San Ramon City Council
December 12, 2023

Figure 8-2 illustrates a composite of these open space uses as defined in state law. Open space lands within the City include a variety of site-specific characteristics and are programmed for a range of land use activities from rural residential, passive recreational activities, agricultural production to private and public open space such as conservation areas and Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs). Many of these open space properties are designated for conservation purposes, with little or no land use activities allowed, others have been used for purposes such as rural residential, cattle grazing or recreation.

The combination of open space lands associated with the different lands use designations all help shape and limit the landform and meet open space objectives, such as creating and preserving greenbelts and open space corridors that implement community design goals and objectives. Regardless of the sitespecific activities and characteristics, these opens space resources, especially on the urban perimeter, serve to supplement the established Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) concepts by creating buffers and transition areas between urban and rural areas.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 437 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 6
Figure 8-2: Summary of Open Space Resource

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Packet Pg. 438 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 7

8.3 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Conservation and protection of natural open space and scenic resources has always been and continues to be a vital goal to the quality of life and community character provided in San Ramon. Open space areas shown on Figure 8-2 are a composite of the open space uses as defined in state law within the Planning Area. These land uses include, but are not limited to, rural residential, resource conservation areas and Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts.

RESOURCE CONSERVATION OVERLAY DISTRICT
In 1988, the City adopted the Resource Conservation Overlay District (RCOD). The RCOD was one of the City’s first set of comprehensive open space regulations implemented through the Zoning Ordinance. In 1990, the San Ramon electorate circulated and qualified an initiative petition, which the City Council adopted as Ordinance 197, that required land within the City limits, or land annexed to the City, above the 500-foot elevation limit to be subject to the Resource Conservation Overlay District (RCOD). The principles of Ordinance 197 were, during subsequent years, strengthened, implemented, and integrated into the Zoning Ordinance. As a result of the expiration of Ordinance 197 on December 31, 2010, the Zoning Code continues the City’s history of open space conservation and protection by restricting development adjacent to ridgelines, on steep slopes, and along creek corridors (See Zoning Code Restrictions for Hillside, Creek, and Ridgeline Areas below).

Figure 8-3 shows lands subject to the hillside, creek, and ridgeline regulations of the Resource Management Division of the Zoning Ordinance and identifies the approximate locations of ridgelines and creeks.

Figure 8-3: Resource Management

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Packet Pg. 439 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 8

ZONING CODE RESTRICTIONS FOR HILLSIDE, CREEK, AND RIDGELINE AREAS The Hillside, Creek and Ridgeline chapter of the Municipal Code applies to the Resource Management Area and Creeks as identified in the General Plan. The intention of the Hillside, Creek, and Ridgeline chapter of the Municipal Code is to:
 Preserve significant features of hillsides, creeks, and ridgeline areas in essentially their natural state;  Preserve existing vegetation, soils, geology, slopes, and drainage patterns;  Preserve the natural topography, including swales, canyons, knolls, ridgelines, and rock outcrops, wherever feasible;
 Minimize grading and cut and fill practices to retain the natural terrain and character of the hillsides and ridgelines;
 Avoid development that would result in unacceptable fire, flood, slide, or other safety hazards;  Avoid unwarranted, high maintenance costs for public facilities;  Provide a mechanism for flexible design of development projects so that development may be clustered to allow environmentally sensitive areas to be preserved as open space;  Encourage design of street systems and driveways that blend with the natural contours and minimize extensive grading; and
 Provide adequate buffer areas between creek corridors and adjacent development, to retain the creek corridors as valuable natural, scenic, and recreational amenities as appropriate.

GEOLOGIC HAZARD ABATEMENT DISTRICTS
The use of Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs) is another tool to secure and protect open space lands. GHADs are independent governmental bodies that provide for activity that is necessary or incidental to the prevention, mitigation, abatement or control of a geologic hazard. These activities may include, but are not limited to, acquisition of property, and construction, repair and maintenance of improvements. The first GHAD that was created in San Ramon was the Canyon Lakes GHAD, which was formed in 1985. Geologic Hazard Abatement District 1990-01 was formed in 1990 to cover the Westbranch area of San Ramon and was subsequently expanded with the annexations of Dougherty Valley, Old Ranch Summit and the Windemere, BLC Property, which includes the Windemere Parkway extension. The Wiedemann Ranch GHAD was formed in 1998 to provide services to the Wiedemann Ranch development in Contra Costa County and it subsequently annexed Subdivision 8118 (Henry Ranch) within the City of San Ramon in 2000. The City Council of San Ramon also serves as the Board of Directors for GHAD 1990-01, and the County Board of Supervisors serves as the Board of Directors for the Canyon Lakes and Wiedemann Ranch GHADs. GHAD 1990-01 is currently the largest GHAD in California and owns substantial amounts of open space, most of which is also overlain by a conservation easement. The Northwest San Ramon GHAD was formed in 2017 to provide services to the Preserve Residential Development area of the Northwest Specific Plan.

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Packet Pg. 440 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 9
GUIDING POLICY – RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

8.3-G-1 Acquire, preserve, and maintain open space and its natural resources for future generations.

8.3-G-2
Strengthen the City’s partnership with East Bay Regional Parks District, Contra Costa County, other jurisdictions and private organizations to expand the ridgeline and hillside open space system in the city.

Open space lands contribute to the quality of life in San Ramon and help establish its character. Ridgeline and hillside trails, including the East Bay Regional Parks District Calaveras Ridge Trail, as well as other ridgeline trails proposed by this General Plan, can provide access to these open space lands.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

8.3-I-1 Preserve, protect, and maintain significant native oak woodlands.

8.3-I-2
Enhance San Ramon’s creeks and riparian corridors by
requiring preservation or replacement of riparian
vegetation, as appropriate and in conformity with
regulatory requirements.

Creeks and riparian corridors provide visual amenity, drainage, and wetland and wildlife habitat, consistent with State Department of Fish & Wildlife standards.

8.3-I-3
Explore opportunities to preserve significant creek, riparian areas, sensitive natural communities, and prominent
topographic features as open space.

8.3-I-4
Require maintenance plans for open space areas in new
development proposals, including identified natural
resources such as ridges and waterways.

As a guide, use standards such as the East Bay Regional Park District’s, Wildland Management Policies and Guidelines, for the management and maintenance of open space.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 441 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 10

8.3-I-5
Through the development review process, encourage
wildlife corridors to provide connectivity between
established open space areas, where deemed appropriate.

Successful wildlife corridors, depending on the animal, provide short and direct routes and do not have a physical or psychological barrier. Examples of features commonly used as wildlife corridors include creeks and waterways, natural depressions, and ridgelines.

8.3-I-6
New development shall provide open space through the
dedication of land (as appropriate), through the use of an irrevocable instrument, or payment of impact fees.

Irrevocable instruments may include easements, recorded maps, or deeds of trust.

8.3-I-7
Confer with appropriate agencies and organizations to
ensure that all development, including Dougherty Valley, the Westside subareas, and any other future development provides adequate mitigation for any impacts to special status species, wetlands, and significant natural biotic communities.

The environmental reviews for both the Westside and Dougherty Valley Specific Plans identified potential impacts to wildlife, wetlands, and their habitats. Mitigation monitoring and reporting will ensure these resources are protected.

8.3-I-8 Encourage public access to creek corridors.

Public access would be subject to standards and permitting requirements of regulatory agencies and private property right.

8.3-I-9 Consider alternatives to culverting or channelization of waterways during all stages of the review process.

Maintaining the natural stream channel is most preferable from a biological and hydrological perspective.

However, this policy acknowledges that the use of culverts or channels may be the safest and most cost effective approach in terms of providing adequate drainage and that existing “natural” channels may be substantially degraded.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 442 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 11

8.3-I-10
Promote maintenance and protection of waterways
through the use of Geologic Hazard Abatement District(s), conservation easements, endowments, special
assessments, or other appropriate mechanisms.

While these districts have mainly been used in the Dougherty Valley, they may be effective elsewhere in the Planning Area. Future GHADs, or annexation into existing GHADs, conservation easements, endowments, special assessments and other similar methods to be considered for future developments with open space.

8.3-I-11
Continue participation in the Contra Costa Clean Water
Program to control stormwater pollution and protect the quality of the City’s waterways.

8.3-I-12 Monitor the condition of waterways within the city limits and take proactive measures to prevent degradation.

Monitoring includes maintaining an up-to-date inventory of creeks and creating a creek maintenance program. Proactive measures may include promoting periodic waterway clean-up efforts, installing fencing or other protective barriers to prevent unauthorized access in sensitive locations, or planting vegetation along waterways to provide shade and prevent erosion.

8.3-I-13 Implement existing viewshed criteria to manage views of the natural hillsides surrounding San Ramon.

The hills surrounding the City of San Ramon provide a natural hillside backdrop. Viewshed criteria would establish the process to evaluate new development and potential significant public views of the surrounding natural hillsides.

8.3-I-14 Maintain regulations for the protection and preservation of hillsides, creeks, and ridgelines as shown in Figure 8-3.

Zoning Ordinance Division D5, Chapter 1 regulates development for the protection and preservation of hillside, creek, and ridgeline areas.

8.3-I-15
Implement the slope methodology standards in the Zoning Ordinance to implement the resource management
policies.

Slope methodology standards achieve consistent application of the resource management policies through the Zoning Ordinance.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 443 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 12

8.3-I-16 Preserve ridgelines as open space, except for ridgelines that may be altered, as shown in Figure 8-3.

The hillside, creek, and ridgeline regulations of the Resource Management Division in the Zoning Ordinance shall provide additional standards for natural terrain alteration.

8.3-I-17
Preserve hillsides steeper than 20 percent slope as open space, except for slopes and ridgelines that may be altered, as shown in Figure 8-3.

The surrounding natural open space continues to be a vital goal to enhance the community character and quality of life in San Ramon.

8.4 MEASURE G (1999) OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN The following policies respond to Measure G’s mandate for “a plan for the acquisition of ridgeline lands, contiguous to the City of San Ramon, to be preserved for open space purposes in perpetuity.” They also are consistent with the Government Code’s requirement for an Open Space Action Plan that is to include “specific programs which the legislative body intends to pursue in implementing its open space plan” (Section 65564).

GUIDING POLICY – MEASURE G (1999) OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN

8.4-G-1
Support regional efforts to expand the ridgeline and hillside open space system through joint efforts with East Bay
Regional Parks District, Contra Costa County and nonprofit trustee agencies.

This guiding policy expresses the goal of Measure G (1999) and recognizes that achieving this goal is a cooperative effort.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – MEASURE G (1999) OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN

8.4-I-1
Confer with appropriate agencies and organizations in the creation of an institutional framework and financing
mechanisms necessary to acquire additional ridgeline areas and agricultural lands, and to preserve, restore, and
manage important open space.

Open space lands may be publicly or privately owned.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 444 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 13

8.4-I-2
Encourage developers to explore Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) in conjunction with project review to cluster residential development and preserve open space,
ridgelines, and creek corridors.

A TDR program can create an incentive for preservation of large areas of open space by allowing the transfer of the development that otherwise would be permitted from a “sending area” to a “receiving area” where the additional development can be accommodated. A TDR program does not require public outlay for the purchase of development rights, but purchase of development rights under a TDR program could be an option for an open space lands trust. Implementing regulations will need to ensure that once the development rights are transferred, the sending areas are preserved as permanent open space.

8.4-I-3
Utilize GHADs and/or other secure funding mechanisms for open space to assist in the acquisition and on-going
management, operation, and maintenance of a ridgeline
and hillside open space system.

8.4-I-4
Continue to support the efforts of the Open Space Advisory Committee to recommend measures to protect and
preserve Open Space in and contiguous to San Ramon.

The Advisory Committee will advise the City Council on setting priorities for open space acquisition and preservation.

8.4-I-5
Revise and update the Municipal Code as necessary to
require best practices that reduce soil erosion and minimize or eliminate the effects of grading on loss of topsoil.

8.4-I-6 Use open space in new development to create buffers that delineate the edge of urban areas.

Other implementing actions will create additional open space in the Planning Area, which will create a backdrop for the City and trail linkages between parks and regional open space.

8.4-I-7 Encourage the restoration of open space areas as part of new development projects, as appropriate.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 445 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 14

8.4-I-8
Explore funding opportunities to restore habitat on publicly owned open space and to provide assistance, where
appropriate, to owners of privately owned land dedicated as permanent open space, to facilitate private restoration efforts.

Assistance may include inter-agency coordination, identification of funding opportunities, the provision of information, or other efforts to aid private property owners in habitat restoration.

8.4-I-9
Prioritize the preservation of open space on lands that are for sale, proposed for development, or can be acquired, that have high biological and ecological value, contiguous to existing open space properties or public lands, and provide recreational opportunities such as trail connections.

8.4-I-10
Continue planning and managing ridgelines, agricultural lands, and open space acquired by the City or other Open Space areas through the Geologic Hazard Abatement
District(s) and the Dougherty Valley Open Space
Management Plan.

8.4-I-11
Provide incentives for clustering of allowable residential use on infill open space sites to avoid unnecessary grading and site development inconsistent with General Plan policies for open space and resource conservation.

An incentive program might be based on the percent of the site to be retained as permanent open space, as described in Table 8-1. Clustering of all buildings should be required, including buildings for park and recreation facilities, as well as buildings allowable for commercial recreation and entertainment uses.

Table 8-1: Open Space/Density Provisions for Infill Open Space Sites Percent of Site Permanently Preserved as
Open Space (gross) Maximum Density
Up to 69.9 percent 1 unit per 20 net acres
70 percent or more 1 unit per 10 net acres; clustering required.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 446 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 15

8.4-I-12
Confer, through the development review process, with
appropriate agencies and organizations to create a
connecting region-wide open space system using
instruments such as land dedication or public access
easements.

8.4-I-13
Allow appropriate and beneficial improvements on open
space lands, subject to standards for environmental
protection; city hillside, ridgeline, and creek regulations; avoidance of hazards; and building siting and design that will preserve the open space character of the site.

Improvements may include work related to the Geologic
Hazard Abatement District, trails, or replanting of native plants.

8.4-I-14
Promote the preservation and planting of local native trees and shrubs where development occurs on land surrounding reservoirs and streams, especially adjacent to areas where banks or channels have been modified for flood protection.

8.5 AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

AGRICULTURAL LAND MAPPING
The California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (Farmland Program) classifies agricultural lands into five categories: Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, Farmland of Local Importance, and Grazing Land. Prime, Statewide Important, and Unique Farmland are classified as “Important Farmland” by the Farmland Program. Land use and development activities that propose to convert Important Farmland to non-agricultural use are typically required to evaluate the impacts of such a conversion using the California Department of Conservation’s Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) Model. Farmland of Local Importance and Grazing Land do not fall within the Important Farmland umbrella and the proposed conversion of these lands to non-agricultural use does not require LESA Model evaluation.

The only land classified as Important Farmland within the City limits is the Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, classified as Unique Farmland and provides sale and service of plants for landscaping. There are areas of Important Farmland in the General Plan Planning Area, however, and if these areas are considered for annexation by the City of San Ramon in the future, impacts to their agricultural resources will be evaluated as part of the process. See Figure 8-4.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 447 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 16
Figure 8-4: Agricultural Resources

WILLIAMSON ACT
The California Land Conservation Act, also known as the Williamson Act, is a voluntary program that allows agricultural property owners to have their property assessed on the basis of its agricultural production rather than at the current market value. The property owner is thus relieved of having to pay higher property taxes, as long as the land remains in agricultural production. The intent of the Williamson Act is to encourage property owners to continue to farm their land, and to prevent the premature conversion of farmland to urban uses. Participation requires that the area consist of 100 contiguous acres of agricultural land under one or more ownerships.

Upon approval of an application by the County Board of Supervisors in which the property is located in, the agricultural preserve is established, and the land within the preserve is restricted to agricultural and compatible uses for at least 10 years. Williamson Act contracts are automatically renewed annually for an additional one-year period, unless the property owner applies for non-renewal or early cancellation. The Williamson Act contains limited provisions for cancellation of contracts, and a substantial penalty for early cancellation is assessed. Generally, the specific findings to justify cancellation are extremely difficult to make and contracts are rarely cancelled.

Several properties within the Tassajara Valley portion of the Planning Area, outside of the City limits, have active Williamson Act contracts.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 448 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 17
GUIDING POLICY – AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

8.5-G-1
Encourage the continuation of appropriate agricultural
activities within the City’s Planning Area, while being cognizant that such uses may transition to non-agricultural uses in the future.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES

8.5-I-1
If Important Farmland is proposed to be converted to nonagricultural use, require evaluation to determine significance of conversion impacts. If the conversion is found to be significant, require mitigation to offset such impacts.

An evaluation shall determine the significance of Important Farmland conversion impacts. If such impacts are determined to be significant, mitigation in the form of onsite or offsite preservation of farmland within Contra Costa County at no less than a 1:1 ratio should be pursued. Alternative forms of mitigation may be considered if the preferred mitigation approach is not feasible.

8.5-I-2
Process development applications involving land
encumbered by Williamson Act contracts only if three years or less remain prior to expiration or cancellation of the contract.

It is the preference of the City to have Williamson Act contract issues resolved prior to review of any development applications.

8.5-I-3 Minimize land use conflicts between agricultural and urban uses through site planning techniques.

New development near grazing lands or cultivated agricultural uses should incorporate design features to minimize or avoid potential complaints associated with noise, odors, or early morning operations.

Examples of design features include buffers and screening measures.

8.5-I-4
Explore opportunities with East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), other government agencies, or private
organizations to set aside and manage undeveloped lands as open space that are contiguous and sufficient in size to allow continued agricultural uses.

Grazing activities on open space lands can offset the fire prevention and maintenance costs measures.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 449 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 18

8.5-I-5
Designate land for rural conservation along the west side of Bollinger Canyon Road near the Las Trampas Regional
Wilderness in order to preserve visual open space, to
provide opportunities for horse-keeping and part-time
ranching, and to maintain compatibility with adjoining
agricultural uses.

8.6 WATER CONSERVATION AND QUALITY
East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) provide potable water service to San Ramon. EBMUD generally serves the northern, western, and central portions of San Ramon, while DSRSD serves the Dougherty Valley.

WATER CONSERVATION
EBMUD has a comprehensive Water Conservation Program in place that includes both supply- and demand-side measures, including audits, incentives, optimal management practices, wastewater and landscape regulations, education programs, support activities, metering, and leak detection and pipe replacement. EBMUD also recommends that local cities require water conservation measures as a standard feature in the design and construction of proposed development projects.

In 2006, state legislation (AB 1881, Laird, 2006) required the Department of Water Resources to adopt an updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). In 2009, the State Department of Water Resources adopted an updated model ordinance that became effective January 1, 2010. As a result, the City of San Ramon requires new development to meet the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance to conserve landscape water use.

In 2018, AB 1668 (Friedman) and SB 606 (Hertzberg), laid out a new long-term water conservation framework for California. The new framework is far-reaching for both the urban and agricultural sectors of California and represented a major shift in focus. The 2018 legislation applies to the actions of DWR, the State Water Resources Control Board and water suppliers. It does not set any standards or rules for individual use.

Programs and initiatives are organized around four primary goals:
 Use water more wisely,
 Eliminate water waste,
 Strengthen local drought resilience, and
 Improve agricultural water use efficiency and drought planning Water reclamation can also significantly reduce water demand and storage requirements. Reclaimed water is used most effectively for irrigating areas such as parks, greenbelts, golf courses, roadway medians, and front yards. DSRSD has provided an increasing amount of recycled water throughout their service area within San Ramon. Additionally, groundwater has the potential to reduce demand on municipal supplies, although the characteristics of the aquifer and its water table in the San Ramon Planning Area are variable.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 450 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 19

WATER QUALITY
The primary goal of the City of San Ramon Stormwater Program is to reduce pollution of storm water as it enters the local creeks and the San Francisco Bay. The City of San Ramon is a member of the Contra Costa Clean Water Program, which has been instrumental in developing Low Impact Development (LID) techniques for the reduction and treatment of storm water runoff from development projects. The San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board adopts regulations to satisfy National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements to manage storm water runoff.

The City also monitors construction sites to ensure adequate Best Management Practices (BMPs) are implemented to reduce water pollution during construction in compliance with the State General Construction Permit issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

GUIDING POLICY – WATER CONSERVATION AND QUALITY

8.6-G-1
Promote the implementation of water quality and
conservation programs and measures by San Ramon
employers, residents, and public agencies.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – WATER CONSERVATION AND QUALITY

8.6-I-1
Require new development projects to implement indoor
water conservation and demand management measures
consistent with building code standards and Climate Action Plan policies.

Examples of conservation and demand management measures include low-flow bathroom fixtures, high water efficiency clothes washers and dishwashers.

8.6-I-2 Require new development projects to implement outdoor water conservation and demand management measures.

Examples of conservation and demand management measures include separate metering of domestic and irrigation water, drought-resistant vegetation, drip irrigation or low-precipitation-rate sprinklers, programmable irrigation controllers with automatic rain shutoff sensors, and hydrozones that keep plants with similar water needs in the same irrigation zone. Furthermore, new development projects are encouraged to install drought resistant vegetation instead of turf.

8.6-I-3
New development in areas where recycled water service
exists or is planned shall be plumbed with “purple pipe” and other measures necessary to accommodate non-potable
water service.

Exceptions are allowed for projects based on landscape irrigation standards established by the Zoning Ordinance.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 451 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 20

8.6-I-4 Require new development to meet the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO).

Effective January 1, 2010 all development must meet the State MWELO requirements which establish landscape design requirements for new and rehabilitated landscape areas within the City.

8.6-I-5
Collaborate with DERWA (Dublin San Ramon Services
District and East Bay Municipal Utilities District Recycled Water Authorities) to expand the recycled water
distribution system in an efficient and timely manner.

Installing recycled water infrastructure as part of roadway construction projects is an effective way to expand the distribution system, while also minimizing disruption to residents and businesses.

8.6-I-6
Continue implementation of the City of San Ramon
Stormwater Management Program to reduce storm water
pollution, provide public education, and to protect the water quality of the City’s local creeks and streams.

In order to comply with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems, the City of San Ramon Stormwater Program performs a variety of activities which may include participating in the Contra Costa Clean Water Program, field inspections, educational and outreach activities, storm drain cleaning, street sweeping, the implementation of new development/redevelopment stormwater controls, or other activities.

8.6-I-7
Promote the protection of groundwater resources by
collaborating with agencies that monitor and oversee cleanup efforts at existing sources of pollution.

There are several sites in San Ramon that previously contained leaking underground storage tanks. These sites are currently undergoing monitoring and remediation and are regulated by agencies including the County of Contra Costa and the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. The intent of this policy is to ensure that the City is aware of groundwater pollution sources and proactively engaged with appropriate agencies to facilitate efficient and timely clean-up efforts.

8.6-I-8
Promote the reduction of storm water pollution through
the construction and maintenance of joint treatment
facilities and other partnerships between the City and
private property owners.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 452 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 21

8.7 ARCHAEOLOGICAL, PALEONTOLOGICAL, AND HISTORIC RESOURCES

LOCAL HISTORY
The tribal group that most likely occupied the San Ramon area is the Chochenyo language group, whose territory extended from the southern end of the Carquinez Strait south to Mission San Jose (present-day Fremont), east to present-day Livermore and west to the San Francisco Bay. In the late 1790’s, Spanish soldiers and missionaries displaced the Native American population from their land and established 21 missions across the State. The estimated Ohlone population in 1770—when the first mission was established in Ohlone territory—was approximately 10,000. By 1832, the population had declined to fewer than 2,000, mainly due to diseases introduced by the European explorers and settlers. The Gold Rush brought further disease to the native inhabitants, and by the 1850s, nearly all the Ohlone had adapted in some way or another to economies based on cash income. Hunting and gathering activities continued to decline and were rapidly replaced with economies based on ranching and farming.

Following Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1822, the vast mission lands were granted to private citizens as ranchos. The San Ramon Valley contained three large ranchos: San Ramon (Amador), 16,517 acres; San Ramon (Carpentier), 8,917 acres; and San Ramon (Norris), 4,451 acres.

The population of the Contra Costa County increased rapidly during the Gold Rush and, in the post-Civil War Era. The great rancheros of the Spanish period were divided and sold for agricultural uses, with intensively irrigated farming made possible in some areas of Contra Costa County by the development of canals that brought water from the eastern portions of the County to the central portions. Walnuts were an especially attractive orchard crop in central portions of the County, with farmers using thin-shelled English walnut branches grafted to hardy and disease-resistant American walnut rootstock.

The first settlers to the San Ramon area were Leo and Mary Norris, who purchased 4,450 acres of land in 1850, and who are the namesakes of Norris Canyon. Other early settlers included names that are recognizable from local street names and landmarks, including Crow, Bollinger, and Glass. The first village developed near the intersection of Deerwood Road and San Ramon Valley Boulevard. San Ramon was known by a series of names in the nineteenth century: Brevensville, for a local blacksmith; Lynchville, for the early settler William Lynch; and Limerick, for the numerous Irish immigrants.

The Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in the San Ramon Valley in the 1890s. Dubbed the San Ramon Branch Line, the railroad line originally extended from a junction with the Oakland-Stockton main line near Martinez south to San Ramon, a distance of approximately 20 miles. Service commenced in June 1891. In 1909, the southern terminus of the San Ramon Branch Line was extended south to a junction with the Lathrop-Niles Junction main line near Pleasanton. San Ramon was served with a station, known as San Ramon Siding, near the present-day Iron Horse Trail crossing at Crow Canyon Road. By the mid-1970s, traffic on the line had dwindled to 125 carloads annually and the Southern Pacific petitioned the Interstate Commerce Commission to abandon the branch line. The line was formally abandoned in 1978 and the counties of Alameda and Contra Costa acquired ownership of the right-of-way within their respective jurisdictions. The present-day Iron Horse Trail follows the alignment of the San Ramon Branch Line from Pleasanton to Concord.

The San Ramon Valley remained primarily an agricultural area up through the early 1960s. Following the completion of Interstate 680 (I-680) through the San Ramon Valley in the mid-1960s, the San Ramon area experienced rapid growth. The first residential subdivisions were developed in South San Ramon (a.k.a.

San Ramon Village) and Twin Creeks. In the early 1980s, Sunset Development began developing the Bishop Ranch Business Park. The most notable facilities in the Bishop Ranch Business Park are Chevron Park and the BR2600 site (formerly known as the AT&T or Pacific Bell campus), both of which opened in the mid1980s. Sunset Development continued to develop and evolve the Bishop Ranch Business Park into a mixed use development pattern with the completion of the retail portion of the City Center project in 2018 and the approval of the CityWalk Master Plan in 2020 for a mix of new residential and non-residential uses.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 453 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 22
With growth came the desire for greater control over land use and development. In March 1983, the City electorate voted to incorporate and the City of San Ramon came into existence on July 1, 1983. Since incorporation, the City has expanded its limits west to include the Westside Drive area and portions of Norris Canyon, north to include the Crow Canyon area, and east to include the Dougherty Hills and Dougherty Valley.

HISTORIC AND PREHISTORIC RESOURCES
The San Ramon Planning Area includes several sites of both historic and prehistoric value.

Forest Home Farms Historical Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (Landmark Plaque No. 2174). The 16-acre historical park is located 19953 San Ramon Valley Boulevard and features the Boone House, Glass House, and interpretative exhibits depicting historic agricultural activities of the San Ramon Valley.

Prehistoric sites consist of Native American habitations and rock art. Native American archeological sites in this portion of Contra Costa County tend to be situated along ridgetops, midslope terraces, alluvial flats, at the base of hills, between saddles, near ecotones, and near sources of water including springs. The Planning Area encompasses all of these environmental features with recorded Native American archeological sites found in each of these areas.

Several state laws, most notably CEQA Guidelines §15064.5(f) and Public Resources Code §5020-5029 and 21083.2, protect archeological and historical resources. To protect historic resources, the State has formed the State Historical Resources Committee that conducts the State Historic Resource Inventory and maintains the California Register of Historic Resources, which identifies historic landmarks and points of interest. The Committee also provides recommendations for the National Register of Historic Resources.

GUIDING POLICY – ARCHAEOLOGICAL, PALEONTOLOGICAL, AND HISTORIC RESOURCES

8.7-G-1
Identify, evaluate, and preserve the archaeological,
paleontological, and historic resources that are found
within the San Ramon Planning Area.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – ARCHAEOLOGICAL, PALEONTOLOGICAL, AND HISTORIC

RESOURCES

8.7-I-1
Protect paleontological resources prior to the beginning of projects involving ground disturbance in geologic units with high paleontological sensitivity and implement identified mitigation prior to and during construction.

8.7-I-2
Prepare Historical Resources Evaluation for projects
involving structures 45 Years or older and implement
identified mitigation prior to and during construction.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 454 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 23

8.7-I-3
Conduct Archaeological Resources Assessment prior to
project approval and implement identified mitigation prior to and during construction and include a policy to stop work in the event of unanticipated cultural resources discoveries during construction.

8.7-I-4 Protect and maintain the integrity of officially listed historic resources.

8.7-I-5 Review any proposals to nominate local resources for eligibility for listing on national or state historic registers.

Discretion should be used in reviewing such nominations to ensure that resources have significant historic value and have been appropriately evaluated.

8.7-I-6
As a standard condition of approval, require all
development projects involving grading and excavation to implement appropriate measures in the event that burial sites or human remains are encountered during earthwork activities.

Appropriate measures may include stopping work within 100 feet of the find, notifying the Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office, and, if the Coroner determines that the remains are determined to be of Native American origin, notification of the Native American Heritage Commission.

8.7-I-7
Perform required consultation with the appropriate tribal organization(s) as part of projects subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). For projects involving a General Plan Amendment, the development of a Specific
Plan (or amendment), or designating open space, provide for tribal consultation opportunities in accordance with state law.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 455 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review General Plan | O ctober 2023 24

8.7-I-8
Require tribal monitor(s) during all activities in areas with cultural resources of interest to local Native American tribes when requested. Cultural resources may include a
sanctified cemetery, place of worship, religious or
ceremonial site, or sacred shrine. Both monitors shall
observe grading, ground-disturbing, and other earthmoving activities.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 456 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 1 9 SAFETY
The Safety Element of the General Plan is to provide information “for the protection of the community from unreasonable risks associated with the effects of seismically induced surface rupture, ground shaking, ground failure, and dam failure; slope instability leading to landslides, subsidence, and other geological hazards; flooding; hazardous material accidents; and wildland and urban fire” (Government Code §65302 [g][1]). One of the City’s highest priorities is the protection of its residents from geologic and soils hazards, hazardous materials, flooding, and fires.

The Safety Element establishes mechanisms to reduce death, injuries, property damage and the economic and social dislocation resulting from hazards such as fires, floods, earthquakes, landslides, hazardous materials, and climate change. Hazards are an unavoidable aspect of life, and the Safety Element cannot eliminate risk completely. Instead, the Element contains policies to minimize the level of risk.

In accordance with Government Code Section 65302(g)(4), this safety element also includes a climate change vulnerability assessment that identifies risks that climate change poses to San Ramon. The most likely impacts of climate change that San Ramon may experience are increases in average maximum temperatures and extreme heat events, more severe storms, extended drought conditions and increasing wildfire risk and associated air quality impacts. The city is also susceptible to the heat island effect, where urbanized areas experience higher temperatures than the edges of the city.

9.1 SAN RAMON EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN
In 2006, the City of San Ramon City Council adopted its Emergency Operations Plan and completed an update in 2017. The Emergency Operations Plan identifies the appropriate actions to take when an event occurs due to a major earthquake, hazardous materials incident, flood, national security emergency, wildfire, landslide, and dam failure.

The City’s Emergency Operations Plan complies with existing state and federal laws. The objectives of the plan are to reduce injury, and loss of life, property, and natural resources through effective management of emergency resources. The Emergency Operations Plan identifies the City’s emergency planning, organizational, and response policies and procedures, while integrating and coordinating these with other governmental levels when required. The Emergency Operations Plan institutes the Incident Command System, the Standardized Emergency Management System, and the National Incident Management System, which provide a common system that is recognized throughout the State of California as a basis for managing large emergency incidents that could involve multiple agencies and jurisdictions.

The City’s response to disasters is based on four phases including: mitigation, preparedness (increased readiness), response (initial and extended response operations), and recovery operations. All individual departmental plans support the Emergency Operations Plan and inform staff of the procedures for recalling departmental personnel, disaster assignments, and departmental resource lists. Response to emergencies follows the Incident Command System, ensuring unified command by all emergency response teams. Depending on the type of incident, the most appropriate agency will become the lead agency and will be supported by the other emergency response teams.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 457 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 2

9.2 Emergency Preparedness
The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District (SRVFPD) provides fire protection services to the incorporated and unincorporated portions of their 160-square-mile service area. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District operates ten fire stations, a 911 dispatch center, an administrative office building, a tactical training site, and various ancillary facilities, including an essential services warehouse, an Emergency Operations Center, a communications annex building, and several radio towers. Fire protection within the City of San Ramon is provided by Fire Stations 30, 34, 38, and 39. Immediate response support is provided by San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District’s six additional stations, and neighboring fire departments in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. In 2020, SRVFPD entered into an Agreement with the City of San Ramon for a Joint Use Public Safety Complex that will house the District’s Administration, 9-1-1 Emergency Dispatch/Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and City Police Department at 2401 Crow Canyon Rd. The Joint Use Facility/EOC is currently under construction. Once the facility is operational, the current District Administration building site at 1500 Bollinger Canyon Rd. will become a Fire District Training Center Facility.

Emergency preparedness efforts in San Ramon include:
 Alert Systems: The City employs alert systems Nixle Alerts (text messages), Radio Alerts (Station 1610 AM), and San Ramon Alerts, which functions as a city-wide emergency alert system to keep residents informed about emergencies. Contra Costa Counties Emergency Operations Center operates a countywide alert warning system. Residents must be subscribed to receive alerts.
 Disaster Kits: Emergency preparedness resources found on the City’s website include emergency supply kit suggestions for families and animals such as the Portable Pet Disaster Supplies Kit and the Disaster Supplies Calendar, which provides preparation information based on the time of year.
 Emergency Preparedness Avenues: The City has an emergency response strategy that provides detailed instruction to supplement the EOP and keep the City prepared to respond in an emergency. Personal and family preparedness includes resources for families or individuals to prepare a Family Plan that details points of contact and information as well as a 5-step checklist for family preparedness. The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce encourages businesses to work with them to develop their own business continuity plans.

The City website also provides resources for special needs preparedness with a list of resources and items to have access to in the event of an emergency including health information, help from a neighbor, and enough medication for up to 7 days.

The Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan maps existing critical facilities in San Ramon (see Figure 9-1 below) which includes schools and educational facilities, fire and police stations, and city hall. There are a few additional critical facilities and major infrastructure in the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan worth noting, including highway bridges, water supply facilities, and a wastewater facility.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 458 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 3 Figure 9-1: Critical Facilities in San Ramon
Evacuation Routes
The City’s General Plan Safety Element, in accordance with California Government Code Section 65302(g), must identify residential neighborhoods that have fewer than two emergency evacuation routes. There are four neighborhoods in the City of San Ramon (see Figure 9-2 below) that have been identified as residential developments that have fewer than two access points. These neighborhoods are spread throughout the city.There is a concentration of residential neighborhoods in the eastern portion of the City that have limited evacuation routes along Bollinger Canyon Road.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 459 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 4 Figure 9-2: Residential Developments with Limited Evacuation Routes in San Ramon

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 460 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 5 GUIDING POLICIES – EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN

9.1-G-1
Maintain and update the emergency mitigation,
preparedness, response, and recovery components of the
emergency management procedures in San Ramon.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN

9.1-I-1
Maintain and update the City’s Emergency Operations Plan, as required by State and Federal laws, to minimize the risk to life and property from seismic and geologic hazards, hazardous materials and waste, fire, landslide, dam failure, flood, and national security emergency.

Disseminate information to community and business leaders and residents regarding all aspects of emergency and disaster preparedness, including plans for evacuation and alternate access routes and provisions of Emergency Operation Plan. The City will participate in a coordinated emergency response in the event of any local or regional, natural or man-made disaster.

9.1-I-2
Coordinate with the San Ramon Valley Citizens Council, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, and other
organizations and agencies to maintain and disseminate
emergency preparedness information via NixleAlerts, social media, and community meetings.

The City participates in a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) Citizen Corps Council program as encouraged by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in collaboration with the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Unified School District, and Town of Danville. The joint program conducts an annual emergency preparedness community fair, provides a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, and conducts regular training and drills with interested residents and businesses.

Public Education and emergency preparedness information are shared between the agencies for common dissemination to the public, consistent with the “be ready” federal and state campaigns.

9.1-I-3
Coordinate regular exercises and drills with emergency
organizations. Provide training opportunities for all City staff to be adequately trained to Federal, State, and local procedures.

The City maintains regular employee training programs to meet the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and California Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) requirements.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 461 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 6

9.1-I-4
Require new residential development in identified high risk hazard areas to provide a minimum of two emergency
evacuation routes.

In 2022, a statewide committee developed new or updated existing standards for residential construction in wildland fire hazard areas. Once adopted by the State, it is anticipated these codes will be implemented for all new fire hazard zone construction in 2024.

9.1-I-5
Support regular evacuation trainings with identified singleaccess residential developments, identified in Figure 9-2, typically including evacuation information, emergency
supply lists, and first aid resources.

Wildland fire safety trainings conducted by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District include evacuation options, plans, and notification systems.

9.1-I-6
Proactively engage with identified single-access residential developments, identified in Figure 9-2, to encourage home retrofits to meet current building standards on structure hardening.

Hardening of structures will increase resistance to heat, flames, and embers that accompany most wildfires.

9.1-I-7
Prioritize outreach efforts and work with local agencies and organizations during hazardous events to address the
specific needs of populations most affected and/or unable to easily adapt in the community such as seniors, young children, individuals with physical disabilities, and
communities with single –access residential developments, identified in Figure 9-2.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 462 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 7

9.1-I-8
Work with the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District to identify and update the Evacuation Plan, at a minimum,
every eight years to account for all types of emergencies.

Since late 2021, Contra Costa County, the City of San Ramon, and the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District have used an evacuation system called Zone Haven. In an emergency, the San Ramon Police Department notifies the County Office of Emergency Services (OES) of a pending or declared evacuation using geographical boundaries or specific zones in the mapping program. County OES verifies the requested zones and then activates the system where numerous digital and radio systems broadcast those notices. Zone Haven is a highly dynamic system and allows the on-scene incident commander to identify evacuation zones and routes based on the specific needs of the incident. While Zone Haven does not eliminate the need to discuss and review evacuation routes, it does eliminate "fixed" and permanent evacuation routes. Suggested evacuation routes for the high fire risk are posted on the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District website and updated as required.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 463 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 8

9.2 GEOLOGIC, SEISMICITY AND SOILS HAZARDS

GEOLOGY
The San Ramon Planning Area is located in the East Bay Hills of the Coast Ranges in the western part of Contra Costa County, California. The East Bay Hills are part of a block of folded and faulted Upper Cretaceous age (about 62 to 98 million years ago) marine sedimentary rocks of the Great Valley Sequence.

The local hills are formed from younger rocks, uplifted between the Hayward and Calaveras fault zones.

The Planning Area includes a series of northwest-trending ridges and valleys and is underlain by Tertiary (about 2 to 62 million years ago) marine and non-marine sedimentary rocks.

SEISMICITY
The major active fault with rupture potential in San Ramon is the Calaveras Fault, which lies parallel to and just west of San Ramon Valley Boulevard. The California Legislature has established an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone along the fault, requiring detailed studies of rupture hazards prior to new construction. Two smaller faults, the Dublin Fault, and the Bollinger Fault, also traverse portions of the City and its Sphere of Influence and are not regarded as active. Minor faults, presumed inactive, intersect active or potentially active faults and any movement of the master fault could trigger adjustments (earthquakes) on minor cross faults or adjacent subparallel faults.

In 1990, the State Legislature passed the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act, which became effective on April 1, 1991. The purpose of the Act is to protect public safety from the effects of strong ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, or other ground failure and hazards caused by earthquakes. The program and actions mandated by the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act closely resemble those of the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act. The Seismic Hazards Mapping Act requires the State Geologist to delineate the various seismic hazard zones and requires cities to regulate certain development projects within the zones. If a project is located in this zone, development permits for a site may not be issued until the geologic and soil conditions of the project site are investigated and appropriate mitigation measures, if any, are incorporated into development plans.

The United States Geological Survey and the State Department of Conservation’s California Geologic Survey prepare geologic maps and reports, which should be consulted for locations of additional minor faults. The existence of any fault line, whether it is inside or outside of an earthquake fault zone, should be given serious consideration and thorough evaluation prior to any development decisions.

SOILS
The San Ramon Planning Area is dominated by generally northwest-trending, broad, rounded ridges, and intervening valleys with steep side slopes. Sandstone bedrock crops out locally on ridge crests and underlies upper hill slopes at shallow depths. Northern and eastern portions of the Planning Area are underlain by non-marine conglomerate, sandstone, and mudstone. Alluvial terraces are locally present along major drainages. Soils are thin to non-existent on ridges, crests, and hill slopes, thicken toward the base of hill slopes, and generally are thick in colluvium-filled swales.

Soils within the San Ramon Planning Area frequently contain clays with high shrink-swell potential. Soils in the valley floors generally consist of alluvium and a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. These areas have an elevated risk of experiencing localized liquefaction in the event of strong ground shaking. Figure 9-4 illustrates the geotechnical hazards in San Ramon.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 464 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 9 Slopes range from level and gently sloping along the valley floor to slopes exceeding 75 percent in hilly areas where rock outcrops occur. In these areas, there are high to severe erosion hazards on slopes where bare soil is exposed as well as elevated risks of landslides. Much of the Tassajara Valley and Bollinger Canyon Subareas are steeply sloped, with existing and potential for new landslides posing concerns for new development in these areas.

The Bay Area’s seismic activity requires that the City be vigilant with regard to safety. Crucial measures may include the avoidance of geologic and seismic hazards in building, and the adequate provision of public information regarding seismic safety.

Liquefaction
Geologic hazards associated with ground shaking include liquefaction and ground failure. Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes. Parts of the City may be susceptible to liquefaction during a seismic event because of the high groundwater levels and presence of loose to medium dense sand below the groundwater table.

In the steeper portions of the Planning Area, such as Bollinger Canyon, the Westside, and Tassajara Valley, active landslides (debris flows, earth flows, and slumps) and severe erosion potential represent major constraints to development. Any development in valley floors would require careful siting, grading, and building techniques as these areas have an elevated risk of experiencing localized liquefaction in the event of strong ground shaking. See Figure 9-3.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 465 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 10 Figure 9-3: Liquefaction Risk in San Ramon
GUIDING POLICY – GEOLOGIC, SEISMICITY AND SOILS HAZARDS

9.2-G-1 Minimize risks of personal injury and property damage posed by geologic and seismic hazards.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – GEOLOGIC, SEISMICITY AND SOILS HAZARDS

9.2-I-1
Review proposed development sites during the planning
process to identify and mitigate any potential geologic or seismic hazards.

Following receipt of a development proposal, engineering staff shall review the plans to determine whether a geotechnical review is required.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 466 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 11

9.2-I-2
Require the preparation of a fault investigation study to identify appropriate setbacks for any proposed structure intended for human occupancy within 50 feet of an active fault trace.

It is also the City’s intent to discourage homes, offices, hospitals, public buildings, and other similar structures over the trace of an inactive fault, but to allow non-habitable uses such as landscaping, parking lots, and noncritical storage, within seismic setback areas that could experience displacement without undue risk to people and property. Roads may be built over active faults only where alternatives are impractical and where no utility lines are placed in the right-of-way.

9.2-I-3
Where appropriate, require an independent registered
engineering geologist or geotechnical engineer to review geotechnical reports submitted by applicants on sites in seismically hazardous areas.

9.2-I-4
Require comprehensive geologic and engineering studies
prior to construction of critical structures regardless of location.

Critical structures are those most needed following a disaster or those that could pose hazards of their own if damaged. They include utility centers and substations, water reservoirs, hospitals, fire stations, police and emergency communications facilities, and bridges and overpasses.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 467 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 12 Figure 9-4: Geotechnical Hazards

9.2-I-5
Require geotechnical field review during the construction phase of any new development as determined by the City
Engineer.

While proper grading techniques can effectively reduce risks of geologic hazards, it is important that a geotechnical engineer and/or engineering geologist provide onsite field inspection and testing during construction to ensure compliance with geotechnical recommendations.

9.2-I-6
Require, where appropriate, preparation of a soils report as part of the development review and/or building permit
process.

The City is underlain by moderately to highly expansive soils, which must be taken into account during building design to minimize potential cracking and settling of structures. The report, however, would not be necessary when soil characteristics are known, and the City’s Building Official determines it is not needed.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 468 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 13

9.2-I-7
Limit cut-and-fill slopes to 3:1 (33 percent slope) except where an engineering geologist or geotechnical engineer can establish to the satisfaction of the City Engineer that a steeper slope would not pose undue risk to people and
property.

This grading standard is applied to new development throughout the City to reduce the appearance of angled contours and to maintain slope stability. The City encourages less steep slopes wherever possible so that the visual impacts of grading are minimized. Encourage the use of 3D modeling to assure visual mitigation. The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should also ensure that emergency access to hillside development is maintained.

9.2-I-8 Blend cut-and-fill slopes with existing contours to avoid the appearance of artificial slopes.

Grading plans should provide variation in horizontal and vertical contours that mimic the surrounding terrain such that development blends with the existing environment and avoids the visual impacts that result from high cut slopes and steep embankments.

9.2-I-9
Provide information and establish incentives for property owners to rehabilitate existing buildings using construction techniques to protect against seismic hazards.

San Ramon requires compliance to the City-adopted California Building Code, which specifies seismic standards for new construction, as well as for additions or expansions to buildings. It is in the community’s best interest to do all that is necessary to ensure that all structures meet current seismic standards.

Incentives may include free inspections, assistance in obtaining loans, and possibly reduced fees.

9.2-I-10 Control erosion of graded areas with revegetation or other acceptable methods.

Plant materials for re-vegetation should not be limited to hydro-seeding and mulching with annual grasses.

Trees add structure to the soil and take up moisture while adding color and diversity.

9.2-I-11
Require financial protection for public agencies and
individuals as a condition of development approval where geologic conditions indicate a potential for high
maintenance costs for areas of public benefit.

The formation of Geological Hazard Abatement Districts (GHAD) is one mechanism that can ensure geotechnical mitigation measures are maintained over the long term for areas of public benefit. Financial risks are to be equitably shared among owners and not borne by the City.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 469 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 14

9.2-I-12
Encourage continued investigation by State agencies of
geologic conditions within the City’s Planning Area to
promote public awareness of potential geologic and seismic hazards.

The City’s requirement for independent review of geologic reports shall consider the most recent available information regarding seismic hazards, including the potential for seismic shaking and fault rupture within the Mt. Diablo fold-and-thrust belt.

9.2-I-13
Review and update, as appropriate, City Code requirements for excavation, grading, and filling to ensure that they conform to current Federal, State, and regional standards.

9.3 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Some topics regarding public safety can be dealt with only at a regional level or fall within the responsibility of public agencies other than the City of San Ramon. The use and transportation of hazardous substances is one example for which public safety depends in large part on the actions taken by the state and federal governments.

Pursuant to state law, the City has adopted by reference Contra Costa County’s Hazardous Waste Management Plan. The Plan establishes a comprehensive approach to management of hazardous wastes in Contra Costa County, including siting criteria for new waste management facilities, educational and enforcement efforts to minimize and control the hazardous waste stream, and policies to maintain a unified database on businesses that generate hazardous waste.

The California Environmental Protection Agency (CEPA) lists all leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) sites and all solid waste disposal facilities from which there is a migration of hazardous waste.

Contaminated sites threaten the quality of the City’s groundwater and shall be cleaned through decontamination of soils and filtration of groundwater. Clean-up shall be required in conjunction with development of property or alteration of existing uses.

In San Ramon, waste oil is collected at the curb by the franchised waste hauler, and household hazardous wastes are collected on weekends at various locations throughout the County. Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (Central San) and Mt. View Sanitary District (MVSD) jointly operate Contra Costa County’s first permanent Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHW) located in Martinez, California. The HHW collection facility collects household cleaners, automotive care products, paint and paint-related products, and garden care and pest control products at no charge for cities in its service area, which includes the City of San Ramon.

Although San Ramon does have businesses that use hazardous materials, hazardous waste is not generated in large amounts and a waste disposal facility is not likely to be sited in the City. However, a concern exists because of the transportation of hazardous materials along the I-680 corridor and other routes of regional significance that pass through or are near San Ramon.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 470 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 15 Figure 9-5: Hazardous Materials in San Ramon
GUIDING POLICY – HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

9.3-G-1
Minimize the risk of property damage and personal injury resulting from the production, use, storage, disposal, or transportation of hazardous materials.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

9.3-I-1
Promote the reduction, recycling, and safe disposal of
household hazardous wastes through public education and awareness.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 471 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 16

9.3-I-2
Continue to provide convenient, local opportunities for household hazardous waste (HHW) drop-off and pick-up
service to San Ramon residents.

Central Contra Costa Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Facility was constructed in Martinez in approximately 1997 for the collection of hazardous waste generated by the residents and businesses of Contra Costa County. The Martinez facility is over 20 miles from San Ramon. In order to accommodate San Ramon residents, the City negotiated with its franchised waste hauler to provide a door-to-door HHW pickup service, which is incorporated into annual trash collection rates beginning in 2011. This program allows residents to schedule HHW collections with a certified collector contracted with the City, and the contractor will safely remove household hazardous waste (including e-waste) for no charge.

9.3-I-3 Require the clean-up of sites contaminated with hazardous substances.

The California Environmental Protection Agency publishes the Hazardous Waste and Substances Sites List, which identifies properties in the City that have the potential for hazardous materials contamination.

Contaminated sites are threats to the quality of groundwater and shall be cleaned through decontamination of soils and filtration of groundwater. Clean-up shall be required in conjunction with new development, reconstruction, property transfer of ownership, and/or the continued operation after the discovery of contamination. Continual business operation may be permitted during the conduct of cleanup or remediation of the contamination as long as the clean-up proceeds in accordance with an approved clean-up plan.

9.3-I-4
Support and implement policies contained in the Contra
Costa County Hazardous Waste Management Plan that
encourage and assist the reduction of hazardous waste
from businesses and homes in San Ramon.

9.3-I-5
Require businesses generating hazardous waste to pay
necessary costs for local implementation of programs
specified in the County Hazardous Waste Management
Plan, as well as the costs associated with emergency
response services for a hazardous materials release.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 472 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 17

9.3-I-6
Work with the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and Contra Costa County to minimize potentially dangerous
conditions from storing, dispensing, using, and handling of hazardous materials.

The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and Contra Costa County, through the Hazardous Materials Program, reviews and approves plans for new and existing businesses with hazardous material and may require new developments and change of use of existing facilities to conform to the California Fire Code with respect to storing, dispensing, using and/or handling of hazardous materials.

9.4 FLOOD AND STORM DRAINAGE
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a majority of Contra Costa County’s creeks and shoreline lie within the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain. Drainage facilities in Contra Costa County are provided by the cities, the County, and the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FCWCD). The FCWCD collects special assessments to finance drainage improvements in areas with adopted drainage plans.

Lands immediately abutting Alamo Creek in Dougherty Valley and Tassajara Creek in Tassajara Valley are within the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain. Neither Dougherty Valley nor Tassajara Valley is currently in a formal drainage area. The maintenance of Dougherty Valley flood control facilities is by the City through funding from County Service Area (CSA) M-29. These facilities will be maintained by the City of San Ramon once they are accepted by Contra Costa County and subsequently accepted by the City as provided for in the Dougherty Valley Settlement Agreement.

The City is generally responsible for maintaining the publicly owned elements of the flood control system within the incorporated area, except for the San Ramon Creek downstream of Crow Canyon Road and the Canyon Lakes area, which are the responsibility of the FCWCD.

The one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) is the flood elevation that has a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded each year. Areas that are within the one percent annual flood chance (100- year flood) flood zone, as determined by FEMA at the time of preparation of this document are indicated on Figure 9-6. High frequency flood events (e.g. 10-year floods) in particular will likely increase with a changing climate. What is currently considered a one-percent-annual-chance (100-year flood) also may strike more often, leaving many communities at greater risk. Going forward, model calibration must happen more frequently, new forecast-based tools must be developed, and a standard of practice that explicitly considers climate change must be adopted (Contra Costa County HMP, 2018). Changes to the behavior of water resources from climate change are already impacting historical hydrologic patterns, which can no longer be solely relied upon to forecast the water future. In addition, precipitation and runoff patterns are changing, increasing the uncertainty for water supply and quality, flood management and ecosystem functions (Contra Costa County HMP, 2018).

The City’s potential vulnerability to flooding makes the maintenance of the creeks system and the location of structures above the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain important considerations. Maintenance tactics, detention of increased runoff, and the grading of land so that buildings remain above the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain should be a priority in areas of new development and re-development.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 473 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 18 Maintenance practices for existing creeks and drainage systems should also be re-evaluated and adjusted because of impacts from climate change, changes in the awareness of drainage systems and their associated environments, and changes in public attitudes and the regulatory climate. Changing the maintenance practices will require considerable resources, and new funding mechanism, should be explored.

Dougherty Valley’s development concept maintains major creek channels and places development above the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain. In addition, the FCWCD and the Contra Costa County Public Works Department have employed flood detention basins and channeling systems to control the flows of both Alamo Creek and Tassajara Creek in the Tassajara Valley, and the FCWCD has designed storm drainage improvements that are expected to accommodate creek flows at development build-out.

Figure 9-6: Flood Hazards in San Ramon

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 474 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 19 GUIDING POLICY – FLOOD AND STORM DRAINAGE

9.4-G-1 Protect the community from risks to lives and property posed by flooding and stormwater runoff.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – FLOOD AND STORM DRAINAGE

9.4-I-1
Reduce hazards caused by local flooding through
improvements and ongoing maintenance to the storm drain system and/or creek corridors.

9.4-I-2
Identify or develop a new forecast-based tool to address the need for increasing frequency of model calibration of high frequency flood events (e.g., 10-year floods) to better understand how climate change will impact these flooding events.

9.4-I-3
Require new development to prepare hydrologic studies to assess storm runoff impacts on the local and subregional storm drainage systems and/or creek corridors. New
development shall implement all applicable and feasible recommendations from the studies.

Developers shall provide an assessment of a project’s potential impacts on the local and subregional storm drainage systems, so that the City can determine appropriate mitigation to ensure that system capacity and peak flow restrictions are not exceeded.

9.4-I-4
Require new development to provide a funding mechanism
for ongoing maintenance of drainage facilities and other stormwater control measures. Maintenance may be by the
City under contract, or by a private entity.

If wetlands are affected, maintenance of drainage facilities may include mitigation monitoring in compliance with regulatory requirements until these requirements have been met.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 475 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 20

9.4-I-5
Establish landscape and maintenance guidelines for
required detention basins to ensure that such facilities achieve a look and quality that is consistent with the
landscape of San Ramon and applicable regulatory
requirements.

Detention ponds provide aesthetic as well as safety benefits. Landscape and maintenance guidelines incorporated into a maintenance manual and ongoing monitoring would ensure that ponds in San Ramon are integral to the look and feel of the City landscape.

9.4-I-6 Maintain flood insurance rate maps and post for public education.

Encourage all property owners within flood hazard areas to carry flood insurance.

9.4-I-7
Explore new funding mechanisms for enhancing the riparian environment and converting, where possible, flood control channels back to a more natural setting while keeping the existing uses and maintaining sufficient carrying capacity of the channels.

9.4-I-8
All new developments shall not increase runoff to the 100- year peak flow in the City’s flood control channels or to local creeks and shall be substantially equal to predevelopment conditions. All new storm water systems shall be in compliance with the requirements of the City’s
Stormwater Municipal Regional Permit issued by the San
Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board.

All cities within the Contra Costa County, including the City of San Ramon, are part of the Contra Costa Clean Water Program and are co-permittees of the Municipal Regional Permit issued by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. The Permittees are required within their respective jurisdictions to effectively prohibit the discharge of non-stormwater into the storm drain systems and watercourses through the enforcement of the Municipal Permit requirements at the local level.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 476 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 21

9.4-I-9
New development shall be required to locate buildings
above the one percent annual flood chance (100-year flood) floodplain and outside the special flood hazard area to minimize potential flood damages.

9.5 WILDLAND AND URBAN FIRES
The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District (SRVFPD) provides fire protection services to the incorporated and unincorporated portions of San Ramon.

The risk of both urban and wildland fires exists in the San Ramon Planning Area (Figure 9-3).

California’s Fourth Climate Assessment points to the years 2015 and 2017 as recent years with large and destructive Bay Area fires significantly impacting the region. These fires include the destructive Tubbs Fire in Sonoma County in 2017, the Valley Fire in 2015, and the Nuns and Atlas fires of 2017. Local fires have been present in near the City of San Ramon and identified in the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan including The Collier Fire, which burned 198 acres along Highland Road and Collier Canyon Road to the east of the city.

Hazards related to wildland fires are based on a combination of factors including winds, temperatures, humidity levels, fuel moisture content of vegetation and topography. The risk to the community is increased in some areas because of the combustibility of building materials including roofs, adequacy of access roads, water supply duration, and the presence or maintenance of flammable vegetation surrounding structures.

To quantify this potential hazard, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has developed a fire modeling and mapping process that utilizes three main criteria in order to evaluate and recommend potential fire hazards in wildland areas. The criteria are type of vegetation, fire weather, and topography. The maps developed by CAL FIRE identify areas as Fire Hazard Severity Zones and include three severity classifications: moderate, high, and very high.

According to CAL FIRE, there are no Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones mapped within San Ramon city limits. The northwesternmost side of the city’s Sphere of Influence, within the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Park, is classified as Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. There are also State Responsibility Areas mapped within city limits. Within State Responsibility Areas, Cal Fire is primarily responsible for suppressing vegetation fires. In contrast, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District has primary responsibility for all other emergencies, including structural fires.

San Ramon is committed to planning development, with the help of fire protection agencies, that minimizes the risk of fire to the greatest extent possible.

Because of an extended dry season with low humidity, San Ramon has many days where fire danger is critical. Within the City, fuel loading is light and wildfire hazard is moderate, except in areas adjacent to the City where steep woodland slopes and rolling grassy hills create potential high to extreme hazards.

Areas in San Ramon representing the greatest risk are the Tassajara Valley areas to the east of the City Limit and the wildland areas at the Planning Area’s western edge and northwestern corner.

In addition to the threat of wildfires, air quality can be greatly affected by wildfires. Smoke can cause numerous health effects, from mild eye burning to irritated air ways and cardiac arrest. Older adults,

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 477 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 22 young children, outdoor workers, and those with chronic health conditions are the most vulnerable to degraded air quality.

Figure 9-7: Wildfire Hazards in San Ramon
New development may create increased fire hazards caused by interactions between open grassland and dense residential development. Therefore, projected development in the City’s Planning Area will require the construction of fire suppression services facilities for new subareas. The budgeting and timing of such construction should be considered with respect to safety and the pace of new development. Moreover, community design techniques that allow optimal fire services response time should remain a priority.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 478 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 23 GUIDING POLICY – WILDLAND AND URBAN FIRES

9.5-G-1 Minimize the risks to lives, property, and natural environment due to fire hazards.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – WILDLAND AND URBAN FIRES

9.5-I-1
Require site design features, where appropriate based on a wildfire risk assessment, and firefire retardant building materials to reduce the risk of fire within the City.

While the City enforces the International Building Code on all development and redevelopment proposals in San Ramon, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District may determine, during the initial application review, whether a project is located in a Fire Hazard Area and require developments to utilize best development practices that allow for both the protection of the structure and the preservation of the open space.

9.5-I-2
Require the completion of a Fire Protection Plan for new development adjacent to a Fire Hazard Area and within
designated High Fire Hazard Areas in order to determine which mitigation measures are appropriate to minimize fire hazard.

9.5-I-3
Work with the Fire Protection District on planning for a new training facility at an appropriate location where
neighborhood impacts would be mitigated.

As of 2022, a location for a new fire training facility has been finalized and will be constructed on the site of the current San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District Fire Administration building (1500 Bollinger Canyon Road).

9.5-I-4 Require sprinklers in new homes, as required by the California Building Code.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 479 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 24

9.5-I-5 Require sprinklers in all mixed-use development, as required by the California Building Code.

Appropriate fire protection measures are necessary in mixed-use developments since residential units are typically in close proximity—either above or adjoining—to higher fire load non-residential occupancies, such as retail stores, offices, restaurants, etc.

9.6 CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
Government Code 65302(g) (as amended by Senate Bill 1035) requires San Ramon and all California cities and counties to update their Safety Element with new information on flood hazards, fire hazard, and climate adaptation and resilience during a housing element or local hazard mitigation plan update cycle, which occur every 8 years and 5 years, respectively. In accordance with California Government Code Section 65302(g)(4)(A), San Ramon is required to complete a Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (Assessment) in conjunction with the update to its safety element. This Assessment was used to inform the update to the Safety Element.

The IPCC, a United Nations subgroup responsible with global advancement and communication of climate change understandings, has established several scenarios used to describe possible future greenhouse gas emissions and associated warming. Two of these are commonly used to compare possible futures and have been selected for use in this assessment.  The Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 represents a “medium emissions” scenario in which emissions peak around 2040 and then decline at the end of the century. This scenario assumes global agreement and implementation of GHG reduction strategies.  The RCP 8.5 represents a “high emissions” scenario in which emissions continue to rise throughout the 21st century (IPCC 2021).

This assessment relies on Cal-Adapt, an interactive online tool that is aligned with the IPCCs emissions scenarios, to present localized climate change projections and impacts. The tool was developed and is maintained by the University of California Berkeley with oversight from the California Energy Commission (CEC). These climate projections provide an understanding of possible future conditions for temperature, extreme heat and warm nights, changes in precipitation and extreme precipitation events, drought, and wildfire in San Ramon. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment San Francisco Bay Area Regional Report, released by the State in 2018, and the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) are also used to determine projected climate impacts in San Ramon. These projections will allow San Ramon to prioritize policies and actions from the San Ramon Climate Action Plan (CAP) that will increase resilience and the ability for the community to adapt and prepare for the effects of climate change.

PROJECTED CLIMATE IMPACTS
Temperature
According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, average temperatures, both minimum and maximum, are expected to increase in the San Francisco Bay Area Region. Since 1901, average temperatures across the country have increased, with eight of the top ten warmest years on record

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 480 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 25 having occurred over the past 30 years. Average trends are increasing at both the local scale and the global scale.

The historical (1950-2005) average maximum temperature in Contra Costa County was 71.4ºF and the average minimum temperature was 47.8ºF (Contra Costa County HMP, 2018). The California Energy Commission (Cal Adapt) provides a comparison of the modeled historical 30-year average (1961-1990), and the average maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to increase in the coming decades in San Ramon. The average maximum temperatures under RCP 4.5 are projected to increase by 3.7 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) by mid-century and 4.8°F by the late century. Average maximum temperatures are expected to rise between 4.5°F (RCP 4.5) and 7.8°F (RCP 8.5) by the end of the century. In addition, average minimum temperatures are expected to increase, between 4.4°F (RCP 4.5) and 7.4°F (RCP 8.5) by the end of the century as seen in Figure 9-8 and 9-9.

Figure 9-8 shows average maximum temperatures in San Ramon based on the RCP 4.5 (medium emissions) and RCP 8.5 (high emissions) emissions scenario. The purple line shows high emissions scenario (RCP 8.5), the blue line shows the medium emissions scenario (RCP 4.5), and the grey line illustrates the current trend (observed). The shaded areas indicate the range for the emissions scenario.

For example, the blue shaded area represents the range of data for the medium emissions scenario (RCP

4.5).

Figure 9-8: Annual Average Maximum Temperature in San Ramon Figure 9-9 shows average minimum temperatures in San Ramon based on the RCP 4.5 (medium emissions) and RCP 8.5 (high emissions) emissions scenario. The purple line shows high emissions scenario (RCP 8.5), the blue line shows the medium emissions scenario (RCP 4.5), and the grey line illustrates the current trend (observed). The shaded areas indicate the range for the emissions scenario.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 481 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 26 For example, the blue shaded area represents the range of data for the medium emissions scenario (RCP

4.5).

Figure 9-9: Annual Average Minimum Temperature in San Ramon Extreme Heat
In addition to warming temperatures, the number of extreme heat days per year is also expected to increase. In San Ramon an extreme heat day is when the maximum temperature exceeds 98.0°F.

Compared to the modeled historical 30-year average (1961-1990), the annual number of extreme heat days is projected to increase by 18 to 31 days by the end of the century depending on the emissions scenario. Figure 9-10 shows the number of extreme heat days in San Ramon for the medium and high emissions scenarios.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 482 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 27 Figure 9-10: Extreme Heat Days in San Ramon
Precipitation
Precipitation projections for California remain uncertain. On average, total annual precipitation in the state is not projected to change substantially; however, modeled projections do not show a consistent trend (Contra Costa County HMP, 2018). According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, the San Francisco Bay Area Region Report (2019), projects an increase in the number of days each year for which atmospheric river precipitation events result in extreme precipitation. In the Bay Area, atmospheric rivers (long and narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport most of the water vapor outside of the tropics) are the dominant drivers of locally extreme rainfall events and are associated with most major inland foods in California. Atmospheric rivers are responsible for approximately 50 percent of the rain and snowfall in this region despite representing 17 percent of all precipitation events. Model projections suggest that potential changes in average precipitation in the San Francisco Bay Area Region range between an increase of 2.5 and 4.6 inches annually. Percent increases in the largest precipitation events (measured in inches of rain per day) range from 6 percent to 21 percent in RCP4.5 and as high as 37 percent in RCP8.5 by end of century in this region. Although averages are projected to have slight changes, the variability between wet seasons ranges from 11.7 to 61.1 inches in any given year. Both wet and dry periods are expected to become more extreme and frequent, leading to overall increased variability in the region and in California.

Annual Precipitation
Compared with modeled historical data (1961-1990), mid-century projections predict annual precipitation to decrease by 0.2 inches mid-century (2035-2064) and increase by 0.4 inches by latecentury (2070-2099). While average annual precipitation is not expected to change significantly, precipitation will likely fall in more intense storms within a shorter wet season. For much of the state,

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 483 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 28 research suggests that wet years will become wetter and dry years will become drier and will extend for longer stretches of time, increasing the risk of extended drought.

Annual projected precipitation in San Ramon is shown in 9-11 below.

Figure 9-11: Annual Average Precipitation in San Ramon
Extreme Precipitation Events
Extreme precipitation events are projected to become more frequent and intense in the coming decades. Maximum 1-day precipitation models for San Ramon have a current 30-year average of approximately 1.726 inches. Mid-century projections predict an increase to about 1.896 inches in the RCP4.5 and an increase of 1.919 inches in the RCP8.5 scenario. By the end of the century, projections predict an increase to about 1.947 inches (RCP4.5) to 2.121 inches (RCP8.5) as shown in Figure 9-12.

These projections indicate a trend in weather and rain events becoming more extreme and variable.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 484 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 29 Figure 9-12: Maximum 1-Day Precipitation Events in San Ramon Drought and Water Shortage
According to California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, climate change is likely to significantly diminish California’s future water supply, and therefore, change the way water is managed because of a more limited and varied supply. San Ramon experiences episodic weather and climate patterns resulting in long dry year to multi-year droughts followed by wet years. The 30-year modeled historical average for maximum length dry spells is 106 days. Similar to patterns in future precipitation some of the annual variability is obscured within 30-year averages. Despite this, the clear trend is for maximum lengths of consecutive days without precipitation or dry spells, to increase through the end of century. Midcentury projections predict an increase of seven days in the RCP4.5 scenario and nine days in the RCP8.5 scenario. By the end of the century, projections predict an increase of seven days (RCP4.5) to 12 days (RCP8.5) as seen in Figure 9-13.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 485 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 30 Figure 9-13: Maximum Length of Dry Spell in San Ramon
Wildfire and Air Quality
According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, in the Bay Area, future fire activity will be driven by both changes in urban development and changes in climate. Warming temperatures combined with expansion of the wildland-urban interface are projected to increase fire risk in most of the Bay Area. Wildfire is a frequent occurrence within the San Francisco Bay Area Region. The last decade saw a series of dramatic fires, each with substantial impacts on ecosystems and human infrastructure. Future projections using statistical models indicate that the Bay Area may experience a larger number of wildfires and burned area by the mid-21st century under RCP 8.5. The impact of wildfires on San Ramon may largely come from fire occurrences within the Bay Area rather than adjacent to or within the city.

Overall burned area is projected to remain relatively consistent across both the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 in either scenario. Many factors affect projected future occurrence of wildfire because of climate change.

There are significant uncertainties associated with the influence of climate change on the future occurrence of wildfire in or near the city.

Vulnerable Populations
While all people in a community will experience climate change, some may be more affected than others. For example, older adults and young children may be more at-risk to heat illness during an extreme heat event. Sensitivity to climate hazards can be influenced by several factors, including differences in individual health, age, and ability; institutional bias or exclusion from political and decision-making power; inequities in infrastructure and access to health care, economic opportunity, education, and other services; and inequities in environmental and living conditions. Vulnerabilities within a community can inhibit that community’s adaptive capacity or their ability to cope with climate change impacts. Development and implementation of programs and projects that improve the

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 486 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 31 community’s adaptive capacity, including addressing some of the underlying contributing factors will reduce the negative impacts that climate change could have on vulnerable populations.

Certain population groups may be disproportionately harmed by the impacts of climate change in San Ramon. The California Adaptation Planning Guide (APG) establishes a process for identifying populations groups that are vulnerable to climate change. Based on the APG, the populations most at-risk to climate change that are present in San Ramon, include:
 Low-income
 Renters
 Isolated individuals (e.g., no car or transit access)  Foreign born
 Non-white communities
 Non-English speakers
These populations were identified using the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Indicator Maps, California Healthy Places Index tool, and the U.S. Census.

An external factor present in the community that also contribute to climate change vulnerability include exposure to poor air quality related to diesel particulate matter. The City experiences widespread exposure to diesel particulate matter. Diesel particulate matter comes from exhaust from trucks, buses, trains, and other equipment with diesel engines contains a mixture of gases and solid particles. These particulates are harmful to public health and the largest concentrations are along Interstate 680 in the City. San Ramon has diesel particulate matter concentrations within the 25th and 83rd percentile, which means it is between 25 and 83 percent higher than the rest of state. The higher percentile census tracts within the city are along the Highway 680 corridor running north and south in the middle of the City. The low percentile census tracts are in the residential neighborhoods in the eastern portion of the City.

Residents and businesses rely on various infrastructure and services such as water systems, electricity, natural gas, and roads. These systems and assets are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which in turn puts the wellbeing of community members at risk. Those with pre-existing and chronic health conditions that rely on services and systems, are particularly vulnerable in situations where hazard events impact access to electricity, food, water supplies, healthcare, sanitary resources, transportation, and communication platforms. To help reduce negative impacts on vulnerable populations and increase adaptive capacity, it is vital that strategies and policies are implemented that ensure continuity of systems and services in the event of climate hazard events.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 487 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 32 GUIDING POLICY – CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT

9.6-G-1
Build a community that is resilient against the effects of climate change and protects all City residents, including the most vulnerable residents.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT

9.6-I-1
Identify appropriate public facilities to be designated as Resilience Hubs by providing resources such as cooling, power, or water which may not be accessible to all of the population in San Ramon during events of extreme heat,
drought, flooding, or other natural disasters.

9.6-I-2
Explore options to support community-wide installation of self-sufficient energy systems, such as microgrids, at critical facilities and other critical emergency service facilities to minimize service disruptions during power outages.

9.6-I-3
Provide educational materials (e.g., websites, social media) and programs to support water conservation efforts that take into account extended drought conditions.

9.6-I-4
Promote home cooling retrofits such as residential battery storage, rooftop solar, and heat pumps to homes to better withstand extreme heat and reduce the impact of bad air quality days.

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Packet Pg. 488 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 33

9.6-I-5
Utilize drought-tolerant green infrastructure projects
including street trees and landscaped areas and encourage installation of green roof systems as part of cooling
strategies in public and private spaces to help reduce the heat island effect and energy demand during extreme heat events.

9.6-I-6
Prioritize regional solutions with public and private
partners, including EBMUD and DSRSD, to diversify the
City’s water supply through utilizing alternative sources, including recycled water.

9.6-I-7 Assess existing critical facilities and ensure new critical facilities are in minimal risk areas to hazards.

9.6-I-8
Promote efforts by the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District (BAAQMD) and public utility providers to reduce emissions from energy consumption.

9.6-I-9
Invest in sustainable backup power sources to provide
redundancy and continued services for critical facilities during periods of high demand during extreme heat events or possible outages because of safety power shut offs and extreme weather.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 489 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 10 Noise
The purpose of San Ramon’s Noise Element is to set forth policies that regulate the ambient noise environment and minimize residents from exposure to unacceptable noise levels.

Noise is especially a concern for noise–sensitive uses such as residences, schools, churches, and hospitals. Noises vary widely in their scope, source, and volume, ranging from individual occurrences such as leaf blowers, to the intermittent disturbances of overhead aircraft, to the fairly constant noise generated by traffic on freeways. Impacts from noise can cause minor issues such as annoyance and interruptions, to more serious concerns like increasing risk of cardiovascular disease and other secondary impacts of sleep deprivation.

Noise is commonly defined as sounds or a series of sounds that are undesirable, intrusive, irritating, and/or disruptive to daily life. Noise sources in San Ramon are primarily from vehicles, with other sources including construction activities, landscaping and maintenance activities, parking lot activities, mechanical equipment, and truck loading/unloading activities. Additionally, military training activities at Camp Parks Reserve Forces Training Area are observed within portions of South San Ramon and the Dougherty Valley.

10.1 Measurement of Noise
Sound levels are usually measured and expressed in decibels (dB) which is a unit of measurement indicating the relative amplitude of a sound. The zero on the decibel scale is based on the lowest sound level that the healthy, unimpaired human ear can detect. Sound levels in decibels are calculated on a logarithmic basis. An increase of 10 decibels represents a ten-fold increase in acoustic energy, while 20 decibels is 100 times more intense, etc.

There are several methods of refining decibel scales to make them reflect human perception. Most commonly used in California is the A-weighted sound level or dBA. This scale gives greater weight to the frequencies of sound to which the human ear is most sensitive. Figure 10-1 shows the decibel noise levels in units of dBA associated with different common sounds, and illustrates typical sound levels, while Figure 10-2 provides noise level threshold criteria for a variety of land uses. Denotation of a land use as “normally acceptable” in Figure 10-2 implies that the highest noise level in that band is the maximum desirable for existing or conventional construction that does not incorporate any special acoustic treatment.

Noise descriptors used for analysis need to account for human sensitivity to nighttime noise. Common descriptors include the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) and the Day-Night Average Level (DNL, symbol (Ldn). Both reflect noise exposure over an average day with weighting to reflect the increased sensitivity to noise during the night (10 pm to 7 am) and the CNEL descriptor provides an additional evening (7 pm to 10 pm) weighting. The two descriptors in San Ramon General Plan 2035 Figure 10-2 are roughly equivalent. The CNEL descriptor is used in relation to major continuous noise sources, such as aircraft or traffic, and is the reference level for state noise law.

Knowledge of the following relationships is helpful in understanding how changes in noise and noise exposure are perceived:
 A change in sound level of less than 3 dB generally cannot be perceived;  A 3 dB change is considered a just-noticeable difference;

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 490 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1  A 5 dB change is required before any noticeable change in community response would be expected; and
 A 10 dB increase is subjectively heard as an approximate doubling in loudness and almost always causes community concern.

Figure 10-1: Typical Sound Levels (dBA)

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 491 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 Figure 10-2: Compatible Thresholds for Land Uses (CNEL, db)

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 492 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1

10.2 Noise in San Ramon
Noise in San Ramon is primarily the result of traffic, Camp Parks, and other sources. According to common practice for residential areas, CNEL noise exposure up to 60 dB is considered “normally acceptable” for unshielded residential development. Noise levels above 60 up to 70 dB fall within the “conditionally acceptable” range, and those in the range above 70 to 75 dB are considered “normally unacceptable” and generally require mitigation during the environmental review process.

TRAFFIC NOISE LEVELS
Traffic noise depends primarily on the speed of traffic and the percentage of truck traffic. Traffic volume has a lesser influence on traffic noise levels. The primary source of noise from automobiles is high frequency tire noise, which increases with speed. In addition, trucks and older automobiles produce engine and exhaust noise, and trucks also generate wind noise.

While tire noise from autos is generally located at ground level, truck noise sources can be located as high as ten to fifteen feet above the roadbed because of tall exhaust stacks and higher engines. For roads that are used heavily by trucks, sound walls are not as effective for mitigating such noise unless they are very tall.

The San Ramon Planning Area is subject to noise impacts from several transportation corridors, as illustrated in Figure 10-3. Noise contours are lines drawn around a noise source indicating equal levels of noise exposure.

Figure 10-4 illustrates future noise contours throughout the Planning Area. By far the greatest contributor to noise is traffic on I-680. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has constructed sound walls adjacent to the freeway and existing nearby homes, but this measure has occasionally increased ambient noise levels for residences located uphill and at greater distances from the sound walls. This traffic noise thus presents the City with the challenge of providing adequate noise mitigation other than sound walls along the freeway or throughout the City. Other areas that will experience significant increases in ambient noise levels include Crow Canyon Road, Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon Valley Boulevard, Old Ranch Road, Dougherty Road, East Branch Parkway and Windemere Parkway.

To address local street issues, San Ramon adopted a Residential Traffic Calming Program (RTC) in 1998.

In 2021, the RTC Program was amended to reflect current trends. The purpose of the RTC Program is to reduce vehicle speeds, improve safety, increase awareness, and enhance the quality of life within residential neighborhoods through implementation of traffic calming measures. Slowing traffic as well as providing alternative modes of transportation could reduce vehicular noise.

CAMP PARKS
Camp Parks, an Army Reserve and National Guard training facility, consists of approximately 2,000 acres in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. The installation occupies approximately 910 acres of the Planning Area adjacent to the Dougherty Valley and Tassajara Valley. Facilities include a live fire shoot house, rappel tower, training courses, learning centers, and bed space for more than 800 soldiers.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 493 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 Figure 10-3: Existing Noise Contours

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 494 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 Figure 10-4: Future Noise Contours
The U.S. Army prepared an Environmental Noise Management Plan for Camp Parks in 2005. The plan stated that helicopter and firearms training activities generate significant noise. The plan indicated that the incompatible use zone (Zone III) and normally incompatible use zone (Zone II), which are based on average noise exposure levels, were entirely contained within the installation boundaries. The plan noted that peak noise levels from individual training activities may be observed at nearby residential uses. As such, the plan recommended that neighboring jurisdictions require disclosure of noise levels as part of real estate development and transfer activities.

OTHER NOISE
Although traffic is the primary source of noise in San Ramon, other sources do exist. These sources include construction, landscaping and maintenance activities, parking lot activities, mechanical equipment, and loading/unloading activities. The policies of this Chapter address the full range of these sources.

The City’s Noise Ordinance, adopted in 1987, establishes guidelines on limiting unnecessary and excessive noise. The standards in the Noise Ordinance works to reduce the potential impact noise may have to sensitive receptors and outlines remedies and penalties for noise violations. Additionally, the City’s Zoning Ordinance provides noise reduction measures through separation and/or screening of noise-generating use.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 495 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 GUIDING POLICY – NOISE

10.1-G-1 Achieve an acceptable noise environment for the present and future residents of San Ramon.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – NOISE

10.1-I-1 Minimize vehicular noise sources, stationary noise sources, and noise emanating from intermittent activities.

The City’s regulations restrict the hours of operation for a variety of noise sources, and State laws limit the noise levels of motor vehicles and some activities at industrial plants. The City’s Residential Traffic Calming Program reduces vehicular noise through promoting alternative modes of transportation and implementing traffic-calming measures.

10.1-I-2
All projects where people are exposed to noise greater
than “normally acceptable” levels, indicated in Figure 10-2, shall be required to submit a noise analysis. Applicable Noise attenuation measures shall be implemented with
the DNL reduced to 45 Db in all habitable rooms.

Noise attenuation measures may consist of conventional construction practices, open space and landscaping, building orientation and design, or other measures that buffer or mask sound. The City applies the standards of Title 24, Part II of the California Code of Regulations to all housing, thereby requiring an acoustical study if a proposed development will be located in an area exposed to a DNL (Day-Night Average Sound Level) in excess of State required thresholds.

10.1-I-3
Require all necessary acoustical and vibration studies be prepared by qualified professionals in accordance with
industry-accepted methodology. All applicable and
feasible vibration reduction measures shall be
incorporated into projects.

Industry-accepted methodology means guidance issued by public agencies or private organizations.

Examples include Caltrans, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Institute of Noise Control Engineering.

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Packet Pg. 496 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1

10.1-I-4
Alternatives to sound walls, such as building orientation and landscape buffers, shall be considered during the
design process. If deemed appropriate, sound walls with factors such as height, decorative features, graffiti
resistance, pedestrian mobility, and sight distances
considered.

10.1-I-5
New developments shall minimize their noise impacts
on adjacent properties through appropriate means,
including, but not limited to, the following actions:
 Screen and control noise sources, such as parking
and loading facilities, outdoor activities and
mechanical equipment,
 Increase setbacks for noise sources from adjacent
dwellings,
 Retain or install fences, walls, and landscaping
that serve as noise buffers,
 Use soundproofing materials and other building
practices or materials,
 Encourage the use of commute alternatives,
 Control hours of operation, including deliveries
and trash pickup, to minimize
noise impacts, and
 Buffer noise along highways and arterial roadways
through natural noise buffers and if necessary,
install sound walls when compatible with
neighborhood aesthetics and character.

10.1-I-6
Protect sensitive receptors such as schools, hospitals, and senior care uses from excessive noise through
implementation of noise attenuation measures for new
development.

New development with sensitive receptors that are adversely impacted will be required to implement noise attenuation measures to limit excessive noise.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 497 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1

10.1-I-7
Implement the City’s noise control standards to ensure
appropriate regulation of common residential,
commercial, and industrial noise sources.

10.1-I-8
Require new noise sources to use best available and
practical control techniques to minimize noise from all sources.

10.1-I-9 Continue to enforce the City’s Noise Ordinance to reduce noise impacts.

10.1-I-10 Review and update the Noise Ordinance, as needed, to improve the City’s ability to reduce noise impacts.

10.1-I-11
Encourage new developments to provide Designate
walking districts in which new developments will be
encouraged to provide facilities which support the use
of alternative transportation modes such as walking,
bicycling, carpooling and, where applicable, transit to reduce peak-hour traffic and vehicular noise.

Traffic and vehicular noise can be reduced using site design incentives like mixing of land uses, pedestrian/bicycle trail connections, park and ride lots, and designated carpool/vanpool parking areas.

10.1-I-12 Designate and enforce local truck routes to minimize truck traffic in noise-sensitive land use areas.

10.1-I-13
Encourage mixed-use and commercial developments to
locate noise generating components such as loading
areas, parking lots, driveways, trash enclosures,
mechanical equipment, and other noisier components
away from residential development.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 498 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1 Noise impacts can be reduced by identifying noise-generating components and by locating and/or screening them to minimize impacts to residential development.

10.1-I-14
Construction activities are exempt from the standards
set forth in Figure 10-2, but must implement all
practical noise attenuation measures and practices to
limit adverse impacts on nearby land uses.

Noise attenuation measures and practices include limits on hours of operation, use of mufflers or engine shrouds, identification of truck haul routes, installation of temporary fencing or barriers, and locating staging areas as far as practicable from sensitive receptors.

10.1-I-15
Require evaluation of potentially harmful noise sources such as pure tones. Prohibit or place restrictions on
such sources if the evaluation indicates that they may
be harmful.

A “pure tone” is defined as sound that can be judged as a single pitch or set of single pitches. Although not commonly found in suburban noise environments, pure tones can be harmful to human hearing and also may be perceived as highly annoying.

10.1-I-16
For purposes of city analyses of noise impacts, and for determining appropriate noise mitigation, a significant increase in ambient noise levels is assumed if the
project causes ambient noise levels to exceed the
following:
 The ambient noise level is less than 60 dB L den
and the project increases noise levels by 5 dB or
more.
 The ambient noise level is 60-65 dB L dn and the
project increases noise levels by 3 dB or more The
ambient noise level is greater than 65 dB Ldn and
the project increases noise levels by 1.5 dB or
more.


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Packet Pg. 499 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 1

10.1-I-17
Require disclosure of potential significant noise
impacts as part of real estate developments and
transfers of land ownership within areas zoned for
Mixed-Use development.

10.1-I-18
Require new projects to mitigate to below Federal
Transit Administration-recommended criteria for
potential building architectural damage for groundborne vibration at nearby residential and commercial uses, and implement vibration control measures in
areas of infill development as necessary.

10.1-I-19
Protect sensitive receptors including residential land
uses, hospitals, convalescent homes, schools, churches, and sensitive wildlife habitat including rare,
threatened, or endangered species by measuring noise
at multiple receptors for future projects that have the potential to exceed the CNEL normally acceptable
decibel levels and require mitigation to reduce noise
levels to acceptable levels.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 500 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 1 12 Air Quality and GHG Emissions
Chronic exposure to air pollutants poses serious threats to the health of a community and include increased respiratory infections, absent days from work and school, and in some cases shortened life spans. These concerns affect overall quality of life and can also degrade agriculture and the natural environment. To improve air quality, the City of San Ramon strives to reduce emissions for both their own residents and the benefit of other communities within the region.

The City of San Ramon recognizes that this region continues to experience poor air quality on too many days each year and that the combined activities of the community and the region contribute to the generation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions potentially linked to global climate change impacts. The Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Element establishes a central place for policies to address the wide range of air quality issues facing the City of San Ramon and the region, including its role in reducing GHG emissions.

Global climate change is an issue that the State of California has determined to be of statewide concern and that mandates local action throughout all of California. With the enactment of Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, local governments are tasked with addressing GHG emission sources under their purview that potentially contribute to climate change. The General Plan provides an avenue for local government actions to reduce GHG emissions associated with new and existing development. The City has been proactive in addressing air quality and GHG emissions by preparing the 2011 Climate Action Plan, an updated GHG emissions inventory in 2014, and the previous General Plan Element.

The Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Element provides a platform within the General Plan for local action to address regional, State, and federal air quality and climate change concerns. Local government will play a role in the successful implementation of AB 32. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) recognized the importance of local action and recommended a reduction in greenhouse GHG emissions by 40 percent from 1990 levels, and substantially advance toward our 2050 climate goal to reduce GHG emissions by 80 percent below 1990 levels. The proposed reduction will ensure that municipal and community-wide emissions are consistent with the State’s reduction targets.

12.1 Connections with Other General Plan Elements
The Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Element provides a bridge that inter-connects with other General Plan Elements. Air quality is impacted by many aspects of our built environment and the lifestyle choices we make. The impacts and interrelationships are characterized as land use, transportation, air quality, economic development, and climate change connection.

This connection is based on the idea that the design, density, and pattern of land uses impact the transportation system that serves those land uses, and the transportation system, in turn, impacts the amount people drive and options for using less polluting and energy-consuming modes of transportation such as walking, bicycling, and transit. The policies of the Land Use Element with connections to air quality are those supporting compact development, density near transit, pedestrian orientation, and design supportive of walking and bicycling. The Traffic and Circulation Element lays out the policies for developing the transportation system in a way that is consistent with and accommodates the growth planned in the Land Use Element. Traffic and Circulation

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 501 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 2 Element policies, with air quality benefits, include those that promote the development of a multimodal transportation system and prevent excessive traffic congestion. More specifically, policies in the Traffic and Circulation Element encourage “Complete Streets” designs that provide direct pedestrian connections, complete sidewalks, safe and comfortable bicycle paths, and routes connecting frequently accessed destinations with residences to help increase use of transit, walking, and bicycling. The Economic Development Element encourages Transportation Demand Management and transit as a means to solve workforce transportation issues that affect economic development, but also impacts air quality and the traffic circulation system. The Housing Element provides policies and programs that support energy conservation in new and renovated housing, which translates into greenhouse gas reductions. The Growth Management, Public Facilities, and Utilities Elements contain policies that promote reduced pollutant and GHG emissions through energy savings related to water conservation and reclaimed water use.

12.2 Air Quality Pollutants and Bay Area Air Basin Attainment Status The following is an overview of air quality issues affecting this region. Air quality in San Ramon and the rest of the Bay Area has improved markedly since the regulation of air pollutant emissions began over 50 years ago. Although the air is cleaner, it still exceeds state and federal health-based standards on occasion for some pollutants. The federal health-based standards are called the National Ambient Air Quality Standards or (“federal standards”). State standards are called the California Ambient Air Quality Standards or (“California standards”). Information regarding the federal and state standards and the pollutants of concern in the Bay Area is provided below.

CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS
There are federal standards for six common air pollutants, called criteria air pollutants, which were identified in the federal Clean Air Act of 1970. The six criteria pollutants are:
 Ozone (O3)
 Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
 Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
 Carbon monoxide (CO)
 Lead
 Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
The federal standards were set to protect public health, including the health of sensitive individuals; thus, the standards are revised as more medical research becomes available regarding the health effects of the criteria pollutants. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for the federal standards.

The California standards have been set for the 10 air pollutants designated in the California Clean Air Act. In addition to the pollutants listed above with federal standards, California has adopted standards for the following pollutants:
 Visibility-reducing particles
 Sulfates
 Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
 Vinyl chloride

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 502 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 3 Although California air quality standards are often more stringent than federal standards, the regulatory focus is often placed on achieving the federal standards. The primary reason for the focus on federal standards is that the federal Clean Air Act contains plan submittal and attainment deadlines that, if not met, result in sanctions and other federally enforceable requirements. The California Clean Air Act requires the implementation of all feasible controls and attainment of air quality standards at the earliest practicable date but contains no penalties or sanctions. The Bay Area has attained all of the federal standards except for the new 8-hour ozone and 24-hour PM2.5 standards, so its focus has turned to meeting the more stringent state mandates.

The agency with jurisdiction over air quality in this area is the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). The BAAQMD is responsible for controlling and permitting industrial pollution sources and widespread, area-wide sources, and for adopting local air quality plans and rules. The BAAQMD adopted a number of plans to attain state and federal standards over the years. Most recently, the 2017 Clean Air Plan was adopted, which includes a wide range of control measures designed to decrease emissions of the air pollutants that are most harmful to Bay Area residents, such as particulate matter, ozone, and toxic air contaminants; to reduce emissions of methane and other “super-greenhouse gasses” that are potent climate pollutants in the near-term; and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion.

Although the Bay Area is in attainment for annual PM2.5 State and national standards, the Bay Area is not in attainment of the 24-hr PM2.5 national standard. Therefore, the Air District continues its efforts to reduce local PM emissions.

As shown in Table 12-1, the Bay Area is designated “nonattainment” for the state 1-hour ozone standard, the state PM10 standard, and the state PM2.5 standard. The Bay Area is also designated “nonattainment” for the federal 8-hour ozone standard and the federal 24-hour PM2.5 standard. This means that Bay Area residents experience unhealthy air quality at times.

Table 12-1: Bay Area Air Basin Attainment Status
Pollutant Averaging Time State Status Federal Status
Ozone 1-hour Nonattainment Not Applicable1
8-hour Nonattainment Nonattainment
Carbon monoxide 1-hour and 8-hour Attainment Attainment3 Nitrogen dioxide 1-hour Attainment Unclassified4
Annual No state standard Attainment
Sulfur dioxide 24-hour; 1-hour Attainment Attainment
PM10 24-hour Nonattainment Unclassified
Annual Nonattainment No federal standard5
PM2.5 24-hour No state standard Nonattainment6
Annual Nonattainment Attainment
Notes:
1 The national 1-hour ozone standard was revoked by EPA on June 15, 2005. 32 In April 1998, the Bay Area was redesignated to attainment for the national 8-hour carbon monoxide standard. 4 To attain this standard, the 3-year average of the 98th percentile of the daily maximum 1-hour average at each monitor within an area must not exceed 0.100ppm (effective January 22, 2010)5 EPA revoked the annual PM10 standard on September 21, 2006. 6 EPA designated the Bay Area nonattainment of the 24-hour PM2.5 standard on December 22, 2008, and the designation will go into effect

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 503 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 4 Table 12-1: Bay Area Air Basin Attainment Status
Pollutant Averaging Time State Status Federal Status
90 days after publication in the Federal Register.

Source: Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Air Quality Standards and Attainment Status, 2014.

Air pollution readings are recorded at monitoring stations around the Bay Area to provide information to the public regarding the current air quality and to determine if violations of air quality standards have occurred. The San Ramon monitoring station is on Alcosta Boulevard. This site monitors for O3 and NO2. The next closest monitoring station to San Ramon is located in Livermore approximately 11 miles to the east-southeast. While the data is not specific to the City of San Ramon, air quality conditions are expected to be similar for adjacent communities and may suggest local air quality concerns. The Livermore monitoring station stopped monitoring PM10 in 2008. No other stations close to San Ramon have the same meteorological conditions and would therefore not be representative of emissions in San Ramon. The maximum recorded concentrations at the Livermore monitoring station and the number of days that state and federal air quality standards were exceeded during 2011 through 2013 are provided in Table 12-2.

Table 12-2: Ambient Air Monitoring Data (2011–2013)
Air Pollutant, Averaging Time
(Units) 2011 2012 2013
Ozone (Livermore)
Max 1 Hour (ppm) 0.115 0.102 0.096
Days > CAAQS (0.09 ppm) 3 2 3
Max 8 Hour (ppm) 0.084 0.090 0.077
Days > CAAQS (0.07 ppm) 2 3 1
Days > NAAQS (0.08 ppm) 9 4 2
Particulate Matter (PM2.5) (Livermore)
Mean (µg/m3) 7.8 6.6 8.4
24 Hour (µg/m3) 45.4 31.1 40.1
Days > NAAQS (35 µg/m3) 2 0 4
Abbreviations:
> = exceed ppm = parts per million µg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter max = maximum CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standard
NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Mean = Annual Arithmetic Mean Source: CARB Air Quality Data/Statistics/Top 4 Summary, 2013.

TOXIC AIR CONTAMINANTS
Health and Safety Code Section 39655 defines toxic air contaminants as an air pollutant that the California Air Resources Board or the Department of Food and Agriculture finds “may cause or contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious illness, or which may pose present or potential hazard to human health.”

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 504 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 5 When approving discretionary projects, the City has the ability to consider the location of potential sources of hazardous emissions to ensure appropriate distances from existing and planned sensitive land uses. Likewise, when considering the location of potentially sensitive land uses near stationary and mobile sources of toxic air contaminants, the City should exercise discretion to ensure that potential impacts are properly addressed and appropriately mitigated.

A toxic air contaminant (TAC) of concern for the City is Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5). PM2.5 is a complex mixture of substances that includes elements such as carbon and metals; compounds such as nitrates, organics, and sulfates; and complex mixtures such as diesel exhaust and wood smoke.

PM2.5 can be emitted directly from manmade sources and can also be formed in the atmosphere through reactions among different pollutants; however, assessing local community risk and hazard impacts relates only to direct PM2.5 emissions, not those formed in the atmosphere.

Evidence suggests that PM2.5 is the most harmful air pollutant in the San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin in terms of the associated impact on public health. TAC and PM2.5 fall within two broad categories, stationary sources and mobile sources. Common stationary source types of TAC and PM2.5 emissions include gasoline stations, dry cleaners, and diesel backup generators. Stationary sources are regulated through BAAQMD permit requirements and are generally identified on local inventories and acknowledged and addressed through local environmental review.

Common mobile sources are on-road motor vehicles on freeways and roads such as trucks and cars, and off-road sources such as construction equipment. Mobile sources are prevalent in many communities based on regional roadway networks that carry higher levels of vehicle and truck traffic.

12.3 Climate Change and Greenhouse Gases Legislation
The greenhouse effect results when shortwave solar radiation is readily transmitted through the atmosphere on the way in, but longer-wave infrared radiation is prevented from being transmitted out as it is absorbed by atmospheric gases often referred to as greenhouse gases. The greenhouse gases trap heat near the surface of the earth, resulting in heating of the atmosphere. Rising levels of greenhouse gases that result from human activities are of concern because of the potential to change the global climate in an adverse way. Although uncertainty regarding the cause of climate change exists, there is broad scientific consensus that actions should be taken to reduce GHG emissions as well as air quality criteria pollutants.

The State of California has taken action with the adoption of the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). The legislative findings from AB 32 articulate California’s position regarding why action is needed:
“Global warming poses a serious threat to the economic well-being, public health, natural resources, and the environment of California. The potential adverse impacts of global warming include the exacerbation of air quality problems, a reduction in the quality and supply of water to the State from the Sierra snowpack, a rise in sea levels resulting in the displacement of thousands of coastal businesses and residences, damage to marine ecosystems and the natural environment, and an increase in the incidences of infectious diseases, asthma, and other human health-related problems.

5.9.b
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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 6

STATE LEGISLATION
State Legislation Assembly Bill 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 The California State Legislature adopted Assembly Bill 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), which charged CARB to develop regulations on how the State would address global climate change. AB 32 focuses on reducing GHG emissions in California. Greenhouse gases, as defined under AB 32, include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), sulfurhexafluoride (SF6), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and perfluorocarbons (PFCs).

CARB approved the 1990 GHG emissions level of 427 MMTCO2e on December 6, 2007 (CARB 2007).

Therefore, emissions generated in California in 2020 were required to be equal to or less than 427 MMTCO2e. Emissions in 2020 in a “business as usual” scenario are estimated to be 596 MMTCO2e, which did not account for reductions from AB 32 regulations (California Air Resources Board 2008).

At that level, a 28 percent reduction was required to achieve the 427 million MTCO2e 1990 inventory. In October 2010, CARB prepared an updated 2020 forecast to account for the recession and slower forecasted growth. The forecasted inventory without the benefits of adopted regulation is now estimated at 545 million MTCO2e. Therefore, under the updated forecast, a 21.7 percent reduction from “business as usual” (BAU) is required to achieve 1990 levels (CARB 2010). Executive Order B-30-15 and SB 32 extended the goals of AB 32 and set a 2030 goal of reducing emissions 40 percent from 2020 levels.

AB 32 requires CARB to update the Scoping Plan at least every five years.

Executive Order B-30-15
In his January 2015 inaugural address, Governor Brown identified actions in five key climate change strategy “pillars” necessary to meet California’s ambitious climate change goals. These five pillars are:
 Reducing today’s petroleum use in cars and trucks by up to 50 percent.  Increasing from one-third to 50 percent our electricity derived from renewable sources.  Doubling the efficiency savings achieved at existing buildings and making heating fuels cleaner.
 Reducing the release of methane, black carbon, and other short-lived climate pollutants.  Managing farm and rangelands, forests, and wetlands so they can store carbon.

Consistent with these goals, Governor Brown signed Executive Order B-30-15 in April 2015:
 Establishing a California GHG reduction target of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.  Calling on CARB, in coordination with sister agencies, to update the AB 32 Climate Change Scoping Plan to incorporate the 2030 target.
 Building out the “sixth pillar” of the Governor’s strategy–to safeguard California in the face of a changing climate–highlighting the need to prioritize actions to reduce GHG emissions and build resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Senate Bill 32 and Assembly Bill 197
SB 32 (2016) affirms the importance of addressing climate change by codifying into statute the GHG emissions reductions target of at least 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 contained in Governor

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Packet Pg. 506 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 7 Brown’s Executive Order B-30-15. The 2030 target reflects the same science that informs the agreement reached in Paris by the 2015 Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), aimed at keeping the global temperature increase below 2 degrees Celsius (°C). The California 2030 target represents the most ambitious GHG reduction goal for North America. Based on the emissions reductions directed by SB 32, the annual 2030 statewide target emissions level for California is 260 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO2 e).

The companion bill to SB 32, AB 197 (2016), provides additional direction to CARB on the following areas related to the adoption of strategies to reduce GHG emissions:
 Requires annual posting of GHG, criteria, and toxic air contaminant data throughout the State, organized by local and sub-county level for stationary sources and by at least a county level for mobile sources.
 Requires CARB, when adopting rules and regulations to achieve emissions reductions and to protect the State’s most affected and disadvantaged communities, to consider the social costs of GHG emissions and prioritize both of the following:
o Emissions reductions rules and regulations that result in direct GHG emissions reductions at large stationary sources of GHG emissions and direct emissions reductions from mobile sources.
o Emissions reductions rules and regulations that result in direct GHG emissions reductions from sources other than those listed above.
 Directs CARB, in the development of each scoping plan, to identify for each emissions reduction measure:
o The range of projected GHG emissions reductions that result from the measure. o The range of projected air pollution reductions that result from the measure. o The cost-effectiveness, including avoided social costs, of the measure.

Senate Bill 1383
SB 1383 (2016) requires the development, adoption, and implementation of a Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Strategy. It includes the following specific goals for 2030 from 2013 levels:
 40 percent reduction in methane.
 40 percent reduction in hydrofluorocarbon gases.
 50 percent reduction in anthropogenic black carbon
Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), such as black carbon, fluorinated gases, and methane, are powerful climate forces that have a dramatic and detrimental effect on air quality, public health, and climate change. These pollutants create a warming influence on the climate that is many times more potent than that of carbon dioxide. In March 2017, the Board adopted the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy (SLCP Strategy) establishing a path to decrease GHG emissions and displace fossil-based natural gas use. Strategies include avoiding landfill methane emissions by reducing the disposal of organics through edible food recovery, composting, in-vessel digestion, and other processes; and recovering methane from wastewater treatment facilities, and manure methane at dairies, and using the methane as a renewable source of natural gas to fuel vehicles or generate electricity. The SLCP Strategy also identifies steps to reduce natural gas leaks from oil and gas wells, pipelines, valves, and pumps to improve safety, avoid energy losses, and reduce methane emissions associated with natural gas use. Lastly, the SLCP Strategy also identifies measures that can

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 8 reduce hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions at national and international levels, in addition to Statelevel action that includes an incentive program to encourage the use of low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, and limitations on the use of high-GWP refrigerants in new refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment.

Assembly Bill 617
AB 617 (2017) strengthens air quality monitoring and reduces air pollution at a community level in communities affected by a high cumulative burden of exposure to pollution. CARB was required to prepare a monitoring plan in 2018 that assessed the State’s current air monitoring network with recommendations for a set of high-priority locations around the State to deploy community focused air monitoring systems. Local air districts were required to deploy air monitoring systems in the selected high priority locations by July 1, 2019. Therefore, CARB evaluated and selected additional locations for community air monitoring on an annual basis, which included San Ramon. The air districts must also deploy air monitoring systems within one year of CARB’s selection of the highpriority locations. In addition to the monitoring plan, the bill requires CARB to develop a statewide strategy to reduce criteria pollutants and toxic air contaminants (TACs) in communities affected by high cumulative exposure burdens through approved community emissions reduction programs developed by local air districts, in partnership with residents in the affected communities; requires CARB to establish a uniform system of annual reporting of criteria pollutants and TACs for the existing statewide air monitoring network; and expedites implementation of best available retrofit control technology in non-attainment areas.

Senate Bill 375
State Senate Bill 375 (SB 375) assures that the decisions on how to achieve travel-related GHG emissions from cars and light trucks will remain in the hands of locally elected officials. SB 375 aligns what have been three separate planning processes—one for transportation, housing, and for reducing GHG emissions—into a single process. The legislation provides more certainty for General Plans and better coordination between state agencies.

SB 375 provides exemptions from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for residential projects that are consistent with the regional plan to achieve greenhouse gas reductions. It provides a foundation for a comprehensive approach to reducing GHG emissions from the land use and transportation sector. SB 375 seeks to harness funding and regulatory incentives to align transportation, housing, and land use planning.

Especially important for local government are the regional Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) and the Alternative Planning Strategy (APS) requirements of the legislation. CARB must certify that the region’s SCS will achieve its GHG emission reduction targets. Projects outside the approved SCS would not qualify for federal transportation funding. Although these measures directly impact RTPs prepared by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), the success of the Sustainable Communities Strategy/Alternative Planning Strategy depends on the land use decisions by local land use agencies.

The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) originally adopted Plan Bay Area, which includes the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS), on July 18, 2013 (ABAG 2013). The RTP describes the strategy to achieve the SB 375 targets for the Bay Area. Plan Bay Area 2050 was adopted in 2021 to plan for the next 30 years of regional growth.

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 9

12.4 Greenhouse Gas Types and Sources
The EPA describes the global warming potential as the potential of a gas or aerosol to trap heat in the atmosphere; Individual greenhouse gas compounds have varying properties, global warming potential and atmospheric lifetimes. To simplify the measurement and quantification of global warming potential (GWP) associated with GHG emissions, carbon dioxide has been established as the reference gas. Carbon dioxide has a global warming potential of 1, which easily allows other greenhouse gases to be converted to carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) to simplify calculations. The calculation of the carbon dioxide equivalent is a consistent methodology for comparing GHG emissions, since it normalizes various GHG emissions to a consistent metric. Methane’s warming potential of 21 indicates that methane has a 21 times greater warming effect than carbon dioxide on a molecule per molecule basis. A carbon dioxide equivalent is the mass emissions of an individual greenhouse gas multiplied by its GWP.

Table 12-3 provides a description of the characteristics of greenhouse gases (GHG) that are regulated under AB 32.

Table 12-3: Greenhouse Gas Descriptions
Greenhouse Gas Description and Physical
Properties Sources
Methane (CH4)
Methane is a flammable gas and is the
main component of natural gas. Global
Warming Potential (GWP) = 21.

Methane is extracted from geological
deposits (natural gas fields). Other
sources are from landfills, decay of
organic matter, fermentation of manure,
and cattle.

Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Nitrous oxide is also known as laughing
gas and is a colorless greenhouse gas.

GWP = 310.

Microbial processes in soil and water,
fuel combustion, and industrial
processes.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) Carbon dioxide is an odorless, colorless, natural greenhouse gas. GWP = 1.

Carbon dioxide is emitted from natural
and anthropogenic sources. Natural
sources include decomposition of dead
organic matter; respiration of bacteria,
plants, animals, and fungus; evaporation
from oceans; and volcanic outgassing.

Anthropogenic sources are from burning
coal, oil, natural gas, and wood.

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
The HFCs with the largest measured
atmospheric concentrations are HFC-23
and HFC-134a (10 ppt), and HFC-152a (1
ppt).

GWPs:

HFC-23 = 11,700
HFC-134a = 1,300
HFC-152a = 140
HFCs are synthetic chemicals that are
used as a substitute for
chlorofluorocarbons in applications such
as automobile air conditioners and
refrigerants.

Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
PFCs have stable molecular structures
and only break down by ultraviolet rays
about 60 kilometers above Earth’s
surface. Because of this, PFCs have very
long lifetimes, between 10,000 and
Two main sources of PFCs are primary
aluminum production and semiconductor
manufacturing.

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Packet Pg. 509 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 10 Table 12-3: Greenhouse Gas Descriptions
Greenhouse Gas Description and Physical
Properties Sources
50,000 years. GWPs range from 6,500 to
9,200.

Sulfur hexafluoride
Sulfur hexafluoride is an inorganic,
odorless, colorless, and nontoxic,
nonflammable gas. Concentrations in
the 1990s were about 4 ppt. It has the
highest GWP of any gas evaluated,
23,900.

This gas is man-made and used for
insulation in electric power transmission
equipment, in the magnesium industry, in
semiconductor manufacturing, and as a
tracer gas.

Notes:
ppm = parts per million; ppt = parts per trillion (measure of concentration in the atmosphere); GWP = global warming potential.

Source: Compiled from a variety of sources, including EPA, Global Warming Potentials and Atmospheric Lifetimes, 2006 and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2007.

Figure 12-1 shows the generation of California’s GHG emissions by major economic sector. The top three sectors are transportation, electric power generation, and industrial fuel use. These sectors are integral to our daily activities and so reducing emissions from these sectors is likely to affect many aspects of our lives.

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Packet Pg. 510 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 11 It is instructive to consider GHG emissions at a smaller scale for perspective. The following examples are from emission estimates from CARB:
 1 kWh of electricity = approximately 1 lb. CO2e
 1 therm of natural gas = approximately 12 lbs. CO2e
 1 gallon of gasoline = approximately 20 lbs. CO2e
 1 mile of driving at 20 miles per gallon = 1 lb. CO2e  California 2019 per person emissions = 10.5 metric tons/year CO2e

12.5 Federal, State, Regional, and Local Responsibilities The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for international, national, and interstate air pollution issues and policies. The EPA sets national vehicle and stationary source emission standards, oversees approval of all State Implementation Plans, and provides research and guidance in air pollution programs.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is the state agency with primary authority over State air quality regulation and is responsible for developing and periodically updating the California standards. The CARB is responsible for the California State Implementation Plan required to demonstrate attainment and continued compliance with federal standards. Because of California’s severe air quality challenges, the federal Clean Air Act authorizes California to adopt mobile source emission standards that are more stringent than imposed by the EPA. The CARB regulates on-road and off-road mobile sources, consumer products, and fuels. Other responsibilities include air quality research on health effects, atmospheric chemistry, air quality modeling, monitoring and other implementation programs.

Figure 12-1: California GHG emissions Inventory 2000-2019 Source: California Air Resources Board Emissions Inventory 2000-2019.

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 12 The BAAQMD is responsible for air quality regulations at the regional and local level and regulates stationary (industrial) air pollutant emission sources, area-wide sources, and certain transportation sources. The BAAQMD also operates grant and incentive programs, conducts air monitoring, and enforces its rules and regulations. The BAAQMD prepares plans to attain state and federal standards, including the Clean Air Plan to provide a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions from stationary and mobile emission sources. The plan addresses ozone, particulate matter, air toxics, and GHG emission in a single, integrated plan.

The City of San Ramon works cooperatively with the BAAQMD, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), and the Bay Area Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) on air quality issues related to land use and transportation. Local government’s control of development and its ability to condition new development, to impose mitigation measures, and to set development standards provide substantial opportunities to reduce air pollutant emissions.

STATE TARGETS
California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2022 Scoping Plan The CARB Scoping Plan contains emission targets for the year 2020 of 427 million metric tons of CO2e (MMTCO2e) based on a goal of returning California’s emissions to 1990 levels. California’s 2006 emission inventory was 484 MMTCO2e, but is projected to grow to 545 MMTCO2e by 2020 if no action were taken to limit the cumulative increase in emissions related to population and economic growth. This was revised from 596 to 545 MMTCO2e after updated data from the 2000-2010 inventory. Therefore, reaching the target level of 427 MMTCO2e by 2020 requires reductions amounting to 118 MMTCO2e or 21.7 percent below projected 2020 levels.

AB 32 requires California to reduce its emission inventory to 1990 levels by 2020. The State reached this goal in 2016. Additionally, the State has achieved the goal of Executive Order S-05-03 to reduce emissions to 2000 levels by 2010. The State is currently working towards the SB 32 goals, which requires California to reduce emissions to 40 percent below the 1990 levels by 2030.

San Ramon GHG Emissions
Table 12-4 provides San Ramon’s 2019 community GHG emissions (GHG) inventory. This is an updated inventory from the previous 2014 community GHG emissions inventory. The inventory provides a baseline to identify emission reduction opportunities and to model future year emission targets. The percentage contribution of each sector is also illustrated in Figure 12-2.

Table 12-4: San Ramon Community GHG emissions in 2019 by Sector Sector Equivalent CO2
(tons/year) Equivalent CO2 (%)
Motor Vehicles 226,299 52
Electricity (Residential, Commercial,
Municipal, Water Transport) 42,249 10
Natural Gas (Residential, Commercial,
Municipal) 117360 27
Waste 15,376 4

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 13 Table 12-4: San Ramon Community GHG emissions in 2019 by Sector Sector Equivalent CO2
(tons/year) Equivalent CO2 (%)
Offroad equipment 33,415 8
Wastewater Treatment Processes 3,369 1
Total 438,067 100.0
Notes:

MT CO2e = metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
Totals may not add due to rounding.

Figure 12-2: San Ramon Community GHG emissions Inventory 2019 Source: Rincon Consultants, 2022.

SAN RAMON STRATEGIES
=San Ramon has committed to reducing local air pollutant and GHG emissions within the community through actions under its purview. Over 90% of City residents are in MCE that has 97% GHG-free.

The City’s influence over the density and design of land use projects and the local transportation system allows for reductions in transportation-related emissions. The City also has substantial influence over the energy use from new development through conditions of approval based on proportional impacts and established regulation, CEQA mitigation measures, design standards, green building standards, and incentive programs. The City can reduce emissions from government operations by incorporating green building techniques, and energy efficiency into City capital improvement projects and purchasing decisions. To further this effort, the General Plan 2030 called for the formation of a City Council appointed body to monitor the City’s progress in implementation of the City’s Climate Action Plan and other programs to achieve the reduction targets identified in AB 32. The General Plan 2040 continues the policies of monitoring and updating the CAP as necessary to achieve reduction targets.

The Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Element includes policies that support local actions, including:

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Packet Pg. 513 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 14  Cooperation with regional agencies and private companies on multi-jurisdictional strategies
 Encouraging smart growth
 Supporting transit-oriented development
 Promoting multimodal transit and Complete Streets
 Supporting pedestrian-oriented development
 Providing facilities that encourage bicycling
 Requiring solar-ready roofs where feasible
 Establishing green building standards
 Promoting water conservation
 Requiring recycling and solid waste reduction
 Promoting energy conservation
 Supporting the use of renewable energy sources and low-carbon fuels including electric and fuel cell (hydrogen) vehicles
 Encouraging Transportation Demand Management programs

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (CAP)
The City has prepared a Climate Action Plan as the primary implementation strategy for its greenhouse gas policies. The CAP document contains the following components:
 Baseline and future year emission inventories for the community and local government operations;
 Emission reduction estimates from potential reduction measures and strategies;  Emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2045;
 Descriptions of strategies selected to achieve targets; and  Implementation plan with mechanisms for monitoring and course corrections.

SITING OF SENSITIVE RECEPTORS
A sensitive receptor is one where people live, play, or convalesce for extended periods of time, especially those particularly vulnerable to air pollution such as seniors, children, and people with respiratory illnesses (CARB 2005). Examples of receptors include residences, schools and school yards, parks and playgrounds, daycare centers, nursing homes, and medical facilities. Residences can include houses, apartments, and senior living complexes. Medical facilities can include hospitals, convalescent homes, and health clinics. Playgrounds could be play areas associated with parks or community centers.

Policies address the location of sources of hazardous emissions as well as sensitive land uses in order to minimize or avoid potential health risks to people that might result from hazardous air pollutant emissions. When siting a new source or receptor, the existing or future proposed sources of TAC and/or PM2.5 emissions that would adversely affect individuals within the planned project should be examined. Stationary sources are typically known and are identified on existing inventories; however, mobile sources such as freeways and high traffic arterial roadways are more difficult to identify with certainty absent additional analysis.

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Packet Pg. 514 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 15 To address the issue of mobile toxic air contaminants and/or PM2.5 emissions associated with the local transportation network, Figure 12-3 delineates a 1,000 foot screening zone from identified potential mobile sources. The screening zones have been established based on the average daily trip on the roadway (over 10,000 average daily trips) and distance criteria (1,000 feet) provided for in the BAAQMD CEQA guidelines. Analysis of sensitive receptors and these screening zones will assist in identifying potential conflicts between air quality issues and land uses. The fact that a sensitive receptor land use is proposed on a property within the established screening zone does not exclude approval of such uses, but rather suggests that additional air quality and health screening should be considered based on the specific project characteristic and location to determine any potential health impacts and if mitigation measures may be necessary.

Figure 12-3: Mobile Source Air Quality Study Zones

REGIONAL COORDINATION
Air quality is a truly regional concern. Air pollutants can travel long distances and do not recognize political boundaries. Regional travel is a substantial contributor to air quality impacts affecting the region and San Ramon. The City’s participation in regional air quality and transportation programs and initiatives can help ensure consistency in implementation and best use of resources.

GUIDING POLICIES – REGIONAL COORDINATION

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 16

12.4-G-1
Work with the California Air Resources Board and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to improve air quality in the region and San Ramon to meet State and federal
ambient air quality standards.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – REGIONAL COORDINATION

12.4-I-1
Comply with standards set by local and regional agencies to achieve and maintain air quality standards that are
consistent with State law.

Effective governmental coordination and cooperation in on-going government programs requires proactive and sustained effort. The differing responsibilities and constituencies of cities and counties, along with those of state, federal and regional agencies, will require a commitment by all to reduce land use-based sources of air pollution that affect our public health and quality of life. Working together for a common interest can multiply the resources available to accomplish air quality goals.

12.4-I-2
Encourage coordination with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District (BAAQMD) in monitoring the City’s progress in
meeting greenhouse gas emissions targets.

The appointed body will be responsible for overseeing the appropriate City department(s) who are responsible for implementing the City’s Climate Action Plan. To coordinate efforts, a Climate Change Coordinator should be identified who will be a single point of contact to coordinate efforts to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts may include expanded recycling programs, water conservation, review of maintenance practices, green building programs, fleet services, etc.

12.4-I-3
Utilize the CEQA process for applicable regulatory guidance, such as the BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines to
disclose potential air quality and climate change impacts from discretionary projects under City review.

Stationary and mobile TAC and/or PM2.5 emissions should be evaluated in the context of existing and planned sensitive receptors. Figure 12-1 identifies areas within the City, based on roadway traffic volumes may result in potential health concerns sensitive receptors absent project specific mitigation as a result of mobile TAC. New discretionary projects, classified as sensitive receptors, located within the established buffer zones should conduct additional air quality analysis and identify any necessary mitigation measures.

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12.4-I-4
Use the City’s environmental review process to require
mitigation measures, as applicable, consistent with the Climate Action Plan (CAP) for new development to impacts from greenhouse gas emissions and hazardous air
pollutants.

Mitigation measures appropriate for the type of project and its physical location can reduce air quality and greenhouse emissions impacts through reduced energy use and motor vehicle use. The adoption of SB 743 has changed the way traffic impacts are mitigated based on vehicle miles traveled as opposed to a delay and level of service standard.

12.4-I-5
Comply with the regional Clean Air Plan by locally
implementing BAAQMD best management practices and
greenhouse gas reductions consistent with the targets
identified in the San Ramon CAP.

The regional Clean Air Plan includes transportation control measures that reduce vehicle emissions by increasing transit use, carpooling, bicycling and walking. Many of these measures are reliant on local government action for implementation. The City works closely with the BAAQMD and the MTC to implement applicable measures in San Ramon.

12.4-I-6
Educate residents on the linkage between land use,
transportation, and their impacts on water, energy use, and air pollution. Efforts should include educational materials through a variety of effective and engaging platforms and venues.

Without the understanding and support of the general public, local air quality and climate change prevention programs cannot be expected to achieve the desired results. Illustrating the livability and other benefits of land use and transportation measures such as increased density near transit or reduced street widths and traffic calming can increase support for these measures. Educating the public on air quality issues is a vital component of a successful air quality program. For example, the BAAQMD’s Spare the Air Program includes measures that encourage the public to reduce polluting activities on bad air days such as ridesharing, free transit passes, and fireplace use curtailment.

12.5 AIR QUALITY, LAND USE, AND TRANSPORTATION
GUIDING POLICIES – AIR QUALITY, LAND USE, AND TRANSPORTATION

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12.5-G-1
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality by encouraging development that integrates land use and transportation planning principles through the creation of compact, mixed-use neighborhoods that are bike and
pedestrian-friendly.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – AIR QUALITY, LAND USE, AND TRANSPORTATION

12.5-I-1
Minimize air pollution through project review, CEQA
evaluation, and conditions of approval that are consistent with CAP GHG emissions targets and BAAQMD toxic air
quality contaminant exposure thresholds

12.5-I-2
Support and encourage projects proposing infill, and mixeduse development that create walkable and bicycle friendly neighborhoods and communities that increase access to
transit.

Strategies that reduce air quality impacts, such as mixed-use development, will encourage people to walk between home and business. Local emissions can also be reduced by incorporating such strategies as Complete Streets, trails and bicycle paths into site design, as well as secure bicycle parking at destinations encouraging people to use their cars less frequently. The City encourages the use of best available technologies in terms of energy efficiency and air pollutant emissions that provide cost-effective emission reductions.

12.5-I-3
Implement the Growth Management program to assess
new development project impacts on transit plans and
facilities to minimize impacts from greenhouse gases and air pollution.

Projects with higher density housing or employment centers that are close to high-quality transit service contribute to the success of the transit system through increased ridership. Conversely, low-density development near transit stations can reduce the effectiveness of the transit system. The City can identify areas along transit corridors or near existing or proposed transit facilities where new growth areas can be planned to maximize their potential for transit service. The City can coordinate and consult with the regional transit agencies on large projects.

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City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 19

12.5-I-4
Consider the City’s jobs to housing ratio when approving development applications to reduce VMT to below the
significance threshold.

12.6 HAZARDOUS EMISSIONS AND PUBLIC HEALTH
GUIDING POLICIES – HAZARDOUS EMISSIONS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

12.6-G-1
Utilize CEQA review and conditions of approval at the plan and project level to implement the Bay Area Air Quality Management District toxic air quality contaminant
exposure criteria to minimize public exposure to hazardous air pollutants that impact public health.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – HAZARDOUS EMISSIONS AND PUBLIC HEALTH

12.6-I-1
In accordance with BAAQMD Air Quality Guidelines, locate sources of hazardous emissions at appropriate distances from existing and planned sensitive land uses to minimize or avoid potential health risks to people that might result from hazardous air pollutant emissions.

Siting decisions for hazardous emission sources and sensitive receptors have the potential to create land use conflicts. Common hazardous emission sources include freeways and high traffic roads, distribution centers, dry cleaners, gasoline stations, diesel engines, and auto body shops. Providing appropriate locations and separation for incompatible land uses for all types of development can minimize conflicts and promote economic growth.

The ARB’s Air Quality and Land Use Handbook provides suggestions for appropriate distances between sensitive uses and sources of hazardous emissions. The Handbook recognizes that local conditions should be considered in application of the guidelines. In addition, the City requires health risk assessments for projects with potential for exposure to significant amounts of toxic and hazardous emissions.

12.6-I-2
Evaluate potential handling, storage, and transport of
hazardous materials in new commercial and industrial
developments to minimize public exposure to hazardous air pollutants.

Development projects that will handle, store, and transport hazardous materials require special consideration and evaluation to ensure that potential accidental releases will not impact the public.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 519 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 20

12.6-I-3
Require construction and grading activities to include
particulate emissions reduction measures in their Grading Manual Standards to limit fugitive dust and particulate pollution related to equipment.

Particulate emissions are generated during construction activities from diesel engines used for most off-road equipment and from soil disturbance during site grading. This implementing policy supports the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s Clean Air Plan. Best management practices for construction and grading such as site watering, and use of diesel particulate filters are often required as mitigation measures in environmental documents and as standard conditions for projects requiring a grading plan.

12.6-I-4
Provide public information on the efforts by BAAQMD to
reduce wood smoke pollution through informational
handouts outlining health concerns related to increased fine particulate pollution, especially during wildfire and Spare the Air events.

Many homes in San Ramon are equipped with fireplaces, which are an important source of localized air pollution.

Wood smoke released from wood burning devices such as fireplaces and wood stoves contains carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and inhalable particulate matter (PM10). The City enforces the BAAQMD’s Spare the Air Program that prohibits wood burning on days when air quality is unhealthful. The program also requires anyone, selling, renting, or leasing a property in the Bay Area to disclose the potential health impacts from air pollution caused by burning wood. Residents must register EPA-certified devices with the Air District to be exempt from the burn ban alerts or will no longer be exempt and subject to penalty for a violation.

12.6-I-5
Comply with BAAQMD CEQA guidance and thresholds as
part of conditions of approval and CEQA review for plans and projects.

12.7 TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT
GUIDING POLICIES – TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT

12.7-G-1
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by shifting to multimodal transportation systems, and zero-emission and lowemission vehicles and car-sharing programs by enhancing existing infrastructure and improving multi-modal
infrastructure options.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 520 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 21

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 521 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 22 IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT

12.7-I-1
The City shall encourage participation in feasible,
affordable, innovative and flexible employer-based trip reduction programs for employees and encourage employer and resident participation in employer-based trip reduction programs, including, but not limited to the BAAQMD
Commuter Benefit Program.

The City leads by example with early implementation and demonstration of trip reduction programs. Current programs include: Guaranteed Ride Home, Vanpool Subsidies, Carpool Incentives, Transit Incentives, Student Transit Ticket Program, and Spare the Air participation. City departments with regular business hours can consider telecommuting programs and flexible work schedules so long as customer service is not affected.

12.7-I-2
City fleet vehicle managers shall develop and maintain a fiscally sound plan to transition to cleaner fleets with a conversion schedule, where feasible, enacted by an
adopted Green Vehicle Procurement Policy.

The City of San Ramon has an active program to upgrade its fleet vehicles and has been adding alternative fuel vehicles to its fleet since 1999. The City is also upgrading facilities to include EV charging stations and additional alternative vehicle infrastructure support.

12.7-I-3
Work with telecommunications companies to develop
state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure within the city, including broadband access and neighborhood
work centers for telecommuting to reduce vehicular
commute travel and related emissions.

Encouraging alternative work environments will help reduce travel by automobile, thus reducing air pollution and traffic congestion. Improvements in telecommunications technology have made telecommuting more viable for larger numbers of employees and have lowered the cost.

12.7-I-4
Provide information to encourage the use of transportation modes that minimize vehicle miles travelled and the
resulting reduction in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Reducing the reliance on automobiles will minimize air pollution in the City. The Traffic and Circulation Element includes policies to encourage Complete Streets, public transit and non-motorized modes of travel and coordination of the City’s Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs with regional plans that are aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 522 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 23

12.7-I-5
Construct and promote infrastructure and facilities that support and encourages the use of low-emission
transportation and alternative modes of travel, including safe and comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian system that connects all parts of the city and development standards that require installation of alternative fuel infrastructure, such as electric vehicle chargers and hydrogen fueling
stations.

The increased use of low-emission vehicles is a cornerstone of implementing the State’s air quality goals and strategy to reduce vehicle emissions that contribute to climate change. Electric vehicle, CNG and fuel cell technology infrastructure development is critical to the expanded use and continued success of these low emission vehicles. The City is in the position to continue to promote the development of this infrastructure as part of the City’s Capital Improvement Program for City facilities and for private property based on new regulations for new development. The City should continue to review and refine its Zoning Ordinance and development standards for residential and commercial properties to ensure that opportunities for low emission vehicle infrastructure are considered as part of the design process and pursued where appropriate. Pre-wiring for single-family development should be assessed based on the nature of the development and installation standards for EV charging stations and similar technologies should be considered for commercial office, retail and multifamily development.

Additionally, programs that encourage people to walk, bicycle, carpool, and use public transit are more successful when infrastructure and facilities are in place that increase convenience and safety of using those modes. San Ramon has developed a wide variety of facilities at locations around the City that fulfill this policy.

Examples include the San Ramon Transit Center, park and ride lots, and bike racks and lockers at the Transit Center. Complete Streets, bicycling and walking are key elements of San Ramon’s circulation system. The City has an extensive network of bikeways, sidewalks, and trails that enhance neighborhood accessibility and help to reduce reliance on the private automobile. All new development is required to consider the bicycle and pedestrian system in their design.

12.7-I-6
Invest in low-emission or zero-emission transportation
infrastructure through Traffic Demand Management
programs and incentivizing trip reduction programs to
reduce traffic congestion and harmful pollutants generated from increased traffic and traffic congestion.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 523 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 24

12.8 ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
GUIDING POLICIES – ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

12.8-G-1
Minimize emissions and potential climate change impacts related to energy consumption through government
operations and the built environment.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

12.8-I-1
Work with developers and homeowners to utilize high
efficiency all-electric appliances and equipment in new and existing development projects within the city through
implementation of on-going State building code standards.

Natural gas-burning appliances used for space heating, water heating, and cooking are a sizable source of NOx and CO2 emissions. Consumption of electricity also causes pollutant emissions from the operation of power plants fueled by fossil fuels. Reduction in local energy demand will reduce overall energy demand, which decreases the expediency for power plant construction. Local efforts to reduce energy consumption can save consumers money and improve air quality. Simple and cost-effective designs, technologies, and methods are available to achieve energy savings and reduce air pollutant emissions.

12.8-I-2
Encourage resident and business participation in Marin
Clean Energy (MCE),as a regional not-for-profit renewable electricity provider.

12.8-I-3
Work with developers during the design review phase to
incorporate features to reduce the heat island effect and energy usage by shading buildings, homes, streets, and
pedestrian walkways, such as increasing tree and
vegetation cover, installing lighter colored building and roofing materials, and using cool pavements.

San Ramon’s Community Forestry Program was adopted in recognition that trees abate noise and air pollution, favorably modify micro-climates, reduce soil erosion and runoff, protect against flood hazards and risk of landslides, enhance the visual environment, encourage quality development, and provide a source of community pride. San Ramon’s Landscape Design Standards require landscaping plans for nearly all development. In parking lots, canopy trees are required to be provided throughout the parking area at the equivalent of one tree for every four spaces, to provide shade. One tree for each 30 linear feet is required adjacent to residential areas. Trees that shade building roofs can reduce the area available for installation of solar panels. The shading potential of trees, accounting for long-term growth potential, should be considered for all projects installing solar panels.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 524 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 25

12.8-I-4
Sustain on-going efforts with utility providers, developers, and local water agencies to promote and encourage
voluntary rebate programs that utilize efficient building designs and energy saving equipment in new and existing development projects within the city.

PG&E and East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) offer incentives, rebates, and technical assistance to residents and businesses wanting to improve energy efficiency and reduce water use.

12.8-I-5
Encourage responsible development standards that, where reasonably available, use reclaimed water and non-potable water sources for particulate matter control, including landscaping and construction activities such as fugitive dust control. The development standards shall require new
development areas that will be foreseeably served with
recycled water to be plumbed with a “purple pipe” system to facilitate the future use of recycled water for landscape irrigation.

Implementation of this standard shall be through the adoption of development regulations and standards such as the Zoning Ordinance and Grading Manual and shall include applicability thresholds based on project size and a waiver process when application of these standards are not practicable in the context of the site conditions, state and federal regulations, water quality regulations, the project size and scope, project impacts or environmental concerns.

EBMUD and the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) jointly provide and distribute recycled municipal water in San Ramon through the San Ramon Valley Recycled Water Program (DERWA). At least half of the City’s parks are currently using recycled water for irrigation. When completed, the program will supply approximately 2 million gallons per day (mgd) to parts of San Ramon, Danville, and Blackhawk. Future plans identify a network of recycled water lines serving the Bishop Ranch office park. Specific project requirements for the use or future use of “purple pipe” and reclaimed water for construction purposes shall be incorporated into the project’s development conditions and permit requirements.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 525 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 26

12.8-I-6
Encourage the use of recycled materials for construction and the efforts of the building industry, water and utility districts, and BAAQMD to promote enhanced energy
conservation and sustainable building standards for new construction.

The City of San Ramon encourages sustainable building practices by providing New Residential Construction Green Building Guidelines that were prepared for Contra Costa County communities. Programs such as LEED certification operated by the U.S. Green Building Council, the Energy Star operated by EPA and the U.S.

Department of Energy, and others provide developers with recognition for going above and beyond current standards. City staff participates on the Green Affordable Housing Coalition that provides information and outreach on green building to the affordable housing community.

12.8-I-7
Work with local conservation organizations, local
contractors and developers, and the building industry to revise or develop design standards that achieve energy
efficiency, weatherization, and carbon neutral buildings relating to solar orientation, using remote sensors that adjust heating, cooling and lighting, cooling building
materials, landscaping, use of cool paving surfaces, parking lot shading and other measures oriented towards reducing energy demand in the built environment.

Measures and practices that have been proven effective over time can be incorporated as City design standards to provide consistent implementation and guidance to developers. Solar orientation can provide benefits from passive design features to solar power generation. Water conserving landscaping and irrigation systems are effective in reducing water demand. Measures such as using cool paving materials with higher reflectivity and shading parking lots can reduce ambient temperatures and cooling loads.

12.8-I-8
Encourage use of materials developed with recycled
materials as well as recycling and composting in order to reduce materials being sent to landfills.

Recycling has been expanded to cover more and more types of materials to meet state recycling and diversion mandates. In addition, to extending the life of the landfill, recycling and diversion results in energy savings related to manufacturing of new items, transport of the waste, and reduced methane production from the decomposition of organic waste. San Ramon has many programs in place, including Composting of Residential Yard Trimmings, Composting of Residential Food Scraps and Soiled Paper, Home Composting Program, Curbside Recycling Program, Multi-Family Dwelling Recycling Program, Commercial Recycling Program, and City Facilities, Events, and Venues Recycling Program. San Ramon Municipal Code, Division B6, Chapters XIII and II, requires projects to divert at least 50 percent of waste from construction/demolition/remodel activities.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 526 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 27

12.8-I-9
Provide recycling programs to directly accept or connect construction companies with those who accept
construction and demolition debris, and provide resources on where recycled materials can be procured for local use.

12.8-I-10
Engage with residents, businesses, haulers, solid waste facilities and local food banks to educate community
members and stakeholders on SB 1383 requirements to
reduce methane emissions that would otherwise be
generated from disposed organic waste at landfills.

12.9 CLIMATE CHANGE
GUIDING POLICIES – CLIMATE CHANGE

12.9-G-1 Reduce the City’s proportionate contribution of greenhouse gas emissions derived from municipal operations.

IMPLEMENTING POLICIES – CLIMATE CHANGE

12.9-I-1
Strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its internal governmental operations and land use activities within its authority 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and
reaching carbon neutrality by 2045. The City will also work with MTC to ensure that the City receives its proportionate fair share reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as may be identified under the provisions of SB 375 (2008 Chapter 728) for any projects or activities requiring approval by MTC.

The California Air Resources Board (ARB) Scoping Plan suggests that cities strive to achieve a 15 percent emission reduction from government operations and the overall community by 2020. As part of SB 375 implementation, the SB 375 Regional Targets Advisory Committee recommended approaches to set greenhouse gas reduction targets to the

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 527 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 28 ARB in September 2009. The ARB adopted final regional targets on September 23, 2010. The City will work with the MTC to determine the City’s proportionate fair share reduction of the regional targets. The results of this process could require revision of the City’s internal greenhouse gas targets.

12.9-I-2
Keep current and maintain the City’s adopted Climate
Action Plan (CAP) as an implementation strategy of the
General Plan 2040.

The CAP shall include an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions within the City.

The CAP shall set out specific policies and actions to be undertaken by the City to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the control of the City. The CAP targets will be updated as necessary during periodic reviews of the CAP based upon the potential of available sources for control, the feasibility of control implementation, and potential for funding to pursue implementation.

12.9-I-3
Conduct regular reviews of San Ramon’s progress towards meeting greenhouse gas emission reduction targets
established in the San Ramon CAP by annually biennially tracking and reporting on communitywide GHG emissions
and updating the GHG emissions inventory and CAP every 4 to 8 years, reporting progress and revising the plan as needed to achieve the plan’s objectives.

The Annual Progress Reports required for the General Plan by Government Code Section 65400(a)(2) also provides a suitable forum to address progress on CAP implementation. Under adaptive management, measures would be assessed periodically for effectiveness and revised or replaced as needed to improve the program.

12.9-I-4
Meet with other local and regional governments to assess federal and state programs and their impact on greenhouse gas emissions and mitigation efforts and revise the CAP as necessary.

Federal and state programs to reduce greenhouse gases often affect the same emission sources that will be targeted for reductions by the City. Work with other local and regional governments to ensure that its efforts enhance state and federal programs and are not duplicative.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 528 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

City of San Ramon, CA | Revised Public Review Draft General Plan | October 2023 29

12.9-I-5
Develop, adopt, and utilize a locally applicable CAP and CEQA significance thresholds consistent with BAAQMD
CEQA GHG guidance for the evaluation of plan and projectlevel greenhouse gas emissions impacts and implementation of identified mitigation.

The 2022 BAAQMD CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts From Land Use Projects and Plans requires that a plan or project (1) be consistent with a qualified local GHG reduction strategy (i.e., CAP) or (2) be 100 percent electric; provide EV charging and parking as required by CalGreen Tier 2 standards, and achieve 15 percent below regionwide vehicle miles traveled. The City of San Ramon is in the process of adopting a qualified GHG reduction strategy (i.e., 2023 CAP).

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 529 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 13

LIST OF ACRONYMS
AB: Assembly Bill
ABAG: Association of Bay Area Governments
ACS: American Community Survey
ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act
AMI: Area Median Income
APS: Alternative Planning Strategy
ARB: Architectural Review Board
ARB: California Air Resources Board
BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District
BACT: Best Available Control Technology
BART: Bay Area Rapid Transit
BAU: business as usual
BMP: Best Management Practice
BMR: Below-Market Rate
CAL FIRE: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CALTRANS: California Department of Transportation
CAP: Climate Action Plan
CAR: California Association of Realtors
CASA: Community Assisted Shared Appreciation Program
CC&Rs: Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions
CCCTA: Central Contra Costa Transit Authority
CCSP: Crow Canyon Specific Plan
CCTA: Contra Costa Transportation Authority
CDBG: Community Development Block Grant
CDFW: California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEPA: California Environmental Protection Agency
CEQA: California Environmental Quality Act
CERT: Community Emergency Response Team
CFD: Community Facilities District
CHAS: Housing and Urban Development Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy CHFA: California Housing Finance Agency

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 530 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 14 CIP: Capital Improvement Program
CIWMB: California Integrated Waste Management Board
CMFNH: California Multifamily New Homes
CMP: Congestion Management Plan
CNEL: Community Noise Equivalent Level
CNPS: California Native Plant Society
CPTED: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
CSA: County Service Area
dB: Decibel
dBA: Decibel A-Weighted
DDS: State Department of Developmental Services
DERWA: Dublin San Ramon Services District and East Bay Municipal Utilities District Recycled Water Authority
DNL: Day-Night Average Noise Level
DSRSD: Dublin San Ramon Services District
DTSC: Department of Toxic Substances Control, State of California DU: Dwelling Unit
EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utility District
EBRPD: East Bay Regional Parks District
ECHO: Eden Council for Hope and Opportunity
EDAC: Economic Development Advisory Committee
EDSP: Economic Development Strategic Plan
EIR: Environmental Impact Report (CEQA)
EMF: Electric and Magnetic Field
EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency
EV: Electric Vehicle
FAR: Floor Area Ratio
FCWCD: Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Contra Costa County FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency
FHAA: Fair Housing Amendment Act
FMR: fair market rent
FY: Fiscal Year
GAHC: Green Affordable Housing Coalition

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 531 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 15 GHADs: Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts
GHG: greenhouse gas(es)
GME: Growth Management Element
GMI: Gross Monthly Income
GMP: Growth Management Program
GPRC: General Plan Review Commission
GWP: global warming potential
HAC: Housing Advisory Committee
HCD: Housing and Community Development Department of the State of California HCP: Habitat Conservation Plan
HELP: Housing Enabled by Local Partnerships
HFCs: hydrofluorocarbons
HHW: Household Hazardous Waste
HMDA: Home Mortgage Disclosure Act
HOME: Home Investment Partnership Act
HOV: High Occupancy Vehicle
HUD: Housing and Urban Development
I: Interstate
JPA: Joint Powers Agreement
LAFCo: Local Agency Formation Commission
Ldn: Day-Night Average Sound Level
LESA: Land Evaluation and Site Assessment
LID: Low Impact Development
LOS: Level of Service
LUP: Land Use Permit
MBTA: Migratory Bird Treaty Act
mgd: million gallons per day
MLS: Multiple Listing Service
MMTCO2e: million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent MOU: Memorandum of Understanding
MTC: Metropolitan Transportation Commission
MU: Mixed Use
MUP: Minor Use Permit

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 532 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 16 MVSD: Mountain View Sanitary District
MWELO: Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
NCCP: Natural Communities Conservation Plan
NCRSP: North Camino Ramon Specific Plan
NIMS: National Incident Management System
NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NWSP: North West Specific Plan
OPR: Office of Planning and Research
PCA: Priority Conservation Area
PD: Planned Development
PDA: Priority Development Area
PFCs: perfluorocarbons
PG&E: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
PM: particulate matter
ppb: parts per billion
ppm: parts per million
ppt: parts per trillion
RCEB: Regional Center of the East Bay
RCFE: Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly
RCOD: Resource Conservation Overlay District
RDA: Redevelopment Agency
RFQ: Request for Qualifications
RHNA: Regional Housing Needs Allocation
RMI: Regional Median Income
RTC: Residential Traffic Calming Program
RTP: Regional Transportation Plan
SB: Senate Bill
SCS: Sustainable Communities Strategy
SDU: second dwelling unit
SDU: secondary dwelling unit
SEMS: Standardized Emergency Management System
SHIA: Supportive Housing Initiative Act
SOI: Sphere of Influence

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 533 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 17 SQ. FT.: Square Feet
SRO: Single Room Occupancy
SRVFPD: San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District
SRVUSD: San Ramon Valley Unified School District
SWAT: Southwest Area Transportation Committee
SWP: State Water Project
TAC: toxic air contaminant
TAC: Transportation Advisory Committee
TDM: Transportation Demand Management
TDR: Transfer of Development Rights
TLC: Transportation for Livable Communities
TOD: Transit-Oriented Development
TSM: Transportation Systems Management
TVAHC: Tri-Valley Affordable Housing Committee
TVPOA: Tassajara Valley Property Owners Association
TVTC: Tri-Valley Transportation Council
UBC: Uniform Building Code
UFC: Uniform Fire Code
UGB: Urban Growth Boundary
ULL: Urban Limit Line
USFWS: United States Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS: United States Geological Survey
UST: Underground Storage Tank
V/C: volume to capacity ratio
VCSD: Valley Community Services District
VMT: vehicle miles traveled
VWM: Valley Waste Management
ZA: Zoning Administrator

GLOSSARY
360-degree design: An architectural design that relates to all adjacent buildings, including those on the sides and rear as well as those facing the building.

Acres, Gross: A measure of total land area of any lot including streets, parks and other land dedications.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 534 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 18 Acres, Net: The gross area of a site excluding:

1. All public and private streets, and streets.

2. Land which has been determined to be hazardous or unbuildable based on the City’s grading ordinance or the Resource Management Division of the Zoning Ordinance.

3. Land within any existing or planned non-exclusive easement.

4. Schools and parks or other facilities dedicated for public use.

Affordable Housing: Housing that can be purchased or rented by a household with very low, low, or moderate income and based on a household’s ability to make monthly payments necessary to obtain housing. Housing is considered affordable when a household pays less than 30% of its gross monthly income (GMI) for housing, including utilities.

Agency: The governmental entity, department, office, or administrative unit responsible for carrying out regulations.

Agricultural Preserve: Land designated for agriculture or conservation (see “Williamson Act”).

Agricultural Land: Land as identified by the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program.

Air Pollution: Concentrations of substances found in the atmosphere that exceed naturally occurring quantities and are undesirable or harmful in some way.

Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act, Earthquake Fault Zone: A seismic hazard zone designated by the State of California within which specialized geologic investigations must be prepared prior to approval of certain new development.

Ambient: Surrounding on all sides; used to describe measurements of existing conditions with respect to traffic, noise, air, and other environments.

Aquifer: An underground, water-bearing layer of earth, porous rock, sand, or gravel, through which water can seep or be held in natural storage. Aquifers generally hold sufficient water to be used as a water supply.

Archaeological: Relating to the material remains of past human life, culture, or activities.

Architectural Review: Regulations and procedures requiring the placement and exterior design of structures to be suitable, harmonious, and in keeping with the general appearance, historical character, and/or style of surrounding areas.

Arterial: A major street carrying volumes of relatively high speed traffic from local and collector streets to and from freeways and other major streets. These streets have controlled intersections and generally provide limited direct access to abutting properties.

Assessment District; Benefit Assessment District: An area within a public agency’s boundaries that receives a special benefit from the construction of one or more public facilities. A Benefit Assessment District has no legal life of its own and cannot act by itself. It is strictly by providing a financing mechanism for providing public infrastructure as allowed under the Streets and Highways Code. Bonds may be issued to finance the improvements, subject to repayment by assessments charged against the benefiting properties. Creation of a Benefit Assessment District enables property owners in a specific area to cause the construction of public facilities or to maintain them (for example, a downtown, or the grounds and landscaping of a specific area) by contributing their fair share of the construction and/or installation and operating costs.

Basic Routes: All local roads not designated as Routes of Regional Significance.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 535 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 19 Below-Market-Rate (BMR) Housing Unit: Any housing unit specifically priced to be sold or rented to very-low, low- or moderate-income households for an amount less than the fair-market value of the unit.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sets standards for determining which households qualify as “low income” or “moderate income.” Best Available Control Technology (BACT): The most stringent emission limit or control technique that has been achieved in practice that is applicable to a particular emission source.

Best Management Practices (BMP): The combination of conservation measures, structure, or management practices that reduces or avoids adverse impacts of development on adjoining site’s land, water, or waterways, and waterbodies.Management practices and structural controls used to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants from runoff, spillage or leaks, sludge or waste disposal, or drainage from raw material storage to waters of the United States. BMPs include scheduling of activities, prohibitions of practices, operation and maintenance procedures, treatment, and vegetated infiltration basins amongst other practices.

Bicycle Lane (Class II facility): A corridor expressly reserved for bicycles, existing on a street or roadway in addition to any lanes for use by motorized vehicles.

Bicycle Path (Class I facility): A paved route not on a street or roadway and expressly reserved for bicycles traversing an otherwise unpaved area. Bicycle paths may parallel roads but typically are separated from them by landscaping.

Bicycle Route (Class III facility): A facility shared with pedestrians and motorists, identified only by signs, and having no pavement markings or lane stripes.

Bikeways: A term that encompasses bicycle lanes, bicycle paths and bicycle routes.

Buffer Zone: An area of land separating two distinct land uses which acts to soften or mitigate the effects of one land use on the other.

Business Services: A subcategory of commercial land use which permits establishments primarily engaged in rendering services to other business establishments on a fee or contract basis such as; namely, advertising and mailing, building maintenance, personnel and employment services, management and consulting services, protective services, equipment rental and leasing, photo finishing, copying and printing, and travel, and similar services.

California Housing Finance Agency (CHFA): A State agency, established by the Housing and Home Finance Act of 1975, which is authorized to sell revenue bonds and generate funds for the development, rehabilitation, and conservation of low- and moderate-income housing.

Capital Costs: The cost of public improvements or facilities and major pieces of equipment (e.g. utility systems, major roads, communication facilities, and public buildings) that have a useful life of more than three years.

Capital Improvement Program (CIP): A program, administered by the City that schedules permanent improvements, usually for a minimum of five years into the future, to fit the projected fiscal capability of the City. The program generally is reviewed annually for conformance to and consistency with the General Plan.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A colorless, odorless, non-poison gas that is a normal part of the atmosphere.

Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas produced by automobiles and other machines with internal combustion engines that imperfectly burn fossil fuels such as oil and gas.colorless, odorless, poisonous gas formed by incomplete combustion of carbon.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 536 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 20 Channelization: (1) The straightening and/or deepening of a watercourse for purposes of storm-runoff control or ease of navigation. Channelization often includes lining of stream banks with a retaining material such as concrete. (2) At the intersection of roadways, the directional separation of traffic lanes through the use of curbs or raised islands that limit the paths that vehicles may take through the intersection.

Circulation Element: One of seven State-mandated elements of a local general plan, it contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation programs for the planning and management of existing and proposed thoroughfares and transportation routes correlated with the Land Use Element of the General Plan.

City: City, with a capital “C,” refers to the City of San Ramon; when used with a lower case “c” it means any city.

City Center: A central gathering place including civic, cultural, commercial, and social activities.

Climate Action Plan (CAP): It identifies programs and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the greenhouse gas reduction goal. Specifically, the CAP identifies the sources of greenhouse gas emissions and the sectors such as transportation, energy, and waste to be targeted for emissions reductions, and it provides emission reduction goals and strategies.

Clustered Development: Development in which a number of dwelling units are placed in closer proximity than typically permitted, or are attached, with the purpose of minimizing grading and retaining open space areas.

Collector Street: A street serving traffic movements between arterial and local streets, generally providing direct access to abutting properties.

Colluvium: Loose and incoherent deposits, usually at the foot of a slope or cliff and brought there chiefly by gravity.

Combined Sewer/Combination Sewer: A sewer system that carries both sanitary sewage and storm water runoff.

Commercial: A land use classification that permits facilities for the buying and selling of commodities and services.

Commercial Services: A classification of land uses intended to provide a broad range of services to the general public. Commercial services may include automobile sales and services, building materials, contractors’ yards, warehousing, storage and similar uses as defined by local zoning regulations.

Community Care Facility: Senior housing licensed by the State Health and Welfare Agency, Department of Social Services, typically for residents who are frail and need supervision. Services normally include three meals daily, housekeeping, security and emergency response, a full activities program, supervision in the dispensing of medicine, personal services such as assistance in grooming and bathing, but no nursing care. Sometimes referred to as residential care or personal care. (See “Congregate Care.”) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): A grant program administered by the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development on a formula basis for entitlement communities, and by the State Department of Housing and Community Development for non-entitled jurisdictions.

Community Facilities District: Under the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 (Government Code Section 53311, et. seq.), a legislative body may create within its jurisdiction a special district that can issue tax-exempt bonds for the planning, design, acquisition, construction, and/or operation of public facilities, as well as provide public services to district residents. Special tax assessments levied by the district are used to repay the bonds.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 537 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 21 Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL): A 24-hour energy equivalent level derived from a variety of single-noise events with weighing factors of 5 and 10 dBA applied to the evening (7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and nighttime (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) periods, respectively, to allow for the greater sensitivity to noise during these hours (see “Ldn”).

Community Redevelopment Agency: A local agency created under California Redevelopment Law, or a local legislative body which has elected to exercise the powers granted to such an agency, for the purpose of planning, developing, re-planning, redesigning, clearing, reconstructing, and/or rehabilitating all or part of a specified area with residential, commercial, industrial, and/or public (including recreational) structures and facilities. The redevelopment agency’s plans must be compatible with adopted community general plans.

Complete Streets: Complete streets are designed and operated to enable safe and comfortable access for all users, particularly non-motorized modes. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities must be able to safely move along and across a complete street.

Congregate Care: Apartment housing, usually for seniors, in a group setting that includes independent living and sleeping accommodations in conjunction with shared dining and recreational facilities. (See “Community Care Facility.”)
Conservation: The management of natural resources to prevent waste, destruction or neglect.

Consistent: Free from variation or contradiction. Programs in the General Plan are to be consistent, not contradictory or preferential. State law requires consistency between a General Plan and implementation measures such as the Zoning Ordinance.

Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs): A term used to describe restrictive limitations which may be placed on a property and its use and which usually are made a condition of holding title or lease.

Creek: A natural stream of water normally smaller than and often tributary to a river, which may be shown on the Resource Management Map (Figure 8-3).

Cul-de-sac: A short street or alley with only a single means of ingress and egress at one end and with a large turnaround at its other end.

Cumulative Impact: As used in CEQA, the total impact resulting from the accumulated impacts of individual projects or programs over time.
dB: Decibel; a unit used to express the relative intensity of a sound as it is heard by the human ear. dBA: The “A-weighted” scale for measuring sound in decibels; weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies in order to simulate human hearing.

Dedication: The turning over by an owner or developer of private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency having jurisdiction over the public function for which it will be used.

Dedication, In lieu of: Cash payments which may be required of an owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land, usually calculated in dollars per lot, and referred to as in lieu fees or in lieu contributions.

Density:. Residential developments are regulated by an allowed density range (minimum and maximum) measured in “dwelling units per net acre.” Residential density is calculated by dividing the number of housing units on the site (excluding accessory dwelling units) by the net acreage of the site.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 538 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 22 Density Bonus: The allocation of development rights that allow a parcel to accommodate additional square footage or additional residential units beyond the maximum for which the parcel is zoned, usually in exchange for the provision or preservation of an amenity at the same site or at another location..

Design Review: The comprehensive evaluation of a development and its impact on neighboring properties and the community as a whole, from the standpoint of site and landscape design, architecture, materials, colors, lighting, and signs, in accordance with a set of adopted criteria and standards.

Detention Dam/Basin/Pond: Facilities classified according to the broad function they serve, such as storage, diversion, or detention. Detention dams are constructed to retard flood runoff and minimize the effect of sudden floods.

Developer: An individual who, or business which, prepares raw land for the construction of buildings or builds or causes to be built physical building space for use primarily by others, and in which the preparation of the land or the creation of the building space is in itself a business and is not incidental to another business or activity.

Development: The physical extension and/or construction of urban land uses. Development activities include but are not limited to: subdivision of land; construction or alteration of structures, roads, utilities, and other facilities; installation of septic systems; grading; deposit of refuse, debris, or fill materials; and clearing of natural vegetation cover (with the exception of agricultural activities). Routine repair and maintenance activities are not considered as “development.” Development Fee: See “Impact Fee.”
Development Rights: The right to develop land by a landowner who maintains fee-simple ownership over the land or by a party other than the owner who has obtained the rights to develop. Such rights usually are expressed in terms of density allowed under existing zoning. For example, one development right may equal one unit of housing or may equal a specific number of square feet of gross floor area in one or more specified zone districts.

Dwelling Unit: One or more rooms with a single kitchen, designed for occupancy by one family for living and sleeping purposes.

Easement: The right to use property owned by another for specific purposes or to gain access to another property.

Easement, Conservation: A tool for acquiring open space with less than full-fee purchase, whereby a public agency buys only certain specific rights from the landowner. These may be positive rights (providing the public with the opportunity to hunt, fish, hike, or ride over the land) or they may be restrictive rights (limiting the uses to which the landowner may devote the land in the future).A conservation easement is voluntary agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that limits the uses of lands to achieve conservation values.

Easement, Scenic: A tool that allows a public agency to use land for scenic enhancement, such as roadside landscaping or vista preservation.

Emission Standard: The maximum amount of pollutant legally permitted to be discharged from a single source, either mobile or stationary.

Endangered Species: A species of animal or plant whose prospects for survival and reproduction are in immediate jeopardy from one or more causes.A species of animal or plant which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 539 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 23 Environmental Impact Report (EIR): A report that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area and determines what effects or impacts will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action. A report to inform the public and public agency decision-makers of significant environmental effects of proposed projects, identify possible ways to minimize those effects, and describe reasonable alternatives to those projects.

Erosion: The loosening and transportation of rock and soil debris by wind, rain, or running water.

Exaction: A contribution or payment required as an authorized precondition for receiving a development permit; usually refers to mandatory dedication (or fee in lieu of dedication) requirements found in many subdivision regulations.

Expansive Soils: Soils that swell when they absorb water and shrink as they dry.

Family: An individual or a group of persons living together who constitute a housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit, not including a fraternity, sorority, club, or other group of persons occupying a hotel, lodging house or institution of any kind.

Fault: A fracture in the earth’s crust forming a boundary between rock masses that have shifted. An “active” fault is one that has had surface displacement within Holocene time (about the last 11,000 years).

A “potentially active” fault is one that shows evidence of surface displacement during Quaternary time (the last 2 million years).

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): A federal agency that provides disaster relief when cities, counties, or the State cannot respond.

Finding(s): The result(s) of an investigation and the basis upon which decisions are made. Findings are used by government agencies and bodies to justify action taken by the entity.

Fire-resistive: Able to withstand specified temperatures for a certain period of time, such as a one-hour firewall; not fireproof.

Fiscal Year (FY): A twelve-month period used for accounting purposes by public and private entities. A fiscal year may have different beginning and ending dates than the calendar year. San Ramon uses a fiscal year that begins July 1 in one calendar year and ends June 30 of the following calendar year. Therefore, San Ramon’s fiscal year is designated by a name that includes two calendar years; for example, FY 2000- 2001 would be the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2000 and ending June 30, 2001.

Flood, 100-Year: The magnitude of a flood expected to occur on the average every 100 years, based on historical data. The 100-year flood has a 1/100, or 1%, chance of occurring in any given year.

Flood, Base: A 100-year flood that has a 1% likelihood of occurring in any given year.

Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM): For each community, the official map on which the Federal Insurance Administration has delineated areas of special flood hazard and the premium risk zones applicable to that community.

Flood Plain: The relatively level land area on either side of the banks of a stream regularly subject to flooding. That part of the flood plain subject to a 1% chance of flooding in any given year, is designated as an area of special flood hazard by the Federal Insurance Administration.

Floor Area Ratio (FAR): Total building size is regulated by a maximum FAR standard. FAR means the net floor area of a building(s) on a parcel divided by the total gross area of that parcel.

Floor Area, Gross: The sum of the areas of all floors of a building, measured from the exterior faces of exterior walls or from the center lines of walls separating two buildings. Gross floor area shall not include:
 Interior parking spaces,

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 540 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 24  Loading space for motor vehicles,
 Porches,
 Exterior balconies/decks
Floor Area, Net (Residential): The sum of the areas of all floors of a residential building, measured from the exterior faces of exterior walls or from the center lines of walls separating two buildings. Net residential floor area shall not include:
 Interior parking spaces,
 Loading space for motor vehicles,
 Porches,
 Exterior balconies/decks,
 Areas for vertical circulation,
 Elevator shafts,
 Stairwells,
 Halls,
 Lobbies,
 Mechanical, electrical, and technical equipment rooms,  Janitorial rooms,
 Restrooms,
 Storage areas (adjoining loading docks),
 Loading and garbage areas,
 Residential and Non-residential penthouses
Floor Area, Net (Non-Residential): The sum of the areas of all floors of a non-residential building, measured from the exterior faces of exterior walls or from the center lines of walls separating two buildings. Net non-residential floor area shall not include:
 Interior parking spaces,
 Loading space for motor vehicles,
 Porches,
 Exterior balconies/decks,
 Areas for vertical circulation,
 Elevator shafts,
 Stairwells,
 Halls,
 Lobbies,
 Mechanical, electrical, and technical equipment rooms,  Janitorial rooms,
 Restrooms,
 Storage areas (adjoining loading docks),
 Loading and garbage areas,
 Residential and Non-residential penthouses
Gateway: A point along a roadway at which a motorist gains a sense of having left one destination and of having arrived at a new and distinct destination.

Geologic Review: The analysis of geologic hazards, including all potential seismic hazards, surface ruptures, liquefaction, landsliding, mudsliding, and the potential for erosion and sedimentation.

Grasslands: Land reserved for pasturing or mowing, in which grasses are the predominant vegetation.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 541 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 25 Groundwater: Water under the earth’s surface, often confined to aquifers capable of supplying wells and springs..

Groundwater Recharge: The natural process of infiltration and percolation of rainwater from land areas or streams through permeable soils into water-holding rocks, which provide underground storage (“aquifers”).

Group Quarters: A residential living arrangement, other than the usual house, apartment, or mobile home, in which two or more unrelated persons share living quarters and cooking facilities.

Growth Management: The use by a community of a wide range of techniques that direct the amount, type, rate, and location of development desired by the community. Growth management policies can be implemented through growth rates, zoning, capital improvement programs, public facilities ordinances, urban limit lines, standards for levels of service, and other programs.

Guidelines: General statements of policy direction for which specific details may be later established.

Habitat: The physical location or type of environment in which an organism or biological population lives or occurs.

Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP): A Federal program that is designed to extend protection provided for endangered or threatened species to all sensitive habitat in a Planning planning Areaarea.

Handicapped: A person determined to have a mobility impairment or mental disorder expected to be of long or indefinite duration. Many such impairments or disorders are of such a nature that a person’s ability to live independently can be improved by appropriate housing conditions.

Hazardous Material: Any material that, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical characteristics, poses a significant present or potential hazard to human health and safety or to the environment if released into the workplace or the environment. The term includes, but is not limited to, hazardous substances and hazardous wastes.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV): Any vehicle other than a driver-only automobile (e.g., a vanpool, a bus, or two or more persons to a car).

Hillside: Land that is part of a hill between the summit and the foot with slopes of 10% or more.

Hillslope: Hillside.

Hilltop: Land that is the highest elevation at the crest of a hill.

Home Occupation: A commercial activity conducted solely by the occupants of a particular dwelling unit in a manner incidental to residential occupancy.

Household: All those persons, related or unrelated, who occupy a single housing unit. (See “Family.”) Housing Element: One of the seven State-mandated elements of a local general plan, it assesses the existing and projected housing needs of all economic segments of the community, identifies potential sites adequate to provide the amount and kind of housing needed, and contains adopted goals, policies, and implementation programs for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing. Under State law, Housing Elements must be updated every five eight years.

Housing Unit: The place of permanent or customary abode of a person or family. A housing unit may be a single-family dwelling, a multi-family dwelling, a condominium, a modular home, a mobile home, a cooperative, or any other residential unit considered real property under State law.

Impact: The effect of any man-made actions or indirect repercussions of man-made actions on existing physical, social, or economic conditions.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 542 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 26 Impact Fee: A fee, also called a development fee, levied on the developer of a project by a city, county, or other public agency as compensation for otherwise-unmitigated impacts the project will produce.

California Government Code § 54990 specifies that development fees shall not exceed the estimated reasonable cost of providing the service for which the fee is charged. To lawfully impose a development fee, the public agency must verify its method of calculation and document proper restrictions on use of the fund.

Impervious Surface: Surface through which water cannot penetrate, such as roof, road, sidewalk, and paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface increases with development and establishes the need for drainage facilities to carry the increased runoff.

Implementation: Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that carry out policies.

Improvement: The addition of one or more structures or utilities on a vacant parcel of land.

Income Categories: The income limits for each income group are as follows:

1. Extremely Low. A household with an annual income usually no greater than 30% of the area median family adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Section 8 housing program.

2. Very Low: A household with an annual income usually no greater than 50% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Section 8 housing program.

3. Low: A household with an annual income usually no greater than 80% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Section 8 housing program.

4. Moderate: A household with an annual income between the lower income eligibility limits and 120% of the area median family income adjusted by household size, usually as established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

5. Above-Moderate: A household with an annual income above 120% of the County’s area median family income adjusted by household size, as determined by a survey of incomes conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Section 8 housing program.

Industrial: The manufacture, production, and processing of consumer goods. Industrial is often divided into “heavy industrial” uses, such as construction yards, quarrying, and factories and “light industrial” uses, such as research and development and less intensive warehousing and manufacturing.

Infill Development: Development of underutilized or vacant land (usually individual lots or leftover properties) within areas that are already largely developed.

Infrastructure: Public services and facilities, such as sewage-disposal systems, water-supply systems, other utility systems, and roads.

In Lieu Fee: (See “Dedication, In lieu of.”)

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 543 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 27 Institutional Use: (1) Privately owned and operated activities that are institutional in nature, such as hospitals, museums, and schools; (2) churches and other religious institutions; and (3) other nonprofit activities of an education, youth, welfare, or philanthropic nature that cannot be considered a residential, commercial, or industrial activity. These uses in San Ramon are often referred to as “Public/Semipublic.” Intermittent Stream: A stream that normally flows for at least 30 days after the last major rain of the season and is dry a large part of the year.

Landmark: (1) A building, site, object, structure, or significant tree, having historical, architectural, social, or cultural significance and marked for preservation by the local, State, or federal government. (2) A visually prominent or outstanding structure or natural feature that functions as a point of orientation or identification.

Landscaping: Planting, including trees, shrubs, and ground covers, suitably designed, selected, installed, and maintained permanently to enhance a site or roadway.

Landslide: A general term for a falling mass of soil or rocks.

Land Use: The occupation or utilization of land or water area for any human activity or any purpose defined in the General Plan.

Ldn: Day-Night Average Sound Level. The A-weighted average sound level for a given area (measured in decibels) during a 24-hour period with a 10 dB weighing applied to night-time sound levels. The Ldn is approximately numerically equal to the CNEL for most environmental settings.

Lease: A contractual agreement by which an owner of real property (the lessor) gives the right of possession to another (a lessee) for a specified period of time (term) and for a specified consideration (rent).

Leq: The energy equivalent level, defined as the average sound level on the basis of sound energy (or sound pressure squared). The Leq is a “dosage” type measure and is the basis for the descriptions used in current standards, such as the 24-hour CNEL used by the State of California.

Linkage Fee: A program designed to offset the impact of employment on housing needs within a community, whereby project approval is conditioned on the provision of housing units or the payment of an equivalent in-lieu fee is a condition of project approval. The linkage program must establish the causeand-effect relationship between a new commercial or industrial development and the increased demand for housing.

Liquefaction: The transformation of loose, water-saturated, granular materials (such as sand or silt) from a solid into a liquid state. A type of ground failure that can occur during an earthquake.

Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo): A commission within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of districts, and the merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCo is empowered to approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals. LAFCo members generally include two county supervisors, two city council members, and one member representing the general public.

Local Street: A street that primarily serves as access to abutting properties characterized by traffic with low speeds, low volumes and relatively short trip lengths.

Manufactured Housing: Houses that are constructed entirely in the factory, and which, since 1976, have been regulated by the federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards under the administration of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (See “Mobile Home” and “Modular Unit.”)

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 544 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 28 Median Income; Area Median Income: As used in State of California housing law with respect to income eligibility limits established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. “Area” means metropolitan area or non-metropolitan county.

Median Strip: The dividing area, either paved or landscaped, between opposing lanes of traffic on a roadway.

Mitigation: A specific action taken to reduce environmental impacts. Mitigation measures are required as a component of an environmental impact report (EIR) if significant measures impacts are identified.

Mitigation Measures: Action taken to avoid, minimize, or eliminate environmental impacts. Mitigation includes: avoiding the impact altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an action; minimizing impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its implementation; rectifying the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected environment; reducing or eliminating the impact over time by preservation and maintenance during the life of the action; and compensating for the impact by repairing or providing substitute resources or environments.

Mixed-use: A development consisting of one or more parcels developed and designed with a blend of various compatible uses (e.g., commercial retail, retail service, office, residential, civic, and institutional).

The uses may be located vertically in the same structure (see “Mixed-Use, Vertical” or horizontally (see “Mixed-Use, Horizontal) in separate structures. Mixed-use may include a proposed mix of uses on one or more parcel, or the addition of a compatible use(s) on a parcel(s) with an existing use(s).

Mixed-Use, Horizontal: Any mixed-use development that incorporates two or more different use categories alongside one another, either in one mixed-use structure or as two or more separate structures on one parcel or adjoining parcels under single ownership or single control.

Mixed-Use, Vertical: Any mixed-use development that incorporates two or more different use categories stacked in a multi-story mixed-use structure(s).

Mobile Home: A structure, transportable in one or more sections, built on a permanent chassis and designed for use as a single-family dwelling unit and which (1) has a minimum of 400 square feet of living space; (2) has a minimum width in excess of 102 inches; (3) is connected to all available permanent utilities; and (4) is tied down (a) to a permanent foundation on a lot either owned or leased by the homeowner or (b) is set on piers, with wheels removed and skirted, in a mobile home park under a lease with a minimum period of one year. (See “Manufactured Housing” and “Modular Unit.”) Modular Unit: A factory-fabricated, transportable building or major component designed for use by itself or for incorporation with similar units on-site into a structure for residential, commercial, educational, or industrial use. A modular unit does not have any chassis for future movement. (See “Mobile Home” and “Manufactured Housing.”)
Motel: A structure in which there are five or more guest rooms or suites where lodging with or without meals is provided for compensation. Quite often provision is made for cooking in individual guest rooms or suites. (See “Hotel.”)
National Ambient Air Quality Standards: The prescribed level of pollutants in the outside air that cannot be exceeded legally during a specified time in a specified geographical area.

National Flood Insurance Program: A federal program that authorizes the sale of federally subsidized flood insurance in communities where such flood insurance is not available privately.

National Historic Preservation Act: A 1966 federal law that established a National Register of Historic Places and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and which authorized grants-in-aid for preserving historic properties.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 545 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 29 National Register of Historic Places: The official list, established by the National Historic Preservation Act, of sites, districts, buildings, structures, and objects significant in the nation’s history or whose artistic or architectural value is unique.

Natural Communities Conservation Plan (NCCP): A plan that identifies sensitive habitats within a rural developmentplanning area and directs the preparation of a program to mitigate the impacts of rural development on the habitats.

Net Present Value (NPV): A future dollar amount discounted to a dollar amount of the value current in Fiscal Year 2010-20112021-2022. (See definition of fiscal year.) Discounting reflects the fact that a dollar in hand is worth more than a dollar anticipated at some future time.

Nitrogen Oxide(s): A reddish brown gas that is often a byproduct of combustion and ozone formation processes. Often referred to as NOX, this gas gives smog its “dirty air” appearance.

Noise: Sounds or a series of sounds that are undesirable, intrusive, irritating, and/or disruptive to daily life. (From Noise Element Pg. 10-1)
Noise Attenuation: Reduction of the level of a noise source using a substance, material, or surface, such as earth berms and/or solid concrete walls.

Noise Contour: A line connecting points of equal noise level as measured on the same scale. Noise levels greater than the 60 Ldn contour (measured in dBA) require noise attenuation in residential development.

Non-attainment: The condition of not achieving a desired or required level of performance; and frequently used in reference to air quality.

Office: General business offices, medical and professional offices, administrative offices or headquarters for large wholesaling or manufacturing operations, and research and development. Examples of office use include architectural, computer software consulting, data management, engineering, interior design, graphic design, real estate, insurance, investment, and legal services.

Open Space: Any parcel or area of land or water that is essentially unimproved and devoted to an open space use for the purposes of (1) the preservation of natural resources, (2) the managed production of resources, (3) outdoor recreation, or (4) public health and safety.

Overlay: A land use designation on the Land Use Map or a zoning designation on a zoning map, which modifies the basic underlying designation in some specific manner.

Ozone: A tri-atomic form of oxygen (O3) created naturally in the upper atmosphere by a photochemical reaction with solar ultraviolet radiation. In the lower atmosphere, ozone is a recognized air pollutant that is not emitted directly into the environment, but is formed by complex chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and reactive organic compounds in the presence of sunlight, and becomes a major agent in the formation of smog.

Paratransit: Refers to transportation services that operate vehicles, such as buses, jitneys, taxis, and vans, for senior citizens and/or mobility-impaired persons.

Parcel: A lot, or contiguous group of lots, in single ownership or under single control, usually considered a unit for purposes of development.

Parking Area, Shared: A public or private parking area used jointly by two or more uses.

Parking Area, Public: An open area, excluding a street or other public way, used for the parking of automobiles and available to the public, whether for free or for compensation.

Parking Ratio: The number of parking spaces provided per gross floor area, gross square feet, or the number of beds or bedrooms in a residence.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 546 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 30 Parks: Land facilities whose primary purpose is recreation.

Peak Hour/Peak Period: For any given roadway, a daily period during which traffic volume is highest, usually occurring in the morning and evening commute periods. Where “F” Levels of Service are encountered, the “peak hour” may stretch into a “peak period” of several hours duration.

Penthouse: Not an apartment, but an enclosed structure and/or area located on the roof of the building that may include mechanical equipment such as generators, cooling towers, chillers, electrical equipment, and elevator shafts
Performance Standards: Regulations that manage development within San Ramon by identifying growth standards that all new developments must meet.

Planning Area: The area which, in a planning agency’s judgment, bears relation to a city or county’s planning needs. This area may extend outside the city or county’s boundaries. The planning area is established as part of the preparation of a general plan or amendment for a city or county.

Policy: A specific statement of principle or of guiding or implementing actions which implies clear commitment.

Pollutant: Any introduced gas, liquid, or solid that makes a resource unfit for its normal or usual purpose.

Pollution: The presence of matter or energy whose nature, location, or quantity produces undesired environmental effects.

Preserve: An area in which beneficial uses in their present condition are protected, such as, a nature preserve or an agricultural preserve.

Professional Offices: Buildings providing offices for professional or consulting services in the fields of law, medicine, architecture, design, engineering, accounting, and similar professions, but not including financial institutions or real estate or insurance offices.

Public and Semi-public Facilities: Institutional, academic, governmental and community service uses, either publicly owned or operated by non-profit organizations.

Special Status Species: A species of animal or plant that, in the judgment of the resource agencies, trustee agencies, and certain non-governmental organizations, warrant special consideration in the CEQA process.

Reclamation: The reuse of resources, usually those present in solid wastes or sewage.

Recreation, Active: A type of recreation or activity which requires the use of organized play areas including, but not limited to, softball, baseball, football, and soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts and various forms of children’s play equipment.

Recreation, Passive: Type of recreation or activity which does not require the use of organized play areas.

Recycle: The process of extraction and reuse of materials from waste products.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 547 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 31 Redevelopment (public): New or replacement development undertaken to reduce or eliminate blighted conditions and to encourage private investment in designated “redevelopment project areas.” In California, public redevelopment is funded largely through the sale of bonds, with the retirement of the bonded debt paid for by the increases in real property taxes on project area lands resulting from improvements prompted by the combination of public and private reinvestment in the area.

Redevelopment can be financed completely independently of a city’s General Fund operating revenues, but cities may allocate some operating revenues to assist redevelopment and/or target operating revenues to focus on redevelopment areas. Redevelopment may also be spurred by grants from Federal and State governments and sometimes private sources.

Regional: Pertaining to activities or economies at a scale greater than that of a single jurisdiction and affecting a broad homogeneous area.

Residential: Land designated in the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance for buildings consisting of dwelling units. May be vacant or unimproved. (See “Dwelling Unit.”) Residential, Multiple-Family: Usually three or more dwelling units on a single site, which may be in the same or separate buildings.

Residential, Single-Family: A single dwelling unit on a building site.

Resource Management Area: An area established to protect and preserve hillsides, creeks, and ridgelines (see Figure 8-3).

Richter Scale: A measure of the size or energy release of an earthquake at its source. The scale is logarithmic, meaning that the wave amplitude of each number on the scale is 10 times greater than that of the previous whole number.

Rideshare: A travel mode other than driving alone, such as buses, rail transit, carpools, and vanpools.

Ridge: An elongated crest or series of crests of a hill.

Ridgeline: A ground line located at the highest elevation of and running parallel to the long axis of the ridge.

Ridge Centerline: Ridgelines shown on the Resource Management Map (Figure 8-3), unless the San Ramon Planning Commission approves a more precise delineation, based on topographic maps with contours of land shown at intervals of not more than ten feet.

Right-of-way: The strip of land over which certain transportation and public use facilities are built, such as roadways, railroads, and utility lines.

Riparian Lands: Lands which are comprised of the vegetative and wildlife areas adjacent to perennial and intermittent streams. Riparian areas are delineated by the existence of plant species normally found near fresh water.

Riparian Vegetation: Vegetation associated with any water-course which requires or tolerates moisture in excess of that available in adjacent uplands.

Routes of Regional Significance: Roadways which generally serve as a means of travel across Contra Costa County, or between Contra Costa County and adjacent counties.

Runoff: That portion of rain or snow which does not percolate into the ground and is discharged into streams instead.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 548 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 32 Sanitary Sewer: A system of subterranean conduits which carries refuse liquids or waste matter to a plant where the sewage is treated, as contrasted with storm drainage systems (which carry surface water) and septic tanks or leech fields (which hold refuse liquids and waste matter on-site). (See “Combined Sewer” and “Septic System”.)
Scenic Highway Corridor: The visible area outside of a highway’s right-of-way, generally described as “the view from the road.”
Scenic Highway/Scenic Route: A highway, road, or street which, in addition to its transportation function, provides opportunities for the enjoyment of natural and man-made scenic resources and access or direct views to areas or scenes of exceptional beauty or historic or cultural interest. The aesthetic values of scenic routes often are protected and enhanced by regulations governing the development of property or the placement of outdoor advertising. Until the mid-1980s, general plans in California were required to include a Scenic Highways Element.

School District Lands: Properties owned by public school districts and used for educational, recreational, and administrative purposes.

Second Unit: A self-contained living unit, either attached to or detached from, and in addition to, the primary residential unit on a single lot.

Section 8 Rental Assistance Program: A federal (HUD) rent-subsidy program which is the main source of federal housing assistance for low-income households. The program operates by providing “housing assistance payments” to owners, developers, and public housing agencies to make up the difference between the “Fair Market Rent” of a unit (set by HUD) and the household’s contribution toward the rent, which is calculated at 30% of the household’s adjusted gross monthly income. “Section 8” includes programs for new construction, existing housing, and substantial or moderate housing rehabilitation.

Seismic: Caused by or subject to earthquakes or earth vibrations.

Senior Housing: Typically one- and two-bedroom apartments designed to meet the needs of persons 62 years of age and older or, if more than 150 units, persons 55 years of age and older, and restricted to occupancy by them. (See “Congregate Care.”)
Seniors: Persons age 60 and older.Persons age 62 and older, or as defined by State or Federal Program.

Septic System: A sewage-treatment system that includes a settling tank through which liquid sewage flows and in which solid sewage settles and is decomposed by bacteria in the absence of oxygen. Septic systems are often used for individual-home waste disposal where an urban sewer system is not available. (See “Sanitary Sewer.”)
Setback Line: A line within a lot parallel to a corresponding lot line, which is the boundary of any specified front, side, corner side or rear yard, or the boundary of any public right-of-way whether acquired in fee, easement or otherwise, or a line otherwise established to govern the location of buildings, structures or uses. Where no minimum front, side, corner side, or rear yards are specified, the setback line shall be coterminous with the corresponding lot line. The line is a horizontal distance measured from the respective property line.

Shared Living: The occupancy of a dwelling unit by persons of more than one family in order to reduce housing expenses and provide social contact, mutual support, and assistance.

Shopping Center: A group of commercial establishments, planned, developed, owned, or managed as a unit, with off-street parking provided on the site.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 549 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 33 Sign: Any representation (written or pictorial) used to identify, announce, or otherwise direct attention to a business, profession, commodity, service, or entertainment, and placed on, suspended from, or in any way attached to, any structure, vehicle, or feature of the natural or manmade landscape.

Significant Effect: A beneficial or detrimental impact on the environment as defined by CEQA. May include, but is not limited to, significant changes in an area’s air, water, and land resources.

Siltation: (1) The accumulating deposition of eroded material, or (2) the gradual filling in of streams and other bodies of water with sand, silt, and clay.

Single-family Dwelling, Attached: A building containing two dwelling units with each unit having its own foundation on grade.

Single-family Dwelling, Detached: A building containing one dwelling unit on one lot.

Site: A parcel or group of parcels of land used or intended for one use or a group of uses.

Slope: Land gradient described as the vertical rise divided by the horizontal run, and expressed in percent.

Soil: The unconsolidated material on the immediate surface of the earth created by natural forces that serves as the natural medium for growing land plants.

Solid Waste: Any unwanted or discarded material that is not a liquid or gas. Includes organic wastes, paper products, metals, glass, plastics, cloth, brick, rock, soil, leather, rubber, yard wastes, and wood.

Organic wastes and paper products comprise about 75% of typical urban solid waste.

Special Needs Groups: As per State law, the needs of six groups need to be addressed in the housing element. These include homeless persons, single parent households, migrant farm workers, senior citizens, disabled persons, and large households (five or more people). These six groups have been identified as having needs that would not normally be met.

Specific Plan: A plan that provides detailed design and implementation tools for a specific portion of the area covered by a general plan. A specific plan may include all regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation which may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any general plan element(s).

Sphere of Influence: The probable ultimate physical boundary and service area of a local agency (city or district) as determined by the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) of the County.

Storm Runoff: Surplus surface water generated by rainfall that does not seep into the earth but flows overland to flowing or stagnant bodies of water. Also referred to as “urban runoff.” Subdivision: The division of a tract of land into defined lots, either improved or unimproved, which can be separately conveyed by sale or lease, and which can be altered or developed. Subdivision includes a condominium project as defined in Section 1350 of the California Civil Code.

Subsidence: The gradual sinking of land as a result of natural or artificial causes. (See “Settlement.”) Substandard Housing: Residential dwellings which, because of their physical condition, do not provide safe and sanitary housing.

Tax Increment: Additional tax revenues that result from increases in property values within a redevelopment area. State law permits the tax increment to be earmarked for redevelopment purposes but requires at least 20% to be used to increase the supply of very low- and low-income housing.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 550 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 34 Traffic Demand Forecasting Model: A mathematical representation of traffic movement within an area or region based on observed relationships between the kind and intensity of development in specific areas. Many traffic models operate on the theory that trips are produced by persons living in residential areas and are attracted by various non-residential land uses. (See “Trip.”) Transit: The conveyance of persons or goods from one place to another by means of a local, public transportation system. (See “Transit, Public.”)
Transit-dependent: Refers to persons unable to operate automobiles or other motorized vehicles, or those who do not have access to or own motorized vehicles. Transit-dependent citizens must rely on transit, Para-transit, or owners of private vehicles for transportation. Transit-dependent citizens may include the young, the elderly, and the poor.

Transit, Public: A system of regularly-scheduled buses and/or trains available to the public on a fee-perride basis. Also called “Mass Transit.” Transportation Demand Management (TDM): A strategy for reducing demand on the road system by reducing the number of vehicles using the roadways and/or increasing the number of persons per vehicle.

TDM attempts to: (1) reduce the number of persons per vehicle; (2) reduce the number of persons who drive alone on the roadway during the commute period; and (3) increase the use of carpools, vanpools, buses and trains, and walking and biking. TDM can be an element of TSM (see below).

Transportation Systems Management (TSM): A comprehensive strategy developed to address the problems caused by additional development, increasing trips, and a shortfall in transportation capacity.

Transportation Systems Management focuses on utilizing existing highway and transit systems more efficiently rather than expanding them. TSM measures are characterized by their low cost and quick implementation time frame, such as computerized traffic signals, metered freeway ramps, and one-way streets.

Trip: A one-way journey that proceeds from an origin to a destination via a single mode of transportation; the smallest unit of movement considered in transportation studies. Each trip has one “production end” (origin, often from home, but not always), and one “attraction end” (destination). (See “Traffic Demand Forecasting Model.”)
Trip Generation: The dynamics that account for people making trips in automobiles or by means of public transportation. Trip generation is the basis for estimating the level of use of a transportation system and the impact of additional development or transportation facilities on an existing, local transportation system. Trip generations of households are correlated with destinations that attract household members for specific purposes.

Uniform Building Code: A national, standard building code which sets forth minimum standards for construction.

Uniform Housing Code: State housing regulations governing the condition of habitable structures with regard to health and safety standards and which provide for the conservation and rehabilitation of housing in accordance with the Uniform Building Code (UBC).

Urban Growth Boundary (UGB): The line within which all urban development is to be contained.

Urban Land: An urban land is an area with an increased density of human-created structures in comparison to the areas surrounding it. An urban area is more frequently called a city or town.

Urban Limit Line (ULL): A boundary, sometimes parcel-specific, located to mark the outer limit beyond which urban development will not be allowed. It has the aim of discouraging sprawl by containing development during a specific period. Its location may be modified over time.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 551 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 35 Urban Services: Utilities (such as water, gas, electricity, and sewer) and public services (such as police, fire, schools, parks, and recreation) provided to an urban area.

Use: The purpose for which a lot or structure is or may be leased, occupied, maintained, arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered, and/or enlarged as per the City’s Zoning Ordinance and General Plan land use designation.

Use Permit: The discretionary and conditional review of an activity or function or operation on a site or in a building or facility.

Utility Corridors: Right-of-way or easements for utility lines on either publicly or privately owned property. (See “Right-of-way” or “Easement.”)
Vacant: Lands or buildings which are not actively used for any purpose.

Variance: A departure from any provision of the zoning requirements for a specific parcel, except use, without changing the Zoning Ordinance or the underlying zoning of the parcel. A variance that usually is granted only upon demonstration of hardship based on the peculiarity of the property in relation to other properties in the same zoning district.

Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT): A unit to measure vehicle travel made by a private vehicle, such as an automobile, van, pickup truck, or motorcycle. Each mile traveled is counted as one vehicle mile regardless of the number of persons in the vehicle.

View Corridor: The line of sight (identified as to height, width, and distance) of an observer looking toward an object that is significant to the community (e.g., ridgeline, river, historic building, etc.); the route that directs the viewer’s attention.

Viewshed: The area within view from a defined observation point.

Volume-to-Capacity Ratio: A measure of the operating capacity of a roadway or intersection, in terms of the number of vehicles that theoretically could pass through when the roadway or intersection is operating at its designed capacity. Abbreviated as v/c. At a v/c ratio of 1.0, the roadway or intersection is operating at capacity. If the ratio is less than 1.0, the traffic facility has additional capacity. Although ratios slightly greater than 1.0 are possible, it is more likely that the peak hour will elongate into a “peak period.” (See “Peak Hour” and “Level of Service.”)
Warehousing Use: A use engaged in storage, wholesale, and distribution of manufactured products, supplies, and equipment, excluding bulk storage of materials which are inflammable or explosive or which present hazards or conditions commonly recognized as offensive.

Wastewater Irrigation: The process by which wastewater that has undergone appropriate treatment is used to irrigate land.

Watercourse: Natural or once natural flowing (perennially or intermittently) water including rivers, streams, and creeks. Includes natural waterways that have been canalized, but does not include manmade channels, ditches, and underground drainage and sewer systems.

Watershed: The total area above a given point on a watercourse that contributes water to its flow; the entire region drained by a waterway or watercourse which drains into a lake, reservoir, bay or ocean.

Wetlands: Either transitional areas between terrestrial and aquatic systems where the water table is usually at or near the surface, or land that is covered by shallow water.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 552 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 City of San Ram on, CA | Public Review Draft General Plan | O ctober 2023 36 Williamson Act: Known formally as the California Land Conservation Act of 1965, it was designed as an incentive to retain prime agricultural land and open space in agricultural use, thereby slowing its conversion to urban and suburban development. The program entails a ten-year contract between an owner of land and (usually) a county whereby the land is taxed on the basis of its agricultural use rather than the market value. The land becomes subject to certain enforceable restrictions, and certain conditions need to be met prior to approval of an agreement.

Workforce Housing: See “Affordable Housing” above.

Zero Lot Line: A detached single-family unit distinguished by the location of one exterior wall on a side property line.

Zone, Interim: A zoning designation that temporarily reduces or freezes allowable development in an area until a permanent classification can be fixed; generally assigned during general plan preparation to provide a basis for permanent zoning.

Zone, Traffic: In a traffic model, land areas are divided into zones, with each zone treated as producing and attracting trips. The production of trips by a zone is based on the number of trips to or from work or shopping, or other trips produced per dwelling unit.

Zoning: The division of a city by legislative regulations into areas, or zones, which specify allowable uses for real property and size restrictions for buildings within these areas; a program that implements policies of the General Plan.

Zoning District: A designated section of the City for which prescribed land use requirements and building and development standards are uniform.

Zoning, Incentive: The awarding of bonus credits to a development in the form of allowing more intensive use of land if public benefits, such as preservation of greater-than-the-minimum required open space, provision for low- and moderate-income housing, or plans for public plazas and courts at ground level, are included in the project.

Zoning, Inclusionary: Regulations which increase housing choice by providing the opportunity to construct more diverse and economical housing to meet the needs of low- and moderate-income families.

Often such regulations require a minimum percentage of housing for low- and moderate-income households in new housing developments and in conversions of apartments to condominiums.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 553 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040 37 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 554 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

General Plan 2040 – Public DraŌ Errata Changes List (dated 09/27/2023) Global:
 Consistent references on use of City vs. city
 Consistent Planning Area size
IntroducƟon Chapter and Glossary:
 Table 1-2 (Consistency between the GP and ZO): Revise the following residenƟal land uses and consistent base zoning districts with the highlighted edits:
o Low Density ResidenƟal
o Low Medium Density ResidenƟal
o Medium Density ResidenƟal
o Medium-High Density ResidenƟal
o High-Very High Density ResidenƟal
 Table 1-2: Zoning consistency Tables revised to add new San Ramon Village Housing Opportunity that implements the San Ramon Village Specific Plan
 SecƟon 1.5, Board and Commissions secƟon: Edit the following sentence with the highlighted edits:
“ImplementaƟon of the General Plan will involve the Planning Commission, the Parks and Community Services Commission, the Architectural Review Board and the City’s eight nine advisory commiƩees (Arts, Economic Development, Open Space, Housing, InnovaƟon and Technology, Library, Senior CiƟzen, TransportaƟon, and TransportaƟon Demand Management).”
 SecƟon 1.6, Annual Report secƟon: Revise the following paragraph with the highlighted edits:
“In addiƟon, any miƟgaƟon monitoring and reporƟng requirements prescribed by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) idenƟfied in the general plan environmental impact report (EIR) should be addressed in the annual report because they are closely Ɵed to plan implementaƟon. Finally, the annual report should include the implementaƟon status of the General Plan goals and policies and a summary of all general plan amendments adopted during the preceding year and an outline of upcoming projects and general plan issues to be addressed in the coming year, along with a work program.”  Glossary: Incorporated glossary changes based on Sept 5 PC comments.

Economic Element Chapter:
 Year 2021 Employment SecƟon: Change with the following highlighted edits:
…37,301 jobs (data from EMSI) to …jobs (Economic Modeling Specialist InternaƟonal (EMSI) data).
 FUTURE NON-RESIDENTIAL LAND NEEDS SecƟon: Edit with the following highlighted edits:
“Table 2-2 summarizes the potenƟal long-term demand/development opportuniƟes, based on opƟmizing opportuniƟes, in San Ramon. Change name of Table 2-2 “Summary of PotenƟal Long-Term Demand/Development OpportuniƟes in San Ramon”  Fiscal Analysis of the General Plan secƟon: Revise the following sentence with the highlighted edit:
“In 2014, the City created a Citywide Community FaciliƟes District (CFD) which also serves to offset costs of City services and faciliƟes formfrom new development.” Exhibit 2

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 555 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

 Policy 2.3-I-1: Revise with the following highlighted edits:

Implement the goals and strategies of the Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) and assess the need for updates as warranted in response to changes to economic condiƟons.  Policy 2.3-I-8: SubjecƟve language. Delete: “low business license fees”  Policy 2.3-I-8: Revise so that only the following is the policy text:
“Promote San Ramon as a locaƟon for business.”
The following remaining text shall be italic text that describes implementaƟon, but not part of the policy:
“Coordinate a City effort to “sell” San Ramon as a business locaƟon offering assets that include an educated workforce; compeƟƟve development sites; and an acƟve, businessfriendly government with low business license fees.”  Policy 2.3-I-9: Revise policy with the following highlighted edit:
“Develop a comprehensive Business Development Strategy that includes access to tools and resources needed by new and exisƟng businesses to grow in San Ramon as part of the EDSP update.”
 Policy 2.3-I-9: In italics, change date from 2011 to 2018:
“… incorporated into the 2011 2018 EDSP…”
 Policy 2.3-I-10: Add a new Policy 2.3-I-10 with the following text related to tourism:

Policy: AƩract and engage organizaƟons that promote tourism in San Ramon.

Italics text below policy: The Chamber of Commerce and Discover San Ramon can play a key role in supporƟng tourism in San Ramon
 Policy 2.3-I-16: Delete italicized text. Replace italicized with:

In 2020, the City approved the CityWalk Master Plan a 135 acres area within Bishop Ranch.

The CityWalk area integrates recreaƟonal ameniƟes, office and commercial uses, and up to 4,500 mulƟ-family residenƟal units over the next 20 to 30 years. CityWalk will draw users and visitors throughout the day and week, in part through revenue-generaƟng businesses that will both contribute to the diversity of uses and provide economic support.  Policy 2.3-I-21: Revise policy with the following highlighted edits:
“Evaluate the ability of new All new development shall to pay for its infrastructure, its share of public and community faciliƟes, and the incremental operaƟng, maintenance, and upgrade costs it imposes.”
 Policy 2.3-I-33: Add a new Policy 2.3-I-33 with the following text related to commercial property maintenance:

Policy: AcƟvely engage commercial property owners to maintain and/or upgrade their properƟes through building, site, and landscape improvements.

Growth Mgmt. Element Chapter:
 Growth Management Intro, last paragraph: Add following highlighted updated text:

While Measure J eliminated the previous Measure C requirements for local performance standards and level-of-service standards for non-regional routes, San Ramon maintained local standards unƟl the General Plan 2040 update. Due to economic and populaƟon

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 556 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

growth projected at General Plan 2040 buildout, San Ramon has chosen to shiŌ to a carry forward these growth standards as performance guidelines approach in this Element. San Ramon’s GME growth management performance objecƟves and guidelines represent the desire of the City and its residents to preserve and enhance the quality of life in San Ramon.  Police Facility Analysis SecƟon: Delete the following:
“…contract with the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office;” Replace with the following:
“…through a 911 Dispatch Center, operated by the San Ramon Valley Fire ProtecƟon District.”
 Schools Facility Analysis SecƟon: Revise the following with the highlighted edits:

The City of San Ramon is served by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD).

This mulƟjurisdicƟonal District currently operates eleven 12 elementary schools (grades K5), four middle schools (grades 6-8), two high schools (grades 9-12), one alternaƟve educaƟon high school (minimum age 16), and the VENTURE independent study school (grades K-12) within the City of San Ramon. Currently, approximately 17,63057 students aƩend schools in San Ramon.
 Policy 3.4-I-6: Modify the policy by deleƟng “…such as light rail or BART…” from the policy. Revise italic text below the policy to be consistent with the policy revision:
“San Ramon, Danville, and Contra Costa County have adopted a memorandum of understanding that designates the I-680 right-of-way as the preferred alignment for future rail transit service through the San Ramon Valley for the purpose of serving major employment centers. The Measure J TransportaƟon Expenditure Plan allocates funding for the Innovate 680 program and projects such as the I-680 Carpool Lane Gap Closure/Transit Corridor Improvements including auxiliary lanes, and increased express bus service for the San Ramon Valley.
 SecƟon 3.6, JOB AND HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES: Update with addiƟonal historical background and where we are going with raƟo with the following highlighted edits:
“…labor supply for businesses in San Ramon. Though the job/housing raƟo has improved from 1.51 to 1.26 since 2000, In 2000, the raƟo of the number of jobs to the number of housing units was 1.51. In 2022, the job/housing raƟo is 1.26. There are sƟll more people commuƟng from other ciƟes to jobs in San Ramon than there are local residents working within the City. This indicates a need to conƟnue improving the balance of jobs and housing within the City of San Ramon, and by buildout of this General Plan to the year 2040, the jobs/housing raƟo is esƟmated to be increase to 1.89 due to Plan Bay Area’s esƟmated increase of jobs. While the City is increasing opportuniƟes for housing producƟon to meet our regional housing needs, job growth conƟnues to remain strong. When the City incorporated in 1983, much of its area had already been developed or pre-zoned for office and residenƟal uses. Today, the area within the San Ramon city limits is mostly developed and the challenge to the City is to provide a broader range of residenƟal opƟons within a limited land area to bring job and housing opportuniƟes in closer equilibrium. A broad range of housing issues is discussed further in the Housing Element.

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 557 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

Land Use Element Chapter:
 Table 4-1: Change the Contra Costa County ResidenƟal Units (Occupied) % Change from “<1%” to “8.2%”
 Figure 4-1: Update Planning Subareas to show boundary of City Core boundary line.  Twin Creeks Planning Subarea secƟon: Revise the following last sentence with the highlighted edit:
“With respect to commercial development, Twin Creeks subarea has approximately 38,800 square feet neighborhood serving commercial space associated with Applebee’s restaurant, Bollinger Crossing, and Homestead Village projects.”
 SecƟon 4.2, Planning Subareas in San Ramon, between the Twin Creeks and Westside headings:

Added a new City Core heading with the following text:

The City core is the area generally east of I-680, south of the City limit with the Town of Danville, generally north of Inverness Park subdivision along the Bollinger Canyon Road corridor, west of Alcosta Blvd.
 Density/Intensity Standards SecƟon: Redundant to definiƟon. Remove the following highlighted text:
“… and streets which provide primary and direct access to a public street”  General Plan Land Use ClassificaƟon secƟon: Revise the following residenƟal land uses descripƟons with the highlighted edits:
o Single Family ResidenƟal-Low Density ResidenƟal. Single-family rResidenƟal development at densiƟes of between 0.2 -3 units per acre. Typical lot sizes range from 10,000 to 15,000 square feet. This designaƟon reflects exisƟng low-density neighborhoods, such as Twin Creeks Hills and Royal Ridge.
o Single Family ResidenƟal-Low Medium Density ResidenƟal. Single-family rResidenƟal development at densiƟes of between 3-6 units per acre with a maximum lot size of 10,000 square feet. The Oaks in the Westside is an example of this designaƟon. o Single Family-Medium Density ResidenƟal. Single-family rResidenƟal development at densiƟes of between 6-14 15 units per acre with typical lot sizes of approximately 3,500 square feet and including detached units, zero lot line units, garden paƟo homes, and townhomes. New rResidenƟal development in Country Faire is typical of this designaƟon. o MulƟple Family-Medium-High Density ResidenƟal. MulƟple-family rResidenƟal development at densiƟes of between 154-30 units per acre. Such development should reflect high quality design with integrated open space and recreaƟonal and/or cultural ameniƟes, and opportuniƟes for workforce housing. Structure parking would be necessary at the higher end of the range. Promontory View in the Crow Canyon Redevelopment area is an example of this designaƟon.
o MulƟple Family-High-Very High Density ResidenƟal. This new designaƟon provides for the highest density mulƟple-family residenƟal development at densiƟes of between 30-50 units per acre. Such development units should reflect high quality design with integrated open space and recreaƟonal and/or cultural ameniƟes, and opportuniƟes for workforce housing. Structure parking would be necessary.
o Add under ResidenƟal subheading: San Ramon Village Housing Opportunity: This land use is intended to allow for future infill and intensificaƟon of underuƟlized properƟes in the San Ramon Village Specific Plan area in a way that minimizes impacts on exisƟng businesses and

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 558 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040

that can lead to the creaƟon of a cohesive mixed-use district. Within this area, residenƟal development is allowed on assembled sites greater than 1.5 acres, subject to livability condiƟons intended to miƟgate potenƟal conflicts between the new residenƟal development and exisƟng nonresidenƟal uses. ResidenƟal development within this designaƟon is limited to a minimum density of 22 dwelling units per acre and a maximum density of 35 dwelling units per acre. AddiƟonal ancillary commercial uses are also allowed on the ground floor up to a maximum 0.40 FAR. Buildings are required to be oriented to public or publicly accessible streets to promote a pedestrian-friendly environment.  Update MU DefiniƟon: Mixed-Use, Commercial Emphasis. The purpose of the Mixed-Use, Commercial Emphasis (MUX) land use zone is to provide areas for an integrated neighborhood, primarily to enhance exisƟng and promote new commercial uses (retail and/or office) with complementary residenƟal uses. A density range of 20 to 40 dwelling units per acre allows a variety of residenƟal housing types located along street frontages. The MUX land use envisages zone envisions commercial uses (retail and/or office) as the primary use along street frontages, with residenƟal uses located behind or above the primary commercial uses. Development could be stand-alone, verƟcal, or horizontal mixed-use configuraƟons. Within the MUX land use, a nonresidenƟal 0.45 FAR minimums are is established to maintain retail square footage. The MUX sitewide FAR range is 0.7 to 2.0.
 Update MU DefiniƟon: Mixed-Use, ResidenƟal Emphasis. The purpose of the Mixed-Use, ResidenƟal Emphasis (MUR) land use zone is to provide areas for an integrated neighborhood, with a combinaƟon of primarily residenƟal uses mixed with complementary office and commercial uses.

The MUR land use provides housing infill opportuniƟes on exisƟng small and mid-size office and service commercial parcels. A density range of 20 to 40 dwelling units per acre allows a variety of residenƟal housing types located along street frontages. Development can be stand-alone, verƟcal, or horizontal mixed-use configuraƟons. Within the MUR land use, a residenƟal 0.5 FAR minimums are is established to maintain and encourage residenƟal development within this zone. The MUR sitewide FAR range is 0.7 to 2.0.
 Update MU DefiniƟon: Downtown Mixed-Use, North. The purpose of the Downtown Mixed-Use, North (DMU-N) land use zone is to encourage an integrated neighborhood of commercial and residenƟal uses within the Core area of San Ramon. The intent is to incorporate new residenƟal uses in the exisƟng office seƫng with pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, open spaces, and trails connecƟng to the Iron Horse Trail and City Center. ResidenƟal uses are located adjacent to the street and complementary offices, services, and goods in close proximity to transportaƟon networks. The allowed density in the DMU-N land use zone ranges from a minimum of 20 dwelling units per acre to a maximum of 60 dwelling units per acre. Development is generally intended to be verƟcal in nature with residenƟal entryways taking advantage of the City’s Walking District, and allowance for higher density. Development can be verƟcal mixed use or stand-alone residenƟal in proximity to nearby commercial uses with a horizontal mixed-use configuraƟon. The DMU-N sitewide FAR range is 1.25 to 2.75.
 Table 4-5 (Consistency between GP and ZO): Revise with the following highlighted revised residenƟal land use names and Consistent Base Zoning Districts. Land use map legend needs to be updated accordingly:
o Single Family-Low Density ResidenƟal RE-A, RE-B, RS-12, RS-10 o Single Family-Low Medium Density ResidenƟal RS-10, RS-7, RS-6

5.9.b
Packet Pg. 559 Attachment: B. Resolution No. 2023-133, Approving the General Plan 2040 Project, with Exhibits 1 through 5 (2023-42 : Draft General Plan 2040