CC SR 20220816 01 - SB 9 Code Amendment
PUBLIC HEARING
Date: August 16, 2022
Subject:
Consideration and possible action to amend Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits), Chapter 17.09 (Second
Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones) and Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) of the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code regarding urban lot splits and second units and two -unit
developments in single-family residential zones (Case No. PLCA2022-0001).
Recommendation:
Introduce for first reading Ordinance No.__, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
AMENDING CHAPTER 16.40 (URBAN LOT SPLITS), CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES) AND CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE, THEREBY ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND DEFINITIONS FOR URBAN LOT
SPLITS AND FOR SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
ZONES.
1. Report of Notice Given: City Clerk
2. Declare Public Hearing Open: Mayor Bradley
3. Request for Staff Report: Mayor Bradley
4. Staff Report & Recommendation: Jaehee Yoon, Senior Planner
5. Council Questions of Staff (factual and without bias):
6. Testimony from members of the public:
The normal time limit for each speaker is three (3) minutes. The Presiding Officer may grant additional time to a representative speaking
for an entire group. The Mayor also may adjust the time limit for individual speakers depending upon the number of speakers who
intend to speak.
7. Declare Hearing Closed/or Continue the Public Hearing to a later date: Mayor Bradley
8. Council Deliberation:
The Council may ask staff to address questions raised by the testimony, or to clarify matters. Staff and/or Council may also answer
questions posed by speakers during their testimony. The Council will then debate and/or make motions on the matter.
9. Council Action:
The Council may: vote on the item; offer amendments or substitute motions to decide the matter; reopen the hearing for additional
testimony; continue the matter to a later date for a decision.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 08/16/2022
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Public Hearing
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration and possible action to amend Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits), Chapter
17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones) and Chapter
17.96 (Definitions) of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code regarding urban lot splits
and second units and two-unit developments in single-family residential zones (Case No.
PLCA2022-0001).
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Introduce for first reading Ordinance No.__, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING CHAPTER 16.40 (URBAN LOT SPLITS),
CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN
SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES) AND CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS) OF THE
RANCHO PALOS VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE, THEREBY ESTABLISHING
REGULATIONS AND DEFINITIONS FOR URBAN LOT SPLITS AND FOR
SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL ZONES.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Jaehee Yoon, Senior Planner
REVIEWED BY: Ken Rukavina, P.E., Director of Community Development
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Draft Ordinance No. ___ (redlined version) (page A-1)
B. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2022-08 (page B-1)
C. Urgency Ordinance No. 656U (page C-1)
D. Public Comment (page D-1)
To view the April 12, 2022, May 10, 2022, June 28, 2022, and July 12, 2022, Planning
Commission staff reports, click on the following links:
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April 12:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=4141&meta_id=103008
May 10:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=4159&meta_id=103815
June 28:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&event_id=2045&meta_id=104884
July 12:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=4193&meta_id=105087
BACKGROUND:
On September 16, 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill No. 9 (SB 9) to
facilitate housing development by increasing existing density limits in single -family
residential zones. Specifically, SB 9 requires ministerial approval of lot splits and/or
development of two dwelling units per lot in single-family residential zones when the
proposed development is in compliance with established objective standards.
On December 21, 2021, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 656U
(Attachment C) to codify regulations in Title 16 (Subdivisions) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC) to establish subdivision regulations and
development standards for potential lot splits and developments implemented under
SB 9, prior to SB 9 taking effect statewide on January 1 , 2022. At the meeting, the City
Council also initiated regular code amendment proceedings to amend Titles 16
(Subdivisions) and 17 (Zoning). A copy of the City Council staff report is available on the
City website.
As amendments were proposed to Title 17 (Zoning) of the RPVMC, the process required
that the Planning Commission review the proposed draft ordinance and forward a
recommendation to the City Council for its consideration. It should be noted that in
accordance with Chapter 17.68 (Zone Changes and Code Amendments), the Planning
Commission’s consideration and recommendations to the City Council on the proposed
amendments only involved Title 17 (Zoning). However, proposed amendments to Chapter
16.40 (Urban Lot Splits) of Title 16 (Subdivisions) of the RPVMC were provided to the
Planning Commission to provide a full picture of the changes required by SB 9.
On April 12, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing, at which
time the draft ordinance was first reviewed and discussed among the Planning
Commission and Staff. The item was continued to April 26, 2022, May 10, 2022, and June
28, 2022, to allow Staff additional time to incorporate the input received.
On July 12, 2022, the Planning Commission adopted P.C. Resolution No. 2022-08
(Attachment B), recommending the City Council adopt an ordinance amending Section
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17.02.020 (Single Family Residential (RS)) Districts – Uses and Development Permitted),
adding Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family
Zones), and amending Chapter 17.96 (Definitions), thereby establishing definitions and
regulations for second units and two-unit developments in single-family residential zones.
DISCUSSION:
The draft ordinance (Attachment A) includes Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits), Chapter
17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones), and Chapter
17.96 (Definitions), which establish clarified and enhanced procedures and standards for
urban lot splits and the creation of second units and two-unit developments in single-family
residential zones as required by SB 9.
Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits)
As previously mentioned, the proposed amendments to Chapter 16.40 have not been
recommended by the Planning Commission as its purview is limited to Title 17.
Nonetheless, the draft ordinance was amended with consideration to the amendments
recommended by the Planning Commission in Title 17, and is generally consistent with
the provisions adopted by Urgency Ordinance No. 656U. The following is a list of
amendment topics in italics, followed by a discussion of each recommended amendment:
1. Specify applicants who are allowed to apply for an urban lot split (Section 16.40.020)
The proposed amendment clarifies that urban lot splits are limited to “individual
property owners” and specifically defines this term. This has also resulted in minor
revisions to Section 16.40.040 (Additional requirements) where reference to “applicant”
has been either deleted or revised to “owner.”
2. Supplement parcel and other requirements for an urban lot split (Section 16.40.030
and Section 16.40.040)
A provision is introduced that prohibits urban lot splits in the landslide moratorium area
to be consistent with Section 15.20.020 (New construction permits not issued) of the
RPVMC that explicitly prohibits the creation of parcel maps. In addition, a new provision
specifies that only residential uses shall be located on the parcel with at least one
residential unit existing at the time the urban lot split is approved. Lastly, the creation
of new driveways will be limited as it will require review and approval by the Public
Works Department to prevent unnecessary and/or unsafe curb cuts.
3. Include additional limitations on parcels created through an urban lot split (Section
16.40.050)
The proposed amendment specifies that parcels created through an urban lot split are
limited to residential uses only and that no further subdivision will be allowed.
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4. Eliminate subsequent coastal permit processing for applicable projects (Section
16.40.070)
The proposed amendment removes imposing a condition of approval to comply with
Coastal Permit requirements for projects within the City’s Coastal Zone as this is
already required by the Coastal Permit and is redundant. As a result, projects requiring
coastal permits will be processed simultaneously with the urban lot split application
rather than in a two-step process.
5. Include deed restrictions on owner of the original parcel (Section 16.40.080)
A new provision is proposed that requires the owner of the original parcel to execute a
deed restriction that limits the use of the resulting parcels in accordance with the
regulations in Chapter 16.40, as a condition of approval.
Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones) and
Chapter 17.96 (Definitions)
The Planning Commission-recommended amendments to Title 17 (Zoning) include topics
related to the landslide area, development standards, design standards, conveyance of
units, building permit issuance, total number of units, Coastal Permits, affordable units,
and definitions. Each subject is summarized below in italics, followed by a discussion of
each recommended amendment.
1. Prohibit second unit and two-unit developments in the landslide moratorium area
(Section 17.40.030)
The draft ordinance proposes to include a provision that mostly prohibits second unit
or two-unit developments in the City’s landslide moratorium area for consistency with
Chapter 15.20 (Moratorium on Land Use Permits). Specifically, a second unit or two -
unit development will only be allowed on a lot with an applicable Landslid e Moratorium
Exception Category in Section 15.20.040 (Exceptions), which will require obtaining a
Landslide Moratorium Exception permit prior to review and approval of the second unit
or two-unit development application.
2. Revise development standards to clarify or include provisions related to the
configuration, size, parking, decks, grading, extreme slope, entrances, driveways, and
enforcement of regulations (Section 17.09.040)
The development standard revisions are summarized in Table No. 1 below:
Table No. 1 – Summary of Section 17.09.040 (Development standards) revisions
Configuration Clarified allowable configurations of second unit and two-unit
developments in relation to other dwelling units
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Size Clarified that units are allowed up to 800 ft2, except lots at
least 20,000 ft2 or larger are allowed to have units up to
1,000 ft2
Parking Clarified parking requirements are in addition to existing
spaces on the parcel that can be enclosed or open; included
requirement for replacement parking per text following this
table
Decks Included a provision to prohibit above-grade decks over 6
inches in height, and roof decks and balconies.
Grading &
Extreme
slope
Included grading regulations that allows up to 200 yd3 for
sloping lots and construction on extreme slope, both of which
will require geotechnical review and approval. A Variance
remains a requirement for construction on an extreme slope
Driveways Included provision to limit creation of additional driveways
regardless of number of units
Enforcement Clarified limitation on enforcement of development and
design standards in relation to the 800 ft2 size limit
It has come to the City’s attention that the code does not have a provision related to
replacement parking for conversion or demolition of existing garages carports, or
covered parking structures into a second unit or part of a two-unit development. As
such, a new subsection 17.09.040(P)(3) is being introduced for the City Council’s
consideration. It should be noted that the Planning Commission did not have the
opportunity to review the newly proposed subsection below (new text in bold
underline) as it was drafted subsequent to the recent Planning Commission’s review
of the proposed code amendment.
17.09.040 Development standards.
E. Parking.
3. If the construction of a second unit or two-unit development requires the
conversion or demolition of a garage, carport, or covered parking structure
required under subsection 17.02.030(E), then such covered parking spaces
shall be replaced. The replacement parking may be located in any
configuration on the same lot, including, but not limited to, as covered
spaces, uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or by the use of mechanical
automobile parking lifts, without adversely impacting traffic flow and
public safety. The replacement parking shall comply with the minimum
number of spaces and dimensions stated in subsection 17.02.030(E).
3. Revise the design standards to match those currently required in the City’s Accessory
Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance (Section 17.09.040 and 17.09.050)
Several provisions from the City’s ADU ordinance pertaining to objective architectural
standards are being incorporated into Section 17.09.0 40 (Development Standards)
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and Section 17.09.050 (Design Standards), including but not limited to, design
compatibility, preferable locations, privacy mitigation measures, and a minimum
separation distance for detached units.
4. Clarify limitations on conveyance of units (Section 17.09.060)
The proposed amendment clarifies that second units or two-unit developments may
not be converted to condominiums and cannot be sold separately from the primary
dwelling unit or from one another.
5. Specify the timing of building permit issuance for second units (Section 17.09.070)
A new section is proposed to be added to prevent development of a standalone
second unit on a vacant lot and to comply with the intended definition of second units,
which is also being revised in Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) to clarify the circumstances
of when a second unit can be developed. Specifically, an existing primary dwelling
unit on the same lot is required prior to building permit issuance for second units.
6. Clarify the total number of units allowed by SB 9 (Section 17.09.080)
A new section is also being proposed to clarify the total number of units allowed for
urban lot splits and two-unit developments. In general, lots that were not created
through an urban lot split can have up to four units on the same lot (Figure 1), while
the maximum number of units allowed for each lot created through an urban lot split
is limited to two (Figure 2). The possible unit configurations1 for either case can be a
mix of ADUs, junior ADUs (JADUs), second units, two-unit developments, or single-
family residences, depending on various scenarios as illustrated in the figures below:
[ Figure 1. Lots NOT created through an urban lot split ]
1 These figures are only intended to show a number of possible configurations and do not guarantee that
a particular configuration will be permitted or approved in any specific case.
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[ Figure 2. Lots created through an urban lot split ]
7. Eliminate subsequent coastal permit processing for applicable projects (Section
17.09.090)
The proposed amendment will replicate Chapter 16.40 regarding coastal permit
requirements by allowing simultaneous processing of coastal permits with the second
unit or two-unit development application rather than in a two-step process.
8. Revise definitions of second unit and two-unit developments (Chapter 17.96)
The definitions of a second unit and two-unit developments are proposed to be
simplified. In addition, it will clarify that a two-unit development is the simultaneous
development of two dwelling units, and that the units are those other than an ADU or
JADU.
9. Remove affordability restrictions on second unit and two-unit developments
(Currently, Section 17.09.070 - Affordable rent requirement)
The proposed amendment removes this section for various reasons. First, the existing
provision as written does not comply with the inclusionary housing ordinance under
Government Code Section 65850(g) as there is no specific percentage of affordable
units to be developed and provides no alternative means of compliance, such as an
in-lieu fee. Further, if this section is revised to comply with the inclusionary housing
ordinance, the requirement would create economically infeasible conditions for such
small-scale developments that may not be financially viable for applicants and, rather,
discourage development.
It should be noted that Temple City has recently received a letter from the State’s
Housing and Community Development Department (HCD), which addressed several
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concerns2 on its SB 9 ordinance as it likely violates housing laws. One of the concerns
raised by HCD was related to a 30-year affordable housing deed restriction that was
seen as potentially rendering the development of SB 9 units economically infeasible,
and, as such may constitute a governmental constraint to housing development. As a
result, Temple City is being asked to demonstrate that local development costs and
anticipated affordable rents will result in projects that are economically feasible as part
of the ongoing Housing Element update process. On a related note, the affordability
requirement will also contradict the City’s draft 6th Cycle Housing Element programs
related to increasing housing development potential through incentivizing housing
production and removing governmental constraints that hinder such development.
Lastly, the option to collect in-lieu fees as an alternative to comply with the affordability
restriction will be contrary to the City’s desire and City Council policy when it comes
to providing for affordable housing units. In general, the City has preferred the
developer to provide affordable housing units rather than pay the in -lieu fees as
payment of in-lieu fees shifts the burden of affordable housing production to the City.
For these reasons, this section has been removed from the draft ordinance.
In summary, the proposed draft ordinance is intended to clarify or introduce new
regulations that will further refine the provisions adopted by Urgency Ordinance 656U.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Additional Amendments for Council Consideration
On June 28, 2022, the Planning Commission voted 3-2 to recommend the attached draft
ordinance to City Council as recommended by Staff, with Chair Perestam and
Commissioner Chura voting no. Three items that were split among the Commissioners
related to the following:
• Including a courtesy public notice upon project approval;
• Requiring a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for properties without two distinct
means of access; and,
• Removing the affordable rental unit requirement from the proposed amendment.
A summary is provided below in italics followed by a discussion.
1. Public notification requirement
The intent of a new provision that requires notifying property owners upon project
approval was to inform and educate the public on second unit and two-unit developments
2 Another potential implication to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes from HCD’s letter to Temple City is that the
proposed 800 ft2 unit size and 16 ft height restrictions may be deemed to reduce development capacity and land use
intensity for two-unit developments. Specifically, HCD raises concerns about reductions to development capacity in
the letter to Temple City; however, it is unclear exactly how HCD’s comments would apply to RPV’s proposed
requirements. If HCD raises similar concerns, Staff can re-evaluate those restrictions at that time.
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pursuant to SB 9. However, because of the potential unintended consequences
associated with public notifications to neighboring properties, Staff did not recommend
including it in the draft ordinance. Specifically, the table below outlines the pros and cons
of including such code language where the negative aspects appeared to outweigh the
intended benefits:
Table No. 2 – Pros and cons of second unit and two-unit development public notifications
Pros Cons
• Provides information and serves as an
educational opportunity to the public
• Raises neighborhood awareness of
approved SB 9 projects; however,
there are other alternative means to
increase public awareness of state
housing laws
• May create frustration among those
notified as notices are generally issued
to allow the receiver to comment,
support, object, or appeal a project.
However, SB 9 projects are ministerial
applications that cannot be appealed or
otherwise commented on.
• Sets a precedent in requiring notices
for all other ministerial applications that
may impact neighboring properties
• Requires additional time and cost to
process the application
As an alternative to requiring public notifications, Staff proposed creating an informational
handout on second units and two-unit developments that will be posted on the City’s
website and social media to inform and educate the public. In addition, Staff would work
with potential applicants to encourage communication with adjacen t property owners
about the scope and design of a proposed project.
After the Planning Commission meeting, several residents requested such a provision be
included. Should the City Council vote to reintroduce this provision , Staff proposes the
following language for the City Council’s consideration (new text in bold underline):
Courtesy Public Notice
Upon application submittal of a second unit or two-unit development, the Director
shall provide a courtesy notice to owners of all parcels adjacent to the project site,
using the last known county assessor tax roll. Such notice shall not be a
requirement of the applicant for the purposes of deeming an application complete
for processing.
2. CUP requirements for second unit and two-unit developments on properties
without two distinct means of access
Currently, the City’s ADU ordinance requires a CUP for ADU developments in cases
where a project site is located within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and does not
have two distinct means of access to an arterial or collector street. This requirement was
established to address fire safety impacts that exist for most of the City by ensuring there
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is no proliferation of ADUs that would cause issues with egress from a neighborhood
during an emergency and where there are limited evacuation routes.
In reviewing such proposals, ADU projects are assessed based on CUP findings
established in Section 17.60.050 of the RPVMC. However, it has been difficult to apply
the same CUP findings given the unique consideration of ADUs, which should be
reviewed with a focus on potential fire safety impacts. In addition, the CUP requirement
and associated discretionary review for second unit or two-unit developments in the same
manner as ADUs will contradict the main purpose and intent of SB 9, which emphasizes
processing ministerial applications with objective standards. Moreover, several housing
programs under consideration for a state-compliant 6th Cycle Housing Element update
include removing barriers for housing development and allowing for higher density
housing. Lastly, HCD has objected to the City’s ADU CUP requirement and this is a matter
that should be vetted and addressed prior to expanding the provision to other sections of
the Municipal Code. Therefore, Staff did not recommend including this provision as it will
likely require code amendments to either remove or revise the CUP requirement.
When there is clearer direction from HCD and the City Council regarding the ADU CUP
requirement that allows continued enforcement, Staff believes a new set of objective ADU
CUP findings specific to fire safety will need to be developed such as, but not limited to,
the following suggestions:
• Additional parking requirements beyond those required by this section
• Additional side, rear, or front setback requirements beyond those required by this
section
• Additional fire safety features included in the project, such as sprinklers, fire retardant
construction materials, and so forth, along with fire department approval of the
proposed project
3. Affordable Rental Unit Requirement
As previously noted, the ordinance before the City Council removes the affordable rental
unit requirement. However, if provisions related to affordable rental units is desired to be
retained by City Council, Staff recommends including additional language t o supplement
this section. Specifically, the provision should require that one of the primary units be
affordable, if rented, and also include an alternative means of compliance with the
inclusionary housing ordinance through an in-lieu fee instead of providing an affordable
housing unit, as suggested in the alternative language below (new text in bold underline,
deletions in strikethrough):
Section 17.09.070 - Affordable rent requirement
A. Whenever a development in a single-family residential zoning district either
adds two primary units to a lot, or adds a second primary unit to a lot, one
of the two primary units (i.e., 50% of the primary units), Second units, and both
units of a two-unit development, if rented, shall only be rented at an affordable rent
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for lower-income households, as defined in Health and Safety Code Section
50053, and shall only be rented to lower-income households, as defined in Health
and Safety Code Section 50079.5, for a minimum of 55 years. As a condition of
approval of, and Pprior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any
second unit or any unit of a two-unit development, the owner of the property shall
execute and record on the property a deed restriction, in a form approved by the
director and the city attorney, establishing legal restrictions consistent with this
section.
In lieu of recording a deed restriction on the property, the owner may pay an
in-lieu fee to the City in an amount determined by City Council resolution, as
a condition of approval of, and prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy for any second unit or any unit of a two-unit development. The
fee owed to the City shall be the amount of the fee at the time the application
for the second unit or two-unit development is approved. In-lieu fees shall
be used by the City solely to increase and improve the supply of housing
affordable to households of extremely low-, very low-, low-, and moderate-
income.
Public Notice
On August 1 and 4, 2022, a public notice was published in the Daily Breeze and the Palos
Verdes Peninsula News, respectively, announcing that the City Council would consider
the draft ordinance at its August 16, 2022, meeting. One public comment was received
from the Rancho Palos Verdes Council of Homeowners Association that requested
additional review and consideration of the following provisions to be included in the
proposed amendment:
a) The public notification requirement upon approval of a SB 9 unit; and,
b) Provisions related to addressing the potential impacts of increased parking and
traffic within the Very High Fire Severity Zones.
Both subjects have been discussed above in the “Additional Amendments for
Consideration” section of this report for the City Council’s consideration.
Environmental Assessment
The proposed regulations implementing SB 9 are not a “project” for purposes of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Government Code Sections
65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n), and therefore, do not require any environmental review
under CEQA.
CONCLUSION:
Staff therefore recommends the City Council adopt the draft ordinance to establish
procedures and standards for urban lot splits and the creation of second units and two -
unit developments in single-family residential zones as required by SB 9.
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ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1. Identify issues or modified language to consider in the draft ordinance and continue
the public hearing to a date certain for introduction.
2. Direct Staff to take no action at this time.
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ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
AMENDING CHAPTER 16.40 (URBAN LOT SPLITS),
CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES) AND
CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE, THEREBY ESTABLISHING
REGULATIONS AND DEFINITIONS FOR URBAN LOT
SPLITS AND FOR SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
ZONES.
WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill No.
9 (SB 9). This housing bill requires the ministerial approval of two dwelling units per parcel
in single-family residential zones, where previously only one primary dwelling unit would
have been permitted; and
WHEREAS, on December 21, 2021, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance
No. 656U to codify regulations in Title 16 (Subdivision) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC) pertaining to SB 9 projects, prior to SB
9 taking effect statewide on January 1, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits), Chapter
17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones) and Chapter
17.96 (Definitions) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the RPVMC to further refine and clarify the code
regulating SB 9 projects; and
WHEREAS, on March 24, 2022, a public notice was published in the Palos Verdes
Peninsula News, announcing code amendment proceedings to be heard by the Planning
Commission, pursuant to the requirements of the RPVMC; and
WHEREAS, on April 12, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public
hearing, at which time the draft ordinance was reviewed and discussed among the
Planning Commission and Staff. The item was continued to April 26, 2022, May 10, 2022,
and subsequently to June 28, 2022, to allow Staff additional time to incorporate the input
received; and
WHEREAS, on June 28, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public
hearing, at which time all interested parties were given an opportunity to be heard and
present evidence on the draft ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on July 12, 2022, the Planning Commission adopted P.C. Resolution
No. 2022-08, recommending that the City Council adopt this Ordinance; and
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WHEREAS, on August 1 and 4, 2022, a public notice was published in the Daily
Breeze and the Palos Verdes Peninsula News, respectively, providing a notice of a public
hearing before the City Council on August 16, 2022; and
WHEREAS, on August 16, 2022, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public
hearing on this Ordinance, and all testimony was received and made a part of the public
record; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered all information presented to it ,
including the Planning Commission findings, P.C. Resolution No. 2022-08, written staff
reports, and any testimony provided at the public hearing; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Ordinance have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes hereby
makes the following findings:
A. The above recitals are true and correct and incorporated fully herein by reference.
B. It is the intent and purpose of this Ordinance to amend Title 16 and Title 17 of the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code regarding urban lot splits and the creation of
second units and two-unit developments.
Section 2. The proposed code amendments to Title 16 and Title 17 adopted
herein are consistent with the Rancho Palos Verdes General Plan and Coastal Specific
Plan in that they uphold, and do not hinder, the goals and policies of those plans.
Section 3. Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits) of Title 16 (Subdivisions) of the
RPVMC is hereby amended as follows (new text in bold underline, deletions in
strikethrough):
Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits)
16.40.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures and standards for urban lot splits
in accordance with the requirements of Government Code Section 66411.7.
16.40.020 Permitted applicants; ministerial Ministerial review; standard for denial.
A. Only individual property owners may apply for an urban lot split. “Individual
property owner” means a natural person holding fee title individually or
jointly in the person’s own name or as a beneficiary of a trust that holds fee
title. “Individual property owner” does not include any corporation or
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corporate person of any kind (partnership, LP, LLC, C corp, S corp, etc.)
except for a “community land trust,” as defined in Revenue and Taxation
Code Section 402.1(a)(11)(C)(ii), or a “qualified nonprofit corporation” as
described in Revenue and Taxation Code Section 214.15.
AB. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, an application for an urban lot
split shall be considered ministerially, without discretionary review or a hearing, and
shall be approved if it meets all of the requirements of this chapter.
BC. An application for an urban lot split shall be approved or denied by the director.
CD. Any interested person may appeal a decision of the director to the planning
commission and a decision of the planning commission to the city council pursuant
to Chapter 17.80 (Hearing Notice and Appeal Procedures).
DE. Notwithstanding subsection (AB), the city may deny an application for an urban lot
split if the building official, or designee, makes a written finding, based upon a
preponderance of the evidence, that the proposed urban lot split would have a
specific, adverse impact, as defined in subsection (d)(2) of Government Code
Section 65589.5, upon public health and safety or the physical environment an d for
which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific,
adverse impact.
16.40.030 Parcel requirements.
The parcel that is proposed for subdivision through an urban lot split:
A. Shall be located in an RS zoning district;
B. Shall satisfy all the requirements of subsections (a)(6)(B) through (a)(6)(K),
inclusive, of Government Code Section 65913.4;
C. Shall not be located within a historic district or on property included on the State
Historic Resources Inventory, as defined in Public Resources Code Section
5020.1, or within a site that is designated or listed as a city or county landmark or
historic property or district pursuant to a city or county ordinance;
D. Shall not be located in the landslide moratorium area, as defined in Section
15.20.020;
E. Shall not have been created through a previous urban lot split ; and
FE. Shall not be adjacent to a parcel that was previously subdivided through an urban
lot split by the owner of the parcel on which the urban lot split is proposed or any
person acting in concert with the owner.;
G. Shall only have residential uses located on it on the date the urban lot split is
approved; and
H. Shall have at least one residential dwelling unit with a valid certificate of
occupancy located on it on the date that the urban lot split is approved,
unless the parcel is owned by a “community land trust,” as defined in
Revenue and Taxation Code Section 402.1(a)(11)(C)(ii), or a “qualified
nonprofit corporation” as described in Revenue and Taxation Code Section
214.15.
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16.40.040 Additional requirements.
A. An urban lot split shall subdivide an existing parcel to create no more than two new
parcels of approximately equal lot area, provided that:
1. Neither resulting parcel shall be smaller than 40 percent of the lot area of the
current parcel proposed for subdivision;
2. Neither resulting parcel shall be smaller than 1,200 square feet; and
3. No flag lots shall be created as a result of the lot split if the existing parcel is
adjacent to an alley, or is a corner lot or through lot.
B. An urban lot split shall not be approved unless, at the time the parcel map is
recorded:
1. Each resulting parcel will have an existing residential dwelling on it; or
2. The applicant has obtained building permits to construct at least one dwelling
on any resulting parcel that does not have an existing residential dwelling on it.
BC. An urban lot split shall not result in the creation of a parcel with more than two
existing units, as defined in Section 16.40.060 (Limitation on Number of Units).
CD. An urban lot split shall not require or allow the demolition or alteration of any of the
following types of housing:
1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts
rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low
income.
2. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control through a public
entity's valid exercise of its police power.
3. A parcel on which an owner of residential real property has exercised the
owner's rights under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of
Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code to withdraw accommodations
from rent or lease within 15 years before the date that the development
proponent submits an application.
4. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years.
DE. As a condition of approval for an urban lot split, the applicant and owner (if different
from the applicant) owner of the parcel being split shall sign an affidavit, in a form
approved by the city attorney, stating that:
1. The proposed urban lot split will not violate the requirements of subsection
(DC) of this section;
2. Neither the owner nor applicant, nor any person acting in concert with the
owner or applicant, has previously subdivided an adjacent parcel using an
urban lot split; and
3. The applicant owner intends to occupy one of the housing units a residential
dwelling unit on one of the parcels created by the urban lot split as their
primary residence for a minimum of three years from the date of the approval
of the urban lot split. This means that the applicant will live in an existing unit
on one of the parcels, if any, or will live in the first unit constructed on either of
the parcels if there are no existing units. This subsection (ED)(3) shall not
apply to an applicant that if the owner of the parcel is a “community land
trust,” as defined in Revenue and Taxation Code Section
402.1(a)(11)(C)(ii), or a “qualified nonprofit corporation” as described in
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Revenue and Taxation Code Section 214.15.a "community land trust," as
defined in clause (ii) of subparagraph (C) of paragraph (11) of subdivision (a)
of Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, or is a "qualified nonprofit
corporation" as described in Section 214.15 of the Revenue and Taxation
Code.
EF. As a condition of approval of an urban lot split, the owner shall dedicate all
easements over the resulting parcels required for the provision of public services
and facilities, as determined by the city engineer.
FG. Each parcel resulting from an urban lot split shall have access to or adjoin the
public right-of-way, and, if necessary, provide the other parcel with access to the
right-of-way through an easement.
G. Lots created through an urban lot split shall only have one driveway
approach. Review and approval by the Public Works Department shall be
required, as a condition of approval, prior to creation of a new curb cut for a
driveway approach to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards.
H. The city shall not require as a condition of approval of an urban lot split:
1. Dedications of rights-of-way or the construction of offsite improvements; or
2. The correction of non-conforming zoning conditions existing on the parcel that
will be divided.
I. An urban lot split:
1. Shall conform with all the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act; and
2. Shall conform with all the requirements applicable to parcel maps in this code,
except for those requirements that conflict with the requirements of this
chapter, in which case the provisions of this chapter shall control.
16.40.050 Limitations applicable to new parcels.
A. Parcels created by an urban lot split shall only be used for residential uses,
notwithstanding the fact that other uses may be permitted in the zoning
district in which the parcels are located.
B. Residential units constructed on parcels created by an urban lot split shall not be
rented for a term of less than 31 consecutive days, also known as a short-term
rental.
C. A parcel created through an urban lot split may not be further subdivided by
a subsequent urban lot split.
16.40.060 Limitation on number of units.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, no more than two units are permitted
on any parcel created by an urban lot split. For the purposes of this section, "unit"
means any dwelling unit, including, but not limited to, a primary dwelling unit, a unit or
units created under Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two -Unit Developments in
Single-Family Zones), an accessory dwelling unit, or a junior accessory dwelling unit.
16.50.070 Coastal permit.
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Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, as a condition of approval of an
application for an urban lot split, the applicant shall comply with the requirements of
Chapter 17.72 (Coastal Permits) that would otherwise apply to an application for a
parcel map.
16.50.080 Deed Restriction
As a condition of approval of an urban lot split, the owner of the parcel to be divided
shall execute a deed restriction, in a form approved by the city attorney, which shall
be recorded on each of the resulting parcels, at the property owner’s expense, and
shall limit the use of each parcel in accordance with the standards of this chapter.
Violation of the deed restriction shall be considered a violation of this code and
may be enforced in a manner that this code may be enforced.
Section 4. Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-
Family Zones) and Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the RPVMC are
hereby amended as follows, with the remaining portions of those chapters remaining
unchanged (new text in bold underline, deletions in strikethrough):
Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones)
17.09.030 Requirements.
Proposed second units and two-unit developments:
A. Shall be located in the RS zoning district;
B. Shall be located on a parcel that meets all the requirements of subsections (a)(6)(B)
through (a)(6)(K), inclusive, of Government Code Section 65913.4;
C. Shall not require or allow the demolition or alterat ion of any of the following types of
housing:
1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts
rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low
income;
2. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control through a public entity's
valid exercise of its police power; or
3. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years;
D. Shall not require or allow the demolition of more than 25 percent of the existing
exterior structure walls on the parcel if the parcel has been occupied by a tenant in
the last three years;
E. Shall not be located on a parcel on which an owner of residential real property has
exercised the owner's rights under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060)
of Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code to withdraw accommodations from
rent or lease within 15 years before the date that the development proponent submits
an application;
F. Shall not be located within a historic district or on p roperty included on the State
Historic Resources Inventory, as defined in Public Resources Code Section 5020.1,
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or within a site that is designated or listed as a city or county landmark or historic
property or district pursuant to a city or county ordinance; and
G. Shall not be located in the landslide moratorium area, as defined in Section
15.20.020, unless the proposed project falls within one of the exception
categories in Section 15.20.040. If applicable, a landslide moratorium exception
permit shall be obtained by the applicant prior to the approval of the application
for a second unit or two-unit development.
G. Shall each have a separate entrance.
17.09.040 Development standards.
A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit development, shall comply with all of the
following development standards:
A. Configuration. A second unit, and both units of a two-unit development, may be
attached to, adjacent to, or detached from, any other dwelling unit structure on the
parcel, subject to subsections (C) and (D) of Section 17.09.030 (Requirements). The
units in a two-unit development may be attached or detached from one another,
provided that adjacent or attached units shall be sufficiently constructed to allow for
separate conveyance.
B. Size. Notwithstanding any other development standard, aA second unit, and both
of the units in a two-unit development, shall may be up to no larger than 800 square
feet in floor area each. Second units, and both units in a two-unit development,
that are constructed on a lot that is at least 20,000 square feet may be up to
1,000 square feet in floor area.
C. Height. A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit development, shall be no
taller than 16 feet in height as measured from adjacent pre -construction grade and
shall be one-story.
D. Setbacks. No setback beyond the existing setback shall be required for an existing
structure or for a unit constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions
as an existing structure. In all other circumstances, second units, and both units of a
two-unit development, shall be set back at least four feet from the side and rear lot
lines.
E. Parking.
1. One new off-street parking space, either enclosed or open, is required for a
second unit and one off-street parking space per unit is required for each unit of
a two-unit development. Such parking spaces shall be in addition to all
existing parking spaces on the parcel.
2. Notwithstanding subsection (E)(1), no parking spaces are required for a second
unit or a two-unit development if either:
a. The parcel is located within one-half mile walking distance of either a high-
quality transit corridor, as defined in subsection (b) of Public Resources
Code Section 21155, or a major transit stop, as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 21064.3; or
b. There is a car share vehicle located within one block of the parcel.
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3. If the construction of a second unit or two-unit development requires the
conversion or demolition of a garage, carport, or covered parking structure
required under subsection 17.02.030(E), then such covered parking spaces
shall be replaced. The replacement parking may be located in any
configuration on the same lot, including, but not limited to, as covered
spaces, uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or by the use of mechanical
automobile parking lifts, without adversely impacting traffic flow and
public safety. The replacement parking shall comply with the minimum
number of spaces and dimensions stated in subsection 17.02.030(E).
F. Decks. No attached decks, including roof decks and balconies, will be allowed
that exceed 6 inches in height, as measured from adjacent finished grade, for
second units or either unit in a two-unit development.
G. Grading. For second units and two-unit developments built on sloping lots,
grading shall be limited to a combined total of 200 cubic yards, provided the
proposed grading is limited to notching the unit(s) into the existing slope and
no additional grading is proposed to create ancillary flat surfaces around the
proposed unit(s), except as may be required for fire safety requirements or
access purposes.
H. Extreme Slope. Applications, including the required Variance pursuant to
Section 17.64, for second units and two-unit developments proposed to be built
on extreme slopes may be denied if the City’s geologist determines that the
proposed structure(s) will result in a specific adverse impact, as defined in
Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(2), upon public health and safety or the
physical environment, that cannot be satisfactorily mitigated or avoided. As a
condition of approval of an application for a second unit or two-unit
development on an extreme slope or which involves grading to accommo date
the unit(s), the applicant shall submit a geological or geotechnical study
reasonably required by the City for review and approval by the City’s geologist.
I. Location of Second Unit. A detached second unit shall be located behind the
primary residence, and be clearly subordinate to the primary residence, both
in height and width. If it is not legally and/or physically possible for a detached
second unit to be built behind the primary residence, then it may be built in
front or to the side of the primary residence subject to a minimum front setback
of 25 feet.
J. Separation Between Detached Units. Detached second units and both units of
a two-unit development, if detached from one another, built within a very high
fire hazard severity zone, must maintain a ten-foot separation from the primary
residence or each other, as applicable.
K. Separate Entrances. Detached second units and both units of a two-unit
development shall have separate entrances from any other unit.
L. Driveways. Notwithstanding the number of units on the lot, no additional curb
cuts to create new driveways shall be allowed unless the Public Works
Director determines that a new curb cut is required for public health and
safety purposes.
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M. Additional Development Standards. Except as provided in subsections (A) through
(EL), second units, and each unit of a two -unit development, shall comply with all
development standards that would be applicable to a primary dwelling unit on the
same parcel.
N. Limitation on Enforcement of Development and Design Standards. If the
enforcement of a development standard, wWith the exceptions of the setback
requirements in subsection (D), and the requirement to comply with all building
codes, the city shall not enforce any development standard or the design standards
in Section 17.09.050, would physically limit the size of a primary dwelling unit
to less than 800 square feet, or would physically limit the property to having
only one primary dwelling unit, then the standard shall be relaxed or waived to
the extent necessary to allow the unit to be up to 800 square feet, or to allow a
second primary dwelling unit on the property, or both, as applicable. to the
extent that it would have the effect of physically precluding the construction of a
second unit or two-unit development on a parcel, or would physically preclude either
the primary dwelling unit or second unit from being at least 800 square feet in floor
area.
17.09.050 Design standards.
A. Second units, and each unit of a two-unit development, shall comply with all objective
design standards that would be applicable to a primary dwelling unit on the same
parcel.
B. Each second unit shall be architecturally consistent with the primary reside nce
and both units of a two-unit development shall be architecturally consistent
with each other, such that the matching units use complementary color
palettes, exterior finishes, and matching roof pitches as viewed from all sides.
The roof slope must match that of the dominant roof slope of the primary
dwelling or matching unit. The dominant roof slope is the slope shared by the
largest portion of the roof.
C. Any garage door shall be removed from a garage or other accessory structure
that is converted to a second unit, and the opening shall be treated and finished
to match the primary residence.
D The units shall provide privacy mitigation measures by having the entrance to
the units face away from the nearest, adjacent property.
E. No entry to a second unit shall be visible from the public right-of-way.
F. The exterior lighting on a second unit or two-unit development must comply
with Section 17.56.030 (Outdoor Lighting for Residential Uses) of this code.
17.09.060 Rental term; separate conveyance.
A. Second units and the units in a two-unit development shall not be rented for a term
of less than 31 consecutive days, also known as a short-term rental.
B. A second unit may not be turned into a condominium or otherwise sold
separately from the other primary unit on the parcel. The units in a two-unit
development may not be turned into condominiums or otherwise sold
separately from one another. For purposes of this Chapter, “primary unit”
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means a dwelling unit other than an accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit.
17.09.070 - Affordable rent requirement.
Second units, and both units of a two -unit development, if rented, shall only be rented
at an affordable rent for lower -income households, as defined in Health and Safety Code
Section 50053, and shall only be rented to lower -income households, as defined in
Health and Safety Code Section 50079.5, for a minimum of 55 years. Prior to the
issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any second unit or any unit of a two -unit
development, the owner of the property shall execute and record on the property a deed
restriction, in a form approved by the director and the city attorney, establishing legal
restrictions consistent with this section.
17.09.070 Requirement for issuance of building permit.
A building permit shall not be issued for a second unit unless there is one existing
primary dwelling unit on the parcel. For purposes of this section, a primary dwelling
unit shall be considered to be “existing” if it has a current valid certif icate of
occupancy or a building permit that has been finaled.
17.09.080 Total number of units
A. Any lot created by a lot split pursuant to Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits) shall
be limited to a maximum of two units.
B. No more than four units shall be permitted on a single-family residential lot that
has not undergone a lot split.
C. The maximum number of units permitted on any single-family residential lot
may be any combination of primary dwelling units, second units, two-unit
developments, accessory dwelling units, or junior accessory dwelling units,
provided that the total permitted number of units per lot is not exceeded, and
subject to the limitations on the development of accessory dwelling units and
junior accessory dwelling units in Chapter 17.10 (Accessory Dwelling Unit and
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Development Standards).
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17.09.08090 Coastal permit.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, as a condition of approval of an
application for a second unit or two-unit development, the applicant shall comply with the
requirements of Chapter 17.72 (Coastal Permits).
Chapter 17.96 - Definitions
17.96.578 - Development, two-unit.
“Two-unit development” means the simultaneous construction development of two new
residential dwelling units, other than an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory
dwelling unit, on a single parcel with where either (i) there are no existing primary
residential dwelling unit other than an accessory dwelling unit or (ii) all existing residential
dwelling units other than an accessory dwelling unit will be demolished prior to
construction of the two new residential dwelling units.”.
17.96.2155 - Unit, second.
“Second unit” means a second residential dwelling unit, other than an accessory dwelling
unit or junior accessory dwelling unit, added to a property parcel with only one an existing
primary dwelling unit, either by (i) the construction of a new residential dwelling unit, (ii)
the conversion of an existing structure into a residential dwelling unit, (iii) the bifurcation
of an existing residential dwelling unit into two separate residential dwelling units, or (iv)
the use of another means other than the construction of a two-unit development.
Section 5. This ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Government Code Sections 65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n), as
the proposed regulations implementing SB 9 are not considered a “project”, and
therefore, do not require any environmental review.
Section 6. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court
of any competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed
this ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause and phrase
thereof not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of
the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
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Section 7. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this
ordinance, and shall make a minute of the passage and adoption thereof in the records
of and the proceedings of the City Council at which the same is passed and adopted. This
Ordinance shall take effect immediately, pursuant to the authority conferred upon the City
Council by Government Code Section 36937. The City Clerk shall cause a summary of
this ordinance to be published in accordance with Government Code Section 36933 in a
newspaper of general circulation which is hereby designated for that purpose.
Section 8. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall go into effect on the 31st day
after its passage.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 16th day of August, 2022.
David L. Bradley, Mayor
Attest:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the above Ordinance No. 2022-__, was introduced by the City Council of said City at a
regular meeting thereof held on August 16, 2022, and that the same was passed and
adopted by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
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P.C. RESOLUTION NO. 2022-08
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES RECOMMENDING THAT
THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH DEFINITIONS AND
REGULATIONS FOR SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES
CASE NO. PLCA2022-0001)
WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill No. 9
SB 9). This housing bill requires the ministerial approval of two dwelling units per parcel in
single-family residential zones, where previously only one primary dwelling unit would have
been permitted; and
WHEREAS, on December 21, 2021, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance
No. 656U to codify regulations in Title 16 (Subdivision) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC) pertaining to SB 9 projects, prior to SB 9 taking
effect statewide on January 1, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit
Developments in Single-Family Zones) and Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) of Title 17 (Zoning)
of the RPVMC to further refine and clarify the code to better regulate SB 9 projects; and
WHEREAS, on March 24, 2022, a public notice was published in the Palos Verdes
Peninsula News, announcing code amendment proceedings to be heard by the Planning
Commission, pursuant to the requirements of the RPVMC; and
WHEREAS, on April 12, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public
hearing, at which time the draft ordinance was reviewed and discussed among the Planning
Commission and Staff. The item was continued to April 26, 2022, May 10, 2022, and
subsequently to June 28, 2022, to allow Staff additional time to incorporate the input
received; and
WHEREAS, on June 28, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public
hearing, at which time all interested parties were given an opportunity to be heard and
present evidence on the draft ordinance.
l
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, AND RESOLVES AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct and incorporated fully herein by
reference.
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 1 of 11B-1
SECTION 2. The Planning Commission has reviewed and considered the proposed
code amendments to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code
regarding second units and two-unit developments, as presented in `Exhibit A'.
SECTION 3. The proposed amendments are consistent with the Rancho Palos
Verdes General Plan and Coastal Specific Plan in that they uphold, and do not hinder, the
goals and policies of those plans.
SECTION 4. The proposed amendments are exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Government Code Sections 65852.21(j)
and 66411.7(n), as the proposed regulations implementing SB 9 are not considered a
project", and therefore, do not require any environmental review.
SECTION 5. For the foregoing reasons and based on the information and findings
included in the Staff Report, Minutes and other records of proceedings, the Planning
Commission of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes hereby recommends that the City Council
adopt the Ordinance attached hereto as `Exhibit A,' entitled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE RANCHO
PALOS VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE TO AMEND SECTION 17.02.020 (SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL (RS)) DISTRICTS — USES AND DEVELOPMENT PERMITTED), ADD
CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY
ZONES), AND AMEND CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS) THEREBY ESTABLISHING
DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS FOR SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES".
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 12th day of July, 2022.
AYES: COMMISSIONERS NELSON, NULLMAN, PERESTAM, SAADATNEJADI
AND VICE-CHAIR CHURA
NOES: NONE
ABSTENTIONS: COMMISSIONER SANTAROSA AND CHAIR HAMILL
RECUSALS: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
eli tAAAA4
Julie amill
Cha
Ken Rukavina, PE,
Director of Community Development
Secretary of the Planning Commission
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 2 of 11B-2
EXHIBIT "A"
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. _
Please see attached.
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 3 of 11B-3
ORDINANCE NO._
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
AMENDING TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE TO AMEND SECTION 17.02.020
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (RS)) DISTRICTS— USES AND
DEVELOPMENT PERMITTED), ADD CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND
UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY
ZONES), AND AMEND CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS)
THEREBY ESTABLISHING DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS
FOR SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES
WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill No. 9
SB 9). This housing bill requires the ministerial approval of two dwelling units per parcel in
single-family residential zones, where previously only one primary dwelling unit would have
been permitted; and
WHEREAS, on December 21, 2021, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance
No. 656U to codify regulations in Title 16 (Subdivision) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC) pertaining to SB 9 projects, prior to SB 9 taking
effect statewide on January 1, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit
Developments in Single-Family Zones) and Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) of Title 17 (Zoning)
of the RPVMC to further refine and clarify the code to better regulate SB 9 projects; and
WHEREAS, on March 24, 2022, a public notice was published in the Palos Verdes
Peninsula News, announcing code amendment proceedings to be heard by the Planning
Commission, pursuant to the requirements of the RPVMC; and
WHEREAS, on April 12, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public
hearing, at which time the draft ordinance was reviewed and discussed among the Planning
Commission and Staff. The item was continued to April 26, 2022, May 10, 2022, and
subsequently to June 28, 2022, to allow Staff additional time to incorporate the input
received; and
WHEREAS, on June 28, 2022, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed public
hearing, at which time all interested parties were given an opportunity to be heard and
present evidence on the draft ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on July 12 2022, the Planning Commission adopted P.C. Resolution
No. 2022- , recommending that the City Council adopt this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on a public notice was published in the Palos Verdes Peninsula
News, providing a notice of a public hearing before the City Council on and
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 4 of 11B-4
WHEREAS, on the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing on
this Ordinance, and all testimony was received and made a part of the public record; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered all information presented to it,
including the Planning Commission findings, P.C. Resolution No. 2022- , written staff
reports, and any testimony provided at the public hearing; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Ordinance have been met.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes hereby
makes the following findings:
A. The above recitals are true and correct and incorporated fully herein by reference.
B. It is the intent and purpose of this Ordinance to amend to Title 17 of the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code regarding second units and two-unit developments.
SECTION 2. The proposed code amendments to Title 17 adopted herein are
consistent with the Rancho Palos Verdes General Plan and Coastal Specific Plan in that
they uphold, and do not hinder, the goals and policies of those plans.
SECTION 3. Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-
Family Zones) and Chapter 17.96 (Definitions) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the RPVMC are hereby
amended as follows, with the remaining portions of those chapters remaining unchanged
new text in bold underline, deletions in
Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-Family Zones)
17.09.030 Requirements.
Proposed second units and two-unit developments:
A. Shall be located in the RS zoning district;
B. Shall be located on a parcel that meets all the requirements of subsections (a)(6)(B)
through (a)(6)(K), inclusive, of Government Code Section 65913.4;
C. Shall not require or allow the demolition or alteration of any of the following types of
housing:g
1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents
to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income;
2. Housingthat is to anyform of rent orprice control through apublic entity'ssubjectgY
valid exercise of its police power; or
3. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years;
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 5 of 11B-5
D. Shall not require or allow the demolition of more than 25 percent of the existing exterior
structure walls on the parcel if the parcel has been occupied by a tenant in the last three
years;
E. Shall not be located on a parcel on which an owner of residential real property has
exercised the owner's rights under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of
Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code to withdraw accommodations from rent
or lease within 15 years before the date that the development proponent submits an
application;
F. Shall not be located within a historic district or on property included on the State Historic
Resources Inventory, as defined in Public Resources Code Section 5020.1, or within a
site that is designated or listed as a city or county landmark or historic property or district
pursuant to a city or county ordinance; and
G. Shall not be located in the landslide moratorium area, as defined in Section
15.20.020, unless the proposed project falls within one of the exception
categories in Section 15.20.040. If applicable, a landslide moratorium exception
permit shall be obtained by the applicant prior to the approval of the application
for a second unit or two-unit development.
G. Shall each have a separate entrance.
17.09.040 Development standards.
A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit development, shall comply with all of the
following development standards:
A. Configuration. A second unit, - ' e e= - - -' = - = - -' : - . - _ _ -- - - , may be
attached to7-adjacent to, or detached from, any other dwelling unit structure on the
parcel, subject to subsections (C) and (D) of Section 17.09.030 (Requirements). The
units in a two-unit development may be attached or detached from one another;
B. Size. Notwithstanding any other development standard, aA second unit, and both
efthe units in a two-unit development, shat may be up to 800 square
feet in floor area each. Second units, and both units in a two-unit development,
that are constructed on a lot that is at least 20,000 square feet may be up to 1,000
square feet in floor area.
C. Height. A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit development, shall be no taller
than 16 feet in height as measured from adjacent pre-construction grade and shall be
one-story.
D. Setbacks. No setback beyond the existing setback shall be required for an existing
structure or for a unit constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as
an existing structure. In all other circumstances, second units, and both units of a two-
unit development, shall be set back at least four feet from the side and rear lot lines.
E. Parking.
1. One new off-street parking space, either enclosed or open, is required for a
second unit and = - - = • -- =- •- = = - -- = - - -• • -= -' -= for each unit of a
two-unit development. Such parking spaces shall be in addition to all existing
parking spaces on the parcel.
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 6 of 11B-6
2. Notwithstanding subsection (E)(1), no parking spaces are required for a second
unit or a two-unit development if either:
a. The parcel is located within one-half mile walking distance of either a high-
quality transit corridor, as defined in subsection (b) of Public Resources
Code Section 21155, or a major transit stop, as defined in Public Resources
Code Section 21064.3; or
b. There is a car share vehicle located within one block of the parcel.
F. Decks. No attached decks, including roof decks and balconies, will be allowed
that exceed 6 inches in height, as measured from adjacent finished grade, for
second units or either unit in a two-unit development.
G. Grading. For second units and two-unit developments built on sloping lots,
grading shall be limited to a combined total of 200 cubic yards, provided the
proposed grading is limited to notching the unit(s) into the existing slope and no
additional grading is proposed to create ancillary flat surfaces around the
proposed unit(s), except as may be required for fire safety requirements or
access purposes.
H. Extreme Slope. Applications for second units and two-unit developments
proposed to be built on extreme slopes may be denied if the City's geologist
determines that the proposed structure(s)will result in a specific adverse impact,
as defined in Government Code Section 65589.5(d)(2), upon public health and
safety or the physical environment, that cannot be satisfactorily mitigated or
avoided. As a condition of approval of an application for a second unit or two-
unit development on an extreme slope or which involves grading to
accommodate the unit(s), the applicant shall submit a geological or geotechnical
study reasonably required by the City for review and approval by the City's
geologist.
I. Location of Second Unit. A detached second unit shall be located behind the
primary residence, and be clearly subordinate to the primary residence, both in
height and width. If it is not legally and/or physically possible for a detached
second unit to be built behind the primary residence, then it may be built in front
or to the side of the primary residence subject to a minimum front setback of 25
feet.
J. Separation Between Detached Units. Detached second units and both units of a
two-unit development, if detached from one another, built within a very high fire
hazard severity zone, must maintain a ten-foot separation from the primary
residence or each other, as applicable.
K. Separate Entrances. Detached second units and both units of a two-unit
development shall have separate entrances from any other unit.
L. Driveways. Notwithstanding the number of units on the lot, no additional curb
cuts to create new driveways shall be allowed unless the Public Works Director
determines that a new curb cut is required for public health and safety purposes.
M.Additional Development Standards. Except as provided in subsections (A)through (EL),
second units, and each unit of a two-unit development, shall comply with all
development standards that would be applicable to a primary dwelling unit on the same
parcel.
N. Limitation on Enforcement of Development and Design Standards. If the enforcement
of a development standard, wWith the exceptions of the setback requirements in
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 7 of 11B-7
subsection (D),
e - e or the design standards in Section 17.09.050,
would physically limit the size of a primary dwelling unit to less than 800 square
feet, or would physically limit the property to having only one primary dwelling
unit, then the standard shall be relaxed or waived to the extent necessary to allow
the unit to be up to 800 square feet, or to allow a second primary dwelling unit
on the property, or both, as applicable. = - - - - - - - - • _ : - _ - - - - • -
19 - - -- •- .-
17.09.050 Design standards.
A. Second units, and each unit of a two-unit development, shall comply with all objective
design standards that would be applicable to a primary dwelling unit on the same
parcel.
B. Each second unit shall be architecturally consistent with the primary residence
and both units of a two-unit development shall be architecturally consistent with
each other, such that the matching units use complementary color palettes,
exterior finishes, and matching roof pitches as viewed from all sides. The roof
slope must match that of the dominant roof slope of the primary dwelling or
matching unit. The dominant roof slope is the slope shared by the largest portion
of the roof.
C. Any garage door shall be removed from a garage or other accessory structure
that is converted to a second unit, and the opening shall be treated and finished
to match the primary residence.
D The units shall provide privacy mitigation measures by having the entrance to
the units face away from the nearest, adjacent property.
E. No entry to a second unit shall be visible from the public right-of-way.
F. The exterior lighting on a second unit or two-unit development must comply with
Section 17.56.030 (Outdoor Lighting for Residential Uses) of this code.
17.09.060 Rental term; separate conveyance.
A. Second units and the units in a two-unit development shall not be rented for a term of
less than 31 consecutive days.
B. A second unit may not be turned into a condominium or otherwise sold
separately from the other primary unit on the parcel. The units in a two-unit
development may not be turned into condominiums or otherwise sold separately
from one another. For purposes of this Chapter, "primary unit" means a dwelling
unit other than an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit.
1 1 e e - •- e-- -e . - -* -
1
and Safety Code Section 50079.5, for a minimum of 55 years. Prior to the issuance of a
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 8 of 11B-8
form approved by the director and the city attorney, establishing legal restrictions
17.09.070 Requirement for issuance of building permit.
A building permit shall not be issued for a second unit unless there is one existing
primary dwelling unit on the parcel. For purposes of this section, a primary dwelling
unit shall be considered to be "existing" if it has a current valid certificate of
occupancy or a building permit that has been finaled.
17.09.080 Total number of units
A. Any lot created by a lot split pursuant to Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits) shall be
limited to a maximum of two units.
B. No more than four units shall be permitted on a single-family residential lot that
has not undergone a lot split.
C. The maximum number of units permitted on any single-family residential lot may
be any combination of primary dwelling units, second units, two-unit
developments, accessory dwelling units, or junior accessory dwelling units,
provided that the total permitted number of units per lot is not exceeded, and
subject to the limitations on the development of accessory dwelling units and
junior accessory dwelling units in Chapter 17. 10 (Accessory Dwelling Unit and
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Development Standards).
17.09.890 Coastal permit.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter,
the applicant shall comply with the
requirements of Chapter 17.72 (Coastal Permits).
Chapter 17.96 - Definitions
17.96.578 - Development, two-unit.
Two-unit development" means the simultaneous development of two newpp
residential dwelling units, other than an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling
unit, on a single parcel with where either (i) there are no existing primary residential
dwelling unit - - - a
17.96.2155 - Unit, second.
Second unit" means a second residential dwelling unit, other than an accessory dwelling
unit or junior accessory dwelling unit, added to a parcel with one and only one
an-existing primary dwelling unit, -• - - -
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 9 of 11B-9
me
SECTION 4. This ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Government Code Sections 65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n), as the
proposed regulations implementing SB 9 are not considered a "project", and therefore, do
not require any environmental review.
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this
ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court
of any competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect, the validity of the remaining
portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed
this ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause and phrase
thereof not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of
the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this
ordinance, and shall make a minute of the passage and adoption thereof in the records
of and the proceedings of the City Council at which the same is passed and adopted. This
Ordinance shall take effect immediately, pursuant to the authority conferred upon the City
Council by Government Code Section 36937. The City Clerk shall cause a summary of
this ordinance to be published in accordance with Government Code Section 36933 in a
newspaper of general circulation which is hereby designated for that purpose.
SECTION 7. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall go into effect on the 31st day
after its passage.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this day of 2022.
David L. Bradley, Mayor
Attest:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 10 of 11B-10
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the above Ordinance No. 2022- , was duly-adopted by the City Council of said City at a
regular meeting thereof held on 2022.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
P.C. Resolution No.2022-08
Page 11 of 11B-11
ORDINANCE NO. 656U
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING TITLE 16 (SUBDIVISION) BY ADDING
SECTION 16.40 (URBAN LOT SPLITS), AMENDING TITLE
17 (ZONING) OF SECTION 17.02.020 (SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL ((RS)) DISTRICTS — USES AND
DEVELOPMENT PERMITTED), ADDING CHAPTER 17.09
SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN
SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES), AND AMENDING CHAPTER
17.96 (DEFINITIONS) OF THE RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MUNICIPAL CODE THEREBY ESTABLISHING
DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS FOR URBAN LOT
SPLITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES
WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill No.
9 (SB 9). This bill requires the ministerial approval of two dwelling units per parcel in
single-family residential zones, where previously only one primary dwelling unit would
have been permitted; and,
WHEREAS, SB 9 takes effect on January 1, 2022, and it therefore is necessary for the
City to establish objective standards regarding housing developments and lot splits to regulate
SB 9 projects; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish objective standards to preserve the City's
open space character and quality of life as characterized by the City's General Plan; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code § 36937, subdivision (b), any
ordinance for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, containing
a declaration of the facts constituting the urgency, that is passed by a four-fifths (4/5) vote
of the City Council, shall take effect immediately upon its adoption; and
WHEREAS, the City Council seeks and intends to protect the health, safety, and
welfare of the residents of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes by establishing regulations
for urban lot splits and two-unit developments in single,family residential zones, as further
described herein.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes does
hereby ordain as follows:
Section 1. Recitals. The above recitals are incorporated herein by this
reference.
Section 2. Urgency Findings.
A. SB 9 requires the ministerial approval of two dwelling units per parcel in
single-family residential zones, where previously only one primary dwelling unit would
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C-1
have been permitted, in addition to accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling
units, in some cases.
B. Additionally, SB 9 requires ministerial approval of lot splits in single-family
residential zones and allows two units to be built on each resulting parcel.
C. This bill has the potential to dramatically increase the density and population
of single-family zones, potentially placing a strain on public resources and the
infrastructure that serves these zoning districts.
D. Moreover, SB 9 continues a pattern of state action that deprives cities of
control over issues of fundamental local concern and traditional local control, namely, the
character and quality of residential neighborhoods and the ability to control and plan for
the uses of land in the City.
E. SB 9 takes effect on January 1, 2022, and it is therefore necessary for the
City to establish objective standards regarding the housing developments and lot splits
that the City will now be required to permit, and to ensure that such regulations take effect
prior to January 1, 2022, so as to protect and provide for the welfare of the local
community.
Section 3. CEQA. The City Council finds and determines that the proposed
ordinance amendments are not a "project" for purposes of California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Government Code Sections 65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n),
and therefore do not require any environmental review under CEQA.
Section 4. Chapter 16.40 (Urban Lot Splits) is hereby added to the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code and shall read as follows (deletions in
additions in bold italics):
Chapter 16.40- URBAN LOT SPLITS
16.40.010 - Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures and standards
for urban lot splits in accordance with the requirements of
Government Code Section 66411.7.
16.40.020- Ministerial review;standard for denial.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, an
application for an urban lot split shall be considered ministerially,
without discretionary review or a hearing, and shall be approved if it
meets all of the requirements of this chapter.
B. An application for an urban lot split shall be approved or denied
by the director.111
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C. Any interested person may appeal a decision of the director to
the planning commission and a decision of the planning commission
to the city council pursuant to Chapter 17.80 (Hearing Notice and
Appeal Procedures).
D. Notwithstanding subsection A, the city may deny an application
for an urban lot split if the building official, or designee, makes a
written finding, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, that the
proposed urban lot split would have a specific, adverse impact, as
defined in subsection (d)(2) of Government Code Section 65589.5,
upon public health and safety or the physical environment and for
which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid
the specific, adverse impact.
16.40.030 - Parcel requirements.
The parcel that is proposed for subdivision through an urban lot split:
A. Shall be located in an RS zoning district;
B. Shall satisfy all the requirements of subsections (a)(6)(B)
through (a)(6)(K), inclusive, of Government Code Section 65913.4;
C. Shall not be located within a historic district or on property
included on the State Historic Resources Inventory, as defined in
Public Resources Code Section 5020.1, or within a site that is
designated or listed as a city or county landmark or historic property
or district pursuant to a city or county ordinance;
D. Shall not have been created through a previous urban lot split;
and
E. Shall not be adjacent to a parcel that was previously subdivided
through an urban lot split by the owner of the parcel on which the
urban lot split is proposed or any person acting in concert with the
owner.
16.40.040 - Additional requirements.
A. An urban lot split shall subdivide an existing parcel to create no
more than two new parcels of approximately equal lot area, provided
that:
1. Neither resulting parcel shall be smaller than 40 percent
111 of the lot area of the current parcel proposed for subdivision;
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Page 3 of 13
C-3
2. Neither resulting parcel shall be smaller than 1,200
square feet; and
3. No flag lots shall be created as a result of the lot split if
the existing parcel is adjacent to an alley, or is a corner lot or
through lot.
B. An urban lot split shall not be approved unless, at the time the
parcel map is recorded:
1. Each resulting parcel will have an existing residential
dwelling on it, or
2.The applicant has obtained building permits to construct
at least one dwelling on any resulting parcel that does not have
an existing residential dwelling on it.
C. An urban lot split shall not result in the creation of a parcel with
more than two existing units, as defined in Section 16.40.060.
D. An urban lot split shall not require or allow the demolition or
alteration of any of the following types of housing:
1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant,
ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to
persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income.
2. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control
through a public entity's valid exercise of its police power.
3. A parcel on which an owner of residential real property
has exercised the owner's rights under Chapter 12. 75
commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 to
withdraw accommodations from rent or lease within 15 years
before the date that the development proponent submits an
application.
4. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last
three years.
E. As a condition of approval for an urban lot split, the applicant
and owner(if different from the applicant) shall sign an affidavit, in a
form approved by the city attorney, stating that:
1.The proposed urban lot split will not violate the
requirements of subsection D of this section;
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111 2. Neither the owner nor applicant, nor any person acting in
concert with the owner or applicant, has previously subdivided
an adjacent parcel using an urban lot split; and
3.The applicant intends to occupy one of the housing units
on one of the parcels created by the urban lot split as their
primary residence for a minimum of three years from the date
of the approval of the urban lot split. This means that the
applicant will live in an existing unit on one of the parcels, if any,
or will live in the first unit constructed on either of the parcels if
there are no existing units. This subsection E.3 shall not apply
to an applicant that is a "community land trust," as defined in
clause (ii) of subparagraph (C) of paragraph (11) of subdivision
a) of Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, or is a
qualified nonprofit corporation"as described in Section 214.15
of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
F. As a condition of approval of an urban lot split, the owner shall
dedicate all easements over the resulting parcels required for the
provision of public services and facilities, as determined by the city
engineer.
G. Each parcel resulting from an urban lot split shall have access
to or adjoin the public right-of-way, and, if necessary, provide the
other parcel with access to the right-of-way through an easement.
H. The city shall not require as a condition of approval of an urban
lot split:
1. Dedications of rights-of-way or the construction of offsite
improvements, or
2.The correction of non-conforming zoning conditions
existing on the parcel that will be divided.
1.An urban lot split:
1. Shall conform with all the requirements of the
Subdivision Map Act; and
2. Shall conform with all the requirements applicable to
parcel maps in this code, except for those requirements that
conflict with the requirements of this chapter, in which case the
provisions of this chapter shall control.
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Page 5 of 13
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16.40.050 - Limitations applicable to new parcels.
A. Parcels created by an urban lot split shall only be used for
residential uses.
B. Residential units constructed on parcels created by an urban
lot split shall not be rented for a term of less than thirty-one (31)
consecutive days, also known as a short-term rental.
16.40.060- Limitation on number of units.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, no more than two
units are permitted on any parcel created by an urban lot split. For the
purposes of this section, "unit" means any dwelling unit, including,
but not limited to, a primary dwelling unit, a unit or units created under
Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments In Single-
Family Zones), an accessory dwelling unit, or a junior accessory
dwelling unit.
16.50.070— Coastal permit.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, as a condition of
approval of an application for an urban lot split, the applicant shall
comply with the requirements of Chapter 17.72 (Coastal Permits) that
would otherwise apply to an application for a parcel map."
Section 5. Section 17.02.020 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code shall
be amended as follows (deletions in additions in bold italics):
17.02.020 - Uses and development permitted.
Only the following uses and developments may be conducted or
constructed:
A. Single-family residential buildings, mobile homes on city approved
foundations, as provided in California Government Code Sections 65852.3
and 65852.4 and associated accessory structures for the residential use
and occupancy of not more than one family and not more than one dwelling
unit per lot, with the exception of accessory dwelling units and junior
accessory dwelling units approved pursuant to Chapter 17.10 (Accessory
Dwelling Unit and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Development Standards);
B. Second units and two-unit developments approved pursuant to
Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments In Single-
Family Zones);
B: C. Home occupations pursuant to Chapter 17.08 (Home Occupations);
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Page 6 of 13
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G D. Private outdoor recreational uses, such as tennis courts, swimming
pools and basketball courts, which are incidental to the residential use of
the property;
07 E. Residential planned development (RPD), pursuant to Chapter 17.42
Residential Planned Development);
ET F. The keeping of animals that are household pets, as defined in
Section 17.96.945 (Household Pets) and small domestic animals for
noncommercial purposes. Animals that are not household pets may be
permitted pursuant to approval of an exotic animal permit;
F G. The keeping of large domestic animals, pursuant to Chapter 17.46
Equestrian Overlay (Q) District);
G, H. The keeping of a maximum of five bee hives for noncommercial
purposes, except for the RS-A-5 residential zoning district, where a
maximum of ten bee hives may be kept upon approval by the director of a
site plan review application, which shall be appealable to the planning
commission pursuant to Chapter 17.80 (Hearing Notice and Appeal
Procedures);
H I. The growing of crops and/or fruits on one acre or less for
noncommercial purposes;
k J. Small family day care;
K. Temporary special uses and developments, if a special use permit is
first obtained, pursuant to Chapter 17.62 (Special Use Permits);
K L. Commercial filming or photography, if a city film permit is first
obtained, pursuant to Chapter 9.16 (Still Photography, Motion Picture and
Television Productions) of this code;
h M. Garage sales, provided that no more than four sales, each occurring
on one calendar day, are held on the same property within a calendar year
and that the merchandise for sale, with the exception of neighbors
combining items for sale at one property, is the personal property of the
resident of the property where the sale is being conducted and is not
acquired or consigned for the purpose of resale;
M N. Any other use which specifically is required to be permitted in a single
family residential district by state or federal law; and
N O. Other uses as provided in any applicable overlay or special district."
Section 6. Chapter 17.09 (Second Units and Two-Unit Developments in Single-
Family Zones) is hereby added to the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code and shall
read as follows (deletions in additions in bold italics):
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Page 7 of 13
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Chapter 17.09 - SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN
SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES
17.09.010 - Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures and standards
for the approval and creation of second units and two-unit
developments in single-family zones in accordance with the
requirements of Government Code Section 65852.21.
17.09.020 - Ministerial review; standard for denial.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, an
application for a second unit or a two-unit development shall be
considered ministerially, without discretionary review or a hearing,
and shall be approved if it meets all of the requirements of this
chapter.
B. An application for a second unit or a two-unit development shall
be approved or denied by the director through the site plan review
process in Chapter 17.70.
C. Notwithstanding subsection A, the city may deny an application
for a second unit or two-unit development if the building official, or
designee, makes a written finding, based upon a preponderance of the
evidence, that the proposed second unit or two-unit development
would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined in subsection (d)(2)
of Government Code Section 65589.5, upon public health and safety
or the physical environment and for which there is no feasible method
to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.
17.09.030- Requirements.
Proposed second units and two-unit developments:
A. Shall be located in the RS zoning district;
B. Shall be located on a parcel that meets all the requirements of
subsections (a)(6)(B) through (A)(6)(K), inclusive, of Government
Code Section 65913.4;
C. Shall not require or allow the demolition or alteration of any of
the following types of housing:
I
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1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant,
ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to
persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income;
2. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control
through a public entity's valid exercise of its police power; or
3. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last
three years;
D. Shall not require or allow the demolition of more than 25 percent
of the existing exterior structure walls on the parcel if the parcel has
been occupied by a tenant in the last three years;
E. Shall not be located on a parcel on which an owner of residential
real property has exercised the owner's rights under Chapter 12.75
commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 to withdraw
accommodations from rent or lease within 15 years before the date
that the development proponent submits an application;
F. Shall not be located within a historic district or on property
included on the State Historic Resources Inventory, as defined in
Public Resources Code Section 5020.1, or within a site that is
designated or listed as a city or county landmark or historic property
or district pursuant to a city or county ordinance; and
G. Shall each have a separate entrance.
17.09.040 - Development standards.
A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit development, shall
comply with all of the following development standards:
A. Configuration. A second unit, and both units of a two-unit
development, may be attached to, adjacent to, or detached from any
other structure on the parcel, subject to subsections C and D of
Section 17.09.030, provided that adjacent or attached units shall be
sufficiently constructed to allow for separate conveyance.
B. Size. A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit
development, shall be no larger than 800 square feet in floor area each.
C. Height. A second unit, and both of the units in a two-unit
development, shall be no taller than 16 feet in height as measured from
adjacent pre-construction grade and shall be one-story.
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D. Setbacks. No setback beyond the existing setback shall be
required for an existing structure or for a unit constructed in the same
location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure. In all
other circumstances, second units, and both units of a two-unit
development, shall be set back at least 4 feet from the side and rear
lot lines.
E. Parking.
1. One off-street parking space is required for a second unit
and oneoff-street parking space per unit is required for each
unit of a two-unit development.
2. Notwithstanding subsection E.1, no parking spaces are
required for a second unit or a two-unit development if either:
a.The parcel is located within one-half mile walking
distance of either a high-quality transit corridor, as
defined in subsection (b) of Public Resources Code
Section 21155, or a major transit stop, as defined in
Public Resources Code Section 21064.3; or
b. There is a car share vehicle located within one
block of the parcel.
F. Additional Development Standards. Except as provided in
subsections A through E, second units, and each unit of a two-unit
development, shall comply with all development standards that would
be applicable to a primary dwelling unit on the same parcel.
G. Limitation on Enforcement of Development Standards. With the
exceptions of the setback requirements in subsection D and the
requirement to comply with all building codes, the city shall not
enforce any development standard to the extent that it would have the
effect of physically precluding the construction of a second unit or
two-unit development on a parcel, or would physically preclude either
the primary dwelling unit or seconds unit from being at least 800 square
feet in floor area.
17.09.050- Design standards.
Second units, and each unit of a two-unit development, shall comply
with all objective design standards that would be applicable to a
primary dwelling unit on the same parcel.
17.09.060- Rental term.
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Second units and the units in a two-unit development shall not be
rented for a term of less than thirty-one (31) consecutive days.
17.09.070 -Affordable rent requirement.
Second units, and both units of a two-unit development, if rented, shall
only be rented at an affordable rent for lower-income households, as
defined in Health and Safety Code Section 50053, and shall only be
rented to lower-income households, as defined in Health and Safety
Code Section 50079.5, for a minimum of 55 years. Prior to the
issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any second unit or any unit
of a two-unit development, the owner of the property shall execute and
record on the property a deed restriction, in a form approved by the
director and the city attorney, establishing legal restrictions
consistent with this Section.
17.09.080 - Coastal permit.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, as a condition of
approval of an application for a second unit or two-unit development,
the applicant shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 17.72
Coastal Permits)."
Section 7. Section 17.96.578 (Development, two-unit) is hereby added to the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code, and shall read as follows (deletions in bold
strikethrough; additions in bold italics):
17.96.578 - Development, two-unit.
Two-unit development" means the construction of two new
residential dwelling units, other than an accessory dwelling unit or
junior accessory dwelling unit, on a single parcel where either(i) there
are no existing residential dwelling units other than an accessory
dwelling unit or(ii) all existing residential dwelling units other than an
accessory dwelling unit will be demolished prior to construction of the
two new residential dwelling units."
Section 8. Section 17.96.2155 (Unit, second) is hereby added to the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code and shall read as follows (deletions in
additions in bold italics):
17.96.2155- Unit, second.
Second unit" means a residential dwelling unit, other than an
accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit, added to a
property with an existing primary dwelling unit, either by (i) the
construction of a new residential dwelling unit, (ii) the conversion of
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an existing structure into a residential dwelling unit, (iii) the
bifurcation of an existing residential dwelling unit into two separate
residential dwelling units, or(iv) the use of another means other than
the construction of a two-unit development."
Section 9. Section 17.96.2170 (Urban lot split) is hereby added to the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code and shall read as follows (deletions in
additions in bold italics):
17.96.2170- Urban lot split.
Urban lot split"means the division of one parcel into two parcels as
authorized by Government Code Section 66411.7 and complying with
the provisions of Chapter 16.40."
Section 10. Severability. If any provision(s) of this Ordinance or the application
thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of
competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect any other
provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are declared to
be severable. The City Council hereby declares that they would have adopted this
ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, part or portion thereof,
irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, clauses, phrases,
parts or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 11. Posting. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of
this Ordinance by the City Council and shall cause a this ordinance to be published or
posted in accordance with Government Code section 36933 as required by law.
Section 12. Effective Date. Pursuant to Government Code section 36937, this
Urgency Ordinance shall take effective immediately upon approval of the same by a four-
fifths (4/5) affirmative vote of the City Council.
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PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED by a 4/5th vote of the, entire City Council
this 21St day of December, 2021.
P --
David L. Bradley, A -yor
ATTEST:
eresa akaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
I, TERESA TAKAOKA, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby
certify that the whole number of members of the City Council of said City is five; that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 656U was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on December 21, 2021, and that the same was
passed and adopted by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alegria, Cruikshank, Dyda, Ferraro and Mayor Bradley
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
City Clerk
01203 0002/756855.3 Ordinance No 656U
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i ,ugt
t
a
tol t
440.0
tS
C ITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES SS AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES)
The undersigned, being first duly sworn, deposes and says:
That at all times herein mentioned, she was and now is the City Clerk of
the City of Rancho Palos Verdes;
That on December 22, 2021, she caused to be posted the following document
entitled: ORDINANCE NO. 656U, AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 16 (SUBDIVISION) BY ADDING
SECTION 16.40 (URBAN LOT SPLITS), AMENDING TITLE 17
ZONING)OF SECTION 17.02.020(SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
RS)) DISTRICTS — USES AND DEVELOPMENT PERMITTED),
ADDING CHAPTER 17.09 (SECOND UNITS AND TWO-UNIT
DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES), AND AMENDING
CHAPTER 17.96 (DEFINITIONS) OF THE RANCHO PALOS
VERDES MUNICIPAL CODE THEREBY ESTABLISHING
DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS FOR URBAN LOT SPLITS AND
TWO-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
ZONES, a copy of which is attached hereto, in the following locations:
City Hall Ladera Linda Community Center
30940 Hawthorne Blvd. 32201 Forrestal Drive
Rancho Palos Verdes Rancho Palos Verdes
Hesse Park
29301 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is a true and correct affidavit of
posting.
gillarCity Clerk
C-14
8/4/2022
To: RPV Mayor and City Council Members
Subject: Proposed Amendments to RPV Municipal Code Regarding SB 9 Developments
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
The CHOA Board of Directors offers the following comments regarding proposed amendments to the RPV
municipal code covering SB 9 developments. Amendments to that code are scheduled to be considered at the
August 16th Council meeting.
First, we greatly appreciate the time and effort the Planning Commission has put into developing thoughtful
recommendations for your consideration, and we support those recommendations.
We would appreciate Council consideration of two additional amendments that were not included in the
Planning Commission’s recommendation:
• The Municipal Code should require that City Staff, upon receipt of an SB 9 application, send a courtesy
notice to the HOA in the community where the development is proposed. We recognize that the City
will not be able to solicit or take into consideration any comments from an affected HOA or its residents
regarding the development. However, many RPV neighborhoods have governing CC&Rs that allow only
development of single-family residences and prohibit subdivision of lots and/or construction of more
than 1 home on a single lot. Notification of SB 9 applications would provide awareness and enable HOAs
to initiate possible civil actions to stop prohibited development before it is started.
We recognize that taking such action would be an exception to Staff’s current notification policy which
does not include HOA notification for applications subject to ministerial approval. However, SB 9
developments have the potential to adversely affect the character of neighborhoods of single-family
homes to such a significant degree that they warrant treatment as a separate category of development
with its own notification process.
• The Code should also include provisions to address the potential impact of increased parking and traffic
in neighborhoods within very high fire hazard severity zones with limited egress in case of emergency
evacuations. We request further review of this issue and development of appropriate regulations for
future consideration.
Thank you for your consideration of our comments.
Respectfully submitted,
The CHOA Board of Directors:
Dave Emenhiser, President
Krista Johnson, Recording Secretary
Jeff Richards, Treasurer
Anthony Todora
Art Emon
Jack Pharris
Kathy Edgerton
John Maniatakis, President Emeritus D-1