Kingsburg City Council
May 6, 2026

ATTACHED INFORMATION

1. Resolution 2026-011

2. Exhibit “A” – City of Kingsburg 6th Cycle Housing Element Progress Report FISCAL IMPACT:

1. Is There A Fiscal Impact? No

2. Is it Currently Budgeted? No

3. If Budgeted, Which Line? N/A

RESOLUTION 2026-011

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF KINGSBURG ACCEPTING THE 2025 ANNUAL HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT AND DIRECTING THE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TO SUBMIT THE REPORT TO THE

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WHEREAS, The City of Kingsburg 2023-2031 6
th Cycle Housing Element (Housing
Element) was adopted by the City on July 17, 2024, and has been found in substantial compliance with the State Housing and Community Development Department (HCD); and, WHEREAS, the Housing Element has policies, programs and actions that the City is committed to accomplishing to ensure that the Housing Element remains in compliance; and, WHEREAS, implementation of the policies outlined in the Kingsburg 2023-2031 Housing Element will have a positive impact on the City and its citizens by providing opportunities for additional housing options at a variety of income levels and bring the City into compliance with recent State legislation; and,
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65400 requires that cities and counties prepare an annual report on the status of the Housing Element programs and policies and outline progress in its implementation, including the progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs, and WHEREAS, staff has prepared a progress report, submitting all details required by HCD regarding types of housing as well as the City’s efforts in implementing progress where possible in meeting all programs required by the Housing Element.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Kingsburg, California adopt Resolution 2026-011, accepting the 2025 Annual Housing Element Progress Report contained in Exhibit “A” attached hereto, and to forward this Progress Report to Housing and Community Development.
*************
I, Abigail Palsgaard, City Clerk for the City of Kingsburg, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution 2026-011 was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Kingsburg City Council held on the 6th day of May 2026, by the following vote:

Ayes: Councilmember(s):

Noes: Councilmember(s):

Absent: Councilmember(s):

Abstain: Councilmember(s):
___________________________
Abigail Palsgaard, City Clerk
City of Kingsburg

EXHIBIT "A"
(See Attachment below)
Attachment A

CITY COUNCIL MEETING STAFF REPORT
REPORT TO: Mayor Smith & City Council
REPORT FROM: Holly Owen, Community Development Director REVIEWED BY: AJH AGENDA ITEM: City of Kingsburg Objective Standards Discussion ACTION REQUESTED: ___Ordinance ___Resolution ___ Motion ____Receive/File

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2027, the Governor signed the SB 35 Streamlined Approval Process bill, which provides for a streamlined, by-right approval process for multi-unit housing projects of two or more residential units or mixed-use projects, subject to certain conditions. To qualify for this streamlining, the project must need a minimum of 10 percent of the total number of units to be deemed affordable housing. These would be deed-restricted housing units, with that restriction being for 55 years for rental and 45 years for owner-occupied units. A number of other conditions would apply, including some details about prevailing wage requirements for projects of a certain size.

While cities are required to consider any complete application for streamlining that follows the requirements, cities and counties can apply certain design standards to any project that requests streamlining for review. In 2019, Senate Bill 330 (the Housing Crisis Act) became law, specifying that local jurisdictions shall not impose or enforce new design standards established after January 1, 2020 for multifamily residential and mixed-use projects, unless such standards are objective in nature. As defined by California Government Code Section 65589.5(h)(8), “objective” means “involving no personal or subjective judgement by a public official and being uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant or proponent and the public official.”
This has led to a number of cities working on and adopting objective standards to apply to these specific projects, as without objective standards, a project meeting those streamlined requirements is automatically approved. Some cities have taken the opportunity to craft additional objective standards for other types of residential housing, or to overhaul their development standards entirely, incorporating existing and more detailed (objective) standards for residential development.

In the planning and development realm, there is an important distinction between development standards and design standards. While each inevitably plays a large role in the overall look and feel of a structure, they have historically been treated and enforced differently.

Development Standards: Development standards are regulations pertaining to the physical modification of a structure or development, including the size and location of structures in relation to the parcel. Examples include maximum structure height, minimum lot area, minimum setbacks, maximum lot coverage, view corridors, and open space. By nature, these standards are objective because they establish standards that are verifiable by reference to known criteria (e.g., minimum lot size: 7,000 square feet, Maximum height: 35 feet). In Kingsburg, development standards are primarily established in the Zoning Ordinance and in the Downtown Form Based Code.

Design Standards and Guidelines: Design standards and guidelines provide design guidance for staff and applicants. Used in conjunction with the Zoning Ordinance and applicable development standards, design standards/guidelines provide a common basis for the evaluation of design during the project approval process.

Typically, design standards incorporate objective language in the form of mandates and have little room for interpretation, whereas design guidelines are often subjective and make design recommendations. Where the word Meeting Date: 5/6/2026
Agenda Item: 10

“shall” or “must” is used it is intended to be a mandate; and where the word “should” or “encouraged” is used, it is intended to be a recommended guideline. The North Kingsburg Specific Plan is a combination of design standards and guidelines, using both styles of language.

The Community Development Director has started the process of consideration of certain objective standards with Planning Commission, and discussion ensued with Planning Commission at their meetings of October 2025 and April 2026. With assistance from Fresno COG’s circuit planning program, some draft standards for Kingsburg were created to review and potentially adopt to apply to any streamlined (by-right) affordable multifamily housing project. Those draft standards are attached as Exhibit “A.”
An informational PowerPoint presentation will be presented by staff and attached as Exhibit “B.”

RECOMMENDED ACTION BY CITY COUNCIL

1. Staff recommends that Council review the draft objective standards as prepared by Fresno COG and provide input as to content and Planning Commission action at their next scheduled meeting on May 14, 2026. It is the intent of staff to recommend adoption of the draft objective standards specifically for qualifying streamlined multifamily residential projects at that time, with potential expansion to other discretionary projects as identified at a later date.

POLICY ALTERNATIVE(S)

1. Council could choose not to recommend action on objective standards at this time, or recommend alternative strategies.

STRATEGIC GOAL(S) MET:

1. Preserve the Kingsburg Experience

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ATTACHED INFORMATION

1. Exhibit “A” – Draft Objective Standards to be applied to Multifamily Projects applying for Streamlining Consideration

2. Exhibit “B” – Informational PowerPoint on Objective Standards FISCAL IMPACT:

1. Is There A Fiscal Impact? No

2. Is it Currently Budgeted? No

3. If Budgeted, Which Line? N/A
Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-1 Draft Multi-Family Objective Design Standards

1.1 Purpose
Since 2017, the California legislature has adopted and amended several housing and land use laws to address the state’s housing crisis. Senate Bill (SB) 35, SB 167, SB 330, SB 423, and Assembly Bill (AB) 168 are aimed at streamlining land use entitlements for housing development projects as defined in §65589.5 (h)(2).
 SB 35 (2017) streamlines housing development approvals on infill sites that comply with “objective standards,” meet minimum affordability requirements, are not environmentally sensitive, and if the developer pays prevailing wage and uses a “skilled and trained workforce” for projects over a certain threshold.
 SB 167 (2017) prohibits a local agency from disapproving or conditioning approval in a manner that renders infeasible, a housing development project for very low, low-, or moderate- income households, or an emergency shelter, unless the local agency makes specific written findings based upon substantial evidence in the record.
 SB 330 (2019) establishes a preliminary application process that allows developers to lock in city ordinances, policies, and development fees prior to filing a complete application and requiresthat project applications are subject to no more than five public hearings if the applicable objective standards are met.
 SB 423 (2023) extends SB 35 until January 1, 2036, and expands upon its applicability including specified hazard zones and some high fire hazard severity zones. It prohibits local governments from requiring, prior to approving a qualifying development, compliance with any standards necessary to receive a post-entitlement permit. This bill also amendsthe required laborstandards for mixed-income projects.
 AB 168 (2020) creates a process for tribal scoping consultation for housing development proposals seeking review under SB 35.

The legislation discussed above is intended to streamline the housing development approval processes in California. State law requires citiesto approve certain eligible housing proposals through ministerial processes based on objective standards that “involve no personal orsubjective judgement by a public official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant and the public official prior to submittal.” The Objective Design Standards (ODS) provide clear expectations on the design of new multi-family residential development within the city, outlining objective design standards that allow for predictable development outcomes.

The purpose of the Objective Design Standards is to give the community, developers, staff, and decision makers more certainty about what future multi-family residential development will look like as the City moves forward with streamlined processes to meet the State’s goals in addressing the housing crisis and the objectives of the City’s Housing Element. The design standards within this document are minimum standards. The project must also comply with all applicable building permit requirements, zoning code requirements, and other planning related documents. Relation to Other Regulations. Where a conflict occurs between the requirements of the Objective Design Standards and other city requirements, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.

1.2 Definitions
 Alcove. A recess in a wall that is partially enclosed by vertical elements such as walls or pillars.  Architectural Feature. Soffit, column, wing wall, canopy, roof eave, balcony, bell tower, spires, clock tower, cupolas, turrets, and any other similar element that does not create an interior floor space.  Blank Wall. Any wall that is not enhanced by architectural detailing such as artwork, landscaping, windows, doors, balconies, siding, trellis, metal accent panels, or similar features. Solid and mechanical doors and glass with less than eighty (80 ) percent transparency are considered blank wall areas.
 Brackets. A projection from a vertical surface providing structural or visual support under cornices, balconies, windows, or any other overhanging member.  Bollard. A short post used to divert traffic from an area or road.  Clerestory windows. Windows that are placed on a high section of a wall that is above eye level  Column. A vertical masonry support.
 Complementary Architectural Style. Two structures are complementary in architectural style if they have the same roof form, seventy-five (75) percent of materials and colors are the same (i.e., uses three (3) of the four (4) same materials and/or colors), and have similar massing.  Courtyard. An open space, usually enclosed by buildings or walls, which is primarily intended for outdoor use within a building or development.
 Dormer window. A window that projects vertically from a sloping roof.  Duplex. A residential building comprised of two (2) separate living units.  Entablature. A horizontal structural element frequently supported by columns or pilasters.

It consists of three horizontal layers: the architrave, the cornice, and the frieze.  Façade Plane. Any stretch of a building façade existing along the same axis line, regardless of pattern differentiation or change in rhythm.
 Fenestration. The stylistic arrangement of windows in a building.  Fourplex. A residential building comprised of four (4) separate living units.  Foot-candle. A unit of illuminance or light intensity. The foot-candle is defined as one lumen per square foot.
 Gable roof. A ridge roof that slopes up from only two walls. A gable is the vertical triangular portion of the end of a building from the eaves to the ridge of the roof.  Grade. All related terms shall be defined according to the definition contained in the California Building Code, incorporated by reference and amended in the Municipal Code.  Header. A structural element, typically a beam or lintel, placed horizontally above an opening such as a door or window.
 Lace and Skip trowel stucco. Also known as Spanish Lace a stucco finish application that creates a semi-smooth finish, with grooves underneath the surface.  Lite. A glass panel or opening in a door or window that allows light to pass through.  Mansard roofs. A multi-sided hip roof characterized by two slopes on each of its sides with the lower slop at a steeper angle than the upper, and often contains dormer windows.  Mullion. A vertical bar between the panes of glass in a window.  Muntin. A bar or rigid supporting strip between adjacent panes of glass.

Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-3  Massing. The overall size, shape, and arrangement of a building or group of buildings.  Open Space, Public. A publicly accessible park, square, plaza, or similar space. Does not include common open spaces shared exclusively by residents of a single development.  Orientation. Building orientation refers to the placement of a building on a site, considering its surroundings and the positioning of windows, rooflines, and other architectural features to optimize and enhance the overall aesthetic of the façade.  Ornamental Feature. A sculpture, fountain, relief, or any other decorative element that does not provide shelter, is non-structural, and is not a sign, and which serves to enhance visual interest.  Parkway. Land area between street curb and sidewalk.
 Paseo. A pedestrian pathway or walkway extending from the street into the interior of a block.

Paseos may be publicly accessible or limited to private use.  Recreational Amenities. An amenity provided by the building that is communal and available to all occupants for recreational and social purposes. Recreational amenities may include the following: picnic/barbeque areas, park benches, cabana or shade trellis areas, passive water features (e.g. fountain), passive recreation areas and/or gardens, dog park, clubhouse, swimming pool either with or without a sauna and/or jacuzzi, tot lots, an exercise structure or complex (e.g. playground, gym), full or ½ scale sports courts for volleyball/tennis/pickleball/basketball/soccer, etc.), and other recreational amenities subject to review and approval.  Sill. The horizontal bottom portion of a window or door frame.  Step back. The vertical or horizontal recess or setback of a building’s upper floors from the lower floors.
 Stoop. A small staircase ending in a platform leading to the entrance of an apartment building or rowhouse.
 Street Wall. The wall of a building facing the street or near the street-abutting property line. The street wall may include arcades, colonnades, recessed pedestrian entrances, decorative stairs, public art, and other features deemed pedestrian-oriented.  Terrace. An elevated outdoor space that is attached to a building, provided either by a purposebuilt platform on the ground level or by the parapet roof of the story below.  Townhome. A multistory housing structure that is attached to one or more similar houses by shared walls.
 Triplex. A residential building comprised of three (3) separate living units.  Wrap Configuration. A building design where a portion of the building wraps around an interior parking or other structure, thereby screening the interior structure from public view.

1.3 General Objective Design Standards

1.3.1 Purpose
The design standards of this Chapter are applicable to all multi-family developments in the RM-MultiFamily Residential Districts and the areas covered by the City of Kingsburg Form Based Code.

Application of these Objective Design Standards (ODS) allows for project approval by foregoing any discretionary permit process.

1.4 General Objective Design Standards

1.4.1 Purpose
The design standards of this Chapter are applicable to all multi-family developments in the RM-MultiFamily Residential Districts and the areas covered by the City of Kingsburg Form Based Code.

Application of these Objective Design Standards (ODS) allows for project approval by foregoing any discretionary permit process.

1.5 General Objective Design Standards

1.5.1 Purpose
The design standards of this Chapter are applicable to all multi-family developments in the RM-MultiFamily Residential Districts and the areas covered by the City of Kingsburg Form Based Code.

Application of these Objective Design Standards (ODS) allows for project approval by foregoing any discretionary permit process.

1.5.2 Implementation
Projects that can demonstrate compliance with these standards can submit directly for building permits. City Planning staff will confirm compliance with these standards as part of the building permit process. Multi-family developments must include each of the general objective standards from each category unless otherwise stated.

1.5.3 Roofs

1. Rooflines shall be vertically articulated at least every 50 feet along the street frontage, using architectural elements such as parapets, varying cornices, reveals, clerestory windows, or varying roof height and/or form.

2. If a building has a pitched roof, an eave overhang of at least 18 inches is required. Rakes at gable ends shall project at least four inches.

3. Roof materials shall have a matte finish to minimize glare.

1.5.4 Entries

1. Each unit’s entry shall be easily identifiable and distinguishable from the street, drive aisle or common open space. Means of distinguishing an entryway include door color, door size and style, recessed entry, step up entry, and the incorporation of awnings, landscaping, and/or contrasting trim.

2. Exterior building entry doors and entry ways shall be protected with at least one of the following features: overhangs, recesses, porches, trellises, or other weather-protection features. The entry shall have a depth or projection of at least six feet and a width of at least four feet.

1.5.5 Fenestration

1. Windows and doors facing a public street, or a pedestrian-oriented space shall be trimmed, Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-5 recessed, and/or incorporate enhancement details such as headers/sills, shutters, trellises, awnings, or pop-outs. When trimmed, the trim material shall be a minimum of three (3) inches in width by three-quarter (¾) inches in depth when protruding from the wall. When recessed, the minimum depth shall be one-and-a-half (1.5) inches from the adjacent wall surface. See Figure 1

2. Elevations with contemporary or modern design may have trims less than three (3) inches wide, windows without trims, or be flush with the adjacent surface, provided that varied window sizes are used, and at least thirty (30) percent of the residential portion of the façade consists of windows.

3. Windows on the upper floor(s) of a building shall be treated with the same or similar window treatments as those on the ground floor.

4. Mirrored or highly reflective glass is prohibited.

5. Windows facing the street must include multiple panes or lites. Tape-on or snap-on mullions and muntins are not permitted.

6. Windows shall be taller than they are wide. Accent windows of varying shapes and dimensions are permitted.

Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-5 Draft Multi-Family Objective Design Standards
Figure 1- Fenestration Trim, Recessed, and Shutters

1.5.6 Colors and Materials

1. Buildings shall incorporate a maximum of two main body colors, three accent colors, and three different materials, excluding windows, doors, trim and public art, murals, or signs. Exterior elevations shall include at least two colors and at least two different materials (in addition to glazing, window trim, doors, railings, public art, murals, or signs) that can accentuate building masses. The main body color is considered the predominant color used on the face(s) of the building.

2. Accessory structures such as garages, carports, ADUs and enclosures for mechanical, utility, and service areas shall include no more than two deviations in material or color from the primary structure. Accessory structures not visible from the street or neighboring properties may deviate from this standard.

3. Reflective surfaces and materials such as mirrored glass and polished aluminum are prohibited.

4. Material and color changes shall occur at an inside corner, underside of a massing element, or wrapped to an appropriate termination point such as a roof break, half-column, bay window, or enhanced trim element. See Figure 2.

Figure 2 Color and Material Change

1.5.7 Fences

1. Fence and wall materials, colors and detailing shall match the architectural style of the main buildings on the site. Permanent chain link fencing, razor wire, and barbed wire are prohibited.

2. Freestanding solid walls of at least 30 inches in height, if included, shall be setback at least two feet from the sidewalk and incorporate low plantings or vines placed between the sidewalk and the fence or wall to soften the appearance of the wall and preserve the public parkway environment.

3. All fences and walls required for screening purposes shall be of non-transparent material. Chain link fencing with inserts is prohibited.

1.5.8 Lighting

1. Lighting shall be shielded and directed downward not to exceed 0.1 foot-candle at adjacent residential property lines, and the location of lights coordinated with the approved landscape plan.

2. Exterior lamps shall be low wattage, LED, and except for outdoor holiday lights, shall not be colored.

3. Outdoor lighting shall be installed and maintained along all vehicular access ways and major walkways.

4. Bollard lighting may be used to light walkways and other landscape features but shall cast light downward.

Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-7 Draft Multi-Family Objective Design Standards

5. All parking lot lights shall be full-cutoff luminaires, as certified by the manufacturer, with the light source directed downward and away from adjacent residences.

6. Exterior and parking-lot lighting shall not exceed 0.1 foot-candle at adjacent residential property lines. Exterior and parking lot lighting shall not exceed 0.5 foot-candle at the adjacent rights-ofway or adjacent mixed-use or non-residential properties.

7. Streetlights shall use decorative lighting poles that use the same colors, materials, designs as other elements used in the community.

8. Lighting shall be placed so as to minimize its impact on adjacent buildings and properties, especially residential uses. Any lighting source, including illuminated signs, shall be positioned so that light does not shine directly into residential windows.

9. Building-mounted lighting shall be decorative in nature and shall be a complimentary style to the architectural style of the building.

1.5.9 Landscape

1. Proposed projects shall include at least three of the following landscape elements in the landscape plan:
a. Fountains
b. Decorative paving
c. Landmark tree (24-inch box minimum)
d. Seating opportunities such as raised planters and walls. e. Shade structures such asfree-standing trellises and canopies.

2. Landscaping shall contain a combination of low (3 – 24 inches), medium (2 – 5 feet) and tall (5 + feet) plant materials. For example, low planting may be used in the foreground, proceeding back to the tallest in the background

3. In townhouse or rowhouse type projects, trees and/or planting of at least six square feet shall be provided adjacent to garage doors facing alleys and motor court drives to soften the appearance of the building.

4. A minimum of five-foot-wide landscaping shall be incorporated around the base of buildings (except for walkways and driveways) to soften the edge between parking, drive aisles, and sidewalks.

5. Projects shall provide landscape coverage and yard requirements consistent with 17.32 (Multi-Family Residential Districts) of the City of Kingsburg Zoning Code.

1.5.10 Trash and Recycling Enclosures

1. Refuse and recycling material containers shared by multiple dwelling units shall be enclosed and screened in accordance with Chapter 8.12 of the Kingsburg Municipal Code and shall meet the City’s current Improvement Standards. Sizing of the enclosuresshall conform to the requirements of the City’s Franchise Waste Hauler.

2. Refuse enclosures shall incorporate roof structures to help improve stormwater quality in accordance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements and to screen the enclosure from views from above.

3. Refuse enclosures shall be finished using materials and colors that are consistent with the buildings architectural style. Enclosure gates shall be opaque.

4. Detached refuse enclosures shall not be closer than 20 feet from doors or operable windows of adjacent structures.

5. Refuse and recycling material containers stored within individual yards shall be screened from street view and from view of adjacent residential portions of the project.

6. Loading areas and refuse storage facilities shall be as far as possible from residential units and shall be completely screened from view of adjacent residential portions of the project. The location and design of trash enclosures shall account for potential nuisances from odor.

1.5.11 Mailboxes

1. Cluster mailboxes shall be located in an enclosure or under a shelter that provides weather protection.

2. Cluster mailbox enclosures shall be located to allow for convenient, short-term parking for the mail carriers.

3. Common mailbox enclosures shall be designed using the same materials and colors as the surrounding residential buildings.

4. To maintain cleanliness and promote responsible waste disposal, all buildings must provide a trash receptacle in each mailbox area. The trash receptacle must be placed within five (5) feet of the mailbox area and must be easily accessible and visible to all users of the mailbox area.

1.6 Design Standards for Architectural Styles

1.6.1 Applicability
Multi-family and mixed-use projects which utilize Swedish, Spanish/Mediterranean, Modern, or Americana architectural styles are subject to the following standards respectively in addition to the objective design standards in this section and objective development standards in the zoning code.

Proposed projects which do not fall into one of the three styles listed, the applicant shall provide documentation to the Director stating the proposed architectural style, the objective standards of said architectural style, and the massing, materials, colors, and details of said architectural style are in conformance with these requirements. Architectural styles may not be mixed within a single development.

1.6.2 Swedish
Swedish architectural style is characterized by functionality, simplicity, neutral colors, and use of natural materials such as wood. Swedish designs emphasize minimalistic and simplistic design with clean lines, functional spaces, and a focus on natural light to create an uncluttered aesthetic. Wood plays a central role in Swedish architecture. Timber-clad facades, exposed wooden beams, and wooden interiors create warmth and authenticity. Other natural materials like stone and brick are Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-9 Draft Multi-Family Objective Design Standards
also used. Swedish architecture often employs neutral color palettes, including whites, grays, and earth tones. These colors evoke a sense of calm and connection to nature.

Massing and Architectural Elements

1. Swedish design shall utilize 1.5 to 2.5 story massing with steeply pitched roofs that incorporate gable ends and dormers.

2. Roofs shall be pitched, with some gabled or hipped, with roof slopes ranging from 10 in 12 to 16 in 12.

3. Flat roofs shall provide a parapet to conceal flat roof areas.

4. Mansard roofs may be utilized to simulate second stories on existing flat-roofed structures.

Where the side elevation is exposed, the mansard roofshall either turn the corner or articulate a gable end.

5. Eaves shall utilize exposed rafter tails or the use of decorative brackets.

6. Roof overhangs shall have a minimum 8" overhang at eave and rake.

Materials and Colors

1. Primary walls are predominantly clad in stucco, brick, or siding.

2. Exterior body materials shall consist of the following:
a. Brick, with struck mortar joints.
b. Stucco, smooth and sand finish.
c. Siding in wood, composition board, or fiber cement board with horizontal shiplap, beaded lap, or beveled profile. Vinyl and/or T-111 siding are not allowed. Exposed wood shall be painted or stained.
d. Timbering in wood or fiber-cement board. Stucco wallsurfaces shall be smooth and sand finished.

3. Roofing materials shall include wood shakes or fiberglass shingles.

4. Window frame materials shall include wood, aluminum-clad wood, or metal, with exterior true or simulated true divided lights. Glass should be clear and non-reflective.

5. Colors
a. White, off-white, cream, grey-green, grey-blue, grey, red terracotta, or colors within this color palette.
b. Accent colors for windows, shutters, door trims, and structural elements such as exposed rafters, and balconies shall be subtle using deep browns, white, orstained wood finishes that compliment colors listed above.

Ornamentation and Details

1. Projects shall incorporate architectural detailing on all elevations visible to the public. A minimum of three (3) of the following ornamental features are required:
a. Wrought iron/tubular steel features in the form of balcony railings or accents over at least 20 percent of the windows on an elevation.
b. Sashes and frames in white or off-white, Shutters in black, red, dark grey, or dark green c. Canvas awnings with wrought iron supports over at least 10 percent of the windows and doors on an elevation.
d. Wood, aluminum-clad wood, or metal, with exterior true orsimulated true divided lights. Glass should be clear and non-reflective.

1.6.3 Spanish / Mediterranean
Spanish architectural style, also known as Mediterranean or Spanish Revival, is characterized by elements inspired by the architecture of Spain, including features such as stucco walls, clay tile roofs, decorative metalwork, and arched windows and doorways. It often incorporates ornamental details, such as colorful tiles, carved wood accents, and courtyards, to create a warm and inviting Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere.

Massing and Architectural Elements

1. Each public-facing elevation shall have a projecting 1- or 2-story volume with minimum width of 10 feet and a minimum depth of 3 feet. The projecting volume shall either have a forward-facing gable roof form or a shed roof form. Building massing shall create a usable courtyard space enclosed on at least one side or one or more terrace(s).

2. When pitched roof forms are used, roofs pitches shall not exceed 4.5:12 and include exposed rafter tails or cornices.

3. When pitched roof forms are included, roofs shall utilize clay-colored barrel or S-shaped tiles.

4. Windows shall be taller than they are wide or square with rectangular or arched shapes.

Materials and Colors

6. Exterior body materials shall consist ofstucco with a smooth, sand, or dash finish. Lace and skip trowel stucco finishes are prohibited.

7. Body colors shall be limited to whites, off-whites, cream, terracotta, ochre, and beige or colors within this color palette.

8. Accent colors for structural elements such as exposed rafters, and balconies shall be deep browns or stained wood finishes.

9. Minor accents such as window and door trim or shutters shall be painted muted shades of blue, green, rust, and burgundy color palettes

10. Exterior paving materials may include terracotta tile, decorative tile, brick, stone, gravel, or decomposed granite.

Ornamentation and Details

2. Projects shall incorporate architectural detailing on all elevations visible to the public. A minimum of three (3) of the following ornamental features are required:
a. Decorative tile work around doorways, windows, orstair risers. b. Wrought iron/tubular steel features in the form of balcony railings or accents over at least 20 percent of the windows on an elevation.
c. Shutters on at least 20 percent of the windows of an elevation. d. At least one (1) unique, large window (at least 25 larger than all other windows) or feature window with an archway.

Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-11 Draft Multi-Family Objective Design Standards
e. Terracotta breezeblock openings to garden or courtyard spaces. f. Decorative water feature or fountain.
g. Canvas awnings with wrought iron supports over at least 10 percent of the windows and doors on an elevation.
h. Terracotta gable vents on all forward-facing gables. i. Window boxes, elevated planters, trellises, or pergolas

1.6.4 Modern
Modern architectural style emerged in the early 20th century and emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, horizontality, and the use of modern materials such as glass, steel, and concrete. It seeks to create functional and efficient spaces while embracing minimalist design principles and often blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. This style can only be used in the Highway Commercial Zone (CH).

Massing and Architectural Elements

7. Building shall utilize a combination ofsimple geometric volumes which emphasize clean lines.

8. Roofs should be flat and include parapets to screen roof-mounted equipment. Low-pitched shed roof forms are permitted and shall not exceed a 3:12 slope. Gable and hip roof forms are prohibited.

9. Windows shall consist of a large, rectangular feature window or grouped, utilizing large uninterrupted panes. Simple rectangular and circular shapes shall be implemented. Ornate windows or arched windows shall be prohibited.

10. Windows shall be set flush with the exterior wall.

Materials and Colors

1. Exterior body materials shall consist of composite panels; non-terracotta-colored tiles; textured, corrugated, orsmooth metalsiding; stucco with a smooth,sand, or dash finish. Lace, cat face, and skip trowel stucco finishes are prohibited.

2. Buildings shall incorporate modern materials such as glass, steel, aluminum, composite panels, and sustainable alternatives. Exposed brick, stone, wood, and concrete as accent materials are permitted.

3. Exposed gable vents are prohibited.

Characteristic Architectural Features

1. Structures shall be generally without ornamentation and emphasize clean geometric (usually straight) lines. Overly ornate elements such as decorative wrought iron is prohibited.

2. Projects shall incorporate a minimum of three (3) architectural features of modern design on publicly visible elevations:
a. Curtain wall or floor to ceiling windows.
b. Clerestory windows.
c. Cantilevered roofs with a minimum 24-inch overhang.
d. Projecting fins / wing walls.
e. Breeze block walls.
f. Metalscreens, shades, or roof projections.
g. Use of four (4) contrasting colors or materials on an elevation (excluding windows and doors).
h. A rectangular volume with a minimum dimension of 10 feet (height) by 15 feet (width) that projects forward from the main body of the building by a minimum of 18 inches. i. At least one unique, large window (at least 25 percent larger than all other windows).

1.6.5 Americana
Americana architectural style is a modern interpretation of American Farmhouse and draws inspiration from traditional rural farmhouses. It typically features a simple, rectangular massing with a symmetrical facade, a gable roof, and a welcoming front porch.

Massing and Architectural Elements

1. Building shall utilize asymmetrical one-and-a-half (1.5) to three (3)-story massing with at least one, street-facing gable roof form.

2. Individual planes of an elevation facing a public right-of-way shall be symmetrical. The placement of exterior doors to one side of a façade plane shall not be considered as breaking from symmetry.

3. When gable or shed roof pitches are being used, the pitch shall be between 2:12 and 6:12. Flat roof forms may be used. Hip roof forms are prohibited.

4. Roof materials on pitched roofs shall utilize dark colored standing seam metal, flat cement, or composite tiles which mimic the appearance of wood shingles.

5. Projects shall include a prominent covered entry or porch. Porch or patio roofs shall be supported by square wood posts or columns.

Materials and Colors

1. Exterior body materials shall consist of horizontal clapboard siding, shiplap, or board and batten paneling. Stucco may be permitted as the body material on primary volumes provided minor volumes are treated with clapboard, shiplap, or board and batten paneling. Stucco shall have a smooth, sand, or dash finish. Lace, cat face, and skip trowel stucco finishes are prohibited.

2. Body colors may be earth tones, whites, greys, or muted blues or greens.

3. Accent materials may include brick, stone, board and batten paneling, shiplap, or clapboard siding.

Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-13

1.6.4 Modern
Key Features Observed:
● Massing: You can see the use of simple geometric volumes and projecting rectangular volumes that create depth without traditional ornamentation. ● Windows: These examples showcase large, rectangular feature windows and floor-to-ceiling glass (curtain walls) set flush with the exterior. ● Rooflines: The buildings utilize flat roof forms with parapets, strictly avoiding gables or hips.
● Architectural Accents: Many of these designs incorporate specific modern elements from your list, such as cantilevered overhangs, projecting fins, and metal screening for sun shading.
● Materials: The facades feature a mix of smooth stucco, composite panels, and metal siding, often using contrasting colors to define different sections of the building.

1.6.5 Americana
Draft City of Kingsburg- Multi-Family Objective Design Standards C-15 Key Features Observed:
● Massing: These projects utilize asymmetrical 2- to 3-story massing. Even with the larger scale of a multifamily building, they incorporate street-facing gables to maintain the "farmhouse" feel.
● Symmetry within Units: While the overall building may be expansive, the individual facade planes of each unit or section remain symmetrical in their window and door placement.
● Exterior Finishes: You can clearly see the board and batten and horizontal clapboard siding. Stucco is used sparingly on primary volumes, usually contrasted by wood-textured siding on minor volumes.
● Porches and Entries: To meet the requirement for a prominent covered entry, these multifamily designs often use individual unit porches or a large, shared entry portico supported by the required square wood columns.
● Roofing: The pitched roofs feature dark standing seam metal or composite tiles that mimic wood shingles, keeping within the 2:12 to 6:12 pitch range.

1.6.3 Spanish / Mediterranean
Key Features Observed:
● Massing and Projecting Volumes: The standard requires projecting volumes. This example shows a substantial 2-story projection featuring a forward-facing gable roof, creating depth on the public elevation while forming a usable courtyard space. ● Courtyard and Common Areas: Building massing must create a usable courtyard. The central area of this building encloses a paved terracotta courtyard and includes a decorative water feature with intricate tile work, satisfying multiple guidelines simultaneously.
● Wrought Iron and Balconies: A minimum of 20% of windows on an elevation must feature wrought iron. These balconies, supported by deep brown accents, feature elaborate wrought-iron railings and are a primary feature of the upper-level units. ● Windows and Details: Windows are required to be either rectangular or arched, and features like shutters are mandated for a certain percentage of windows. Note the arched windows with deep brown accents and decorative metalwork on the projecting volumes.

1.6.2 Swedish
Key Features Observed:
● Massing & Roofs: These buildings feature the required 1.5 to 2.5 story massing. The most prominent feature is the steeply pitched gable roofs (ranging from 10:12 to 16:12) which frequently incorporate dormers.
● Eaves & Overhangs: You can see the use of exposed rafter tails and decorative brackets, with the mandatory minimum 8-inch overhang at the eave and rake. ● Materials: Facades utilize horizontal wood siding (shiplap or beaded lap), smooth stucco, and brick. You'll notice the absence of vinyl or T-111 siding. ● Color Palette: The designs stick to the traditional Swedish palette—including red terracotta (Falu Red), grey-blues, and whites.
● Windows & Ornamentation: Windows feature true or simulated divided lights with frames in white or off-white. Ornamental details like wrought iron balcony railings and shutters in dark grey or black are also visible.

City of Kingsburg
Multifamily Objective Design Standards
Kinsgburg City Council May 6, 2026
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //2

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Agenda

1. Introduction, Purpose & Overview
• Housing Element Requirements & State Law
• What are Objective Design Standards (ODS)?

2. Approach to ODS Creation
• Public Questions and Comments
• Council Discussion/Comments

3. Next Steps

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Purpose and Need
The City is preparing Multifamily Objective Design Standards to:

Establish local
controlsfor
regulating by-right
multi-unit
development
Implement
Housing Element
Program 22.1
Comply with state
lawsrelated to the
development of
by-right multi-unit
housing
Kingsburg City Council|May 6 , 2026 //3

CITY OF KINGSBURG OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS
Overview of the Housing Element Requirements
6th Cycle Housing Element Program 22.1
The City will develop objective design guidelines and
revise existing standards to remove subjective standards and provide clear and objective standards related to
single-family, multifamily, and mixed-use residential
developments for the “Swedish Village”. This work will
include objective standards for the MXU district.

Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //4
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //5

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Overview of State Law Requirements
Legislation that created the mandate or define objective design standards:
• Senate Bill 167: Housing Accountability Act
• Senate Bill 330: Housing Crisis Act of 2019
• Senate Bill 35: Affordable Housing: Streamlined Processing of Ministerial Projects
• Concern over housing supply and affordability
Legislation that triggersthe use objective design standards:
• Senate Bill 6: Housing in Commercial Zones
• Assembly Bill 2011: Affordable Housing and High Road Jobs Act of 2022 • Assembly Bill 1397: Inventory of Land for Residential Development • Senate Bill 9: The California HOME Act
Kinsgsburg City Council |May 6, 2026 //6

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Objective Design Standards
Objective design standards means a design standard that involves no personal or subjective judgment and is
+measurable
+verifiable
+knowable to all parties prior to project submittal
(Cal. Gov. Code Section 66300(a)(7)
May include portions of
general plans,specific
plans,zoning codes,
overlay zones,subdivision,
landscaping, and other
land development
regulations.

Only basis a local agency
may use to deny or reduce
the density of certain
eligible projects.

Intended to make
requirements more
predictable and easier to
interpret.

Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //7

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Objective Design Standards-Advantages
 Streamlines review
 Considerably easier to enforce and promotes consistency  Removes ambiguity between projects in the same vicinity  Allows for local control of effective and attractive design  Reasonable expectations of what will need to be constructed by developers
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //8

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Objective Design Standards: What is a standard v. guideline? Design Guidelines Design Standards
Subjective Objective
Recommendations may not be enforceable, and do not have the “teeth” of regulations.

Requirements, enforceable as regulations.

Open to interpretation, may be difficult to measure of verify. Measurable, and verifiable.

Uses wordssuch as “should” or “may”. Uses language such as “shall”, “must” or “required to”. (Subjective) Guideline: front yard setback
consistent with the character of the neighborhood
Objective Design Standard: Minimum front
Setback: 4 feet
Objective design standards involve no personal or subjective judgement by staff or decision-making bodies

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Objective Design Standards
Design Guidelines Design Standards
Subjective Objective
Provide articulation to reduce the apparent mass and scale of the building, and to be sensitive to the neighborhood.

For every 100 feet of building length, there shall be a plane-break along the façade comprised of an offset of at least five feet in depth, by 25 feet in length. The offsetshall extend from grade to the higheststory.

Rooftop mechanical equipmentshould be screened from public view by a parapet wall, decorative equipmentscreen, or other architectural treatment.

Rooftop mechanical equipmentshall be screened from public view by a parapet wall, decorative equipmentscreen, or other architectural treatment.

Provide ample width and design for universal access along pathways and walks.

The paved section of sidewalksshall be at least eight feet in width.

Measurable and verifiable sidewalks, setbacks, elements, etc.

Kingsburg City Council|May 6 .2026 //9
Objective Design Standards don’t require everything to be quantifiable and numeric.

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Objectivity without Rigidity
True/false
statements
Counts and
Measurements
Ratios and
Calculations
Lists Scorecards
Benchmarks &
Performance
Measures
Different methods of
achieving objectivity
Kingsburg Council |May 6, 2026 //10

CITY OF KINGSBURG OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS
Applicability of Multifamily Objective Design Standards The Multifamily Objective Design Standards
can apply to the following types of projects:
• Multifamily residential
• Residential/commercial mixed-use development
Kingsburg City Council|May 6 ,2026 / /11
Approach to Objective Design
Standards Creation
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //13
What will stay the same?

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Preliminary Approach
What is up for discussion and decision?
• Zoning regulations and design guidelines for
single-family development.
• Zoning regulations and design guidelines for
Downtown (Form Based Code)
• Discretionary review process where allowed.
• Multi-Family Design Guidelines for projects
that are not by-right multi-unit development.
• Objective design standards that apply to
by-right multi-unit development.
• Topicsthat may be included as part of
Multifamily Objective Design
Standards.

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS What “design outcomes” do you want to avoid?

1. Bulky, boxy, unarticulated buildings.

2. Incompatibility.

3. Lack of human/pedestrian scale.

4. Blank walls and dead spaces.

5. Lack of connectivity and walkability.

6. No or sub-optimal open spaces.

7. Ugly.

8. Other?
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //14

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS What “design outcomes” do you want to avoid?
Examples of multifamily developments without articulation, massing and with expansive blank walls Pl
Kingsburg City Council May 6, 2026 //15

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS J
What design topics are apriority to address?
Examples of Multifamily Developments with articulation, massing, and no expansive blank walls

1.Massing

2.Articulation

3.Street Level
Features

4.Building
Materials

5.Facade

6.Color

7.Roof Lines

8.Fenestration
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //16

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS Kingsburg City Council May 6, 2026 //17
What design topics are apriority to address?
Examples of design opportunities and outcomes
Promote variation in
height, façade articulation
and materials
Provide space for planting and seating Build upon character of place and design qualities
NextSteps
Review of Proposed Multifamily Objective
Standards
Planning Commission Direction

CITY OF KINGSBURG MULTIFAMILY OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS How to Provide Additional Feedback
Comments & Questions
Please email any additional comments,
ask any questions, or find out more by
contacting:

Holly Owen, AICP
Community Development Director,
City of Kingsburg
559.897.5328
[email protected]
Kingsburg City Council|May 6, 2026 //