J u l y 2 0 1 4 P a g e | 3-135
P O L I C Y D O C U M E N T: PA RT 3
H A Z A R D S E L E M E N T
The city of Hayward is located in a region that is prone to a variety of natural disasters. The city’s geologic setting was formed by regional and local earthquake faults, many of which are still active and can generate devastating damage to buildings and infrastructure in the event of a n earthquake. The city’s climate can also create hazardous conditions. Severe winter and spring storms can cause landslides in hillside areas and flooding along stream corridors and low-lying areas near the San Francisco Bay. Dry weather during spring and summer months can create hazardous conditions related to wildland fires, which when combined with strong Diablo winds, pose a significant risk to hillside neighborhoods. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and severity of climate hazards, including increased flood, landslide, drought, extreme heat, and wildfire risks. In addition to natural hazards, Hayward also has a number of transportation facilities and industrial businesses that create risks for man-made hazards, such as aircraft accidents, hazardous material spills, and exposure to excessive noise.
While it is impossible to completely avoid natural and man -made hazards, the Hazards Element establishes goals and policies to protect life and minimize property damage during future disasters and emergencies. The goals and policies address regional hazards mitigation, seismic and geologic hazards, climate change, flood hazards, rising sea levels, wildland wildfires, hazardous materials, airport hazards, and noise.
Several other Elements of the General Plan provide supporting goals and policies that will help the Hayward community prepare for and respond to hazards, including the Community Safety Element, the Natural Resources Element, Public Facilities Element, Environmental Justice Element, the Climate Action Plan, and the Community Health and Quality of Life Element.
Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Goal 1 Regional Coordination
The impacts of disasters are rarely confined to the
limits of a single jurisdiction , and almost always
affect multiple agencies within a region. As a result, the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
encourages cooperation between State, regional,
and local agencies, prompting them to work
together to mitigate hazards. This goal and its
supporting policies are designed to promote a
disaster-resilient region through regional
coordination and mitigation planning . This is
accomplished by implementing a Local Hazards
Mitigation Plan , a comprehensive pla n that
addresses local hazards in coordination with state
and regional agencies. By participating in regional
and local hazards mitigation, the City will minimize
disaster risks and improve the safety of the
Hayward community.
GOAL HAZ-1
Promote a disaster-resilient region by reducing
hazard risks through regional coordination and
mitigation planning including climate change
adaptation. [Source: Existing Goal, City Staff]
HAZ-1.1 Local Hazards Mitigation Plan
The City shall coordinate with regional and local
agencies to implement an updated Resiliency Plan1
(former Local Hazard s Mitigation Plan ). [Source:
Existing Policy modified; City Staff] (IGC/MPSP)
HAZ-1.2 Plan Implementation and
Monitoring
The City shall monitor and evaluate the success of
the Resiliency Plan ( Local Hazards Mitigation
Plan). The City shall ensure that strategies are
prioritized and implemented through the Capital
Improvement Program and by providing adequate
1 Hayward 2021 Local Resilience Plan. https://www.hayward- ca.gov/your-government/documents/local-resilience-plan
budget for on -going programs and Department
operations. [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff] (MPSP/CSO/FB)
HAZ-1.3 Plan Updates
The City shall support the Association of Bay Area
Governments (ABAG) in its role as the lead agency
that prepares and updates the Multi-Jurisdictional
Local Hazards Mitigation Plan. If ABAG cannot
fulfill this role in the future, the City shall
coordinate with Alameda Cou nty and other local
agencies to encourage the development and
implementation of a new Multi-Jurisdictional Local
Hazards Mitigation Plan. Ensure all future plan
updates include climate change adaptation
measures. [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff] (IGC)
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
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Photographs showing damage from the 1868 Hayward
Earthquake. Courtesy of the Hayward Area Historical Society.
Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Goal 2 Seismic and Geologic
Hazards
Hayward is located in a seismically active region
that contains several major active faults, including
the San Andreas Fault , Hayward Fault , and
Calaveras Fault . The Hay ward Fault crosses
through the c ity and generally runs parallel and
within a few hundred feet of Mission Boulevard .
Other potentially active faults within Hayward
include the Chabot Fault, the Carlos Bee Fault, and
several adjacent and secondary faults . As a result
of its location and geologic setting, the city of
Hayward is subject to a variety of seismic and
geologic hazards, including fault rupture, strong
ground shak ing, liquefaction, and landslides. In
addition, segments of the city could flood if an
earthquake generates a tsunami or causes an up -
stream dam to fail . This goal and its supporting
policies are designed to minimize risks associated
with seismic and geologic hazards.
GOAL HAZ-2
Protect life and minimize property damage
from potential seismic and geologic hazards .
[Source: Existing Goal, modified]
HAZ-2.1 Seismic Safety Codes and
Provisions
The City shall enforce the seismic safety provisions
of the Building Code and Alquist -Priolo Special
Studies Zone Act to minimize earthquake -related
hazards in new construction, particularly as they
relate to high occupancy structures or buildings
taller than 50 feet in height. [Source: Existing Policy] (RDR)
HAZ-2.2 Geologic Investigations
The City shall require a geologic i nvestigation for
new construction on sites within (or partially
within) the following zones:
▪ Fault Zone (see Figure 9.2-1 in the
Hazards Background Report)
▪ Liquefaction Zone (see Figure 9.2-2 in the
Hazards Background Report)
▪ Landslide Zone (see Figure 9.2-3 in the
Hazards Background Report)
A licensed geotechnical engineer shall conduct the
investigation and prepare a written report of
findings and recommended mitigation measures to
minimize potential risks related to seismic and
geologic hazards. [Source: Existing Policy; City Staff, GPUTF] (RDR)
SEISMIC HAZARD TERMINOLOGY
Fault Zone: Zones in which cities and
counties must require special geologic studies
to prevent the construction of structures
intended for human occupancy over an
earthquake fault. The California Geological
Survey publishes maps of the zones as part of
its work to implement the requirements of the
Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone Act. These
maps show the most comprehensive depiction
of fault traces that can rupture during an
earthquake.
Liquefaction: Liquefaction happens when
loosely packed sandy or silty materials
saturated with water are shaken hard enough to
lose strength and stiffness. Liquefied soils
behave like a liquid and are responsible for
tremendous damage in an earthquake, causing
pipes to leak, roads and airport runways to
buckle, and building foundations to be
damaged.
Tsunami: A tsunami (pronounced soo-nah-
mee) is a series of waves generated in a body of
water by a rapid disturbance that vertically
displaces the water. These changes can be
caused by an underwater fault rupture (that
generates an earthquake) or underwater
landslides (typically triggered by earthquakes).
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
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HAZ-2.3 Fault Zones Assumption
The City shall assume that all sites within (or
partially within) any fault zone are underlain by an
active fault trace until a geotechnical investigation
by a licensed geotechnical engineer proves
otherwise. [Source: Existing Policy] (RDR)
Active Fault Zones in the San Francisco bay Area. Source:
Association of Bay Area Governments.
HAZ-2.4 New Buildings in a Fault Zone
The City shall prohibit the placement o f any
building designed for human occupancy overactive
faults. All buildings shall be set back from active
faults by at least 50 feet or as recommended by a
licensed geotechnical engineer based on a site and
project specific evaluation . [Source: Existing Policy, modified] (RDR)
HAZ-2.5 Existing Buildings in a Fault Zone
The City shall prohibit the expansion of existing
commercial and multi -family buildings
(constructed prior to the adoption of the Alquist -
Priolo Special Studies Zone Act) that are located
over an active fault. Renovations to existing
buildings within a fault zone shall be subject to the
limitations and requirements of the Alquist-Priolo
Special Studies Zone Act. [Source: Existing Policy,
modified; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-2.6 Infrastructure and Utilities
The City shall require infrastructure and utility lines that cross faults to include design features to
mitigate potential fault displacement impacts and
restore service in the event of major fault
displacement. Mitigation measures may include
plans for damage isolation or temporary bypass by
using standard isolation valves , flexible hose or
conduit, and other techniques and equipment.
[Source: Existing policy] (RDR)
Potential severity of ground shaking in the Bay Area during a magnitude 6.9 earthquake on the Hayward Fault. Areas in red would experience very strong to very violent ground shaking.
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments.
Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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HAZ-2.7 Dam Failure
The City shall coordinate with agencies responsible
for the maintenance of the South Reservoir Dam,
the Del Valle Dam, and other small dams along
Alameda Creek to ensure that dam infrastructure is
maintained and enhanced to withstand potential
failure during an earthquake. [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (IGC)
HAZ-2.8 Tsunamis
The City shall coordinate with the Hayward Area
Recreation and Park District (HARD), the East Bay
Regional Parks District (EBRPD), and the Alameda
County Flood Control and Water Conservation
District to efficiently evacuate shoreline parks
during and prior to potential tsunami events with
consideration to sea level rise increasing tsunami
impact. [Source: Existing Policy modified, City Staff]
(CSO/MPSP/IGC)
HAZ-2.9 Seismic Retrofits
The City shall encourage property owners to
upgrade buildings for seismic safety purposes ,
especially masonry and soft -story buildings (i.e.,
buildings designed with minimal bracing on the
first floor) . [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff;
GPUTF; Public] (MPSP/PI)
HAZ-2.10 City Facilities
The City shall strive to seismically upgrade existing
City facilities that do not meet current building
code standards. Where upgrades are not
economically feasible, the City shall consider the
relocation and/or reconstruction of facilities.
[Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (PI/CSO)
HAZ-2.11 Critical Facilities
The City shall encourage seismic upgrades to
hospitals, schools, long-term care facilities , and
other important facilities that do not meet current
building code standards. Where upgrades are not
economically feasible, the City shall encourage the
relocation and/or reconstruction of facilities.
[Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (PI/CSO)
HAZ-2.12 Public Awareness
The City shall promote greater public awareness of
earthquake hazards and promote resources and
programs to help property owners make their
homes and businesses more seismically safe.
[Source: Existing Policy] (PI)
Goal 3 Flood Hazards
Various parts of Hayward are subject to flooding
during major storm events , including shoreline
areas and upland areas located along stream s,
creeks, and drainage ways . The geographic extent
of local f lood hazards is anticipated to increase in
the next century as a result of rising sea levels
caused by climate change . Extreme weather
conditions caused by climate change could also
increase flooding risks during major storms. Parts
of Hayward are also located in dam failure
inundation zones. Dam failure refers to the
uncontrolled release of impounded water stored
behind a dam. It can be caused by heavy rainfall,
earthquakes, landslides, improper operation or
maintenance, poor construction or maintenance,
vandalism, and other natural or human actions.
This goal and its supporting policies are designed
to minimize damage and risks associated with flood
hazards, including flood hazards associated with
extreme weather caused by climate change and dam
failure. Related policies that address rising sea levels are discussed under Goal 4.
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
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GOAL HAZ-3
Protect life and minimize property damage
from potential flood hazards . [Source:
Existing Goal; GPUTF; Public; CC/PC]
HAZ-3.1 FEMA Coordination
The City shall coordinate with the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to
ensure that Federal Insurance Rate Maps correctly
depict flood hazards in the city . [Source: Existing
Policy] (IGC)
HAZ-3.2 Development in Floodplains
The City shall implement Federal, State, and local
requirements related to new construction in flood
plain areas to ensure that future flood risks to life
and property are minimized. [Source: Existing Policy]
(RDR)
HAZ-3.3 Flood Plain Management
Ordinance
The City shall maintain and enforce a Flood Plain
Management Ordinance to:
▪ Promote public health, safety, and general
welfare by minimizing public and private
losses due to floods,
▪ Implement the Cobey-Alquist Flood Plain
Management Act,
▪ Comply with the eligibility requirements of
the National Flood Insurance Program ,
and
Protect assets within flood zones from increased
extreme precipitation events as identified in the
Climate Vulnerability Assessment (Appendix A to
this Element ). [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff] (MPSP/RDR)
HAZ-3.4 Changing Flood Conditions
Associated with Climate Change
The City shall coordinate with the Alameda County
Flood Control and Water Conservation District to
evaluate the need to expand the capacity of flood
control facilities based on changing flood
conditions associated with climate change and
extreme weather . [Source: Existing Policy, modified]
(IGC)
HAZ-3.5 Public Awareness
The City shall promote greater public awareness of
flooding hazards and promote resources and
programs to help property owners and landlords
protect their homes and businesses from flood
damage. [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff ] (PI)
Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Areas of Hayward that are subject to flooding during a 100-year storm (light blue), and a 500-year storm (light orange). Source: FEMA Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
J u l y 2 0 1 4 P a g e | 3-143
Areas of Hayward that are located in the dam failure inundation zone are shown in blue. Source: California Department of Water Resources Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Goal 4 Rising Sea Levels
Sea levels are projected to rise by up to 1.9 feet by
mid-century (See the Climate Vulnerability
Assessment in Appendix A). As sea levels rise, the
Hayward shoreline, as well as industrial,
commercial, and residential areas along creeks and
drainage ways, will become more and more
vulnerable to water inundation during both normal
high tides and flooding during major storm events.
If unmitigated, rising sea levels have the potential
to inundate the open space and recreational
resources along the shoreline, and flood nearby
industrial, commercial, and residential areas. This
goal and its supporting policies are designed to
protect the Hayward shoreline and adjacent urban
uses from the impacts of rising sea levels.
The maps below outline mid and end -century sea
level rise projections that display areas with marine
inundation under the separate scenarios. The first
map displays these scenarios outright while the
following shows these scenarios under a 100 -year
or 1 percent chance storm overlaid. The final map
following this section displays groundwater hazard
risk with water table at surface and up to 3.3 feet by
mid-century. Projections in the maps are consistent
with best available science but maintain a high
degree of uncertainty.
Policies related to climate change and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions are provided in the Natural
Resources Element, Mobility Element, and Climate Action Plan.
GOAL HAZ-4
Safeguard the Hayward shoreline, open space,
recreational resources, and urban uses from
flooding due to rising sea levels . [Source:
Exisring Goal; Public; GPUTF, CC/PC].
HAZ-4.1 Monitor Rising Sea Level
The City shall monitor information from regional,
State, and F ederal agencies on rising sea levels in
the San Francisco Bay to determine if additional
adaptation strategies should be implemented to
address flooding hazards. [Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (IGC/CSO)
HAZ-4.2 Regional Planning for Sea Level
Rise
The City shall continue to coordinate with the Bay
Conservation and Development Commission ,
Alameda County, and others to participate in Bay
Adapt: Regional Strategy for a Rising Bay and similar
efforts, to advance regional dialogue on
mechanisms for balancing the protection of at-risk
communities and enhanc ing the region’s overall
resilience to rising sea levels. [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff; Hayward Area Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan] (IGC)
HAZ-4.3 Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan
The City shall coordinate with Oakland, San
Leandro, Alameda County , the Hayward Area
Shoreline Planning Agency, the Bay Conservation
and Development Commission, and other agencies
to expand and restore wetland habitat and increase
shoreline resilience through the implementation of
the Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master
Plan and will align the Shoreline Adaptation Master
Plan with BCDC guidelines when they are adopted.
[Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff; GPUTF]
(IGC)
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
J u l y 2 0 1 4 P a g e | 3-145
HAZ-4.4 FIRM Maps
The City shall cooperate with FEMA in the
preparation of updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps
that reflect rising sea levels and changing flood
conditions. [Source: Existing Policy modified; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-4.5 Rising Sea Level Notifications
The City shall require that all applicants for new
industrial and commercial development, including
major remodels, within areas which may flood due
to sea level rise by the end of the century during a
100 year flood event, notify residents, tenants and
property owners about the risk of future sea level
rise and groundwater hazard risk . When maps are
updated, the City shall provide notice to all
potentially impacted residents, tenants, property
and business owners about updated data related to
rising sea levels and flooding. [Source: Existing Policy modified, City Staff; GPUTF] (RDR)
HAZ-4.6 Adaptation Atlas
The City shall partner with regional jurisdictions to
incorporate the findings of the San Francisco
Estuary Institute’s SF Bay Area Adaptation Atlas.
including commitments to nature-based measures,
grey infrastructure, policy and regulatory measures,
and financial measures. Nature-based measures will
be considered and prioritized if feasible from a
constructability and cost standpoint . [Source: New
Policy)
HAZ-4.7 Adaptation Programs and
Standards
The City shall investigate opportunities to provide
programs and funding resources to retrofit and
adapt critical facilities, community structures , and
infrastructure through:
▪ Raising buildings and roads by placing fill to
rebuild the grades at higher elevations,
▪ Rebuilding all connecting roads, trails, and
utilities to slope up to the new grade
determined based on projected sea-level rise,
▪ Requiring adaptive management plans for
restoration/mitigation sites within projected
sea-level rise hazard zones to consider
increased flooding and erosion potential,
▪ Installing nature based and grey infrastructure
around areas projected to be impacted by sea
level rise with priority given to nature -based
infrastructure. [Source: New Policy)
HAZ-4.8 Vulnerable Communities
The City shall prepare a sea level rise adaptation
plan to identify strategies to increase resilience of
Glen Eden, Eden Shore, and Russel l City
communities with prioritization of vulnerable
populations. Include outreach to affected
communities that is accessible in multiple formats
and in multiple languages.[Source: New Policy)
HAZ-4.9 Groundwater Management Plan
The City shall coordinate with Alameda County
Flood Control & Water Conservation District to
develop a Shallow Groundwater Management Plan
to identify feasible strategies for managing rising
groundwater tables from sea level rise and storm
surges. The plan will include a watershed-level
model of groundwater rise and consider
establishing a Shallow Groundwater Overlay
District that would implement related building
standards within the overlay district to ensure that
buildings are resilient to groundwater rise, saltwater
intrusion, liquefaction, and toxic contaminants.
[Source: New Policy, Hayward Area Shoreline Adaptation
Master Plan]
HAZ-4.10 Increase Flood Protection
Standards for New Construction
and Renovations
The City shall incorporate sea level rise into the
municipal c ode and establish a Sea Level Rise
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General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Overlay District to require compliance with base
floor elevation and flood -proofing requirement to
mid-century sea levels. Consider unconventional
design elements that may allow structure s to
accommodate a higher water table and higher
liquefaction risks. Consider establishing shoreline
and creek buffer zones that are reserved for flood
protection, habitat restoration, public access, and
recreation. [Source: New Policy][Source: Hayward Area
Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan]
HAZ-4.12 Develop Technical Support and
Education
The City shall develop technical support and
education to help businesses and residents
understand risks from sea level rise and develop
mitigation actions [Source: New Policy, Hayward Area
Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan]
HAZ-4.10 Essential Facilities Siting
Locate, when feasible, new essential public
facilities, including hospitals and health care
facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations,
emergency command centers, and emergency
communications facilities, outside of flood hazard
zones. [Source: New Policy]
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
J u l y 2 0 1 4 P a g e | 3-147
Areas of Hayward that are subject to sea level rise with a mid-century rise of 1.9 feet (blue gradient) and an end century rise of 6.9 feet (green gradient with a 100 year storm. Source: Adapting to Rising Tides Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Areas of Hayward that are subject to sea level rise with a mid-century rise of 1.9 feet (blue gradient) and an end century rise of 6.9 feet (green gradient with a 100 year storm. Source: Adapting to Rising Tides
Attachment III
General Plan
Policy Document
Hazards
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Areas of Hayward that are subject to groundwater risk with a mid-century sea level rise of 1.9 feet showing new depths of groundwater from marine inundation to 0-3.3 feet below ground surface. Source: USGS Groundwater Risk Tool Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
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Goal 5 Urban Wildfire Hazards
The foothill neighborhoods of Hayward are located
adjacent to natural hillsides and open space areas
that are prone to wildfires. This goal and its
supporting policies are designed to minimize urban
wildfire risks through the implementation of
wildland/urban interface guidelines, fire
prevention codes, and open space management
practices that reduce the potential for wildfires. Fire hazards zones are mapped in the figure below this
section showing both high and very high hazard
severity zones (VHFHSZ) located to the northeast
and southeast of Hayward with none directly in city
limits.
Measures in the California Building Code reduce
fire hazards in structures. These include use of
specific building construction materials, fire
separation walls, building separation, and use of fire
sprinklers. Included in development regulations are
requirements for minimum road widths that
provide adequate access for firefighting equipment
and evacuation of residents, as well as clearance
around structures (fuel modification areas) to
prevent the rapid spread of fire.
Water availability and peak load water supply are
essential in combating wildfires. Peak load water
supply refers to the supply of water to meet both
domestic water and fire -fighting needs during the
particular season and time of day when domestic
water demand on a water system is at its peak. As
development occurs, peak load water supply
reserves must be increased. The City of Hayward
and East Bay Municipal Utility District, the City’s
water providers, must ensure peak load water
supply requirements are met.
GOAL HAZ-5
Protect life and minimize potential property
damage from urban wildfire hazards in hillside
areas. [Source: Existing Goal, modified]
HAZ-5.1 Wildland/Urban Interface
Guidelines
The City shall maintain and implement
Wildland/Urban Interface Guidelines for new and
existing development within neighborhoods that
are proximal to existing f ire hazard areas. [Source:
Existing Policy, modified] (MPSP/RDR)
HAZ-5.2 Fire Prevention Codes
The City shall enforce fire prevention codes that
require property owners to reduce wildfire hazards
on their property including vegetation management
and fire-resistant material retrofits in
neighborhoods proximal to fire hazard severity
zones. [Source: Existing Policy, modified] (CSO/RDR)
HAZ-5.3 Defensible Space and Fuel
Reduction
The City shall enforce defensible space criteria and
assist property owners in removing overgrown
vegetation and to reduce fuel loads on hillside
properties in neighborhoods proximal to fire
hazard severity zones , especially near structures
and homes. [Source: Existing Policy, modified ]
(PI/JP/IGC/RDR)
HAZ-5.4 Grant Funding
The City shall seek grant funding to mitigate
potential wildfire threats to the community and to
implement special training workshops and projects
related to defensible space and fuel reduction
practices. [Source: Existing Policy] (CSO)
HAZ-5.5 Park District Coordination
The City shall coordinate with the East Bay
Regional Park District and the Hayward Area
Recreation and Park District to promote forestry
and park management practices that reduce the
Attachment III
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Policy Document
Hazards
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potential for wildland fires. [Source: Existing Policy] (CSO)
HAZ-5.6 Regional Coordination
The City shall coordinate with Alameda County,
the cities of Pleasanton, Dublin, and San Ramon,
and other fire protection agencies to reduce the
potential for wildfire hazards in the East Bay hills
and participate in mutual aid agreements . [Source:
Existing Policy, modified] (CSO)
HAZ-5.7 Fire Flow Adequacy
The City shall maintain adequate water supply
systems and flows to meet fire suppression needs
throughout the city including new and existing
development. Water supply locations to be defined
for emergency services. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-5.8 Fire Resistance Retrofits
The City shall encourage retrofits of homes within
neighborhoods proximal to fire hazard severity
zones to increase the prevalence of home
hardening techniques . Develop and formalize a
plan for providing defensible space assistance,
public education, and regulatory enforcement of
fire resistance activities and programs, such as the
Weed Abatement Program. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-5.9 Evacuation During Wildfires
The City shall increase the resilience of the
neighborhoods proximal to fire hazard severity
zones during a potential wildfire evacuation
through:
▪ Enforcing visible address numbers painted
on sidewalks enforced through the City,
▪ Developing multiple language accessible
materials for how to prepare your family
and home for an evacuation and go kit,
▪ Identifying and preparing vulnerable
populations that may need assistance to
evacuate,
▪ Maintaining critical evacuation routes ,
community fire breaks and,
▪ Adequate ingress and egress to new
developments. [Source: New Policy]
Areas of the San Francisco Bay Area that burned during
wildfires between 1950 and 2011 (yellow). Source: Association of Bay Area Governments
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City of Hayward Policy Document
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Areas bordering and near Hayward with Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (dark red) and High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (orange). Source: CALFIRE
Attachment III
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Policy Document
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Goal 6 Climate Change
Adaptation/Resiliency
Climate change is caused by the addition of excess
greenhouse gases (GHGs) to the atmosphere,
which traps heat near the earth’s surface raising
global average temperatures. The resulting increase
in average temperatures across the globe affects sea
levels, precipitation patterns, the severity of
wildfires, the prevalence of extreme heat events,
water supply, and ocean temperatures and
chemistry. Hayward is vulnerable to the effects of
climate change as understood through the findings
of the Climate Vulnerability Assessment (Appendix
A). Policies under th is goal build on existing
policies within the Hazards Element , Natural
Resources Element , the Community Health and
Quality of Life Element as well as the entire
General Plan with the intent of supporting the
ability of the community to adapt to climate
change.
GOAL HAZ-6
Community resilience to climate change is
increased through adapted community
capacity, infrastructure, services, parks, and
open spaces. [Source: New Goal; Climate
Vulnerability Assessment] [connected to HQL
Goal 9, Community Resiliency
HAZ-6.1 Vulnerable Populations
The City shall provide vulnerable community
members with language -appropriate information
on available financial, technical, and educational
resources and programming to increase resilience
against climate change hazards, including sea level
rise, extreme heat, flooding, wildfire, and
groundwater rise. The City shall develop and
distribute information on adaptation measures
including building weatherization, energy and water
efficiency, and emergency preparedness. [Source:
New Policy][connected to HQL-9.9 and EJ-1.15]
HAZ-6.2 Resilience Hubs
The City sha ll develop and support a network of
resilience hubs to facilitate health, food, medical,
and emergency services during climate hazards
such as extreme heat events, flooding, and poor air
quality events. [Source: New Policy] [connected to HQL-
9.9 and EJ-1.15]
HAZ-6.3 Green Economy
The City ’s Economic Development Division,
Landscape Maintenance Division, and
Environmental Services Division shall partner with
community-based organizations and the Alameda
County Workforce Development Board to support
the creation of jobs, training programs, and
workforce development in urban forest
management, tree planting, and green
infrastructure development to provide sustained
economic benefit and ensure long-term capacity for
maintenance [Source: New Policy][connected to HQL -
9.4 and 9.5] [connected to new CAP action CS-1]
HAZ-6.4 Adapted Community Structures
and Infrastructure
The City shall expand the resilience of critical
buildings and infrastructure through assessment of
needed retrofits to function properly while subject
to increased climate hazard frequency such as
flooding, extreme heat, regional wildfires, and
landslides. [Source: New Policy] [connected to PFS
1.7][connected to new CAP measure EG]
HAZ-6.5 Adapted Services
The City shall coordinate with emergency services
as well as utility providers to assess needed service
improvements in providing increased redundancy
and uninterrupted service for water, power, and
emergency service response.[Source: New Policy]
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HAZ-6.6 Transportation Corridors
The City shall improve the resiliency of
transportation infrastructure by identifying highly
trafficked active transportation and commute
patterned streets and prioritizing the creation of
“complete streets” including green infrastructure
such as permeable paveme nt, shading, lighting,
biodiversity, flood resilience, pedestrian and bike
lane safety, and drinking water improvements.
[Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.7 Parks and Open Space Resilience
Protect open spaces, habitats, and parks impacted
by sea level rise, floods, drought, extreme heat, and
wildfire including:
▪ Protect existing floodplains, open space,
and other natural features that provide
flood storage by establishing minimum
buffers, limiting new development in
wetlands and buffers.
▪ Protect and expand large, continuous
greenspaces such as parks, median strips
and street trees wherever possible for
greater cooling magnitude and extent.
Include a mix of grass and trees for
greatest cooling benefits.
▪ Prioritize greening in most vulnerable
areas with high pollution, heat, and flood
burden and engage frontline communities
in the design and placement of green
features. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.8 Resilient Power
The City shall work with utility companies to
improve grid resilience and backup power for the
community including utility activities that:
▪ Harden vulnerable overhead lines against
winds and wildfires,
▪ Protect energy infrastructure and increase
redundancy of energy storage and
distribution systems in surrounding hazard
zones for wildfire,
▪ Invest in sustainable backup power
sources to provide redundancy and
continued services for critical facilities
during periods of high demand during
extreme heat events,
▪ Explore the feasibility of installing
microgrids, including for critical health
care facilities. [Source: New Policy] [connected
to new CAP action EG-1.4]
HAZ-6.9 Climate Overlay Zones
The City shall establish hazard overlay zone s.
Overlay designations shall be developed to address
potential future at-risk areas, such as areas prone to
wildfire, subsidence, future floodplain or area of
temporary inundation, or area at risk for high
wind/storm events due to future climate change
impact models. Apply overlay zones to areas with
the greatest current hazards and/or future climate
impacts. Associate corresponding risk reduction,
adaptation policies, and standards specific to the
hazard or climate impact. Overlay zones should
include development standards for appropriate risk
mitigation measures. As much as possible, the City
should prioritize building affordable housing near
jobs and transit and outside of the Climate Overlay
Zones. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.10 Essential Facilities Siting
Locate, when feasible, new essential public
facilities, including hospitals and health care
facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations,
emergency command centers, and emergency
communications facilities, outside of climate
change hazard zones. [Source: New Policy ; see also
HAZ-4.10]
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HAZ-6.11 Climate Adaptation Planning
Coordination
Coordinate with Alameda County and neighboring
jurisdictions to prioritize climate adaptation efforts
that address regional climate change vulnerabilities
of community members, infrastructure and
services, natural resources and ecosystems, and
critical facilities and buildings. [Source: New Policy] HAZ-6.12 Green Infrastructure
New infrastructure projects (including bike/ped
and traffic calming infrastructure, road upgrades,
public plaza redevelopment, tree planting, or utility
upgrades) will be reviewed for alignment with the
City’s Green Infrastructure plan and feasibility of
inclusion of green stormwater infrastructure
elements. [Source: New Policy]
Goal 7 Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials are toxic, ignitable, corrosive,
or reactive substances that can cause harm to
people. Hazardous materials are used by
households and businesses within urban areas. The
improper use and disposal of hazardous materials
can contaminate soil and groundwater resources
and compromise the health and quality of life of
residents. Accidents inv olving the transportation
of hazardous materials can also cause explosions or
spills that endanger the lives and property of nearby
residents and businesses. This goal and i ts
supporting policies are designed to establish
strategies to minimize exposure to hazardous
materials through the documentation, monitoring,
clean-up, and re -use of hazardous material sites;
and the implementation of best practices for the
routine use, storage, transport, and disposal of
hazardous materials.
GOAL HAZ-7
Protect people and environmental resources
from contaminated hazardous material sites
and m inimize risks associated with the use,
storage, transport , and disposal of hazardous
materials. [Source: Existing Policy, modified]
HAZ-7.1 Hazardous Materials Program
The City shall maintain its status as a Certified
Unified Program Agency and implement the City’s
Unified Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste
Management Program, which includes:
▪ Hazardous Materials Release Response
Plans and Inventories (Hazardous
Materials Business Plans - HMBP);
▪ California Accidental Release Prevention
(CalARP) Program;
▪ Underground Storage Tank (UST)
Program;
▪ Above-ground Petroleum Storage Act
(APSA) Program , including Spill
Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure
(SPCC) Plans;
▪ Hazardous Waste Generator Program;
▪ On-site Hazardous Waste Treatment
(Tiered Permit) Program; and
▪ California Fire Code Hazardous Ma terial
Management Plans (HMMP) and
Hazardous Materials Inventory Statements
(HMIS). [Source: Existing Policy; City Staff]
(CSO/MPSP/RDR)
HAZ-7.2 Site Investigations
The City shall require site investigations to
determine the presence of hazardous materials
and/or waste contamination before discretionary
project approvals are issued by the City. The City
shall require appropriate measures to be taken to
protect the health and safety of site users and the
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greater Hayward community. [Source: Existing Policy;
City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-7.3 Permit Requirements
The City shall direct the Fire Chief (or their
designee) and the Development Services Director
(or their designee) to evaluate all project
applications that involve hazardous materials,
electronic waste, medical waste, and other
hazardous waste to determine appropriate permit
requirements and procedures . [Source: Existing
Policy; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-7.4 Land Use Buffers
The City shall review applications for commercial
and industrial uses that involve the use, storage, and
transport of hazardous materials to determine the
need for buffer zones or setbacks to minimize risks
to homes, schools, community centers, hospitals,
and other sensitive uses. [Source: Existing Policy]
(RDR)
HAZ-7.5 Collection Programs
The City shall maintain and further develop its
collection programs for household hazardous
waste and e -waste (cell phones, batteries,
computers, televisions, computers, monitors, etc.).
[Source: Existing Policy] (CSO/MPSP)
HAZ-7.6 Education Resources
The City shall provide educational resources to
residents and businesses to promote safe practices
related to the use, storage, transportation, and
disposal of hazardous materials. [Source: Existing
Policy] (PI)
HAZ-7.7 Agency Coordination
The City shall coordinate with State, Federal, and
local agencies to develop and promote best
practices related to the use, storage, transportation,
and disposal of hazardous materials. [Source:
Existing Policy] (IGC/PI)
HAZ-7.8 Truck Routes
The City shall maintain designated truck routes for
the transportation of hazardous materials through
the City of Hayward. The City shall discourage
truck routes passing through residential
neighborhoods to the maximum extent feasible.
[Source: Existing Policy] (MPSP/PI)
Goal 8 Evacuation Capacity
Consistent with Government Code Section 65302
as amended by AB 747, AB 1409, and SB 99, the
City conducted an emergency evacuation analysis
attached as Appendix B. The analysis complies with
above requirements in identifying evacuation
routes and capacity under several emergency
scenarios. The evacuation scenarios included
wildfire, tsunami, dam failure, and a gas pipeline
failure. Policies address the identified constraints as a result of this analysis.
Pursuant to SB 99, r esidential developments in
hazard areas that do not have at least two
emergency evacuation routes are shown in the
figure below identifying single access roads . Single
access roads are a local street that feeds into a
collector with a singular point of entry and exit.
These roads present potential evacuation
complications necessitating added evacuation
management.
GOAL HAZ-8
Community resilience to natural and man -
made hazards is attained through increased
evacuation capacity and emergency
preparedness. [Source: New Goal]
HAZ-8.1 Evacuation Route Maintenance
Maintain roadways that are likely to function as key
evacuation routes by property inspections, public
education, homeowner association education,
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roadside vegetation management [Source: New
Policy].
HAZ-8.2 Vulnerable Population Assistance
The City shall identify vulnerable populations that
may need assistance to evacuate and prepare
coordinated language accessible communication
and assistance processes for identified populations
related to evacuation procedures and preparedness.
Include resources for the visually impaired, hearing
impaired, mobility impaired, people with medical
conditions and the unhoused. [Source: New Policy;
City Staff]
HAZ-8.3 Transportation Coordination
Encourage implementation of communication
systems to coordinate advanced mobilization of
transit operators to facilitate evacuations during
flood and wildfire events with hazard alert
notifications. Implement through a Traffic Control
Center to coordinate all evacuation activities. This
center would have up to the minute reports on
traffic patterns and can communicate directly with
the broadcast media to let drivers know about
roadway congestion and conditions and dir ect
them to alternate routes. [Source: New Policy, SCAG]
HAZ-8.4 Evacuation Management Tools
The City shall coordinate investments with Caltrans
in retrofitting freeway and arterial routes through
structural improvements and increased staff
capacity including:
▪ Management controls for signal
coordination to allow uninterrupted flow
(green wave).
▪ Traffic control plans to increase
intersection capacity including minimized
left-turn movements, adjusted signal
timings, and toll suspension.
▪ Ability to manage movements at key
intersections to increase throughput.
▪ Backup power and other preparation for
signal operation during power outages.
▪ Ability to communicate through
changeable message signs.
▪ Lane control equipment procurement
▪ Shoulder clearance and parking
restrictions along primary routes of
evacuation [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-8.5 Single Access Roads
The City shall provide obstruction removal services
where road systems are antiquated and do not
provide for proper evacuation or two -way flow.
Additionally, the City will improve the accessibility
of single access roads by emergency vehicles .
[Source: New Policy]
HAZ-8.6 Evacuation Facilities
The City shall implement communication methods
to coordinate advanced and timely evacuations
with schools, hospitals, and vulnerable populations
to evacuation shelters when relevant . [Source: New
Policy]
HAZ-8.7 Evacuation Planning
The City shall develop pre -response plans and
accompanying evacuation plans for all
neighborhoods proximal to each type of hazard
zone including city -wide earthquake risk . [Source:
New Policy]
HAZ-8.8 Annual Trainings
The City shall conduct community and emergency
response evacuation trainings annually through the
Traffic Control Center. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-8.9 High Fire Limitations
The City shall facilitate restriction of parking,
construction permits or right -of-way
encroachment on high fire days. [Source: New Policy;
SCAG]
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HAZ-8.10 Public Education
The City shall communicate to the public on
essential resources and procedures through a
variety of communication tools and in multiple
languages on topics including:
Education on the California Standard Statewide
Evacuation Terminology.
▪ Emergency evacuation checklists for
residents.
▪ Creation and education of the public on
evacuation maps.
▪ Available transportation services.
▪ Evacuation shelter and support service
options. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-8.11 Resource Management
The City shall create clear and transparent
evacuation plans and systems across critical
facilities and residential areas including strategies of ▪ Redundant staffing and clarity on staff
roles and expertise.
▪ Prepared critical facilities with backup
communication systems and critical
supplies/services.
▪ Transportation plans for all critical
facilities and communities in need of
additional assistance
▪ Routine management exercises to practice
evacuation drills as well as inform resource
needs. [Source: New Policy]
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Neighborhood areas of Hayward with Single Access Roads identified with access points (orange) and neighborhood perimeters (yellow).
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Goal 9 Airport Hazards
The Hayward Executive Airport is designated as a
General Aviation Reliever Airport located in
northwest Hayward. The airport is owned and
operated by the City of Hayward. A variety of
aircraft, including single and twin-engine airplanes,
corporate jets, and helicopters, use the airport on a
daily basis. Commercial, industrial, residential, and recreational properties near the airport could be
exposed to aviation-related accidents and related
hazards. This goal and its supporting policies are
designed to minimize this exposure. The Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) has the sole
authority to regulate aviation activities in the United States, including the certification of aircraft and
pilots. The City of Hayward’s role is to maintain
and operate the airport and regulate land uses in the
vicinity of the airport. Related policies that address
airport noise are provided under Goal HAZ-8.
GOAL HAZ-9
Minimize exposure to safety hazards
associated with aircraft using the Hayward
Executive Airport. [Source: Existing Goal; City
Staff].
HAZ-9.1 Land Use Safety Compatibility and
Airspace Protection Criteria
The City shall consider all applicable federal
statutes (including 49 U.S.C. 47107), federal
regulations (including 14 Code of Federal
Regulations 77 et seq.), the FAA’s Airport
Compliance Manual, FAA Advisory Circulars and
other forms of written guidance, and State law, with
respect to criteria related to land use safety and
airspace protection when evaluating development
applications within the Airport Influence Area of
the Hayward Executive Airport. [Source: Existing
Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
Hayward Executive Airport.
HAZ-9.2 Airport Land Use Compatibility
Plan
The City shall require all development projects
within the Airport Influence Area designated in the
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan of the
Hayward Executive Airport to comply with all
applicable federal statutes (including 49 U.S.C.
47107), federal reg ulations (including 14 Code of
Federal Regulations 77 et seq.), the FAA’s Airport
Compliance Manual, FAA Advisory Circulars and
other forms of written guidance, and State law, with
respect to criteria related to land use safety and
airspace protection. [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (IGC/RDR)
HAZ-9.3 Commission Review
The City shall ensure that all applicable plans,
ordinances, and development applications are
reviewed by the Alameda County Airport Land Use
Commission if required by State law. [Source:
Existing Policy, City Staff] (IGC/MPSP/RDR)
Goal 10 Noise Hazards
Exposure to excessive noise can impact the health
and quality of life of residents and employees .
Excessive noise can cause hearing loss , stress,
hypertension, sleep disturbance, and fatigue. The
Hayward community contains a variety of noise
sources, including aircraft, trains, vehicle traffic on freeways and roadways, and industrial and
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commercial operations . This goal and its
supporting policies are designed to minimize
human exposure to excessive noise by evaluating
noise exposure risks and incorporating appropriate
mitigation measures.
GOAL HAZ-10
Minimize human exposure to excessive noise
and ground vibration . [Source: Existing
Policy]
HAZ-10.1 Locating Noise Sensitive Uses
The City shall strive to locate noise sensitive uses,
(e.g., residences, schools, hospitals, libraries,
religious institutions, and convalescent homes)
away from major sources of noise. [Source: Existing
Policy; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.2 Noise Study and Mitigation
The City shall require development projects in
areas where they may be exposed to major noise
sources (e.g. roadways, rail lines, and aircraft or
other non-transportation noise sources) to conduct
a project level environmental noise analysis. The
noise analysis shall determine noise exposure and
noise standard compatibility with respect to the
noise standards identified in Table HAZ-1 and shall
incorporate noise mitigation when located in noise
environments that are not compatible with the
proposed uses of the project. The City shall use
Table HAZ -1 (Exterior Noise Standards for
Various Land Uses) and Figure HAZ -1 (Future
Noise Contour Maps) to determine potential noise
exposure impacts, noise compatibility thresholds,
and the need for mitigation. The Cit y shall
determine mitigation measures based on project -
specific noise studies, and may include sound
barriers, building setbacks, the use of closed
windows and the installation of heating and air
conditioning ventilation systems, and the
installation of no ise attenuating windows and
wall/ceiling insulation. [Source: Existing Policy]
(RDR)
S NOISE TERMINOLOGY
dBA: Measurement unit for “a-weighted
decibels,” which are commonly used for
measuring environmental and industrial noise
and the potential hearing damage associated
noise health effects.
Equivalent Noise Level (Leq): Constant
noise level that would deliver the same acoustic
energy to the ear of a listener as the actual
time-varying noise would deliver over the same
exposure time. No “penalties” are added to any
noise levels during the exposure time; Leq
would be the same regardless of the time of
day during which the noise occurs.
Day-Night Average Noise Level: (Ldn):
A 24-hour average Leq with a 10 dBA
“penalty” added to noise levels during the
hours of 10:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M. to account
for increased sensitivity that people tend to
have to nighttime noise. Because of this
penalty, the Ldn would always be higher than
its corresponding 24-hour Leq (e.g., a constant
60 dBA noise over 24 hours would have a 60
dBA Leq, but a 66.4 dBA Ldn).
Community Noise Equivalent Level
(CNEL): An Ldn with an additional 5 dBA
“penalty” for the evening hours between 7:00
P.M. and 10:00 P.M. This is essentially a
measure of ambient noise.
Sound Exposure Level or Single Event
Level (SEL): A descriptor used to characterize
the severity of short-duration sound events.
SEL is the time-averaged, constant intensity,
A-weighted sound level over a one-second
reference time that would produce the same
sound exposure as the actual time-varying
sound over the actual exposure time. In
practice, SEL is usually applied in situations
where there are multiple sound events, each
one having its own characteristic SEL.
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TABLE HAZ-1
Exterior Noise Compatibility Standards for Various Land Uses Land Use Type Highest Level of Exterior Noise Exposure
that is Regarded as “Normally Acceptable”a
(Ldnb or CNELc)
Residential: Single-Family Homes, Duplex,
Mobile Home 60
Residential: Townhomes and Multi-Family
Apartments and Condominiums 65
Urban Residential Infilld and Mixed-Use Projectse 70
Lodging: Motels and Hotels 65
Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Nursing
Homes 70
Auditoriums, Concert Hall, Amphitheaters Mitigation based on site-specific study Sports Arena, Outdoor Spectator Sports Mitigation based on site-specific study Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks 70
Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation,
Cemeteries 75
Office Buildings: Business, Commercial, and
Professional 70
Industrial Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture 75
Source: Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, State of California General Plan Guidelines 2003, October 2003.
a. As defined in the State of California General Plan Guidelines 200, “Normally Acceptable” means that the specified land uses is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any building involved is of normal conventional construction, without any special noise mitigation. For projects located along major transportation corridors (major freeways, arterials, and rail lines) this “normally acceptable” exterior noise level may be exceeded for certain areas of the project site (e.g. the frontage adjacent to the corridor or parking areas) with the exception of primary open space areas (see policies HAZ-8.5 and HAZ-8.6). b. Ldn or Day Night Average is an average 24-hour noise measurement that factors day and night noise levels.
c. CNEL or Community Noise Equivalent Level measurements are a weighted average of sound levels gathered throughout a 24-hour period.
d. Urban residential infill would include all types of residential development within existing or planned urban areas (such as Downtown, The Cannery Neighborhood, and the South Hayward BART Urban Neighborhood) and along major corridors (such as Mission Boulevard). e. Mixed-Use Projects would include all mixed-use developments throughout the City of Hayward.
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HAZ-10.3 Incremental Noise Impacts of
Commercial and Industrial
Development
The City shall consider the potential noise impacts
of commercial and industrial developments that are
located near residences and shall require noise
mitigation measures as a condition of project
approval. [Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.4 Noise Mitigation and Urban Design
The City shall consider the visual impact of noise
mitigation measures and shall require solutions that
do not conflict with urban design goals and
standards. [Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.5 Residential Noise Standards
The City shall require the design of new residential
development to comply with the following noise
standards:
▪ The maximum acceptable interior noise
level for all new residential units (single -
family, duplex, mobile home, multi-family,
and mixed use units) shall be an Ldn of 45
dB with windows closed.
▪ For project locations that are primarily
exposed to aircraft, train, and BART noise,
the maximum instantaneous noise level in
bedrooms shall not exceed 50dB(A) at
night (10:00 pm to 7:00 am), and the
maximum instantaneous noise level in all
interior rooms shall not exceed 55dB(A)
during the day (7:00 am to 10:00 pm) with
windows closed.
▪ The maximum acceptable exterior noise
level for the primary open space area of a
detached single -family home , duplex or
mobile home , which is typically the
backyard or a fenced side yard, shall be an
Ldn of 60 dB. This standard shall be
measured at the approximate center of the
primary open space area. This standard
does not apply to secondary open space
areas, such as front yards, balconies,
stoops, and porches.
▪ The maximum acceptable exterior noise
level for the primary open space area of
townhomes and multi -family apartments
or condominiums (private rear yards for
townhomes; and common courtyards,
roof gardens, or gathering spaces for
multi-family projects) shall be an Ldn of 65
dB. This standard shall be measured at the
approximate center of the primary open
space area. This standard does not apply
to secondary open space areas, such as
front yards, balconies, stoops, and
porches.
▪ The maximum acceptable exterior noise
level for the primary open space area of
urban residential infill and mixed -use
projects (private rear yards for
townhomes; and common courtyards,
roof gardens, or gathering spaces for
multi-family or mixed -use project s) shall
be an Ldn of 70 dB. Urban residential infill
would include all types of residential
development within existing or planned
urban areas (such as Downtown, The
Cannery Neighborhood, and the South
Hayward BART Urban Neighborhood)
and along major corridors (such as Mission
Boulevard). This standard shall be
measured at the approximate center of the
primary open space area. This standard
does not apply to secondary open space
areas, such as front yards, balconies,
stoops, and porches. [Source: Existing Policy]
(RDR)
HAZ-10.6 Noise Standards for Lodging,
Nursing Homes, and Hospitals
The City shall require the design of new lodging
facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, and other
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similar uses to comply with the following noise
standards:
▪ The maximum acceptable interior noise
level for sleeping areas shall be an Ldn of
45 dB with windows closed.
▪ For project locations that are primarily
exposed to aircraft, train, and BART noise,
the maximum instantaneous noise level in
sleeping areas shall not exceed 50dB(A) at
night (10:00 pm to 7:00 am) and 55dB(A)
during the day (7:00 am to 10:00 pm) with
windows closed. [Source: Existing Policy; City
Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.7 Noise Standards for Office and
Similar Uses
The City shall require the design of new office
developments and similar uses to achieve a
maximum interior noise standard of 45dBA Leq
(peak hour). [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (RDR) HAZ-10.8 Park Noise
The City shall coordinate with the Hayward Area
Recreation and Park District (HARD) and the East
Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) to establish
and enforce hours of operation for park and
recreational facilities near residential homes.
[Source: Existing Policy; City Staff] (IGC)
HAZ-10.9 OSHA Standards
The City shall encourage businesses to comply with
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) standards related to noise safety and ear
protection when employees work in noisy
environments (interior and exterior). [Source:
Existing Policy; City Staff] (CSO)
HAZ-10.10 BART Trains and Bus Transit
The City shall encourage BART and AC Transit to
upgrade their trains and transit fleets with vehicles
that generate less noise when driving and idling.
[Source: Existing Policy] (IGC)
HAZ-10.11 Freeway Sound Walls
The City shall encourage Caltrans , in conjunction
with any new freeway project, to construct
attractive sound walls and landscaping strips along
freeways to protect adjacent areas from excessive
freeway noise. [Source: Existing Policy] (IGC)
HAZ-10.12 Transportation Noise
The City shall consider potential noise impacts
when evaluating proposals for transportation
projects, including road, freeway, and transit
projects, and will strive to minimize noise impacts
through the implementation of mitigation
measures. [Source: Existing Policy] (RDR/IGC)
Sources of noise in the city of Hayward.
HAZ-10.13 Utilities
The City shall require the evaluation of public
facilities (e.g., utility substations, water storage
facilities, and pumping stations) to determine
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potential noise impacts on surrounding uses and
identify appropriate mitigation measures. [Source:
Existing Policy] (IGC/CSO/RDR)
HAZ-10.14 Airport Noise
The City shall monitor noise impacts from aircraft
operations at the Hayward Executive Airport and
maintain and implement the noise abatement
policies and procedures outlined in the Airport
Noise Ordinance and Airport Land Use
Compatibility Plan. [Source: Existing Policy] (CSO ,
MPSP, RDR)
Aircraft at the Hayward Executive Airport
HAZ-10.15 Airport Noise Evaluation and
Mitigation
The City shall require project applicants to evaluate
potential airport noise impacts if the project is
located within the 60 dB CNEL contour line of the
Hayward Executive Airport or Oakland
International Airport (as mapped in the Airport
Land Use Compatibility Plan). All projects shall be
required to mitigate impacts to comply with the
interior and exterior noise standards established by
the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan. [Source:
Existing Policy, City Staff] (IGC/RDR)
HAZ-10.16 Airport Disclosure Notices
The City shall require that all new development
within an airport-defined over-flight zone provide
deed notices disclosing airport over -flights and
noise upon transfer of title to future residents and
property owners. [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.17 Community Noise Control
Ordinance
The City shall maintain, implement, and enforce a
community noise control ordinance to regulate
noise levels from public and private properties,
vehicles, construction sites , and landscaping
activities. [Source: Existing Policy] (CSO/MPSP)
HAZ-10.18 Mixed-Use Developments
The City shall require the full disclosure of the
potential noise impacts of living in a mixed -use
development by requiring residential disclosure
notices within deeds and lease agreements as a
condition of project approval. [Source: Existing
Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.19 Downtown Housing Development
The City shall require the full disclosure of the
potential noise impacts of living in an urban
downtown environment by requiring residential
disclosure notices within deeds and lease
agreements as a condition of project approval.
[Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.20 Construction Noise Study
The City may require development projects subject
to discretionary approval to assess potential
construction noise impacts on nearby sensitive uses
and to minimize impacts on those uses, to the
extent feasible. [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff]
(RDR)
HAZ-10.21 Construction and Maintenance
Noise Limits
The City shall limit the hours of construction and
maintenance activities to the less sensitive hours of
the day (7:00am to 7:00pm Monday through
Attachment III
General Plan
City of Hayward Policy Document
P a g e | 3-166 J u l y 2 0 1 4
Saturday and 10:00am to 6:00 pm on Sundays and
holidays) [Source: Existing Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.22 Vibration Impact Assessment
The City shall require a vibration impact
assessment for proposed projects in which heavy -
duty construction equipment would be used (e.g.
pile driving, bulldozing) within 200 feet of an
existing structure or sensitive receptor. If
applicable, the City shal l require all feasible
mitigation measures to be implemented to ensure
that no damage or disturbance to structures or
sensitive receptors would occur. [Source: Existing
Policy, City Staff] (RDR)
HAZ-10.23 Transportation Vibration
The City shall require new residential and
commercial projects located within 200 feet of
existing major freeways and railroad lines (e.g.
freight, Amtrak, and Bay Area Rapid Transit) to
conduct a ground vibration and vibration noise
evaluation consistent with City approved
methodologies (e.g. Caltrans, Federal
Transportation Authority). [Source: Existing Policy,
City Staff] (RDR)
Attachment III