existing

Production housing

Project

Public workshop

Qualified applicant

Recreational vehicle

Rescission

Right-of-way

Screening

Setback

Sidewalk

Sign-related terms

Abandoned sign

Animated sign

Area of sign

Awning sign

Banner

Building frontage

Building-mounted sign

Canopy

Construction sign

Directional sign

Electronic message center sign

Fence sign

Flag

Freestanding sign

Height

Illegal sign

Illuminated sign

Inflatable sign

Interior illumination

Logo

Marquee sign

Mansard

Master sign program

Monument sign

Neon sign

Off-site advertising sign

Off-site directional sign

Parapet

Pennant

Pole sign

Political sign

Portable sign

Projecting sign

Real estate sign

Roof sign

Sign

Sign area

Sign copy

Sign face

Temporary sign

Wall sign

Window sign

Single Room Occupancy (SRO)

Site

Specific plan

State

Story

Street

Street line

Structure

Accessory structure

Permanent structure

Primary structure (main structure)

Temporary structure

Structural alteration

Swimming pool

Tandem parking

Temporary uses

Garage sales

Outdoor sales, temporary and seasonal

Unit

Urban area

Urbanizing area

Use

Use, accessory

Use, incidental

Use, primary

Use classification

Use permit

Valley Growth Boundary (VGB)

Variance

Vehicle

Vibration

Visible

Wall

Weekday

Wireless communication terms

Antenna

Amateur radio antenna

Base station

Camouflage wireless facility

Carrier on Wheels (COW)

Co-location

Communication tower

Eligible facilities request

Emergency service radio

Ground-mounted

Lattice tower

Monopole

Substantial modification

Transmission equipment

Wireless communication facility

Workshop

Yard

Front yard

Interior side yard

Street side yard

Rear yard

Zoning administrator

Zoning district

(Ord. No. 1624)

When making zoning compliance determinations the Zoning Administrator or Planning Director may also utilize the American Planning Association "A Planners Dictionary" for uses and definitions not included in this Title.

Abutting, adjacent, or adjoining. Having a common border, boundary, or lot line.

Access. The place, or way through which pedestrians and/or vehicles shall have safe, adequate and usable ingress and egress to a property or use as required by this Code.

Accessory building. See Building, Accessory.

Accessory structure. See Structure, Accessory.

Accessory use. See Use, Accessory.

Acre, gross. A measure of total land area of a lot or site, including areas to be dedicated for public rights-of-way, streets, schools, or other dedications.

Acre, net. A measure of land area of a lot or site remaining after dedication of all areas for public rights-of-way, streets, schools, or other dedications.

Adjacent. See Abutting.

Address coordinator. The Community Development and Services Agency's Public Works Director or such Director's authorized designee.

Affordable housing. Dwelling units with a sales price or rent within the means of a low or moderate-income household, as defined by state or federal legislation. As used in this Development Code:

(1) Very low-income refers to family units/household whose annual income is 50 percent or less of the area's median income as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 50105 (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(B)).

(2) Low-income refers to family units/households whose annual income is between 50 percent and 80 percent of the area's median income, as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 50079.5 (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(A)).

(3) Moderate-income refers to family units/households whose annual income is between 80 and 120 percent of the area's median income, as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 50093 (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(D)).

Affordable housing benefits. Means one or more of the following:

(1) A density bonus pursuant to Section 11.30.050.

(2) An incentive pursuant to Section 11.30.110.

(3) A development standard waiver or modification pursuant to Section 11.30.110(4).

(4) A parking standard modification pursuant to Section 11.30.120.

Affordable housing cost. The definition set forth in Health and Safety Code Section 50052.5 (Government Code Section 65915(c)(1)).

Affordable housing developer. The applicant or permittee of a qualified housing development and its assignees or successors in interest.

Aggrieved person. Any person who, in person or through a representative, appeared at a County public hearing in conjunction with a decision or action appealed or who, by other appropriate means prior to a hearing, informed the local government of the nature of his or her concerns or who, for good cause, was unable to do either.

Agricultural commissioner. Either directly or through authorized agents directs countywide programs including but not limited to agricultural management, weights and measures, coordinates the local enforcement of laws and regulations for the promotion and protection of agriculture, control of pests and pesticides.

Agriculture. Land used for agricultural purposes, including farming, pasturage, timber, aquaculture, horticulture, floriculture, viticulture, apiaries, and animal and poultry husbandry. Agriculture does not include the cultivation of any crop not recognized as a crop commodity by the United States Department of Agriculture. For purposes of this Code, agriculture means commercial operations where the primary purpose is the sale of animals or products either retail or wholesale and does not include the growing of crops or raising of animals for individual home use or consumption.

Community garden. An otherwise undeveloped parcel divided into multiple plots for the growing and harvesting of food crops or nonfood crops such as flowers, primarily for the personal use of the growers, that is established, operated, and maintained by a group of persons.

Garden/home produce. Edible landscaping on a lot developed with one or more dwellings and devoted to the personal use of the occupants of the dwelling or edible landscaping on a parcel developed with a nonresidential use, where the garden is incidental to the primary use of the lot (i.e. vegetable or herb garden for a restaurant).

Urban agriculture. Commercial agriculture activities located within the valley growth boundary on properties that are not designated for agricultural use. Urban agriculture is intended to be an interim use of land that is designated for other purposes.

Agricultural (farm) employee. A person who works full or part-time (24 hours or more per week) in the service of a bona fide commercial agricultural operation(s) in any of the branches of farming, which includes, but is not limited to:

• Tilling and cultivation of the soil associated with commercial crop production;

• Raising, production, and cultivation of commercial livestock for the production of food and/or fiber;

• Growing and harvesting of any commercial agricultural or horticultural commodities;

• Commercial raising of bees, fur-bearing animals or poultry;

• Preparation and processing of farm products for market; or

• Timber or forestry operations.

Agricultural (farm) employee housing. Housing for agricultural employees provided by the employer and maintained in connection with the agricultural operation.

Farmworker dwelling unit. Is a structure which is occupied solely by up to six agricultural (farm) employees or one agricultural (farm) employee and the worker's household. The accommodations shall consist of living quarters designed for long-term residential occupancy with provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.

Farmworker housing complex. A living unit or units for agricultural (farm) employees in group quarters. The units may be of an alternative housing type that meet state and federal standards for livability and durability, including manufactured housing, factory-built housing, and other forms of prefabricated housing, and barracks-style housing in which the employees share common cooking and sanitary facilities.

Alley. A public or private right-of-way not more than 24 feet in width that is primarily designed to serve as secondary vehicular access to the rear or side of those properties whose principal frontage is on some other street. Area devoted to alleys shall not be included in net density calculations.

Alteration. Any change, addition or modification that changes the exterior architectural appearance or materials of a structure or object. Alteration includes changes in exterior surfaces, changes in materials, additions, remodels, demolitions, and relocation of buildings or structures, but excludes ordinary maintenance and repairs.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). United States Public Law 101-336, 104 Stat. 327 (July 26, 1990), codified at 42 U.S.C. Section 12101 et seq.

Arborists. Engaged in the care and maintenance of trees, shrubs, and/or plants. This includes tree removal services and disposal of hazard trees.

Area, gross. The horizontal area within the boundaries of a lot or site including any area for future streets, parks, and other dedications.

Balcony. A platform that projects from the wall of a building, enclosed by a railing or parapet for the private use of tenants or for exterior access to the above grade living units.

Base district. A zoning district that includes use, height, bulk, space, and development standards for the regulation of development in a particular area.

Basement. A non-habitable space beneath the first or ground floor of a building the ceiling of which does not extend more than four feet above finished grade.

Bedroom. Any room located within a dwelling unit that is used primarily for sleeping purposes by its residents and that contains at least 70 square feet of floor area. Rooms designated as a "den", "library", "study", "loft" or other extra room that satisfies this definition and is not a kitchen, living room, or bath will be considered a bedroom.

Bicycle parking, long-term. Bicycle parking that is designed to serve employees, students, residents, commuters, and others who generally stay at a site for four hours or longer.

Bicycle parking, short-term. Bicycle parking that is designed to serve shoppers, customers, messengers, guests, and other visitors to a site who generally stay for a period of less than four hours.

Block. The frontage along one side of a street between the two nearest intersecting streets.

Board. The Board of Supervisors of Yuba County.

Buffer. A strip of land which may or may not include: landscaping, berms, walls, fences, and building setbacks, that is located between land uses of different character and is intended to mitigate the negative impacts of the more intense use from adjacent uses. An appropriate buffer may vary depending on uses, location, zoning districts, size and intensity, etc., and shall be determined by the decision-making authority.

Building. Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for the shelter, housing or enclosure of any individual, animal, process, equipment, goods, or materials.

Building, accessory. Any building used as an accessory to residential, commercial, recreational, industrial, or educational purposes as defined in the California Building Code with 1989 amendments, Chapter 11, Group M, Division 1, Occupancy that requires a building permit.

Building, main. A building in which is conducted the principal use of the lot on which it is situated.

Building code. Any ordinance of the County governing the type and method of construction of buildings, signs, and sign structures and any amendments thereto and any substitute therefore including, but not limited to, the California Building Code, other state-adopted uniform codes and the Minimum Building Security Standards Ordinance.

Building footprint. See Footprint.

Building front. That portion of the main building which affords public entry. In the case of a building with more than one public entry, the entrance with the assigned address shall be considered the main public entry.

Building frontage. The lineal dimension, parallel to the ground, of a building abutting on a public street, or a parking lot accessory to that business even though another business may also have entitlement to that parking lot.

Building height. See Height.

Building site. A lot or parcel of land occupied or to be occupied, by a main building and accessory buildings together with such open spaces as are required by the terms of this title and having its principal frontage on a street, road, highway, or waterway.

Build-to line. A line parallel to the lot line where the facade of the building is required to be located.

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). State law, pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq. or any successor statute, that requires public agencies to document and consider the environmental effects of a proposed action before a decision.

Canopy. A roofed shelter projecting over a sidewalk, driveway, entry, window, or similar area that may be wholly supported by a building or may be wholly or partially supported by columns, poles, or braces extending from the ground.

Carport. An accessory structure that is roofed but permanently open on at least two sides and maintained for the storage of motor vehicles.

Chief building official. The person designated by the County of Yuba to administer the provisions of the adopted building code and such other related ordinances (i.e. electrical, plumbing, and Title 24).

Childcare facility. A child daycare facility other than a family daycare home, including, but not limited to, infant centers, preschools, extended daycare facilities, and school-age childcare centers (Government Code Section 65915(h)(4).)

Community Development and Services Agency (CDSA). The agency which provides planning and direction over those County functions that provide land use planning, management of natural resources, building, inspection and code enforcement services, and other permit and land use services to the citizens of Yuba County. The agency includes the departments of Planning, Building, Environmental Health, Public Works, and land development core functions such as infrastructure planning; surveying and mapping; permits and construction; and, code enforcement.

Common interest development. Any of the following: a community apartment project, a condominium project, a planned development, and a stock cooperative pursuant to Civil Code Section 1351(c) and pursuant to Civil Code Section 4100. All common interest development units must be offered to the public for purchase (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(D).)

Compatible. That which is harmonious with and will not adversely affect surrounding buildings and/or uses.

Conditionally permitted. Permitted subject to approval of an Administrative Use Permit, Minor Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit.

Construction. Construction, erection, enlargement, alteration, conversion or movement of any building, structures, together with any scientific surveys associated therewith.

Conversion. The discontinuance of a certain use or occupancy and the establishment of a different use or occupancy, including the creation of separate ownership of existing real property together with a separate interest in space of a building.

County. The County of Yuba.

County surveyor. The Community Development and Services Agency's County Surveyor.

Circulation terms.

Highway. A roadway with limited access and few cross streets generally along high-volume corridors that connect cities or unincorporated communities.

Freeway. A multi-lane, divided highway with a minimum of two lanes in each direction and access provided at interchanges.

Arterial. A road that accommodates longer distance travel, but also provides access to adjacent residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Collector road. A two-lane roadway that collects traffic from adjacent developments and delivers that traffic to Freeways, Highways, and Arterials. These roads have limited to moderate access control.

Local road. A road that provides direct access to abutting land and provides for traffic movement within a single-neighborhood or part of a neighborhood. Local Roads are designed for low traffic volumes and speeds.

Decision-making authority. An individual or body vested with the authority to make recommendations or act on application requests including ministerial decisions, legislative actions and quasi-judicial actions.

Discretionary decision. A decision or action requiring the exercise of judgment, or deliberation on the part of the decision-making authority in the process of approving or disapproving a particular activity such as a development application. CEQA applies in situations where a governmental agency can use its judgment in deciding whether and how to carry out or approve a project.

Legislative action. The Yuba County Board of Supervisors is the legislative body of the County that has the power to adopt ordinances, regulations, policies and other documents that have the force of the law. A legislative action is a planning, zoning or other land use decision resulting in a general rule or policy applicable to an entire zoning district, a large number of individuals or properties, or that establishes or modifies policy or procedure.

Ministerial decision. A decision involving little or no personal judgment by the decision-making authority as to the wisdom or manner of carrying out the project or request. A ministerial decision involves only the use of fixed standards or objective measurements. Common examples of ministerial permits or decisions include building permits, encroachment permits, and zoning clearances. Ministerial projects are exempt from the requirements of CEQA. In the absence of any discretionary provision contained in the local ordinance or other law establishing the requirements for the permit, license, or other entitlement for use, the following actions shall be presumed to be ministerial:

(1) Issuance of building permits.

(2) Issuance of business licenses.

(3) Approval of final subdivision maps.

(4) Approval of individual utility service connections and disconnections.

Quasi-judicial action. An action by the decision-making authority that involves the application of adopted policies and regulations to a specific development application as well as discretionary judgment on whether the request should be approved or denied based on information presented.

Deck. A platform, either freestanding or attached to a building that is supported by pillars or posts. See also Balcony.

Demolition. The intentional destruction and removal of 50 percent or more of the enclosing exterior walls and 50 percent of the roof of any structure.

Density bonus. A process by which a County can increase the density within a development project by a percentage established by law or through which the County offers incentives that support economic viability in return for guarantees with respect to the preservation of the rights of use or sale for affordable housing purposes.

Density bonus units. Dwelling units granted pursuant to Section 11.30.040 that exceed the otherwise maximum allowable residential density.

Density, gross. The number of dwelling units per gross acre of land area.

Density, net. The number of dwelling units per acre of land excluding street rights-of-way, easements, public open space, land under water, and certified wetlands and floodplains. Setbacks for wetlands and other sensitive areas and private open space shall not be excluded in calculating net density.

Development. Any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to the division of a parcel of land into two or more parcels; the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, or enlargement of any structure; any mining, excavation, landfill or land disturbance; and any use or extension of the use of land.

Development agreement. A contract duly executed and legally binding between Yuba County and a developer(s) that delineates the terms and conditions agreed upon by two or more parties.

Development standard. A site or construction condition, including, but not limited to, a height limitation, a setback requirement, a floor area ratio, an on-site open-space requirement, or a parking ratio, that applies to a residential development pursuant to the Development Code, the General Plan or other County condition, law, policy, resolution, or regulation (Government Code Section 65915(o)(1)).

Director of Building and Code Enforcement. The Director of Building and Code Enforcement acting either directly or through authorized agents within the Community Development and Services Agency, and any successor department that may exist in the future.

Director of Community Development and Services Agency (CDSA). The director of all departments within the Community Development and Services Agency of Yuba County, California acting either directly or through authorized agents.

Director of Environmental Health. The Director of the Environmental Health Department acting either directly or through authorized agents within the Community Development and Services Agency, and any successor department that may exist in the future.

Director of Office of Emergency Services. The Director of the Office of Emergency Services of Yuba County, acting either directly or through authorized agents.

Director of Planning. The Director of the Planning Department acting either directly or through authorized agents within the Community Development and Services Agency, and any successor department that may exist in the future.

Director of Public Works. The Director of the Public Works Department acting either directly or through authorized agents within the Community Development and Services Agency, and any successor department that may exist in the future.

District. See Zoning District.

Double frontage lot. See Lot, Through.

Drive-through facilities. Facilities designed to enable persons to receive a service or purchase or consume goods while remaining within a motor vehicle, typically associated with banks, eating, and drinking establishments, pharmacies, and other commercial uses.

Driveway. An access way that provides vehicular access between a street and the parking or loading facilities located on an adjacent property.

Dwelling unit. Any building or portion thereof which contains living facilities, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking and/or sanitation for not more than one family.

Guest quarters. Shall mean an accessory structure which consists of detached living quarters of a permanent type of construction, which may include a bathroom and other living space, but not kitchen facilities and shall not exceed 1,200 square feet in size unless an Administrative Use Permit is approved (Guest Quarters includes pool houses, cabanas, art studios, bonus/recreation rooms and similar structures). All utilities serving the guest quarters shall be common to and dependent on the primary residence. Guest Quarters on septic systems may require modifications to the septic system or a separate system. The guest quarters shall not be leased, subleased, rented, or sub-rented separately from the main dwelling.

Easement. A portion of land created by grant or agreement for specific purpose; an easement is the right, privilege or interest that one party has in the land of another. Examples include, but are not limited to public or private access easements for utilities or conservation.

Effective date. The date on which a permit or other approval becomes enforceable or otherwise takes effect, rather than the date it was signed or circulated.

Electrical code. Any ordinance of the County regulating the alteration, repair and the installation and use of electricity or electrical fixtures.

Eligible housing development. A development that satisfies all of the following criteria:

(1) The development is a multifamily housing development that contains five or more residential units, exclusive of any other floor area ratio bonus or incentive or concession awarded pursuant to this Chapter.

(2) The development is located within one of the following:

a. An urban infill site that is within a transit priority area.

b. One-half-mile of a major transit stop.

(3) The site of the development is zoned to allow residential use or mixed-use with a minimum planned density of at least 20 dwelling units per acre and does not include any land zoned for low-density residential use or for exclusive nonresidential use.

(4) The applicant and the development satisfy the replacement requirements specified in subdivision (c) of Government Code Section 65915.

(5) The development includes at least 20 percent of the units, excluding any additional units allowed under a floor area ratio bonus or other incentives or concessions provided pursuant to this Chapter, with an affordable housing cost or affordable rent to, and occupied by, persons with a household income equal to or less than 50 percent of the area median income, as determined pursuant to Section 50093 of the Health and Safety Code, and subject to an affordability restriction for a minimum of 55 years.

(6) The development complies with the height requirements applicable to the underlying zone. A development shall not be eligible to use a floor area ratio bonus or other incentives or concessions provided pursuant to this Chapter to relieve the development from a maximum height limitation.

Emergency. A sudden unexpected occurrence demanding immediate action to prevent or mitigate loss or damage to life, health, property or essential public services.

Environmental review. An evaluation process pursuant to CEQA to determine whether a proposed project may have a significant impact on the environment.

Environmental Impact Report (EIR). An Environmental Impact Report as required under the California Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.

Erect. To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix to or upon any surface. Such term shall also include the painting of wall signs.

Facade. The exterior wall of a building exposed to public view or that wall viewed by persons not within the building. The portion of any exterior elevation of a building extending vertically from the grade to the top of a parapet wall or eave, and horizontally across the entire width of the building elevation.

Family. One or more persons living together as a single nonprofit housekeeping unit and sharing common living, sleeping, cooking and eating facilities. Members of a "family" need not be related by blood but are distinguished from a group occupying a hotel, club, fraternity or sorority house, residential boarding house, or residential care or social service facility.

Fence. An artificially-constructed barrier of any material or combination of materials erected to enclose or screen an area of land.

Feasible. Capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic, environmental, social and technological factors.

Firearm. A gun, pistol, revolver, rifle or any devise, designed or modified to be used as a weapon, from which is expelled through a barrel a projectile by the force of an explosion or other form of combustion.

Flex space. Floor area constructed so that it can be adapted for office, retail, or restaurant use in the future, but may be used for other uses in the interim. Warehouse or shell building that is not air conditioned but can be converted into larger or smaller air conditioned spaces based on need.

Floor area. The total floor area in a building (including basements, mezzanines, interior balconies, and upper stories or levels in a multistory building) unless otherwise stipulated; e.g., "ground" floor area.

Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The ratio of gross building area of the eligible housing development, excluding structured parking areas, proposed for the project divided by the net lot area. For purposes of this paragraph, "gross building area" means the sum of all finished areas of all floors of a building included within the outside faces of its exterior walls.

Floor area ratio bonus. An allowance for an eligible housing development to use a floor area ratio over the otherwise maximum allowable density permitted under the applicable zoning ordinance and land use elements of the General Plan of a county or city.

Foot-candle. See Lighting Terms.

Footprint. The horizontal area, as seen in plan view, of a building or structure, measured from the outside of exterior walls and supporting columns, and excluding eaves.

Frontage, street (frontage, lot). That portion of a lot or parcel of land that borders a street. "Street frontage" shall be measured along the common lot line separating said lot or parcel of land from the street, highway, or parkway.

Garage. A building or portion of a building that is enclosed and roofed and designed for the storage of motor vehicles.

General plan. The Yuba County 2030 General Plan, a comprehensive declaration of goals, policies, and programs for the future development of the County or future versions adopted by the County.

Glare. The effect produced by a light source within the visual field that is sufficiently brighter than the level to which the eyes are adapted, such as to cause annoyance, discomfort or loss of visual performance and ability.

Government code. The Government Code of the State of California.

Grade. The location of the ground surface.

Existing or natural grade. Ground elevation prior to any grading or other site preparation related to, or to be incorporated into, a proposed development or alteration of an existing development.

Finished grade. Final ground elevation after the completion of any grading or other site preparation related to, or to be incorporated into, a proposed development or alteration of an existing development.

Grading. Any land excavation or filling or combination thereof, or the removal, plowing under or burial of vegetative groundcover.

Grading plan. A plan prepared in accordance with this Section showing grading and related work.

Grading work. Grading and related work, such as, but not limited to, drainage improvements and erosion and sediment control.

Ground floor. The first floor of a building other than a cellar or basement that is closest to finished grade.

Habitation. Regular and exclusive use of a space or structure for shelter and other residential purposes in a manner that is private and separate from another residence on the same lot.

Hazardous materials. Any material, including any substance, waste, or combination thereof, which because of its quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics may cause, or significantly contribute to, a substantial present or potential hazard to human health, safety, property, or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed.

Heat. Thermal energy of a radioactive, conductive, or convective nature.

Hedge. A group of closely planted shrubs, bushes, or other plants that form a compact barrier and is utilized similar to a fence that protects, shields, or separates an area of land.

Height. The vertical distance from the highest point of any structure to the ground level directly below. See Section 11.03.050, Measuring Height.

Home occupation. A commercial use conducted on residential property by the inhabitants of the subject residence, which is incidental and secondary to the residential use of the dwelling. See Section 11.32.140, Home Occupations.

Household. One or more persons living together in a single dwelling unit, with common access to, and common use of, all living and eating areas and all areas and facilities for the preparation and storage of food; who typically share living expenses, including rent or mortgage payments, food costs and utilities; and who maintain a single mortgage, lease, or rental agreement for all members of the household.

Housing development. A development project of five or more residential units and includes a subdivision or common interest development that is approved by the County and consists of residential units or unimproved residential lots, and either a project to substantially rehabilitate and convert an existing commercial building to residential use or the substantial rehabilitation of an existing multifamily dwelling where the result of the rehabilitation would be a net increase in available residential units (Government Code Section 65915(i)).

Illegal use. Any use of land or building that does not have the currently required permits and was originally constructed and/or established without permits required for the use at the time it was brought into existence.

Incentive. Means "incentives and concessions" as that phrase is used in Government Code Section 65915.

In-lieu fees. A cash payment required as a substitute for a dedication and/or improvement of land by an owner or developer of property.

Intensity of use. The impacts a particular use or the use in combination with other uses has on its surroundings or on its demand for services and natural resources. Measures of intensity include but are not limited to requirements for water, gas, electricity, or public services; number of automobile trips generated by a use; parking demand; number of employees on a site; hours of operation; the amount of noise, light or glare generated; the number of persons attracted to the site, or, in eating establishments, the number of seats.

Intersection, street. The area common to two or more intersecting streets.

Kitchen. Any room or space within a building intended to be used for the cooking or preparation of food that includes one or more of the following: stove or cooktop, sink with drainage piping larger than one and one-half inches, or 220 volt electrical receptacle.

Outdoor kitchen. Outdoor cooking and food preparation area that is incidental to the primary kitchen facilities of the dwelling unit and are located in an unenclosed area of the back or side yard that may be roofed but is open on at least two sides and exposed to the weather.

Land division terms:

Advisory agency. A designated official or an official body charged with the duty of making investigations and reports on the design and development of proposed divisions of real property, the imposing of requirements of conditions thereon, or having the authority by local ordinance to approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove maps.

Bikeway. A right-of-way either on or off a street that is used as a travel route for bicycles either independently or jointly with other means of transportation.

Block. The area of land within a subdivision which area is entirely bounded by streets, highways or ways, except alleys, or the exterior boundary or boundaries of the subdivision.

Community apartment. One residential unit within a community apartment project. A community apartment project is a development in which an undivided interest in land is coupled with the right of exclusive occupancy of any housing unit located on the land. For the purposes of this division, "community apartment" shall mean the same thing and shall be treated in the same manner as a unit as defined herein.

Condominium. An estate in real property consisting of an undivided interest in common in a portion of a parcel of real property, together with a separate interest in space in a residential building such as an apartment. A condominium may include, in addition, a separate interest in other portions of such real property. For purposes of this division, the term "condominium" shall be deemed to include a stock cooperative or planned development.

Construction costs. The total cost required to construct, rebuild, repair, remodel, or make an addition to an existing building, including all permanent work and permanent equipment, excluding landscaping.

Conversion. The creation of separate ownership of existing real property together with a separate interest in space of a building.

Cooperative, stock. A corporation holding title to improved real property in which shareholders receive rights to exclusive occupancy of portions of the real property, which rights of occupancy are transferable concurrently with transfer of the shares. The term "stock cooperative" does not include a limited equity housing cooperative.

Cul-de-sac. A street having only one outlet for vehicular traffic that conforms to County standards.

Final map. A map showing a subdivision for which a tentative and final map are required by the Subdivision Map Act or this division (i.e., a major subdivision), prepared in accordance with the provisions of this division and the Subdivision Map Act designed to be recorded in the office of the Yuba County Recorder.

Improvement. Any streets, traffic controls, roads, highways, freeways, bridges, overcrossings, street interchanges, flood control or storm drainage facilities, sanitary sewer facilities, lighting facilities, other utilities and landscaping to be installed, or agreed to be installed, by the subdivider on the land to be used for public or private streets, highways and easements, as are necessary for the general use of the lot owners in the subdivision and local neighborhood traffic and drainage needs as a condition precedent to the approval and acceptance of the final map. Any other specific improvements or type of improvements, the installation of which, either by, or by a combination of, the subdivider, public agencies, private utilities, or any other entity approved by the County, is necessary to ensure consistency with, or implementation of, the General Plan or any applicable specific plan.

Improvement plan. One or more County standard engineered drawings, done according to the County's standard, which show in detail the improvements which are to be installed in any particular development, including but not limited to plan and profile views of streets, sewers, storm drains, and associated facilities.

Local public parks agency. A public agency that provides park and recreational services on a community-wide level and to the area within which a proposed development described in this Section will be located, designated by the Board of Supervisors to act on behalf of the County for the purposes of parkland dedication requirements.

Lot line adjustment. A shift or rotation of an existing lot line of four or fewer existing adjoining parcels in which the land is taken from one parcel and added to an adjoining parcel where a greater number of parcels than originally existed is not created.

Merger. The joining of two or more contiguous parcels of land under one ownership into one parcel.

Parcel. A legally subdivided plot of land shown on a map of record. Also referred to as "lot."

Parcel map. A map showing a division of land of four or fewer parcels as required by this division, prepared in accordance with the provisions of this division and the Subdivision Map Act. A map showing division of land into more than four parcels where each parcel created has a gross area of 20 acres or more or land having approved access to public street which comprises a part of a tract for industrial or commercial development may also be processed as a Parcel Map pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act and this Code.

Pedestrian way. A right-of-way designed for use by pedestrians and bicyclists that is not designed for or used by automotive vehicles and is not located within a street right-of-way.

Planting strip. A strip adjoining the curb within a street right-of-way which is designed to separate the sidewalk from the roadway or to prevent access to abutting properties from the roadway and which is intended to be planted with trees or otherwise landscaped.

Private street. Any street, roadway or access way, lying in whole or in part within a subdivision that is privately owned and maintained and provides access to a development.

Public workshop. A meeting that is open to the public for the purposes of educating the public on a topic, soliciting input or comments from the public on a topic, or receiving direction from a decision-making authority on a topic. When the primary purpose of the workshop is for educating the decision-making authority or for CDSA staff to receive direction from the decision-making authority the workshop may also be referred to as a study session. Public workshops are not subject to the noticing requirements required for public hearings, but at a minimum shall have an agenda or workshop notification posted 72 hours prior to the workshop (excluding workshops related to emergencies) on the Board of Supervisors and/or CDSA bulletin boards located within the County Government Center. Workshops do not include meetings between CDSA staff and project applicants or with individual members of the public, or small stakeholder groups.

Record of survey. A map prepared by a registered civil engineer or licensed land surveyor for the purpose of depicting a field survey of the land made in conformance with the Land Surveyors' Act.

Remainder. That portion of an existing parcel which is not designated on the required map as part of the subdivision. The remainder shall not be considered as part of the subdivision but shall be shown on the required map as part of the area surrounding the subdivision.

Standard specifications. "Standard Specifications" shall refer to the current Yuba County Standard Plans and Standard Specifications.

Subdivider. A person, firm, corporation, partnership or association who proposes to divide, divides or causes to be divided real property into a subdivision for himself or for others. Employees and consultants of such persons or entities, acting in that capacity, are not "subdividers."

Subdivision. The division by any subdivider of any units or units of any improved or unimproved land or any portion thereof, shown on the latest equalized assessment roll as a unit or as contiguous units, including subdivisions for the purpose of sale, lease or financing, whether immediate or future. "Subdivision" includes a condominium project as defined in Civil Code Section 1351(f), a community apartment project, as defined in Civil Code Section 1351(d), or the conversion of five or more existing dwelling units to a stock cooperative, as defined in Civil Code Section 1351(m). Parcels of property shall be considered as contiguous units, even if separated by roads, streets, utility easements, or railroad rights-of-way.

Subdivision design. The overall layout of the proposed subdivision including, but not limited to, the arrangement of streets and intersections, the layout and size of lots, the widths and locations of easements and rights-of-way for utilities, drainage structures, sewers, the nature and location of public or semi-public facilities, programs for the preservation of natural features, and the installation of public improvements.

Subdivision Map Act (SMA). State of California Government Code Sections 66410 to 66499.

Tentative map. A map made for the purpose of showing the design and improvements of a proposed subdivision and the existing conditions in and around it.

Tentative parcel map. A map made for the purpose of showing the design and improvements of a proposed parcel map.

Tentative subdivision map. A map made for the purpose of showing the design and improvements of a proposed tract map.

Vesting tentative map. A tentative map for a subdivision that shall have printed conspicuously on its face the words "Vesting Tentative Map" at the time it is filed in accordance with Chapter 11.42, Vesting Tentative Maps, and is thereafter processed in accordance with the provisions hereof.

Landscaping. The planting, configuration and maintenance of trees, ground cover, shrubbery and other plant material, decorative natural and structural features (walls, fences, hedges, trellises, fountains, sculptures), earth patterning and bedding materials, and other similar site improvements that serve an aesthetic or functional purpose.

Landscaping terms.

Automatic controller. An automatic timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system.

Backflow prevention device. A safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.

Anti-drain (check) valve. A valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.

Drip irrigation. Any non-spray low volume irrigation system specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour.

Emitter. A drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.

Homeowner-provided landscaping. Any landscaping either installed by a private individual for a single-family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. A homeowner, for purposes of this definition, is a person who occupies the dwelling he or she owns. This definition excludes speculative homes, which are not owner-occupied dwellings.

Hydrozone. A portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs.

Irrigation efficiency. The measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices.

Mulch. Any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.

Operation pressure. The pressure at which an irrigation system is designed by the manufacturer to operate.

Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems. Systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).

Overspray. The irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.

Pervious. Any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.

Rain sensor. A component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains.

Runoff. Water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area.

Soil moisture sensor. A device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.

Lighting terms.

Foot-candle. A quantitative unit of measure for luminance. One foot-candle is equal to the amount of light generated by one candle shining on one square foot surface located one foot away.

Light fixture. The assembly that holds a lamp and may include an assembly housing, a mounting bracket or pole socket, a lamp holder, a ballast, a reflector or mirrors, and a refractor or lens.

Light fixture cutoff. Light fixtures are classified as full cutoff, cutoff, semi-cutoff, or non-cutoff according to the most recent adopted criteria of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA). The four IESNA classifications are defined as follows (IESNA 2000):

Full cutoff. The luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above an angle of 90 degrees above nadir is zero, and the luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above a vertical angle of 80 degrees above nadir does not numerically exceed ten percent of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminaire.

Cutoff. The luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above an angle of 90 degrees above nadir does not numerically exceed two and one-half percent of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminary, and the luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above a vertical angle of 80 degrees above nadir does not numerically exceed ten percent of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminary.

Semi-cutoff. The luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above an angle of 90 degrees above nadir does not numerically exceed five percent of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminary, and the luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above a vertical angle of 80 degrees above nadir does not numerically exceed 20 percent of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminary.

Non-cutoff. There is no candela limitation in the zone above maximum candela.

Shielded fixture. Outdoor light fixtures shielded or constructed so that light rays emitted by the lamp are projected below the horizontal plane passing through the lowest point on the fixture from which light is emitted.

Living room. The principal room in a dwelling unit designed for general living purposes rather than for sleeping.

Located within one-half mile of a major transit stop. Any point on a proposed development, for which an applicant seeks a density bonus, other incentives or concessions, waivers or reductions of development standards, or a vehicular parking ratio pursuant to this Section, is within one-half-mile of any point on the property on which a major transit stop is located, including any parking lot owned by the transit authority or other local agency operating the major transit stop.

Lot. A parcel or portion of land separated from other parcels or portions by description, as on a subdivision, parcel, or record of survey map or by metes and bounds, for purpose of sale, lease or separate use.

Lot coverage. The portion of a lot that is covered by structures, including principal and accessory buildings, garages, carports, and roofed porches, but not including unenclosed and unroofed decks, landings, or balconies. See Section 11.03.100, Determining Lot Coverage.

Lot depth. The distance from the midpoint of the front property line of a lot to the midpoint of the rear property line, or to the most distant point on any other lot line where there is no rear lot line. See Section 11.03.070, Measuring Lot Width and Depth.

Lot frontage. The portion of a lot that fronts on or adjoins a street.

Lot line. A line separating the lot from a street; the side from a street or adjoining property; the rear from an alley or street or adjoining property.

Lot line types.

Front lot line. The lot line that abuts a street or public right-of-way. For corner lots, the shortest side fronting a public street is considered the front lot line regardless of which street is used for vehicle or pedestrian access, or street address.

Interior lot line. Any lot line that is not adjacent to a street.

Rear lot line. The lot line that is opposite and most distant from the front lot line. Where no lot line is within 45 degrees of being parallel to the front lot line, a line ten feet in length within the lot, parallel to and at the maximum possible distance from the front lot line, will be deemed the rear lot line for the purpose of establishing the minimum rear yard.

Side lot line. Any lot line that is not a front or rear lot line.

Street side lot line. A side lot line of a corner lot that is adjacent to a street.

Figure 11.73.020(A): Lot Lines Types [Figure: Figure 11.73.020(A): Lot Lines Types]

Lot types.

Lot, abutting. A lot having a common property line or separated by a public path or lane, private street, or easement to the subject lot.

Lot, corner. A lot or parcel situated at the intersection of two or more streets that have an angle intersection measured within said lot or parcel of not more than 135 degrees.

Lot, flag. A lot with access to a street by means of a strip of land having less than the required site width but not less than 15 feet of frontage. The length of a strip shall be measured from the frontage line to the nearest point of intersection with that lot line parallel or most nearly parallel to the frontage line.

Lot, interior. A lot or parcel of land other than a corner or flag lot.

Lot, key. An interior lot adjoining the rear lot line of a reversed corner lot.

Lot, reversed corner. A corner lot, the street side lot line of which is substantially a continuation of the front line of a lot or parcel of land which adjoins the rear lot line of said lot.

Lot, through. A lot having frontage on two parallel or approximately parallel streets.

Figure 11.73.020(B): Lot and Yard Types [Figure: Figure 11.73.020(B): Lot and Yard Types]

Lot width. The distance between the side lot lines, measured at a right angle to the lot depth at the midpoint of the lot depth line. See Section 11.03.070, Measuring Lot Width and Depth.

Maintenance and repair. The repair or replacement of nonbearing walls, fixtures, wiring, roof or plumbing that restores the character, scope, size or design of a structure to its previously existing, authorized, and undamaged condition.

Manufactured (mobile) home. A structure constructed on or after June 15, 1976 in compliance with state standards in effect at the time of construction, is transportable in one or more sections, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-family dwelling with or without a foundation system when connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems. "Manufactured home" includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification and complies with the standards established under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974.

Mezzanine. An intermediate floor within a building interior without complete enclosing interior walls or partitions that is not separated from the floor or level below by a wall and has a floor area that is no greater than one third of the total floor area of the floor below. See Story.

Major transit stop. A site in which there is unobstructed access to the major transit stop from the development, containing any of the following:

(1) An existing rail or bus rapid transit station.

(2) A ferry terminal served by either a bus or rail transit service.

(3) The intersection of two or more major bus routes with a frequency of service interval of 15 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods. (Section 21155(b) of the Public Resources Code.)

A development shall be considered to have unobstructed access to a major transit stop if a resident is able to access the major transit stop without encountering natural or constructed impediments.

Market-rate unit. A dwelling unit that is not an affordable unit.

Maximum allowable residential density. The density allowed under the Development Code and the Land Use Element of the General Plan, or if a range of density is permitted, means the maximum allowable density for the specific district density range applicable to the project. If the density allowed under the Development Code is inconsistent with the density allowed under the Land Use Element of the General Plan, the General Plan density shall prevail (Government Code Section 65915(o)(2)).

Minimum affordable housing component. A housing development project that includes a minimum of any of the following:

(1) Very low-income minimum affordable housing component - Provides at least five percent of the total units for very low-income household residents (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(B));

(2) Low-income minimum affordable housing component - Provides at least ten percent of the total units for low-income households (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(A)); or

(3) Moderate-income minimum affordable housing component - Provides at least ten percent of the total dwelling units in a common interest development for moderate-income households (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(D)).

Mining and Surface Mining Act (SMARA). For purposes of regulating mining activities the County shall utilize the definitions included in the California Mining and Geology Board's SMARA Regulations and Public Resources Code PRC Subsections 2725 to 2735.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). NEPA [42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.] was signed into law on January 1, 1970. The Act establishes national environmental policy and goals for the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of the environment and provides a process for implementing these goals within the federal agencies.

Noise terms.

Ambient noise level. The composite of noise from all sources excluding an alleged offensive noise. In this context, the ambient noise level represents the normal or existing level of environmental noise at a given location for a specified time of day or night.

Decibel. A unit for measuring the amplitude of a sound, equal to 20 times the logarithm to the base ten of the ratio of the pressure of the sound measured to the reference pressure, which is 20 micropascals.

Noise. Any sound that annoys or disturbs humans or which causes or tends to cause an adverse psychological or physiological effect on humans.

Noise Level Reduction (NLR). The difference in decibels of noise level from the outside of a building to the interior of a building, generally resulting from various construction methods and the materials used in walls, windows, ceilings, doors, and vents of a building.

Nonconforming use and development terms.

Abandoned. A use that has ceased or a structure that has been vacated for a time period as specified in this Code. Abandonment does not include temporary or short-term interruptions to a use or occupancy of a structure during periods of remodeling, maintaining, or otherwise improving or rearranging a facility.

Nonconforming building or structure. Any building or structure that was lawfully established and in compliance with all applicable ordinances and laws at the time it was constructed but which, due to the application of this Code or any amendment thereto, no longer complies with all the applicable regulation and standards of development in the zone in which it is located.

Nonconforming lot. A lot, the area, dimensions, or location of which was lawful prior to the effective date of this Code, or any amendment thereto, but which fails by reason of such adoption, revision, or amendment to conform to the present requirements of the zoning district.

Nonconforming sign. A sign that lawfully existed prior to but which fails by reason of such adoption or amendment to conform to all of the standards and regulation of this Code.

Nonconforming use. A use of a structure or land that was lawfully established and maintained, but which does not conform with currently applicable use regulations for the district in which it is located by reason of adoption or amendment of this Code.

Nuisance. Anything which is injurious to health, or is indecent or offensive to the senses, or an obstruction to the free use and enjoyment of property, or a violation of this Code.

Official plan line (ultimate right-of-way). The boundaries and limits of a planned right-of-way, including the future right-of-way of an existing street as it is proposed to be widened and including all lands necessary for the building, widening or maintenance of any road, street, highway or any other type of public way which planned right-of-way is based on the general plan.

On-site. Located on the lot that is the subject of discussion.

Open space types.

Private open space. Open areas for outdoor living and recreation that are adjacent and directly accessible to a single dwelling unit, reserved for the exclusive use of residents of the dwelling unit and their guests.

Common open space. Areas for outdoor living and recreation that are intended for the use of residents and guests of more than one dwelling unit.

Usable open space. Outdoor areas that provide for outdoor living and/or recreation for the use of residents.

Other incentives of equivalent financial value. The reduction or waiver of requirements that the County might otherwise apply as conditions of condominium conversion approval, but shall not be construed to require the County to provide cash transfer payments or other monetary compensation (Government Code Section 65915.5(c)).

Outdoor storage. The keeping, in an unroofed area, of any goods, junk, material, merchandise, or vehicles in the same place for more than 24 hours, except for the keeping of building materials reasonably required for construction work on the premises pursuant to a valid and current building permit issued by the County.

Overlay district. An area where certain additional requirements are superimposed upon a base zone district such as but not limited to Floodplain, Airport Environs, and Planning Reserve districts.

Owner. The person shown as the legal owner of the property on the latest equalized assessment roll in the office of the County Assessor.

Parcel (lot). Land described as a lot or parcel in a recorded deed or shown as a lot or parcel on a subdivision map or parcel map on file in the County Recorder's Office.

Parking area. An area of a lot, structure, or any other area, including driveways, which is designed for and the primary purpose of which is to provide for the temporary storage of operable motor vehicles.

Parking space, off-street. An area, covered or uncovered, designed and usable for the temporary storage of a vehicle, which is paved and accessible by an automobile without permanent obstruction.

Peak hour. Period of time with the greatest amount of activity and vehicles on the site.

Permit. Any zoning certificate or clearance, administrative use permit, minor conditional use permit, conditional use permit, temporary use permit, building permit, license, certificate, approval, or other entitlement for development and/or use of property as required by any public agency.

Permitted use. Any use allowed in a zoning district without a requirement for approval of a use permit, but subject to any restrictions applicable to that zoning district.

Person. Any individual, firm, corporation or public agency whether principal, agent, employee or otherwise.

Persons and/or families of lower income. Persons or families whose income does not exceed 80 percent of area median income, adjusted for family size by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), in accordance with adjustment factors adopted and amended from time to time by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) pursuant to Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.

Personal use. An activity conducted on private property for the enjoyment of the property owner and their household and occasional use by family and friends known personally by the owner that is not part of a commercial or business endeavor.

Persons with disabilities. Persons who have a medical, physical, or mental condition, disorder or disability as defined in California Government Code Section 12926, that limits one or more major life activities.

Planning director. The Director of the department currently known as the "Planning Department" within the Community Development and Services Agency, and any successor department that may exist in the future.

Pre-existing. In existence prior to the effective date of this Code.

Production housing (tract housing). A type of housing development in which multiple similar homes are built on a tract of land which is subdivided into individual lots. Using stock plans or master building plans the homes may offer a few options (i.e. trim types, bonus rooms, third car garages, etc...) but the homes while "stick built" (constructed on site) are not truly custom built homes.

Project. Any proposal for a new or changed use or for new construction, alteration, or enlargement of any structure, that is subject to the provisions of this Code. This term also refers to any action that qualifies as a "project" as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act.

Qualified applicant. The property owner, the owner's agent, or any person, corporation, partnership or other legal entity that has a legal or equitable title to land that is the subject of a development proposal or is the holder of an option or contract to purchase such land or otherwise has an enforceable proprietary interest in such land.

Qualified housing development. A housing development that meets the requirements of Section 11.30.040 for density bonus.

Qualified land. Land offered for donation in accordance with Section 11.30.080 that meets the criteria set forth in Subsection 11.30.080(a).

Recreational vehicle. A motor home, travel trailer, truck camper, or camping trailer with or without motor power designed for human habitation for recreational, emergency, or other occupancy, which meets all of the following criteria:

•

It contains less than 320 square feet of internal living room area, excluding built-in equipment, including but not limited to wardrobe, closets, cabinets, kitchen units, or fixtures, and a bath or toilet room;

•

It contains 400 square feet or less of gross area measured at maximum horizontal projections;

•

It is built on a single chassis; and

•

It is either self-propelled, truck-mounted, or permanently towable on the highways without a permit issued by the appropriate state agency.

Rescission. The County's unilateral unmaking of an approval for a legally sufficient reason, such as applicant's material breach of a condition.

Right-of-way. A strip of land acquired by reservation, dedication, forced dedication, prescription or condemnation and intended to be occupied or occupied by a road, railroad, electric transmission lines, oil or gas pipeline, water line, sanitary sewer, storm drain, bicycle/pedestrian path, or other similar use.

Screening. Screening refers to a wall, fence, hedge, informal planting, or berm, provided for the purpose of buffering a building or activity from neighboring areas or from the street.

Setback. The area between a property line and a building or structure which must be kept clear or open. See Section 11.03.040, Measuring Distances, and Section 11.03.120, Determining Setbacks (Yards).

Senior citizen housing development. A residential development that is developed, substantially rehabilitated, or substantially renovated for senior citizens and that has at least 35 senior citizen housing development units (Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(C).)

Senior citizen housing development unit. A residential dwelling unit in a senior citizen housing development that is available to, and occupied by, a senior citizen, as defined in Civil Code Section 51.3.

Sidewalk. A paved walkway, bikeway, or combination of those designed for use by the public, generally within the public right-of-way and generally parallel to a public street.

Sign-related terms. The following terms are related to Chapter 11.27, Signs.

Abandoned sign. A sign remaining in place or not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available on the business premise where the sign is located.

Animated sign. A sign that uses movement or change of lighting to depict action or create a special effect or scene.

Area of sign. The area included within the outer dimensions of a sign face display area including all portions not part of the necessary supporting structure; a double-faced sign whose faces are parallel or no more than 30 degrees apart shall be deemed to be a single sign for the purposes of determining sign area. In the case of a sign placed on a wall or other structure surface, the area shall be computed by enclosing the sign within sets of parallel lines.

Awning sign. A sign painted or otherwise affixed permanently to the exterior surface of an awning. For purposes of this Code, awning means shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building and constructed of a rigid frame covered by a flexible skin (e.g., as fabric, synthetic material, or thin sheet metal).

Banner. A temporary sign made of fabric or any non-rigid material with no enclosing framework.

Building-mounted sign. Any sign mounted or erected on or against any building or façade, including all wall signs, awning and canopy signs and projecting signs.

Canopy. A rigid multi-sided structure covered with fabric, metal, or other material and supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground, or cantilevered out from the main structure.

Construction sign. A temporary sign describing in words and/or drawings a planned future development project on a property.

Directional sign. An on-site sign designed to direct or guide pedestrian or vehicular traffic and which is non-advertising in nature, except for a logo and directional information, (e.g., handicapped parking, one way, exit, and entrance).

Electronic message center sign. A sign whose informational content can be changed or altered by electric, electro-mechanical, electronic, or any other artificial energy means.

Fence sign. A sign attached to or painted onto any freestanding wall or fence.

Flag. A loose fabric or membrane secured to a pole or rod, which flutters and moves with air or wind movement.

Freestanding sign. A sign that is permanently supported upon the ground by poles or braces and is not attached to any building or other structure.

Height. The vertical distance measured from the lowest ground level directly beneath the sign to the highest point at the top of the sign. The ground level shall be either the natural grade or finished grade, whichever is lowest.

Illegal sign. A sign that does not meet the requirements of this Code or that does not have legal nonconforming status.

Illuminated sign. A sign with an artificial source of light incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.

Inflatable sign. A form of inflatable device (e.g., shaped as an animal, blimp, or other object) that is displayed, printed, or painted on the surface of an inflatable background, and is primarily installed outside a building to attract attention to or to advertise a business, a business location, a service, a product, or an event. An inflatable sign shall not be considered a balloon.

Interior illumination. Lighting whose source is contained within the sign.

Logo. A specially designed graphic symbol of a business establishment, a company, or any other legal private or public entity.

Marquee sign. A sign advertising an event, performance, service, seminar, conference, or show, and displayed on a permanent roof-like structure or canopy made of rigid materials supported by and extending from the facade of a building.

Mansard. A wall which has a slope equal to or greater than two vertical feet for each horizontal foot and has been designed to look like a roof.

Master sign program. A coordinated program of signage designed to encourage consistency in signage for developments with multiple tenants or for developments with a single tenant proposing multiple signs.

Monument sign. A low-profile freestanding sign erected upon or supported solely by a planter, pedestal base, or similar ground structure approximately the same dimension as the height of the sign and which is designed to incorporate the architectural theme and building material of the building on the premises.

Neon sign. A sign with tubing that is internally illuminated by neon or other electrically charged gas.

Off-site advertising sign. A sign structure or billboard, whether freestanding or mounted on an existing building, built for the purpose of advertising an establishment, product or service that is not available on the property upon which the sign is located at the time the sign structure was erected.

Off-site directional sign. A sign offering directional information to a business, location or place located in an area different from where the sign is located.

Parapet. That portion of the building wall that extends above the roof of the building.

Pennant. A device made of flexible materials, (e.g., cloth, paper, or plastic) that may or may not contain copy, and which is installed for the purpose of attracting attention.

Pole sign. A freestanding sign supported by one or more poles.

Political sign. A temporary sign installed that advertises a political candidate, a political party, or a political issue.

Portable sign. A sign not permanently attached to, mounted upon, or affixed to a building, structure, or the ground. Portable signs include A-frame signs, sandwich board signs, and signs on wheels.

Projecting sign. A sign, the sign surface of which is not parallel to the face of the supporting wall and which is supported wholly by the wall. This definition shall include V- or wing-type signs.

Real estate sign. A temporary sign indicating that the premises on which the sign is located is for sale, lease, or rent. These signs typically include rider signs that describe amenities such as swimming pools and spas, open house signs, subdivision signs, and off-site directional signs.

Roof sign. A sign erected, constructed, and attached to and/or maintained upon or above any roof or portion of a roof of any building, including a mansard roof. For the purposes of this Code, a mansard roof is any roof or parapet wall with roofing material for siding that slopes from 30 degrees to 90 degrees and does not have a ridgeline.

Sign. Any letters, figure, visual symbol, emblem, logo, object, or display, or any combination thereof, designed or used to identify, attract attention to, advertise, or communicate information. Signs include display surfaces together with such facilities as are utilized in supporting, maintaining, and illuminating the display surfaces.

Sign area. See Area of Sign.

Sign copy. Any words, letters, logos, numbers, figures, design, or other symbolic representation incorporated into a sign.

Sign face. The surface or surfaces used for the display of a sign message as seen from any one direction.

Temporary sign. A sign that is designed or intended to be temporarily mounted or displayed and that is not intended for permanent or long-term use.

Wall sign. A sign painted or installed on or attached to a wall and which is parallel to the building facade. This definition includes painted, channel letters, and can signs.

Window sign. A sign painted or installed on a glass window or door or located within 12 inches from inside the window in a manner that it can be viewed from the exterior of a structure.

Single Room Occupancy (SRO). A residential rental facility containing individual secured rooms (residential unit) that have a minimum floor area of 120 square feet that may have individual or shared kitchen and/or bathroom facilities. SROs may also include efficiency dwelling units that meet California Building Code requirements. SROs shall be developed as a multi-unit development or located on the upper stories of a commercial building where mixed uses are permitted. Each unit shall be occupied by no more than two persons and is offered on a monthly rental basis.

Site. Any lot or parcel of land or combination of contiguous lots or parcels of land, whether held separately or joined together in common ownership or occupancy where grading or construction is to be performed or has been performed.

Specific, adverse impact. A significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application for the housing development was deemed complete. Inconsistency with the Development Code or General Plan land use designation shall not constitute a specific, adverse impact upon public health or safety (Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(2)).

Specific plan. A plan for a defined area that is consistent with the General Plan and with the provisions of the California Government Code, Section 65450 et seq.

State. The State of California.

Story. That portion of a building included between the upper surface of any floor and the upper surface of the floor next above, except that the topmost story shall be that portion of a building included between the upper surface of the topmost floor and the roof above.

Street. A public or private right-of-way whose function is to carry vehicular traffic and other modes of travel, or provide vehicular access to abutting property.

Street line. The boundary between a street and a lot or parcel of land.

Structure. That which is built or constructed or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined in some definite manner.

Accessory structure. A subordinate structure, the use of which is incidental to that of the main structure on the same lot.

Permanent structure. Anything constructed or erected which requires a fixed location on the ground, or is attached to a building or other structure having fixed location on the ground.

Primary structure (main structure). A structure housing the principal use of a site or functioning as the principal use.

Temporary structure. A structure without any foundation or footings and which is intended to be removed when the designated time period, activity, or use for which the temporary structure was erected has ceased.

Structural alteration. Any change of the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls, columns, beams or girders, floor joists, ceiling joists, or roof rafters.

Swimming pool. A structure, whether above or below grade level, designed to hold water over 24 inches deep and is intended for swimming, recreational bathing or wading. Swimming pools includes in-ground, above ground and on-ground pools; hot tubs; and fixed-in-place wading pools. Does not include portable wading pools and similar structures which are not permanently installed and do not require water filtration, circulation, or purification systems.

Tandem parking. An arrangement of parking spaces such that one or more spaces must be driven across in order to access another space or spaces.

Temporary uses. The following terms are related to Section 11.32.310, Temporary Uses.

Garage sales. The sale or offering for sale to the general public of over five items of personal property on a portion of a lot that contains a residence, whether inside or outside any building.

Outdoor sales, temporary and seasonal. The sale or offering for sale to the general public of merchandise outside of a permanent structure on property owned or leased by the person, firm, or corporation. These sales are of a limited duration and conducted on an occasional basis, and are secondary or incidental to the principal permitted use or structure existing on the property.

Total units and total dwelling units. Dwelling units other than density bonus units (Government Code Section 65915(b)(3)).

Unit. See Dwelling Unit.

Urban area. Developed areas that are defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as contiguous census block groups with a population density of at least 1,000 people per square mile with any census block groups around this core having a density of at least 500 people per square mile.

For purposes of environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, use of the term "Urban area" is limited to areas mapped and designated as urbanized by the U.S. Bureau of the Census.

For flood control purposes: "Urban area" is defined as a developed area in which there are 10,000 residents or more (Government Code Section 65007(j)).

For water quality purposes the term urbanized area shall be as determined by the statewide NPDES permit.

Urbanizing area. A developed area or an area outside a developed area that is planned or anticipated to have 10,000 residents or more within the next ten years. (Government Code Section 65007(k).)

Use. The purpose for which a site or structure is arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered, or enlarged for which either a site or a structure is or may be occupied or maintained.

Use, accessory. A use that is customarily associated with, and is incidental and subordinate to, the principal use and located on the same lot as the principal use.

Use, incidental. A secondary use of a lot and/or building that is located on the same lot but is not customarily associated with the primary use.

Use, primary. A primary or dominant use established, or proposed to be established, on a lot.

Use classification. A system of classifying uses into a limited number of use types on the basis of common functional, product, or compatibility characteristics. All use types are grouped into the following categories: residential; public and semi-public; commercial; industrial; transportation, communication, and utilities; and agricultural and natural resources. See Chapter 11.72, Use Classifications.

Use permit. A discretionary permit, such as an administrative use, minor conditional use, or conditional use permit, which may be granted by the appropriate review authority to provide for the accommodation of land uses with special site or design requirements, operating characteristics, or potential adverse effects on surroundings, which are not permitted as of right but which may be approved upon completion of a review process and, where necessary, the imposition of special conditions of approval by the permit granting authority. See Chapter 11.57, Use Permits.

Valley Growth Boundary (VGB). An area designated in the 2030 General Plan that includes the existing suburban and urbanized communities of Linda, Olivehurst, Plumas Lake, the North Arboga Study Area, Sports and Entertainment Zone, as well as new job generating areas adjacent to Highway 65 and future growth areas identified as planning reserve.

Variance. A discretionary grant of permission to depart from the specific requirements of this Code that is warranted when, due to special circumstances regarding the physical characteristics of the property, the strict application of standards would deprive the property of privileges available to other property in the same zoning classification. See Chapter 11.59, Variances.

Vehicle. Any vehicle, as vehicle is defined by the California Vehicle Code, including any automobile, camper, camp trailer, trailer, trailer coach, motorcycle, house car, boat, or similar conveyance.

Vibration. A periodic motion of the particles of an elastic body or medium in alternately opposite directions from the position of equilibrium.

Visible. Capable of being seen (whether or not legible) by a person of normal height and visual acuity walking or driving on a public road, sidewalk or pedestrian way.

Wall. Any vertical exterior surface of building or any part thereof, including windows.

Weekday. Any day, Monday through Friday, that is not a federal, state, or local holiday.

Wireless communication terms. The following terms are related to Section 11.32.300, Wireless Communications Facilities.

Antenna. Any system of wires, poles, rods, reflecting discs, or similar devices used for the transmission or receiving of electromagnetic radio frequency waves.

Amateur radio antenna. Any antenna used to receive or transmit radio signals on the amateur radio bandwidth, as designated by federal regulations.

Base station. The transmission and associated equipment and non-tower support structures at a fixed location that enable FCC-licensed or authorized wireless communications between user equipment and a communications network. May also be referred to as the equipment compound or wireless facility lease area.

Camouflage wireless facility. To disguise a wireless facility by incorporating it into the architectural design of a building or structure or by utilizing design and siting techniques that disguise the wireless facility as a structure or object other than a wireless facility, which is either already present in the area or blends in with the existing environment. Examples of camouflage techniques include, but are not limited to, trees, clock towers, bell steeples, light poles and flag poles. The use of mono-pines (or similar faux vegetation) shall not be considered appropriate camouflage unless integrated into the surrounding landscape with the use of live trees, new or existing structures or other design features.

Carrier on Wheels or Cell on Wheels (COW). A portable self-contained wireless facility that can be moved to a location and set up to provide wireless services on a temporary or emergency basis. A COW is typically vehicle-mounted and contains a telescoping boom as the antenna support structure.

Co-location. The location of two or more wireless communication facilities on a single support structure or otherwise sharing a common location. For the purposes of this Chapter, collocation shall also include the location of wireless communication facilities with other facilities such as water tanks, light standards, and other utility facilities and structures that are capable of structurally supporting the attachment of wireless facilities in compliance with applicable codes.

Communication tower. Any structure that is used to transmit or receive electromagnetic radio frequency waves or that supports such a device.

Eligible facilities request. A request for modification of an existing wireless tower or base station that involves co-location of new transmission equipment or replacement or modification of existing equipment but does not include a substantial modification.

Emergency service radio. Radio and related wireless communication facilities necessary for the operations of public-safety, emergency services or governmental agencies such as dispatch, emergency response, and related communications. Wireless communication facilities shall be deemed an ancillary use and exempt from the provisions of this Chapter if they are located on the same site as an essential/emergency service facility and are exclusively used for government or public safety purposes.

Ground-mounted. A facility that is fully or partially supported by a platform, framework, pole, or other structural system that is affixed to or placed directly on or in the ground.

Lattice tower. A structure, guyed or freestanding, erected on the ground, which generally consists of metal crossed strips or bars to support antennas and equipment.

Substantial modification. A modification to an existing wireless facility that meets any one or more of the following criteria:

(1) Increases the existing vertical height of the wireless support structure by: (a) more than ten percent, or (b) the height of one additional antenna array with separation from the nearest existing antenna not to exceed 20 feet, whichever is greater;

(2) Adds an appurtenance to the body of a wireless support structure that protrudes horizontally from the edge of the wireless support structure more than 20 feet, or more than the width of the wireless support structure at the level of the appurtenance, whichever is greater (except where necessary to shelter the antenna from inclement weather or to connect the antenna to the tower via cable); and/or,

(3) Increases the square footage of the existing equipment compound by more than 2,500 square feet.

Monopole. A facility that consists of a single pole structure erected on the ground to support wireless communication antennas and connecting appurtenances.

Transmission equipment. Any equipment that facilitates transmission for any FCC-licensed or authorized wireless communication service, including, but not limited to, radio transceivers, antennas and other relevant equipment associated with and necessary to their operation, including coaxial or fiber-optic cable, and regular and back-up power supply.

Wireless communication facility. A facility containing communication towers and/or antennas and any related equipment for the purpose of transmitting or receiving electromagnetic radio frequency waves.

Yard. An open space on a lot that is unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward, except as otherwise permitted by this Code.

Front yard (area). A yard extending across the front of a lot for the full width of the lot between the side lot lines. The depth of a front yard setback shall be a distance specified by this Code for the district in which it is located and measured inward from the front lot line. The front yard area includes all areas up to the face of the primary building.

Interior side yard. A yard extending along an interior side of a lot from the front lot line to the rear lot line, and to a depth specified by this Code for the district in which it is located and measured inward from the interior side lot line.

Street side yard. A yard extending along the street side of a corner lot from the front lot line to the rear lot line, and to a depth specified by this Code for the district in which it is located and measured inward from the street side lot line.

Rear yard. A yard extending across the rear of a lot for its full width between side lot lines, and to a depth specified by this Code for the district in which it is located. If a lot has no rear lot line, a line ten feet in length within the lot, parallel to and at the maximum possible distance from the front lot line, will be deemed the rear lot line for the purpose of establishing the minimum rear yard.

Zoning administrator. A staff member of the Community Development and Services Agency appointed by the CDSA Director charged with enforcing and administering the zoning provisions of the Development Code.

Zoning district. A specifically delineated area or district in the County within which regulations and requirements uniformly govern the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings.

(Ord. No. 1624)