Agenda packet — Brea City Council, June 2, 2026 (part 4 of 19)

Modified Secondary Arterial
Modified Secondary Arterials are two- to fourlane roadways constructed within a right-of-way of 100 feet with a varying curb-to-curb pavement
width, depending upon the number of lanes provided. The street functions similar to a Secondary Arterial. The right-of-way not improved with paved
lanes can be used for a bike path or lane, multi-use
trail, and extensive landscaping.

Secondary Arterial
Typically constructed within a right-of-way of 80
feet with a curb-to-curb pavement width of 64 feet,
Secondary Arterials serve as collectors that distribute traffic between local streets and divided arterials. The maximum roadway capacity is 25,000 daily vehicles and 2,500 peak hour vehicles.
3 Caltrans Traffic Census Program, 2022
Collector Roadway
A Collector Roadway is a two- to four-lane unrestricted access roadway with capacity ranging from 12,500 daily vehicles for two-lane undivided
to 25,000 daily vehicles for four-lane roads (with
peak-hour capacities of 1,250 and 2,500, respectively.) Collector Roadways differs from Local Roadways in their ability to handle through traffic
movements between arterials. With a median turn
lane, a Collector Roadway is typically constructed
within a right-of-way of 66 feet with a curb-to-curb
pavement width of 52 feet. Without a median turn
lane, a Collector Roadway is typically constructed
within a right-of-way of 56 feet with a curb-to-curb
pavement width of 46 feet.

Local Roadway
A local roadway provides direct access to abutting properties as their primary function. Local streets rarely have more than two travel lanes, and speed
limits are generally kept low (25 to 35 miles per
hour). The capacity of a local roadway is typically
below 12,500 daily vehicles. Right-of-way widths
vary depending on land use adjacent to roadway
(i.e., industrial/commercial, mixed use, or residential) and by street or collector designations. A “street” designation has a design speed of 25 mph, whereas
a “collector” designation has a design speed of 35
mph. Right-of-way widths for roadways adjacent to
an industrial/commercial land use vary between 56
feet and 64 feet. Right-of-way widths for roadways
adjacent to a mixed use land use varies between 56
feet and 60 feet. Right-of-way widths for roadways
adjacent to residential land use vary between 40 and
56 feet. In addition, Local Roadways have a minimum
8 feet wide parkway on both sides.

Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
o
r
Blvd
Golden Ave
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter Dr
Palm St
Puente St
Central Ave
Birch St
Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Whittier Ave
Randolph Ave
Wildcat Wy
Associated Rd
Flower Ave
57 90
142
90 57
142

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Elm Street
Santa Fe Rd
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
La Habra
Fullerton
Yorba Linda
Chino Hills
Sources: City of Brea; Orange County; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. Created by De Novo Planning Group for the City of Brea, April 19, 2024.

LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Core Specific Plan
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Freeway
Smart Street (Caltrans)
Major Arterial
Primary Arterial
Secondary Arterial
Collector Roadway
Notes:
- South Brea Boulevard south of Imperial Highway will be redesignated Primary Arterial following parallel changes to the OCTA MPAH. - Brea Canyon Road will be redesignated Modified Secondary Arterial following changes to the OCTA MPAH.

Figure M-3. Existing Roadway Classifications
85 CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 86 [ this page intentionally blank ]
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
o
r
Blvd
Golden Ave
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter Dr
Palm St
Puente St
Central Ave
Birch St
Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Whittier Ave
Randolph Ave
Wildcat Wy
Associated Rd
Flower Ave
57 90
142
90 57
142

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Core Specific Plan
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Freeway
Smart Street (Caltrans)
Major Arterial
Primary Arterial
Modified Secondary Arterial
Secondary Arterial
Collector Roadway
Figure M-4. Proposed Roadway Classifications
87 CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 88 [ this page intentionally blank ]
LOS Description
A
Free Flow or Insignificant Delays: Vehicles are
completely unimpeded in their ability to maneuver within the traffic stream. Control delay at signalized intersections is minimal.

B
Stable Operation or Minimal Delays: The ability
to maneuver within the traffic stream is only
slightly restricted, and control delay at signalized
intersections are not significant.

C
Stable Operation or Acceptable Delays: The
ability to maneuver and change lanes is somewhat restricted, and average travel speeds may be about 5% of the free flow speed.

D
Approaching Unstable or Tolerable Delays: Small
increases in flow may cause substantial increases
in delay and decreases in travel speed.

E
Unstable Operation or Significant Delays: Significant delays may occur, and average travel speeds may be 33% or less of the free flow
speed.

F
Forced Flow or Excessive Delays: Congestion,
high delays, and extensive queuing occur at critical signalized intersections with urban street flow at extremely low speeds.

Source: Highway Capacity Manual, Transportation Research Board, Washington D.C., 2016 LOS
Average Delay Per Vehicle (Seconds)
Signal TWSC/AWSC
A ≤10.0 ≤10.0
B >10.0 and ≤20.0 >10.0 and ≤15.0
C >20.0 and ≤35.0 >15.0 and ≤25.0
D >35.0 and ≤55.0 >25.0 and ≤35.0
E >55.0 and ≤80.0 >35.0 and ≤50.0
F >80.0 >50.0
Source: Highway Capacity Manual, Transportation Research Board, Washington D.C., 2016 Mobilit y
89 Level of Service Requirement and
Criteria
Evaluating the performance of Brea’s circulation
system requires establishing clear criteria for how
roadway conditions and future travel demand are
assessed. Performance criteria have a policy component that establishes a desired level of service (LOS) and a technical component that specifies
how traffic forecast data can be used to measure
the achievement of the criteria.

Brea requires the latest version of the Highway
Capacity Manual (HCM) analysis for the LOS
analysis. LOS designations range from “A” (freeflow conditions) to “F” (severe congestion exceeding roadway capacity). In addition to systemwide evaluation, the City continues to assess the localized
effects of new development on congestion, safety,
and circulation. These project-level assessments are
guided by the City’s Transportation Impact Analysis
(TIA) Guidelines, which establish when non-CEQA
traffic studies are required and the criteria by which
they are reviewed. Descriptions of LOS conditions
are provided in the tables below.

Table M-1 General Level of Service Definitions
Table M-2 Intersections HCM Level of Service Definitions CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 90 Bicycle and Pedestrian Networks
Bicycle Network
The City provides several types of bike facilities such as bike lanes, off-street trails, and bicycle wayfinding/signage. The existing bike network includes Class II bike lanes on the majority of Central Avenue
and Berry Street, portions of Puente Street, Birch
Street (mostly east of 57 Freeway), Associated
Road (south of Birch Street), and portions of State
College Boulevard, Lambert Road, Kraemer Boulevard, and Valencia Avenue, and is summarized in Figure M-5. In addition, Class III shared lanes are
designated along Elm Street, Brea Boulevard and
portions of Puente Street.

Residential areas in the eastern foothills by Carbon
Canyon Road have less developed bicycle infrastructure. Specifically, there is a Class II bike lane along portions of Carbon Canyon Road, west of
Santa Fe Road. East of Santa Fe Road, bicyclists
must travel along the paved roadway shoulder
as there are no bicycle facilities. New development along Valencia Avenue, between Imperial Highway and Carbon Canyon Road, should bring
improved bicycle facilities to the eastern part of
Brea, including new Class I multiuse trails and Class
III on-street bikeways.4
4 City of Brea, “Specific Plans”, accessed October
2024. https://www.ci.brea.ca.us/1545/Specific-Plans
Bike Facility Types
Class I Multi-Use Bike Path: An off-street
paved right-of-way for bicycle travel that is
completely separate from any street or highway.

Class II Bike Lanes: A striped and stenciled
lane for one-way bicycle travel on a street. A
climbing bike lane supports bicycles traveling
uphill slower than other traffic.

Class III Bike Route: A street where the bicyclist shares the right-of-way with motor vehicles. A bike boulevard is further designated and designed to prioritize bicycle travel
through vehicle speed and volume management.

Class IV Separated Bike Lanes: A bike
lane that includes a physical separation from
vehicular traffic.

Cross-sections for the bicycle facilities classifications can be found in the Appendix. 91 Bicycle parking is typically found at transportation centers, major destinations, and public facilities.

Outside of the Brea Core Area, bicycle racks can
be found at locations including Founders Park, Central Park, and the Brea Gateway.

Within the Brea Core Specific Plan Area, bicycle
facilities are being developed and expanded to
build upon existing facilities. The Brea Core Area
also has a Class II bike lane on Berry Street and
segments of Birch Street, Brea Boulevard, and State
College Boulevard. In addition, The Tracks at Brea,
a multi-use trail part of the Orange County (OC)
Loop trail network, runs through the Brea Core
Specific Plan Area. Bicycle parking is available
within the Brea Core Specific Plan Area, including
at Brea Mall, the Brea Civic and Cultural Center,
Brea Downtown, Brea Gateway Shopping Center,
Brea Marketplace, and Lagos de Moreno Park.

Laurel Elementary School and the Brea Junior High
School also have bicycle racks.

As part of the Mobility Element, opportunities to
enhance the overall transportation network were
evaluated. Potential bicycle facilities include a protected bicycle facility on Lambert Road, a bike lane on Wildcat Way/Associated Road, a buffered
bicycle lane and a shared use path on Berry Street
south of Lambert Road, a buffered bicycle lane on
Brea Boulevard, a shared lane (sharrow) on Flower
Avenue, a shared use path on Birch Street, and a
bicycle path south of the Tracks to the Brea Mall.

These potential bicycle facilities can be seen in
Figure M-6.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 92 Pedestrian Network
Throughout the City, pedestrian facilities include
crosswalks, pedestrian crossing signals, lighting,
street trees, and curb ramps. The pedestrian network is comprised of sidewalks and multi-use paths, allowing residents to walk to their destination along
dedicated paths and reducing conflicts with other
travel modes. Routes to major destinations, such as
schools and public facilities, attract youth and are
important within the pedestrian network. Throughout the City, opportunities exist to improve sidewalk connectivity, install pedestrian crossings, and maintain consistency with pedestrian amenities.

Sidewalks are generally included on most roadways within the City; however, there are gaps in some of the industrial areas of Brea. At locations
where sidewalks are provided, the Brea City Code
requires sidewalks to be a minimum of 4 feet wide
in residential areas, and a minimum of 5 feet wide
in commercial and industrial areas, with additional
ADA accessibility, curb-ramp and curb requirements.

Transit Network
Public bus transit in Brea, as of 2026, is provided
by fixed-route bus service operated by Orange
County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and Foothill Transit, plus local services provided by the City of Brea, and are shown in Figure M-7. All bus routes
that operate within the City provide service to the
Brea Mall Transit Center, located off State College
Boulevard between Imperial Highway and Lambert Road.

Currently, there are four OCTA bus routes that operate within the City of Brea:5 • Route 57, between Brea and Newport Beach.
• Route 59, between Brea and Irvine
• Route 129, between Brea and Buena Park.
• Route 143, from La Habra to Brea.

In addition, OCTA’s ACCESS paratransit service
serves those with disabilities.

Foothill Transit operates a fleet of over 300 buses
throughout Southern California’s San Gabriel
Valley and Pomona Valley. Within Brea, Foothill
Transit operates one route:
• Route 286 between Pomona and Brea.6
In addition to the routes provided by OCTA and
Foothill Transit, the City of Brea provides local transportation services. The City offers free shuttle transportation for seniors, providing rides to the Senior Center and scheduled shopping trips. Additionally,
a van service called “Seniors on the Go!” operates Tuesday to Friday offering rides for personal errands and community visits within Orange County
for a small fee.7
5 Orange County Transportation Authority, “Routes
and Schedules”, last accessed December 2025. https://
www.octa.net/getting-around/bus/oc-bus/routes-andschedules/routes-and-schedules 6 Foothill Transit, “Schedules and Maps”, last accessed May 2024. https://www.foothilltransit.org/ buslines/timetables
7 City of Brea, “Transportation”, last accessed December 2025. https://www.cityofbrea.gov/1105/Transportation 93 Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
o
r
Blvd
Golden Ave
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter Dr
Palm St
Puente St
Central Ave
Birch St
Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Whittier Ave
Randolph Ave
Wildcat Wy
Associated Rd
Flower Ave
57 90
142
90 57
142

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Core Specific Plan
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Existing Facilities
Class I - Shared Use Path
Class II - Bike Lane
Class III - Shared Lane
Figure M-5. Existing Bicycle Facilities
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 94 [ this page intentionally blank ]
95 Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
o
r
Blvd
Golden Ave
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter Dr
Palm St
Puente St
Central Ave
Birch St
Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Whittier Ave
Randolph Ave
Wildcat Wy
Associated Rd
Flower Ave
57 90
142
90 57
142

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Core Specific Plan
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Existing Facilities
Class I - Shared Use Path
Class II - Bike Lane
Class III - Shared Lane
Potential Facilities
Class I - Shared Use Path
Class II - Bike Lane
Class III - Shared Lane
Class IV - Separated Bike
Lane
*Berry Street, Birch Street, and Brea Boulevard
have multiple potential bicycle facility
options; only the Class IV option is
shown for clarity and readability.

Figure M-6. Potential Bicycle Facilities
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 96 [ this page intentionally blank ]
97 Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Lambert Rd
Valencia Ave
Brea Blvd
Brea Blvd
Placent ai Ave
Imperial Hwy
Berry St
Lambert Rd
Rose Dr
State College Blvd
Palm St
Associated Rd
Puente St
Carbon Canyon Rd
Central Ave
Birch St Birch St
142
90 90
57 57
90 Placentia
La Habra
Fullerton
Yorba
Linda
286
59 143
143
129
129
57 Sources: City of Brea; Orange County; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service, UC Berkeley TIMS, 2013-2023. Created by De Novo Planning Group for the City of Brea, April 19, 2024.

LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Core Specific
Plan
Brea Sphere of
Influence
Brea Mall Transit
Center
OCTA
57 59
129
143
Foothill Transit
286
Brea Mall
Park-n-Ride
*Routes are bi-directional
** Transit information as of April 2026
State
Col el ge
B
vl d
Birch St
57 286
143 59
143
129
57 Figure M-7. Existing Transit Service
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 98 [ this page intentionally blank ]
Mobilit y
99 Goal M-1
Maintain an effective regional
transportation network.

REGIONAL

CIRCULATION
The City of Brea is located at the northern edge
Orange County near the junction of four counties
(Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside
County, and San Bernardino County). Transportation and traffic congestion in Brea is directly affected by the regional transportation network
as traffic from surrounding communities can pass
through Brea on SR-57, SR-90, SR-142 and other
major roadways. In addition, a healthy economy
depends on the ability of businesses to move
their goods from one location to another safely
and efficiently. To support the continued success
of local businesses and to promote the safe and
efficient flow of people and goods, the circulation
system must provide adequate local and regional
access. Planning for the community’s existing and
future needs necessitates recognition of the related
transportation needs and planning efforts of the
surrounding cities, counties, region, and the State.

With this recognition comes the need for the City to
actively work with other public agencies responsible for transportation and development in northern Orange County and the surrounding areas.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 100
M-1 Policies
M-1.1 Caltrans Coordination. Work regularly with Caltrans to improve access to and from State Route 57, Imperial Highway (State Route 90), and Valencia Avenue and Carbon Canyon Road (State Route 142).

M-1.2 Inter-Agency Coordination. Engage in federal, State, and regional planning efforts with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), Orange County, adjacent cities, and other jurisdictions, as appropriate, to develop a transportation network that balances traffic flow and multi-modal needs.

M-1.3 OCTA Coordination. Work with OCTA to ensure that the Master Plan of Arterial Highways is consistent with the City’s Master Plan of Roadways.

M-1.4 Emerging Technology. Work with regional partners to plan for emerging transportation modes and technologies.

M-1.5 Arterial Network System Coordination. Cooperate with surrounding jurisdictions to ensure the efficient operation of the arterial network system.

M-1.6 Minimize Cut-Through Traffic. Work with Caltrans, OCTA, and surrounding jurisdictions to provide adequate capacity on regional routes for through traffic to minimize cutthrough traffic on the local street system.

M-1.7 Goods Movement on Regional Routes. Maintain safe and efficient goods movement on State routes and major arterials in support of the City’s economic vitality, business districts, and shopping centers.

M-1.8 Carpooling. Facilitate and encourage carpooling for residents commuting outside the City and for employees traveling into the City, recognizing carpooling as a key alternative transportation mode that supports regional mobility and reduces congestion.

M-1.9 VMT Reduction Facilities. Encourage the use of park-n-rides and other facilities and programs that support reduced vehicle miles traveled (VMT), such as mobility hubs, shared mobility services, and other multi-modal infrastructure. EJ M-1 Actions
M-1a Participate in regional planning forums, organizations and agencies to ensure that the City’s concerns are considered at the regional level.

M-1b Monitor land use, circulation planning, and the development review process of neighboring jurisdictions so that the City has an opportunity to identify impacts to Brea and make recommendations for consideration by those jurisdictions.

M-1c Implement traffic control strategies and coordinate with enforcement agencies to improve commercial vehicle safety and support the quality of life for Brea residents.

M-1d Coordinate with Caltrans, OCTA, and surrounding jurisdictions to maintain and improve capacity on State highways and regional arterials to support access to the City’s business and shopping centers and to discourage cut-through traffic on local streets.

M-1e Work with Caltrans to coordinate traffic operations and share surveillance and monitoring resources to improve traffic flow and support effective traffic enforcement.

Mobilit y
101
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 102
Goal M-2
Provide a safe local circulation system
that facilitates the efficient flow of
traffic and goods throughout the City.

Safe and convenient access to destinations in the
community can be provided by a well-designed
local roadway system. To allow for new development or redevelopment to occur without negatively affecting the existing community, improvements to
the circulation system may be required.

M-2 Policies
M-2.1 Roadway Requirements. Require roadways to:
• Be designed to be consistent with applicable federal, State, and local design and safety standards.
• Meet the needs of multiple transportation modes and users, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• Be compatible with the streetscape and surrounding land uses. • Be maintained in accordance with best practices.

M-2.2 Level of Service. Strive to maintain acceptable vehicular level of service at City intersections, per the City of Brea Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines.

M-2.3 Non-Local Traffic. Discourage the flow of non-local traffic through neighborhoods.

M-2.4 Traffic Management. Apply creative traffic management strategies to maintain efficient and orderly traffic flow, minimize vehicular congestion in areas with unique users (such as schools, and businesses with drive-through access) and other special situations.

M-2.5 Trees. Promote the planting of locally native trees in the public right-of-way, including street trees and parkways, to provide shaded pathways, neighborhood cooling, and other benefits. EJ

LOCAL CIRCULATION
103
M-2.6 New Development – Transportation Studies. Require new development projects to prepare transportation studies and VMT analysis consistent with the City’s TIA Guidelines and to implement appropriate measures to mitigate CEQA impacts and address non-CEQA effects to the transportation network.

M-2.7 Evacuation Routes. Incorporate necessary improvements to and perform maintenance on evacuation routes consistent with the Public Safety Element, and according to applicable requirements identified in regional and local plans.

M-2.8 Truck Route Network. Maintain, and update as needed, a designated local truck route network that facilitates access to business and shopping centers while reducing commercial vehicle effects on the community.

M-2.9 Public Input in Transportation Changes. Support community participation in traffic control and management decisions through the City’s Traffic Committee. EJ M-2.10 School Zones. Work with the Brea Olinda Unified School District and private schools to facilitate safe circulation surrounding schools in the morning arrival and afternoon dismissal peak periods, and minimize queuing and parking impacts on public streets and residential areas within school zones. EJ
M-2 Actions
M-2a Encourage through traffic to use arterial roadways, while maintaining appropriate access for local trips on collector and neighborhood streets, using traffic control devices, speed management, and other context-sensitive strategies.

M-2b As part of the development review process, require development projects to study and address their effects on local roadway operations, as required by the City Traffic Engineer.

M-2c Periodically review and assess the vehicular level of service along City facilities to determine, what, if any, improvements are warranted to maintain a safe and efficient flow of traffic throughout Brea. As part of this effort, prepare a nexus study to identify the specific traffic improvements necessary to support the City’s intersection Level of Service goals. Based on a thorough review of facility operations and funding availability, improvements may be included in the City’s planned maintenance operations, the City’s Capital Improvement Program, and/or required as part of project approval through the development review process.

M-2d Develop and maintain traffic signal and communications systems, including video and data networks, to efficiently manage traffic flow and support public safety operations.

M-2e Review and update the City’s designated truck routes as needed while considering the potential mobility conflicts and the location of sensitive land uses in the City.

M-2f Evaluate and implement traffic calming measures in residential areas to manage vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other roadway users.

M-2g Incorporate public input into the planning and design of transportation facilities to enhance safety, accessibility, and responsiveness to community needs.

M-2h Utilize creative traffic and parking controls and methods to reduce congestion, improve circulation and parking availability, and enhance safety.

M-2i Prepare a nexus study to determine the specific traffic improvements required to support the City’s intersection Level of Service goals.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 104
Mobilit y
105
Goal M-3
Provide a safe and convenient
transportation network accessible for
all transportation modes and users.

Complete street networks are designed with the
consideration of the full range of travel modes.

Complete streets may include sidewalks, bike lanes,
transit lanes, frequent and high-quality pedestrian
crossing facilities, and other transportation facilities in addition to vehicular travel lanes.

Complete streets are context-sensitive, reflecting the
land use and travel needs of users and vehicles at a
particular location. While complete street-sensitive
design does not mean that every roadway in the
City will have the full suite of multi-modal improvements, the City’s network should connect communities and provide safe and convenient access to key destinations for all modes and users of all ages
and abilities.

COMPLETE STREETS
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 106
M-3 Policies
M-3.1 Complete Streets Principles. Consider and implement best complete streets practices to facilitate travel and enhance safety for all road users regardless of travel mode. EJ M-3.2 Identify Gaps. Identify and address gaps in travel facilities serving vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians, transit riders, and other users. EJ
M-3.3 Safe Routes to School. Coordinate with public school districts and private schools to establish safe routes to school, promoting walking and biking to schools by developing transportation networks that support safe and convenient non-motorized travel for students and parents. EJ
M-3.4 Context Sensitivity. Consider the land use and design context of the surrounding areas when designing new roadways and rehabilitating existing roadways, and partner with applicable outside agencies as need.

M-3.5 New Mobility Technologies. Monitor and evaluate the development of new mobility technologies and the considerations for implementation of improvements to facilitate a transportation network that accommodates all modes and users.

M-3.6 Curb Management. Seek to implement curb zone changes to best match the needs of adjacent land uses and to facilitate non-motorized transportation choices while minimizing the effects to roadway conditions and on-street parking.

M-3.7 Roadway Design Principles. Support roadway design principles that create a safe, pleasant, and comfortable experience for all road users including pedestrians and bicyclists.

M-3.8 Traffic Calming. Use traffic calming methods within residential areas as needed to create a pedestrian-friendly circulation system, while accommodating local street patterns where feasible. Balance accommodations for automobiles, transit, bicycles, and pedestrians in the design of new streets and streetscape improvements.

M-3.9 New Development – Multi-Modal Facilities. Require new development projects to accommodate vehicles (including emergency vehicles), pedestrians, and bicycles through the dedication of land for public improvements such as roadways, wider sidewalks, and/or bicycle lanes, as appropriate and warranted by the project.

M-3.10 Community Event Street Management. Support temporary street closures for community events that enhance resident quality of life, scheduling them during weekends or off-peak times. Implement traffic control plans for these closures that maintain safety for both participants and other roadway users.

M-3 Actions
M-3a As part of the development review process, require applicable projects to study their effects on the walking, bicycling, and public transit networks and users (consistent with the City’s TIA Guidelines) and contribute their appropriate fair share to multi-modal transportation network improvements.

M-3b When planning roadway facilities, incorporate complete streets concepts. Consider design elements for all modes and users that use streets in a context-sensitive manner.

M-3c Continue to work with Brea Olinda Unified School District and other stakeholders to establish safety education and outreach campaigns for pedestrians and drivers, and to pursue Safe Routes to School projects and funding opportunities that encourage parents and children to walk or bike to schools within the City.

M-3d When designing new roadways or rehabilitating existing roadways consider the overall movement of people by all modes and seek to provide design features that improve efficiency and safety for all.

M-3e Seek and apply for grants to design and implement complete streets and safety projects consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of this plan.

M-3f Engage the City’s Traffic Committee in evaluating and guiding the implementation of traffic calming principles and design treatments in response to resident requests.

Mobilit y
107
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 108
Goal M-4
Develop extensive networks of
public bikeway and community
pedestrian facilities that enable and
encourage non-motorized travel.

The ATP’s three core elements were to provide
access for all users, to focus on safety enhancements, and to institute creative design solutions.

Safe, comfortable, and accessible walking, biking,
and rolling facilities can help improve mobility for
individuals who cannot, or choose not to, drive to
their destinations. Convenient bicycling, walking,
and other non-vehicular facilities play a role in
improving public health, reducing congestion and
pollution, and improving local economic vitality by
supporting shorter trips. Trail systems also provide
recreational opportunities for the community. Walking facilities can include sidewalks, trails, bridges, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and pedestrian
lighting.

PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE FACILITIES
Mobilit y
109
M-4 Policies
M-4.1 System of Bikeways. Develop and maintain a comprehensive and integrated system of bikeways that promotes cycling for commuting and recreation.

M-4.2 The Tracks at Brea. Encourage usage of The Tracks at Brea by improving walking and biking access to designated entry/exit points, implementing wayfinding signage, and coordinating with the adjacent cities to extend the existing facility from the existing terminus to the western City limits and ultimately to the Whittier Greenway Trail to the west. EJ M-4.3 Pedestrian Connections. Provide for safe and convenient pedestrian connections to and from Downtown, other commercial districts, neighborhoods, and major activity centers within the City. EJ
M-4.4 Users of All Abilities. Provide sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and pedestrian traffic signal treatments, including ADA-compliant facilities, that are safe and accessible for users of all abilities. EJ
M-4.5 Birch Street Corridor. Establish the Birch Street Corridor between Downtown Brea and the Civic and Cultural Center/Brea Mall as a pedestrian and bicycle friendly travel way.

M-4.6 New Development – Alternative Modes of Travel. Require new mixed use and multifamily developments to provide for the use of alternative modes of travel via internal trails or travel ways – public or private – for pedestrians, microtransit, and buses where feasible. Require new developments to include such features as well-designed sidewalks and parkways, bike lanes and paths, and dedicated bus turn-outs where feasible.

M-4.7 Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Connectivity Improvements. Provide safe, attractive, and accessible bicycle and pedestrian facilities—such as secure bicycle parking, pedestrian-scale lighting, and landscaping—and to make improvements that enhance connectivity to key destinations like schools, parks, workplaces, and shopping areas that serve residents’ daily needs where feasible. EJ
M-4.8 Emerging Travel Modes. Plan for emerging modes of travel, considering applicable regulations, infrastructure, education and enforcement needs to promote safety, accessibility and enjoyment for all users within the City.

M-4.9 Caltrans Coordination. Coordinate with Caltrans to improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity across and along State facilities (Imperial Highway, Valencia Avenue, and Carbon Canyon Road), and at SR 57 freeway on- and off-ramps.

M-4.10 Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity. Plan neighborhood streets, pedestrian walks, and bicycle paths as a system of fully connected routes throughout the City. EJ M-4.11 Planning and Design for E-Bikes. Support the safe use of e-bikes and other electrified mobility devices through design, education, and enforcement measures consistent with best practices and regional guidance, including recommendations from the Orange County Grand Jury.

M-4.12 Sidewalk Design Standards. Support the construction of sidewalks that meet or exceed minimum City standard widths to accommodate current accessibility standards or pedestrian needs, and include parkways or landscaped buffers to separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic, enhancing safety and comfort for all users. EJ CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 110
M-4 Actions
M-4a Develop a comprehensive Citywide Active Transportation Plan (ATP) to guide the planning and implementation of bicycle and pedestrian facilities throughout the City. Update the General Plan as needed following completion of the Citywide ATP to ensure consistency with its goals and recommendations.

M-4b Incorporate State and national best practices when designing and implementing improvements to enhance pedestrian and bicyclist comfort, such as those recommended by Caltrans, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO).

M-4c Install secure bicycle parking at City-owned facilities where feasible.

M-4d As part of the development review process, implement the following where feasible:
• Provide project design features that support walking and biking and connect to the City’s current and planned walking and biking network.
• Provide sidewalks and pedestrian ramps, repair or replace damaged sidewalks, and implement right-of-way improvements.
• Construct and/or contribute to off-site improvements that enhance the pedestrian experience, including human-scale lighting, streetscaping, and accessible sidewalks adjacent to the site. • Provide supportive amenities such as safe, secure, and convenient bicycle parking. • Comply with the City’s Trip-Reduction and Travel-Demand Ordinance, as specified in Brea City Code 20.08.050.

M-4e Include active transportation improvements in the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

M-4f Consider bicycle and pedestrian access during site plan review for new development projects, consistent with the City’s Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines.

M-4g Develop a wayfinding plan to guide pedestrians and bicyclists to The Tracks at Brea. Include useful information on wayfinding signs, such as distance and time, to promote walking and biking to destinations.

M-4h Seek and apply for grants to implement bicycle and pedestrian facilities recommended in regional and local plans.

M-4i Implement context-sensitive bicycle facilities that prioritize safety by incorporating buffered or protected bike lanes where appropriate.

M-4j Investigate opportunities to optimize the pedestrian experience. Where feasible, add sidewalk extensions and corner bulb-outs to reduce crossing distances and improve visibility of pedestrians.

M-4k Evaluate opportunities to restrict right-turns on red or establish leading pedestrian intervals within the signal timing to improve safety for pedestrians crossing major roadways.

Mobilit y
111
Public transportation, and the ways people access
public transportation facilities (such as bicycling
and walking), are important components of a comprehensive circulation system. Public transportation, in conjunction with non-automobile modes, offers
an alternative to the use of automobiles and helps
reduce air pollution and roadway congestion.

Goal M-5
Facilitate and encourage increased
use of public transit and other multimodal transportation services.

PUBLIC

TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM
While the Orange County Transportation Authority
(OCTA) is primarily responsible for planning and
implementing local public transportation (i.e., bus
service) throughout Orange County and within
Brea, the City can help encourage transit use by
enhancing first/last-mile access, including safer
pedestrian routes, continuous sidewalks, improved
crossings, and better bicycle connectivity to bus
stops and major transit corridors. Other treatments
to improve the passenger waiting experience, such
as pedestrian-scale lighting and bus stop improvements, can further encourage transit use in Brea.

Microtransit (small-scale on-demand bus service)
and emerging transit technologies will continue to
evolve in the coming decades. Integrating microtransit and emerging transit technologies into planning efforts and exploring partnerships will expand access to key destinations.

To promote the increased usage of bus and microtransit, adequate services and supporting facilities must be provided.

M-5 Policies
M-5.1 Working Partnership with Public Transit Providers. Maintain a proactive partnership with all public transit providers including OCTA and Foothill Transit, to encourage adequate public transit service and support facilities, including efforts to restore and enhance transit service to eastern Brea in coordination with ongoing commercial revitalization and new housing development.

M-5.2 Regional Destinations. Collaborate with neighboring cities and regional transportation providers to encourage the provision of microtransit (e.g., shuttles), paratransit, and affordable transportation programs for residents to desirable locations and destinations in the region (e.g., youth and senior program providers, regional shopping centers, medical facilities, etc.).

M-5.3 Design Features. Incorporate design features into public improvement projects that promote and support the use of public and alternative modes of transportation.

M-5.4 Mobility Hubs. Coordinate with public transit providers and local businesses to establish mobility hubs with enhanced first/last mile amenities for transit, rideshare, walking, and biking at the Brea Mall Transit Center and other major activity centers.

M-5.5 Bus Stop Locations. Prioritize the placement of curbside bus stops near major destinations and intersections as a priority over other parking uses, to enhance convenience and accessibility for transit users.

M-5.6 Bus Shelters. Promote the funding, design, construction, and maintenance of high-quality bus shelters that protect riders from weather and encourage transit use, while balancing opportunities for advertising shelters that generate revenue for the City. EJ M-5.7 Transportation Needs of Seniors and Students. Plan and evaluate transportation services to address the daily mobility needs of seniors and students, including transit options that enhance access, convenience, and safety for these populations. EJ M-5.8 New Development – Transit Connections. Require new developments to facilitate the use of transit for commute and non-commute trips, and include such features as connections to nearby bus stops, space for transit facilities, transit-supporting land uses, and information on available transit services, where feasible.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 112
M-5 Actions
M-5a Continue to work with local and regional transit operators such as OCTA and Foothill Transit to support integration and service between local bus, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and passenger rail service and stations, and generally improve service, including frequency and reliability.

M-5b As part of the development review process, require that new developments include design features that support public transit use.

M-5c Monitor federal, State, and OCTA transit funding programs to identify potential sources of funds for transit programs in Brea. Pursue any potential funding through the identified programs.

M-5d Seek to improve pedestrian and other non-motorized access to public transit stops and mobility hubs in the City to encourage more frequent transit usage.

Mobilit y
113
Policy # Policies Summary Responsible
Agency
Potential
Funding
Source
Time
Frame
Regional Circulation
M-1.1
M-1.2
M-1.3
M-1.4
M-1.5
M-1.6
Coordinate with Caltrans, OCTA, and other regional, State, and federal agencies to improve the City’s transportation network through the following actions:
• Improve access to and from State Routes 57, 90, and 142; • Engage in federal, State, and regional planning efforts to develop a balanced transportation network that accommodates traffic flow and multi-modal needs;
• Ensure consistency between the City’s Master Plan of Roadways and the OCTA Master Plan of Arterial Highways;
• Plan with regional partners for emerging transportation modes and technologies;
• Cooperate with surrounding jurisdictions to maintain the efficient operation of the arterial network system;
• Provide adequate capacity on regional routes for through traffic while minimizing cut-through traffic on local streets.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works), OCTA,
Caltrans
General fund;
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Future
M-1.7
Maintain safe and efficient goods movement on State routes and major arterials in support of the City’s economic vitality, business districts, and shopping centers.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works, Police)
General fund Ongoing
M-1.8
M-1.9
Facilitate and encourage alternative transportation strategies through the following actions:
• Promote carpooling for residents commuting outside the City and for employees traveling into the City, recognizing it as a key mode to support regional mobility and reduce congestion; and • Support the use of park-and-ride facilities, mobility hubs, shared mobility services, and other multi-modal infrastructure to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT).

City of Brea
(Community
Development),
OCTA, Caltrans
General fund Future
Local Circulation
M-2.1
M-2.2
Manage and maintain the City’s roadway network through the following actions:
• Design roadways to be consistent with applicable federal, State, and local design and safety standards, accommodate multiple transportation modes and users—including children, seniors, and people with disabilities—integrate with surrounding streetscapes and land uses, and be maintained according to best practices; and
• Strive to maintain acceptable vehicular level of service along roadway segments and intersections, consistent with the City of Brea Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
Table M-3 Mobility Plan

MOBILITY PLAN
Table M-3, Mobility Plan, presents a summary of the Mobility Element policies intended to support an efficient, multimodal transportation network, and identifies the agencies responsible for implementation, potential funding sources, and applicable timeframes.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 114
Policy # Policies Summary Responsible
Agency
Potential
Funding
Source
Time
Frame
M-2.3
M-2.4
Manage neighborhood traffic and circulation through the following actions:
• Discourage non-local traffic from using neighborhood streets; and
• Apply creative traffic management strategies to maintain efficient and orderly traffic flow, reduce congestion in areas with unique users—such as schools and businesses with drive-through access—and address other special traffic situations.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund Ongoing
M-2.5
Promote the planting of locally native trees in the public right-of-way, including street trees and parkways, to provide shaded pathways, neighborhood cooling, and other benefits.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Grants
NearTerm
M-2.6
Require new development projects to prepare transportation studies and to implement appropriate mitigation measures (CEQA and non-CEQA effects).

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
Development
Fees Ongoing
M-2.7
Incorporate necessary improvements to and perform maintenance on evacuation routes consistent with the Public Safety Element, and according to applicable requirements identified in regional and local plans.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Other State and
Federal sources
Future
M-2.8
Maintain, and update as needed, a designated local truck route network that facilitates access to business and shopping centers while reducing commercial vehicle effects on the community.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
M-2.9 Support community participation in traffic control and management decisions through the City’s Traffic Committee.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund Ongoing
M-2.10
Enhance school-related circulation and safety through the following actions:
• Coordinate with public and private schools, including the Brea Olinda Unified School District, to establish safe routes to school; • Minimize queuing and parking impacts on public streets and in residential areas; and
• Facilitate improved circulation around schools during AM and PM peak traffic periods.

City of Brea
(Community
Development,
Public Works),
Brea Olinda
School District,
La Habra City
School District
General fund,
Grants Ongoing
Mobilit y
115
Policy # Policies Summary Responsible
Agency
Potential
Funding
Source
Time
Frame
Complete Streets
M-3.1
M-3.2
M-3.4
M-3.5
M-3.6
M-3.7
M-3.8
Design and manage the City’s streets and transportation network through the following actions:
• Implement complete streets practices to enhance travel and safety for all users, regardless of mode;
• Identify and address gaps in facilities serving vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians, transit riders, and other users;
• Incorporate the land use and design context of surrounding areas when designing new roadways or rehabilitating existing streets;
• Monitor emerging mobility technologies and consider their application in implementing improvements that accommodate all modes and users;
• Adjust curb zones to reflect adjacent land use needs, support non-motorized transportation, and minimize impacts on traffic flow;
• Apply roadway design principles that create safe, comfortable, and pleasant experiences for all users, including pedestrians and bicyclists; and
• Use traffic calming methods in residential areas as needed to promote pedestrian-friendly circulation while balancing accommodations for automobiles, transit, bicycles, and pedestrians.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works, Police)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
M-3.3
Promote walking and biking to schools by developing transportation networks that support safe and convenient non-motorized travel for students and parents.

City of Brea
(Community Development), Brea
Olinda School
District, La Habra
City School
District
General fund,
Grants
NearTerm
M-3.9
Require new development projects to accommodate vehicles (including emergency vehicles), pedestrians, and bicycles through the dedication of land for public improvements such as roadways, wider sidewalks, and/or bicycle lanes, as appropriate and warranted by the project.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
Development
Fees Ongoing
M-3.10
Support temporary street closures for community events that enhance resident quality of life, scheduling them during weekends or off-peak times. Implement traffic control plans for these closures that maintain safety for both participants and motorists.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works, Police,-
Fire, Community
Services)
General fund,
Development
Fees
Ongoing
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 116
Policy # Policies Summary Responsible
Agency
Potential
Funding
Source
Time
Frame
Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities
M-4.1
M-4.2
M-4.3
M-4.4
M-4.8
M-4.10
M-4.11
M-4.12
Develop and maintain a safe, accessible, and connected active transportation network through the following actions:
• Establish a comprehensive system of bikeways that promotes cycling for commuting and recreation;
• Encourage use of The Tracks at Brea by improving walking and biking access to designated entry and exit points, implementing wayfinding signage, and coordinating with adjacent cities to extend the existing facility to the Whittier Greenway Trail to the west • Provide safe and convenient pedestrian connections to Downtown, commercial districts, neighborhoods, and major activity centers;
• Incorporate sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and pedestrian signals—including ADA-compliant facilities—that accommodate users of all abilities;
• Plan for emerging modes of travel to promote safety, accessibility, and enjoyment for all users within the City. • Plan neighborhood streets, pedestrian walks, and bicycle paths as a fully connected system throughout the City;
• Support the safe use of e-bikes and other electrified mobility devices through design, education, and enforcement consistent with best practices and regional guidance; and
• Support the construction of sidewalks that meet or exceed minimum City standard widths to accommodate current accessibility standards or pedestrian needs, and include parkways or landscaped buffers to separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic, enhancing safety and comfort for all users.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works, Police)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
M-4.5
Establish the Birch Street Corridor between Downtown Brea and the Civic and Cultural Center/Brea Mall as a pedestrian and bicycle friendly travel way.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Future
M-4.6
Require new mixed use and multifamily developments to provide for the use of alternative modes of travel via internal trails or travel ways – public or private – for pedestrians, microtransit, and buses where feasible. Require new developments to include such features as well-designed sidewalks and parkways, bike lanes and paths, and dedicated bus turn-outs where feasible
City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
Development
Fees Ongoing
M-4.7
Provide safe, attractive, and accessible bicycle and pedestrian facilities—such as secure bike parking, pedestrian-scale lighting, and landscaping—and enhance connectivity to key destinations, including schools, parks, workplaces, and shopping areas that support residents’ daily needs.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works)
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
M-4.9
Coordinate with Caltrans to improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity across Imperial Highway, Valencia Avenue, Carbon Canyon Road, State Route 57, and at freeway ramps.

City of Brea
(Community
Development,
Public Works),
Caltrans
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Future
Mobilit y
117
Policy # Policies Summary Responsible
Agency
Potential
Funding
Source
Time
Frame
Public Transportation
M-5.1
M-5.2
M-5.3
M-5.4
M-5.5
M-5.6
M-5.7
Support and enhance public and alternative transportation through the following actions:
• Maintain proactive partnerships with all public transit providers, including OCTA and Foothill Transit, to encourage adequate service and facilities, and restore and enhance transit to eastern Brea in coordination with commercial revitalization and new housing development;
• Collaborate with neighboring cities and regional transportation providers to provide microtransit, paratransit, and affordable transportation options to key regional destinations, including youth and senior program providers, shopping centers, and medical facilities;
• Incorporate design features into public improvement projects that promote and support public and alternative modes of transportation; • Coordinate with transit providers and local businesses to establish mobility hubs with enhanced first/last mile amenities for transit, rideshare, walking, and biking at major activity centers such as the Brea Mall Transit Center;
• Prioritize placement of curbside bus stops near major destinations and intersections over other parking uses to improve convenience and accessibility for transit users;
• Promote funding, design, construction, and maintenance of high-quality bus shelters that protect riders from weather and encourage transit use, while balancing opportunities for revenue-generating advertising shelters; and • Plan and evaluate transportation services to meet the daily mobility needs of seniors and students, including transit options that enhance access, convenience, and safety for these populations.

City of Brea
(Community Development, Public
Works), OCTA,
Foothill Transit
General fund,
Measure M
revenue, Development fees,
Other State and
Federal sources,
Gas tax revenue
Ongoing
M-5.8
Require new developments to facilitate the use of transit for commute and non-commute trips, and include such features as connections to nearby bus stops, space for transit facilities, transit-supporting land uses, and information on available transit services, where feasible.

City of Brea
(Community
Development)
Development
Fees
NearTerm
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 118
C ommu nit y Resources
119
04 Community Resources
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 120
C ommu nit y Resources
121

INTRODUCTION
Brea is defined by both its scenic surroundings and
its vibrant community. Nestled in the rolling foothills of north Orange County, Brea offers residents and
visitors breathtaking views of the Puente and Chino
Hills and easy access to regional open space preserves. The natural landscapes support a rich diversity of wildlife and native vegetation. These features help shape the daily lives of residents and visitors
and uplift their personal well-being.

Brea’s strong sense of community is rooted in its
commitment to providing exceptional amenities
and inclusive services. The City’s parks, sports facilities, trails, open spaces, and cultural facilities offer places for residents and visitors to gather, play, and
enjoy their lives. These resources, coupled with the
City’s robust community services, foster connections
among neighbors and create a welcoming environment where residents of all ages and backgrounds can thrive. Breans value the many services the City
and school district provide, and both the City and
the district will continue to provide high quality community program activities and services to all residents, businesses, and visitors. Community quality of life and spirit are best cultivated when government
agencies, non-profit organizations, service clubs,
volunteer organizations, the faith community, and
private businesses create partnerships which benefit the entire community. These various stakeholders will be important resources that the City will work
with to provide comprehensive programs, activities,
and services for the entire community.

Looking ahead, Brea is committed to conserving its
diverse community resources. The goals and policies in this Community Resources Element focus on the enhancement of community qualities that distinguish Brea. Through these efforts, the City’s most defining characteristics are not only maintained, but
celebrated through an integrated, sustainable, and
tight-knit community.

Related Plans and Programs
Parks, Recreation, and Human
Services Facility Needs Assessment
The Parks, Recreation, and Human Services Facility
Needs Assessment is the guide for future development of parks, trails, and recreation facilities for the City. It is intended to be a flexible document, presenting recommendations that will be evaluated periodically as the City’s needs evolve.

Cultural Arts Master Plan
The Cultural Arts Master Plan recognizes Brea’s
long-standing reputation as a leader in the arts

COMMUNITY

RESOURCES
The Community Resources Element provides a forward-thinking framework for preserving Brea’s scenic landscapes and exceptional amenities through strategic partnerships and inclusive services. By integrating conservation with vibrant community programming, this Element ensures that the City’s unique character and high quality of life are sustained for future generations. 122
by supporting nearly 200 public art installations
through implementation of the City’s Art in Public
Places and celebrating culture through its performing arts theater, art gallery, public library (managed by the County), and public event spaces. The Plan
seeks to build upon this legacy by expanding
access to the arts, embracing the City’s evolving
demographics, enhancing existing cultural facilities,
and exploring new opportunities to enrich public
art and cultural programming throughout the community.

Hillside Zoning Ordinance
Brea’s Hillside Zoning Ordinance governs development in hillside areas to preserve natural landforms, reduce visual impacts, and ensure safety.

Developments must minimize disruption to natural
terrain and are subject to slope-based limitations
and design review.

Organization of Element
The Community Resources Element will
address each topic below as it relates to
Brea. The goals and policies of this Element
are organized around the following topics:
• Parks and Trails
• Human Services
• Open Space
• Scenic Vistas
• Biological Resources
• Artistic, Cultural, and Historic Resources
• Education Services
C ommu nit y Resources
123
Passive and Active Parks
Passive/casual parks do not include facilities
for “active recreation” such as tennis courts,
soccer fields, or softball diamonds. They serve
as public green spaces where city dwellers
can escape from the rush of urban life. Passive
parks may include amenities such as large
open green spaces, meadows, wandering
pathways, ponds, and gardens.

Active parks, on the other hand, include a
variety of facilities for recreation. Baseball
and softball diamonds, basketball courts,
horseshoe rings, football fields, playground,
and swimming pools are examples of facilities often found in active parks.

EXISTING

CONDITIONS
Parks and Trail Systems
Parks play a vital role in enhancing quality of life
by promoting physical activity, providing access
to nature, and supporting a sense of community.

The City of Brea offers a diverse system of parks,
recreational facilities, and trails that serve a wide
range of resident needs—from neighborhood
green spaces to expansive regional destinations.

This network reflects both the recreational and environmental values of the community, encouraging not only structured activities like sports and swimming but also opportunities for informal use and relaxation.

Parks
Park Classifications
Pocket Park. A pocket park is a small, neighborhood-oriented facility used to address limited or isolated recreational needs. Such parks usually
range in size from 2,500 square feet to one acre.

Pocket parks can be built on small, compact properties and fill a localized park niche.

Neighborhood or Local Park. Neighborhood
and local parks, by definition, are specifically oriented toward residents within a one-half mile radius.

These parks can encompass one to 10 acres, with
some sports fields and facilities for users of all ages.

Community Park. Community parks, as traditionally defined, typically range in size from 10 to 60 acres and serve residents within a 3-mile radius
of their homes. Community parks typically include
multiple sports fields and courts, large picnic areas,
playgrounds, walking paths, and open lawn areas.

Due to their size and amenities, these parks are wellsuited for hosting community events, sports leagues, and family gatherings, and they often include features such as restrooms, parking lots, and shaded seating.

School Park. School parks, or joint-use parks, combine the resources of a school facility and a park.

School parks are unique because they provide recreational needs in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Due to their size, school parks can offer
broader amenities than a traditional neighborhood
park, often more comparable to a community park,
with baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and playgrounds.

Regional Park. Regional parks meet the recreational needs of a regional population and usually include a wide variety of active and passive recreation improvements. The environment in which the park is located influences the facilities available.

Regional parks in urban areas can have a distinctive sports field focus, whereas a park within a natural open space area may offer only hiking or
picnicking facilities. Night lighting of activity areas increases the availability and utilization of courts
and playing field facilities.

Two regional parks in Brea, Carbon Canyon
Regional Park and Craig Regional Park, are County
parks. Carbon Canyon Regional Park covers 124
acres, with 60 acres designed for recreational uses
and the remaining acreage maintained as natural
open space, including a grove of Coastal Redwoods. This open space area provides a transition to the adjacent Chino Hills State Park. The park contains hiking and equestrian trails, and offers guided nature walks and fishing.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 124
Craig Regional Park, located between the SR-57
freeway and State College Boulevard, has 129
acres of rolling hills, baseball fields, open space,
and a formal rose garden. The park is partially in
Brea (14 acres), while the remaining portion of the
park lies within the City of Fullerton.

Other Areas for Recreation. Brea has several special use facilities to serve the needs of its community members, including the Brea Community Center
and Brea Senior Center. In addition, Chino Hills
State Park covers approximately 14,000 acres in
Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

The park largely consists of natural open space and
thus provides habitat for wildlife as well as open
space for people. Over 60 miles of trails allow
hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists to enjoy native
southern California oak woodlands, grasslands,
and riparian areas, as well as views of the surrounding urban areas and mountains.

Figure CR-1 represents the City’s Parks, Recreation
Facilities, and Open Spaces. Table CR-1 provides
a comprehensive inventory of public parks, recreational, and special use facilities located within the City of Brea and its surrounding areas. Each
park listed includes information on its geographic
location, total acreage, available amenities, and
its corresponding reference number as shown on
Figure CR-1. The table encompasses a diverse
range of recreational spaces—from neighborhood
parks with playgrounds and picnic areas to larger
regional parks featuring sports complexes, nature
trails, and cultural landmarks.
125
Valley View Ave
Lambert Rd
Harbor Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia Ave
Lakev ei w
Ave
BreaBlvd
Berry St
Fairm
ont Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Brea Blvd
State Col el ge Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Kellogg Dr
VillageCenter Dr
Palm Dr
Richfield Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Palm St
Associat ed Rd
Lambert Rd
Puente St
Whittier Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Bradford Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Central Ave
Kraemer Blvd
Birch St
Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Associated Rd
State College Blvd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Rose Dr
Brea Blvd
Valencia Ave
Associated
Rd

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Brea Senior Center Brea
Community
Center
Brea Civic and
Cultural
Center
57 90
142
90 57
5 9
20 7
3 12
4 10
18 6
19 16
11 15
8 1
17 13
2 14
21 22
22 22 22
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
Sources: California Protected Areas Database, 2025a; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; Google Maps; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Parks, Recreation Facilities, and Open Space
Figure CR-1 LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Community Center
City-Owned/Maintained
Facilities
Non-City-Owned/Maintained
Regional Parks and Facilities
School Parks (Joint Use Sites)
Other Recreation
[ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 126
C ommu nit y Resources
127
Figure CR-1
Numbering Park Name Location Amenities Acres
City-Owned/Maintained Facilities
Mini or Pocket Parks
1 Woodcrest Park 1630 Wardman Drive Barbeques, Children’s play area, and picnic tables.

0.5 acres
Neighborhood Parks
2 Arovista Park
500 West Imperial
Highway(Imperial
Highway at Berry
Street)
Play areas, barbecues, picnic tables, restrooms,
ball diamond, soccer fields, volleyball court,
amphitheater, concession stand, football field
and basketball courts.

14.84 acres
3 City Hall Park 401 S. Brea Boulevard
Olympic-size swimming pool (Brea Plunge),
restrooms, barbecues, play areas, basketball
courts and gazebo.

4.47 acres
4 Greenbriar Park Greenbriar Road and
Associate Road. Barbecues, play areas, picnic tables and restrooms. 3.5 acres
5 Tamarack Park 520 N. Tamarack
Avenue
Restrooms, barbecues, play areas, ball diamond,
soccer fields, concession stand, football field and
basketball courts.

5.6 acres
6 Founder’s Park 777 Skyler Way Tot lot, climbing wall, basketball court, 2 tennis courts, picnic area and restrooms. 4 acres
Community Parks
7 Tri-City Park Kraemer Boulevard. at
Golden Avenue
Restrooms, barbecues, play areas, picnic tables,
bicycle trails, lake and fishing.

40.0 acres
Non-City-Owned/Maintained Regional Parks and Facilities Regional Parks
8 Carbon Canyon
Regional Park
4442 Carbon Canyon
Road
Tennis courts, Children’s play area, volleyball, ball
diamond, multipurpose fields, hiking and biking trails, guided nature tours, picnic tables, and fishing.
131
acres
9 Ted Craig Regional
Park
3300 State College
Boulevard.

Restrooms, barbecues, play areas, picnic tables, ball
diamonds, volleyball, racquetball courts, amphitheater, bicycle trails, basketball courts and fishing. 129
acres
Table CR-1 Parks, Recreation, and Special Use Facilities (2025) CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 128
Figure CR-1
Numbering Park Name Location Amenities Acres
School Parks (Joint Use Sites)
10 Lagos de Moreno
Playground/Laurel
Elementary School
Playground
200 S. Flower Avenue 1.5
acres
11 Brea Jr. High
School Park 400 N. Brea Boulevard
Play areas, ball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, volleyball, concession stand, football field and basketball courts.

13.06 acres
12 Country Hills Park 180 N. Associated Road
Restrooms, barbecues, play areas, picnic tables, ball
diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, concession
stand and football field.

6.21 acres
Other Recreation
13 Chino Hills State
Park
Partially in Orange,
Riverside, and San
Bernadino Counties
Trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians,
camping, and 13,000 acres of wilderness.
14,000
acres
14 Birch Hills Golf
Course 2250 Birch Street 18-hole executive golf course with new greens and tees and a lighted driving range. 3,100-
yard
course
15 Brea Creek Municipal Golf Course 501 West Fir Street Nine-hole course with driving range. Rental electric
and hand carts and clubs are available. Reservations for the course can be made up to one week in advance.

25.82 acres
16 Brea Sports Park 3333 E. Birch Street Ball fields, walking trail, children's play area and picnic area. 20 acres
17 Olinda Oil Museum
and Trail 4025 Santa Fe Road
Historic museum and Olinda hiking trail, oil well
drilled in 1898, outdoor displays, restrooms, parking
lot and picnic area.

1.9 acres
18 Olinda Ranch Park 4055 Carbon Canyon
Road
Children's playground, basketball courts, day use
sports fields, picnic area and restrooms. 5 acres
19 Wildcatters Dog
Park 3450 E. Santa Fe Road
Separate areas for small dogs (less than 25 pounds)
and large dogs (over 25 pounds), benches, drinking
fountains with attached dog bowls, picnic tables, double-entry gates, grass turf, dog waste cleanup stations

0.3 acres
20 Wildcatters Park 3301 E. Sante Fe Road
Baseball field overlapping football/soccer field,
basketball court, children’s playground with shade
structures and ADA swings and accessibility, various
passive areas with picnic shelters, barbecues and turf, and a 0.6 mile perimeter walking trail, two restroom
locations, concession stand, parking available in two
parking lots with additional parking on Santa Fe Road
16 acres
21 Brea Skate Park 500 W Elm Street Skate park featuring a bowl for tricks, plus stairs and a playground.
22 The Tracks at Brea
Trailheads with parking
available at Arovista
Park (500 W. Imperial
Highway) and on N.

Brea Boulevard.

Two-way bike trail, with a separate pedestrian path,
nine fitness stations, two bike repair stations, seating areas with shade structures, benches, drinking fountains, and restrooms Source: City of Brea, 2025.
[*] Founders Park and Olinda Ranch Park acreage were found on the orangecounty.net website. 129
Brea Trail System
Brea’s trail system provides residents and visitors
with a variety of opportunities to enjoy the City’s
natural and urban environments, as shown on Figure
CR-2, Wilderness and City Pathways. Natural
and wilderness trails offer multi-use paths for walking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding, extending through areas such as Chino Hills State Park, where they include fire access roads and dirt trails.

Complementing these wilderness connections, the
City’s network of pedestrian-friendly pathways and
sidewalks ensures that residents have access to a
balanced system of recreational amenities and
walkable routes throughout the community.

Natural and Wilderness Trails
Natural and wilderness trails provide access to
Brea’s surrounding hills and open space areas,
offering opportunities to experience the community’s natural landscape.

Natural and Wilderness Trails Classifications
Natural and Wilderness Trails are identified in three
general classification categories:

Regional Trails. Regional Trails are the largest components of Brea’s system, providing long-distance connections across the City and into surrounding
communities. They support a range of users, including hikers, cyclists, and equestrians, and serve as the backbone of the citywide trail network.

Community Trails. Community Trails provide midrange connections within Brea, often being service roads, a rail right-of-way, a flood control channel
right-of-way, or adjacent to a street right-of-way.

They can also be used by equestrians or hikers.

Some of these trails are in an urban setting, while
others are in open space areas.

Local Trails. Local Trails are shorter routes designed
for nearby access and neighborhood use. They
may serve a single purpose, such as hiking or riding,
and often connect residents directly to community
and regional trails.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 130
City Pathways and Sidewalks
Walking serves both as a popular form of recreation and an essential mode of transportation within the community. A well-designed urban environment
should support walkability for all users, particularly
school-aged children, by providing safe, accessible,
and connected routes. Continuous sidewalks, integrated into a larger pedestrian network, are critical for linking homes, schools, parks, and commercial
areas. Expanding and maintaining a network of
pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and walkways, such
as The Tracks at Brea, not only improves mobility but
also enhances neighborhood safety. More information related to active transportation can be found in the Mobility Element. Figure CR-2 illustrates Brea’s
system of wilderness and City pathways that connect
to various parts of the City.

Human Services
The City of Brea strives to be a caring, family-oriented community where each person, young and old, is
respected and valued. As such, the City will continue
to remain part of an active coalition of community
organizations, agencies, and non-profit entities to
lead a collaborative approach to meeting the human
services needs of each segment of the community.

While a number of organizations provide services
to Brea residents, Brea’s Human Services Division
will continue to manage and assemble community
partners to provide diverse supportive programs and
activities that improve the health and well-being of
families, children, and adults.

Brea Resource Center
Established in 1996, the Brea Resource Center
(BRC) offers a variety of services, programs, and
workshops for residents that are free or at low
cost. Located at the Brea Civic & Cultural Center,
the BRC offers counseling, outreach, emergency
assistance, veterans services, and specialty classes
based on evolving needs.

Services for Youth and Families
One of Brea’s strongest values is its commitment to
support the youth and families within the community
in a variety of ways. Brea’s adult and senior population is the community’s link to our past and present.

Our teens and youth represent the future of Brea,
and the City has committed focused resources
toward developing social awareness, volunteerism, job training, athletic, and cultural arts programs for the City’s younger residents. Important activities
for youth and families include:

Tiny Tots
The City of Brea’s Tiny Tots recreational program
for preschool-aged children provides a secure and
loving environment where participants learn and grow
while building the foundation of social, communication, and independence skills, as well as knowledge and classroom skills for success in TK, Kindergarten,
and beyond. Participants can attend two or three
days a week per session and partake in center play,
circle time activities, arts and crafts, playground time, and weekly themes and holiday celebrations. Priority
registration is given to Brea residents.

Helping Hands Scholarships (up to 17 years)
The Brea Resource Center assists income-eligible
Brea residents with a scholarship for various childcare and recreational programs. Qualified residents will be eligible for a full or partial scholarship.

The Brea Resource Center also assists income-eligible Brea residents with a free OR discounted rate for transportation to the Brea After School Program.

After School Program
Brea’s After School Program (ASP) is committed to
providing a safe and exciting experience for youth
participants at the Brea Community Center. Participants will enjoy a variety of structured activities, including gym activities, arts and crafts, game room
fun, and outdoor play each day after school. Participants also have the opportunity to join cooking clubs, play group games, attend regular visits to the
Brea Gallery and Library, and participate in special presentations. Optional camps are provided on minor holidays and school breaks. Participants
must attend a Brea school or live in Brea.

Teen Zone
The City of Brea’s Teen Zone is open during the
school year and is an exciting, safe place for Brea
teens to hang out. Every day after school, the
space allows teens to meet new friends, partake in
planned activities and local outings, get homework
131
57 90
142
90 57

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
or Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia
Ave
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter
Dr
Palm St
Puente St Central Ave
Birch St
Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
6 2
1 4
7 5
3 9
7 10
8 Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
Sources: City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Existing and Proposed Wilderness and City Pathways
Figure CR-2
State and County Trails
State Park Trails
Orange County Trails
The Tracks at Brea
1 - Segment 1
2 - Segment 2
3 - Segment 3
4 - Segment 4
5 - Segment 5
6 - Segment 6
7 - Proposed Extensions
Other City Trails
8 - La Floresta Trail
9 - Olinda Horse Trail
10 - Olinda Historic Trail
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Extension to Palm Dr in La Habra
Extension to Valencia Ave
by private developments
along private property
[ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 132
C ommu nit y Resources
133
done, and get involved in the community. Monthly
dance activity nights are also open to participants
who attend a Brea school or live in Brea.

Individual and Family Counseling Services
Professional counselors and staff provide affordable counseling for individuals and families struggling with adjustment and communication problems, depression, divorce, and other related issues and
concerns.

Information and Referral Services
The Brea Resource Center provides free, confidential information and referrals to families and individuals needing special help.

Brea Senior Center
The Brea Senior Center’s mission is to provide an
array of free or low-cost services to enhance the
quality of life for all older adults. The City is working to improve the well-being of older adults by providing enriching activities and resources that enable them to engage with the community through recreational and educational activities, fitness classes, an on-site lunch program, case management,
home-delivered meals, transportation, and more.

Veteran Services
The Brea Resource Center (BRC), in partnership
with the Orange County Veterans Service Office,
hosts appointments with a Veterans Claims Officer
as needed. Services available include assistance
with referrals and benefit claims counseling.

Service Provider Partners
While the City offers a variety of human service
programs at the Brea Resource Center and Senior
Center, residents also look to the many non-profits
and community groups that offer diverse activities
and services. Long-established groups that often
partner with the City include the Boys & Girls Club
of Brea, Brea Boy Scouts, Brea Girl Scouts, CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates), CAST
(Child Abuse Services Team), Orange County
Child Abuse Prevention Center, Sheepfold, Easter
Seals Senior Day Care, Lions Club, Brea Lions
Scout Center Foundation, Brea Ministerial Association, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, Orangewood Children’s Foundation, Orange
County Rescue Mission, Rotary Club of Brea and
Soroptimist International Club of Brea.

Natural Open Space
A vast majority of Brea’s open space is part of the
Chino Hills State Park, a protected natural area that
includes approximately 14,000 acres of rolling,
grassy hills and valleys. More than 200 species
of birds and mammals, reptiles and amphibians,
and thousands of types of insects and other invertebrates species live within this area. The park’s thriving plant communities include various associations of riparian, grassland, sage scrub, woodland, and
chaparral, which is discussed in Goal CR-5, Biological Resources.

The Chino Hills State Park is not only a hub for outdoor recreation, but also a living classroom though hosted field trips, Junior Ranger programs, and
educational talks offered year-round. School field
trips explore topics such as local geology, wildlife
corridors, and animal migration. Through the California State Parks Junior Ranger program, kids can immerse themselves in hands-on exploration and
discovery in a natural setting.

Open space is a defining characteristic of Brea. Planning efforts such as the Hillside Zoning Ordinance aim to protect resources, enhance features and recreational areas, and maintain a high quality of life in Brea. Figure CR-1 illustrates open space areas,
including those within Brea’s Sphere of Influence.

Scenic Vistas
Brea’s identity is closely tied to its natural setting, which provides a variety of scenic landscapes
that shape how residents and visitors experience
the City. Distinctive features such as the ridgelines
of Sonome Canyon, Soquel Canyon, and Lions
Canyon, the open hillsides of Chino Hills State Park,
and the sweeping views from Gilman Peak contribute to a strong sense of place. These landscapes frame the City, create visual relief from urban development, and serve as daily reminders of Brea’s connection to its surrounding natural environment.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 134
In addition to natural ridgelines, Carbon Canyon
Road (State Route 142) and Brea Canyon Road
offer unique travel experiences through vegetated
slopes, creek beds, and riparian habitats. Although
not officially designated as State Scenic Highways,
these roadways function as gateways to the City,
leaving lasting impressions on residents, commuters,
and visitors alike.

Sonome Canyon, Soquel Canyon, and Lions
Canyon. These canyons carve into the foothills
along Brea’s eastern edge, providing dramatic ridgelines and natural vegetation. Their rugged terrain serves as both a visual backdrop to surrounding
neighborhoods and a habitat corridor connecting
to larger open space systems.

Chino Hills State Park. As one of the region’s most
significant natural areas, the park’s sweeping hillsides and valleys form a scenic expanse visible from much of Brea. The park protects critical open
space, offers recreational trails, and provides panoramic views that reinforce Brea’s connection to the broader Chino Hills landscape.

Gilman Peak. Rising to 1,685 feet, Gilman Peak is
the second highest summit in Chino Hills State Park
and a recognizable landmark visible from multiple
points in Brea.

Carbon Canyon Road (State Route 142). Winding through Carbon Canyon, this route offers a distinctive experience for drivers, cyclists, and
pedestrians, with views of oak woodlands, riparian
areas, and steep canyon walls.

Brea Canyon Road. This roadway connects Brea
with the San Gabriel Valley, traversing the canyon
characterized by vegetated slopes and riparian
habitats. The surrounding natural setting provides
a stark contrast to adjacent urban development.

Together, these ridgelines, peaks, parks, and roads
form a network of scenic vistas that define Brea’s
visual identity. Protecting and thoughtfully managing these resources through responsible development will ensure they remain visible, accessible, and valued as the City continues to grow.

Biological Resources
Brea’s biological resources play a vital role in shaping the community’s natural beauty and ecological character. The rich diversity of vegetation types and
habitats located in the hillsides of Brea support a
wide variety of animal populations. Natural habitat
such as riparian areas provides food, cover, and
shelter for birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.

Through the protection of biological resources,
people living, working, and visiting Brea can enjoy
local wildlife and celebrate their contribution to the
community’s high quality of life.

Wildlife Habitat
Regional ecologies are not constrained by jurisdictional boundaries. Pollinators and other wildlife move between habitat areas in parks, gardens,
and creeks. In particular, the City’s “green spaces”
(its parks, trails, and natural open space areas)
play an important role in the ecology of Brea and
the broader region, including to the Santa Ana
Mountains and Cleveland National Forest to the
southeast, contains a vast amount of natural open
space and habitat for animals, stretching from San
Bernardino County to San Diego County. Some of
the larger mammals known to inhabit the hills, and
sometimes visit urban areas on the hillside fringes,
include mountain lions, deer, and coyotes. Large
birds and raptors such as hawks, owls, falcons,
eagles, and vultures have been observed foraging
and nesting. Smaller birds sighted include wrens,
gnatcatchers, quails, babblers, starlings, crows,
ravens, woodpeckers, flycatchers, and hummingbirds. Sensitive species confirmed include mountain lions, Cooper’s hawk, golden eagle, coastal cactus wren, California gnatcatcher, least Bell’s
vireo, coastal western whiptail lizard, northern red
diamond rattlesnake, black-bellied salamander,
Monterey salamander, and the southwestern pond
turtle.

Connectivity Areas
Brea’s green spaces are comprised of various
parks, trails, and natural open space areas. The
larger the size of the facility, the more biodiversity
can be found within the space. Homogeneous
green spaces are identified as “patches” and
C ommu nit y Resources
135
riparian corridors and trails or greenways serve as
ecological corridors and connections for wildlife
(wildlife corridors).

Wildlife corridors are links connecting large
patches of habitat that have become separated
by the process or urbanization or otherwise made
unavailable for use by native wildlife. They allow
for the free movement of wildlife between disjunct
habitats and thereby provide access to mates, food,
and water; diminish competition for resources by
facilitating the dispersal of dense populations; and
serve as escape routes from fire, predators, humans,
and urbanization.

Wildlife corridors in and around the Planning Area
are generally illustrated in Figure CR-3. The intent of Figure CR-3 is to provide local and regional context
regarding wildlife movement in and around Brea. As
future development occurs, additional site-specific
analysis may be required to refine this information.

The Puente and Chino Hills have become increasingly isolated by the conversion of the surrounding natural landscape to urban uses. The Puente and
Chino Hills and Santa Ana Mountains together
encompass about 511,000 acres of wildlands.

These areas support important biological resources,
including several rare and endemic communities.

Large blocks of habitat ridgelines along the Puente
and Chino Hills allow wildlife to move throughout
the hills and into the large open spaces of Chino
Hills State Park and the Cleveland National Forest.

Chino Hills State Park and the Puente and Whittier
Hills are linked via the Tonner Canyon and Sonome
Canyon wildlife corridors. Tonner Canyon is considered a major wildlife movement corridor, providing year-round water and shelter for small and large mammals. The Tonner Canyon wildlife crossing at the intersection of SR-57 and Tonner Canyon Road provides wildlife access beneath the freeway.

However, the Sonome Canyon wildlife corridor is
bisected by Carbon Canyon Road, where several
culverts pass under the road. These culverts are
considered inadequate for larger mammals such
as deer and mountain lions because of their size.

Animals must cross Carbon Canyon Road at grade
and avoid automobiles to leave Chino Hills State
Park through the corridor.

Preserving wildlife corridors allow animals to move
freely between large open space areas from protection of predators, urbanization, and wildland fires, and to further promote their individual species. When future improvements to roads are undertaken, including capacity increases planned for the regional transportation system, the construction or
enhancement of suitable wildlife crossings, such as
bridges or culverts, is encouraged to maintain corridor function and biological viability.

Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority
(WCCA)
The Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority
(WCCA) is a local joint powers authority represented by city and State agencies. The mission of WCCA is to provide for the proper planning, conservation, environmental protection, and maintenance of the habitat and wildlife corridor between the Puente Hills in the west and the Chino Hills in
the east, which connects to the Cleveland National
Forest, and the east-west connections between
Chino Hills State Park and the Prado Basin.

Plant Communities and Habitat
The following paragraphs describe major plant
communities found in parts of the planning area and
its surrounding natural open spaces. These habitats
occur in varying concentrations across hillsides,
canyons, and creek corridors, and each supports
a variety of wildlife species. Each plant community
contains unique features and supports a variety of
wildlife species.

Chaparral Habitat. Chaparral consists of evergreen, medium-to-tall height shrubs which commonly cover hills and slopes of Southern California.

This community is highly adapted to drought and
fire conditions. Shrub canopy cover is generally
continuous. California sagebrush and California
buckwheat occur within the understory of larger
shrubs. The chaparral community is ecologically
fitted to a cycle of fire destruction. Periodic fires
help preserve the mixes of plant species and reduce
the danger of a more catastrophic fire. Chaparral
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 136
provides food and cover for reptiles, birds, rodents,
coyote, and deer.

Grassland Habitat. Grasslands consist of low herbaceous vegetation dominated by grasses. They thrive in deep, well developed soils on gentle slopes
and flats, mostly at low elevations. Three types of
grassland are found in the area: native grasslands,
non-native annual grasslands, and ruderal grasslands. The grasslands are green during the rainy season and spring, but with the advent of summer
dry into a golden mantle. The grasslands must be
managed to prevent fire hazards and the intrusion
of weed species, chaparral, and invasive plants
such as star thistle. Grasslands provide forage for
cattle and other grazing animals, and habitat for
small reptile, rodents, deer, coyote, songbirds, and
birds of prey.

Riparian Habitat. A riparian community is a combination of plant species that thrive along intermittent and perennial waterways. These waterways can be found at the bottom of the many canyons
found in the hillsides, including Brea, Carbon,
Tonner, Sonome, Soquel, and Telegraph Canyons.

Creeks and streams and the associated riparian
vegetation provide wildlife habitat, stormwater
drainage, visual backdrops, and recreation corridors. Riparian habitats are considered among the most valuable habitats for wildlife because of the
presence of water, lush vegetation, and high insect
populations. Riparian habitat provides cover and
food for numerous animals and nesting birds. Many
nesting birds are migratory species that come to the
streamside habitats from Central and South America each spring to raise their young.

Sage Scrub Habitat. Sage scrub can be defined
as low-drought-deciduous and evergreen shrubs
that occur on steep to moderate slopes mostly
below 3,000 feet in elevation. It is considered
a sensitive habitat due to its potential to support
threatened and endangered species. Common
animal species include deer, rabbit, bobcat, and
coyote, as they utilize the scrub habitat as part of a
larger home range.

Woodland Habitat. Woodland is a plant community with a diverse mix of tree species forming a dense overstory of vegetation. Woodlands in Brea
are primarily located on the north and east facing
slopes if the canyons. Common trees in the woodland community include coastal and interior live oaks, balk oak, valley oak, California bay laurel,
buck eye, and madrone. Insect- or seed-eating
birds and mammals are common in the woodlands and are preyed upon by raptors and owls that also inhabit these areas. The larger mammals
utilize these areas as well, including deer, coyote,
and foxes.

Diversity is perhaps the most important feature of
the vegetation found within Chino Hills State Park
and surrounding hillsides. Within creek and riparian
areas, cattail stands provide habitat for a variety
of wildlife. Along seasonal and year-round creeks,
the willow and sycamore woodlands have understories of wild rose, stinging nettle, and mule fat.

Southern California black walnut trees, sycamores,
and coast live oaks form woodlands above the
creeks, often on north facing slopes. These walnut
woodlands are another important and rare plant
community preserved in Chino Hills State Park and
undisturbed hillside areas. Only a few thousand
acres of this California habitat still exist, with about one thousand acres in preserves. Several hundred
acres are protected at Chino Hills State Park.

The Tecate cypress is another special type of plant
community found only in a few places in the United
States. Several different scrub and chaparral
communities along the hills and slopes above the
canyon floors include coastal sage scrub, California sagebrush, California buckwheat, and purple sage, as well as a mixed chaparral community
dominated by laurel sumac and toyon. Many California wildlife species depend on these scrub and chaparral communities for survival. Because these
communities are disappearing as urban development continues, they form an increasingly important part of the biological resources protected in the park.

Most of the grassland in the park is non-native
annual European grasses that were introduced here
during the early ranching years. However, grassland species native to California, such as purple needle grass and giant rye can be found among
the annuals. An active grassland restoration program in the park is restoring native grassland to its more natural and dominant state.
137

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
or Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia
Av
e
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter
Dr
Palm St
Puente St Central Ave
Birch St Birch St Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
57 90
142
90 57
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Wildlife Corridor Data Sources:

Major Wildlife Movement Corridors: City of Brea 2003 General Plan - Parklands and Wildlife Corridors Map - Santa Monica Conservancy, Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority, Puente Hills Landfill Native Habitat Preservation Authority, and Dreamline Cartography Puente-Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor: digitized from the "Hills for Everyone" Satellite Map (https://www.hillsforeveryone.org/the-corridor/maps/) Parks and Open Space: California Protected Areas Database, 2025b Connectivity Rankings: California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (CDFW) Areas of Conservation Emphasis (ACE), 2024 [ds2734] 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Wildlife Corridors
Figure CR-3 Major Wildlife Movement Corridors
Puente-Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor
Parks and Open Spaces
<1 acre
1-10 acres
10-60 acres
>60 acres
Connectivity Rank
5 - Irreplaceable and Essential Corridors
4 - Conservation Planning Linkages*
3 - Connections with Implementation Flexibility
2 - Large Natural Habitat Areas
1 - Limited Connectivity Opportunity
*There are no areas with this rank within the mapped extent. [ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 138
C ommu nit y Resources
139
Cultural Arts and Historic
Resources
Brea’s history is celebrated through events held at
original sites and structures that still stand today.

The homes, commercial buildings, parks, and
oil production facilities are just some of the historic resources that help define and enhance the community’s character. Public awareness of these
historic resources has led to the development of
programs to aid in their preservation and restoration. To protect Brea’s heritage, the community will continue to identify and safeguard cultural,
historic, and archaeological resources and ensure
that new development enhances the foundations
of early Brea.

Cultural Arts
Brea has long recognized the importance and
value that cultural arts bring to the community.

Through its various cultural art programs, facilities,
and activities, as well as being home to one of the
nation’s largest outdoor public art sculpture collections, Brea has earned a reputation as one of Orange County’s foremost arts and cultural centers.

Key cultural institutions in the City include Curtis Theatre, Brea Gallery, and Brea Olinda High School Performing Arts Center. The Curtis Theatre is a facility designed for use as a professional quality theatre
hosting full-stage productions, touring companies,
musical concerts, guest artists, special events, and
meetings with multi-media presentations. Brea Gallery is a City-owned art exhibition space that hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, located
in the Brea Civic and Cultural Center.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 140
Another key cultural program in the City is the Art
in Public Places Program, which was established in
1975 and was among the first art in private development programs in the State. The primary goal of this innovative program is to provide permanent
outdoor artwork throughout the City accessible to
the general public. Art works installed and funded
by private developers create unique public spaces
and help distinguish development projects. Brea’s
Art in Public Places Collection includes outdoor
sculpture in a wide range of mediums, styles, and
approaches by nationally and internationally
renowned artists, such as Magdalena Abakanowicz, J. Seward Johnson, and Nikki de St. Phalle.

Sculptures created under the program are commissioned by private developers for permanent outdoor display on their property and are maintained by property owners. All sculptures go through a
formal review process and are placed at prominent
locations where they can be enjoyed by the public.

The City’s support of the arts has been achieved
through a combination of City programs, commissions, volunteers, and private and public sector support. Brea’s diversity of cultural arts programs,
services, and activities help create an inclusive
atmosphere, where there is something for everyone.

Brea Historical Society
Founded in 1971, the Brea Historical Society collects, preserves, and displays the heritage and history of the City of Brea. Through educational
programs, research studies, exhibitions, and workshops, the Brea Historical Society continues to document and promote Brea’s unique contribution to their community and beyond.

Olinda Oil Museum and Trail
The City of Brea has preserved a vital part of history at the 12-acre Olinda Oil Museum and Trail historic park. The site includes Olinda Oil Well #1,
a jackline pump, the field office (vault, warehouse
and historic photos), a records vault, and two-mile
loop trail.

Once the headquarters of the Olinda oil operations, the field office has been converted into a historic museum and cultural center. On display at
the center are a variety of exhibits,photographs,
and models that give visitors an understanding of
the natural and geologic history of the area and a
glimpse into what life was like as an Olinda wildcatter.

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Historic Preservation Efforts
The City Council established the Historical Committee in 1989 through Resolution No. 89-125. The Committee’s purpose was to raise awareness of
Brea’s historical resources by developing goals
and policies to guide preservation. As a temporary
body, the committee was dissolved in 1995. One
of its key accomplishments was the 1994 Historic
Preservation Ordinance, which aimed to promote
Brea’s historic, cultural, educational, and economic
values, and to support the general welfare through
specific preservation objectives.

The Historic Preservation Ordinance established
the Historic Resources Register and outlines the process for designating or removing individual historic resources. By identifying historically significant sites and structures, the Register helps protect them from
potential loss and raises community awareness of
Brea’s heritage. Structures and/or sites listed in the
Register are eligible for a variety of preservation
incentives provided by the City and various other
State and local agencies.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 142
Educational Services
The Brea Olinda Unified School District (BOUSD)
provides public school educational services to children in grades TK-12 for students living within City limits. BOUSD, with six elementary schools, one
junior high, one high school, one alternative high
school, and one online academy, serves approximately 5,800 students, at locations as shown on Figure CR-4. According to the Residential and
Commercial/Industrial Development School Fee
Justification Study for BOUSD, there is a need for
additional elementary school facilities to accommodate future enrollment. This study also noted that BOUSD school facilities will require significant
reconstruction and modernization due to the age
and current condition of the facilities.

In addition to BOUSD schools, Brea is home to
many private schools such as St. Angela’s School,
Christ Lutheran School, and Brea Olinda Friends
Church School. Brea is near a number of notable
post-secondary institutions, such as California State
University Fullerton and Fullerton College, which
help provide people of all ages with quality educational opportunities.

The Brea Branch Library, located at the Brea Civic
and Cultural Center, is part of the Orange County
Public Library community library network. The system
includes 33 branches that provide many services to
residents throughout the County. In Brea, the library
provides a safe space for community members
to gather for family-friendly events, access online
resources, study, receive homework help, and participate in civic life. 143
57 90
142
90 57

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
P
P
P
P P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
*
Valley View Ave
Lambert Rd
Harbor Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia Ave
Lakev ei w
Ave
BreaBlvd
Berry St
Fairm
ont Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Brea Blvd
State Col el ge Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Kellogg Dr
VillageCenter Dr
Palm Dr
Richfield Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Palm St
Associat ed Rd
Lambert Rd
Puente St
Whittier Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Bradford Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Central Ave
Kraemer Blvd
Birch St
Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Associated Rd
State College Blvd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Rose Dr
Brea Blvd
Valencia Ave
Associated
Rd
Brea Senior Center
Station 3
Station 2
Station 2
Brea Olinda High
Brea Junior High
Mariposa
Elementary
Arovista Elementary
Falcon
Academy
Olinda Elementary
Memorial Park
Cemetery
Humble
Reservoir
Carbon Canyon
Dam
Kindred Hospital
Brea Community Hospital
Brea
Community
Center
Country Hills
Elementary
Laurel
Elementary
Brea Civic and
Cultural
Center
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
Sources: City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; Google Maps; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Public Services
Figure CR-4 Brea Civic Center/Police
Station/Library
Fire Station
Hospital
Public School
Community Center
P City or County Park or
Preserve
Golf Course
Other Public Facility
* Orange County Landfill
LEGEND
City of Brea
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
State Park
State Park
[ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 144
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Goal CR-1
An accessible, integrated system of
parks and recreational amenities that
meet the needs of all residents.

PARKS AND TRAILS
Brea’s parks and trail systems are essential to the
community’s quality of life. The City maintains a
diverse network of parks, ranging from small neighborhood green spaces to large regional destinations. These recreational assets support both active and passive uses, accommodate all ages and
abilities, and reflect Brea’s commitment to their
environment and community health. The following
goals and policies are intended to guide the continued development, protection, and enhancement of these valued resources.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 146
CR-1 Policies
CR-1.1 Acreage Requirements. Ensure that at least five acres of developed parkland and appropriate amenities are available for every 1,000 Brea residents. Require all new residential development projects to contribute toward this standard through mechanisms such as land dedication, in-lieu fees, or park development fees, consistent with the Quimby Act and City regulations.

CR-1.2 Diverse Recreation Types. Promote a wide variety of public and private facilities and recreational amenities distributed equitably throughout the community to foster a comprehensive system that serves all residents, with a special focus on environmental justice communities. Amenities may include inclusive playgrounds, outdoor fitness stations, pocket parks, and trail extensions. EJ
CR-1.3 Service Area Radius. Focus new park facilities in areas that are outside 1/2-mile walking radius from an existing “green space” (park, trail, or natural open space area) and in environmental justice communities (see Figure CD-5) and enhance options for residents to access these facilities through safe walking, bicycling, and transit routes. Physical barriers such as SR-57 and Imperial Highway should also be considered when evaluating service area and access. EJ
CR-1.4 Park and Trail Maintenance. Maintain and enhance existing parks and trails to meet the evolving needs of the community. EJ
CR-1.5 Design Standards. Implement established design, construction, and facility maintenance standards to ensure that existing and future City amenities are of high-quality regarding safety, utility, equity, environmental stewardship, and aesthetic quality.

CR-1.6 Funding. Explore funding options and innovative partnerships to bolster and support the development, improvement, and maintenance of City parks and recreational amenities, with a focus on underserved areas. EJ
CR-1.7 Trail Extensions. Support development of extended local trails and urban pathways that provide access to parks, recreational facilities, and other areas with open space and nature. EJ
CR-1.8 Community Engagement. Collaborate with residents and the wider community to continually improve and adapt facilities and programs based on their interests and feedback. EJ CR-1.9 Regional Collaboration. Work with Orange County, Los Angeles County, the State, and other public and private partners to conserve, protect, and enhance parks, trails, and recreational resources.

CR-1.10 Preservation of
CR-1 Actions
CR-1a Evaluate new development projects for potential negative effects on nearby public parks, such as traffic, noise, or pollution from non-recreational land uses. Encourage new uses or facilities, including new recreation facilities, to be planned in a way that maintains or enhances opportunities for casual, unstructured use and avoids the unnecessary displacement of existing park functions.

CR-1b Pursue available resources to fund parkland and facility maintenance, acquisition, and development, such as Federal and State grants, private donations, and gifts and endowments.

CR-1c Periodically review and update the park in-lieu fee ordinance as necessary to better reflect current costs and needs to address park demand generated by development.

CR-1d Organize periodic community workshops to identify areas for improvement within the existing City-owned parks and trails network.

CR-1e Connect the Tracks at Brea to La Habra to complete the OC Loop.

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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 148
Goal CR-2
High-quality human services that
enhance the livelihood of Brea
residents of all ages and abilities.

Brea is proud to offer a wide range of services for
every age group of our local and regional communities. Beyond the provision of day-to-day services, the City hosts numerous special events and programs year-round, like the July 4th County Fair
and BreaFest in August. These special events bring
the community together and help to celebrate Brea
as a special place.

CR-2 Policies
CR-2.1 Recreation and Human Services. Provide, facilitate (solely or in partnership), and/or support human services or recreational programming—including accessible childcare resources—responsive to the needs of all ages, genders, cultural, and socioeconomic groups. EJ CR-2.2 Multigenerational Programming. Encourage inclusive human services and recreation opportunities that bring together people of all ages to build intergenerational connections.

CR-2.3 Funding. Identify innovative funding and development opportunities to support and sustain the City’s human services and recreation programs, especially for underserved populations. EJ CR-2.4 Encourage Wellness. Encourage the development of health and wellness, fitness, and/ or other recreation programs and activities.

CR-2.5 Partnerships. Partner with other public agencies, non-profit, and public and private organizations to develop comprehensive programming that promotes the well-being of Brea residents of all ages. EJ
CR-2.6 Community Input. Collaborate with community members to ensure that programming reflects the diverse needs and interests of Brea community members. EJ CR-2.7 Multilingual Recreation and Community Services. Encourage the development and delivery of multilingual recreation, community programs, and information to foster inclusivity and equitable access for non-English-speaking residents. EJ CR-2.8 Volunteer Opportunities. Offer meaningful volunteer opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to support City services and programs as feasible. EJ

HUMAN SERVICES
CR-2 Actions
CR-2a Continue offering cultural and recreational classes and programs for all ages at City facilities such as the Brea Community Center and parks across the community.

CR-2b Continue offering human services programs to ensure that residents of all ages and abilities have access to childcare referrals and mental health services.

CR-2c Research and apply for Federal, State, regional, private, and philanthropic grants that support human services and recreation opportunities.

CR-2d Update and evaluate community awareness campaigns regarding well-being of youth, families, and available resources.

CR-2e Promote volunteer opportunities to support Brea human services and recreational programs.

CR-2f Engage with residents through surveys, social media, and other platforms to gather input on the planning and programming of City-hosted services and events, ensuring they are engaging, family-friendly, and serve the broader Brea community.

CR-2g Translate flyers, websites, signage, registration forms, and program guides into the most commonly spoken languages in the community.

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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 150
Goal CR-3
The preservation and maintenance
of open spaces for nature, resource
management, recreation, and scenic
enjoyment.

Natural open space is a defining feature of Brea,
with much of it encompassed by Chino Hills State
Park. The park serves not only as a destination for
outdoor recreation, but also as an educational
resource offering programs for students and families to learn about the region’s natural systems.

Local planning efforts help conserve these areas
and ensure that open space remains an integral
part of Brea’s identity and constrains future growth.

CR-3 Policies
CR-3.1 Open Space Preservation. Continue efforts to preserve open space lands for purposes of habitat protection, resource conservation, flood hazard management, public safety, and overall community benefit, in collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions and other relevant agencies, contributing to the statewide California 30x30 goal of permanent land conservation.

CR-3.2 Sensitive Species and Habitats. Support the conservation of sensitive species, plant communities, and wildlife habitats to the maximum extent feasible through open space dedication, creative site design, and other workable actions.

CR-3.3 Hillside Preservation. Continue efforts to conserve sensitive hillside, ridgelines, canyons, and open space areas, and protect wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity, in accordance with standards set forth in the Brea City Code.

CR-3.4 Mature Vegetation. Encourage all entities involved in development, redevelopment, and landscape maintenance to avoid removing mature vegetation. Promote the inclusion of a variety of sizes of new vegetation in projects to balance initial aesthetic landscape value with the long-term health and sustainability of the landscape.

CR-3.5 Rewilding. Explore rewilding opportunities and other ecological restoration projects aimed at increasing biodiversity and restoring natural processes.

CR-3.6 Open Space Education. Work with State, Federal, and community partners to develop educational and other materials that promote the preservation and conservation of Brea’s natural resources, to the extent practical.

NATURAL OPEN SPACES
CR-3 Actions
CR-3a Assess development proposals for potential impacts to important geologic and scenic landform features pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Require appropriate mitigation measures, including environmentally sensitive site planning and grading, revegetation and open space dedication, for significant impacts. Consider important topographical features, watershed areas, ridgelines, soils, and potential erosion problems in the assessments. Ensure the new development is compatible to adjacent open space lands.

CR-3b Reassess the City’s Hillside Zoning Ordinance to minimize the encroachment of new development near areas of open space, especially sensitive areas, and to consider the unique impacts of fire hazards in hillside areas.

CR-3c Collaborate with Federal, State, regional, local, non-profit, environmental and conservation organizations, and private entities to conserve, protect, and enhance open spaces and natural resources throughout Brea’s Planning Area.

CR-3d Prepare and distribute resources guides and brochures regarding public access to regional open spaces, and how visitors can aid in the protection of these areas.

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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 152
Goal CR-4
A community where visual
resources reflect Brea’s natural
beauty and help guide responsible
development.

Brea’s scenic landscapes, shaped by canyons, ridgelines, and hillside views, contribute significantly to the City’s visual identity. Natural features such as Sonome, Soquel, and Lions Canyons, the hillsides
of Chino Hills State Park, and the views from Gilman
Peak offer a strong sense of place and contrast with
the built environment. Roads like Carbon Canyon
Road and Brea Canyon Road provide memorable travel experiences and act as visual gateways, reinforcing Brea’s connection to its natural surroundings. The following policies and actions aim to protect and enhance these visual resources as
the City continues to grow and evolve.

SCENIC VISTAS
CR-4 Policies
CR-4.1 Trails, Recreation Areas, and Viewing Areas. Encourage the development of inclusive trails, recreation areas, and viewing points in locations where residents and visitors can enjoy Brea’s scenic resources, while avoiding intrusion into sensitive natural areas.

CR-4.2 Key Roadways. Recognize the aesthetic value of visually sensitive roadways through thoughtful development practices consistent with the Brea City Code.

CR-4.3 Tree Resources. Manage mature trees, particularly native species, to preserve their ecological benefits and their contribution to Brea’s visual character, in accordance with the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance.

CR-4.4 Regional Collaboration. Work with Orange County, Los Angeles County, State, and other appropriate public and private agencies to conserve, protect, and enhance natural resources, particularly within the sphere of influence.

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CR-4 Actions
CR-4a Assess development proposals, including those in Brea’s Sphere of Influence, for potential impacts to important visual resources pursuant to CEQA. Require appropriate mitigation measures for all significant impacts. Consider important ridgelines, creeks, open space, views of the surrounding hillsides, and light and glare effects.

CR-4b Maintain and apply existing design standards to preserve views, vistas, and defining natural features along prominent roadways and visually sensitive areas.

CR-4c Install informational signage and viewing platforms at local scenic vistas to enhance public access.

CR-4d Evaluate opportunities to strengthen tree protection standards and preservation measures.

CR-4e Avoid development impacts to identified or potential wildlife corridors to the maximum extent feasible, based on site-specific biological surveys prepared by a qualified wildlife biologist and the best available scientific data. Where avoidance is not feasible, require project design features that preserve habitat connectivity and support wildlife movement, subject to City review and coordination with applicable wildlife agencies. Such standards may include, but are not limited to:
• Minimum Corridor Widths: Maintain wildlife movement corridors at widths consistent with the best available scientific guidance applicable to target species and regional conditions.
• Wildlife-Permeable Fencing: Install fencing that allows for wildlife movement and prohibits the use of solid walls or impermeable barriers within or adjacent to corridors. • Lighting Design: Design and install lighting that minimizes spillover into adjacent wildlife corridors through shielding, direction, and low-intensity fixtures. • Crossing Design: Incorporate wildlife crossing structures where roadways or driveways intersect corridors, designed in accordance with best available science and species-specific needs.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 154
Brea’s surrounding hillsides and open spaces support a diverse and ecologically important range of plant and animal communities. The Puente and
Chino Hills, along with connections to Chino Hills
State Park and the Cleveland National Forest, form
critical wildlife habitats and corridors that allow
species to move, adapt, and survive. Preserving
these biological resources requires careful management of land use, protection of wildlife corridors, and restoration of native habitats.

Goal CR-5
A resilient ecosystem that safeguards
habitats for biological resources and
wildlife.

BIOLOGICAL

RESOURCES
CR-5 Policies
CR-5.1 Habitat Conservation. Support efforts to identify and conserve suitable habitats, in accordance with State and Federal resource agency requirements.

CR-5.2 Local Coordination. Coordinate with local and regional public and private organizations to implement strategies and programs that protect and preserve biological resources within Brea.

CR-5.3 Invasive Plant Species. Collaborate with regional partners to monitor and manage invasive plant species, minimizing their impacts on local ecosystems and preserving native biodiversity.

CR-5.4 Protective Landscaping. Promote landscape planting that avoids known invasive plant species, as identified by recognized environmental organizations or applicable regulatory agencies, and encourages native plant species.

CR-5.5 Sustainable Landscaping. Promote landscaping that incorporates native and pollinator-supporting plant species, minimizing the need for herbicides and pesticides and that provides food, water, shelter, and nesting sites for birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, and other creatures that both help maintain the landscape and restore the larger ecosystem.

CR-5.6 Riparian Habitats. Encourage development practices that protect riparian habitats.

Where impacts are unavoidable, require mitigation measures in accordance with applicable regulations.

CR-5.7 Wildlife Corridors. Encourage the preservation of critical wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity, including as part of the development review process.

CR-5.8 Urban Canopy. Preserve and expand the urban canopy of trees and vegetation throughout the community to help reduce urban heat, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, enhance aesthetics, and support biodiversity.

CR-5.9 Outdoor Lighting. Protect local character, enhance visual safety, and mitigate the harmful effects of light intrusion and pollution.

CR-5.10 Biological Resource Education. Collaborate with agencies, non-profit organizations, and other community groups to promote awareness about steps residents can take to help preserve and enhance biological resources in the area.

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155
CR-5 Actions
CR-5a Maintain a buffer area between natural waterways and urban development to protect water quality and riparian areas, as deemed necessary.

CR-5b Continue to assess development proposals for potential impacts to significant natural resources pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and associated State and Federal regulations. Require appropriate mitigation for all significant impacts if impact avoidance is not possible. Mitigation measures for habitat and species may include, but are not limited to, avoidance, enhancement, restoration, or a combination of any of the three. Address the following subjects in impact assessment as applicable to individual development proposals:
• Natural communities;
• Riparian and wetland habitat (including potential jurisdictional areas); • Coastal sage scrub habitat;
• Coast live oak habitat;
• Rare and endangered plant and animal species;
• Habitat fragmentation (including disruption of wildlife corridors); and • Creeks, blue line streams, and associated tributaries.

CR-5c Continue to require development proposals to consult with regulatory agencies, including the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE), about natural resources if the following occurs on the project site:
• Potential take or substantial loss of occupied habitat for any threatened or endangered species; or
• Existing drainage features (jurisdictional area) are located within the project site.

CR-5d Work with local, regional, State and Federal partners to seek funding for wildlife corridor improvements such as dry wedges, culverts, overcrossings at priority locations with high instances of roadkill.

CR-5e Evaluate the potential of a Dark Sky, Lights Out, or other similar regulatory mechanism to reduce light pollution and minimize impacts on wildlife species.

CR-5f Continue to maintain the City’s tree inventory and use it to periodically identify areas where the urban canopy can be expanded. Establish a comprehensive citywide tree management program with the following elements:
• Maintain a 3-5 year tree trimming schedule for City-maintained trees. • Encourage a 1:1 tree replacement ratio for both public and private tree removals. • Target new tree plantings in areas which are lacking and underserved by landscape, canopy and green spaces strategizing where plantings can be most successful. • Update the 1999 Master Street Tree Plan to reflect current best practices. No trees or other plant species that are on the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) Invasive Plant list or on their “watch list” for invasiveness are permitted.

CR-5g Establish objective development standards for subdivision approvals that require design measures to maintain connectivity and permeability for wildlife movement.

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Goal CR-6
A community that preserves,
protects, and celebrates artistic,
cultural, and historic resources that
define Brea’s identity.

Brea’s artistic, cultural, and historic resources reflect the City’s rich heritage and contribute to its unique
community character. As Brea continues to grow,
thoughtful preservation and integration of cultural
and historic elements will help retain a strong sense
of place. The following policies and actions aim to
support these efforts and guide future preservation
work.

ARTISTIC, CULTURAL,

AND HISTORIC

RESOURCES
CR-6 Policies
CR-6.1 Cultural Services. Offer and support cultural services and programs and events that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Brea. EJ
CR-6.2 Cultural Facilities. Maintain cultural facilities such as the Curtis Theatre, the Brea Gallery, and the Community Center as key cultural arts venues.

CR-6.3 Placemaking. Integrate public art, murals, and cultural expression into streetscapes, parks, and civic spaces to enhance visual interest and create memorable places.

CR-6.4 Historic Resources. Evaluate the condition of historical buildings, the costs of rehabilitation, and the feasibility of preservation or conservation alternatives when considering the demolition or movement of historic structures.

CR-6.5 Archaeological and Paleontological Resources. If significant archaeological or paleontological resources are discovered, evaluate their cultural relevance, physical condition, economic factors, feasibility, and other key aspects.

CR-6.6 Human Remains. Ensure that human remains are treated with sensitivity and dignity.

Maintain compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98.

CR-6.7 Tribal Consultation. In accordance with State, local, and Tribal intergovernmental consultation requirements, consult with Native American tribes that may be impacted by proposed development and land use policy changes, as necessary.

CR-6.8 Planning Considerations. Integrate cultural resources into everyday planning processes through careful and creative design review and prioritization of historic and cultural history in new design development. EJ
CR-6.9 Regional Collaboration. Work with Orange County, Los Angeles County, the State, and other public and private partners to establish programs and funding mechanisms to preserve, restore, and enhance cultural, historic, and archaeological sites.

CR-6.10 Public Engagement. Continue to foster community awareness and engagement of Brea’s history through maintenance of the Brea Museum and Historical Society, and the Olinda Oil Museum and Trail. EJ
CR-6.11 Celebrate Heritage. Promote Brea’s heritage through artwork, context-sensitive design, and events throughout the City. EJ
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 158
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159
CR-6 Actions
CR-6a Organize City-sponsored cultural celebrations that highlight Brea’s diverse communities through food, music, dance, storytelling, and art.

CR-6b Continue to research all types of possible funding sources and financial assistance to help promote, preserve, and restore historical resources in Brea. Such funding sources can include tax incentives, Federal and State funds, grants, awards, loans, and other financial sources.

CR-6c Continue to add resources that meet the City’s Historic Preservation Ordinance. Collaborate and assist efforts to list historic resources and structures to various Federal and State historic registers, as deemed necessary.

CR-6d Continue to work with Community Services Department to promote Brea’s heritage through artwork, signs, preservation, recreation programs, events, and historical structures throughout the City and in its park lands.

CR-6e Continue to work with the Brea Museum and Historical Society to increase awareness of Brea’s historic resources and the importance of their preservation.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 160
Goal CR-7
High-quality educational facilities
and lifelong learning opportunities
that empower residents of all ages
to gain the knowledge, skills, and
resources needed for personal and
professional growth.

Brea recognizes the vital role education plays in
shaping its success. Education helps to provide the
knowledge, skills, and resources that build self-esteem, lead to meaningful employment opportunities, and contribute to a strong local economy. The City’s educational system provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning within the community.

The public education system in Brea is a defining
characteristic of the community, with most students
going through the public education system, attending the same junior high and high school. This feature bonds the community together, creating deep traditions that stand the test of time across multiple
familiar generations.

EDUCATION SERVICES
CR-7 Actions
CR-7.1 Support Public Education. Promote and support
high quality public education by working closely with
the Brea Olinda Unified School District in determining
and meeting community needs for public education
and related activities.

CR-7.2 School Siting. Ensure that educational facilities are designated and planned to accommodate existing
and future capacity and are located nearby planned
residential development. EJ
CR-7.3 Yearlong Lifelong Learning. Promote lifelong
learning opportunities for residents of all ages, including adult education programs, vocational training, community college courses, and library services that enhance personal and professional development throughout the
calendar year.

CR-7.4 Library Resources. Collaborate with Orange
County Public Library to encourage the provision of library resources that meet the educational, cultural, civic, business, and lifelong learning needs of all residents.

CR-7.5 Joint Use Agreements. Maintain existing joint use agreements with the Brea Olinda Unified School District to make existing recreational, performance, and exhibit spaces accessible to the general public. EJ
CR-7.6 Higher Education. Promote opportunities to collaborate and provide educational opportunities with nearby post-secondary education institutions such as California State University Fullerton and Fullerton College.

CR-7.7 Arts and Education. Pursue partnerships with the Brea Olinda Unified School District, local public and
private colleges and universities, and private organizations to support cultural arts programs and education. 161
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05 Public Safety
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INTRODUCTION
The Public Safety Element of the General Plan
addresses natural and human-caused hazards in
the City of Brea and the potential short and longterm risks to human life, property, and economic and social dislocation resulting from wildfires,
earthquakes, landslides, floods, noise exposure,
and other hazards. Since climate change affects
and potentially exacerbates the impact of hazards,
in accordance with Senate Bill 379, this Safety Element also addresses climate change and resiliency planning.

The Public Safety or Safety Element is organized to
include an Existing Conditions section, which outlines each hazard facing Brea and how the City is currently addressing these hazards. The Safety Element also includes a Goals, Policies, and Actions section, which provides the City’s safety roadmap
to 2050, including a comprehensive hazard mitigation and emergency response strategy. The Public Safety Element works in conjunction with the
Brea Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) and
Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which cover
many similar topics, including natural hazards and
evacuation planning.1, 2
1 City of Brea, 2024 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan,
2024,
https://www.cityofbrea.gov/DocumentCenter/
View/17657/City-of-Brea_LHMP_FINAL_with-Appendices, accessed on July 11, 2025. 2 City of Brea, 2020 Emergency Operations Plan,
2020.

The Public Safety Element directly relates to topics in the Community Development, Mobility, and Community Resources Elements of the General Plan. It identifies hazards and hazard abatement provisions
to guide land use decisions related to zoning, subdivisions, and entitlement permits. It also addresses emergency response and evacuation routes, which
informs the Mobility Element to ensure that streets
are sized adequately for fire truck access and other
needs of first responders.

The Safety Element is a long-term plan that includes
policies to mitigate hazards through land use, design
measures, and programs. As a part of the General
Plan, the Safety Element provides direction that the
City will implement through the Zoning Code and
other mechanisms. The Safety Element would also
integrates the City’s LHMP, which can be accessed
on the City’s website here: cityofbrea.gov/1760/
Local-Hazard-Mitigation-Plan. The LHMP is a
short-term, 5-year strategic plan that also seeks to
identify and mitigate natural hazards. The LHMP is
distinct from the Safety Element in that it is created to directly respond to the requirements of the Federal
Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) of 2000. By achieving certification from FEMA, the LHMP provides the City with access to two competitive FEMA grant
programs: the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
(HMGP) and the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program

PUBLIC SAFETY
The Public Safety Element establishes a comprehensive framework for mitigating natural and human-caused hazards to ensure long-term community resilience and protection. By aligning hazard abatement with land use and emergency response strategies, the City creates a secure foundation for growth while maintaining eligibility for critical State and Federal resources. 166
(PDM). To maintain eligibility for FEMA funding, the
City must update the LHMP at least once every five
years. As of July 2025, the most recent LHMP was
adopted in 2024. By integrating the LHMP with the
Safety Element, the City will also achieve eligibility
for additional post-disaster funding from the State
of California. Integration also allows the Safety
Element’s framework of goals and policies to be
utilized and built upon by current and future LHMPs.

Policy PS-6.2 states the City’s intent to incorporate
future updates of the LHMP into the Safety Element.

Organization of Element
The Public Safety Element will address each
of the topics below as they relate to Brea. The
goals and policies of this Element are organized around the following topics:
• Wildland Fire
• Geologic and Seismic Hazards
• Flood Hazards (Including Dam Failure)
• Hazardous Materials
• Climate Change and Resiliency Planning
• Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Noise
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Related Plans and Programs
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
The City of Brea’s 2024 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) is a comprehensive roadmap designed to reduce long-term risks from natural
and human-caused hazards such as wildfires,
earthquakes, and infrastructure failures. It establishes a coordinated strategy to protect lives and property while ensuring the continuity of critical
municipal services and infrastructure. The document
integrates climate change resiliency and includes a
detailed Implementation Handbook to guide City
staff through grant funding processes and proactive
plan maintenance. By formalizing these mitigation
strategies, Brea secures eligibility for essential Federal and State disaster relief funds and competitive FEMA grants.

Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
The City of Brea’s 2020 Emergency Operations
Plan provides a unified framework for disaster
response and recovery, ensuring alignment with
Federal and State standards to protect life, property, and the environment. By establishing clear procedures for the Emergency Operations Center, the plan prioritizes immediate life safety and the rapid
restoration of essential community services.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 168

EXISTING

CONDITIONS
The Safety Element addresses both natural and
human-made hazards. This section outlines each
hazard and provides an assessment explaining
what the hazard is and what causes it to occur
in Brea; when the hazard occurs, including if the
hazard is seasonal or is forecasted to get worse
as a result of climate change; where in Brea the
hazard is most likely to occur; who is most vulnerable to each hazard; and how the City is already addressing the hazard and how initiatives can be
built upon and improved in the future.

Wildland Fire
Wildland fires are most commonly caused by
lightning or by human activity via electrical equipment (including electrical transmission towers and powerlines) and vehicles, and often start unnoticed. They are known to spread more quickly on dry, windy days and move more easily in an uphill
direction and in areas with higher-density vegetation. Wildfires are a natural and important part of the ecosystem but can become more intense and
dangerous as a result of climate change and poor
land management.

Wildland fires pose a major threat to development located in the hillside areas of Brea and to residential development along the fringes between
urbanized and undeveloped areas, known as the
wildland-urban interface (WUI). During the summer
season, dry vegetation, minimal seasonal rain,
and Santa Ana wind conditions can combine to
increase the likelihood of wildfires. Understanding
the risks associated with development in and near
fire-prone areas can help the City reduce the risks
associated with major wildland fires.

A significant portion of Brea’s sphere of influence
(SOI) and surrounding area remains undeveloped
and consists of rugged topography with highly
flammable vegetation. The woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral areas provide important open space, natural resources, and scenic vistas, but also
create fire hazards when development is located in
or adjacent to these areas.

Climate change has the potential to affect the wildfire system, including fire behavior, ignitions, fire management, and vegetation fuels. Hot and dry
conditions create high fire risk, and increased temperatures may intensify wildfire danger by warming and further drying vegetation. Finding the balance
between accommodating nature’s course and protecting people and property from fire’s destructive forces presents a continuing challenge to government agencies.

Fire Hazard Severity Zones
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) defines the wildfire hazard zones on a three-tier scale of Fire Hazard Severity Zones
(FHSZs): Very High, High, and Moderate. These
zone classifications do not correspond to a specific
risk or intensity of fire but are qualitative terms that consider many factors. Fire-prone areas are also
classified by the agency responsible for fire protection. State Responsibility Areas (SRA), which include unincorporated land within counties with Statewide
watershed value, fall under CAL FIRE’s jurisdiction.

Local Responsibility Areas (LRA), which include portions of incorporated cities with identified wildfire hazard zones, fall to local governments like the City
of Brea. Figure PS-1 delineates the Fire Hazard
Severity Zones in the Planning Area.

The City has developed wildland interface construction and development standards for all new structures built within the High Fire Hazard Severity
Zone and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, as
defined by CAL FIRE. Examples of such construction
requirements include:
• Automatic fire sprinkler systems
• Class A roof coverings
• Exterior wall surfaces made of one-hour fire
rated materials
• Spark arrestors on chimneys
• Site landscape fuel modification
The Brea Fire Department has also developed standards to accommodate all types of fire apparatuses used by the Fire Department, including circulation
and street design, and water system requirements
P ublic Saf et y
169
for all new development proposed in the High Fire
Hazard Severity Zones and Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zones.

Site Landscape Fuel Modification
Zones
A fuel modification zone is an area of land directly
adjacent to a building where combustible vegetation has been removed or modified, or both, and partially or totally replaced with drought-tolerant,
fire-resistant plants to provide an acceptable level
of risk from wildland fires. Fuel modification reduces
radiant and convective heat, thereby providing firefighters a safer area in which to take action. The Brea Fire Department has set a minimum distance
of 200 feet beyond the construction boundary of
any property on which a new structure can be built
as its fuel modification zone within the designated
High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and Very High
Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The fuel modification
installation consists of the following from the construction boundary of any property in a HFHSZ or VHFHSZ:
• Zone A: 30 feet
• Zone B: 100 feet
• Zone C: 200 feet
The best proactive measure homeowners can
pursue to reduce the risk of wildland fires is to maintain a fuel modification and vegetation clearance zone around structures consistent with Fire Department regulations, and to plant landscaping that can slow a fire’s advancement.

Fire Fighting Resources
The level of hazard to life and property is affected
not only by the fire itself but by road access for
evacuation, the number of available first responders
and equipment (i.e. firefighters, fire engines, police
officers), vegetation clearance around property,
availability of water and water pressure, and the
effectiveness of building codes and inspection of
developments in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

Brea Fire Station No. 4, located at 198 Olinda
Place within the Carbon Canyon area, enhances
responses to fires in areas accessible directly via
Carbon Canyon Road. During fire season, the station’s staffing levels are often augmented to ensure adequate response. However, should development levels increase within Carbon Canyon or other hillside areas within or adjacent to High Fire
Hazard Severity Zones and Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zones, increased response capabilities
will become necessary.

The Brea Fire Department works collaboratively
with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA)
during emergencies and participates in the California Master Mutual Aid System. Mutual aid is emergency assistance that is dispatched upon request across jurisdictional boundaries.

Fire Flow Analysis
The Fire Department must have sufficient water pressure and storage throughout the City to combat urban and wildland fires wherever they arise. Insufficient water pressure can jeopardize firefighting capabilities and allow fire to spread uncontrollably, causing excessive damage to structures. The fire flow analysis assesses the ability of the water system
to meet fire flows throughout the Planning Area (i.e.
the City limits and the sphere of influence) while also providing maximum day demands. Per the City’s
2021 Water Master Plan, the water system must
be capable of providing at least 20 pounds per
square inch (psi) residual pressure in the distribution system pipelines.3
3 City of Brea, 2021 Water Master Plan, 2021.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 170
Historic Wildfires in Brea
• April 8, 1926 – Lightning strikes hit an oil tank
farm of the Union Oil Company, igniting multiple reservoirs storing an estimated 2.5 million barrels of crude oil (42 gallons per barrel,
totaling approximately 105 million gallons of
oil). The resulting explosion was seen, heard,
and felt for miles. Reportedly, some 3,000
workers battled the blaze and erected sheets
of iron and earth around the area to stem
the fire’s spread to other areas of the facility.

The damage caused at the time was over
$3,000,000, destroying three reservoirs, a
small oil refinery, 700 acres of agricultural
land, three large ranch homes, and several
houses on the facility property. Reportedly,
over three miles of galvanized iron barricades
were used to pool the blazing oil and allow it
to burn itself out.
• November 15, 2008 – 2008 Freeway Complex Fire. The Freeway Complex Fire started as two separate fires: The Freeway Fire and
the Landfill Fire, also known as the Brea Fire.

The Freeway Fire ignited along the Riverside
Freeway in the riverbed of the Santa Ana River
in Corona and the Landfill Fire started near the
1900 block of Valencia Avenue in Brea, just
south of the Olinda Landfill. The fires merged
and destroyed residences in Olinda Village
along Carbon Canyon Road in Brea. The fire
burned over 30,000 acres and caused the
closure of many schools, including those in
the Brea Olinda Unified School District, and
approximately 40,000 people were evacuated from Anaheim, Carbon Canyon, Chino Hills, Corona, Diamond Bar, and Yorba Linda.
• March 12, 2014 – A two-acre brush fire was
quickly contained in Tonner Canyon near
Lambert Road and SR-57. The Fire Department’s helicopter made a significant number of water drops and kept it from spreading to
the homes in the area. Drought-resistant vegetation planted by a homeowner’s association was also credited with helping to prevent the
spread of the fire.
• June 10, 2014 – A small brush fire was contained in Carbon Canyon near the Discovery Center, and the nearby regional park was
closed. Officials with OCFA credited the barrier landscaping composed of green, heavily watered, drought-resistant vegetation as acting as a buffer zone helping to prevent the
fire from spreading to homes.
• October 30, 2019 – The Brea Fire was a
16-acre brush fire along Brea Canyon Road
and SR-57 between Diamond Bar and Brea,
causing closures along SR-57. Four helicopters,
two Super Scoopers, and more than 100 firefighters responded and quickly contained the blaze before it could spread any further.
• December 13, 2020 – A six-acre brush fire
started in the Brea Canyon area. Responding
crews from the Brea Fire Department quickly
contained the blaze, and no structure damage
or injuries were reported.
• December 14, 2020 – A spot fire broke out
in the Olinda Alpha Landfill area in Brea (on
the border between Orange and Los Angeles counties), which was contained in a joint response from the Brea Fire Department,
OCFA, and Los Angeles County Fire. It was a
slow-burning fire and was contained quickly
before significant damage could occur.
• October 3, 2021 – Roughly 21 acres of brush
burned in northern Brea before the Brea Fire
Department contained it with support crews
from OCFA, Anaheim Fire and Rescue, and Los
Angeles County Fire. No homes were damaged.
• March 23, 2023 – A vehicle fire was
reported on East Carbon Canyon Road and
North Olinda Drive, and the vehicle was found
engulfed in flames in the brush next to the road.

Once the blaze was extinguished, a victim was
found in the vehicle.
• July 3, 2025 – The Tonner Fire broke out
between SR-57 Freeway and Brea Olinda
High School prompting an evacuation of the
high school and closure of the North SR-57
at Lambert Road. The fire was contained at
approximately six acres with no structures
threatened or damaged at Brea Olinda High
School or Brea Canyon High School.
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Valley View Ave
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Harbor Blvd
Golden Ave
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Berry St
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Rose Dr
Ohio St
Brea Blvd
State Col el ge Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Kellogg Dr
VillageCenter Dr
Palm Dr
Richfield Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Palm St
Associat ed Rd
Lambert Rd
Puente St
Whittier Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Bradford Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Central Ave
Kraemer Blvd
Birch St
Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Associated Rd
State College Blvd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Rose Dr
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S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Diamond Bar
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
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Fullerton Yorba Linda
Chino Hills
Fire Hazard Severity Zones in
Local Responsibility Areas
Very High
High
Moderate
NonWildland
Fire Hazard Severity Zones in
State Responsibility Areas
Very High
High
Moderate*
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Sources: CAL FIRE FHSZ in SRA, 4-1-2024; CAL FIRE FHSZ in LRA Phase 4, 3-24-2025City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Figure PS-1
* This category is not present within the mapped extent [ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 172
Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zones
The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning
Act (1994) defines an active fault as one
that has ruptured in the last 11,000 years.

The act provides mapping resources for the
public to strengthen awareness and prevent
unsafe construction ,and seismic retrofitting to
strengthen existing buildings in these areas.

P ublic Saf et y
173
Geologic and Seismic
Hazards
Geologic hazards are natural geologic processes
with the ability to impact life, health, or property. As with other jurisdictions in the region, Brea is potentially vulnerable to geologic and seismic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and liquefaction.

Earthquakes are sudden ground-shaking events
caused by the release of pressure in the earth. This
quick release of pressure poses a safety risk to
people, buildings, and structures due to the unpredictability of magnitude and timing. A 100-year earthquake is a major earthquake event that is calculated to have a 1% chance to occur each year and theoretically occurs every 100 years.

Geology
The complex topography and geology of the Puente
and Chino Hills create stunning visual features that
form a picturesque backdrop to Brea. These features are evidence of conditions that pose potential constraints to development. Brea lies within one of
the most seismically active areas in southern California, adjacent to the Whittier Fault Segment of the Elsinore Fault Zone and atop the Elysian Park Thrust
Fault. Both fault zones have the potential to generate moderate to strong earthquakes that could cause substantial property damage and possibly
loss of life. Many properties near Carbon Canyon
and the surrounding area are characterized by
steep rugged hillside terrain subject to landslides
and soil erosion. Areas adjacent to stream beds
and drainage channels tend to exhibit liquefaction
conditions and ground instability.

Seismic Hazards
Fault Rupture
Two major faults traverse the Planning Area, the
Whittier/ Elsinore Fault and Elysian Park Thrust Fault.

The Whittier/Elsinore Fault cuts across the Puente
and Chino Hills and through the eastern half of the
City in a northwesterly direction (Figure PS-2). Several traces are considered active. The Elysian Park Thrust Fault, a buried fault approximately 6 to 10
miles below the ground surface is more threatening,
with a greater potential to cause a large magnitude earthquake. In hillside areas an earthquake may also trigger landslides. In flat valley areas, the
deep, alluvial soils can increase the amplitude and
duration of ground shaking.

Magnitude and intensity measure different characteristics of earthquakes. Magnitude measures the energy released at the source or epicenter of the
earthquake with the use of a seismograph. Intensity
measures the strength of shaking produced by the
earthquake at a certain location and is determined
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 174
from effects on people, structures, and the natural
environment.

Preparing for earthquakes requires preparing for
the worst-case scenario earthquake. Dams and
bridges are constructed to withstand the maximum
credible earthquake (MCE) to prevent structure
failure. The MCE is defined as the largest possible earthquake that could reasonably occur along the recognized faults or within a particular seismic
source, and by definition has a very low probability
of occurrence. The City can prepare against the
worst-case scenario earthquake by understanding
the potential effects of an MCE. An earthquake on
either the Whittier/Elsinore Fault or Elysian Park
Thrust Fault could damage buildings and structures, particularly those constructed with wood or unreinforced masonry, as well as mobile homes.

Soft-story buildings do not typically perform well in
earthquakes. These buildings are characterized by
a first story lacking adequate strength or durability,
typically built prior to the widespread implementation of rigorous seismic building codes. Most were built before the 1970s and 1980s and often feature a vulnerable ground floor with large openings for parking or storefronts. Soft-story structures are
prevalent in the older historic neighborhood along
South Brea Boulevard.

The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act
(1994) requires the delineation of earthquake fault
zones along faults that are sufficiently active and
well-defined. The act requires cities and counties
to withhold development permits for sites within an
earthquake fault zone until geologic investigations
demonstrate that the sites are not threatened by surface displacements from future faulting. In Brea, the Whittier/Elsinore Fault meets this definition and the
fault zone boundaries shown in Figure PS-2: Geologic Faults reflect State-delineated boundaries.

Liquefaction
Liquefaction is a phenomenon in which the stiffness
of a soil is reduced when ground shaking causes
water-saturated soil to become fluid and lose its
strength. Since liquefaction only occurs in saturated soil, its effects are most commonly observed in low-lying areas. Typically, liquefaction is associated with shallow groundwater, which is less than 50 feet beneath the earth’s surface. Liquefaction
hazards are significant along stream channels due
to the porous nature and high water content of the
soil. As shown in Figure PS-3: Seismic Hazards,
there are several areas within the City that are susceptible to liquefaction. These areas include Tonner Canyon Creek, Brea Canyon, and areas around
the Carbon Canyon Dam.

Geologic Hazards
Landslide
Steep topography, fractured and unconsolidated bedrock conditions, expansive soils, and high erosion potential make many hillside areas
highly unstable. Landslides are typical on moderate to steep slopes. Historically, Brea’s hillsides have experienced many failures and the potential
for future landslides is high. Landslides may result
from heavy rain, erosion, removal of vegetation,
and seismic activity. While failed slope materials
can be removed and slopes stabilized to allow
development, great care must be taken to identify
all potential geologic hazards wherever development is proposed. The areas identified as prone to earthquake induced landslide within Brea are
identified on Figure PS-3: Seismic Hazards. Further,
the susceptibility of landslides within these areas is
indicated on Figure PS-4: Landslide Susceptibility.

Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is a gradual process of movement and
transport of the upper layer of soil (topsoil) by different agents (particularly water, wind, and mass movement) causing its deterioration in the long term.

Soil erosion is a complex process that depends on
soil properties, ground slope, vegetation, and rainfall amount and intensity. The agents of soil erosion are the same as those of all types of erosion: water,
wind, ice, or gravity. Activities that remove vegetation (including wildfire), disturb the ground, or allow the ground to dry are activities that increase erosion. Erosion conditions exist in all the same areas in the City where landslide susceptibility is present.

This is especially a concern in the Brea Canyon and
Carbon Canyon areas; however, areas in the City
with steep slopes will always be susceptible to erosion, especially during heavy rain and wind events. 175
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LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Other Incorporated Area
Elsinore fault zone
Puente Hills blind thrust system
Alquist-Priolo Zone of Required Investigation
Sources: USGS Quaternary Faults database; CGS Alquist-Priolo Zones; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Geologic Faults
Figure PS-2
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Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Other Incorporated Area
Landslide Zone
Liquefaction Zone
Sources: CGS Seismic Zonation Program; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Seismic Hazards
Figure PS-3
Carbon Canyon Dam
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S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Diamond Bar
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
La Habra
Fullerton Yorba Linda
Chino Hills
Landslide Susceptibility Rating
0356789
10 LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Other Incorporated Area
Sources: CGS/USGS Map Sheet 58, Susceptibility to Deep-Seated Landslides in California, 2011; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Landslide Susceptibility
Figure PS-4
increasing susceptibility
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 180
P ublic Saf et y
181
Flood Hazards
Portions of Brea are susceptible to limited but
credible flood events from either a major storm or
dam failure resulting from a significant earthquake.

Comprehensive storm drain improvements and the
construction of Carbon Canyon Dam in 1961 have
significantly reduced the threat of floods, although
not entirely. An unusually large storm has the potential to create flash flooding and associated flooding hazards within the City.

Flooding
Flooding is a temporary rise in water levels causing rivers, streams, or drainage systems to overflow and inundate adjacent areas not normally covered
by water. The City’s LHMP identifies the greatest
flood risks in the community as flooding that would
occur as a result of damaged, under-engineered,
and/or obstructed infrastructure. The unpredictable
seasonal range in rainfall that is typical of coastal
southern California, coupled with geographic and
geologic conditions, could make some areas in
Brea vulnerable to flooding during the winter storm
season. The Orange County Flood Control District
has constructed and maintains several improved
flood control channels within Brea, most notably
Brea Creek Channel, west of and parallel to Brea
Boulevard, and the Loftus Channel, east of SR-57
below Birch Street. The Brea Creek Channel captures and conveys significant runoff from the hillsides. Any new development that would affect the volume or speed of runoff within creeks tributary to
the Brea Creek Channel are required to ensure that
channel capacity and function be maintained to
protect adjacent and downstream properties.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) maintains a database that maps flood
potential across the United States, which helps cities
in planning for flood events and regulating development within identified flood hazard areas. The City participates in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which encourages State and local governments to adopt floodplain management programs and mitigation measures. As part of the program, the
NFIP defines floodplain and floodway boundaries
on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

Areas with a 1% annual chance of flooding are
designated as 100-year flood zones by FEMA,
referred to as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA).

These zones exist in a few locations across Brea,
as illustrated in Figure PS-5. The area upstream
from Carbon Canyon Dam shown in the figure is
open space specifically designed and intended
to accommodate flood waters. Areas in the west
have a lower flood risk (0.2% annually) and are
designated as 500-year flood zones. The remainder of the City is outside of the flood hazard zones and has minimal flood risk. Floodplain mapping for
the City can be obtained through the FEMA Flood
Map Service Center (https://msc.fema.gov/
portal/home).

Dam Inundation
The two dams located within the Planning Area,
Carbon Canyon Dam and Orange County Reservoir, provide valuable flood control and water storage functions.

Carbon Canyon Dam, located in Carbon Canyon
Regional Park, retains water over a 221-acre area
and has a capacity of 7,033 acre-feet. Carbon
Canyon Dam is vital for the flood protection of neighboring cities, including Fullerton, Placentia, and Yorba Linda. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for the dam’s safety and conducts inspections on a regular basis. In the unlikely event of dam failure,
areas below the dam would be flooded to the extent
illustrated in Figure PS-6.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 182
Orange County Reservoir, used for water storage, is
owned by the cities of Brea (40%), Fullerton (40%),
and La Habra (20%), and is operated by the Metropolitan Water District. The reservoir covers seven acres and has a capacity of 217 acre-feet. Like
Carbon Canyon Dam, this dam receives periodic
inspections. Should the dam fail, the flood inundation path would largely affect residential properties in the City, primarily west of SR-57, north and south
of Lambert Road, as illustrated in Figure PS-6.

Additionally, five reservoir tanks in the hills above
the City contain a total of 67.3 million gallons of
domestic-use water. All reservoirs but the Valencia
Reservoir were built to meet current seismic building
codes and standards.

Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials are substances that can cause
death, serious illness, or hazard to human health or
the environment when not properly treated, stored,
transported, or disposed of. Many household
substances are considered hazardous, including
gasoline, refrigerants, paint, and some gardening
supplies. Nearly all households and businesses
have some amount of hazardous waste. Many
industrial businesses and oil production and processing companies are permitted to store, transport, and handle hazardous materials in Brea. Businesses that handle and generate small quantities of hazardous materials include gas stations, auto
repair shops, medical facilities, and dry cleaners.

Larger businesses, primarily in the industrial areas,
can generate large quantities of hazardous products. The pollution of water from various sources can also create water which is hazardous to consume.

Oil Fields
Historically, Brea was founded as an oil community.

In Spanish, “brea” means tar, of which plenty was
discovered in the hills above the town. Oil fields in
Brea today contain producing wells and associated petroleum and natural gas facilities managed by a number of energy companies (see Figure
PS-7). Production levels fluctuate depending on
world energy prices. Many wells have been closed
and abandoned after years of operation. Property
owners continue to explore land use options for
sites with active and closed oil wells. Land use
policy limits development based on slopes and
other property constraints. Should an owner pursue
development, remediation will be necessary to
clean the sites and render them suitable for housing or other uses. Remediation can include cleanup operations to remove soils contaminated with hazardous materials common to oil fields.

Brea may continue to have oil wells and associated uses in its midst as long as production remains economically viable. The major area of potential of
environmental concern is oil spills. Spills can occur
adjacent to wells, at a storage tank, due to broken
pipes, and during operation and maintenance. A
secondary concern is explosions from gas plants
and pressurized facilities.

Oil Seeps
The Brea-Olinda oil field is one of the oldest producing regions in California. Natural oil seeps inspired early pioneers to drill for oil, leading to the discovery of the oil fields during the 1880s. Oil seeps are natural springs where liquid hydrocarbons (mixtures of crude
oil, tar, natural gas, and water) leak out of the ground.

Whereas freshwater springs are fed by underground
pools of water, oil seeps are fed by natural underground deposits of oil.

Unlike human-caused pollutants, most oil and gas
seeps are produced by natural geologic processes
that take place over millions of years. Though natural, they can nevertheless pollute air and watercourses. The emergence of oil seeps often occurs following a major earthquake. Oil seeps or concentrations of methane at explosive or near explosive limits can pose a constraint to development. 183
57 90
142
90 57
Valley View Ave
Lambert Rd
Harbor Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia Ave
Lakev ei w
Ave
BreaBlvd
Berry St
Fairm
ont Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Brea Blvd
State Col el ge Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Kellogg Dr
VillageCenter Dr
Palm Dr
Richfield Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Palm St
Associat ed Rd
Lambert Rd
Puente St
Whittier Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Bradford Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Central Ave
Kraemer Blvd
Birch St
Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Associated Rd
State College Blvd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Rose Dr
Brea Blvd
Valencia Ave
Associated
Rd

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
Carbon Canyon Creek
FullertonCreek
Coyote Creek
Brea Creek
MWD Lower Feeder
A nahe im Union Canal
FEMA Designations within Orange County
100-year Flood Zone
Regulatory Floodway
500-year Flood Zone
Area of Minimal Flood Hazard
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Major Rivers and Creeks
Sources: FEMA Map Service Center, NFHL_06059C, 5-9-2025; USGS Major Rivers and Creeks; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

FEMA Flood Map
Figure PS-5
unshaded
Carbon Canyon Dam
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 184
185
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Valley View Ave
Lambert Rd
Harbor Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia Ave
Lakev ei w
Ave
BreaBlvd
Berry St
Fairm
ont Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Brea Blvd
State Col el ge Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Kellogg Dr
VillageCenter Dr
Palm Dr
Richfield Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Palm St
Associat ed Rd
Lambert Rd
Puente St
Whittier Blvd
Bastanchury Rd
Bradford Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Central Ave
Kraemer Blvd
Birch St
Kraemer Blvd
Imperial Hwy
Associated Rd
State College Blvd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Rose Dr
Brea Blvd
Valencia Ave
Associated
Rd

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
30 MG Central Reservoir
Chino Ranch #1
Diemer No. 8
Orange County Reservoir
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Sources: DWR Dam Inundation Areas as of 1-21-2025; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Dam Failure Inundation Areas
Figure PS-6
Carbon Canyon Dam
Orange County
Reservoir
Carbon Canyon
Regional Park
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 186
187
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
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Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
or Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia
Av
e
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter
Dr
Palm St
Puente St Central Ave
Birch St Birch St Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
57 90
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90 57

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Whittier
Yorba Linda
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
Active Oil and Gas Wells
Sources: CalGEM 6-26-2025; City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Oil and Gas Wells
Figure PS-7
[ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 188
P ublic Saf et y
189
Climate Change and Resiliency Planning
Climate change is impacting environments both
locally and globally and is largely due to the rise
in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from human
activities. These changes are manifesting in consequences related to environmental health and infrastructure impacts for different countries, regions, and states, necessitating a change in public policy decision-making to adapt to a new environment. Resiliency planning presents strategies that help ensure that communities, ecosystems, and built infrastructure
are better equipped to withstand the environmental
impacts associated with climate change.

Over the next century, increasing atmospheric
GHG concentrations are expected to cause a variety of changes to global climate conditions, including sea level rise and storm surge in coastal areas, increased riverine flooding, and frequent higher
temperatures (leading to extreme heat events and
wildfires), particularly in inland areas. Local impacts stemming from climate related conditions range
from impacts to water quality and supply, public
health, air quality, wildfires, and infrastructure.

Since local governments largely determine the
shape of development through land use planning,
regulations, and implementing decisions, they play
an important role in developing climate change
strategies, including resiliency planning and adaptation. Inasmuch as Brea can play an important role in adaptation strategies through local land
use plans and policies, many climate adaptation
strategies will need to be coordinated as part of
a larger regional or Statewide strategy requiring
cooperation by many local governments and decision-making and regulatory bodies.

Environmental Setting
Communities in California are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment identifies the
Los Angeles Region (which includes Ventura, Los
Angeles, and Orange Counties, along with adjacent urbanized portions of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties) as especially vulnerable to
humans since approximately half the population of
the State calls the region home. The report’s key
projected climate changes include:
• Continued future warming over the Los Angeles
Region. Across the region, average maximum
temperatures are projected to increase by
around 4-5 degrees Fahrenheit (F) by mid-century and 5-8 degrees F by late-century. • Extreme temperatures are expected to
increase. The hottest day of the year may be
up to 10 degrees F warmer for many locations
across the Los Angeles Region by late-century
under the “business-as-usual” scenario. The
number of extremely hot days is also expected
to increase across the region.
• Despite small changes in average precipitation, dry and wet extremes are both expected to increase. By the late-21st Century, the wettest day of the year is expected to increase across most of the Los Angeles Region, with
some locations experiencing 25-30 percent
increases under the “business-as-usual” scenario. Increased frequency and severity of atmospheric river events are also projected to
occur.
• Sea levels are projected to continue to rise in
the future, but there is a large range based on
emissions scenarios and uncertainty in feedback in the climate system. Roughly 1-2 feet of sea level rise is projected by mid-century, and
the most extreme projections lead to 8-10 feet
of sea level rise by the end of the century.
• Projections indicate that wildfire may increase
over southern California, but there remains
uncertainty in quantifying future changes of
burned area over the Los Angeles Region.

Other studies have indicated that a variety of changes
to local climate conditions as a result of climate
change are expected to occur, leading to several
local conditions that may affect the region. For the City of Brea, possible future local conditions may include
increased urban flooding (from overwhelmed stormwater infrastructure), higher temperatures, more frequent heat waves (leading to extreme heat events), water quality and water supply impacts, impacts to
regional air quality (particularly from wildfires), and other public health impacts.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 190
Emergency Preparation and
Response
Emergency preparation and response are important components in ensuring that residents are ready for hazards and that first responders can
adequately serve residents in the event of a hazard
unfolding. The City has an Emergency Operations
Plan (EOP) which informed this Element and acts as
an extension to the State of California Emergency
Plan and the Orange County Operational Area
Emergency Operations Plan.

Preparedness
The Brea Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) Program educates residents on disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using training learned in a classroom and during practical exercises, CERT members can then assist others in their neighborhood or workplace immediately
following an event when professional emergency
responders may not be immediately available to
help. The program is administered by the City’s
Management Services Department.

P ublic Saf et y
191
Response
The Brea Fire Department and Brea Police Department respond to small and large-scale hazard events in Brea. The City strives to meet the evacuation response needs of the community, including hard-to-reach populations with functional and medical needs which may face challenges evacuating. Regarding mutual aid and coordination, the City of Brea is located within Cal OES Mutual
Aid Region I, and the Cal OES Southern Administrative Region. During local emergencies, mutual aid is requested by the Incident Commander. The
City of Brea’s Emergency Operation Plan includes
recommended National Incident Management
System and Standardized Emergency Management System training, which the City of Brea bases its training decisions on for designated emergency
personnel. Another important aspect of emergency response includes having visible and legible addresses present on residences, which allows emergency personnel to respond quickly to calls.

Policy PS-1.10 requires all streets, both public and
private, to be marked and visible and all street
addresses to be posted in plain view.

Emergency Response Facilities
Emergency response facilities are those activated
during an emergency and used to respond to
the hazard. The Brea Fire Department is the local
responsible agency for fire protection within the
City, including the City’s Very High Fire Hazard
Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). The City also abuts
VHFHSZ lands where the responsibility for fire
protection lies with the State of California (State
Responsibility Areas or SRAs).

Four fire stations located within the City serve Brea:
• Station No. 1, 555 N Berry Street (west side)
• Station No. 2, 200 Brea Boulevard (central
west)
• Station No. 3, 2600 Santa Fe Road (central
east)
• Station No. 4, 198 N Olinda Place (east side,
Carbon Canyon)
Critical Facilities and Facilities of
Concern
Critical facilities are buildings and infrastructure that are essential for the delivery of vital services or protection of a community. Critical facilities are owned, operated, and maintained by various agencies, not
just the City of Brea. They include emergency operation centers, healthcare facilities, police and fire stations, schools, and power stations. These facilities support critical community lifelines that enable the continuous operation of critical business and
government functions and are essential to human
health and safety or economic security. Damage
to these facilities caused by a hazard event has the
potential to impair response and recovery and may
lead to disruption of services. Facilities of concern
are less vital to safety and well-being, but may assist in evacuations, serve as assembly points or temporary shelters, or provide a supportive role in preparing for and recovering from hazard events. The LHMP identifies 14 critical and essential facilities
within Brea, including City Hall, the police and fire
stations, water infrastructure, etc. Refer to the LHMP
for a complete list of facilities.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 192
Evacuation Routes
In the event of an extreme fire, flood, or other circumstances, evacuation may be necessary. To preserve the lives of Brea residents, it is important to ensure that the routes used for evacuation are unobstructed and in good condition. Carbon
Canyon Road (SR-142) and SR-57 are critical
for evacuation from many areas of the City. Wildfires and other hazards, such as flood events, can isolate areas of the City and create severe health
and safety risks. Senate Bill 99, adopted in August
2020, requires the identification of neighborhoods
that have fewer than two emergency evacuation
routes. All neighborhoods in the City have more
than one emergency evacuation route; however,
there are some neighborhoods located in north and
east Brea which are of concern regarding emergency evacuation. These areas include Blackstone, Olinda Village and south of Olinda Village, and
Heritage Hills Neighborhood. Although each of
these neighborhoods have at least two emergency
evacuation routes, some areas within the neighborhood could be isolated in the event of a wildfire.

Figure PS-8 identifies the City’s primary emergency
evacuation routes. The Safety Element includes a
variety of policies to increase resilience to wildfire
in the community, including in these neighborhoods
of concern which are in or surrounded by Very High
Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

Additionally, the City’s Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP) evaluates route capacity, safety, and viability under a range of emergency scenarios per the requirements of Assembly Bill 747. The Emergency
Operations Plan is a cooperative effort between all
City of Brea departments and agencies that have
an emergency response role. The EOP establishes a
comprehensive framework of policy and guidance
for emergency and disaster response operations.

The EOP also details capabilities, authorities, and
responsibilities for specific individuals, divisions,
departments, agencies, and organizations within
the City of Brea.
193
Fu1//erton
\ .,.

LEGEND
D Brea City Boundary
1222 Brea Sphere of Influence
c::J Other Incorporated Area
, --
1 __ 1 County Boundary
\ ®
Proposed Roadway
Freeway
-Smart Street (Caltrans)
- Major Arterial
- Primary Arterial
-Modified Secondary Arterial
-1 j:IJ)
Bastanchurv Rd
Placentia
Yorba Linda Blvd
- Collector Roadway Unzoned LRA
Fire Hazard Severity Zone in Local Responsibility Areas Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas Very High
High
Moderate
-Very High
High
Moderate
Figure PS-8
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Identified Evacuation
Routes
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 194
P ublic Saf et y
195
Noise
Noise is generally defined as loud, unpleasant,
unexpected, or undesired sound and can disrupt
the way people live and work. The effects of noise
depend on its loudness, duration, and the time of
day. Many sources of excessive noise, such as construction equipment and high-volume transportation corridors, also can produce excessive vibration,
which can adversely affect health and well-being.

Based on the known effects of noise and vibration,
local, State, and Federal government agencies
have established noise thresholds to protect public
health and safety.

Certain land uses are more sensitive to higher levels
of noise and vibration. Residential uses, schools,
libraries, healthcare centers, senior homes, and recreational areas are much more sensitive to noise than commercial and industrial uses. Locating new
development of any of these sensitive receptors in
the vicinity of noise-intensive commercial or industrial uses can adversely affect sensitive receptors and is considered a potential land use conflict. The
goals and policies in this Element promote a healthy
noise environment in Brea for sensitive receptors
and commercial and industrial uses.

In Brea, street and freeway traffic represent the
primary noise sources. Industrial and commercial
activity present concerns when adjacent to residential neighborhoods. In addition, mechanical equipment, playgrounds, leaf blowers, and construction equipment are examples of random noise sources
that can contribute to neighborhood noise.

Tables PS-1 and PS-2 establish the acceptable
noise standards within the City and Figure PS-9
illustrates future noise contours at studied roadway
segments.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 196
Land Use Category
Community Noise Exposure
Ldn or CNEL, dB
55 60 65 70 75 80
Residential- Low Density Single Family,
Duplex, Mobile Homes
Residential- Multi Family
Transient Lodging- Motels, Hotels
Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals,
Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters
Sports Arena, Outdoor Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks
Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water
Recreation, Cemeteries
Office Buildings, Business Commercial
and Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities,
Agriculture
Table PS-1: California Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environment Normally Acceptable
Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements.

Conditionally Acceptable
New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design. Conventional construction, but with closed windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning will normally suffice.

Normally Unacceptable
New construction or development should generally be discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the design.

Clearly Unacceptable
New construction or development should generally not be undertaken. 197
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L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
or Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia
Av
e
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter
Dr
Palm St
Puente St
Central Ave
Birch St Birch St Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
State
College
Blvd
10 9 5
1 8
2 4
3 6 7
11 12
Chino Hills
Diamond Bar
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Heights
Placentia
Yorba Linda
Road Contour Sections
CNEL (in dBA)
>=70
65 - 70
60-65
55-60
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
Other Incorporated Area
County Boundary
0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Future Noise Contours
Figure PS-9
[ this page intentionally blank ]
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 198
P ublic Saf et y
199
Noise Level Descriptor Daytime Nighttime
7am to 10 pm 10 pm to 7 am
Hourly Leq, dBA 55 50
Table PS-2: Performance Standards for Stationary Noise Sources, Including Affected Projects 1,2,3,4

1. Each of the noise levels specified above should be lowered by 5 dB for simple noise tones, noises consisting primarily of speech or music, or recurring impulsive noises. Such noises are generally considered to be particularly annoying and are a primary source of noise complaints.

2. No standards have been included for interior noise levels. Standard construction practices should, with the exterior noise levels identified, result in acceptable interior noise levels.

3. Stationary noise sources which are typically of concern include, but are not limited to, the following:

HVAC Systems Cooling Towers/Evaporative Condensers
Pump Stations Lift Stations
Emergency Generators Boilers
Steam Valves Steam Turbines
Generators Fans
Air Compressors Heavy Equipment
Conveyor Systems Transformers
Pile Drivers Grinders
Drill Rigs Gas or Diesel Motors
Welders Cutting Equipment
Outdoor Speakers Blowers

4. The types of uses which may typically produce the noise sources described above include, but are not limited to: industrial facilities, pump stations, trucking operations, tire shops, auto maintenance shops, metal fabricating shops, shopping centers, drive-up windows, car washes, loading docks, public works projects, batch plants, bottling and canning plants, recycling centers, electric generating stations, race tracks, landfills, sand and gravel operations, and athletic fields.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 200
Goal PS-1
A community that is minimally
impacted by wildland and urban fires
through implementation of proactive
fire hazard abatement strategies.

WILDLAND FIRE
The City’s location abutting the Puente and Chino
Hills and areas of natural open space and vegetation, when combined with long dry seasons, significantly increases the risk of wildland fires and
urban fires. The establishment of policies and procedures to mitigate potential impacts of wildfires and urban fires will contribute to the protection of
life and property for Brea’s residents.

P ublic Saf et y
201
PS-1 Policies
PS-1.1 Services and Facilities. Provide adequate fire prevention services and facilities to meet the service standards identified by the Fire Department. EJ PS-1.2 Fire Hazard Identification. Maintain and regularly update the City’s Fire Hazard Severity Zones map (Figure PS-1) for changes in fire hazard severity zones consistent with changes in hazard designations by CAL FIRE.

PS-1.3 City Standards. Require that all development in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (HFHSZ) and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) meet Fire Hazard Severity Zone standards as designated by City Ordinance.

PS-1.4 Regional Coordination. Continue to coordinate with the County of Orange, the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), and the Carbon Canyon Fire Safe Council to include Brea in updates to the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and Community Wildfire Protection Plan and investigate the possibility of preparing a plan component specific to the Brea community.

PS-1.5 Development in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Minimize new residential development in VHFHSZs to the extent feasible.

PS-1.6 Fire Protection Plans. Require adequate fire protection plans and emergency vehicle access for new developments in VHFHSZs.

PS-1.7 Fire Protection Buffers. Require fire breaks and fuel breaks between natural areas and developed areas susceptible to wildland fires, particularly in the VHFHSZ. Fire breaks (i.e. gaps in vegetation or combustible material achieved by completely scrapping an area to bare mineral soil) and fuel breaks (i.e. where vegetation is reduced in size to slow progression but is still present) shall be maintained at private expense and on private property in compliance with the applicable standards and regulations of the Fire Department.

PS-1.8 Fire Safe Design. Encourage fire safe design (i.e. fire-resistant building and site design, materials, and landscaping) for development within VHFHSZs as part of the development review process.

PS-1.9 Fire Hazard Reduction Projects. Coordinate with the Fire Department to identify and maintain fire hazard reduction projects, including community fire breaks and private road and public road clearance.

PS-1.10 Standards for New Development. Require ongoing brush management, fuel management/modification, defensible space, fire-resistant landscaping, visible home and street addressing and signage, and other project design features for new development located in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones as part of the review process.

PS-1.11 Rebuilding After a Fire. Coordinate with the Fire Department to identify building and site design methods or other methods to minimize future damage if new structures are proposed to be in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone when rebuilding after a fire.

PS-1.12 Adequate Water Supply. Require development to demonstrate conclusively that there is adequate water capacity to provide necessary fire protection services.

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PS-1.13 Response Time. Require all new development to demonstrate that fire response times and service standards are maintained, as determined by the Brea Fire Department and any adopted strategic plans.

PS-1.14 Access. Require sufficient ingress/egress access points in all new development to support firefighting activities, as determined by the Fire Department.

PS-1.15 Education. Educate community members (residents, builders, property owners, employers) on fire hazards, fire safety measures, and local, regional, State, and Federal assistance programs, with a special focus on at-risk populations, such as those with limited mobility EJ .

PS-1.16 Subdivision Map Act. Ensure compliance with the Subdivision Map Act requirements for structural fire protection and suppression services, subdivision requirements for on/offsite improvements, ingress and egress, street standards, and other concerns.

PS-1.17 Building and Fire Codes. Require that all new developments in the City comply with local, State, and Federal regulatory standards such as the California Building and Fire Codes as well as other applicable fire safety standards.

PS-1.18 Critical Facilities and Structures. Locate, when feasible, new essential public facilities and infrastructure outside of VHFHSZs, including but not limited to, hospitals and health care facilities, emergency shelters, emergency command centers, emergency communication facilities, and utilities or identify construction methods or other methods to minimize damage if these facilities must be located in VHFHSZs.

PS-1.19 Mutual Aid. Maintain mutual aid agreements with the State, County, and neighboring jurisdictions including for disaster response and evacuation assistance.

PS-1.20 Public Information. Continue annual public information programs that explain the City’s Emergency Preparedness Program and other emergency preparedness strategies, including defensible space and evacuative routes, focusing on the most vulnerable communities such as those in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. EJ P ublic Saf et y
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PS-1 Actions
PS-1a Maintain and regularly update the City’s Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map for changes in fire hazard severity zones consistent with changes in hazard designations by CAL FIRE.

PS-1b Maintain an ongoing fire inspection program to reduce fire hazards associated with multifamily development, critical facilities, public assembly facilities, industrial buildings, and nonresidential buildings.

PS-1c Mitigate, as feasible, existing nonconforming development to contemporary fire safety standards, including road standards and vegetative hazards.

PS-1d Assess site constraints when considering land use designations near wildlands to avoid or minimize wildfire hazards as part of a land use update or amendment.

PS-1e Locate, design, and construct development to provide adequate defensibility against wildland fires and minimize the risk of structural loss from wildland fires.

PS-1f Design development on hillsides and canyons to reduce the increased risk of fires from topographic features (e.g., steep slopes, ridge saddles).

PS-1g Review proposed development projects and street networks to evaluate the accessibility for fire engines and other emergency response functions.

PS-1h Conduct periodic evaluations on fire flow pressures in the City in conjunction with updates to the Water Master Plan. Collaborate with the appropriate water providers on necessary upgrades to ensure adequate fire protection.

PS-1i Work with CAL FIRE, United States Forest Service, United States Geologic Service, and applicable nongovernmental agencies to jointly create a plan to address post-fire recovery activities and projects that allow burned areas to fully recover and minimize repetitive losses and further damage.

PS-1j In the event of a significant wildfire, the City shall immediately coordinate with relevant Federal, State, and local agencies, including but not limited to the USDA, USFS, CAL FIRE, the Orange County Flood Control District, and the Orange County Fire Authority to establish and implement, as feasible, a flooding and debris flow prediction and monitoring program. The intent of the program shall be to map and assess the likelihood of debris flow (in %), potential volume of debris flow (in m3), and combined relative debris flow hazard.

In the event that a flood or debris flow risk is predicted during a subsequent storm event, implement procedures contained in the Emergency Operations Plan to notify residents and business owners of evacuation orders in affected areas. This action is written and adopted with the understanding that the City of Brea does not possess the resources to implement such a monitoring program independently and must rely on the expertise and resources of outside agencies.

PS-1k Continue to require that all new habitable structures be designed in accordance with the most recent California Building and Fire Codes with local amendments adopted by the City, including the use of fire sprinklers in residential structures.

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Goal PS-2
Reduce risk to the community from
seismic activity and geologic
conditions, including ground shaking,
fault rupture, liquefaction, and
landslides.

Brea is located within a highly active seismic region.

To ensure the safety of Brea residents and the City’s
economic integrity, demonstrated efforts must be
undertaken to protect residents from the potential
loss of life and property due to seismic events. The
City seeks to coordinate citywide planning policies
to reduce potential hazards associated with a geologic or seismic event.

PS-2 Policies
PS-2.1 Geologic Hazard Identification. Maintain and continuously update the City’s geologic and seismic hazards map (Figure PS-3) consistent with updates from the California Geologic Survey and local surveys.

PS-2.2 Hillside Development. In areas subject to the City’s Hillside Zoning Ordinance, require a Geotechnical Investigation per CBC Chapter 18, Section 1803.1 to consider effects of the proposed development on adjacent upslope and downslope areas as well as on the site itself.

PS-2.3 Alquist-Priolo Act. Enforce development requirements, such as seismic study analyses, project siting, and project design features for proposed developments within the earthquake fault zones identified on the maps prepared by the State geologist (data shown in Figure PS-2) pursuant to the Alquist-Priolo Act.

PS-2.4 Building Codes. Adhere to the latest California Building Codes, Orange County Grading and Excavation Code, and regulations governing earth work and grading during construction, and hillside grading guidelines to minimize erosion; update local codes periodically for the latest advances.

PS-2.5 Critical Infrastructure and Facilities. Require that existing and future critical infrastructure and facilities (e.g., police, medical facilities, fire, roads, reservoirs, etc.) incorporate site-specific seismic structural design.

GEOLOGIC AND

SEISMIC HAZARDS
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PS-2.6 Liquefaction. Require special site-specific studies for new developments in areas potentially subject to liquefaction (shown in Figure PS-3) to determine the nature and extent of possible liquefaction and to identify engineering and development siting measures.

PS-2.7 Education. Compile and distribute earthquake preparedness information to residents, business owners, and schools; work with partners to conduct periodic inspections and preparedness events.

PS-2.8 Retrofitting Buildings. Encourage owners of potentially hazardous buildings (e.g., mobile homes and soft-story structures) to assess seismic vulnerability and conduct seismic retrofitting as necessary to improve resistance to earthquakes.

PS-2.9 Historic Hazards. Discourage development in identified potential and historical landslide and flood plain areas which cannot be mitigated through regulation.

PS-2.10 Maintain Water Supply. Ensure that water supplies are not interrupted by seismic events such as surface rupture, ground shaking, ground failure, or dam failure. 206
PS-2 Actions
PS-2a Review development proposals to ensure compliance with California Health and Safety Code Section (Earthquake Protection Law), which requires that buildings be designed to resist stresses produced by natural forces such as earthquakes and wind.

PS-2b Update building, zoning, and other applicable codes as needed to ensure adopted standards mitigate potential seismic hazards and comply with the Alquist-Priolo Act and Unreinforced Masonry Law.

PS-2c Establish a public relations and education program to increase public awareness of potential geologic and seismic hazards in the community, their associated risks, and preparedness strategies.

PS-2d Enact an ordinance which requires a preliminary soils report, prepared by a civil engineer who is registered by the state. The report shall be based upon adequate test borings or excavations, of every subdivision, where a tentative and final map is required persuant to Section 66426 of the Government Code.

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Goal PS-3
Protect the community from potential
flood hazards.

Brea is susceptible to limited flooding, but significant flooding events have occurred periodically and have had a demonstrated impact on the
safety and property of Brea residents. To reduce
the potential impacts of flooding on the safety and
economic integrity of the City’s residents, it is important to ensure disaster planning is coordinated with local planning decisions.

PS-3 Policies
PS-3.1 Flood Hazard Identification. Maintain and continuously update the City’s flood map (Figure PS-5) consistent with FEMA map amendments and improvements to local drainage facilities.

PS-3.2 New Development. Avoid and minimize flood risks for new development.

PS-3.3 Areas Susceptible to Flooding. Reduce flood hazards in developed areas susceptible to flooding (i.e. 100-year floodplain and areas known to the City to flood during intense or prolonged rainfall events) and require new development in these areas to incorporate measures designed to mitigate flood hazards.

PS-3.4 Education. Educate the community regarding flood prevention information and notify residents and motorists of impending flood hazards and evacuation procedures. EJ PS-3.5 Joint Use of Flood Control Facilities. Develop flood control facilities as parks, nature trails, golf courses, or other types of recreational facilities or joint-use facilities that can withstand periodic inundation, to the extent feasible.

PS-3.6 Interagency Coordination. Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions and public agencies responsible for flood protection to consider the impact to flooding and flood control measures on properties within Brea resulting from development in other jurisdictions.

FLOOD HAZARDS
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PS-3.7 Stormwater Runoff. Require new developments that add substantial amounts of impervious surfaces to integrate low impact development (LID) best management practices (BMPs) to treat stormwater runoff and to reduce stormwater runoff rates to pre-development flows.

PS-3.8 Critical Facilities. Prohibit development of new essential and critical facilities and lifeline services in the 100-year floodplain.

PS-3.9 Open Space Area. Preserve open space areas for flood mitigation when possible.

PS-3.10 Flood Control Facilities. Continue to coordinate with the Orange County Flood Control District to encourage the improvement of channel segments to alleviate local flooding, in accordance with the City’s Stormwater Program.

PS-3.11 Infrastructure Maintenance. Maintain an active storm drain inspection program.

PS-3.12 Water Storage Facilities. Evaluate and monitor water storage facilities to determine which facilities are not self-contained and might pose an inundation hazard to downstream properties.

PS-3 Actions
PS-3a Monitor changes in Federal and State laws and regulations related to local flood protection, including the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and incorporate necessary changes into the Municipal Code, the City’s Emergency Operations Plan, and building codes as required and ensure that the City’s regulations continue to require that new development within flood hazard zones is consistent with this Safety Element and is required to meet the flood protection requirements of State law.

PS-3b Provide information on flooding, flood control on private property, floodplains, and flood preparedness to the public.

PS-3c Communicate with FEMA annually regarding updates to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Letter of Map Amendments.

PS-3d Periodically review county, State, and Federal flood control best practices and incorporate appropriate standards into the Municipal Code.

PS-3e Adopt a flood hazard map and supporting data complaint with CBC Chapter 16, Section 1612
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Goal PS-4
Protect the community by ensuring
safe transport, use, storage, and
disposal of hazardous materials
within the City.

Many industrial businesses and oil production and
processing companies are permitted to handle,
store, and transport hazardous materials in Brea.

However, many of these products and associated
by-products present hazards to human health. The
potential threat to the community by these hazards
must be addressed through precautionary actions
and contingency plans.

HAZARDOUS

MATERIALS
PS-4 Policies
PS-4.1 Regulations. Enforce the California Fire Code as it regulates the use of hazardous materials, ensuring appropriate laws are followed and precautions are taken for the type and amount of hazard being created.

PS-4.2 Measures to Reduce Risks. Require facilities that handle hazardous waste and materials to implement measures that reduce the risks associated with hazardous material production, storage, and disposal; incorporate the standards of the Hazardous Waste Management Plan for Orange County with regard to siting, development controls, and review procedures.

PS-4.3 Transport. Limit the transport of hazardous waste and materials to designated routes.

PS-4.4 Emergency Response. Ensure that the Fire Department can continue to respond safely and effectively to a hazardous materials incident in the City.

PS-4.5 Regional Compliance. Coordinate with responsible Federal, State, and county agencies to identify and regulate the disposal of toxic materials.

PS-4.6 Education. Prepare and distribute educational materials to the community regarding illegal dumping, the dangers of hazardous waste, and City and County hazardous waste management plans. EJ
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PS-4.7 Oil Fields. Work closely with responsible State and Federal agencies to ensure that active oil field operations comply with all current regulations and, once oil field operations cease, that appropriate closure and clean-up activities occur.

PS-4.8 Abandoned Oil Facilities. Continue to support the regulations of the California Geologic Energy Management Division (CalGEM) regarding abandoned oil facilities.

PS-4.9 Remediation. Require comprehensive investigation, disclosures, and remediation of any former oil field property proposed for an alternative use, in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local regulations.

PS-4 Actions
PS-4a As part of the development review process, require projects that would result in significant risks associated with hazardous materials to include measures to address the hazards and reduce the risks to an acceptable level.

PS-4b Continue to require the submittal of information to the Fire Department regarding hazardous materials manufacturing, storage, use, transport, and/or disposal by existing and proposed businesses and developments.

PS-4c Continue to promote off-site hazardous materials and/or electronic waste drop-off.

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Climate change has the potential to increase the
severity of various natural hazards and impacts in
Brea. Climate change refers to changes in conditions that result from increased atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations, which are linked to an increase in average global temperature. The
increase in global temperature and GHG, among
other impacts, results in a series of changes to the
global climate. The City of Brea can implement policies at the local level to help the community adapt to climate change.

Goal PS-5
A community resilient to changing
environmental patterns, including
severe weather events and other
adverse effects on public health, wellbeing, and safety.

CLIMATE CHANGE

AND RESILIENCY

PLANNING
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PS-5 Policies
PS-5.1 Community Preparedness and Engagement. Educate the community regarding potential hazards caused by climate change and develop programs and educational material to encourage public readiness.

PS-5.2 Collaboration. Collaborate with local, regional, State, and/or Federal jurisdictions and agencies on climate resiliency and adaptation strategies.

PS-5.3 Energy Supply. Promote plans and programs that increase sustainable energy sources.

PS-5.4 Water Supply. Promote plans and programs and collaborate with local, regional, State, and Federal jurisdictions to increase sustainable water sources and protect water infrastructure.

PS-5.5 Programs. Implement necessary actions and programs to improve drought preparation and response, especially for the most vulnerable community members.

PS-5.6 Leadership. Demonstrate leadership in local climate planning efforts through a range of tangible actions and policies at the municipal operations level.

PS-5.7 Storms. Provide access to flood protection resources and services (signage, sandbags, etc.) at designated public facilities before and during extreme weather events.

PS-5.8 Special Assistance. Ensure that individuals with limited mobility or limited access to transportation have equitable access to safe and comfortable shelter during extreme heat events or other severe weather events. EJ
PS-5.9 Greenhouse Gas Reductions. Reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by actively supporting regional efforts to reduce greenhouse gases.

PS-5.10 Monitoring. Monitor climate change-related effects with local, regional, State, and/or Federal partners to provide information on effectiveness of existing infrastructure and programs.

PS-5.11 Extreme Heat Vulnerabilities. Encourage new developments, major remodels, and redevelopments to address urban heat island issues and reduce urban heat island effects for the proposed project site and adjacent properties.

PS-5.12 Nature-Based Solutions. Prioritize, when possible, nature-based solutions, such as floodplain reconnection, wetland/creek restoration, urban tree canopy, or cool pavements, to minimize flood, heat, wildfire, and drought risks.

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PS-5 Actions
PS-5a Provide information and resources to the public regarding steps the City is taking to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.

PS-5b Implement energy-efficient street lights such as LEDs as funding becomes available.

PS-5c Consider purchasing only electric or alternative-energy vehicles for the City vehicle fleet, as appropriate, based on the intended use of the vehicle.

PS-5d Evaluate the feasibility of newly constructed and/or operated City facilities to meet or exceed the CalGreen Tier 1 (or successor program) standards.

PS-5e Encourage the use of sustainable and carbon-neutral energy sources in new development.

PS-5f Explore using renewable energy and clean generation technologies such as solar, wind, biogas, or fuel cells to power City facilities where appropriate.

PS-5g Implement actions and programs to improve drought preparation and response, especially for the most vulnerable community members.

PS-5h Provide access to flood protection resources and services (signage, sandbags, etc.) as feasible at designated public facilities during and after extreme weather events.

PS-5i Encourage the use of sustainable and carbon-neutral energy sources in new development.

PS-5j Encourage the use of transit and active transportation modes in new developments to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

PS-5k Educate the public about designated cooling centers and other places they can go for shelter and assistance during extreme heat events.

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Goal PS-6
A City that is well-prepared for
emergency response and disaster
management to minimize impacts to
people, property, the environment,
and essential services.

Local and regional wildfire and flooding events
have demonstrated the need to ensure disaster
planning and preparation are coordinated with
local planning decisions. The concerns over the
physical safety of Brea residents and the potential
impacts to life and property should, therefore, be
a consideration in all citywide planning decisions.

EMERGENCY

PREPAREDNESS
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PS-6 Policies
PS-6.1 Critical Facilities. Coordinate with service providers to ensure the resilience of critical facilities, lifeline services, and infrastructure, and plan for the use of critical facilities during post-disaster response and recovery.

PS-6.2 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Update Brea’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) on a regular basis to reflect changing conditions, best practices, regulatory environment, and advancements in knowledge, and to maintain eligibility for public assistance grants.

PS-6.3 Communication. Maintain proper communication protocols and procedures among emergency services providers; local, State, and Federal government agencies; businesses; schools; utility providers; and other relevant parties to ensure quick and efficient response in the event of an emergency.

PS-6.4 Education. Prepare the community for comprehensive and efficient emergency response including safe and secure evacuation routes. EJ
PS-6.5 Automatic and Mutual Aid. Continue to participate in automatic and mutual aid agreements with adjacent service providers to ensure efficient and adequate resources, facilities, and support services during and after emergencies.

PS-6.6 Emergency Evacuation Routes and Access. Work with the Fire Department and Police Department to define minimum standards for evacuation of residential areas, particularly in HFHSZs and VHFHSZs, and to maintain, update, and regularly exercise emergency access, protocols, and evacuation routes to assess their effectiveness under a range of emergency scenarios. If areas with inadequate evacuation routes are identified, develop appropriate mitigation measures, improvement plans, or education programs to ensure safe evacuation.

PS-6.7 Emergency Shelters. Periodically review emergency shelters to ensure that necessary equipment and supplies are available in case of emergency.

PS-6.8 Collaboration. Strengthen emergency services preparedness and response by linking emergency services with local hazard mitigation programs and enhancing public education on a regional scale.

PS-6.9 Institutions. Regularly coordinate with the City’s major institutions, schools, employers, and homeowners’ associations regarding emergency response procedures.

PS-6.10 Volunteer Service. Continue to support volunteer service programs for emergency preparedness and disaster relief such as the City of Brea Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

PS-6.11 Warning Systems. Maintain and regularly upgrade a mass communications system to effectively notify people during disasters and emergencies by using current communication technologies.

PS-6.12 Strategic Readiness. Maintain a proactive, data-driven public safety system through recurring five-year strategic planning that aligns resources, facilities, staffing, and technology with community risk and growth.

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PS-6 Actions
PS-6a Regularly practice implementation of the City’s Emergency Operations Plan and update the plan regularly.

PS-6b Regularly review County and State emergency response procedures that must be coordinated with City procedures.

PS-6c Continue to implement the City of Brea’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.

PS-6d Explore grant programs (e.g., FEMA AFG/SAFER, Cal OES, CAL FIRE prevention) that could assist with implementation of the PS-6 Action items.

PS-6e Prepare and maintain comprehensive five-year strategic plans for both the Fire and Police Departments, updated on a recurring five-year cycle, with annual progress reporting. Plans shall: (a) assess community risk and service demand; (b) define service level objectives; (c) identify facilities, staffing, apparatus/equipment, technology, and organizational design needs; (d) include a Gap/SWOT analysis; (e) perform interdepartmental stakeholder engagement; (f) develop and deploy a Community Survey; and (g) provide a phased, costed implementation action plan. In preparing the plan, the draft strategic plan shall be presented to the public for feedback prior to adoption of the final strategic plan. Once adopted, the five-year strategic plans shall be updated at least every five years and after any annexations or significant development approvals.

PS-6f Prepare and periodically update the following technical studies related to the Fire Department’s five-year plan, which may proceed independently or in combination:
• Community Risk Assessment / Standards of Cover (CRA/SOC) (consistent with NFPA/ CPSE frameworks)
• Facility Condition & Siting Assessments (including seismic, capacity, and location/coverage analyses) P ublic Saf et y
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• Staffing & Workforce Analysis (including succession and training needs) • Apparatus & Equipment Lifecycle Plan (replacement schedules and deployment models) • Technology & Communications Plan (CAD/RMS/MDT, alerting, radios, station alerting, data systems)
PS-6g When evaluating public safety impacts of new developments, the methodology shall consider the following at minimum; however, the City may allow alternate methodology on a case-by-case basis:
• Service Demand Units (SDUs) estimated by land-use type and intensity • Population/employee growth and special risk factors (e.g., WUI, hazardous occupancies, vertical development) • Network travel-time isochrones and station coverage impacts relative to SLOs • Unit-Hour Utilization (UHU) and workload balancing by company • Facility/apparatus/staffing triggers when thresholds are exceeded PS-6h Publish and maintain a Public Safety Impact Methodology Manual (administrative document) specifying data sources, formulas, GIS methods, thresholds, and mitigation options; update administratively as best practices and local data evolve.

PS-6i Adopt public safety Service Level Objectives (SLOs) for both Fire and Police Departments, informed by nationally recognized practices (e.g., NFPA 1710/1720/1225 as applicable) and local risk. SLOs may include turnout, travel and total response time percentiles, inspection cycles, training targets, unit-hour utilization thresholds, and community risk-reduction benchmarks.

PS-6j The Fire and Police Departments shall provide annual report on the adopted SLO. Mid-cycle adjustments shall be permitted on as needed basis.

PS-6k Require major developments (e.g. Specific Plans, General Plan Amendments, Tentative Tract Maps, large-scale projects, phased projects, etc.) to be phased and/or conditioned so that they do not cause material degradation of adopted response performance, coverage, or unit-hour utilization beyond thresholds specified by Council.

PS-6l If impacts to public safety are identified for new development, require fair-share contribution to mitigate such impact, using one or more tools, such as, but not limited to, public safety impact fees, development agreements, CFDs/Mello-Roos, in-lieu contributions, land dedication for facilities, or direct provision of facilities/apparatus/technology.

PS-6m Maintain consistency between the five-year strategic plans, the General Plan, Capital Improvement Program (CIP), Budget, EOP, and LHMP. Updates to LHMP and EOP shall incorporate relevant findings from the Fire five-year strategic plan and CRA/SOC.

PS-6n Maintain standardized public safety data (CAD/RMS, inspections, training, risk, GIS layers, development pipeline) and publish an annual scorecard tracking SLOs, workload, risk trends, capital status, and development impacts.

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Goal PS-7
A community whose residential
neighborhoods and sensitive uses
are minimally impacted by noise
from freeways, motor vehicle traffic,
and stationary noise sources.

The City of Brea seeks to minimize the noise impacts
associated with transportation and non-transportation noise sources to the greatest extent feasible.

Minimizing these impacts requires the evaluation of
existing noise sources and coordination of appropriate mitigation through design and policy considerations.

NOISE
PS-7 Policies
PS-7.1 Land Use Decisions. Consider existing and future noise levels when making land use planning decisions and require measures to reduce significant noise impacts to the extent feasible.

PS-7.2 Sensitive Uses. Locate sensitive facilities such as residential uses, schools, medical facilities, libraries, churches, and convalescent homes away from areas of excessive noise unless proper noise reduction measures are in place. EJ
PS-7.3 Site Design. Protect noise-sensitive uses from excessive noise levels by incorporating site planning and project design techniques to minimize noise impacts. The use of noise barriers shall be considered after all practical design-related noise measures have been integrated into the project. In cases where sound walls are necessary, designs of such sound walls must consider other project features such as setbacks, changes in alignment, detail, and texture, murals, pedestrian access, and landscaping to be integrated into the project design. EJ PS-7.4 Mixed Use Development. Ensure that mixed use structures and projects are designed to minimize transfer of noise and vibration from nonresidential areas to residential areas.

PS-7.5 Special Events. Specific events which generate noise in excess of local noise standards may be considered on a case-by-case basis when they contribute to the quality of life for the Brea community.

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PS-7.6 Noise Control. Utilize innovative noise abatement, design techniques, and other mitigation strategies – including staggered operating hours, insulation, building setbacks, noise barriers, placement of parking and utility areas, and building orientation – to ensure that noise levels do not exceed the limits in the Brea City Code.

PS-7.7 Roadway Noise. Encourage nonmotorized transportation alternatives for local trips and the implementation of noise sensitivity measures in the public realm, including traffic-calming road design, lateral separation, natural buffers, and landscaped setbacks to decrease excessive motor vehicle noise along major arterials.

PS-7.8 Highway Noise. Coordinate with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to achieve maximum noise abatement in the design of new highway projects or improvements, which could include alignment, barriers, lateral separation, or other innovative techniques.

PS-7.9 Vehicles and Trucks. Monitor and enforce existing speed limits and motor vehicle codes requiring adequate mufflers on all types of vehicles traveling through the City and compliance with designated truck routes.

PS-7.10 Interjurisdictional Coordination. Coordinate with Orange County and neighboring jurisdictions as necessary to minimize noise conflicts between land uses along the City’s boundaries.

PS-7.11 Nuisance Noise. Minimize noise nuisances through the Brea City Code.

PS-7 Actions
PS-7a Update the Brea City Code to ensure that the noise standards are consistent with this General Plan, and to require new residential, mixed use with a residential component, and other noise-sensitive development to be designed to minimize noise exposure for noise-sensitive uses through incorporation of site planning and architectural techniques. The update shall also include noise standards for residential uses within a mixed use development, which may differ from other adopted residential noise standards.

PS-7b Review new development projects for compliance with the noise requirements established in this General Plan, including the standards established in Tables PS-1 and PS-2. Where necessary, require new development to mitigate excessive noise through best practices, including building location and orientation, building design features, placement of noise-generating equipment away from sensitive receptors, shielding of noise-generating equipment, placement of noise-tolerant features between noise sources and sensitive receptors, and use of noise-minimizing materials such as rubberized asphalt.

PS-7c Require acoustical studies for all new discretionary project where appropriate, which have the potential to generate noise impacts or include sensitive uses that would be exposed to noise levels that exceed the standards identified in this General Plan. The studies shall include representative noise measurements, estimates of existing and projected noise levels, and mitigation measures necessary to ensure compliance with this Element. [ this page intentionally blank ]
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Economic Development
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06 Economic Development
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Economic Development
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INTRODUCTION
The Economic Development Element is intended to
guide the City’s future policy decisions in service of
supporting and strengthening the local economy.

Although not required by law to be included in the
General Plan, the Economic Development Element
is included to recognize and promote economic
vibrancy and resiliency as a central aspect of
planning for Brea’s future. While presented as a
separate chapter, the policies contained within the
Economic Development Element are intertwined
with those found in the other Elements of the General Plan. Decisions made around the topics of these other Elements, such as Land use, Housing,
Mobility, Community Resources, and Community
Services, impact economic development, and vice
versa.

A healthy local economy consists of a highly trained
and educated workforce, diversified businesses,
accessibility to major highways and freeways,
housing opportunities, support for businesses,
and infrastructure ready to serve technologically
advanced businesses. With these features, Brea
can attract, retain, and expand the City’s business
community. As a result, this will ensure Brea’s fiscal
health, allowing for a high level of public services
and programs. Economic Development goals can
set the tone and direction for the business community in Brea, and beyond.

Given market conditions and trends in Brea and its
location in the region, there are a number of key
opportunities in which the City has the greatest ability to promote economic stability and development.

The goals and policies identified in the Economic
Development Element are focused on these areas
of opportunity and underscore the City’s commitment to being a place where workers, residents, visitors, and businesses can thrive, today and into
the future. The policies are followed by suggested
actions that can support implementation. These
actions are not intended as programmatic, as the
most appropriate implementation measure may
evolve based on State law, economic conditions,
and other factors.

ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT
The Economic Development Element integrates economic health with City planning to ensure Brea’s long-term fiscal resilience and high-quality public services. By prioritizing business growth and workforce development, this framework guides policy decisions to create a thriving environment for residents and businesses alike.

Organization of Element
The Element is organized into three goals, as
follows:
• Diverse and Resilient Economy
• Business-Friendly Environment
• Workforce Attraction and Retention
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EXISTING

CONDITIONS
History of Brea’s Economy
Historically, Brea’s economy has been shaped by
the oil industry. The Union Oil Company established
various leases across Southern California, including
operations in the Puente Hills area. Tanks, pipes,
engines, and other equipment began to spread
along the Brea and Carbon Canyons. Drilling in the
Brea-Olinda field began in 1896, driving development to the region.

Brea’s citrus industry also provided alternative
employment opportunities during tough economic
times in the 1930s. However, disease affected many
orchards, which led to the conversion of farmland
into residential developments. Additionally, one
major employer was Union Oil, which developed a
state-of-the-art research facility, contributing significantly to local employment. However, by the end of the 1940s, oil demand decreased, pushing the
City to diversify its local economy by spurring new
housing development and commercial businesses.

In the 1970s, Orange Freeway (SR-57) was constructed running north-south of the City, connecting Brea to Glendora and Garden Grove, as well as
other cities in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and
San Bernadino Counties, through direct connections to Interstate 5 (I-5), State Route 22 (SR-22), State Route 60 (SR-60), and State Route 91 (SR91). The construction of this new freeway in the area ushered in growth in the City, contributing to
a transition in the local economy. The central and
convenient location of Brea led to the development
of industrial parks and other retail areas, such as
the Brea Mall in 1977, establishing Brea as a key
regional commercial center. New commercial
jobs in Brea helped drive residential development,
which quickly sold out due to high demand.

As a result of rapid economic and residential growth
in the 1970s, Brea started investing in programs that
established the City as a center of economic promise. The City started its nationally-acclaimed Art in Public Places program in 1975 to provide permanent, outdoor artwork accessible to the general public. Additionally, Brea’s original downtown was
revitalized in the 1990s, transforming the area into
a vibrant entertainment, retail, and special events
destination.

Overview of Industries in Brea
Brea has a very strong entrepreneurial spirit: about
70% of the City’s business license holders comprise of smaller, family-owned businesses.1 Today,
Brea continues to be a popular community to live,
work, and play. Brea’s existing diverse economy
and ideal location provides a variety of local and
regional employment opportunities.

Retail
Brea is a regional commercial hub, providing
a variety of goods and services for many North
Orange County residents and the greater region.

The City’s unique retail and dining landscape offers
an array of options in various areas, such as Brea
Downtown, Brea Mall, Brea Union Plaza, Gateway Center, La Floresta and other prominent commercial centers. In 2023, Brea Mall initiated the redevelopment of 15.5-acres of its property into a
mixed use residential and commercial space, inclusive of a resort-style fitness center and a “central green” plaza for informal gatherings. As described
in the Market Analysis prepared in support of Brea
2050, as residential development occurs, there will
be continued additional demand for retail space.
1 https://www.cityofbrea.gov/145/Business-Resources
Economic Development
225
Office
Historically, Brea has been a regional center for
professional industries. With its central location
between four counties, Brea has been a popular
choice for office development. The City serves
as a regional office cluster featuring 4.3 million
square feet of office space. However, following
the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent rise
in remote work, demand for traditional office properties fell in many communities across the United States, including in the City.

No office properties have been constructed in Brea
since the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, large
office properties have been demolished. A lack of
new office construction and the continued demolition of existing office buildings suggest a lack of demand for more office space and possibly a
benefit to allowing greater flexibility to re-use existing office space. The City is projected to see limited-to-no net increase in demand for office space over the planning period.

Industrial
Brea is home to approximately 12.3 million square
feet of industrial space, making up roughly 70% of
all industrial space within the Brea/La Habra submarket. Brea is situated in a strategic regional location at the intersection of State Route 57 and State Route 90 (Imperial Highway) that provides direct
connections to North Orange, South Los Angeles,
and San Bernardino Counties. The City continues
to serve as a regional hub for industrial sectors
because of its history of low vacancy rates, steady
growth in market asking rents, and increasing
demand for new industrial development. According to the City’s job market data (ESRI Business Analyst), roughly a quarter of all workers in the City
are employed by business industrial sectors such as
manufacturing, wholesale trade, transportation and
warehousing. As described in the Market Analysis
prepared in support of Brea 2050, it is estimated
that Brea will see continuing demand for industrial
space.

Entertainment and Hospitality
Brea is home to numerous local attractions such as
the Brea Improv in Brea Downtown, as well as the
Curtis Theatre and Brea Gallery at the Brea Civic
and Cultural Center. The City is also located near
higher-education institutions such as California
State University, Fullerton and several of Orange
County’s most prominent tourist destinations, including the Disneyland Resort, Honda Center, Angel Stadium, and Anaheim Convention Center. Individuals traveling to Brea for business, cultural, educational, or entertainment events contribute to the demand for local hotels.

Proximity to major tourist attractions can boost hotel
demand in surrounding communities such as Brea.

According to the Land Use Report, Brea’s hotel
sector is strong compared to the Orange County
Northwest/Fullerton hospitality submarket (which
excludes Anaheim), which could be attributed
to a greater percentage of rooms classified as
Upper-Upscale compared to the greater submarket.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 226
Employee Characteristics
The U.S. Census Bureau’s “OnTheMap” is a
web-based mapping and reporting application
that provides data from the Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (LEHD) Origin Destination Employment Statistics (LODES) 2002-2022 to help
identify small-area workforce characteristics. Table
ED-1 shows there was a total of 51,984 jobs within
Brea boundaries in 2022 (almost double the current employed population of Brea). Most common jobs in Brea are classified as “Professional, Scientific, and Management, and Administrative and Waste Management Services” (21.6 percent),
“Retail Trade” (11.1 percent), and “Education Services, Healthcare and Social Assistance” (9.9 percent), “Wholesale Trade” (9.3 percent), and
“Finance and Insurance, and Real Estate, Rental,
and Leasing” (9.0 percent).

As is often the case for higher cost hospitality and
retail-oriented communities, the profile of Brea
residents does not match the needs of the local
job market. Table ED-1 shows that Brea residents
are employed in “Education Services, Healthcare
and Social Assistance” (26.1%), “Manufacturing”
(11.5%), “Professional, Scientific, and Management, and Administrative and Waste Management Services” (11.3%) which are typically higher-paying industries. As shown in Table ED-2, the majority of jobs in Brea are in hospitality and retail-oriented
industries, which are typically lower-paying jobs.

This means housing within Brea may not be affordable for many Brea employees.

Brea Employed
Population Brea Job Count
Estimate Percent Estimate Percent
Total 23,407 51,984
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 38 0.2% 3 0.0% Construction 1,240 5.3% 0 0.0%
Manufacturing 2,688 11.5% 12 0.0%
Wholesale trade 911 3.9% 4,847 9.3%
Retail trade 2,230 9.5% 5,771 11.1%
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 1,074 4.6% 2,684 5.2% Information 630 2.7% 296 0.6%
Finance and insurance, and Real Estate, Rental, and Leasing 1,872 8.0% 4,655 9.0% Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services 2,652 11.3% 11,232 21.6%
Educational services, and health care and social assistance 6,119 26.1% 5,163 9.9% Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services 2,007 8.6% 4,535 8.7%
Other services, except public administration 806 3.4% 1,051 2.0% Public administration 1,140 4.9% 348 0.7%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. “On the Map”, Available at: https://onthemap.ces.census.gov/. Accessed June 23, 2025. 2023 Five Year Estimates, US Census Bureau, Table DP03
Table ED-1: Job Counts vs Brea Resident Industries by NAICS Industry Sector 2022 Economic Development
227
Table ED-2 shows the inflow/outflow of job counts
from OnTheMap, which shows only a small percentage – 4.3 percent of Brea residents – are employed in Brea. This means that approximately

95.7 percent of Brea employees live outside the
City. Though there are people that work and live
within Brea, the majority of individuals working in

COUNT PERCENT
Employed in Brea 51,984
Employed in Brea but Living Outside 49,769 95.7%
Employed and Living in Brea 2,215 4.3%
Living in Brea 24,007
Living in Brea but Employed Outside 21,792 90.8%
Living and Employed in Brea 2,215 9.2%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, “On the Map”, Available at: https://onthemap.ces.census.gov/. Accessed June 23, 2025.

Table ED-2: Inflow/Outflow Job Counts
Brea commute from the greater region (with the
inverse also being true, that most Brea residents
with a job commute to a location outside of the
City). According to American Community Survey
data (2023), Brea residents who do commute to
work have an average commute time of 31 minutes.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 228
Future Economic Development
Opportunities
Brea stands as a testament to thoughtful planning
where quality neighborhoods, attractive commercial centers, thriving employment hubs, and well-maintained public spaces reflect the commitment to aesthetics and livability. Through common-sense standards, the City has achieved a harmonious mix of housing, retail, and employment
opportunities. Overall, the Fiscal and Economic
Impact Analysis found that proposed buildout
would result in a positive fiscal and economic
impact to the City of Brea. Overall, proposed buildout would generate at least 17,711 jobs, more than $1.5 billion in labor income, and approximately $4
billion in economic output.

Like the greater Southern California Region, Brea
is undergoing a period of transition, navigating the
challenges of population growth, demographic
changes, and evolving consumer preferences. Key
opportunities and challenges impacting economic
growth and development include:

Maintaining and Expanding Diverse
Industries
Overall, future economic growth opportunities in
Brea will likely be linked to the City’s comparative
advantage in retail, hospitality, recreation, and
lifestyle-related sectors, and the potential to leverage these sectors to support a greater diversity of industries, including those matched with residents’
education and skill. To match the skills and experiences of Brea residents, the City is focusing on attracting additional high-quality industries such
as technology and healthcare service industries,
which will help bring higher paying jobs for existing
Brea residents. Additionally, the City should look
to expand opportunities to encourage residents to
live and work in Brea to help improve social mobility, grow community wealth, and bolster economic vibrancy. Aligning the resident workforce’s skills with the needs of the businesses of today and tomorrow
will have a critical impact on the expansion and
diversification of the City’s economy.

Residential Development
The City is well-positioned to capitalize on housing opportunities through strategic infill and mixed use development, to attract new and retain current residents and businesses and foster economic growth. According to the Fiscal and Economic
Impact Analysis, projected residential growth in the
Brea Focused General Plan Update could increase
demand for and supply of retail development by
approximately 2.8 percent annually.

As previously discussed, due to the convenient
regional location, employment opportunities, and
amenities within the City, there is high demand to live in Brea. However, between the lack of available
inventory and high costs of Brea housing, people
working in Brea face barriers to living in Brea. As
discussed in the Land Use Report, compared to
Greater Orange County, the City of Brea’s housing
stock is newer and more expensive than regional
housing. Therefore, there is opportunity for the City
to expand housing inventory, especially mixed use
and attainment housing, to accommodate the housing needs of people who work in Brea.

The City is committed to expanding its affordable
housing stock. The City’s Affordable Housing Ordinance requires new residential development projects of 10 or more units to designate at least 5% to 30% of the units as affordable. The purpose of
the Affordable Housing Ordinance is to expand
the affordable housing stock in proportion with the
overall increase in residential units by establishing standards and procedures that encourage the development of extremely low to moderate-income
housing and to assist in meeting the City’s regional
share of housing needs and implementing the goals
and objectives of the General Plan, including the
Housing Element and any applicable specific
plans.

Economic Development
229
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 230
Goal ED-1
A diverse and resilient economic
environment that enhances the quality
of life for residents, attracts quality
employers, and encourages visitors.

DIVERSE AND

RESILIENT ECONOMY
A diversified economy makes cities stronger and
more resilient in the face of changing economic
conditions. It establishes an environment conducive
to business success, attracting investment, supporting entrepreneurship, and contributing to the quality of life for City residents. Stability in the local economy ensures the City has a reliable and predictable business environment, enabling existing and new
businesses to make informed investment decisions
and navigate economic downturns. Economic
resilience will allow businesses and the community
to withstand external shocks and recover quickly,
ensuring long-term sustainability.

Brea has a diverse economy with a mix of retail,
hospitality, office, and manufacturing businesses in
the City. These businesses provide the backbone of
employment and fiscal revenues for the City. Due to
its prime regional location and existing employment
opportunities, the City of Brea is well-positioned to
attract new and retain current residents and businesses, while fostering economic growth. To support the diverse range of businesses, Brea needs to accommodate and expand on its current strengths
and industry clusters, while also finding opportunities to capture jobs in industries growing regionally in order to improve employment opportunities for
residents.

Economic Development
231
ED-1 Policies
ED-1.1 Land Uses. Maintain and expand the City’s opportunities to support diverse businesses by identifying opportunity sites for residential and commercial development that align with regional market demand.

ED-1.2 Mixed Use Development. Encourage the development of mixed use projects that incorporate both housing and nonresidential spaces. EJ
ED-1.3 Diverse Business and Employment. Encourage a broad range of business uses that provide employment at all income levels and that make a positive contribution to the City’s tax base. EJ
ED-1.4 Local and Regional Events. Work with local and regional business associations and other regional organizations to create, sponsor, and market events to support local businesses.

ED-1.5 Targeted Business Attraction. Identify and target outreach to expanding local economic opportunities, especially in industries such as, but not limited to, technology services, medical services, and complementary hospitality businesses.

ED-1.6 Entertainment and Tourism Industry Support. Continue to foster City-initiated programs and collaborative relationships with the regional tourism industry and other partner organizations to promote local and regional tourism.

ED-1.7 Economic Base Diversification. Explore creative opportunities to diversify the City’s economic base, including through City-led projects and public-private partnerships.

ED-1.8 Fiscal Sustainability. Encourage the attraction and retention of sales tax-generating businesses to support long-term fiscal sustainability and maintain high-quality public services.

ED-1 Actions
ED-1a Develop an Economic Development Strategic Plan within five years.

ED-1b Periodically conduct a survey of vacant, underdeveloped, and underutilized sites, and engage with property owners regarding business attraction efforts or redevelopment opportunities.

ED-1c Host or support regional events that broaden the City’s visibility, promote local businesses, and leverage the City’s diverse economic base.

ED-1d Improve the marketability of opportunity sites through the promotion of Brea’s market advantages.

ED-1e Provide technical assistance, training, or financial resources to help local businesses plan for, withstand, and quickly recover from economic disruptions, natural disasters, or public health emergencies, where applicable.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 232
Economic Development
233
Goal ED-2
A local economy that supports
existing businesses and attracts highquality businesses and industries with promising growth and innovation.

One of the City’s most vital assets is its existing
economic base. The City of Brea is committed to
creating an environment in which a diverse range
of businesses can thrive. Brea’s Economic Development Division in the Community Development Department supports existing local businesses so
that they can prosper, grow, and adapt to changing
economic conditions. This support not only helps
those businesses and their employees, but also
demonstrates that Brea is a desirable place for new
businesses to locate. The City’s Business Attraction,
Retention, and Expansion Program is a multifaceted
approach that has been designed to preserve and
enhance the City’s business environment. The program includes efforts to support a pro-business approach from City staff by enhancing communication with existing businesses, influencing legislation to make the region a more attractive place to do business, and assisting with the relocation of
desirable new businesses as appropriate.

ED-2 Policies
ED-2.1 Entrepreneurship. Educate and support local and regional entrepreneurs in establishing and expanding small and local businesses.

ED-2.2 Resources. Provide the business community with easily accessible information, both online and in-person, on available resources for growth and development, including those aimed at entrepreneurs and small businesses.

ED-2.3 Engagement. Communicate regularly with local businesses regarding areas of interest and concerns affecting their ongoing operations.

ED-2.4 Office Conversions. Encourage the repurposing of office space to fit the needs of current and prospective Brea businesses.

ED-2.5 Regional Promotion. Support legislation and other efforts to promote Orange County and California as an attractive place to do business.

ED-2.6 Relocation Assistance. Encourage high-quality businesses, including, but not limited to, the medical and technology services industries, to relocate within Brea. Facilitate, when appropriate, planning and permitting processes for businesses that are trying to relocate.

BUSINESS-FRIENDLY

ENVIRONMENT
ED-2 Actions
ED-2a Develop and provide user-friendly Development Manuals regarding planning and permitting processes for businesses that are trying to locate to or within Brea.

ED-2b Incorporate business-friendly policies into customer care training for City staff.

ED-2c Implement strategies and actions that improve multimodal transportation networks and land use policies that build off existing hospitality and commercial areas to enhance accessibility and economic activity.

ED-2d Partner with local hospitality employers to strategically attract businesses that will complement existing amenities and serve a range of visitors and residents.

ED-2e Integrate the business community’s interests into City’s legislative advocacy work.

ED-2f Participate in meetings between economic development leaders or regional partners to discuss mutually-beneficial, regional economic development opportunities.

ED-2g Maintain access to listings of significant commercial and industrial vacant properties, buildings, or space in the City, including the key real estate brokers or salesperson involved.

Direct potential buyers or tenants of retail, commercial, or industrial space to appropriate brokers.

ED-2h Provide business recognition efforts through programs that honor Brea businesses.

ED-2i Collaborate with businesses to increase marketing efforts related to local events, through digital marketing and community engagement and incorporate feedback loops to improve future events.

ED-2j Maintain strong relationships with the City’s existing local industries, local organizations and regional partners through regular communication, while pursuing business community support actions described herein.

ED-2k Assist local business expansion through supportive policies and programs, including regulatory assistance, financial support, or mentorship programs.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 234
Economic Development
235
Goal ED-3
A community that seeks to retain
and attract a skilled workforce and
provides opportunities for them to
both live and work in Brea.

A major opportunity for the City of Brea is to
improve the local jobs-housing balance. A good
jobs-housing balance can improve local commute
times, help businesses retain workers, and drive
future economic development opportunities. As
described previously, Brea already has a diverse
economy including businesses and jobs in professional services, education, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. However, most people working in
Brea do not live within the City and, instead, commute from the greater region. Improving opportunities for current and future residents and employees will help cultivate a stable economy within the City,
while improving the quality of life for current and
future Brea residents.

ED-3 Policies
ED-3.1 Retain Workers. Work to retain a greater share of the current workforce by encouraging the development of housing and retention of high-paying jobs for residents.

ED-3.2 Marketing Opportunities. Actively pursue marketing opportunities to enhance the City’s business-friendly reputation to attract businesses and improve employee recruitment and retention.

ED-3.3 Housing Choices. Develop land use policies that facilitate the development of housing affordable to a range of household types and incomes to diversify the local labor force and promote long-term residential stability. EJ
ED-3.4 Educational Relationships. Develop relationships with local and regional education institutions to ensure workers have the skills and training to succeed in a variety of industries, promote job retention, and grow the local talent pipeline.

ED-3.5 Educational Opportunities. Provide educational opportunities that align with local business needs to increase economic development resources for existing and prospective business owners in Brea.

WORKFORCE ATTRACTION AND RETENTION
ED-3 Actions
ED-3a Engage with local and regional economic development partners to host regular meetings that grant small businesses, entrepreneurs, and potential investors opportunities to connect, network, and collaborate.

ED-3b Recognize businesses that prioritize employee retention and well-being.

ED-3c Convene with major employers to solicit guidance on how the City can support partnerships and develop policies to create a strong workforce pipeline and identify specific workforce needs.

ED-3d Utilize the provisions of Chapter 17 (“Economic Development”) of the Brea City Code to conduct marketing, business attraction, and business retention programs.

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Housing
237
07 Housing
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 238
Housing
239

INTRODUCTION
Unlike other Elements of the General Plan, State
law requires the Housing Element to be updated
every eight years. The State Department of Housing
and Community Development (HCD) is tasked with
reviewing Housing Elements for compliance with
State housing laws.

The City Council originally adopted the Housing
Element for the years 2021-2029 on September
21, 2021, and subsequently re-adopted a revised
Housing Element on August 16, 2022. The City’s 6th
Cycle Housing Element was certified by the State on
September 8, 2022. The Housing Element was not
updated as part of the Brea 2050 effort and can be
found under separate cover.

HOUSING
The Housing Element is a State-mandated policy document that identifies Brea’s existing and future housing needs and establishes clear goals to inform future housing decisions. It is drafted in accordance with the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), which quantifies the existing and projected need for housing by income categories for each local jurisdiction during specified planning periods. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) determines each city’s housing growth need projections for each planning period.
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 240
Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
241
A
Appendix A: Urban Design
Framework
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Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
243
Public Spaces
Public Spaces include areas owned and maintained
by the City that establish community identity, support
public movement and connectivity, and provide
accessible locations for gathering and civic use.

The Urban Design Framework for Public Spaces
establishes direction for improvements of public
property. Such properties that the City can enhance
through urban design strategies include:
• Gateways
• Travelways
• Public Plazas
APPENDIX A:

URBAN DESIGN

FRAMEWORK
Urban design shapes the City’s physical character and organization and defines how people interact with their environment. The Urban Design Framework identifies key components that define the City’s visual form and provides a broad structure to guide future development. 244
Gateways
Gateways identify the City at prominent points of
entry to convey a sense of arrival. Distinctive public
art pieces, signage, and/or graphics that express the
history and character of the community are recommended at City gateways. • A combination of special paving, lighting,
and/or landscape treatment is recommended
to enhance the appearance and visual impact
of gateways.
• Community boundaries should be marked with
vertical design elements. Where appropriate,
private development should emphasize a community gateway with strong corner massing, tower elements, or other architectural features
or buildings that create a distinct visual profile.

Figure UDF-1 provides a gateway map for Brea
where six existing locations are shown and where
six additional locations would be appropriate for
enhanced gateway design consideration (exclusive of other gateways in Specific Plan areas). The six proposed locations identified as candidates for
future City gateways include:
• Lambert Road between North State College
Boulevard and SR-57
• Imperial Highway at or east of South Puente
Street
• Brea Boulevard at or south of Canyon Country
Road
• Carbon Canyon Road (SR-142) at or west of
the Chino Hills city boundary
• Rose Drive at or north of Blake Road
• Valencia Avenue north of East Elm Street
Signage should be distinctive and
include landscaping.
245
Kraemer Blvd
Val el y
Vie
w
Av
e
Imperial
Hwy
Lambert Rd
H
arb
or Blvd
Golden Ave
Valencia
Av
e
L
a
ke
v
ei w
Av
e
Berry St
Fairmont Blvd
Harbor
Blvd
Rose Dr
Ohio St
Bastanchury Rd
Carbon Canyon Rd
Brea
Blvd
Vil al g
e
C
enter
Dr
Palm St
Puente St Central Ave
Birch St Birch St Placentia Ave
Bastanchury Rd
A
s
s
o
ciated Rd
State College
B
vl d
Yorba Linda Blvd
Imperial Hwy
57 90
142
90 57

L O S A N G E L E S C O U N T Y

O R A N G E C O U N T Y

S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y
LEGEND
Brea City Boundary
Brea Sphere of Influence
County Boundary
Existing City-Owned Gateway Marker
Existing Gateway Marker on Private Property
Future Gateway Marker Location to be Considered
Sources: City of Brea; Orange County; California State Geoportal; ArcGIS Online World Hillshade Map Service; Google Maps. 0 ½ 1
Miles
Prepared for the City of Brea by De Novo Planning Group, May 20, 2026.

Existing and Future Gateway Markers
Figure UDF-1
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Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
247
Travelways
Travelways create active streets that balance vehicular, transit, and pedestrian modes of travel, ensuring pedestrians experience a comfortable, engaging
environment that encourages walking, strolling, lingering, meeting, and conversing.

Safety
• Include continuous sidewalks with wide parkways that establish a physical separation between pedestrians, bikes, and autos.
• Incorporate narrower travel lanes in sensitive
areas, such as residential neighborhoods,
schools, and hospitals, and complement them
with curbside parking to help slow traffic. Consistent street tree planting should also be implemented to visually narrow the street and further calm vehicle speeds.
• Provide wide sidewalks and tree lawns that
incorporate street trees and other streetscape
amenities, typically placing trees near the curb
to strengthen the separation between pedestrians and vehicles. • Incorporate street furniture and other streetscape amenities that enhance pedestrian safety and comfort, including exploring opportunities to improve bus stops and crosswalks, with pedestrian-scaled lighting and benches for
periodic rest being particularly important.

Pedestrian Passages
• Improve pedestrian access throughout the
community by integrating pedestrian-oriented
design features along streets.
• Provide wide sidewalks along commercial
areas within the Brea Core, as well as space
for streetscape amenities and commercial
activities such as sidewalk dining.
• Provide streetscape amenities at frequent
intervals and consider opportunities for public
art, environmental graphics, special sidewalk
paving, and crosswalk enhancements. At a
minimum, street furniture should include pedestrian-scaled light fixtures, benches, trash receptacles, and planters of compatible design. • Outdoor furniture and pedestrian amenities,
such as benches and planters, should be incorporated along walkways at frequent intervals in a manner that enhances the space without
obstructing pedestrian circulation.
• Provide pedestrian passages and paseos in conjunction with commercial and mixed use developments. Pedestrian passages should conveniently and comfortably connect building entrances,
outdoor spaces, sidewalks, and parking.

Landscaping and Street Trees
• Maintain and plant street trees of considerable
height and stature appropriate to the scale and
function of the street.
• Tree species and spacing should establish a
formal rhythm and be of sufficient stature to
reinforce the street’s space. Flowering trees
and shrubs may be included for color interest
and to augment the appearance of the street.
• Plant street trees that offer overhead cover
for pedestrians and create a pleasant rhythm
that unifies and leads the eye down the street.

Choose species that will distinguish these
streets as principal connectors.
• Trees and shrubs planted along corridors shall
consist of noninvasive species, and the use of
California native tree species is encouraged in
the selection process.

Street Edge and Frontages
• Promote coordinated edge treatments along
major corridors, including consistent walls,
fencing, landscaping, and grading transitions
to create a cohesive streetscape.
• Continuous medians, parkways, and tree wells
should be provided to support plantings.
• Encourage walls and fences along key streets
to incorporate consistent high quality materials,
colors, and design elements that are coordinated
across properties to create a unified streetscape.
• Encourage screening of utilities, mechanical
equipment, and service areas visible from
travelways through landscaping, walls, or integrated design features.

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Figure UDF-2: Local Streets
Figure UDF-3: Primary & Secondary Streets
Ground floor commercial with recessed entry and/or pedestrian arcade Zone for commercial activity (ex: outdoor dining, signage, etc.) Clear pedestrian pathway/sidewalk
Planting strip + Streetscape amenities (ex: trees, lighting, furniture)/ Planted median Travel lanes and on-street parking or bike lanes where applicable Adjacent use oriented to street (ex: housing)
Setback with landscaping
Clear pedestrian pathway/sidewalk
Planting strip + Streetscape amenities (ex: pedestrian-scaled lighting) Travel lanes and on-street parking or bike lanes where applicable Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
249
Public Plazas
Public Plazas are open, centrally located spaces
intended to serve as a focal point for public gathering and activity. They support pedestrian use, accommodate community events and daily social interaction, and reinforce the community’s civic identity.
• Encourage developers to incorporate public
plazas into the community’s most active areas,
ensuring that, whether provided through public
or private initiatives, they remain accessible to
the public.
• Establish immediate physical and visual connections between public plazas and sidewalks. Public plazas should be located at or near the same grade as adjacent sidewalks.
• Design appropriately scaled public plazas
that complement their surroundings, creating
defined spaces that enhance the street environment while maintaining continuous retail frontages and uninterrupted pedestrian flow.
• Design public plazas with civic art, fountains,
seating, and shade to create comfortable,
inviting spaces where people can gather and
engage in leisurely activities.
• Explore opportunities for public art that attracts
people to the space and incorporate related
features such as informational kiosks and directories.

Public plazas should create a defined
space through seating, landscaping, and
civic art.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 250
Private Spaces
Private Spaces include areas under private ownership that are designated for exclusive use of specific individuals, groups, or entities.

The Urban Design Framework for Private Spaces
provides design recommendations for the following
varied development types:
• Office and Industrial Campus
• Commercial Areas
• Shopping Centers
• Downtown Corridor
• Mixed Use
° Urban Village
° Housing Over Retail
• Multifamily Residential
• Single-family Residential
• Hillside Residential
Office and Industrial
Campus
Office and Industrial Campuses are planned,
multi-buildings that combine office space and
industrial facilities (e.g., warehousing, light manufacturing, research and development labs, or distribution centers) within a single, coordinated site.

These campuses are typically designed to support
businesses that require both administrative and
operational functions in proximity.
• Organize industrial and large office developments around shared courts, quadrangles, and greens. Multiple paths should connect on-site
buildings and uses, transit stops, and public
sidewalks.
• Buildings should provide ground-floor interest,
transparency, and openness, especially views
into lobbies, to support street-level activity.
• Design buildings with individual character
and identity, including a highly visible main
Façades should be modulated with
prominent front entrance, and abundant
landscaping.

Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
251
entrance. Monolithic buildings are discouraged and massing should be broken down with vertical and horizontal façade modulation.
• Truck loading and service bays should be positioned away from street facing elevations to reduce noise, improve safety, and maintain an
active and attractive street frontage.
• Landscaping should be incorporated and consistently maintained along all truck routes and adjacent street frontages to enhance visual
quality, improve buffering, and support community aesthetics. • Provide abundant landscaping in keeping with
a campus setting.

Commercial Areas
Commercial Areas are designated primarily for
business activities. These areas include spaces
where goods and services are bought, sold, or
provided. They typically contain businesses such as
offices, restaurants, retail stores, banks, and service providers where commercial buildings sit close to
the street.
• Use shopping center buildings and/or landscape treatment to define street corridors. To the maximum extent feasible, a portion of the
buildings should contribute to the definition of
the street edge, especially at street corners.
• Reduce the visual and environmental impact of
expansive parking lots. Numerous trees and
plantings should shade parking areas, define
circulation routes, and screen undesirable
views of parking from adjacent properties.
• Give large-scale shopping centers a unified
architectural character. A common design
theme for all buildings, signage, and landGround-floor transparency supported by interesting landscaping should add visual
quality to office and industrial campuses.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 252
scape treatment is encouraged, including freestanding pad buildings. • Minimize large, unbroken wall surfaces and
provide highly visible public entrances to
all buildings and uses. In particular, public
entrances and heavily trafficked outdoor areas
should incorporate human-scaled details such
as canopies and window displays.
• Provide well-marked and comfortable pedestrian walkways including pedestrian circulation within parking lots with connections to adjacent sidewalks and safe access from parking.

Pedestrian circulation routes within parking lots
should be clearly delineated and pedestrian
amenities in the form of courtyards, plazas, and
covered walks are encouraged.
• Generate visual interest along outdoor passages and paseos. Building facades with articulated entrances, ground floor transparency, and architectural details such as accent lighting
are recommended.

Shopping Center
Shopping Centers (e.g., shopping malls, retail centers) are planned complexes that contain multiple retail stores and sometimes entertainment or service
businesses within a single site. They are designed
to provide a convenient, centralized location for
shopping and leisure. Shopping centers can range
from small strip malls to large, enclosed malls with
anchor stores, food courts, cinemas, and other
attractions.
• Site shopping centers in whole or in part close
to the street. In particular, buildings should
define the edges of street corners.
• Reduce the visual impact of parking on local
neighborhoods. To the maximum extent feasible, on-site parking should be located to the rear or side of buildings, with shade trees and
extensive plantings that screen undesirable
views from sidewalks and adjacent properties.

Shopping centers should clearly define the
space, be pedestrian-scaled, have large
transparent shop windows, and awnings
where appropriate.

Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
253
• Create a street-level environment that is pedestrian-friendly. Design features such as arcades, canopies and awnings, transparent windows,
window displays, etc. should be incorporated.
• Respond to adjacent residential uses with a
sensitive transition in scale and massing. For
example, building mass should be broken
down with step-backs in height, articulated
sub-volumes, and horizontal and vertical
façade articulation.
• Incorporate functional pedestrian connections to adjacent uses. Nearby residential uses should benefit from convenient access to local
shopping and services.

Brea Downtown
Brea Downtown functions as the main spine or core
area of the City Center, linking important districts,
landmarks, and transportation hubs.
• Build an especially strong relationship between
the building and the street. Buildings should be
configured to maintain a continuous edge along
the sidewalk and define public space.
• Design buildings to encourage multi-tenant
occupancy and walk-in traffic at the street level.

Uses that generate negligible walk-in traffic are
discouraged from street-front locations.
• Provide a frequent cadence of shop entrances
along the street. Recessed entries are encouraged; however, grade separations between sidewalks and ground floor commercial uses
are discouraged.
• Encourage the creative expression of individual
storefronts and use shop windows to help animate the street and sustain attention. Generous street level windows that are predominantly
transparent glass are strongly encouraged.
• Emphasize design elements such as separate
storefronts, display windows, shop entrances,
exterior light fixtures, awnings and overhangs,
and pedestrian-oriented signage. These features
will add interest and give a human dimension to
street level facades.
• Encourage communal outdoor spaces in shopping centers with multiple restaurants with layout considerations in proximity to moving vehicles.
• Generate visual interest along outdoor passages and paseos. Building facades with articulated entrances, ground floor transparency, and architectural details such as accent lighting are
recommended.
• Use small-scale creative projecting signs (blade
signs) mounted at eye level along the Downtown
Corridor to identify shop entrances and add a
human dimension to street-level facades.
• Encourage creative business signs, including
wall and projecting signs.
• Develop a wayfinding plan that uses informational kiosks and signage to guide pedestrians and bicyclists to The Tracks at Brea, including
useful details like distance and travel time.

Retail buildings in the Downtown Corridor
should clearly define the sidewalk edge,
include recessed shop entrances, large
transparent windows, and pedestrian-scaled signage.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 254
Mixed Use
Urban Village
A Mixed Use Urban Village is a compact, walkable
neighborhood that blends housing, shops, workplaces, public spaces, and transit into one cohesive community. It is a planning model that aims to reduce car dependence, support local economies,
and create vibrant, people-centered places.
• Encourage horizontal and vertical mixing of
commercial and residential uses to create a
village atmosphere that accommodates live,
work, and play.
• Emphasize a street-oriented development pattern. In general, buildings should visually define streets and important public spaces and provide active uses along sidewalks. • Incorporate outdoor spaces that are activity oriented and support public gathering.

Well-defined parks, plazas, courtyards, and
connecting sidewalks and paseos should
create a network of pedestrian spaces.
• Use subterranean or interior parking courts to
minimize the visual impact of parking.

Vertical Mixed Use
Vertical mixed use refers to the vertical integration of different land uses. Typically, this would be a type
of building or development where residential units
(e.g., apartment, condos, lofts, etc.) are located
above ground floor commercial uses or other
non-residential uses (e.g., office, cultural spaces,
etc.) within the same building or complex.
• Support a street-oriented development pattern
with buildings sited at or near the sidewalk edge.

Mixed use structures should be a component
in highly commercial areas and areas where
pedestrian activity is strongly encouraged.
• Rely on ground floor commercial space with
frequent sidewalk entrances to promote
pedestrian activity along the street. In particular, ground floor commercial uses should offer shops and services to local residents.
• Include communal and private open space
areas for residents of mixed use development.

These spaces should be designed to limit intrusion by non-residents. • Make ground floor commercial uses visually
distinct from the residential mixed use development space above. Dwelling units should exhibit a residential character, and residential entrances should read differently from entrances to ground floor commercial uses.
• Incorporate upper floor balconies, bays, and
windows that overlook the street and enliven
the street elevation. These will also communicate the residential function of upper levels. • Utilize creative or dynamic signage techniques
to add visual interest to the various components
of a vertically integrated project.

Mixed Use buildings should clearly define the street
edge, have active uses on the ground floor along the
sidewalk, and include streetscape amenities such as
street trees or special paving.

Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
255
Horizontal Mixed Use
Horizontal mixed use refers to the side-by-side integration of different land uses, such as residential and commercial, within the same building or lot,
often connected through pedestrian linkages and
public open spaces
• Incorporate paseos that conveniently connect
building entrances, outdoor spaces, sidewalks,
and parking areas.
• Residential components should respond to
adjacent commercial uses with sensitive transitions, utilizing building step-backs in height and articulated sub-volumes to reduce bulk.
• Buildings should be street-oriented to visually define important public spaces and provide active uses, such as shopping or dining, along sidewalks shared by both residents and
employees
• Multifamily projects should incorporate communal open spaces like courtyards or plazas that foster social interaction, while private outdoor spaces (patios or balconies) should be designed to limit intrusion by non-residents from
adjacent commercial areas.
• Parking should be located to minimize its visual
impact, and commercial truck loading bays
should be positioned away from street-facing
elevations to reduce noise and maintain an
attractive residential frontage.
• Landscaping should be consistently maintained
along shared street frontages to enhance visual
quality, provide buffering between uses, and
support a unified community aesthetic.

Mixed Use residential buildings should be
sited near the sidewalk edge with large
windows and commercial uses on the
ground floor, and visually distinct upper
floors.

CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 256
Multifamily Residential
Multifamily Residential is a type of residential development consisting of multiple dwelling units within a single building or complex, typically accessed
through shared entrances, corridors, or common
areas.
• Reduce the bulk of multifamily buildings,
including a transition in scale to adjacent single-family dwellings. Building facades should be articulated to portray a domestic scale and
give identity to individual dwelling units.
• Locate parking to reduce its visibility from streets
and open space areas and restrict parking
from within required setbacks. Subterranean
parking and parking courts interior to a block
are appropriate solutions.
• Provide attractive, centrally located communal open space with functional amenities.

The amount of communal open space should
increase with the size of a multifamily development to meet the social and recreational needs of its inhabitants.
• Include private outdoor space in conjunction
with each dwelling unit. Private open space
may include patios, terraces, and well-sized
balconies.

Multifamily Residential buildings should be
pedestrian scaled and oriented towards the
street with entry stoops and an articulated
facade. Parking should be located in the
interior of the block.

Appen dix A: Urban Design Framework
257
Single-Family Residential
Single-Family Residential is a type of development
historically characterized by detached dwelling
units on individual lots, intended for occupancy by
a single household and supported by private yards
and associated accessory structures, as illustrated
in Figures UDF-4 and UDF-5.
• Infill single-family residential neighborhoods
with dwellings that approximate the scale of
established residences.
• Create a pleasing variety of homes within
low-density residential developments. Dwellings with identical elevations should not be placed on adjacent lots, and developments
must include single-story units and/or building forms. • Avoid repetitive placement of garage doors
and reduce their visual prominence. Dwellings
should orient to the street, with the garage setback from the front elevation or placed to the rear of the property.
• Provide site planning that ensures the addressing of all dwelling units is clearly visible from the street.
• Promote site configurations that create useable
yard areas. For example, consider zero-lot
line layouts where they do not conflict with the
dominant pattern of development.
• Articulate facades to add interest, reduce
monotony, and create identity from dwelling
to dwelling. Dwellings should present a simple
and pleasing composition that uses a common
vocabulary of forms, architectural elements,
and materials.

Dwellings oriented to street
Front porches
Shallow front yard setbacks
Garage setback from front elevation
and/or located to rear of property
Figure UDF-4: Single-Family Dwellings with
Attached Garage
Figure UDF-5: Single-Family Dwelling with
Detached Garage
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 258
Hillside Residential
Hillside Residential is a residential development
type located on sloped or topographically sensitive
terrain, as illustrated in Figure UDF-6. .
• Preserve riparian areas, creeks, streams, wetlands, and wildlife habitat; preserve natural slopes; avoid oil production hazards (ongoing
and residual); avoid earthquake fault zones;
and minimize fire hazards.
• Revegetate with native and/or naturalized
species where grading or other activities have
disturbed the site.
• Tree selections and plantings shall utilize noninvasive species and those not prone to high flammability. In general, planting should be
drought resistant and control erosion.
• Design unobtrusive dwellings, requiring
stepped, single story, and low profile building and roof forms that conform to the hillside topography. Tall building forms that block
views and detract from the largely undeveloped character of the hillsides are strongly discouraged.
• Incorporate architectural features that reduce
bulk, such as eaves, bay windows, and varied
elevations. Naturalistic materials and colors
are encouraged.
• Restrict construction on environmentally sensitive and visually prominent locations. Dwellings should be sited well below the ridgeline and
avoid prominent landforms, site features, drainageways, and vegetation. • Use naturalistic grading techniques that blend
grading with the existing topography. Grading should use rounded contours and slopes to minimize the apparent disturbance to the site.

Driveways and streets follow the topography
Grading blends with site topography and
avoids large retaining walls
Buildings sited below the ridgeline to preserve
views
Figure UDF-6: Hillside Residential
APPENDIX B: CROSS SECTIONS
259
B
Appendix B: Cross Sections
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CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 260
APPENDIX B: CROSS SECTIONS
261
APPENDIX B:

CROSS SECTIONS
Typical Roadway Cross Sections
102' Curb-to-Curb / 120' Typical Right of Way
Parking/
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
Sidewalk Sidewalk Median
84' Curb-to-Curb / 100' Typical Right of Way
Parking/
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
Sidewalk Median Sidewalk
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 262
64'-72' Curb-to-Curb / 100' Typical Right of Way
14'-18'
Multi-Use Trail
8'-12' 8'-12' 14'-18'
Parking/ Multi-Use Trail
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
With Median Turn Lane
52' Curb-to-Curb / 66' Typical Right of Way
Sidewalk Parking/
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
Sidewalk
64' Curb-to-Curb / 80' Typical Right of Way
Parking/
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
Sidewalk Sidewalk
APPENDIX B: CROSS SECTIONS
263
Sidewalk Sidewalk
40' Curb-to-Curb / 50' Typical Right of Way
Parking/
Bike lane
Parking/
Bike lane
46' 56'
11'-24' 11'-24'
40' to 64' Right of Way (Varies depending on adjacent land use and length of roadway) Drive lane and Parking lane
(if applicable)
Drive lane and Parking lane
(if applicable)
Sidewalk Sidewalk
32'-56' Curb-to-Curb / 40'-64' Typical Right of Way (Varies depending on adjacent land use and length of roadway) 12'-24' 12'-24'
CITY OF BREA GENERAL PLAN | PUBLIC HEARING DRAFT JUNE 2026 264
Typical Bikeway Facility Cross Sections
Class I Bike Path Class II Bike Lane
(Two 5' lanes)
Minimum
Shared Lane
Class III Bike Route Class IV Separated Bikeway
5'-6' 5'-7' 2'-3' 3'
min.

Bike lane
Brea 2050 Public Hearing Draft General Plan Goals Policies and Actions (April 2026, Version 2)

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Brea City CouncilJune 2, 2026

Brea City Council
June 2, 2026