RESOLUTION NO. P-14-25A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AMEND TITLE 17, “ZONING” OF THE FOSTER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 17.15 “SINGLE-FAMILY AND TWO-FAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS” AND FINDING THE AMENDMENTS WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR) PREPARED FOR THE FOSTER CITY HOUSING AND SAFETY ELEMENT UPDATE (SCH NUMBER 2022010509)– RZ2024-0005 CITY OF FOSTER CITY PLANNING COMMISSION WHEREAS, the Housing Element is an integral part of the Foster City General Plan that identifies the community’s housing needs, states the community’s goals and objectives regarding housing production, rehabilitation, preservation, and conservation to meet those needs, and defines the policies and programs; and WHEREAS, Chapter 8, Housing Goals, Policies, and Programs of the Housing Element, forms the housing policy roadmap for the city and describes the implementation measures that the city needs to undertake in the planning period 2023-31; and WHEREAS, these goals, policies, and programs aim to provide additional housing in a way that is balanced with the community’s desires to retain the aspects of Foster City that make it a great place to live, work, and play; and WHEREAS, the Housing Element Programs include the City’s commitment to timeframes for implementation and the Annual Progress Report (APR) to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), due by April 1 of each year, reports on progress in implementation of these Programs; and WHEREAS, amendments to Title 17, Zoning, of the Foster City Municipal Code to establish single- and two-family objective design standards and provide a streamlined review process for affordable housing projects are required by Housing Element Implementation Programs, including H-B-4-a Update Architectural and Solar Guidelines for Single Family Homes and H-D-6-a Minimize Governmental Constraints; and WHEREAS, on September 11, 2024, a Land Use Subcommittee meeting and on September 19, 2024, a Planning Commission study session were held to discuss the implementation of the Housing Element programs; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509); and Resolution No. P-14-25RZ2024-0005 WHEREAS, staff reviewed existing policies, guidelines, and other Chapters of the Municipal Code pertaining to the review of single-family and two-family homes; and WHEREAS, staff drafted a new Chapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-family Objective Design and Development Standards and amendments to various Chapters of Title 17, Zoning, including, 17.04 “Definitions”; 17.12 “R-1 Single-Family Residence District”; 17.14 “R-2 Two-Family Residence District”; 17.58 “Architectural Control And Supervision”; And 17.96 “Multifamily And Residential Mixed-Use Objective Design And Development Standards, in order to implement the Housing Element programs H-B-4-a and H-D-6-a; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, at Study Sessions on July 18, 2024, April 17, 2025, June 5, 2025, September 18, 2025, and November 6, 2025; and WHEREAS, on November 5, 2025, a Notice of Public Hearing was duly posted for consideration of the amendments to Title 17, Zoning, adding a new Chapter 17.15, at the Planning Commission Meeting on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the draft regulations in the new Chapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-family Objective Design and Development Standards in Title 17, Zoning, at a noticed Planning Commission public hearing on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City has carefully reviewed and considered the staff report and all attachments thereto presented as part of the agenda for the public hearing regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, of the Foster City Municipal Code, adding a new Chapter 17.15, Single-Family and Two-Family Objective Design And Development Standards, as referenced above, as well as the proposed CEQA finding, including any and all timely submitted correspondence, all information submitted at or prior to the public hearing, and all public comment and testimony presented at the public hearing (collectively, the “Record”). NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission, based on facts and analysis in the staff report, written and oral testimony, and exhibits presented, finds that: 1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated by reference into this action.2. The proposed amendments are internally consistent with all other provisions of the General Plan and do not conflict with any of the previously adopted goals, policies, or programs of the General Plan. 3. The proposed amendments will not be detrimental to the public interest, convenience, and general welfare of the City.4. The proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental Resolution No. P-14-25RZ2024-0005impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509), and no further environmental review is necessary. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City does hereby recommends that the City Council adopt the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, adding a new Chapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-Family Objective Design and Development Standards, contained in the attached Exhibit A as listed below and attached hereto and incorporated herein.PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City at a Regular Meeting thereof held on November 20, 2025, by the following vote: AYES, COMMISSIONERS:ABSTAIN, COMMISSIONERS:ABSENT, COMMISSIONERS:______________________________________ROBERT PEDRO, CHAIRATTEST:________________________________SOFIA MANGALAM, SECRETARY
Exhibit AChapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-Family Objective Design and Development StandardsSections Chapter 17.15 ................................................................................................................. 1 17.15.010 Intent and purpose ......................................................................................... 1 17.15.020 Applicability .................................................................................................... 1 17.15.030 Process .......................................................................................................... 2 17.15.040 Design Standards ........................................................................................... 2 17.15.050 Supplemental Design and Development Standards ..................................... 17 17.15.010 Intent and purpose A. It is the intent of the city council in enacting this chapter to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the city by maintaining the high standards of architectural design that have distinguished Foster City as a thriving master planned City in California. B. This chapter establishes design and development standards to meet the following objectives:1. Maintain the integrity and high-quality living environment of the City's residential neighborhoods. 2. Achieve a high-quality baseline for the design of applicable single-family and two-family residential projects (“dwelling units”) that are integrated with the existing surroundings and neighborhoods and provide attractive and desirable living environments. 3. Establish clear expectations for community members, decision-makers, and applicants prior to the submittal and approval of applicable new and modified single-family and two-family dwelling units. C. This chapter is intended to supplement, not replace, regulations in other titles and chapters of the Foster City Municipal Code and any other relevant state or federal regulations applicable to single-family and two-family dwelling units, including but not limited to the California Building Code. Where there are any conflicts, the most restrictive regulations shall govern. 17.15.020 Applicability A. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to applications for planning approval of Residential projects such as new, replaced, or modifications to buildings and/or structures and other property improvements in the R-1 Single-Family Residence District, R-1/PD Single-Family Residence District/ Planned Development, R-2 Two-Family Residence District and R-2/PD Two-Family Residence District/Planned Development. B. Effective Date. This chapter shall apply to applications for planning approval of residential projects identified in subsection A, submitted on or after the date this chapter becomes effective. 17.15.030 Process A. The standards contained in this chapter shall be applied as part of the review of any required application(s) for planning approval for all residential projects in zoning districts identified in 17.15.020(A). B. As an alternative to a variance as provided in Section 17.06.080, a project applicant may request Planning Commission approval of an exception or exceptions to the design standards, as part of the required review process, use permit, or architectural review, as follows: 1. The request shall be in writing, in conjunction with a planning application. 2. The request shall include: (a) the standard that is requested to be waived, (b) how the unique circumstances of the project and/or physical constraints of the project site make application of the standard infeasible, and (c) how the requested exception meets the intent of the standard. 3. The planning commission shall approve an exception if all of the following findings are made: a. Approving the exception will not create a safety hazard; and b. The proposed project meets the intent of the standard under consideration to the extent feasible. 17.15.040 Design Standards A. Site Design. 1. Entry location and street orientation. These standards shall apply to new dwelling unit(s). a. The primary entry for a proposed new dwelling unit shall comply with one (1) of the following: i. Be located and oriented to face the public or private street. ii. Be located inside an entry courtyard.iii. Be located on the side of the dwelling unit, with a side setback of no less than 10 feet from the side property line in the area between the front property line and furthest extent of the primary entry.
b. For corner lots, the primary entry may be oriented toward either street. c. A walkway measuring a minimum of thirty-six (36) inches in width shall be provided from the driveway or sidewalk to the primary entry.d. The design of the primary entry shall be in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(5).2. Curb Cuts and Driveways. These standards shall apply to new or modifications to existing curb cuts or driveways.a. Curb cut standards.i. Curb cuts shall be permitted only to provide access to garages, carports, and parking spaces approved pursuant to a building permit or Chapter 17.64.ii. Curb cut widths.(a) Single or tandem parking. The width of a curb cut serving one (1) parking space or two (2) parking spaces in a tandem configuration shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet and a maximum of twelve (12) feet, excluding aprons.
(b) Side-by-side or two-car parking. The width of a curb cut serving two (2) or more parking spaces in a side-by-side configuration shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet and a maximum of twenty (20) feet, excluding aprons.iii. The nearest edge of a driveway curb cut shall be at least three (3) feet from the centerline of a fire hydrant, light standard, traffic signal, utility pole, water meter, crosswalk, curb inlet, or other similar facility. iv. Curb cuts shall conform to the latest City Standard Detail. b. Street-Facing Garage/Carport Driveway.i. A driveway serving two (2) or more parking spaces in a side-by-side configuration shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in depth and a minimumof sixteen (16) feet in width.ii. A driveway serving one (1) parking space or two (2) parking spaces in a tandem configuration shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in depth and a minimum of ten (10) feet in width.iii. Driveways on corner lots shall be located at least twenty (20) feet from the property lines at the intersection of the corner or pedestrian crosswalk. iv. Driveways abutting a side property line shall include a landscape buffer that is a minimum two (2) feet in width between the property line and the driveway.
c. Side-Entry Garage/Carport Driveway.i. A landscape buffer that is minimum of two (2) feet in depth shall be provided between the driveway and the primary building. ii. A minimum distance of at least twenty-four (24) feet shall be required between the garage face and the opposite edge of the driveway for any garage/carport that does not directly face the street.
d. Shared driveways.i. Shared driveways between two (2) separately owned properties shall provide a minimum distance of fifty-two (52) feet between the faces of garage doors that face each other across a shared driveway. A recorded reciprocal easement shall be provided to ensure shared access.
ii. If there is a shared driveway between two (2) properties, and one (1) of the property owners wishes to separate the driveway, the property owner shall ensure that both driveways, upon separation, meet the requirements of this Chapter.e. Street Corner and Driveway Visibility Requirements.i. No accessory structure, or other obstruction, more than 40 inches in height,shall be located within visibility triangles required by Section 17.52.030.
3. Landscaping and Lighting. These standards shall apply to new or modifications to dwelling unit(s).a. Front Yard Landscaping. All portions of the front yard, except walkways,driveways, and approved parking areas, shall be landscaped according to the following standards: i. The ground area shall be covered with plantings, mulch, or inorganic ground cover. b. Front Yard Paving.i. Where the garage or carport entry faces the street, paving in the front yard, including the driveways, shall not exceed sixty-five percent (65%) of the front yard. ii. For side entry garages or carports, the paved area (if any) between the side of the garage or carport facing the street and the front property line parallel to the street shall not exceed fifty percent (50%). iii. Front yard paving shall maintain a minimum setback of two (2) feet from any side property line.c. Lighting. Exterior lighting shall be subject to the following restrictions:i. Wall fixtures shall be mounted below the roof eave.ii. All light fixtures mounted more than four (4) feet from grade shall be directed downward and shielded. iii. A motion-activated light shall be directed downwards to prevent the light from reaching adjacent properties.iv. No permanently installed outdoor lights that blink, revolve, flash, or change intensity shall be permitted.
v. Uplighting of architectural and landscape features is permitted if the fixture is fully shielded and aimed upwards to illuminate only the intended surface.vi. Uplighting of glass, reflective, or polished surfaces is prohibited. 4. Mechanical Equipment/Utilities. a. Conduits or ducts for mechanical equipment/utilities shall be painted to match the surrounding surface color.b. Mechanical equipment/utilities in front yards. Mechanical equipment shall not be located in front yards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, one (1) electric vehicle (EV) charger up to two (2) square feet in size, shall be exempt from this requirement. c. Mechanical equipment/utilities in the side and rear yards. Mechanical equipment may be located in the side or rear yards when all the requirements below are met: i. The equipment is located behind and lower than a fence or wall; and ii. The equipment shall maintain a setback of at least three (3) feet from the side property line; and iii. The noise levels produced by the Mechanical equipment/utilities do not exceed those levels identified in subsection B, Noise Limits (Table 1) of Section 17.68.030, Noise, of Chapter 17.68, General Performance Standards. d. Mechanical equipment/utilities on the roof i. All roof-mounted mechanical equipment/utilities, except solar panels, shall be screened or incorporated into the design of the building(s) so as not to be visible from private street or public right-of-way. ii. All vents/flues/termination/exhausts shall not extend above the roof except as required by the California Building Code and shall be painted to match the adjacent surface. B. Building Design. 1. Building Massing. These standards shall apply to new two-story home(s) or second-story additions to existing dwelling unit(s): a. If the addition will cause any loss of sunlight to any window of an adjacent house, the applicant shall provide a shading impact study with the permit application to demonstrate compliance with this section. b. No new two-story home(s) or second-story addition shall: i. Eliminate all direct sunlight to any living/family room, dining room, or kitchen in an adjacent house. ii. Reduce more than 2 hours of direct sunlight to a living/family room or kitchen in an adjacent house, or more than 4 hours of direct sunlight to a bedroom in an adjacent house. iii. Reduce the amount of time that an adjacent house's window receives direct sunlight by more than 50% at any season where an impact occurs (requires a comparison of the hours that a window receives direct sunlight in an existing and proposed condition). c. If a living/family room, dining room, or kitchen in the adjacent house has multiple windows, the solar impact will be based on the aggregate impact. 2. Building Articulation. These standards shall apply to new dwelling unit(s). a. Front and Street Side Articulation. Any front or street-side elevation shall contain at least two (2) of the following treatments, compliant with associated standards or regulations: i. A primary entry designed in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(5). ii. Change in material, texture, or color in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(2)(c). iii. Window(s) designed in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(7). iv. A recess or projection on the lower or upper floor that is at least two (2) feet in depth and four (4) feet in width. v. An attached trellis or pergola in conformance with Sections 17.15.050(A)(2)or 17.15.050(D)(2) as applicable.b. Rear Elevation Articulation. Any rear elevation shall provide at least two (2) of the following treatments: i. Change in material, texture, or color in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(2)(c). ii. Window(s) designed in conformance with Section 17.15.040(B)(7). iii. Entry door. iv. A deck or balcony. v. An attached trellis or pergola in conformance with Sections 17.15.050(A)(2)or 17.15.050(D)(2) as applicable.vi. A recess or projection of at least two (2) feet in depth and four (4) feet in width.c. Prohibited Building Materials and Colors. i. The applicant shall refer to the list of prohibited building materials established by the Community Development Department for use on building exteriors and available on the Department’s website. Any items on the Prohibited Building Materials list are prohibited on building exteriors. The list may be amended from time to time to accommodate new materials and colors. ii. Color. See Section 17.58.020(C). 3. Building Roofs. a. Articulation. These standards shall apply to roof(s) for new dwelling unit(s). i. Continuous rooflines that face a public or private street shall not exceedthirty (30) feet in length and shall be vertically articulated with at least one (1) of the following treatments, compliant with the associated standards or regulations:(a) A change in height of at least four (4) feet. (b) A roof dormer (c) A change in roof orientation (d) A change in roof form that projects at least two (2) feet above the main roofline. (e) Openings in the roof, such as openings with exposed rafters.b. Roof Pitch. These standards shall apply to roof(s) for new dwelling unit(s). i. The roof pitch shall be consistent on all pitched roof sections. c. Materials and colors. These standards shall apply to roof(s) for new dwelling unit(s) and modifications to existing dwelling unit(s). i. The Community Development Department shall establish a list of approved roof materials and colors and make it available on the Department’s website. The list may be amended from time to time to accommodate new materials and colors. ii. The roof material on a single structure shall be the same material on all sides.4. Garage. These standards shall apply to new or replaced garage(s) and not modifications or improvements to existing garages(s).a. Garage Frontage.i. Street-Facing Garages. (a) For lots with a width between fifty (50) and sixty (60) feet, the garage frontage, including the door width and space between multiple doors, shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the front façade of the dwelling unit. (b) For lots wider than sixty (60) feet, the garage frontage, the garage frontage, including the door width and space between multiple doors,shall not exceed forty percent (40%) of the front facade of the dwelling unit. b. Garage Interior Size. i. Garage interiors shall be the minimum size required by Section 17.62.050(B)(1).(a) Exception. Certain mechanical systems and electrical storage batteriesmay extend up to three (3) feet into the required unobstructed area,provided that they are placed at a height of forty-two (42) inches above the floor.c. Garage Location.i. A street-facing garage must be setback at least twenty (20) feet from the front property line unless otherwise permitted within a planned development (PD) district.ii. Side-entry garage shall have driveway consistent with Section 17.15.040( A)(2).d. Garage Door Opening Size. The primary garage entry/doors shall be sized as follows: i. Single car or tandem garage shall have a minimum opening width of eight (8) feet and a maximum opening width of nine (9) feet. ii. Two-car (side-by-side) garage shall have a minimum opening width of sixteen (16) feet and a maximum opening width of eighteen (18) feet.e. Garage Articulation.i. Front-facing garages shall incorporate either a recess of at least five (5) inches from the surrounding wall plane or an overhang at least twelve (12) inches in depth.
ii. Side entry garages shall incorporate at least one (1) of the following along the street frontage facade:(a) Window(s) designed in conformance with Section 17.15.040.B.7.(b) Decorative trellis minimum eight (8) feet in width. f. Style. All garages, either attached or detached, front or side entry, shall have the same architectural style as the primary residence, including but not limited to roof pitch, color, and materials. 5. Primary Entry. These standards shall apply only to new dwelling unit(s). A primary entry shall be defined by at least one (1) of the following elements: a. Articulated with a roof form that projects from the front elevation at least three (3) feet. b. A covered porch with a minimum of three (3) feet in depth and four (4) feet in width. c. Recessed entry of at least three (3) feet in depth and four (4) feet in width that creates a covered landing area.
d. Any Architectural feature associated with a primary entry that projects into yards shall comply with the requirements of Section 17.15.050(E)(2).6. Balconies. These standards shall apply to new dwelling unit(s) and modifications/improvements to existing dwelling unit(s) that are adding new balconies.a. Balconies shall not be located on any elevation facing a side yard unless there is a separation from the edge of the balcony to the nearest wall plane of the adjacent dwelling unit of at least twenty five (25) feet. i. Exceptions. Juliette balconies on a side elevation are allowed to extend six (6) inches into the side setback.b. The outer edge of projecting balconies located on rear elevations shall not be closer than fifteen (15) feet to the property line which it faces.
7. Windows. These standards shall apply to new dwelling unit(s) and modifications/improvements to existing dwelling unit(s) that are adding, replacing, or modifying windows, as follows: a. Frame color, window type, and style. i. On the front elevation and street side elevation, all windows shall have the same frame color, frame width, trim width, window type, and style, except for side lite windows adjacent to the primary entry door(s). (a) For the purposes of this section, window styles with the same exterior appearance, including casement, fixed, and awning window styles are considered the same style. ii. On side (not street-facing) and rear elevations, the frames of all windows shall be the same color. iii. Shutters. If shutters are provided, they shall be sized to cover one hundred percent (100%) of the window and match the exact window shape. b. Window projections. Windows that project from the wall plane of any elevation are subject to the following standards: i. Window projection(s) that extend to the ground shall count towards lot coverage and shall not extend into the required setback. ii. Window projection(s) that do not extend to the ground shall be considered an architectural feature and may extend into the required setback in conformance with Section 17.15.040(E)(2). c. Windows exempt from Architectural Review pursuant to Section 17.58.020(B)(11) shall provide the same frame color. 17.15.050 Supplemental Design and Development Standards A. Accessory Structures. This section shall apply to all new detached or attached accessory structures,including but not limited to carports, sheds, workshops, gazebos, trellises, and covered patios that are six (6) feet or taller in height. 1. Detached Accessory Structures. a) Location. Detached accessory structures shall be located in the rear half of the lot. Trellises and pergolas can be located in the front yard as long as they are no larger than 50 square feet in size and open on all sides. (i) For waterfront properties, the rear one-half of the lot shall be determined by: (a) measuring from the front property line to the water side of the bulkhead; or (b) in the case where there is no bulkhead, the rear one-half of a waterfront lot shall be determined by taking the total lot depth of the lot excluding any easement that the city has been granted to maintain the lagoon for waterfront properties; or (c) in the case where there is no bulkhead or no maintenance easement, the rear one-half of a waterfront lot shall be determined by measuring from the front property line to the highest water line.b) Setbacks. Accessory structures taller than six (6) feet in height shall be set back:(i) A minimum of four (4) feet from any rear or non-street side property line.(ii) A minimum of ten (10) feet from a street-side property line. (iii) A minimum of five (5) feet from the primary dwelling. (iv)A minimum of ten (10) feet from the lagoon bulkhead, rip-rap, or water’s edge if a waterfront property.
c) Height. The maximum allowable height of detached accessory structures is ten (10) feet measured from grade to the highest point of the structure.d) Lot Coverage. Detached accessory structures, six (6) feet or taller, shall be included in the calculation of the maximum lot coverage of 50%. 2. Attached Accessory Structures. a) Accessory structures are considered “attached” when any portion is located within twelve (12) inches of the main building. b) Setbacks. Attached accessory structures taller than six (6) feet in height shall comply with setback requirements for the main building. c) Height. The maximum allowable height of attached accessory structures is ten (10) feet measured from grade to the highest point. d) Lot Coverage. Attached accessory structures taller than six (6) feet shall be included in the calculation of maximum fifty percent (50%) lot coverage. - e) Exception. A patio cover unenclosed on at least two (2) sides to serve the ground floor shall be allowed to extend into the rear yard area, provided that:(i) The patio cover shall not extend more than twenty (20) feet from the rear of the main structure and shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the rear yard area; and (ii) The patio cover shall maintain a minimum setback of five (5) feet from the rear property line. 3. Other regulations. a) Plumbing to accessory structures shall be limited to cold water, hot water, and gas in conformance with Building Code requirements. b) No use of any attached accessory structure extending into any yard area shall be permitted above the first floor. c) No attached accessory structure shall be enclosed to form a living or storage area unless it complies with all requirements and standards for a room addition. B. Decks and Patios. These standards shall apply to new decks and modifications to existing decks and patios. 1. Setbacks. a) Any deck which is raised more than six (6) inches above grade shall maintain a minimum setback of two (2) feet from any property line(s).b) Decks and patios raised three (3) feet and higher shall require a minimum five (5) foot setback from any property line(s). c) For waterfront properties, decks shall be three (3) feet from the inside edge of the bulkhead or top of the rip-rap. 2. Screening. Decks and patios taller than twelve (12) inches from grade shall provide skirting to screen off-site views of the underside of the structure unless located within a yard fully enclosed by a fence at least six (6) feet in height. C. Windscreens.
1. Windscreens in Side and Rear Yards. Windscreens shall be allowed in a side or rear yard, subject to the following:a) Windscreens shall be permitted at grade or on decks no higher than five (5) feet above grade. b) Windscreens shall be constructed of clear tempered glass or other clear rigid material. c) Windscreens may include a frame not to exceed six (6) inches in width. d) Maximum height shall be ten (10) feet, measured from grade or from the top of a first-floor deck, whichever is higher. e) Windscreens shall maintain a setback of at least five (5) feet from any property line or public walkway easement. f) For waterfront properties, windscreens shall be three (3) feet from the inside edge of the bulkhead or top of the rip-rap. g) Windscreens shall not be used to enclose space to form a living or storage area. D. Yards. 1. Yards on irregular (non-rectangular) lots. a) Front Yard. The front yard setback shall be 20 feet or the length of the narrow portion of the lot, whichever is greater. b) Rear Yard. The rear yard is the yard farthest from the street. c) Other Yards. All yards other than the front and rear yards shall be considered side yards unless shown to be otherwise on the original building permit plans.
2. Projections into yards.a) Architectural features. Architectural features on the main building, such as bay windows, cornices, and eaves, may extend into the required yard subject to the following: (i) Architectural features may extend a maximum of two (2) feet into any required side yard and five (5) feet into any required front or rear yard, except as provided below:(A)Awnings. (1)Placement (a)Awnings are prohibited in front yards.(b)Awnings shall only be located in the side and rear yards and may not extend more than three (3) feet from the primary dwelling. (2)Materials.(a)Awnings shall be flush-mounted on a wall and painted to match the wall color, or flush-mounted low on the first-floor roof near the roof edge, or along the first-floor eave.(b)Awning materials shall be non-glare and conform to requirements of the Fire Code. (c)Awnings shall have no stripes or patterns, lettering, symbols, graphics, or logos.(B)Patio covers as provided in Section 17.15.050(A)(2).
RESOLUTION NO. P-15-25RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AMEND TITLE 17, “ZONING” OF THE FOSTER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE BY REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTERS 17.50 “ACCESSORY BUILDINGS AND USES” AND 17.54 “YARDS”; AND AMENDING CHAPTERS 17.04 “DEFINITIONS”; 17.12 “R-1 SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT”; 17.14 “R-2 TWO-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT”; 17.58 “ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL AND SUPERVISION”; AND 17.96 “MULTIFAMILY AND RESIDENTIAL MIXED-USE OBJECTIVE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS” AND FINDING THE AMENDMENTS WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR) PREPARED FOR THE FOSTER CITY HOUSING AND SAFETY ELEMENT UPDATE (SCH NUMBER 2022010509) CITY OF FOSTER CITY PLANNING COMMISSION WHEREAS, the Housing Element is an integral part of the Foster City General Plan that identifies the community’s housing needs, states the community’s goals and objectives regarding housing production, rehabilitation, preservation, and conservation to meet those needs, and defines the policies and programs; and WHEREAS, Chapter 8, Housing Goals, Policies, and Programs of the Housing Element, forms the housing policy roadmap for the city and describes the implementation measures that the city needs to undertake in the planning period 2023-31; and WHEREAS, these goals, policies, and programs aim to provide additional housing in a way that is balanced with the community’s desires to retain the aspects of Foster City that make it a great place to live, work, and play; and WHEREAS, the Housing Element Programs include the City’s commitment to timeframes for implementation and the Annual Progress Report (APR) to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), due by April 1 of each year, reports on progress in implementation of these Programs; and WHEREAS, amendments to Title 17, Zoning, of the Foster City Municipal Code to establish single- and two-family objective design standards and provide a streamlined review process for affordable housing projects are required by Housing Element Implementation Programs, including H-B-4-a Update Architectural and Solar Guidelines for Single Family Homes and H-D-6-a Minimize Governmental Constraints; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509); and Resolution No. P-15-25RZ2024-0005 WHEREAS, on September 11, 2024, a Land Use Subcommittee meeting and on September 19, 2024, a Planning Commission study session were held to discuss the implementation of the Housing Element programs; and WHEREAS, staff reviewed existing policies, guidelines, and other Chapters of the Municipal Code pertaining to the review of single-family and two-family homes; and WHEREAS, staff drafted a new Chapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-family Objective Design and Development Standards and amendments to various Chapters of Title 17, Zoning, including, 17.04 “Definitions”; 17.12 “R-1 Single-Family Residence District”; 17.14 “R-2 Two-Family Residence District”; 17.58 “Architectural Control And Supervision”; And 17.96 “Multifamily And Residential Mixed-Use Objective Design And Development Standards, in order to implement the Housing Element programs H-B-4-a and H-D-6-a; and WHEREAS, staff is also recommending repealing and replacing Chapters 17.50 “Accessory Buildings And Uses” and 17.54 “Yards” with the term “Reserved”. So that the Chapter numbers remain for future use; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, at Study Sessions on July 18, 2024, April 17, 2025, June 5, 2025, September 18, 2025, and November 6, 2025; and WHEREAS, staff is recommending rescinding Chapters 17.50 “Accessory Buildings And Uses” And 17.54 “Yards”; And Amending Chapters 17.04 “Definitions”; 17.12 “R-1 Single-Family Residence District”; 17.14 “R-2 Two-Family Residence District”; 17.58 “Architectural Control And Supervision”; and 17.96 “Multifamily And Residential Mixed-Use Objective Design And Development Standards”; and WHEREAS, on November 5, 2025, a Notice of Public Hearing was duly posted for consideration of the amendments to Title 17, Zoning, adding a new Chapter 17.15, at the Planning Commission Meeting on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the proposed amendments to various Chapters of Title 17, Zoning, including, 17.04 “Definitions”; 17.12 “R-1 Single-Family Residence District”; 17.14 “R-2 Two-Family Residence District”; 17.58 “Architectural Control and Supervision”; and 17.96 “Multifamily And Residential Mixed-Use Objective Design And Development Standards” of Title 17, Zoning, at a noticed Planning Commission public hearing on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City has carefully reviewed and considered the staff report and all attachments thereto presented as part of the agenda for the public hearing regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 Zoning of the Foster City Municipal Code, adding a new Chapter 17.15, Single-Family and Two-Family Objective Design and Development Standards, as referenced above, as well as the proposed CEQA finding, Resolution No. P-15-25RZ2024-0005including any and all timely submitted correspondence, all information submitted at or prior to the public hearing, and all public comment and testimony presented at the public hearing (collectively, the “Record”).NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission, based on facts and analysis in the staff report, written and oral testimony, and exhibits presented, finds that:1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated by reference into this action.2. The proposed amendments are internally consistent with all other provisions of the General Plan and do not conflict with any of the previously adopted goals, policies, or programs of the General Plan.3. The proposed amendments will not be detrimental to the public interest, convenience, and general welfare of the City.4. The proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509), and no further environmental review is necessary.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City does hereby recommends that the City Council adopt the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, contained in Exhibits A – F, attached hereto. PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City at a Regular Meeting thereof held on November 20, 2025, by the following vote:AYES, COMMISSIONERS: Haddad, Jagtiani, Kenkre, Stoveland, and Chair PedroABSTAIN, COMMISSIONERS:ABSENT, COMMISSIONERS:___________________________________ROBERT PEDRO, CHAIRATTEST:________________________________SOFIA MANGALAM, SECRETARY
EXHIBIT ACHAPTERS 17.50 “ACCESSORY BUILDINGS AND USES” AND 17.54 “YARDS” WITHIN TITLE 17, “ZONING” OF THE FOSTER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE SHALL BE REPEALED IN THEIR ENTIRETY AND REPLACED WITH THE TERM “RESERVED”.
EXHIBIT BAMENDMENT. CHAPTER 17.04 DEFINITIONS, IS HEREBY AMENDED AS FOLLOWS(additions are in single-underline italics): The following definitions are rescinded and replaced:Accessory Building; Façade; Garage; Lot; Lot Line.The following definitions are hereby added:“Access” means the place or way through which pedestrians and/or vehicles must have safe, adequate, and usable ingress and egress to a property. Accessory Building. See Building, Accessory. Accessory Structure. See Structure, Accessory. Accessory Use. See Use, Accessory. “Applicant” means the person, partnership, corporation, or state or local government agency applying for a permit, or other entitlement. “Architectural Feature” means as exterior building feature, including recesses or projections, exterior articulation or walls, and other building surfaces.“Awning” means an architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity, or decoration, and is wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. “Balcony” means a platform that projects from the wall of a building 30 inches or more above grade that is accessible from the building’s interior, is not accessible from the ground, and is not enclosed by walls on more than three sides.“Juliette balcony” means a decorative railing or guard on the outer plane of a floor-to-ceiling window or door opening, providing the appearance of a balcony, but not extending a platform from the wall of the building.“Building” means any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of any individual, animal, process, equipment, goods, or materials. Building, accessory. "Accessory building" or accessory structure means a building on the same property as the main building, but its use is secondary and incidental to the use of the main building.
Building, main. "Main building" means the building containing the primary use of the lot and is not an accessory building.“Building Frontage” means the lineal dimension, parallel to the ground, of a building abutting on a public street, or a parking lot accessory to that business, even though another business may also have entitlement to that parking lot.“Construction” means construction, erection, enlargement, alteration, conversion, or movement of any building, structures, or land, together with any scientific surveys associated therewith. “Courtyard” means any usable open space which is clear from the ground to the sky and surrounded by at least two (2) walls of a building, with the remaining sides enclosed by a wall or solid fence at least five (5) feet in height. “Deck” means a platform, either freestanding or attached to a building, that is supported by pillars or posts. “Driveway” means an accessway that provides direct vehicular access for vehicles between a street and the parking or loading facilities located on an adjacent property. “Enclosed” means a space closed in by a roof and by four or more connected floor-to-ceiling walls with appropriate openings for ingress and egress. “Façade” means the exterior wall of a building exposed to public view or that wall viewed by persons not within the building. The portion of any exterior elevation of a building extending vertically from the grade to the top of a parapet wall or eave, and horizontally across the entire width of the building elevation. Frontage, Street. “Street frontage” means that portion of a lot or parcel of land that borders a public street. Street frontage shall be measured along the common lot line separating said lot or parcel of land from the public street, highway, or parkway. “Garage” means an accessory structure or portion of a main structure, containing accessible and usable completely enclosed space designed, constructed, and maintained for the parking and storage of one or more motor vehicles. “Light Fixture” means the assembly that holds a lamp and may include an assembly housing, a mounting bracket or pole socket, a lamp holder, a ballast, a reflector or mirrors, and a refractor or lens. “Lot” means a parcel, tract, or area of land whose boundaries have been established by a legal instrument, such as a deed or map recorded with the San Mateo County, and which is recognized as a separate legal area for purposes of transfer of title, except easements or rights-of-way. Lot, corner. “Corner lot means a lot or parcel bounded by two or more adjacent street lines.Log, flag. “Flag lot” means a lot having access to a street by means of a private driveway, access easement or parcel of land with the access corridor not meeting the requirements of the residential zone for lot width. Lot, interior. “Interior lot” means a lot bounded on one side by a street line and on all other sides by lot lines between adjacent lots; a lot other than a corner lot. “Lot Coverage” means the portion of a lot that is covered by structures more than six (6) feet in height, including main and accessory buildings, garages, and roofed porches, but not including unenclosed and unroofed decks, landings, or balconies.“Lot Line” means the boundary between a lot and other property or the public or private street. Lot Line Types:Front Lot Line. On an interior lot, the line separating the lot from public or private street. On a corner lot, the shorter lot line abutting public right-of-way or private street. On a through lot, the lot line abutting the public or private street providing the primary entry to the lot. On a flag lot, the interior lot line most parallel to and nearest public or private street from which access is obtained.Interior Lot Line. Any lot line that is not adjacent to a public or private street.Rear Lot Line. The lot line that is opposite and most distant from the front lot line. Side Lot Line. Any lot line that is not a front or rear lot line. Street Side Lot Line. A side lot line of a corner lot that is adjacent to a public or private street.“Modification” means alterations, additions, or changes to the outside of a building or its site that change its architectural appearance, materials, size, location, or physical characteristics, including construction, demolition, remodels, and changes to visible surfaces or appurtenances like roofing, siding, or balconies. These modifications are distinct from ordinary maintenance and repairs, which involve routine upkeep without altering the structure’s fundamental features. “Primary Entry” means a principal entrance used to enter a building or residential dwelling unit.Property Line. see “Lot Line”.“Setback” means the distance between a property line and a building or structure that must be kept clear or open. Also, see “Yard”.“Structure” means anything constructed or erected which requires a location on the ground. Structure, Accessory. “Accessory structure” means a detached subordinate structureused only as incidental to the main structure or use on the same lot. Structure, Main. “Main structure” means a structure housing the primary use of a lot or functioning as the primary use. Structure, Temporary. “Temporary structure” means a structure without any foundation or footings, and which is intended to be removed when the designated time period, activity, or use for which the temporary structure was erected has ceased. “Tandem Parking” refers to two or more automobiles are parked on a driveway or in any other location on a lot, lined up behind one another. "Required Yard" means the minimum area or setback between a lot line and a building, which is unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward.
EXHIBIT CAMENDMENT. SECTION 17.12.040 IS HEREBY AMENDED AND A NEW SECTION 17.12.060 ADDED OF CHAPTER 17.12 R-1 SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT , AS FOLLOWS (additions are in single-underline italics and deletions are in strikethroughitalics): 17.12.040 Area, bulk, yard and height regulations. A. The following area, bulk, yard and height regulations shall apply in the R-1 district, except as modified by Chapter 17.54, Yards: Chapter 17.15 and subsections B and C below.Minimum Building Site Required Maximum Density permittedMinimum Yards RequiredMaximum Height permitted Maximum Coverage permitted Minimum Width (ft.)Minimum Area (sq. ft.) (Units per Acre) Front (ft.) Side* (ft.)Street Side (ft.)Rear (ft.) StoriesFt. (%) 40 5,000 8 20 5 1020 2 25 50 B. See section 17.15.050(A)(1) for setback requirements related to primary entry on the side of the main building.C. Exceptions to setback requirements for previously developed lots. Where a lot was improved with a building at the time of the passage of the ordinance codified in this title (not including accessory buildings) with a setback less than the stated requirements of the district, it may be reconstructed with the same setback on the ground floor with a maximum height of sixteen (16) feet. Any second story shall comply with the setback requirements pursuant to Section 15.12.040. 17.12.060 Design and Development Standards All new residential projects and modifications or improvements to buildings and/or structures shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 17.15.
EXHIBIT DAMENDMENT. SECTION 17.14.040 IS HEREBY AMENDED AND A NEW SECTION 17.124.060 ADDED OF CHAPTER 17.14, R-2 TWO-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT, AS FOLLOWS (additions are in single-underline italics and deletions are in strikethrough italics): Sections: 17.14.040 Area, bulk, yard, and height regulations. A. The following area, bulk, yard, and height regulations shall apply in the R-2 districts, except as modified by Chapter 17.15 and subsections B and C below:Minimum Building Site Required Maximum Density permitted Minimum Yards Required Maximum Height permittedMaximum Coverage permitted Minimum Width (ft.)Minimum Area (sq. ft.) (Units per Acre) Front (ft.)Side* (ft.) Street Side (ft.)Rear (ft.)Stories Ft. (%) 40 5,000 13 20 5 10 20 2 25 50 B. See section 17.15.050(A)(1) for setback requirements related to primary entry on the side of the main building.C. Exceptions to setback requirements for previously developed lots. Where a lot was improved with a building at the time of the passage of the ordinance codified in this title (not including accessory buildings) with a setback less than the stated requirements of the district, it may be reconstructed with the same setback on the ground floor with a maximum height of sixteen (16) feet. Any second story shall comply with the setback requirements pursuant to Section 15.12.040. 17.14.060 Design and Development Standards All new residential projects and modifications or improvements to buildings and/or structures shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 17.15.
EXHIBIT EAMDNEMENT. SECTIONS 17.58.020 AND 17.58.040 REPEALED AND REPLACED AND SECTION 17.58.030 AMENDED OF CHAPTER 17.58 ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL AND SUPERVISION, AS FOLLOWS WITH (additions in underline and deletions in strikethrough).Sections: 17.58.020 Improvements subject to architectural review.A. Each improvement as defined in Section 17.04.020 which is not otherwise declared exempt below shall be subject to architectural review as provided in this chapter, including the following: 1. Improvements in any zoning district subject to architectural review include: a. New buildings, structures, reconstruction, or additions to existing structures;b. Modifications to the exterior of a structure;c. Modifications to the site, including landscaping (except as exempted below) or addition of paved area to a front yard except for walkways;d. Accessory structures taller than six (6) feet in height and decks higher than eighteen (18) inches above grade, except as exempted below. e. All improvements which the community development director deems similar to those listed in subsections a through d, above; 2. In addition to the above, improvements in any residential zoning district subject to architectural review include: a. Exterior storage of recreational vehicles, recreational vehicle equipment, boats, boat trailers, campers and camper shells pursuant to Chapter 17.64;b. Elimination of the setback requirement between a spa or hot tub and a common area property line in the RT/PD, C-2/PD, or R-3/PD districts upon securing architectural review approval by the planning commission in each planned development; c. All improvements which the community development director deems similar to those listed in subsections a and b, above;B. Improvements Exempt from Architectural Review. The following improvements shall be exempt from architectural review in all zoning districts unless otherwise specified below:
1. Modifications to the interior of a structure;2. Except as prohibited in Subsection C, Repainting or restaining of buildings or structures on properties in R districts that are not in a PD (planned development) district;3. Except as prohibited in Subsection C, Repainting or restaining of buildings or structures on properties in C-O, C-I, C-2, C-M, C-A, M-I, PF, OSC or any PD (planned development) district, provided the new color is within the project color palette previously approved by the city with the specific development plan for the project. 4. Exterior landscaping of single family and two-family dwelling units unless required as a condition of approval of use permit or architectural review;5. For properties where landscaping is required as a condition of approval of use permit or architectural review, replacement of landscape materials with the same species of plant;6. Like-for like replacement of portions of the exterior of structures or improvements using materials of the same dimensions, type and color;7. Improvements which are otherwise subject to use permit;8. Storage sheds and other accessory structures lower than the fence line in a side or rear yard, except that accessory structures on waterfront property which are visible from public waterways shall require architectural review approval; 9. Flagpoles which are fifteen feet or less in height in an R district or less than twenty-five feet in height in a C or M district or in multifamily common areas; 10.Decks less than eighteen inches above grade at any point which are also a minimum of five feet from any property line;11. Replacement of existing windows that comply with the requirements of Chapter 17.15 or 17.96 as applicable, including expansion of windows to meet California Building Code requirements and new windows of three (3) square feet or less that are not facing a public right-of-way.12. Replacement of existing doors, including garage doors; 13. Fences on nonwaterfront property which do not face a public right-of-way;14. Exterior spas, hot tubs or swimming pools, whether portable, temporary or permanent, that comply with the requirements of Chapter 17.66, including but not limited to setbacks of the spa, hot tub, or swimming pool and associated equipment;
15.Replacement of exterior siding in the R-1 district with stucco, wood, wood shingle, or fiber cement siding, except that changes of siding on Eichler style houses as determined by the community development director shall require an architectural review permit;16. Tubular style skylights; 17. Children’s play structures located in a side or rear yard, with a maximum height of eight feet, set back a minimum of five feet from any property line and located behind a minimum five-foot-tall fence with no electrical outlets or lights;18.Basketball standards or similar equipment as determined by the community development director. 19. Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units pursuant to Chapter 17.78.C. Improvements Which Are Prohibited. The following types of improvements are prohibited: 1. Repainting or restaining which uses a bright pastel, fluorescent, or a primary color.2. Repainting or restaining which uses murals, multi-colored patterns, or similar features. a. Exception – Murals of landscapes, hardscapes or foliage may be displayed on the interior side of fence and walls. 17.58.030 Architectural review approval required prior to construction or improvement.Prior to the issuance of any building permit or construction of any improvement for any of the items listed in Section 17.58.020(A) and not exempt pursuant to Section 17.58.020(B), architectural review approval shall be obtained as required by this chapter.17.58.040 Architectural review procedures. A. Application. To obtain architectural review approval, the applicant shall submit application materials to the community development director or their authorized representative, including the following: 1. Application Forms. Completed Application forms as prescribed by the Community Development Department
2. Checklist Requirements: All information/documents as outlined in the Community Development Department Application Requirements checklists;3. Plans. Scaled and accurate plans to include required applicable information as outlined in the Community Development Department Application Requirements checklists; 4. Fees. The applicant shall pay all applicable fees as set forth in the master fee and service charges schedule, as adopted by resolution of the City Council. B. Review for Completeness and Compliance with Standards. 1. The community development department shall review the request for completeness and compliance with the standards and requirements of this title and any other relevant requirements set forth in the Foster City Municipal Code and respond within 30 calendar days of receipt, unless both parties agree upon an extension, and either deem the application complete or provide a comprehensive list of all remaining items necessary for the application to be complete. 2. The community development director shall have the authority to determine which type of application(s) are required for proposed project(s); to administer the Architectural Review process; to establish submittal and review requirements; and to determine the completeness of applications for any actions allowed or required under the provisions of this chapter.3. The community development director may refer any Architectural Review permit application to the planning commission for comment or final action. C. Reviewing Authority. 1. Planning Commission Architectural Review. The planning commission shall either approve, approve with conditions or deny the application in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable requirements of federal, state or local law for all architectural review applications pertaining to:a. Major improvements on properties in any district including but not limited to the following improvements to property in R districts: i. The applicant requesting an exception or exceptions to any standard or requirement of chapters 17.15 or 17.96. ii. For waterfront properties, room additions on the second floor or additions on the ground floor that are more than four hundred (400) square feet or are visible from the waterfront; b. In districts other than R districts, the planning commission shall review modifications which result in an increase in floor area or a substantial change in the appearance of the building as determined by the community development director, including but not limited to use of lighting to outline features of a building, or any other item as determined by the community development director.c. The planning commission shall review proposed changes to shopping center building colors in a legally noticed public hearing for the following neighborhood business or commercial mix districts: Charter Square Shopping Center/APN 094-473-010, 094-473-020 and 094-473-030; Beach Park Plaza Shopping Center/APN 094-261-330 and 094-261-270; The Market Place at Metro Center/APN 094-522-190; Edgewater Place Shopping Center/APN 094-541-070 and Marlin Cove Shopping Center/APN 094-330-150. d. Any improvement deemed by the community development director to be similar in nature to subsections (C)(1)(a)-(c). 2. Administrative Architectural Review. a. For all architectural review applications other than those requiring planning commission action pursuant to subsection (C)(1) of this section, the community development director shall either approve, approve with conditions or deny the application in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable requirements of federal, state or local law. (i) The community development director may refer the application to the planning commission for comment or final action.b. A One Hundred Percent Affordable Housing Project, or other affordability requirement as specified by applicable State Law, which requires ministerial review and complies with the objective design and development standards included in Title 17, shall be ministerially reviewed pursuant to administrative architectural review.D. Notice of Decision. 1. A written notice of the decision or planning commission resolution shall be provided to the applicant and owner within five calendar days after the decision is rendered. 2. The notice of decision and/or planning commission resolution shall clearly state any conditions of approval.E. Decision Not Effective Until Permittee Acknowledges Acceptance of Any Conditions. Any architectural review decisions shall not be effective until the permittee acknowledges acceptance of any conditions of approval and any appeal period has lapsed or if there is an appeal until a final decision has been made on the appeal. F. Appeals. 1. The appeal period as prescribed in Section 17.06.140 shall begin on the date of planning commission decision or the notice of decision was issued. 2. Any decision on an architectural review application shall not be effective until the appeal period prescribed in Section 17.06.140 has lapsed or, if there is an appeal, until a final decision has been made on the appeal or upon the preparation of a notice of decision if the appeal period is waived pursuant to this section.G. Expiration, extensions, and revocations. Architectural Review approval granted shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 17.06.180-17.06.200 for expiration, extensions, and revocations.
EXHIBIT FAMENDMENT. SECTIONS 17.96.020 AND 17.96.030 OF CHAPTER 17.96 MULTIFAMILY AND RESIDENTIAL MIXED-USE OBJECTIVE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS, ARE HEREBY AMENDED AS FOLLOWS AS FOLLOWS (additions are in single-underline italics and deletions are in strikethrough italics): Sections: 17.96.020 Applicability. A. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all multifamily residential projects that include new or replaced dwelling units, including mixed-use residential/commercial developments, except: 1. Residential projects in the R-1, or R-1/PD, R-2, or R-2/PD zoning districts, including dwelling units developed under Government Code Section65852.21or 66411.7 (SB9, 2021); 2. Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units. 17.96.030 Process. A. The standards contained in this chapter shall be applied as part of the review of any required applications for development. B. As an alternative to a variance as provided in Section 17.06.080, a project applicant may request planning commission approval of an exception or exceptions to the design standards, as part of the required review process, use permit or architectural review,as follows:1. The request shall be in writing, in conjunction with a planning application. 2. The request shall include: (a) the standard that is requested to be waived, (b) how the unique circumstances of the project and/or physical constraints of the project site make application of the standard infeasible, and (c) how the requested exception meets the intent of the standard.3. The decision-making body shall approve an exception if all of the following findings are made:a. Approving the exception will not create a safety hazard; andb. The proposed project meets the intent of the standard under consideration to the extent feasible.
RESOLUTION NO. P-16-25RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RESCIND ARCHITECTURAL AND SOLAR GUIDELINES; AND VARIOUS POLICIES PERTAINING TO REVIEW OF SINGLE-FAMILY AND TWO-FAMILY HOMES, INCLUDING POLICY NO. 2001-113 - AWNINGS; POLICY NO. 2-2000 REROOFING POLICY; POLICY NO. 03-001 - COPPER GUTTERS, DOWNSPOUTS AND FLASHING POLICY; POLICY NO. 18-10 WINDOW REPLACEMENT POLICY; POLICY NO. 01-02 - BAY/BOW/GARDEN AND GREENHOUSE WINDOW POLICY; POLICY NO. 1-2000 - SOLAR IMPACTS; AND POLICY NO. 2-2000 – EXTERIOR COLOR CHANGE POLICY; AND FINDING THE REQUEST WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR) PREPARED FOR THE FOSTER CITY HOUSING AND SAFETY ELEMENT UPDATE (SCH NUMBER 2022010509). CITY OF FOSTER CITY PLANNING COMMISSION WHEREAS, the Housing Element is an integral part of the Foster City General Plan that identifies the community’s housing needs, states the community’s goals and objectives regarding housing production, rehabilitation, preservation, and conservation to meet those needs, and defines the policies and programs; and WHEREAS, Chapter 8, Housing Goals, Policies, and Programs of the Housing Element, forms the housing policy roadmap for the city and describes the implementation measures that the city needs to undertake in the planning period 2023-31; and WHEREAS, these goals, policies, and programs aim to provide additional housing in a way that is balanced with the community’s desires to retain the aspects of Foster City that make it a great place to live, work, and play; and WHEREAS, the Housing Element Programs include the City’s commitment to timeframes for implementation and the Annual Progress Report (APR) to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), due by April 1 of each year, reports on progress in implementation of these Programs; and WHEREAS, amendments to Title 17, Zoning, of the Foster City Municipal Code to establish single- and two-family objective design standards and provide a streamlined review process for affordable housing projects are required by Housing Element Implementation Programs, including, H-B-4-a Update Architectural and Solar Guidelines for Single Family Homes and H-D-6-a Minimize Governmental Constraints; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509); and Resolution No. P-16-25RZ2024-0005 WHEREAS, on September 11, 2024, a Land Use Subcommittee meeting and on September 19, 2024, a Planning Commission study session was held to discuss the implementation of the Housing Element programs; and WHEREAS, staff reviewed existing policies, guidelines and other Chapters of the Municipal Code pertaining to the review of single-family and two-family homes; and WHEREAS, staff drafted a new Chapter 17.15 Single-Family and Two-family Objective Design and Development Standards and amendments to various Chapters of Title 17, Zoning, including, 17.04 “Definitions”; 17.12 “R-1 Single-Family Residence District”; 17.14 “R-2 Two-Family Residence District”; 17.58 “Architectural Control and Supervision”; And 17.96 “Multifamily and Residential Mixed-Use Objective Design and Development Standards, in order to implement the Housing Element programs H-B-4-a and H-D-6-a; and WHEREAS, staff is also recommending rescinding Chapters 17.50 “Accessory Buildings and Uses” and 17.54 “Yards” from Title 17, Zoning; and WHEREAS, staff is also recommending rescinding Architectural and Solar Guidelines, and various Planning Commission and City Council policies related to the review of single-family and two-family homes; and: WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning and request to rescind various policies, at Study Sessions on July 18, 2024, April 17, 2025, June 5, 2025, September 18, 2025, and November 6, 2025; and WHEREAS, on November 5, 2025, a Notice of Public Hearing was duly posted for consideration of the amendments to Title 17, Zoning, and rescinding Architectural and Solar Guidelines and various policies pertaining to review of the single-family and two-family homes, at the Planning Commission Meeting on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning, and rescinding Architectural and Solar Guidelines and various policies pertaining to review of the single-family and two-family homes, at a noticed Planning Commission public hearing on November 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City has carefully reviewed and considered the staff report and all attachments thereto presented as part of the agenda for the public hearing regarding rescinding various policies, as referenced above, as well as the proposed CEQA finding, including any and all timely submitted correspondence, all information submitted at or prior to the public hearing, and all public comment and testimony presented at the public hearing (collectively, the “Record”). NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission, based on facts and analysis in the staff report, written and oral testimony, and exhibits presented, finds that:
Resolution No. P-16-25RZ2024-0005 1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated by reference into this action. 2. The proposed amendments are internally consistent with all other provisions of the General Plan and do not conflict with any of the previously adopted goals, policies, or programs of the General Plan. 3. The proposed amendments will not be detrimental to the public interest, convenience, and general welfare of the City. 4. The proposed amendments to implement programs contained in the RHNA 6 Housing Element for the 2023-2031 Planning Period are within the scope of the environmental impact report prepared for the Foster City Housing Element and Safety Element Update (SCH# 2022010509) and no further environmental review is necessary. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City does hereby recommends that the City Council rescind Architectural and Solar Guidelines and various policies listed below: Architectural and Solar Guidelines Policy No. 2001-113 Awnings Policy No. 2-2000 Reroofing Policy Policy No. 03-001 Copper Gutters, Downspouts and Flashing Policy Policy No. 18-10 Window Replacement Policy Policy No. 01-02 Bay/Bow/Garden and Greenhouse Window Policy Policy No. 1-2000 Solar Impacts Policy No. 2-2000 Exterior Color Change Policy Resolution No. P-16-25RZ2024-0005PASSED AND ADOPTED as a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Foster City at a Regular Meeting thereof held on November 20, 2025, by the following vote:AYES, COMMISSIONERS: Haddad, Jagtiani, Kenkre, Stoveland, and Chair PedroABSTAIN, COMMISSIONERS:ABSENT, COMMISSIONERS:___________________________________ROBERT PEDRO, CHAIRATTEST:________________________________SOFIA MANGALAM, SECRETARY