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ORD 211 ORDINANCE NO. 211 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES APPROVING SPECIFIC PLAN 111(29505-29701 WESTERN AVENUE) WHEREAS, the City Council has held a public hearing on this matter on October 7, 1986, at which time all interested parties were given an oppor- tunity to be heard and present evidence: WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has also reviewed this matter on July 29, August 12, August 26 and September 9, 1986, and has recommended approv- al in Resolution P.C. No, 86-20. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1: The City Council has received and considered the contents of Environmental Assessment No. 492, the Initial Study, and Negative Decla- ration, in reaching its decision on Specific Plan III and finds that this Specific Plan will not result in a significant environmental effect. Fur- ther, the City Council does hereby certify that all of the requirements pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act and the City of Rancho Palos Verdes have been met, and a Final Negative Declaration will be issu- ed. Section 2: The City Council finds that Specific Plan III is consistent with the General Plan. Section 3: The City Council finds that this Specific Plan is necessary to establish development standards for this area along Western Avenue, 29505-29701 Western Avenue. Section 4: For the foregoing reasons the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes hereby approves Specific Plan III pursuant to Exhibit "A" attached. PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED, _._ r 21 , 1986 OR ATTEST CITY CLERK STATE UCALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ) I, JO PURCELL, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes do hereby cer- tify that the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing ordinance, being Ordinance No. 211 , passed first reading on October 7, 1986, was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said City at a regular meeting thereof held on October 21 , 1986, and that the same was passed and adopted by the following roll call vote: AYES: HUGHES, BACHARACH, McTAGGART, RYAN AND MAYOR._HINCHLIFFE NOES: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE z LA CITY CLERK Y OF RANCHO PALOS VE RDE S 701CP/ORD1.1 SPECIFIC PLAN III 29505 - 29701 WESTERN AVENUE OCTOBER 1986 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT Exhibit "A" 701CP/ORD1.3 -2- Ordinance No. 211 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. INTRODUCTION 1 II, AUTHORITY AND SCOPE 1 III, RE LAT I ON S H I P TO GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING 1-3 IV, AREA ANALY S I S A. DESCRIPTION AND CONDITIONS 3-4 B. MAJOR ISSUES AND CONCERNS 4-6 V. PLAN CONCEPT A* DEVELOPMENT AND USE 6 B. SITE PLAN 7 C. GRADING 7 D. THEME 8-9 VI. PLAN ELEMENTS A. DEVELOPMENT AND USE RE GU LAT I ON S 1, SUMMARY OF EXISTING DEVELOPMENT CODE REGULATIONS 9-10 2. USE OF SPECIFIC PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT CODE 10-11 3. SPECIFIC PLAN REGULATIONS a. SETBACKS/BUFFERS 11 b, USE LIMITATIONS 11-12 c. PARKING STANDARDS 12-13 d. SIGNS 13-15 e. HEIGHT 15-16 f. COVERAGE 16 g. LIGHTING 16 h, TRASH ENCLOSURES 16-17 B, C I RCU LAT I ON 1. EXTERNAL 17-18 2. INTERNAL 18-22 3. PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE 22-23 4. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION 23 Exhibit "A" 701CP/ORD1.4 -3- Ordinance No. 211 TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED PAGE Co DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES 1 . ARCHITECTURE 23-25 2. LANDSCAPE 25-27 3. SITE FEATURES 27-28 4, SIGNAGE 28 5, STREETSCAPE 29 D. UTILITIES VII. IMPLEMENTATION A. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS 30 B, RENOVATION 30 C. PUBLIC FACILITIES 31 Do SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENTS 31 E, ENFORCEMENT 31 LIST OF FIGURES A* AREA MAP B, PROPERTY OWNE RS HI P C. LAND USE Do ZONING E. EXTREME SLOPE F. EXISTING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS G. TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS H. PARKING SPACE DIMENSIONS I. BUILDING HEIGHT ENVELOPE Exhibit "A" 701CP/ORD1.5 —4— Ordinance No. 211 t 1 1 t SPECIFIC PLAN III AR A MA O• r. • pop* @ Y N•prl►� I � • iNM WiNM. � '• 0Mt~r•�. CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES \ �• , jF BERNw Ex ' CA t 7-7 =_ SUMMERLAND w -5- Ordinance No. 211 I. INTRODUCTION The Specific Plan is an implementation tool of the General Plan that focuses on a particular parcel or parcels. The Specific Plan sets stan- dards by which development proposals can be evaluated. The Specific Plan is more detailed and is often shorter term than the General Plan. The intent and purpose of this Specific Plan is to establish a guide for the comprehensive redevelopment or re-novation of the existing commer- cial development located south of Crestwood Street to the City boundary, 29505 - 29701 South Western Avenue. I I. AUTHORITY AND SCOPE Section 65450 of the California Government Code enables local govern- ments to adopt Specific Plans for the systematic implementation of their General Plans. III. RELATIONSHIP TO GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING This Specific Plan pursues the attainment of various General Plan goals and most directly relates to the following General Plan policies: Land Use Place commercial activities under the same building orientation con- trols as residential activities in regard to topographic and climatic design factors . Require commercial activity, where a commercial area would be noncon- forming with adjoining activities , to provide the necessary mitigating mea- sures, including landscaping, etc. Circulation Make special efforts to ensure safe conditions on ingress and egress routes to commercial areas for both pedestrians and vehicles. Study parking areas as to the degree of use for the total area. Where a portion of the parking area is determined to only serve short-term seasonal demands , alternative surface treatments , such as grass, should be employed. Require adequate off-street parking for all existing and future de- velopment. Buffering/Screening Require adequate provisions be incorporated into commercial site de- sign to reduce negative impacts on adjoining residential areas. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -6- Ordinance No. 211 Require adequate screening or buffering techniques for all new and existing commercial activities in order to minimize odors and noise pollu- tion and emissions, Require commercial sites to limit the exposure of parking and exteri- or service areas from the view of adjoining sites and circulation routes. Underground all new power lines and communications cables and imple- ment programs to place existing lines and cables underground. Views Require that scenic view disruption by commercial activities be taken into account not only in the physical design of structures and signs, but also in night lighting of exterior grounds. Preserve and enhance existing positive visual elements, while restor- ing those which are lacking in their present visual quality. This Specific Plan does not propose any change to the existing Gener- al Plan designation or zoning of the area. Section VI, Plan Elements dis- cusses the relationship of this Specific Plan to the Development Code regu- lations pertaining to the Commercial General (CG) zone. IV" AREA ANALY S I S A. Description and Conditions This Specific Plan area includes all properties which front on the west side of Western Avenue from and including 29505-29701 Western Avenue. Most of this area was developed 20-30 years ago, except the Mark C. Bloome site, which was constructed in 1976. The property was zoned com- mercial by Los Angeles County prior to annexation in 1983. The entire area is now zoned Commercial (Commercial General - Specific Plan District) . The area includes approximately 135,000 square feet of improved floor area, more than 70% of which is non-commercial, i.e. the Eastview Townhouse. The townhouse has a density of 44 units per acre which is double the den- sity allowed in the City's highest density residential district. Adjacent land uses are: Commercial across Western at north and south ends; Open Space Recreational directly across Western; Single Family Residential to the south and to the west behind 29505-29627 Western Avenue; Institutional to the west behind 29641 and 29701 Western Avenue; and Com- mercial to the north along Western Avenue. Generally the area slopes up from Western Avenue with a pad area along the street and an extreme slope at the rear. This slope serves to physically separate the commercial area from the single-family residential area to the rear on Bernice Drive and Crestwood Street. The extreme slope also constitutes an unbuildable portion which ranges from 10% to 40% of each property except the driveway (Property 7) . The landscape of this slope was originally planted to enhance slope stability and consists of a variety of ground covers, shrubs, and trees lacking any unifying theme. 701CP/ORD1,1-25 -7- Ordinance No. 211 SPECIFIC PLAN III PRO RTY' OWN RSHI NORTH /I65 1 CRESTWOOR 60' 200' 100 _._. Sill i.PCrLEGEN � 396 f� ANCHA - — LAM � _ 3's 1 29505 z =,_ 29s 2% 2- 29519—S-PIROPOVLOS ; t� S� 29529—GOODYEAR TIRE ` 320 3'e t .29529 G _ AND RUBBER CO. 4s— 29601 FRANK & .FRANK16 Z • i 5-- 29621-627—PIERSON ammumm s: _ �+ 0 INDIVIDUAL f 2964la- 7 DOWNERS 7-- N/A —'SABOVICH AND OWINGS 8— 29701 — BURTIS CORPORATION -8- Ordinance No. 211 SPECIFIC ZONING NORTH n 50# 200# 100 LEGEND E-3 -- RS, -4p- RESIDENTIAL CG-- COMMERCIAL GENERAL =~- I--- INSTITUTIONAL ..•2 r 3_ �rjyS .t .... �- AI I"- AGRICULTURE �• • • • (CITY OF LmA,) PLAN 111 -10- Ordinance No. 211 This Specific Plan area is immediately across from Peck Park, a 75 acre park in the City of Los Angeles. The park contains a variety of facilities, picnic areas, and a community building. The park landscaping includes a variety of Southern California ornamental plants that are also found in much more limited quantities in the developed portions of the Specific Plan area. B. Major Issues and Concerns Specific Plan Area III is located at an entrance to the City from Los Angeles (San Pedro) for west bound traffic on Summerland Street and north bound traffic on Western Avenue. In its present condition it is not visually distinct as Rancho Palos Verdes versus San Pedro. The area can be characterized as minimally landscaped, lacking architectural cohesiveness, and having a proliferation of signage and uti- lity wires. The sparse landscaping in the area contrasts starkly with the lush greenery prevalent in Peck Park, directly across Western Avenue. The Tasman Sea, 29601 Western Avenue, by its architecture, col- or, and signage is visually prominent. It is also the only motel along this segment of Western Avenue and the only motel in Rancho Palos Verdes. The E astview Townhouse, 29641 Western Avenue, is also visually prominent by its height and mass. It is four stories over a parking area. It consists of 70 units at a density of approximately 44 units per acre. It is zoned commercial, and as such, it is an existing nonconforming use. The area is also adjacent to residential properties; however, the extreme slope at the rear of most of the area creates a buffer between the residential and commercial properties while limiting the developable area of these parcels. Additional factors affecting the development of the area are: substandard lot sizes and shallow lot depth; lack of a consistent theme for site identification; inadequate street furniture and public amenities; abo- veground utilities; and, inadequate trash enclosures and utility or mecha- nical equipment screening. Potential conflicts at the Summerland Drive access also remain to be resolved. Although the area is subject to the problems and constraints discussed above, many opportunities for positive development beneficial to property owners and surrounding residents exist. New development and reno- vation of existing development can complement the scenic attraction of the Peninsula/Harbor area without adversely affecting surrounding residential property. Linkages between the adjacent park and the Western Avenue gate- way to the City and the Peninsula can be forged. The unique identity of Peninsula development can be reinforced. This Plan is specifically directed toward encouraging quality renovation and development that builds on the opportunities available to this area and eliminates or reduces the constraints this area faces. The Plan proposes cohesiveness in design to suggest an identity for the site as well as for the City. The Plan proposes that the area be strengthened as 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -11- Ordinance No. 211 SPECIFIC PLAN 111 EXTREME'SLO Es NORTH JI SO' 200' 100 EG ND ........... �''''•'''•'9 0- 35+ X16 SLOPE ........... .......... ........... . -12- Ordinance No. 211 an entry to Rancho Palos Verdes. The Plan seeks to improve the existing access to the area and provide for safe pedestrian, bicycle, vehicular, and transit access to the area. The Plan is directed toward protecting the views of surrounding residences while minimizing the adverse sensory im- pacts (noise, odors) of the area through effective buffering. Finally, the Plan endeavors to provide standards for development and renovation that recognize the unique character of this area. V. PLAN CONCEPT A. Development and Use Specific Plan III provides the regulations, standards and criteria for major or minor redevelopment of the project area with new construction or for minor renovation of portions of the area. It is planned for service commercial and visitor -serving uses, such as eating and drinking places, hotels and motels, and entertainment. It is viewed as an integral and po- tentially unique component of the Western Avenue commercial complex. Adjacent residential zones should be buffered from commercial uses. The area should incorporate park -like landscaping to provide a visual tran- sition from Peck Park to the commercial uses and to further buffer the re- sidential uses. At the same time, pedestrian access to the commercial uses should be encouraged. The ground floors of buildings should have the most active use areas. The ground level is where people walk, drive, and expect to find the goods and services that they need. If the street frontages are active, the City is more vibrant. Conversely, blank facades, solid walls, and non-active uses at ground -level produce dull, underused places. B. Site Plan The project area should be oriented toward Western Avenue for sev- eral reasons: 1. It is essential for the marketing success of the businesses on the site that there is strong identification from Western Avenue which is the major traffic artery. 2. The orientation should- be directed away from and buffered from the adjacent residential uses. 3. The viability of the businesses is also strongly related to their ability to relate to other businesses on Western Avenue. Convenient pedestrian and automotive circulation among these businesses is important. The project area also needs to be designed so that it is integrated inter- nally; pedestrians, automobiles, and service vehicles must be able to easily and safely use the area. Well-designed and inviting walkways will attract customers. Easily accessible parking and safe separate service access areas will facilitate vehicles. Underground or under building parking may be a reasonable method of compensating -for the lot area lost to extreme slope while also providing an extra buffer for the residential properties. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -13- Ordinance No. 211 29519 Western Avenue should be merged with one of the adja- cent lots if possible to alleviate the constraint of its narrow con- figuration. Adjoining substandard size lots that are in the same ownership should be merged as required by Section 17.68.040 of the Development Code. C. Grading Grading and construction on extreme slopes should not be allowed. The slopes serve as a buffer area for the residential property to the rear and should not be disturbed. D, Theme Specific Plan II for the Harbor Heights area, 28821-28939 Western Avenue, established a theme incorporating a Mediterranean architectural style. That style was chosen as the appropriate architectural style to re- late to the Mediterranean climate and topography of the area, to integrate the Eastview commercial area into the remainder of Rancho Palos Verdes, and to allow for a variety of designs within a style that has many variations. Choosing an architectural style for the theme is viewed as creating the strongest theme. This plan proposes that elements of Mediterranean architecture and a strong landscape concept which is compatible with the adjacent park be combined to create the theme for this area. Major elements of Coastal Mediterranean Architecture are: ° Tile, slate, or wooden roofs to insulate the structures from the intense heat and to help provide for a cool interior environment. ° Buildings painted white to reflect. Double storied interior spaces with high windows to provide areas where the warm air can rise and escape. ° Open arcades, balconies, terraces, and patios to provide areas where people can enjoy the warm climate. Contemporary Mediterranean Architecture generally includes smooth and uniform wall surfaces that lack ornamentation. The forms are usually geometrical (square, rectangular and triangular). Traditional Mediterranean Architecture includes: ° Two-story high rooms with elevated windows. ° Tile, wood, or slate roofs. ° Vaulting architectural elements. Arched windows and doors. ° Stucco or block siding. ° Stacked units. ° Open terraces, patios, and balconies. Colors that are light and neutral: white, off-white, cream, and pastels, with complementary accent colors. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -14- Ordinance No. 211 In addition, the landscape architecture of the Mediterranean style con- tains the following elements: ° Cascading and mounding landscape. Open -branched trees. ° Flowering plants. Low water use. ° Highly detailed areas of streetscape. VI. PLAN ELEMENTS A. Development and Use Regulations 1. Summary of Existing Development Code Regulations The area is zoned Commercial General (CG). The permitted uses are retail, service, and administrative to serve the surrounding area and visitors to the area. All new exterior construction, except additions of less than 500 square feet requires a Conditional Use Permit. All new commercial deve- lopment is reviewed based on the following criteria from Section 17.16.030 and 17.16.060 of the Development Code: a) Commercial districts will promote high quality devel- opments with regard to the intent and objectives of the General Plan. b) The adverse effects of the erection, addition, or al- teration to buildings or structures should be prevented by giving proper attention to siting, landscaping, lighting, design, and view obstruction. c) An efficient, convenient and safe vehicular access system to and from all major or arterial systems should be provided; d) An efficient, convenient and safe pedestrian and bi- cycle circulation system throughout the development should be provided where appropriate; e) The individual uses within the development should be related to the need based on the population of the service area; f) Pedestrian access from neighboring areas should be provided where appropriate; g) Architectural design compatible with the character of the community is necessary; such design shall be subject to review by the Planning Commission; and h) A sign program which relates all the signs to the structures and the location should be provided. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -15- Ordinance No. 211 The current development standards for the GG zone are as follows: BUILDING STANDARDS XIMUM LOT COVERAGE MAXIMUM � COVERAGE I FEIGHi I SETBACKS :I ABUTTING STREET ABUTTING NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY ABUTTING iiESIDENTIAI PROPERTY 16/30' Spm with ( 20' ( 10' 20' with no parking A Cup � � � allowed LANDSCAPING STANDARDS LMITHIN PARKING LOT ( AROUND PARKING LOT MITHIN SETBACKS ABUTTING ARTERIAL ABUTTING LOCAL ABUTTING RESIDEWTIAL STREET I PROPERTY I S% of parking S' minimum area � width ( 5' 10' PARKING STANDARDS RATIO OF REQUIRED SPACES i RATIO OF LOADING SPACES MINIMUM STALL MINIMUM AISLE } TO FLOOR AREA TO FLOOR AREA SIZE WIDT H i 9' x 20' I i 1 space/200 square feet 1 space/10,000 square feet] 20: compact + 25' St x 15' 6" -16— Ordinance No. 211 ej ow I I Ank M OJ MA f ===me momma MSAw .om.i wc�vv+ov �a000awvav "'ov000c000ci w000wwov mi 64 1 1 mi w A C *I k a Alijll I k :1 miel :Lei ft"i ml 0, 1 y f♦r; AMMON loomm mmms if 8, R� xrr . �. it r��t2�d�4t.xa9:FR��DY�t;Qi!':5iis;cS4 �et+eesiw . 2. Use of Specific Plan and Development Code Wherever the standards, regulations, and criteria contained in this document conflict with those of the Development Code of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, the standards, regulations, and criteria contained in this document shall take precedence. Where an issue is not covered the Rancho Palos Verdes Development Code governs. 3. Specific Plan Regulations a) Setbacks and Buffers A landscape buffer at least twenty (20) feet deep shall be installed abutting residential and institutional zones. This landscaping must be maintained at an identified height to provide screening but not obstruct the views from the residential properties. The depth of this area shall exceed twenty (20) feet when specified by Conditional Use Permit. On properties where the extreme slope area abuts residential pro- perty the entire slope area should be relandscaped to provide additional buffering. Interior side -yard setbacks from adjacent commercial or commercially zoned property shall depend on building height. Such set- backs are not required -if the maximum height of the building is sixteen (16) feet or lower. Buildings that are over sixteen (16) feet in height shall be set back from the interior side property line a distance equal to twenty percent of the total building height, or five (5) feet, whichever is greater. Interior sideyard set -backs, if required, shall be landscaped unless otherwise specified by Conditional Use Permit. A landscape buffer at least five (5) feet deep shall be installed abutting all streets except where there are vehicular or pe- destrian accesses. The depth of this area shall exceed five (5) feet when specified by Conditional Use Permit. b) Use Limitations Administrative and professional office uses, financial institutions, and other non -retail uses shall be limited to no more than 25% of the ground floor area of the buildings and may be allowed without restriction on upper floors unless otherwise specified by Conditional Use Permit. This restriction shall be guaranteed through legal agreements with any Conditional Use Permit. The hours of operation of any new and/or existing bus- iness may be regulated by Conditional Use Permit. Deliveries, lot sweeping, use of blowers, and garbage collection shall not take place between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. c) Parking Standards The allowed dimensions of parking spaces shall be as noted in the accompanying table. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -19- Ordinance No. 211 There shall be no overnight parking of vehicles other than those used in connection with a permitted use. If the Planning Commission approves a reduction in parking for common use Section 17.44.050, (Development Code) or a variance for parking, there shall be a legal agreement prohibiting any medical or dental offices, In order to meet parking requirements, parking spaces for customers must be located in reasonable proximity to public entries to the business. Employees shall be required to park in the more remote areas. Compact parking spaces (minimum 8 feet X 15 feet 6 in- ches) not to exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total number of required spaces, are permitted. Such spaces shall be marked and dispersed in groups throughout the parking areas. Underground or underbuilding parking is en- couraged. Motorcycle spaces may be substituted for automobile parking spaces at a ratio of one motorcycle space per twenty required auto- mobile parking spaces for any automobile parking area with twenty or more required spaces. Motorcycle spaces shall be a minimum size of three (3) feet by six (6) feet. The word Motorcycle or similar wording shall be painted on the surface of each space. Bicycle parking spaces totaling five (5) percent of the amount of required automobile parking, or as specified by Conditional Use Permit, shall be required for any development requiring a Conditional Use Permit. The location and appearance of these spaces shall be an inte- gral part of the site design. Each bicycle space shall include a station- ary object to which the wheel and the frame of a bicycle can be attached. Where parking spaces are arranged to head toward the street, they shall be screened from view from the street by a three (3) foot high solid wall located on the parking lot side of the required land- scape buffer, or by landscaped berm three (3) feet high. Tree wells within the parking lot perimeter landscaping shall be established at a fifty (50) foot interval for large trees (exceeding twenty (20) feet spread at maturi- ty) or a thirty ( 30 ) foot interval for small or medium sized trees. Vehicle wheel stops or curbs shall be at least three (3) feet from the front of any parking space. Parking for any addition to the floor area of a struc- ture shall be provided as required by the Development Code. d) Signage A complete sign program is required for new construc- tion and shall include all individual business building frontage identifi- cation signs, rules for sign copy and color changes, directional signs, and parking signs. The sign program for any service station shall also include all directional, service, parking signs, and price signs if necessary. A 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -20- Ordinance No. 211 SPECIFIC PLAN 111 PARKING SPACE DIMENSIONS 1. Aisle widths for 45 degree and 60 degree spaces are one way only. 2. Tier means two rows of parking space$ plus an aisle. 3. Compact car spaces only. 4. The width of a parking space at the end of a dead-end aisle shall be increased 3 feet. d C C d ngle N z U U 0 Cd 0 OH b 0 Space(4) Space (1) Tier (2) Width to Curb Aisle Width An le g a b (c) (d) 90 degree R'-0" (3) 15'-6" 20'-0" 52'-0" 9'-0" 18'-0" 24'-()" 60'-0" 101=0" 181411 221.011 581-0" 60 degree W-00 (3) 171- 6" 141.018 480"011 9'"0" 201_0" 186_0" 5800" 101_00 201461 161411 571-4" 45 degree 8'-0" (3) 1764" 12'-0" 4304" 91441 191-(}" 161-0" 546,00 10'-0" 2014" 1410" 54'-0" 1. Aisle widths for 45 degree and 60 degree spaces are one way only. 2. Tier means two rows of parking space$ plus an aisle. 3. Compact car spaces only. 4. The width of a parking space at the end of a dead-end aisle shall be increased 3 feet. d C C d ngle N z U U 0 Cd 0 OH b 0 complete sign program shall also be prepared for Planning Commission review whenever a permit to replace any existing sign that is not part of an ap- proved sign program is requested. Not more than one freestanding sign, not to exceed six (6 ) feet in height and fifty ( 50 ) square feet in area, may be allowed per site to identify the name and address of the development and/or the prin- cipal tenant. Approval of this sign is subject to review by the Director of Environmental Services based on the criteria in Section 17.52.020 (C) A larger free-standing sign may be approved by the Planning Commission by Conditional Use Permit provided that the Planning Commission finds that the additional size is necessary to adequately iden- tify the site, the sign design is compatible with the total site design, and the requirements of Section 17.52.020 (C)(1-8) of the Development Code are satisfied, Any freestanding sign must be set -back at least three (3) feet from any property line unless otherwise specified by the Planning Commission. Landscaping shall be required at the base of any free- standing sign at a ratio of one (1) square foot of planted area for each square foot of sign area. Pole covers are required for any free-standing pole signs. Uses located above the ground floor may be identified by a directory internal to the site. Wall -mounted signs for uses above the ground floor are not allowed unless otherwise specified by Conditional Use Permit, A sign program for renovation only shall follow the same standards listed above for new construction. e) Height of Buildings This plan encourages all new development to rise from the street in the same direction as the slope that rises at the rear of most parcels. In an effort to balance reasonable development of a Mediter- ranean character with the preservation of distant views over the area, a building height envelope as shown in the attached figure is established. This envelope shall be used in conjunction with the Conditional Use Permit process to allow a maximum building elevation equal to the average pad ele- vation of the adjacent upslope residences minus "X" feet. Roof mounted mechanical equipment, antennas, or any other structures are also subject to this maximum building elevation. Maximum Allowed Building Elevation = Pmax + Pmin - X 2 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -22 Ordinance No. 211 0 a N• n 0 z 0 N F-� SPECIFIC PLAN 111 BUILDINGH IGHT ENVELOPE 410 PAD LE�EL 395 390 386 380 365 360 335 A -A Pmax = Maximum pad elevation of adjacent upslope residences. Pmin = Minimum pad elevation of adjacent upslope residences. X = View/privacy, buffer, factor. > 5' < 10' as determined by the Planning Commission. The maximum elevation allowed by the height envelope shall only be approved after a detailed topographic map, view analysis, site plan and roof plan are reviewed and approved by the Planning Commis- sion. The envelope also requires development to rise at an angle approxi- mately parallel (45°) to the angle of the slope at the rear of most par- cels. The change in pad elevation between the commercially zoned property and adjacent residential or institutionally zoned property is less pronounced and the distance separating the buildable commercial area from adjacent residences is shorter than elsewhere in the Plan area, for the Unocal site, 29701 Western Avenue, and the site of the former Mobil Station, 29505 Western Avenue. Consequently, the height of any development on these properties shall be governed by existing Development Code regula- tions for the Commercial General Zone. Development on these parcels is still encouraged to rise in the same direction as the adjoining slopes if possible. f) Coverage Landscaped roof area, "roofscape" , may be deducted on a square foot per square foot basis from the area of the building footprint for the purpose of calculating lot coverage. g) Lighting Freestanding outdoor light fixtures shall not exceed a maximum height of sixteen (16) feet. All outdoor lighting shall be shielded to prevent off-site glare. h) Trash Enclosure All trash receptacle enclosures shall be: 1) Located outside of the required front setback. 2) Enclosed on four sides by a solid six (6) foot decorative wall consistent with the exterior appearance of the main struc- ture. One side shall be a solid, ornamental iron or wood, latching gate. 3) Screened by landscaping from view from adja- cent streets. 4) Designed to provide adequate access for col- lection and shall be paved with concrete and shall have a concrete ramp or equivalent. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -24- Ordinance No. 211 B . C I RCU LAT I ON 1. External The external circulation network consists of existing streets and traffic control mechanisms adjacent to the area. Western Avenue, which bounds the area on the east, is a major arterial. It is a State highway and therefore under the jurisdiction of Caltrans. According to Caltrans the average daily traffic volume along Western Avenue is 31,000. Actual traffic counts in 1983 at Western Avenue were: 24 HR, VOLUME A . M. PEAK VOLUME S. of Crestwood 17 , 708 11:45 1, 279 N. of Crestwood 16,538 11:15 1, 089 S. of Summerland 15.9414 11:45 1, 07 7 N. of Summerland 17 , 335 11:45 11089 8TH HIGHEST P . M . PEAK VOLUME HOUR VOLUME S. of Crestwood 5:00 11353 1,089 N. of Crestwood 5:00 13629 11056 S. of Summerland 4:45 11159 974 N. of Summerland 4:45 1, 621 1,122 Western Avenue has left turn pockets in both southbound and northbound directions at Crestwood. On Western Avenue at Summerland Drive there is only a left turn pocket in the southbound direction. The inter- section of Crestwood and Western Avenue is two -phased with standard signal- ing. Summerland Drive and Western Avenue forms a "T" at its intersection and has standard signalization that controls the northbound and southbound traffic along Western Avenue and the westbound traffic on Summerland. The eastbound traffic which enters the intersection from the Unocal station at 29701 Western Avenue is controlled by a red light and a flashing red light. There is one median break mid -block with a left turn pocket for northbound traffic. Crestwood Street, the northern boundary of the area, is a local collector under the City's jurisdiction. Summerland Drive, which inter- sects the area on the south, is a collector which is under the jurisdic- tion of the City of Los Angeles. 1983 Traffic counts for these streets are as follows: Crestwood W. Crestwood E. Summerland 24 HR . VOLUME 1, 754 2,743 8,267 A _M_ PRAY 11:30 7: 30 11:30 VOLUME 268 223 551 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -25- Ordinance No. 211 8TH HIGHEST P . M. PEAK VOLUME HOUR VOLUME Crestwood W. 12:30 215 105 Crestwood E. 12:30 183 170 Summerland* 4:30 899 446 (* East of the intersection of Summerland Drive and Western Avenue) 2. Internal a) 29505 Western Avenue Primary access to this lot is from Western Avenue. Currently there are four primary access points, two along Western Avenue, and two access points on Crestwood. Curb -cuts for driveways should be limited to the minimum necessary for good access. Driveways should be kept away from intersections and other potential traffic conflict points. The site is now vacant- with no circulation pattern ex- cept those dictated by the existing curb -cuts. On-site circulation should allow easy access to buildings from Western Avenue and Crestwood Drive. It should be designed to direct traffic which needs to turn left on Western Avenue to use the Crestwood Drive exit. b) 29519 Western Avenue Access to this lot is from Western Avenue. Currently there is one access point for the site. The rear of the site needs to be left open in order to provide adequate space for vehicles to turn around, providing for a smooth flow of circulation. c) 29529 Western Avenue Access to this lot is from Western Avenue. Currently there are two curb -cuts which provide access to the parking area. There is through circulation from one access point to the other, d) 29601 Western Avenue Access to this lot is from Western Avenue. Currently there are two access points for the site along Western Avenue. The one to the north is used to access a parking area for the motel and restaurant, The other to the south is used to provide through circulation on-site. The median break mid -block on Western Avenue, with a left turn pocket for northbound traffic, feeds into this site. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -26- Ordinance No. 211 e) 29619-27 Western Avenue Access to this lot is from Western Avenue. Currently there are two access points for the site along Western Avenue which pro- vides for a semi -circular parking system that begins and ends along Western Avenue. f) 29641 Western Avenue Internal circulation includes above -ground and subter- ranean parking that is accessed by a privately owned driveway that inter- sects with Western Avenue on the east and upper Summerland on the west. g) 29701 Western Avenue Currently there are two access points for the site along Western Avenue that provide a semi -circular system that begins and ends along Western Avenue and has a direct interface with the intersection of Summerland and Western Avenues, If the existing buildings are modified or replaced, the internal circulation pattern must allow for smooth ingress and egress for southbound traffic along Western Avenue. Potential conflicts at the intersection of Western Ave- nue and Summerland Drive and use of the private driveways at 29641 and 29701 Western Avenue are causes for concern. The alternatives listed below address these concerns: a. Redesign and reconstruct the intersection to improve ingress and egress from the driveway. This option would require three separate signaling phases: (1) Two directions on Western Avenue. (2) Westbound Summerland. (3) Eastbound Summerland/Private Drive. With the addition of a third separate phase the amount of time available for Western Avenue would be reduced, (*Any improvements along Western Avenue require a per- mit from Caltrans. There are three ways permits are processed through Cal- trans: (1) Applications meeting Caltrans' stan- dards - six months minimum processing time. (2) Standard applications requiring field inspections - one year minimum processing time. (3) Applications that vary from Caltrans' standards - two years minimum processing time. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -27- Ordinance No. 211 s UMM RLAND DR. INTERSECTION CIRCULATION RETIREMENT HOME GAS STATION WESTERN 01 REDUCE EGRESS FROM GAS STATION GOAL& DRIVEWAY FACING SUMMERLAND.. 02 LIMIT USE OF PRIVATE DRIVEWAY AS PUBLIC THOROUGHFARE. 03 IMPROVE SAFETY OF PRIVATE DRIVE ACCESS FROM WESTERN AVE. 1 113DC@ CHURCH EASTVIEW TOWNHOMES AVENUE -28- ; Ordinance No. 211 OPTIONS: meow 3 INSTALL BARRIER BETWEEN GAS 0 .STATION AND PRIVATE DRIVE. Z JINSTALL GATE AT AFAR P.L. O0F cr EASTVIEW TOWNHOMES. W � Q REMOVE PORTION OF WESTERN � AVE. MEDIAN AND PROVIDE � THREE PHASE TRAFFIC SIGNAL. -28- ; Ordinance No. 211 This proposed re -phasing would fall into the third category.) b. Install a gate on the private drive at the rear property line of 29641 Western Avenue to effectively eliminate through traffic from upper Summerland. C, Close the property line between 29641 Western Avenue (Eastview Townhomes) and 29701 Western Avenue (Unocal Station) so that the driveway would be used primarily by the residents of the townhomes for right turn only, d. A combination of b. and c. Alternative c. should be required as a condi- tion of approval for any development at 29641 or 29701 Western Avenue that is governed by the Specific Plan. The other alternatives should be consid- ered at the time an application for a Conditional Use Permit is received. Possible improvements which may be necessitated by additional traffic generation from the area include but are not limited to the following: Red curbing . or signs to prohibit parking along Western Avenue. Right lane marked for deceleration and/ or acceleration on Western Avenue. ° Median cut. ° Curb cut changes. Signalization changes. A traffic engineering study should be provided as appropriate with any application for a Conditional Use Permit to allow the City to analyze the projected traffic increase in order to determine which improvements are necessary. 3. Pedestrian/Bicycle The external pedestrian circulation routes should incorporate color and/or texture to form a visual connection to the area and to evoke a cautionary response from vehicular traffic. A pedestrian route should 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -29- Ordinance No. 211 Since development of the site will result in increases in traffic or cause changes to existing traffic patterns and re- sult in possible additional traffic interruptions on existing streets, mod- ifications to these streets or to the traffic control mechanisms needed to accommodate increased traffic are considered part of the development of the site. The costs of providing the needed modifications shall be borne by the developers. Possible improvements which may be necessitated by additional traffic generation from the area include but are not limited to the following: Red curbing . or signs to prohibit parking along Western Avenue. Right lane marked for deceleration and/ or acceleration on Western Avenue. ° Median cut. ° Curb cut changes. Signalization changes. A traffic engineering study should be provided as appropriate with any application for a Conditional Use Permit to allow the City to analyze the projected traffic increase in order to determine which improvements are necessary. 3. Pedestrian/Bicycle The external pedestrian circulation routes should incorporate color and/or texture to form a visual connection to the area and to evoke a cautionary response from vehicular traffic. A pedestrian route should 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -29- Ordinance No. 211 be designed to tie this area to Peck Park across Western Avenue. Internal pedestrian circulation should provide convenient access from the existing sidewalks to all buildings. 4. Public Transportation No bus stops are located in the Specific Plan area and none shall be required except upon the recommendation of responsible transpor- tation authorities. C, DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES 1. Architecture Design The designs shall bez Mediterranean characterized by elements of open style patios, balconies, arcades, arches, high ceilings and high windows, recessed windows, simple forms, tower accents, Buildings or structures shall be harmonious and consis- tent with the established Mediterranean theme including roofing, materials, windows, doors, openings, textures, colors, and exterior treatment. Variations in the roof -line as well as the building shape are required to prevent buildings from having a box -like appearance. Buidings shall be designed to avoid massive linear facades facing the street frontage. Projections, separations, recessed areas, and other vari- ations in plane shall be used. Exterior design features should be coordinated on all elevations prominently open to view from public areas and adjacent residen- ces. Large, flat wall masses, devoid of architectural treatment or varia- tion in plane are not acceptable. Pitched roofs should complement the natural topography. Screening Mechanical equipment, antennas, or other utility hard- ware on roof, ground, or buildings shall be screened and covered, so as not to be visible from any street or private view area, with materials that complement the building architecture. Noise producing mechanical equipment should be insulat- ed to reduce sound levels at property lines and should not be located on roofs. Exterior wall -mounted equipment and utility meters are discouraged. Every attempt shall be made to incorporate such equipment into the building design. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -30- Ordinance No. 211 Colors Light colors should be used. Each building should not be the same color unless that color is white or off-white. Accent colors should be of complementary color. Mon+,er4n1c. Acceptable siding materials are: stucco or brick with plaster, Wooden posts, exposed beams, iron grilles and railings should be used for trim materials. Tile, slate, or wood should be used for roofing. Plastic siding shall not be used. Metal or untreated cement block buildings shall not be used Composition roofing combined with tile, slate, or wood mansards may be used provided that the -color of the roofing is consistent with the primary or accent colors of the building, and the roofline is sym- pathetic to existing site topography, Standard or prefabricated materials shall not be used for exterior siding. 2. Landscape Landscaping plans should promote linkages between the adjacent park, the median, and the future City entry design by considering spacing, location, maturity, plant type, and topography. Landscape elements should not be obstructive to signage or create any visibility problems or other safety hazards to drivers or pedes- trians. Property and personal safety should not be endangered by the crea- tion of hiding places Mature existing landscape plantings should be preserved and/or included wherever possible. Landscaping should be designed to the scale of the development. Plant materials should be specified to provide full coverage and grow into the spaces of the intended use rather than be overplanted. This will minimize maintenance and the potential of the landscaping becom- ing over -grown and potentially unsightly. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -31- Ordinance No. 211 Synthetic or non -living plants and/or ground cover should not be used; however, decorative landscape areas, courtyards, plazas, and simi- lar features, may be credited toward landscape requirements as specified by Conditional Use Permit. Plantings should be designed to minimize potential slope fail- ures; ail- ures; slope plant materials should require minimal watering. Plants that are located where they may be susceptible to damage by pedestrians or motor traffic shall be protected by appropriate tree guards or other devices. A detailed landscape concept plan and plant list should be sub- mitted identifying the plant growth height, root growth patterns, view blockage potential, slope stabilizing qualities, level of maintenance, form, and water requirement so that the plant materials may be reviewed for their site specific application. Plants that are climatically suited to the area should be used. Landscaping should include buffering aspects that hide parts of the development that are not aesthetically pleasing, e.g.: parking, utilities, trash enclosures, and loading areas. 3. Site Features Lighting Lighting should be directional as well as functional to increase visibility. Lighting may be used to provide drama to the site but not to the point where it may become a distraction or cause a potential safety hazard. Its primary purpose at night should be for security. There shall be no light spill-over from the site. Exterior lighting, when used, shall enhance the build- ing design and the adjoining landscape. Lighting standards and building fixtures shall be of a design and size compatible with the building and adjacent areas. Lighting shall be restrained in design and excessive brightness avoided. Exterior lighting shall be part of the architectural concept, Fixtures, standards, and all exposed accessories shall be harmo- nious with building designs. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -32- Ordinance No. 211 Plants should be drought tolerant or resistant. Isolated areas of high water use plantings may be permitted but they are to be restricted to twenty percent (20%) of the total landscape area and are to be located in non -slope areas or areas where the. highwater planting will not affect the slope stability, unless otherwise specified by Conditional Use Permit in connection with innovative landscape design. A detailed landscape concept plan and plant list should be sub- mitted identifying the plant growth height, root growth patterns, view blockage potential, slope stabilizing qualities, level of maintenance, form, and water requirement so that the plant materials may be reviewed for their site specific application. Plants that are climatically suited to the area should be used. Landscaping should include buffering aspects that hide parts of the development that are not aesthetically pleasing, e.g.: parking, utilities, trash enclosures, and loading areas. 3. Site Features Lighting Lighting should be directional as well as functional to increase visibility. Lighting may be used to provide drama to the site but not to the point where it may become a distraction or cause a potential safety hazard. Its primary purpose at night should be for security. There shall be no light spill-over from the site. Exterior lighting, when used, shall enhance the build- ing design and the adjoining landscape. Lighting standards and building fixtures shall be of a design and size compatible with the building and adjacent areas. Lighting shall be restrained in design and excessive brightness avoided. Exterior lighting shall be part of the architectural concept, Fixtures, standards, and all exposed accessories shall be harmo- nious with building designs. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -32- Ordinance No. 211 Paving Variations in paving colors, patterns, textures, and/or elevation changes, should be used to define entrances, pedestrian areas, crosswalks, building linkages, and throughout the site, especially in spa- ces that can be viewed from multi -story buildings or adjacent areas with higher elevations. Walls and Fences Walls and fences shall be used in connection with landscape buffering and for safety. Acceptable materials include stucco, brick with plaster finish and wrought iron. Provision of Public Amenities Public use areas are encouraged to be incorporated into the site for outdoor seating and enjoyment. Public use areas., if provided, should serve as major focal points for development. Kiosks are encouraged to be provided to display public information within the public use areas. Drinking fountains, trash receptacles and public tele- phone stalls compatible with the architecture of the development shall be incorporated into the site. Public restrooms shall be sufficient throughout the development... 4. Signage Sign design, material, and location shall be an integral part of the overall landscape and architectural design. Directories, internal to the site, should be utilized to orient people to the development. A sign program must be submitted identifying the size, location, materials, and -colors of all proposed signs so that the program may be reviewed for compatibility with the site design and conformity to the Code standards. Identification symbols and corporation logos shall con- form to the criteria for all other signs. 5. Streetscape Trash receptacles, bus benches, lights, and other street hardware shall be designed to be part of the architectural concept of design and landscape. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -33- Ordinance No. 211 Paving colors and textures shall be used to extend walkways across vehicular entrance/exit points to alert drivers to pedes- trian cross -traffic, Street trees may be required in the Western Avenue me- dian. The trees should be an extension of the landscape theme of the site and relate to surrounding development, D. UTILITIES The Development Code requires the undergrounding of all new utility lines installed to serve new construction. In addition, all existing uti- lity lines to the building shall be undergrounded for any addition to an existing building which adds at least twenty-five percent (25%) to the building's gross floor area. This Plan further requires that all utility service controls and equipment, including but not limited to, electrical, communication, and cable television lines, shall be installed underground on the property to be served and to the point of connection with the utilities' distribution facilities whenever any permit for new construction is granted for any new structure needing utilities on the parcel, except signs. Participation in an assessment district or posting of a bond for undergrounding utilities may be required. The City Council may waive or modify this requirement as specified in Section 17.48.020 of the Development Code. VII. IMPLEMENTATION A. Development Proposals As specified in the Development Code, an expansion or alteration (not including interior remodeling) of 500 square feet or greater or an ap- plication for a service station would be subject to a Conditional Use Per- mit. Any proposal for new development that would require a Conditional Use Permit shall be evaluated on its conformance with this Specific Plan and with the Development Code on issues not covered in this Plan. Any proposal for a change in use that would require a Conditional Use Permit shall also be evaluated for conformance with this Plan; however, full compliance with the -architectural theme prescribed by this Plan is not required. In addition, this plan further requires that any addition, en- largement, or alteration requiring a building permit shall be subject to site plan review by the Director of Environmental Services to assure con- formity with this Plan and/or the intent of this Plan. This site plan re- view will occur concurrently with all other development applications. The extent of compliance required would be determined by balancing the policies and requirements of the Plan Concept and Plan Elements against the extent of the improvement proposed. The decision of the Director is final unless appealed to the Planning Commission within fifteen days. The decision of the Planning Commission is final unless appealed to the City Council within fifteen days. The City Council's decision shall be final. 701CP/OR.D1.1-25 -34- Ordinance No. 211 B. Renovation The City has already initiated a sign amortization effort for this area which requires existing signs to be brought into compliance with the City's Development Code standards. The City would apply the standards of this Specific Plan wherever appropriate to review renovation proposals. C. Public Facilities Improvements to the centerline of Western Avenue and Crestwood Street in conformance with this Plan would be required as a condition of approval for a development proposal requiring a Conditional Use Permit. Possible public improvements include, but are not limited to, a Class II bike lane along Western Avenue, Western Avenue median improvements, street trees, and a new entry identification at the City limit. An agreement to participate in an assessment district for the purpose of financing public improvements and major utility undergrounding may also be required. D. Specific Plan Amendments Any proposed amendment shall follow the procedure for General Plan amendments except that the Plan may be amended as often as deemed ne- cessary by the legislative body. Standards of the Specific Plan can only be altered through a Specific Plan Amendment. E. Enforcement The Director of Environmental Services shall have the duty to enforce the provisions of this Specific Plan. The Director of Environmen- tal Services shall have the duty to -interpret the provisions of this Speci- fic Plan. Any person aggrieved by such an interpretation may request a miscellaneous hearing by the Planning Commission to review and rule on the interpretation. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -35- Ordinance No. 211 Any person violating any provision of this Specific Plan is guilty of a misdemeanor. If any regulation, condition, or portion of this Specific Plan is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision, and the invalidity of such provision shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions thereof. 701CP/ORD1.1-25 -35- Ordinance No. 211 ORDINANCE/ SOLUTION NO. 211 FILE# 701 SUBJECT: APPROVING SPECIFIC PLAN41II (29505-29701) WESTERN AVENUE. INTRODUCED: 10/7/86 ADOPTED: 10/21/86 POSTED/PUBLISHED 10/23/86 ORDINANCE DISTRIBUTION: City Attorney Richards, Watson, Dreyfuss Gershon 333 South Hope 'St. , 38th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 BOOK PUBLISHING COMPANY 201 Westlake Avenue N. Seattle, WA 98109 ,PACIFIC TELEPHONE 19310 Gateway Drive, Rm 208 :'o: ranee, CA 90502 .SOUTHERN CALIF. WATER SERVICE 5837 CREST RD, WEST RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90274 REGISTAR 5557 'Ferguson Drive Los Angeles, CA 90022 ATTN: Margaret Miller Election Administration RECORDER 227 N . Broadway Los Angeles, CA SCHOOL RESOLUTION DISTRIBUTION: .. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT ENVIRONMEN7AL SERVICES. _,.,. LEISURE S ERV I C E S .,.COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPT. CITY MANAGER STATION COMMANDER 26123 Narbonne Ave. Lomita, CA 90717 COUNTY ASSESSOR 500 Hall of Administration Los Angeles, CA 90012 LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES 702 Hilton Center Los Angeles, CA 9001=7 ._._. L.A. COUNTY DEPT. of PUBLIC WORKS /Public ATTN: City Services Roads 1540 Alcaiar Street 90012 Los Angeles, CA 90033 H04MEOUINERS ASSOCIATION P LI CANT T.M. CABLEV I S I ON 31244 P.V. Drive West, Suite 207 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90274 �Posted at the following: Los Angeles County Fire Station Miraleste Station 4000 Miraleste Plaza U.S. Post Office 28649 South Western Ave. SPCA 5026 West Jefferson Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016 ,SO. CALIFORNIA GAS COMPANY 22741 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501 SO CALIFORNIA EDI SOIL CO. P. 0. Box 2944 Torrance, CA 90509