Implementation Policy Implementation Action Responsible Department(s) Supporting Agency(s) Timeframe * Funding Source Action 1.1.a Continue to coordinate with Orange County Public Works and OC Parks to discuss maintenance needs, including trash cleanup, invasive plant management, trail conditions, safety concerns, and upcoming projects affecting regional open spaces.
Collaborate on regional needs assessments to identify gaps in open space access, particularly in park-poor neighborhoods.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works; Community
Development
OC Parks / Orange County Public
Works; local nonprofits
Ongoing Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 1.1.b Create and annually update a contact list of regional partners, staff, nonprofit stewards, local conservancies, and community organizations to streamline communication for issues or opportunities in connecting regional open spaces.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation Nonprofits; neighboring
jurisdictions Short-term Staff time
Action 1.2.a Create and annually update a list of active land trusts and conservation organizations operating in Orange County to support communication and referrals.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation Local and regional land trusts; OC
Parks; conservation nonprofits Short-term Staff time
Action 1.2.b When landowners inquire about open space preservation, provide them with contact information for trusted land trusts and basic information about conservation easements.
Community Development Regional land trusts; local
conservancies Ongoing Staff time
Action 1.2.c Add land trusts to the City’s internal “early contact list” to notify them when potential open space acquisition or preservation opportunities arise such as development proposals near habitat areas.
Community Development; City
Manager's Office Land trusts; OC Parks Ongoing Staff time Action 1.3.a Following adoption of the Open Space and Conservation Element, pursue preparation of a Parks and Recreation Master Plan to evaluate existing parks and open space resources for each individual space. This includes assessing current and future community needs and identifying gaps in park access, acreage, and amenities citywide.
Maintain and annually update a list of priority open space areas, such as gap-fill parks, habitat buffers, and trail connectors. Determine an appropriate level of service (LOS) that balances community needs, land availability, and long-term maintenance capacity.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation OC Parks; regional land trusts Short-term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 1.3.b Identify which Districts would most benefit from additional open space opportunities within the future Parks and Recreation Master Plan or in a standalone document. According to the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s 2020 neighborhood-level park access and demographic data, approximately 50 percent of Fullerton residents live in areas with less than three acres of parks or open space per 1,000 residents, compared to approximately 60 percent statewide. While Fullerton performs better than the state average, improvements can be made to increase the 50 percent.
Source:
https://www.parksforcalifornia.org/parkaccess/?id=152&match=Fullerton&type=city Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Short-term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 1.3.c Each budget cycle, identify priority open space opportunities for Council consideration. Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Ongoing
Staff time; (Capital
Improvement Program)
CIP set-asides where
feasible
Action 1.4.a Review existing City documents that address watershed issues such as the Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), Water Master Plan, and Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) and NPDES compliance documents to determine whether any improvements or updates are recommended to better support open space goals.
Implement erosion control measures and vegetation management practices in existing and new open spaces.
Public Works; Community
Development
Orange County Flood Control
District (OCFCD) Mid-term Staff time
Action 1.4.b Coordinate with OC Parks and neighboring jurisdictions to align watershed fire-prevention and maintenance activities. Coordinate watershed management efforts with the Orange County Flood Control District, OC Parks, and neighboring jurisdictions to support consistent, regional approaches.
Public Works; Fire Department OC Parks; Orange County Flood Control District; adjacent
jurisdictions
Mid-term Staff time
Action 1.5.a Assess existing maintenance tools and equipment annually and identify priority replacements or upgrades. Develop an annual list of top-priority maintenance needs for parks and facilities to guide staffing and equipment purchases.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Short-term;
Ongoing
Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 1.5.b Continue to provide annual training for maintenance staff on updated procedures, safet
y practices, and specialized equipment use.
Parks & Recreation; Human
Resources - Ongoing Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 1.6.a Maintain a list of pre-qualified contractors and trained City staff with experience in sensitive-area maintenance to ensure appropriate personnel are used. Parks & Recreation; Community Development Qualified contractors (as needed) Short -term Staff time Action 1.6.b Require that any maintenance activity in environmentally sensitive areas follow established best management practices (BMPs) to minimize disturbance. Parks & Recreation; Community Development Qualified contractors (as needed) Ongoing Staff time Action 1.7.a Map and update environmentally sensitive areas within public open spaces to guide maintenance and preservation activities. Make this data available for the public. Community Development; Parks & Recreation -M i d -term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 1.7.b Coordinate with OC Parks or local conservancies when projects may affect shared sensitive habitats. Community Development OC Parks; local conservancies Ongoing Staff time Action 1.8.a Identify locations where passive recreation enhancements such as benches, decomposed granite paths, and habitat-friendly overlooks could be added with minimal environmental impact within a future Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Parks & Recreation, Public
Works - Short -term
Staff time;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 1.8.b Use native and drought-tolerant plant palettes when enhancing passive open space areas. Because plant palettes are typically selected internally by the Landscape & Tree Division, develop a publicly available list of recommended plant and shrub species to guide consistent, water-efficient landscaping practices.
Parks & Recreation; Landscape
& Tree Division - Short -term Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 1.9.a Promote low-impact design strategies such as permeable materials, natural screening into new or upgraded support facilities.
Public Works; Community
Development - Ongoing Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 1.9.b Review proposed fire road and access improvements with the Fire Department to ensure safety needs are met while minimizing environmental disturbance. Fire Department; Public Works - Ongoing Staff time Action 1.10.a Conduct an assessment of open space amenities to identify gaps in accessibility, restrooms, lighting, and seating within the potential future Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Parks & Recreation - Short -term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 1.10.b Create and annually update a prioritization list of small-scale amenity upgrades, such as adding shade, repairing drinking fountains, and replacing outdated fixtures, and address higher-priority items as funding becomes available.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Short-term;
Mid-term
Staff time;
development impact
fees
Action 1.10.c Coordinate with Police or community safety programs to identify locations where improved lighting or patrol visibility would enhance user safety. Parks & Recreation; Police Department - Ongoing Staff time
P1.1 Open Space Management
Support projects, programs, and policies to coordinate
with Orange County, existing regional park districts,
private sector, and nonprofit institutions to manage or maintain regional open spaces.
GOAL 1: Promote the responsible management of existing open spaces through strategies that balance public use with the preservation and enhancement of ecological health.
P1.2 Land Trusts
Support projects, programs, and policies to encourage
the establishment of land trusts to help preserve
significant open space within the region.
P1.3 Long-Range Needs
Preserve areas of open space that are identified to be
sufficient to meet the long-range needs of the City of
Fullerton.
P1.4 Watershed Management
Continue management of open space watersheds to
limit potential fire and erosion hazards.
P1.6 Maintenance of Sensitive Areas
Support programs, policies, and regulations to require
maintenance of environmentally-sensitive areas by
qualified personnel and/or contractors.
P1.7 Environmentally Sensitive Areas
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to preserve the environmentally sensitive areas of public
open spaces.
P1.8 Passive Open Space
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to encourage diverse, environmentally-sensitive, passive
open spaces.
P1.9 Environmental Impact of Support Facilities
Design necessary improvements and support facilities,
such as fire roads, access roads, and parking areas, to minimize environmental impacts and preserve the
visual character of open spaces.
P1.10 Open Space Amenities
Support additional park studies to evaluate existing
amenities, such as restrooms, ADA accessibility, shaded seating, drinking fountains, and lighting, at Fullerton’s open spaces. Continue to improve open space safety
through measures such as improved lighting and
enhanced security.
* Timeframe: Short-term (0–2 years), mid-term (2–4 years), long-term (4–7 years) P1.5 High Quality Maintenance
Continue to support high-quality park and facility
maintenance by focusing on key maintenance priorities
and investing in maintenance staff, tools, and
equipment.
Action 2.1.a Prepare a summary of available funding sources such as grants, impact fees, and partnerships to guide open space planning and acquisitions and update annually.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development;
Public Works
-
Short-term;
Ongoing (biennial
updates)
Staff time
Action 2.1.b Identify priority open space projects annually for potential grant applications.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Ongoing Grants
Action 2.2.a Maintain regular communication with landowners and land trusts to stay informed about opportunities for acquisition, easements, or stewardship agreements. Community Development; Parks & Recreation Landowners; land trusts Ongoing Staff time Action 2.2.b Develop a simple decision framework such as a criteria checklist to evaluate potential conservation or public access opportunities when they arise. Community Development - Short -term Staff time Action 2.2.c Coordinate with regional partners to pursue external funding opportunities to support land preservation efforts in the West Coyote Hills area. Parks & Recreation Land trusts; OC Parks; nonprofit conservation groups Ongoing Grants
Action 2.3.a Identify potential parcels or underutilized sites that could serve as future open space when redevelopment or partnerships make opportunities available. Community Development; Parks & Recreation - Short -term Staff time
Action 2.3.b Integrate open space opportunities into long-range planning documents and development review processes. Community Development - Ongoing Staff time P2.4 Neighborhood Greening
Engage with the community on neighborhood pocket
parks, plazas, and community gardens; support
increased green space in areas with minimal open
space, in particular, within Districts 4 and 5.
Action 2.4.a Develop a shortlist of feasible small-scale greening opportunities such as parklets, shade trees, and small plazas based on community feedback. In particular, conduct targeted community outreach in Districts 4 and 5 to identify interest in pocket parks, plazas, or community garden concepts.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development
Community members and
community organizations Short-term
Staff time;
Development Impact
Fees
GOAL 2: Provide comprehensive and forward-thinking planning to guide the development, preservation, and stewardship of future open spaces.
P2.1 Funding Strategy
Support development and implementation of a funding
strategy to realize the City’s vision for its open spaces.
P2.2 Priority Acquisition and Preservation
Pursue conservation and public access opportunities in
Coyote Hills and other high-value ecological areas; work with landowners and land trusts to secure protection.
P2.3 New Open Space
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to create open space as funding and other opportunities
become available.
Action 3.1.a Participate in regional habitat conservation meetings and information exchanges to stay aligned with current conservation priorities.
Community Development Regional conservation agencies Ongoing Staff time Action 3.1.b Maintain updated maps of sensitive species locations to guide project review and natural resource planning. Community Development - Short -term Staff time Action 3.2.a Conduct a periodic visual assessment of public waterways to identify maintenance needs, erosion issues, or habitat degradation. (See Chapter 16: Water of the ‘Fullerton Community’ section of ‘The Fullerton Plan’ for related policies and actions.) Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Short -term Staff time
Action 3.2.b Coordinate with regional water agencies when preservation actions may affect shared water bodies or flood control channels. (See Chapter 16: Water of the ‘Fullerton Community’ section of ‘The Fullerton Plan’ for related policies and actions.) Public Works OC Public Works; OC Flood Control Ongoing Staff time P3.3 Watershed Management
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to manage open space watersheds to limit potential fire
and erosion hazards.
Action 3.3.a Review watershed management practices to incorporate erosion control measures and fire-smart vegetation management into existing and future open spaces. Public Works; Fire Department - Short -term Staff time Action 3.4.a Update the Community Forest Management Plan (CFMP) as needed to guide long-term tree planting, care, and replacement.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Ongoing Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 3.4.b Prioritize planting drought-tolerant trees in areas with limited canopy coverage as coordinated with the Community Forest Management Plan (CFMP). Parks & Recreation - Ongoing Staff time;
Development Impact
Fees
P3.5 Wildlife Management
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to promote and encourage residents and visitors to
respect the natural environment of wildlife inhabiting
and/or migrating to Fullerton’s open spaces.
Action 3.5.a Develop educational materials and/or signage encouraging wildlife-safe behaviors by visitors.
Public Works - Short -term Staff time
Action 3.6.a Identify locations annually for targeted habitat enhancement efforts, such as erosion repair, native plant installation, and invasive species removal.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Short -term Staff time; grants
Action 3.6.b Promote native plant palettes for restoration activities in sensitive habitat areas. Develop a publicly available list of recommended plant and shrub species to guide consistent, water-efficient landscaping practices. Parks & Recreation - Short -term Staff time Action 3.7.a Continue to coordinate volunteer restoration events annually with local organizations to restore degraded habitat areas. Parks & Recreation Fullerton Arboretum; volunteer groups Short-term Staff time
Action 3.7.b Develop simple restoration guidelines for volunteers to ensure consistency in planting and maintenance.
Parks & Recreation Fullerton Arboretum; volunteer
groups Short-term Staff time
P3.8 Support Biodiversity
Implement maintenance strategies that prioritize native vegetation and manage detrimental invasive plant and
animal species in natural habitat areas. Promote
vegetation that attracts desirable species and
discourages those that pose nuisance or ecological
risks.
Action 3.8.a Create an annual schedule for invasive species monitoring and removal in priority open space areas.
Parks & Recreation - Short -
term Staff time
P3.9 Low Impact Access
Provide defined trails, interpretive signage, and
seasonal closures to protect sensitive habitats when
allowable.
Action 3.9.a Identify locations where defined trails or minor rerouting could reduce off-trail impacts. Parks & Recreation - Short -term Staff time Action 3.10.a Coordinate annual fuel-load reduction efforts in priority open space areas while avoiding sensitive habitats.
Fire Department; Parks &
Recreation - Ongoing Staff time
Action 3.10.b Integrate invasive species removal into routine open space maintenance schedules. Parks & Recreation - Ongoing Staff time
P3.11 Enhancement of Conservation Areas
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to preserve and enhance established conservation areas.
Action 3.11.a Create a list of enhancement priorities for each conservation area to guide maintenance and restoration efforts, including East Coyote Hills, Ralph B. Clark Regional Park, Panorama Nature Preserve, Robert E. Ward Nature Preserve, and West Coyote Hills.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development -M i d -term Staff time
P3.12 Mitigation of Impacts on Sensitive Areas
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to consider and mitigate project level impacts to sensitive habitat areas at the site and building design stages.
Action 3.12.a Integrate early biological review into development applications located near sensitive habitat areas to identify potential impacts and required mitigation measures early in the review process. Community Development - Long-term Staff time P3.13 Mitigation of Impacts on Waterways
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to consider and mitigate project level impacts to public
waterways at the site and building design stages. (See
Chapter 16: Water of the ‘Fullerton Community’ section
of ‘The Fullerton Plan’ for related policies and actions.) Action 3.13.a Require early consultation with Public Works for any development proposals that could impact waterways or drainage corridors.
Community Development;
Public Works - Ongoing Staff time
P3.2 Waterways Preservation
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to preserve the City’s public creeks and lakes such as Tri City Lake, Bastanchury Greenbelt Creek, and Laguna
Lake. (See Chapter 16: Water of the ‘Fullerton
Community’ section of ‘The Fullerton Plan’ for related
policies and actions.)
P3.4 Comprehensive Tree Management
Support projects, programs, policies and regulations to comprehensively plan for, manage, and promote trees
throughout the City.
P3.6 Wildlife Habitat
Protect and enhance Fullerton’s existing habitats,
including coastal sage scrub, chaparral communities,
oak species, riparian corridors, and annual grasses and wildflowers, to support native biodiversity and
ecological health.
P3.7 Habitat Protection
Promote the restoration and naturalization of degraded
or underutilized areas through native vegetation
planting and habitat enhancement, in partnership with
organizations such as the Fullerton Arboretum and
Botanical Garden (CSUF) and other volunteer groups.
P3.10 Invasive Control and Fire Smart Stewardship
Implement ongoing invasive species removal and fuel-
smart vegetation management to reduce wildfire risk
while protecting habitat quality.
GOAL 3: Protect and enhance Fullerton’s natural systems by conserving sensitive habitats and waterways, restoring native vegetation and biodiversity, and preserving conservation areas.
P3.1 Conservation of Sensitive Natural Resources
Support regional and subregional efforts to conserve
habitat for sensitive species and plant communities.
Action 4.1.a Create a list of small-scale access improvements such as trailhead enhancements, seating, shade, and minor path connections during routine open space maintenance cycles, and prioritize areas for implementation.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Short-term
Staff time; City General
Fund; CA Natural
Resources Agency
(CNRA) grants
Action 4.1.b Update park and open space informational materials to better communicate public access points and rules about trails. Parks & Recreation - Mid -term Staff time Action 4.2.a Identify feasible locations for ADA-accessible trails, pullouts, and viewing areas, considering slope and habitat constraints. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Mid-term
Staff time,
Development Impact
Fees
Action 4.2.b Identify high-priority areas that would benefit from accessibility improvements, and incorporate universal design principles into future park and facility u
pgrades.
Parks & Recreation - Long-term Staff time
Action 4.3.a Identify missing trail or bikeway connections between open spaces and integrate them into the Capital Improvement Program, with particular emphasis on Districts 4 and 5, and document potential connection improvements. Establish an implementation timeline for trails that have not yet been constructed, such as the Union Pacific ri
ght-of-way trail.
Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Mid-term
Staff time; City General
Fund; Development
Impact Fees
Action 4.3.b Collaborate with OC Parks and neighboring cities to align cross- jurisdictional trail connections. Parks & Recreation OC Parks; adjacent cities Long-term Staff time Action 4.4.a Confirm the current inspection and maintenance schedules used for City trails, and identify any areas requiring urgent improvements. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Short-term;
Ongoing
Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 4.4.b Upgrade trail surfaces or drainage where recurring wear or erosion is identified. Public Works - Mid-term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 4.5.a Create a consistent citywide wayfinding signage standard for trails and open spaces. Update the Recreational Trail Design Standards in the Municipal Code to include a com
prehensive wayfinding or signage system.
Parks & Recreation - Long-term Staff time; CNRA Urban
Greening Program
Action 4.5.b Identify access areas, trail segments, viewsheds, trail junctions, access points, and major decision points that would benefit from improved wayfinding signage; prioritize these locations and implement improvements as funding becomes available. Parks & Recreation - Mid-term City General Fund;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 4.6.a Include universally accessible play, exercise, or sensory-friendly elements in park renovation plans. Parks & Recreation - Long-term
CA State Parks
Community Access
Program
Action 4.6.b Work with local nonprofits and cultural groups to co-host inclusive outdoor programs and events. Parks & Recreation Sponsorships Short-term Staff time; sponsorships Action 4.7.a Expand free or low-cost outdoor programs, such as guided hikes, fitness classes, or nature education, based on communit
y interest. Parks & Recreation Community partnerships Short-term Staff time; partnerships Action 4.7.b Assess opportunities to increase access to open spaces in underserved areas. Parks & Recreation - Mid-term Staff time
P4.8 Trail Studies
Support additional trail studies to assess existing
amenities, including trailhead retrofits, ADA-compliant parking, accessible restrooms, shade opportunities, trail improvements, wayfinding, and benches.
Action 4.8.a Conduct a trail amenities and access study evaluating ADA parking, restrooms, shade, benches, and wayfinding improvements. Incorporate study findings into future capital improvement prioritization. Parks & Recreation - Mid-term CNRA grants; staff time Action 4.9.a Develop and post signage with recommended etiquette guidelines for multi-use paths.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Long-term Staff time
Action 4.9.b Collaborate with the Police Department on periodic education campaigns promoting safe trail behavior. Parks & Recreation; Police - Mid-term Staff time P4.10 Safety Improvements
Continue enhancing sidewalks, crossings, and bike lanes that lead to parks and trails to ensure safer access to open spaces.
Action 4.10.a Identify locations with safety concerns or areas that would benefit from improvements, and install crosswalk visibility enhancements, traffic calming measures, or bike lane improvements near major park and trail access points, prioritizing high-need locations.
Public Works - Mid-term
Staff time; City General
Fund; Development
Impact Fees
Action 4.11.a Identify potential trail connections, alignments, or easements in Districts 4 and 5 for integration into long-term network planning.
Parks & Recreation; Public
Works - Mid-term Staff time
Action 4.11.b Partner with schools and community groups to identify priority local routes that improve access to nearb
y open spaces.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Short-term Staff time
Action 4.12.a Assess abandoned or underutilized rail corridors for potential trail conversion, including ownership, easement, and environmental considerations.
Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Mid-term Staff time
Action 4.12.b Engage with corridor owners and regional agencies to explore acquisition, leases, or joint-use agreements. Public Works - Long-term Staff time GOAL 4: Increase accessibility and inclusivity of open space resources and enhance a connected trail system that links the community to these open spaces.
P4.1 Access and Use of Open Space
Support projects, programs, and regulations to increase access to and use of open space resources while
respecting the natural environment within Fullerton
and to its neighboring cities.
P4.2 Accessibility for All
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to ensure that, when natural topography allows, public
open spaces are accessible to people of all abilities.
P4.3 Trail Linkages to Open Space
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations to promote recreational trails and the bikeway system to
link open spaces to public areas and neighborhoods.
P4.4 Connected Trail System
Continually evaluate and maintain the City’s network of paths and trails for hikers, walkers, runners, cyclists, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
P4.5 Navigating Open Spaces
Support projects, programs, policies, and regulations
that promote easy access to and navigation within the
City’s open spaces and trails by installing wayfinding
signage and creating plans for multi-modal access when
allowable.
P4.6 Accessible and Inclusive
Promote accessibility and inclusivity in park facilities and programs through universal design and diverse,
community-responsive activities.
P4.7 Programming
Support programs and services that bring residents
together, serve all age groups, and are responsive to
community needs and desires.
P4.9 Safe Shared Use
Promote context-specific e-bike speed limits and
etiquette guidelines on multi-use paths to reduce
conflicts and ensure safe shared use.
P4.11 Extended Network
Support research and development of an improved trail
network in Districts 4 and 5 to enhance connectivity
with existing open spaces.
P4.12 Rail -to-Trail Strategy:
Transform abandoned or underutilized rail corridors
into linear parks and trail spurs to close gaps in the
network, as allowable and where permitted by land use
regulations.
Action 5.1.a Participate in regional habitat connectivity planning efforts with OC Parks, California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW), and neighboring cities. Parks & Recreation OC Parks; CDFW Short-term Staff time Action 5.1.b Share relevant GIS layers or ecological data with regional partners to support cross-jurisdictional linkage planning.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development Regional partners Mid-term Staff time Action 5.2.a Identify suitable low-maintenance areas within parks and open spaces for rewilding and native habitat restoration. Assess and map high-potential sites. Integrate habitat strategies into the future Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Develop guidance for incorporating native habitat elements into future park renovations, new park develo
pment, and routine maintenance activities.
Parks & Recreation - Short-term
Staff time; CA Natural
Resources Agency
(CNRA) restoration
grants
Action 5.2.b Implement phased rewilding pilot projects using native plant palettes, naturalized landscaping, and habitat-forming features. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Mid-term
CNRA grants;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 5.3.a Integrate California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Essential Habitat Connectivity and Natural Areas data when identifying rewilding sites and habitat restoration projects within the city. Evaluate opportunities to better understand and improve ecological connectivity citywide, including mapping habitat patches, identifying barriers (such as roadways, fencing, lighting, and other infrastructure), and assessing where targeted enhancements could support multi-species movement between open spaces. Focus analysis on key corridors and transition areas, including West Coyote Hills, East Coyote Hills, existing drainage corridors, and gaps between conserved open space areas.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development
Regional agencies, land managers,
and ecological experts Mid-term Staff time
Action 5.3.b Expand native vegetation or corridor-supportive landscaping along identified habitat linkage areas. Develop a set of planning and design guidelines for locating sensitive land uses near schools, senior housing, and high-traffic roadways. Parks & Recreation - Mid-term CNRA grants Action 5.4.a Promote wildlife-friendly design features such as vegetated buffers, native understory planting, or naturalized drainage during park upgrades. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Ongoing
CNRA grants;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 5.4.b Coordinate with Public Works to assess opportunities for wildlife- compatible culverts or undercrossing during infrastructure retrofits. As part of future maintenance projects, identify opportunities to install vegetative buffers, such as hedgerows, or bioswales between roads and sensitive land uses. Prioritize high- performing vegetation species suited to pollution absorption and local climate when Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Long-term
Staff time; statewide
wildlife connectivity
grants
Action 5.5.a Identify priority locations where roadways or developed areas act as wildlife movement barriers.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Long-term Staff time
Action 5.5.b Incorporate mitigation measures, such as directional fencing, signage, or vegetated buffers, when feasible during public works projects.
Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Ongoing CNRA wildlife corridor
grants
Action 5.6.a Map existing and potential wildlife corridors connecting Coyote Hills, Laguna Lake, Brea Dam, Craig Regional Park, the Fullerton Loop, and the Arboretum. Parks & Recreation; Community Development - Short-term Staff time
Action 5.6.b Prioritize native vegetation and habitat enhancements along mapped corridors during capital and maintenance projects. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Mid-term
Staff time;
Development Impact
Fees; CNRA restoration
grants
Action 5.7.a Partner with schools, nonprofits, and community groups to host regular habitat restoration volunteer events. Parks & Recreation - Short-term Staff time; sponsorships Action 5.7.b Install interpretive signage at rewilded or restored sites to highlight ecological benefits, restoration goals, and community involvement. Design and introduce educational signage at key natural areas such as West Coyote Hills, East Coyote Hills, the Robert E. Ward Nature Preserve, and along major trail corridors to provide clear and engaging information about native ecosystems, local wildlife, and habitat restoration efforts. Incorporate multilingual content, maps, and QR codes linking to City or partner websites for additional information.
Parks & Recreation - Long-term City General Fund;
CNRA grants
P5.8 Resilient Landscaping
Prioritize the use of native, drought-tolerant, and
climate-resilient plants in Fullerton’s parks and
landscaped open spaces to enhance habitat value,
conserve water, and su
pport pollinator species.
Action 5.8.a Incorporate native, low-water, and habitat-supportive plant species into future landscape plans and renovations. Phase out non-native, high-water-use plantings during ongoing landscape replacements. Create a list for public use. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Short-term
Staff time;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 5.9.a Identify high visibility park areas, medians, or trail edges suitable for pollinator-friendly or habitat-supporting landscape conversions. Parks & Recreation; Public Works - Mid-term
CNRA Urban Greening;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 5.9.b Integrate bioswales, habitat nodes, or native plant corridors into future park and trail improvements. Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Mid-term
Stormwater grants;
CNRA nature-based
solutions funds
Action 5.10.a Prioritize street tree planting and shade canopy expansion along walking routes, school frontages, and transit stops in low-canopy areas. Public Works; Parks & Recreation - Mid-term
Urban & Community
Forestry Program;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 5.10.b Replace underperforming or dying trees with climate-resilient native or regionally adapted species.
Public Works - Ongoing
City General Fund;
CNRA tree planting
grants
GOAL 5: Strengthen Fullerton’s open spaces to support native biodiversity, enhance climate resilience, and maintain ecological function through initiatives such as rewilding, habitat restoration, and nature-based soluti P5.10 Urban Canopy
Enhance canopy and shade tree coverage along walking
routes, school frontages, bus stops, and park perimeters to reduce heat exposure and strengthen wildlife
connectivity. Prioritize planting in areas with low
canopy coverage, particularly in Districts 4 and 5, to
deliver co-benefits for both the community and local
wildlife.
P5.3 Habitat Linkages
Prioritize rewilding in areas that enhance or establish habitat linkages and wildlife corridors, as identified in Essential Habitat Connectivity and Natural Areas
designated by the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife.
P5.4 Wildlife Movement Design
Incorporate wildlife-friendly infrastructure such as
vegetated buffers, restored corridors, green
infrastructure, and suitable vegetation along with
features like culverts and buffer zones to create
pathways for wildlife movement and foster a more
resilient, biodiverse city.
P5.5 Movement Mitigation
Assess and mitigate barriers to wildlife movement
caused by roads, levees, and urban development when
allowable and where permitted by land use regulations.
P5.6 Wildlife Corridors
Identify, protect, and enhance wildlife and recreational corridors connecting Coyote Hills, Laguna Lake, Brea
Dam, Craig Regional Park, the Fullerton Loop, and the
California State University, Fullerton Arboretum and
Botanical Garden.
P5.7 Community Stewardship
Support volunteer days in collaboration with
community members, nonprofits, and schools. Promote
inclusive participation in habitat restoration through
stewardship programs, youth engagement initiatives,
and interpretive signage in rewilded open spaces.
P5.9 Ecologically Beneficial Features.
Incorporate ecologically beneficial elements, such as
pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, bioswales, and
native plant corridors, into public parks, street medians, and along trail networks.
P5.1 Connectivity Partnerships
Coordinate with Orange County and other regional
partners to support connectivity and wildlife access
improvements region-wide.
P5.2 Rewilding
Implement urban rewilding projects to reintroduce
natural processes, restore natural ecosystems, and
promote biodiversity.
Action 6.1.a Update and maintain the City’s Community Forest Management Plan, including canopy goals and maintenance standards. Public Works; Parks & Recreation - Mid-term
Staff time; Urban &
Community Forestry
Program
Action 6.1.b Host annual community planting and tree-care events in partnership with schools and nonprofits.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development Sponsorships Short-term Staff time; sponsorships Action 6.1.c Prioritize tree planting in low-canopy neighborhoods to support equity and climate resilience, with an emphasis on disadvantaged and impacted communities as defined in the Environmental Justice Element.
Public Works; Community
Development - Mid-term Urban & Community
Forestry grants
Action 6.2.a Integrate climate resilience metrics such as carbon storage, heat reduction, and wildfire mitigation into evaluation criteria for open space preservation and restoration
projects.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Mid-term CNRA climate resilience grants
Action 6.2.b Target restoration and greening investments in heat vulnerable and underserved neighborhoods.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Mid-term CNRA Urban Greening
Program
Action 6.3.a Identify corridors suitable for green street treatments and incorporate priority segments into the CIP. Public Works; Water Division - Mid-term Stormwater grants;
Development Impact
Fees
Action 6.3.b Update City street improvement guidelines to include permeable paving, bioswales, and native planting where feasible. Public Works - Ongoing Staff time Action 6.4.a Develop voluntary design guidance for rooftop gardens, green walls, and other green infrastructure features for use in public and private projects.
Community Development;
Public Works - Mid-term Staff time
Action 6.4.b Evaluate appropriate City facilities for potential small scale green roof or vertical greenery demonstration projects.
Public Works - Long-term CNRA nature-based
solutions grants
Action 6.5.a Create a map or website showing cooling centers in the city; create a list of new priority cooling corridors near schools, transit stops, senior centers, and park access points, and prioritize them for shade improvements. Maintain updated public information on cooling centers, heat-related safety, and local resources.
Community Development;
Public Works; Parks &
Recreation; Emergency
Management
- Ongoing
Urban & Community
Forestry grants, staff
time
Action 6.5.b Integrate shade trees, shade structures, or cool paving materials into street and park improvement projects along designated cooling corridors. Community Development; Public Works; Parks &
Recreation
- Ongoing
Development Impact
Fees; CNRA Urban
Greening
Action 6.6.a Identify locations in parks, parking lots, and rights-of-way where bioswales, rain gardens, or permeable pavements can be incorporated into upcoming projects. Public Works; Water Division; Parks & Recreation - Mid-term Stormwater/water
conservation grants
Action 6.6.b Ensure green stormwater features meet long-term maintenance requirements under the Water Conservation Ordinance. Public Works; Water Division - Ongoing Staff time Action 6.7.a
Update landscape and irrigation requirements to emphasize drought-tolerant native plants, soil health, and efficient irrigation.
Community Development;
Water Division - Mid-term Staff time
Action 6.7.b Provide developer and landscape professional information on updated landscaping requirements. Community Development - Short-term Staff time Action 6.8.a Integrate vegetative buffers, enhanced filtration, and other air quality mitigation measures into development conditions for sensitive uses near major roads or industrial areas.
Community Development;
Public Works - Mid-term Staff time
Action 6.8.b Consult with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) on best practices for applying air quality mitigation strategies in land use review. Community Development - Ongoing Staff time Action 6.9.a Prioritize tree planting and vegetated buffers in areas exposed to poor air qualit
y, including freeway edges, industrial zones, and transit hubs.
Public Works; Parks &
Recreation - Mid-term Urban & Community
Forestry grants
Action 6.9.b Monitor progress on canopy expansion and vegetated buffer installation through periodic urban forestry updates.
Public Works - Long-term Staff time
Action 6.10.a Update street design standards to reflect complete streets principles, including shade trees, green infrastructure, and pedestrian safety features. Public Works; Community Development - Mid-term Staff time
Action 6.10.b Prioritize complete street corridors that overlap with cooling corridors or active transportation improvements.
Public Works - Short-term Staff time
Action 6.11.a Expand active transportation networks focusing on connectivity to schools, transit, parks, job centers, and underserved neighborhoods, with priority given to communities identified as disadvantaged or impacted in the Environmental Justice Element.
Public Works; Community
Development - Mid-term
Staff time;
transportation/climate
resilience grants
Action 6.11.b Support installation of EV charging at strategic civic facilities and integrate EV ready requirements into relevant development standards. Identify opportunities to install EV charging stations at high-traffic public facilities such as community centers, parks, and libraries that are accessible to all residents.
Community Development;
Public Works - Short-term State EV infrastructure
grants
Action 6.11.c Work with regional partners such as Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to align transit and mobility investments with VMT reduction goals.
Community Development;
Public Works OCTA; SCAG Long-term Staff time
P6.1 Tree City Designation
Maintain Fullerton’s Tree City USA designation by
implementing urban forest management practices that
promote tree health, increase canopy coverage,
enhance climate resilience, and engage the community
in stewardship efforts.
P6.2 Resilient Design
Prioritize the preservation and restoration of open
spaces and natural areas in Fullerton that provide multi- benefit climate services such as carbon sequestration,
heat reduction, and habitat connectivity while also
reducing wildfire risk through vegetation best practices.
Focus efforts particularly in underserved areas to
enhance community resilience and protect critical
ecosystems.
P6.5 Cooling Corridors
Prioritize the use of shade trees, reflective or sustainable materials, and shade structures along pedestrian
priority corridors, trails, schools, bus stops, senior
centers, and pathways to open spaces. Continue
providing accessible information on heat-related
concerns and the locations of cooling centers
throughout the city.
P6.6 Natural Water Management Infrastructure
Promote bioswales, rain gardens, permeable
pavements, and detention features in parks, streets, and parking lots per the Fullerton’s Water Utility's Water
Conservation Ordinance.
P6.7 Landscaping and Irrigation
Enhance Fullerton’s landscaping and irrigation
requirements to incorporate drought-tolerant native
plants, promoting water conservation, climate
resilience, and habitat restoration.
P6.8 Air Quality Mitigation
Enhance air quality mitigation strategies by
recommending vegetative buffers, advanced filtration
systems, and site design measures to reduce exposure
near major transportation corridors, the Fullerton
Transportation Center, and industrial facilities
throughout the city.
P6.9 Greening Air Improvements
Support and implement Fullerton’s Community Forestry
Ordinance and Community Forest Management Plan to
improve air quality and reduce urban heat through
targeted tree canopy expansion and the installation of
vegetated buffers in high-exposure areas.
P6.10 Complete Streets
Encourage smart growth and complete streets design
principles, when allowable and where permitted by
land use regulations, which integrate air quality
protection measures, such as shade trees and green
infrastructure.
P6.3 Green Streets
Promote the development of green streets that
integrate native vegetation, permeable surfaces, and
stormwater management features to enhance urban
habitat, improve water quality, and reduce runoff.
GOAL 6: Ensure Fullerton’s infrastructure network is adaptively managed to strengthen resilience against climate change impacts, including extreme heat, increased flood risk, and other hazards.
P6.4 Green Infrastructure
Promote the integration of rooftop gardens, vertical
greenery, and other green infrastructure solutions to
enhance urban biodiversity, improve air quality,
manage stormwater, and reduce energy consumption,
while ensuring compliance with the City’s landscaping
and irrigation standards.
P6.11 VMT Reduction
Prioritize transportation and mobility improvements in
Fullerton that reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and
greenhouse gas emissions by expanding pedestrian-
friendly corridors, bicycle networks, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Emphasize connectivity near public transit, schools, and industrial facilities, and
underserved neighborhoods to promote equitable and
sustainable mobility options.
Action 7.1.a Maintain regular coordination with regional partners, including OC Parks, CDFW, and local nonprofits, to align conservation priorities and share resources. Parks & Recreation; Community Development OC Parks; CDFW; local nonprofits Ongoing Staff time Action 7.1.b Partner with California State University, Fullerton to support research, mapping, or monitoring efforts that inform open space management. Parks & Recreation; Community Development CSU Fullerton Mid-term Staff time Action 7.2.a Develop an annual engagement process to gather community input on open space priorities, maintenance, and improvements.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Short-term Staff time
Action 7.2.b Prepare or update periodic reports summarizing progress on open space actions and share them publicly. Integrate community input into updates to relevant plans, programs, or maintenance schedules.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Mid-term Staff time
Action 7.3.a Develop educational materials, digital and physical, to highlight local wildlife, habitat protection, and coexistence practices.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development - Short-term Staff time
Action 7.3.b Collaborate with schools, community groups, and local nonprofits to host informational workshops or nature walks.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development Schools; CSU Fullerton; nonprofits Mid-term Staff time; sponsorships Action 7.4.a Support volunteer habitat restoration days in partnership with local organizations and schools.
Parks & Recreation;
Community Development Schools; CSU Fullerton; nonprofits Short-term Staff time; sponsorships Action 7.4.b Identify accessible locations suitable for ongoing community-led stewardship projects. Document and make these materials available to the community Community Development; Parks & Recreation - Mid-term Staff time
Action 7.5.a Develop a partnership framework outlining how nonprofits, schools, and CSU Fullerton can participate in conservation or educational programs.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation Schools; CSU Fullerton; nonprofits Short-term Staff time Action 7.5.b Co-host recurring events or programs with at least one outside partner each year to support open space engagement. Community Development; Parks & Recreation Schools; CSU Fullerton; nonprofits Mid-term Staff time Action 7.6.a Create or maintain a user-friendly online dashboard summarizing maintenance activities, trail conditions, safety updates, and environmental indicators (as available).
Parks & Recreation; IT - Long-term Staff time; City General Fund
Action 7.6.b Publish clear summaries of community engagement outcomes, such as volunteer hours, restoration activities, and program participation. Community Development; Parks & Recreation - Ongoing Staff time
Action 7.7.a Offer multilingual materials and outreach to ensure open space programming is accessible to underserved communities.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Short-term Staff time
Action 7.7.b Develop youth- and senior-focused programs to support community-led monitoring or nature engagement.
Community Development;
Parks & Recreation - Mid-term Staff time; City General
Fund
Action 7.7.c Host workshops and engagement events in park-adjacent or community- centered locations to expand program reach. Community Development; Parks & Recreation - Ongoing Staff time
P7.7 Community Led Monitoring
Provide multilingual materials and events and
community engagement in underserved areas; develop
engagement programs for youths and seniors; and host
workshops across Fullerton and park-adjacent venues
for future open space programming initiatives.
P7.1 Conservation Partnerships
Collaborate with regional agencies, nonprofit
organizations, and academic institutions to advance
conservation and resilience goals.
P7.2 Plan and Engage Proactively
Promote long-term open space and conservation
success through regular planning, transparent
reporting, and ongoing community engagement.
P7.3 Public Awareness
Enhance public awareness of urban wildlife, habitat
conservation, and sustainable coexistence through
targeted education and outreach initiatives.
P7.4 Community Stewardship
Encourage community participation in habitat
restoration, monitoring, and stewardship activities.
P7.5 Partnership Model
Support collaboration among local nonprofits,
community groups, California State University,
Fullerton, public schools in Fullerton, etc. to advance open space and engagement initiatives.
GOAL 7: Strengthen community participation in open space and conservation decisions by actively engaging residents, regional partners, and organizations in the protection and enhancement of local natural resourc P7.6 Transparent Dashboards
Continue to ensure transparency by regularly sharing
updates with the community on open space
maintenance, safety, and environmental health data as
available. Provide visible results from community
engagement efforts.