OBJECTIVE RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS
(O.R.S.) AND DESIGN GUIDELINES
City of Redondo Beach Planning Commission
By : Matthew Hinsley
Date : March 21, 2023
MY OPINIONS AND FEEDBACK
The planning commission created a sub-committee to address this topic if Objective Residential Standards.
à These comments and opinions are mine and not those of the sub-committee. à My goal is to establish Objective Residential Standards that will result in new development that matches the existing neighborhood character. à My proposed edits to the Objective Residential Standards draft document were made to meet that goal. Focus on scale, bulk and mass. à The ideas and direction are the changes that I would like to see in the final document. The exact numbers and values in the draft are not final proposals or fixed.
à In this document “Draft ORS” refers to the public draft document. “Proposed ORS” are the edits and changes that I propose to meet the goal.
NEW ORS - BACKGROUND
Current residential design guidelines (RDG) were implemented in 2003 to solve an identified problem with residential development in the city. à How have the original RDG been successful or unsuccessful in addressing their stated concern?
à What has been the resident feedback when working with the existing RDG? à What has been the design community feedback when working with the existing RDG?
à What new issues have arisen with development in the city since the creation of the original RDG?
- What new areas of city could benefit similarly to Aves/Beryl? - What new zones in the city could benefit from design standards?
PREVIOUS RESIDENTIAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
Current residential design guidelines (RDG) were implemented in 2003 to solve an identified problem with residential development in the city. à The stated problem to solve of the 2003 RDG among others is :
“A primary concern in the R-1 single-family zone is the trend of tearing down modest homes and replacing them with much larger homes that have a mass and bulk out of character with the established neighborhood.” à How have the original RDG been successful or unsuccessful in that objective?
à In the two existing identified neighborhoods (Lower avenues, Beryl heights) with existing objective standards have been largely successful in maintaining the neighborhood compatibility of new development which retains the charm and feel of those well-established neighborhoods.
PREVIOUS RESIDENTIAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
Current residential design guidelines (RDG) were implemented in 2003 to solve an identified problem with development in the city. à How can the subjective elements of the existing RDG be translated into objective RDG?
Existing subjective or suggested requirements (Should, encouraged) should become objective (measurable, objective) standards. à What has been the resident feedback when working with the existing RDG? à Heard from some homeowners in the upper avenues that subjective interpretation of the existing RDG guidelines lead to waste. à Planning commission case in the upper avenues interpretation of RDG. à Need additional resident feedback.
à What has been the design community feedback when working with the existing RDG?
Initial feedback was no existing pain points with the existing RDG.
R.D.G. à O.R.S.
Current residential design guidelines (RDG) were implemented in 2003 to solve an identified problem with development in the city. “A primary concern in the R-1 single-family zone is the trend of tearing down modest homes and replacing them with much larger homes that have a mass and bulk out of character with the established neighborhood.”
à What new issues have arisen with development in the city since the creation of the original RDG?
neighborhoods have subjective “guidelines”. those appropriate to maintain the neighborhood compatibility converted into objective standards.
Additionally, The original concern that existed in the R-1 neighborhood has newly grown into other residential neighborhoods and into other zones. - What new areas of city could benefit similarly to Aves/Beryl? Draft ORS : TRW tract, Firmona South, Faye&Susana, South of Ave. D New : Continue to include Upper Avenues in design standards? - What new zones could benefit from additional design standards? R1-A, Multifamly R-2 and R-3 zones.
NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards questions to guide the direction moving forward :
Overall Feedback on Draft ORS :
- Generally, the clarifications of existing municipal code standards - The proposed format and images are good visualizations. - The newly identified neighborhoods are appropriate and well established Proposed ORS :
- Overall, the draft residential objective design standards (ODS) omit the stated concerns of the original residential design guidelines. à Add the RDG stated concern into the ODS background
- My opinion, the draft ODS do not go far enough in solving the concern of replacing modest homes and replacing with bulk and mass out of character. à To ensure compatible bulk and mass objectively, expand a floor area ratio standard from only R-1 to R-1A, R-2 and R-3
NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards questions to guide the direction moving forward :
Questions for Commissioners :
- Feedback and opinions on the original RDG and stated concerns? - Feedback and opinions on adding a F.A.R. in zones beyond R-1? R1-A? R-2? R-3?
- Feedback on including these neighborhoods in the ODS? Lower
Avenues
Beryl
Heights
Upper
Avenues
South of
Ave. D
Faye &
Susana
Firmona
South
TRW
Tract
Golden Hills
(R1-A)
2003 RDG Y Y Y
Draft
ODS
Y Y Y Y Y Y
Proposed
ODS
Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards questions to guide the direction moving forward :
Questions for Commissioners :
- Other feedback :
- Modify of existing R-1 floor area ratio bonuses
- Reduce max. height (Certain zones, depending on hillside lots, etc.) - Add objective standards in specific identified neighborhoods - Add additional neighborhoods not included in draft ORS? NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards summary :
R-1 zone :
Current Draft ORS Proposed ORS
Maximum Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) 0.65 0.65 0.65
Maximum F.A.R. bonus(es) 0.15 0.15 0.08
Number of F.A.R. bonus options 7 6 4
New required design items 0 0 3
Max height 30’ + parapet 30’ incl. parapet 30’ incl parapet Additional 2F side setback Bonus : 8’ for
cumulative 15’
Avg. 2’ each side (*) Required : 8’ for
cumulative 15’
Front porch F.A.R. Bonus :
7’ x 10’ covered porch
Unenclosed covered
porches shall be
allowed to project up
to 6’ into front yard
Required :
7’ x 10’ covered porch
(*) Average 2 ft. additional stepback from each side property line for the length of the second floor that is on the same half of the property width for that side.
NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards summary :
R-1A zone :
Current Draft ORS Proposed ORS
Maximum Floor Area Ratio None None 0.8 (**)
Maximum F.A.R. bonus None None None ?
Number of F.A.R. bonus options N/A N/A ?
Max height 30’ + parapet 30’ incl. parapet 28’ sloped roof 26’ flat incl parapet
Mezzanines Allowed Allowed (*) Not allowed
Rooftop deck max, size 500 sq. ft. 250 sq. ft. 250 sq. ft. (*) Mezzanines :
1st story mezzanines within building and their enclosing walls and ceiling shall remain within the primary roof form 2nd story mezzanines step back 15' from the primary front facade, and step back 5' from the side and rear facades (**) Living Space only :
Actual F.A.R. includes garage, basement, etc.
NEW ELEMENTS OF THE DRAFT O.R.S.
The draft residential objective design standards summary :
R-2 and R-3 zone :
Current Draft ORS Proposed ORS
Maximum Floor Area Ratio None None 1.0 (**)
Maximum F.A.R. bonus None None None ?
Max height 30’ + parapet 30’ incl. parapet 30’ incl. parapet Mezzanines Allowed Allowed (*) Allowed (*)
Rooftop deck max, size None None ? 500 sq. ft.
Front unit front door None None Front of home to
sidewalk
2F Cantilever To side setback To side setback Front units : Reduced cantilever (TBD)
(*) Mezzanines :
1st story mezzanines within building and their enclosing walls and ceiling shall remain within the primary roof form 2nd story mezzanines step back 15' from the primary front facade, and step back 5' from the side and rear facades (**) Living Space only :
Actual F.A.R. includes garage, basement, etc.
CONCLUSION
All Residential Zones :
- Feedback on the draft Objective Residential Standards (O.R.S.)? - Does the draft O.R.S. go far enough?
- Once implemented, will the resulting residential O.R.S. in homes that are compatible with existing neighborhoods?
- Are the new identified neighborhoods the correct ones? - Thoughts on adding the upper avenues and golden hills (R1-A) as a neighborhood?
- Thoughts on my proposed O.R.S. ideas?
- If commission is in agreement with a direction to further refine the numbers and the details of the proposed ORS.
- Anything missing from the proposed O.R.S.?
END
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH
Objective Residential
Standards and
Design Guidelines
January 2023
PUBLIC DRAFT
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT | i Acknowledgments
MAYOR
Bill Brand
CITY COUNCIL
Laura Emdee
Christian Horvath
Todd Loewenstein
Nils Nehrenheim
Zein Obagi, Jr.
PLANNING COMMISSION
Robert Gaddis, Chair
Scott K. Behrendt
Douglas G Boswell
Gwenn M Godek
Gale S Hazeltine
Matthew Hinsley
Sheila W. Lamb
CITY MANAGER
Mike Witzansky
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Brandy Forbes, Director
Sean Scully, Planning Manager
PREPARED BY
Cityworks Design
LBE Planning
Table of Contents
SECTION I
Introduction � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �1 A. Background and Goals 1
B. Implementation 3
C. Organization of Objective Residential Standards & Guidelines 3
SECTION II
R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �4 A. General Standards 5
B. Hillside / Sloping Lot Standards 9
C. Basement Standards 10
D. Mezzanine Standards 11
E. Roof Deck Standards 12
F. Single-Family Parking Standards 13
G. Front Yard and Parkways: Permeable Surface and Landscaping Standards 15 H. R1 Character Areas Defined 17
I. R1 Character Area Standards 18
SECTION III
R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 19 A. General Development Standards 19
B. Front Yard and Parkway Standards 22
SECTION IV
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 24 A. Streamlined ADUs 25
B. Non-Streamlined ADUs 28
C. Special Parking Standards for ADUs in Inland Zoning 29 D. Special Parking Standards for ADUs in the Coastal Zone 30 CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT | ii
SECTION V
Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 31 A. Code Standards 31
B. Landscaping Matrix - Multi-family Residential 50
SECTION VI
R1 Character Area Design Guidelines� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 51 A. Residential Neighborhood History 52
B. Introduction to Architectural Styles 55
C. Character Area Design Guidelines 61
SECTION VII
Approval Process - To Be Included in Final Draft � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 67
APPENDIX
A. Community Involvement 68
B. Definitions - To Be Included in Final Draft 70
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION I: Introduction | 1 A. Background and Goals
In 2017, the State of California adopted a series
of housing bills to address the housing shortage
across the state. The bills encourage housing
affordability and streamlined processes for
residential projects. State requirements push
the approval process toward more “objective”
standards, with compliance easily measured and
verified by City staff, and away from discretionary
language prone to multiple interpretations that can
lead to disagreements and delay. Then in 2019, the
Redondo Beach City Council crafted a Strategic Plan
identifying a need to update the city’s Residential
Design Guidelines (last updated in 2003) to better
serve residents and stakeholders.
The city’s response to these evolving state mandates
for residential projects proposes an approach that:
• Achieves locally compatible design through
objective design standards
• Eliminates uncertainties for residential
applicants by removing subjectivity
• Encourages better outcomes by providing
illustrative design guidelines in compliance
with the standards, rather than a basis for
project approval
SECTION I
Introduction
The new Objective Residential Standards (Standards)
also address topics that weren’t included in the
original ‘Residential Design Guidelines’ where
clearer guidance would be beneficial to applicants,
including standards for the R1A zones, multi-family
zones and an explanation of the City's Accessory
Dwelling Unit (ADU) requirements. One important
goal is to provide straight-forward criteria that
reflect the community’s interest in maintaining
neighborhood character, so new or renovated
residential buildings are compatible with established
development. Architectural character differs from
street to street, with some areas having a higher
degree of consistent architectural design, while
other areas have evolved into an eclectic mix of
architectural styles. The Standards therefore, are
also varied in response.
Section VI of this document supplements the
Standards with Guidelines that aim to support
architectural design that is compatible and
harmonious with the surrounding neighborhood.
These guidelines are not enforceable when
projects are reviewed, but rather intended to
inspire homeowners and developers as they
consider options for their home additions or new
developments.
Standards and Guidelines Goals
The standards and guidelines in this
document support the following six goals:
1 Streamlining the planning review
process for residential projects
2 Encouraging housing that fits into its
surroundings
3 Capturing opportunities for new/
updated housing in single-family and
multifamily neighborhoods
4 Defining design priorities for the R-1A
zone
5 Maintaining the scale of
neighborhoods, and the character
of those that retain a prevailing
architectural style that unifies them
6 Providing a summary of ADU
requirements in the city's inland and
coastal areas
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION I: Introduction | 2 How do Standards differ from Design
Guidelines?
“Objective residential standards” (referred to
herein as "Standards") means standards that
involve no personal or subjective judgment by
a public official and are uniformly verifiable by
reference to an external and uniform benchmark
or criterion available and knowable by both the
applicant or development proponent and the
public official prior to submittal, and includes only
such standards as are published and adopted
by ordinance or resolution by a local jurisdiction
before submission of a development application.
“Design guidelines” encourage specific outcomes
for residential projects. Guidelines are suggestions,
but not required for projects to be compliant with
design review standards. Design guidelines are
commonly identified by the use of “should” rather
than “shall” when encouraging an architectural
element or feature.
“Ministerial approval” of a development involves
little or no personal judgment by the public
official, who merely ensures that the proposed
development complies with all Standards in effect
at the time that the application is submitted to the
local government and deemed complete.
Note: The Administrative Design Review process
under RBMC 10-2.2500 and 10-5.2500 includes
discretionary criteria and as such is not considered
to be ministerial approval.
How will the Standards and Guidelines be
used?
Objective standards use “shall” or “must”, indicating
that they are required. The existing 2003 Residential
Design Guidelines, on the other hand, are subjective
and use words like “should”, “may”, “encourage”,
and “discourage", implying that they are just
recommended. By adopting the objective standards,
the applicants will know the precise requirements
for designing their projects.
What is the goal of the Standards?
The main goal is to provide straight-forward
criteria that reflect the community’s interest in
maintaining neighborhood character, so new or
renovated residential buildings are compatible with
established development. By establishing clear and
objective direction on what is required of a project,
the planning review process is streamlined for
residential projects.
Who will use the Standards and
Guidelines?
The Objective Residential Standards and Design
Guidelines will be used by:
• Homeowners who wish to remodel or addon to an existing home, or build anew • Architects hired to remodel, add-on or
build a new home for a client
• Contractors hired by a property owner to
remodel, add-on or build new residences
• Developers proposing to design and build
new single- or multi-family residential
projects
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION I: Introduction | 3 Standards in Sections II and III will be synthesized
into a ‘Checklist’ for ease of use when preparing,
reviewing and determining if a residential project
complies with the Objective Residential Standards.
Section IV and V address required standards for
ADUs and multi-family projects respectively, and
Section VI is included for information only. Section
VII concludes with how the approval process will
work.
Section I. Introduction provides a general overview
including background information, goals, and the
fundamental purpose of the new Standards.
Section II. R1 Single-Family Zones addresses
objective residential standards for residences
in Redondo Beach’s single-family residential
neighborhoods. Topics include neighborhood
character, building height, mezzanines, roof
decks and landscaping. This section also contains
additional standards for five defined “Character
Areas” and design guidelines (voluntary) to
encourage compatible styles.
Section III. R1A Zones similar to Section II but
addresses objective residential standards in
Redondo Beach’s single-family neighborhoods with
narrow lots.
Section IV. Accessory Dwelling Units provides
an overview the city’s ordinance, processes, and
application requirements.
Section V. Multi-Family Zones addresses objective
residential standards for multi-family residential
development, and introduces a point-based matrix
for landscape requirements.
Section VI. R1 Design Guidelines are included for
homeowners interested in retaining neighborhood
character and who may benefit from guidance. They
are not required to be followed.
Section VII. Approval Process (To Be Included in
Final Draft)
B. Implementation
The Community Development Department will
review residential applications to determine that the
proposed project plans comply with the Zoning Code
and objective residential standards. Developments
that comply shall receive Planning approval through
the Administrative Design Review process (Section
10-2.2500 of the Zoning Ordinance). A decision
denying the application may be appealed (only by
the applicant and/or property owner in the case of
single family application) and set for public hearing
before the Planning Commission.
Decisions on multi-family developments greater
than 3 units and additions of 1,000 square feet or
more to multiple-family developments with more
than 3 units are made by the Planning Commission
at a public hearing, pursuant to Planning
Commission Design Review procedures (Section 10-
2.2502 and 10-5.2502 of the Zoning Ordinance and
Coastal Zoning Ordinance respectively). Pursuant
to the City's adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element
the threshold of 4 or more units will be amended to
multiple-family projects greater than 15 units. The
decision of the Planning Commission is appealable to
the City Council.
C. Organization of Objective
Residential Standards & Guidelines
The Standards are organized into two sections based
on zoning district (R1 and R1A) and ADU standards
are provided in a separate section. Each section is
concisely written and illustrated with diagrams or
photo examples to be user-friendly for architects,
residential designers and property owners. Once
these Objective Residential Standards have been
adopted by the City Council, the Zoning Code
(RBMC Title 10) may be amended as appropriate to
reference these standards for consistency purposes.
The detached front garages along this hillside block of Paulina Avenue create a consistent pattern that gives the street a unique character.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 4
SECTION II
R1 Single-Family Zoning
District Standards
Figure 1. Map of Redondo Beach showing “Character Areas” with predominately cohesive architectural style. In addition to compliance with the Objective Standards, some character areas have additional required standards (see Section II, I). Properties that are not specified within a “Character Area” shall be subject to the Objective Standards only.
Source: Los Angeles GeoHub
SOUTH
REDONDO
South
Avenue D
Faye &
Susana
City
Center
R1-A
Zone
Golden
Hills
Sister
Streets
Upper
Avenues
Villas
South
Redondo
Villa Tract
Villas
North
West
PCH
Lower
Avenues
Redondo
Beach Pier
Firmona
Beryl South
Heights
TRW
NORTH Tract
REDONDO
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 5 A. General Standards
The following table provides existing (Zoning Code) requirements and proposed Standards for R1. These standards are applicable in all R-1 Zoning Districts. In addition, special standards are applicable in defined character areas [see also Section H (Character Area Standards).
Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Number of
Dwelling
Units Allowed
1 DU/lot 1 primary DU + 1 ADU and 1
JADU; OR 2 DU as permitted
by State law as adopted in
Senate Bill 9
Maximum
Height/
Number
of Stories
30 ft. maximum/2
stories
2 stories/30 ft. maximum to
top of pitch
Flat roof: 30 ft. maximum to
top of parapet or any rooftop
structure including access
stairwells.
Floor Area
Ratio (FAR)
.65 with up to .15
additional with bonuses
.65 with up to .15 additional
with bonuses as stated in the
Redondo Beach Municipal
Code. Some of these bonuses
may correspond to items
required by these Objective
Residential Standards.
Setbacks
Front Setback Minimum average is
the lesser of 25 ft. or
25% of lot depth; at
any given point not less
than 20 ft.
Minimum average is the lesser
of 25 ft. or 25% of lot depth; at
any given point not less than
20 ft.
Side Setback 5 ft.
For additions on
narrow lots (<50’): can
match existing of <5’
but not more than 10%
of lot width.
5 ft.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) & Setbacks
Purpose
• Creates outdoor space
• Allows privacy and limited visibility between adjacent properties • Fire/life safety buffer between properties
• Permeable space lessens run-off to city system and ocean Covered porch can
extend up to 6' into
front setback
Front
setback
20' min.
Side setback
5' min.
Side
setback
5' min.
Footprint &
massing per
allowable FAR
Rear setback
30' average
(25' min.)
Garage
or ADU*
*Refer to Section IV for ADU standards & setbacks
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 6 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Rear Setback Minimum average of
20% of property length;
at any given point not
less than 15 ft.
Minimum average of 20% of
property length; at no point
less than 15 ft.
Additional Minimum 2nd Story Stepbacks: (Maintain Guidelines modification process for front)
Front Average 10 ft. more
than the required
average front setback.
Average 10 ft. more than
the required average front
setback.
Side Average 2 ft. additional
stepback from each side
property line for the length
of the second floor that is on
the same half of the property
width for that side. Not
applicable to properties <40
ft. width.
Rear 50% of rear elevation shall be
an average of 30 ft. from rear
property line, provided that
no point of 2nd story shall
be less than 25 ft. from rear
property line.
1-story renovated traditional remains compatible
in scale with neighbors.
Example of 2-story contemporary modular
construction with flat roofs.
Maximum Height/Number of Stories
ADU
16' max.
Garage
15' max. height
(10' to top of wall
per RBMC 10-2.1500)
30' max. height
1st
Story
2nd
Story
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 7 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Other Standards
Outdoor
Living
Space Plus
Standards in
10-2.1510
Minimum 800 sf Minimum 800 sf for each
dwelling unit, excluding ADUs.
Roof Decks
10-2.1508
Maximum 500 sf Max. 500 sf, provided deck
area is set back from 1st floor
building edge by minimum of
10 ft.
Minimum
Unit Size
10-2.1512
800 sf (Requirement removed.)
Front Entry
and Porches
Currently encouraged
by FAR bonus
Unenclosed covered porches
shall be allowed to project up
to 6 feet into front yard area;
Area under covered porch
shall be excluded from FAR
calculation. Front entry or
front of covered porch shall be
within 3’6” of front of frontfacing garage.
Number
of Parking
Spaces
10-2.1704
2 spaces in enclosed
garage
2 spaces in garage;
option to provide rear carport
(See Section F)
Balconies
10-2.1510
10-2.1522
Encouraged for
design; guidelines for
spas, not included in
GFA. Minimum sizes;
unenclosed may project
into setbacks with
minimum distance.
Balconies shall not project
into the required side setback
areas.
OR
Interior lots: no side-facing
balconies.
(Other Code sections to
remain.)
30'
max.
25' min. setback
from rear PL
2' avg. side
setback from
both sides
42" wall
2nd Story
1st Story
800 sf min.
outdoor
living space
Roof Deck
Roof Deck
42" wall or
guard rail (solid
side facing)
10' setback
above 1st level
42" wall or guard rail
(translucent front/
rear facing
Roof Decks & Balconies
Example of balcony set back from front facade. Example of roof deck set back from rear/side.
Roof deck above 2nd story
(under 30' max. height)
10' min. setback
from 1st level
building edge
10' setback
above 1st level
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 8 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Modular Construction Standards (Pre-fabricated)
Façade
Variation
Projects utilizing modular
construction technologies
(prefabricated) shall comply
with the required stepbacks
above, and may opt to comply
with the following design
guidelines to encourage
variety.
Building
Materials
Materials shall be selected
from the following: metal,
precast concrete, wood, brick
and stone.
Design
Guidelines
Set the entire building back
6 feet beyond the minimum
front setback and provide
balconies or other projecting
features.
Limit the amount of
corrugated metal panel to 2/3
of front façade area and utilize
a secondary material that has
a different form and pattern
for 1/3 of the area.
Example of modular construction with variation of façade materials and projecting features.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 9 B. Hillside / Sloping Lot Standards
1. For purposes of this section and Section B
(Basements), a sloping lot shall be considered to
be a lot with a slope of more than 13.33% from
front to back or side-to-side.
2. Basement-level Front Garages for Sloping Lots
a. Sloping lots with alley access may provide
a front or side garage as allowed in this
section.
b. A downward sloping lot, where the front
lot line is higher than back line, shall be
allowed to excavate in order to include a
garage on the first floor, but shall not be
allowed to have a basement-level garage.
c. For corner lots sloping downward from
front to back, garage access shall be from
the side street and a basement-level garage
shall be allowed.
d. An upward sloping lot, where the front
lot line is lower than the back line,shall be
allowed to excavate to provide a basementlevel garage, provided that the driveway is either level or has a slope of not more than
13.33%, and provided that a front door with
entry directly from the street is located on
the same plane as the garage, in front of
the garage or recessed no more than seven
feet to provide a front porch.
e. A side-sloping lot shall be allowed to
excavate to provide a basement level
garage on the downslope side of the
property and provided that a front door
with entry directly from the street is
located on the same plane as the garage,
in front of the garage or recessed no more
than seven feet to provide a front porch.
Hillside or Sloping Lot Examples
Example of upward sloping lot with garage
and basement.
Side sloping lot
Downward sloping lot
Upward sloping lot
2 2
2 1
1 1
Basement
Basement
Basement
30'
max.
30'
max.
30'
max.
(Front)
(Front)
(Side)
(Side)
(Rear)
(Rear)
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 10 C. Basement Standards
Existing RBMC Definitions
“Basement” shall mean any floor level below
the first story in a building (see definition of
“story”).
“Story” shall mean that portion of a building
included between the upper surface of any
floor and the upper surface of the floor next
above, except that the topmost story shall be
that portion of a building included between
the upper surface of the topmost floor and the
ceiling or roof above. If the finished floor level
directly above a usable or unused under-floor
space is more than four (4) feet above existing
grade for more than fifty (50%) percent of
the total perimeter or is more than ten (10)
feet above existing grade at any point, such
usable or unused under-floor space shall be
considered as a story. Note: This definitions
differs from the Building Code. Projects shall
comply with both Zoning and Building Code
requirements.
1. Applicability: A single-family dwelling may
include a basement, provided that the structure
may not exceed the maximum building height.
A front-facing basement garage shall only be
permitted on an upward-sloping lot as defined
above, including side street for a corner parcel.
2. Basement Garage: A basement, or portion
thereof, may function as a garage, and shall still
be considered a basement as defined in RBMC
Section 10-2.402. If any part of the basement is
located within the front 40 feet of the property,
the entire basement area shall be counted as
floor area for purposes of calculating the FAR.
(Front)
Street
1st floor
garage allowed
Basement garage
not allowed
1st floor
garage allowed
Basement garage
allowed and counted as FAR
(Front)
Street
Example of basements on a sloping site that
would count towwards floor area ratio.
Basement garages located in front 40 feet of the
property shall count towards the FAR.
Basement Examples
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 11 D. Mezzanine Standards
1. (Proposed) Definition: An intermediate
floor within a building interior without walls,
partitions, closets, screens or other complete
enclosing interior walls or partitions that is
open to the floor below and has a floor area
that is no greater than one-third of the total
area of the overlooked room below. When the
total floor area of a mezzanine exceeds onethird of the total area of the overlooked room below it constitutes an additional story and is
no longer defined as a mezzanine.
2. Applicability
a. A mezzanine shall be allowed, provided that
a single-family dwelling on a up-sloping
lot, including side street for a corner parcel
shall not include both a basement garage
and a mezzanine.
b. Mezzanines shall not include any plumbing
fixtures.
c. Mezzanines open to the 1st floor shall be
concealed within the building and their
enclosing walls and ceiling shall remain
within the primary roof form so as not
to appear as an additional story on the
exterior.
d. Mezzanines open to the 2nd floor shall step
back 15’ from the primary front façade, and
step back 5’ from the side and rear facades.
e. Mezzanines shall not appear as a single
raised form (e.g., like a tower, or appear like
a 3rd story on any elevation).
f. The combined total maximum area of
all roof decks and mezzanines serving
an individual unit shall be limited to five
hundred (500) square feet per RBMC 10-
2.1508 and 10-5.1508.
Mezzanines
Proposed
• 1st story mezzanines within building and their enclosing walls and ceiling shall remain within the primary roof
form
• 2nd story mezzanines step back 15' from the primary
front facade, and step back 5' from the side and rear
facades 1st story
mezzanine (Front)
1st story
2nd story
mezzanine
with setbacks
1st story
(Front)
2nd story
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 12 “Deck” shall mean a platform other than a balcony,
either freestanding or attached to a building,
without a roof, that is supported by pillars, posts,
or walls.
10-2.1508 Roof decks and mezzanines.
The combined total maximum area of
all roof decks and mezzanines serving an individual
unit shall be limited to five hundred (500) square
feet.
10.5.1510.c (2) Private and public roof decks.
a. Location, dimensions and design. Private
and public roof decks shall qualify if they
have a minimum dimension of fifteen
(15) feet by fifteen (15) feet. Accessibility,
surfacing, screening, and architectural
treatment shall be compatible with the
architectural design of the dwelling.
b. Calculating outdoor living
space. Roof decks shall be counted at
fifteen (15%) percent of their actual area.
E. Roof Deck Standards
1. (Proposed) Definition: A platform located on
the flat portion of a roof or setback of a building
that is used for outdoor living space and
separated from other portions of the roof.
2. Applicability
a. The highest point of any structure
associated with the roof deck, including
stairs, elevators or their enclosures, shall
not exceed 30 feet from existing grade.
b. Roof decks above the first floor shall be
located at least 25 feet from the rear
property line and at least 8 feet from side
property lines.
c. Roof decks above the second floor shall
be located at least 25 feet from the rear
property line and at least 10 feet from
side property lines and shall be set back
a minimum of 3 feet from the edge of the
building. Such decks shall not be permitted
on properties that are 40 feet in width or
less.
d. The sides of the roof deck facing a
neighboring residential use shall be
enclosed with a minimum 42-inch high,
non-transparent, solid barrier that is
designed to be consistent with the overall
style of the building.
e. The sides of a roof deck facing a street
(front or corner side) shall have a 42-inch
barrier that may be transparent or nontransparent.
f. No permanent covered structures shall
be permitted on a roof deck. Stairs or
elevators providing roof access shall be
enclosed within the 2nd floor building
envelope, or be set back 20’ from the front
façade, or 15’ from the side or rear facades.
g. The combined total maximum area of
all roof decks and mezzanines serving
an individual unit shall be limited to five
hundred (500) square feet per RBMC 10-
2.1508 and 10-5.1508.
Example of roof deck that is set back from a front
and side yard.
Existing RBMC Definitions
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 13 Roof deck
with setback
Roof and stair or
elevator access only
(within 30' max. height)
2-story Roof deck
with flat roofs
3 step facade
for variation
Flat Roof
Roof Decks/Elevator
Roof decks and stair enclosures on flat roof
structures must not exceed 30' height limit.
30'
max.
42" wall
2nd Story
1st Story
Roof and elevator or
stair access within 30'
height max.
30'
max.
2nd story
1st Story
Roof and elevator or
stair access within 2nd
floor building envelope
F. Single-Family Parking Standards
Current RBMC Parking Requirements
Requirements in RBMC 10-2.1704 include curb cut
restrictions; front-facing 3-car garage standards;
concrete driveways, with exception for permeable
with Admin review; width between 9-20 feet; 28
ft. max for 3-car garage; no new driveways in Beryl
Heights (Figure 1).
Current Code requirements not noted below
would remain. Proposals that would change the
current requirements are bolded.
1. Requirement: Two on-site covered parking
spaces (9’ x 19’) shall be required. Parking
spaces may be either side-by-side or tandem.
2. Location: For parcels with no alley access,
parking may be provided in the front or rear
portion of the property and the following shall
apply:
a. Parking in the front half of the property
shall be provided within an
enclosed garage.
b. A front-facing, front garage is allowed,
provided that one or more of the
following is included to break up the façade.
A three-car garage shall not be allowed to
face the front of the property.
i. Windows or translucent glass
ii. Divided entrance (separate garage
doors)
iii. Other design that is architecturally
integrated or provides interest, as
determined by the Director.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 14 c. A side-facing, front garage shall be allowed
provided that the paved area is minimized
to the extent possible to allow ingress
and egress and the proposed project
complies with the front yard landscaping
requirements.
d. For corner lots, the garage shall be
accessed from the side street and no curb
cut shall be allowed on the front street,
unless there are physical barriers to this
placement and except when an existing
front curb cut may continue to be used for
access to the required parking.
e. A carport or enclosed garage may be
provided in the rear portion of the property
with access from the front or, for corner
lots, side street.
3. Alley Access: For parcels with rear alley access,
the following shall apply:
a. Two covered parking spaces shall be
provided in the rear of the parcel, with
access from the alley. The parking spaces
may be covered by a carport or enclosed
within a two-car garage.
b. Notwithstanding 3.a, above, parking
in compliance with F.2, above, may
be provided if either of the following
conditions are present:
i. The rear alley is less than 20 feet wide,
except for properties in Beryl Heights
and in the area referenced later in
“character areas” as The Lower Avenues.
ii. Existing power poles or other utility
structures would obstruct parking
access, as determined by the Director.
Example of front facing garage with windows. Example of divided entrance and garage.
Parking Location Options
2 parking spaces (9'x19')
in enclosed front loaded garage
Enclosed alley loaded carport
or enclosed garage
Divided
entrance
Enclosed front side
loaded garage
Enclosed 2-car
tandem parking
Enclosed rear loaded carport
or enclosed garage
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 15 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Front Yard Landscaping Standards
Permeable
Surface
Guidelines: should be 50%
(NOTE 10-2.1704(B)(1): default is
concrete driveway; permeable
per Admin Review)
A minimum of 67% of the required front yard
shall be comprised of permeable surface; At least
75% of permeable surface shall consist of plant
materials and no more than 25% shall consist
of gravel, rock, DG or similar materials). The
permeable portions of a semi-permeable driveway
may be counted toward the required permeable
surface area.
Trees
10-2.1900.e
In the R-1 zone, in areas with no
parkways, in conjunction with
the construction of new homes,
existing mature trees in the
front yard that are compatible
with the proposed development
shall be preserved. A specimen
tree, twenty-four (24) inch box,
or larger shall be planted in
the front yard where there are
no existing mature trees or to
replace existing mature trees
that cannot feasibly be saved.
Applicable to all R-1 locations: At least one 24-inch
box tree selected from the City’s approved tree
species list shall be provided and shown on the
landscape plan to be planted in-ground in the
front yard area. This requirement shall be waived
if the project retains an existing mature tree in the
front yard that meets or exceeds this criterion or if
the Director determines that a mature tree located
on the adjacent parkway precludes the feasibility
of planting a tree in the front yard.
Drought-Tolerant
Landscaping
Encouraged 75% of plant materials shall consist of drought tolerant plants. (List/illustrate).
Landscape Area
Dimensions
All required landscaping shall have minimum 2 ft.
horizontal dimension in all directions.
Path to Entrance Encouraged A pedestrian path shall be provided from the sidewalk to the front door.
G. Front Yard and Parkways:
Permeable Surface and Landscaping
Standards
Applicability. These requirements shall be applied
to the following types of projects: new construction,
additions of more than 100 square feet, and any
project that proposes to re-landscape the front yard
or replace/install a new driveway.
Examples of semi-permeable driveway surface
that counts towards front yard landscape
requirements. Each is compatible with the unique
style of home it serves, evident by its design and
material selection.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 16 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Parkway and Vehicle Access
Driveway Apron Did not find specific reference. As determined by the Department of Public Works.
Parkway
Standards
Guidelines: Parkways shall be
landscaped; avoid impervious
surfaces; street trees should be
incorporated.
Grassy parkways encouraged on
the Avenues.
The following shall apply to any project that
includes installation of a new or expanded
driveway (curb cut) or re-landscaping of 50% or
more of the parkway area.
Excluding the driveway, the parkway shall
be comprised of permeable surfaces or nonpermeable pedestrian pathways no more than 18” wide.
At least 75% of permeable surfaces shall consist of
plant materials and no more than 25% shall consist
of gravel, rock, DG or similar materials).
Drought-tolerant landscaping shall be used for all
plant areas; however, plants with spikes shall not
be allowed in the parkway area.
Existing trees shall be preserved and protected
during construction, including steps to avoid root
damage. Where no trees exist, at least one street
tree of minimum 15-gallon size shall be required
for properties with parkways.
Trash Receptacle
Area
A screened area shall be provided to enclose
trash cans so they are not visible from the public
right-of-way. If trash receptacle area is in rear of
property, where alley collections occurs, an open
area within the property shall also be provided to
avoid trash can placement within the alley.
Front Yard
Fences, Walls
And Hedges
10-2.1524
Maximum height of 42” Front yard fences, walls and hedges shall comply with RBMC 10-2.1524 and Coastal Zoning
Ordinance.
For properties in the area bounded by the alley
to the north of Avenue E, PCH, the alley to the
south of Avenue F, and the alley to the east of S.
Catalina (referenced later in “character areas” as
The Avenues), front yard fences and walls are not
permitted in this Character Area.
Examples of drought tolerant landscape in front yard and parkway.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 17 H. R1 Character Areas Defined
The 2003 Residential Design Guidelines identified Beryl Heights and The Avenues as having “…the majority of their existing neighborhood character intact where it is appropriate for new development to respect and contribute to the existing character of the neighborhood.”
The Objective Residential Standards team utilized GIS public record layers to analyze the city’s R-1 and R-1A neighborhoods in order to understand when the current structures were built or remodeled. Six “character areas” were identified as having fewer new developments or remodels and more remaining original structures. A visual survey confirmed that a majority of properties in these areas maintained much of their original architectural style and scale, thereby “respecting and contributing” to the existing character of the neighborhood. The identified character areas contain notably fewer structures that are inconsistent with the original homes on the street. The color-coded eras of development correspond to the periods described in the previous section. The map reveals multi-colored areas that are quite varied, and monochrome areas that are more consistent in character.
Many of the early Redondo Beach homes, including those built after WWII, were designed as “starter homes” that could be expanded to accommodate growing families. While these homes were not intended to remain small, neither was there an expectation that they would one day become so large, either by demolition and rebuild or addition, as to overshadow neighboring properties and compromise their privacy.
(Right) Map of Redondo Beach character areas: TRW Tract, Firmona South, Beryl Heights, Faye & Susana, Lower Avenues and South Avenue D.
SOUTH
REDONDO City
Center
R1-A
Zone
Golden
Hills
Sister
Streets
Upper
Avenues
Villas
South
Redondo
Villa Tract
Villas
North
West
PCH
Redondo
Beach Pier
NORTH
REDONDO
South
Avenue D
Faye &
Susana
Lower
Avenues
Firmona
Beryl South
Heights
TRW
Tract
Source: Los Angeles GeoHub
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION II: R1 Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 18 Character Area Design Element Character Area Standard
Beryl Heights Parking Parking access shall be provided from the rear alley for all new and remodeled structures. No new curb cuts shall be permitted.
Garage On Paulina Avenue, between Diamond and Del Amo, an additional setback of 10’ feet shall be required for garages on the east side of the street.
Firmona South Roof Deck Roof decks shall be prohibited on properties with less than 120 ft. in depth (or average depth for irregularly shaped properties).
Lower Avenues Parking Parking access shall be provided from the rear alley for all new and remodeled structures. No new curb cuts shall be permitted.
Roof Deck Roof Decks shall not be permitted above the second floor.
Mezzanine Mezzanines shall only be permitted if open to the first floor.
Fences / Walls Front Yard Fences and Walls shall not be permitted.
Parkways Parkways shall be planted with either real turf or very low ground cover that is drought-tolerant and can be walked over. Paths across the parkway shall not exceed a width of 36 inches.
TRW Tract Roof Deck Roof decks shall be prohibited on properties with less than 120 ft. in depth (or average depth for irregularly shaped properties).
I. R1 Character Area Standards
Objective Standards applying to four character
areas are described on the following section and
are required for any new, expanded, or remodeled
homes. Design Guidelines for six described character
areas are in Section VI, to encourage neighborhood
consistency but are mainly suggestions and not
required to be followed.
In addition to the general R1 standards, the
following shall be required for projects within
specified character areas that propose either new
development or alterations to existing structures.
R1 Character Area Design Guidelines
“Character area-specific” guidelines are only
applicable within the boundaries of the area
and are suggestions, but not required.
To maintain neighborhood consistency
through compatible expansion or demolition
and rebuilds, the Character Area Design
Guidelines described in Section VI serve as
recommendations in addition to the required
Standards in this section.
Additionally, for each character area, Design
Guidelines encourage new or expanded
structures to reflect the predominant
architectural styles of the neighborhoods in
which they are located.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION III: R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 19
SECTION III
R-1A Single-Family Zoning
District Standards
Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Number of
Dwelling
Units Allowed
1 DU/lot 1 primary DU + 1 ADU and 1
JADU; OR 2 DU as permitted by
State law
Maximum
Height /
Number
of Stories
30 ft. maximum/2
stories
2 stories/30 ft. maximum to
top of pitch
Flat roof: 30 ft. maximum to
top of parapet or any rooftop
structure including access
stairwells.
Setbacks
Front Setback 25 feet; 2nd floor may
project 5 feet into
setback.
25 feet; 2nd floor may project
5 feet into setback.
Side Setback 3 ft. or 10%, whichever
is greater.
For additions on
narrow lots (<50’): can
match existing of <5’
but not more than 10%
of lot width.
3 ft. or 10%, whichever is
greater.
A. General Development Standards
The following table provides existing (Zoning Code)
requirements and proposed Standards for the R-1A
Zoning District.
Surface Lot Coverage & Setbacks
R1-A lots are narrow in relation
to their depth. Side setbacks
and window placement have
the greatest affect on privacy
between units.
2nd Story
2nd story may
project 5’ into
front setback
Rear setback
16’ Avg. (10’ min.)
Front Setback
25’ min.
Side setback
3’ or 10%
(which ever is greater)
(1st Story)
Lot
Coverage
25' avg. Setback from
rear property line
(20' min. setback)
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION III: R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 20 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Rear Setback 16 ft. average; at no
point less than than
10 ft.
16 ft. average; at no point less
than 10 ft.
Additional Minimum 2nd Story Stepbacks
Front
Side
Rear Rear elevation shall be an
average of 25 ft. from rear P/L,
provided that no point of 2nd
story shall be less than 20 ft.
from rear P/L
Outdoor
Living Space
(plus standards
in 10-2.1510)
Minimum 400 sf Minimum 400 sf for each
dwelling unit, excluding ADUs.
Roof Decks
(10-2.1508)
Maximum 500 sf Max. 250 sf, provided deck
area is set back from 1st floor
building edge by minimum of
3 ft.
Maximum Height/Number of Stories
2-story homes with mezzanine (left) and without
mezzanine (center and right).
Homes built to R1A standards.
1st Story
2nd Story
30'
max.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION III: R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 21 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Minimum
Unit Size
(10-2.1512)
800 sf 800 sf
Front Porches Allow covered porch to project
into front yard area by up to
8 feet if parking is provided
as tandem in order to create
connection with the street.
Balconies
(10-2.1510)
(10-2.1522)
Encouraged for
design; guidelines for
spas, not included in
GFA. Minimum sizes;
unenclosed may
project into setbacks
with minimum
distance.
Balconies shall not project
into the required side setback
areas. (Other Code sections to
remain.)
Mezzanines Requirements for the R-1
District (above) shall apply to
the R-1A district.
Balcony
42" wall or guard rail
(solid side facing)
42" wall or guard rail
(translucent front/rear facing)
2nd floor may
project 5' into
front setback
Front or rear
facing only
2nd Story
Front extended balcony (left) and front balcony with side wall (right).
No roof deck
above 2nd story
5' min. side
setback from
property line
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION III: R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 22 B. Front Yard and Parkway Standards
Permeable Surface and Landscaping Requirements
Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Front Yard Landscaping Requirements
Permeable
Surface
(NOTE
10-2.1704(B)(1):
default is concrete
driveway; permeable
per Admin Review)
Driveways shall be no wider
than 16 feet designed with
permeable surface for at least
1/3 of the driveway area.
This may consist of planted
strips, non-plant permeable
materials, grasscrete or other
similar materials as approved
by the Director. All nondriveway or walkway areas
shall be landscaped.
Droughttolerant
Landscaping
Encouraged 75% of plant materials shall
consist of drought tolerant
species per city landscaping
regulations.
Trees At least one tree shall be
planted in front yard, 15-gallon
minimum. As an alternative,
applicant may provide a tree in
a nearby public location with
manner and location subject
to approval of the Director of
Public Works.
Landscape
Area
Dimensions
All required landscaping shall
have minimum 2 ft. horizontal
dimension in all directions
when planted.
Path to
Entrance
Encouraged A walkway area with a
maximum width of 2½ feet
shall be provided from the
sidewalk to the front door.
Example of front yard tree and landscape.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION III: R-1A Single-Family Zoning District Standards | 23 Topic Current RBMC
10-2.503, 10-5.503 or as
noted below
Proposed
Parking Access
Parkway
Standards
Guidelines: Parkways
shall be landscaped;
avoid impervious
surfaces; street
trees should be
incorporated.
Grassy parkways
encouraged on the
Avenues.
A minimum of 80% of the
parkway shall be comprised of
permeable surfaces.
At least 75% of permeable
surface shall consist of plant
materials and no more than
25% shall consist of gravel,
rock, DG or similar materials.
Drought-tolerant landscaping
shall be used for all plant areas;
however, plants with spikes
shall not be allowed in the
parkway area.
Existing trees shall be
preserved and protected
during construction, including
steps to avoid root damage.
Where no trees exist, at least
one street tree of minimum
15-gallon size shall be required
for properties with parkways.
As an alternative, applicant
may provide a tree in a
nearby public location with
manner and location subject
to approval of the Director of
Public Works.
Parking
Location
(10-2.1704)
2 spaces in enclosed
garage
2 on-site spaces using any of
the following options:
• 2-car tandem in garage
• 2-car side-by-side in
garage
• 1-car garage + tandem
uncovered, which may
extend up to 5 feet into
front setback)
2-car tandem
parking 2 parking spaces
(9'x19') in enclosed
front loaded garage
1-car garage with
1 tandem uncovered
R1A Tandem Parking Options
Example of 2 enclosed parking spaces. Example of 1 enclosed parking space and 1 uncovered.
Garage may extend up
to 5' into front setback
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 24
SECTION IV
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
ADUs are permitted in Redondo Beach in compliance
with California State law and the Redondo
Beach Municipal Code (RBMC). ADUs proposed
on properties that are not located in the City’s
coastal zone are subject to the requirements of
RBMC 10-2.1506. ADUs proposed on properties
located with the City’s coastal zone are subject
to the requirements of RBMC 10-5.1506. For
additional information on State ADU provisions, it is
recommended to consult the State Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) ADU
Handbook (updated July 2022), or any subsequent
update that may be released.
ADU applications are approved through either the
“streamlined” or “non-streamlined” process, which
is further explained below. Both of these processes
are administrative (non-discretionary). City staff
reviews the ADU application to confirm compliance
with streamlined or non-streamlined standards prior
to approval of a building permit. A building permit
may be issued for any project that complies with the
applicable standards and meets all building code
requirements.
Applicable to all ADUs/JADUs:
1. ADUs are allowed on any parcel in any zone
that allows single-family and/or multi-family
residential uses (includes mixed-use zones).
2. ADUs may be rented separately from the
primary residence, but may not be sold or
otherwise conveyed separately.
3. ADUs shall not be used as short-term rental
(rented for periods of less than 30 days is
prohibited).
4. Junior ADUs are allowed subject to the Single
Family “Within Existing Space” streamlined
process (see streamlined vs non-streamlined
below).
5. There are no owner-occupancy requirements
for properties with an ADU approved between
January 1,2020, and January 1, 2025. The owner
may reside in one of the units and rent the
other or both units may be rented separately
or together. For ADUs approved after January
1, 2025, the City may impose owner-occupancy
requirements unless the State extends this
provision.
6. An existing residence may be converted to an
ADU in conjunction with development of a
new primary dwelling unit, provided that the
existing residence meets all ADU development
standards and that the new primary dwelling
unit complies with all applicable requirements
for a primary residence.
7. Review period of an application that has been
deemed complete for an ADU or JADU is 60
days.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a residential
dwelling unit on a lot that is accessory to a
proposed or existing single-family or multi-family
residence. The ADU can be located within the
primary residential building or in a separate
accessory structure. An ADU provides complete
independent living facilities for one or more
persons and is located on the same parcel as the
primary residential building, including permanent
provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and
sanitation.
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a
dwelling unit no more than 500 square feet in
size and contained entirely within a single-family
residence. A JADU may include separate sanitation
facilities or may share sanitation facilities with the
existing structure.
Example of garage conversion to ADU.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 25 A. Streamlined ADUs
There are four categories of streamlined ADUs
defined by California Government Code Section
65852.2 Subsection (e). Regardless of any other
provisions, if a streamlined ADU application meets
the very basic required standards of this section,
the City must approve the application, and may
not impose any other standards. For single-family
properties, ADUs that are within an existing primary
structure or ADUs in new construction may use
the streamlined process. ADUs proposed on multifamily properties are also subject to the streamlined process, whether they are a conversion of existing
space or represent new construction.
ADUs that are determined to comply with all
requirements of California Government Code
Section 65852.2(e) shall not require further Planning
review and shall be permitted subject to a building
permit only. There are four categories of these
“streamlined ADUs” as noted below:
Example
The owner of a 1000 sf single-family residence
wishes to divide existing space in the home to
add an ADU. The owner could use any portion
of the home’s area for the ADU, leaving the
remainder of the space as the primary dwelling
unit. Because all the work is within the existing
structure, the only exterior change would be an
entry door and possibly window changes.
1. Single-Family “Within Existing Space” ADUs
[RBMC 10-2.1506(b)(2) and 10-5.1506(b)(2)
(Including JADUs)]
a. One ADU or JADU is allowed under this
application. If there is already another
ADU on site (under Single-Family Detached
section below), only a JADU can be
considered for this Single-family Within
Existing Space application.
b. The lot must be located in a zoning district
that allows the single-family residential use.
c. The ADU or JADU shall be on a lot with an
existing or proposed single-family residence
(SFR).
d. The ADU or JADU must be wholly within
the existing or proposed SFR or existing
physically attached accessory structure.
For ADUs, an addition of up to 150 square
feet (sf) is permitted if required solely to
accommodate ingress/egress.
e. The ADU or JADU shall have direct exterior
access that is independent from the SFR.
f. Side and rear yard setbacks shall be
sufficient for fire safety. If the existing
dwelling or structure complies with the
City’s setback requirements as described in
this Code, it shall automatically meet this
standard.
g. There is no ADU size limit for this category,
except that the ADU must be entirely within
existing footprint of SFR with only up to 150
sf additional expansion for ingress/egress.
ADU within existing space
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 26 h. Standards for JADUs only (per California
Government Code Section 65852.22) shall
apply as follows:
i. JADUs are limited to one per residential
lot with a single-family residence. Lots
with multiple detached single-family
dwellings are not eligible to have
JADUs.
ii. The JADU shall not exceed a maximum
size of 500 sf. The addition of 150 sf for
access allowed for ADUs does not apply
to JADUs (Gov. Code, § 65852.2, subd.
(e)(1)(A)(i)).
iii. Prior to issuance of a building permit
for a JADU, a covenant shall be
recorded that specifies that only one
unit may be rented with the owner
occupying the other (either the JADU
or the primary residence), and a deed
restriction shall be recorded prohibiting
the sale of the JADU separate from the
single-family residence.
JADU within existing space
2. Single-Family “New Construction Detached”
ADUs [RBMC 10-2.1506(b)(3) and 10-5.1506(b)
(3)]
a. One ADU is allowed under this application.
An ADU under this section may be
combined with one JADU under the Singlefamily “Within Existing Space” category. b. The lot must be located in a zoning district
that allows the single-family residential
use and on which there is an existing or
proposed SFR.
c. The ADU must be detached from the SFR.
d. Must be new construction
i. Conversion of an existing detached
accessory structure would constitute a
Non-Streamlined ADU.
ii. Replacement of an existing detached
accessory structure would fall under
this Streamlined ADU category.
e. The ADU shall provide 4 ft. side and rear
yard setbacks.
f. The maximum ADU size is 800 sf.
New Construction Detached ADU
g. Maximum height is measured from the
lowest portion of the building that is above
ground to the topmost portion of the
roof, exclusive of chimneys or vents. The
maximum height of the ADU shall be as
follows:
i. For a detached ADU on a lot with an
existing or proposed single family
or multifamily dwelling unit, the
maximum height is one story and 16 ft.
ii. For a detached ADU that is within
½ mile walking distance of a major
transit stop or a high quality transit
corridor, as those terms are defined in
Section 21155 of the Public Resources
Code, the maximum height is 18 ft.,
with an additional 2’ permitted to
accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU
that is aligned with the roof pitch of the
primary dwelling unit.
iii. For a detached ADU on a lot with
an existing or proposed multifamily,
multistory dwelling, the maximum
height is 18 ft.
iv. For an ADU that is attached to a
primary dwelling, the maximum height
is 25 ft. or the height limitation in the
local zoning ordinance that applies
to the primary dwelling, whichever is
lower. The section of the structure with
the ADU shall not exceed two stories.
h. Due to fire and life safety building
standards, the minimum distance between
a dwelling unit and an accessory structure
or between two accessory structures on
the same site shall be 5 feet, unless the
structure otherwise meets the Building
Code for fire rating.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 27 ii. For a detached ADU that is within
½ mile walking distance of a major
transit stop or a high quality transit
corridor, as those terms are defined in
Section 21155 of the Public Resources
Code, the maximum height is 18 ft.,
with an additional 2’ permitted to
accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU
that is aligned with the roof pitch of the
primary dwelling unit.
iii. For an ADU that is attached to a
primary dwelling, the maximum height
is 25 ft. or the height limitation in the
local zoning ordinance that applies
to the primary dwelling, whichever is
lower. The section of the structure with
the ADU shall not exceed two stories.
g. There is no ADU size limit for this category.
h. Due to fire and life safety building
standards, the minimum distance between
a dwelling unit and an accessory structure
or between two accessory structures on
the same site shall be 5 feet, unless the
structure otherwise meets the Building
Code for fire rating.
3. Multi-Family Dwellings (MFD): “Wholly Within
Non-Livable Space Conversion” [RBMC 10-
2.1506(b)(4) and 10-5.1506(b)(4)]
a. The total number of ADUs permitted
within the MFD is up to 25% of the existing
number of primary dwelling units within the
MFD structure. Where the MFD has fewer
than 4 units, one ADU is permitted.
b. The lot shall be located within a zoning
district that allows multi-family residential
use and shall contain an existing MFD. In
the coastal zone, ADUs may be allowed on
lots that contain an existing or proposed
MFD.
c. ADUs must be located in the non-livable
space of the existing structure, (i.e., storage
rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics,
basements, garages, laundry rooms).
d. There is no ADU size limit for this category,
but these ADUs must be wholly within the
existing MFD structure.
4. MFD “Detached” ADUs [RBMC 10-2.1506(b)(5)
and 10-5.1506(b)(5)]
a. Up to two detached ADUs are permitted
per lot.
b. The lot shall be located within a zoning
district that allows multi-family residential
use and shall contain an existing MFD. In
the coastal zone, ADUs may be allowed on
lots that contain an existing or proposed
MFD.
c. The ADU must be detached from the multifamily dwelling structure. d. The detached units may be in addition to
ADUs created through the conversion of
non-livable space.
e. The ADU requires 4 ft. side and rear yard
setbacks for all new construction. Where an
existing structure is being converted to an
ADU, the existing setbacks for the footprint
of the area being converted that may be
less than 4 ft. may be maintained.
f. Maximum height is measured from the
lowest portion of the building that is above
ground to the topmost portion of the
roof, exclusive of chimneys or vents. The
maximum height of the ADU shall be as
follows:
i. For a detached ADU on a lot with an
existing or proposed single family
or multifamily dwelling unit, the
maximum height is 16 ft.
An ADU/JADU combination results in 3 units on
the site, including the primary dwelling. Note
that since one unit is a JADU, a deed restriction
shall be recorded requiring owner occupancy for
one of the units in the main structure.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 28 B. Non-Streamlined ADUs
The non-streamlined ADU approval process [RBMC
Sections 10-2.1506(c) and 10-5.1506(c)] applies to
situations in which the application does not qualify
for the streamlined process, including ADUs that
are a conversion or use of an existing attached
or detached structure accessory to a primary
residence, or expansion of an existing single family
unit beyond 150 square feet for ingress and egress
only.
This “non-streamlined” process can be applied
when the proposed project is located in a zoning
district that allows single–family and/or multi-family
residential use on a property with an existing or
proposed single or multi-family dwelling and which
does not already contain another ADU or JADU.
1. The ADU shall meet all nondiscretionary
requirements for any single-family dwelling
located on the same parcel lot in the same
zoning district. These requirements include, but
are not limited to, building height, setback, site
coverage, floor area ratio, building envelope,
payment of any applicable fee, and building
code requirements. Notwithstanding, the
following exceptions to these requirements
apply:
a. Setbacks:
i. No setback is required for an ADU
located within an existing living area or
existing accessory structure, or an ADU
that replaces an existing structure and
is located in the same dimensions as
structure being replaced.
ii. For all new construction, the minimum
side and rear yard setbacks shall be
four (4) feet.
iii. The minimum distance between
a dwelling unit and an accessory
structure, or between two accessory
structures on the same parcel shall be
five (5) feet.
iv. Maximum height is measured from the
lowest portion of the building that is
above ground to the topmost portion
of the roof, exclusive of chimneys or
vents. The maximum height of the ADU
shall be as follows:
• For a detached ADU on a lot with
an existing or proposed single
family or multifamily dwelling unit,
the maximum height is one story
and 16 ft..
• For a detached ADU that is within
½ mile walking distance of a major
transit stop or a high quality
transit corridor, as those terms
are defined in Section 21155 of
the Public Resources Code, the
maximum height is 18 ft., with
an additional 2’ permitted to
accommodate a roof pitch on the
ADU that is aligned with the roof
pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
• For a detached ADU on a lot
with an existing or proposed
multifamily, multistory dwelling,
the maximum height is 18 ft.
• For an ADU that is attached to a
primary dwelling, the maximum
height is 25 ft. or the height
limitation in the local zoning
ordinance that applies to the
primary dwelling, whichever is
lower. The section of the structure
with the ADU shall not exceed two
stories.
b. Size of ADU Living Area:
i. The living area of the accessory
dwelling unit shall not be less than 150
square feet (or as otherwise defined
by the Health and Safety Code) and
shall not exceed eight hundred fifty
(850) square feet for studios or one
-bedroom ADUs or one thousand
(1,000) square feet for ADUs that
provide more than one bedroom.
ii. Code standards shall not be used to
reduce the living area of the accessory
dwelling unit below eight hundred
(800) square feet.
Architectural and Design Standards
RBMC Subsection10-2.1506(c)(4)e. and
Subsection 10-5.1506(c)(4)e contain requirements
that address materials, location of the entrance to
the ADU, alley driveway access, and applicability of
the Historic Preservation Ordinance.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 29 C. Special Parking Standards for
ADUs in Inland Zoning
The ADU application shall demonstrate compliance
with the following parking requirments if the
property is located within Redondo Beach’s Inland
Zoning.
Streamlined ADU Applications
1. No parking is required for Streamlined ADUs and
Streamlined JADUs in the inland zoning (East of
Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach).
2. No replacement parking is required for the
conversion of existing required parking for
the principal dwelling unit(s) to Streamlined
ADUs in the inland zoning (see Coastal Zone
requirements below).
Non-Streamlined ADU Applications
1. The applicant shall provide one parking
space, except if one of the following parking
exemptions applies, in which case no parking for
the ADU is required:
a. The ADU is located within a half mile of
public transit. For the purpose of this
paragraph, public transit shall mean a
location, including, but not limited to, a bus
stop or train station, where the public may
access buses, trains, subways, and other
forms of transportation that charge set
fares, run on fixed routes, and are available
to the public.
b. The ADU would be located in an
architecturally or historically significant
district.
c. The ADU is part of the proposed or
existing primary residence or an accessory
structure.
d. When on-street parking permits are
required but not offered to the occupant of
the ADU.
e. Where there is a car share vehicle located
within one block of the accessory dwelling
unit.
2. The required parking space(s) for the ADU(s)
and any replacement parking for primary
dwelling(s) in the coastal zone may be located in
any configuration on the same lot as the ADU,
including, but not limited to, enclosed spaces,
unenclosed spaces, or tandem spaces, or by
the use of mechanical automobile parking lifts;
provided that the spaces and driveway comply
with the requirements of RBMC Section 10-
5.1704 to the extent those requirements do not
conflict with the ADU regulations.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION IV: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | 30 D. Special Parking Standards for
ADUs in the Coastal Zone
In the coastal zone (West of Pacific Coast Highway
in Redondo Beach) there is a designated Accessory
Dwelling Unit Parking Overlay area including lots
located along and west of Catalina Avenue, and
including lots fronting the inland side of Catalina
Avenue from Knob Hill Avenue to Paseo de la Playa.
Source: City of Redondo Beach
1 Beach Dr
Sunset Dr
Manhattan Ave
Bayview Dr
2nd St
8th St
N C
atalina Ave N Harbor Dr
Esplanade
Paseo de la Playa S Catalina Ave
192 ft
1 Prospect Ave
Goodman Ave
Carnelian St
N Maria Ave
Armour Ln
Pearl St
S Lucia Ave
Garnet St
Emerald StS Juanita Ave
N Lucia Ave
Ruby St
N Juanita Ave
Victor St
Henrietta St
Hal ison St Halison St
Towers St Towers St
Entradero Ave
Carmelynn St
Wayne
Ave
Lee St
Asteria St
Maricopa St
Spreckels Ln
S Fran
cisca Ave
S Broadway
N Prospect Ave
Beryl St
Torrance Blvd
Torrance Blvd
S Catalina Ave
190th St
S Prospe
ct Ave
Anita St
Anza Ave
Del Amo Blvd
Redondo High
School
Redondo
Beach
213 ft
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Pacific Coast Hwy
1 Avenue C
Avenue G
S Juanita Ave
Avenue D
Sapphire St
S Broadway
Ellinwo od Dr
Calle Mayor
W Carson St
Lenore St
Reese Rd
Linda Dr
Ruby St
Merrill St
Pacific Coast Hwy
Zakon Rd
Sharynne Ln
Camino de las Colinas
Cathann St
Bindewald Rd
Avenue E
Camino Real
Palos Verdes Blvd
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Catalina Ave
Knob Hill Ave
Calle Mayor
South High
School
Clifton
Hollywood
Riviera
City of Redondo Beach - Proposed ADU Replacement Parking Area County of Los Angeles, California State Parks, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA, Esri,
NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA
ADU replacement parking area
Coastal zone
Legend
0 0.2 0.4 0.8 mi
0 0.35 0.7 1.4 km
1:22,924
California Coastal Commission
LCP-5-RDB-21-0017
Exhibit 4 p. 2 of 4
FIGURE 1
REDONDO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE 10-5.1506
1 Beach Dr
Sunset Dr
Manhattan Ave
Bayview Dr
2nd St
8th St
N C
atalina Ave N Harbor Dr
Esplanade
Paseo de la Playa S Catalina Ave
192 ft
1 Prospect Ave
Goodman Ave
Carnelian St
N Maria Ave
Armour Ln
Pearl St
S Lucia Ave
Garnet St
Emerald StS Juanita Ave
N Lucia Ave
Ruby St
N Juanita Ave
Victor St
Henrietta St
Hal ison St Halison St
Towers St Towers St
Entradero Ave
Carmelynn St
Wayne
Ave
Lee St
Asteria St
Maricopa St
Spreckels Ln
S Fran
cisca Ave
S Broadway
N Prospect Ave
Beryl St
Torrance Blvd
Torrance Blvd
S Catalina Ave
190th St
S Prospe
ct Ave
Anita St
Anza Ave
Del Amo Blvd
Redondo High
School
Redondo
Beach
213 ft
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Pacific Coast Hwy
1 Avenue C
Avenue G
S Juanita Ave
Avenue D
Sapphire St
S Broadway
Ellinwo od Dr
Calle Mayor
W Carson St
Lenore St
Reese Rd
Linda Dr
Ruby St
Merrill St
Pacific Coast Hwy
Zakon Rd
Sharynne Ln
Camino de las Colinas
Cathann St
Bindewald Rd
Avenue E
Camino Real
Palos Verdes Blvd
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Catalina Ave
Knob Hill Ave
Calle Mayor
South High
School
Clifton
Hollywood
Riviera
of Redondo Beach - Proposed ADU Replacement Parking Area County of Los Angeles, California State Parks, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA, Esri,
NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA
acement parking area
one
0 0.2 0.4 0.8 mi
0 0.35 0.7 1.4 km
1:22,924
California Coastal Commission
LCP-5-RDB-21-0017
Exhibit 4 p. 2 of 4
1 DO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE 10-5.1506
1 Beach Dr
Sunset Dr
Manhattan Ave
Bayview Dr
2nd St
8th St
N C
atalina Ave N Harbor Dr
Esplanade
Paseo de la Playa S Catalina Ave
192 ft
1 Prospect Ave
Goodman Ave
Carnelian St
N Maria Ave
Armour Ln
Pearl St
S Lucia Ave
Garnet St
Emerald StS Juanita Ave
N Lucia Ave
Ruby St
N Juanita Ave
Victor St
Henrietta St
Hal ison St Halison St
Towers St Towers St
Entradero Ave
Carmelynn St
Wayne
Ave
Lee St
Asteria St
Maricopa St
Spreckels Ln
S Fran
cisca Ave
S Broadway
N Prospect Ave
Beryl St
Torrance Blvd
Torrance Blvd
S Catalina Ave
190th St
S Prospe
ct Ave
Anita St
Anza Ave
Del Amo Blvd
Redondo High
School
Redondo
Beach
213 ft
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Pacific Coast Hwy
1 Avenue C
Avenue G
S Juanita Ave
Avenue D
Sapphire St
S Broadway
Ellinwo od Dr
Calle Mayor
W Carson St
Lenore St
Reese Rd
Linda Dr
Ruby St
Merrill St
Pacific Coast Hwy
Zakon Rd
Sharynne Ln
Camino de las Colinas
Cathann St
Bindewald Rd
Avenue E
Camino Real
Palos Verdes Blvd
Palos Verdes Blvd
S Catalina Ave
Knob Hill Ave
Calle Mayor
South High
School
Clifton
Hollywood
Riviera
of Redondo Beach - Proposed ADU Replacement Parking Area County of Los Angeles, California State Parks, Esri, HERE, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA, Esri,
NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA
acement parking area
one
0 0.2 0.4 0.8 mi
0 0.35 0.7 1.4 km
1:22,924
California Coastal Commission
LCP-5-RDB-21-0017
Exhibit 4 p. 2 of 4
1 DO BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE 10-5.1506
Coastal Development Permit (CDP)
Required for ADUs
RBMC 10-5.2208 outlines the thresholds for CDP
exemptions as follows:
• If the ADU or JADU is within the existing
single-family residence and does not affect
major structural components, no CDP or
public hearing shall be required.
• If the proposed ADU is not wholly within the
existing SFR, a CDP is required. However, the
public hearing may be waived under certain
circumstances. The regulations of RBMC 10-
5.2217 regarding public hearing waivers for
minor developments shall be followed.
The following Standards shall apply to both
streamlined and non-streamlined ADU applications
in the Coastal Zone.
1. For properties located within the designated
Accessory Dwelling Unit Parking Overlay area,
the applicant shall provide one off-street
parking space per ADU in compliance with
RBMC Section 10-5.1704 on the same lot as the
ADU and dedicated for non-exclusive use by the
occupants of the ADU.
2. For all other coastal zone properties outside
of the Accessory Dwelling Unit Parking Overlay
area, the applicant shall provide one parking
space, except if one of the following parking
exemptions applies, in which case no parking for
the ADU is required:
a. The ADU would be located within the
existing primary dwelling or all or part of an
existing accessory structure.
b. The ADU would be located within a half
mile of public transit. For the purpose of
this paragraph, public transit shall mean a
location, including, but not limited to, a bus
stop or train station, where the public may
access buses, trains, subways, and other
forms of transportation that charge set
fares, run on fixed routes, and are available
to the public.
c. The ADU would be located in an
architecturally or historically significant
district.
d. The ADU would be located on a property
within one block of a designated car share
parking location.
3. In the coastal zone, when a private garage,
carport, or covered parking structure is
demolished or converted in conjunction with
the construction of an ADU or converted to a
JADU or an ADU, replacement off-street parking
spaces are required unless existing off-street
parking exists that provides the minimum
number of required off-street parking spaces for
the primary dwelling(s).
4. The required parking space(s) for the ADU(s)
and required replacement parking for primary
dwelling(s) in the coastal zone may be located in
any configuration on the same lot as the ADU,
including, but not limited to, enclosed spaces,
unenclosed spaces, or tandem spaces, or by
the use of mechanical automobile parking lifts;
provided that the spaces and driveway comply
with the requirements of RBMC Section 10-
5.1704.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 31
SECTION V
Multi-family Zoning District Standards
(R2/R3/RMD/RH)
Multi-family development is reviewed based on
Code requirements (RBMC Title 10, Chapters 2 and
5) and other regulations cross-referenced from that
section and the 2003 Design Guidelines.
A. Code Standards
The following charts list the existing guidelines
and the proposed Standards that would replace
them. Guidelines that cannot be translated into
Standards are, in some cases, proposed for removal.
Additionally, single-family development in multifamily districts would now be subject to the same Standards as the R1 District, with the exception of
setbacks, which would be the same as required for
other developments in the district.
Following public review, sections for which design
guidelines are removed with no substituting
standards shall be deleted.
Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
General
Neighborhood
Character
All new multi-family
developments should be
compatible with the character of
the neighborhood.
No applicable standard.
Setbacks and
Design for
Neighborhood
Compatibility
Existing site amenities should
be preserved and incorporated
within new multi-family projects
whenever feasible.
No applicable standard.
New multi-family residential
development should respect the
development in the immediate
area through the use of similar
setbacks, complementary
building arrangements,
buffer yards and avoidance of
overwhelming building scale and
visual obstructions.
The front setback for new development shall be
an average of the existing setbacks on either side.
If the subject property is located on a corner or
adjacent to a vacant lot, the setback shall be the
same as the adjacent structure on the other side.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 32 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Trees Mature trees and similar
natural amenities unique to the
site should be preserved and
incorporated into development
proposals whenever possible.
Mature trees shall be preserved and incorporated
into new development and additions. The tree
may be relocated or replaced with a 36-inch
box tree if the approval body determines that
maintaining the tree in its current location will
reduce the number of units for the project.
Landscaping New landscaping should
complement existing landscape
materials, location, and massing
on adjacent established
developments where
appropriate.
For new development and additions of more
than 50 percent of the existing structures, the
front and rear setback areas shall be landscaped
in accordance with the Landscape regulations.
New landscape areas shall comply with the Model
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
Site Planning
Massing
and Building
Orientation
Appropriate building siting
should be used to reduce the
perception of bulk, maximize
open space, increase pervious
areas and provide communitygathering spaces.
No applicable standard.
Clustering of multi-family
units should be a consistent
site-planning element. Large
projects should be broken
up into groups of structures.
Continuous elements of various
heights in building clusters are
encouraged.
Projects located on a site larger than 10,000
square feet in R2 or larger than 20,000 square
feet in other multi-family residential districts shall
include more than one primary building. Buildings
shall be arranged so as to create a common open
space that complies with all requirements.
Buildings should be oriented
to take advantage of prevailing
breezes and direction of the
sun in order to provide natural
lighting and ventilation for open
spaces.
No applicable standard. Multi-family developments on large lots shall be comprised of more than one primary building so to appear as a set of smallerscaled structures.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 33 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Massing
and Building
Orientation
On interior lots, front loaded
garages are prohibited in the
front half of the lot. On interior
lots with attached multi-family
units, side-loaded garages are
discouraged along the street
frontage.
On corner lots, new curb cuts that remove onstreet parking spaces are prohibited. Multi-family units with side-loaded garages are encouraged to
group garage and visitor parking spaces together
along the street frontage to minimize the number
of curb cuts necessary.
Variation and
Stepbacks
Portions of upper floors should
be set back in order to scale
down facades that face the
street, common open space,
and adjacent residential
structures. Upper story setbacks
are recommended either as
full length “stepbacks” or
partial indentations for upper
story balconies, decks, and/or
aesthetic setbacks.
Each elevation shall have variation in its design
with a break in the wall plane of at least 5’ deep
at least every 25 linear feet of wall surface. A
stepback of at least 5’ shall be used after the 1st
story for 30% of the façade in order to provide
variation when adjacent to another residence.
Balconies located within the required stepback
areas shall be uncovered. For multi-family projects
higher than 3 stories, a step back of 15’ shall be
integrated after the 2nd story so there is not a
massive vertical form in any one place.
Where a semi-subterranean
level is visible along the street
frontage, the second story
above that level should be set
back to soften the appearance
of a three-story building mass.
No applicable standard.
Buildings should be generally
oriented parallel to streets with
varying setbacks to provide
visual interest, vary shadow
patterns, and reduce the
appearance of bulk.
No applicable standard.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 34 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Open Space
Common Open
Space
Common open space provides
opportunities for casual
social interaction and safe
play areas for children while
reducing the perception of bulk.
Common open spaces should
be considered in the design
of multi-family residential
developments.
Common open space shall include at least two of
the following usable features: tables and benches,
a play area, a pool and poolside area, other active
recreation, barbeques.
The design and orientation of
common open spaces should
take advantage of available
sunlight and should be sheltered
from the noise and traffic
of adjacent streets or other
incompatible uses.
The site plan shall include notes that demonstrate
how the common open space provides sunlight
and shade. The area shall be screened to provide
privacy.
Common open spaces should
be conveniently located for the
majority of units. Children’s play
areas that are visible from as
many units as possible.
Pathways shall connect all units to the common
open space and children’s play areas shall be
located so as to be visible from units and/or other
common areas to ensure safety.
Private Open
Space
Private open space (such as
a side yard, patio, balcony,
etc.) should be contiguous to
the units they are serve and
screened from public view.
Private open space as required by 10-2.513 shall
be directly accessible and contiguous to each unit.
Boundaries between common
and private open space should
be clearly defined by elements
such as low walls, fences, and/or
landscaping.
Where common and private open space are
contiguous, clearly defined boundaries shall be
provided by elements including walls, fences and/
or landscaping.
Common open space will be required to have at least two usable features.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 35 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Pedestrian Circulation
Pedestrian Paths Where possible, multi-family
projects should incorporate
pedestrian connections
to adjoining residential or
commercial areas and other
compatible land use facilities.
For projects located near compatible land uses,
the Director may require gates and pathways
to shorten the walking distance for residents to
access these uses.
Pedestrian paths should be
provided to link dwelling units
with common open space areas,
common open space areas,
parking areas and the street.
Curvilinear paths provide a
more inviting and interesting
experience and are generally
preferred over long, straight
alignments. Paths, which
traverse common open space
areas, are encouraged.
No applicable standard.
Pedestrian paths should be
safe, visually attractive, and
well defined by landscaping
and lights. Use of decorative
pavement is encouraged. At a
minimum, decorative paving
should be used to delineate
crossings at circulation drives
and parking aisles.
The intersection of pedestrian and automobile
circulation paths shall be delineated to highlight
the pedestrian path through use of decorative
paving or similar materials as approved by the
Director.
Pedestrian paths should be scaled to their purpose. This mid-block paseo made a large development more pedestrian-friendly, while providing fire department access and small plazas for residents (upper). Regardless of size, ADA-compliant paths should follow the principals of universal access so ramps are well-integrated and inviting (lower).
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 36 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Parking and Access
Preserve Onstreet ParkingCurb cuts should be designed to avoid loss of on-street parking.
For properties >50’ width, only a single-width (9
ft.) curb cut and driveway apron shall be permitted
across the parkway and sidewalk in order to retain
on-street parking spaces.
Minimize Curb
Cuts & Width
On corner lots, multiple curb
cuts are strongly discouraged.
For corner lots, the garage shall be accessed from
the exterior side street unless an alternative
results in less impact to on-street parking as
determined by City staff.
The driveway apron width
should be minimized.
Public works will determine requirements.
Multi-family project on a corner lot with its garage access from side street. Street parking where the city requires it, is convenient for visitors and buffers pedestrians on sidewalk from moving cars.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 37 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Architecture
Neighborhood
Compatibility
There is no particular
architectural “style” proposed
for multi-family residential
structures in Redondo Beach.
The primary focus should be
on constructing a high quality
residential environment.
No applicable standard.
Where the neighborhood has
a recognizable architectural
theme, style, or character,
it should be considered for
incorporation into the design of
the development.
No applicable standard.
Architectural
Style
A visual balance or rhythm
should be created by the
dimensional ratio of multi-family
buildings, their parts and spaces
around them.
Buildings in the front half of the property shall
have at least one building entry into a lobby or
unit facing the street and accessible (i.e., not
emergency exit only).
Each project shall have an architectural style
described in the application with supporting
photographic examples and design statement
written by an Architect. All material selections
and design details shall match that style per the
statement and example photographs received.
Material Variation: In mixed use projects the
commercial ground floor should employ different
materials than the residential floors or upper
floor uses. Long-lived (higher quality) materials
shall be integrated into the first floor elevations
(Acceptable materials are stone, brick veneer,
architectural tile, or board formed concrete for
contemporary/modern styles).
Boxy and monotonous facades
that lack a sense of human scale
and large expanses of flat wall
planes are strongly discouraged.
Examples of different architectural styles (Craftsman, Mission Revival, Industrial Loft) were applied to new residential projects in Southern California where developers deemed neighborhood compatibility a high priority.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 38 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Architectural
Features
(Elements)
Architectural elements such as
bays, bay windows, recessed or
projecting balconies, verandahs,
balconies, porches and other
elements that add visual
interest, scale and character
to the neighborhood are
encouraged.
Elevations facing public streets, courtyards,
adjacent residential projects and public open
spaces shall have 30% of the facade articulated
with projections or recesses (Juliet balconies,
recessed patios, recessed public or private
entrances, covered public or private entrances,
bay or boxed windows, window or door
awnings, architectural grills or features that
provide variation that comply with all setback
requirements.
Large
Developments,
Support
Structures
All support buildings within
multi-family residential projects
(i.e., laundry facilities, recreation
buildings and sales/lease
offices) should be compatible
in architectural design with the
rest of the complex.
Applicable to all multi-family districts except R2:
Accessory buildings to the primary residential
structure(s) on the site shall be designed in
the same architectural style as the primary
structure(s) in the complex.
Building
Entrances
Along the front portion of the
lot, entrances to buildings
should be located on the front
façade, be clearly articulated,
and be directly visible from the
street.
The project shall have consistent design
features or patterns that render it as unique
with all elevations designed at the same level of
architectural detail and articulation as the front
elevation.
Examples of façade variation created with bay windows, planters, covered entries and material changes.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 39 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
360-degree
Design
While special ornamental
treatments may be focused on
front and entry facades, quality
articulation and finishes should
be provided on all visible sides
of buildings.
The project shall have consistent design
features or patterns that render it as unique
with all elevations designed at the same level of
architectural detail and articulation as the front
elevation.
Building Height, Mezzanines, and Roof Decks
Varied Heights Varied building heights are
encouraged. Varied building
heights provide visual interest
and give the appearance of
smaller structures.
A building may in part exceed the height limit for
the district in which it is located by a maximum of
five feet provided that the overall average building
height shall not exceed the height limit.
Combination of one, one and a
half, and two story units create
variation and visual interest, and
are encouraged (applicable to
larger developments comprising
multiple lots).
No applicable standard.
Transition
to Adjacent
Properties
The building heights should
create a transition from the
heights of adjacent existing
residential structures.
No applicable standard.
Mezzanines Mezzanines:
• should not compromise
the integrity of the
architectural style;
• should be stepped back
from the building edge
above the second floor;
• rooflines of mezzanines
should be compatible with
the roofline of the primary
structure.
Mezzanines shall be permitted with the same
definition provided in the R1 District (see Section
2.D, above).
Example of multi-family residence utilizing high-quality materials (stone, custom precast panels, steel bay windows) designed consistently on all facades (top), including a paseo designed as a shady garden for respite (bottom).
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 40 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Roof Decks Roof decks:
• should not compromise
the integrity of the
architectural style;
• should be stepped back
from the building edge
above the second floor;
• should be oriented away
from neighbors’ yards as
much as possible;
• should use appropriate
screening measures
to reduce privacy
invasion (i.e. solid railing
walls, latticework, and
landscaping).
Roof decks shall be permitted on properties >50’
width, only if designed consistently with the
building’s architectural style and in compliance
with the following:
• Maximum 30’ to highest point of any
structure on the roof deck.
• Minimum 42”-high deck barrier, which
must be non-transparent on sides facing a
neighboring residential use.
• Minimum 10’ from setback lines to deck
barrier.
• No permanent structures over 42” in height.
Balconies Balconies must be open to the sky and shall not include any structures over 42 inches in height.
Rooftop /
Balcony Spas /
Hot Tubs
Spas, hot tubs, and similar
equipment located above the
first floor on balconies and roof
decks:
• should be stepped back
from the building edge
above the first floor;
• should be oriented away
from neighbors’ yards as
much as possible;
• should use appropriate
screening measures
to reduce privacy
invasion (i.e. solid railing
walls, latticework, and
landscaping).
Spas, hot tubs and similar equipment shall not
be permitted on balconies within 10 feet of a
property line.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 41 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Roof Articulation
Varied Rooftop
Segments
Rooflines should be segmented
and varied within an overall
horizontal context. Varying
heights are encouraged.
No applicable standard.
Use of vertical elements such as
towers may be used to break up
horizontal massing and provide
visual interest.
No applicable standard.
Roof Type Hipped or gabled roofs covering
the entire buildings are
preferable to mansard roofs
and segments of pitched roofs
applied at the building’s edge.
Mansard roofs shall not be permitted on any multifamily building.
Roofs should reflect a residential
appearance through pitch and
use of materials.
No applicable standard.
Porch Roof
Coverings
Roof pitch for a porch may be
slightly lower than that of the
main building.
No applicable standard.
Carport Roofs Carport roofs visible from
buildings or streets should
incorporate roof slope and
materials to match adjacent
buildings. Flat carport roofs are
strongly discouraged.
Carport roofs shall be designed to be consistent
with the architecture of the primary residential
structure. Flat carport roofs shall only be
permitted if designed consistently with the
primary residential structure (i.e., modern style).
Flat Roofs
Discouraged
Flat roofs are discouraged in
favor of full roofs.
No applicable standard.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 42 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Building Materials and Features
Quality and
Consistency
Building materials should
be durable, require low
maintenance, and relate a sense
of quality and permanence.
Frequent changes in materials
should be avoided.
No applicable standard.
Textures, colors and materials
should unify the building and its
elements.
No applicable standard.
Materials tend to appear
substantial and integral to
the structure when material
changes occur at changes in
plane. Material changes not
accompanied by changes in
plane appear “tacked-on” and
are strongly discouraged.
No applicable standard.
Exterior materials and
architectural details should
complement each other and
should be stylistically consistent.
No applicable standard.
Columns Exterior columns for trellises,
porches or colonnades should
utilize materials and colors,
which are compatible with the
adjacent building.
No applicable standard.
Building
Entrances
Distinctive architectural
elements, materials and colors
should be used to denote
primary building entries or
individual unit entries.
Primary building entrances or individual unit
entrances shall appear distinct in form and
materials from the rest of the primary building
facade by introducing at least two of these
elements: an entry canopy, a material or exterior
color not used elsewhere on building, architectural
lighting fixtures not used elsewhere in project.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 43 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Gutters and
Downspouts
Exposed gutters and
downspouts should be
colored to match fascia or wall
materials, unless designed as
an outstanding architectural
feature of the overall theme.
Exposed gutters and downspouts shall be colored
to match fascia or wall materials, unless designed
to stand out in contrast as part of an overall
architectural theme.
Carports Carports, detached garages,
and accessory structures should
be designed as an integral
part of the architecture of
projects. They should be similar
in material, color, and detail
to the principal buildings of a
development.
Remove – covered above under Roof Articulation.
Fabric and prefabricated
metal carports are strongly
discouraged. Carports may be
designed as pergolas as long as
they are designed and planted in
such a way that the vine will act
as a full coverage “roof” for the
structure.
Carports serving multi-family structures shall not
be made of fabric or prefabricated metal.
Single-family (SF) Structures in Multi-family (MF)
Setback Same as multi-family Any new or modified SF structure shall comply with the setbacks of the multi-family district in
which it is located.
Other
Development
Standards
Applicable to SF
Structures
With the exception of setbacks, new and modified
SF structures shall comply with the R1 standards
instead of the requirements set forth in this
section. Specifically, SF structures shall comply
with the following R1 standards: lot coverage,
additional minimum 2nd floor stepbacks,
front porches, balconies, mezzanines, hillside/
sloping lots, basements, roof decks, parking, and
landscaping.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 44 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Landscape
Minimum
Dimensions and
Drought Tolerant
Requirement
Landscaped areas shall have minimum dimensions
of 2’ in all directions and shall include drought
tolerant plants in 75% of the area. Landscaped
areas shall be continuously maintained in
compliance with this standard.
Plantings, Plant
Design
Landscaped areas should
generally incorporate plantings
utilizing a three-tier system:
1. grasses and ground
covers,
2. shrubs and vines,
3. trees.
Plant materials should be placed
so that they do not interfere
with lighting of the premises or
restrict access to emergency
apparatus such as fire hydrants
or fire alarm boxes. Trees or
large shrubs should not be
planted under overhead lines
or over underground utilities
if their growth might interfere
with such public utilities.
Project landscape plans shall demonstrate that:
• Access is not blocked to any on-site fire
emergency apparatus.
• Proposed trees and shrubs located near
overhead utilities are placed such that when
they reach their full, anticipated height,
conflicts with overhead utility lines shall be
avoided. New landscaping must comply with the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 45 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Plantings, Plant
Design
The following planting design
concepts are encouraged within
each project:
• A specimen tree (36-
inch box or more) in the
front yard of a single lot
development, or trees
in informal groupings or
rows at major focal points
for larger multiple-lot
developments;
• Use of flowering vines both
on walls and arbors or
trellises;
• Use of planting to create
shadow and patterns
against walls;
• Use of planting to
soften building lines and
emphasize the positive
features of the site;
• Trees to create canopy and
shade, especially in parking
areas and passive open
space areas; and
• Berms, plantings, and walls
to screen parking lots, trash
enclosures, storage areas,
utility boxes, etc.
Remove; replaced with B. Landscaping Matrix,
below.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 46 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Landscaping in
Vehicular Entry
Zones
Vehicular entries provide a
good opportunity to introduce
and identify multi-family
developments. The vehicular
entry zone in multi-family
developments is the area
between the public street and
the project’s internal circulation
system. The vehicular entry
zone should be treated with
special landscape elements that
will give individual identity to
the project (i.e. special paving,
graphic signage, specialty
lighting, specimen trees,
flowering plants).
The vehicular entry zone, the area between the
public street and the project’s internal circulation
system, shall include at least 25% permeable
surface using either grasscrete, permeable
strips that are planted or comprise other
permeable materials, permeable paving or other
decorative paving that provides opportunities for
permeability.
Paving Patterns Textured paving or interlocking
pavers may be used to delineate
site entries.
Included in Points matrix.
Protection of
Landscaping
Areas
Landscaping should be
protected from vehicular and
pedestrian encroachment by
raised planting surfaces and
the use of curbs. Concrete step
areas should be provided in
landscape planters adjacent to
parking spaces.
Removed to allow for low impact development
and run-off into specially designed landscape
zones.
Use of Vines Vines and climbing plants
integrated upon buildings,
trellises, and perimeter walls are
encouraged.
Included in Points matrix.
Prohibited
Materials
Gravel, bark, Astroturf,
concrete, or similar materials
are not allowed as a substitute
for plant materials.
Removed since materials are controlled through
Points matrix.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 47 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Limiting
Impervious
Surfaces
Impervious surfaces should be
minimized in all open space and
setback areas.
A minimum of 67% of the required front yard and
50% of side and rear yards shall be comprised of
permeable surface; at least 75% of permeable
surface shall consist of plant materials and no
more than 25% shall consist of gravel, rock, DG
or similar materials. The permeable portions of a
semi-permeable driveway may be counted toward
the required permeable surface area.
Water Efficiency Landscaping shall emphasize
water-efficient plants.
See above Standard.
Tree Installation All young trees should be
securely staked with double
staking and/or guy-wires. Root
barriers should be required
for any tree placed in paved or
other situations where roots
could disrupt adjacent paving/
curb surfaces.
All young trees shall be securely staked with
double staking and/or guy-wires. Root barriers
or other means approved by the Director are
required for any tree placed in paved or other
situations where roots could disrupt adjacent
paving/curb surfaces.
Irrigation Automatic sprinkler controllers
shall be installed to ensure
that landscaped areas will be
watered properly. Backflow
preventers and anti-siphon
valves shall be provided in
accordance with current codes.
For existing sprinkler systems, automatic sprinkler
controllers shall be installed to control water use.
Backflow preventers and anti-siphon valves shall
be provided in accordance with current codes.
Sprinkler heads and risers
should be protected from car
bumpers. “Pop-up” heads
should be used near curbs and
sidewalks.
The installation of new sprinkler irrigation
systems is prohibited. However, micro-sprays not
exceeding thirty gallons per hour (30 gph) may be
used on areas solely dedicated to edible plants.
The landscape irrigation system
should be designed to prevent
run-off and overspray.
Landscape plans shall specify details for
installation of an irrigation system designed to
prevent run-off and overspray.
All irrigation systems should be
designed to reduce vandalism by
placing controls in appropriate
enclosures.
Irrigation system controls shall be enclosed in a
closet or room that is kept secure at all times.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 48 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Lighting
Parking Areas All lighting in parking areas
should be arranged to prevent
direct glare of illumination onto
adjacent units.
All lighting sources in parking areas shall be placed
below the top of perimeter walls and directed
downward toward parking areas to avoid glare on
adjacent uses.
Avoid Glare on
Neighboring
Properties
The type and location of site and
building lighting should preclude
direct glare onto adjoining
property, streets, or skyward.
Security lighting on or around buildings shall face
downward and utilize motion detectors in order
to reduce unnecessary, continuous lighting into
units and adjacent uses. Light fixtures no higher
than two feet above ground level shall be installed
along pathways to ensure visibility and safety.
Pedestrian-scale Pedestrian-scaled lighting
should be located along
all pedestrian routes of
travel within multi-family
communities.
Avoid Uplighting All lighting should be designed
to shine downward and
eliminate all skyward glare.
Exterior site lighting shall comply with applicable
dark sky requirements.
Common Areas Common open spaces in larger
projects should be adequately
lighted with durable low
maintenance fixtures.
Removed because codes stipulate required light
levels.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 49 Topic Existing
(Design Guidelines)
Proposed
(Standard)
Walls and Fences
Tiered planting should be
provided adjacent to project
or community perimeter walls
along street frontages to soften
their appearances.
A minimum 1.5’ wide area planted with low
water-usage plants shall be provided between the
sidewalk and project perimeter walls. Plants may
be at sidewalk level or in a raised planter.
Abutting a street, wall sections
greater than 50 feet in length
should incorporate the following
design features, in proportion to
the length of the wall:
• A minimum 2-ft. change in
plane for sections of the
wall
• A minimum 18-inch high
raised planter for sections
of the wall that are set back
Remove.
Mechanical Equipment
Screening In addition to the following
guidelines, mechanical
equipment shall be screened as
required pursuant to Section 10-
2.1530 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Already in Code.
Reducing
Equipment
Visibility
Utility meters, electric
transformers, fire standpipes,
water heaters and similar
equipment should be placed in
locations that are not exposed
to view from the street or they
should be suitably screened.
Remove.
Design of
Screening
All screening devices are
to be compatible with the
architecture and color of the
adjacent buildings.
Remove. Already in Code. (10-2.1530)
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION V: Multi-family Zoning District Standards (R2/R3/RMD/RH) | 50 B. Landscaping Matrix - Multi-family
Residential
Applicability
In addition to compliance with the Landscape
Standards above, multi-family projects must achieve
a minimum number of points based on the following
table if the project is a:
• New Development and Re-landscaping
of more than 500 square feet of site’s
landscaped area
• Modification that results in:
• One or more additional units,
• Additional Floor Area of more than
50% of existing square footage,
• Re-landscaping of more than 50%
of site’s landscaped area.
Feature Point Project Checklist
Quantity
Provided
Total
Points
Trees - Minimum points: New - 8 pts.; Add/Mod - 5 pts.
Specimen tree (36-inch box or more) 6
Mature tree (24" box) 4
Maintain existing tree (> 12" Trunk) 8
Fruit trees (not dwarf?) 3
Other trees <24" box 2
Landscape Areas - Minimum points: New - 4 pts.; Mod - 1 pt.
Use of flowering vines on building or perimeter walls 1 Arbor or trellis with vine; 1
Use of at least 90% drought tolerant plants 3
Use of native California plants for at least 25% of plant materials
1 Use of native California plants for at least 50% of plant materials
2 Use of native California plants for at least 50% of plant materials
3 100% use of native California plants 4
Irrigation - Minimum points: New and Add/Mod - 5 pts.
Greywater irrigation system in conformance with Chapter 16 of the California Plumbing Code.
5 Smart irrigation controller(s) for all landscaped areas 3 Below-surface drip irrigation for at least 50% of landscape area 3 Paving & Pathways - Minimum points: New and Add/Mod - 2 pts.
Vehicular entry zone with >50% permeability 2
Textured paving or interlocking pavers at site entries 2 Reduce paving to provide permeable surface for a minimum of 50% of the front yard area.
2 Common open space design with curvilinear paths 1
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 51
SECTION VI
R1 Character Area Design Guidelines
How are the Design Guidelines to be
used?
This section is advisory only and not
required for compliance. It is written for
homeowners, their architects, and builders
who are interested in retaining neighborhood
character and who may benefit from
additional design guidance.
A. Residential Neighborhood History is a summary
of how Redondo Beach’s residential neighborhoods
developed from the 1880s through the early
2020s. It provides a historic lens for homeowners
to understand how neighborhood character is
established.
B. Introduction to Architectural Styles is a primer
for homeowners using photo examples, an inventory
of characteristic elements and other features.
This style guidance can help promote integrity in
residential design for the most prevalent styles
observed in Redondo Beach neighborhoods:
• Spanish
• Craftsman
• Post-War Traditional
• Mediterranean
• Contemporary
• Neo-Traditional
C. Character Area Design Guidelines. Optional
design guidelines are detailed for each of the six
character areas described in Section H:
• South Avenue D
• Beryl Heights
• Lower Avenues
• TRW Tract
• Firmona South Area
• Faye & Susana Area
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 52 Seasonal Seaside
1880s-1910s
Land now within the City of Redondo Beach was inhabited for centuries by Uto-Aztecan speaking peoples whom non-native settlers called “Gabrielinos” or Tongva. When Spaniards and later Mexicans gained control of the Los Angeles basin they overlaid their social, cultural, and legal norms atop those practices indigenous peoples had developed over eons.
Early development in American-era Redondo Beach served occasional residents, seasonal visitors, and service workers attracted to California’s seaside in the late 1800s.
Enhanced connections between the harbor and the rest of Los Angeles shaped early streets and rights-of-way to serve automobiles, the Santa Fe Railroad, and Pacific Electric railway system. Transit made commuting viable, opening the beach cities for white-collar “company men” which created demand for more permanent “family” housing.
This era was notable for Romantic Revival Resorts (Spanish Hacienda, Italianate, California Mission) and the retail and commerce that developed on nearby streets.
Residential development was mainly:
• Carpenter Gothic Cottages
• Small individual cottages
• Modest homes, likely owner-built
A. Residential Neighborhood History
Tingley House c 1890s is a Redondo Beach
local landmark
Redondo Beach Tent City (Courtesy Security Pacific
National Bank Collection, Los Angeles Public Library).
Aerial view of the city’s waterfront and early residential development c. 1924 (Courtesy of Security Pacific National Bank Collection, Los Angeles Public Library) Residential neighborhoods in Redondo Beach are the product of development practices dating to when each tract was planned. Whether houses were ownerbuilt, mass-produced, or developed individually, each neighborhood originated with a distinctive pattern of land use, streets, lot sizes, and building scale.
In sections of the city where original house style(s) have been retained, one finds neighborhoods that are more cohesive. Design elements such as street widths, sidewalk treatments, street trees, and street lighting are among the aspects that define neighborhood character. Other determinants are the size (massing) of each residence, architectural style, and the relationship each house has to its neighbor and the street. These built patterns are identifiable and measurable and have been documented by planners, architects, developers, investors, urban historians, and other students of neighborhood formation beginning with reform-minded planners in the first decades of the twentieth century continuing on to their twenty-first century advocates, the New Urbanists, a lineage evident in the latter’s promotion of form-based codes.
Redondo Beach has experienced at least five identifiable development cycles described below. Today, the city is in the midst of an active development and renovation cycle.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 53 Examples of Spanish Revival homes (The Lower Avenues—as described in Character Area below) Example of early post-war traditional homes (TRW Tract—as described in Character Area below) Bungalows and Streetcar Suburbs
1910s-1930s
Neighborhoods developed in the early 20th century were constructed by land subdividers or carpenter-contractors in tracts serviced with municipal infrastructure.
Lots, streets, and subdivisions were planned as an integrated unit. During this period, developers inserted covenants in deeds of sale and homeowners adopted restrictions intended to ensure “proper” construction and to designate who could purchase property. South Avenue D Character Area (described below) is characteristic of this development era. Residential development was mainly:
• Craftsman, Spanish, Period/Tudor Revival
• Single family, majority single-story
• Houses oriented toward streets and sidewalks with front porches, articulated entry, gable roof, broad eaves, exposed rafter ends, doublehung wood windows • Resident parking accessed from alley
GI Suburb
1940s-1960s
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) enacted a program of mortgage guarantees to enlarge the pool of homeowners in the post-WWII era. FHA and Veterans Administration (VA) created style guides of approved site plans and building design standards for the construction of mass housing. Construction efficiencies resulted in house prices that wage-earners could afford. Minimum houses in neighborhood units were a national pattern that became known as the American suburb. Long blocks and curvilinear streets (intended to reduce pedestrian crossings) fronting lots of approximately 50’ x 140’ led to residential development of typically:
• Compact, single-story house plan, mass-produced using on-site modular construction
• Low pitched single-gable roofs of composition shingles • Fenestration to rear of house for privacy, set flush with wall surface • Minimal trim and ornamentation, accent siding (horizontal shiplap with stucco, brick and stone veneer)
• Garages set back from the street-facing façade or alley CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 54 Example of modern ranch style homes with front facing garages in Faye and Susana character area) Examples of contemporary builder homes that are ubiquitous with Southern California infill sites Jet Age Suburb
1960s-1970s
Large lot, large house tracts were constructed using a menu of plans and a palette of styles. Suburban-style living was idealized in popular culture (‘The Brady Bunch’ was an iconic reference). Elements include: garage-forward, elongated plan, continuous eave, wide chimney stack emphasizing horizontality, board and batten siding, brick veneer, shake roofs, multi-pane picture windows, gables set on brackets, exposed rafter ends, scalloped barge boards, decorative shutters, and planter shelves.
• Modern Ranch
• Post-War Traditional
• Front-facing garages accessible from street
Contemporary / Builder Modern
1980s-2020s
During this era, maximizing the house size became marketable and an opportunity for developer-builders to capitalize on infill sites. These homes are notably larger than preceding development eras that adhered to architectural standards. Houses are two-story and designed to develop the entire allowable building envelope.
Buildings generally include low pitch to flat roof and expansive glazing of varying dimensions with an emphasis on exterior views. Building surfaces are typically treated as a uniform plane, often with little variation and large foam window and door trim elements. Homes in the 1980s-2010s were often Modern Spanish or Mediterranean. Homes in the 2010s-2020s were often Contemporary using a design aesthetic achieved through the interplay of materials (exposed metal structural components, treated wood siding, composite panels, window walls, stone, colors). The garage is usually front-facing. Some structures have been developed in highly interpretive hybrid styles that appear builder-driven and not well-proportioned nor finely detailed, and the scale is often oversized in comparison with adjacent homes.
• Contemporary
• Modern Spanish
• Modern Mediterranean
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 55 B. Introduction to Architectural Styles
This section provides design guidance on six styles prevalent in Redondo Beach to help owners, architects and builders maintain integrity in their residential designs.
Spanish
This style is a romantic reinterpretation of design associated with California ranchos. Its roots can be traced to principles the region’s first non-indigenous settlers introduced through colonialism. These patterns, which originated in Europe, combined with local building practices to become Mexican colonial architecture and expanded north into ‘Alta California.’ Elements that comprise this style are found in California’s historic missions and courtyard adobes. The most recognizable are light-colored stucco, darker wood windows and doors, and red clay barrel tile roofs. Southern California’s initial period of Spanish style houses date from the 1910s to 1930s. These are typically a single-story with a detached garage. In Redondo Beach fine examples can be found in early neighborhoods such as ‘The Avenues.’
Characteristic Elements
Textured stucco
Roof of sloped red clay barrel-tile, or flat with red clay barrel-tile parapet cap Simple arched entrance or covered porch
Contrasting color of wood windows and doors and rounded stucco jambs Shallow eaves, or overhanging eaves with exposed rafter tails Contrasting wrought-iron decorative lantern, vent, window or vent grilles Inset decorative ceramic tiles
Antique-like iron hardware
Other Features
• Low textured stucco
entry walls
• Exposed wood header
over feature window or
doorway
• Clay tile vents or
scuppers
• Sloping fin wall detail at
end of the façade
• Clay tile paving and
pathways
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 56 Craftsman
This style epitomizes the ‘Arts and Crafts’ in America. Beginning in the late nineteenth century Craftsman houses were built from pattern books with sample plans and elevations. Larger Craftsman residences were custom built. Either version typically featured wood built-in amenities (bookshelves, cabinets, room dividers), fireplaces with klinker block, low broad profile often with stone or klinker brick base. Horizontal siding and tapered wood columns that frame covered entry porches are symbolic of this neighborhood-oriented style. Low slope gabled roofs, exposed rafter tails, and specialty wood details exude a standard of craftsmanship that defined this era of home building. New interpretations simplify the style, utilize manufactured materials, and have been added to the city’s Traditional neighborhoods. This style can be found in the city’s oldest neighborhoods such as ‘The Avenues.’
Characteristic Elements
Wood shingle siding, horizontal wood siding or horizontal composite siding Wood windows and doors with wood framed surround, extended sill and header Low sloped roof with overhanging eaves and exposed rafter tails or wood brackets Covered front porch that is minimum 30% of façade width or wraps around 2 elevations
Roof of wood shingle, composite shingle or rolled roofing Decorative metal lanterns with opaque or decorative glazing Antique-like iron hardware
Other Features
• River rock column bases, building base, fireplace stack; brick mixed with stone • Tapered wood columns on base, or box-framed columns at porches • Porch or balcony with low walls finished in siding to match primary home • Decorative attic vents, metal downspouts and scuppers • Asian design references and details inherent to Craftsman style CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 57 Post-War Traditional
This style of residence was developed to meet the needs of families seeking homeownership in the post-WWII era. It is one of the most prevalent house types in Southern California. Developers and builders favored the style for its simplicity, including those who built many Redondo Beach neighborhoods between the 1940s and 1960s. The plan of Post-War Traditional varied from approximately 800sf to 1600sf depending on the tract, lot size and developer. Houses of this style were built as one-story with a single gabled roof, covered entryway or covered porch. Wood and stucco exterior detail introduce charm or whimsy into an otherwise utilitarian design. Includes Storybook style ornamentation, and larger Modern Ranch homes.
Characteristic Elements
Stucco, horizontal siding, vertical board and batten, brick or combination of two listed (no stone or stone veneer allowed)
Low to medium sloped roofs with gable or hip form
Roof of wood shingle, composite shingle or solar shingle (no barrel clay or barrel composite roof tile allowed)
Eaves trimmed with narrow boards or exposed rafters, or scalloped trim Windows multi-paned
Decorative window shutters, turned columns at front porch, wood post columns with wood railings, horizontal wood banding that unifies windows, façade base of horizontal siding or brick
Other Features
• Small decorative
hexagonal window
• Birdhouse feature at
ridge gable
• Front window
planter box
• Front window decorative
plant shelf
• Weathervane and cupola
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 58 Mediterranean
This style, popular in the 1980s-1990s, took design cues from the Italianate. Round corners and other decorative elements applied to double-height forms serve to make houses in this style appear as “villas” or small mansions. These structures are often infilled between traditional homes in the more eclectic neighborhoods.
Materials are usually a blend of textured stucco and stone veneer with red clay tile roofs. Arched openings define entryways with carved wooden doors. Other features include mullion windows that are vertically proportioned, balconies with decorative metal railing, and decorative light fixtures on pilasters around entryways and entry walls. A variation of this style is ‘Tuscan’ which uses a similar materials palette but less ornate.
Characteristic Elements
Smooth stucco finish, or in combination with rustic stone or stone veneer Roof of sloped red clay barrel-tile and overhanging eaves with exposed rafters Prominent or monumental entrances, tall doors, decorative columns or pilasters Recessed multi-paned windows and doors, most vertically proportioned Balcony with articulated rafters on underside
Stucco or molded balustrades, balcony with decorative metal railing Other Features
• Arched windows and doors, molded frames around windows and doors • Lintels over window or doors contrasting material and color • Decorative or rustic window shutters, swing or awning type • Window grilles on small decorative windows
• Balconettes (narrow decorative balconies)
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 59 Contemporary
This style has its roots in mid-century Modernism. Typically this type of house is comprised of simple box-like forms that are articulated by a juxtaposition of materials, window walls, and doors that blur boundaries of indoor and outdoor living spaces. Siding can include concrete, stucco, stone, metal panel, and stained wood. Applied details are kept to a minimum to achieve a modern, “machine-like” aesthetic. Sloped roofs in standing seam metal, or flat roofs with a parapet edge or wall further define a Contemporary house.
Characteristic Elements
Stucco, horizontal or vertical wood siding, metal siding (non-reflective), stone, exterior cladding systems or up to 3 of materials listed Roof forms to be sloped, shed, flat or combination of types listed Roofing of metal standing seam, composite shingle or composite rolled. Variety of window sizes in asymmetrical pattern on front façade Wood or metal full-glazed doors or sliders
Other Features
• Eave overhangs or light
shelf
• Balconies or covered
porches
• Low garden walls
• Decorative wall-mounted
light fixtures
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 60 Neo-Traditional
This style is an homage to traditional American housing reminiscent of a farmhouse or country house for the gentry. It is among the most common styles that define the current development cycle. Neo-Traditional houses are often maximum-sized, some built to the envelope that zoning allows. The style emphasizes vertical board and batten, vertically proportioned windows and sloped roofs. These homes are often painted bright white with black trim. Their form and scale are contemporary, evident in tall entrance foyers and roof decks.
One-story versions are quite compatible with Traditional neighborhoods.
Characteristic Elements
Vertical board and batten wood siding, or horizontal wood siding, or engineered wood
Medium or high sloped roofs in composite shingle, standing seam metal A variety of hip or gabled roofs over different rooms or structural forms Multi-paned windows with majority vertically proportioned Trim framed doors and windows
Sash and panel style doors
Covered porch or entryway
Other Features
• Dormer windows
• Contrasting colored siding with window and door trim
• Balcony
• Simple lantern-style or metal downlight fixtures
• Weathervane and cupola
• Wood columns and wood railing at front porch
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 61 South Avenue D
In the area bounded by Avenue D, PCH and Prospect Avenue.
This area is defined by post-war homes, originally comprised of a few related styles that worked well together. Most homes remain single story. Where second floor additions are set back from the front façade of the house, the neighborhood character as viewed from the street and sidewalks is preserved. A handful of houses built by contemporary builders are visually incompatible and differ from the original homes and modest additions. The guidelines reinforce the area’s unique character and are suggested for any new construction or additions.
South Avenue D Character Area is notable for its compatible mix of Post-War Traditional, Modern Ranch and Storybook style homes. Some new homes and additions have been sensitively designed within this framework.
C. Character Area Design Guidelines
Also see Character Area Standards in Section II, I above South Avenue D (R1) Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Should have sloped roofs with continuous eaves and exposed rafter ends. Roof material should be asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle, or metal roof shingle, or wood shake, or wood shingle, or slate, or synthetic slate, or solar shingle. Tile roofing is discouraged. Roof decks are more appropriate on properties with a depth of 120 feet or greater.
2. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or stucco with more than 50% horizontal siding, or stucco with more than 50% board and batten. On façades facing a street where stucco is used, it should be combined with more than 50% horizontal siding or 50% vertical board and batten or 50% brick veneer so to avoid a predominance of stucco. Materials engineered to mimic wood siding are acceptable materials.
3. Windows – Should be multi-paned.
4. Architectural Features – Should include one of the following features on façades facing a street: decorative shutters at windows, decorative attic vents at ridge line, planter shelf below a feature window.
5. Second Floor – A minimum setback of 15’ from first floor façade is more compatible with the style in this character area.
6. Compatible Styles – Should be Post-War Traditional, Neo-Traditional.
7. Incompatible Styles – Mediterranean, Spanish, and Contemporary/ Modern styles are discouraged since neither style is compatible with this character area.
8. Renovations or Remodels – Style should be consistent with the existing home.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 62 Beryl Heights
In the R1 area bounded by Prospect Avenue, del Amo Street, Diamond Street, Maria Avenue and Anita Street, or within a sub-area as defined below.
This area is unique for its views and winding streets, while it has become less cohesive as new homes are built to replace original ones, the guidelines encourage the dominant character of post-war traditional homes that exhibit some delightful features. The following additional guidelines apply to any new construction or additions.
Beryl Heights Character Area is notable for its winding streets with opportunities for views. The mass of a house impacts the area’s character differently along the uphill street edge versus the downhill street edge. Traditional, Modern Ranch and Storybook style homes are encouraged.
Beryl Heights Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Roofs should be sloped with continuous eaves and exposed rafter ends. Gable end trim should be straight or scalloped.
Roof material should be asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle, or metal roof shingle, or wood shake, or wood shingle, or slate, or synthetic slate, or solar shingle. Tile roofing is discouraged.
2. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or stucco with horizontal siding, or stucco with board and batten. On façades facing a street where stucco is used, it should be combined with horizontal siding or vertical board and batten, or with brick veneer so there is not more than 1/2 of that façade in stucco.
Remodeled additions should match existing siding materials.
3. Windows – Should be multi-paned.
4. Architectural Features – Should include at least two of the following features on façades facing a street: decorative shutters at windows, decorative attic vents at ridge line, planter shelf below a feature window, roof gable decorative bird-house. Two-story feature towers and turrets should be discouraged.
5. Second Floor – A minimum setback of 15’ from first floor façade is more compatible with the style in this character area.
6. Compatible Styles – Should be Post-War Traditional, Modern Ranch, or Storybook.
7. Incompatible Styles – Mediterranean, Spanish, and Contemporary/ Modern styles are discouraged since neither style is compatible with this character area
8. Renovations or Remodels – Style should be consistent with the existing home.
Beryl Heights is notable for its elevated location and original mix of storybook and ranch style homes.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 63 Lower Avenues
Properties bounded by the alley to the north of Avenue E, PCH, the alley to the south of Avenue F and the alley to the east of South Catalina.
This area of the Avenues west of Pacific Coast Highway retains many of the original Spanish Revival homes built in the 1920s. The neighborhood is known for its wide streets with generous parkways and palm trees that frame views to the ocean.
It has a consistent network of alleys designed for garage access. The typical lot in this area is just under 6,000 square feet. In this area, the following additional guidelines apply to any new construction or additions:
Lower Avenues is notable for being one of the city’s earliest seaside neighborhoods comprised of Spanish style homes, with later additions of styles. Neighborhood streets frame ocean views with signature palm trees in grassy parkways.
Lower Avenues Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Roofs should be sloped and have shallow eaves or if flat, have a parapet with tile cap. Roof material should be tile for Spanishstyle homes. Renovations and additions should match existing roof slope and material.
2. Architectural Style – Additions to any Spanish-style structure should be compatible with the original Spanish style. Additions to existing structures that are not Spanish-style should maintain their existing style for consistency. New primary and accessory structures should be designed as Spanish-style. The accessory structures shall be consistent with the predominant style of the primary building.
3. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or smooth stucco with horizontal siding, or smooth stucco with board and batten. On façades facing a street where smooth stucco is used, it must be combined with horizontal siding or vertical board and batten, or with brick veneer so there is not more than 1/2 of that façade in smooth stucco. Spanish style structures should be all smooth stucco. Remodeled additions should match existing siding materials.
4. Windows – Should be multi-paned with sills and/or headers, casement, single/double hung, and window to be recessed at least 3 inches.
5. Architectural Features – Spanish-style homes should include suggested features on façades facing a street: decorative wall-mounted metal lanterns, decorative circular tile vents at ridge line, covered or colonnaded porch, low-walled entry patio, decorative metal over windows.
6. Second Floor –Setback from first floor façade by a minimum of 10’ (as required).
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 64 TRW Tract
Properties bounded by Manhattan Beach Boulevard,
Inglewood Avenue, Robinson Street and Vail Avenue locally referred to as the “TRW Tract.”
This area epitomizes the minimum starter home designed to house growing families whose household breadwinners may have worked at nearby aerospace industries like TRW Inc. ‘Space Park’ (later Northrup Grumman). This area has retained much of its original character, with additions that have reflected the original style and scale. This is especially evident in second story additions with significant stepbacks from the front façade. Although this area is sufficiently intact to be identified as a character area, newer boxy homes, sometimes incompatible in style, have begun to erode the tract’s consistency. These Guidelines focus on new structures and additions for compatibility with the TRW Tract’s mid-century design aesthetic as viewed from the street and sidewalks.
The TRW Tract Character Area is notable for its enclosed V-grid of streets with modest scaled homes. Second floor additions when adequately setback from the street have helped preserve the neighborhood’s character. Traditional and Modern Ranch style homes are encouraged.
TRW Tract Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Roofs should be sloped with continuous eaves. Eaves can be trimmed with narrow boards or have exposed rafters. Roof material should be asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle, or wood shingle, or slate, or synthetic slate, or solar shingle. Tile roofing is discouraged.
2. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or stucco, or stucco or brick combined with horizontal siding or vertical board and batten. Remodeled additions should match existing siding materials.
3. Windows – Should be multi-paned.
4. Architectural Features – Should include one of the following features on façades facing a street such as decorative window shutters.
5. Second Floor – A minimum setback of 15’ from first floor façade or starting at original home’s roof ridgeline that is parallel to the street is more compatible with the style in this character area.
6. Compatible Styles – Should be Traditional, Modern Ranch, or Storybook.
7. Incompatible Styles – Mediterranean, Spanish, Contemporary/Modern styles are discouraged since neither style is compatible with this character area.
8. Renovations or Remodels – Style should be consistent with the existing home.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 65 Firmona South Area
Bounded by 182nd Street, Firmona Avenue (both sides of
street), Fisk Lane, Armor Lane, and Inglewood Avenue,
including cul-de-sacs off of those streets.
The Firmona South Character Area is comprised of post-WWII tract homes.
Second floor additions when adequately setback from the street have helped preserve the neighborhood’s character. Traditional and Modern Ranch style homes are encouraged. In this area, the following additional guidelines apply to any new construction or additions:
The Firmona South Character Area is comprised of post-WWII tract homes. Traditional and Modern Ranch style homes are encouraged.
Firmona South Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Roofs should be sloped with continuous eaves. Roof material should be asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle, or wood shingle, or slate, or synthetic slate, or solar shingle. Tile roofing is discouraged.
2. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or stucco, or stucco or brick combined with horizontal siding or vertical board and batten. Remodeled additions should match existing siding materials.
3. Windows – Should be multi-paned.
4. Architectural Features – Should include one of the following features on façades facing a street: decorative shutters at windows, covered front porch with turned columns, front window planter box or decorative plant shelf.
5. Second Floor – A minimum setback of 15’ from first floor façade or starting at original home’s roof ridgeline that is parallel to the street is more compatible with the style in this character area.
6. Driveways and Garages – Three-car garages are not allowed. Curb cuts may not be wider than minimum standard nor made continuous with adjoining property’s curb cut.
7. Compatible Styles – Should be Traditional, Modern Ranch, or Storybook.
8. Incompatible Styles – Mediterranean and Spanish styles are discouraged since neither style is compatible with this character area.
9. Renovations or Remodels – Style should be consistent with the existing home.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VI: R1 Character Area Design Guidelines | 66 Faye & Susana Area
Includes the area east of S. Prospect Avenue, south of Opal Street, north of Barbara Street and along east city boundary for homes with frontages on Faye Lane, Susana Avenue or Ysabel Avenue.
The Faye & Susana Character Area is comprised of 1960-70's tract homes. Homes are predominately two stories with a generous setback from the street. While some homes have been remodeled and updated, the consistency of scale and setbacks have helped preserve the neighborhood’s character. Traditional and Modern Ranch style homes are encouraged. In this area, the following additional guidelines apply to any new construction or additions:
The Faye & Susana Character Area is comprised of 1960-70's tract homes. Traditional and Modern Ranch style homes are encouraged.
Faye & Susana Area Design Guidelines
1. Roof Design – Roofs should be sloped with continuous eaves. Roof material should be asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle, or wood shingle, or slate, or synthetic slate, or solar shingle. Barrel tile roofing is discouraged.
2. Siding Materials – Siding should be horizontal siding, or vertical board and batten, or stucco, or stucco or brick combined with horizontal siding or vertical board and batten. Remodeled additions should match existing siding materials.
3. Windows – Should be appropriate to the original or existing house style.
4. Architectural Features – Should include one of the following features on façades facing a street: decorative shutters at windows, covered entry, dormer windows at second floor, decorative attic vent over garage door, low slung roof/eave extension towards garage façade, extended ridge and eave rafters facing street, clear-story diffuse glazing over garage door.
5. Second Floor – A minimum setback of 15’ from first floor façade or starting at original home’s roof ridgeline that is parallel to the street is more compatible with the style in this character area.
6. Driveways and Garages – Three-car garages are not allowed. Curb cuts may not be wider than minimum standard nor made continuous with adjoining property’s curb cut.
7. Compatible Styles – Should be Traditional, Modern Ranch, or Storybook.
8. Incompatible Styles – Mediterranean, Spanish, amd Contemporary/ Modern styles are discouraged since neither style is compatible with this character area.
9. Renovations or Remodels – Style should be consistent with the existing home.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT SECTION VII: Approval Process | 67
SECTION VII
Approval Process - To Be Included in
Final Draft
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT Appendix | 68
APPENDIX
A. Community Involvement
During the development of these Standards, the
City provided updated information on the planning
process by means of a Residential Design Guidelines
Update page on the Community Development
Department’s website. Interested community
members were able to register and receive email
updates as the project progressed.
Outreach Events
The Redondo Beach community was introduced to
the ‘Objective Residential Design Standards’ process
during December 2021 and January 2022. This initial
phase of outreach was designed to raise public
awareness as to why new Standards are necessary,
introduce design topics that the Standards would
address, and collect input on topics of concern to
community members. Due to health concerns posed
by the on-going COVID-19 pandemic beginning in
early 2020 and continuing throughout the project
planning period, all meetings were held remotely via
Zoom. Outreach events included:
• Designer/Architects focus group (December
13, 2021)
• Planning Commission discussion (December
16, 2021)
• Community Workshop (January 10, 2022)
The Community Workshop, which was attended by
residents of neighborhoods across the City, property
owners and others involved in local development,
included a presentation followed by a question
and answer session. The session was recorded and
posted on the project web page. The following is a
summary table of comments heard at each of the
outreach events.
Outreach Event Number of
Attendees
Key Topics
Designer/Architects
Locally experienced focus group
shared insights from using the 2003
Guidelines and what they hope to
see in the new Standards relative to
their own, or their clients’ desires. A
broad range of topics was discussed,
often in more technical detail.
14 Open space & porches, building height, garage
orientation, neighborhood compatibility, bonuses,
massing, architecture, roof types, basements,
roof decks, massing, cantilevers, permit process,
setbacks, historic homes, maximizing home size,
property values and mezzanines.
Planning Commission
After being presented an overview
of the process, Commissioners
raised questions and topics they
hope to see addressed in the new
Standards. Public comments were
also heard.
27 Commissioners: Community survey, bulk and height,
applicable zones/areas, compatibility, community
character, cohesiveness, neighborhood identity,
curb cuts/driveways, FAR, landscape & permeable
surfaces, bulk of cantilevers, garages, sustainability, front porches, basements, community, relation to
zoning ordinance, team approach and schedule,
addressing comments and future adjustments,
multi-family, best practices, R1A, visual preferences,
flat & green roofs, continuity, boxy buildings, quality vs size, appropriate styles, remodel vs new, roof
decks.
Public Comments: Property values, community
survey, open space, height, mezzanines, multifamily, driveways, garages, bonuses, maximizing size, outreach.
Community Workshop
Attendees shared their unique
perspective and raised questions
about the process and what new
Standards should address. New
design topics were suggested
and questions were raised and
addressed by Staff.
51 Architectural character/identity, style, single vs
multi-family standards, garages, FAR, applicability,
community survey, height, basements, ADUs,
landscape, flat roofs, schedule.
Note: A summary of the 2nd round of outreach will be added to final version.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT Appendix | 69 Community
Survey
32%
Density
& Height
27%
other
n/A TO
STANDARDS
6%
setbacks
& privacy
5%
ADU’s
16%
design &
neighborhood
character
14%
parking
Where do Survey
Participants live?
13%
TRW Tract
12%
GOLDEN HILLS 11%
NORTH
REDONDO
11%
UPPER AVENUES
EAST OF PCH
11%
REDONDO
VILLA TRACT
7%
BERYL
HEIGHTS 6%
LOWER AVENUES
WEST OF PCH
5%
EL NIDO
4%
GEM
STREETS
3%
PALOS VERDES BLVD/
PROSPECT NEIGHBORHOOD
3%
SISTER
STREETS
3%
SOUTH
REDONDO
3%
ESPLANADE, GERTRUDA AVE
HISTORIC DISTRICT,
NORTH REDONDO
(SOUTH OF ARTESIA)
6%
FRANKLIN PARK/EL NIDO,
COSTAL/PIER,
CITY CENTER
Note: The community survey was taken by residents from many of the city’s neighborhoods (top). Written comments focused on six topics with “density & height” appearing most (bottom).
Residential Design Survey
In January 2022, the City conducted an online survey to help staff and consultants better understand the community’s preferences in regard
to specific residential siting and design elements that influence how a building is perceived by surrounding
residents in terms of bulk, height, and other
compatibility factors. The survey was completed
by 993 people between January 11 – 31, 2022,
including 82% that own property in Redondo Beach,
55% that reside in the city and 40% that personally
experienced the permit process. The results were
posted on a City web page in January 2022.
The project’s purpose to promote neighborhood
compatibility was considered to be very or
somewhat important to 79% of the survey
participants. Yet, the results revealed some
significant differences in perception in regard to the
impact of recent development. While 40% expressed
concern that newer development was negatively
impacting Redondo Beach, 30% thought the new
residential development was improving the city and
29% believed it did not result in much change. Split
opinions were also evident in regard to the approach
to the new standards and guidelines, with slightly
more favoring less discretion, but many wanting to
see more City intervention through discretionary
processes.
In response to a list of typical concerns provided, the top items that respondents identified as promoting
well-designed residential buildings that positively
affect neighborhood character were (in order of
importance):
1 Maximum height and stories
2 Parking
3 Setbacks from property line
4 Massing
5 Lot design
6 Accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
7 Outdoor living spaces
8 Driveways and curb cuts
9 Landscaping (front yards)
10 Fencing height or privacy screening
The survey also revealed a lack of consensus on how
to address some design elements that have caused
concern under the current Code and guidelines.
For instance, half of the respondents were satisfied
with current requirements for mezzanines, which
are based on the Building Code, while half wanted a
change to reduce their perceived massing.
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH Objective Residential Standards and Design Guidelines DRAFT Appendix | 70 B. Definitions - To Be Included in
Final Draft
CITY OF REDONDO BEACH