Section 13.22.060 (“Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development”) is added to Chapter 13.22 (“Supplement General Development Regulations”) of Title 13 (“Zoning”) of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code to read as follows:
Sec. 13.22.060. Objective design standards for commercial development.
(a) Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of this section is to guide the future construction, alteration, and renovation of businesses, gas stations, office buildings, restaurants, shopping centers, and other commercial properties, in order to protect and advance Laguna Woods’ character and visual quality for the benefit of the City’s economic development and quality of life for residents and visitors. (b) Applicability. This section applies to the Community Commercial (CC), Neighborhood Commercial (NC), and Professional and Administrative Office (PA) zoning districts. (c) Standards. Development shall occur as set forth in the City’s Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development document, which is on file with the City Clerk, and which is incorporated by reference into this section as if set forth at length herein.
This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
Exhibit B to Ordinance No. 26-XX
Code Amendments
Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development document This page is intentionally blank.
FOR C O M M ER C I A L
DEVELOPMENT
CITY OF
LAGUNA WOODS
OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS
PREPARED FOR:
City of Laguna Woods
24264 El Toro Road
Laguna Woods, CA 92637
ADOPTED BY:
Ordinance No. 26-XX
PREPARED BY:
JZMK Partners
3080 Bristol Ave, Suite 350
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
4 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION 6
1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
1.2 Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1.3 Applicability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1.4 User Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.5 Relationship With General Plan & Zoning Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.6 Terminology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.7 Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
1.8 Prohibited Design Elements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 2 SITE DESIGN 22
2.1 Publicly Accessible Open Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.2 Vehicular Access & Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2.3 Bicycle Circulation & Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
2.4 Pedestrian Access & Circulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2.5 Site Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 3 BUILDING DESIGN 40
3.1 Massing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
3.2 Building Orientation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
3.3 Neighborhood Transition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
3.4 Facade Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.5 Ground Floor Uses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
3.6 Street Facing Transparency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
3.7 Utilities, Service Areas & Building Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 5 4 ARCHITECTURAL STYLE 72
4.1 Overview And Applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
4.2 Laguna Woods Revival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
4.3 Roofs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
4.4 Walls and Windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
4.5 Materials and Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
4.6 Decorative Accents and Details. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 5 LANDSCAPE 84
5.1 Landscape Materials & Vegetation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
5.2 Hardscape. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
5.3 Walls & Fences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
5.4 Landscape Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
5.5 Site Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 6 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
INTRODUCTION
1 1.1 PURPOSE
1.2 ORGANIZATION
1.3 APPLICABILITY
1.4 USER GUIDE
1.5 RELATIONSHIP WITH GENERAL PLAN & ZONING CODE
1.6 TERMINOLOGY
1.7 MEASUREMENTS
1.8 PROHIBITED DESIGN ELEMENTS
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 7 8 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
1.1 PURPOSE
1.1.1 OVERVIEW
The development of commercial projects in the City of Laguna Woods (“City”), is regulated by a variety of documents including the Laguna Woods General Plan and the Laguna Woods Municipal Code.
To further support consistent, high-quality commercial development and reinvestment, the City has established Objective Design Standards that provide clear, measurable, and enforceable criteria for project review. These standards are intended to streamline the development review process by reducing ambiguity, facilitating predictable outcomes, and ensuring that projects can be reviewed in an efficient and consistent manner.
The Objective Design Standards apply to commercial development, including new construction and site improvements, and are designed to promote functional site design, high-quality architecture, and cohesive visual character throughout the City. By establishing objective criteria, the City aims to support economic vitality while maintaining and enhancing the community’s built environment.
1.1.2 GOALS
The primary goals of the Objective Design Standards are to:
a. Preserve the character of the community by balancing the form and design of existing development with new construction techniques and styles. b. Encourage human-scaled buildings that promote high quality site and building design. c. Emphasize a pedestrian-oriented environment where buildings and public realm design are cohesive and complementary of a diverse range of uses. 1 INTRODUCTION
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 9
INTRODUCTION
1.2 ORGANIZATION
The Objective Design Standards are organized into the following five chapters:
1. Introduction
2. Site Design
3. Building Design
4. Architectural Style
5. Landscape
10 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
1.3 APPLICABILITY
1.3.1 APPLICABLE ZONING DISTRICTS
These Objective Design Standards apply to the following zoning districts:
1. Community Commercial (CC)
2. Neighborhood Commercial (NC)
3. Professional and Administrative Office (PA)
1.3.2 APPLICABLE PROJECT TYPES
These Objective Design Standards apply to the entire area of projects that include one (1) or more of the following:
1. Addition of any new structure(s)
2. Substantial renovation of any existing structure(s), defined as the demolition, removal, or replacement of fifty percent (50%) or more of exterior walls, roofs, or canopies, when the proposed design, materials or overall appearance differ from the existing conditions
3. Renovation of any existing structure(s) that results in an addition of twenty five percent (25%) or more to the existing square footage or five hundred (500) sq. ft., whichever is less
4. Any alteration that adds one or more new floors
5. Any alteration that increases the number of drive-through lanes or fuel pumps
6. Any discretionary development project for which the City Council has conditioned its approval on compliance with these Objective Design Standards
Exceptions to the applicability of these standards include the following:
1. Routine maintenance activities where the existing materials, design, and form are retained, regardless of the project’s square footage
2. Interior renovations that do not modify the footprint or massing of an existing structure The following provisions further clarify the relationship of these standards to other applicable requirements:
1. These standards supplement the underlying base zoning district. In case of conflict between these standards, the Objective Design Standards will apply
2. All new development projects are required to conform to the architectural style described in Chapter 4 of these Objective Design Standards. All other projects are encouraged to do the same CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 11
INTRODUCTION
1.3.3 EXCEPTIONS & EXEMPTIONS
All applicable projects are required to comply with Objective Design Standards. Should a project not be able to or choose not to adhere to the Objective Design Standards, a project may seek approval through the following paths:
1. Minor Exceptions and Exemptions: If an applicant is unable to meet certain Objective Design Standards, the applicant may request up to three (3) exceptions or exemptions. This allows for limited discretionary review and flexibility for projects that may have a physical constraint. The City Manager and/or their designee may approve or deny requests for exceptions or exemptions or refer such determination to the City Council.
Determinations made by the City Manager and/or their designee may be appealed to the City Council.
Requests shall be made by the applicant in writing to the City Manager. a. Applicants requesting an exception or exemption shall provide findings on how their project is consistent with the Purpose statements for each chapter where an exception or exemption is requested.
b. Applicants shall document constraints to meeting the standard. c. Exceptions or exemptions to quantitative standards may vary by no more than five percent (5%) above or below the stated requirement.
d. The City Manager has the discretion to defer determinations to the City Council.
2. Discretionary Review Path: Applicants may choose the Discretionary Review Path if they choose not to meet the Objective Design Standards. Projects utilizing this path will be subject to the applicable discretionary review procedures, including public hearings and extended review timelines, as outlined in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 11.
12 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
1.3.4 DETERMINATIONS
Prior to approving exceptions or exemptions, the City Manager and/or their designee shall make the following determinations:
1. Approval aligns with the requirements outlined in the vision, intent, and purpose of the objective design standards.
2. Approval does not alter the intent of the objective design standards;
3. Approval constitutes a sound precedent for other similar situations; and
4. The resulting project is consistent with the General Plan.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 13
INTRODUCTION
1.4 USER GUIDE
The Objective Design Standards are intended to be used by applicants, property owners, and the City in connection with the review and approval of applicable projects.
Applicants are encouraged to review the Objective Design Standards, Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 11 (Buildings and Construction), and Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 13 (Zoning) prior to designing projects or submitting land use applications to the City. After reviewing those documents, applicants are encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with the City’s Planning & Environmental Services Department to discuss specific application requirements. 14 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
1.5 RELATIONSHIP WITH GENERAL PLAN & ZONING
CODE
The Objective Design Standards work as a baseline, creating citywide standards that apply to applicable projects. This document is intended to work in tandem with the Laguna Woods General Plan and Laguna Woods Municipal Code.
• General Plan. California Government Code Section 65300 requires each city to adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan to guide physical development. The Laguna Woods General Plan reflects the City of Laguna Woods’ intentions about land use and its relationship to circulation, conservation, housing, noise, open space, and safety. In the event of a conflict between the Laguna Woods General Plan and the Objective Design Standards, the Laguna Woods General Plan shall prevail.
• Laguna Woods Municipal Code. The Laguna Woods Municipal Code is a collection of all ordinances adopted by the City Council of a general and permanent nature. The Objective Design Standards were adopted by such an ordinance. Conflicts between the balance of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code and the Objective Design Standards shall be resolved in accordance with applicable laws and City procedures.
• California Building Standards Code. The Objective Design Standards do not replace or supercede applicable provisions of the California Building Standards Code. In the event of a conflict between the California Building Standards Code and the Objective Design Standards, the California Building Standards Code shall prevail.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 15
INTRODUCTION
1.6 TERMINOLOGY
The following terms are used throughout the Objective Design Standards and are defined below.
Active Frontage: Active frontages are building frontages with active uses where there is visual engagement between those in the street and those on the ground floor. Active uses include retail stores, restaurants, markets, galleries, libraries, community centers, common areas and offices that generate high pedestrian traffic throughout the day.
Alley: A public thoroughfare used as a secondary vehicular means of access.
Arched: Having a vertical curve where the height of the curve is either (1) exactly half of the width of the curve, or (2) shorter in height than the actual curve.
Awning: An architectural projection that provides weather protection, building identity, or decoration, and is wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is often comprised of a lightweight frame structure over which a cover is attached.
Belvederes: An architectural feature designed to provide a beautiful view—such as a rooftop pavilion, terrace, balcony, tower, or open-sided structure.
Balcony: An external extension of an upper floor of a building, enclosed by a screen, balusters, or railings.
Block Length: The length of a parcel or series of parcels measuring from the edge of one public right-of-way or public access easement to another.
Balustrade: Multiple balusters supporting a railing on a balcony.
Baluster: A post, upright support, or vertical piece that supports a railing on a balcony.
Building: Has the same meaning as the term defined in Section 13.06.010(c)(130) of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code, as amended from time to time or replaced with a successor statute.
Building Envelope: The physical separator between the interior and exterior of a building, including the foundation, floors, walls, roof, windows, and doors.
Building Facade Length: The overall length of a facade without a full break in the building (see full break definition below).
Building Facade Full Break: A significant interruption or separation in the facade, such as a passageway, courtyard, or a change in building height that visually and structurally divides the building.
16 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT Building Projection: The part or feature of a building which extends outside of the enclosing walls. It can be a building feature that is mounted on, and/or extends from the surface of the building wall or facade, typically above ground level.
Carport: Any parking area that is wholly or partially covered by a structure of any kind.
Cart Corral: A designated, anchored structure in a retail or grocery store parking lot designed for customers to return shopping carts. These structures can be metal, often open-ended on one or both sides for easy access, and are strategically placed in parking aisles to encourage shoppers to return carts after loading their vehicles.
Cavity: A wall built of masonry units or of concrete, or a combination of these materials, arranged to provide an airspace within the wall, and in which the inner and outer parts of the wall are tied together with metal ties.
Clerestory: An upper story or row of windows rising above the adjoining parts of the roof, designed to admit light into the inner space of a building.
Connection: A space that links one physical space to another. It may be traversable by pedestrian, bicycle or automobile traffic.
Cornice: The uppermost division of an entablature; a projecting shelf along the top of a wall supported by a series of brackets; the exterior trim at the meeting of a roof and wall, consisting of soffit, fascia, and crown molding.
Development Parcel: Any tract of land on which development can occur. This includes platted lots and un-platted parcels but excludes any public right-of-way.
Dry-Stacked, Surface-Bonded Wall: A wall built of concrete masonry units where the units are stacked dry, without mortar on the bed or head joints, and where both sides of the wall are coated with a surface-bonding mortar.
Exterior: Any outer surface that is or would be visible from any point outside the parcel on which it is located assuming topography was flat and no other buildings, structures, fences, walls, landscaping, or similar visual obstructions were present.
Facade: Any exterior face of a building.
Facade Plane: Any stretch of a building facade existing along the same axis line, regardless of pattern differentiation or change in rhythm.
Facade Composition: The expression of a facade through a variety of techniques such as forms, patterns, fenestration, elements, details, materials, texture, finishes, etc. Facade Composition is used to create the architectural character and design theme of a building.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 17
INTRODUCTION
Facade Modulation: Used to shape a building’s exterior massing, facade modulation is a change in building plane though the recess or projection of sections of a facade.
Facade Treatment: Facade Treatment area shall be defined as the total vertical surface area of a building facade, measured in elevation from finished grade to the top of the parapet or eave, and from one end of the facade to the other.
Foot-candle: A measurement of illumination on a one-square foot (ft.) surface from a uniform source of light.
Footprint: Footprint or building footprint provides the outline of a building drawn along the exterior walls, with a description of the exact size, shape, and location of its foundation.
Glass Curtain Wall: Aluminum-framed or other metal-framed window systems that are nonstructural and house glass panels.
Gross Floor Area: Has the same meaning as the term is defined in Section 13.06.010(c)(420) of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code, as amended from time to time or replaced with a successor statute.
Ground Floor Office: Ground floor office refers to office uses located at the ground level that are oriented toward a public frontage and designed to contribute to pedestrian activity through elements such as transparent windows, entries facing the public realm, and visible interior activity.
While typically less active than storefront commercial uses, ground floor office shall maintain a direct relationship with and visual connection to the adjacent pedestrian environment.
Height: The height of a structure is defined as the vertical distance from finished grade to the highest point of a structure.
Landscaped Area: Surface area dedicated for planting of trees, shrubs, flowers, turf, ground cover, or other horticultural elements.
Landscape Professional: A licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape pursuant to California Business and Professions Code §§ 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, 7027.5, California Code of Regulations Tit. 16, § 832.27, or California Food and Agriculture Code § 6721, as amended from time to time or replaced with a successor statute.
Light Box Sign: An illuminated sign that contains mechanisms to encapsulate, suspend, protect and/or display a discrete sheet of backlit film which may include images and/or text, and which is designed to transmit light through the film for increased image brightness, contrast, and/or color saturation.
18 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT Main Building Entry: The entrance to a building typically leading to a lobby, courtyard, or other large shared space that is accessed from the primary building frontage.
Neutral Color: A color that is not considered a primary color on any one or more of the following color models: CIE, CMYK, HEX, HSB, HSL, or RGB.
Parapet: A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a roof, balcony, or similar structure; in an exterior wall, the part entirely above the roof.
Parking/Loading: An essential zone for people and goods, providing separation between moving vehicles in the travel-way and people in the pedestrian realm. This zone can contain multiple uses along a street including commercial deliveries, parklets, on-street parking, and taxi zones.
It can be used for mobility at specific times of the day.
Pedestrian Pathway: A walkway or sidewalk that connects into or through a development.
Perimeter Length: The lineal distance as measured along the perimeter of a building, parcel, lot, etc.
Pilaster: A partial pier or column, often with a base, shaft, and capital, that is embedded in a flat wall and projects slightly; may be constructed as a projection of the wall itself.
Planter: An above grade container for planting.
Primary Building Frontage: The building frontage that abuts the most primary of streets, or Pedestrian Pathway surrounding the building. In the case of a through-lot, the primary building frontage could be on either public right-of-way.
Primary Facade Plane: Majority area of the facade that is in the same plane.
Projection: Projections (or building projection) is the part or feature of a building which extends outside of the enclosing walls. It can be a building feature that is mounted on, and/or extends from the surface of the building wall or facade, typically above ground level.
Private Street: Any street that is not owned by the City. Private streets often have public access easements to allow passage into or through a private development.
Roof Deck: The flat or sloped surface constructed on top of the exterior walls of a building or other supports for the purpose of enclosing the story below, or sheltering an area, to protect it from the elements, not including its supporting members or vertical supports.
Roof Covering: The covering applied to the roof deck for weather resistance, fire classification, or appearance.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 19
INTRODUCTION
Simple Design: A design that uses clean, basic forms with minimal surface decoration, avoids applied ornament such as scrollwork or carvings, and limits the number of different colors and materials used in a single furnishing or element.
Storefront Commercial: Storefront commercial refers to ground-floor retail, restaurant, or service uses that are directly accessible from the public frontage and designed to engage pedestrians through features such as transparent glazing, frequent entrances, and active displays. These uses shall provide a high level of visual and physical interaction between the interior space and the adjacent sidewalk or pedestrian path.
Structural Bay: The horizontal area of a building facade between two adjacent structural supports, such as columns, piers, or load-bearing walls.
Structure: Has the same meaning as the term is defined in Section 13.06.010(d)(790) of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code, as amended from time to time or replaced with a successor statute.
Transparency: The amount of transparent area on a building facade. The percentage of a building facade consisting of clear or lightly tinted glass located within windows, doors, or storefront systems that allows views into and out of the building.
Usable Open Space: The total combined open space areas of publicly accessible and private open spaces.
Wall: A vertical element with a horizontal length- to-thickness ratio greater than three, used to enclose space, whether load bearing or not. “Wall” specifically includes, but is not limited to, cavity walls, dry-stacked, surface-bonded walls, and parapets.
Wall Plane: The surface area that extends from the ground to the top of each wall. “Wall plane” specifically includes, but is not limited to, portions of walls located under eaves and overhangs.
Where a single building has multiple wall planes along a single facade, the wall planes are additive and shall be considered a single wall plane.
20 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
1.7 MEASUREMENTS
1. Where this document references distances between or within parcels, the distance shall be measured from the outermost boundary lines of the closest parcels.
2. Where this document references distances between or within buildings, the distance shall be measured from the outermost wall of the closest points of each building.
3. Where this document identifies a setback from any parcel, the distance shall be measured from the outermost boundary line of the parcel to the closest point of the design feature or equipment setback which, for parking areas, shall be the edge of the asphalt, paving, or other parking surface closest to the parcel.
4. Where this document identifies a setback from any public street easement or right-of-way, the distance shall be measured from the outermost boundary line of the public street easement or right-of-way to the closest point of the design feature or equipment setback which, for parking areas, shall be the edge of the asphalt, paving, or other parking surface closest to the parcel.
5. Where this document identifies a percentage of landscape screening, the percentage shall be calculated by estimating the expected size and growth of the plantings at twelve (12) months (365 days) after the initial date of planting, as attested to by a landscape professional. Fractional values shall be rounded to the next highest whole number.
6. Where this document identifies the height of any wall or fence, the height shall be measured as set forth in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.16.230, as amended from time to time or replaced with a successor statute.
7. Where this document identifies the height of any clerestory, the height shall be measured from the exterior base of the wall on which the clerestory is located to the base of the clerestory frame.
8. Where this document identifies the height of any balcony’s balustrade or balusters, or openings therein, the height shall be measured from the exterior base of the balustrade or balusters to the top of the balustrade or balusters, or openings therein, as may apply, on the exterior side.
9. Where this document identifies a percentage of roof or wall cover, or number of windows or other design elements, fractional values shall be rounded to the next highest whole number.
10. Where this document identifies a required overhanging eave, the overhang shall be measured from the point the roof extends past the wall plane to the outermost edge of the eave.
11. Where this document identifies a required arched opening, the vertical curve of the arch opening shall be measured from the point the opening begins to curve.
12. Where this document identifies the size of open air gaps in the design of trash enclosures, the gap shall be measured as the area which encloses, with four (4), six (6), or eight (8) perpendicular lines, all points from any angle through which an object measuring more than one (1) in. in length by one (1) in. in width can be placed.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 21
INTRODUCTION
1.8 PROHIBITED DESIGN ELEMENTS
1. Bars installed on the exterior of a building or structure, when such bars (i) are located on or extend over any door, window, gate, or other openable, transparent, semi-transparent, or not fully opaque fixture or surface, and (ii) are spaced less than ten (10) in. apart.
2. Roll-up or rolling exterior doors, except when used for vehicular points of ingress or egress (e.g., entrances to parking garages) or for facilities located in the Residential CommunityMaintenance Overlay Zoning District.
3. Chain link, plastic, vinyl, or woven wire fencing or gates including, but not limited to, fencing or gates of any kind with plastic or vinyl privacy inserts, except for temporary fencing during construction when permitted by the City.
4. Barbed tape, barbed wire, wire, razor wire, and similar security treatments on the exterior of a building or structure, or used with or for fencing or gates, except when used in connection with a civic, fire, or police building or structure.
5. Electrical conduits or raceways visible from the exterior of a building or structure, whether such electrical conduits or raceways are located on the interior or exterior of a building or structure.
6. Unfinished metal or wood surfaces (e.g., plywood) on the exterior of a building or structure, or used with or for fencing or gates.
7. Fluorescent, luminescent, neon, or sparkling paint or similar adhesive, dye, or pigment that, after application to a material, adds color, on the exterior of a building or structure, or used with or for fencing or gates.
8. More than three colors of paint or similar adhesive, dye, or pigment that, after application to a material, adds color, on any single exterior wall pane, including all doors, windows, balustrade, balusters, and surfaces on that wall, or any single fence or gate.
9. More than one color of glass within any single exterior window on a building or structure (gradients of color shall be considered multiple colors), or more than two colors of glass within all exterior windows on any single exterior wall pane.
10. Light box signs installed on the exterior of a building or structure, except for light box signs that are not visible from public right-of-way or located within forty (40) ft. of any residential zoned parcel.
11. Glass curtain walls installed as part of any exterior wall system.
12. Wood shingle or shake roofs.
13. Unnaturally colored glass, including mirrored, reflective, or brightly tinted glazing, installed on any exterior window, door, storefront, curtain wall, or other exterior glazing system. 22 2 SITE
DESIGN
2.1 PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE OPEN SPACE
2.2 VEHICULAR ACCESS & PARKING
2.3 BICYCLE CIRCULATION & PARKING
2.4 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS & CIRCULATION
2.5 SITE LIGHTING
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 23 24 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT A
CHAPTER 02
SITE DESIGN
Purpose: To set guidelines for building
orientation, site access, and utilities while
promoting high-quality design and layouts
that enhance pedestrian comfort and safety;
and define where active frontages should be
located and how they should be used.
B
C
D
E
F
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 25
SITE DESIGN
G
H
I
J
K
L
26 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT A - Ch. 2.3.1 (4)
Short-term bicycle parking shall be located
within two hundred (200) ft. of a visitor entrance
or be monitored by a surveillance camera that
retains all footage for at least seventy two (72)
hours
B - Ch. 2.1.4 (5)
Publicly accessible open space located within
or adjacent to parking areas shall be separated
from drive aisles by a raised curb or edge with
a minimum height of six (6) in., excepting ramps
or other openings required by the California
Building Standards Code or Laguna Woods
Municipal Code, or by a landscaped buffer or
landscaped parking island.
C - Ch. 2.1.4 (1)
Open space abutting an active frontage of a
building
D - Ch. 2.1.5 (5)
Permanent seating (e.g., seat walls, planter
ledges, benches, picnic tables, or seating steps)
shall be provided at a minimum rate of one
seat per five hundred (500) sq. ft. of publicly
accessible open space. A minimum of one
seat shall be provided for the first five hundred
(500) sq. ft., and one (1) additional seat shall
be required for each additional five hundred
(500) sq. ft. or fraction thereof. Additionally, a
minimum of one (1) wheelchair-accessible space
shall be provided per five hundred (500) sq. ft. of
open space. Each wheelchair-accessible space
shall provide a minimum linear length of twenty
four (24) in., a minimum depth of eighteen (18)
in., and a minimum height of eighteen (18) in.
above adjacent grade. Seating and wheelchairaccessible space elements may be extended in length or depth to satisfy multiple required
seats, provided that each twenty four (24) in. of
continuous seating length and eighteen (18) in.
of depth counts as one seat.
E - Ch. 2.4.1 (8)
New development projects providing hundred
(100) or more parking spaces shall provide
designated pedestrian corridors connecting
parking areas to building entrances, public
sidewalks, and/or publicly accessible open
space
F - Ch. 2.1.4 (2)
Publicly accessible open spaces shall have a
minimum dimension in any direction of eighteen
(18) ft.
G - Ch. 2.1.5 (9)
Publicly accessible open space of eight hundred
(800) sq. ft. or less shall require at least one tree
H - Ch. 2.1.5 (7)
A minimum of thirty percent (30%) and a
maximum of fifty percent (50%) of the publicly
accessible open space shall be open to the sky.
The remaining area shall incorporate shade
elements such as trellises, pergolas, canopies,
or similar shade structures to provide relief
from sun exposure and support comfortable
use of the space. Shade elements may utilize
materials and be designed in manners that allow
filtered light to pass through while limiting direct
sunlight and heat gain and shall be open on at
least two sides.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 27
SITE DESIGN
I - Ch. 2.1.5 (8)
A minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the
publicly accessible open space shall be
landscaped. Landscaping shall primarily consist
of trees and other plantings that do not obstruct
visibility, avoiding dense shrubs or vegetation
where people or animals could hide.
J - Ch. 2.4.2
Cart return areas shall be provided within
parking areas serving new and applicable retail
uses
K - Ch. 2.5.3.1 (1)
Lighting in parking areas shall be maintained
with a minimum of one (1) ft. candle of
illumination at the ground level during hours
of darkness, with a maximum of seven (7) ft.
candles
L - Ch. 2.2.1 (1.a)
Shared driveway with a property abutting the
project site
2.1 PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE OPEN SPACE
2.1.1 GENERAL OPEN SPACE REGULATIONS
All required open space shall be usable by all members of the public. This subsection is not intended to limit the rights of property owners under Section 2.2.5(4).
2.1.2 APPLICABILITY
Publicly accessible open space shall be required for all projects greater than or equal to two (2) acres in gross parcel area. These requirements are in addition to minimum provided for in the Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 13.
2.1.3 REQUIRED QUANTITY
The minimum on-site requirement for any project that qualifies under this section shall be two percent (2%) or more of the gross parcel area.
2.1.4 MINIMUM DESIGN STANDARDS
1. Publicly accessible open space shall be located adjacent to or abutting at least one (1) of the following:
a. Public right-of-way
b. An active frontage of a building
c. A publicly accessible easement
A
FIGURE 2.1: PUBLIC OPEN SPACE ADJACENT TO OR ABUTTING A PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY Minimum width of open space
Public open space
Project boundary
A
28 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 2 SITE DESIGN
2. Publicly accessible open spaces shall have a minimum dimension in any direction of eighteen (18) ft.
3. The open space shall be clearly visible from the public realm. Where the open space is adjacent to or abuts an active frontage of a commercial building, it shall be oriented toward the primary entrance of the commercial use occupying that frontage with a direct pedestrian connection between the entrance and the open space.
4. Subdivision of the publicly accessible open space into multiple distinct areas is permitted only where each individual open space area is a minimum of one thousand and seven hundred (1,700) sq. ft. in size and meets all applicable requirements of this section.
Public open space
Project boundary
FIGURE 2.2: PUBLIC OPEN SPACE ADJACENT TO OR ABUTTING ACTIVE FRONTAGE OF BUILDING Public easement
Public open space
Project boundary
FIGURE 2.3: PUBLIC OPEN SPACE ADJACENT TO OR ABUTTING A PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE EASEMENT
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 29
2.1.5 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS
Off-street parking and loading areas, driveways, service areas, utility equipment, air conditioner pads, outdoor dining areas, and storage structures shall not be counted as publicly accessible open space.
The following standards shall be met for all publicly accessible open spaces:
1. A public access easement shall be approved by the City Manager and/or their designee and recorded with the Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department for the entire publicly accessible open space.
2. Shall be publicly accessible at a minimum, from 7 am to 7 pm daily during daylight savings time and from 7 am to 5 pm daily during standard time.
3. Shall be accessible from a public right-of-way or publicly accessible easement, with clear signage located at and visible from the public right-of-way or publicly accessible easement identifying the type of open space, hours of access, and amenities. Where the public open space is adjacent to or abuts an active frontage of a commercial building, it shall be accessible by a pedestrian path connecting to a public right-of-way or publicly accessible easement, with signage provided at the entrance to the pedestrian path.
4. Property owners have the authority to establish rules of conduct to ensure appropriate use and safety of the publicly accessible open space including, but not limited to, enforcing trespassing laws.
5. Publicly accessible open space located within or adjacent to parking areas shall be separated from drive aisles by a raised curb or edge with a minimum height of six (6) in., excepting ramps or other openings required by the California Building Standards Code or Laguna Woods Municipal Code, or by a landscaped buffer or landscaped parking island.
FIGURE 2.4: PUBLIC OPEN SPACE AS AN ENTRY POINT TO THE COMMERCIAL CENTER Public open space
Project boundary
30 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5. Permanent seating (e.g., seat walls, planter ledges, benches, picnic tables, or seating steps) shall be provided at a minimum rate of one seat per five hundred (500) sq. ft. of publicly accessible open space. A minimum of one seat shall be provided for the first five hundred (500) sq. ft., and one (1) additional seat shall be required for each additional five hundred (500) sq. ft. or fraction thereof. Additionally, a minimum of one (1) wheelchair-accessible space shall be provided per five hundred (500) sq. ft. of open space. Each wheelchair-accessible space shall provide a minimum linear length of twenty four (24) in., a minimum depth of eighteen (18) in., and a minimum height of eighteen (18) in. above adjacent grade. Seating and wheelchair-accessible space elements may be extended in length or depth to satisfy multiple required seats, provided that each twenty four (24) in. of continuous seating length and eighteen (18) in. of depth counts as one seat.
6. Permanent seating shall be located beneath an awning, building overhang, pergola, or other permanent shading element, or within the projected fifteen-year canopy of a shade tree. The trunk of a qualifying shade tree shall be located no more than fifteen (15) feet from the nearest edge of the seating surface. Awnings, overhangs, and other structural shading elements shall extend over the entire seating surface when viewed in plan
7. A minimum of thirty percent (30%) and a maximum of fifty percent (50%) of the publicly accessible open space shall be open to the sky. The remaining area shall incorporate shade elements such as trellises, pergolas, canopies, or similar shade structures to provide relief from sun exposure and support comfortable use of the space. Shade elements may utilize materials and be designed in manners that allow filtered light to pass through while limiting direct sunlight and heat gain and shall be open on at least two sides.
8. A minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the publicly accessible open space shall be landscaped.
Landscaping shall primarily consist of trees and other plantings that do not obstruct visibility, avoiding dense shrubs or vegetation where people or animals could hide.
9. Publicly accessible open space of eight hundred (800) sq. ft. or less shall require at least one (1) tree. For any open space area exceeding eight hundred (800) sq. ft., at least one additional tree shall be required for each additional increment or fraction thereof.
10. Hardscape surfaces that are impervious shall not exceed a gradient of 1:12.
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 31
2.2 VEHICULAR ACCESS & PARKING
Refer to Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 13 for off-street parking regulations.
2.2.1 VEHICULAR ACCESS HIERARCHY
1. Parking and service area access shall be provided in the following order, based on site characteristics:
a. From a driveway shared with a property abutting the site, to the extent that the adjacent property owner(s) agree to such shared access.
b. From the side/lesser street abutting the site.
c. In the absence of a side street, from a curb cut/driveway along the primary street frontage. 32 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
2.3 BICYCLE CIRCULATION & PARKING
2.3.1 SHORT-TERM BICYCLE PARKING
1. Short-term bicycle parking shall consist of racks that support the bicycle frame at two points and allow for the bicycle frame and one wheel to be locked to the rack with a U-lock. The racks shall be permanently secured to the ground.
2. Short-term bicycle parking space shall be visible to pedestrians along a public right of way.
3. If more than twenty (20) short-term bicycle spaces are provided, at least fifty percent (50%) must be covered by a solid-roofed structure with a minimum height of ten (10) ft. and a one and a half (1.5) ft. overhang beyond the spaces.
4. Short-term bicycle parking shall be located within two hundred (200) ft. of a visitor entrance or be monitored by a surveillance camera that retains all footage for at least seventy-two (72) hours.
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 33
2.4 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS & CIRCULATION
2.4.1 PEDESTRIAN PATHWAYS
1. All on-site buildings, entries, facilities, and vehicular and bicycle parking areas shall be internally connected with a minimum five (5) ft. wide pedestrian pathway or pathway network that may include use of the public sidewalk. Portions of public sidewalks used are not required to be expanded to meet the minimum five (5) ft. width. The pedestrian pathway network shall connect to the public sidewalk along each street. The connection to the public sidewalk shall be the shortest distance between the primary entry and sidewalk, and shall not be more than one hundred and twenty five percent (125%) of the straight-line distance.
2. Pedestrian pathways within internal parking areas shall be separated from vehicular circulation by a physical barrier, such as a grade separation or a raised planting strip, of at least six (6) in. in height and at least six (6) ft. in width. A pedestrian pathway is exempt from this standard where it crosses a parking vehicular drive aisle. Additionally, accessible paths of travel inside parking structures are exempt from this requirement.
3. Pedestrian pathways shall be clearly paved to ensure visibility and consistency.
4. Pedestrian pathways shall be constructed of a smooth, firm, and stable surface that is slip-resistant and durable. Surfaces shall be designed to minimize tripping hazards and shall not include loose materials or irregular joints that could impede accessibility.
5. The use of asphalt or uncompacted decomposed granite for a pedestrian path is prohibited.
6. Pedestrian pathways shall maintain a minimum of four (4) ft. of clear zone from parking lots and the building edge, including patios and decks, except where the pathway provides direct access to these spaces.
7. For pedestrian paths exceeding two hundred (200) ft. in length, a minimum of two amenities for rest or shade, including trellises, benches, or trees, shall be provided. The required amenities may be of the same or different types. An additional two amenities shall be required for each subsequent two hundred (200) ft. of path length or fraction therof. All required amenities shall be located within five (5) ft. of the edge of the pedestrian path.
34 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
8. New development projects providing one hundred (100) or more parking spaces shall provide designated pedestrian corridors connecting parking areas to building entrances, public sidewalks, and/or publicly accessible open space. A minimum of one pedestrian corridor shall be provided for the first hundred (100) parking spaces, with one additional pedestrian corridor provided for every additional hundred (100) parking spaces. For new development projects with multiple buildings sharing a common parking area, the total number of parking spaces provided for all buildings within the center shall be used to determine whether this requirement applies.
Where only one pedestrian corridor is required, the corridor shall have a minimum clear width of six (6) ft. Where more than two hundred (200) parking spaces are provided, pedestrian corridors shall have a minimum clear width of ten (10) ft.
Pedestrian corridors shall be clearly distinguished from vehicle circulation areas through pavement markings, contrasting paving, raised walkways, landscaping, or similar treatments. Pedestrian corridors that cross parking rows or drive aisles shall be designed to improve pedestrian visibility and safety.
Pedestrian corridors shall be adjacent to planting areas along at least one side of the corridor.
Trees shall be provided within these planting areas at intervals not exceeding thirty (30) ft. on center. Planting areas shall include shrubs, groundcover, or other landscape plantings in addition to trees. Where a pedestrian pathway connects to a public sidewalk, within the first fifty (50) feet, trees shall be provided within the planting areas at intervals not exceeding twenty-five (25) ft. on center.
FIGURE 2.5: PUBLIC OPEN SPACE AS AN ENTRY POINT TO THE COMMERCIAL CENTER Tree spacing measured on
center
Pedestrian connection
Project boundary
A
A
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 35
2.4.2 CART RETURN AREAS
For new development projects containing land uses that provide shopping carts for customer use, cart return areas shall be provided within parking areas to facilitate convenient cart return, reduce stray carts, and improve pedestrian and vehicular safety.
2.4.2.1 DISTRIBUTION AND LOCATION
1. Cart return areas shall be located within parking rows and shall not obstruct vehicular drive aisles or primary pedestrian pathways.
2. Indoor cart return areas, or cart return areas located in alternate locations (e.g., outside the building entrance) may be requested as an exception to the Objective Design Standards, provided that the property owner enters into an agreement with the City to ensure carts left in parking areas are timely recovered and returned to the cart return areas.
2.4.2.2 CONFIGURATION AND MINIMUM PROVISION
1. Cart return areas shall be oriented parallel to parking stalls and integrated within parking modules.
2. A minimum of one cart return area occupying the equivalent of one parking space, configured as a dual access cart corral, shall be provided for every thirty (30) parking spaces.
3. Dual access cart corrals shall include a permanent divider (such as a metal railing or similar barrier) separating each bay to maintain independent cart storage areas. Each bay shall be designed to accommodate a single row of carts aligned in a straight orientation, such that carts are inserted end-to-end and not from the side.
2.4.2.3 DESIGN
1. Cart return areas shall include durable materials and be defined by either metal railings or similar structural elements, or by perimeter curbing, to provide a protective boundary for cart storage.
2. Signage on cart return areas requires approval as part of a sign program. 36 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
2.5 SITE LIGHTING
2.5.1 NUISANCE PREVENTION
1. All lights shall be directed, oriented, and shielded to prevent light trespass or glare onto adjacent properties. No spillover shall be permitted. The light level at property lines shall not exceed 0.3 ft. candles using ninety (90) degrees cutoff downlights.
2. All outdoor light fixtures should be fully shielded to prevent direct upward or outward light spill.
This expands the measures related to sign illumination and open space sections (City of Laguna Woods n.d., §§13.12.040, 13.20.060)
3. All lighting shall be designed and installed with fixtures that direct light downward and away from surrounding buildings and properties, using full cut-off fixtures to minimize light trespass and glare.
2.5.2 FIXTURE TYPES
The maximum outdoor light intensity on a site shall not exceed an average value of five (5) ft.candles and all light sources shall have a correlated color temperature of two thousand and seven hundred Kelvin (2,700 K) or less.
2.5.3 MINIMUM LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS
2.5.3.1 PARKING AREAS
1. Lighting in parking areas shall be maintained with a minimum of one (1) ft. candle of illumination at the ground-level during hours of darkness, with a maximum of seven (7) ft. candles.
2. All lighting shall be controlled by a timeclock or photo-sensor system.
3. Illumination color temperature shall be within the range between three thousand to five thousand Kelvin (3,000K - 5,000K).
2.5.3.2 BUILDINGS
1. All exterior doors, including utility doors, shall be illuminated with a minimum of one (1) ft. candle of light during the hours of darkness.
2. All exterior lighting shall be ninety (90) degrees cutoff downlight with illumination not to exceed
0.3 ft. candles. Lighting for awnings shall be from fixtures located above the awnings.
3. Lighting for awnings shall be from fixtures located above the awnings. Backlighting of transparent or translucent awnings are not allowed.
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 37
2.5.3.3 PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
Areas used by pedestrians shall be illuminated whenever natural light levels fall below ten (10) ft. candles to ensure safety. This applies during nighttime or in interior spaces, where natural lighting may be insufficient to maintain visibility. Such areas include:
a. Surface parking lots and parking structures (entrances, elevators, and stairwells) b. Sidewalks, walkways, and plazas
c. Building entrances (including rear and service entrances) d. Waste disposal areas
e. Alleys
f. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)
2.5.4 DESIGN OF FIXTURES
2.5.4.1 BUILDING FIXTURES
Fixtures on buildings shall be attached only to walls or eaves, and the top of the fixture shall not exceed the height of the parapet, roof, or eave of the roof.
2.5.4.2 ACCENT LIGHTING
1. Architectural features may be illuminated by up-lighting, provided that the lamps are fully shielded to prevent light spill or upward light trespass, and the lighting intensity is appropriate to the scale of the building. Up-lighting should be directed to highlight features without causing glare or illuminating beyond the intended area.
2. Trees may not be illuminated by up-lighting.
2.5.5 ENERGY EFFICIENCY
1. Outdoor lighting shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures and lamps, such as metal halide, light-emitting diode (LED) or other lighting technology with a minimum luminous efficacy of one hundred (100) lumens per watt.
2. Outdoor lighting shall have a rated average bulb life of at least thirty thousand (30,000) hours, with at least seventy percent (70%) lumen maintenance level. 38 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
SITE DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 39 40 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 3 BUILDING
DESIGN
3.1 MASSING
3.2 BUILDING ORIENTATION
3.3 NEIGHBORHOOD TRANSITION
3.4 FACADE DESIGN
3.5 GROUND FLOOR USES
3.6 STREET FACING TRANSPARENCY
3.7 UTILITIES, SERVICE AREAS & BUILDING EQUIPMENT
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 41 42 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT A
(min.)
4 ft.
(min.)
3 ft.
(max.)
60 ft.
(max.)
100 ft.
(min.)
1 ft.
(min.)
6 ft.
D
B
C
D
E
F
G
CHAPTER 03
BUILDING DESIGN
Purpose: To establish human-scaled massing
and articulated facades that enhance the
pedestrian realm, respect context, transition to
nearby residential areas, and integrate passive
design for distinctive placemaking.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 43 80 ft.
2 1
H
A
M
J
I
L
K
A - Ch. 3.1.4.6 (2)
Standard Vertical Elements shall have a
minimum width of fifteen (15) ft. and shall
extend vertically a minimum of six (6) ft. above
the adjacent primary roofline, measured to the
highest point of the element
B - Ch. 3.1.5 (2.a)
Awnings shall be provided over each storefront,
located within the individual structural bays
C - Ch. 3.1.3.1 (2)
A major massing break shall be applied at least
every 100 ft. in horizontal building length. The
major break shall be a minimum of four (4) ft.
deep and six (6) ft. wide, open to the sky, and
extend the full height of the building
D - Ch. 3.1.3.1 (1)
A minor massing break shall be applied at least
every sixty (60) ft. in horizontal building length.
The minor break shall be a minimum of one (1)
ft. deep and four (4) ft. wide, open to the sky,
and extend the full height of the building
E - Ch. 3.1.4.2 (2)
Change in roof height of at least eighteen (18)
in. measured from the highest point of each roof
line
F - Ch. 3.5.1 (1)
Active Frontages are required for a minimum
of sixty percent (60%) of each building facade
facing an arterial, a local or collector public
street, a publicly accessible private street, or
a publicly accessible pathway with adjacent
Primary Building Frontages.
1 2
G - Ch. 3.5.1.2
Active Frontage uses shall have a minimum
floor-to-floor height of ten (10) ft. for ground
floor office and fifteen (15) ft. for a commercial
storefront
H - Ch. 3.1.4.6 (3)
Prominent Vertical Elements shall have a
minimum width of thirty (30) ft. and shall extend
vertically a minimum of ten (10) ft. above the
adjacent primary roofline, measured to the
highest point of the element
I - Ch. 3.1.4 (5)
Each building shall be limited to four (4) roof
types.
Flat Roof with parapet Hip Roof
J - Ch. 3.2.3 (1.a)
At all buildings, entrances shall be marked by
a taller mass above, such as a tower, or within
a volume that protrudes from the rest of the
building surface which, if it meets the applicable
dimensional requirements for a vertical element,
may count toward compliance with both
standards
K - Ch. 3.1.4.1 (4)
Flat roofs shall always be edged with parapet
walls measuring at least 36 in. in height; and
shall be treated with one (1) or more of the
following conditions:
a. An architecturally profiled cornice and/
or expressed parapet cap shall be used to
terminate the top of parapet wall.
44 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT b. Surface mounted cornices, continuous shade
elements, or trellises shall be used to strengthen
a parapet wall design.
c. Curved parapets shall be limited to one (1) per
building.
L - Ch. 3.6.1
Each applicable facade shall provide no less
than the minimum transparency listed by use.
For a commercial storefront, the minimum
transparency is fifty percent (50%) on the
ground floor and forty percent (40%) on the
upper levels. For other frontages, the minimum
transparency is forty percent (40%) on the
ground floor and thirty percent (30%) on the
upper levels
M - Ch. 3.1.4.3 (3)
Public-facing facades shall incorporate roof
form changes such that no continuous roofline
segment exceeds eighty (80) linear ft. without a
change in roof form.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 45
3.1 MASSING
3.1.1 BUILDING TYPE STANDARDS
Although each building type has a maximum prescribed number of stories, the maximum building height governed by the zoning district shall prevail. The name and definition of building types are as follows:
1. (S) Small
a. Maximum length1
of eighty (80) ft. on any side
b. Typical building types may include uses such as cafe/coffee shop, drive-through, kiosk, small restaurant, bank branch, boutique retail, office, medical office, studio, car-wash, auto-related shop, and assembly.
2. (M) Medium
a. Maximum length1
of hundred (100) ft. on any side
b. Typical building types may inlclude uses such as cafe/ coffee shop, drive-through, restaurant, food hall, bank branch, retail, office, medical office, studio, car-wash, auto-related shop, religious assembly, storage, brewery, fitness center, grocery, and hotel.
3. (L) Large
a. Length exceeding hundred (100) ft.
Typical building types may include uses such as café/coffee shop, drive-through, restaurant, food hall, bank branch, retail, big-box retail, home improvement stores, large specialty retail, regional or flagship markets, office, medical office, studio, car wash, auto-related uses or auto sales, religious assembly, storage, brewery, fitness center, grocery, and hotel. This may also include multi-tenant shopping centers consisting of multiple tenants within a single, connected building.
1 Maximum length is measured of the longest facade of the building. The length of the facade is measured excluding a full break, which is a significant interruption or separation in the facade, such as a passageway, courtyard, or a change in building height of at least eighteen (18) in., that visually and structurally divides the building. 46 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 3 BUILDING DESIGN
3.1.2 MASSING STRATEGIES
Buildings shall follow the minimum quantity of the massing strategies, per the tables below:
1. Modulation,
2. Roof form, or
3. Projections
STRATEGIES BUILDING TYPE
(S)
SMALL
(M)
MEDIUM
(L)
LARGE
MODULATION
ROOF FORM
PROJECTIONS
REQUIRED
OPTIONAL
Note: Multi-level parking garages that do not face a public street, public/common open space, or a residential zoning district are exempt from this requirement.
TABLE 3.1: MASSING STRATEGIES TABLE
MASSING STRATEGIES
BUILDING TYPE
MINIMUM
REQUIRED
STRATEGIES
(S) SMALL 1
(M) MEDIUM 2
(L) LARGE 3
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 47
3.1.3 BUILDING MODULATION
3.1.3.1 MASSING BREAKS
Minor and major massing breaks are required along elevations facing a public street, pedestrian-oriented space, publicly accessible outdoor space, or adjacent to a residential zone. Massing breaks shall divide long building elevations into smaller, visually distinct components; reduce perceived building scale and bulk; and create variations in depth, light, and shadow. Required breaks may be formed by insets, bays, notches, or projections. Changes in materials, colors, or architectural detailing may be coordinated with the breaks to further distinguish building components.
1. Minor Massing Break: A minor massing break shall be applied at least every sixty (60) ft. in horizontal building length. The minor break shall be a minimum of one (1) ft. deep and four (4) ft. wide, open to the sky, and extend the full height of the building.
2. Major Massing Break: A major massing break shall be applied at least every hundred (100) ft. in horizontal building length. The major break shall be a minimum of four (4) ft. deep and six (6) ft. wide, open to the sky, and extend the full height of the building.
3.1.3.2 MAXIMUM CONTINUOUS UNINTERRUPTED BUILDING LENGTH Buildings over four hundred (400) ft. in length, in addition to applying the minimum required massing breaks, shall apply a horizontal plane change (open to the sky) of at least fifty (50) ft. in depth after every four hundred (400) ft. in length. For this plane change, the total linear horizontal length (A+B+C) shall not be less than two hundred (200) ft., shown in Figure 3.2.
Minor massing break (min. 1 ft. deep x 4 ft. wide)
Major massing break (min. 4 ft. deep x 6 ft. wide)
60 ft. max.
100 ft. max.
C
D
B
A B
A
C D
FIGURE 3.1: BUILDING MODULATION
48 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.1.3.3 EXEMPTIONS
Building elevations that are less than sixty (60) ft. in length are not required to have a change in plane or a massing break incorporated into their design.
3.1.4 ROOF FORM
Variation in roof forms is required for elevations that face a public street, public easement, publicly accessible open space, or residential zone.
3.1.4.1 ROOFS
1. A minimum of one roof per building shall utilize either a hip or gable roof type.
2. Roofs shall be low-pitched with a slope between 4:12 to 6:12, with broad, overhanging eaves ranging from eighteen (18) to 24 in.
3. Sloped roofs shall utilize clay tile, concrete-tile, or tile-profiled metal roofing. Common shapes include both Spanish (S-shaped) and Mission (half cylindrical/ barrel tile) types.
4. Flat roofs shall always be edged with parapet walls measuring at least 36 in. in height; and shall be treated with one (1) or more of the following conditions:
a. An architecturally profiled cornice and/or expressed parapet cap shall be used to terminate the top of parapet wall.
b. Surface mounted cornices, continuous shade elements, or trellises shall be used to strengthen a parapet wall design.
c. Curved parapets shall be limited to one (1) per building.
5. Interior sides of parapets shall be finished in the same color and materials as the exterior sides thereof.
FIGURE 3.2: MAXIMUM CONTINUOUS UNINTERRUPTED BUILDING LENGTH X = MAXIMUM 400 ft. CONTINUOUS
UNINTERRUPTED BUILDING
LENGTH
Y = HORIZONTAL PLANE CHANGE
Z = TOTAL BUILDING LENGTH
A B
C
X
Y
Z
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 49
3.1.4.2 METHODS TO CREATE ROOF FORM VARIATION
A change in roof form shall be implemented using one (1) or a combination of the following methods:
1. A change in roof type, as defined in 3.1.4.4. A minimum of one (1) roof in each building shall utilize either a hip roof type or a gable roof type. Each building is limited to a maximum of four (4) roof types.
2. Change in roof height of at least eighteen (18) in. measured from the highest point of each roof line.
3. Stacked projecting balconies with a minimum depth of five (5) ft. and a minimum length of eight (8) ft., when applied to at least fifty percent (50%) of the upper floors. The full balcony length shall project a minimum of eighteen (18) in. from the primary building facade.
4. Rooftop terrace with a minimum floor area of eighty (80) sq. ft.
5. A change in roof pitch or direction.
3.1.4.3 CALCULATING ROOF FORMS
Roof form changes shall be provided so that no continuous roofline segment exceeds eighty (80) linear ft. without a change in roof form.
1. Each distinct roof form segment shall not exceed eighty (80) linear ft. in length.
2. A new eighty (80) ft. maximum segment shall begin at each roof form change, regardless of the length of the preceding segment.
3. Roof form changes may occur at any interval less than eighty (80) ft.; however, no single roof form shall extend beyond eighty (80) ft. without a change.
50 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT FIGURE 3.4: COMPLIANT BUILDING FACADE
A
Stacked projecting balconies
Rooftop terrace
Added Roof Form:
Stacked balconies with roof
lower than the parapet wall
Maximum eighty (80) ft. facade with one (1) roof form
Non-compliant section of facade
Only one (1) roof form (flat roof)
Over eighty (80) ft., less than one hundred and
sixty one (161) ft. requires two (2) roof forms
FIGURE 3.3: BUILDING FACADE WITH NON-COMPLIANT SECTION
A
B A
B
Stacked projecting balconies
Rooftop terrace
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 51
3.1.4.4 CALCULATING COMBINED ROOF TYPES
Combined roof forms occur when two or more roofs intersect.
1. Each distinct change in roof form shall be counted individually, regardless of whether it is the same or a different roof type.
2. Intersecting roofs may be organized in a hierarchy, with a primary roof and additional roof types (see Figure 3.5). Each additional intersecting roof type (e.g., dormers or similar features) shall be counted as a separate roof form in addition to the primary roof (see Figure 3.6).
3. Secondary roof forms located above projecting facade modulations shall each be counted as separate roof forms where they intersect with the primary roof, even when the secondary roof forms utilize the same roof type and are identical in design (see Figure 3.7).
4. Within combined or intersecting roof forms, repeated roof types (e.g., a series of gables or hips, or stepped flat roofs) shall be counted individually for each occurrence (see Figures 3.8 and 3.9).
Variation in Roof/Building Height
Example Diagrams of Base/Midd
Variation in Façade Composition A
Variation in Façade Composition B
Distinct Roof For
1 2
4 3
1 3
2 4
5 1
2 3
FIGURE 3.5: HIERARCHICAL ROOF FORMS FIGURE 3.6: INTERSECTING ROOF TYPES 1 2
1 FIGURE 3.7: REPEATED ROOF TYPES: GABLES/ HIP FIGURE 3.8: REPEATED ROOF TYPES: FLAT ROOF “SAWTOOTH” 52 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.1.4.5 ACCEPTABLE ROOF TYPES
Roof type is defined as a geometric plane or set of planes which form the top enclosure of a volumetric area below it/them. Each building shall be limited to four (4) roof types. Common types of roof are gabled, hipped, shed, and flat among others. Acceptable roof types are listed in Figure 3.9.
Box Gable Dome
Dormer Flat with
Parapet Wall
Monitor Conical
Dropped Eaves Gable
Clerestory Cross-hipped
Shed Pyramid Hip
Hexagonal Hip & Valley Hip M-Shaped
FIGURE 3.9: BUILDING ROOF FORM OPTIONS
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 53
3.1.4.6 VERTICAL ELEMENTS
Buildings that are two stories or less, shall incorporate vertical roof variation elements (Vertical Elements) that extend above the primary roofline. Vertical Elements may contain occupiable space or may be purely architectural. Vertical Elements shall include a change in plane from the adjacent wall facade with a minimum depth or projection of three (3) ft. Vertical Elements shall also incorporate a distinct facade treatment that differs from the adjacent building facade, consistent with the requirements of Section 3.4.1.
General Requirements
1. All Vertical Elements shall be located at prominent locations, including primary entrances, corners, building ends, changes in building direction or massing breaks.
2. Standard Vertical Element
Standard Vertical Elements shall have aw minimum width of fifteen (15) ft. and shall extend vertically a minimum of six (6) ft. above the adjacent primary roofline, measured to the highest point of the element.
3. Prominent Vertical Elements
Prominent Vertical Elements shall have a minimum width of thirty (30) ft. and shall extend vertically a minimum of ten (10) ft. above the adjacent primary roofline, measured to the highest point of the element.
Required Number and Type by Building Length
1. Medium Buildings (per Section 3.1.1) (see figure 3.10) a. A minimum of two (2) Vertical Elements with a minimum spacing of fifteen (15) ft., shall be provided per public facing facade, including:
i. One (1) Standard Vertical Element
ii. One (1) Prominent Vertical Element
2. Large Buildings (per Section 3.1.1) (see figure 3.11) a. A minimum of two (2) Vertical Elements with a minimum spacing of thirty (30) ft. per public facing facade, shall be provided, including:
i. One (1) Standard Vertical Element
ii. One (1) Prominent Vertical Element
54 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT b. For buildings greater than one hundred (100) ft. and up to four hundred (400) ft. in length, one (1) additional Standard Vertical Element shall be provided for each additional one hundred (100) ft. of building length, or fraction thereof, beyond the first one hundred (100) ft. c. For buildings greater than four hundred (400) ft. and up to one thousand (1000) ft. in length, one (1) additional Prominent Vertical Element shall be provided, together with one (1) additional Standard Vertical Element for each additional one hundred (100) ft. of building length or fraction thereof, beyond the first one hundred (100) ft.
d. For buildings greater than one thousand (1,000) ft. in length, an additional three (3) Prominent Vertical Elements shall be provided, together with one (1) additional Standard Vertical Element for each additional one hundred (100) ft. of building length or fraction thereof, beyond the first one hundred (100) ft. of building length.
3.1.4.7 NOTES
Changes in roof form shall not exceed the maximum building heights set forth in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 13.
FIGURE 3.10: MEDIUM BUILDINGS FIGURE 3.11: LARGE BUILDINGS A
A
B
A
B
Standard Vertical Elements
Prominent Vertical Elements
A
B
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 55
3.1.5 BUILDING PROJECTIONS
Buildings shall use one (1) or more of the following projections:
1. Balconies and Decks
a. Balconies and Decks shall not project more than six (6) ft. from the facade on elevations directly fronting a primary street or residential zoning district. b. The distance between supporting columns, piers, or posts on trellises or balconies shall not exceed their height.
2. Awnings or Canopies
a. Awnings shall be provided over each storefront, located within the individual structural bays. b. Shall not project more than six (6) ft. from the facade. c. The height of all awnings above a sidewalk shall be consistent, with a minimum clearance of eight (8) ft. provided between the bottom of the valance and the sidewalk. Valances shall not exceed eighteen (18) in. in height.
56 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.2 BUILDING ORIENTATION
3.2.1 BUILDING SITING AND ORIENTATION
1. Building frontages shall not orient to parking lots at the sides or rears of buildings.
2. Building facades along the primary street frontage shall contain elevations activated by doors and windows that look into the street and shall contain the most articulated elevations of the building.
3.2.2 CORNER BUILDINGS
For buildings located at intersections, they shall be designed to define and give prominence to the corner on which they are sited, by acknowledging both street facades with facade articulation and detail. At least one (1) of the following techniques shall be used.
1. Creation of a landmark roof form, such as dome, conical, hexagonal or pyramidical roof.
2. Creation of a corner tower.
3. A storefront, building protrusion, bay, porch element or arcade that wraps around the corner.
4. A corner entrance that protrudes or is cut-away from the corner.
5. A change in roofline; such as a gabled end to mark the corner.
FIGURE 3.12: CORNER TOWER
d
b
a
c e
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 57
3.2.3 PRIMARY ENTRANCES
1. Primary entrances to buildings or commercial units shall be designed to be consistent with the overall architecture of the building. At all buildings, entrances shall be located along the primary street facade and shall be clear, easily identifiable and shall use one (1) or more of the following treatments.
a. Marked by a taller mass above, such as a tower, or within a volume that protrudes from the rest of the building surface which, if it meets the applicable dimensional requirements for a vertical element, may count toward compliance with both standards b. Indicated by a projection from the building facade, and covered by means of a building overhang, awning or canopy that projects from the building.
c. Indicated by a recessed entry. Treatments shall include either special paving materials such as ceramic tile; ornamental ceiling treatments, such as coffering; decorative light fixtures; and attractive decorative pulls, escutcheons, hinges, and other hardware. d. Denoted by a single arch or series of arches to indicate entry. Arcaded entry porches are also recommended.
e. Framed by special architectural elements, such as columns, archways, and overhanging roofs. f. Emphasized by a small roof overhang over the entrance, change in roofline or a major break in the surface of the subject wall.
58 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.3 NEIGHBORHOOD TRANSITION
3.3.1 TRANSITION PLANE
1. Buildings shall not intercept a forty five (45)-degree neighborhood transition plane inclined inward from the underlying setback, starting at a height thirty five (35) ft. above grade.
2. Balconies and decks shall not extend into an underlying setback.
3. The area of roof decks, including any deck on roof area falling under the neighborhood transition plane, shall be set back at least three (3) ft. from the building edge and any railings, shade structures, or accessory structures shall not intersect the required neighborhood transition plane. 35’
SETBACK
45°
FIGURE 3.13: TRANSITION PLANE
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 59
3.4 FACADE DESIGN
3.4.1 FACADE TREATMENT
1. Each building facade between one hundred (100) and one hundred fifty (150) ft in length shall include a minimum of two (2) distinct facade treatments. For facades exceeding 300 ft, three (3) distinct facade treatments shall be required. A building facade shall not have more than three (3) distinct facade treatments, regardless of the length of the facade.
2. Each distinct facade treatment shall have a minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the overall facade area. Additional treatments beyond the maximum are permitted and may be less than twenty percent (20%) of the overall facade area.
3. A change in stucco color may be considered a distinct facade treatment, allowing for up to two (2) variations of facade treatment.
150 ft. < < 100 ft.
Facade Treatment 1
Facade Treatment 2
> 300 ft.
Facade Treatment 1
Facade Treatment 2
Facade Treatment 3
FIGURE 3.14: FACADE TREATMENT DIAGRAM 1
A
A
FIGURE 3.15: FACADE TREATMENT DIAGRAM 2
B
B
60 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.4.2 BASE/MIDDLE/TOP
Buildings four (4) stories or taller with a building length on any side greater than fifty (50) ft. measured as the horizontal distance of the building facade, which includes minor and major modulations, shall be designed as specified in this subsection to differentiate a defined base or ground floor, a middle or body, and a top, cornice, or parapet cap. This standard applies to all exterior facades of the building.
1. A building’s base shall be defined or differentiated from the middle/body by using one (1) of the following techniques:
a. Having a distinct facade composition between the base floor(s) and middle/body floors b. Having a datum line or cornice between the base floor(s) and middle/body floors that has a minimum height of four (4) in. and a minimum depth of four (4) in. c. The ground floor height (measured floor to floor) that is a minimum two (2) ft. greater than middle/ body floor-to-floor heights.
FIGURE 3.15: DATUM LINE DIAGRAM 1
Example Diagrams of Base/Middle/Top Standards
de Composition A Datum Lines
de Composition B Upper Floor Step Backs
DATUM LINES ALONG THE ENTIRE
LENGTH OF A BUILDING WITH
CHANGE IN MATERIAL
Top
Middle/Body
Base
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 61
2. A building’s top floor(s) shall be defined or differentiated from the middle/body by using two (2) or more of the following techniques:
a. Have a distinct facade composition from the middle/body floors to the top floor(s) b. Datum line or cornice between the middle and top floor(s) that include a minimum height of four (4) in. and a minimum depth of four (4) in.
c. Distinct roof form or roof line. Apply one (1) of the following:
i. Cornice or parapet cap that includes a change in material from the facade and a minimum height of eight (8) in. and a minimum depth of four (4) in. ii. A variation in roof or building height through building modulation: (examples: Bays that extend above primary facade height)
iii. The use of at least two roof types
62 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.4.3 FACADE MATERIALS
1. Building Materials
a. Stucco, cement plaster or stucco-like finishes are acceptable finishes. Attention should be paid to detail and trim elements for a high quality installation. The pattern of joints shall match the overall facade composition, and sealant colors shall be consistent with surface and other building colors. Stucco surfaces shall have a-half (1/2) to three quarters (3/4) an inch bull-nosed corners.
2. Windows and Doors
a. Window frames shall not be set flush with walls. Glass shall be inset a minimum of two (2) in. from the exterior wall and/or frame surface.
b. At least sixty percent (60%) of all windows and doors shall be recessed a minimum of four (4) in. to emphasize wall mass, depth, and shadow.
c. At deeply inset windows (greater than four (4) in. from the exterior wall); the framing may be simple and relatively unarticulated. At shallower insets (two to four (2-4) in. from the exterior wall), projecting sills, molded surrounds, lintels and/or trim shall be used to frame openings. d. Where window mullions are provided, they shall be arranged in simple, regular divisions to create a balanced and orderly window pattern.
e. Sills and surrounds shall be proportioned to relate to the window size. For windows less than forty eight (48) in. in width, surrounds shall not exceed six (6) in. width. For windows greater than forty eight (48) in. in width, surrounds shall not exceed eight (8) in. in width. f. Aluminum sliding windows shall be designed to have substantial framing members, at a minimum width of two (2) in.
g. Clear glass is preferred. Reflective glazing shall not be used. Non-reflective films, coatings, low emissivity glass, and external and internal shade devices shall be used for heat and glare control. h. Deeply tinted glass or applied tinted films shall not be used. If tinted glazing is used, light tints and gray hues are acceptable.
i. A minimum of one (1) arched door, window, or opening shall be provided along a public-facing facade.
3. Parapet walls shall be terminated with a substantial, integrated cap that conveys the appearance of solid wall construction. Thin, flush-applied caps or edge conditions that appear lightweight or prone to warping are prohibited. Acceptable cap treatments shall consist of stucco, cast stone, concrete, or clay tile, formed with sufficient thickness and a shaped or sloped profile to provide a durable, high-quality finish.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 63
3.5 GROUND FLOOR USES
3.5.1 ACTIVE FRONTAGES
Active frontages are building frontages occupied by active uses that create visual engagement between the ground floor and an adjacent street, public space, or other public-facing area and generate pedestrian activity throughout extended periods of the day. Active uses may include shops, cafes, restaurants, and other social spaces as well as accessory spaces such as lobbies, lounges and shared amenity areas.
1. Active Frontages are required for a minimum of sixty percent (60%) of each building facade facing an arterial, a local or collector public street, a publicly accessible private street, or a publicly accessible pathway with adjacent Primary Building Frontages.
2. On corner parcels, the commercial uses shall turn (wrap around) the corner for a distance of at least fourty (40) ft. The termination of use shall occur at an architectural break in the building.
FIGURE 3.16: ACTIVE FRONTAGE DIAGRAM
Building facade length facing public street
or primary connection
Active frontage along building facade
Non-active frontage of building facade
A
A A
64 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3. To qualify as Active Frontage, uses shall maintain a minimum depth of 30 ft, while corner parcels shall provide a minimum depth of 40 ft along all frontages.
3.5.1.1 FINISHED FLOOR HEIGHTS OF ACTIVE USES
Active frontage spaces shall have a finished floor height within the following ranges (measured from grade at the back edge of the adjacent sidewalk). All other uses see Standard 3.5.1.2 Variable Finished Floor Heights.
ACTIVE USES FINISHED FLOOR HEIGHT
MIN. HEIGHT
(FT.)
MAX. HEIGHT
(FT.)
PRIMARY
BUILDING
ENTRIES
0 ft. 3 ft.
COMMERCIAL
STOREFRONT;
OFFICE
0 ft. 1 ft.
BUILDINGS WITH
CROSS SLOPE
At no point shall the finished
floor height be greater than 2
ft. above or below grade, with
a minimum cross slope of 1%
TABLE 3.2: ACTIVE USES FINISHED FLOOR HEIGHT STANDARD
Corner space minimum depth on all frontage
Commercial or office minimum use depth
Commercial storefront or office
Non-active frontage of building facade
FIGURE 3.17: ACTIVE FRONTAGE MIN. DEPTH DIAGRAM
A1
A1
A1
A2
AB2
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 65
3.5.1.2 FLOOR TO FLOOR HEIGHTS OF ACTIVE USES
Active Frontage uses shall have a minimum floor-to-floor height by use type as follows:
ACTIVE USES FLOOR TO FLOOR HEIGHT
MIN. HEIGHT
(FT.)
COMMERCIAL STOREFRONT 15 ft.
GROUND FLOOR OFFICE 10 ft.
TABLE 3.3: ACTIVE USES FLOOR TO FLOOR HEIGHT STANDARD
66 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
REQUIRED TRANSPARENCY BY FRONTAGE TYPE
FRONTAGE TYPE
TRANSPARENCY (MIN.)
GROUND LEVEL UPPER LEVELS
COMMERCIAL
STOREFRONT 50% 40%
OTHER
FRONTAGES 40% 30%
TABLE 3.4: REQUIRED TRANSPARENCY BY FRONTAGE TYPE
3.6 STREET FACING TRANSPARENCY
3.6.1 TRANSPARENCY
Placement and orientation of doorways, windows, and landscape elements shall create strong, direct relationships with the street. Street-facing facades of all buildings shall incorporate windows and openings providing light to adjacent spaces, rooms and uses. Transparency is measured as a percentage, calculated as the sum of single story transparent area divided by the total single story facade area.
Each applicable facade shall provide no less than the minimum transparency listed by use.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 67
3.6.1.1 STREET FRONTAGE TRANSPARENCY
Elevations that face a public street, public easement, or publicly accessible open space shall be comprised of windows and/or doorlites with clear unobscured glass as measured from two and a half (2.5) ft. to eight (8) ft. above finished grade where no minimum blank walls occur.
Where facades include windows, glazing shall be provided between two and a half (2.5) ft. and eight (8) ft. above finished grade. Glazing may extend beyond this range, provided it is also present within this required zone.
Within this area, no more than twenty five percent (25%) can be covered by signage, displays, shelving, opaque film or interior partitions. Window coverings, including blinds, curtains, shades, or similar treatments, shall remain operable and shall not be permanently fixed, adhered, or installed in a manner that prevents the window from meeting the required transparency standard.
3.6.1.2 BLANK WALLS
1. Building facades without the use of windows or doors shall not span a continuous horizontal length greater than twenty five (25) ft. across any story.
2. A break in a blank building wall shall be provided by any of the following:
a. Doors, windows, or other building openings.
b. Varying wall planes, where the wall projects or is recessed at least six (6) in. Where the projection or recess also meets the requirements for minor or major massing modulation, it may be counted toward both requirements.
3. The following do not qualify as a break in blank wall:
a. Variation in exterior building wall color.
b. Vegetation or landscaping not attached to a building wall. c. Commercial or directional signs.
d. Mechanical appurtenances such as water heaters, vents, or utility meters.
FIGURE 3.18: COMMERCIAL STREET FRONTAGE TRANSPARENCY
Figure .056 Commercial Street Frontage Transparency
15 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT, OCTOBER 26, 2022
COMMERCIAL STREET FRONTAGE
BLANK WALLS DO NOT EXCEED 25 FT IN LENGTH
8.0 ft.
2.5 ft
68 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.7 UTILITIES, SERVICE AREAS & BUILDING
EQUIPMENT
3.7.1 SERVICE AREAS, STORAGE, UTILITIES, AND EQUIPMENT
3.7.1.1 UTILITIES
For new development projects, utilities shall be placed in underground or subsurface conduits unless technically infeasible or prohibited by the City or the respective utility provider.
3.7.1.2 LOCATION OF SERVICE AREAS, STORAGE, UTILITIES, AND EQUIPMENT
1. All above-ground utilities and equipment (e.g., electric and gas meters, fire sprinkler valves, backflow prevention devices, etc.), service areas (e .g. garbage collection areas, loading docks, etc.), and storage areas shall be integrated into the building and landscape design, and located to minimize impact on the pedestrian experience and neighboring properties, by following the standards below:
a. Utilities, equipment, service areas, storage, and non-passenger loading zones shall be located inside buildings or away from the primary building frontage, preferably along alleys, parking areas, or at the rear or side of the building, if not part of the primary frontage, except where such placement would be prohibited by the respective utility provider, conflict with applicable building code requirements, including required access, clearances, and visibility for emergency response and maintenance.
b. Utilities and equipment, service, storage, and non-passenger loading areas shall be consolidated within a single area. They shall not be located within minimum setback areas, and/or within twenty five (25) ft. of a street corner, unless required by the respective utility provider or applicable building code requirements.
c. Backflow preventers shall be located within landscaped areas and covered with freeze protection, in a green color (e.g., Hex #013220). Where cages or other enclosures are installed to house or protect backflow preventers, they shall be in a green color.
3.7.1.3 SERVICE, STORAGE, UTILIT Y, AND EQUIPMENT SCREENING
1. All service and storage areas, utilities, and equipment not housed inside buildings shall meet the following screening standards:
a. Screening shall consist of solid enclosures, landscaping, and/or architectural elements that are consistent with the building design.
b. Screening shall follow the same design, colors, and materials as the building walls to maintain visual consistency and complement the overall architectural style.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 69 c. When landscaping is used as screening, it must be a minimum of thirty six (36) in. wide and include dense, evergreen shrubs or small trees that reach a minimum height of four (4) ft. within four (4) years of planting. A minimum spread of two (2) ft. shall be required at time of planting.
3.7.1.4 LOCATION AND SCREENING OF ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT
1. Rooftop elements including roof access, mechanical equipment, and other features needed for the function of the building, shall be located to minimize visual impact by meeting the following requirements. Mechanical equipment less than two (2) ft. in height, solar panels, or wind generators are exempt from these requirements.
a. Roof-mounted equipment and screening of roof-mounted equipment shall be stepped back from top of parapet a minimum of ten (10) ft. from the parapet or roof edge. b. Roof-mounted equipment that extends higher than the parapet wall shall be fully screened by an architectural screen element similar in design and color to the underlying building. Wood lattice is not permitted as a screening device. A pre-manufactured screening device that aligns with the building’s architecture may be used as an alternative. c. Screening must effectively block views of rooftop equipment from a point six (6) ft. above ground level at the property line, the sidewalk on the opposite side of the street, or from any adjacent property and public rights-of-way.
d. The location, spacing, materials, and colors of down-spouts, gutters, scuppers, and other drainage components shall be incorporated into the architectural composition of the facade and roof. Downspouts shall be concealed within walls or located to harmonize with window spacing and facade composition.
70 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
3.7.2 WASTE ENCLOSURES AND RECEPTACLES
Waste enclosures and receptacles shall be designed and constructed as required by the Laguna Woods Municipal Code.
3.7.3 SECURITY BARRIERS
1. Any security barriers installed on the windows or the doors of the premises shall be installed only on the interior of the building and in compliance with the California Building Standards Code and Laguna Woods Municipal Code.
2. Security barriers shall meet the following criteria:
a. Only open grill design security systems located on the inside of the building shall be permitted on elevations visible from the street.
b. Open grill design security systems shall be primarily transparent with not less than seventy five percent (75%) visibility from the street.
c. Solid roll-down security doors on elevations visible from a public or private street are prohibited unless part of a vehicle loading bay.
BUILDING DESIGN
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 71 72 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
ARCHITECTURAL
STYLE 4
4.1 OVERVIEW AND APPLICATIONS
4.2 LAGUNA WOODS REVIVAL
4.3 ROOFS
4.4 WALLS AND WINDOWS
4.5 MATERIALS AND COLORS
4.6 DECORATIVE ACCENTS AND DETAILS
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 73
4.1 OVERVIEW AND APPLICATION
4.1.1 EXISTING ARCHITECTURAL STYLES MAP
The following map identifies seven (7) existing architectural styles that contribute to the City’s character.
Future architectural designs shall merge the preferred Mission Revival and Spanish Revival styles into a cohesive “Laguna Woods Revival” identity.
LEGEND
SPANISH REVIVAL
MISSION REVIVAL
SPANISH MODERNIST
MEDITERRANEAN
MEDITERRANEAN REVIVAL
MOUNTAIN CONTEMPORARY
CONTEMPORARY
74 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 4 ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
4.1.2 APPLICATION
The architectural style provides a clearly defined framework of required and optional architectural features in the categories of roof, walls and windows, materials and colors, and decorative accents and details, providing flexibility for creative expression while ensuring consistency with the main characteristics of the architectural style. The Objective Design Standards also identifies prohibited elements that shall be avoided to maintain the integrity and intended character of the architectural style.
The architectural style is divided into four categories: Roof, Walls and Windows, Materials and Colors, and Decorative Accents and Details. All categories must be met to comply with the Architectural Style section of the Objective Design Standards.
Each category includes three (3) components: required, optional, and prohibited.
All required features shall be fulfilled, while the optional component provides a selection of features from which a minimum number must be chosen.
Prohibited features identify elements that shall be avoided to maintain the intended architectural character.
REVIEW THE STYLE DESCTIPTION
COMPLY WITH ALL FOUR (4) CATEGORIES
PROVIDE REQUIRED & OPTIONAL FEATURES
1. ROOF
2. WALLS AND WINDOWS
3. MATERIALS AND COLORS
4. DECORATIVE ACCENTS AND DETAILS
REQUIRED: MEET ALL FEATURES
OPTIONAL: SELECT MINIMUM NUMBER OF FEATURES
PROHIBITED: REFRAIN FROM USING
3 1
2 ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 75
4.2 LAGUNA WOODS REVIVAL
4.2.1 STYLE DESCRIPTION
The proposed architectural style is a blended expression rooted in both Mission Revival and Spanish Revival traditions, adapted to create a cohesive and locally responsive identity for Laguna Woods.
Mission Revival architecture draws inspiration from the early California missions established during the Spanish colonial period, emphasizing simplicity, thick stucco walls, smooth plaster surfaces, and iconic features such as shaped parapets and arcades. Spanish Revival, influenced by the architecture of Spain and Latin America, builds upon this foundation with more ornamental detailing, including decorative tilework, decorative metal elements, and articulated facades.
Laguna Woods Revival combines the restrained massing and clarity of Mission Revival with the richness and human-scaled detail of Spanish Revival, resulting in an architectural language that is both timeless and approachable. Buildings typically feature low-pitched clay tile roofs, smooth stucco finishes in light, warm tones, and a composition of simple volumes enhanced by selective ornamentation. Arches, recessed openings, and shaded walkways are commonly incorporated to create depth and visual interest, while maintaining a cohesive and unified appearance.
Recognizable characteristics of this style include articulated rooflines with parapets or modest towers, variation in facade planes to break down building scale, and the integration of outdoor spaces such as courtyards or covered entries that support social interaction and comfort. Decorative elements are used intentionally and sparingly, allowing for visual richness without overwhelming the overall simplicity of the form. The result is a balanced architectural approach that reflects Southern California’s historic influences while establishing a distinct and enduring character for the community.
4.2.2 ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES
TOWER MASSING
ELEMENT
RED TILE
ROOF
LOW PITCHED
ROOFS
ARCHED
OPENINGS
DECORATIVE
METAL FIXTURES
LIGHT, NATURAL,
NEUTRAL OR MUTED
WARM COLORS FOR
EXTERIOR STUCCO
FLAT ROOFS
WITH
PARAPETS
76 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
4.2.3 REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPHS
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 77
4.3 ROOFS
REQUIRED ELEMENTS
• Low-pitched roofs (between 4:12 to 6:12) with
broad, overhanging eaves ranging from eighteen
(18) to twenty four (24) in. If conical roof is used,
roof pitch must not exceed 4:12
• Clay tile, concrete-tile, or tile-profiled metal
roofing. Common shapes include both Spanish
(S-shaped) and Mission (half cylinder/barrel
tile) types
• A minimum of one roof utilizing hip or gable
roof type
OPTIONAL ELEMENTS (CHOOSE AT LEAST 1)
(Not required for buildings that qualify as Small or
Medium in Chapter 3.1.2 of this document. If Medium
Buildings have identified “Roof Form” as the optional
Massing Strategy, then the “Optional Elements” in this
section shall apply.)
• Flat roofs with parapets that have an architecturally profiled cornice and/or expressed parapet cap
• A shed roof additive element either on the side
or front facing
• Hipped-roof towers or belvederes (square,
rectangle or circular in plan)
PROHIBITED ELEMENTS
• Curved parapet walls shall be limited to one (1)
per building and shall shall feature a simple,
smooth profile without intricate detailing, jagged
edges, or sharp corners.
• Each project shall have no more than four (4)
roof types
• Exposed galvinized coping or sharp edged
metal parapet caps for flat roofs
• Thin, flush-applied caps or edge conditions that
appear lightweight or prone to warping
Low-pitched roofs (between 4:12 to 6:12)
Red clay tile roofing
No more than four (4) roof types per development
Curved parapet walls shall be limited to one (1) per building 78 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
4.4 WALLS & WINDOWS
REQUIRED ELEMENTS
• A minimum four (4) in. recess for at least sixty
percent (60%) of all windows and doors to
emphasize wall mass, depth, and shadow
• A minimum of one (1) arched door, window, or
opening along a public-facing facade
• At shallower insets (two to four (2-4) in. from
the exterior wall), projecting sills, molded
surrounds, lintels and/or trim shall be used to
frame openings
• Simple divisions of window mullions
OPTIONAL ELEMENTS (CHOOSE AT LEAST 1)
• Mix of large focal windows and smaller rectangular
windows
• Minimum of one (1) ft. deep walls for public
street, public easement, or residential-facing
facades
• Recessed balconies with round arch openings
under a separate roof or overhang
• Open balconies over loggias/arcades
• Awnings
PROHIBITED ELEMENTS
(Refer to Chapter 11.10.050(9) of the Municipal Code)
• Exterior wall surfaces shall not include striping,
banding, or multi-color linear patterns
• Arch forms supported by narrow, freestanding,
or visually detached columns or piers, rather
than solid wall-integrated arches or arcades.
• Ornamentation or decorative detailing on columns
• Exterior shutters or window grills
Awnings
Mix of large focal windows and small rectangular windows Recessed balconies with arched openings
Open balconies over loggias/arcades
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 79
4.5 MATERIALS & COLORS
Roof colors darker than wall colors
Stucco on exterior walls
Sand-finished cement plaster on balcony, porch
Stone as a decorative accent
REQUIRED ELEMENTS
• Stucco, cement plaster or stucco-like finishes
on exterior walls. Stucco surfaces shall have
a-half (1/2) to three quarters (3/4) in. bull-nosed
corners
• Light, natural, neutral or muted warm colors for
exterior stucco
• Roof colors shall consist of red or brown tones
and be darker in value than exterior wall colors
to ensure a clear visual contrast between roof
and wall surfaces
• Sealant colors shall be consistent with surface
and other building colors
OPTIONAL ELEMENTS (CHOOSE AT LEAST 1)
• Composite wood, or wood for railings and
handrails on stairs and ramps
• Stone used as a limited accent decorative
feature, providing contrast to stucco surfaces
• Sand-finished cement plaster on balcony, porch
or arcade ceilings
PROHIBITED ELEMENTS
(Refer to Chapter 11.10.050 of the Municipal Code)
• Multiple primary colors within a single facade
composition; wall finishes shall maintain a
uniform color per building
• Exposed wooden brackets or decorative wood
supports on exterior elevations
• Deeply tinted glass or applied tinted films. If
tinted glazing is used, light tints and gray hues
are acceptable
80 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 81
4.6 DECORATIVE ACCENTS & DETAILS
(CHOOSE AT LEAST SIX (6))
CLAY/ CONCRETE TILE VENTS
ACCENT GRILLES
DECORATIVE TILES
METAL LIGHT FIXTURES
Wrought iron, black or dark brown painted steel or bronze light fixtures shall occur at building entrances at a minimum of one (1) per two hundred (200) linear ft. of building perimeter Decorative tiles shall be applied as a border at entrances or entry porticos
Wrought iron, black or dark brown painted steel or bronze accent grilles in simple design shall be placed on exterior walls Red clay or concrete tile vents shall occur at gable ends AWNING
LOGGIAS
Provide recessed loggias framed by arches to create shaded outdoor spaces
Awnings shall occur at ground floor openings. Visible
decorative metal supports are acceptable. Color must be similar to the roof
82 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
ARCADES TOWER ELEMENT
ARCHED OPENINGS METAL STAIRCASE HANDRAIL
CURVED PARAPET WITH QUATREFOIL OPENING DOMES
Use of arcaded walkways (row of arches supported by solid Central raised element wall integrated columns)
Round-arched doors, windows, or entry openings These can be used for staircase handrails. Metal can be wrought iron, bronze, or black or dark brown painted tubular steel
A rounded vault forming the roof of a structure, typically with a circular base
Provide cement plaster or cast surrounds at curved parapet and quatrefoil openings
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 83 84 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT LANDSCAPE 5
5.1 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS & VEGETATION
5.2 HARDSCAPE
5.3 WALLS & FENCES
5.4 LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
5.5 SITE FURNISHINGS
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 85
5.1 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS & VEGETATION
5.1.1 LANDSCAPED AREA
1. A minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the lot area not comprised of buildings or required vehicular access and parking areas shall be comprised of pervious surfaces such as landscaping, gravel, rocks, or other similar pervious materials.
2. A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the length of the property fronting arterial streets shall be maintained as a landscaped area with a minimum depth of five (5) ft. Hardscape areas containing impervious surfaces shall only be used for the purpose of pedestrian and vehicular access.
3. Landscaped areas shall not contain more than ten percent (10%) decomposed granite, gravel, mulch, rock, sand, or similar non-vegetated landscape material, except to the extent groundcover or other vegetation is also planted that will conceal at least ninety percent (90%) of the non-vegetated material upon maturity.
4. The following standards shall apply to all properties with surface parking lots:
a. A minimum five (5) ft. landscape buffer strip shall be provided between a parking lot and public right-of-way and shall be maintained with a permanent, operable automatic irrigation system. b. Parking lot shade trees shall be provided at the ratio of one (1) tree for every five (5) parking spaces.
5. No vehicle shall be parked in a required landscape area.
5.1.2 SOIL DEPTH
Planting in above grade planters or podium landscaped areas shall have a minimum topsoil depth of twelve (12) in. for ground cover, twenty four (24) in. for shrubs, and thirty six (36) in. for trees. 86 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 5 LANDSCAPE
5.1.3 SHRUBS, HEDGES, & GROUNDCOVER
5.1.3.1 GENERAL LANDSCAPE AREA
1. Plants on the Cal-IPC invasive plant inventory are prohibited.
2. Shrubs shall be a minimum size of five (5) gallons. When planted to serve as a hedge or screen, shrubs shall be planted with two (2) ft. or four (4) ft. of spacing, depending on the plant species.
3. Groundcover shall be minimum one (1) gallon or greater in size at time of planting and shall be planted at an on center spacing appropriate to the plant species to ensure complete coverage from plant to plant, (minimum twenty four (24) in. o.c.). Groundcover from cuttings or flats is allowable but shall be spaced at a maximum of twelve (12) in. on center.
4. Landscaping shall comply with the sight clearance triangle requirements set forth in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Title 13, Sec. 13.16.190 (Landscaping) and Sec. 13.16.230 (Fences and walls).
5.1.3.2 TURF AND ARTIFICIAL TURF
1. Turf is prohibited unless it meets the definition of “functional turf,” set forth in California Water Code Section 10608.12.
2. Artificial plants and artificial turf are prohibited.
3. Natural turf areas shall be a minimum ten (10) ft. diameter, or ten (10) ft. width on any side. Use of turf shall be in compliance with the California Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).
5.1.3.3 NON-PLANT MATERIALS, SOIL, AND MULCH
1. Landscaped areas where plant material other than turf is present shall be top-dressed with three (3) in. shredded mulch or two (2) in. crushed rock, mulch, pebbles or stones to avoid exposed bare soil.
2. Three (3) in. minimum depth bark mulch must be confined to areas underneath shrubs and trees and shall not count toward the fifty percent (50%) minimum landscape requirement.
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 87
5.1.4 TREES
5.1.4.1 TREES TYPES
Trees provided as part of the project shall be selected from the following list:
1 Evergreen tree
2 Shade tree
a. Arbutus Unedo
(Strawberry Tree)1
i. Pinus Canariensis
(Canary Island Pine)1
e. Koelreuteria Paniculata
(Goldenrain Tree)2
m. Quercus Agrifolia
(Coast Live Oak)1
b. Cupaniopsis Anacardioides
(Carrotwood)1;2
j. Platanus Racemosa
(California Sycamore)2
f. Liriodendron Tulipifera
(Tulip Tree)2
n. Rhus Iancea
(African Sumac)1;2
c. Cercis Canadensis
(Eastern Redbud)
k. Prosopis Alba ‘Colorado’
(Argentine Mesquite)2
g. Olea Europaea
(Olive Tree)1
o. Syagrus Romanzoffianum
(Queen Palm)1
d. Geijera Parviflora
(Australian Willow)1
l. Prosopis ‘Phoenix’
(Phoenix Mesquite)2
h. Phoenix Dactylifera
(Date Palm)1
88 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5.1.4.2 GENERAL L ANDSCAPE AREA
1. All tree planting shall be installed at a minimum twenty four (24) in. box size and a maximum distance of thirty (30) ft. on center. A minimum of fifty-one percent (51%) of all trees planted shall be a minimum thirty-six (36) in. box size at the time of installation.
2. Trees planted along pedestrian corridors, paths, walkways, commercial frontages, or public streets shall be spaced at a maximum interval of thirty (30) ft. on center.
3. Projects that are greater than or equal to two (2) acres, or shopping center entrances that serve a cumulative commercial area of over five (5) acres, shall include, along the primary entrance, a landscaped median and landscaped side areas planted with Phoenix Dactylifera (Date Palm) at a maximum spacing of thirty (30) ft. on center, with a minimum ten (10) ft. brown trunk height measured from finished grade to the base of the lowest living frond.
4. Corner sites, defined as properties with frontage along two intersecting public streets, shall plant Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palms) or Phoenix dactylifera (Date Palms) at a maximum spacing of thirty (30) ft. on center, with a minimum ten (10) ft. brown trunk height (BTH), measured from finished grade to the base of the lowest living fond. They shall be planted within the first thirty (30) ft. of each street frontage measured from the corner property line.
5. Publicly accessible open spaces that include trees with a minimum mature canopy spread of twenty five (25) ft., and shall locate trees to shade pedestrian paths, seating areas, and gathering spaces. Trees shall be selected from the following list: Cupaniopsis Anacardioides (Carrotwood), Koelreuteria Paniculata (Goldenrain Tree), Liriodendron Tulipifera (Tulip Tree), Platanus Racemosa (California Sycamore), Prosopis Alba ‘Colorado’ (Argentine Mesquite), Prosopis ‘Phoenix’ (Phoenix Mesquite), Rhus Iancea (African Sumac).
6. Trees planted along pedestrian corridors, paths, and walkways shall be selected from the following species: Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Carrotwood), Koelreuteria paniculata (Goldenrain Tree), Platanus racemosa (California Sycamore), Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palm), or Phoenix dactylifera (Date Palm). Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palm) and Phoenix Dactylifera (Date Palm) shall be planted at a maximum spacing of thirty (30) ft. on center, with a minimum ten (10) ft. brown trunk height measured from finished grade to the base of the lowest living frond.
7. A minimum distance of ten (10) ft. is required between the center of trees to street light standards, water meters, back-flow prevention systems, sewer cleanouts and fire hydrants.
8. A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of all trees planted on the project site shall be evergreen trees.
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 89
5.1.4.3 SURFACE PARKING AREA
1. Planter islands or planter fingers shall be provided at the ends of all parking rows.
2. A minimum five (5) ft. planting width is required for all planter islands, planter fingers, and tree wells.
3. A row of side-by-side (contiguous) parking spaces shall not exceed five (5) stalls without a planter island, planter finger or tree well.
4. Trees shall be planted in planter islands, planter fingers, or tree wells at a minimum of every fifty (50) ft. on center.
5.1.4.4 TREE PROTECTION
1. At the time of installation, newly planted trees shall be supported with double stakes and/or guy wires or approved equivalent City standard.
2. Trees planted within ten (10) ft. of a street, sidewalk, paved trail or walkway shall be deeply-rooted species or shall be separated from paved surfaces by a minimum twenty four (24) in. root barrier to prevent physical damage to public improvements.
3. Existing trees that are already established on a project site may be retained at the property owner’s discretion, regardless of whether the tree species is included in the approved tree selection list identified in Section 5.1.4.1, Tree Types of this Objective Design Standards. Determination as to whether an existing tree is established shall be determined by a certified arborist.
4. Where an existing tree is removed and replacement planting is required pursuant to Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 4.26.060(c), Tree Removal- Replacement, of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code, the replacement tree shall be selected from the approved tree selection list identified in Section 5.1.4.1, Tree Types, of these Objective Design Standards.
5. Existing trees to be retained on site shall be appropriately protected during construction and incorporated into the overall landscape design of the project. 90 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5.1.5 RESIDENTIAL BUFFERING
1. Projects abutting residentially zoned properties shall provide a minimum ten (10) ft. wide landscape buffer (A) along the entire length of the shared property line. The buffer shall include one (1) tree every thirty five (35) ft. (B) and a solid masonry wall (C) with a six (6) ft. height along the entire lenth of the abutting property. All walls shall comply with Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section
13.16.230.
2. Whenever a project shares a side or rear property line with any residentially zoned lot, and nonresidential uses are located within fifteen (15) ft. of that side or rear property line, a six (6) ft. tall solid masonry wall shall be provided, along or adjacent to all such side and rear lot lines. The wall shall conform to the height regulations applicable to front setback areas of the residentially zoned lot having the common lot line, per Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.16.230. A landscape buffer, with a minimum depth of five (5) ft. shall also be provided along the shared lot lines.
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 91 Minimum width of landscape buffer
Trees planted along the shared property line
Solid masonry six (6) ft.
Street-facing setback
FIGURE 5.1: RESIDENTIAL BUFFERING
STREET
RIGHT-OF-WAY
COMMERCIAL ZONE
R-1 ZONE
A
B
A
B
5.1.6 DROUGHT TOLERANT & NATIVE PLANT SPECIES
A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of non-turf landscaped areas shall be planted with materials identified as appropriate by the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) for Region 3 (South Coastal). Refer to latest WUCOLS recommendations from California Center for Urban Horticulture WUCOLS website <https://ccuh.ucdavis.edu/wucols>.
5.1.7 PROTECTION FROM ENCROACHMENT
1. Landscaping shall be protected from vehicular and pedestrian encroachment by raised planting surfaces, providing appropriately planned walkways, the use of curbs, and installing hedges to direct the flow of pedestrian traffic.
2. At parking stalls, one (1) wheel stop per stall must be provided if a raised planter curb is not present to prevent vehicles from damaging adjacent tree trunks or landscaping.
5.1.8 INTERFERENCE WITH UTILITIES
1. All service areas, storage areas and utility and equipment locations shall be coordinated between landscape architect and civil engineer.
2. Plant materials shall be placed so that they do not interfere with the lighting of the premises or restrict access to emergency apparatus such as fire hydrants or fire alarm boxes.
3. Trees or large shrubs shall not be planted under overhead lines or over underground utilities if their growth might interfere with such public utilities.
4. Plant material setbacks from utilities shall conform to utility company requirements.
5.1.9 SAFETY
All trees should be cut so that no branches or leaves hang lower than ten (10) ft. from the finish surface/ ground plane.
92 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5.2 HARDSCAPE
5.2.1 LOCATION
1. Primary entries to buildings shall provide decorative paving that contrasts in color and texture with the adjacent walkway paving to accentuate the entrances.
2. Asphalt and standard concrete shall be used only in areas of high traffic volume and service areas unseen by the average commercial tenant or visitor.
5.2.2 APPEARANCE & MATERIALS
1. Hardscape materials shall be constructed of firm and slip-resistant materials, see Table 5.2.
2. No stained or stamped concrete shall be used in any area as non-integral colored concrete quickly fades and stamped patterns become unsightly and unrecognizable over time.
3. Integral color concrete shall be non-fading pigment thoroughly mixed into the full concrete depth; no top-layer surfacing color mixture is allowed.
ORDER OF PREFERRED PAVING
OPTIONS
VEHICULAR PEDESTRIAN
1. CONCRETE
PAVERS1
1. CLAY OR CONCRETE
PAVERS1
2. INTEGRAL
COLORED
CONCRETE2
2. CONCRETE WITH
AGGREGATE
3. ASPHALT 3. INTEGRAL COLORED
CONCRETE2
4. STANDARD CONCRETE
(NATURAL GRAY) 1
Pavers shall be installed over a concrete slab to ensure a stable, durable, and level surface.
2 Using Scofield, Davis Color or City Approved Equivalent.
TABLE 5.1: ORDER OF PREFERRED PAVING OPTIONS
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 93
5.3 WALLS & FENCES
5.3.1 APPEARANCE AND INTEGRATION
Walls and fences shall be designed to be consistent with adjacent structures and the surrounding terrain, and shall incorporate landscaping and vegetation to soften their appearance, while complying with Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.16.230.
5.3.1.1 MATERIALS & COLOR
1. Walls and fencing shall consist of solid masonry material, incorporating building colors.
2. Acceptable finish treatments include colored stucco, wood stain, natural or polished stone, slump stone, split-faced concrete block, prefabricated finish texture, or a combination thereof.
3. Open metal fencing may be used in lieu of solid masonry walls where necessary to maintain visibility at driveways, vehicle turning areas, pedestrian paths, public walkways, and similar locations. Such fencing shall provide a minimum of fifty percent (50%) transparency and shall be consistent with the architectural style.
5.3.1.2 VISUAL INTERESTS
1. Walls shall provide a minimum three (3) ft. wide landscaped area to screen and soften the wall base, except where interrupted by required pedestrian access, vehicular access, utilities, or fire access.
Planting within the landscaped area shall achieve a minimum height of three (3) ft. at maturity. For walls greater than six (6) ft. in height, planting within the landscaped area shall achieve a minimum height of four (4) ft. at maturity.
2. Evergreen trees shall be used to soften the appearance of blank walls and provide visual screening; a minimum of one (1) tree shall be provided for each blank wall segment up to fifteen (15) ft. in length, and two (2) trees shall be provided for segments up to the maximum permitted length of twenty five (25) ft.
5.3.2 WALL CAPS
Wall caps shall be incorporated as a horizontal design element at the top of walls and shall not exceed four (4) in. in vertical thickness. Decorative capstones on stucco walls shall be implemented to prevent water damage from rainfall and moisture.
94 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5.4 LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
This section supplements the site lighting standards set forth in Section 2.6.
5.4.1 TYPES OF LIGHTING
Landscape architects and electrical engineers shall implement a variety of lighting types shown in the table below to illuminate the project’s landscape appropriately.
LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: TYPES
DEFINITION
SPOTLIGHT
Known as uplights, downlights,
directional lights or bullets most
commonly used to illuminate trees
in the landscape.
PATH &
AREA
Path lights illuminate paths and
walkways. Area lights increase
visibility to the area around the
fixture and can be used to light
landscape beds.
FLOOD
LIGHTS
Flood lights add security and light
up property at night. Flood lights
commonly have a much higher
wattage and wider angle than
spotlights.
WALL
WASH
LIGHTS
This type of flood light is used to
provide even illumination across a
wide surface.
WELL
LIGHTS
Well and in-grade lights are installed
below ground (grade) level. The
fixture may sit in a turf area or
hardscape where foot or vehicular
traffic will pass over.
DECK
LIGHTS
Deck lights are designed to attach
to fence posts and can be mounted
on the sides of nearby structures
and stairs.
STEP
LIGHTS
Step lights illuminate treads and or
risers of stairs.
HARDSCAPE
LIGHTS
Hardscape lights attach to the
underside of capstones and overhangs
most commonly floodlight surfaces
such as patios, walkways, driveways,
stairs, walls and outdoor kitchens
or fireplaces.
TABLE 5.2: LANDSCAPE LIGHTING TYPE DEFINITION
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 95
5.4.2 LOCATION
1. Accent lighting shall be used to illuminate walkways, parking areas, entries, seating areas, and/or specimen plants and trees.
2. Spotlighting or glare from any site lighting shall be shielded from adjacent properties and directed at a specific on-site object or target area.
3. Landscape lighting fixtures shall be incorporated in water features.
4. Path lights, if used, shall be placed min. twelve (12) to eighteen (18) in. away from edge of paving and be incorporated with landscape rock/boulders or similar objects for protection.
5.4.3 LIGHT COLOR
The color of landscape lighting is essential as it provides appropriate warmth to outdoor spaces, enhancing the atmosphere and overall aesthetic of the project. Thoughtful selection of light color creates a welcoming environment that complements the natural landscape and architectural features.
The standard of light color is as follows:
5.4.4 CONCEALMENTS
Light sources for wall washing and tree lighting shall be hidden.
5.4.5 FIXTURE DESIGN
Lighting fixtures shall complement and be compatible with the overall landscape material palette and design theme, as well as the building’s design and architectural style.
LIGHT COLOR
MIN. MAX.
COLOR
TEMPERATURE
(KELVIN)
3000 2700
TABLE 5.3: LIGHT COLOR TEMPERATURE STANDARD
96 CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT
5.5 SITE FURNISHINGS
5.5.1 LOCATION
1. Site furnishings within open spaces shall be arranged in coordinated groupings that support the intended use of the space, provide seating in shaded areas, and integrate with features such as plazas or water elements, while minimizing visual clutter within the landscape.
2. The use of benches in the public right-of-way shall be limited; groupings of individual chairs for seating options are preferred.
5.5.2 APPEARANCE & MATERIALS
1. Simple designs, instead of ornate decorations, shall be specified for their timeless appeal and ability to be complimentary to the Laguna Woods Revival architectural style.
2. When wood is used as a furnishing material, the wood products must comply with the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC’s) approved list of products and manufacturers, which regulates environmentally responsible forest management.
5.5.3 PLAN SUBMISSION
Applicant shall submit product cut sheets of each typical piece of furniture for City approval.
5.5.4 POTS
For sites where a landscaping area cannot be provided due to required pedestrian clearances, ADA access, fire access, utility access, drainage, visibility, structural slab conditions, or operational access needs, decorative pottery or planters may be used as an alternative landscape treatment, subject to the following:
1. Pottery shall be used to direct flow of pedestrian traffic or provide an elevation and height design aesthetic in relationship to the adjacent architecture.
2. Selection of plant material placed in pottery shall be appropriate for growing and irrigation conditions of the pot(s).
3. Pottery design, massing, materiality and color shall be complementary to the Laguna Woods Revival architectural style.
LANDSCAPE
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT - DRAFT 97 This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS
OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Response to Public Review Period Comments
July 31 – August 21, 2026
INDEX
Jay Laessi 2
Dennis Harper 3
Sue Quam 7
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
WRITTEN COMMENTS #1
From: Jay
Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2026 12:19 PM
To: City Hall - City of Laguna Woods <[email protected]> Subject: Comment for 7/31/26 City Design Standards Meeting
Dear City,
Please read my comment (in blue below) aloud at the 7/31/26 Design Standards mtg. Thank you. Jay Laessi
City Staff Response 1: No design standards meeting was held on July 31, 2026. Mr. Laessi’s comments are being treated as comments submitted during the public review period due to his comments having been read aloud at the City Council meeting on August 12, 2026 during Item
9.1 (Commercial Objective Design Standards Project).
Hello,
My name is Jay Laessi. I'm so happy the City is undertaking this design standards project. It will refine our City's identity into something we can truly enjoy as we walk around and something to be proud off.
Last I knew the Spanish Revival and Mission Revival styles were under consideration. The Mission is a more friendly and approachable look compared to the Spanish which is too palatial. Also, the cost of remodeling into the Mission style would cost less. I favor the Mission style.
City Staff Response 2: Based on City Council input at the February 24, 2026 meeting, Mission Revival and Spanish Revival architecture were combined into a single, unified style: “Laguna Woods Revival.” This locally tailored style blends defining elements of both architectural styles to establish a cohesive identity unique to Laguna Woods.
All trees should be at least the 24" box size. That is substantial enough to give immediate curb appeal and get a head-start on providing shade and cooling the spaces. We can see--and hopefully have learned--how the lack of substantial landscape at the new Shell station really makes that corner into an unsightly heat island.
City Staff Response 3: Public Review Draft Section 5.1.4.2(1) required all trees planted with a public street-facing setback to be installed at a minimum 24 inch box size. Section 5.1.4.2(1) has been revised to apply this requirement to all trees planted, not just those in a public street-facing setback. Section 5.1.4.2(1) has also been revised to require at least 51% of all trees planted to be installed at a minimum 36 inch box size.
Thank you.
(END)
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
WRITTEN COMMENTS #2
From: DennisHarper
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2026 2:31 PM
To: Chris Macon <[email protected]>; City Hall - City of Laguna Woods <[email protected]>
Subject: Comments on Community Design Standards
To Christopher Macon, City Manager and the City Council of Laguna Woods:
I would like to preface my comments below with an expression of appreciation for the thoughtful effort so far. I agree with one resident who commented on August 12 that it is a shame that there were no commercial design standards when the City of Laguna Woods was incorporated in 1999.
As a retired architect from Portland OR, I was involved as a member of the urban design & historic preservation committee of the task force that developed the Portland Central City Plan of 1988 as well as a member for five years on the NWDA Planning committee which regularly provided preliminary design review for projects in our historic Northwest Portland neighborhood. So my interest in good urban design continues as a relatively new permanent resident of Laguna Woods.
Following are my review comments on and suggestions for the July 2026 Draft of Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development. I would be happy to clarify my comments in person at a future city council meeting.
Regards,
Dennis Harper, (ret. AIA)
ADDRESS REDACTED
Laguna Woods
________________________________________
P. 28; D - Ch. 2.1.5.5. Permanent seating should always be provided with shade from trees, awnings, or other building shading elements.
City Staff Response 4: Section 2.1.5(6) has been added to read as follows: “Permanent seating shall be located beneath an awning, building overhang, pergola, or other permanent shading element, or within the projected fifteen-year canopy of a shade tree. The trunk of a qualifying shade tree shall be located no more than fifteen (15) feet from the nearest edge of the seating surface. Awnings, overhangs, and other structural shading elements shall extend over the entire seating surface when viewed in plan.”
P. 28; G - Ch. 2.1.5.8. Public space trees. Minimum one tree per 800 sq. ft. of open area.
City Staff Response 5: Section 2.1.5(9) has been revised to read as follows: “Publicly accessible open space of eight hundred (800) sq. ft. or less shall require at least one (1) tree. For any open space area exceeding eight hundred (800) sq. ft., at least one additional tree shall be required for each additional increment or fraction thereof.”
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
P. 36-37; 2.4.1 Pedestrian Pathways. Where a pedestrian pathway connects to a public sidewalk, decrease the spacing of shade trees to 25 ft on center.
City Staff Response 6: Section 2.4.1(8) has been revised to add the following: “Where a pedestrian pathway connects to a public sidewalk, within the first fifty (50) feet, trees shall be provided within the planting areas at intervals not exceeding twenty-five (25) ft. on center.” P. 40; 2.5.4.2. Accent Lighting. Why is up-lighting of trees forbidden? In many cases, the uplighting of large, well-tended trees would be a welcome enhancement of the pedestrian experience. The design of the tree up-lighting can avoid light spillage.
City Staff Response 7: Biologists retained by the City to assist with the development of lighting design standards advise against upward-direct lighting that serves primarily aesthetic purposes or provides minimal functional benefit as it contributes to skyglow, disorients nocturnal wildlife, and increases glare without enhancing safety.
P. 46; C - Ch. 3.1.3.1.2. and 3.1.3.1.1. The description and illustration of the major and minor massing breaks are clumsy and could lead to bad implementation. The intent is to break down long expanses of building facades. I would suggest an explanation of what the goal is. Maybe it could also be accomplished by changing the plane of the building facade in combination with a change of materials.
City Staff Response 8: The first paragraph in Section 3.1.3.1 has been revised to read as follows:
“Minor and major massing breaks are required along elevations facing a public street, pedestrian-oriented space, publicly accessible outdoor space, or adjacent to a residential zone.
Massing breaks shall divide long building elevations into smaller, visually distinct components; reduce perceived building scale and bulk; and create variations in depth, light, and shadow.
Required breaks may be formed by insets, bays, notches, or projections. Changes in materials, colors, or architectural detailing may be coordinated with the breaks to further distinguish building components.”
P. 48; 3.1.1. Building Type Standards. Why are drive-through businesses included? New drivethrough businesses should not be permitted. In other cities in California and elsewhere, drivethroughs are being banned because of congestion and pollution. Refer to the following link:
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/01/us/drive-throughs-california-culver-city-in-nout.html?unlocked_article_code=1.2FA._OzF.egZ3yMcHDQLL&smid=nytcore-android-share City Staff Response 9: Whether to allow or disallow drive-through businesses falls outside the scope of the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development. This is a topic that the City Council could consider separately, if it wishes.
P. 50; 3.1.3.1. Building Modulation - Massing Breaks. The Standards should also encourage minimum 4-foot shifts in the building facade to create a more interesting pedestrian experience. The outdoor space created in front of each recessed storefront would create an opportunity for cafe tables, benches, or outdoor retail activities.
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
City Staff Response 10: The second sentence in Section 3.1.3.1(2) has been revised to read as follows: “A major massing break shall be applied at least every hundred (100) ft. in horizontal building length. The major break shall be a minimum of four (4) ft. deep and six (6) ft. wide, open to the sky, and extend the full height of the building.” A corresponding change has been made to Note B for Figure 3.1.
P. 59; 3.2.2. Corner Buildings. Because of the suburban streetscape of Laguna Woods commercial streets, I am concerned that the regulations to create architectural prominence at corners will fail without creating a better pedestrian environment on sidewalks of commercial streets. Where sidewalks are too narrow and passing vehicle traffic is too close to those on foot, most pedestrians would prefer to NOT to walk there. Wider sidewalks and ample street trees for shade are essential for pedestrian comfort which can lead to foot traffic that will activate commercial corners.
City Staff Response 11: Sidewalks and street trees exist within public rights of way that would not be subject to the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development. This is a topic that the City Council could consider separately, if it wishes.
P. 76; 4.1.1. Existing Architectural Styles Map. In the opening paragraph, clarify which of the Spanish styles will be blended into the Laguna Woods Revival identity: Spanish Modernist or Spanish Revival?
City Staff Response 12: Section 4.1.1 has been revised to clarify that Laguna Woods Revival merges Mission Revival and Spanish Revival styles.
P. 82; 4.5. Materials & Colors. Under Prohibited Elements, why are wooden brackets and decorative wood supports not allowed? Those are elements that I have seen on historic Mission adobe buildings in Southern California.
City Staff Response 13: Wood brackets and decorative wood supports are not allowed based on City Council input at the August 12, 2026 meeting.
P. 84; 4.6. Decorative Accents & Details. Why should a designer be mandated to incorporate at least six such elements? This feels so prescriptive.
City Staff Response 14: The Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development would provide a ministerial option for design approval. Applicants wishing to incorporate fewer than six decorative accents and details may choose the discretionary review path in lieu of complying with the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development (see Section 1.3.2).
P. 91; 5.1.4.2. General Landscape Area. In paragraphs 3. and 4. it appears that developments fronting on a commercial street are mandated to have palm trees, which provide very little shade for pedestrians. I think that shade trees should be provided along all sidewalks.
City Staff Response 15: Requirements to incorporate Queen Palms or Date Palms on corner sites and larger commercial developments are the result of feedback received at the community workshop on January 26, 2026, expressing interest in common, prominent trees being planted across commercial properties.
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
End of Comments
______________________________________
ITEM 8.1 – Attachment B
ORAL COMMENTS #1
Commenter: Sue Quam
Date: August 19, 2026
Meeting: City Council
Item: Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items
The other thing I wanted to ask about was it was very interesting at your last board meeting where you talked about the design for buildings being updated that promotes an architectural symmetry.
It's a beautiful style, but my question is will this be a little bit more or a lot more expensive for businesses when they update? So, I know people consider that when they think about updating their buildings. So, it's beautiful, but I hope we don't price people out.
City Staff Response 16: Neither staff nor JZMK Partners, Inc. believe that implementing the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development would result in financial hardship for applicants. If an applicant disagrees, they may choose the discretionary review path in lieu of complying with the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development (see Section
1.3.2).
The other thing I'd like to talk about is I'd encourage you to allow for muted tile individualization and a tempered use of iron work on windows if you go with that style. As if I was a business owner and required to use this new architectural style, I'd want to highlight and individualize my shop/building as much as possible. So, those were just some comments from the last meeting. Thank you very much.
City Staff Response 17: Decorative tiles are an allowable decorative accent and detail (see Section 4.6). While window grills are proposed to be prohibited based on City Council input at the August 12, 2026 meeting (reflected in Section 4.4), 12 choices of decorative accents and details are provided, of which an applicant is required to select six. If an applicant wishes to further individualize their project, they may choose the discretionary review path in lieu of complying with the Objective Design Standards for Commercial Development (see Section 1.3.2).
This page is intentionally blank.
8.2 SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT SP-2026-0002,
A REQUEST BY PHILIP DEL RIO ON BEHALF OF
THE ARTIST TREE FOR APPROVAL OF A SIGN
PROGRAM AMENDMENT TO AMEND SIGN
PROGRAM SP-547 TO ALLOW FOR VARIOUS
ADDITIONAL AND MODIFIED SIGNAGE AT
24330 EL TORO ROAD, LAGUNA WOODS, CA
92637
This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 8.2
CC 10-21-2026 Item 8.2 – Page 1 of 4
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Christopher Macon, City Manager
FOR: October 21, 2026 City Council Meeting
SUBJECT: Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002, a request by Philip Del Rio on behalf of The Artist Tree for approval of a sign program amendment to amend Sign Program SP-547 to allow for various additional and modified signage at 24330 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637 Recommendation
1. Receive staff report;
2. Open public hearing;
3. Receive public testimony;
4. Close public hearing; and
5. Adopt a resolution titled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT SP-2026-0002, TO AMEND SIGN PROGRAM SP-547, TO ALLOW FOR VARIOUS ADDITIONAL AND MODIFIED SIGNAGE AT 24330 EL TORO ROAD, LAGUNA WOODS, CA 92637, AND DETERMINING AND CERTIFYING THAT
THE RESOLUTION IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT Background
Philip Del Rio on behalf of The Artist Tree (“Applicant”) has submitted a land use application seeking approval of Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002, which would amend Sign Program SP-547 to allow for various additional and modified signage at 24362 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637.
ITEM 8.2
Item 8.2 – Page 2 of 4 CC 10-21-2026
The project location is located generally west of Moulton Parkway, south of El Toro Road, and east of Calle Sonora. The most recent tenant was Rite Aid. The sign program, if approved, would regulate permanent signage at the project location.
The Orange County Assessor’s Parcel Number for the project location is 621-211-05 and the property owner is MANP Laguna Woods, LLC.
A vicinity map is included as Attachment B.
Table 1: Surrounding Land Uses
General
Location
General Plan
Land Use Designation
Land Use
North Commercial Town Centre – SCOS Orthopedics Building South Commercial /
Open Space /
Residential Community
Home Depot /
Area 5 Flood Control Basin /
Laguna Woods Village Maintenance Center
East Open Space /
Residential Community
Area 5 Flood Control Basin /
Laguna Woods Village Maintenance Center
West Commercial Sabrosada and US Bank
The project location is within the Community Commercial (CC) zoning district. Community Commercial designates areas to “provide for the development and preservation of high intensity commercial uses which serve the local community and regional area and are compatible with surrounding residential uses” (Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section
13.10.010).
Sign programs are intended to “provide incentive and latitude to achieve effectiveness, attractive appearance, compatible design and variety in permanent signage” (Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.20.160). The City Council is responsible for approving or denying sign programs and subsequent amendments, subject to certain findings set forth in the Laguna Woods Municipal Code.
Sign Program SP-547
Sign Program SP-547 was approved by the City Council on July 15, 2009 and allowed a variety of signage desired by Rite Aid, the tenant at the time.
Discussion
The City Council is asked to conduct a public hearing on the application for Sign Program SP-2026-0002 and, thereafter, consider approval of the same (Attachment A). Staff recommends approval, subject to the proposed conditions of approval (Exhibit A to Attachment A). The proposed conditions of approval would regulate the signage in a manner ITEM 8.2
CC 10-21-2026 Item 8.2 – Page 3 of 4
consistent with the purpose and intent of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code’s sign regulations, which are to “promote and protect public health, safety and welfare by regulating signs in order to assure that they are:
(1) Well-designed, consistent with any design criteria otherwise applicable to the sign property, compatible with community character and harmonious with surrounding properties, buildings, and streetscapes;
(2) Clear and legible in the circumstances in which they are seen, including for purposes of promoting awareness of local businesses and activities; (3) Appropriate to the type of business or activity to which they pertain; and (4) Displayed in a manner that does not harm public health, safety and welfare” (Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.20.010(a)).
Laguna Woods Municipal Code Chapter 13.20.160 allows the Laguna Woods Municipal Code’s sign regulations to be supplemented by sign programs approved by the City Council.
In this case, the proposed sign program seeks the approval of a variety of signs including walls signs and a monument sign.
The proposed sign program amendment:
• Allows different wall signage based on the number of tenants occupying space within the building at the project location, as may change from time to time. The maximum number of wall signs would be four, if there were three tenants. Of those wall signs, only one would be visible from El Toro Road. The other wall signs would be located on the south elevation of the building, facing the parking lot and Home Depot. • Allows one existing monument sign to remain. The monument sign is located near the El Toro Road/Home Depot Center signalized intersection. The monument sign would remain unchanged except for the sign face and colors, which would be updated.
Sign Program SP-2026-0002 would apply to the occupant (TAT El Toro LLC doing business as The Artist Tree), as well as other and successor occupants, at the project location.
Fiscal Impact
The City’s expenses associated with processing this project are recovered through planning services fees.
Environmental Review
The City Council is asked to find that the proposed sign program is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Section 15311 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, in that it consists of approvals related to the construction or placement of on-premise signs, which are minor structures accessory to (appurtenant to) ITEM 8.2
Item 8.2 – Page 4 of 4 CC 10-21-2026
an existing commercial facility.
Documents Available for Review
Related documents – including the applicant’s application and Sign Program SP-547 – are available for public review at City Hall during normal working hours.
Report Prepared With: Rebecca M. Pennington, Planning & Environmental Services Director Justin Faylona, Senior Planner
Attachments: A – Proposed Resolution
Exhibit A – Proposed Sign Program
Exhibit B – Proposed Conditions of Approval
B – Vicinity Map
ITEM 8.2 – Attachment A
R 26-XX 1 10-21-2026
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT SP-2026-0002, TO AMEND SIGN PROGRAM SP-547, TO ALLOW FOR VARIOUS ADDITIONAL AND MODIFIED SIGNAGE AT 24330 EL TORO ROAD, LAGUNA WOODS, CA 92637, AND
DETERMINING AND CERTIFYING THAT THE RESOLUTION IS EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
WHEREAS, The Artist Tree (“Applicant”) submitted an application for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002 to allow for various additional and modified signage at 24330 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637 (“project” or “proposed project”); and WHEREAS, on October 21, 2026, the City Council of the City of Laguna Woods, after giving notice thereof as required by law, held a public hearing regarding Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully considered all pertinent testimony, as well as all information contained in the agenda report prepared for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002, as presented at the public hearing; and WHEREAS, staff has reviewed the environmental form submitted by the Applicant in accordance with the City’s procedures. Based upon the information received and staff’s assessment of the information, Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002 has been determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15311 of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”); and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites have occurred prior to the adoption of this resolution; and
WHEREAS, the City Council makes the following findings subject to the conditions of approval:
Findings for All Sign Programs
1. The proposed signs are well-designed, consistent with any design criteria otherwise applicable to the sign property, compatible with community character and harmonious with surrounding properties, buildings, and streetscapes.
The proposed signs would be aesthetically appealing, compatible, and harmonious with signage on the sign property (Project Location) and on surrounding properties, buildings, and streetscapes. The proposed signs would not be of a type, nor would they include any of the features or characteristics, which would result in their being ITEM 8.2 – Attachment A
R 26-XX 2 10-21-2026
prohibited by Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.20.130. The Project Location has been operated as a retail business for numerous years. During that time, similar types of signs as the proposed signs have existed at the Project Location without any finding by the City of incompatibility with community character or a lack of harmony with surrounding properties, buildings, or streetscapes. The monument sign is existing and will only see non-structural design requirements change with this approval. The proposed signs are similar in type as those associated with commercial businesses elsewhere in Laguna Woods including, but not limited to, other retail businesses. No legal non-conforming or prohibited signs will exist at the Project Location after the sign program is fully implemented.
2. The proposed signs are clear and legible in the circumstances in which they are seen, including for purposes of promoting awareness of local businesses and activities.
The proposed signs would help promote local businesses and activities, as well as visibility and circulation at the Project Location. The proposed signs would be clear and legible for the purposes for which they are intended, which include identifying and differentiating between prospective multiple tenants within the building at the Project Location. The proposed signs are intended to promote awareness of the commercial business to motorists and pedestrians. The proposed signs are similar in type and scale as those commonly associated with commercial businesses including, but not limited to, retail businesses.
3. The proposed signs are appropriate to the type of business or activity to which they pertain.
The proposed signs would be appropriate in type, location, size/scale, and design for commercial businesses including, but not limited to, retail businesses. The proposed sign types include wall and monument signs, both of which are expressly contemplated for commercial zoning districts and uses in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Chapter 13.20. While designs vary, retail businesses in Laguna Woods and/or surrounding jurisdictions contain all of the proposed sign types.
4. The proposed signs are displayed in a manner that does not harm public health, safety and welfare.
The proposed signs would not harm public health, safety, and welfare. Several conditions of approval are included to address public health, safety, and welfare including, but not limited to, conditions of approval #3, #17, and #18. Condition of Approval #3 requires that the proposed signs “comply with all then-current requirements of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code and the California Building Standards Code, as well as federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations...” ITEM 8.2 – Attachment A
R 26-XX 3 10-21-2026
Condition of Approval #17 includes provisions to ensure that the proposed signs do not, at any time, create an actual or reasonably foreseeable nuisance for properties located within line of sight, passing motorists, or any other party. Condition of Approval #18 requires that the proposed signs be kept “... in good structural and functional working order...” Additionally, Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section
13.20.020(d) requires that all signs be maintained in good condition and allows the City to “order the repair or removal of any sign that is unsafe, defective, damaged, or unsatisfactorily maintained.”
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DECLARE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. After reviewing the entire project record, the City Council hereby determines and certifies that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Section 15311 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, in that it consists of approvals related to the construction or placement of on-premise signs, which are minor structures accessory to (appurtenant to) an existing commercial facility.
SECTION 3. The City Council hereby approves Sign Program Amendment SP-2026- 0002 (Exhibit A), subject to the conditions of approval attached to this resolution (Exhibit B), both of which are incorporated herein by this reference.
SECTION 4. The Mayor shall sign this resolution and the City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption thereof.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of October 2026. _____________________________________
ANNIE MCCARY, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
YOLIE TRIPPY, CMC, City Clerk
ITEM 8.2 – Attachment A
R 26-XX 4 10-21-2026
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss.
CITY OF LAGUNA WOODS )
I, YOLIE TRIPPY, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Woods, do HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-XX was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Laguna Woods at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 21st day of October 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
_______________________________________
YOLIE TRIPPY, CMC, City Clerk
ITEM 8.2 – Exhibit A to Attachment A
Exhibit A to Resolution No. 26-XX
Sign Program
SP-2026-0002
This page is intentionally blank.
POTENTIAL SEPERATING WALL
POTENTIAL SEPERATING WALL
SOUTH ELEVATION
This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 8.2 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
Exhibit B to Resolution No. 26-XX
Conditions of Approval
SP-2026-0002
This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 1 of 14
City of Laguna Woods
Conditions of Approval for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002 Sign Program Amendment Applicant (Applicant): The Artist Tree Sign Program Amendment Address: 24330 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637 Sign Program Amendment Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN): 621-211-05 Property Owner of APN 621-211-05 (Owner): MANP Laguna Woods, LLC City Council Approval Date: October 21, 2026
STANDARD CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1. The Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this sign program amendment applies shall comply with all of the conditions of approval as part of SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT SP-2026-0002 (“Sign Program”). Failure to comply with any one or more of the conditions imposed herein constitute grounds for revocation of said Sign Program by the City Council.
This Sign Program allows all of the following:
• Various additional and modified signage at 24330 El Toro Road, Laguna Woods, CA 92637 (APN 621-211-05)
2. This Sign Program shall be constructed, developed, used, operated, and permanently maintained in accordance with the terms of the application, plans, drawings, and conditions imposed herein.
3. The Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies shall comply with all then-current requirements of the Laguna Woods Municipal Code and the California Building Standards Code, as well as federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations, as they pertain to the improvements and uses sought in this application, and such requirements are made a condition of this approval. These include, but are not limited to, all requirements related to building permits, encroachment permits, grading permits, and sign permits; engineering review, landscaping review, water quality review, and plan review, generally, of proposed construction plans; accessibility, including accessibility required by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act; best management practices and other actions or improvements required by National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit(s); and, restrictions on parking, circulation, lighting, and noise.
4. This Sign Program does not eliminate the need to obtain building permits, encroachment permits, grading permits, or sign permits, nor does it include any action or finding as to compliance or approval of any other applicable federal, state or local ordinance, regulation, rule, or requirement.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 2 of 14
5. This Sign Program does not include any approval for signage, nor does it represent or imply that any signage proposed in connection with this application, or at any time in the future, will or will not be approved by the City.
6. Public Safety Services: In the event of repeated or disproportionately high numbers of calls for law enforcement or other public safety service, or based upon input from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (or successor law enforcement agency) or surrounding residents or businesses, the City Manager may require, at his/her/their discretion, that the Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies provide at their own cost additional on-site security and/or safety measures, as may be reasonably calculated to address situations or circumstances leading to or causing such increased calls for service, or complaints or comments from surrounding residents or businesses. For the purpose of this condition, “repeated or disproportionately high numbers of calls” shall be determined following the nuisance abatement procedure set forth in Laguna Woods Municipal Code Chapter 1.08, as may change from time to time, with the City Council’s declaration of a public nuisance required. Use of this remedy shall be at the sole discretion of the City and nothing in this condition shall prevent the City from initiating civil, criminal, or other legal or equitable proceedings as an alternative to the procedure outlined herein.
7. Inspection: City staff, or their authorized representatives, shall have the right to access and enter the property to which this Sign Program applies to make reasonable Owner- or occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies-authorized scheduled inspections, or unscheduled inspections in areas otherwise open to the public, to observe and enforce compliance with the conditions imposed herein.
Except for inspections meant to investigate matters that would constitute imminent threats to public health, safety, or welfare, or inspections authorized by a court order, the City shall make reasonable efforts to request inspections of areas that are not open to the public at least seventy-two (72) hours in advance.
8. Responsibility for Costs Incurred: In accordance with policies adopted by the City, the Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies shall be responsible for costs incurred as a result of local law enforcement, public safety, or code enforcement investigation/inspection that results in a finding of violation of any applicable laws and/or conditions imposed herein.
9. Modification of Conditions of Approval: Any request to modify conditions imposed herein shall be made in accordance with policies adopted by the City at the time such request is made.
10. Revocation: This Sign Program may be revoked in accordance with Laguna Woods Municipal Code Section 13.24.080, as may change from time to time, for any of the reasons set forth therein, which include, but are not necessarily limited to, failure to comply with any condition imposed herein.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 3 of 14
11. Transfer: In the event of transfer of the property to which this Sign Program pertains, the transferee shall, prior to exercising the rights granted hereunder, arrange and attend a conference with the City to review the conditions imposed herein, and document the manner in which activities will occur and the manner in which conditions imposed herein will be met. The transferee may, alternatively, file with the City a signed letter confirming receipt of these conditions, prior to exercising the rights granted hereunder. In either case, the Owner’s obligations with respect to this condition are satisfied by consenting to the recordation of these conditions in the office of the Clerk-Recorder for the County of Orange.
12. Termination: Upon approval, this Sign Program shall become null and void (A) upon failure to obtain all necessary building permits to construct this project within 365 calendar days of the date this Sign Program is approved, (B) upon the expiration of any building permit, due to inactivity, obtained to construct this project, or (C) after this project has been constructed, 365 calendar days after such time the approved use at the property to which this Sign Program applies ceases to be operated as noted by lapse of California Department of Tax & Fee Administration (or successor agency) permit or date documented by City staff following site verification of abandonment or discontinuance. The City Manager may grant an extension of up to 365 calendar days to obtain any necessary building permit upon a showing of financial hardship or other adequate justification by the applicant, and provided the associated building plans comply with the then-current Laguna Woods Municipal Code and California Building Standards Code at the time the building permit(s) is(are) issued. Nothing in this condition is intended to, nor will be interpreted by the City, as limiting the ability for City-issued permits to be extended as allowed by applicable law.
13. Indemnification: The Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies, and successor(s) in interest, shall as a condition of issuance of this approval, at its sole expense, defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City and its respective elected and appointed boards, officials, officers, agents, employees and volunteers (“INDEMNITEES”) from any claim, action, or proceeding against the INDEMNITEES to attach, set aside, void or annul an approval of the City Council or other decision-making body, or staff action concerning this Sign Program approval, or its implementation, except when occurring solely as a result of the negligent or willful acts or omissions of the INDEMNITEES. The Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies shall pay all of the City’s defense costs incurred by counsel of the City’s choosing, and shall reimburse the City for any and all court costs and other parties’ attorney fees that the City may be required by a court to pay as a result of such defense. The Owner and occupant(s) of the property to which this Sign Program applies may at their sole discretion participate in the defense of any such action under this condition, with its own counsel.
14. Requirement to Acknowledge Conditions of Approval: The Owner shall sign and have notarized (acknowledgement) the “Owner Acknowledgement of Conditions of ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 4 of 14
Approval for Sign Amendment Program SP-2026-0002” and return one wet-signed original to the City Manager with a copy of a recordable legal description of all affected properties in form acceptable to the City Manager.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
15. Standard Condition of Approval #5 is deleted and does not apply to this Sign Program.
16. Exhibit A (Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002) is included herein and incorporated by reference including, without exception, all of the requirements set forth therein as notes, standards, and details. Full compliance with Exhibit A is required. Exhibit A and these conditions of approval amend Sign Program SP-547, in its entirety, and replace the corresponding documents in Sign Program SP-547.
17. The signs erected and maintained pursuant to the Sign Program shall not, at any time, create an actual or reasonably foreseeable nuisance for properties located within line of sight, passing motorists, or any other party including, but not limited to, any nuisance caused either entirely or in part by the brightness, intensity, or direction of sign illumination. The Owner(s) and occupant(s) shall take all steps necessary to prevent and immediately resolve such situations and shall immediately implement any direction received by the City Council or City Manager, which may include, but not necessarily be limited to, any or all of the following:
a) Reducing the intensity or brightness of sign illumination; b) Installing additional shielding or filters for illuminated signs; and/or c) Dimming or turning off the illumination on signs at certain times.
For the purpose of this condition, “reasonably foreseeable” shall include any determination made based upon the judgement and discretion of the City Council or City Manager. City staff’s discretion shall not be directed toward the content or wording of signage.
18. All signs erected and maintained pursuant to the Sign Program shall be kept clean, complete, and in good structural and functional working order, and shall not be allowed to fall into a state of disrepair, damage, or decrepitude.
19. No sign erected and maintained pursuant to the Sign Program shall flash, blink, rotate, engage in any motion, or emit any noise.
20. Exhibit A is structured in a manner to allow for different signage based on the number of tenants occupying space within the building at the Project Location, as may change from time to time. Signage identified as “Option 1” is only permitted if there are three separate tenants occupying space within the building. Signage identified as “Option 2” is only permitted if there are one or two separate tenants occupying space within ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 5 of 14
the building. If there is only one tenant occupying the space within the building, that tenant shall only be permitted to utilize either the signage identified in Option 2 as “Anchor Tenant” or “Tenant” – not both or a combination thereof.
Irrespective of option, the “Anchor Tenant” signage to be utilized, it must be utilized by only the “Anchor Tenant” as that term is defined in Condition of Approval #21.
The “potential separating wall” shown on Exhibit A, Page 1 of 7 and the interior walls shown on Exhibit A, Page 2 of 7 are shown for conceptual purposes only and do not limit the Owner’s ability to demise the building.
21. For purposes of this Sign Program, the “Anchor Tenant” shall always be the tenant that takes access from the entrance at the southeast corner of the building at the Project Location. Prior to any other tenant taking access from that same entrance, this Sign Program shall be amended to clarify the extent, type, allocation, and design of signage permitted on the south elevation of the building at the Project Location.
22. Exhibit A, Page 5 of 7 depicts changes to the façade, windows, and doors on the south elevation of the Project Location based on the number of wall signs constructed on that same elevation. Those depictions shall guide the design of the south elevation and be substantially consistent with the final as-built condition of the south elevation, excepting only changes necessitated by compliance with Conditions of Approval #3 and #4. No signage identified as “Tenant” signage is permitted to be installed on the south elevation until the corresponding façade, window, and door changes have been constructed and the corresponding building permit(s) finaled.
23. The outer surfaces of the base, body, caps, and trim of the monument sign depicted on Exhibit A, Page 6 of 7 shall be color matched to the building at the Project Location.
The same color must be used on all non-sign face elements of the monument sign.
24. No tree located at the Project Location and visible, in whole or in part, from El Toro Road shall be removed without first obtaining an International Society of Arboriculture (“ISA”) Certified Arborist’s recommendation to do so based on health or safety. A copy of the ISA Certified Arborist’s recommendation shall be provided to the City at least 30 calendar days in advance of the planned removal, unless an ISA Certified Arborist determines that immediate removal is required due to health or safety, in which case, a copy of such determination shall be provided to the City no later than 5:00 p.m. on the first business day after removal. Trees that have been removed shall be replaced in the same location with the same species or a species consistent with any objective design standards for commercial development that the City may prospectively adopt.
Trees shall be minimum thirty-six (36) inch box size at the time of installation. This Condition of Approval shall not apply in the event that the Property Location is the subject of a discretionary development application that includes landscape review and/or the application of any objective design standards for commercial development ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 6 of 14
that the City may prospectively adopt.
25. References to “The Artist Tree” in the Sign Program are for reference only and do not limit the occupancy of the Project Location or application of this Sign Program.
26. The parking/regulatory signs identified in the Sign Program are for reference only and are not a part of the Sign Program approval or subject to these conditions of approval. [EXHIBIT A BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE]
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 7 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 1 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 8 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 2 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 9 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 3 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 10 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 4 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 11 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 5 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 12 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 6 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 13 of 14
EXHIBIT A – PAGE 7 OF 7
Note: A larger version of this exhibit is available at or from City’s City Clerk’s Office.
ITEM 8.1 – Exhibit B to Attachment A
SP-2026-0002 Conditions of Approval | Page 14 of 14
OWNER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL FOR
SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT SP-2026-0002 (“ACKNOWLEDGEMENT”)
1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL. The person or persons executing this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT on behalf of the Owner has reviewed all Conditions of Approval for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002 and has had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel regarding them as the Owner has deemed appropriate.
2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT is to ensure the Owner is aware of the Conditions of Approval for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002, which “run with the land.” References to “Owner” in the Conditions of Approval for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0002 are not intended to, and will not be interpreted by the City as, conferring any additional legal responsibility or liability upon the Owner beyond that which otherwise exists in applicable law, or otherwise changing the Owner’s existing legal obligations.
3. RECORDATION. The person or persons executing this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT on behalf of the Owner consents to the recordation of the Conditions of Approval for Sign Program Amendment SP-2026-0001, including this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, in the office of the Clerk-Recorder for the County of Orange.
4. AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE. The person or persons executing this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT on behalf of the Owner represents and warrants that he/she/they has/have the authority to so execute this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT and to bind the Owner to its obligations hereunder.
5. SEVERABILITY. If any term, condition or covenant of this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT is declared or determined by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions of this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT shall not be affected thereby and the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT shall be read and construed without the invalid, void or unenforceable provision(s).
Property Owner – MANP Laguna Woods, LLC
Signature: Date:
Full Name: Title:
SIGNATURE MUST BE NOTARIZED; ATTACH ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.
Vicinity Map for Sign Program SP-2026-0002 0 100 200
Feet
Source: Nearmap, City of Laguna Woods
El Toro Rd
Via Campo Verde
Calle
S
o
nora
Calle Sonora
Town
Ce
ntre
Legend
Laguna Woods Boundary
24330 El Toro Road, APN 621-211-05
Parcels
ITEM 8.2 - Attachment B
This page is intentionally blank.
9.1 CANNABIS MICROBUSINESSES
(AGENDIZED BY COUNCILMEMBER HORNE)
This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 9.1
CC 10-21-2026 Item 9.1 – Page 1 of 1
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Shari L. Horne, Councilmember
FOR: October 21, 2026 City Council Meeting
SUBJECT: Cannabis Microbusinesses
(agendized by Councilmember Horne)
Recommendation
1. Direct the City Manager to draft an ordinance for future consideration by the City Council that would – if adopted by the City Council at a future meeting – authorize the operation of cannabis microbusinesses (California Department of Cannabis Control License Type 12) of less than 2,000 square feet that engage in the manufacturing (use of non-volatile solvents, mechanical extraction, and/or infusion only; no volatile solvent extraction), distribution, and non-storefront retail sale (delivery only; no in-person transactions) of cannabis and cannabis products. No cultivation of cannabis would be allowed.; and
2. Direct the City Manager to draft a resolution for future consideration by the City Council that would – if adopted by the City Council at a future meeting – set the rate of the cannabis business tax authorized by Measure T (Ordinance No. 22-01) for microbusinesses at the higher of the following: (a) 10% of gross receipts received or generated from sales for each monthly reporting period, or (b) $35.00 per square foot of floor area (annual tax rate) prorated monthly to one-twelfth of the annual tax rate amount.
Attachment: A – California Code of Regulations Section 15500 (Microbusiness) This page is intentionally blank.
ITEM 9.1 - Attachment A
ITEM 9.1 - Attachment A