HomeMy WebLinkAbout5.1 Town Of Los Altos Hills August 3, 2006
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
RE: WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING ORDINANCE
FROM: Debbie Pedro,AICP,Planning Director
RECOMMENDATION: That the Planning Commission:
1. Review and discuss the proposed ordinance, direct staff to make the suggested
changes to the draft ordinance and bring it back to the Planning Commission for
consideration at a public hearing. (Attachment 2)
2. Forward a recommendation that the City Council direct staff to update the Town's
Checklist for Preparation and Submission of Landscape Plans to include information
on water conservation. (Attachment 3).
BACKGROUND
On July 22, 2004, the Planning Commission reviewed a request from the Purissima Hills
Water District (PHWD) to assist in their efforts to encourage water conservation by
exploring various mechanisms for restricting water use in landscaping. Following their
review and discussion, the Commission determined that the Town did not have the
resources or staffing to develop or enforce a water conservation ordinance. Instead, the
Commission directed staff to revise the current landscaping materials distributed by the
Town to better focus on water conservation. The proposal was subsequently reviewed by
the City Council on September 16,2004. (Attachment 4)
On May 16, 2006, the PHWD submitted a letter requesting that the Town consider
adopting a water efficient landscaping ordinance. (Attachment 2) The purpose of the
ordinance is to incorporate landscape irrigation education as part of the Town's site
development review process and to provide property owners who are constructing a new
residence or major addition with information on the cost of anticipated water use and the
consequences in a water shortage emergency.
CURRENT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
Pursuant to Section 10-2.301 of the Municipal Code, the Town currently requires that a
landscape screening and erosion control plan be reviewed, approved, and installed in
conjunction with the construction of a new residence or major addition. Applicants are
not required to submit an irrigation plan nor a final landscaping plan that includes
ornamental plantings for the entire property.
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
August 3,2006
Page 2 of 3
PROPOSED LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
The proposed ordinance would amend the site development review process to require the
following:
1. A landscaping and irrigation plan prepared by a licensed landscape architect or
certified irrigation designer showing plant selection,grouping,and irrigation design.
2. An irrigation schedule showing estimated water use on a monthly basis.
3. -A maintenance schedule for the irrigation system to ensure water efficiency.
4. The PHWD will review the plans and provide the property owner with the annual
cost for the estimated water use at the then-current rates and the estimated amount
of water the owner would receive in the event of a water shortage emergency.
By imposing the new landscape requirements, the Water District hopes that homeowners
will choose to lower their outdoor water use by utilizing low water plants and improving
the efficiency of the landscape irrigation.
POTENTIAL ISSUES WITH THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE
a The requirements will result in additional cost to the applicant.
• The requirements would only apply to properties served by the Purissima Hills
Water District(approximately two-thirds of the town).
• The ordinance will create an added a layer of bureaucracy to the Site Development
permitting process by forcing homeowners to design and install comprehensive
landscaping for the property prior to occupancy of their new home. Currently, the
Town only requires enough landscaping for screening and erosion control
purposes. New homeowners typically express a desire to live in the home for
awhile before installing full landscaping. Other homeowners may prefer to install
landscaping incrementally in a series of small projects.
• Since the ordinance has no enforcement provision, there is no assurance that the
proposed landscaping and irrigation will be installed.
If the Commission wishes to move ahead with the proposed ordinance, staff should be
directed make the necessary modifications and bring the ordinance back for a public
hearing.
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
August 3,2006
Page 3 of 3
ALTERNATIVE STRATEGIES
If the Commission decides to explore alternative strategies to encourage water
conservation in the Town,the following could be considered:
1. Rather than impose regulatory restrictions, direct the focus on education and outreach
by including information on water conservation in the Town's Landscape Application
Checklist. (Attachment 3)
2. Inform residents about the free evaluation service for landscape irrigation water use
available from the Purissima Hills Water District and encourage property owners to
take advantage of this free service.
COMMITTEE REVIEW
Copies of the proposed ordinance have been forwarded to the Environmental Design and
Protection Committee and the Energy Initiatives Committee for review and comments.
Comments from the EDC is included in attachment 5.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Letter from Maurice Johnson, President, Board of Directors, Purissima Hills Water
District, dated May 16,2006.
2. Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance with suggested modifications.
3. Checklist for Preparation and Submission of Landscape Plans.
4. September 16,2004 City Council Staff Report and Meeting Minutes.
5. Comments from the Environmental Design and Protection Committee dated July 28,
2006
s
ATTACHMENT
May 16, 2006
Mayor Breene Kerr
Town of Los Altos Hills
26379 Fremont Road
Los Altos Hills, California 94022
Subject: Draft Town Ordinance for Water Efficient Landscauing
Dear Breene:
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me to discuss a very important issue in
our community—water, and specifically landscape irrigation water conservation. To
achieve the goal of more efficient landscaping,I enclose a draft of a proposed Ordinance
for your consideration. This draft Ordinance is intended to amend a section of the Town's
Municipal Code and requires, as part of the Town's permitting process,the submittal of a.
landscaping plan prepared by a licensed landscape architect or certified irrigation
designer that includes specific details about the landscape irrigation system, including
estimated water use.
The District requests that the Town consider adopting this draft Ordinance to
enable the District to inform the owner,before the property is developed or remodeled,
of the estimated cost of water to be used for irrigation and the potential significant water
reductions that will-occur in a water shortage emergency.
The draft Ordinance requires the Town to provide the landscaping plan to the
District. Within 15 working days,the District will provide the property owner and the
Town with the estimated charge for the anticipated water use and the estimated reduced
amount of water that the District will provide the owner.in a water shortage emergency.
This process will allow property owners to make an informed decision about what type of
landscaping to install and an irrigation system to construct knowing the water costs and
consequences in a water shortage emergency.
The procedures proposed in the draft Ordinance will not increase the Town's
workload in the permitting process, are at no cost to the Town, and will have minimal
impact,if any, on the time frame for processing a permit. The draft Ordinance will not
require the property owner to install specific water conservation irrigation equipment or
to plant drought tolerant landscaping. However, if the Town would like to consider
adopting an Ordinance that requires more aggressive water conservation measures, such
Mayor Breene Kerr '
May 16, 2006
Page 2
as the installation of specific water efficient equipment or landscaping,the District would
support stronger requirements and would be happy to prepare a more stringent draft for
the Town to consider.
Please do not hesitate to contact me or Patrick Walter if you have any questions or
suggestions. The District appreciates the Town's consideration and requests that you
advise us when the Town Council, or a committee of the Town Council, will consider the
draft Ordinance. We would appreciate the opportunity to answer any questions and, if
requested,to provide a short presentation. Thank you again for your help in this
important matter.
Sincerely,
Maurice R Johnson
President, Board of Directors
Enclosure
cc: Carl Cahill, Acting City Manager, LAH
Board of Directors, PHWD
Patrick Walter, General Manager, PHWD
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS ATTACHMENT
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING
An Ordinance to Amend Section 10-2.80§9 of the Town of Los Altos Hills Municipal Code.
WHEREAS,the residents of the Town of Los Altos Hills ("Town") are served by two
water agencies—the Purissima Hills Water District("District") and the California Water
Service Company;
WHEREAS,the District purchases all of its water from the San Francisco Public
Utilities Commission("SFPUC");
WHEREAS,the District has informed the Town that the District exceeds its SFPUC
water supply assurance by an average of 34%over the last five years;
WHEREAS,the District has no guarantee that the SFPUC will increase the District's
water supply assurance when its supply contract with the SFPUC is renegotiated in 2009;
WHEREAS, in an SFPUC system-wide shortage emergency,the District's customers
will be required to significantly reduce their water use and at a proportionately higher amount
than other suburban purchasers due to the large amount by which the District exceeds its
SFPUC water supply assurance;
WHEREAS,the District,in order to conserve water and energy and to inform its
customers regarding the risks of loss of landscaping in a water shortage emergency,has
requested that the Town adopt an ordinance to amend its Municipal Code to establish a
process for landscape irrigation education as part of the Town's site development application.
NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED that the Council of the Town of Los Altos
Hills amends Section 10-2.80-59 to add the following:
1. All property owners who receive, or who apply for,water service from the
Purissima Hills Water District and who are required to obtain a permit from the Town of Los
Altos Hills for new residence must submit a
landscaping plan at the time of plan check submittal.
2. The landscaping plan must be prepared by a licensed landscape architect or
certified irrigation designer, and must include the following information:
2.1 Landscape design, including plant selection and grouping;
2.2 Irrigation design,including location and size of all components of the
irrigation system;
2.3 Irrigation schedule, including an estimated use of water required on a
monthly basis; and
2.4 Maintenance schedule for the irrigation system to ensure water
efficiency.
3. The Town will transmit the landscaping plan to the District for review
and comment.
3.1 The District will provide the property owner with the annual cost for
the estimated water use at the then-current rates.
3.2 The District will also provide the property owner with the estimated
amount of water the owner would receive in the event of a water
shortage emergency.
3.3 A copy of this information will be provided concurrently to the Town.
3.4 The District will provide this information within fifteen working days
from receipt of the landscaping plan from the Town.
3.5 Th T 1 o • —bit nti after-the Dis*^c� f..:_....hed
The f crs' K�...
Town of Los Altos Hills
Water Efficient Landscaping
Page 2
ATTACHMENT
Checklist for Preparation and
Submission of Landscape Plans
To assist you in preparing landscape plans that may be approved with a minimum of
win information has been prepared. Article 8 of the Site
dela or plan revisions,the following g p p
Y P
Development Ordinance (attached) contains guidelines and regulations used to evaluate
landscape plans. You or your representative should attend the Site Development
Committee meeting to answer questions and to hear comments.
It is the applicant's responsibility to submit a landscape plan for approval six to
eight weeks before final inspection is requested. While the applicant may submit the
landscape plan at any time,the Site Development Committee,as a rule, will delay
action on the plan at least until the roof and framing has been installed. This allows
the Committee to assess the impact of the structure as seen from outlying areas.
Plan Requirements
All landscape plans submitted for Site Development Committee review and approval
should include the following information. A modified copy of the grading and drainage
plan(from your site development permit application)that fits these criteria may be used.
• North arrow and Scale: 1 inch=20 feet
• All proposed outdoor lighting
• The entire site shall be shown,including all property lines,improvements,road
rights-of-way,pathways and easements .
• Relation of roadway (pavement)to property lines and rights-of-way. (label all
streets adjacent to the property).
• Final grades in five(5) foot maximum contours if the lot averages over five (5)
percent slope, and two (2)foot contours if less than five(5)percent slope.
• Building footprint for residence and all other structures, decks, driveways and
other hardscape such as walkways,patios,pools and decking, and tennis courts
(existing and proposed development area).
• Future development should not be shown on the plans except for concept
reference. Any future or planned development should be clearly marked as such.
• A table with size,number and species of all proposed plantings shall be included
on the landscape plan. Latin names should be used as well as common names.
1/28/94 -1-
Criteria for Landscape Plans:
Landscaping shall be planted so that structures are unobtrusive from off-site views, in
conformance with the Site Development Ordinance. Landscape plans are usually
required for major additions and new residences, and may be required for minor projects.
The Town requires only the amount of landscaping needed to satisfy the requirements of
Article 8 of the Site Development Ordinance and the Town's landscape policy (see
Resolution#88-86, attached). The size of the structure,the types of materials, and the
proposed colors determine the amount of required landscaping. Applicants should
consider the following criteria when preparing their landscape plan:
• Location and size(at maturity) of all plants proposed to meet the requirements of
the Site Development Ordinance, including elevations in sufficient detail to allow
the Site Development Committee to evaluate the adequacy of proposed
landscaping.
• See landscape policy,Resolution#88-86,Article 8 of the Site Development
Ordinance, and the list of drought resistant plants.
• No structures (including gateposts, columns,pillars and monument style
mailboxes) are allowed in road rights-of-way or pathways. The fencing
requirements in the Zoning Ordinance (Section 10-1.504) are also applied to
gateposts, columns and pillars. Zoning permits are required for any proposed
fences or monuments.
• Driveway columns or pillars may not exceed six feet in height, including any
light fixtures. Only two lights may be placed within setbacks.
• Landscaping and sprinklers are not permitted in dedicated pathway easements, or
within five feet of pathways.
• Existing trees and vegetation shall be shown and labeled as such.
• Placement of plants must be sufficiently distant form roads and pathways so as to
not cause future obstructions. Road rights-of-way generally extend beyond the
paved surface of the roadway.
• Structures along Interstate 280 will require additional levels of landscape
mitigation.
• No irrigation may be placed within rights-of-way
• Outdoor lighting shall be placed so as to be unobtrusive to neighboring properties.
Lighting shall be down shielded and low wattage (the light source may not be
visible from off-site). Floods and uplights are discouraged. Other than two
driveway lights,lighting may not be located within setbacks.
1/28/94 -2-
§ 10-2.703 LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE § 10-2.802
.necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(§ 6, Ord. 384, eff. October 18, 1996)
Article S. Landscaping
Sec. 10-2.801. Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to create the maximum compatibility
of development with the natural environment;to preserve the rural qualities
of the Town, to insure that structures,*as viewed from off-site, blend
harmoniously with the natural landscape and are unobtrusive; to maintain
soil stability,to abate noises;to protect wildlife habitats; to.retain aesthetic
quality; and to protect properties against fire and other natural forces.
(§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 1072.502. Landscaping policies.
(a) Erosion. Landscaping shall be required to control erosion,
retard soil creep, and reduce the potential for landslides.
(b) Noise. Landscaping and berms may be required to shield
Town residents from unnatural noises,such as those from freeways.arterial
streets, and nonresidential land uses.
(c) Visual effects. Landscaping shall be required to mitigate the
visual effects of development from off•the site. -
(d) Preferred plants. Landscaping should utilize.fire retardant
species. Native or naturalized plants or other plant species that blend
naturally with the landscape should generally be favored.
(e) Maintenance. Landscaping shall be maintained in healthy
condition by property owners and shall not intrude into easements, paths,
or the lines-of-site required at intersections and along roads.
(f) Tree preservation. Every feasible attempt should be made to
preserve existing trees.
(g) Views.In order to prevent blockage of scenic views and vistas,
the height at maturity of proposed plants and trees shall be considered in
determining the appropriateness of landscaping plans.
(h) Amount required. The Town shall require only the minimum
amount of landscaping necessary to implement the above policies. The
amount of landscaping_required by the Town shall be determined by the
size of structure, the types of materials, and the colors proposed for-struc-
tures. Structures that blend with the natural landscape will normally require
1058 (Los Altos Hills 10-15-97)
§ 10-2.802 LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE § 10-2.805
less landscaping for screening purposes than will structures composed of
non-natural materials and bright colors.
Where slopes are too steep to support continuous ground cover,
niches and ledges may be required for planting. Landscaping may be
required for cuts and fills along public roads.
(§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.503. Site development.
Landscaping to render structures inconspicuous from off-site and in
conformance with the provisions of this chapter shall be required by the
Site Development Authority as a condition of approval of a site devel-
opment application.
(§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.504. Preferred species list.
The Planning Director shall maintain a preferred species list for distri-
bution to applicants. The list shall note any special qualities of particular
plant species, such as size at maturity, drought or fire resistance, soil
requirements, etc.
(§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.505. Size and placement.
The number and size at maturity of plants used to screen and break up
the outline of structures should be scaled to the size of the structures and
the siting angles from prospective viewing points, the types of building
materials used, and the color scheme of the structure. In evaluating the
adequacy of proposed landscaping, the following guidelines shall be
considered:
(a) The shape, outline, color, and form of all structures shall be
rendered unobtrusive when viewed-from any location off-site at the time
landscaping has matured.
. (b) The type of landscaping used shall be sensitive to the natural
topography.For example,on steep slopes,plants that will maximize erosion
control should be selected.
(Los Altos Hills 10-15-97)
1058-1
§ 10-2.805 LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE § 10-2.901
(c) The type of landscaping shall be appropriate for the
composition of the soil in which the plantings are to be located.
Required landscaping should thrive with as little maintenance as
possible.
(§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.806. Irrigation systems.
Sprinklers and other landscape irrigation systems shall not. be
allowed in- any public right-of-way without an encroachment
permit. (§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.807. Maintenance of landscaping. .
Landscaping shall be maintained in a natural health condition.
p g ,
Y
Diseased or dead plants shall be replaced. Combustible brush shall
be removed from the site. A minimum of twelve (I21 feet vertical
clearance shall be maintained over driveways, public pathways and
public rights-of-way. Landscaping shall be maintained according to
the conditions-of any performance bond filed with the Town.,(§ 15,
Ord.299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. 10-2.808. Fences and walls.
Any wall or fence may be required to be landscaped. (§ 15,
Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985)
Sec. Article 9. Recreation Courts
Sec. 10-2.901. 'Tennis and other recreation courts.
(a) Grading. Grading for tennis courts and other recreation
courts shall not exceed six (6� feet of fill or twelve (12') feet of cut
and fill. A site development application for a tennis or other
recreation court which proposes grading in excess of the limits in
this article may be approved by the Planning Commission upon
finding that the excess cut or fill,
(i) Will not result in slopes prone to landslides or
soil creep;
(ii) Can. be landscaped and/or contours rounded to
render the cut or fill inconspicuous when viewed from off the siie;
(iii) . Can be properly drained according to methods
approved by the City Engineer.
(b) Screening. Recreation courts shall be landscaped- and
screened so as to be unobtrusive from off-site. The structure will
1059 (Los Altos Hills 3-4-87)
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
Policy Re: Outdoor Lighting
Code Sections and Design Guidelines:
Article 10-2.10 of the Site Development Ordinance outlines criteria for outdoor lighting.
In particular, Section 10-2.1003 indicates that outdoor lighting should use "the minimum
wattage lights which will safely illuminate the area" and that outdoor light sources "shall
be shielded so as not to be directly visible from off-site." Page 30 of the Design
Guidelines suggests that exterior lights be carefully placed to prevent light from shining
onto neighboring houses and that light sources must not be visible from off-site. The
Zoning and Site Development Ordinances limit lighting within the setbacks to "driveway
light fixtures, limited to one fixture on each side of a driveway, for a maximum of two (2)
fixtures per lot,"but additional fixtures may be approved if necessary for safety.
Intent:
The purpose of Code and Design Guideline provisions regarding outdoor lighting is to
assure that the open and peaceful character of the Town is maintained, that adequate
lighting is provided for the enjoyment of outdoor use areas, and that lighting does not
intrude on the privacy of neighbors. The intent of this policy'is to clarify more
specifically the types and numbers of lighting fixtures that the Town feels are generally
consistent with the Code provisions,but to allow flexibility for additional lighting when it
is necessary for safety purposes or where it is not visible from off the site.
Policy:
1. The number of lights on the exterior of a structure should be limited to providing
for one light per doorway, with the exception of two lights at the main entrance, at
double doors or garage doors, etc., and additional lights only where the Planning
Director or Planning Commission determines they are needed for safety.
2. Pathway and driveway lighting should be restricted to low-height fixtures and
should be spaced the maximum distance apart which will still provide for safe
use. In order to avoid a "runway" appearance, it is recommended that lighting be
placed on only one side of the driveway or walkway, or alternate from one side to
the other. Recessed louvered lights are suggested for walkways and steps.
3. Generally, lighting fixtures should be shielded downlights for which the bulb is
not visible from off site. Exceptions may be permitted in limited locations (entry,
garage, etc.) or where the fixtures would not be visible from off site.
A-6(1)
4. Downlighting from trees is acceptable if provided for safety or for outdoor use
areas, where minimal in number, and where the bulb is not visible from off site.
5. Uplighting of trees is generally not allowed, unless it is clearly demonstrated that
the number of such lights are minimal and the glow of the uplighting would not be
visible from off site.
6. Spotlights should be limited in number, and directed away from clear view of
neighbors. Shielding of spotlights with shrouds or louvers is suggested.
7. High intensity discharge lighting, such as mercury vapor, high and low pressure
sodium, and metal halide lighting, is prohibited.
8. Lighting in setbacks is limited to two driveway light fixtures only, for the purpose
of locating and identifying the site. No lights are allowed in side or rear yard
setback areas, except where determined to be necessary for safety.
9. The Planning Commission and/or staff may allow lighting different than that
outlined above when the proposed outdoor lighting is determined to be necessary
to safely illuminate the area, or where the size of the property and/or extensive
screening will assure that lighting glow and fixtures are not visible from off site.
Approved by City Council: September 30, 1997
A-6(2)
d
•'• ,,.C• � ,ti k�s 1-ti sat ;. t �'j � �`{,'S.'� �N x/tG" ' f�. "x'.�_ -t-
� � _ $a`� �. 't,Y�'�`t�r ,. '� „ Y � ? yf �. ;. �•� }'}�.c +. s ,X•R y. '�` � i � J�~.
x:
RESOLUTION NO. 88-86 ^�
A RESOLUTION OF THE •CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE
TOWN OF.LOS '.ALTOS HILLS AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 1256 r
r=.��._,`• WHICH ADOPTED A POLICY CONCERNING LANDSCAPING, •;,I; _;4
AND SETTING OF BONDS THEREFOF
RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of the Town of Los
4
Altos Hills, County of Santa Clara, State of California, that `
{ WHEREAS, on January 2, 1980 the City Council adopted Resolu-
tion No. 1256 entitled:
n m P !
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS ADOPTING A
POLICY CONCERNING LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT AND SUBDIVISION"
and
VTHEREAS, the City Council .desires to amend Resolution No. 1256
t:»•,+ fP
F, •to set standards for landscaping bonds and other minor amendments :•�,..,.,;
to said policy,
fix•-•
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED ORDERED AND DETERMINED as12
follows:
4,f
Resolution No. 1256 is hereby amended to read as follows: r:
,�".,;iY-1 - •_ n j .:.fit.
Y SECTION 1. The functions of landscaping requirements in ;
: development of a site within the City of the Town of Los Altos Hills,
herein called the "TOWN" must be viewed in connection with the pro-
vision of the General Plan calling for landscaping to create maxi-
mum compatibility of development with the natural environment. To
this end, landscaping may be required to soften the impact of new
buildings, swimming pools, tennis courts, or driveways, and artifi-
cial cuts and fills as seen from off the site. Because of the hilly,
difficult terrain, the impact of graded roads, new buildings, tennis
courts, and swimming pools may be felt miles away as well as by the
immediate neighbors and the traveling public along the roadway.
.r-r. >Xt;3.:_ .-. 'sX�=`fir:". ... ... .;+; ... r`! 'f,., ,y.:,..,. _*,:rp e•r'�'f's''-���������F.�ai~,e� '-'
'7 ^�yr ht .;r..._,yyiy- :•� .c._, fl �.3dEY rcr ,W+if+i,�-::' ••� :
,t� �.,-,.:e�y„ �-:,,. ... +tea �`Rrr��g�r �";.'� �,'7�'�.�`°Lh. '"S+"� y,"M. ,F."r°:Fa '�:':r �'�e`"'".�`' -pf�,:t• ,,.� ° 'ttt'��'*"s� `',""."'"+'j. +;''T�-x*ti..i: .^"""• w h''°'- .G.T;'i`i -y,�_ rim.+.,a w'b" `fit. .t
»,., '•q t .+"5'' xati 'k ^r-.r. i.n .y<.' f S"c- y ifs•
,��';'&_ y�s J r• _ .. °�' +"4a=.�,.r�^,r' :ix,..-,�-2'-
' SECTION 2. It is recognized that one function of landscaping Y
is to please the people on whose property the landscaping exists.
This function, is a matter of individual taste, for which the Town
-_ should not assume responsibility. z
SECTION 3. Another major function of landscaping is to pro-
tect the environment, visual as well as natural. In regard to this
function, the Town has the responsibility, according to the General ;
z
Plan, to require planting, replanting, or other measures, where r
-necessary, to maintain soil stability, to prevent erosion, to abate
noise, to protect the privacy of neighbors and to protect wildlife r
habitat, and to retain aesthetic quality.
-511 n= SECTION 4. The retention of aesthetic quality for the public
at large is a function of landscaping in which the Town should pro-
.. tect scenic views and seek to mitigate the effects of large, or ,.
s,
unsightly structures and graded banks. :' t
SECTION 5. The following guidelines are approved to provide
guidance to persons presenting pians for new structures or grading
plans to the Site Development Authority, or persons submitting `
:�'.^••' S ,Etat f
proposed subdivision maps to the Subdivision Committee, respectively,
t s
��,,�1;.• ' namely; (a) The Town should require only the minimum number ♦-s
i
4' of plants or other measures necessary to achieve the
functions mentioned above.
A bond shall be posted to ensure that minimum screening
*: and landscaping requirements are installed and maintained.
(b) The Town's primary interest in landscaping concerns
the impact on the views from off the site. The applicants'
on-site views are not the concern of the Town; the effect
of the applicants' structures on the view of others are
r:`T
the concern of the Town. The off-site views should be '
~'Aurendn >Reso.1256 -2-
y.,..'
�"• :ixirt'. ^=4'.d°=' :<'}. .. .'.»�.��"'•::9r"r;. .fir �u. i • '%.`• K. rt
''�'' ta•'' �'�S-`„"1,' :.k 3F' rr.*,.....Fi:•:", :r. a?ri>..r,. t}:,��t•,a. '.=��• 1_r. ,_rr:.:
ewMar� rF7�. �v'a��:Y.• - ;"4�+���.+� r�rm �� .... :.,�.:.! •.G.., 3!,::.,q=-' 4 +�
considered from both near and far, from the point r
of view of existing and possible residences, from road-
,
ways and pathways.
(c) The unnecessary obstruction of open vistas across
newly-developed property should be avoided.
(d) Plants and shrubbery shall be planted so as not F j
rk t
to encroach on roads and pathways.
(e) The larger the structure, the larger the plants
on other measures should be to soften the effect of the
structure.
(f) Plants placed close to a structure are much more ;
effective as screening than plants along the perimeter
of the property.
(g) The judicious placement of a few shrubs and trees
near the new structure (especially in meadow or orchard
areas) insures the natural or rural quality of the Town.
(h) The protection of the environment is best served
by the use of native and fire-resistant plants.
(i) View corridors and open spaces should be considered.
Landscaping placements should accommodate requre-
r
ments for both passive and active solar systems without
sacrificing the aesthetic objectives set forth in this
Resolution.
(k) The Town should address each individual case at the
time of Site Development Authority review only. At this
time, specific recommendations for landscaping should be
made to the applicant and should address those areas
r
identified in the Guidelines (i.e. , solar access, erosion
control, neighbors views, among others) . f,
'Amending',Res o;2.1256 -3-
44a�^„fi.' es•'�'a'� i'�.'� y:,.,oe v:ryt�. 'i S�•5`.` 's J!•-::}> .-r'�6::^.; :,.k'r'3-: rwiyw •'.»a1. ,} Fw.:.
tea+.. ,,. �-3'.r r. :i r �., :.g�..;; n....t�'.'3:,'�y.'.-'.r':tt.F' zi.', d".,.'. :�;7 .. S.` :'.'F..:.� �;•'•• ^Y•�'�'...-' -•:,t:
�x,w�,. ys�5„mS."^���';�c,-�s,�,�,,;•: - i;-4. ri .•r.-,r�*•a .-� e ;� -a `T•-:.. ..EE•
x
(1) in connection with a subdivision, the Subdivision
Committee should address itself to those aspects of
; ..: landscaping that are broadly stated in the General ,
Plan, including but not limited to- the following state-
�:. ment in the Regional Content, to wit:
= ". . .because the planning area is located in .
hillsides visible from a significant part of
the region, the natural characteristics of the
slopes p provide visual relief from the conger-
tion of the more urban areas for a large num- �r
ber of Bay Area residents."
: r
The Subdivision Committee also should be concerned with
the off-site view of the hillside, recommending mitigat-
ing landscaping procedures if needed (e.g. terracing cut
a { � hillsides and planting with natural vegetation in addi- A
tion to hydromulching by other measures) and those areas
which the Town has designated as fire risk areas.
SECTION 6. The foregoing policy and guidelines shall be imple-
J`l, merited as follows:
(a) A checklist (See Exhibit "A" - Checklist for Prepara-
` ' tion and Submission of Landscape Plans) (attached hereto {.
and incorporated herein) has been developed far use by
t ;
the Site Development Authority or Subdivision Committee,
TK . may case
as the be, in consultation with the Environmental
Y
Design Committee, and which shall be included in the file
for each application. Individual checklists shall
itemize areas of concern and provide specific suggestions
fo'r mitigation, for example, native vegetation for mini-
mally developed areas, blending schemes for more highly
developed areas, appropriate cover and screening for cut
and fill areas, fire resistant plants for high fire
hazard areas, among others.
Amendig'.•Reso1256 -4-
n - '
�.i;Lr J.+si�'et^' '.Fi r['a' '.t. 'J dT""�' .F�'.•y,,`-'L.o-:..�e.:', .f. s
�,h-b•R't." m_..�a.Ki�t`gt,�r»'�rtx +L�'..s:� .,h'.:'r�;:`oi ..;s�; ..• .. -.. ... y✓ � t.fit.:, ..r�.'..,r�'-lX��°'•.�Y:'-.4rr
•,�pf'�..�'..'•,. c .f.C's„s..� a.A�C 4:ld:cr-L'-'LS,,a';{•''�':r-. .k�.-: .. .i. ..:��;.z:<.. . .
+ (b) Concerning a subdivision, specific conditions re-
lated to landscaping would be included among the condi-
tions adopted when a tentative map for the subdivision is
approved. s
(c) Concerning Site Development, if the required land-
:. - :. scaping is not completed at the time of Final Inspection,
the Site Development Authority shall determine the amount
of the cash deposit of which will be required with a sixt:
s
(6) month time limit for compliance. The amount of the i
cash deposit or bond will be based upon the Site Develop-
. •,
ments Committee's determination of the amount of land-
scaping mitigation needed regarding the subject plans. . �
The amount of the cash deposit or bond shall be as
.r'
follows: .f
(i) Minor mitigation - one thousand dollars
rte
($11000.00)
(ii) Average mitigation - two thousand five
i
hundred dollars ($2,500.00)
(iii) Major mitigation - five thousand dollars
($5,000.00) .
If the landscaping is not installed prior to the expira-
tion of the six (6) month period, the .Town will use the
cash deposit to complete the landscaping work through
a contract with an independent contractor qualified to
do the required work.
'`Amending Reso.1256
r. '
1
t
Cd) Site Development ment Authorit . The Site Development
�
sr, =: Authority may refer any landscape plan `o the full
4;
Planning Commission with U., request that certain speci- ;
fic mitigatio• measures )e required to be accomplished
prior to Finai Inspection.
REGULARLY passed and adopted this 18th day of June °
1986. .L
•4.te05
Qr' � 44
t
BY
MAYOR .gig
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
Reso. #87-86/pagesix
ending.Reso. 1256 -6-
�.—•+,�-...�+�.'' :...e.:�S
YAO;C - t ''C• -�Y'Gy- .. 4fFTM .( .Kw \,:'.K t.Yv" .. �.e .�`Y .. • .y ti:rW.; -^, v .. . -^' . f.
It
V11 TREES AND TREE PLANTING
ECOMMENDATIONS FOR The materials proposed for the Town at that time
INDSCAPING IN LOS ALTOS HILLS are still pertinent to Los Altos Hills. Copies are avail-
In 1965, the Council appointed a Tree Planting able at Town Hall under the title "First Report of the
Tree Planting Committee."This list has been expanded
)mmittee to recommend trees for Los Altos Hills and L-
planting schedule for the homeowners who wonted by the Environmental Design, Parks and Recreation
participate. Landscape designer Daniel Rolfis was Committee and includes information from The Sunset
iosen as a consultant Western Garden Booif, 1967, Lane Publishing Com-
Several trees were chosen as signature trees to be pang,Menlo Park.
;ed in informal groupings within the street rights- . .When planting near a public right-of-way or path, it
:_way and at the Town entrances. The ability to is important to leave enough room for safe passage
aintain themselves after three years of care was an without obstruction from rapidly growing branches from
iportant criterion. Groupings would give variety to trees such as Monterey Pines. No planting should be
ie landscape,fit the constraints of the terrain —and if done in rights-of-way without permission from the Town.
11 the trees did not-live it would not destory the The retention of aesthetic quality is a function of
ottern. landscaping in which the Town plays on active role. For
In his introductory statement,Mr.Rolfs said: the benefit of its citizens, the Town protects its scenic
"The natural topography of hills and valleys is Views and seeks to mitigate the effects of large, un-
a strong, vigorous kind of beauty as opposed natural, or unsightly structures. The General Plan calls
to the quiet beauty of flationds. Whereas in for landscaping to create maximum compatibility of
a flat city trees become the dominant design development with the natural environment. Another
element, in a hilly city the shape of the land function of landscaping is to protect the environment
is the dominant element and trees are sup- by:
plementary. That is not to say they are
unimportant, but rather that they should be
used in a different way.They should strengthen
the shape of the land by delineating even
more sharply its hills and valleys.
To preserve the rural character of the city,
it would be better'to plant trees in random
arrangements rather than in formal, evenly I x I REDWOOD NAILED
spaced rows. This also becomes a distinct ad- TO CROSSPIECES
vantage in maintenance and design in that a
removed tree does not demand the immediate
replacement by another of equal size and
PLASTIC NURSERY TIESt
shape.
AS NEEDED
Some of the natural beauty of this city would
be lost if it were completely covered with trees.
Open spaces are part of the foothills'character BERM GRADE
and they should be respected. A random or-
rangement of trees along a road can leave
occasional, even rhythmical gaps through which
motorists can see the hills beyond. SLAKE MUST MEND INTO
The end result of these design concepts NO SCALE SOIL A MINIMUM OF 12'
BELOW ORIGINAL CONTAINER:
should be to present strength and enhance DEPM
the existing natural beauty and character of STAKING FOR SMALL TREES{3'-a')
the community and not to make it over into AND UPRIGHT SHRUBS WUH MAIN STEM
something different."
CHOOSING CORRECT LOCATIONS Native Trees*
FOR PLANTING
On some streets existing conditions—lack of
space, overhead power lines, paths, etc.—will seri- a Alnus rhombifolia, White Adler.Vent fast growing
ously limit, if not altogether prevent, the planting of to 50-90 feet, with a 40-Foot spread.Deciduous,
trees. Existing conditions determining location for tree moisture loving.Roots invasive,less troublesome
planting are: if deep watering practices are followed.
® Power lines—Tall growing trees should not be a Juniperus californica, California Juniper. Shrubby
planted under power lines. to 40 feet. Yellowish to rich green. Tough,
* Equestrian paths—Low-branching, spreading drought-resistant Succeeds in all western soil
trees should not be planted next to paths be- types,but should not be waterlogged.
cause the equestrians need eight feet bf a Lithocarpus densifloro, Tanbark Oak. Evergreen,
clearance. 60-90 feet under forest conditions. Lower,
* Rights-or'-way — Planting in these areas should broader in open areas. Best in rich, moist soil.
be avoided without prior town permission. Withstands some drought when established.-
a. Streets where traffic moves fast—Trees should
® Platanus racemosa, California Sycamore. Decidu-
ous.fast growth 50-100 feet
be held bods six to eight Feet from the edge of ® pseudotsuga taxifolia, Douglas fir. 70-250 feet
the paving if no vertical curb exists. •
* Light fixtures—Trees should be kept about 25 in forests. Will grow in any soil except undrained feet from light standards. swampy soils
* Intersections—To prevent interference with
motorists' vision, trees should be kept about 30
feet from on intersection.
* Driveways—Motorists' vision should be clear in
both directions.
® Underground utilities—Trees should not be
planted directly over water, gas, or sewer lines,
nor should trees with invasive root systems be
planted near sewer liries or over septic leach PLASTIC NURSERY TIES-
fields T x 1 LONG D STAH ED AS MRNY AS NEEDED
* Paved areas—Trees having roots that tend to REDWOODSrRHE
rise with age should not be planted near paving. 1 x3 REDWOOD
SELECTING THE TREES AND SHRUBS CROSSPIECES
The following list is made up of plants that are 2 Z Q z B'(OR LONGER COMMERCIAL RUBBER-COVERED
native to this area. Their Use is encouraged wherever IF NECESSARY) WIRE TREE-TIES ATEACH 11X3
possible. Natives that ore difficult to grow, subject to
diseases or pests, or difficult to obtain commerdolly
have not been included.In the interest of experimenta- BERM GARDE 14"
tion and where loss or high maintenance is not a ---��
serious factor, other natives can be planted. Arbutus
menziesii,Madrone and Acer mocrophyllum would head
such a group.
M
NO S�RLE
TREE STRKINGa DETRIL
FOR TREES TAMER THAN 6'
I
I
i
12 *Standardized punctuation as per Sunset
* Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak. Evergreen. Native. Shrubs
Wide-spreading, grows to 20-70 feet ® Arctostaphylos, Manzanita (any species or
e Quercus douglasii, Glue Oak. Deciduous. Low- variety). A manzonito grows to 6-20 Feet high,
branching, wide-spreading, to 50 Feet high. spreads 4-10 feet wide. Must have loose, well-
Good in hot,dry situations. drained soil.Generally need summer water.
% Sequoia sempervirens, Coast Redwood. Ever- a Ceanothus, California Lilac (any species or
green. Fast-growing. Thrives on great supply of variety). Drought-tolerant evergreen shrubs,
water. 70-90 feet high in garden (in centuries small trees, or ground covers. (A Few are decidu-
350 feet). 14-30 feet branch spread. ous.) For types most susceptible to ovewatering,
® Umbellularia californico,California Bay.Evergreen, water infrequently but deeply, allowing soil to
Varies from huge gumdrop-shaped shrub (on dry out between waterings. Kinds with Fair to
windy hillsides) to a tall and Free-ranging tree good garden tolerance, water as frequently as
75 feet high and over 100 feet wide(in forests). every two weeks, if drainage is Fast. Plants of
Slow growing in gardens, to 25 feet and as wide. excellent garden tolerance can be watered as
Grows best and Fastest in deep soil with ample often as average garden shrubs.
water, but tolerates other conditions. a Garrya elliptica, Coast Silktassel. Evergreen. To
4-8 feet, or a small tree 20-30 feet Will take
summer water.
® Heteromeles arbutifolio, Toyon. Evergreen shrub
or small tree.Dense shrub 6-10 Feet or small tree
15-25 feet Drought-tolerant, but thrives with
summer water in well-drained soil. (Valuable in
erosion control.)
a Rhamnus californica, California Coffeeberry. Ever-
green shrub. Near ocean, low and spreading.
In woodland or hills, taller, upright to 3-15 feet
a Rhododendron occidentals, Western Azalea.
4x2 x
TILLO MULCH
Growth to 6-10 feet. Deciduous. Requires acid
o ; AHES
4'TILLOMuICH soil, constant moisture supply. Soil that drains
I 4°BERM
rapidly and at the some time retains moisture,
'. i.e., soil rich in organic matter.
'I TREES REQUIRING SOME
Q°or 31 MAINTENANCE
All trees require maintenance until they are estab-
lished, and even the most drought-resistant trees
110. require water until the roots are deep enough to find
it unaided. If the right trees are selected, maintenance
problems can be kept to a minimum.
__..._— The Following list includes trees that will require.
3 x SIZE Of PLANT supplementary water,pruning,or occasional sprayings.
CONTAINER 1
I �
1
NO SCALE
I�
TREE STAKING DETAIL 7
FOR TREES FROM WTO W TALL
l
13
Deciduous Trees a Lithocarpus densiflora, Tanbark Oak (Previously
described.)
* Acer platonoides 'Schwedled,' Norujoy Maple. a Magnolia grandiflora, Southern Magnolia. To 80
Growth to 50-60 feet. Very adoptable, 11-olerat- feet Spread of 40 feet Needs moist, well-
ing many soil and climatic conditions. drained,rich soils,neutral or slightly acid.
* Alnus rhombifolla, White Adler. (Previously 0 Maytenus booria, Mayten Tree. Slow to moder-
described.) ate growth to on eventual 30-50 feet. 20 feet
* Betula pendula alba, White Birch. Needs ample by 15 feet in spread at 12 years.Good drainage
water.30-40 feet.Spreads to half of height necessary. Lush and green with adequate water
* Fergus sVivatica, European Beech. Can reach 90 but will take some drought when established.
feet, usually much less. Needs space to look Its a Oleo europoea, Olive. Slow growing to 25-30
best Grows in any good garden soil.Salts In soil feet and as wide. Most lush when growing ,in
or water stunt growtK deep, rich soil but will also grow In shallow,
* Uriodendron tullpifera, Tulip Tree. Fast growth to alkaline,or strong soil.
60-80 feet with eventual spread of 40 feet a Pyrus.kawakamli, Evergreen Pear. Tolerant of
Needs room and deep,rich,well-drained,neutral many soils. Easy to grow wherever it doesn't
or slightly acid soil, as well as plenty of summer freeze.
water. 0 Quercus agrifolla. Coast Live Oak (Previously
* Magnolia soulanglaria, Saucer Magnolia. To. 25 described.)
feet. Spreads to 25 feet or more. Needs moist, a Querus flex, Holly Oak. Moderate growth rate
well-drained,rich soil, neutral or slightly acid. to 40-70 feet,equal spread.
* Platonus racemoso, California Sycamore. (Pre- 0 Quercus aouglasli, Blue Oak. (Previously
viously described.) described.)
* Zelkovo serrato, Sawleof Zelkovo. Grows at is Umbellularia callfornico. California Bay. (Previous-
moderate to fast rate, eventually to 60 feet or ly described.)
higher,equally wide.Water deeply to encourage
deep rooting Conifers
0 Cupressus macrocarpa, Monterey Cypress.
Broadleaved Evergreen Trees Growth to 40 feet I
a Libocedrus;decurrens,Incense Cedar.Symmetrical
* Ceratonia siliqua,Carob Tree.Grows at moderate tree to 75-90 feet Slow growing.Deep but Infre-
rate to dense 30-40 feet and as wide.Should be quent watering In youth will make it unusuall,u
watered infrequently and deeply. drought-tolerant when mature.
* Cinnamomum comphora, Camphor Tree. Slow 0 Pseudotsugo toxifolla, Douglas Fir. (Previously
growth to 50 feet or more with an even wider described.)
spread.Soil should be well-drained 0 Sequoia sempervirens, Coast Redwood. (Pre-
* Fremontio mexicQnum, Southern Fremontla, Fast viously described.)
growing to 6-20 feet. Needs excellent drainage.
Drought resistant.Little summer water,especially MAINTENANCE-FREE TREES
in heavy soils. The following is a list of trees that can be regarded
* Grevillea robusta, Silk Oak. Fast growing to as maintenance-free after they have become estob-
50-60 feet Broad-topped. Grows in poor, com- lished. This means that for the first three summers
pact soils if not oveuatered.Takes fair amount following planting they will require at least one deep
of water in fast-draining soils, watering each month. After the third summer, some
should have a final pruning. Stokes can be removed.
No further watering or other care should be required.d
14
adduous Trees Br oadleaved Evergreen Trees
* Celtis australis, European Hackberry. Moderate a Brachychiton populneum, Kurrajong Bottle Tree.
growth to 40 feet. When established will take Moderate growth 30-50 feet;30-foot spread.
desert heat, wind, much drought, and alkaline a Eucalyptus sideroxylon 'Rosea,' Red.Ironbark.
soil. Fast growth to 20-80 feet high.Varies from open
® Cladrastis lutea, American Yellow Wood. Slow to dense, slender to squatty,weeping to upright
growing to 30-40 feet, half as wide. Gets chlorotic in wet,adobe soils.
® Froxinus velutina 'Modesto,' Modesto Ash. a lagunaria patersonii, Sugarplus Tree. Rather fast
Growth to 50 feet with 30 foot spread.Tolerates growing to 20-40 feet Young trees pyramidal,
many kinds of soil, including alkaline. Tolerates old trees sometimes spreading, flat -topped.
o soils and growing
hot summers, cold winters. Tolerates wide variety f g g
® KoelreuteriaP aniculata, Goldenrain Tree. Slow conditions.
to moderate growth to 20-35 feet with 10- to a ligustrum lucidum, Glossy Privet Growth to 35-
40-foot spread. Takes cold, heat, drought, wind, 40 feet Somewhat drought-resistant but looks
alkaline soil. Needs regular watering when better with water.
young. ® l-yonothamnus flodbundus asplenifolius, Catalina
* l-iquidambor styraciflua, Sweet Gum Grows to Ironwood. Moderate growth to 30-60 feet with
60 feet.Spread to 20-25 feet Neutral or slightly 20-to 40-Foot spread.Needs excellent drainage,
acid,good,well-drained garden soil. sometimes shows chlorosis in heavy soils.
® Monis alba, Kin an Mulberry, White Mulberry
, a Meloleuca leucadendron, CaJa ut Tree. Spread-
Silkworm Mulberry. Rapid growth in hot climates ing, open growth to 20-40 feet Can take much
and alkaline soils, Takes some drought once or little water.
established, but grows faster with water and ® Prunus ilicifolia, Hollyleof Cherry. Grows at mod-
Feedings. To 35 feet tall, somewhat wider erste rate to 20-30 feet Usually broader than
spread.Often 20 feet by 20 feet in three years. high. Can be grown in almost any soil but thrives
* Pistacia chinensis, Chinese Pistache. Moderate best in coarse, well-drained types. Once estab-
growth to 60 feet, 50 Feet wide. Not fussy as to lished, it will require no irrigation in normal
soil or water. Accepts moderately alkaline con- rainfall years.However, growth rate and appear-
II in ante are improved b dee but infrequent
Lawn watering or no watering at y P q
dations. g 9 P
deep soils. watering.
® Ulmus pumilo, Siberian Elm. Growth to 50 feet. 0 Schinus molle,California Pepper Tree.Fast growth
Hardy and tough, enduring cold, heat, drought, to 25- to 40-foot height and spread. Grows in
and poor soil. any soil, tolerates drought when established,
and will even get along with poor drainage.
However, subject to root rot diseases in infected '
Nil
a soils. i
�: ;�::., •`� :�; � '�• , ® Schinus terebinthifolia, Brazilian Pepper Tree.
Moderate growth rate to 30 feet with equal
spread.
41
1.'
i
Al
j
(poison Oak r
b
15 ':i
Conifers DEER-PROOF PLANTS (gar close t® it)
® Cedrus atlantico 'Glauca,' Atlas Cedar. Slow to
moderate growth to 60 feet and more. less Shrubs and Ground Covers
spreading that other true cedars but still needs Nerium oleander
a 30-Foot circle.
® Cedrus deodara, Deodar Cedar. Fast growing to Rhododendron(not azaleos)
80 feet with 40-foot spread at ground level. Cistus(rockrose)
0 Cupressus forbesii, Tecate Cypress. Very fast Rosmorinus(rosemary)
growing, low branching to 20 feet Needs to be Juniperus(juniper)
n1
kept on the d side For wind resistance. Bamboo
a Ginkgo biloba, Maidenhair Tree. Can grow to Mahooll
70-80 feet, but most mature trees are 30-t0 Ilex(holly)
feet. Narrow to spreading or even umbrella- Daphne
shaped. Usually grows slowly, but under ideal Romneyo
conditions can grow up to 3 feet a year. Plant Ferns
in deep, loose,well-drained soil. lantana
* Pinus canariensis,Canary Island Pine.Fast growth Arbutus unedo
to 60-80 Feet Drought-tolerant Hpyericum
® Pinus pineo,Italian Stone Pine.Moderate growth Ricinus(castor bean)
to 40-80 feet Takes heat and drouaht when
established but may Fall over in heavy rains and Bulbs
windstorms. Iris
* Pinus thunbergii, Japanese Black Pine. Fast Narcissus(daffodil)
growth to 100 Feet Tulipa
® Podocarpus elongatus, Fern Pine. Grows to 60
Feet Adaptable to many climates. Grows easily Trees
in ordinary garden soil, in sun or shade. Some-
times troubled by chlorosis, especially in cold, Eucalyptus
wet,or heavy soils. Abies(fir)
Cedrus(cedar)
Fruits and Vegetables
Artichoke
tt „.-:.s .:, Fig
Squash ,
Annuals and Perennials
•^ tt. S iir'
Zinnia
Papaver rhoeas, P. orientalis (Shirley and oriental
Poppies)
Digitalis(Foxglove)
Calendulo
Chrysanthemum Frutescens(marguerite)
Rudbeckia hirta(gloriosa daisy)
FIRE-RESISTRNT AND C®MBUSTIBL�
PLANTS
I
(see Following page) 1
16
e.awwwoomirinw warvremn i iwev man rink -Simm e T
RECOMMENDED FIRE-RETARDANT PLANTS COMMON SHRUBS IN THE FOOTHILLS
FOR BRUSH FIRE PREVENTION IN HILLSIDE RESIDENTIAL AREAS AND THEIR COMBUSTIBILITY
Height at Drought Eresion Control'
Species Maturity Tolerance 0.30130-60,600+ Maintenance Common Name Scientific Name
CATEGORY 1 -GREATEST FIRE RETARDANCE Succulents(moisture content 90.96%) A. VERY COMBUSTIBLE-Fine particle fuel
High oil content.
Carpobrotus edulis(Hottentot Fig) 12-18" good + medium They will burn rapidly with intense heat.
Delosperma"Alba"(White Trailing Ice Plant) 6.8" very good ++ + medium-low Blue Blossom Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
Drosonthemum hisprdum(Roses Ice Plant) 4-6" good ++ medium-low Buck Brush Ceanothus cuneatus
Lampranthus spectabilis(Trailing Ice Plant) 6-12" good ++ medium-low Brush Monkey Flower Diplacus aurentracus
Metaphors crocea(Croceum Ice Plant) 6-12" good + + medium-low California Gooseberry Grossularia calrfornica
Metaphors luteole(Yellow Trailing Ice Plant) 6-12" good + medium-low California Sage Artemisia caljfornica
Portulacaria afra"Variegate"(Elephant's Food) 12" good + medium Chemise Adenostoma lasciculatum
Sedum brevifolium(Green SlonecroP ver) 2-6" Coffeeberry Rhamnus califormce
y good + medium-low Coyote Brush Baccharis pilularis
Sedum confusum 6.12" very good + medium-low French Broom Cytisus monspessutanus
Sedum rubrotinclum(Brown Been) 6.8" very good + medium-low Holly Lea(Cherry Prunus iticifolia
Senecio serpens 12" good + medium-low Jim Bush Ceanothus sorediatus
Manzenita Arciostaphylos se
CATEGORY 2-Non-succulent plants,high leaf moisture content(80-96%) Mountain Mahogany Cercocarpus betuloides
Oso Berry Osmaronia cerasiformis
Arctolheca calendula(Cape Weed) 12.15" lair ++ + medium Poison Oak Toxicodendron diversilobum
Scotch Broom Cytisus scoparius
Gazania uniflora(Trailing Gazania) 6.10" good ++ + medium Scrub Oak Quercus dumosa
Osteospermum frutrcosum(Trailing South African Daisy) 12.18" very good ++ ++ ++ medium Silk Tasgel Brush Garrya elliptica
Pelargonium peltatum(Ivy Geranium) 12" fair ++ + medium-high Toyon Photinia arbutifolis
V Western Choke Cherry Prunus demissa
CATEGORY 3-Plants with medium-high leaf moisture content(70-80%) B. COMBUSTIBLE•Lower oil content
Requires higher temperature to ignite.
Ajuga crisps(Giant Ajuga) 6.9"
poor + high' They will burn rapidly with intense heat.
Atrrplex semibaccata(Creeping Australian Saltbrush) 12" excellent ++ ++ ++ medium Blue Elderberry Sambucus mexicana
Cerastium tomerttosum(Snow-m-Summer) 4.6'• very good ++ medium-hrph Bugle Currant Ribies gracdhmum
Myoporum parvifolium 6" very good ++ ++ + medium-low Brush Poppy Dendromecon rigida
Sanioline chemaecyparissus(Gray Lavender Cotton) 18.24" excellent +r ++ ++ high Chaparral Currant Ribies malvaceum
Semolina virens(Green Lavender Cotton) 18.24" excellent ++ ++ ++ high Chaparral Pea Pickeringia montanb
Vince malar(Periwinkle) 18.24" lair ++ ++ ++ medium-low Creambush Holodiscus discolor
Vince minor(Dwart Running Myrtle) 6.12" fair ++ ++ ++ medium-low Deer Weed Lotus scoparius
Snowberry Symphoricarpos mollis
Virgin's Bower Clematis lasianiha
CATEGORY 4-LEAST FIRE RETARDANCE Plants with medium leaf moisture content 160.70%1 Yerba Santa Eriodictyon californicum
Winter Currant Ribies glutrnosum
Baccharls pilularis var.prostrata(Dwarf Coyote Bush) 12-24" excellent ++ ++ ++ high
Madera canariensis(Algerian ivy) 12-15" poor ++ ++ + C. NON-COMBUSTIBLE-Generally will not conlint•a
medium to burn unless subject to
Hedera helix(English Ivy) 12" poor ++ ++ + medium direct flame from other source
Helianihemum nummularium(Sunrose) 6.8" very good ++ medium-low California Blackberry Rosa ursintis
Hypericum calyciitum(Aaron's Beardl 12.15" good ++ + medium•low California Wildrose Rosa caldormca
Teucrium chamaedrys(Germander) 8.12" good ++ medium-low Nightshade Solarium umbelliferurn
Verbena peruvisna 4.6" very good + medium-low Pacific Ninebark Physoearpus capitalus
Pitcher Sege Lepechmia calycina
'Erosion Control Ratings:++--good,+=fair.Rated for different percent slopes of)and. Source: This list is reproduced from foothills fire Hazards.
The Feasibility of fire Zoning. City of Palo Alto.1968 The
SOURCE: County of Los Angeles Department of Arboreta and Botanic Gardens.Foresters.and Fire Warden.Fire RerardantPlants original source is Robert Badaracco, former Supervising
for Hillside Areas. 1970. Park Ranger,Palo Alto Foothills Park.
Reprinted with permission from the Santo Clara Environmental Management Agency
-- 50
*k1l
--40
� 1l � � 1
-- 30
f rf
Cc
--20
ALI
k7
C
-- 10
Iro n-bork
Eucalyptus
Peppermint Tree Aleppo Pine Pistadie California Blue Oak Toyon
Agonis flexuosa Pinus halepensis Pistacia chinensis Quercus douglasii Photinia arbutifolia
SAMPLE TREE GROUP ABOUT 7 YEARS AFTER PLANTING
-.uiTe".
ixt v ides uetailed inforr mation ort fire safety. All Los Altos Hills hcKneowners could
t frau familiarity with its contents.
Pool, hot tub. Either one can
Hydrant. Near street. you can serve as a ready reservoir for
y you and lire department
install standpipe for hn:nien':. (typical hot tub holds about
use: check sire with fire 500 gallons, as much as a
department. Make sure it's tank truck). It possible, make
easily seen and accessible. II Pump. Have well-maintained pool drainable to accessible
cess. Keep fire lane possible, gravity feed from pump(gas, diesel,propane) hydrant or pumphouse.
eferably on both sides of pool• of at least 100-qpm capacity,
use)clear enough for with standard 1'i2-inch
:men to bring in hoses, threaded standpipe.Keep Deck.Nonflammable brick,
ders,equipment,even plastic or cotton-jacket lire tile,or concrete deckin is
cks. hose(enough to reach far safest. Still want wood
side of huuse)and nozzle at Recommended 1-hour fire
ratings require overscaled j
decking; at least 1 r/s-inch-
ieseind large shrubs. d p thick tongue-and-groove I
)on' 1 l feet in more boards over solid subdeckin
)on't plant pines, �� M.f'�� 9•
its, or other varieties
oil content. Regularly -
lead limbs and low
IS.
N
Ise noncombust'
materials.
14)
"•ru' // 'i!�� � rte+
r
` tY• ':"k '� �.., ---• `moi'
'Si• 1 '� "�� •':v` Underpinnings.Decks in
wildland areas should either
d vents. Eliminates be enclosed with
enclose them with �^r N ! nonflammable solid skirt— �.
other nonflammable concrete block,gypsum
'lace vents at outer ice . board,stucco.or other
offit. Vents should exterior sheathing—or built +.
ch wire mesh. If with oversize timbers (at least
Lt approach of fire 6-by-6 posts and beams).
i
Is with precut t''• III� � °1' •; � � �
ravels. ;
Siding. Noncombustible `s'•.�+
material such as stucco 4 1 '
kspreferred. Avoid shingle �
siding. w '� 1 t '•.'�.,.`' i:r•�
ter. :.1'l .�,'F i� '•: � _ . .a ,,, �•.
Glass.Thermal pane and
safety-type are most resistant
to heat-caused damage.11 fire + K ft
threatens, cover glass with
shutters, fire curtains, or
plywood panels.
- r
fences,and railings. �J� � �• k .•��,b 7h "' � ,
,nllammable masonry,
it iron,or chain link— 200-loot reduced fuel zone.. r
lady adjoining house, Plant low-growing, deep- I
ammable materials canrooteddrought•tolerant Hillside chaparral. Prune to
, f
fuses. Make wood ground covers. thin or remove wood
or trellises of oversize Prune regularly to chaparral. Keep large native a
remove woody growth, trees and shrubs(their roots i
encourage new growth. Beyond property lines. anchor hillsides). Irrigate
Planning and protection must occasionally In summer to
be community-wide.Work maintain moisture level.
with neighbors to reduce fuel
in common areas.
ATTACHMENT
complaints from the residents on the service. She offered that while there are service
options with other agencies, given the competitive price of the contract and the quality of
service, she recommended the Council give consideration to the revised contract.
Mayor O'Malley concurred that he never hears any complaints or issues about the
Sheriff s services.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Fenwick, seconded by Warshawsky
and unanimously approved to adopt Resolution#60-04 and authorize the City Manager to
enter into an Agreement with the County of Santa Clara for Law Enforcement Services.
=�* 6.3 Discussion of Water Conservation and Landscape Requirements <��
Planning Director Carl Cahill introduced this item. He explained that the City Council
had requested discussion of the Planning Commission report on water conservation at
their last meeting. The Planning Commission, following review and discussion of the
report, had directed staff to revise the current landscaping materials distributed by the
Town to better focus on water conservation. They did not recommend the drafting of any
ordinances that would restrict the size of lawns or require submittal of plans that would
show the amount of .water required for maintenance of the landscaping. It was
determined that the Town did not have the resources or staffing to enforce such a
program.
OPENED PUBLIC COMMENT
Jan Fenwick, Purissima Hills Water District Board Member, explained the Board had
discussed numerous mechanisms for restricting water for landscaping use. They have
prepared an educational brochure that is sent to all applicants. The pamphlet suggests
landscaping designs that would be divided into thirds with low, moderate and high water
usage. This mirrors the Hillsborough Ordinance. Unfortunately, water usage for
landscaping had continued to escalate despite the District's efforts. She noted that they
would like to do something more proactive, possibly partnered with the Town and
suggested a requirement for new landscaping to include a calculation of water needs once
the landscaping was established. A meeting with the applicant and Water District to
discuss proposed irrigation systems and potential water costs was another suggestion.
Mayor Pro Tem Kerr asked if the concept of incentives had been studied by the District.
He questioned if the District would be interested in a partnership with the Town to solve
water use at the Little League fields as a demonstration project. Kerr added that the
Council had limited authority to affect water behavior.
Ernest Solomon, Purissima Hills Water District Board Member, explained that the
District's primary concern was the issue of water supply. He noted that they have used
programs of pricing and education as consumption deterrents.
Councilmember Cheng commented that it was a very small percentage of residents who
use the majority of water and felt it was unfair to penalize the rest of the community. She
suggested everyone learn to be vigilant with their water and turn off their sprinklers
6 City Council Meeting Minutes
September 16,2004
during the cool months. She added that she is cautious with her water. Cheng is served
by the California Water Service Company.
Solomon agreed that a very small percentage of residents are heavy water users. Fenwick
added that it is primarily the landscaping for new homes.
Mayor O'Malley offered that lawns were the primary landscaping problem and he could
see the new Council investigating limiting the amount of lawn coverage on a property.
Fenwick thought this was a positive suggestion to the problem. She explained that the
District's consultants had just completed a Water Supply Master Plan and are presently
developing a Water Conservation Plan.
Councilmember Fenwick suggested that the District consider publication of the names of
the top users,noting that social pressure might be a deterrent.
OPENED PUBLIC COMMENT
Peter Evans, La Loma Drive, offered that the use of additives in the water are turning
rubber plumbing parts to goo and in the future will present a.real water conservation
problem from damaged plumbing.
Jean Mordo, Vogue Court, explained that he believed the City Council should take a
leadership role in water conservation. He offered that it was not a problem now but a
drought could be a problem in the future. Mordo suggested that a similar approach to the
Town's building restrictions that use MDA/MFA be considered for water restriction. He
added that there should be a higher cost and possible penalty with a water quota and
concurred with the Mayor that it would be a good idea to restrict the amount of lawn
coverage.
Jim Abraham, Viscaino, commented that he believed it would be difficult for the Town
staff to monitor and regulate lawns and water consumption at a home. He suggested a
very expensive fifth tier be added to water customers.
CLOSED PUBLIC COMMENT
Planning Director Cahill explained that it is easy for the Town to regulate building or
illegal structures but it would be almost impossible for the Town to prevent residents
from planting lawns after they have finalled their building projects.
7. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES, SUB-COMMITTEES,AND
COUNCILMEMBERS ON OUTSIDE AGENCIES
Councilmember Fenwick reported he had attended an Emergency Communications
Committee meeting.
Councilmember Warshawsky reported that he had attended an Open Space meeting that
had included representatives from the Town, Portola Valley, Woodside and Palo Alto. It
7 City Council Meeting Minutes
September 16,2004
V•�
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS September 16, 2004
Staff Report to the City Council
RE: DISCUSSION OF WATER CONSERVATION AND LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS
FROM: Carl Cahill, Planning Director
APPROVED: Maureen Cassingham, City Manager�,��
BACKGROUND: At the last City Council meeting, the Mayor requested that the
Planning Commission staff report on water- conservation be reviewed at the City
Council's next meeting. The report is attached.
ATTACHMENTS
1. July 22, 2004 Planning Commission Staff Report on Water Conservation
Town of Los Altos Hills July 22, 2004
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
RE: LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION IN THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS.
FROM: Angelica Herrera Olivera, Assistant Planner*
APPROVED BY: Carl Cahill,Planning Director C 5t
RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission:
1. Review the following staff report and direct staff to update the existing Town Landscape
Recommendations handout regarding Landscape Water Conservation.
BACKGROUND
The Town of Los Altos Hills is served by two water districts. The Purissima Hills Water District
serves approximately two-thirds of the Town while the California Water Service Company serves
the remaining one-third of the Town (Attachment 1). According to their records, the Purissima
Hills Water District is consistently exceeding their water allocation by as much as 35%. In 2003,
the Water District calculated that 8 percent of their customers utilized approximately 75% of the
water usage for the high water month of August (Attachment 2).
The California Water Service Company offers water conservation tools to all of their customers
through a partnership with the Santa Clara Valley Water District. According to the Office
Manager at the California Water's Los Altos District office, high water usage is monitored on a
daily basis and is dealt with on an individual case-by-case basis through customer service and
public awareness.
On June 18, 1999, the Purissima Hills Water District gave a presentation to the City Council
regarding water conservation and landscaping and asked the Council to enforce mandatory
landscaping regulations. The City Council unanimously recommended that the Water District
draft a set of regulations regarding water conservation and landscaping issues and bring the
proposed ordinance back to the Council for review (Attachment 3).
In May of 2003, Water District Director Fenwick initiated discussion with Councilmembers Kerr
and O'Malley regarding water conservation and landscaping regulations. On September 18,
2003, the Planning Commission and City Council had a joint meeting to review and discuss a
number of issues including water conservation. At this joint meeting, the Planning Commission
was directed to work with the Purissima Hills Water District to identify possible solutions to
increased water consumption in the Town (Attachment 4).
CURRENT WATER CONSERVATION EFFORTS AND PUBLICATIONS
Pursuant to Section 10-2.301 of the Municipal Code, the Town currently requires that a
landscape screening and erosion control plan be reviewed, approved, and installed in conjunction
with the construction of a new residence or major addition. The Town's current efforts toward
landscape water conservation involve the distribution of our Landscape Recommendations Guide
Landscape Water Conservation Policy
Planning Commission
July 22,2004
Page 2 of 4
and water-efficient landscaping publications from the Santa Clara Valley Water District and U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (Attachments 5, 6 and 7). The City Council approved the
Recommendations Guide on May 6 1999. The guide, which was prepared b the
Landscape Recommen y gu P P Y
Environmental Design and Protection Committee, suggests design considerations for proposed
landscape and plantings, provides landscaping precautions near oak trees, and explains
landscaping issues in Town such as erosion and flood control, fire protection, and water
conservation. The Guide also provides helpful landscape maintenance tips, as well as a listing of
native,invasive and poisonous plants.
LOCAL LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION
A survey of local jurisdictions indicates that only one community, which is similar in land use
characteristics to Los Altos Hills, has a landscape ordinance that is intended to enforce water
conservation on single family residences.
The Municipal Code of the Town of Hillsborough requires that all developed property within the
town be landscaped (Attachment 8). This is similar to the Town of Los Altos Hills. In efforts to
conserve water, the Town of Hillsborough allows no more than thirty-four (34%) percent of the
softscape area (all lot coverage that is not structural coverage or hardscape coverage) of a lot
occupied by a dwelling to be devoted to high water use areas such as pools, spas, fountains and
other water features; lawn or turf areas; and other high water use plants. The Town of
Hillsborough distributes an 11-page packet on how to prepare a Landscaping Application
(Attachment 9). Each Landscaping Application includes one set of geometric verifications for
the high water use area calculations on a full-size planting plan. The Town retains the services of
a Landscape Architect to review the application and inspect the landscape installation. The costs
of these services are charged back to the applicant.
A similar landscape ordinance could be drafted by staff for the Planning Commission's review.
However, such an ordinance is not recommended at this time for the following reasons:
1. Unlike the Town of Los Altos Hills, the Town of Hillsborough is directly responsible
for water conservation because it provides water utility service to its residents.
Hillsborough can rely on water user rates and additional property tax revenue to fund
the enforcement of its water conservation ordinance.
The long term effectiveness of the Hillsborough ordinance appears questionable. The
Purissima Hills Water District's research revealed that the ordinance was ineffective
at reducing water consumption in Hillsborough (Attachment 10).
The ordinance would be difficult to enforce. Most residents do not install
comprehensive landscaping prior to occupancy of their new home—only enough for
screening and erosion control. New homeowners typically express a desire to live in
the home for awhile before installing full landscaping. Other homeowners install
landscaping incrementally in a series of small projects not readily detected. Once the
Town has granted occupancy of the new residence, staff has no authority (or
expertise) to enter private property at will and inspect landscaping and irrigation.
Landscape Water Conservation Policy
Planning Commission
July 22,2004
Page 3 of 4
Data on resident water usage would have to be obtained from the two separate water
districts.
4. A strict water conservation landscape ordinance may induce some residents to simply
dig a well to avoid ordinance requirements. The Town does not issue well permits.
Wells are subject to review by the County Health Department.
OTHER WATER CONSERVATION PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO TOWN RESIDENTS
Most large water districts have websites with extensive online water conservation programs. The
Santa Clara Valley Water District's online water conservation program for homeowners includes
information regarding water efficient landscaping workshops, a Going Native Garden Tour, and
free Water-Wise house calls where trained water surveyors will come out to customer's home
and review their water use and suggest water-wise recommendations (Attachment 11). For
businesses, the SCVWD provides an Irrigation Technical Assistance Program where auditors
perform free site evaluations to help property owners manage their water use. Landscape
professionals can also receive training in Landscape Water Auditing, Water Budgeting, and
Irrigation workshops to help conserve water.
SUMMARY
The Town has limited economic and organizational resources with which it must already
carryout a multitude of natural resource conservation responsibilities as mandated in the Town
General Plan, the Municipal Code as well as various State and Federal laws. These
responsibilities include enforcing surface water quality standards (NPDES), preserving
vegetation and wildlife to the maximum extent possible while accommodating low density
residential development, protecting soils through erosion control regulations and protecting life
and property through the enforcement of building & zoning codes, drainage and geotechnical
standards.
State and Federal laws do not mandate the Town to enact or enforce mandatory landscaping
water conservation measures on individual homeowners at this time.
The Town should continue to provide residents with educational materials such as its drought
tolerant Landscape Guidelines booklet. The Town could also update these materials to reflect
current best management practices.
If the Planning Commission and City Council decide to voluntarily enact a landscaping water
conservation ordinance, a source of funding should be first identified to pay for this new
program. Perhaps the Town could enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the
two water districts in order to obtain water usage data and recover costs associated with the new
water conservation enforcement program.
Landscape Water Conservation Policy
Planning Commission
July 22,2004
Page 4 of 4
ATTACHMENTS
1. Water District Service Area Map, (1 page);
2. PHWD Water Usage for August 2003 (1 page);
3. June 18, 1999 City Council Meeting Minutes (3 pages);
4. September 18, 2003 Joint City Council and Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (2
pages);
5. Town Landscape Recommendations Guide, Approved May 6, 1999 (22 pages);
6. Santa Clara Valley Water District Publication, "Rules of Thumb for Water-Wise
Gardening" (22 pages);
7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Publication, "Water-Efficient Landscaping" (20
pages);
8. Town of Hillsborough Municipal Code regarding Landscaping (4 pages);
9. Town of Hillsborough Landscaping Application Packet (11 pages);
10. August 13, 2003 PHWD Meeting Minutes (2 pages);
11. Santa Clara Valley Water District Online Water Conservation Programs (3 pages).
07/28/2006 08:42 FAX 650 941 6350 TREE TEMPS Q002
ATTACHMENT �
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN & PROTECTION COMMITTEE
PROJECT REVIEW
PURISSIMA HILLS WATER DISTRICT
WATER CONSERVATION
REVIEWED BY: Pat Ley
Neela Shukla
Liz Goodman
Sandy Humphries
COMMENTS:
We are very much in favor of educating residence about water usage and
water conservation. We would make the following comments:
As most landscaping and Irrigation systems are Installed by the general
contractor, we believe a provision should be made for such Installations. Perhaps the
District's Irrigation Specialist could assess the suitability of proposed plans.
We believe a maximum lawn area should be stipulated like 1200 sq. ft.
We believe plant selection should include a large amount of drought tolerant
plants preferably California natives-suggest M drought tolerant.
We believe to add an additional fee the the present permit fee would likely
be counter productive.
Finally, we query that item number 2. - 2.4 could easily be done.