Norco City Council
October 21, 2026

80 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |81 Chapter 3 COMMUNITY VISION AND PRIORITIES
Example of potential campus development (Pasadena, CA). Example of potential development (Pasadena, CA).

H. Wyle Laboratories Site1. Vision and IntentThe Wyle Laboratories site—a 429-acre undeveloped special planning area located in the Norco Hills—is a unique part of Norco’s built and natural environment (see Figure 3.20 | Wyle Laboratories Site Existing Context). Formerly an aerospace rocket testing facility that operated from 1957 to 2004, the site is now largely undeveloped, with most of the original buildings removed. The Wyle Laboratories site is envisioned as a thoughtfully planned destination that accommodates nonresidential uses while respecting the site’s natural features, surrounding neighborhoods, and Norco’s unique character. Any future development or reuse of the Wyle Laboratories site should be guided by a comprehensive Specific Plan that establishes a cohesive vision for the site and addresses land use, development intensity, site design, circulation, infrastructure, open space, environmental stewardship, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. Potential uses include a high-quality office, research and development (R&D), or light industrial campus; an equestrian-oriented resort offering visitors opportunities to experience Norco through guided trail rides and other outdoor activities; or other complementary recreational, hospitality, or commercial uses that thoughtfully integrate with the site’s natural topography and landscape.

2. Opportunities and StrategiesThis section identifies key community priorities and strategies to consider as part of the future reuse of this site. These concepts do not represent a formal development or revitalization plan, but are intended to illustrate potential outcomes and inform the policy direction for the area provided in Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element and Chapter 8 | Open Space and Conservation Element.

Future planning for the Wyle Laboratories site should consider the following studies and placemaking strategies:a. Preparation of Market Study. Conduct a comprehensive market study to evaluate market demand, economic feasibility, and appropriate uses that could be successfully supported on the site while advancing the City’s longterm vision. b. Compatible, Active New Uses. Introduce uses that are consistent with the intent of the Preservation and Development (PAD) land use designation and well-suited to the site’s natural open space, topography, and surrounding context. Potential uses could include a world-class resort destination with a bluff-top restaurant, recreational amenities, day spa, equestrian facilities, and open space amenities; a commercial or office park or corporate campus; or other complementary hospitality, recreational, commercial, or employment uses that enhance Norco’s character. c. Limited Development Footprint. Concentrate development within the flatter portions of the site and areas with fewer significant topographic and natural constraints. Maintain substantial open space buffers between new development and adjacent neighborhoods to minimize visual, noise, traffic, and other potential impacts. d. Preservation and Restoration of Existing Landforms and Natural Habitats. Preserve and restore valuable site features, including the existing creek, hillsides, and other significant natural areas as open space. Establish a long-term framework for conservation and stewardship, including the dedication or transfer of a minimum of 150 acres to an open space and habitat conservancy. e. Expansion of Norco Hills Trail Network. Create new public trails along the creek and through appropriate portions of the site, providing connections to the existing Norco Hills trail network and expanding opportunities for walking, equestrian use, and access to the site’s natural landscape. f. Vehicular Access. Provide primary vehicular access to the site from Norco Hills Road, with secondary access to be considered from Valley Drive, while minimizing traffic impacts on surrounding residential neighborhoods.

City of
Corona
Hidden Valley idden Valley
Golf Club olf Club
Norco Hills orco Hills
Wyle
Laboratories Site aboratories Site
City of
Norco
Norco Hills Rd Norco Hills Rd
Parkview
Dr
Parkview
Valley Dr Valley Dr
Hillside Ave Hillside Ave
FIGURE 3.20 | WYLE LABORATORIES SITE EXISTING CONTEXT

FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |83 Chapter 4LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTIn This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84B. State Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84C. Objective Development Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85D. Land Use and Community Character Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

1. Residential Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .902. Commercial Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .923. Industrial Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .944. Open Space Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .955. Public Facilities Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .966. Housing Development Overlay (HDO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .977. Preservation and Development (PAD) Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .988. Preservation and Development - Norconian (PAD-NOR) Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .999. Specific Plan (SP) Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 E. Goals and Polices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
Land Use &Community CharacterElement

CHAPTER

84 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |85 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTA. IntroductionThe purpose of the Land Use and Community Character Element is to ensure that future private development and public improvements are planned, coordinated, and designed in a manner that preserves Norco’s lifestyle—including the development patterns, design character, land uses, activities, and services that support it—for current and future generations. The City of Norco was incorporated to preserve its agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle and rural, equestrianoriented atmosphere, which continue to define its physical character and community identity. As the surrounding region urbanizes, maintaining Norco’s distinct physical and cultural identity becomes increasingly important. The Land Use and Community Character (LUCC) Element establishes goals and policies to preserve and strengthen Norco’s defining qualities through the built environment, prioritizing maintenance, preservation, enhancement, improvement, and targeted placemaking in key areas so Norco can evolve while remaining true to its core values. It reflects what Norconians value and provides direction to ensure the City’s core values remain central to decision-making.B. State Legal RequirementsCalifornia law requires that General Plans include a land use element or section that designates the proposed general distribution, location, and extent of land uses for housing, business, industry, open space, agriculture, natural resources, recreation, and the preservation and enjoyment of scenic beauty. To sustain and enhance places that reflect Norco’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage, these land use decisions shall be made with clear and deliberate consideration of community character, ensuring that future development aligns with and reinforces the City’s identity and long-term vision.Accordingly, the Land Use and Community Character Element shall:
■ Promote a balanced and functional mix of land uses, including revenue-generating uses, that are consistent with Norco’s core values and sustain the amenities and services that are integral to Norco’s unique lifestyle ■ Include standards for population density and building intensity planned for each land use designation covered by the General Plan
■ Provide for the growth of employment opportunities and housing in keeping with community goals and priorities, State law, and consistent with planned infrastructure and service capacities ■ Guide public and private investments to be consistent with Norco’s unique community character■ Respond to land use opportunities and constraints identified in the other Elements of the General Plan■ Reduce loss of life, injuries, damage to property, and economic and social dislocation resulting from flooding, wildfire, and other hazards
Through its goals and policies, the Land Use and Community Character Element guides City departments, the public, developers, property owners, and decision makers, while clearly conveying Norco’s community vision, priorities, and core values—expressed through the built environment in each unique area of the city—to current and future residents, businesses, and developers.

C. Objective Development
Standards
In November 2025, the City Council adopted Objective Development Standards (ODS) to guide the evaluation of multi-family residential and mixed-use development applications and to provide direction to developers and property owners on key design components. These standards are intended to streamline the project approval process, encourage housing and mixed-use development that is compatible with surrounding neighborhoods and the overall character of the City of Norco, and ensure a high level of design quality and appropriate site planning. In addition to multi-family housing and mixed-use projects that include housing, the ODS apply to all new buildings within the City’s commercial, industrial, and public facilities designations. Important ODS design components are:
■ Agrarian Architectural Design. Architectural design is influenced by Norco’s agrarian heritage and features simple designs that are inspired by traditional agricultural structures, often incorporating elements of traditional farmhouses, barns, stables, and agricultural buildings. The overall character has rustic charm and emphasizes a mix of natural materials, such as wood, stone, brick, and metal, with a focus on functionality, practicality, authenticity, and durability. ■ Connected Development. Each new increment of development provides all possible street, trail, and open space connections to existing adjoining residential or commercial development and provides for future connections into any adjoining parcels. ■ Expansion and Completion of Norco’s Trail Network. New development introduces missing gaps in Norco’s trail network.
■ Public Realm Activation. Buildings are located at the front of the lot with pedestrian access to buildings from the street or a common open space that connects to the street. On-site parking is located behind or next to buildings. ■ Shared Agricultural / Equestrian Amenities. New development supports and creates opportunities for participation in Norco’s lifestyle, including but not limited to:+ Pedestrian-equestrian trails + Community gardens provided as active shared community space+ Produce- and fruit-bearing landscaping, such as fruit trees, bushes, and vines, in formal and passive open spaces, parking lots, or landscape setbacks
+ Shared equestrian stables and other facilities+ All such amenities are actively managed and maintained either though a Home Owners Association (HOA), an apartment management company, or other private partnership ■ Neighborhood Transitions. New development provides appropriate transitions in scale, building type, and density to surrounding development patterns.
■ Noise Buffering. To foster a pedestrian-friendly environment, new buildings face the sidewalk and use sounddampening materials or site design to buffer noise from busy streets, rather than relying on solid sound walls.

86 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |87 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTD. Land Use and Community Character Plan
This section establishes the land use designations that guide the distribution, type, intensity, and character of development envisioned for Norco’s future preservation and growth. The land use designations incorporate the vision, intent, opportunities, and challenges identified in Chapter 3 | Community Vision and Priorities and integrate the community character attributes described in Chapter 2 | Community Profile and Core Valuesinto the land use and development intensity framework required by State law. Rather than relying solely on conventional use and intensity categories, the General Plan incorporates the defining qualities of Norco’s distinct environments—its “types of places”—so that each designation reflects both its allowable uses and the unique character that shapes development expectations in that area. Figure 4.1 | Land Use Map shows the locations of each land use designation and Table 4.1 | Land Use Designation Standards provides a summary of the vision and intent of each land use designation, along with the allowed development intensities, maximum building heights, and allowed land uses within each designation. Subsections 1 through 8 of this Section provide more detail and describe the intended community character attributes of each designation.

Open Space Designations
OS (Open Space)
LegendFIGURE 4.1 | LAND USE MAP
Residential DesignationsCommercial Designations
Special Designations
RA (Residential Agricultural)RL (Residential Low Density)CG (Commercial General)CC (Commercial Community) HDO (Housing Development Overlay)PAD (Preservation and Development) Boundaries
Norco City BoundarySphere of InfluenceSpecific Plan Boundary Industrial Designations
I (Industrial)SP (Specific Plan)
HS (Hillside Areas)
Public Facilities Designations
PF (Public Facilities)
Example of agrarian architecture in a Housing Development Overlay (HDO).

Example of animal keeping on a Residential Agricultural (RA) property.

Example of agrarian architecture in a Commercial (CG or CC) Example of Open Space (OS)area.

PAD-NOR (Preservation and Development - Norconian)
N

88 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |89 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENT
Notes1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

AbbreviationsDUA = Dwelling Units per AcreFAR = Floor Area RatioCUP = Conditional Use Permit 2 Density bonus may permit up to 35 DUA (Norco Municipal Code, Chapter 18.65 | Residential Density Bonus Provisions).3 In the HDO, the maximum height may only be reached at least 100 feet from the project site boundary. Maximum height shall be further limited within 100 feet of site edges per the Objective Development Standards (ODS).

TABLE 4.1 | LAND USE DESIGNATION STANDARDS
Designation Intent Des.

Standards
Maximum Density Maximum Height1 Allowed Land Uses
Residential
Agricultural (RA)
To provide for the development of agricultural and animal-keeping oriented living areas that maintain contiguous undeveloped open land on each and every residential lot. RA 2.0 DUA 2.5 stories or 35 feet Residential: Single-Family Agricultural: Animal Keeping, Nurseries, Greenhouse, Orchards, Horticultural OperationsPublic: Parks and recreation uses, natural features, community amenities, trails Hillside Areas
(HS)
To provide for the development of agricultural, open space, recreational, and/or low-density residential uses, subject to the preparation of a specific plan, in a manner that recognizes the unique character and challenges of hillside development, including minimizing mass grading.

HS 2.0 DUA 2.5 stories or 35 feet
Residential Low
Density (RL) To maintain the single-family residential character of residential lots. RL 4.4 DUA 2.5 stories or 35 feet Residential: Single-Family Commercial
General (CG)
To support a wide range of community- and regional-serving commercial and hospitality uses that take advantage of highway proximity. CG 0.75 FAR 2 stories or 35 feet; 4 stories or 50 feet with CUP Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Hospitality Commercial
Community (CC)
To support local, community-serving commercial uses, especially those supporting Norco’s agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle. CC 0.6 FAR 2 stories or 35 feet
2 stories or 25 feet within 20 feet
of A-1 Zone
Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Hospitality Industrial (I)
To provide areas for light manufacturing, warehousing, research, and related activities that strengthen Norco’s economy, and to ensure development is compatible with surrounding uses and consistent with Norco’s rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.

I 1.0 FAR
M-1 and M-2 Zones: 35 feet;
40 – 50 feet with CUP
M-3 Zone: 35 feet; 40 feet to
hide rooftop equipment; 20 feet
within 75 feet of Pacific Avenue
Industrial: Light Industrial, ManufacturingCommercial: Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Commercial Services that support primary uses Open Spaces
(OS)
To conserve Norco’s natural and riparian areas to protect ecological health, enhance recreation, preserve scenic quality, and maintain a balanced relationship between the built and natural environments; ensure the provision of land for parks, athletic fields, recreational facilities, equestrian amenities, and event venues that support a range of indoor and outdoor activities, from passive recreation to active community and regional events; and promote the preservation and enhancement of the trail network within open space areas to provide recreational access, strengthen connectivity, and support continuous equestrian circulation throughout the city.

OS
Natural Open Space:

0.01 FAR
Parks & Recreation:

0.05 FAR
Regional Recreation/
Sports Complex:

0.15 FAR
No requirements
Public: Parks and recreation uses, including recreation facilities (playgrounds, athletic fields and courts, paths, trails, fitness equipment); natural features (open green spaces, water features); and community amenities (shelters, pavilions, benches, seating, public restrooms, dog parks, outdoor event spaces, indoor gyms, visitor center buildings) Public Facilities
(PF)
To support the development of public facilities owned and operated by government, quasigovernment, and public utility agencies with uses that serve the general public, and to identify locations for public utility infrastructure (e.g., electrical substations, sewer lift stations, storm drain conveyance channels).

PF 0.6 FAR 35 feet
Public: Government or quasi-public buildings or facilities, active and passive recreational facilities, schools, public utility facilities Housing
Development evelopment
Overlay (HDO) verlay (HDO)
To enable the introduction of new multi-family housing in standalone and mixed-use configurations on vacant or underutilized sites where multi-family housing is not permitted by the underlying land use designation.

HDO
Residential: 30 DUA2
Commercial: 0.3 FAR
4 stories or 48 feet,
whichever is less3
Residential: Multi-family in freestanding or mixed-use configurationCommercial: Retail, Restaurant, Services, Office, HospitalityPublic: Parks and Recreation Preservation and
Development
(PAD)
To manage the development through a specific planning process of large sites in a way that protects and highlights Norco’s unique natural landscapes and open spaces. PAD 0.6 FAR 35 feet Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Hospitality, ResortPublic: Parks and Recreation Preservation and reservation and
Development evelopment
- Norconian Norconian
(PAD-NOR) PAD-NOR)
To manage development of the Norconian Resort Site through a specific planning process in a way that protects and highlights the site’s unique topography and historical buildings and landscapes.

PADNOR Residential: 20 DUA Commercial: 0.6 FAR 3 stories or 40 feet, whichever is less3 Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Hospitality, ResortResidential: Single-Family, Multi-FamilyPublic: Parks and Recreation Specific Plan
(SP)
To govern master-planned development governed by an adopted specific plan that establishes land use and development regulations, circulation and infrastructure requirements, and implementation measures. Applies to areas governed by the Norco Ridge Ranch Specific Plan (NRRSP) and Norco Hills Specific Plan (NHSP).

SP
NRRSP: 0.6 DUA
NHSP: 0.9 DUA
35 feet
Residential: Single-FamilyPublic: Parks and Recreation

90 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |91 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENT1. Residential DesignationsThe purpose of the Residential Designations are to preserve and enhance Norco’s distinctive neighborhood character and atmosphere. To meet this objective, the General Plan establishes three residential land use designations:
■ Residential Agricultural (RA): To provide for the development of agricultural and animal-keeping oriented living areas that maintain contiguous undeveloped open land on each and every residential lot. ■ Hillside Areas (HS): To provide for the development of agricultural, open space, recreational, and/or low-density residential uses, subject to the preparation of a specific plan, in a manner that recognizes the unique character and challenges of hillside development, including minimizing mass grading. ■ Residential Low Density (RL): To provide for the development of single-family residential areas that accommodate family living.

Table 4.2 | Residential Agricultural (RA), Table 4.3 | Hillside Areas (HS), and Table 4.4 | Residential Low Density (RL) detail applicable land use standards and community character objectives. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

TABLE 4.2 | RESIDENTIAL AGRICULTURAL (RA)Maximum Density 2.0 Dwelling Units per AcreMaximum Height1 2.5 stories or 35 feetAllowed Land Uses Residential: Single-FamilyAgricultural: Animal-Keeping, Nurseries, Greenhouse, Orchards, Horticultural OperationsPublic: Parks and recreation uses, natural features, community amenities, trails Building Form, Placement, and Character
Homes line the street behind generous, landscaped front and side yards. Large rear yards are left predominantly open and provide space devoted to animal-keeping and/or agricultural use. Natural materials, such as stone and wood cladding, are prioritized, reflecting a traditional, agrarian, small-town aesthetic.

Private Frontage and Access
The main entrance to the residence, located within the front façade, is designed to welcome visitors and is accessed directly from the street through landscaped front yards, dooryards, stoops, terraces, porches, and other frontage elements that allow buildings to engage and look out to the street while maintaining privacy. Front yards may be enclosed with low fences, and/or low hedges. Stored equipment and large vehicles are located behind the setback line and screened from the view of the street.

Public Realm Network
A network of large, trail-lined blocks that provide comfortable and safe multi-modal connections to nearby schools, parks, recreational areas, businesses, and other amenities. Existing trails are preserved and completed where missing. Bike facilities are introduced as identified in the City of Norco’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan.

Public Realm Character
Streets are lined by curb and gutter and pedestrian-equestrian trails separated from the roadway by split-rail fences. Informal tree arrangements are planted to further accentuate Norco’s character.

TABLE 4.3 | HILLSIDE AREAS (HS)Maximum Density 2.0 Dwelling Units per AcreMaximum Height1 2.5 stories or 35 feetAllowed Land Uses Residential: Single-FamilyAgricultural: Animal-Keeping, Nurseries, Greenhouse, Orchards, Horticultural OperationsPublic: Parks and recreation uses, natural features, community amenities, trails Building Form, Placement, and Character
Homes, typically part of a planned development, line the street behind modest landscaped front, side, and rear yards. For street-facing garages, garage door openings are set back behind primary house façade, rotated 90 degrees to street, and/or comprise 40% or less of street-facing building facade.

Private Frontage and Access
The main entrance to the residence, located within the front façade, is designed to welcome visitors, and is accessed directly from the street through landscaped front yards, dooryards, stoops, terraces, porches, and other frontage elements that allow buildings to engage and look out to the street while maintaining privacy. Front yards may be enclosed with low fences, and/or low hedges.

Public Realm Network
A network of large blocks that provide connections to nearby schools, parks, recreational areas, businesses, and other amenities.

Public Realm Character
Streets are lined by curb and gutter and pedestrian-equestrian trails separated from the roadway by split-rail fences. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

TABLE 4.4 | RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY (RL)Maximum Density 4.4 Dwelling Units per AcreMaximum Height1 2.5 stories or 35 feetAllowed Land Uses Residential: Single-FamilyBuilding Form, Placement, and Character Homes are generally set back from the street with deep front, side, and rear setbacks. Grading is strictly limited to the bare minimum necessary for access or cultivation. Buildings conform to the natural terrain.

Private Frontage and Access
The main entrance to the residence, located within the front façade, is designed to welcome visitors, and is accessed directly from the street through landscaped front yards, dooryards, stoops, terraces, porches, and other frontage elements that allow buildings to engage and look out to the street while maintaining privacy.

Public Realm Network
A network of large blocks that conforms to the natural terrain, minimizing grading, and preserving natural landforms.

Public Realm Character
Streets are lined by curb and gutter and equestrian trails separated from the roadway by split-rail fences.

92 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |93 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENT2. Commercial DesignationsThe purpose of the Commercial Designations are to support the City’s objectives to expand local commerce to enhance resident access to essential goods and services, expand local employment opportunities, strengthen the local tax base, improve visual quality, and establish Norco as a unique visitor destination. To support these objectives, the General Plan establishes two unique commercial designations:
■ Commercial Community (CC): To support local, community-serving commercial uses, especially those supporting Norco’s agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle. ■ Commercial General (CG): To support a wide range of community- and regional-serving commercial and hospitality uses that benefit from highway proximity.

Table 4.5 | Commercial General (CG) and Table 4.6 | Commercial Community (CC) detail applicable land use standards and community character objectives.

TABLE 4.5 | COMMERCIAL GENERAL (CG)Maximum Density 0.75 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height1 2 stories or 35 feet 4 stories or 50 feet with Conditional Use Permit Allowed Land Uses Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Hospitality Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings are located behind landscaped front yards and built to the setback line. Surface parking lots are located behind or to the side of buildings, well shaded with trees, and screened from adjacent residential neighborhoods with landscaping. On-street parking is provided along streets wherever possible.

Private Frontage and Access
Businesses activate the adjacent sidewalk with entries and shopfronts where appropriate. Parking lots are screened from adjacent streets by landscaped, tree-lined setbacks. Pad buildings2 are accessed directly from adjacent sidewalk through shopfronts with secondary entry from parking lot.

Public Realm Network
The scale of the existing block network is reduced and made more walkable through the introduction of parking aisles lined by sidewalks and trees or tree-lined pedestrian walkways that connect primary buildings to the street and to adjoining properties. Driveways are consolidated to minimize curb cuts and improve safety. Bike facilities are introduced as identified in the City of Norco’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan.

Public Realm Character
Streets along Hamner Avenue and River Road are lined by sidewalks that—to the greatest extent possible—are separated from the roadway by street trees planted either in tree wells or continuous planters. Street tree species selected and/or pruned to maintain clear visibility of ground floor shop and restaurant signage from the street. Street lighting illuminates roadway and adjacent sidewalk, while preserving dark skies. Adjacent corridor (Hamner Avenue) accommodates buses and/or bicycles, as applicable per Chapter 5 | Circulation Element.

TABLE 4.6 | COMMERCIAL COMMUNITY (CC)Maximum Density 0.6 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height1 2 stories or 35 feet 2 stories or 25 feet within 20 feet of A-1 ZoneAllowed Land Uses Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, HospitalityBuilding Form, Placement, and Character Buildings are located behind large, landscaped front yards and built to setback line walkways that provide access between parking lots and/or adjacent buildings. Surface parking lots are located behind or to the side of buildings, well shaded with trees, and screened from adjacent residential neighborhoods with landscaping. Buildings are designed to reflect Norco’s character.

Private Frontage and Access
Businesses face streets with entries and Shopfronts facing walkways that run parallel to the setback line. Parking lots are screened from adjacent streets by landscaped, tree-lined setbacks.

Public Realm Network
The existing interconnected street and block network is preserved. Pedestrian walkways between adjacent buildings and/or properties are located adjacent to the building setback line. Driveways are consolidated to minimize curbs cuts, improve safety, and reduce paving across trails.

Public Realm Character
Streets are lined by pedestrian-equestrian trails separated from the roadway by split-rail fences and large canopy street trees. Street tree species selected and/or pruned to enable visibility of ground floor shop and restaurant signage from street. Street lighting design reflects Norco’s character and preserves dark skies. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure. 2 A freestanding building located on an individual pad site within or adjacent to a larger shopping center or commercial development, typically situated near street frontages or parking areas and occupied by a single tenant or a small number of tenants, such as restaurants, banks, coffee shops, or retail stores. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

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TABLE 4.8 | OPEN SPACE (OS)Maximum Density Natural Open Space: 0.01 Floor Area Ratio; Parks & Recreation: 0.05 Floor Area Ratio: Regional Recreation/Sports Complex: 0.15 Floor Area Ratio Maximum Height No requirementsAllowed Land Uses Public: Parks and recreation uses, including recreation facilities (playgrounds, athletic fields and courts, paths, trails, fitness equipment); natural features (open green spaces, water features); and community amenities (shelters, pavilions, benches, seating, public restrooms, dog parks, outdoor event spaces, indoor gyms, visitor center buildings).

Building Form, Placement, and Character
Building placement, orientation, height, and massing, and development intensities of community center buildings, gymnasiums, and other recreational buildings determined according to existing site conditions and relationship to adjacent buildings and land uses.

Private Frontage and Access
Parks: Visibility maintained from one side of the park or plaza to the other from adjacent streets, sidewalks, and trails. Surrounding buildings front parks or plazas with windows and entries. Adjacent pedestrian crosswalks align with park and plaza access points via accessible paths. Any parking lots located along street frontages screened from view of street with low walls and/or plantings.Natural Open Space: New adjacent buildings oriented towards natural open space, preferably separated from open space by public street or trail. Parking lots, services, trash enclosures of adjacent development prohibited from facing natural open space.

Public Realm Network
Parks: Surrounding streets coordinated with street and block network according to adjacent land use designations.Natural Open Space: Limited streets—only as necessary for passing through open spaces or providing access to public amenities, such as equestrian staging areas.

Public Realm Character
Parks: Trail, sidewalk, and street tree placement along any adjacent streets according to the surrounding or adjacent land use designation(s).Natural Open Space: Trail entries coordinated with adjacent trails and pedestrian crossings.

4. Open Space DesignationThe purpose of the Open Space (OS) Designation is to conserve Norco’s natural and riparian areas to conserve ecological health, enhance recreational opportunities, safeguard scenic quality, continue to protect open space via mechanisms such as open space dedication and conservation easements, and maintain a balanced relationship between the built and natural environments. The designation also ensures the provision of land for parks, athletic fields, recreational facilities, equestrian recreation areas, and event venues that support a full range of indoor and outdoor activities, from passive recreation to active community and regional events. In addition, it promotes the preservation and enhancement of the trail network within Norco’s open space areas to provide recreational access, strengthen connectivity, and support continuous equestrian circulation throughout the community.Table 4.8 | Open Space (OS) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives. For goals and policies directing the maintenance, management, and funding of Norco’s parks, recreational facilities, event centers, and programs, see Chapter 6 | Infrastructure and Facilities Element. For goals and policies governing the conservation and management of Norco’s natural open spaces and trails, see Chapter 8 | Open Space and Conservation Element. Open space incorporated into residential, commercial, and industrial development, such as courtyards, paseos, and landscape areas, are governed by the respective residential, commercial, and industrial designations (see Section D.1, Section D.2, and Section D.3 of this Chapter). However, where open space is set aside as natural habitat or a public park in conjunction with new development, an open space designation may be applied.

TABLE 4.7 | INDUSTRIAL (I)Maximum Density 1.0 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height1 M-1 and M-2 Zones: 35 feet; 40 – 50 feet with Conditional Use PermitM-3 Zone: 35 feet; 40 feet to hide rooftop equipment; 20 feet within 75 feet of Pacific Avenue Allowed Land Uses
Industrial: Light Industrial, ManufacturingCommercial: Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Commercial Services that support primary uses Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings are located behind small, landscaped setbacks and are designed to step down to adjacent lower density residential neighborhoods. Loading, service, and parking areas are located behind or next to buildings. On-street parking is provided along streets wherever possible.

Private Frontage and Access
Building entries, lobbies, office, and/or reception areas are oriented towards the street. Businesses activate the adjacent sidewalk with entries and shopfronts where appropriate. Parking lots are located along street frontages screened from view of street with low walls and/or plantings.

Public Realm Network Large blocks with streets designed to provide safe and functional access to industrial uses.Public Realm Character Streets lined by sidewalks located next to the roadway. Street lighting illuminates roadway and adjacent sidewalk, while preserving dark skies. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

3. Industrial DesignationThe purpose of the Industrial (I) Designation is to provide areas for light manufacturing, warehousing, research, and related activities that strengthen Norco’s economy, and to ensure development is compatible with surrounding uses and consistent with Norco’s rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.Table 4.7 | Industrial (I) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives.

96 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |97 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENT5. Public Facilities DesignationThe purpose of the Public Facilities (PF) Designation is to support the development of public facilities operated by government, quasi-government, and public utility agencies to serve the community, such as regulatory services, law enforcement, emergency response, social services, healthcare, and education, and to identify appropriate locations for essential public utility infrastructure, including electrical substations, sewer lift stations, and storm drain conveyance systems. Table 4.9 | Public Facilities (PF) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives. For goals and policies directing the maintenance, management, and funding of Norco’s public facilities, see Chapter 6 | Infrastructure and Facilities Element.

TABLE 4.9 | PUBLIC FACILITIES (PF)Maximum Density 0.6 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height 35 feetAllowed Land Uses Public: Government or quasi-public buildings or facilities, active, and passive recreational facilities, schools, and public utility facilitiesBuilding Form, Placement, and Character Building placement and orientation, frontage, building height and massing, development intensities, on-site open space, and on-site parking placement and access are determined according to the appropriateness of the location, existing site conditions, and design compatibility with adjacent land uses, building forms, and requirements of adjacent and surrounding land use designations. Building character generally relates to the local Norco character but may be unique, reflecting the identity of the particular institution.

Private Frontage and Access
Building entries are clearly visible and accessible from public streets and any adjacent publicly accessible open spaces.

Public Realm Network According to the surrounding or adjacent land use designations.Public Realm Character Because of the diversity of uses permitted in this designation, the relationship to the street and block network, presence of on-street parking, and design of trails, sidewalks, and streetscape will be consistent with adjacent and surrounding land use designation(s).

6. Housing Development Overlay (HDO)The purpose of the Housing Development Overlay (HDO) Designation is to enable the introduction of new multi-family housing in standalone and mixed-use configurations on vacant or underutilized sites where multifamily housing is not permitted by the underlying land use designation. Implemented by the City’s Objective Development Standards (ODS), new multi-family and mixed-use housing developed under the HDO is intended to be organized around a safe, attractive, well-connected and walkable public realm network, include a variety of shared agricultural and equestrian amenities, and provide buildings that reflect Norco’s character. Table 4.10 | Housing Development Overlay (HDO) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives for HDO designation.

TABLE 4.10 | HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY (HDO) ABLE 4.10 | HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY (HDO)Maximum Density Residential: 30 Dwelling Units per Acre1Commercial: 0.3 Floor Area Ratio Maximum Height2 4 stories or 48 feet, whichever is less3Allowed Land Uses Residential: Multi-familyCommercial: Retail, Restaurant, Cafe, Services, Office, HospitalityPublic: Parks and RecreationUses may be in freestanding or mixed-use buildings and projects Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings oriented towards street and semi-public and publicly-accessible open spaces. Buildings with residential ground floors set back from the sidewalk behind landscaped front yards. Buildings with retail and restaurant ground floors located at or near the back of sidewalk. Parking located behind buildings.

Private Frontage and Access
Pedestrian access to ground floor residential units directly from the sidewalk or common open spaces through porches, stoops, terraces, landscaped dooryards, or lobby entries. Pedestrian access to ground floor shops and restaurants directly from the sidewalk or publicly accessible open spaces through shopfronts. Pedestrian access to upper floors through lobbies.

Public Realm Network
Interconnected tree-lined, pedestrian- and equestrian-friendly street and trail network that connects to major streets and adjacent neighborhoods.

Public Realm Character
Residential Ground Floors: Sidewalks separated from roadway by street trees and continuous planters.Non-Residential Ground Floors: Wide sidewalks with street trees planted in tree wells or continuous planters. Street tree species selected and/or pruned to enable visibility of ground floor shop and restaurant signage from street. 1 Density bonus may permit up to 35 DUA (Norco Municipal Code, Chapter 18.65 | Residential Density Bonus Provisions).2 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure. 3 In the HDO, the maximum height may only be reached at least 100 feet from the project site boundary. Maximum height shall be further limited within 100 feet of site edges per the Objective Development Standards (ODS).

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7. Preservation and Development (PAD) DesignationThe purpose of the Preservation and Development (PAD) Designation is to manage development of large sites through a specific planning process that protects and highlights Norco’s unique natural landscapes and open spaces.The principal site with a PAD designation is the Wyle Laboratories site, which is envisioned as a thoughtfully planned destination that accommodates nonresidential uses while respecting the site’s natural features, surrounding neighborhoods, and Norco’s unique character. Any future development of the Wyle Laboratories site will be guided by a comprehensive Specific Plan that establishes a cohesive vision for the site and addresses land use, development intensity, site design, circulation, infrastructure, open space, environmental stewardship, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. Potential uses include a high-quality office, research and development (R&D), or light industrial campus; an equestrian-oriented resort offering visitors opportunities to experience Norco through guided trail rides and other outdoor activities; or other complementary recreational, hospitality, or commercial uses that thoughtfully integrate with the site’s natural topography and landscape.All development within the PAD Designation is subject to the provisions of the Objective Development Standards (ODS). For a more detailed description of the vision, intent, opportunities, and strategies for the development of this site, see Chapter 3 | Community Vision and Priorities.

Table 4.11 | Preservation and Development (PAD) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives.

TABLE 4.11 | PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT (PAD)Maximum Density 0.6 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height 35 feetAllowed Land Uses Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Hospitality, ResortPublic: Parks and Recreation Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings oriented towards street and semi-public and publicly-accessible open spaces. Buildings with office ground floors set back from the sidewalk behind landscaped front yards. Buildings with retail and restaurant ground floors located at or near the back of sidewalk. Parking located behind buildings.

Private Frontage and Access
Pedestrian access to ground floor uses directly from the sidewalk or publicly accessible open spaces. Pedestrian access to upper floors through lobbies.

Public Realm Network
Interconnected tree-lined, pedestrian- and horse-friendly street and trail network that connects to major streets and adjacent neighborhoods.

Public Realm Character Sidewalks with street trees planted in tree wells or continuous planters.

8. Preservation and Development - Norconian (PAD-NOR)
Designation
The purpose of the Preservation and Development - Norconian (PAD-NOR) Designation is to manage the development of the Norconian Resort Site. Future restoration, adaptive reuse, redevelopment, and public improvements will be guided by a comprehensive Specific Plan that establishes a cohesive framework for historic preservation, recreation, hospitality, housing, commercial uses, circulation, and trail connectivity. The vision for the Norconian Resort Site emphasizes preserving the historic hilltop through restoration of the Norconian Hotel and the development of resort-style amenities; expanding the adjacent sports complex with additional fields and supporting facilities; and creating a walkable community that blends adaptive reuse of historic buildings for neighborhood-serving commercial uses with a variety of for-sale and rental housing options designed in a Spanish Mediterranean architectural style that complements the site’s historic character. If Lake Norconian were ever to transition from U.S. Navy ownership, the lake and surrounding landscape could be fully integrated into the site’s long-term vision, creating a cohesive destination with scenic open-space amenities that complement and enhance the restored historic hilltop resort. For a more detailed description of the vision, intent, opportunities, and strategies for the development of this site, see Chapter 3 | Community Vision and PrioritiesTable 4.12 | Preservation and Development - Norconian (PAD-NOR) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives.

TABLE 4.12 | PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT - NORCONIAN (PAD - NOR) ABLE 4.12 | PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT - NORCONIAN (PAD - NOR)Maximum Density 20 Dwelling Units per Acre; 0.6 Floor Area RatioMaximum Height1 3 stories or 40 feet, whichever is less Allowed Land Uses
Commercial: Retail, Restaurant, Service, Office, Research and Development, Business Services, Hospitality, ResortResidential: Single-Family, Multi-FamilyPublic: Parks and Recreation Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings oriented towards street and semi-public and publicly-accessible open spaces. Buildings with residential and office ground floors set back from the sidewalk behind landscaped front yards. Buildings with retail and restaurant ground floors located at or near the back of sidewalk. Parking located behind buildings.

Private Frontage and Access
Pedestrian access to ground floor uses directly from the sidewalk or publicly accessible open spaces. Pedestrian access to upper floors through lobbies.

Public Realm Network
Interconnected tree-lined, pedestrian- and horse-friendly street and trail network that connects to major streets and adjacent neighborhoods.

Public Realm Character Sidewalks with street trees planted in tree wells or continuous planters. 1 Overall building height shall be regulated by the number of stories above the adjacent sidewalk and the height in feet measured from adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the uppermost cornice or parapet of any building or structure.

100 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |101 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENT9. Specific Plan (SP)The Specific Plan (SP) Designation applies to existing master-planned development governed by an adopted specific plan that establishes land use and development regulations, circulation and infrastructure requirements, and implementation measures. The SP Designation applies to areas governed by the:
■ Norco Ridge Ranch Specific Plan (NRRSP)■ Norco Hills Specific Plan (NHSP) With the adoption of the 2050 General Plan, the provisions of the Gateway Specific Plan and the Auto Mall Specific Plan, which were adopted in the early 1990s, are transferred over to the Citywide Zoning Code, with adjustments made to ensure compatibility with existing adjacent single-family neighborhoods.Table 4.13 | Specific Plan (SP) details applicable land use standards and community character objectives, which are confirmed through the specific planning process and memorialized in the adopted specific plan.

TABLE 4.13 | SPECIFIC PLAN (SP)Maximum Density Norco Ridge Ranch Specific Plan: 0.6 Dwelling Units per Acre Norco Hills Specific Plan: 0.9 Dwelling Units per Acre Maximum Height 35 feetAllowed Land Uses
Residential: Single-Family
Public: Parks and Recreation
Building Form, Placement, and Character
Buildings oriented towards street and semi-public and publicly-accessible open spaces. Buildings with residential ground floors set back from the sidewalk behind landscaped front yards.

Private Frontage and Access
Pedestrian access to ground floor uses directly from the sidewalk or publicly accessible open spaces.

Public Realm Network Pedestrian- and horse-friendly street and trail network that connects to major streets.Public Realm Character Trail- and tree-lined streets.

E. Goals and PoliciesGOAL LUCC-1: LIFESTYLE PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION. The City will maintain a coordinated land use pattern that balances the relationship between existing agricultural, animal-keeping residential areas and future housing and commercial development.POLICIESLUCC-1.1 Residential Agricultural Preservation. Existing Residential Agricultural (RA) designated parcels shall not be redesignated or rezoned for higher intensity residential uses, except for parcels subject to the Housing Development Overlay (HDO).

LUCC-1.2 Residential Open Space. Encourage residential lot sizes and configurations that provide adequate area and terrain to support the health and safety of animals and accommodate agricultural and animalkeeping uses.

LUCC-1.3 Equestrian Ranch Lot Consolidation. Encourage the merger of vacant lots with adjacent residential lots that already permit animal keeping with the intent to promote larger equestrian ranches.

LUCC-1.4 Commercial-Residential Separation. Keep commercial development and traffic routes as separate as possible from single-family residential neighborhoods.

LUCC-1.5 Protection of Animal-Keeping Areas. Ensure that new homes built on vacant parcels and ownerinitiated improvements and additions to private homes, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), maintain required animal-keeping areas and preserve the ability to keep animals.

LUCC-1.6 Primary Animal-Keeping Area (PAKA) Requirements. Ensure all new lots in single-family residential zones have a recorded Primary Animal-Keeping Area (PAKA) to preserve an adequate area of open space for animal-keeping and provide adequate access to the rear yard.

LUCC-1.7 Annexation and Sphere of Influence Amendments. Support annexations and/or sphere of influence amendments that will add areas that, by their nature, support and enhance the City’s small plot lifestyle and protect significant open space elements.

LUCC-1.8 Designation Compatibility. Ensure new development within the City’s Equestrian Historic District and Equestrian Landmark areas is consistent with the purpose and defining features of each designation.

GOAL LUCC-2: COMMUNITY CHARACTER. New development in the city should be designed to contribute to Norco’s small-town scale, character, and agrarian architectural stlye.POLICIESLUCC-2.1 Agrarian Development Standards. Maintain and update, as needed, objective development standards for the different areas of the city that guide the design of buildings, highlight Norco’s agrarian architectural style, and consider surrounding development and land use.

LUCC-2.2 Agrarian Architectural Design. New development in the city should incorporate agrarian architectural features and building style, the level of which will be determined based on the location of a building, the type of construction, and the use of a building.

LUCC-2.3 Neighborhood Blight and Nuisance Conditions. In coordination with community members, enforce against safety hazards, visual blight, and public nuisance conditions as defined in the Norco Municipal Code.

102 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |103 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTLUCC-2.4 Equestrian Amenities in Commercial Areas. Include equestrian amenities, such as corals, watering troughs, and hitching posts, where commercial and office development meant for general public access adjoins pedestrian-equestrian trails, or have trails easily accessible to the site.

LUCC-2.5 Commercial-Residential Buffering. Commercial development proposed in areas that adjoin residential development shall provide adequate buffering by landscaping, screening, or open space. Height limits, as established in the Norco Municipal Code and Objective Development Standards, shall be implemented in all non-residential zones so as to protect the privacy and solar access on adjacent residential lots.

LUCC-2.6 Mixed-Use Development. Ensure that mixed-use projects in commercial and mixed-use designated areas do not adversely impact animal-keeping properties.

LUCC-2.7 High-Quality Commercial Development. Promote the development of high quality commercial and public facilities, consistent with the Objective Development Standards. Require landscaping, maintenance, and permanent upkeep on all new development.

LUCC-2.8 View-Sensitive Industrial Development. New office, research, and industrial projects shall be developed in accordance with the Norco Municipal Code and Objective Development Standards to minimize encroachment into expansive views of the horizon.

LUCC-2.9 Commercial and Industrial Revitalization. Encourage the rehabilitation of existing substandard blighted commercial and industrial uses through the combined efforts of private and public sectors to revitalize and upgrade aesthetic and functional deficiencies.

LUCC-2.10 Context-Sensitive Signage. Freestanding signage shall be kept at a minimum and shall be designed to match building architecture with the incorporation of agrarian design features. Signage that does occur (exclusive of pylon and pole signs) shall be low in profile to preclude unnecessary clutter along the City’s visual corridors.

LUCC-2.11 Outdoor Storage Regulations. Outdoor storage, as established in the Norco Municipal Code, shall only be permitted in appropriate zones and only as an ancillary use to an otherwise permitted land use and in the appropriate zoning district. Land uses for which parking and/or outdoor storage is the primary use shall not be permitted, or shall be substantially controlled through architectural and landscaping design.

LUCC-2.12 Lighting. Consider adoption of an outdoor lighting ordinance that incorporates “dark sky” principles (i.e., all light should have a clear purpose, be directed only to where it is needed, be no brighter than necessary, be used only when useful, and display warmer colors where possible).

LUCC-2.13 Compatible School Design. Collaborate with the Corona-Norco Unified School District to facilitate school site improvements (e.g., building design, fencing, signage, landscape) that align with and complement the visual character of surrounding neighborhoods.

GOAL LUCC-3: HOUSING. In conjunction with the goals and policies of the Housing Element to provide equal and affordable housing to all segments of the population, the City will ensure that residential growth occurs in a responsible way consistent with the agricultural, animalkeeping lifestyle and with public facilities to support that lifestyle.POLICIESLUCC-3.1 Balanced Housing Opportunities. Promote housing opportunities that will help the City meet its regional housing needs assessment (RHNA) consistent with the growth and development plans of the school district and the City’s infrastructure system.

LUCC-3.2 Compatible Affordable Housing. Consider affordable-housing projects on commercial and mixed-use designated parcels that will not adversely impact the agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle of existing single-family neighborhoods.

LUCC-3.3 Affordable Housing Preservation. Enforce property affordability requirements upon the sale of these units to ensure that existing affordable units stay in the City’s overall housing pool as is required by State law.

LUCC-3.4 Veteran Housing Development. Support the development and preservation of housing opportunities for veterans by identifying development sites, encouraging the adaptive reuse of existing sites, pursuing available funding and partnership opportunities, and facilitating the timely review of qualifying projects that are consistent with the General Plan and the Objective Development Standards.

LUCC-3.5 Housing Rehabilitation and Reinvestment. Encourage, where appropriate, public and private investment toward the upgrading and rehabilitation of older dwellings.

LUCC-3.6 Contextual Senior Housing Density. Permit senior housing complexes in all designations at densities that reflect the intensity of the underlying designation. The allowable densities should be similar in intensity to surrounding developments.

LUCC-3.7 Accessory Dwelling Units. Provide for accessory dwelling units (ADU) in accordance with State law and local zoning standards.

LUCC-3.8 Code Compliance for Unpermitted Accessory Dwelling Units. Work with property owners to bring unpermitted accessory dwelling units (ADUs), identified through code enforcement inspections or other means, into compliance with current building codes and development standards.

GOAL LUCC-4: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. The City will attract and retain communitysupported retail, commercial, and industrial uses that provide essential goods and services, expand employment and tax revenue, eliminate blight, complement Norco’s character and lifestyle, offer unique experiences for residents and visitors, and support the City’s high-quality services.POLICIESLUCC-4.1 Balanced Economic Growth. Establish a stable tax base by expanding the economic base of the community through active encouragement of commercial and industrial development so as to not adversely affect the viability of the agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle.

LUCC-4.2 Business Retention and Expansion. Facilitate as feasible, the retention and expansion of existing businesses within the community.

LUCC-4.3 Equestrian and Agricultural Partnerships. Preserve and expand participation in Norco’s characterdefining equestrian and agricultural activities by coordinating and partnering with community-based organizations, academic institutions, and local businesses.

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LUCC-4.4 Promotion of Norco as an Agritourism Destination. Promote Norco as an agritourism destination where visitors can learn about and participate in small plot agriculture, enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.

LUCC-4.5 Expanded Amenities and Programming at City-Owned Facilities. Leverage Norco’s City-owned event facilities to attract more visitors to Norco.

LUCC-4.6 Repurposing of Key Focus Areas for Economic Development. Repurpose key focus areas (e.g., Norconian Resort, Wyle Laboratories, Housing and Development (HDO) sites, etc.) to foster economic development and fiscal stability, accommodate the City’s evolving housing needs (where permitted), and bolster Norco’s core values.

LUCC-4.7 Home-Based Businesses. Accommodate low-intensity, low-impact businesses that support the Norco lifestyle in the city’s residential neighborhoods.

LUCC-4.8 Agriculture Business Owner Engagement. Establish a regular dialogue with proprietors of agricultural and animal-keeping oriented businesses to ensure mutual understanding of, and a coordinated effort to address, the challenges and opportunities facing this important sector of the local economy.

LUCC-4.9 Local Business Development. Foster the establishment and long-term success of small, locally-owned, independent businesses.

LUCC-4.10 Streamlined Business Licensing Process. Maintain a streamlined business licensing process, while ensuring compliance with applicable policies and standards.

LUCC-4.11 Recruitment of Hospitality and In-Demand Retail Services. Identify, actively recruit, and facilitate establishment of sales tax- and transient occupancy-tax generating retail, services, and hospitality usesthat currently have a limited presence in Norco and for which there is significant local and subregional demand.

LUCC-4.12 Recruitment of High Employment Density Uses. Recruit commercial and industrial uses that generate tax revenue, provide high wages, and/or deliver high employment densities to increase the city’s daytime population and spur additional demand for local goods and services (e.g., professional and medical office, research and development, light industrial, and hospitality-oriented businesses).

LUCC-4.13 Economic Sector Diversification and Expansion. Support economic diversification and employment growth in Norco by recruiting, prioritizing, and supporting a range of industrial, healthcare, professional, management, scientific, and technology-oriented uses, including businesses that manufacture equestrian-oriented products, and by coordinating with regional healthcare networks, educational institutions, economic development organizations, public agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to explore opportunities for sector expansion and investment in the City.

LUCC-4.14 Regional Economic Collaboration. Consider a more collaborative, subregional approach to economic development that leverages the many assets of western Riverside County to bolster all local economies.

LUCC-4.15 Strategic Lot Consolidation. Encourage the voluntary consolidation of underutilized and fragmented parcels along Norco’s commercial corridors to create development sites capable of accommodating economically viable projects, attract new private investment, expand employment opportunities, strengthen the local tax base, and improve the overall appearance and functionality of these corridors.

LUCC-4.16 Youth Sports and Sports Tourism. Support the continued enhancement and expansion of sports facilities and programs to strengthen Norco as a regional destination for youth sports tournaments and related visitor spending.

GOAL LUCC-5: COMMERCIAL CORRIDORS. Corridors bearing the Commercial General (CG) Designation will feature pedestrian-scaled site and building design that embody, celebrate, and further Norco’s core values and are consistent with the City of Norco’s Objective Development Standards. POLICIESLUCC-5.1 Building and Site Design Standards. Design new development along Hamner Avenue and applicable parcels along River Road in accordance with the City of Norco’s Objective Development Standards to ensure new buildings, and their siting and landscaping, are consistent with Norco’s agrarian architectural style.

LUCC-5.2 Large-Vehicle Access. Where necessary and desired, enable large-vehicle access (including pick-up trucks, large delivery trucks, and horse trailers to visitor-serving businesses), such as hotels.

LUCC-5.3 Monumental Art. At gateway locations, provide iconic buildings, landscape, monumentation, signage, and public art installations that announce entry into the city and highlight Norco’s core values.

LUCC-5.4 Public Realm Improvements. Introduce public realm improvements that promote Norco’s character along Hamner Avenue and River Road. Key components include:
■ Missing Sidewalks. Require that new development introduce missing sidewalks along the length of the parcel’s frontage along the street.
■ Missing Trails. Require that new development introduce missing pedestrian-equestrian trails through the development and/or along the length of the parcel’s frontage along the street. ■ Thematic Streetscape Elements. Display thematic imagery that celebrates and reinforces Norco’s core values (e.g., lighting, shade structures, kiosks, paving, banners, wayfinding signage, painted utility cabinets, public art). ■ Tree Canopy. Expand the tree canopy along Hamner Avenue and River Road, both in the public rightof-way and on private property.

GOAL LUCC-6: SIXTH STREET CORRIDOR. The City will preserve Sixth Street’s distinctive character and continue to attract businesses that support the day-to-day needs of Norco residents.POLICIESLUCC-6.1 Placemaking Priority Areas. Infill vacant parcels and continue to evolve naturally-occurring concentrations of neighborhood- and lifestyle-supporting businesses, services, and amenities along Sixth Street into more defined, active, and walkable environments that enable new and existing businesses to leverage the value of their proximity to one another and their exposure to high daily traffic volumes along the corridor.

LUCC-6.2 Preservation of Sixth Street’s Visual Character. Preserve and enhance Sixth Street’s characterdefining pedestrian-equestrian trails, split-rail fences, large canopy trees, and red, white, and blue street striping.

LUCC-6.3 Building and Site Design Standards. Design new development along Sixth Street in accordance with the City of Norco’s Objective Development Standards to ensure new buildings and their siting and landscaping are consistent with Norco’s character.

LUCC-6.4 Large-Vehicle Access. Where necessary and desired, enable large-vehicle access, including pick-up trucks, large delivery trucks, and horse trailers, to sites accommodating agricultural or animal-keeping businesses, as well as visitor-serving businesses, such as hotels.

106 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |107 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTLUCC-6.5 Equestrian Amenities. Facilitate equestrian access to Sixth Street businesses and require the provision of trail-adjacent public equestrian amenities on these sites (e.g., hitching posts, corrals).

LUCC-6.6 Adaptive Reuse of Single-Family Houses. Continue to promote adaptive reuse of existing single-family houses for commercial purposes on commercially zoned lots that face Sixth Street and side streets. As practical, integrate single-family houses that accommodate restaurants, coffee shops, retail, and similar businesses into Sixth Street Placemaking Priority Areas.

LUCC-6.7 Expanded Tree Canopy. Preserve, maintain, and enhance Sixth Street’s existing tree canopy, planting new trees in accordance with the City’s Urban Forest Specifications and Standards where gaps in the canopy exist, particularly at Placemaking Priority Areas.

LUCC-6.8 Public Realm Improvements. Introduce traffic calming, streetscape, branding, and other public realm improvements along the Sixth Street to improve safety outcomes, attract new neighborhood and lifestyle-supporting business, and enhance Sixth Street’s equestrian-oriented public realm character.

LUCC-6.9 Shared Vehicular Access and Parking. Allow and promote consolidated shared vehicular access to properties and shared parking areas. Shared parking should comply with the provisions of the Norco Municipal Code.

LUCC-6.10 Safe Street Crossings. Introduce enhanced crossing facilities for pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists along Sixth Street, including high-visibility crosswalks and pedestrian/equestrian-prioritized crossingsignal push-buttons that minimize wait times for crossing Sixth Street.

GOAL LUCC-7: NORTH HAMNER GATEWAY PLACEMAKING PRIORITY AREA. The City will work with property owners and developers to create a new, authentic, walkable downtown area that provides expanded shopping, dining, hospitality, entertainment, and cultural experiences and offerings to residents and visitors of Norco.POLICIESLUCC-7.1 North Hamner Gateway Planning. Guide the evolution of the North Hamner Gateway into Norco’s authentic downtown through the preparation of a Specific Plan that is consistent with the community’s vision and economic development goals.

LUCC-7.2 North Hamner Gateway Management and Promotion. Intentionally manage improvements within the North Hamner Gateway area through a public-private partnership between the City, local businesses, and property owners, including the management of shared parking facilities, coordination of streetscape and site improvements, and planning and promotion of special events.

LUCC-7.3 Clark Field Relocation / Site Redevelopment: Identify potential locations elsewhere in the city for the relocation of Clark Field to make its current location available for development consistent with the master planning of the North Hamner Gateway area.

LUCC-7.4 Pedestrian and Equestrian Access. Provide safe pedestrian and equestrian access to the North Hamner Gateway and Civic Center through connections to the surrounding trail network, safe crossings of Hamner Avenue, and appropriate equestrian amenities, signage, and split-rail fencing to distinguish equestrian areas from pedestrian and vehicular areas.

LUCC-7.5 North Hamner Gateway Housing Policy. Consider allowing housing in the North Hamner Gateway, subject to the following conditions:
■ Provision of community amenities or benefits deemed to be of great value to Norco residents.■ Vertical mixed-use housing comprised of upper-floor housing above active, non-residential ground floor, retail and restaurant uses.

GOAL LUCC-8: NORCONIAN RESORT SITE. The City will encourage the preservation, conservation, and development of the Norconian Resort Site in a way that protects and highlights Norco’s unique natural, cultural, and historic resources.POLICIESLUCC-8.1 Norconian Resort Site Specific Plan. Guide new development on the Norconian Resort Site with a Specific Plan that establishes development standards requiring the following placemaking strategies:
■ Land Use. Introduce new uses that are well-suited to the historic structures and natural topography of the site.
■ Interconnected Public Realm and Trail Network. Introduce an interconnected street, trail, and open space network, including filling missing gaps in Norco’s trail network. ■ Required Community Benefits. Fund, in-part or in-whole, high-priority community benefits, including, but not limited to:
■ The preservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of existing buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, especially the historic Norconian Hotel, and any eligible and unlisted buildings to the National Register of Historic Places. ■ The provision of new open space, recreational, agricultural, and/or equestrian amenities that provide significant value to the community.

LUCC-8.2 Lake Norconian Conservation and Stewardship. Support the long-term conservation, stewardship, and enhancement of Lake Norconian through collaborative planning that preserves its scenic, natural, and historic character, protects its visual quality and ecological functions, and encourages restoration activities that reinforce the lake’s role as a prominent community landmark and defining element of Norco’s identity and sense of place.

GOAL LUCC-9: WYLE LABORATORIES SITE. The City will facilitate and encourage the development and conservation of the Wyle Laboratories Site in a way that protects open space and highlights Norco’s unique rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.POLICIESLUCC-9.1 Wyle Laboratories Site Specific Plan. Guide new development on the Wyle Laboratories Site with a Specific Plan that establishes development standards requiring the following placemaking strategies:
■ Land Use. Introduce new uses that are well-suited to the natural open space and topography of the site.
■ Limited Development. Limit development to the flatter portions of the site with less topography and natural features, and maintain open space buffers between any new development and adjacent neighborhoods. ■ Preservation and Restoration of Existing Landforms and Natural Habitat. Preserve and restore valuable site features, including the existing creek and hillside areas as natural open space, ceding a minimum of 150 acres to an open space and habitat conservancy. ■ Expansion of Norco Hills Trail Network. Create new trails along the creek connecting to the Norco Hills trail network.
■ Vehicular Access. Primary vehicular access to the site from Norco Hills Road, with secondary access to be considered from Valley Drive, while minimizing traffic impacts on surrounding residential neighborhoods.

108 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |109 Chapter 4 LAND USE AND COMMUNITY CHARACTER ELEMENTGOAL LUCC-10: BEACON HILL. The City will preserve the historical and visual significance of Beacon Hill while guiding compatible land use, open space, and trail planning that balances development opportunities with the protection of the area’s natural character.POLICIESLUCC-10.1 Beacon Hill Land Use Planning. Ensure that future development and land use planning within the Beacon Hill area directs open space preservation and equestrian and recreational trail improvements to areas designated for open space, while concentrating residential and commercial development within areas designated for residential and commercial uses, in a manner that protects and recognizes the historical and visual significance of Beacon Hill in the City’s landscape.

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FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |111 Chapter 5CIRCULATION ELEMENTIn This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112B. State Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113C. Key Themes and Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

1. Complete Streets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1142. Vehicle Miles Traveled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1153. Roadway Typology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1154. Emergency Evacuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1185. Goods Movement on Local Streets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1186. Roadway Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1207. Regional Traffic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1258. Neighborhood Cut-Through Traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1259. Non-Motorized Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12610. Transit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12611. Maintenance and Improvement of Roadways and Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 D. Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
CirculationElement

CHAPTER

112 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |113 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENTA. IntroductionThe purpose of the Circulation Element is to establish a multimodal transportation network that is uniquely Norco. Circulation refers to the ability for people and goods to move freely and efficiently throughout the city via a network of streets, trails, sidewalks, and public transportation networks that link neighborhoods with schools, parks, commercial areas, and regional destinations. Efficient movement is vital for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their preferred mode of travel, can access essential services, recreation, and employment opportunities. A well-designed transportation system balances mobility, safety, and efficiency while accommodating the diverse ways people travel throughout the community, including walking, biking, and riding horses. In Norco, mobility is not just about getting from one place to another—it is key to preserving the community’s identity while providing equitable and practical options for all users. The ability to ride a horse to key destinations, access an extensive trail network, and accommodate vehicles transporting feed, livestock, and bulk materials are important considerations in the design and operation of the circulation system. While this Element addresses all modes of travel, it places particular emphasis on maintaining and enhancing the transportation features that define Norco’s unique identity.

B. State Legal RequirementsCalifornia law requires that the General Plan includes an Element that identifies the existing and proposed transportation system. This Element is essential for creating a coordinated and effective system of movement that enables safe and accessible travel for all users by providing strategies to connect people with key destinations, such as schools, parks, and commercial centers as detailed in a General Plan’s Land Use Element.For the City of Norco, an effective transportation network addresses the needs of all travelers, with a focus on managing congestion, enhancing safety, and ensuring sustainable transportation to balance its rural, equestrianoriented atmosphere with the modern mobility needs of its diverse community.In addition, California law also requires that Circulation Elements include the following policy considerations:
■ A Complete Streets policy to set the direction on providing mobility for all users of all ages and all abilities. ■ Integration of a safe systems approach to improve safety of the transportation system. The general intention of the State’s Complete Streets legislation is to ensure that streets provide safe and comfortable facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists, in addition to providing safe and efficient vehicular circulation. Central to Norco’s core values is adding equestrians to this important balancing act. ■ Inclusion of a truck route map, to be publicly accessible online, that focuses heavy vehicles away from sensitive receptors (e.g., homes and schools) and allows vehicles to access the freeway system as quickly as possible. ■ In conformance with Assembly Bill (AB) 747 (2019), a circulation network that accommodates emergency evacuation routes that are informed by a range of evacuation scenarios. The City addressed this requirement through the preparation of an Evacuation Assessment that studied the capacity, safety, and viability of the City’s evacuation system.

Equestrian crossing. Pedestrian-equestrian trail.

Pedestrians, equestrians, and motorists share the road along Corydon Avenue.

114 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |115 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENTC. Key Themes and VisionRooted in Norco’s unique identity as “Horsetown USA,” this Element integrates the City’s core values with modern mobility needs, inclusive for pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists, motorists, and public transit users. This Element aspires to preserve the City’s lifestyle and atmosphere by maintaining and expanding trail networks and integrating trails with pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. This Element seeks to foster well-connected neighborhoods with efficient links to parks, schools, and commercial centers, enabling safe and equitable travel. A successful circulation system promotes environmentally sustainable practices, enhances multimodal options, and addresses the City’s unique mobility demands to implement a transportation network that enriches the community’s quality of life while safeguarding its rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere and unique character.1. Complete StreetsComplete Streets are integral to ensure that Norco’s roadways are safe and functional. The philosophy emphasizes designing streets to accommodate users of all ages and all abilities. This includes pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists, transit users, heavy vehicles, and motorists alike (see Figure 5.1 | Conceptual Cross-Section of a Complete Street).

Implementation of Complete Streets principles includes dedicated bike lanes, widened sidewalks in commercial zones, connected pedestrian-equestrian trails, and speed management and traffic safety measures to promote a safer, multimodal environment.It is important to recognize that facilities for different modes of travel often compete for limited and valuable rightof-way within the city. As such, it is helpful to think about each street within the city and identify which modes should be prioritized on each street. This helps agencies identify how to allocate the available right-of-way and make informed decisions and consider trade-offs to maximize space for those priority modes. For example, instead of prioritizing high-speed motor vehicle travel, specific segments of a roadway may benefit from slower speeds and improved access for non-motorized users or implementing bike lanes and/or buffered bike lanes to support the growing use of e-bikes by keeping cyclists off trails. By adopting Complete Streets policies, the City can enhance its character while creating streets that support a vibrant, connected, and inclusive community.

2. Vehicle Miles Traveled Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) is a metric used to assess environmental impact on the transportation system. VMT reflects the amount of driving that occurs in a given area and is a key component of California’s shift towards sustainable mobility practices. Reducing VMT in Norco not only supports the City’s Complete Streets framework but also aligns with broader goals for sustainability, improving air quality, and reducing congestion. By focusing on enhancing multimodal mobility, such as pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian network connectivity, Norco can reduce its reliance on single-occupant vehicles, lowering VMT, while maintaining its character and accessibility. The City has already adopted VMT thresholds for California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) assessments.3. Roadway Typology The functional classification of roadways is designed to support Norco’s unique rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere while ensuring efficient mobility for all users. The roadway network consists of a hierarchy of streets, including urban arterials, major arterials, collectors, and local streets, each serving a specific function in accommodating traffic flow, access, and multimodal travel. Figure 5.2 | Roadway Classifications demonstrates the varying functional classifications of roadways (Table 5.1 | Roadway Functional Classification) with prioritized modes of travel to accommodate anticipated roadway users served by the surrounding land use contexts.Level of Service (LOS) is still an important value for Norco residents to ensure the roadway system is managed to support its users. Future capital improvement programs will manage anticipated congestion through a combination of operational analysis, improvements, access management, and multimodal strategies rather than solely through capacity expansion.

Pedestrians, equestrians, and motorists share the road along Sixth Street.

Source: Fehr & Peers
“A Complete Streets policy specifies how a community will plan, design, and maintain streets so they are safe for all users of all ages and abilities. It spells out a community’s commitment to using a Complete Streets approach routinely and consistently in decision making, identifies which specific populations in the community should be the priority for improving street safety and access, and articulates clear, accountable steps to change how decisions get made and track progress. A strong policy begins transforming a community’s practices, processes, and plans.” – Smart Growth America 2023 FIGURE 5.1 | CONCEPTUAL CROSS-SECTION OF A COMPLETE STREET

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TABLE 5.1 | ROADWAY FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATIONClassification Description Features StreetsUrban Arterial Buildout of 6 lanes (3 in each direction) with center median; designed to accommodate regional through traffic and connect to major commercial destinationsPriority: Automobile ROW: 110’Pavement Width: 86’No. of Lanes: 6
Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: None
Hamner Avenue
Major Arterial 4E Buildout of 4 lanes (2 in each direction) with center turn lane and pedestrianequestrian trails on both sides; designed to connect I-15 access ramps to Hamner Avenue and destinations with regional significancePriority: Automobile, Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicyclist ROW: 100’Pavement Width: 64’No. of Lanes: 4
Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: Both Sides
Sixth Street (Sierra Avenue to California Avenue)
Major Arterial 4 Buildout of 4 lanes (2 in each direction) with pedestrian-equestrian trails on one
side; provide connections from other arterials to residential areasPriority: Automobile ROW: 100’Pavement Width: 80’No. of Lanes: 4
Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: One Side
River RoadHidden Valley Parkway
Major Arterial 2E Buildout of 2 lanes (1 in each direction) with pedestrian-equestrian trails on one
or both sides; serves residential areas and connects Sixth Street commercial area to neighboring citiesPriority: Automobile, Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicyclist ROW: 100’Pavement Width: 36’No. of Lanes: 2
Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: One or Both Sides
California Avenue (North Drive to Sixth Street)North Drive Collector Buildout of 4 lanes (2 in each direction)
with pedestrian-equestrian trail on one
or both sides; designed to connect local streets to City arterial systemPriority: Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicyclist ROW: 88’Pavement Width: VariesNo. of Lanes: 4
Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: One or Both Sides
Corydon AvenueFifth StreetFirst StreetNorco DriveParkridge AvenueSecond StreetThird StreetMountain AvenueNorco Hills Road Local Buildout of 2 lanes (1 in each direction)
with pedestrian-equestrian trail on one
or both sides; provide direct access to residential property and commercial areas where arterials do not directly serve these usesPriority: Equestrian, Pedestrian, Bicyclist ROW: 60’Pavement Width: Varies (typically 36’)No. of Lanes: 2 Pedestrian-Equestrian
Trail: One or Both Sides
Any Street not classified in the arterial/collector system FIGURE 5.2 | ROADWAY CLASSIFICATIONS
SchoolsNorco CollegeIngalls Event Center
Freeway RampsFreewayUrban ArterialMajor Arterial 4E
Legend
Major Arterial 4Major Arterial 2ECollector StreetsLocal Streets Norco City Boundary
SilverLakes ilverLakes
Source: City of Norco

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE
CORONA

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY

SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER
N

118 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |119 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENT4. Emergency Evacuation In addition to supporting everyday mobility, Norco’s circulation system plays a critical role in providing emergency access during hazardous events, such as wildfires, floods, or earthquakes. It is paramount that evacuation routes are well-maintained, clearly marked, and capable of handling large volumes of traffic during emergencies. Primary evacuation routes include River Road, Hamner Avenue, Norco Drive, Corydon Avenue, Sixth Street, California Avenue, Crestview Drive, North Drive, Fifth Street, Second Street, First Street, Norco Hills Road, and Hidden Valley Parkway, which are essential for quickly moving residents and emergency vehicles out of danger.Critical routes must be prioritized for maintenance and improvement to ensure they remain functional during high-stress situations. These routes should be designed with sufficient lane capacity, clear signage, and adequate shoulder space to accommodate both vehicle and non-motorized users (e.g., pedestrians, equestrians, and cyclists) in the event of an evacuation. Moreover, access for emergency responders along these routes must be preserved, ensuring that fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles can navigate without delay. These routes should be diligently maintained and continuously improved to create a resilient transportation network that can respond effectively during hazardous events.5. Goods Movement on Local StreetsEfficient and safe movement of goods is critical to support Norco’s local economy while minimizing impacts on residential neighborhoods. Policies aim to designate appropriate routes for freight and delivery vehicles, enhance signage to direct heavy traffic away from sensitive areas, and upgrade roadway infrastructure to handle larger vehicle loads. By balancing goods movement with the needs of the community, Norco can ensure a vibrant economy while preserving the Norco lifestyle.Recent State legislation (e.g., Assembly Bill (AB) 98 (2024)) aims to balance the economic importance of logisticsrelated developments with the need to protect public health, environmental quality, and community well-being. The legislation mandates that Circulation Elements establish truck routes that prioritize arterial roads, major thoroughfares, and predominantly commercially-oriented streets. This focus minimizes exposure to sensitive receptors, such as residential areas, schools, and parks. It requires logistics developments to adhere to advanced design standards, including sustainable building features, zero-emission equipment, and adequate buffering to mitigate noise and air quality impacts, which are addressed in Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element. Additionally, AB 98 emphasizes transparency and accountability through public engagement, signage, truck route maps, and enforcement measures, ensuring that logistics operations are aligned with State goals for health, safety, and sustainability. Currently, the City’s truck routes, as shown in Figure 5.3 | Truck Routes, are:
■ Hamner Avenue (in its entirety through the city)■ Sixth Street (from Hamner Avenue to California Avenue)■ California Avenue (from Sixth Street to North Drive)■ North Drive (in its entirety through the city)■ River Road (in its entirety through the city) FIGURE 5.3 | TRUCK ROUTES
Schools
Legend
Norco CollegeIngalls Event Center
Truck Route (I-15 Freeway)Truck Route
Norco City Boundary
SilverLakes ilverLakes
Source: City of Norco

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE
CORONA

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY

SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER
N

120 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |121 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENT6. Roadway SafetyRoadway safety is essential to creating a transportation system where residents and visitors can travel confidently and securely—whether on foot, horseback, bicycle, or by vehicle.The City of Norco is committed to creating a transportation network to allow all modes to coexist harmoniously while prioritizing the safety of its most vulnerable users. A well-planned, safe network not only reduces the risk of accidents, but also encourages healthier, more sustainable travel choices and preserves the City’s unique rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere. Central to this approach is protecting vulnerable groups, such as pedestrians, equestrians, and cyclists, from motorized vehicles. Strategies include separating conflicting travel modes, managing vehicle speeds, and improving visibility and awareness at key locations. This proactive framework designs roads to account for human error, reduce the likelihood of severe injuries, and prioritize user safety at every level of the system.The General Plan incorporates safety measures grounded in the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Safe System Approach and across its transportation policies to reduce collision risks and manage traffic speeds. For Norco’s equestrian community, these measures are particularly vital. Expanded trails, safer crossings, and multimodal facilities are key to reducing conflicts between horses, vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. The safety discussion in this Element describes existing trends and potential improvements. ■ Collision Profile. Collisions in the City of Norco are more frequent along major arterials and intersections, particularly near the I-15 Freeway along Sixth Street, Hamner Avenue, and Hidden Valley Parkway, where there are higher volumes of traffic. Collisions are influenced by various factors, such as traffic volumes, roadway conditions, user behavior and, most of all, by vehicular speeds. Vulnerable groups, including pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists, often face the greatest risks, particularly along busy corridors where infrastructure may not fully accommodate their needs. Ensuring that these roadway users are protected is central to fostering a safer, more accessible transportation system. The City is committed to improving safety for these users by implementing the FHWA Safe Systems Approach with a focus on implementing safety improvements on the higher-injury network.

FIGURE 5.4 | CITY OF NORCO ALL COLLISIONS (2019-2023)
Collisions
Figure 5.4 | City of Norco All Collisions (2019-2023), Figure 5.5 | City of Norco Severe Collisions (2019-2023), and Figure 5.6 | Collision Density (2019-2023) depict historic patterns of where collisions occurred, capturing all collisions within the most recently available five-year period (2019-2023), then isolating severe collisions that resulted in either a fatality or serious injury. Together, the figures illustrate a network of high rates of injury and provide a visualization of the areas where safety improvements are most needed. High traffic corridors, including Hamner Avenue, Sixth Street, and portions of River Road and Hidden Valley Parkway, form the High Injury Network (HIN) where the benefits of safety improvements would be the greatest.

Safe System ApproachThe Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) promotes the Safe System Approach as a comprehensive strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The framework recognizes that people make mistakes and that the transportation system should be designed so those mistakes do not result in severe harm. It emphasizes safer road users, safer vehicles, safer speeds, safer roads, and improved post-crash care, supported by shared responsibility among transportation agencies, policymakers, and the public.

Schools
Norco CollegeIngalls Event Center
Norco City Boundary
Legend
Sixth Street
Fourth Street
Third Street
Second Street
First Street
ŝŌŚƚƌĞĞƚ
Seventh Street
SilverLakes ilverLakes
Source: Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) Source: FHWA, Safe System Approach, modified by City of Norco

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY
CORONA

SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER
N

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Fatalities
Severe InjuryVisible Injury
FIGURE 5.5 | CITY OF NORCO SEVERE COLLISIONS (2019-2023) Collisions By Severity
SchoolsNorco CollegeIngalls Event Center
Fewer CollisionsMore Collisions
FIGURE 5.6 | COLLISION DENSITY (2019-2023)Legend
Norco City Boundary
SchoolsNorco CollegeIngalls Event CenterNorco City Boundary Legend
Sixth Street
Fourth Street
Third Street
Second Street
First Street
ŝŌŚƚƌĞĞƚ
Seventh Street
SilverLakes ilverLakes SilverLakes ilverLakes
Source: Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) Source: Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS)

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY
CORONA

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY
CORONA

SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER N N

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7. Regional TrafficRegional thoroughfares are essential for maintaining Norco’s connectivity with surrounding areas while minimizing congestion within city limits, but they are particularly susceptible to impacts of regional travel. Although these connections provide access to and from Norco, they can also be utilized by vehicles avoiding congestion on other facilities (e.g., I-15 Freeway). This cut-through traffic has the potential to increase congestion or exacerbate safety concerns. This General Plan outlines the potential strategies to address this condition by managing vehicle speeds and improving access along major corridors.The activity from regional travel presents unique opportunities, especially along commercial corridors, such as Sixth Street and Hamner Avenue, where activity can serve as an important economic driver. Increased traffic volume through these corridors presents an opportunity for local businesses to attract customers from neighboring communities, especially those passing through on their way to other destinations. The visibility of businesses along major routes, such as Sixth Street and Hamner Avenue, can benefit from this added traffic flow, potentially driving sales and bolstering local commerce, but the traffic must be managed to minimize adverse safety impacts.At the same time, measures to manage regional traffic within the City of Norco will help integrate the city into the broader regional mobility framework while preserving Norco’s small-town character and supporting local mobility needs. By balancing traffic safety measures, speed management, and improved access along key corridors, the City can balance cut-through traffic with commercial benefits.8. Neighborhood Cut-Through TrafficNeighborhood cut-through traffic can affect the quality of life in residential areas by increasing traffic volumes, often associated with congestion, noise, and potential conflicts with pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists. In Norco, where virtually all neighborhoods are lined by pedestrian-equestrian trails, proper management of regional through traffic is particularly important to preserving the City’s rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.Addressing neighborhood cut-through traffic typically involves directing regional and commuter traffic to the City’s designated arterial and collector street network while discouraging the use of local residential streets as shortcuts. Traffic calming measures, such as curb extensions, raised crosswalks, speed tables, mini-roundabouts, neighborhood traffic circles, and strategically placed median islands, can help reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety. Enhanced signage, pavement markings, and wayfinding can also reinforce appropriate route choices and alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists. In areas where cut-through traffic persists, the City may consider targeted traffic management strategies, including turn restrictions during peak travel periods, access management, or other context-sensitive measures, provided they maintain emergency access and accommodate equestrian activity. Ongoing traffic monitoring and collaboration with residents can help identify problem locations and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented improvements, and applications of these measures should be developed in coordination and with the support of the community it serves. This balanced approach can improve neighborhood livability while maintaining an efficient and connected transportation network throughout the city. ■ Traffic Operations. Maintaining operational efficiency is crucial to an effective transportation network, often evaluated using the Level of Service (LOS) metric. LOS measures the quality of traffic flow and roadway performance on a scale from “A” (free-flowing traffic) to “F” (severe congestion). LOS “E” represents at-capacity operations. Key aspects of traffic operations include the management of roadway and intersection performance to ensure efficient movement while minimizing delays. Applying the appropriate operational thresholds could also allow for the balance of travel mode priorities. For example, high-capacity arterial roads (e.g., Sixth Street or Hamner Avenue) may tolerate a lower LOS to accommodate higher volume of traffic, whereas residential or equestrian-oriented neighborhoods require a balance of vehicle LOS and safety for its users to preserve the community’s atmosphere. This customized approach ensures that the transportation network aligns with localized priorities, providing efficient and safe mobility for all users while respecting the distinct needs of specific areas. Optimizing traffic signal timing on major arterials, such as Hamner Avenue and Sixth Street, offers a practical way to manage traffic flow while reducing excessive speeding. By coordinating signal patterns, traffic can move more smoothly with fewer stop-and-go disruptions, improving travel times and reducing fuel consumption. Signal synchronization can also enhance safety by discouraging speeding and accommodating pedestrian and equestrian crossings during designated times, making areas with high foot traffic or trail activity more comfortable. ■ Speed management and Traffic Safety Measures. Speed management and traffic safety measures aim to reduce vehicle speeds, remove conflicts between different modes of travel, and enhance safety for roadway users. Careful planning and implementation are necessary to strike a balance between circulation needs while accommodating the City’s unique characteristics and design requirements. + Traffic Signal Synchronization. Signal synchronization is another strategy for improving traffic flow and safety across Norco’s busy corridors. By coordinating traffic signals along major routes, such as Hamner Avenue, Sixth Street, and Hidden Valley Parkway, the City can reduce delays, minimize congestion, and create a smoother, more predictable driving experience. This approach helps reduce stop-and-go driving, reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions, and improve air quality. Synchronization also enhances safety by reducing the likelihood of collisions, particularly rear-end collisions, and providing safer crossings for pedestrians and equestrians. When combined with other measures, such as speed management improvements and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, signal synchronization will help maintain a balanced transportation network that supports Norco’s atmosphere while improving mobility for all residents. + Access Management. Effective access management along arterial roadways could further improve safety and traffic flow. By consolidating driveways and access points, particularly near intersections, the City can reduce conflict points and traffic delays. Strategies, such as consolidating driveways and using raised medians to manage turning movements, help maintain smoother traffic flow and enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety. These measures support the City’s goals of preserving mobility, improving travel times, and integrating non-motorized transportation options, creating a safer and more efficient transportation network for all users.

While speed management and traffic safety measures are critical for enhancing safety and reducing speeds, they must be carefully designed to maintain accessibility. Emergency access must remain uncompromised, ensuring that fire trucks, ambulances, and emergency response vehicles can navigate effectively. Similarly, freight, delivery, and agricultural- and equestrian-related vehicles must have clear and efficient routes, particularly along major arterials. Equestrian pathways and crossings should be integrated into speed management and traffic safety designs, maintaining Norco’s unique character and catering to the needs of equestrians. Community engagement is essential to tailor measures to specific areas to balance safety improvements and accessibility for all.

126 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |127 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENT9. Non-Motorized TravelNon-motorized travel encompasses walking, cycling, and equestrian activities, all of which are central to Norco’s lifestyle. Improvements to facilities for these modes can help to achieve speed management and safety objectives, thereby rebalancing and improving the overall performance of the transportation network. Enhancing the nonmotorized travel network includes expanding pedestrian-equestrian trails, improving pedestrian and cycling connections, and integrating pedestrian-equestrian trails into the overall circulation framework. Investments in non-motorized travel promote healthy lifestyles, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance the City’s unique character. As the heart of Norco’s non-motorized system and an integral component of its overall circulation network, the City’s extensive pedestrian-equestrian trail network, as further detailed in the Comprehensive Trail Master Plan (2018) and as shown in Figure 5.7 | Pedestrian-Equestrian Trail Network, reflects its identity. This interconnected system of trails provides safe, accessible, and convenient routes for equestrians, linking residential areas, parks, commercial centers, and regional open spaces. Designed to minimize conflicts with vehicular traffic, pedestrianequestrian trails incorporate dedicated crossings, equestrian-friendly surfaces, and wayfinding to enhance rider safety and comfort. To continue building on this unique and largely built out pedestrian-equestrian trail network, future improvements should prioritize maintenance and identify opportunities to complete gap closures to improve access. By balancing equestrian mobility alongside pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, Norco preserves its atmosphere while ensuring a well-connected and equestrian-friendly community.To support safe and efficient movement for pedestrians and bicyclists, the City’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan (2024) identifies existing facilities and potential corridors for new bike lanes and routes. Rather than proposing bike lanes on every street, the plan looks to connect key neighborhood destinations on a safe local network and provide high-quality cross-city bicycle infrastructure for longer trips. Moreover, the plan outlines several potential strategies to enhance safety and connectivity, including adding barrier separation between bike lanes and vehicle lanes at certain locations, enhancing design standards for on street bike routes with improved signage and speed management and safety tools, and improved intersection designs (e.g., refuge islands, green bike lanes).

10. TransitTransit options also play a role in Norco’s transportation system for supporting the mobility needs of residents, especially those who do not rely on private vehicles. Norco is served by regional bus services, including routes operated by Riverside Transit Agency (RTA), providing connections to neighboring cities and major regional destinations. The City of Norco provides shuttle services for eligible seniors and veterans, supplemented by “Diala-Ride” services provided by the County of Riverside. Improving transit options within the city, including shuttle services or on-demand transit, would enhance access to key destinations, such as commercial centers, schools, and parks, complementing the existing network. By integrating these transit options with pedestrian, equestrian, and cycling routes, Norco can create a more inclusive and sustainable transportation network that meets the diverse needs of its residents.11. Maintenance and Improvement of Roadways and Trails Ongoing maintenance and targeted improvements to Norco’s roadways and trails are critical for ensuring a safe and efficient transportation system. This includes resurfacing roads, repairing and maintaining trails, and upgrading infrastructure to extend the useful lifespan of public assets. A well-maintained network not only supports daily mobility but also reinforces the City’s ability to provide high-quality amenities for residents and visitors.

FIGURE 5.7 | PEDESTRIAN-EQUESTRIAN TRAIL NETWORK
Schools
Bridle TrailsBackyard Trails
Norco Hills Trails
Soft Shoulder Trails
Entry Point
Legend
Norco CollegeIngalls Event Center
Source: Comprehensive Trail Master Plan (2018)
Staging Areas
Norco City Boundary

RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY
CORONA

SANTA ANA RIVER SANTA ANA RIVER
N

128 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |129 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENTD. Goals and PoliciesGOAL C-1. MODERN MOBILITY. The City will integrate modern mobility needs in a manner that aligns with Norco’s core values and protects and preserves Norco’s natural landscape and small-town character.POLICIESC-1.1 Trail Network Expansion. Expand and maintain the citywide pedestrian-equestrian trail network between residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, parks, and open spaces. Periodically update the Comprehensive Trail Master Plan as improvements are implemented.

C-1.2 Protected Trail Crossings. Ensure that pedestrian-equestrian trails remain protected from vehicular traffic by providing designated crossings and wayfinding to improve rider safety and comfort.

C-1.3 Equestrian-Friendly Roadways. Preserve low-speed, equestrian-friendly roadways by discouraging excessive widening.

C-1.4 Trail Funding. Secure funding for the expansion, maintenance, and preservation of pedestrian-equestrian trails through grants, development impact fees, and other innovative funding and project delivery mechanisms C-1.5 New Development Trail Dedication. Require new developments to dedicate land for new trail segments where gaps exist in the existing trail network and to improve adjacent, existing trails.

C-1.6 Traffic Impact Studies. Require traffic impact studies to be conducted for major developments and roadway projects to assess potential impacts to network performance and safety, and identify feasible mitigation measures.

C-1.7 Complete Streets Design. Incorporate Complete Streets designs and speed management and safety measures to improve local road connectivity and circulation and to protect community character.

C-1.8 Arterial Level of Service Standards. Maintain a minimum Level of Service (LOS) ”D” for arterial roadways and intersections.

C-1.9 Event Traffic Management. Develop temporary traffic management plans for high-attendance events, ensuring efficient vehicle and non-motorized circulation, including seasonal detours, parking management plans, and improved wayfinding.

C-1.10 Event Impact Coordination. Coordinate with local businesses and event organizers to limit impacts of temporary road closures and parking restrictions on the surrounding communities.

C-1.11 Event Transit Coordination. Partner with law enforcement and transit agencies to optimize event-specific transit solutions and emergency access routes.

GOAL C-2. COMPLETE STREETS. The City will design and implement a transportation network that accommodates all modes of travel, ensuring safe, accessible, and efficient movement for pedestrians, equestrians, cyclists, and motorists.POLICIESC-2.1 Pedestrian and Trails Master Plans. Implement and periodically update the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and Comprehensive Trails Master Plan to guide the development of an integrated non-motorized transportation network that expands pedestrian-equestrian trails and improves pedestrian and bicycle connectivity throughout the city.

C-2.2 Non-Motorized Travel. Integrate non-motorized travel modes into street designs that support users of all ages and abilities along relevant corridors. Ensure that relevant plans are updated to reflect Complete Streets objectives.

C-2.3 Active Transportation Connectivity. Prioritize equestrian, pedestrian, and bicycle connectivity between residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, transit, schools, and public spaces to promote active transportation. Expand the network of pedestrian-equestrian trails to create a fully integrated and accessible transportation system.

C-2.4 New Development Street Design. Require new developments to employ Complete Streets principles and provide amenities, such as equestrian hitching posts, holding pens, bicycle parking, and pedestrian-friendly access points, to encourage non-motorized travel.

C-2.5 Complete Streets Guidelines. Adopt and update small-town Complete Streets guidelines that establish clear design standards for pedestrian-, equestrian-, and bicyclist-friendly roadways.

C-2.6 Speed Management and Traffic Safety. Preserve and enhance the unique character of Sixth Street by integrating safety, accessibility, and speed management measures while maintaining its small-town character.

C-2.7 Neighborhood Traffic Management. Minimize neighborhood cut-through traffic by directing regional and commuter traffic to the City’s arterial and collector street network and implementing context-sensitive speed management and traffic safety improvements on local residential streets, where warranted.

C-2.8 Context-Sensitive Street Design. Limit unnecessary roadway widening and utilize context-sensitive street design to ensure that road improvements blend with surrounding landscapes and built environments.

C-2.9 Multimodal Streetscape Design. Enhance streetscapes along multimodal corridors by incorporating landscaping, lighting, public art, and placemaking features that reflect Norco’s core values. Adopt and update design specifications and standards to include decomposed granite (DG) shoulders where traditional sidewalks and curbs are not necessary (as determined by the City Engineer).

C-2.10 Pedestrian-Scale Lighting. Establish guidelines for small-town and pedestrian-scale lighting to improve nighttime safety while avoiding excessive urbanization of Norco’s streetscape.

C-2.11 Maintenance and Safety. Establish maintenance and safety improvement programs to ensure that pedestrian-equestrian trails, bike lanes, and pedestrian pathways remain in good condition and are free from hazards.

130 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |131 Chapter 5 CIRCULATION ELEMENTGOAL C-3. SAFETY. The City will enhance the safety of all transportation modes, focusing on reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. POLICIESC-3.1 Safe System Approach. Implement the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Safe System Approach by designing and maintaining transportation infrastructure that proactively addresses human errors, reduces crash severity, and prioritizes the safety of all users, with a focus on vulnerable populations, such as pedestrians, equestrians, and cyclists.

C-3.2 Active Transportation Access. Maintain and improve equestrian, pedestrian, and bicycle routes with access to Norco’s employment and shopping opportunities, regional destinations, and residential neighborhoods.

C-3.3 High-Injury Safety Improvements. Prioritize safety improvements at crossings and key intersections to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and collisions resulting in serious injury, especially along High Injury Network (HIN) corridors.

C-3.4 Speed Management and Traffic Safety Measures. Implement speed management and traffic safety measures to naturally reduce vehicle speeds in residential and equestrian-oriented areas while maintaining essential and emergency, horse trailer, and feed truck access.

C-3.5 Evacuation Route Safety. Prioritize improvements to maintain the viability and safety of evacuation routes for vehicles, equestrians, and pedestrians.

GOAL C-4. GOODS MOVEMENT. The City will enhance the safe and efficient movement of essential goods while reducing traffic conflicts and environmental impacts.POLICIESC-4.1 Designated Truck Routes. Continue to maintain and clearly mark designated truck routes to provide direct access to industrial and commercial zones that separate residential areas, schools, parks, and equestrian zones from freight corridors.

C-4.2 Truck Route Enforcement. Prohibit truck travel outside of designated truck routes, except for horse/ livestock trailers and local deliveries (e.g., hay), and actively enforce truck route restrictions to prevent unauthorized travel on non-designated roads, minimizing conflicts with non-motorized users.

C-4.3 Anti-Idling Regulations. Implement anti-idling regulations to reduce emissions and noise pollution near residential areas, schools, and commercial districts.

C-4.4 Clean Freight Vehicles. Encourage the use of electric and low-emission freight vehicles by considering EV charging stations at key logistics hubs and pursuing State and regional funding for clean freight initiatives.

C-4.5 Off-Peak Deliveries. Incentivize off-peak delivery schedules, reducing freight related congestion during peak commute hours, especially for businesses along Sixth Street, Hamner Avenue, and other key corridors.

C-4.6 Truck Parking Facilities. Monitor and enforce truck parking near Norco’s industral areas and major freight corridors. Consider identification of locations for designated truck parking facilities to prevent and mitigate unauthorized truck parking in residential zones.

C-4.7 Truck Parking Amenities. If implemented, ensure truck parking facilities are equipped with essential amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and electric plug-ins to support driver rest needs and reduce idling while improving working conditions for freight operators.

C-4.8 Truck Parking Buffers. Establish landscaped buffer zones around truck parking areas to minimize noise and visual impacts on adjacent land uses.

C-4.9 On-Site Truck Parking. Work with private logistics companies to ensure that freight facilities incorporate on-site truck parking to minimize street congestion.

C-4.10 Commercial Loading Zones. Designate short-term loading and unloading zones in commercial corridors to facilitate goods deliveries without obstructing traffic, pedestrian access, or equestrian mobility.

C-4.11 Freight Access for Businesses. Ensure that local businesses, including agriculture- and animal-keepingrelated businesses, have safe and direct access to goods movement routes (e.g., hay trucks for feed stores) to support Norco’s economy.

C-4.12 Micro-Distribution Hubs. Support micro-distribution hubs for local businesses, reducing the reliance on large truck deliveries in neighborhood centers.

GOAL C-5. SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION. The City will work with partners to facilitate efficient and safe movement that supports Norco’s economic vitality while minimizing negative impacts on the community.POLICIESC-5.1 Active Transportation Promotion. Encourage the use of active transportation and work to reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) through land use planning, enhanced transit access, localized attractions, and access to non-automotive modes.

C-5.2 Bicycle Parking Facilities. Increase secure bicycle parking and repair stations at commercial centers and transit stops.

C-5.3 Bicycle Safety Education. Promote bicycle safety education programs and public outreach initiatives to encourage cycling as a viable transportation option and improve bicyclist interaction with other modes, especially equestrians.

C-5.4 Future Mobility Corridors. Identify future rights-of-way, including off-street facilities, for sustainable transit, active transportation, and equestrian mobility.

C-5.5 Local Transit Services. Continue to support City-operated transit, such as community shuttle and Diala-Ride services, and coordinate with Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) to identify opportunities to expand regional transit solutions.

C-5.6 Regional Transit Connections. Collaborate with regional agencies to explore future transit connections to Metrolink stations and bus networks while ensuring that Norco’s character is preserved.

C-5.7 Transportation Data Monitoring. Support the use of geospatial technology and data analytics to monitor traffic patterns, pedestrian-equestrian trail usage, and infrastructure performance for long-term planning.

C-5.8 Mixed-Use Development. Promote mixed-use and transit-oriented developments in strategic locations, allowing residents to live near businesses and services, and reduce vehicle travel while ensuring community character is incorporated into new developments.

C-5.9 Green Infrastructure Investment. Promote green infrastructure investments, such as permeable pavement, bioswales, and tree-lined corridors, to improve stormwater management and reduce heat island effects.

C-5.10 Vehicle Miles Reduction. Promote reduction of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) per person to below the existing baseline for development and transportation projects to support the City’s environmental and sustainability objectives.

FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |133 In This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134B. State Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134C. Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

1. Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1352. Wastewater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1353. Stormwater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1364. Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1365. Telecommunications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 D. Parks and Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

1. Parks and Athletic Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1382. Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1403. Event Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140 E. Public Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

1. Library Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1422. Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1423. Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1424. Military and Veterans Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1445. Animal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1446. Homeless Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1447. Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1448. Waste, Recycling, Organics, and Manure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144 F. Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146 Chapter 6INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENT

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
Infrastructure& FacilitiesElement

CHAPTER

134 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |135 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENTA. IntroductionThe purpose of the Infrastructure and Facilities Element is to guide the provision of essential utility infrastructure, public facilities, services, parks, recreational amenities, and event facilities that support Norco’s current and future population. This Element addresses the maintenance, improvement, and, where necessary, expansion of utility infrastructure, including water supply, treatment, and distribution systems; reclaimed water facilities; sewer and stormwater management systems; energy infrastructure; and telecommunications networks. It also addresses the management, maintenance, and enhancement of parks, recreational and event facilities, and the programming offered within them, as well as the provision of schools, libraries, solid waste and recycling services, and other public services necessary to serve the community.Maintaining and, when necessary, expanding infrastructure, facilities, and services is essential to preserving the continued functionality, health, safety, and quality of life of Norco’s residents and businesses.B. State Legal RequirementsCalifornia Government Code Section 65302(a) states that the Land Use Element of the General Plan must identify the location and designation of land for public uses, utilities, and open space for parks and recreation purposes. This Chapter addresses these topics, in addition to the City’s public facilities and services. Open space for the preservation of natural and scenic resources and trails is addressed in Chapter 8 | Open Space and Conservation Element. All other land uses are discussed in Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element.

C. Infrastructure1. Water SystemGuided by the City of Norco’s Urban Water Management Plan, the City of Norco manages its water resources through an integrated approach that includes both potable water infrastructure and the planned expansion of reclaimed water use to enhance long-term water supply reliability and sustainability as follows:
a. Potable Water. Norco’s potable water system serves the community through residential, commercial, and industrial service connections. The water distribution system consists of an extensive network of pipelines and active wells located in the southwesterly portions of Norco. The City’s drinking water is derived primarily from purchased treated water, supplemented by groundwater from Norco’s wells that is treated at the City’s water treatment plant. The purchased drinking water consists of treated groundwater produced by the Arlington Desalter Facility, the Chino Basin Desalter Authority, and the City of Riverside. Built with maximum flexibility, Norco’s water system enables the source of water provided to any area to change under emergency, drought, or other unusual conditions. b. Reclaimed Water. Currently, a non-functioning reclaimed water infrastructure system is in place that could deliver reclaimed water for non-potable uses, such as irrigation for parks and nurseries. Plans are underway to install a regional booster station and repurpose high-quality recycled water treated at the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) treatment plant for non-potable uses in Norco and other WRCRWA member agencies.

2. Wastewater SystemThe City of Norco owns and operates an extensive network of sanitary sewer collection pipelines and lift stations. The majority of residents and businesses within the City of Norco are connected to the City’s sewer system. Existing residences still on septic systems are required to connect to the sewer system before the sale of the residence can occur. With the exception of the California Rehabilitation Center, the City discharges its wastewater to the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) treatment plant in the City of Eastvale. Wastewater from the California Rehabilitation Center is discharged into the Santa Ana River Interceptor (SARI) line and directed to a treatment facility in Orange County.WRCRWA is a joint powers authority (JPA) that operates the treatment plant. Member agencies include the City of Norco, the City of Corona, the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD), the Western Municipal Water District (WMWD), and the Home Gardens Sanitary District (HGSD).

View of Ingalls Event Center.

Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) treatment plant in the City of Eastvale.

136 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |137 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENT3. Stormwater System ■ Norco lies within the Middle Santa Ana River Watershed. Stormwater runoff in Norco drains into the Santa Ana River, primarily through Temescal Creek. Flowing primarily in a southwestern direction, Temescal Creek is an approximately 29-mile-long watercourse that connects Lake Elsinore with the Santa Ana River. Implemented by the City of Norco’s Drainage Master Plan, stormwater drainage facilities within the city consist of two major components:
■ The master-planned regional storm drainage facilities designed by the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and incorporated into the City’s Drainage Master Plan (flood channels, retention basins); and
■ The underground storm drain system and catch basins that capture nuisance runoff maintained by the City and conveyed to the regional storm drainage facilities. Because many of Norco’s original streets were built without curbs and gutters, stormwater runoff can accumulate and flow uncontrolled across pavement, causing erosion along unpaved shoulders and trails. In areas where localized flooding is a recurring issue, the City has implemented improvements by installing curbs, gutters, and storm drains to capture runoff and convey it to County-maintained drainage facilities.

4. Energy
a. Local Distribution. Southern California Edison (SCE) provides electricity to the City of Norco’s ratepayers.

Electricity is distributed via a combination of above-ground poles (mainly in the neighborhoods located east of the I-15 Freeway and along Hamner Avenue and River Road) and underground lines (in the neighborhoods located west of the freeway, the Norco Hills neighborhoods, and Sixth Street). Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) supplies natural gas services throughout Norco. b. Regional Transmission. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved the Riverside Transmission Reliability Project (RTRP), a joint project between SCE and Riverside Public Utilities aiming to enhance Riverside’s electrical grid by constructing a 10-mile, double-circuit, 230-kilovolt transmission line. This line is designed to connect Riverside Public Utilities’ new substation to two existing SCE substations in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, thereby providing a second connection to the statewide power grid and bolstering the region’s energy reliability. The CPUC approved a segment of the transmission line to be constructed above ground, over and along Norco’s portion of the Santa Ana River. Norco City officials and residents have expressed significant concerns about this approved project, primarily due to the increased wildfire risks and aerial firefighting challenges associated with overhead power lines in the wind-prone and fire-prone area. The City continues to advocate for undergrounding the RTRP to mitigate these risks and protect public safety.

5. Telecommunications Telecommunications involves the transmission of information over long distances using electronic means. This includes communication through wired and wireless networks, such as telephone lines, radio waves, fiber optics, and satellite systems. The methods of transmission evolve rapidly as science and technology advance. The City supports the use of continually evolving telecommunications technology to improve the efficiency and productivity of local businesses and enhance quality of life for residents.Wired transmission within the City of Norco is conveyed via a combination of above-ground poles (mainly in the neighborhoods located east of the I-15 Freeway and along Hamner Avenue and River Road) and underground lines (in the neighborhoods located west of the freeway, the Norco Hills neighborhoods, and Sixth Street). A range of private companies, including AT&T, Spectrum, and Crown Castle, provide telephone, internet, and cable service in Norco, install and maintain the appropriate infrastructure, and bill customers directly.Ingalls Event Center cell tower, in foreground, doubles as signage. Rural street character on Pedley Avenue with wood utility poles along the trail. Stormwater conveyance channel operated by the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Above ground distribution poles.

138 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |139 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENTNeal Snipes Park. Pikes Peak Park. 3 4
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Temescal Ave Temescal Ave Hillside Ave Hillside Ave Fifth St ifth St Temescal Ave Temescal Ave
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Crestview Dr Crestview Dr California
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California Ave edley Ave Pedley Ave
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Santa Ana River Santa Ana River Corydon Ave Corydon Ave River Rd River Rd
Parkridge Ave Parkridge Ave
Vine Ave Vine Ave
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Mountain Ave Mountain Ave
Sixth St ixth St
River Dr River Dr
First St irst St
Seventh St eventh St
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FIGURE 6.1 | PARKS
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Norco City BoundaryParksEvent CentersOpen SpaceExisting PedestrianEquestrian Trails Kips Korner Park
Neal Snipes Park
Norco Hills ParkPacer Park
Parmenter Park
Pikes Peak Park
Ridge Ranch Park
Sundance ParkTed Brooks Park
City Owned / Operated Parks
Clark Field
Community Center Park
Hawks Crest Park
15 12
1 12
15 River Trails Park and Santa Ana River
Wayne Makin Shearer Sports Complex
1 Basin Arena
D. Parks and Recreational FacilitiesThe City of Norco hosts an extensive network of parks, athletic fields, recreational facilities, and event centers designed to enhance the well-being and quality of life of its residents. These spaces support a variety of activities, including equestrian, sports, and specialty classes. 1. Parks and Athletic FieldsThe City of Norco owns and operates 15 community parks and athletic fields (see Figure 6.1 | Parks) that support a variety of recreational and equestrian-oriented activities through a wide range of amenities, including play structures, hitching posts, horse corrals, arenas, accessible mounting ramps, horseshoe pits, basketball courts, tennis/pickleball courts, ball fields, fitness tracks, and picnic shelters. Integrated with Norco’s extensive trail network, the park system offers convenient access for residents and supports both everyday recreation and community gatherings, while reinforcing the City’s core values. Key parks considerations are:
■ Reinvestment in Existing Parks. Prioritizing reinvestment in Norco’s robust network of existing parks and facilities to ensure they remain safe, functional, and responsive to community needs. This includes the ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and modernization of park amenities, as well as targeted upgrades that enhance accessibility, expand recreational opportunities, and extend the useful life of existing assets. ■ Park Proximity. As shown in Figure 6.1 | Parks, most residents are located within a 1/2-mile walking distance of a park or recreational facility—a standard promulgated by the National Recreation and Park Association, the National League of Cities, the Trust for Public Land, and many other professional and advocacy organizations to enable those without cars (primarily children and the elderly) to access these facilities. The lack of parks and recreational facilities can be remedied by entering into joint-use agreements with the Corona-Norco Unified School District to enable the use of school fields and playgrounds after school and on weekends (see Figure 6.3 | Library and Schools), and by introducing new parks in conjunction with new development that are maintained with revenues from funding sources, such as Community Facilities Districts and Landscape Maintenance Districts. ■ Clark Field. Located within the North Hamner Gateway focus area, Clark Field supports community wellness and youth athletics by providing dedicated space for localized field sports and outdoor neighborhood gatherings. Too small to meet current softball needs, Clark Field offers a prime opportunity to catalyze development of the North Hamner Gateway, and would be better located elsewhere in the city where the functional and programming needs of the field can be better accommodated.

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1/2 Mile Radius from ParkSphere of Influence
Source: City of Norco, Sargent Town Planning
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Temescal Ave Temescal Ave Hillside Ave Hillside Ave Fifth St ifth St Temescal Ave Temescal Ave
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Crestview Dr Crestview Dr California
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Santa Ana River Santa Ana River Corydon Ave Corydon Ave River Rd River Rd
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Mountain Ave Mountain Ave
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River Dr River Dr
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2 FIGURE 6.2 | RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AND EVENT CENTERS 123
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Norco City BoundaryParksEvent CentersOpen SpaceExisting Pedestrian-Equestrian Trails Norco Community Center, Riley Gymnasium, and Scout HouseCorydon Staging Area City Owned and Operated Facilities
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Hidden Valley Golf ClubHidden Valley Wildlife AreaPumpkin Rock and Norco Hills Trails Other Recreational Facilities
7 8
6 4 Ingalls Event Center
City Owned and Privately Operated Facilities
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5 SilverLakes
Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center

2. Recreational FacilitiesThe City owns and operates recreational facilities that support a variety of activities, including equestrian, sports, and specialty classes (see Figure 6.2 | Recreational Facilities and Event Centers). With year-round programming and strong community engagement, these facilities attract thousands of visitors each year and play a vital role in supporting local recreation, athletics, and events. Key facilities include:
■ Equestrian Staging Areas. The City owns and operates the Corydon Staging Area, which provides horse trailer parking, a holding pen, hitching posts, a restroom, and access to 25 miles of trails along the Santa Ana River. The City-owned and operated Ingalls Event Center also provides equestrian staging. In addition, Riverside County owns and operates a third staging area in the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area. ■ Senior Center. The Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center plays a critical role in supporting the health, education, and social needs of Norco’s older residents. The Senior Center offers a range of activities, including a senior garden, special interest classes, exercise programs, and a weekday congregate meal program. It also serves as a resource hub, providing information on County resources, social services, warm/cool centers, transportation, and more. ■ Community Center, Riley Gymnasium, and Scout House. The Community Center and Scout House are primarily used for youth programming and specialty contract classes. Riley Gymnasium is a multi-purpose facility that includes courts for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball, as well as a dance studio. o The site is envisioned as a master planned recreation campus that capitalizes on its prominent Hamner Avenue frontage to unify a modern community center with new commercial development at the northeast corner of Hamner Avenue and Alhambra Street, while also transforming the historic community center building through adaptive reuse for commercial purposes (see Chapter 3 | Community Vision and Priorities). ■ Wayne Makin Shearer Sports Complex. The multi-use facility includes baseball, softball, and soccer fields and accommodates a diverse range of sporting events throughout the year. Additional athletic fields may be developed along the western edge of the Norconian Resort site, should the area become available for redevelopment. ■ Other Recreational Facilities. Additional recreational facilities within and adjacent to Norco include the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area (owned and operated by Riverside County) and the Hidden Valley Golf Club, a privately-owned, public, 18-hole golf course, pro shop, practice range, and restaurant/private events space.

In addition to the enhancements and improvements to the above facilities, key City objectives include establishing and expanding programs that align with Norco’s core values, using data and community input to guide programming, and building a financially sustainable recreation program model.3. Event CentersNorco is home to two premier regional event centers that are important revenue-generating assets that host a range of equestrian, agricultural, athletic, and community events. ■ Ingalls Event Center. A City-owned and operated event center with four versatile venues that host a variety of special events, including equestrian and agricultural shows; rodeos; weddings and celebrations; corporate conferences; trade shows and expositions; and open-air concerts and festivals. Improving the Ingalls Event Center to accommodate parking for larger and higher profile events will attract more visitors to Norco and generate more revenue from visitors who stay, shop, and dine in Norco. ■ SilverLakes. A City-owned and privately-operated, 130-acre event venue that hosts athletic tournaments, concerts, and private events. The connection between SilverLakes and Sixth Street can be strengthened with improved streetscape and the introduction of iconic buildings at the North Hamner Gateway that host retail, dining, and hospitality offerings.

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Source: City of Norco, Sargent Town Planning
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142 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |143 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENT
Livestock show in The Barn at the Ingalls Event Center. SilverLakes fields.

E. Public Services1. Library ServicesThe Riverside County Library System (RCLS) operates one library branch in Norco. In addition to providing access to physical and digital publications, the library system also offers meeting and study rooms, public internet access, public computers, children’s programs, literacy programs, online career education, and printing services.2. SchoolsThe Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) provides public education services and facilities to residents of Norco, Corona, Eastvale, Temescal Valley, and a portion of Jurupa Valley. The District offices are located within Norco adjacent to City Hall. CNUSD administers four elementary schools, one intermediate school, and two high schools within the city (see Figure 6.3 | Library and Schools).

Norco is also home to Norco College, one of three colleges in the Riverside Community College District (RCCD), which in turn is part of the larger California Community Colleges System. Established in 1991, Norco College is known for its focus on technology, engineering, and career education programs, particularly in game development, logistics, and manufacturing.

3. Community EventsThe City organizes a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year that cater to attendees of all ages. These events embody Norco’s core values, foster community engagement, celebrate local culture, provide recreational opportunities, and honor the contributions of Norco’s veterans and first responders. In addition, the City supports longstanding volunteer-run events and partners with local organizations to promote programs and workshops that align with Norco’s core values. 1 8324567
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8 Temescal Ave Temescal Ave Hillside Ave Hillside Ave Fifth St ifth St Temescal Ave Temescal Ave
Fourth St ourth St
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Hamner Ave Hamner Ave
Crestview Dr Crestview Dr California
Ave
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California Ave edley Ave Pedley Ave
Norco Dr Norco Dr
Santa Ana River Santa Ana River Corydon Ave Corydon Ave River Rd River Rd
Parkridge Ave Parkridge Ave
Vine Ave Vine Ave
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Mountain Ave Mountain Ave
Sixth St ixth St
River Dr River Dr
First St irst St
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4 Highland Elementary Norco CollegeRiverview ElementarySierra Vista ElementaryNorco ElementaryNorco Intermediate School JFK Middle College High School
Norco High School
Public K-12 Schools State College
FIGURE 6.3 | LIBRARY AND SCHOOLS
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Norco City BoundaryPublic K-12 Schools 9 Norco Branch Library Library
9 Norco College Property1/2 Mile Radius from School

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Source: City of Norco, Sargent Town Planning
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144 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |145 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENT4. Military and Veterans ServicesThe City offers a variety of military and veterans services dedicated to honoring and supporting those who have served, including the Military Banner Program, Military Brick Program, and complimentary shuttle service for veterans. At the heart of this commitment is the George A. Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza, featuring a 70-foot flagpole, the “Circle of Honor” recognizing veterans nationwide, and the solemn “Lest We Forget” wall honoring Norco’s fallen heroes, and the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument providing a place of permanence for Norco’s military families to gather and call their own. Located at the Ingalls Event Center, the plaza provides a meaningful place for remembrance, community events, and ongoing programs that ensure the sacrifices of service members and their families are never forgotten.5. Animal ServicesThe City of Norco owns and operates the Norco Animal Shelter, which provides comprehensive services including animal adoption programs, licensing, housing and care of animals, disease prevention and control protocols, rescue operations, and vaccination services. 6. Homeless Services The City of Norco collaborates with the Housing and Homeless Solutions Corona–Norco Region Partnership, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, and other regional organizations to implement a coordinated approach to addressing homelessness and delivering comprehensive support services to individuals in need.7. Emergency Services a. Emergency Services. The City of Norco contracts with CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department for fire suppression, prevention, and emergency medical services (EMS), and the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMD) for natural disaster preparedness services. There are three fire stations in the City of Norco, and the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is located at Fire Station 47, as shown in Figure 6.4 | Infrastructure and Public Safety Facilities. See Chapter 9 | Safety Element for goals and policies. b. Police Protection. The City of Norco contracts with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO) for law enforcement services. A substation of the Jurupa Valley Station—the Norco Sheriff’s Substation—is located adjacent to Norco City Hall. See Chapter 9 | Safety Element for goals and policies.

8. Waste, Recycling, Organics, and ManureThe City contracts with USA Waste of California, Inc. (Waste Management) (WM) to provide waste collection services. Residents use a four-bin system for waste disposal (general trash, recyclable materials, manure, and organic waste, including food scraps and yard debris). Residents without a self-haul permit must participate in the City’s manure collection program, also operated by WM. Businesses must arrange for recycling and organic waste services, either through WM’s curbside collection or by self-hauling to appropriate facilities. WM transports waste to the El Sobrante Landfill, a privately-owned facility in the City of Corona. The City and WM seek to minimize the volume of solid waste entering the landfill through reduction, reuse, composting, and recycling efforts.The City and WM partnered to launch “Join the Flock,” an organic recycling initiative that provides Norco residents with free chickens and essential supplies to help them recycle food scraps at home. This program reflects the City’s core values and supports State-mandated waste-separation requirements while encouraging sustainable, community-centered living. 1 Temescal Ave Temescal Ave Hillside Ave Hillside Ave Fifth St ifth St Temescal Ave Temescal Ave
Fourth St ourth St
Third St hird St
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Crestview Dr Crestview Dr California
Ave
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California Ave edley Ave Pedley Ave
Norco Dr Norco Dr
Santa Ana River Santa Ana River Corydon Corydon
River Rd River Rd
Parkridge Ave Parkridge Ave
Vine Ave Vine Ave
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Third St hird St
Mountain Ave Mountain Ave
Sixth St ixth St
River Dr River Dr
First St irst St
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City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations CenterFire Station 57Public Works Yard Parks and Facilities Yard FIGURE 6.4 | INFRASTRUCTURE AND PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITIES 1 3
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Norco City Boundary
Existing Pedestrian-Equestrian Trails
Parks Event CentersOpen Space
Legend
Facilities
Recreational FacilitiesPublic Arenas
5 Fire Station 14
4 Water Treatment PlantReservoirs
Utility Facilities

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146 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |147 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENTF. Goals and PoliciesGOAL IF-1 WATER SYSTEM. The City will maintain its water system to meet the needs of the Norco community, in coordination with State and regional water agencies.POLICIESIF-1.1 Agency Coordination. Work with the Arlington Desalter Facility, the Chino Basin Desalter Authority, and the City of Riverside to ensure an adequate supply of domestic water facilities to sustain existing and projected water needs.

IF-1.2 Infrastructure Maintenance. Continue to maintain, improve, and replace aging water infrastructure to ensure the reliable provision of service to the community.

IF-1.3 Funding. Ensure that adequate funding is available to maintain and upgrade existing water facilities, construct new infrastructure as needed, manage water assets, and promote water use efficiency programs and educational resources.

IF-1.4 New Development. Require new development to provide adequate water infrastructure to serve the development.

IF-1.5 Water Programs. Create and promote water conservation incentive programs and educational resources for property owners.

GOAL IF-2 WASTEWATER SYSTEM. The City will maintain its wastewater system to serve the needs of existing and new development within the city.POLICIESIF-2.1 Agency Coordination. Continue to coordinate with the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority to ensure reasonable and adequate wastewater treatment capacity is available to serve current and future demand.

IF-2.2 Infrastructure Maintenance. Continue to maintain, improve, and replace aging wastewater infrastructure to ensure the reliable provision of service to the community.

IF-2.3 Funding. Ensure adequate funding to maintain and improve existing wastewater facilities and to construct new infrastructure as needed.

IF-2.4 Potable Water Reuse. Work with the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) to monitor State Water Resources Control Board standards and implementation measures to expand potable water reuse.

GOAL IF-3 STORMWATER SYSTEM. The City will design and maintain storm drain and flood control facilities that protect the community from flooding and safeguard sensitive streams and watercourses.POLICIESIF-3.1 Agency Coordination. Coordinate with regional, State, and Federal flood control agencies to mitigate flood risk in the city.

IF-3.2 Infrastructure Maintenance. Continue to maintain, improve, and replace aging storm drain infrastructure to safeguard the community from flooding and reduce the costs of repairing erosion damage.

IF-3.3 Funding. Ensure that adequate funding is available to maintain and upgrade existing storm drain facilities and construct new infrastructure as needed.

IF-3.4 NPDES Compliance. Ensure project developer compliance with the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements.

IF-3.5 NPDES Public Awareness. Continue to work with co-permittees of the NPDES permit to promote public awareness of water quality issues.

IF-3.6 Sustainable Agricultural Practices. Work with the agricultural community to reduce or eliminate surface and groundwater contamination due to agricultural activities.

GOAL IF-4 ENERGY. The City will work with utility providers to provide efficient electricity and natural gas utilities that serve the needs of existing and future residents and businesses.POLICIESIF-4.1 Agency Coordination. Work with Southern California Edison and the Southern California Gas Company to ensure that cost-effective utilities are provided, maintained, and operated in a safe manner.

IF-4.2 Utility Undergrounding. Require all new developments to install utilities underground to enhance public safety, improve visual character, and reduce service disruptions.

IF-4.3 New Underground Utilities. Work with Southern California Edison to install new subsurface distribution lines.

IF-4.4 Transmission Line Landscape Maintenance. Enforce Federal standards, industry best practices, and State/ local regulations around electric transmission and communication lines to prevent or reduce the potential for felled branches or trees to cause power outages and disrupted communications.

IF-4.5 Distribution Line Landscape Maintenance. Support and facilitate regular tree trimming and vegetation management around electric distribution lines to reduce wildfire risk, protect public safety, and maintain reliable electric service, consistent with California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) safety regulations, State wildfire mitigation requirements, and City tree-protection standards.

148 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |149 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENTGOAL IF-5 TELECOMMUNICATIONS. The City will work with utility providers to provide highquality telecommunication services and utilities that meet the needs of existing and future residents and businesses. POLICIESIF-5.1 Visual and Environmental Impacts. Encourage the placement of telecommunication facilities in a manner that reduces aesthetic and environmental concerns while maintaining service efficiency.

IF-5.2 Utility Undergrounding. Require all new telecommunication distribution lines to be installed underground.

Work with utility providers to underground existing utility distribution lines.

IF-5.3 Co-Location and Infrastructure Sharing. Support co-location of telecommunication equipment on existing towers, buildings, and other structures to minimize the number of new facilities.

IF-5.4 Public Health and Safety. Ensure that all telecommunication facilities comply with Federal, State, and local safety standards, including radio frequency (RF) exposure limits.

IF-5.5 Public Notification and Community Input. Require public notices and hearings for proposed installations, especially in residential or sensitive areas, to ensure community concerns are addressed.

GOAL IF-6 ASSET MANAGEMENT. The City will monitor utility assets using a well-managed Geographic Information System (GIS). POLICIESIF-6.1 GIS Management. Invest in the City’s GIS system to manage and model the City’s utility systems and street and trail network.

IF-6.2 Capital Improvement Map. Continue to fund and operate the City’s interactive Capital Improvement Program (CIP) web-based project map.

GOAL IF-7 HIGH-QUALITY PARKS. The City will provide safe, accessible, well-maintained, high-quality parks and recreational facilities that promote the City’s core values, as well as community health and wellness.POLICIESIF-7.1 Parks and Facilities Master Plan. Create and periodically update a Parks and Facilities Master Plan that prioritizes reinvestment in existing parks and facilities and guides the funding, staffing, maintenance, and enhancement of Norco’s parks, recreational facilities, and programming.

IF-7.2 Civic Campus Master Plan. Develop a master plan that leverages high visibility along Hamner Avenue to integrate a modern community center—featuring a gym, classrooms, studios, and a heritage room—with new commercial development at the northeast corner of Hamner Avenue and Alhambra Street, and the adaptive reuse of the historic community center building for commercial purposes.

IF-7.3 Clark Field Relocation. Identify a location within the city to relocate Clark Field that better accommodates the functional and programming needs of the field, while enabling the development of the North Hamner Gateway.

IF-7.4 Park Operations. Continue to provide the appropriate resources and staffing to manage, maintain, and improve Norco’s existing parks and recreational facilities.

IF-7.5 Partnerships with Local Schools. Partner with the Corona-Norco Unified School District to enable the joint use of school properties as parks and recreational centers that are open to the public during non-school hours.

IF-7.6 New Development. Require new residential developments to provide adequate on-site recreational and open space amenities consistent with Norco’s core values and the needs of the new development. Require projects to establish mechanisms, such as Landscape Maintenance Districts, Community Facilities Districts, homeowners’ association dues, or developer contributions, to adequately maintain new parks and recreational facilities.

GOAL IF-8 EQUESTRIAN AND ANIMAL-KEEPING FACILITIES. The City will provide, maintain, and enhance equestrian facilities and ensure convenient access to trails, open space, and recreational amenities.IF-8.1 Public Equestrian Facilities. Construct adequate public arenas, stalls, and exercise areas within easy access of neighborhoods and trails.

IF-8.2 Agrarian Design. Ensure that City facilities set the example for agrarian architectural and landscaping design standards for the entire community.

IF-8.3 Trailside Equestrian Amenities. Use minor plots of surplus property that are adjacent to trails for equestrian amenities where the situation supports the development and use.

IF-8.4 Equestrian Staging Areas. Encourage and maintain staging areas in strategic locations in the City that will allow residents and visitors to park horse trailers and have access to open space resources and training areas, as well as to the City’s extensive trail system.

IF-8.5 Trail Infrastructure Improvement. Continue Capital Improvement Program phasing to construct equestrian fencing, mark trails, and prohibit parking along all of the trails in the city to encourage safe use of the facilities.

IF-8.6 Long-Term Equestrian Support Facilities. Construct necessary facilities within public areas to ensure that animal-keeping and equestrian activities can be supported in perpetuity.

IF-8.7 Animal-Keeping Resource Availability. Ensure that facilities and resources are available for general public use to foster the development and maintenance of an animal-keeping lifestyle.

150 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |151 Chapter 6 INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES ELEMENTGOAL IF-9 LIBRARY SERVICES AND SCHOOLS. The City will work with local institutions to provide high-quality educational opportunities for lifelong learning. POLICIESIF-9.1 Future Demand for School Facilities. As needed, coordinate with the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) to identify potential school sites needed to meet future demand, as well as the planning, site acquisition, and development of educational facilities in the city.

IF-9.2 Higher Education. Support Norco College’s efforts to provide higher education that supports local industry.IF-9.3 Library Space. Continue to work with the Riverside County Library System to ensure access to adequate library space, services, books, and other resources.

IF-9.4 Early Agriculture Education. Work with the Corona-Norco Unified School District, private schools, pre-schools, and other agencies to integrate agricultural and animal-keeping programs into the curriculum.

GOAL IF-10 PROGRAMS AND EVENTS. The City will offer a variety of recreational programs and special events that align with Norco’s core values and provide opportunities for gathering, social interaction, and community building. POLICIESIF-10.1 Recreation Program Model. Build a financially sustainable recreation program model that expands programs that align with Norco’s core values.

IF-10.2 Access to Recreation and Special Events. Continue to ensure that residents have access and opportunities to participate in the City’s recreational activities and programs regardless of age, economic status, disability, culture, or other factors. Recreational programming and events should align with Norco’s core values.

IF-10.3 Special Events. Continue to host special events and activities that celebrate Norco’s heritage—such as rodeos, festivals, and parades—as well as temporary open-air markets, including farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and food-truck gatherings, and use these activities as short-term placemaking strategies in the North Hamner Gateway and along Sixth Street.

IF-10.4 Adult and Senior Programs. Continue to support the Senior Center, lifelong learning programs, and other facilities and services that enhance the well-being and quality of life for Norco’s older adult population.

IF-10.5 Evolving Recreation Needs. Identify evolving trends, needs, and preferences related to parks, recreational programs, trails, and community facilities to guide planning, investment, and service priorities.

GOAL IF-11 ANIMAL SERVICES. The City will continue to provide animal care and services, including facilitation of adoptions, promotion of animal health and safety, and animal awareness education.POLICIES IF-11.1 Animal Care. Continue to maintain a proactive, community-oriented animal services program that emphasizes humane treatment, timely response to service calls, responsible pet ownership, and effective enforcement of animal control regulations, with particular attention to the City’s agricultural, animalkeeping lifestyle and rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.

IF-11.2 Animal Control Support Services. Maintain appropriate facilities within the Animal Services Division to offer support to the community for the keeping and maintaining of animals associated with an animalkeeping lifestyle.

IF-11.3 Animal Husbandry Education. Support and sponsor public events for the purpose of continuing education in animal husbandry.

GOAL IF-12 HOMELESS SERVICES. The City will continue to address homelessness through regionally integrated strategies that prioritize public health and safety and connect individuals to appropriate services.POLICIES IF-12.1 Funding. Pursue grant funding to continue to fund homeless services. IF-12.2 Regional Coordination. Continue to coordinate with local law enforcement, neighboring jurisdictions, and regional service providers to address homelessness as a regional issue, leveraging county-led programs, funding, and service delivery systems rather than duplicating services at the local level.

GOAL IF-13 SOLID WASTE. The City will encourage customers to minimize the volume of solid waste that enters regional landfills and increase the amount of recycling. POLICIESIF-13.1 Recycling. Encourage recycling and organics collection and processing in all sectors of the community to divert items from entering landfills.

IF-13.2 Organics Facilities. Consult with public agencies and private contractors to ensure adequate organics processing facilities are available.

FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |153 Chapter 8OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTIn This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154B. State Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155C. Natural Open Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156D. Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158E. Scenic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160F. Historic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161G. Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162H. Energy Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163I. Air Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164J. Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165K. Paleontological Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165L. Archaeological Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165M. Mineral Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165N. Regenerative Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166O. Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
Open Space & ConservationElement

CHAPTER

154 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |155 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTA. IntroductionThe purpose of the Open Space and Conservation Element is to guide decision makers, City departments, and the community in the protection, enhancement, and management of Norco’s natural resources, open spaces, trails, and historical, archaeological, and tribal resources. It works in concert with Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element to ensure these resources are fully integrated into City operations and decisions, including budgeting, property management, capital improvement planning, and development review.The Open Space and Conservation Element establishes goals and policies addressing natural open space, trails, scenic and historic resources, water, energy, air quality, soils, and minerals. These goals and policies recognize that the long-term vitality of Norco’s lifestyle—and the natural and built environments that sustain it—depends on responsible stewardship of natural resources. They emphasize that continued investment in conservation delivers tangible benefits for Norconians, including clean air and water, access to nature, a resilient environment, and support for a visitor-serving economy.

B. State Legal RequirementsState law requires that the General Plan address the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, including but not limited to water and its hydraulic force, forests, soils, rivers and other waters, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, and minerals. State law also requires that the General Plan address open space for outdoor recreation, including, but not limited to areas of outstanding scenic, historic, and cultural value; areas particularly suited for park and recreation purposes, including access to lakeshores, beaches, and rivers and streams; and areas that serve as links between major recreation and open-space reservations, including utility easements, river and stream banks, trails, and scenic highway corridors. Local jurisdictions can address other natural resources in the General Plan as they see fit. State law further requires that the General Plan consider the effect of development on natural resources located on public lands, including military installations. These requirements are addressed in this Element. The State’s expectations for the Open Space and Conservation Element reflect and support California’s three basic planning priorities, as established in California Government Code Section 65041.1: 1) promoting infill development and equity by rehabilitating, maintaining, and improving existing infrastructure; 2) protecting, preserving, and enhancing the State’s most valuable natural resources and working lands; and 3) encouraging efficient greenfield development patterns. In conjunction with Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element, Chapter 5 | Circulation Element, Chapter 6 | Infrastructure and Facilities Element, and Chapter 9 | Safety Element, the Open Space and Conservation Element furthers all three of these State planning priorities as follows:
■ Promotes Infill and Efficient Land Use. By facilitating the preservation of natural open space, the Element encourages future development within Norco’s already urbanized areas. ■ Guides Development Review and Limits impacts. By identifying the type, location, and status of natural, historical, and cultural resources that merit conservation, the Element informs the development review process, enabling the City to limit the footprint of new development, maintain areas as natural open space, particularly where such space provides habitat for native flora and fauna, natural drainage, or unique landforms, and to protect significant historic, archaeological, and tribal cultural resources that contribute to the community’s heritage and cultural identity. ■ Supports Working Lands and Rural Atmosphere. Norco’s emphasis on reserving ample area on residential properties for agricultural and animal-keeping activities aligns with California’s priorities to protect working lands that accommodate farming, animal husbandry, and other rural uses.

Conservation versus PreservationThe Open Space and Conservation Element acknowledges important distinctions between the practices of “conservation” and “preservation,” recognizing conservation as the management of natural resources for human use and preservation as the protection of natural resources from harmful human activities. These distinctions inform the goals and policies of the Open Space and Conservation Element and the actions intended to implement it.

Scenic views along the Santa Ana River in Norco showcase natural landscapes that contribute to the City’s character, recreationopportunities, and ecological health.

The historic Norconian Hotel is a prominent landmark in Norco, representing the City’s rich cultural heritage and architectural legacy.

View of Santa Ana River trail.

156 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |157 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTC. Natural Open SpaceThe City of Norco is uniquely defined by its connection to the Santa Ana River and the Norco Hills, which—together with the community’s extensive trail network—form a 400-acre network of interconnected open space that supports recreation, habitat conservation, and scenic preservation while sustaining Norco’s distinctive rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere.1. Santa Ana RiverThe Santa Ana River corridor forms Norco’s northern boundary and serves as a major recreational and habitat resource within the region. The river is paralleled by the Santa Ana River Trail, an approximately 60-mile-long multi-use regional facility extending through Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties to the ocean, that accommodates pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians. Two equestrian staging areas—the City-operated Corydon Staging Area and the Riverside County-operated Hidden Valley Wildlife Area staging area—provide horse trailer parking, mounting areas, and direct access to the river’s trail network. Norco’s 104-acre River Trails Park is also located within the river corridor and provides a network of trails for hiking, biking, and running, with frequent trailheads that connect the river’s trails to the community’s extensive neighborhood trail network. In addition to recreation, the river corridor contributes important riparian habitat, flood management functions, and scenic open space that enhances the City’s environmental quality. There are two formal open space preserves within the city, both situated along the Santa Ana River: a 180-acre preserve at the northwest corner of the city, managed by the Riverside-Corona Resource Conservation District, and a 44-acre preserve at the northeast corner of the city, managed by the Inland Empire Resource Conservation District. 2. Norco HillsRising along the city’s eastern edge, the Norco Hills provide a complementary open space resource characterized by rugged terrain, native vegetation, and panoramic views. The hills accommodate an extensive network of informal and designated trails that are utilized for horseback riding, hiking, and passive recreation. A notable feature of the hills is Pumpkin Rock, a well-known local landmark that serves as both a visual focal point and a popular destination for trail users.1 Norco Hills trails connect to the broader citywide trail network, enabling continuous riding View of Lake Norconian. View of Beacon Hill.
1 The City of Norco does not have verified information regarding the history, maintenance, or attendance of Pumpkin Rock. The City does not maintain Pumpkin Rock or have direct communication with the volunteers who care for it. opportunities. Additionally, both the Norco Hills and Norco Ridge Range Specific Plan Areas contain protected open space, portions of which are permanently preserved as conservancy lands to protect sensitive resources while supporting passive recreation, equestrian use, and access to Pumpkin Rock. These open space areas provide habitat for a variety of native plant and animal species, accommodate recreational trails, provide scenic views, and contribute to the overall visual quality of the city.

3. Expansion of Designated Open SpaceThe City recognizes that Norco’s lifestyle and character depend on the protection and enhancement of natural open space and biological resources and is therefore committed to preserving both their instrumental and intrinsic value within the community. Consistent with this commitment, the City will also evaluate opportunities to apply open space designations in conjunction with future development and reuse in appropriate areas of the city. ■ Beacon Hill. Situated between Norco Drive and Fifth Street to the west of Hamner Avenue, Beacon Hill is a prominent natural landmark. While areas around the base of the hill have development potential (the site bears a land use designation of General Commercial and Housing Development Overlay on some parcels), steeper portions are designated as natural open space. ■ Wyle Laboratories Site. The former site of Wyle Laboratories, situated in the valley cutting through the southern reach of the Norco Hills, includes an ephemeral stream and potential upland habitat areas. The stream and undevelopable slopes should be designated and managed as natural open space in conjunction with the reuse of the site. ■ Lake Norconian. The historic Lake Norconian is located on the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Corona Division property, which is managed by the U.S. Navy. Although it is a man-made waterbody sustained by piped well water, Lake Norconian includes wetland and riparian habitat that supports a variety of bird species. Should opportunities arise, the City and Navy should consider ways to work together to enhance the ecological value of the lake and surrounding riparian areas.

View of Santa Ana River. View of Norco Hills and Pumpkin Rock.

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FIGURE 8.1 | TRAIL NETWORK
Legend
Norco City Boundary
ParksEvent CentersNatural Open SpacePotential Future DevelopmentExisting Pedestrian-Equestrian Trails Potential New Pedestrian-Equestrian Trails
Santa Ana RiverNorco Hills TrailsCorydon Staging AreaIngalls Event CenterSilverLakesNorth Hamner Gateway Site AvenueFourth Street and Hamner SiteSecond Street and River Road SiteNorconian Resort Site Temescal Ave Temescal Ave Hillside Ave Hillside Ave Fifth St ifth St Temescal Ave Temescal Ave
Fourth St ourth St
Third St hird St
Second St econd St
Hillside Ave Hillside Ave
Hamner Ave Hamner Ave
Crestview Dr Crestview Dr California
Ave
P
California Ave edley Ave Pedley Ave
Norco Dr Norco Dr
Santa Ana River Santa Ana River Corydon Ave Corydon Ave River Rd River Rd
Parkridge Ave Parkridge Ave
Vine Ave Vine Ave
ȴ ȴ
Third St hird St
Mountain Ave Mountain Ave
Sixth St ixth St
River Dr River Dr
First St irst St
Seventh St eventh St
132456789
1 2
4 3 9
7 6
5 D. TrailsThe City of Norco was incorporated to preserve an animal-keeping lifestyle and rural, equestrian-oriented atmosphere. One of the most important contributors to this atmosphere is Norco’s nearly 100-mile pedestrianequestrian trail network, which introduces linear open space along virtually all of Norco’s streets. To support this objective, the City adopted an Equestrian Historic District in 2021 and an Equestrian Landmark in 2025 to safeguard the City’s distinctive equestrian heritage through the conservation of natural open space and the protection of large lots, pedestrian-equestrian trails, equestrian-friendly parks, and animal-keeping practices. See Chapter 2 | Community Profile and Core Values for more information. 1. Trail NetworkThe City’s trail network accommodates equestrians, pedestrians, and cyclists on unmotorized bicycles. Motorized vehicles, such as golf carts, e-bikes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), are prohibited from using Norco’s trails and must use the street. Trails line the majority of Norco’s streets, providing most residential lots with direct access to the trail network and the opportunity to navigate through the community and into natural areas, such as the Santa Ana River and Norco Hills (see Figure 8.1 | Trail Network). Existing gaps in the trail network, including north-south connectivity in the area to the west of Hamner Avenue and the crossing of Hamner Avenue at Alhambra Street, can be improved in coordination with the development of Fourth Street and Hamner Avenue, the North Hamner Gateway, and the Norconian Resort Site. Other improvements include enhanced barriers along the Fourth, Fifth, and Detroit Streets’ freeway crossings, and adding a link to the Santa Ana River trail network just west of Hamner Avenue.2. Trail DesignThe typical engineered trail is 12 feet wide, surfaced with decomposed granite, and generally runs along one side of the street, although some streets, such as Sixth Street, Norco Drive, and those within the Norco Ridge Ranch Specific Plan area, include trails on both sides. Along most streets, trail improvements incorporate split rail fencing and a wide parkway that together buffer the trail from vehicular traffic. Where fencing is absent, “No Parking in Trail” signs are placed at a minimum at each end of the block to prevent vehicles from parking on the trail. Ramps are provided at most intersections, and driveway aprons typically do not cross the trail; however, paving between the apron and the driveway or parking lot is present at most commercial businesses along Sixth Street and some residential properties. Before 2011, residential driveways crossing equestrian trails could be paved with impervious materials, such as concrete and asphalt, or permeable materials, such as pavers that allow water to infiltrate through the spaces between individual units. In 2011, the City Council adopted an ordinance prohibiting impervious materials for new residential driveway crossings, however, permeable materials continued to be allowed. The parkways between the fence and the street can also accommodate trees consistent with the City’s Street Tree Ordinance and Urban Forest Specifications and Standards, enhancing shade and contributing to Norco’s unique community character. Although irrigation is required at planting, most tree species no longer require watering after three to five years. 1 RIVERSIDE IVERSIDE
CORONA

EASTVALE ASTVALE

JURUPA VALLEY URUPA VALLEY
10 1/2 Mile Radius from Park
10 Wyle Laboratories Site
8 Sphere of Influence
Source: City of Norco, Sargent Town Planning
Other City Boundaries
N

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F. Historic ResourcesThe preservation of historic resources links the community’s past with its present and future. The presence of historic buildings and landscapes not only contributes to community character but also inspires conversations and stories about the past and its relevance to the community as it exists today. Moreover, these resources allow community members to express their understanding and appreciation of the past to future generations. Historic preservation can play an important role in revitalizing older areas, spurring cultural tourism, fostering and sustaining civic pride, and establishing a strong sense of place that reflects and celebrates the community’s past. While the Norconian Resort Site and adjacent Naval Surface Warfare Center Site contain a number of designated historic buildings and landscape features, the city includes a number of residential, commercial, and civic buildings that may qualify as historic resources and merit restoration and preservation. The natural landscapes that surround and demarcate Norco (e.g., Santa Ana River, Norco Hills) embody the area’s pre-history and reflect Norco’s heritage. The preservation of historic buildings and landscapes aligns with Norco’s efforts to expand the local economy, enhance visual quality, and promote the Norco lifestyle. The preservation of historic landscapes, including large lots and equestrian amenities identified in the Equestrian Historic District and Equestrian Landmark (see Chapter 2 | Community Profile and Core Values), reinforces Norco’s identity and supports the community’s atmosphere. Together, these efforts support a lifestyle rooted in heritage, stewardship, and community pride and can play a significant role in maintaining Norco’s atmosphere and promoting and sustaining the Norco lifestyle.North Corona Water Company and North Corona Land Company building, circa 2018.

Large residential lots with Beacon Hill in the background.

North Corona Water Company and North Corona Land Company building, circa 1926.

Norco Commuity Center building.

E. Scenic ResourcesScenic resources are aesthetically pleasing features of the natural or built environment that contribute positively to the distinct visual character of the surrounding area. Scenic resources can enrich quality of life for residents and serve as visitor attractions. The Santa Ana River, the Norco Hills, Beacon Hill, and the nearby San Gabriel, San Bernardino, Santa Ana mountain ranges are features of the natural environment within and near Norco that spatially frame the city and provide visual interest. Features in the built environment that contribute to Norco’s aesthetic quality include the Norconian Hotel, the Norco Community Center, gateway elements along Hamner Avenue, public art at the Ingalls Event Center, parks, equestrian trails and fencing, agrarian architecture, and tree canopy. Together, these natural and human-made features boost Norco’s unique identity and provide for pleasant, inviting, and comfortable settings.Preserving and enhancing the city’s scenic quality will help to sustain the Norco lifestyle, which is reinforced by natural settings. The ability to enjoy scenic views of the Santa Ana River and distinct topographical features on horseback not only encourages residents to partake in the Norco lifestyle, but also draws visitors who seek this experience. Additionally, the Norco lifestyle is bolstered by preservation and enhancement of those features of the built environment that evoke Norco’s history as an agricultural, animal-keeping community, including equestrian trails and historic buildings.These scenic resources are not formally designated as such, and the Open Space and Conservation Element does not promote formal designation, as doing so may place undue constraints on new development, nor does it seek to require changes to existing development that may impede public views of scenic resources. Nevertheless, the goals and policies outlined in this Element encourage the City to recognize, steward, and enhance these resources as essential to public health, quality of life, economic development, and community character. Public art at the Ingalls Event Center. Santa Ana River.

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4. Water Resources and Norco The goals and policies of this Element provide a comprehensive framework for managing Norco’s water resources to ensure long-term reliability, quality, and sustainability. These policies emphasize the importance of a diverse and redundant water supply system, proactive infrastructure maintenance, and regional coordination to enhance water security. Conservation efforts are supported through education, incentives, and water-efficient development practices. In parallel, the City will continue to enforce water quality regulations and implement sustainable stormwater management practices to protect local aquifers, the Santa Ana River, and sensitive ecosystems. Together, these actions safeguard Norco’s water resources in support of the community’s health, resilience, and lifestyle.H. Energy Resources1. Energy SupplyPower to Norco is provided via above-ground sub-transmission lines/distribution line that extend through the city along Hamner Avenue, River Road, and various north-south streets near the city’s eastern boundary. See Chapter 7 | Infrastructure and Facilities Element for goals and policies regarding energy supply and the maintenance of the City’s energy distribution system.2. Increasing Energy DemandNorco’s households, businesses, and civic operations depend on the reliable provision of electricity and natural gas service. The City relies on these energy sources to provide for lighting, comfortable living and working environments, household appliances, traffic control, water distribution, industrial operations, information and communication systems, and other essential functions. In Norco, the residential sector generates the most demand for electricity and natural gas, although in recent years, data centers, artificial intelligence, electric equipment, vehicle charging, building electrification, and continued industrial expansion have driven rising demand for electricity nationwide. 3. Energy Resources and NorcoMeeting this growth while maintaining affordable and reliable service will require suppliers to diversify energy portfolios, develop emerging energy sources, and expand energy storage capacity. At the same time, households, businesses, and local governments can enhance energy independence and resilience through efficiency improvements, on-site renewable energy generation, and energy storage systems. Norco can support efforts to accommodate increasing energy demand in a number of ways, including:
■ Advocating for a diverse and resilient energy portfolio ■ Coordinating with utilities to assemble and assess data on local energy consumption ■ Encouraging households and businesses to monitor and benchmark their energy consumption■ Promoting energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy facilities in the existing building stock■ Encouraging the development community to exceed State energy efficiency and renewable energy standards■ Providing for renewable energy generation and energy storage facilities through land use policies and zoning standards
G. Water Resources1. Water Sources Norco lies within a hot, semi-arid region that receives limited rainfall and contains little perennial surface water. While the Santa Ana River has perennial flow, much of this flow consists of treated wastewater and urban runoff. The region is largely sustained by groundwater resources, comprised of subbasins subject to State-mandated groundwater sustainability plans (GSPs). Most of Norco falls within the Upper Santa Ana Valley Groundwater Basin, specifically the Temescal Groundwater Subbasin, with small portions extending into the Chino and Upper Santa Ana Valley Riverside-Arlington Groundwater Subbasins. While the GSPs for these subbasins indicate sufficient groundwater resources to accommodate existing and future development over the next 40-plus years, responsible agencies must regularly monitor groundwater conditions and ensure that minimum groundwater storage budgets are maintained. The City’s Public Works Department provides potable water service to the community. See Chapter 6 | Infrastructure and Facilities for goals and policies regarding the City’s water distribution system.2. Water ConservationIn 2024, California adopted mandatory water conservation standards that require local water suppliers to meet water budgets that will decline over time. To comply, local jurisdictions will need to provide a range of incentives for enhanced water conservation while establishing tiered rate structures that penalize customers for excessive water use. Ultimately, meeting increasingly strict water budgets will require individual households and businesses to adjust their water use behaviors and invest in water-efficient fixtures and appliances. In accordance with State law, Norco is required to prepare, implement, and update an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP). The City’s UWMP emphasizes the importance of water conservation as a means of enhancing Norco’s drought resilience.

3. Water Quality California’s General Plan Guidelines encourage local jurisdictions to address water quality in the Open Space and Conservation Element, with emphasis on the prevention and control of pollution of streams and other water bodies. The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters. Pollution discharges are regulated under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which is administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The NPDES program oversees discharges from wastewater treatment systems, stormwater runoff, and concentrated animal feeding operations. The federal government delegates responsibility for water quality control to the states, which in turn delegates authority to regional entities. Norco lies within Water Quality Control Region 8, which is managed by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Water Board). As a municipal permittee within Region 8, Norco must participate in the Area-Wide Urban Runoff Management Program and ensure that existing and new development meets NDPES requirements. In addition, the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority supports Norco’s long-term water supply reliability and water quality through regional groundwater desalination, salinity management, and watershed planning efforts associated with the Santa Ana River watershed.

164 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |165 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTI. Air Quality1. Air Quality in Norco and VicinityNorco is part of the Los Angeles-Long Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which includes the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino. The Los Angeles-Long Beach MSA registers the highest ozone and the sixth-highest particulate matter concentrations in the United States. While ozone and particulate matter concentrations within the MSA have declined over the past 25 years, they remain above acceptable levels. 2. Enforcement of Air Quality Standards Norco lies within the jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD), one of 35 regional air pollution control agencies that enforce policies and regulations promulgated by the California Air Resource Board (CARB). CARB is responsible for implementing the provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA), adopted by Congress in 1970 and administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).Guided by a vision of clean, healthy air for all Californians, CARB aims to achieve the following goals by 2035:
■ Attain all ambient air quality standards statewide■ Reduce cancer risk due to exposure to toxic air contaminants by 90 percent ■ Identify communities at risk from combined effects of multiple air quality problems and reduce exposure limits below State averages

3. Principal Sources of Air PollutionPrincipal sources of CARB-designated air pollutants in Norco include motor vehicles, industrial operations, restaurants, chemical fertilizers, and equestrian, agricultural, and animal-keeping activities. In residential environments, appliances powered by natural gas can be a source of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Gas stoves produce nitrogen dioxide, which typically is not mechanically ventilated to outdoor spaces (unlike gas furnaces and water heaters).4. Air Quality and Norco Although Norco has no regulatory authority over air emissions, the City can promote local and regional air quality by facilitating active transportation and transit service, dust control strategies, and a transition to clean energy sources. Norco can also shield community members from excessive exposure to air pollution by creating walkable environments, maintaining buffers between sensitive receptors and significant emission sources, mitigating fire risks, and implementing State building codes that provide for ventilation, low and zero-emission appliances, and non-toxic building materials. Local governments play an important role in South Coast AQMD’s strategy to meet Federal and State clean air standards within the South Coast Air Basin. Partnerships with local governments provide opportunities to improve local air quality by identifying and resolving local air pollution problems that may represent a health hazard to the local community. Norco can enhance its capacity to address such problems by actively participating in South Coast AQMD’s Local Government Relations Program and availing itself of South Coast AQMD resources, including technical assistance, grants, and incentive programs.

J. SoilsNorco’s soils are predominantly alluvial, reflecting the city’s location adjacent to the Santa Ana River and within its broader watershed. These sandy and loamy soils support the City’s Residential Agricultural land use pattern, including horse trails, corrals, and unpaved shoulders. However, certain areas may exhibit expansive characteristics, erosion susceptibility, or localized liquefaction potential during seismic events (see Chapter 9 | Safety Element). In hillside and bluff areas, soil disturbance can increase erosion and slope instability, particularly during intense storm events or high-wind conditions, such as Santa Ana winds, which can exacerbate wildfire risk and post-fire erosion. Along the Santa Ana River corridor, soils play an important role in groundwater recharge, habitat support, and flood conveyance. Careful grading, erosion control, vegetation management, and context-sensitive site design are essential to protect public safety, maintain water quality, preserve equestrian infrastructure, and sustain Norco’s rural atmosphere.

K. Paleontological ResourcesPaleontological resources are the fossilized remains and traces of ancient plants, animals, and ecosystems that provide valuable scientific information about Earth’s geologic history and past environments. Although Norco is located within the northwestern Peninsular Ranges geomorphic province, the city’s underlying sedimentary deposits include geologic formations with the potential to contain significant paleontological resources, particularly Pleistocene-age alluvial deposits. Fossil resources documented in the Norco area, including discoveries in the SilverLakes area, have included vertebrate remains and other scientifically important specimens. Because these nonrenewable resources can be inadvertently damaged or destroyed during ground-disturbing activities, development should incorporate appropriate assessment, avoidance, and mitigation measures to identify, protect, document, and preserve significant paleontological resources and unique geologic features in accordance with applicable laws and professional standards.L. Archaeological ResourcesArchaeological resources provide important information about the region’s prehistoric and historic past, including the lives, cultural practices, and traditions of Indigenous peoples and early settlers. These resources may include archaeological sites, artifacts, cultural features, and other physical evidence of past human activity. Although some resources have been identified in the City’s Planning Area, others may remain undiscovered beneath the ground surface As Norco continues to develop, grading, excavation, and other ground-disturbing activities have the potential to affect archaeological resources. The City supports the identification, evaluation, and preservation of significant archaeological resources in accordance with applicable federal and State laws, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Coordination with California Native American tribes, as required by State laws, is also important to the respectful identification and protection of resources with cultural and historical significance.M. Mineral ResourcesThe Open Space and Conservation Element must account for mineral resources designated by the State Mining and Geology Board under the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act and include polices for the protection, use, and development of these resources. The Open Space and Conservation Element should also plan for the protection, use, and development of rock, sand, and gravel resources, if these resources exist within the jurisdiction. For the

166 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |167 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTpurposes of the General Plan, the California Public Resources Code Section 2005 defines mineral resources as “any naturally occurring chemical element or compound, or groups of elements and compounds, formed from inorganic processes and organic substances, including, but not limited to, coal, peat, and bituminous rock, but excluding geothermal resources, natural gas, and petroleum.” Norco only has two mineral resource designations within the city limits:
■ MRZ-3a Zone. Defined as an area that has known deposits that may qualify as a mineral resource. In Norco, this resource consists of crushed rock for construction related purposes and is located in the Norco Hills and the hills and slopes around Lake Norconian, including Beacon Hill. The developed portions of the Norco Hills are not available for any type of future extraction and the remaining areas are more valuable to the City as an open space resource than as a potential mineral resource. ■ MRZ-2b Zone. Defined as an area underlain by mineral deposits where geologic information indicates that significant inferred resources are present. In Norco, this resource consists of sand and gravel for construction purposes, is located at the very edge of the city near the intersection of Hamner Avenue and Parkridge Avenue, and represents the edge of a much larger zone that extends into the City of Corona along the Temescal Wash. The majority of the land within the city that is subject to this zone has been developed, and the remaining portion does not constitute enough feasible land area to warrant any type of preservation for future mineral extraction.

The classifications for mineral resources serve as an information source to local jurisdictions to help determine long-range land use decisions. The State does not require or recommend any implementation measures. While there is little prospect of future mining operations in Norco, the goals and policies of this Element provide a basic framework for addressing any discoveries of mineral resources and/or proposals to recover such resources. Mining is an intensive land use with the potential to generate significant environmental impacts.N. Regenerative AgricultureRegenerative agriculture is a land stewardship approach that restores and enhances the health of soils while supporting productive agricultural operations and strengthening the resilience of natural ecosystems. Through practices such as compost application, cover cropping, rotational grazing, reduced soil disturbance, native vegetation establishment, and improved water management, regenerative agriculture can improve soil structure, increase organic matter, enhance biodiversity, and promote long-term agricultural productivity.For the City of Norco, regenerative agriculture offers an opportunity to reinforce the community’s longstanding agrarian heritage while advancing multiple conservation objectives. Healthy soils retain more moisture, reducing irrigation demands and improving resilience during drought conditions. Increased soil organic matter enhances infiltration, reduces stormwater runoff and erosion, and helps recharge groundwater. Vegetative cover and improved soil stability can reduce windblown dust and particulate matter, contributing to improved local air quality and public health. In addition, regenerative practices can sequester atmospheric carbon in soils and vegetation, helping to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and increase resilience to climate change.Regenerative agriculture also supports the conservation of wildlife habitat by improving ecological function and creating healthier landscapes for pollinators, birds, and other native species. Sustainable grazing and pasture management can maintain open space while reducing invasive weeds, minimizing soil compaction, and improving vegetation health. The use of compost and natural soil amendments can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, helping to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

As a community recognized for its agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle, Norco is well positioned to encourage regenerative agricultural practices that enhance environmental quality while supporting local farms, ranches, equestrian properties, and other working lands. By integrating regenerative agriculture into open space management and agricultural land stewardship, the City can advance multiple General Plan objectives related to air quality, water conservation, soil conservation, habitat protection, climate resilience, and the long-term viability of agriculture.

O. Goals and PolicesGOAL OSC-1: SANTA ANA RIVER CORRIDOR AND TRAIL NETWORK. The City will preserve and enhance the Santa Ana River corridor as a regionally significant recreational, equestrian, and ecological resource by strengthening trail connectivity, supporting multi-use access and equestrian facilities, improving River Trails Park, and protecting habitat and open space for the benefit of residents and visitors.POLICIESOSC-1.1 Norco Bluffs Protection. Restrict building construction within 20 feet of the crest of the Norco bluffs (generally from west of Hamner Avenue eastward to the city boundary).

OSC-1.2 River Corridor Access and Connectivity. Enhance and maintain strong physical and visual connections between the Santa Ana River corridor, the Santa Ana River Trail, River Trails Park, and Norco’s local trail network by improving trailheads and wayfinding and preserving views of the river from adjacent neighborhoods.

OSC-1.3 Multi-Use Trail Support. Support the continued operation and enhancement of the Santa Ana River Trail as a multi-use regional facility, prioritizing the completion of the missing trail connection beneath the I-15 Freeway.

OSC-1.4 Recreation Resource Enhancement. Maintain and improve River Trails Park as a key recreational asset by expanding trail opportunities, upgrading amenities, and ensuring compatibility with adjacent open space and habitat areas.

OSC-1.5 Habitat and Corridor Protection. Protect the ecological functions of the Santa Ana River corridor by ensuring that recreational improvements and adjacent development minimize habitat disturbance, maintain wildlife movement, and incorporate appropriate buffers where feasible.

GOAL OSC-2: NORCO HILLS OPEN SPACE AND TRAIL NETWORK. The City will preserve and enhance the Norco Hills as a prominent scenic, recreational, and ecological resource by maintaining its trail network, protecting natural features and views, and reinforcing its role within Norco’s citywide equestrian and trail network.POLICIESOSC-2.1 Hillside Development and Animal-Keeping Preservation. Require residential development in hillside areas to incorporate grading designs that provide adequate lot area to support the City’s agricultural,animal-keeping lifestyle while preserving, to the greatest extent feasible, the natural hillside terrain and landforms.

OSC-2.2 Multi-Use Recreation. Support continued multi-use of the Norco Hills for horseback riding, hiking, and passive recreation while promoting safe trail design, user compatibility, and appropriate wayfinding.

OSC-2.3 Pumpkin Rock Protection. Continue to support the protection of Pumpkin Rock as a defining feature of the Norco Hills and focal point for community identity and recreation.

168 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |169 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTOSC-2.4 Scenic Resource Preservation. Preserve panoramic views and the natural character of the Norco Hills by limiting visual intrusions, minimizing grading, and ensuring that adjacent development is sensitive to the hillsides’ natural topography.

OSC-2.5 Habitat and Open Space Conservation. Protect native vegetation and habitat areas within the Norco Hills by discouraging disturbance, managing invasive species, and directing recreational use to appropriate trail corridors.

GOAL OSC-3: HIGH-QUALITY TRAIL NETWORK. The City shall design trails to promote physical activity while ensuring compatibility with the protection of natural resources.POLICIESOSC-3.1 Well-Maintained Public Trails. In accordance with the Comprehensive Trail Master Plan, ensure adequate funding and resources to maintain Norco’s trail network.

OSC-3.2 Dedicated Space for Trails. Require new development projects to dedicate easements for and build trails, trailheads, and other needed improvements where feasible and appropriate.

OSC-3.3 Trail Network. Improve Norco’s comprehensive trail network by building missing links in the Santa Ana River Trail and improving trail crossings over and under the I-15 Freeway.

OSC-3.4 Trail Design. Design and manage trails in the Santa Ana River in a manner consistent with the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. Coordinate efforts with local hiking and equestrian trail groups.

GOAL OSC-4: LANDFORM AND SCENIC VISTA PRESERVATION. The City will protect and enhance distinctive landforms, scenic vistas, ridgelines, and natural landscapes, including Beacon Hill, the Norco Hills, and the Santa Ana River corridor, while ensuring that development, signage, landscaping, and public improvements preserve the visual character, historical significance, and unique sense of place that define the community.POLICIESOSC-4.1 Landform and Scenic Vista Preservation. In areas not already designated for permanent open space in the Land Use Element, land development should be done in such a manner that the city’s primary land forms and scenic vistas are protected.

OSC-4.2 Landform Protection. Ensure that development occurs consistent with the city’s land form resources, preserving to the greatest extent possible the City’s most identifiable natural landmarks (e.g., Beacon Hill, Norco Hills) that help give the community its sense of uniqueness.

OSC-4.3 Beacon Hill Protection. Protect and recognize Beacon Hill as a historically significant feature of the city’s landscape. Work with neighboring property owners to create a balanced development plan that incorporates trails and open space.

OSC-4.4 Billboards and Freestanding Signage. Prohibit billboards within the city and limit the scale of freestanding signage within view corridors.

OSC-4.5 Ridgeline Preservation. Discourage the placement of buildings on prominent ridgelines. OSC-4.6 Restoration of Native Upland Vegetation. Consider restoration of Riversidean sage scrub and other native upland vegetation as a means of enhancing the visual quality of local hillsides.

OSC-4.7 Views of Santa Ana River. Utilize existing and planned public amenities to improve and expand views of the Santa Ana River.

GOAL OSC-5: SCENIC ELEMENTS WITHIN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT. The City will identify and promote the maintenance and enhancement of scenic elements within the built environment, including distinct buildings, landscape, and public art.POLICYOSC-5.1 Design Strategies. Employ a range of design strategies to maintain and enhance the scenic value of the built environment, such as site planning that considers the surrounding context, articulated building form and materials, streetscape design, undergrounding and screening of utilities, and equestriansensitive design.

GOAL OSC-6: PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF SIGNIFICANT HISTORIC RESOURCES. The City will identify and incentivize the preservation and restoration of significant historic resources that embody Norco’s heritage, character, and lifestyle.POLICIESOSC-6.1 Historic Resource Inventory. Update the 2012 inventory of potentially significant historic buildings, in accordance with criteria established by the National Register of Historic Places and the California Office of Historic Preservation.

OSC-6.2 Restoration and Adaptive Reuse. Pursue the restoration and adaptive reuse of older, character-defining buildings, such as the Norconian Hotel, the North Corona Land Company and Orange Heights Water Company building in the North Hamner Gateway, and the Community Center, as part of placemaking efforts. Where preservation in place is not feasible, incorporate appropriate mitigation measures through the environmental review process.

OSC-6.3 Compatible Land Use Around Historic Resources. Ensure that land use designations and development regulations surrounding historic structures support their continued preservation and use, and do not diminish the economic viability of maintaining such resources.

OSC-6.4 Compatible Development Adjacent to Historic Structures. Ensure that new development in proximity to historic structures does not impede the integrity of the historical structure, either through inappropriate design, building mass, landscaping mass, setbacks, etc.

OSC-6.5 Historic Structure Demolition Review. Prohibit the demolition of any historical structure until an assessment of the cost of rehabilitation of the existing structure has been submitted to the City.

OSC-6.6 Alternatives to Demolition. Encourage the adaptive reuse of historic buildings as an alternative to demolition and replacement.

OSC-6.7 Sensitive Rehabilitation of Historic Structures. Maintain the integrity of historic structures by avoiding inappropriate additions or alterations and ensuring that their preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction complies with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

OSC-6.8 Local Historic Building Recognition Program. Establish and maintain a Local Historic Building Recognition Program to identify, acknowledge, and promote buildings and structures that contribute to Norco’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage.

OSC-6.9 Lake Norconian Conservation and Stewardship. Support the long-term conservation, stewardship, and enhancement of Lake Norconian through collaborative planning that preserves its scenic, natural, and historic character, protects its visual quality and ecological functions, and encourages restoration activities that reinforce the lake’s role as a prominent community landmark and defining element of Norco’s identity and sense of place.

170 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |171 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTGOAL OSC-7: PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF NATURAL LANDSCAPES. The City will promote the preservation and restoration of natural landscapes that embody the region’s prehistory and reflect Norco’s heritage. POLICIESOSC-7.1 Habitat Restoration. Support the removal of invasive plant species and the restoration of natural habitats along the Santa Ana River through coordination with partner agencies and community stewardship efforts, while promoting habitat restoration practices that improve ecosystem health, enhance water quality, reduce fire risk, and improve trail accessibility by clearing overgrown vegetation.

OSC-7.2 Signage and Monumentation. Consider signage and monumentation that highlight the role the Santa Ana River has played in the development of Norco and adjacent communities.

OSC-7.3 New Development. Require new development to incorporate native and naturalized landscaping that maintains Norco’s rural atmosphere and is safe and compatible for horses. To the extent feasible, incorporate edible and pollinator-friendly plant species.

GOAL OSC-8: SENSITIVE TREATMENT OF TRIBAL RESOURCES. The City will ensure the sensitive treatment of tribal resources consistent with the values and practices of local tribal groups.POLICIESOSC-8.1 Land Development. In coordination with local tribal groups, establish standard conditions for the treatment of tribal resources discovered during land development.

OSC-8.2 Recognition of Tribal Heritage. Pursue opportunities to recognize and honor the area’s tribal history and heritage in conjunction with community events, capital improvement projects, library programs, and public art initiatives.

GOAL OSC-9: POTABLE WATER. The City will maintain adequate potable water service that exceeds minimum Federal and State water supply and quality requirements.POLICYOSC-9.1 Sustainable and Resilient Potable Water Supply. Maintain a potable water supply that provides for future generations of Norconians and withstands extreme weather events and other natural hazards.

GOAL OSC-10: WATER CONSERVATION. The City will facilitate water conservation efforts that contribute to Norco’s water security and reduce costs for residents and businesses.POLICIESOSC-10.1 Sustainable and Resilient Water Conservation. Promote water conservation through public information, pricing mechanisms, and incentives.

OSC-10.2 Irrigation. Promote efficient and sustainable irrigation practices.

GOAL OSC-11: WATER QUALITY AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT. The City will continue to implement and enforce all applicable water quality and stormwater management policies, regulations, and protocols as promulgated by Federal, State, and regional agencies.POLICIESOSC-11.1 Water Resource Protection. Protect water resources from pollutants through enforcement of the Clean Water Act with the issuance of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for new development, as applicable, including Storm Water Pollution Protection Plans (SWPPP) during construction and Water Quality Management Plans (WQMP) post construction.

OSC-11.2 Reclaimed Water Discharge. Pursue opportunities to reduce the amount of reclaimed water discharged into the Santa Ana River, including installation and activation of a reclaimed water system for irrigation.

OSC-11.3 Best Management Practices. Employ best management practices and sustainable stormwater control measures in capital improvement projects, as appropriate.

OSC-11.4 Constructed Wetlands. As an alternative to conventional storm drainage facilities, design and manage constructed wetlands that mimic natural wetlands and contribute to the filtration and cleansing of stormwater.

OSC-11.5 Animal-Keeping Impacts on Water Quality. Maintain public information campaigns that educate residents regarding the importance of following proper manure storage and disposal best practices in order to minimize pollutant runoff and nutrient leaching into groundwater and surface waters.

OSC-11.6 Groundwater Extraction Overlay. In those areas where groundwater extraction occurs, consider applying a groundwater protection overlay zone that places restrictions on land uses with the potential to contaminate groundwater, restrictions on the use of certain fertilizers and pesticides, well management protocols, and secondary containment standards.

GOAL OSC-12: SUFFICIENT AND RESILIENT ENERGY SUPPLY. The City will ensure sufficient and resilient energy supply to meet current needs and accommodate projected growth. POLICIESOSC-12.1 Energy Demand. Continue to monitor local electricity and natural gas demand in coordination with the Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN).

OSC-12.2 Diverse Electricity Portfolio. Advocate for an increasingly diverse electricity portfolio comprised primarily of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind, geothermal, hydro, biomass).

OSC-12.3 System Maintenance and Upgrading. Coordinate with the investor-owned utilities to ensure the adequacy and timely maintenance and upgrading of energy distribution systems.

GOAL OSC-13: ENERGY INDEPENDENCE. The City will achieve greater energy independence through local renewable energy harvesting and enhanced energy efficiency.POLICIESOSC-13.1 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Facilities. Encourage new development to meet minimum State requirements for on-site solar photovoltaic facilities.

OSC-13.2 Small-Scale Wind Energy Generation Systems. Allow for small-scale residential wind energy generation systems, subject to siting and design standards that ensure such systems are compatible with the visual character of the surrounding neighborhood.

OSC-13.3 Battery Storage. Encourage homeowners and business owners who install solar PV and/or wind energy generation systems to pair these facilities with battery storage.

172 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |173 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTOSC-13.4 Energy Efficiency. Promote energy efficiency in both municipal operations and within the community at-large.

OSC-13.5 Solar-Powered Traffic Control Devices. Continue to install solar-powered traffic control devices, including pedestrian crossing beacons, flashing warning signs, speed feedback signs, school zone flashers, and other transportation-related equipment.

GOAL OSC-14: REDUCED RELIANCE ON CARBON-EMITTING ENERGY SOURCES. The City will reduce its reliance on non-renewable, carbon-emitting fuels, in compliance with State requirements. POLICIESOSC-14.1 Building Electrification. Promote building electrification through cost-effective building design and technologies.

OSC-14.2 Renewable Natural Gas. Continue coordinating with the Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority (WRCRWA) to convert biosolids to renewable natural gas for use in electricity generation, vehicle fuel, and industrial energy applications.

OSC-14.3 Zero- and Low-Emission Vehicle Fleet. Encourage the transition of the municipal vehicle fleet, including employee commute, carpool, and similar transportation vehicles, to zero-emission and lowemission vehicles. This policy does not apply to construction equipment, emergency response vehicles, or other specialized vehicles where electrification and zero-emission options are not currently feasible or would compromise operational needs.

OSC-14.4 Active Transportation Facilities. Facilitate the expansion of facilities that support walking, cycling, horseback riding, and other non-motorized forms of transportation, including pedestrian pathways, bicycle facilities, equestrian trails, and other connections that provide alternatives to automobile travel.

GOAL OSC-15: REGIONAL AIR QUALITY ATTAINMENT LEVELS. The City will support the efforts of the South Coast Air Quality Management District to achieve regional attainment levels for ozone (O3) and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5).POLICIESOSC-15.1 Air Quality Monitoring. Promote “citizen science” air quality monitoring through crowdsourcing websites like PurpleAir, particularly in high-traffic areas, industrial districts, and in proximity to commercial farming, animal-keeping, and equestrian operations.

OSC-15.2 Dust Control Measures. Require development and construction activities to implement effective dust control measures consistent with the Norco Municipal Code and other applicable regulations to minimize fugitive dust, protect air quality, and reduce impacts on nearby residents, roadways, and equestrian facilities.

OSC-15.3 Dust Control. Support community education and outreach to encourage proper animal-keeping practices that minimize dust generation and protect air quality.

OSC-15.4 Clean Industrial Technologies. Consider support of legislation that promotes clean industrial technologies and more efficient stationary source combustion equipment and energy generation.

OSC-15.5 Restaurant/Commercial Kitchen Emissions. Promote regular maintenance of vents, filters, and the use of air scrubbing technology to reduce organic aerosol emissions from restaurants and commercial kitchens.

OSC-15.6 Transportation-Related Emissions. Undertake and support efforts to reduce transportation-related emissions.

OSC-15.7 Public Information. Provide community members with information on air quality, factors that contribute to local air pollution, and strategies for reducing air pollutants.

OSC-15.8 Priority Areas. Prioritize air quality enhancement efforts in those areas exposed to the highest concentrations of air pollutants (e.g., in proximity to the I-15 Freeway).

OSC-15.9 Environmental Justice. Consider environmental justice issues as they relate to potential health impacts associated with air pollution and ensure that all land use decisions, including enforcement actions, protect all Norco residents, regardless of age, culture, ethnicity, gender, race, socioeconomic status, or geographic location from the health effects of air pollution.

GOAL OSC-16: SLOPE AND SOIL STABILITY. The City will protect public safety and infrastructure by minimizing soil erosion, slope instability, and geologic hazards.POLICIESOSC-16.1 Geotechnical Investigation. Require site-specific geotechnical investigations for development in areas with potential soil constraints, including expansive soils, liquefaction susceptibility, slope instability, or flood-related erosion.

OSC-16.2 Hillside Grading. Limit grading on hillsides and bluffs to the minimum extent necessary to accommodate permitted development, access, and public safety improvements, while preserving natural landforms, topography, and drainage patterns. Prohibit grading or excavation undertaken primarily to extract, export, or sell soil, rock, or other earth materials, except where incidental to an approved development or public infrastructure project.

OSC-16.3 Erosion and Sediment Control. Require erosion and sediment control measures during construction to prevent sediment transport to equestrian trails, storm drains, and the Santa Ana River.

OSC-16.4 Post-Construction Stabilization. Ensure post-construction stabilization measures, including revegetation and soil binding techniques, are implemented to prevent long-term erosion.

GOAL OSC-17: RIVER CORRIDOR PROTECTION. The City will protect and enhance the soil and hydrologic functions of the Santa Ana River corridor to support groundwater recharge, habitat integrity, and flood management.POLICIESOSC-17.1 Riparian Soil Protection. Preserve natural soils and riparian vegetation within and adjacent to the Santa Ana River corridor to support groundwater recharge, habitat function, and flood management.

OSC-17.2 River Corridor Infiltration. Ensure development near the Santa Ana River corridor incorporates setbacks, biofiltration, and low-impact development techniques to maintain natural infiltration capacity.

174 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |175 Chapter 8 OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENTGOAL OSC-18: PALEONTOLOGICAL AND GEOLOGIC RESOURCES. The City will protect Norco’s paleontological resources and unique geologic features by ensuring that development is planned and carried out in a manner that identifies, conserves, and appropriately manages significant resources, preserving the community’s scientific, educational, and natural heritage for future generations.POLICYOSC-18.1 Paleontological and Geologic Resource Protection. Require paleontological resource assessments for development projects in areas with moderate to high paleontological sensitivity and implement appropriate measures to avoid, minimize, document, and preserve significant paleontological resources and unique geologic features discovered during construction, consistent with applicable State regulations and professional standards.

GOAL OSC-19: ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES. The City will preserve and protect significant archaeological resources as important records of Norco’s prehistoric and historic heritage.POLICYOSC-19.1 Identification and Protection of Archaeological Resources. Require the identification and evaluation of potentially significant archaeological resources as part of applicable environmental review and project approval processes. Where feasible, require project design and construction practices to avoid or minimize impacts to significant resources, consistent with applicable laws and regulations. Coordinate with California Native American tribes, as required by State laws to assist in the identification andappropriate treatment of resources of cultural significance.

GOAL OSC-20: RESPONSIBLE MINERAL RESOURCE EXTRACTION. The City will balance the economic development potential for mineral resource extraction with other City priorities, placing emphasis on public health and safety, environmental quality, community character, and quality of life, in the event mineral resources are identified and extraction operations are proposed. POLICIESOSC-20.1 Evaluation of Mineral Resource Extraction Proposals. Evaluate proposals for mineral resource extraction to ensure that potential economic benefits are carefully balanced with the protection of public health and safety, environmental quality, community character, and overall quality of life.

OSC-20.2 Compatibility and Impact Management. Require mineral resource extraction activities to demonstrate compatibility with surrounding land uses and incorporate measures that avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts related to noise, air quality, traffic, visual character, and other environmental effects.

GOAL OSC-21: REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE. The City will promote the sustainable stewardship of Norco’s agricultural properties and open spaces through land management practices that enhance environmental quality, strengthen climate resilience, conserve natural resources, and preserve the community’s agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle.POLICYOSC-21.1 Sustainable Land Stewardship. Encourage regenerative agricultural and land management practices that support Norco’s agricultural and equestrian heritage while improving soil health, reducing dust, conserving water, mitigating urban heat, and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased carbon sequestration.

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FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |177 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENTIn This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178B. State Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 C. Hazards and Issues of Concern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

1. Human-Caused Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1792. Wildland/Urban Fire Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1803. Seismic and Geologic Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1844. Flooding and Dam Inundation Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1885. Emergency Management and Evacuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1906. Emerging Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191 D. Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
Safety Element

CHAPTER

178 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |179 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENTA. Introduction B. State Legal Requirements California Government Code (GC) §65302 (g) requires that the General Plan include an Element that identifies hazards, such as earthquakes, flooding, and wildfire. This Element meets the legal requirements for a Safety Element and includes goals, policies, and implementation actions intended to reduce injury to people and damage to properties within the city. Relevant issues addressed in this Element include human-caused hazards, seismic and geologic hazards (ground shaking, slope instability leading to landslides, and liquefaction), flooding (dam failure), wildland and urban fires, emergency management, evacuation routes, and emerging hazards related to weather and climate change. Other issues required under GC §65302 (g) do not apply to the City of Norco and are not addressed. The Element is also aligned with other Elements, as required by State law, including Chapter 4 | Land Use and Community Character Element, Chapter 5 | Circulation Element, Chapter 6 | Infrastructure and Facilities Element, Chapter 8 | Open Space and Conservation Element, Chapter 7 | Housing Element, and Chapter 10 | Noise Element.

The City of Norco has also developed and adopted a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Annex as part of the County of Riverside Operational Area Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), the latest Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps, and an Evacuation Assessment, all of which allow the City to become eligible for Federal grant funding to mitigate many of these natural hazards. The LHMP was developed in accordance with the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) and followed Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Local Hazard Mitigation Plan guidance. The LHMP incorporates a process where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. The implementation of these mitigation actions, which include both short and long-term strategies, involve planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. See https://rivcoready.org/sites/g/files/aldnop181/files/users/user41/MJLHMP%205.1.25a.pdf.

C. Hazards and Issues of Concern1. Human-Caused HazardsIn addition to natural hazards, the City of Norco is concerned about impacts from the following human-caused hazards: a. Hazardous MaterialsThe City of Norco is exposed to potential risks associated with the use, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials related to commercial, industrial, and infrastructure activities. Hazardous materials are regulated through State and Federal programs administered locally by the County of Riverside as the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA). Concerns regarding hazardous materials release focus on transport of materials through the city, as well as accidental release from a home or place of business. To manage these risks, the City works closely with the County to monitor potential pollutants and protect public health and safety.

The purpose of the Safety Element is to establish a comprehensive framework for protecting the health, safety, and welfare of Norco residents, businesses, and visitors from risks associated with natural and human-caused hazards. This Element guides land use planning, infrastructure investment, and community preparedness to reduce vulnerability, enhance resilience, and support effective emergency response and recovery.Consistent with California Government Code requirements, the Safety Element addresses human-caused hazards, seismic and geologic hazards, flooding, wildland and urban fires, emergency management, evacuation routes, and emerging hazards related to weather and climate change. The Element emphasizes proactive risk reduction, adherence to applicable State and Federal standards, and collaboration with regional agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to emergency management. Through the goals and policies contained in this Element, the City of Norco seeks to enhance community resilience, safeguard critical facilities and infrastructure, and ensure that future development is planned and designed to reduce hazards while maintaining the City’s character and quality of life.

Riverside County Sheriff’s Office and CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department units responding to an incident.

180 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |181 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENTb. Airport HazardsThe City of Norco is located in proximity to regional airports, including Corona Municipal Airport, Riverside Airport, and Chino Airport, and is therefore subject to potential airport-related hazards, including aircraft overflight, noise, and the risk of aviation accidents. Portions of the city are located within the Corona Municipal Airport influence area, which affects land use compatibility within its airport safety zones. This is commonly addressed through coordination with the Corona Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan and State aviation safety regulations. These measures help minimize risks to people and property while ensuring orderly development near airport facilities. To ensure land use compatibility is effectively addressed, the City coordinates with the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission, which oversees land use related decisions associated with Corona Municipal Airport.2. Wildland/Urban Fire HazardsThe City of Norco contracts with CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department for fire suppression, prevention, and emergency medical services (EMS), and with the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMD) for natural disaster preparedness services. Currently, there are three fire stations that serve the City of Norco. Fire Station 47 (east of I-15 at Sixth Street and Hillside Avenue), Fire Station 57 (west of I-15 on Corydon Avenue south of Fifth Street), and Fire Station 14 (west of I-15 on Hamner Avenue between Second Street and First Street). These fire stations also serve as designated locations for safe surrender sites and provide sandbag distribution to aid residents with hazard mitigation. These resource are further augmented by other infrastructure, such as helihydrants and reservoirs, that help support fire suppression activities.The hillside portions of Norco are subject to elevated wildfire risk, particularly during high wind events, such as Santa Ana winds, which can exacerbate fire behavior and expansion. Figure 9.1 | Fire Hazard Severity Zones (March 2025) illustrates the zones mapped within Norco by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), as well as areas determined to be within the wildland urban interface. These areas of increased wildfire concern trigger additional development requirements to comply with the California Fire Code and Fire Safe Regulations. Given the City’s history with wildfires (Figure 9.2 | Historic Fire Perimeters), it is apparent that wildfire risk in Norco is closely tied to topography, natural systems, land use, and development patterns. Areas that have burned in the past have predominantly been located along the Santa Ana River or the Norco Hills. Since the city is comprised of large areas of low-density residential development that support Norco's lifestyle, a major concern is the potential ignition of fires in proximity to these fire-prone areas. The threat of fire spreading into the developed areas of the city is significant due to the presence of older housing stock (built under older code requirements), outbuildings, barns, feed storage, wood-shingled roofs, deep property setbacks, and extensive open areas with dry vegetation, hillsides, and steep slopes. Conservation and open space areas can further complicate risk reduction activities, as vegetation removal may be restricted or diminished. Urban fires are also a concern for the City, since these types of incidents can place a significant burden on firefighting resources and, depending on the location, could result in economic impacts to the community. In addition, while existing water infrastructure is designed to support current and future structural fire demands, a large wildfire could overwhelm the City's infrastructure and result in reduced water pressure and pumping capacity. In July 2025, the Norco City Council approved a Local Responsibility Area Wildland Protection Reimbursement Agreement (WPA) with CAL FIRE. This proactive agreement gives the City access to additional State firefighting resources—at no additional cost—if a wildfire breaks out in the Local Responsibility Area (LRA). This is especially helpful for areas along the Santa Ana Riverbed and Norco Hills (Figure 9.3 | CAL FIRE Wildland Protection Agreement). 
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FIGURE 9.1 | FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES (MARCH 2025)
LEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets Very HighHighModerateUnzoned Local Responsibility Area (LRA)Federal Responsibility Areas (FRA)Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Severity
City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
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Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection N

182 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |183 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT
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FIGURE 9.3 | CAL FIRE WILDLAND PROTECTION AGREEMENT (WPA)LEGEND FIGURE 9.2 | HISTORIC FIRE PERIMETERS
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Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreetsHistoric Fire Perimeter (1878 - 1999)Historic Fire Perimeter (2000-2023)Mann Fire (2020) - Approximate Locationn/a Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreetsNorco WPACorona WPAEastvale WPAJurupa Valley WPAState Responsibility Area (SRA)n/a City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
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City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
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Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection N N

184 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |185 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT3. Seismic and Geologic Hazards Norco is in a seismically active region of Southern California. Surrounded by active earthquake faults of different size and significance, the city is prone to seismic and geologic hazards of varying types and degrees, as described below.a. Seismic ShakingSeismic shaking (ground shaking) is the term that refers to the movement of the earth’s surface resulting from an earthquake. This shaking is typically the primary cause of damage in earthquakes, which generally correlates with the magnitude of the earthquake and proximity to the event’s epicenter. Since the degree of shaking, and consequently damage, generally decreases as the seismic energy travels further away from the earthquake's point of origin, different parts of a city or region can report different shaking intensities. Often, earthquakes can trigger other effects, such as building damage/collapse, infrastructure failure, pipeline breakage, and damage to transportation and communication facilities. The size of the earthquake and distance from the epicenter typically determine the severity of these events. Figure 9.4 | Seismic Shaking Potential illustrates the shaking intensity expected throughout the city, with darker colors indicating stronger shaking during an event.Surface fault rupture is often associated with an earthquake. When this hazard occurs, any structures built on top or across a fault that has ruptured can be damaged or destroyed. For Norco, there are no known active or potentially active faults identified by the State Geologist requiring investigation under the Alquist Priolo Special Study Zone Act. However, moderately strong shaking can still be expected in the city because of the Chino and Elsinore faults (west of the city) and San Andreas and San Jacinto faults (east of the city).b. LiquefactionLiquefaction is a ground failure phenomenon that occurs as a result of a seismic event. Ground failure typically occurs when the following conditions exist:
■ Loose unconsolidated granular soils■ Shallow groundwater conditions■ Strong seismic shaking When all three conditions are met and liquefaction occurs, soils experience a total or substantial loss of shear strength and behave like a liquid. Thin alluvium that amplifies earthquake shaking also contributes to a moderately high liquefaction potential and can occur in Norco, where the bedrock is shallow and impedes the downward flow of groundwater. Figure 9.5 | Liquefaction Susceptibility identifies the locations susceptible to this condition within the city. Areas along the Santa Ana River are considered most susceptible to liquefaction.c. LandslideA landslide is a form of ground failure that can occur as a result of an earthquake, from water or from gravity. These failures typically happen in areas with steep slopes or unstable soil conditions. Usually, post-wildfire conditions and intense precipitation can further exacerbate these unstable hillside conditions, contributing to greater landslide vulnerability. Landslide susceptibility in Norco is relatively low in the flatter portions of the community, where topography is predominantly level. Slopes within the community are composed of hard bedrock, which limits landslide susceptibility to steeper portions of the hillsides. Figure 9.6 | Landslide Susceptibility illustrates the areas of Norco with moderate and high landslide susceptibility. 
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 









FIGURE 9.4 | SEISMIC SHAKING POTENTIALLEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets

0.25 - 0.850.85 - 0.950.95 - 1.05n/a
Seismic Shake Potential(2% at 50 years) City Hall
Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
1 34
4 1
2 3
Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California, Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey N

186 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |187 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT
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 
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 

  

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  



 


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



 
 


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
FIGURE 9.5 | LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY
LEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets Very LowLowModerateHighVery Highn/a
Liquefaction Susceptibility
City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
1 34
4 1
2 3
FIGURE 9.6 | LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY





 
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 
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
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








 





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LEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets ModerateHighn/a
Landslide Susceptibility
City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
1 34
4 1
2 3
Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California, Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California, Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey N N

188 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |189 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT
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FIGURE 9.7 | FEMA FLOOD HAZARD ZONES FIGURE 9.8 | DAM INUNDATION ZONES LEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets FEMA Flood Hazard

4. Flooding and Dam Inundation HazardsFlooding in Norco is managed through coordination with the Riverside County Regional Flood Control and Water Conservation District and implementation of the City’s Drainage Master Plan, which identifies local flood control infrastructure. The Santa Ana River, which forms much of the city’s northern boundary, is a primary regional flooding influence; however, bluffs along the river's steep southern banks provide a natural barrier for most developed areas. The locations with the greatest flood risks within Norco include low-lying areas near the river, existing flood control facilities, and major drainage channels. Stormwaters flow from east to west through the city via drainage facilities, including the North and South Norco Channels. While channel improvements have reduced flooding in some areas, both channels may be inadequate to completely prevent flooding in the city. Figure 9.7 | FEMA Flood Hazard Zones identifies the 100- and 500-year flood zones mapped throughout the city.

In addition to these hazard zones, Norco is also located downstream of two major dam facilities with the potential to inundate the city upon failure. Figure 9.8 | Dam Inundation Zones identifies the dam inundation zones mapped for the Seven Oaks Dam and Lake Matthews. Based on this mapping, portions of the city along the Santa Ana River are susceptible to inundation from the Seven Oaks Dam. Areas along the western portion of the city are susceptible to inundation from Lake Matthews. 500-Year Floodplain100-Year FloodplainFloodwayGeneralized Location -LOMR Revised Area -Effective Dec 9, 2025n/a Lake MatthewsSeven Oaks Damn/a
Dam Inundation Zones
4 1
2 3
4 1
2 3
LEGEND
Norco City BoundaryOther City BoundariesWater BodyRiverStreets City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
1 34
City Hall Norco Sheriff’s SubstationFire Station 47 Emergency Operations Center (EOC)Fire Station 57Fire Station 14 2 Public Safety Facilities
1 34
Source: ESRI, City of Norco, Federal Emergency Management Administration Source: ESRI, City of Norco, California Department of Water Resources N N

190 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |191 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT5. Emergency Management and EvacuationAnticipating, evaluating, and mitigating natural and human-caused hazards is essential to the City’s long-term resilience. To support these efforts, the City undertakes the following emergency management functions with its public safety partners at CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department, Riverside County Sheriff's Office, and County of Riverside Emergency Management Department:a. MitigationMitigation within the city relies on the identification and assessment of natural and human-caused hazards, as well as the implementation of strategies and actions to reduce risk and minimize impacts. Many of these strategies are embedded in City policies and implementation actions aimed at hazard risk reduction. To support these efforts, the City adopts and implements their Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), which can be found on the City's website. b. PreparednessEmergency preparedness focuses on activities that support effective disaster response, including planning for life safety, evacuation, supplies, and training. As part of these efforts, the City completed an AB 747 Evacuation Assessment that identifies potential evacuation routes and assesses evacuation scenarios appropriate for Norco. This assessment includes data and information associated with single ingress/egress locations based on the Resilient IE program, developed in collaboration between Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA). Based on this data and the analysis conducted, certain locations within the city may be constrained during an evacuation. c. ResponseEmergency response focuses on lifesaving actions and minimizing property damage, conducted in coordination with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO) and CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is primarily responsible for informing the City’s emergency management and response strategies. Guided by the EOP, the City coordinates with the Riverside County Emergency Management Department (EMD)—the lead coordinating agency for the Riverside County Operational Area—to support communications, logistics, and assistance during major incidents. While mutual aid is available through EMD, regional emergencies may limit these resources, making local self-sufficiency a priority. The Animal Services Division may play a key role in evacuation and sheltering activities involving animals. During an emergency response, this Division may be called on to establish temporary shelter locations and provide critical resources to residents with animals.d. RecoveryRecovery activities occur after a disaster and focus on restoring services, repairing or rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and assisting residents and businesses with permits and approvals. Depending on the incident, recovery may be localized or require specialized expertise. Hazardous waste cleanup may be necessary following major disasters. This phase can play a key role in mitigation and risk reduction for future developments/generations.

6. Emerging HazardsEmerging hazards are those hazards that have begun to impact the City more frequently and in more intense ways than in the past 20-30 years. Several of these hazards can be linked to changing climatic conditions that may be associated with climate change. For Norco, the key hazards of concern include drought, extreme heat, and severe weather. a. DroughtAccording to the Resilient IE Toolkit, climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, potentially leading to water shortages. Following the State’s 2021 drought proclamation, the City adopted and enforces a water conservation program to protect supplies for consumption, sanitation, and fire protection, and may declare a water shortage emergency if demands cannot be met. According to the City’s Urban Water Management Plan, water supplies are derived from groundwater, recycled water, and imported sources and are projected to meet full-service demands through 2045, even during multiple dry years. All locations within the city have adequate water supplies and infrastructure that meet current and future daily demands and fire suppression needs.b. Extreme HeatThe State of California recognizes extreme heat as one of the most significant and growing hazards of concern, causing more deaths than any other weather-related hazard. According to the Resilient IE Toolkit, extreme heat in Norco can strain power systems and increase heat-related illness, particularly among vulnerable populations. In response, the City has established criteria for opening cooling centers during extreme heat events and issuance of heat warnings. These warnings are communicated through local media and the Summer Energy Crisis Hotline administered by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County. Extreme heat events coupled with wind events (like the Santa Ana winds) can significantly increase wildfire risk and strain emergency response capabilities. Agricultural Heat Mitigation. Regenerative agriculture is a land management approach that emphasizes maintaining healthy vegetative cover, minimizing soil disturbance, and using practices that improve the landscape's natural functions. In addition to supporting agricultural productivity, regenerative practices can help reduce urban heat by increasing shade and vegetation, retaining moisture in the soil, and lowering ground surface temperatures. In a community like Norco, where agriculture, animal-keeping, and equestrian uses are integral to the City's identity and core values, regenerative land management can complement broader heat adaptation strategies by creating cooler, more resilient landscapes that help protect public health during periods of extreme heat.c. Severe WeatherSevere weather in Norco is typically categorized as strong winds and heavy rain. According to the Resilient IE Toolkit, these types of weather events are projected to increase in intensity, bringing more rain in a shorter period, or stronger wind speed than previously experienced. As a result, severe weather events may produce impacts in areas of the city not previously affected or cause damage above and beyond past experiences. This, coupled with projected changes in climate conditions, suggests that severe weather events may increase the burden on City facilities, infrastructure, and personnel.

192 | 2050 GENERAL PLAN | CITY OF NORCO, CA FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |193 Chapter 9SAFETY ELEMENT
S-2.6 Project Review. Incorporate the following fire prevention and suppression strategies during development review, where necessary:
■ Adequate access to buildings ■ Adequate separation between buildings ■ Adequate building setbacks from fuel modification areas ■ Installation of automatic fire extinguishing systems in new buildings S-2.7 Site Review. Ensure Fire Department staff review all developments that require site plan or subdivision review for emergency response needs and fire code compliance.

S-2.8 Habitat Conservation Areas. Consider wildland fire potential and the incorporation of necessary fire prevention measures when establishing habitat conservation areas.

S-2.9 Existing Development. Encourage and support fire risk reduction and home hardening efforts in areas of existing development located within or near fire hazard severity zones.

S-2.10 Public Information. Make information regarding fire prevention, fire risk reduction, and hazard abatement practices available to the public for all areas of the city.

S-2.11 Public Education. Educate residents (with special attention for at-risk populations) and businesses on the City's vegetation management practices, including fire safety, landscaping installation and maintenance, defensible space, and other fire hazard reduction strategies.

S-2.12 New Development – Low Risk Areas. Encourage new development outside of the very high fire hazard severity zone. If development is proposed in this zone, require fire safe design, including but not limited to defensible space and home hardening, and compliance with fire safe regulations, the adopted California Fire Code, and local ordinances.

S-2.13 New Development – Fire Safe Regulations. Require all new developments, redevelopments, and major remodels located in the Wildland Urban Interface or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone to meet or exceed statewide Fire Safe Regulations [(Title 14, CCR, division 1.5, chapter 7, subchapter 2, articles 1-5, commencing with section 1270, local Fire Safe Regulations) and (Title 14, CCR, division 1.5, chapter 7, subchapter 3, article 3, commencing with section 1299.01, Fire Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulations)].

S-2.14 New Development – Design Measures. Require new development to incorporate design measures that enhance fire protection in areas of elevated fire risk, including the Wildland Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones. This shall include, but is not limited to, the incorporation of fire-resistant structural design, use of fire-adapted landscaping, home hardening, defensible space, and vegetation management around the perimeter of structures.

S-2.15 New Development – Codes and Regulations. Require new developments and major remodels or renovations to comply with the California Building Code, California Fire Code, Fire Safe Regulations, and local ordinances for construction and adequacy of water flow and pressure, ingress/egress, and other measures to ensure adequate fire protection.

S-2.16 Critical Facilities. Ensure new public/critical facilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, fire stations) are not located in Fire Hazard Severity Zones to the greatest extent feasible. If located in these areas, ensure full compliance with fire safety regulations, and adequate fire response and evacuation capabilities are available.

S-2.17 Fire Hazard Reduction. Coordinate with local and regional agencies, such as CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department or Caltrans, and require vegetation management and long-term maintenance of fire hazard reduction projects, including community fuel breaks on all private/public roads and properties in Wildland Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

S-2.18 Fire Defense. Maintain fuel breaks and other fire defense improvements on public property and require similar measures for private property in compliance with Fire Safe Regulations.

D. Goals and PoliciesGOAL S-1: HUMAN-CAUSED HAZARDS. The City will work with partners to manage the risks associated with hazardous materials and airport hazards.POLICIESS-1.1 Business Licensing. Ensure that businesses involved in the use of hazardous materials comply with Federal, State, and local regulations through annual business licensing.

S-1.2 Proof of Compliance. Businesses or individuals involved in the use of hazardous materials shall be required to provide proof of compliance with all jurisdictional agencies (Federal, State, and local) prior to issuing or renewing a business license.

S-1.3 Transport Around Sensitive Land Uses. When determined feasible and/or necessary by the Fire Department, require established routes of transport or disposal of hazardous materials to avoid potential impact to sensitive land uses from materials being routinely transported.

S-1.4 Airport Land Use Compatibility. Ensure that any proposed new development and any change in General Plan Land Use is consistent with the established policies of the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan.

S-1.5 Airport Airspace Protection. Proposals for new development consisting of buildings taller than 100 feet and other single solitary structures, such as antennas that exceed 35 feet high, shall be submitted for compliance with the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan before receiving approval from the appropriate City body.

S-1.6 Allowable Developments. The location within an airport land use compatibility area does not preclude:
1) the construction of a single-family home or second unit that is permitted by local land use regulations, 2) expansion or approvals on existing structures that do not exceed height limitations, and 3) lot line adjustments that do not exceed the density identified in the Riverside County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan.

GOAL S-2: FIRE HAZARDS. The City will work with public safety partners and strive to reduce wildfire risks and impacts.POLICIESS-2.1 Fire Protection. Ensure adequate fire protection capabilities are maintained through enforcement of the latest code requirements, coordination with key City departments, and collaboration with neighboring communities.

S-2.2 Agency Coordination. Coordinate with other fire protection agencies to provide adequate levels of fire protection throughout the General Plan Area, through a combination of both aggressive prevention and suppression activities.

S-2.3 Mutual Aid. Support development and expansion of mutual aid agreements with area fire districts and departments that provide equal and reciprocal benefits and enhance the ability to provide fire protection services.

S-2.4 Vulnerability Assessment. Assess fire risk for new development, redevelopment, and major remodels proposed in fire-prone areas to determine vulnerability to fire and potential sources of fire.

S-2.5 Functionality and Aesthetics. Encourage all fire prevention measures used in wildland areas to meet fire prevention functional needs, while maintaining the aesthetic character of the natural area.

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GOAL S-3: SEISMIC SAFETY. The City will proactively address seismic hazard risk.POLICIESS-3.1 Promote Seismic Safety. Promote the latest advances in seismic safety through enforcement of the latest building and safety codes.

S-3.2 Code Compliance. Ensure new developments, redevelopments, and major remodels conform to the latest standards and adopted codes pertaining to seismic safety.

S-3.3 Seismic Mitigation. Ensure seismically vulnerable structures (e.g., unreinforced masonry, soft-story, nonductile concrete) are tracked, monitored, and mitigated to reduce impacts to the built environment.S-3.4 Historical Structures. Ensure seismically vulnerable structures deemed to be of historical value are assessed adequately to determine if alteration or demolition is necessary to mitigate the identified risk.

S-3.5 New Critical Facilities. Ensure new emergency or critical facilities located in areas of seismic and geologic hazards meet or exceed the latest code requirements and incorporate mitigation to ensure structures are operational after an incident.

S-3.6 Existing Critical Facilities. Evaluate existing emergency and critical facilities for seismic risk and identify the necessary measures to minimize these risks and ensure their continuous operation during seismic events.

S-3.7 Public Information. Ensure information regarding earthquake safety, damage prevention, and seismic mitigation is available to residents and businesses within the city.

GOAL S-4: FLOOD HAZARDS. The City will work with partners to reduce or minimize flood impacts.POLICIESS-4.1 Flood Control. Construct flood control facilities to reduce or prevent property damage and loss of life. S-4.2 Flood Plain Development. Ensure any construction of structures built within flood-prone areas incorporate flood proofing flood mitigation design elements.

S-4.3 Development Evaluation. Evaluate all developments proposed in flood-prone areas to minimize the risks to life or property.

S-4.4 Dam Inundation. Evaluate all developments in relation to available dam inundation zone mapping and ensure flood mitigation strategies are incorporated, where necessary.

S-4.5 Critical Facility Protection. Relocate or protect existing critical facilities located in flood-prone areas.S-4.6 Critical Facility Location. Prohibit the placement of critical facilities in flood-prone areas where feasible. If a facility must be in these areas, it should only be permitted if adequate flood protection measures are taken.

S-4.7 Facility Construction. Encourage the continued construction of flood control facilities to protect areas threatened by inundation, emphasizing underground channels or facilities that give the appearance of natural water courses.

S-4.8 Floodplain Development Design. Permit development in a floodplain only if it possesses minimal risk to lives and property and is adequately designed so that all structures are elevated above the base flood elevation.

S-4.9 Places of Assembly. Discourage the construction of schools and other places of public assembly in floodprone areas subject to inundation events.

S-2.19 Open Space. Ensure City-owned open space brush areas, susceptible to wildfire risk, are adequately maintained in accordance with Fire Safe Regulations, California Fire Code, and local ordinances.

S-2.20 Water Supply. Ensure Water Supply capacity and availability meet current and future needs through the following:
■ Coordinate with water providers to maintain and enhance water supply infrastructure to ensure adequate supplies for existing and future daily demands and firefighting suppression requirements. ■ Ensure new developments do not degrade water supplies and capacities for existing development by incorporating infrastructure upgrades to maintain/enhance services. ■ Support regional and subregional efforts to ensure adequate water supply for daily use and firefighting purposes remain available to the City to meet current and future demands. ■ Ensure infrastructure meets current and future daily demands and fire flow requirements while still meeting desired community character.

S-2.21 Existing Development. Ensure new development incorporates the necessary improvements to ensure roadway capacity for existing development can maintain evacuation and emergency equipment access capabilities.

S-2.22 Street Names and Numbers. Ensure street naming and numbering systems adequately identify properties in compliance with Fire Safe Regulations, adopted California Fire Code, and local ordinances to avoid potential confusion for emergency response vehicles.

S-2.23 Adequate Infrastructure. Require all new developments and major redevelopments to have adequate infrastructure in place to support daily demands and emergency response capabilities without degrading service levels for existing developments.

S-2.24 Response Capability. Ensure a high level of emergency response capability through the following measures:
■ Ensure annual budgeting accounts for current and future emergency service needs.■ Periodically assess and update the City's priorities for future emergency service needs.■ Coordinate with CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department on effective use and training of fire equipment and personnel.

S-2.25 Two-Points of Access. Require all new subdivisions to provide at least two points of access to the circulation network that rely on two different roadways.

S-2.26 Post Fire Recovery Planning. Establish procedures for post-wildfire re-entry, structure assessments, debris removal, and rebuilding that minimize secondary hazards, such as flooding and landslides, ensuring that redevelopment is safer, more resilient, and compliant with current State requirements and best practices.

S-2.27 Fire Protection Plans. Require fire protection plans consistent with requirements of the California Fire Code, including a risk analysis, fire response capabilities, fire safety requirements (defensible space, infrastructure, and building ignition resistance), mitigation measures and design considerations for nonconforming fuel modifications, wildfire education maintenance and limitations, addressing and signage, and evacuation plans for new development and major remodels in high and very high fire hazard severity zone areas designated by the City and CAL FIRE.

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S-6.5 Points of Access. Require all new developments and redevelopments within Fire Hazard Severity Zones and the Wildland Urban Interface provide adequate points of access on public roads that can be used for emergency vehicle response and evacuation purposes, in compliance with applicable City, County, and State requirements.

S-6.6 Private Streets. Design and ensure all private streets, as allowed by the Norco Municipal Code, are maintained for access of unrestricted emergency equipment and personnel in compliance with the California Fire Code, local ordinances, and Fire Safe Regulations.

S-6.7 Emergency Access Improvements. Identify the feasibility of constructing additional emergency access improvements for existing developments that do not meet minimum road standards for emergency equipment, such as:
■ Additional vehicle pullouts at key locations■ Limiting or restricting on-street parking at key locations■ Potential for the construction of new or improved emergency access routes■ Roadside clearance improvements S-6.8 Existing Routes. Maintain functionality, make improvements, and expand capacity, where feasible, of existing emergency evacuation routes within the city, while considering current and future hazards.

S-6.9 Evacuation Outreach. Conduct public outreach and educational activities associated with emergency evacuation routes and procedures, prioritizing efforts for at-risk populations.

S-6.10 Animal Evacuation. Coordinate animal evacuation procedures, trainings, and exercises with partner agencies, community groups, and volunteers.

S-6.11 Evacuation Support. Coordinate with the County and neighboring jurisdictions to support animal rescue and evacuation through community experience, knowledge, and facilities during emergency events not impacting the City.

GOAL S-7: EMERGING HAZARDS. The City will work with partners to understand changing climatic conditions and will be ready to adapt to new hazards. POLICIESS-7.1 Water Supply. Support regional and subregional efforts to adapt current water supply practices in anticipation of reduced water availability.

S-7.2 Resiliency and Adaptation. Collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) on climate resiliency and adaptation strategies in the city.

S-7.3 Climate Monitoring. Monitor climate change-related effects with local, regional, State, and/or Federal partners to provide information about the effectiveness of existing infrastructure and programs within the city.

S-7.4 Climate Indicators. Coordinate with regional, State, and Federal agencies to monitor indicators and effects of climate change as they relate to the City.

S-7.5 Infrastructure Monitoring. Monitor infrastructure capacity during severe weather events and identify areas of deficiency or potential concern.

S-7.6 Infrastructure Enhancements. Promote infrastructure enhancements and upgrades (utility underground/ redundancy) that reduce potential vulnerability to severe weather events.

S-7.7 Wind Design. Require buildings and developments exposed to high wind conditions to incorporate design elements and features that minimize or reduce damage to people, structures, and the community.

S-7.8 Extreme Heat Events. Ensure City departments and the community are informed about heat risk during extreme heat events.

GOAL S-5: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT. The City will work with partners to implement emergency management strategies that increase resilience and improve the quality of life.POLICIESS-5.1 Emergency Response. Maintain reliable and timely emergency responses by ensuring the integrity of emergency facilities.

S-5.2 Emergency Services. Collaborate with public safety agencies to provide the types of emergency services and levels of support necessary to meet current and future community needs.

S-5.3 Disaster and Relief Equipment. Ensure disaster and relief equipment and structures are assessed for hazard vulnerability and appropriate mitigation strategies are incorporated, where necessary.

S-5.4 Future Disaster Relief. Future disaster relief equipment and structures shall be designed and located to meet or exceed safety requirements and remain functional after a disaster.

S-5.5 Training and Exercises. Collaborate with the Riverside County Emergency Management Department and surrounding jurisdictions on disaster preparedness training programs and emergency management exercises.

S-5.6 Development Review. Ensure the development review process incorporates input from public safety agencies regarding emergency management and response considerations that are incorporated into development plans and conditions of approval.

S-5.7 Public Safety. Promote improved public safety through zoning, subdivision requirements, building regulations, and environmental assessment practices as part of development review.

S-5.8 Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. Encourage crime prevention through environmental design strategies that support crime reduction and improve safety and economic activity.

S-5.9 Encourage Compatibility. Promote land use and design policies and regulations that encourage a mixture of compatible uses to promote and increase the safety of public use areas and pedestrian/equestrian travel.

S-5.10 Plan Integration. Ensure emergency management plans and programs are up to date and maintained to address existing and emerging community issues and hazards.

S-5.11 Culture of Preparedness. Promote a culture of preparedness for businesses and residents that empowers them to increase their resilience to hazard-related events and a changing climate.

GOAL S-6: EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND EVACUATION. The City will work with partners to ensure the community is ready and able to evacuate when conditions require.POLICIESS-6.1 Evacuation Planning. Ensure areas prone to hazardous conditions requiring evacuation are prioritized in emergency management planning and training efforts.

S-6.2 Amateur Radio. Promote coordination and collaboration with local amateur radio clubs and service organizations that can assist in disaster assessment and recovery efforts.

S-6.3 Evacuation Zones/Routes. Periodically review and update evacuation zones and routes to ensure adequate capacity and connectivity within the circulation network is provided during emergency events.

S-6.4 Evacuation Improvements. Require new development, redevelopment, and major remodels to ensure effective future evacuations during emergencies by supporting feasible enhancements to the City's evacuation network and facilities.

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S-7.10 Heat Island Reduction in New Developments. Promote the use of increased shading, light-colored paving, and pervious surfaces in new developments or redevelopment projects to reduce urban heat island effects.

S-7.11 Heat Mitigation in New Developments. Require heat mitigation plans as part of project review for all new developments, showing shading, ventilation, and surface treatment strategies that reduce heat exposure and improve comfort.

S-7.12 Agricultural Heat Mitigation. Encourage regenerative agricultural and land management practices that support Norco’s agricultural, animal-keeping lifestyle and help mitigate urban heat by increasing vegetative and ground cover, reducing surface temperatures, and enhancing resilience during extreme heat events.

S-7.13 Utility Coordination. Coordinate with utility providers during extreme heat events to reduce blackouts and public safety power shutoff events, and anticipate community needs if events occur.

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FOR REVIEW ONLY - NOT ADOPTED ADOPTION DRAFT | OCTOBER 2026 |201 In This ChapterA. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198B. Legal Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199C. Noise Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200D. Noise Standards and Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202E. Noise Impacts and Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203F. Types of Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203G. Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206Chapter 10NOISE ELEMENT

CITY OF NORCO
2050 GENERAL PLAN
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