Ordinance No. 2065 Adoption — City Council and Authorities Concurrent, January 9, 2024

Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District Page 1 of 6 Rev: 09/2019
ORDINANCE NO. 2065

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 18 OF “THE CODE OF
THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA” TO ADD A
NEW CHAPTER 18.22, REGULATIONS FOR THE

DOWNTOWN FORM-BASED ZONING DISTRICT

WHEREAS, the City of S anta Clara (the “City”) is contemplating the adoption of the Downtown Precise Plan (the “Project”), a plan to implement the community’s vision and objectives for a vibrant, pedestrian -oriented destination Downtown with a reestablished street grid with up to 1,071 residential units, 531,720 square feet of office space, 197,900 square feet of commercial/retail space, and 44,300 square feet of public space, located on approximately 25 acres of land located in the historic Downtown bounded by Benton Street to the north, Lafayette Street to the east, Homestead Road to the south, and Madison Street to the west;
WHEREAS, the Project site is located within the Downtown Focus Area of the General Plan;
WHEREAS, the General Plan contemplates that Focus Areas represent locations with opportunities for more intense development with limited impact on existing neighborhoods; WHEREAS, the Precise Plan represents the implementation of the General Plan’s goals and policies for the Downtown Focus Area;
WHEREAS, as a part of im plementation of the Precise Plan, the City intends to adopt a General Plan Amendment (“GPA”) to amend the General Plan land use diagram by changing the existing land use designation of the Project Site fro m High Density Residential, Community Mixed Use, and Downtown Core to Downtown; //
Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District Page 2 of 6 Rev: 09/2019
WHEREAS, the Downtown Precise Plan is currently zoned CD - Downtown Commercial, OG - General Office, CC - Community Commercial, R1 -6L – Single Family, B – Public, Quasi-Public Park or Recreation, and PD Planned Development; WHEREAS, the Santa Clara City Code (“SCCC”) currently does not include the required zoning district to i mplement the General Plan designation proposed in the Downtown Precise Plan area;
WHEREAS, in order to effectuate the Project at the higher-intensity form of development provided in the Precise Plan, it therefore is necessary to (a) create a new zoning dis trict that implements the Precise Plan in the project area, and (b) rezone the Downtown Precise Plan area using the Downtown Form Based zoning designation; and WHEREAS, the HT – Historic Combining zoning district is an overly district intended to preserve historic landmarks and is applied to one property in the Plan area with APN 269- 20-095 (906 Monroe Street), and the proposed rezoning will not remove the overlay, but change the underlying combining district;
WHEREAS, SCCC Section 18.112.040 provides for the review and recommendation by the Planning Commission of all proposed zoning amendments before any action is taken by the City Council;
WHEREAS, on October 25, 2023 the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing and recommended that the Council approve the proposed Downtown Form Based Zoning District and rezoning;
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Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District Page 3 of 6 Rev: 09/2019
WHEREAS, before considering the creation of the Chapter 18. 11, the rezoning of the Downtown Precise Plan area, the City Cou ncil reviewed and considered the potential environmental impacts of the Project and identified m itigation measures in the Environmental Impact Report for the Project (SCH#2022010282) (the “EIR”), in accordance with the requirements of CEQA;
WHEREAS, the Project approvals will include a resolution certifying the EIR (the “CEQA Resolution”); a resolution approving the GPA (the “GPA R esolution”); a resolution approving the Downtown Precise Plan (the “Precise Plan Resolution”); and an ordinance (a) amending the Santa Clara City Code to include a new Chapter containing the zoning district relevant to the Downtown Precise Plan and (b) applying the new zoning designation across the Precise Area (the “Rezoning Ordinance”) (collectively, the “Approvals”); WHEREAS, notice of the public hearing on the proposed Project was published in the Santa Clara Weekly, a newspaper of general circulation for the City, on October 11, 2023; and
WHEREAS, on December 5, 2023, t he City Counci l conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the new chapter of the zoning ordinance and corresponding rezoning of the downtown area, at which time interested persons were given an opportunity to give testimony and provide evidence in support of and in opposition to the proposed rezoning. //
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Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District Page 4 of 6 Rev: 09/2019

NOW THEREFORE , BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: That an new Chapter 18. 22 entitled, “Regulations for the Downtown Form Based Zoning District”, is hereby added to Title 18 (entitled “Zoning”), of “The Code of the City of Santa Clara, California” (“SCCC”) as more specifically set forth in the “Downtown Form Based Zoning Code” dated November 2023, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, with the following revisions:

Subsection “L” (“Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)”) of Section 6.3 ( “Standards”) of Chapter 6 (“Building Height”) is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
“L. CLUP Policies. In order to ensure consistency with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the San Jose Mineta International Airport, the following Policies shall apply within the Downtown Zone:

1. When measuring development height for consistency with the San José International Airport (SJC) Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) Part 77 Surfaces, height is to be measured from mean sea level (MSL) to the top of the highest point of any proposed structure. Height of any proposed structure is subject to height policies set forth in the SJC and Reid-Hillview CLUPs and may not exceed the Part 77 Surface immediately above that proposed structure. However, in the case of structures or objects within the SJC Airport Influence Area and within an area subject to SJC Part 77 surfaces, if that structure or object penetrates the Federal Aviation Regulation Part 77 surface, the proponent may submit the project data to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for evaluation and air navigation hazard determination, in which case the FAA’s determination shall prevail. //
Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District Page 5 of 6 Rev: 09/2019

2. All proposed development within the SJC Traffic Pattern Zone shall comply with the applicable open space requirements of the SJC CLUP (SJC CLUP Policy S-5 and Table 4-2).

3. Where legally allowed, dedication of an avigation easement to the City of San José shall be required to be offered as a condition of approval on all projects located within the Airport Influence Area, other than reconstruction projects as defined in CLUP paragraph

4.3.7. All such easements shall be similar to that shown as Exhibit 1 in Appendix A of the CLUP (SJC CLUP policy G-5).”
SECTION 2: That the City Council hereby amends the City of Santa Clara Zoning Map to apply the zoning designation contained in Chapter 18.22 to all properties in the Downtown Precise Plan Area, bounded by Benton Stre et to the north, Lafay ette Street to the east, Homestead Road to the south, and Madison Street to the west.

SECTION 3: That the City Clerk is authorized to renumber the new Chapter 18.22, or any section or subsection contained therein, in order to conform to the numbering system of the existing zoning ordinance, or any subsequent zoning ordi nance adopted within twelve months following the Effective Date.
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SECTION 4: Effective date. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final adoption; however, prior to its final adoption it shall be published in accordance with the requirements of Section 808 and 812 of "The Charter of the City of Santa Clara, California." PASSED FOR THE PURPOSE OF PUBLICATION this 5TH day of December, 2023, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILORS :

NOES: COUNCILORS:

ABSENT: COUNCILORS:

ABSTAINED: COUNCILORS:

Becker , Chahal, Hardy, Jain, Park, and Watanabe
None
None
Mayor Gillmor~
'
ATTEST:

NORAPIMENTE(Mc

ASSISTANT CITY CLERK

CITY OF SANTA CLARA

FINALLY PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA this grn day of January, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILORS:

NOES: COUNCILORS :

ABSENT: COUNCILORS:

ABSTAINED: COUNCILORS :

Attachments incorpo rated by reference:

Becker , Chahal , Hardy, Jain, Park, and Watanabe
None
None
Mayor Gillmor
ATTEST: ~

NORA PIMENTEL, MMC

ASSISTANT CITY CLERK

CITY OF SANTA CLARA

1. Downtown Form Based Zoning Code
Ordinance/Downtown Form-Based Zoning District
Rev: 09/2019

Page 6 of 6 ends

SANTA CLARA DOWNTOWN FORM-BASED CODE
CITY OF SANTA CLARA | PUBLIC DRAFT | NOVEMBER 2023

SANTA CLARA DOWNTOWN PRECISE PLAN
CITY OF SANTA CLARA | DRAFT | SEPTEMBER 2022

SANTA CLARA DOWNTOWN FORM-BASED CODE
CITY OF SANTA CLARA | PUBLIC DRAFT | NOVEMBER 2023

SANTA CLARA DOWNTOWN PRECISE PLAN
CITY OF SANTA CLARA | DRAFT | SEPTEMBER 2022

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
City of Santa Clara
Downtown Community Task Force
Butch Coyne
Rob Mayer
Dan Ondrasek
Matthew Reed
Chan Thai
Adam Thompson
Ana Vargas-Smith
Atisha Varshney
Debra von Huene
WRT / Planning, Urban Design, T eam Leader
Kimley-Horn / Mobility
CSW|ST2 / Civil Engineering
Sargent Town Planning / Place-Making & Form-Based Code
EPS / Economics
Greensfelder Real Estate Strategy / Retail Strategy
David J. Power & Associates / CEQA
FACING PAGE: FARMERS’ MARKET AT FRANKLIN SQUARE
1 General Provisions & Administration 4 2 The Vision & Coding Approach 8 3 Overview of Standards 14 4 The Downtown Zone & Character Overlays 16 5 Building Placement 18 6 Building Height 22 7 Building Massing 28 8 Facade Design 36 9 Private Frontages 42 10 Architectural Projections 52 11 Signage Design 62 12 Building Use & Parking 70 13 Site Standards & Guidelines 76 14 Glossary 86 TRANSFORMED DOWNTOWN—This diagram, Figure 5–1 from the Downtown Precise Plan, illustrates a long-term vision of the concentration of new investment and activity possible for Downtown Santa Clara, re-establishing it as a remarkable mixed-use urban center of culture and commerce.

CONTENTS:

4 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
1 General Provisions & Administration

1.1. Introduction 1.2. Applicability
Historic Properties and with the City’s regulations
for Historic Combining Districts (see Chapter

18.58 of the Santa Clara City Code) The continued
assessment of buildings and sites with potential
but undetermined historic significance will continue
throughout the life of the Precise Plan In particular, the City should study the potential eligibility of the
downtown post office for the Historic Preservation
and Resources Inventory
D. Specific to the Historic Combining District. The
property located at 906 Monroe St (APN 26920095)
shall comply with all regulations of the Historic
Combining District (HT) as described in Chapter

18.58 of the Santa Clara City Code
E. Historic Building Reuse. The reasonable use
of historic buildings may necessitate adaptive
reuse The Director of Community Development
("Director"), to encourage such reuse, may allow
flexibility around parking guidelines, change-in-
use thresholds, and other topics, while remaining
consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s
Standards for the Preservation and Treatment of
Historic Properties and with the City’s regulations
for Historic Combining Districts (see Chapter 18.58
of the Santa Clara City Code)
The Precise Plan describes a revitalized Downtown that is comfortably walkable, amenity-rich, and well-connected
The vision includes a complete, compact neighborhood,
with human-scaled streets framed by buildings with
active and interesting frontages, and a network of high- quality streetscapes that weave through Downtown and
provides a range of mobility options It is the purpose of the Downtown Precise Plan, and especially of these
standards, to help ensure that this vision is implemented These Development Standards seek to guide private
development efforts and public improvements so that
as the Downtown develops, it builds in a way that is
physically predictable and consistent with the goals and policies of the Precise Plan
To the extent possible, the administration of this code is intended to follow the same procedures and requirements as elsewhere in the City The application process, fees, notice of hearing, date of hearing, decision, notice of decision, effective date, vested rights, finality of decision, appeals, and related procedures and revocation shall be in accordance with the procedures set forth for in Title 18 of the Santa Clara City Code (SCCC)
The Development Standards of this Form-Based Code
regulate land use and the physical form of development
for the ten blocks identified in Figure 4–1 (The Downtown Zone), which corresponds to the Downtown Precise Plan
Area The zone established herein replaces the existing zoning for all property and uses within its boundaries
A. Existing Requirements. This Chapter replaces
currently-adopted zoning regulations for parcels in
the Plan area, but relies on many of the land use
and procedural requirements of the Santa Clara City
Code (SCCC) In cases where this Chapter is silent,
the requirements of the SCCC shall apply; in cases
where there is conflict between the requirements
of this Chapter and those of the SCCC, the
requirements of this Chapter shall apply
B. Existing Structures and Uses. Permitted structures
and uses that do not conform to the standards of
this Chapter on the date of its adoption shall be
deemed to be legal nonconforming The provisions
of SCCC 18 94 shall apply
C. Historic Preservation & Resources Inventory.

Downtown’s historic buildings and sites shall
be preserved as described by the City’s Historic
Preservation and Resources Inventory and
consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s
Standards for the Preservation and Treatment of

1.3. Rules of Construction

1.5. Public Notice
5 | Chapter 1: General Provisions & Administration

1.4. Architectural Review
The following general rules of construction apply to the text of this Chapter In case of ambiguity, the Director of Community Development ("Director") shall determine the
appropriate application of standards based on the vision for Downtown Santa Clara described in Chapter 1 and the Downtown Precise Plan
A. Definitions. Whenever a defined word appears
in this Chapter, its meaning is as set forth in this
Chapter If a word is not defined in this Chapter,
the definition in the Zoning Code shall apply
Definitions for words that are not defined in either
this Chapter or the Zoning Code are interpreted in
accord with their dictionary meaning and customary
usage
B. Illustrations. In case of any difference of meaning
or implication between the text of any provision
and any illustration or photograph, the text shall
control, unless the intent of the standard is clearly
otherwise
C. Terminology. "Shall" is prescriptive; "should" is
directive; "may" is permissive
D. Uncertainty. In cases of uncertainty regarding the
application of any of these Development Standards,
the Director shall have the authority to make a
determination
All projects within the Downtown Zone (established in
Chapter 4) are subject to the review process outlined in SCCC § 18.76 (Architectural Review)
Notice of any public hearing required under the terms of this title shall be given as required in the Zoning Code, except that notice shall be provided to all properties within a minimum of one thousand (1,000) feet from the exterior boundaries of the area actually occupied or to be occupied by the use which is the subject of the hearing

1.6. Director Interpretations
Authority. The Director of Community Development or
designee (“Director”) has the authority to interpret any provision of this Code Whenever the Director determines that the meaning or applicability of any Code requirement is subject to interpretation, the Director may issue an official interpretation See SCCC § 18.02.040.
6 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
§ Standard Max. Deviation from
Numeric Standard Required Finding(s)
4 The Downtown Zone and Character Overlays
Dimensions in Figure 4-2
10%
• Any dimensional deviation is warranted to accommodate a building's bay and Massing Increment rhythm
• Any dimensional deviation does not detract from a ground floor's ability to provide a Shopfront where required
5 Building Placement
Standards in Table 5-1
0%
• The building(s) help(s) define and provide appropriate enclosure to the public realm
• The design is harmonious with the existing built context, • The portion of the Build-To Range which is not built out is a meaningfully- designed, useful and beautiful space rather than unsightly leftover space • Rear setbacks with alleys provide adequate space for any required trash, fire, or utilities access
• Where fire access is required, separation meets fire code and the discretion of local fire official
• Where exceptions to standards are necessary to enable the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, provided that the ground floor frontage is calibrated, to the extent practical, according to the standards and guidelines of Section 9 In exceptional adaptive reuse cases, the Planning Commission may allow a deviation greater than those listed in this table
Standards in Table 5-2
10%
All other numeric standards in Section
5 10%
6 Building Height
All numeric standards in Table 6-1,
Figure 6-1, and Figure 6-2 0% • Not applicable: no deviation allowed All numeric standards in Table 6-2 and
Section 6.3.C through 6.3.J 20%
• Any deviation in dimensions is mitigated through excellence in design which clearly meets the intent for the Plan Area as described in the Precise Plan • Floor-to-ceiling height is not less than 8 feet
7 Building Massing
All numeric standards in Section 7 20% • High quality architectural design and materials used create enough visual interest to compensate for any dimensional deviations
8 Facade Design
All numeric standards in Section 8
20%
• Exceptional architectural style and quality of materials create visual interest that compensates for a lower amount of windows, doors, or entrance frequency • The facade is organized into a coherent rhythm of bays and the intent of an active & interesting ground floor environment is still met

1.7. Deviation from
Standards
In some instances, it may be practical to deviate
slightly from the Standards of this Code while
still meeting the vision of the Downtown Precise
Plan In such a case, the Planning Commission
shall have the authority to grant deviations from
the development standards of this chapter in
accordance with the provisions of SCCC § 18.108
and in accordance with the maximum deviations
and associated required findings in Table 1-1
For any standards not listed in Table 1-1, no
deviation is permitted In all cases, no deviation
shall be granted if it hinders a project's ability
to contribute to the vision for Downtown Santa
Clara as detailed in the Downtown Precise Plan
and/or hinders its ability to achieve the intent of
the standard in question
Special consideration for deviations shall be
given to the cultural/civic anchors described in
the Precise Plan, such as the Food Hall / Market
Structure on Arts Commons New cultural/
civic structures play a pivotal role—as does
the existing historic Post Office building—in
establishing Downtown as a destination with
unique physical markers Such buildings warrant
special architectural gestures, executed to a high
artistic standard
TABLE 1-1 | DEVIATIONS FROM STANDARDS
§ Standard Max. Deviation from
Numeric Standard Required Finding(s)
9 Private Frontages
All numeric standards in Section 9
20%
• Any deviation in dimensions is mitigated through excellence in design and enables the frontage to accomplish the intent of private frontages • Any deviation doesn't hinder a frontage's ability to serve its role according to its frontage type
10 Architectural Projections
All numeric standards in Section 10
20%
• Any deviation in dimensions is mitigated through excellence in design • Any deviation does not restrict the projection's ability to serve its purpose (i e a balcony shall remain usable rather than simply decorative) 11 Signage Design
All numeric standards in Section 11
20%
• The sign is not auto-oriented in nature
• The sign is appropriately scaled to the size of the building & business • The sign enhances the aesthetic quality of the public realm 13 Site Standards & Guidelines
All numeric standards in Section 12
20%
• The high quality of the architectural/landscape design and the materials used create enough visual interest to compensate for any dimensional deviations • Privacy requirements are adequately balanced with visual safety needs • Any additional wall height is warranted to provide appropriate privacy to the space it is enclosing, due to a unique site condition (i e space is highly exposed or adjacent an undesirable site condition outside of developer's control) • Decreased wall height is warranted if a landscaping feature provides the desired privacy
• The enclosed space provides adequate visibility to the public realm ("eyes on street")
• Architectural style is consistent with the design of the building and/or the public space it is enclosing; strong landscaping is provided between wall and sidewalk 7 | Chapter 1: General Provisions & Administration
8 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
A. Implementing the Vision. The essential character and community value of the historic downtown that Santa Clara lost in the 1970s was defined by its public realm – the beautiful, comfortable, lively, useful and entertaining “outdoor rooms of the community” – and by the unique buildings and lively mix of retail, dining, entertainment and civic uses that lined and activated those public spaces The same is true of the envisioned future Downtown Santa Clara Within the streets, plazas, parks, paseos, courtyards and buildings of the restored Downtown that the civic, cultural, economic and social life of Santa Clara will once again be centered B. The Precise Plan. Developed through a 3-year community process, The Precise Plan has clearly defined the public space network for the restored downtown, which will act as its organizational and mobility framework The starting point for the public realm framework is the systematic restoration of the historic street grid and resulting pattern of very walkable square blocks, to which the Precise Plan has added a number of very special new public gathering spaces in the form of plazas and greens In addition to defining the vision for the restored downtown, the Precise Plan includes detailed standards and design guidelines for the public realm, including all the streets, plazas, parks and other public open spaces, as well as implementation strategies and procedures
2 The Vision & Coding Approach
FRANKLIN STREET IN THE 1950SFRANKLIN STREET IN 1898 FRANKLIN STREET TODAY

2.1. A New Code for Downtown Santa Clara
C. Conceptual Vision. The Precise Plan also provides a clear conceptual vision for the types, sizes, uses and design character of the buildings that will shape and activate those public spaces Through the hard work of the Downtown Community Task Force, city staff and officials, and the planning and design team a remarkably detailed and nuanced vision has emerged, defining specific building size, form, use and design characteristics on a street by street and block by block basis
D. Development Standards and Guidelines. The standards and guidelines of this Code are both “place-based” and “form-based” , with all standards and guidelines keyed to a Regulating Plan, which mirrors exactly the public realm plan in the Precise Plan This enables to Code to assign building height standards, building setback standards, building use standards, and building form and design standards and guidelines on a street-by-street and block-by-block basis in order to systematically and predictably implement the community’s vision
This Section provides a non-regulatory introduction to the Code All standards and topics referenced in this section are found in later sections of this Code E. The Role of Buildings. If the streets and plazas and greens of the Downtown are “the floors” of the outdoor rooms of the public realm, it is buildings that form “the walls” of those rooms, providing a strong sense of spatial enclosure (a k a “sense of place”) and activating the public real with retail, restaurant, entertainment, civic, office and residential uses and activities In conventional suburban environments, buildings are interspersed with parking lots and landscaping in freeform patterns, with buildings essentially free-floating in “open space” that is designed primarily for driving and parking cars In downtowns and the traditional neighborhoods that usually surround them, buildings are set purposefully at or near the sidewalks, with the facade of every building and every development project working together to generate a steady but varied “streetwall” to define human-scale pedestrian-oriented public spaces The streets surely accommodate automobiles, but are designed first and foremost for people It is the constant presence of pedestrians, and high levels of human activity in the downtown public realm that makes it attractive, active, safe and comfortable throughout the day and late into the evening The safety and comfort of the that public realm also depends to a very large degree on the “eyes on the street” that are provided by shopkeepers, customers, residents and office workers within the buildings This requires that all facades include generous amounts of windows Windows are “the eyes of the building” , giving the entire Downtown “a lived-in look ” Blank walls are very destructive of comfortable urban places, most particularly at the ground floor level Further, as discussed below, the design of ground floor building frontages must be such that ground floor occupants do not feel the need to keep window blinds closed all the time for privacy, as windows that are always covered do little more for pedestrian comfort and safety than blank walls F. Coding Approach. This Code is a system for ensuring that each new increment of private development and public improvement contributes to achieving the community’s vision as documented in the Precise Plan Unlike “a project” – which may be designed and built all at once by a single developer or investor – “a plan and code” is a recipe for ensuring that many projects built by many people over the course of many years will generate a coherent, cohesive and varied set of urban spaces and places, consistent with the community’s vision and aspirations The code is essentially “the vision, reverse engineered” into a set of rules and THE ROLE OF BUILDINGS—The walls of outdoor rooms OPEN SPACES—Parks and square form part of downtown's varied set of urban spaces. 9 | Chapter 2: The Vision & Coding Approach
10 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
procedures which, if followed, will enable each new project to meet market demand, to express the vision and creativity of its developer and designers, while also contributing to the making of a complete, new downtown of sustained and growing long-term value G. Code Regulations. The Code regulates all of the standard zoning topics related to building use, building heights and setbacks, parking requirements, and permitting processes It also provides standards for building form and design

1. Building Placement. To emphatically define the public spaces of the Downtown, building facades must be built at or near – and parallel to – the frontage line or back of sidewalk Along Franklin Street and other retail streets, most building facades must be built right on the frontage line in the classic “main street shopfront” pattern Along streets with existing or new housing, buildings must be set back from the sidewalk behind shallow landscaped yards, providing a degree of privacy for residents and compatibility with nearby homes The design of building ground floors and front setback areas– see Frontages, below – is systematically correlated with building placement to optimize the function and value of the ground floor uses in that building and in surrounding properties

2. Building Height. Along Franklin Street and within the downtown core, building heights may vary from 2 to7 stories, or up to 9 allowed by height bonus provisions that may be granted for exceptional projects But buildings along the Neighborhood Edges – particularly along Benton, Madison, and Homestead – must be “scaled down” for compatibility with surrounding historic neighborhoods The taller buildings in the core provide very strong spatial definition and decidedly “urban character” to that area They also provide opportunities for significant quantities of housing and office uses in addition to the downtown commercial uses, and generate economic value capable of supporting the construction cost of efficient, shared, structured parking facilities that will enable such a concentration of active uses without a surrounding “sea of parking lots ”
H. Code Provisions. In addition to regulating overall building heights, the Code includes provisions that regulate the heights of ground floors, to ensure generous spaces for shops, restaurants and other active downtown uses It also includes provisions for manipulating the “apparent height” , or “scale” , of buildings to ensure greater compatibility of taller buildings with surrounding existing and future smaller buildings For example, the tallest new buildings are required to provide clearly defined 2-story bases that are approximately the height of the two-story historic downtown buildings and existing two-story homes in surrounding neighborhoods As described below, building facade standards include provisions requiring building height variations in tandem with building width standards to differentiate adjacent buildings one from the other
BUILDING PLACEMENT—Shopfronts line the back of the sidewalk BUILDING HEIGHT—scaling down from the center to surrounding residential

1. Building Facades, Scale and Character. Quite literally “the walls” of each street and block of the Downtown, building facade standards are coordinated with the street design, building height and building use standards to ensure that the scale and character of each public space is consistent with the vision and intent of the Precise Plan Facade design is at the intersection of architecture and urban design, of development and placemaking, and done well can ensure that each building meets the programmatic and financial goals of property owners, investors and users, while positively contributing to the making of a fine new downtown public realm for Santa Clara in the primary ways

2. Facade Organization. The historic buildings within the downtown core along Franklin Street were typically 25 to 60 feet wide, such that each block was comprised of 5 to 10 individual buildings That pattern was based on the original subdivision of the Downtown into 25- or 30-foot-wide lots, and the development of buildings on one or two or occasionally three lots Most of the residential lots across Benton Street, Madison Street and Homestead Street from the new Downtown are 50 or 60 feet wide, and the primary masses of most of the homes are 25 or 30 feet wide All new buildings in the Downtown are expected to reflect and respect those historic patterns by incorporating comparably sized and scaled building forms and facade patterns, whether in buildings similar in overall size to lost historic structures, or are buildings and projects whose overall size is considerably larger This is not an exercise in nostalgia or “historical correctness” , it is to ensure that the new downtown is compatible with (“in scale with”) the surrounding historic neighborhoods, and to provide it with a uniquely Santa Clara identity and ambiance

3. Building Width. The original historic downtown buildings were built on or two or three of the original 25- or 30-foot-wide lots, and because many were built before automobiles became a common transportation mode did not include large parking lots or structures within the blocks Accordingly, all new building facades are expected to be organized into “bays” – groupings of doors, windows and other architectural elements Further, the facades of wide development projects are also required to be organized into more than one “Massing Increment, ” as perceived from the street Each 300-foot block face will contribute at least 4 such Increments to the public realm

4. Vertical Organization. In addition to organizing door and window openings into bays and buildings horizontally, fine downtown buildings are prototypically organized vertically with clear bases, middles and tops
a. Bases: In the classic American downtown mixed-use building, the base is composed mainly of large, clear glass shopfront windows and entries, and made of fine, heavy, strong materials such as stone or brick, that look great close up and age gracefully Some large ground floor openings are also building entries and lobbies leading to upper floor residences and offices
FACADE ORGANIZATION—This wide single building breaks down its scale into different facade designs to better fit the neighborhood BUILDING WIDTH—50' wide building organized into vertical bays 11 | Chapter 2: The Vision & Coding Approach
12 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
b. Middles: Upper floors are typically fenestrated with the smaller windows of apartments, offices or hotel rooms, typically grouped and stacked above the large ground floor windows in simple rectangular patterns In some buildings, however, large windows comparable in scale to those of the ground floor may continue to the upper floors, while in buildings with residential ground floors the smaller window pattern of the upper floors may extend to the ground floor c. Tops: Building tops may be designed in many different ways Some have visible pitched roofs, others are provided with projecting architectural cornices, and some have very simple caps on parapet walls The scale of buildings taller than 3 or 4 stories may benefit from more emphatic articulation of their top floor, with techniques including special materials or window patterns, recessed balconies or porticos, or roof terraces with pergolas or roofs d. Combinations: Finally, for taller buildings, in addition to strong tops, two-story bases are required to moderate the appearance of height and to establish a strong two-story scale from the perspective of the pedestrian Most of the buildings of Santa Clara’s historic downtown were two stories tall, as are most of the fine historic homes in the surrounding neighborhoods So establishing a two-story “scale” in this way within the downtown is a simple way to make new taller buildings fit in gracefully

5. Frontages. Frontages are those linear strips of space between the building face and vehicular traffic These are generally the spaces with the highest concentrations of pedestrian activity, commercial activity, and social activity – the spaces through which pedestrians move throughout the Downtown, window shop, dine outdoors, and enter and exit buildings Accordingly, the design and function of frontages is critically important to the success and value of each and every ground floor use, very likely the most important single topic addressed by this Code

6. Privacy Modulation. A fundamental role of frontages in urban places is as “privacy modulators” for ground floor uses In suburban environments, privacy for ground floor uses is provided by setting buildings back behind wide landscaped “buffers” and parking lots, which have no place in downtown streetscapes, so more nuanced manipulations of building facades and judicious use or shallow VERTICAL ORGANIZATION—Base, middle, and top BUILDING FRONTAGES—good design of this space invites activity setbacks is required The Frontage Standards and Guidelines of this Code work in combination with the building setback and facade design standards and guidelines to appropriately calibrate privacy for each type of ground floor use

7. Retail Exposure. Retail shops thrive on openness and visibility to passing pedestrians and motorists, so retail frontages are characterized by wide sidewalks and large, clear glass openings set right on the back of the sidewalk, effectively “blurring the line” between interior and exterior space Within the wide sidewalks, outdoor dining or merchandizing may spill out onto the sidewalk next to the shopfront, or within the street tree and furnishing band next to the curb, or in some cases within the curbside zone in lieu of parking or vehicular drop-off

8. Residential and Office Privacy. Ground floor residents or office workers, on the other hand, do not want every passing pedestrian looking into their home or office, so residential and office frontages set the building back behind a shallow landscaped front yard and often elevate the ground floor 2 or 3 feet above the sidewalk so that sills of their smaller ground floor windows are at or above the eye level of passing pedestrians Sidewalks are comfortably wide, but narrower than along retail frontages, and street trees are typically planted in continuous planting strips that further enhance the “front yard” character of the streetscape

9. Intermediate/Flex Frontages. A variety of intermediate or “user-reconfigurable” frontage types are defined to enable ground floor uses to change over time with market demand, without major reconstruction each time the use changes Office/ Retail Flex frontages enable occupation of ground floor spaces with office uses, and conversion to more active retail and restaurant uses in the future This can be accomplished simply by allowing more window coverings than permissible in retail establishments, and/or my providing marginally smaller windows than classic retail, still suitable for future retail or restaurant tenants Residential/ Retail Flex may include similar strategies, but only in buildings set back from the sidewalk, with landscaping in the setback area for residential use that can be replaced with sidewalk paving in the future for retail tenants This is a complex topic and is addressed in the standards and guidelines of the Code RETAIL EXPOSURE—Clear glass blurs the barrier between interior and exterior space.

Note: This example is an exceptionally wide expanse of glass. Most facades will be divided into multiple smaller bays divided by vertical structural elements.

RESIDENTIAL AND OFFICE PRIVACY—elevated ground floors
13 | Chapter 2: The Vision & Coding Approach
14 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
3 Overview of Standards

3.1. Summary of Regulating Topics
CH. 4: THE DOWNTOWN

ZONE & CHARACTER

OVERL AYS
A Downtown Zone is applied to the 10
blocks of the Plan Area to implement the
standards of this Code and the vision of the
Precise Plan Character Overlays are used
to further calibrate the standards of the
Code to the multiple unique environments
within the Downtown Zone
CH. 5: BUILDING PLACEMENT
Building placement standards ensure that
new buildings are sited and oriented to
appropriately define and engage new and
existing streets, public spaces, courts, and
paseos
CH. 6: BUILDING HEIGHT
Building heights are regulated in order to
properly concentrate intensity at the heart
of Downtown while scaling appropriately
to the existing context
CH. 7: BUILDING MASSING
Building massings are regulated to ensure
that new large developments do not have
massive, monolithic facades that feel
overbearing to pedestrians Buildings are
required to reflect the rhythm and scale of
the historic Downtown
Throughout the Code, standards are grouped into the regulatory topics summarized on this page Each of these topics represents a section of the Code; the section number is noted alongside each title This topical organization enables the Code to systematically implement the vision as articulated in the Precise Plan and follow the approach described in the previous section, Section 2 Before referencing the standards found in the remainder of this Code, applicants proposing any new development in the Downtown Zone should familiarize themselves with Section 2 as well as the Santa Clara Downtown Precise Plan After covering each of these topics, the Code concludes with a glossary of the specialized terms which are used throughout
Street
Street
Building Footprint
CH. 10: ARCHITECTURAL

PROJECTIONS
Architectural projects are the elements
which stick out from the facade into the
private setback These elements enhance
the relationship between the building and
the public realm
CH. 12: BUILDING USE
& PARKING
Use regulations ensure that upper floors have the
flexibility to accommodate a wide range of activity
in Downtown and that ground floors are occupied
by uses which are appropriate to their Downtown
context—regulated by Character Overlay This
section also ensures the proper placement of
parking within buildings
CH. 13: SITE STANDARDS
& GUIDELINES
Site standard and guidelines regulate a
wide range of private realm elements—
including waste and utilities, site walls,
lighting, and on-site open space—to
ensure that such elements contribute to
the Downtown environment while serving
building occupants
CH. 11: SIGNAGE DESIGN
Signs will be a strength of Downtown
buildings They will be beautiful and
bring visual interest to the street while
drawing patrons to businesses and other
destinations within the Downtown Zone
CH. 8: FACADE DESIGN
This section ensures that building facades
have an appropriate amount of windows
and doors, and that those windows, doors,
and other facade elements are organized
into a rational composition of floors and
bays
CH. 9: PRIVATE FRONTAGES
Private frontage standards regulate the
building face and everything between that
building face and the sidewalk Design
is to be calibrated to ensure a mutually
beneficial relationship between the private
property and the public realm
Private Frontage
Parking
Garage
Wide Range of Upper
Floor Uses
Lafayette St
Franklin St
15 | Chapter 3: Overview of Standards
16 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
ACEGI
BDFHJ
FIGURE 4-1 | DOWNTOWN ZONE PLAN
A The Downtown Zone shall be applied to the land
within the 10 blocks of Downtown which are
established by the Precise Plan The Downtown
Zone is shown in purple in Figure 4.1 to the right
B Figure 3–2 of the Precise Plan establishes the
rights-of-way for each existing and new street and
public open space within the Downtown Precise
Plan Area This figure is included in the lower left
for reference
C The new network of pedestrian-oriented streets
and open spaces shall be designed in accordance
with the design standards specific to each, which
are set forth in Chapter 3 of the Precise Plan
4 The Downtown Zone & Character Overlays

4.1. The Downtown Zone
PRECISE PLAN FIGURE 3–2 | DOWNTOWN STREETS & PUBLIC SPACES Central
Green
Central
Green
Arts
Commons
Arts
Commons
Franklin
Square
Franklin
Square
Legend
17 | Chapter 4: The Downtown Zone & Character Overlays FIGURE 4-2 | CHARACTER OVERLAYS
Shopfront
Overlays
Retail-Ready
General
Neighborhood Edge
a = 50 feet
Potential relocation of Franklin Square and its
fountain to the block to the north, as part of any
future development which includes the demolition
of the existing building at this location
b = 70 feet
c = 90 feet
e = see Standard 5.3.E
Dimensions
(Measured along the applicable
private property line)

4.2. Character Overlays
A Four Character Overlays are established per Figure 4-2: Character Overlays The intent of these overlays is to calibrate the standards and guidelines of the Code to the specific urban environments envisioned by the Precise Plan This includes concentrating street life at key locations within the heart of Downtown while transitioning smoothly to the existing neighborhood context at the edges of Downtown B The Character Overlays include:

1. Shopfront Overlay. The Shopfront Overlay determines the most active and urban nodes of Downtown It locates where the most active ground floor uses, such as restaurants or national retailers, are desired The Shopfront Overlay extends into the lot to a depth of 50' beyond the primary facade (or 30' for local non-formula retail and restaurant establishments, per Section 9.4.A)

2. The Retail-Ready Overlay. The Retail-Ready Overlay fills the gaps between the most active nodes This environment will feature a wider range of ground floor uses than in the Shopfront Overlay, but it must be able to transition to having the qualities of the Shopfront Overlay with retail and restaurant ground floors The Shopfront Overlay extends into the lot to a depth of 50' beyond the primary facade (or 30' for local non-formula retail and restaurant establishments, per Section 9.4.A)

3. The General Overlay. The General Overlay is the most flexible It allows for ground floor residences and offices as well as retail-ready frontages and shopfronts All areas not subject to the Shopfront or Retail-Ready Overlays fall within the General Overlay

4. Neighborhood Edge Overlay. The Neighborhood Edge overlay ensures that the overall building form transitions to the scale of the surrounding neighborhoods, so that you don't have long, monolithic facades across from the existing small house-form buildings It extends from into the lot to a depth of 20' beyond the primary facade It overlaps with other overlays (see Figure 4-2) and therefore, its requirements are in addition to those of the underlying overlay
*
ACE
GI
BDFHJ
*
c
c
c
c
c
e
c
b
a
b
bb
c
18 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
5 Building Placement

5.1. Intent
The standards and guidelines of this
section seek to ensure that, to the extent
practical, new buildings are sited and
oriented to appropriately define and
engage new and existing streets, public
spaces, courts, and paseos (See Section
14 for a Glossary of all words in italic blue
font)

5.2. Applicability
The standards and guidelines of this section
apply to all projects which include the
construction of new primary buildings
BUILDING PLACEMENT—This Axonometric view of the Building Placement diagram (Figure 5-1) illustrates how buildings are to be set close to the front property line (per Table 5-2) to define and engage streets and open spaces.

FIGURE 5-1 | BUILDING PLACEMENT
Franklin Street
Benton Street
Main Street (North)
Jackson Street
B
Building Footprint
Property Line
Arcade
See Section 10.4.H
Public Open Space
See Precise Plan,
Chapter 3
This is a 100% buildout along the street.

Forecourt
See Standard 9.3.B
Gallery
See Section 10.4.I
B
B
D
C E
Alley
Franklin Street
Main Street (north)
Property Line
A
Notes
1 See allowable exceptions in §5.3.A.
2 Measured from the property line(s)
adjacent to the street or open space.
3 The Franklin St, Main St South, and
Lafayette St front setback area shall
be designed as an extension of the
sidewalk per Section 9.3.C.
4 Along Lafayette St, the face of any
Arcade shall be set 6 feet from the
property line (see §10.4.H).
5 Continuous arcade(s) shall project
over this setback, lining Central
Green (see §10.4.H).
6 Buildings lining Arts Commons and a
potentially-relocated Franklin Square
shall be set at the edge of those
spaces, with 100% buildout, as they
are dimensioned in Precise Plan Fig.
3-2. See also Code Fig. 4-2.
7 See Standard 5.3.E.

Shopfront Retail-Ready General
A
Facade Buildout in Front Street Build-To Range
(as percentage of total buildable length along
the street or open space)
100% 1 100% 1 70-100% 1
TABLE 5-1 | FACADE BUILDOUT BY CHARACTER OVERLAY
FIGURE 5-2 | BUILDING SETBACKS KEY
TABLE 5-2 | BUILDING SETBACKS BY STREET (DIAGRAMMED BELOW) Franklin
St
Main St
South
Lafayette
St
All Other North-
South Streets
Central
Green
Benton St &
Homestead Rd
Build-To Range
B Front Street Build-To
Range 2 12' – 15' 3 0’ – 5’ 3
6’ – 12’; 3
or 21' – 26'
with arcade 4
8’ – 12’ 15' – 20' 5 12’ – 16’
Side and Rear Setbacks
C Side yard adjacent to
another lot (min ) 0’
10% of lot width
or 5’ , whichever
is less
D Rear with alley (min ) 15’ from the centerline of the alley Rear without alley (min ) 20’ when backing up to single family residence(s); 15' in all other cases Separation between mult
buildings on a lot (min ) 0’ 10’

5.3. Standards
A. Frontage Buildout. The primary facades of new
primary buildings shall be set within the build-to
ranges in compliance with Tables 5-1 and 5-2 and
the text of this section The following elements
may recess from or break the ground floor facade
and constitute allowed exceptions to the frontage
buildout requirement:

1. Forecourts, subject to Standard 9.3.B, can
span up to 35% of a lot's frontage buildout
requirement However, forecourts are not
Permitted on Franklin St or the Central Green

2. Entrances—no wider than 12'—to paseos or
passages, or side yards (See Section 9.5)

3. Exterior staircases and associated landing areas

4. Chamfered corners, provided they include an
entrance or stairway

5. Recessed Shopfronts: Ground floor shopfront
facades may be recessed up to 8' behind the
Build-To Range to create a "Recessed Shopfront,"
provided the facade above the recessed shopfront
is located within the Build-To Range If the ground
floor is recessed for multiple adjacent bays (see
Chapter 8 for more on Bays), there shall be a
wall or column between each bay, supporting the
upper floor facades
B. Building Orientation. Buildings, in order to properly orient toward and engage the public realm, shall
take access from and front the public realm per
Chapter 9.

1. Front Setback and Encroachments The design
of the front setback area—the space between
the ground floor building facade and public
right-of-way—is regulated by Chapter 9. Allowed
Architectural Projections into the front, side, and
rear setback areas are regulated in Chapter 10
E
19 | Chapter 5: Building Placement
Central
Green
Franklin
Square
* **
*
*
Arts
Commons
20 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
C. Parking and Vehicular Access

1. Per Section 12.1, Surface parking lots are not permitted (exception: parking spaces along an alley, with no additional aisles for the purposes of accessing parking, are permitted)

2. Structured ground floor parking shall be set behind at least 30 feet of occupiable ground floor liner space See Section 12.5.A.2 for parking structure design standards

3. Vehicular access (see precedent at lower left) into the ground floor of a building, where allowed, comprises part of a building's frontage buildout See Section 9.4.F for Vehicular Access frontage type design standards

4. Vehicular drives into a lot, or "driveways" (see precedent lower right), do not comprise part of the frontage buildout, and they are not exceptions to the buildout percentage They are not allowed in the Shopfront Overlay, Retail-Ready Overlay, or anywhere an alley is present See Section 12.5.A.1 for driveway design standards D. Public Realm Extensions. While most buildings and ground-floor units will front onto and take their primary access from the adjacent Public Realm right-of-way, some buildings and ground-floor units may take this primary access from shared private spaces and connections that function as extensions of the public realm into a site Such spaces comprise a "Semi-Public Realm” and serve as transitions between fully-public and fully-private spaces Public Realm Extensions are subject to the following standards:

1. Continuous Access Route. A Public Realm Extension may comprise a single space or connection type, or it may be a sequence of spaces and connections In either case, Public Realm Extensions shall connect directly to the public realm
a. For public realm connections which extend through the block from one street to another (such as a paseo), the maximum distance to any primary access shall be 150 feet
b. For public realm connections which do not extend through the block (such as a forecourt), the maximum distance to any primary access shall be 100 feet
c. A space which is ‘floating’ within a block—such as an internal court which is not linked via other shared spaces or connections to the public realm—shall not provide the sole frontage to a primary building

2. Frontage. The standards and guidelines in Sections 8 and 9, the Facade Design and Private Frontages sections, shall be applied to the facades which define and front these spaces, including frequent points of building access and clear, ample fenestration

3. Activation. Semi-public spaces may allow public access or they may limit access to residents to create a more private space However, these spaces are not intended to be fully private, which means that they shall remain visible from the public realm, and activate the public realm via the regular coming and going of residents and visitors

4. Connectivity. Public realm extensions also provide connections through blocks This is accomplished with a paseo or through a sequence of courts and paseos linking together through the block Where non- vehicular paths are used, full and unrestricted public access shall be provided throughout the route

5. Amenities. Public realm extensions also
double as amenity space, and they should
be designed and furnished as such They
can serve as spaces for gathering, play, and
can include fountains and other amenities

6. Design. The size, configuration, and
character of these spaces shall prioritize
pedestrian comfort The spaces and
connections which comprise a Public Realm
Extension are subject to Section 9.3.B and
the following:
a. Public Realm Extensions shall connect
directly to the public sidewalk Any
necessary steps, ramps, and/or elevators
to connect them shall be easy to locate
and comfortable to use Apart from steps
and ramps, surfaces used by pedestrians
shall be flat
b. Decorative and/or permeable pavement is
encouraged
c. Landscaping, pedestrian-scale lighting,
and seating areas are encouraged
d. Public Realm Extensions may be enclosed
from the public realm with landscaping,
low walls, and/or fences, provided that
entrances are provided No wall or fence
enclosing a public realm extension may
exceed 3 feet in height
e. On-site driving and parking areas shall
either be designed as shared, multi-use
spaces or be kept separate with strategic
siting of buildings and/or landscaping
21 | Chapter 5: Building Placement
E. Placement of the Market/Food Hall on Arts Commons.

The Market/Food Hall structure on Arts Commons, along
Lafayette St, shall fit within the 45' by 75' area identified in Precise Plan Figure 3-2 It may be freestanding or
connect to the adjacent building in Block A In either case, a clear outdoor or indoor/outdoor public pedestrian way must pass between it and the rest of Block A,
connecting Lafayette Street to Arts Commons

VEHICULAR ACCESS INTO THE
GROUND FLOOR is a frontage type and
is regulated by §9.4.F.

VEHICULAR DRIVES INTO A LOT are to be
located and designed to preserve the beauty
and function of the Downtown environment.

Forecourts abut and receive
direct access from the public
right of way
Courts (Internal) are accessed
from the public right-of-way via
a shared private connection such
as a Passage
Paseos, passages, and side
yards abut and receive direct
access from the public right of
way Paseos connect through
blocks, creating a non-vehicular
link between public rights of way
FIGURE 5-3 | PUBLIC REALM EXTENSIONS:

SEMI-PUBLIC SPACES AND CONNECTIONS
22 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Potential Maximum Bonus Heights2
Not Applicable until the Creation of a Bonus Height Program 6 Building Height

6.1. Intent
These standards and guidelines are intended to implement the physical vision that is articulated in Chapter 2, Downtown Framework.

6.2. Applicability
The standards and guidelines of this section apply to all new buildings within the Plan Area All buildings are subject to the Maximum Building Heights without Bonuses (Figure 6-1 ) If a City height bonus program were to be established, buildings may be permitted to extend up to the Maximum Building Heights with Bonuses (Figure 6-2) for providing Community Benefits (Table 6-1), per Standard 6.3.B The Table 6-2 standards for the height of building elements apply to all buildings in the Plan Area

6.3. Standards
A. Maximum Building Heights without Bonuses. All buildings that do not qualify for bonuses (see Standard 6.3.B) are subject to the maximum building heights identified in Figure 6-1 See Standard 6.3.C for measurement of building height B. Maximum Building Heights with Bonuses. The City may create a bonus height program to grant additional height allowance in exchange for the provision of Community Benefits, per direction in the Precise Plan Community Benefits may include, but are not limited to, those identified in Table 6-1 Figure 6-2 establishes the maximum building heights which may be allowed under any such program Bonuses shall be calculated on a project-by-project basis and at the scale of individual buildings The net financial value added to the project via the bonus height shall be determined in proportion to the fair market value of the Community Benefit offered to the City This proportion shall be determined by the bonus height program These bonuses may be combined with any bonuses gained through any State law provisions that may be in effect for affordable housing The resulting height of any building, including bonuses, shall not exceed those identified in Figure 6-2 Bonuses may be granted to Downtown projects for community benefits provided off-site but in the Downtown Zone C. Measurement of Building Height. As shown in Figures 6- 4 and 6-5 , building height in feet is measured from the adjacent sidewalk level to the top of the parapet, cornice, eave, or ridge of pitched roof, whichever is taller Height is regulated by the number of stories as well as the maximum number of TABLE 6-1 | PROPOSED COMMUNITY BENEFITS FOR POTENTIAL

HEIGHT BONUS PROGRAM
Community Benefits
Each cultural venue on Arts Commons (including but not limited to Santa Clara Theater, Cultural Arts Center, and Market Hall), if consistent with locations on Figure 2-8
Public parking garage that can support Cultural Arts Center and Theater This may be provided in addition to providing required parking for other residential and office uses
Visual and performing art venues or movie theaters in location other than the Arts Commons
Conservation of resources listed on the Historic Resources Inventory, buildings in the Historic Combining District, or the post office
Public land dedication, with bonus amount based on extent to which dedication requirement exceeds District average
Enhanced contributions to public realm improvements above fair-share development impact fee, including infrastructure, paving, planting, furnishings, public art and interpretation elements
Enhanced contributions to district transit infrastructure and operations Subsidized rent (offering rent at or below 60% of the current comparable market rate) for ground floor, non-formula retail and restaurant establishments for a minimum of 5 years (this rate and duration shall be included in a Deed Restriction) Providing a Future-Proof parking garage, meeting all the standards of Section

8.2.D.2
23 | Chapter 6: Building Height
FIGURE 6-1 | MAXIMUM BUILDING HEIGHTS WITHOUT BONUSES
LEGEND 1 — Figure 6-1
LEGEND 1 — Figure 6-2
FIGURE 6-2 | POTENTIAL MAXIMUM BUILDING HEIGHTS

WITH BONUSES
40'
40'
40'
40'
Park or Plaza
Notes
1 Per Standard 6.3.C, height is regulated by the number of stories as well as the maximum number of feet; buildings shall not exceed either metric.

Height in feet is typically generous relative to the number of stories to facilitate tall office floors, where they might occur. It is not expected that residential development
would always take advantage of the full height in feet.4 stories (up to 59') 5 stories (up to 72')
6 stories (up to 85')
7 stories (up to 98')
3 stories (up to 40')
2 stories (up to 28') Notes
1 Per Standard 6.3.C, height is regulated by the number of stories as well as the maximum number of feet; buildings shall not exceed either metric.

Height in feet is typically generous relative to the number of stories to facilitate tall office floors, where they might occur. It is not expected that residential development
would always take advantage of the full height in feet. 2 Bonus heights shall not become applicable unless and
until the Council adopts a bonus height program. City
staff anticipate presenting a bonus height program,
including a fee component and accompanied by a nexus
study, to the Council in 2024.
4 stories (up to 59')
5 stories (up to 72')
6 stories (up to 85')
7 stories (up to 98')
9 stories (up to 124')
3 stories (up to 40')
2 stories (up to 28')
Park or Plaza
24 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

6.3 Standards (continued)
A maximum of 50% of the primary facade length may
be built above 4 stories within the Build-To Range
(see Table 5-2 in Section 5: Building Placement)
The remainder of the primary
facade is limited to 4 stories
within the Build-To Range
Any other floors above 4 stories
shall be set back a minimum of 15
behind the lower primary facade
Neighboring
building
(separate
project)
FIGURE 6-3 APPLICABLE TO PROJECTS TALLER THAN 4 STORIES* *where permitted by Figures 6-1 and 6-2
Primary facade
length
50% max.

FIGURE 6-4
GROUND

FLOOR AT

STREET LEVEL
FIGURE 6-5

RAISED GROUND
FLOOR
Property Line
Build-to Line
Private Frontage
TABLE 6-2 | HEIGHT OF BUILDING ELEMENTS
Standards Applicable to All Character Overlays
Facade and Building Height
Primary Facade Height See Standard 6.3.E and Figure 6-3 Maximum Building Height See Figures 6-1 and 6-2
First Floor Level (measured from level of exterior sidewalk) 1 General Overlay 0 to 4 feet 2
Shopfront and Retail-Ready Overlay 0 feet
Floor Heights (min)
Ground Floor (Residential) 3 10 feet floor-to-ceiling; 11 feet floor-to-floor Ground Floor (Non-residential) 3 14' feet floor-to-ceiling; 16' floor-to-floor Upper floor (Residential) 9 feet floor-to-ceiling; 10' floor-to-floor Upper floor (Non-residential) 9 feet floor-to-ceiling; 10' floor-to-floor Building Base Height (min - may span multiple floors per §6 3 E) Base on Buildings of 3 Stories
or less
Not required;
1-story base allowed
Base on Buildings of 4 Stories 1 story base required;
16 feet minimum
Base on Buildings of 5 Stories
or more
2-story base required;
25 feet minimum
A
B
C
C
D D1
D1D
D2
D2
E
E2
E2
F
F
E E1
E1
Notes
1 First floor level standards are applicable to the first 30' behind the facade. 2 If the first floor level is elevated from the sidewalk, the appropriate frontage and architectural projection(s) must be chosen. See Chapters 9 and 10, respectively, for applicable standards. 3 Ground floors in the Shopfront and Retail-Ready Overlays are required to be Non-Residential.KEY D1
E1
15’
C
A
B
F
D2
E2
D1
E1
15’
A
B
F
D2
E2
C
25 | Chapter 6: Building Height
feet; buildings shall not exceed either metric (per Precise Plan Policy 5.1.E) See Section 6.3.J for exceptions and elements which are allowed above the maximum building height Building height in stories includes all floors (except for subterranean basements below the ground floor), subject to the following:

1. Mezzanines. A mezzanine—a partial floor contained within a tall building story—which constitutes less than 50% of the habitable area of the building story where it is located, does not count as an additional story

2. Parking Liner. One habitable floor lining multiple structured parking levels—as may be common with tall ground floor retail spaces—only counts as one story D. Height of Building Elements. All buildings are subject to the standards listed in Table 6-2 (see the following spread), regardless of whether the project has qualified for bonus heights or not
E. Primary Facade Height. The primary facade is the portion of the facade located within the Front Street Build-To Range along a street and/or open space (see Section 5.3)

1. For projects which are 4 stories or less, the entire length of the primary facade may be built up to the maximum allowed building height for the location (per Figures 6-1 and 6-2)

2. For projects which are taller than 4 stories (where permitted by Figures 6-1 and 6-2) , a maximum of 50% of the primary facade length may be built above 4 stories within the Build-To Range The remainder of the primary facade is limited to 4 stories within the Build-To Range Any other floors above 4 stories shall be set back a minimum of 15 behind the lower primary facade See Figure 6-3
F. First Floor Level. Except for retail-ready ground floors (Section 9.4.C) and accessible ground floors at sidewalk level, all residential ground floors shall be raised between 2 and 4 feet from sidewalk grade
G. Floor Heights. Floor heights shall meet the standards listed in Table 6-2

1. Retail/Housing Flex. All ground floor residential is subject to the minimum heights listed in Table 6-2 However, ground floor residential throughout the Downtown Zone is encouraged to go well beyond those minimums and be 14’ feet tall, floor to ceiling, and designed so that future compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) for commercial use is not precluded See the Retail/Housing Flex frontage type in Section 9.4.C 26 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

6.3 Standards (continued)
OPEN STRUCTURES IN UPPER-FLOOR SETBACKS—The upper floor setback area may be covered a trellis (right) or upper floor loggia (left), outlined in yellow above.

BUILDING
BASE
BUILDING BASE HEIGHT—The Building Base lines the public realm and visually supports the upper floors.

H. Building Base Height. The building base (shown below) shall be measured from the sidewalk grade to the (lower) cornice, string course, or horizontal plane break In absence of any of these elements, the mid-point between the topmost point of the first-floor openings and the lowermost point of the second-floor openings shall serve as an upper reference point The Building Base lines the public realm and visually supports the upper floors The Building Base may span multiple floors, rather than simply the ground floor Per Table 6-2, buildings of 5 stories or more must have bases which span at least 2 floors—or the visual equivalent of 2 floors
I. Upper Floor Setback Area. The upper floor setback area may be covered by an open structure—such as a trellis or upper floor loggia, shown to the right—with a front facade that is no more than 10% solid, excluding any parapet wall height J. Elements Above the Maximum Building Height

1. Upper-floor terraces and rooftop decks are allowed, provided that they are not enclosed with walls or roofs Upper floor terraces and rooftop decks may have umbrellas and shade structures, provided that their walls are no more than 10% solid, excluding any parapet wall height Such elements shall not exceed the maximum building height by more than 10 feet
a. Publicly-accessible decks and terraces (such as those for restaurants) are encouraged to extend to the building edge to be visible from the street

2. Enclosed roof access is allowed within structures that measure no more than 20 by 20 feet in plan Such structures shall not exceed 12 feet in height above the floor and shall be set back from the primary facade by 15 feet minimum

3. Certain decorative, uninhabitable architectural elements, such as roof signs (see Section 11.3.I), may exceed the height limit Such elements which exceed the height limit by less than 5 feet shall be subject to Director approval Elements which exceed the height limit by 5 feet or more shall be subject to the Planning Commission

4. Wireless facilities shall be designed into the building and/or mounted on the roof Roof-mounted facilities shall not exceed 6 feet in height from the finished roof, shall be set back from the primary facade by 15 feet minimum, and shall not be visible from the public right-of-way or existing single family residences

5. Solar panels may exceed the maximum building height if located on the top level of a parking structure In such a case, they shall not exceed 60 percent of roof area, shall not exceed 20 feet above top garage floor level, and shall be set back 40 feet from the edge of the building to reduce visibility from below Figures from Precise Plan Goal 5.2
104 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Precise Plan104
GOAL 5.2:

HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND

CHARACTER
Conserve Downtown’s historic resources
and sense of history, while allowing use
of buildings to change over time. The
old Post Office is a building of notable
character and the blocks west of Monroe
have properties designated as historic, as
indicated in Figure 5-6: Historic Resources
and Areas of Historic Sensitivity (2022).

POLICY 5.2A: HISTORIC

PRESERVATION
Preserve Downtown’s historic buildings
and sites as described by the City’s
Historic Preservation and Resources
Inventory and consistent with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards
for the Preservation and Treatment of
Historic Properties and with the City’s
regulations for Historic Combining
Districts (see Chapter 18.58 of the Santa
Clara Municipal Code). Encourage the
continued assessment of buildings and
sites with potential but undetermined
historic significance. In particular, the City
should study the potential eligibility of
Figure 5-6

HISTORIC RESOURCES

AND AREAS OF HISTORIC
SENSITIVITY (2022)
Figure 5-7

BUILDING HEIGHTS

ADJACENT TO HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND AREAS OF

HISTORIC SENSITIVITY
Architecturally Significant & Historic Sites
100ft buffer around Historic Sites
Historic Combining District (HT)
Further study needed
Architecturally Significant & Historic Sites
Historic Combining District (HT)
Further study needed
POST
OFFICE

POST OFFICE
K. Architecturally Significant Historical
Sites. Per Precise Plan Policy 5.2C:
"Where it will be adjacent to a historic
building or within areas of historic
sensitivity, new development should be
designed to be compatible with historic
resources, consistent with the Secretary of
the Interior standards and City regulations,
such as by using similar proportion, scale,
facade modulation, and stepdowns For
new buildings on the same parcel as a
historic building or within a buffer area
defined by Figure 5-6: Historic Resources
and Areas of Historic Sensitivity (2022),
the height of new development should
not distract from the historic building
Accordingly, height limits have been set
in the western area of the Downtown Plan
in response to adjacencies of sensitive
buildings and historic resources "

1. See also Standards 1.2.C–E
L. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

FAA airspace safety clearance, including
dedication of avigation easements, may
be required on a project-specific basis
pursuant to Federal Aviation Regulation /
Part 77
104 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Precise Plan104
GOAL 5.2:

HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND

POLICY 5.2A: HISTORIC

HISTORIC RESOURCES

AND AREAS OF HISTORIC
SENSITIVITY (2022)
Figure 5-7

BUILDING HEIGHTS

ADJACENT TO HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND AREAS OF

POST OFFICE
104 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Precise Plan104
GOAL 5.2:

HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND

POLICY 5.2A: HISTORIC

HISTORIC RESOURCES

AND AREAS OF HISTORIC
SENSITIVITY (2022)
Figure 5-7

BUILDING HEIGHTS

ADJACENT TO HISTORIC

BUILDINGS AND AREAS OF

POST OFFICE
27 | Chapter 6: Building Height

6. As stated in Standard 6.3.C, parapets, cornices, eaves, and pitched roofs are included in the height of the building and therefore shall not exceed the maximum buiding height Pitched roofs should be symmetrical and sloped no less than 4:12, except that roofs for porches and other attached shed roofs which should be no less than 2:12 Gables facing the public realm should not exceed 30 feet in width
28 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
AVOID: This facade would feel massive and monotonous in Downtown Santa Clara WELL-SCALED MASSING INCREMENTS (A) in Historic Downtown Santa Clara and a newly-built building

7.1. Intent
The standards in this section ensure that new development reflects the rhythm and scale of the historic Downtown and that new large developments do not have massive, monolithic facades that feel overbearing to pedestrians Large developments are required to be broken into multiple Massing Increments per the techniques in Sections 7.3 Massing Increments are visually discrete design compositions that:

1. Are distinguishable from each other;

2. Have a coherent look and character from the ground to the top of the facade;

3. Shall appear to be either distinct buildings or distinct parts of a single building, per Section 7.3.C
Not only does subdividing a long building facade make for a more dynamic and interesting streetscape, but it also makes the building more resilient Should the market change in the future, the building can be configured to be easily modifiable by Massing Increment to meet the needs of different tenants or to adapt to other uses AA

7.2. Applicability
New buildings whose primary facade(s) exceeds the maximum Massing Increment length listed in Table 7–1—which varies by whether the facade is within or outside the Neighborhood Edge Overlay (see Figure 4-2, Character Overlays)—shall be divided into smaller ‘Massing Increments’ per the standards of Table 7–1 and the content of this Chapter If a primary facade is less than the maximum Massing Increment length, it does not need to be broken into multiple Massing Increments The standards of this Chapter are organized as follows:

1. Section 7.3.A regulates facades outside the Neighborhood Edge

2. Section 7.3.B regulates facades within the Neighborhood Edge

3. Section 7.3.C regulates when Massing Increments, regardless of location, shall and shall not appear as distinct buildings

MASSING INCREMENTS OUTSIDE THE NEIGHBORHOOD EDGE
See Section 7.3.A

MASSING INCREMENTS WITHIN THE NEIGHBORHOOD EDGE
See Section 7.3.B
29 | Chapter 7: Building Massing
Outside the Neighborhood
Edge
Massing increment (max.) 100’ 1 60’ 1
Facade Height Difference between Massing
increments (min.) 10% of lesser facade height N/A
Building Base Height Difference between
Massing Increments (min.) 3’ N/A
Gap between Massing Increments
(See Section 7.3.B) N/A 16' wide by
20' deep
B
A
C
D
Notes
1 There shall be a minimum of 4 Massing Increments per block face. Where a block face includes an open space, the open space counts as a Massing Increment.

TABLE 7-1 | MASSING INCREMENT DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
FIGURE 7-1 | MASSING INCREMENT DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
Neighborhood
Edge
C
B
A A
Street
AA
D
7 Building Massing
30 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

7.3. Standards
A. Specific to Facades Outside the Neighborhood Edge. Massing increments within the Downtown General Zone outside of the Neighborhood Edge shall be differentiated in the following ways:

1. The primary facade (see Section 6.3.E) height of each Massing Increment—as measured from the adjacent sidewalk level to the eave, cornice, or parapet— shall differ from the primary facade height of its neighboring Massing Increment(s) by 10% of the lesser facade height (per Table 7-1) Upper floors which are set back from the primary facade of the lower floors by a minimum of 15' (per Table 7-1) are not considered part of the primary facade height The resulting setback area may be covered by an open structure—such as a trellis or upper floor arcade—with a front facade that is no more than 10% solid, excluding any parapet wall height Figure 7-1 displays a simple difference in primary facade height, while Figure 7-2 shows two other strategies a. Forecourts and upper floor forecourts—subject to §9.3.B —that are a minimum of 15' deep satisfy this standard as the portion of facade set back does not count as part of the primary facade height

2. The height of the building base (see Section 6.3.H for more on building bases) shall differ from the neighboring building base by a minimum of 3' For a greater impact, the height of the base can change by an entire floor (see Figure 7-3)

3. Facade elements—such as openings and Architectural Projections (see Chapter 10 ) that are typically organized into bays—shall not overlap the division between Massing Increments The entire facade composition shall be contained within its Massing Increment

4. A Massing Increment design may be repeated up to a maximum of 3 times on the same project elevation Repeated Massing Increments may not be immediately adjacent to each other
a. A forecourt—subject to §9.3.B —may provide separation between repeated Massing Increment designs

5. See Section 7.3.C regarding when Massing Increments shall and shall not appear as distinct buildings

UPPER FLOORS
SET BACK —The
upper level of the
right portion of
the building is set
back at least 15'
in order to create
an adequate
difference in
facade height
(B) between the
two Massing
Increments (A).

A
A
B
15'

UPPER-LEVEL
FORECOURT—All
upper floors above
the building base
are set back to
create an upper-
level forecourt
which is one
strategy to create
an adequate
differentiation
between Massing
Increments (B).

A
A
A
FIGURE 7-2 | STRATEGIES FOR VARYING PRIMARY FACADE HEIGHT B
CHANGE OF 3.5 FEET—The building base
height simply changes from the level of the
level of the 2nd floor up to the level of the sill
of the 2nd floor.

CHANGE OF 1 FLOOR—The left building base
height is one floor taller. This is especially
useful to bring contrast where the building
material does not change. Note: a 2-story
building base is required for buildings of 5
stories or more, per Standard 6.3.H.

FIGURE 7-2 | STRATEGIES FOR VARYING BUILDING BASE HEIGHT C
C
31 | Chapter 7: Building Massing
32 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
GAP EXAMPLE —This Gap between Massing Increments serves as a small forecourt, surrounded on all sides by building.

Width of
Gap
Depth of Gap
G
FIGURE 7-4 | MASSING INCREMENTS IN THE

NEIGHBORHOOD EDGE OVERLAY
Street
A A
A
G
G
GAP EXAMPLE —These Gaps between Massing Increments provide vehicular and pedestrian access into the block.

Neighborhood Edge
Overlay
G
G
G
A
A
AA
Benton Street
B. Specific to Facades in the Neighborhood Edge Overlay. Massing Increments within the Neighborhood Edge Overlay shall be differentiated in the following ways:

1. Massing Increments shall be separated by a gap (G in Figure 7-4) of no less than 16’ wide by 20’ deep, per Table 7-1

2. No massing increment facade design may be repeated on the same project elevation A massing increment facade design may be repeated up to three times on a project, provided they are on different sides of the block

3. Architectural style variation between massing increments is encouraged to reinforce a pattern of individual, neighborhood-scale buildings, to better fit in with existing buildings in this zone

4. The use of pitched roofs are encouraged to further relate the buildings to the residential neighborhood scale

5. Any other differentiation that meets the intent of the standard is encouraged

6. Gaps between massing increments may—but are not required to—serve as entries to paseos, courts, side yards, or any other on-site open space Gaps may also serve as small courts or yards and be surrounded on all sides by building

7. See Section 7.3.C regarding when Massing Increments shall and shall not appear as distinct buildings

7.3 Standards (continued)
This page intentionally left blank.
33 | Chapter 7: Building Massing
34 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Massing Increments which appear as DISTINCT BUILDINGS
Massing Increments which appear as DISTINCT PARTS OF A SINGLE BUILDING OR PROJECT

7.3 Standards (continued)
C. Massing Increments as Distinct Buildings.

Depending on the situation, Massing Increments
shall appear to be either distinct buildings or
distinct parts of a single building, per the standards
of this section The intent of these standards is to
implement the historic rhythm and character of a
historic downtown as envisioned by the community
without creating a superficial imitation

1. The following standards regulate when Massing
Increments are to appear as distinct buildings or
simply as distinct parts of a single building:
a. When a single project occupies more than 200
linear feet of street frontage, it shall appear as
at least 3 distinct buildings
b. Maximum number of distinct buildings on any
single block face
i. No single project shall appear as more than
4 distinct buildings on any single block face,
except for facades in the Neighborhood
Edge Overlay, which shall have no maximum
number of distinct buildings
ii. For any project outside the Neighborhood
Edge which occupies less than 100 linear
feet of street frontage, it shall be designed to
appear as a single building
iii. Exception to the above stated maximum
number of distinct buildings: when
Massing Increments are located on different
properties, are built by different developers
or builders, contain distinct programs, and/
or are built at different times, they may
appear as distinct buildings, regardless of the
resultant number of distinct buildings on the
block face

ONE PROJECT COMPRISING MULTIPLE DISTINCT
BUILDINGS—While these examples are each just one
development project, their adjacent Massing Increments
appear as two distinct buildings in order to relate to the historic context and because they host distinct portions of the project's program. They are distinguished using
techniques §7.3.C.2.a & b (difference in material and
color and difference in the type and composition of
facade openings and architectural elements) in addition to those listed in §7.3 . A . The example above would be appropriate for the Neighborhood Edge as it has a gap
between Increments.
35 | Chapter 7: Building Massing

2. How to make Massing Increments appear
as distinct buildings. In addition to meeting
the standards in Sections 7.3.A&B, Massing
Increments which are required to appear as
distinct buildings (per Section 7.3.C.1) shall be
distinguished according to the following:
a. There shall be a clearly noticeable difference
in facade materials and color between distinct
buildings
b. There shall be a clearly noticeable difference in
the type and composition of facade openings
and architectural elements between distinct
buildings
c. The building base heights of adjacent distinct
buildings shall differ by an entire floor.

36 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
8 Facade Design
BAYS —Facades can be organized into bays, regardless of style.

FIGURE 8-2 | BASE, MIDDLE, AND TOP
Building facades shall have a base, middle, and top.

8.1. Intent and Applicability
This section further accomplishes the intent described in Section 7.1 The standards and guidelines of this section apply to all new building facades which face public streets and open spaces within the Plan Area

8.2. Standards
A. Facade Composition. Facade elements shall be organized by a grid (Figure 8-1) Patterns of openings within each individual facade or Building Increment—when required per Section 7.2—shall be organized into a grid per the standards below

1. Horizontal alignment of elements. Rooflines, openings, and materials within each facade or facade module must align horizontally, and be generally consistent in style across the entire width

2. Vertical alignment of openings into bays. The entirety of a building’s facade or Massing Increment shall be clearly divided into vertical bays, subject to the following:
a. Facade bays shall extend from the ground to the top of the facade and are defined by vertical structure (solid portions of wall, piers, etc ) which extends from the ground to the top of the facade (See §8.2.F for more on expressing structure) b. Each bay must be between 15’ and 30’ wide
c. Openings shall be stacked within bays as illustrated below Openings should typically be arranged symmetrically within bays
B. Buildings shall have a base, middle, and top (Figure 8-2). The building base should read as visually supportive, with materials that appear solid and strong Building base heights are scaled to the size of the building; their height is regulated alongside building heights in Section 6.3 and Table 6-2.

1. The building base is the primary portion of the facade observed from the street, so it should feature details and materials which are pleasing to the pedestrian The building base should be differentiated from the rest of the facade—whether by a string course, change in material, change in type of openings, or a combination of these elements

2. The middle of the building features floors which should be generally repetitive, with only minor variations between each floor

3. The top of the building should feature some form of capping element(s), such as a cornice, enhanced ornamentation, or a decorative parapet In larger buildings, the upper most floor may be visually incorporated into the building design of the top Base
Middle
Top
FIGURE 8-1 | A GRID OF FLOORS & BAYS
Each bay in this example features a shopfront on the ground floor with 1 or 2 sets of upper floor windows stacked above. This pattern is especially appropriate for the Shopfront Overlay.

Bay
TABLE 8-1 | FENESTRATION
Facade Area Shopfront Retail-Ready General
Ground Floor 75% - 95% 65% - 95% 40% - 95%
Upper Floors 25% - 70%
C. Facade Fenestration.

1. Fenestration Area. Facades shall be designed with fenestration—openings on the facade, including windows and doors—in the amounts identified by Table 8-1 a. Fenestration amount is calculated as a percentage of openings—including all windows and doors on the facade—to an area of facade Each portion of the facade grid, as defined in Standard 8.2.A.3, must have a fenestration percentage which falls within the range identified by Table 8-1 This is illustrated in the facade diagram to the right See Figure 8-3
b. Per Table 8-1, the required fenestration amount varies by Zone and Overlay (where applicable) and by location on the facade

2. General to all floors:
a. Except for shopfront or bay windows, window jambs shall be set in a minimum of 4 inches from the main facade plane Trim/moldings on the facade do not count toward this recess depth
b. Opaque or fogged windows are prohibited Windows and glazing on doors should have an external reflectance of less than 15%, and a transparency higher than 80% c. Non-operable shutters—known as ‘faux shutters’—are prohibited d. The horizontal distance between wall openings should not exceed 15 feet within a facade or massing increment
e. On street-facing facade s, utility penetrations are prohibited (e g , exhaust vents)

3. Specific to ground floors:
a. The ground floor facade area is determined by multiplying the ground floor height (as regulated by Table 6-2) by its width
b. Structural elements (e g , columns and piers) shall be visible on the facade exterior, and the front face of such structural elements shall align with the face of the facade above in order to visually convey that they support the facade and floors above This is especially critical for ground floor facades with over 90% glass (to avoid the illusion that the upper floors are resting on a glass box) c. Bedroom and bathroom windows along any new or existing street is prohibited d. Display windows which block views into interior spaces may only comprise up to 25% of the required fenestration area
e. Section 9 establishes further ground floor fenestration requirements, beyond the base standards in Table 8-1, to create a balance between privacy and transparency according to frontage type

4. Specific to upper floors:
a. Wall openings should generally not span across stories (vertically) or bays (horizontally)
b. Upper-floor wall openings shall be square or taller than they are wide Individual vertically-proportioned windows can be grouped side by side to form a horizontal ensemble of windows
25–70%
25–70%
25–70%
75–95%
25–70%
25–70%
25–70%
75–95%
25–70%
25–70%
25–70%
75–95%
25–70%
25–70%
25–70%
75–95%
FIGURE 8-3 | APPLYING THE FENESTRATION STANDARDS
Each portion of the facade grid must meet the applicable fenestration requirement. This example displays Shopfront overlay requirements. 37 | Chapter 8: Facade Design
38 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
FLEXIBLE BUILDINGS like this example in downtown Los
Angeles, whose upper floors once hosted a department
store and offices but now serves as a parking garage.

8.2 Standards (continued)
AVOID: Wide, horizontal garage openings create too
large a break in the street wall.

PARKING STRUCTURE designed like a typical
Downtown Building, with ground floor parking set behind commercial space with shopfronts lining the street.

The flat, tall parking floors of this building could easily accommodate other uses in the future.

D. Parking Structure Facade Standards

1. Facade design. Parking structure facades shall
be designed to fit into the urban context in one of
the two following ways:
a. Facades that look similar to other Downtown
buildings with designs that meet the standards
of Sections 7 and 8
b. Facades designed as art walls, murals, or
screens that incorporate decorative, graphic, or
sculptural elements Such facades are subject
to recommendations from the Cultural Arts
Commission and Historical and Landmarks
Commission, followed by Director approval,
based on the following Required Findings:
i. Facade design theme, materials and aesthetic
complement and enhance the intended
unified streetscape aesthetic of Downtown,
as defined by this Specific Plan
ii. Facade design is unique and iconic, using
durable, element-resistant, materials and
techniques

2. Future-Proof Parking. Parking garages which
can easily convert to accommodate other uses—
such as offices or housing—if and when the need
for parking diminishes, are encouraged Features
which enable such 'future-proof' flexibility
include:
a. Level floors, apart from necessary ramps;
b. Floors with 10' minimum clear height from floor
to ceiling;
c. Cut-outs for planned shafts in decks and other
structural members to accommodate future
utilities (such as heating, cooling, and venting)

3. Ground floor facade. Per Standard 5.3.B,
structured ground floor parking must be set
behind at least 30 feet of occupiable ground floor
liner space Vehicular entries are subject to the
standards of Section 9.4.F
PARKING STRUCTURE designed like a typical building
with occupiable space on the sidewalk
SHOPFRONT MATERIALS—This example uses smooth
material finishes, especially at the shopfronts where the most pedestrian interactions occur.

STACKING MATERIALS—Masonry used below lighter
materials such as stucco, synthetic cladding, or siding.

MATERIALS ON INCREMENTS—Materials and design are
consistent within each Massing Increment.

SHOPFRONT MATERIALS—A simple palette of materials
across multiple storefronts does not need to feel boring as long as they are well composed.
39 | Chapter 8: Facade Design
E. Materials

1. Fiberglass or plastic (false) architectural
elements or ornamentations are prohibited

2. Materials used on shopfronts should be
smooth and non-abrasive to touch

3. Rough-cast and sand-finishes are
discouraged on all building surfaces that
are visible from a street

4. Where more than one material is used for
the facade, the heavier material must be
used below the lighter material (e g brick
below siding, not vice versa)
a. Modulations, color schemes, balconies,
and other facade elements shall be
consistent within an individual facade or
within an individual Massing Increment,
when required per Section 7.2

40 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Bays of windows framed by masonry
building structure
Storefront windows framed by structural
elements
Vertical structural elements frame the bay; visual weight within the bay is transferred clearly to the ground.

Bay
F. Expressing Visual Weight and Load-Bearing Structure. To ensure that new development in downtown is compatible with the historic building fabric and visual structural principles of Downtown Santa Clara, the following standards apply to the building structure, architectural elements, and materials and color:

1. Building Structure. To express the load-bearing structural characteristics of traditional downtown buildings, the following standards shall apply:
a. Vertical Structure. The vertical structural elements of a building—comprising piers, columns, or portions of solid wall which flank each bay of the facade (see §8 2 A 2)—shall be configured so as to visually carry the apparent weight of upper floors down to the ground in a coherent manner (see precedents below) If any vertical structural element is expressed but does not extend to the ground, it shall be supported by structure beneath it, with a visual system of weight transference from the supported element to the ground
b. Horizontal Structure. Horizontal structural elements—such as beams and lintels—shall be sized to appropriately support the visual weight of the building mass and elements above them with respect to the distance they span
c. Structural Honesty. The visual system of bays and structure that is expressed on the facade shall be organized and configured to express or reinforce the actual building structure

8.2 Standards (continued)
AVOID: Heavy upper floor building masses are not coherently supported. Vertical structure elements which frame upper floor bays randomly misalign with those in the building's base.

Traditional bay windows had wooden and
masonry structural elements, creating a
coherently-supported assembly
This modern bay window has a metal
structural frame supported by concrete
cantilevers.

Spandrel panels are recessed into the wall
between vertical structural elements.

Color reinforces the role of the panels as
decorative rather than strong and load-
bearing.

Balcony supported by metal tension rods.
41 | Chapter 8: Facade Design

2. Architectural Elements. To ensure that architectural elements appear to be properly supported, the following standards shall apply:
a. Projections. Architectural Elements projecting from the building’s facade—i e balconies, bay windows, and deep roof eaves—shall be visually supported with brackets, corbels, cantilevered beams, or structure that transfers their weight to the structural vertical and horizontal elements of the facade as defined in 1a / 1b b. Heavy Elements. Heavy elements—i e those made of masonry, projecting bays or rooms, etc —shall appear to be supported rather than floating or affixed onto a weaker-appearing material
c. Non-Supportive Elements. Elements which are intended to be accents to the facade—i e such as spandrel panels between windows—shall not project from the facade Rather, they shall be inset as architectural relief, with the facade material holding it in place visible around it There shall be no floating elements or details which appear artificially pasted on

3. Materials and Color. To ensure that materials and color reinforce the visual structural logic of a facade, the following standards shall apply:
a. As stated in §8 2 E 4, materials heavier in apparent weight (i e brick) shall be used below materials that are lighter in apparent weight (i e wood siding) b. Colors also suggest visual weight Colors should complement, and in no way undermine, the visual structural logic of a facade

42 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
9 Private Frontages
FIGURE 9-1 | PRIVATE FRONTAGE

9.1. Intent
Downtown Santa Clara is to be an active, pedestrian-
oriented urban environment that is comfortable, safe, and easy to navigate by foot, bicycle, or any mode of vehicular transit As such, careful attention must be given to the way that buildings shape and front Downtown’s network
of public streets, paseos, and open spaces—also known
as the “Public Realm ” The space between the travel lanes of a street and the building, and including the building’s ground floor facade, is defined as “frontage ” In order to create a high-quality urban environment, the design of
that frontage must be calibrated to the ground-floor use of the adjacent buildings and to the unified Downtown
character envisioned in the Precise Plan Frontages must be designed to provide an appropriate degree of privacy or transparency relative to the needs of the public-facing ground-floor use Commercial shops and spaces rely
on more exposure for their success, while ground-floor
residences need added privacy so they aren’t forced to
close their blinds and can therefore encourage “eyes on the street ” This section provides the design standards and guidelines for the private portion of this frontage Shopfront Retail-Ready General
Frequency of Building Entries
(max. distance between entries) 50' 75' 100'
TABLE 9-2 | FREQUENCY OF BUILDING ENTRIES BY OVERLAY
identifies Private Frontage Types which are regulated by Overlays, with design standards and guidelines for each type provided on the following pages These frontage types can be used in combination with Architectural Projections that will be noted under each frontage type
B. Building Access. A key role of private frontages is to provide access from the public realm into the building The following standards apply:

1. All buildings must take primary access from the public sidewalk or from private on-site open spaces (see Section 12.5) that directly connect to public realm

2. Entrances into residential units may not be located more than 250 feet from the tenant/visitor parking space(s) assigned to that unit, as measured along walking paths

3. Access occurs via one of the allowed frontage types (see Table 9-1)

4. Frequency of Entries The quantity of building entrances on a street has a drastic effect on the perceived liveliness of a street The frequency of entrances is regulated by Table 9-2, at right
C. Specific to front setback areas along Franklin St, Main St South, Lafayette St, and Central Green. Any setback area along these streets and open spaces shall be designed as an extension of the sidewalk—from the public right-of-way to the ground floor facade—with its design and paving matching that of the adjacent public sidewalk, subject to the following:

1. On Lafayette St, the first 6 feet (adjacent to the public right-of-way) of the setback area shall be clear of ground-level obstructions and shall function as an extension of the publicly-accessible walkway/sidewalk

2. Apart from the first 6 feet of the Lafayette St setback (per Standard 9.3.C.1 above), the setback area on these streets and open spaces may contain furniture, potted plants, sidewalk signs, and other temporary, movable elements in support of ground-floor retail Any front setback area not used for such purposes should function as an extension of the publicly-accessible sidewalk No permanently-installed furniture or fixtures are permitted a. Exception. A physical barrier required by the California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Act is permitted Any such barrier shall be no taller than required by state law, and it shall be as visually transparent as permitted under state law
Frontage Type Shopfront Retail-Ready General
Shopfront Yes Yes Yes
Common Entrance No¹ Yes Yes
Retail / Housing Flex No No Yes
Ground Floor Office No No2 Yes
Ground Floor Residential No No Yes
Vehicular Access No3 Yes4 Yes
TABLE 9-1 | ALLOWED FRONTAGE TYPES BY OVERLAY
Notes
1 Exception: If a project only has frontage in the Shopfront Overlay, a common entrance of 20' maximum width and designed as a Shopfront is permitted in the Shopfront Overlay. 2 Any ground-floor office uses in the Retail-Ready Overlay (see Chapter 10) shall be designed as Shopfront frontages.
3 Exception: A Vehicular Access may be located within the Shopfront Overlay—but in no case on Franklin St or Main St South—if: 1) all of a project's frontage is in the Shopfront Overlay, or 2) if a project has less than 30 feet of frontage outside the Shopfront Overlay and the Applicant demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Director, that it is only possible to get vehicular access from within the Shopfront Overlay.
4 A project facade (or portion thereof) in the Retail-Ready Overlay shall have no more than one Vehicular Access. Vehicular Access is prohibited on Franklin St and Main St South. 43 | Chapter 9: Private Frontages

9.2. Applicability
The standards and guidelines of this section apply to
any new building or facade renovation along a street or public open space in the Downtown Zone This Chapter
regulates design, while Chapter 12 regulates building use Ground floor use and frontage design shall be determined in coordination per the standards of both Chapters

9.3. General Standards
The entire ground floor facade facing a public street or public open space is required to consist of the frontage types allowed in this section
A. Private Frontages. Private Frontages are defined
as the ground floor building facade and the area (or
'setback') between that facade and any property
line along a street or public open space This area
serves as the transition and interface between the
building interior and street environment Table 9-1

9.4. Standards by Frontage Type
The following pages provide standards for the 6 allowed private frontage types in Downtown The standards specific to each frontage type apply wherever such type occurs
Public Frontage
Public Frontage
R.O.W.

Parcel
Building
Setback
Building
Setback
Parcel
Travel Lanes
Ground Floor Facade
Ground Floor
Facade
Private
Frontage
Private
Frontage
44 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

9.4.A. SHOPFRONT
Design Standards MIN MAX
Height to top of
transom 12’ -
Height of
shopfront base 1' 2'
Depth of
commercial space 50’ 1 -
A
A
B
B
FIGURE 9-2 | SHOPFRONTShopfronts are characterized by large ground floor openings, including windows and entries, which provide transparency and connection between the public realm and ground floor uses such as shops and restaurants The primary entrance is typically at sidewalk grade, unless ADA accessibility is accomplished by other means, and provides direct access to the ground-floor use The basic architectural elements comprising the storefront are large clear windows, doors with glass, and transom windows If shopfronts have a setback, the setback is typically treated as an extension of the sidewalk Design Standards

1. Shopfront openings shall be organized into bays,
with upper floor windows stacked above, per the
standards in Section 8.A.2.

2. If a shopfront is recessed or otherwise setback, and is not designed in combination with a Dooryard,
Terrace, or Porch (as allowed in Section 10), the
resulting setback shall be designed as a seamless
continuation of the sidewalk, not as a landscaped
area or buffer Where permitted, this area may be
used for outdoor dining, merchandising and potted
plants

3. Shopfronts shall provide for commercial kitchen
infrastructure, regardless of the initial planned use
of the Shopfront New development shall provide—
or demonstrate on submitted plans that adequate
space is provided—for a commercial grease trap and
chase(s) for kitchen venting adequate to support a
standard full-size restaurant

4. A shopfront may accommodate small-format
automobile showrooms, provided they function as
would any other retail shopfront
Design Guidelines

5. Where permitted, shopfronts may be used in combination with Galleries or Arcades, or where the setback is sufficient and context is appropriate, in combination with a Dooryard, Terrace, or Porch (see Section 10 for Architectural
Projections)

6. Ground floor windows should have a minimum transparency of 80% and an external reflectance of less than 15%

7. All shade should be provided on the exterior of the building; the majority of the interior space should be visible from the right of way

8. With minor exceptions, all shopfront openings should provide visibility into the interior space, and not be visually obstructed by signage, merchandising racks, storage
shelves, etc

9. Window sills of non-entry bays shall be no higher than 2 feet from adjacent sidewalk grade
TABLE 9-3 | SHOPFRONT
Notes
1 Exception: Spaces for local non-formula
retail and restaurant establishments shall
have a minimum depth of 30' .

9.4.B. COMMON ENTRANCE
Design Standards MIN MAX
Height to top of transom 10’ 20’
Height to bottom of canopy/awning 8’ -
Distance to back of sidewalk - 20’
Area of outdoor space1 80 sf -
Awning/Canopy Depth See §10 4 G
A
B
C
Notes
1 Does not include public R.O.W.

A
B
C
C
FIGURE 9-3 | COMMERCIAL COMMON ENTRANCE
FIGURE 9-4 | RESIDENTIAL COMMON ENTRANCE
Common entrances, like shopfronts, should have a strong connection to the public realm While not always open to the wider public, they are spaces that are shared by all tenants which rely on them for building access Access to individual units (ground and upper floors) is provided via a shared hall/corridor within the building
Design Guidelines

1. Common entrances should be conspicuous and
designed as a focal-point of the ground-floor
facade Designs that engage multiple floors and/
or help modulate the facade of the main building
are encouraged (See also Sections 7 and 8 for
Building Massing and Facade Design)

2. Entry spaces within common entrances should
be visible from the public right of way Ground
floor windows shall have a transparency higher
than eighty percent and an external reflectance
of less than fifteen percent Window sills may be
no higher than 2 feet from adjacent grade All
shade should be provided on the exterior of the
building See Section 8.2.C for more fenestration
requirements

3. In some cases, a Common Entrance may include
or be combined with a semi-private yard or open
space to provide a comfortable, attractive outdoor
public transitional space that allows congregation
off of the sidewalk, standards for which are
provided in Section 13 Site Standards

4. Common entrances may also be used with a
Porch, Dooryard, Terrace, Arcade, or Gallery
where allowed (See Section 10 Architectural
Projections)
B A
B
TABLE 9-4 COMMON ENTRY
45 | Chapter 9: Private Frontages

46 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

9.4.C. RETAIL/HOUSING FLEX
Retail/Housing Flex frontage is a versatile type that can host residential uses in the near-term and be easily converted into shopfronts in the future if the market improves for commercial uses
Design Standards

1. This type is only allowed in the General Overlay
(see Fig. 4-2), as residential is not allowed in the
Shopfront and Retail-Ready Overlays
Design Guidelines

2. The ground floor fenestration amount should be
between 65% and 95%

3. The setback should be designed and landscaped to
provide privacy when the frontage hosts uses which
require privacy, such as residences or offices

4. When in residential use, ground floor bedroom and
bathrooms windows are prohibited along the front
facade

5. When in retail use, if a dooryard or terrace is not used and the entry is at ground level, the setback is
typically treated as an extension of the sidewalk

6. When in retail use, the ground floor fenestration
should be transparent and provide visibility to the
interior spaces per Section 9.4.A Shopfronts
FIGURE 9-5 | FLEX DOORYARD
FIGURE 9-6 FLEX TERRACE

9.4.D. GROUND FLOOR OFFICE
The private frontages of ground floor offices, where
allowed in Downtown, must be carefully designed to
ensure that they appropriately contribute to the active public realm environment of downtown Like ground floor residential, they typically require some level of privacy, but they still have the opportunity to give life to the street Design Standards

1. Ground-floor office uses in the Retail-Ready
Overlay shall be designed as Shopfront frontages

2. Fenestration shall be calibrated according to
overlay See Section 8.2.C for more information
Design Guidelines

3. In general, the most public-friendly office
functions such as reception and waiting area or
office amenity space should be located closest to
the primary facade Areas for private functions,
such as examination rooms, should not be located
on the primary facade

4. Ground floor offices may take access directly
from the sidewalk and/or from a Common
Entrance or Lobby (See Section 9.4.B)

5. The setbacks of ground floor offices at or near
the level of the sidewalk may feature a dooryard
or simple landscaping, or they may be designed
as extensions of the sidewalk if privacy is not
desired Raised ground floor offices may use
a Terrace, Porch, or Stoop See Section 10
Architectural Projections
B
FIGURE 9-7 | OFFICE WITH COMMON ENTRANCE / MULTIPLE FLOOR LOBBY FIGURE 9-8 | OFFICE WITH COMMON ENTRANCE
Design Standards MIN MAX
Height to top of transom 10’ 20’
Height to bottom of canopy/awning 8’ -
Distance to back of sidewalk - 20’
Area of outdoor space1 80 sf -
Awning/Canopy Depth See §10 4 G
A
B
C
TABLE 9-5 | COMMON ENTRANCE / LOBBY
47 | Chapter 9: Private Frontages
Notes
1 Does not include public R.O.W.

A
B
C
C
B
A
48 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

9.4.E. GROUND FLOOR RESIDENTIAL
DIRECT ENTRY TYPES—Dooryards (left) and Terraces (right) COMMON ENTRY—Shared access into a lobby
Ground Floor Residential frontages provide a transition from the public sidewalk to semi-private or private space These frontages moderate the privacy needs of the residential unit with the need to provide eyes on the street to ensure a safe and activated public realm environment Accordingly, the closer the ground floor fac ade is to the street, the more carefully designed the frontage must be Ground floor units are either entered through a common entry (such as an entry lobby or shared private court) or directly from the public sidewalk, typically through a transitional entry element such as a dooryard, porch, terrace, or stoop
Design Standards

1. If the setback is less than 10 feet, residential ground floors shall have a first floor level that is 3' to 4' above the level of the sidewalk, unless the unit is designed
to be ADA accessible or Retail-Ready If the setback
is 10 feet or greater, residential ground floors should have a first floor level that is 1 5' to 4' above the level of the sidewalk, but may have a first floor level at or near the level of the sidewalk

2. For required residential setback requirements see
Section 5 and Table 5-1 Building Placement

3. See Section 8.2.C and Table 8-1. Fenestration for
residential fenestration standards

4. Ground floor bedroom windows are prohibited along
the primary facade

5. Ground floor and second floor bathroom windows
are prohibited along the primary facade Bathrooms
along the primary facade above the second floor
are permitted, provided that their windows match
the appearance, sill height, and lintel height of the
other windows on the facade and meet the general
fenestration standards of Section 8.2.C

6. If access to ground floor units is
directly from the public sidewalk,
entry may be provided via a Dooryard,
Terrace, Porch, or Stoop See Section
10 Architectural Projections

7. If direct access is not provided, entry
may be via a Common Entry with
shared passageways
FIGURE 9-9 | GROUND FLOOR FRONTAGES AND ENTRY TYPE VARIATIONS Design Guidelines

8. Windows on ground floor residential are typically similar to those found on upper floors of the facade

9. Privacy Modulation The distance from the sidewalk to the facade and first floor windows is used to
maintain a balance between resident comfort level
and neighborhood security and activity The closer a
residential unit is to the sidewalk, the higher the ground 5'
10'
PRIVACY MODULATION EXAMPLESFIGURE 9-10 | PEDESTRIAN

AND RESIDENT INTERFACE
RAISED GROUND FLOORS—The raised elevation
of the ground floor from sidewalk level, and taller
ground floor sill heights (generally above eye-level),
allow residents to overlook the street outside, while
preventing passers-by from seeing into private
interior spaces.

NO SETBACK (ATYPICAL URBAN CONDITION)—The
facade is immediately at the back of walk, but window
sill height is above eye level of the passerby, maintaining privacy within the unit while allowing the tenant to
overlook the street.

SHALLOW SETBACK (VERY URBAN CONDITION)—The
facade is close to the sidewalk (less than 5ft), so the unit's ground floor is raised high enough that pedestrians must look up to see into the interior. The opaque front door and the landscaping is used to ensure privacy. However, the lower bushes and ground cover soften the wall in a nod to the neighborhood context.

COMFORTABLE SETBACK/ELEVATION (TYPICAL
URBAN CONDITION)—The combination of modest
setbacks and ground floor elevation - in the form of semi- private dooryard/terraces - provides sufficient privacy and a comfortable buffer between the sidewalk and large glass openings of the living room, with more private bedrooms on the second floor.

GENEROUS SETBACK (LESS URBAN CONDITION)—
These ground-floor units are at-grade with the sidewalk, with low sill-height. In this case, generous landscape
setbacks (15ft) provide a sufficient privacy buffer from the street allowing residents to look out onto the public realm. floor elevation should be to maintain a sense of
privacy See Table 6-2 for ground floor height
standards However, this height is affected
by ground floor fenestration standards See
Section 8-1 for more information
49 | Chapter 9: Private Frontages
50 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

9.4.F. VEHICULAR ACCESS
Vehicular Access frontages typically provide access to
parking garages or through a building to rear service areas or surface parking Because of their utilitarian nature, their design is often neglected However, they require particular care in their design as their sheer size and presence along the street wall can make them one of the most disruptive elements to the quality of the pedestrian environment
Design Standards

1. For standards related to parking structure
facades, see Section 8.2.D.

2. Vehicular Access frontage on a street is only
allowed when no alley provides access to the
lot The provision of alleys makes higher quality
frontages possible and are highly encouraged

3. Vehicular entries shall be organized into openings
that are proportioned and detailed to look appear
similar to Shopfronts (Section 9.4.A). These
openings shall be organized into vertical bays in
coordination with the overall facade per Standard

8.2.A.2

4. Vehicular Access openings shall be no more
than 13 feet wide Where adjacent openings are
necessary to provide entry and exit, they shall be
separated by a pier (a portion of wall) of at least 2
feet in width

5. Vehicular Access frontage may comprise no more
than 40% of a building's required buildout (per
Table 5–1 in Section 5.3), and a single project may
have no more than 2 Vehicular Access openings
on any one street
FIGURE 9-11 | VEHICULAR ACCESS: DESIRABLE DESIGNS
Vehicular Access
Shopfronts
VEHICULAR ACCESS can be organized into attractive, well-proportioned bays, just like shopfronts.

6. Gates which open to allow cars to enter (excluding
security doors that are shut when the garage is
not accessible) shall be inset from the facade by
a minimum of 20 feet, to allow cars to await entry
without blocking the sidewalk
FIGURE 9–12 | VEHICULAR ACCESS
Design Standards MIN MAX
Width of Opening - 13’
Width of pier/wall between openings 2’ -
Percentage of building's required
frontage (C divided by D) - 40%
Gate inset into building 20’ -
A
B
E
C D
C
BAY
BAY
D
A A
B
51 | Chapter 9: Private Frontages
Design Guidelines

7. Entries should be at least 50 feet from the
corner of a block

8. Gates or doors which secure vehicular entries
should be designed as attractive urban
elements, just like pedestrian entry doors

9. Parking counters are recommended in all
parking garages with public access
E
52 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
10 Architectural Projections
Location 1
Gallery Required
& Gallery Allowed
Overlays
Arcade Required
Overlay Main Street South Elsewhere in
Downtown
Projection beyond the facade
Type of Projection
Stoop Not Allowed Up to 2’ min from ROW
or sidewalk
Porch Not Allowed 8’ min and up to 2’ min
from ROW or sidewalk 2
Terrace Not Allowed
Dooryard Not Allowed 6’ min and up to 2’ min
from ROW or sidewalk
Bay Window 3’ max
Balcony 5' max 3
Awning/Canopy 10' max
Roof Eave/Cornice
Assembly 5' max
Vertical Theater
Marquee See Section 11.3.H
Arcade Not Allowed 15' min; 20' max Not Allowed Not Allowed Gallery 12' min; 15' max Not Allowed Not Allowed 12' min; 15' max

10.1. Intent
Certain Architectural Projections may be combined
with appropriate private frontage types—as regulated
in Chapter 9—to form interesting, cohesive, and active
ground-floor environments These may project from the
facade—which is set within the build-to range per Chapter 5—into the front setback per the standards of Table 10-1

10.2. Applicability
Table 10-1 identifies where these Architectural Projections are allowed and how much they may project The General Standards below (Section 10.3 apply to all types, while Section 10.4 provides additional standards by type

10.3. General Standards
Where utilized, these elements are subject to the following:

A Materials, style, design, and associated landscaping and other features shall be consistent with the
building's architecture and neighborhood character
B Architectural projections of traditionally-styled
buildings shall have visible supports in the form of
projecting beams or braces/brackets
C An Architectural Projection shall be contained
within a single Massing Increment; it shall not
overlap the division between Massing Increments
This is a requirement of all architectural elements
per Section 7.3
Notes
1 See Figure 10-1 for locations of Overlays and Main St South. 2 As a result, a Porch or Terrace may only occur within setbacks of 10' or more. 3 For occupiable balconies, the clear depth of occupiable space, measured from the balcony doors to the inside of balcony railing shall be 4'–6" minimum. Balconies may project and/or be recessed into the facade to maintain this minimum depth. See Section 10.4.F for more.

TABLE 10-1 ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTIONS
53 | Chapter 10: Architectural Projections
Bay Windows
Theater Marquee
FIGURE 10-1 | ARCADE & GALLERY OVERLAYS (See Sections 10 4 H & I for more standards) Gallery Required. Galleries are required to line a minimum of 50% of the length of each block in the Gallery Required Overlay
Gallery Allowed. Galleries are allowed to wrap the corners of blocks and extend onto North-South streets at these locations, provided that the building setback on the North-South street is adequate to allow the minimum required gallery projection dimension listed in Table 10-1 Arcade Required. Arcades shall line Central Green and have a public access easement, allowing them to serve as a continuous covered sidewalk around Central Green Arcade Allowed. Arcades are permitted on buildings along Lafayette St to extend the sidewalk environment and create a welcoming edge to Downtown
Galleries at Franklin Square. If Franklin Square is relocated to this block per Precise Plan Figure 3–2, Galleries lining Franklin Square are optional
Galleries near the Theater. Any Gallery lining block B shall stop at least 20' away from any Theatre Marquee

LEGEND & STANDARDS
*
*
ACE
GI
BDFHJ
90' 90'
90'
*
*
Projecting Roof Eave
Main St
South
54 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

10.4.A. STOOP
A Stoop is a stairway and landing leading directly from the right of way to an elevated building entrance
Design Standards MIN MAX
Stoop width 4‘ 8‘
Stoop depth (not including stairs) 4‘ 8‘
Stoop floor height3 1 5 4‘
Planter/fence height (including
height of vegetation) - 3‘
Entry Recession depth 0 5' 6‘
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• The exterior stairway may be perpendicular or
parallel to the adjacent sidewalk When parallel to
the sidewalk, landscape of 2 feet should be provided
between the side of stair and the sidewalk
• Adjoining stoops should be limited to two entries A stoop may also provide access to a common entry
• Gates are discouraged
A
B
C
E
D

10.4. Standards &
Guidelines by Type
Most of the architectural projections types carry additional standards and guidelines These are the Stoop, Porch,
Terrace, Dooryard, Balcony, Awning/Canopy, Arcade, and
Gallery, which are detailed here and on the following
pages Standards for Vertical Theater Marquees and
other signs are including in the following chapter (see Chapter 11 )
A
B
E
C D

10.4.B. PORCH
Porches are roofed, unenclosed rooms attached to the
exterior of a building that provide access and comfortable semi-private outdoor social spaces that help activate the public realm
Design Standards MIN MAX
Porch depth (excluding stairs)1 8' -
Porch width 10' -
Porch column height2 8 5' 12'
Floor height3 1 5' 4'
Between porch and front PL 2' -
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Porches may be used to provide access to multiple
front doors of ground-floor units
• Porches may also wrap around building corners This
is particularly appropriate on corner lots
A
B
Notes
1 Between building facade and end of porch deck.
2 From porch floor to top of porch columns.
3 Measured from grade at right of way.

C
D
E
G
D
C
B
A
E

10.4.C. TERRACE
A Terrace is an enclosed area outside of an elevated
ground floor, usually enclosed by a low wall or fence
Design Standards MIN MAX
Depth, clear 8' -
Finish level above sidewalk - 4'
Length of terrace - 50'
Distance between stairways - 50'
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Door and window design should be appropriate for
street-fronting facades
A
B
C

10.4.D. DOORYARD 10.4.E. BAY WINDOW
A Dooryard is an enclosed area outside of an at grade
first floor, usually enclosed by a low wall or fence
A Bay Window functions like an enclosed balcony An
alcove-like portion of an interior space projects out from the facade
Design Standards MIN MAX
Depth, clear 8' -
Finish level above sidewalk - 4'
Length of dooryard - 30'
Distance between entrances - 50'
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Door and window design should be appropriate for
street-fronting facades
Design Standards MIN MAX
Projection beyond facade - 3'
Width 4' 8'
Clear height above ground in
Shopfront and Retail-Ready
Overlays
14' -
Clear height above ground
elsewhere N/A -
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Bay windows shall not comprise more than 20% of a
facade's surface area
A A
A
B B
B
C C
D
D
B
C
A
55 | Chapter 10: Architectural Projections
D
A B C
C
56 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

10.4.F. BALCONY
A Balcony is a space projecting from an upper floor which is enclosed by a railing and accessible from a door or doors An occupiable balcony provides usable outdoor space, while an unoccupiable balcony (or "Juliette" balcony) simply provides a railing so that doors on the facade can be opened, making the interior room itself feel like a balcony space Design Standards
Occupiable Balcony Juliette Balcony

MIN MAX MIN MAX
Clear depth of occupiable space, measured from the
balcony door(s) to inside of railing 4 5' - N/A N/A
Projection beyond facade - 5' - 1 5'
Width 4 5' 161 3' 10'
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Occupiable balconies shall either project (see upper left image), be recessed into the facade, or a combination of the two (see upper middle image) in order to maintain the clear depth of occupiable space • Balconies shall be functional and not just decorative Door(s) shall give access to the balcony, the floor of the balcony shall align with the bottom of the balcony door, and balconies shall safely support the weight of its potential occupants Faux (false) balconies, such as railings attached to the facade below windows, are prohibited • Building tenant/homeowners association rules shall prohibit the use of balconies for storage • Balconies may be located on facades facing streets, open spaces, and internal courts; balconies shall not be located on side and rear facades which overlook other private property Notes
1 Exception: Occupiable balconies that are completely recessed into the facade (they do not project beyond the facade) may be as wide as the Massing Increment in which they are located.

Occupiable balcony, partially projecting and recessedOccupiable balcony, projecting from the facade Juliette balcony with space for pots Juliette balcony
AA
BB B
CC C
C
A
B
C

10.4.G. AWNING/CANOPY
An Awning/Canopy is an overhang which extends from the facade to provide shade, protection from the rain, and character
Design Standards MIN MAX
Clear height from sidewalk to lowest element of roof overhang (not including support bracket) 9' -
Clear height from sidewalk to bottom of support bracket connection to wall 7' - Projection beyond facade - 10'
Length along facade - Massing
Increment1
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• The placement and structure of the awning shall correspond to the building's pattern of bays and ground floor openings
• Awnings/canopies are only permitted on ground floors; they shall not be located on upper floors • It is encouraged to echo the proportions, slope, and structure of the historic Santa Clara awnings, whether expressed in a traditional or modern way (see image to the right) A
B
C
D
Awnings/canopies of historic Downtown Santa Clara
Awnings/canopies can also have a modern expression.

A
B
C
D
Notes
1 See Chapter 7 for more on massing increments.
57 | Chapter 10: Architectural Projections
58 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Covered sidewalks are a part of the history of California as well as Santa Clara, which had sidewalks sheltered
by deep shade structures going back as far as the 1880s Returning galleries, (porch-like structures attached to the building facade) back to Santa Clara's streetscape
would not only make the retail experience on Franklin
Street more pleasant and welcoming, but would be a
way to include Santa Clara's heritage in everyday life
Arcades (extensions of upper floors over the sidewalk and held up by vertical supports) are another way to provide protection from the elements
In order to create a comfortable experience for shoppers, especially during the heat of the summer or in rain,
arcades and galleries are required/allowed per Figure
10-1 , and shall follow the standards in Sections 10.4.H & I ARCADES & GALLERIES: INTRODUCTION
Gallery in Downtown Santa Clara, 1880.

Arcades around the Central Square in Seaside, Florida.

Arcade in San Francisco.

Gallery in Old Town Sacramento
59 | Chapter 10: Architectural Projections

10.4.H. ARCADE
Arcades are extensions of upper floors over the front ground floor setback area, supported by vertical supports Arcades provide shade, glare control, and weather protection Design Standards MIN MAX
Projection beyond the facade1 15' 20'
Clear dimension from facade to inside of column 12' -
Column/support width in any direction
Maximum of 3' or 1/5th the
distance between columns,
whichever is less
Clear width of opening between columns 8' 18' 2
Clear height of opening 12' 3 25'
Overall height - 4 stories4
Length along facade - Massing
Increment5
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• The ground level walkway space within an arcade may span one or two floors • The openings of the Arcade shall correlate to the bays of the facade • Vertical supports may be piers, columns, or arches; all arches within the same Massing Increment shall be equal
• Hanging light fixtures and hanging signs are allowed within the space of the Arcade as long as a minimum height clearance of 9 feet is maintained • Objects such as dining tables and chairs, sidewalk signs, and merchandising racks are allowed within the space of the Arcade, subject to Section 9.3.C A
B
C
D
E
F
G
B
C
A
Notes
1 Along Central Green: the face of the Arcade shall be set at the edge of the required dimension of the Central Green as mapped in Precise Plan Figure 3-2 (see Chapter 4 of this Code); therefore, the Arcade projection dimension shall match the building setback (see Table 5-2).

Along Lafayette St: the face of any Arcade shall be set 6 feet from the property line; therefore, the Arcade projection dimension shall be 6 feet less than the building setback (see Table 5-2). 2 Column spacing shall be less than or equal to the clear height of the opening. 3 The clear height excludes decorative brackets, spandrels, and/or lower portions of arches. 4 Along Central Green: only floors 2, 3, and 4 may extend over the arcade. Any floor above the 4th floor shall be set back at least 15' from the Central Green (at least as far back as the ground floor facade).

Along Lafayette St: all allowed upper floors may extend over the arcade. 5 Arcades shall line the entire perimeter of the Central Green. However, if there is a change in building or Massing Increment, the Arcade should change accordingly to match the design of its building/ increment. See Chapter 7 for more on Massing Increments.

See Precise Plan Chapter 3
for the design vision for Central
Green and the Lafayette St section
E
F
G
60 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

10.4.I. GALLERY
Galleries are appendages to building facades that extend over the front ground floor setback area, providing shade for pedestrians and often providing terrace space above Design Standards MIN MAX
Projection beyond the facade 12' 15'
Column width in any direction 4" 1'
Column spacing (on center) 8' 1 18' 2
Clear height of opening 12' 25'
Overall height from sidewalk to eave - 30'
Length along facade - Massing
Increment3
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Galleries may be single or double-story and shall correlate with building floors • The openings of the gallery shall correlate in a logical way to the bays of the facade • It is encouraged to echo the proportions and function of the historic Santa Clara Galleries, whether expressed in a traditional or modern way • In California, most historic galleries are modest shed roof structures supported by wood piers New galleries can present a similar aesthetic by using thinner structural members, including heavy timber or composite wood columns (often 6"x6" or 8"x8") or steel I-beam or tubular columns
• Fiberglass or plaster piers/columns are prohibited in galleries • Unless the attached building is a neoclassical design, column designs from the classical orders are inappropriate for use on galleries and are prohibited for this context
• Hanging light fixtures and hanging signs are allowed within the space of the gallery as long as a minimum height clearance of 9 feet is maintained • Objects such as dining tables and chairs, sidewalk signs, and merchandising racks are allowed within the space of the Gallery, subject to Section 9.3.C A
B
C
D
E
F
D
E
Notes
1 Coupled columns that are located within 3 feet of each other are exempt from the minimum spacing requirement.
2 Column spacing should typically be less than or equal to the clear height of the opening. Column spacing shall never exceed 1.4 times the height of the opening. 3 A gallery should typically span most/all of a Massing Increment. See Chapter 7 for more on massing increments.

A
B
C
F
Signs and sales racks must not impede pedestrians.Historic galleries use slender posts.

Galleries could be combined with parklets, awnings,
and canopies.

Galleries may be up to 2 stories in height and may
have balconies above.
61 | Chapter 10: Architectural Projections
10' typ sidewalk
adjacent to Gallery
per Precise Plan
62 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
11 Signage Design
Type Allowance Section Reference
Wall P 11.3.A
Window P 11.3.B
Blade P 11.3.C
Vertical Projecting P 11.3.D
Front Yard P 11.3.E
Awning P 11.3.F
Sidewalk P 11.3.G
Vertical Theater Marquee HLC & PC 11.3.H
Roof HLC & PC 11.3.I
Mural HLC & PC 11.3.J
LEGEND
P Permitted by right
HLC & PC Historical and Landmarks Commission and Planning Commission.

The sign goes to the HLC for a recommendation to the Director for the development review hearing with noticing for 1,000 feet.

TABLE 11-1 SIGN TYPES

11.1. Intent and Applicability
This section further accomplishes the intent described in Section 10 1 The standards and guidelines of this section apply to all new buildings within the plan area Each new sign, new building, or facade renovation is subject to the standards of this section Except where in conflict with the provisions of this section, Santa Clara City Code Chapter 18 80 shall apply, excepting Section 18 80 040, 18 80 050, and 18 80 060 All signs require a sign permit per Section 18 80 230 Any sign type that is not listed and permitted by right in this section may only be approved by the Planning Commission Public signs are exempt from this section Table 11-1 lists the signs types, whether each is permitted by right or by the Planning Commission All types are subject to their corresponding standards, whose section references are listed in the table

11.2. General Standards
A Signs shall not obscure building entrances, cornices, columns, or other prominent architectural elements
B Allowed sign types may be combined unless stated otherwise C Sign lighting shall be designed to minimize light and glare on surrounding rights- of way and properties
D Directory signs are small wall signs located at pedestrian eye level and intended to identify multiple tenants within a building or complex The following standards apply to these signs:

1. Directory signs shall not exceed 6 square feet

2. Directory signs shall only be externally illuminated Internal illumination and neon lighting is prohibited for directory signs
E Tenant signs shall be externally illuminated or neon Traditional neon lighting is preferred over LED neon lighting

11.3. Standards & Guidelines by Type
Standards for each sign type can be found on the following pages of this section Wall-mounted Projecting Signs
Sidewalk Signs
Projecting Sign mounted on a shopfront's canopy
Neon Wall Sign
63 | Chapter 11: Signage Design
64 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
A sign painted or applied directly to the shopfront windows and/or doors Window signs also include posters for
advertisements and sales, product merchandise posters,
open/closed signs, and painted or etched business names and logos
B
A
C
Standards Min Max
Height (% of window/door height) - 40%
Width (% of window/door width) - 40%
Area (% of window/door area) - 16%
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Permanent window signs shall be individually painted, etched or otherwise applied letters or logo graphics
surrounded by clear glass
• If no awning is provided, secondary window signs are
allowed, which may span the width of the window,
shall be located at the top of the window, and shall
be limited to one foot in height
• Signs within 2 feet of a window are subject to the
same size standards as window signs All other
interior signs shall be set back at least 2 feet
A
B
C
A sign that is applied directly to or projecting out and parallel to the facade This type of sign is intended for viewing from across the street and along the sidewalk
B
C
Standards Min Max
Height 10" 30"
Width (as % of facade width) - 60%
Clearance from openings 24" -
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• A minimum of one wall sign may be approved per
business per street- or open-space-facing facade
In multi-tenant buildings, only the businesses with
frontage on the sidewalk shall have a wall sign
• Wall signs shall be located above the shopfront and
at least 12 inches from any eave or edge of building
above
• Sign thickness (as measured from the wall) shall not
exceed four inches
• Cabinet signs are prohibited
• Channel lettering is permitted, provided that the
letters are either back-lit or externally illuminated;
internally-illuminated channel letters are prohibited
• Lettering on background panel may be up to 24
inches tall If a background panel is not included,
letter height may be up to 30 inches tall
A
B
C
A

11.3.A. WALL 11.3.B. WINDOW
A double-sided sign perpendicular to the building facade from a mounted wall brace or from a ceiling Blade signs typically project over a sidewalk and are intended for viewing by approaching pedestrians
Standards Min Max
Sign height - 36"
Average outer distance from facade - 4'
Vertical clearance from sidewalk 8’ 12’
Area (sign only; per side) - 6 sf
Sign thickness - 4"
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• A maximum of one blade sign shall be allowed for
every shopfront entrance on the facade
• The top of a blade sign shall be located below the
building’s second floor windows
• Signs shall be externally illuminated by a light
mounted on the facade or by neon tubing used to
illuminate letters, symbols, and accent frames
A
B
C
A
C
A painted, reverse-channel, or individual-lettered sign applied directly to or projecting out and parallel to the facade This type of sign is intended for viewing from across the street and along the sidewalk Internally-illuminated cabinet signs are prohibited
Standards Min Max
Sigh height - 8'
Average outer distance from facade - 4'
Area (sign only; per side) - 16'
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Projecting signs shall be permitted to extend above
the parapet or roof of the structure to which it is
attached
• A maximum of one projecting sign is allowed for every shopfront entrance on the facade
• Signs shall be externally illuminated by a light
mounted on the facade or by neon tubing used to
illuminate letters, symbols, and accent frames
A
B
C
A
BB

11.3.C. BLADE 11.3.D. VERTICAL PROJECTING
65 | Chapter 11: Signage Design
66 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
A front yard sign is intended for businesses in buildings that are wholly or partially set back from the public right of way The target viewer is the passing pedestrian or bicyclist Front yard signs may be freestanding or integrated into the design of a fence or dooryard wall
Standards Min Max
Sign width - 30"
Sign height - 30"
Overall height - 5'
Horizontal clearance from sidewalk 2' -
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Signs shall not encroach into the public right of way • Exterior illumination shall be permitted, provided that it is from a single bulb, shielded, and warm in tone
B
C
A
D
A
B
C
D

11.3.E. FRONT YARD SIGN
A sign painted directly onto, or projecting from any sort of awning or canopy
Standards Min Max
Letter height 10" 30"
Width (as % of the width of the
shopfront facade that corresponds to
the sign)
- 60%
Area (as % of each surface) - 25%
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• If no awning is provided, secondary window signs are
allowed, which may span the width of the window,
shall be located at the top of the window, and shall
be limited to one foot in height
• See Chapter 10 (Architectural Projections) for
standards related to awnings and canopies
A
B
B
A

11.3.F. AWNING
A
B
A two-sided, non-illuminated, portable and temporary sign placed outside a shopfront on the sidewalk for viewing at close range
Standards Min Max
Height (overall) 18” 36”
Width 18” 30”
Horizontal clearance from curb 18” -
Clear pathway 6’ -
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• Signs shall not contain posters, flyers, balloons,
pennants or flags attached to the sign
• There shall be no projections other than raised carved letters, which should extend no more than ½ inch
from the sign face
• Maximum of one sidewalk sign per business
• Signs shall only be displayed during hours of
operation
• Signs shall not be affixed to any wall or mounted
on wheels
• “Reader board” signs with removable slide-in letters
are prohibited
• Signs shall be constructed of wood, plastic, or metal with professionally-applied lettering or images,
provided that handwritten menu boards or "specials
of the day" for restaurants shall be allowed
A
B

11.3.G. SIDEWALK 11.3.H. VERTICAL THEATER MARQUEE
B
A
C
Standards Min Max
Height, as measured from the
bottom of the sign - 50'
Average outer distance from facade - 10'
Vertical clearance from sidewalk 10' -
Area (sign only; per side) 200 SF
Additional Standards & Guidelines
• A maximum of one marquee sign is allowed for any
building
A sign, usually over a theater or arena, that displays the name of the venue, featured attractions, and principal performers B
C
A
67 | Chapter 11: Signage Design
68 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Roof Signs are large signs erected upon, against, or directly above a roof or above the parapet of a building Roof signs are intended to emphasize a civic or quasi-civic destination and/or to bolster the identity of the area itself They are intended to be viewable from a long distance from key vantage points Standards Max.

Overall height above roof 30'
Overall width 50'
Cumulative surface area of graphic(s) accompanying the lettering 100 sq ft Required Findings
Approval of a Roof Sign is subject to the following
Required Findings:
a. There is no other Roof Sign on the same block
b. Roof Sign does not block the view of any other
approved or built roof sign or monument which
terminates a vista
c. Roof Sign design theme, materials and
aesthetic complement and enhance the
character and skyline of Downtown Santa
Clara
d. Roof Sign design is unique and iconic, using
high-quality, element-resistant materials and
construction methods
e. Roof Sign design and materials are
architecturally and thematically
complementary of the activity center it is
serving
A
B
C

11.3.I. ROOF SIGN
Additional Standards & Guidelines
a. Roof signs shall be comprised only of letters and small accompanying graphics, as showing in the precedents above b. No more than 3 Roof Signs shall be permitted in Downtown c. Roof Signs shall only promote uses which serve as a common destination to a wide range of people This includes theaters, food halls/markets, hotels, and the Downtown itself Roof Signs shall not be used to promote housing, offices, or individual non-civic private businesses, such as individual shops and restaurants d. If illuminated, Roof Signs may only be lit by: 1) neon lighting; 2) external illumination with light sources shielded from view; or 3) halo illumination (projecting light behind an opaque letter or emblem which results in the appearance of a ring of light around the letter/emblem)
e. Electronic readerboards shall be prohibited on Roof Signs f. Roof Signs shall be set back from the facade a minimum of 5 feet to not appear as an upward extension of the facade They may be angled as necessary to be seen from key vistas g. Roof Signs should terminate long vistas, so that they can be seen as one looks toward and approaches Downtown A
C
B
A conditional type of art wall that may incorporate signage, useful for the branding and identification of key activity nodes/ centers Additionally, this sign type is intended to uniquely emphasize, support and enhance the regional identity and character of Downtown, consistent with the overall aesthetic for Santa Clara Design themes that reflect the history of the Bay area are encouraged
Standards
Overall Height The location and
dimensions are
context-sensitive and
thus shall be identified
and approved with a
Planning Entitlement
Overall Width
Overall Sign Area
Required Findings
Approval of a Mural sign is subject to the following Required Findings:
a. Mural Sign design theme, materials and aesthetic
complement and enhance the intended unified
streetscape aesthetic of Downtown Santa Clara, as
defined by this Specific Plan
b. Mural Sign design is unique and iconic, using durable, element-resistant, non-toxic materials and techniques
c. Mural Sign design and materials are architecturally
and thematically complementary of the activity center
it is serving
d. Referral to Cultural Commission for a recommendation to the Development Review Hearing
B
A
B
A

11.3.J. MURAL SIGN
Additional Standards & Guidelines
a. Mural sign shall be allowed to spread across multiple walls
b. Commercial mural signs are permitted but are limited to on-site signs Off-site mural signs are prohibited
69 | Chapter 11: Signage Design
70 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
12 Building Use & Parking

12.1. Building Use
Legend
CUP: Conditional Use Permit (SCCC § 18.110)
Use Shopfront Overlay1 Retail-Ready1 Downtown General
Automobile service Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Automobile dealership Permitted only as a small-format showroom within a Shopfront Assisted living / memory care Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Corporate cafeteria, as
accessory to office use Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Data center Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted
Drive-through facility Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Dwelling unit Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor
Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor Permitted
Heavy industrial/manufacturing Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Laboratory CUP required on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor
CUP required on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor CUP required
Liquor store CUP required CUP required CUP required
Office Permitted on upper floors;
CUP required for ground floor1 Permitted1 Permitted
Lobby Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor2
Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor2 Permitted
Place of assembly CUP required CUP Required CUP Required Private building amenities
and leasing offices
Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor
Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted on ground floor Permitted
Service Areas Permitted on upper floors;
not permitted within 30 feet of facade on ground floors Permitted Specified “regulated
businesses” (per SCCC § 18.70) CUP required CUP required CUP required Storage/warehouse Not permitted Not permitted Not permitted Surface parking Not permitted3 Not permitted3 Not permitted4 Thrift shop (not including
buy-sell-trade stores) CUP required CUP required CUP required Vehicle fueling facility Not permitted anywhere in
zone
Not permitted anywhere in
zone
Not permitted anywhere
in zone
Table 12-1 Notes
1 All ground-floor office uses in the Shopfront or Retail-Ready Overlay shall be designed with Shopfront frontages (See Table 9-1 and Section 9.4.A).
2 Exception: If a project has no frontage in the Downtown General Overlay, a Lobby of 20' maximum width and designed as a Shopfront is permitted in the first of the following options where the project has frontage: Option 1) in the Retail-Ready Overlay on any street other than Franklin St; Option 2) in the Shopfront Overlay on any street other than Franklin St; Option 3) in the Retail-Ready Overlay on Franklin St; or Option 4, last resort) in the Shopfront Overlay on Franklin St. (Example: Option 1 shall be chosen over Option 2 if a project has frontage in both locations.) TABLE 12-1 | SPECIFIC BUILDING USE PROVISIONS
A. Introduction
This section includes provisions for building use and
parking for all properties within the Plan area Uses not listed in Table 12-1 Specific Building Use Provisions shall be allowed by right unless prohibited everywhere in the City by the Santa Clara City Code All uses are subject to all applicable development standards, State law, and any other applicable requirements that are beyond the
scope of this Chapter
Any use that is not specifically prohibited within in this section, but is deemed by the Director of Community
Development to be of such a nature as to be detrimental to neighboring properties by reason of emission of odor, excessive noise, or any other factor that is adverse to their comfort, peace, enjoyment, health, or safety, shall also be prohibited All procedural requirements of SCCC § 18 110 shall apply
Parking requirements associated with building uses, as
well as standards for how that parking may be provided, are established in Section 12.3

12.2. Specified Use Definitions
Each use listed in Table 12-1: Specific Building Use Provisions is defined below In cases of uncertainty, the Director shall have the authority to make a determination Heavy industrial/manufacturing. An
establishment that includes labor-intensive
manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, or
repair processes that produces odors,
noise, vibration, has large industrial
vehicles visiting more than once per day,
hazardous waste materials, or particulates
that may negatively affect other uses on
the same site or neighboring properties
Uses permitted in MP (Planned Industrial)
zoning districts, per SCCC § 18 46 030,
with the exception of laboratories, are not
included in this category
Laboratory. A space, room or building
equipped for scientific experiments,
research, or teaching, or for the
manufacture of drugs or chemicals
Liquor Store. A retail establishment which
has 25% or more of the shelving devoted
to the public display and sale of alcoholic
beverages for off-site consumption
Lobby. An entry hall accessed by a
common entrance shared by building
tenants
Place of Assembly. Facility for public or
private assembly and meetings, including
civic and private auditoriums, banquet
halls, community centers, conference
and convention facilities; meeting halls
for clubs, religious institutions (i e , church,
temple, synagogue, and mosque), and
other membership organizations
Private building amenities and leasing
offices. Spaces shared by the tenants/
inhabitants of a building but closed to the
public and offices dedicated to leasing and
sales for the building
Office. A building or portion thereof used
as a place for commercial, professional, or
bureaucratic work that does not depend
on regular on-site visits from customers
Service Areas. Spaces devoted to
supportive (i e back-of-house) functions,
such as utility equipment rooms, trash and
recycling rooms, pump rooms, electrical
rooms, etc
Specified regulated businesses. Uses
including adult book stores, adult cabarets,
adult motion picture theaters, nude
encounter studios, nude photography
studios, and other uses, as specified in
SCCC 18 70 090
Automobile service. An establishment for
which the primary purpose is the on-site
repair, cleaning, detailing, dismantling, or
similar work on cars
Automobile dealership. An establishment
which sells automobiles A small-format
showroom is similar to a typical retail
establishment with Shopfront frontage
Assisted living / memory care.

Specialized housing accommodations for
those requiring permanent on-site medical
care
Corporate cafeteria, as accessory to
office use. A cafeteria that is closed to the
public but provides meals to employees of
a particular company
Data Center. A facility for housing
computing and data storage systems and
equipment
Drive-through facility. An establishment
where customers are regularly attended
while remaining seated within an
automobile
Dwelling unit. Any building or portion
thereof that is used as an independent
living facility for one or more persons
71 | Chapter 12: Building Use & Parking
3 Exceptions: Parking spaces along an alley, with no additional aisles for the purposes of accessing parking, are permitted. Also, interim on-site surface parking is permitted with a Conditional Use Permit, provided that it serves a phased development strategy.

Storage/warehouse. A facility for the
storage of furniture, household goods, or
other commercial goods of any nature
Thrift shop. Any individual personal
partnership, firm or corporation whose
business includes buying, selling, trading,
taking in pawn, accepting for sale on
consignment, or accepting for auctioning,
secondhand tangible property Buy-sell-
trade stores—stores at which items are
bought and sold outright (rather than used
as collateral for loans)—are exempt from
this category and are permitted by right
Vehicle fueling facility. A gas station—
does not include electric vehicle charging
stations
72 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code 73 | Chapter 12: Building Use & Parking

12.3. CUP Conditions of Approval
Those seeking a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) must go to Planning Commission for determination and approval In addition to the requirements listed in Santa Clara City Code, any use seeking a CUP is subject to the following required findings:

A The use shall not be noxious or a nuisance, including the disturbance of neighboring uses or uses in other portions of the building B The use shall contribute to, and in no way impede, the use of the adjacent public realm as a walkable, active mixed use environment throughout the day for a diversity of people
C The use shall meet all other standards of this Form-Based Code, as applicable For example, if a Place of Assembly is approved, it shall not present blank walls to a street or open space (see Chapter 10, Facade Design) D The physical building and space shall be designed to be flexible and adaptable; it should facilitate the possibility that it be filled with a by-right use in the future

12.4. Parking Requirements
A. Introduction. For new development Downtown, transportation demand management (TDM) strategies and parking strategies are intended to implement a pedestrian-oriented district that is accessible by all modes of travel and not dominated by wide roadways and traffic Auto-oriented environments are typically characterized by large and exposed surface parking areas It is the intent of the Precise Plan and this Form-Based Code to both minimize the aesthetic damage of existing and new parking areas through occupiable building lining, and to facilitate the rationalization of parking areas to better levels of efficiency to support existing and new development
B. Applicability

1. The standards within this section shall apply to all residential and non- residential development and/or redevelopment within the Precise Plan boundaries

2. Compliance with these standards is not required in the following instances a. a change of use within an existing building; or
b. an expansion of an existing building; or
c. a replacement of an existing building that does not result in an increase in floor area by more than 25 percent
C. Required Number of Vehicular Parking Spaces. In the Downtown Precise Plan Area, parking requirements shall be as summarized in Table 12-2, except for any reductions allowed per this Section These requirements reflect a strong transit orientation for downtown
D. Shared Parking. Parking shared among uses is encouraged, and up to twenty percent (20%) of parking spaces provided may be shared between two uses For the purposes of this title , those parking spaces shared between two uses count towards the parking requirement of both Shared parking is justified when reduced parking reflect different uses have different time-of-day parking demand profiles, based on evaluation by a qualified transportation planner and the City E. Unbundled Parking. A maximum of one parking space shall be rented or sold with each unit Additional parking spaces shall be rented or sold separately As an alternative to renting or selling parking spaces separately from residential units, property managers may implement a parking preference program, with prospective renters without cars put on a separate waiting list from renters with cars, and renters being chosen alternately from the two lists Require employers who provide free employee parking to offer a cash payment in lieu of the parking benefit
F. Off-Site and On-Street Parking. Required parking may be provided off-site but within the Downtown Zone Directly adjacent on-street parking may count toward parking requirements for commercial uses
G. Required Electric Vehicle Charging Spaces (EVCS). All new development shall conform to the City of Santa Clara building electrification Reach Codes regarding EVCS (see Ordinance No. 2056), the Green Building Standards Code (SCCC Chapter 15.38), and/or any current City standard at the time of application New residential development shall provide for EVCS and EV Ready Spaces in the quantities identified in SCCC Section 15.38.040 for residential uses and SCCC Section 15.38.050 for non-residential uses
TABLE 12-2 | REQUIRED PARKING
Use Minimum Vehicular Parking Required
Office, civic, cultural and conference
uses 1 space per 500 sq ft of building area
Grocery stores 1 space per 500 sq ft of building area All other commercial uses, including
restaurants and bars 1 space per 1,000 sq ft of building area Hotels 0 5 spaces per room
Residential units
1 space per unit for units greater than or equal
to 550 sq ft ;
0 5 spaces per unit for units less than 550 sq ft ;
1 space per 20 units for guest parking
Residential units for seniors, with
on-site staff 1 space per employee plus 0 1 spaces per unit H. Transportation Demand Management.

1. New development should provide secure indoor bicycle parking consistent with Zoning Code requirements

2. New development should contribute to Transportation Demand Management (TDM), in order to promote transit and walkability in Downtown Such TDM measures include:
a. Transit Passes for Residential Uses – when residential developers commit to provide a monthly transit pass benefit to each residential unit; b. Transit Passes for Commercial Uses – when commercial developers commit to a monthly transit pass benefit, paired with a “guaranteed ride home” benefit for when employees have family or medical emergencies; c. Bike Commuter Facilities – when commercial projects make locker room(s) with shower(s) available to employees;
d. Carsharing Spaces – when developers of large projects dedicate one or more on-site parking spaces to a carsharing operator for carsharing by residents and/or employees, with further reduction when on-site carsharing is available to the public; and/or
e. Vanpool Spaces – when larger commercial projects reserve one or more parking spaces for an established employer-run vanpool program 74 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

12.5. Parking Design Standards
A. Standards. Except where in conflict with the provisions of this chapter, parking facilities shall be designed and built to the standards of SCCC § 18 74 040 through SCCC § 18 74 050 The following standards also apply:

1. Driveways
a. One-way driveways shall not exceed a width of 10 feet; two-way driveways shall not exceed a width of 20 feet
b. Curb cut flares shall collectively not exceed the width of the driveway by more than 20% c. All driveways shall be perpendicular to the street
d. Driveways shall not affect the slope or direction of the sidewalk

2. Structured parking
a. Where adjacent to any street, structured parking shall be behind a depth of at least 30 feet of occupiable space on the ground floor, except as provided for in §12 4 A 2 c (below) Th e lining shall be designed per the Standards in Figure 12-1.
b. Fully-subterranean garages may extend to all lot lines S emi-subterranean garages may extend to building faces, provided that the ground floor is not more than 4 feet above sidewalk grade See Figure 12-2.
c. Parking structures may be unlined in specific locations Figure 12-3 regulates "Allowable Garage Facade Street Exposure", which varies by street and by ground and upper levels d. Guidelines for efficient and effective parking structures include:
i. A 255 ft minimum length allows one bay to slope, rising 10 ft, with the opposite bay having a level floor The level floor improves visibility and allows for a street-facing facade to be level ii. A 122 ft minimum width provides for 2-bays with 2-way traffic and perpendicular parking iii. In the case of a garage in Block B adjacent to the existing office building: 6 levels of parking would make the garage rooftop the same height as the adjacent 7-story office building, potentially creating public rooftop space for both structures (with a connecting bridge) iv. Glass-backed elevators and glass enclosed stairways enhance security v. Ground floor commercial space in parking garages is encouraged vi. Garage rooftops can include vegetation and/or solar collectors

3. Private garages:
a. Front-loaded garages are not permitted On-site parking shall be accessed from alleys or from drives where permitted per Section 5.3.C
Street
Property Line Building Frontage Line
Min Depth - 30'
Ground Story Liner Parking
FIGURE 12-1 | LINED STRUCTURED PARKING
Street
Property Line Building Frontage
Line
FIGURE 12-2 | SUBTERRANEAN PARKING
Upper Story Liner
FIGURE 12-3 | ALLOWABLE GARAGE FACADE STREET EXPOSURE
All Stories: Parking garage may be exposed (unlined) on all stories of the facade Upper Stories Only: Parking garage may be exposed (unlined) on upper stories of the facade only (not on the ground floor) LEGEND
75 | Chapter 12: Building Use & Parking
76 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
13 Site Standards & Guidelines

13.1. Introduction
A. Intent
The following site standards and guidelines are intended to inform the design and location of elements of the site for the purpose of the health, safety, and general welfare of the immediate occupants of each building, and for the neighborhood B. Applicability
The following standards apply to all new development, or whenever below-mentioned features are introduced to an existing development Where any deviations are granted— per Section 1 7—the obvious intent of each standard shall still be met

13.2. Specific to Waste and Utility Placement
A. Utility Access and Equipment

1. Utility access and equipment such as back-flow preventers, transformer boxes, telecommunications pedestals, gas and electric meters, and other utilities shall be placed either: within or adjacent to alleys and be accessed from the alley; in underground vaults; or in utility rooms/closets within buildings—subject to the requirements and approval of the associated utility company If such locations are infeasible, these services shall be in inconspicuous locations along the sides or rears of project sites and shall be thoroughly screened from public view Such utility equipment shall not be located above grade in the street, sidewalk, sidewalk planters/planting strip, or within the front building setback area
B. Mechanical Access & Equipment

1. All mechanical and electrical equipment – including, but not limited to, air- conditioning units, antennas, garage door motors – whether roof-mounted, ground-mounted or otherwise, shall be screened from public view or located so as not to be visible from streets or open spaces Such equipment and related screening should be designed with materials and colors that conform to and are an integral part of the design of the building
a. Mechanical equipment that generates noise, smoke or odors, shall not be located on or within 10 feet of a public right of way or any on-site common open spaces
b. Noise and odor-generating equipment and containers should be located in areas that will not create a nuisance to adjacent properties Such bins should be covered when possible Openings to a trash enclosure should be shielded from public rights of way
C. Telecommunication Devices

1. Telecommunication devices (such as satellite dishes or other equipment) should be screened from public view or located so as not to be visible from streets Applicants are encouraged to work with satellite providers to locate satellite dishes out of view on building roofs and/or on rear yard or side yard facing facades, especially along alleys, if adequate signal strength and quality can be achieved In multi-family and multi-tenant buildings, conduits should be provided from such a location to each unit or designed into the building structure
D. Wet Utilities

1. Wet utilities should typically be located in the street, but may be located in the alley to address topographical, efficiency or other engineering reasons If “wet” and “dry” utilities are co-located in the alley, proper trench separation and utility access must be ensured On lots with no alley, all “wet” utilities should be located in the street or public right-of-way Utility meters and entrances should also be provided below-grade in the street or sidewalk and should be flush with the surrounding grade
E. Service Entrances & Waste/Recycling Disposal Areas

1. Service entrances, waste/recycling disposal areas, and other similar service areas should be located adjacent to the alley and take their access from it On lots with no alley, these areas should be located as far away as possible from— and screened from views from—the public right of way

2. Waste/recycling disposal shall not be staged on the street Waste and recycling shall be retrieved via push/pull or interior to the building Example of an
appropriately placed
double standpipe
connection in the
base of a building at
the sidewalk.

Example of
inappropriately placed
check valves and
other utility devices
in the front yard of a
commercial building.

Example of
inappropriately
placed ground-level
utilities in a parkway.

Example of
inappropriately placed
utility boxes in a
parkway.

Wherever possible,
mechanical/utilities
equipment should be
placed in alleys. In
this example, they are
further shielded by
architectural elements
and a hedge.

FIGURE 13-1 | APPROPRIATE PLACEMENT FIGURE 13-2 | INAPPROPRIATE PLACEMENT Example of
mechanical
equipment well-
screened by an
architectural element
incorporated into
the building's
composition.

AVOIDAVOIDAVOID
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78 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

13.3. Specific to Site Walls
A. Fence and Wall Heights

1. Fence and wall heights shall be measured from the grade directly below In cases where the grade differs on either side of the fence or wall, the lower measuring point shall be the average between the grades of the sides Fences and walls (including retaining walls) must be set back at least 24 inches from the sidewalk
B. Entrance Arbors

1. Entrance arbors up to 9 feet in height and 5 feet in width may be permitted C. General to Frontages

1. Fence and wall posts within the front setback shall be limited to 3 5 feet in height

2. Retaining walls may not have more than 3 feet of difference between the grade on either side Fences or walls up to 3 5 feet in height may be erected above retaining walls provided that:
a. Any fence or wall more than 3 5 feet as measured from the sidewalk is at least 50% open
b. At no point does the fence intrude into the line of visibility between the landing of the entrance(s) of the primary building(s) and the sidewalk This shall be measured from point that are 5 feet above said landing(s) and 5 feet above the sidewalk
Landscaped
retaining wall
and fence. Entrance arbor.

Landscaped
fencing set back
from sidewalk
Cafe rearyard
with a wood
fence.

D. Specific to Corner Lots

1. On corner lots, fences and walls may reach 6 feet in height to enclose the private rear yard from the side street, but must be set back at least as far back as the building face of the primary building Fences and walls may reach 8 feet in height, provided that any portion of the fence or wall that is more than 6 feet in height is at least 50% open E. Specific to Interior Side Yards and Rear Yards

1. Fences and walls may reach 6 feet in height and flush with the facade of the primary building Interior side and rear fences and walls may reach 8 feet in height, provided that any portion of the fence or wall that is more than 6 feet in height is at least 50% open

2. Any rear fence or wall along any alley shall be so constructed as to provide a space in the rear yard that is sufficient in length, depth, and height to house trash bins off of the alley If another area within the rear yard meets this requirement, it shall not be necessary to incorporate such a space for trash bins into the fence or wall

3. Gates and doors on rear fences shall not open outward towards the alley but shall be designed to open inward to the property 79 | Chapter 13: Site Standards & Guidelines
80 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code

13.4. Specific to Lighting
A. General to All Lighting

1. Site lighting shall be shielded by permanent attachments to the light fixture or frosted so that light sources are not visible from a public way and to prevent off-site glare and upward light pollution

2. Wall-pack types of lighting are not recommended; where used, they shall be provided with full cutoff shields and shall contribute to the architecture of the building

3. Specific to residential ground floors: site and building-mounted luminaires should produce initial illuminance value no greater than 0 04 horizontal and vertical footcandles, and shall be shielded downward

4. Specific to nonresidential ground floors: site and building-mounted luminaires should produce a maximum initial illuminance value no greater than 0 1 horizontal and vertical footcandles at the boundary with adjoining residential lots, and no greater than 0 01 horizontal footcandles 10 feet beyond that boundary
On-site light sources should be shielded from the
public ROW.

Historic lamppost design at the
corner of Franklin St and The
Alameda.

Shielded and/or frosted lighting avoids off-site glare and light pollution.

5. Specific to alleys, paseos, and other
connections into or through the block:
the illuminance measured at the ground
surface shall have an average between 2
and 6 footcandles and shall not exceed 1
footcandle at any point

6. Street lights should replicate the historic
lampposts from the 1920s–1940s
A court may provide access to private residences or amenity spaces. Forecourts help transition from the public to private realm.

13.5. On-Site Open Space
A. Introduction
On-site open space is private or shared outdoor space that exists for the enjoyment and use of building tenants, and sometimes the public It can also provide comfortable paths through which pedestrian access is provided from the street to any buildings (or portions of buildings) that lack direct street frontage This Section identifies a series of open space types and design characteristics of each type B. Court

1. Description. A court is an open space surrounded by one or more buildings, for use by residents or tenants, or for activation as a public plaza or outdoor dining area It can provide visitor access from the street to dwellings, retail, office spaces, or buildings within the lot that lack direct access from the street

2. Guidelines. A court’s perimeter should be coherent and well-defined by walls on at least three sides Courts should include a minimum of one shared amenity, such as a seating area, fountain, BBQ island, or outdoor fireplace C. Forecourt

1. Description. A forecourt is a court that abuts the public sidewalk Where forecourts give access to retail and other public uses, they function as an extension of the public realm Where forecourts grant access to residential or other private uses, they function as transitional spaces between the public and private realms

2. Standards. Forecourts are only permitted if they serve a specific function, such as providing gathering space outside a common building entry or providing outdoor dining space in front of restaurant shopfronts At least one building entry shall be provided from a forecourt into the adjacent building(s)

3. Guidelines. Forecourts should be a minimum of 15’ x 15’ in size in order to serve as a usable outdoor room

4. Build-Out Requirements. A forecourt is a permitted exception to the build-out requirement for a lot See Section 5.3.A
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82 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Rear yards can
contain amenities
for multi-family
buildings.

Single- and multi-
family residences
separated by side
yards.

D. Side Yard

1. Description. A side yard is an open space along one side of a building It can serve as a semi-private space through which visitor access is provided to one or more buildings or dwellings, or it can be a private space for the exclusive use of the residents of one or more dwellings

2. Guidelines. Side yards should be defined by buildings on a minimum of two sides Side yards should not exceed twenty-five feet in width where adjacent to streets or public open spaces

3. Build-Out Requirements. An entry to a side yard is a permitted exception to the build-out requirement for a lot See Section 5.3.A.

E. Rear Yard

1. Description. A rear yard is a private, landscaped open space located behind a building It is for the use of the residents or users of one or more dwellings

2. Guidelines. For buildings with two or more units, a rear yard may be divided into separated private yards, provided each private yard is directly adjacent to the dwelling unit
A roof deck/
terrace used as
a dining area for
restaurants.

A passage may
provide access
to residential
units.

F. Passage

1. Description. Passages provide a pedestrian connection between or through buildings, from the street to a court, building entrance, or rear parking lot Passages may be covered or uncovered They may be gated or completely open to the street Passages which provide public access through a block are known as paseos

2. Standards. Passages shall be a minimum of 12 feet in width a. Exception Portions of passages no longer than 20' may be less than 12 feet wide but no narrower than 6 feet wide

3. Build-Out Requirements. An entry to a passage is a permitted exception to the build-out requirement for a lot See Section 5.3.A.

G. Roof Deck/Terrace

1. Description. A roof deck or terrace is an outdoor gathering space that may be assigned to individual units or shared by all residents or tenants of a building

2. Standards
a. Publicly accessible roof tops should be visible from the public right of way

3. Guidelines.
a. Roof decks and terraces should include a minimum of one amenity and design element, such as a trellis, seating area, fountain, landscaping, or outdoor fireplace to encourage their use as an outdoor gathering place b. Roof decks and terraces should not provide views toward single family residences They should be oriented toward public rights-of-way or other shared open spaces
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13.6. Elevating a Place with Art
A. Introduction. Good infrastructure, lighting, and spatial dimensions make the built environment work properly However, the creative details that we add are what bring our towns and cities to life We can use beauty to say something about who we are, where we came from, and who we wish to be Works of art do not need to be grand monuments or sculptures Everyday items can help tell the story of Santa Clara's culture and history—even an elegant light fixture or sculpted door knob The intent of this Section is to provide ideas and encourage the incorporation of art, in big and small ways, into the private realm of Downtown's buildings, facades, entrances, and setback areas In this way, Santa Clara can both reflect and inspire the people who live here
B. Standard. All projects shall provide at least one piece of art—including artistically-executed functional elements—every 50 feet along its street frontage Such elements serve as "gifts to the street" from private development Qualifying pieces of art are subject to the following standards:

1. Art which meets this requirement shall:
a. be located within 10 feet of the front property line or within a publicly accessible on-site open space;
b. be visible or accessible to the public at all times (24 hours/day, 7 days/week); c. be permanent or semi-permanent in nature, designed to last at least 5 years; and
d. go above and beyond the base requirements of the other Sections of this Code to contribute to the unique quality of Downtown Santa Clara’s public realm through artistic expression

2. Art which meets this requirement may include—but is not limited to—the following:
a. painting—including permanently affixed works such as murals or frescoes; b. reliefs—including carvings, frescoes, mosaics, and earth works; c. sculpture—including statues, fountains, mobiles and monuments; d. ornamental or commemorative structures;
e. mixed or conceptual media in any combination of forms or media—including drawings, collages, or the use of sound, light, or water Water, neon, fiber optic and electronic sculptures are not encouraged due to difficulty of maintenance, though such art may be permitted if adequate assurance of continued maintenance is provided;
f. decorative and/or utilitarian crafts—including those in clay, fiber, wood, metal, glass, stained glass, and other materials; and/or g. artistically designed elements which can also serve a functional purpose, such as a bench or bike rack, that have been specifically and originally designed as a unique artistic element for the project and are not a mass production or replication

3. Art which meets this requirement may not include the following:
a. directional elements such as supergraphics, signage, or color coding except where these elements are integral parts of the original work of art or executed by artists in unique or limited editions;
b. objects which are mass produced of standard design such as banners, signs, playground equipment, benches, statuary, street barriers, sidewalk barriers, or fountains;
c. reproduction, by mechanical or other means, of original works of art—unless they are limited editions controlled by the artist(s) of original works; d. landscape architecture, gardening, or materials, except where these elements are designed by the artist and are integral or part of the work of art created by the artist;
e. landscaping required by the City as part of development entitlements; or f. artwork that is similar to, reminiscent of, or based on a corporate logo C. Examples. The following images serve as examples of art San Jose, CASanta Clara, CA
Murals
Murals can turn any vertical surface into an opportunity to bring beauty and share stories or local history
Shall be submitted to the Cultural Commission for a recommendation A sculptural fountain in a court which can
be accessed or viewed by the public.

An sculptural and playful entry sign which
isn't just the business logo.

Entries which incorporate sculptural
reliefs and murals
Courtyard and Entryway Art
On-site works of art, from a beautifully designed building entry to a fountain installed in a semi-private courtyard, are a wonderful gifts to the city and its residents They create an artistic interface between the architecture and the public realm A reminder for people to look up
A whole section of sidewalk can becomes
a commemoration plaque
Sidewalk Plaques
Sidewalk plaques can be a playful way of
telling the history of a specific spot on
a map while adding surprise and delight
Urban Furniture
Urban furniture that goes above and
beyond its function requirements can
serve as art
Outdoor seating
Bike rack
Trash bin
85 | Chapter 13: Site Standards & Guidelines
86 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
This section provides definitions for terms found herein that are technical in nature or that otherwise may not
reflect a common usage of the term Terms which are not defined in this section shall default to the those found in the Definitions section of the Santa Clara Zoning Code
Alley: A narrow service street which provides secondary access (and often utilities access) to all lots within a block Driveways, parking aisles, and fire lanes are not alleys Arbor (entrance arbor): A wooden structure that is
intended to define an entrance into an on-site outdoor
space, such as a front yard or parking lot
Arcade. An extension of upper floors over a sidewalk,
supported by vertical supports Arcades provide shade, glare control, and weather protection
Bay: A stacked (vertically organized) grouping of facade elements, such as openings and windows
Bay Window: A window, or window ensemble, that
projects from any building elevation
Block: A aggregation of lots which are bound on all sides by public rights of way (whether streets or open spaces) Block dimensions are measured along private property
lines
Building Base: The visually unified horizontal portion of a building that begins on the ground and extends one or more floors, typically ending at an architectural feature like a cornice or string course The building base appears to be holding up the upper floors
Building Improvements: Building improvements include
work that is typical of regular maintenance and upkeep
This may include changes to the exterior, but is limited to work that does not alter the general character
Building Length: The length of the building as measured parallel to the front property line
Build-To Range, Front Street: A range of distances from the property line along a street or open space A building's primary facade shall be built within this range and shall extend along the street or open space as required by the facade buildout percentage
Chamfered corner: A bevel where two perpendicular
building faces meet, resulting in a third face at a
45-degree angle
Civic Building: A private or public structure of civic
importance that is noncommercial in nature This includes but is not limited to: schools, places of assembly, libraries, museums, city hall, or any other building type that has historically been prominently featured in traditional cities and towns as a center of public life Civic buildings do not include retail (with the exception being a notable food hall or market structure featuring many tenants) or mixed- use buildings, residential buildings, day care facilities, privately-owned office buildings, or municipal yards
Court: A court is an open space surrounded by one or
more buildings, for use by residents or tenants, or for activation as a public plaza or outdoor dining area It can provide visitor access from the street to dwellings, retail, office spaces, or buildings within the lot that lack direct access from the street
Director: The Director of Community Development, or
designee
Dormer Window: An individual roofed window that
protrudes out of a sloped roof
Drive Aisle: A vehicular lane within a parking lot that provides access to the individual parking spaces
Driveway : A vehicular lane within a lot that leads to on- site parking
Encroachment: Any structure extending into a required
setback area
14 Glossary Facade Buildout: The required length of the primary facade (located within the Front Street Build-To Range) divided by the total buildable length along a street or open space, expressed as a percentage
Fenestration: Transparent glass openings in a building
face
Fire Lane: An on-site right of way required by the Fire Marshal for the access of emergency vehicles
Forecourt: A court that abuts the public sidewalk Where forecourts give access to retail and other public uses, they function as an extension of the public realm Where forecourts grant access to residential or other private uses, they function as transitional spaces between the
public and private realms
Frontage, Private: The ground floor building facade and the area between the building facade and any property
line along a street or public open space
Frontage, Public: The space between any street-adjacent property line and the first travel lane in the roadway
Gallery: A ground-floor colonnade that supports a shed
roof or deck that covers the sidewalk, intended to provide shade, glare control, and weather protection
Ground Floor: The floor of a building located nearest to the level of the existing grade around the building
Half-Story: The uppermost story of a building in which
the sloping roof forms the walls These are often lighted by dormer windows and include knee walls under roof slopes Lot: A portion of land delineated from others to host an allowed development For the purpose of this code, lot is synonymous with “property” or “design site ”
Lot Line: A front, side or rear of a lot For the purpose of this code, lot line is synonymous with property line Massing Increments: A complete facade composition
that is visually distinguished from an adjacent facade
composition of the same building Each increment has a coherent look and character from the ground to the top
of the facade Sometimes, Massing Increments appear as multiple parts of a single building, while in other cases, they appear as distinct buildings altogether
Non-Formula Retail and Restaurant Establishments.

If there are fewer than 12 worldwide locations, including the proposed location, and if the business has less than two standardized features, then the proposed use is Non- Formula
Outbuilding: A rear building on the same property but
separate from, and smaller in scale than the building
which contains the primary use of the site
Paseo: A pedestrian path that provides a connection from one right of way or public open space to another They may be privately maintained or dedicated to the City
Passage: An on-site pedestrian path
Pergola: A wooden structure that is intended to either provide a small area of shade or define an entrance into an on-site outdoor space, such as a front yard or parking lot Pier. Vertical structural elements which, when dividing shopfronts, often define bays or Massing Increments
Primary Access: The principal or most-important means
of approaching and entering a building or property
Primary Building: A building situated towards the
adjacent street or public open space that accommodates
the primary use of the site This is distinguished from an outbuilding, which is ancillary in use and form, and sits near the rear of the site
Primary Entrances: Typically refers to front doors, and may include direct access into a ground floor residential unit, into nonresidential space, into a common lobby, or into a zaguan that leads to a court
Primary Facade. The portion of the facade located within the Front Street Build-To Range along a street and/or
open space
Privacy Windows: Windows which are either opaque and
unopenable or which begin at least 6 feet from the floor Public Realm: All streets, sidewalks, parks, plazas, and other open spaces that comprise the shared space of a city for its visitors, employees and residents It is the space between buildings where civic interaction occurs and is defined in contrast to private property The public realm is publicly-accessible, regardless of whether particular parts of it are publicly or privately owned and maintained Rosewalk: A wide paseo with residential frontages on
either side
87 | Chapter 14: Glossary
88 | City of Santa Clara Downtown Form-Base Code
Rowhouse Building. A building containing an array of
side-by side units
Shopfront: A ground-floor frontage assembly that
includes an arrangement of large transparent windows
and a conspicuous entrance that leads directly into the unit Shopfronts are spatially defined on either side by structural vertical elements called piers
Side, Lot Line: Any property line that is shared with a neighboring property when there is no public open space between the two
Sideyard: The portion of a parcel extending from the front of the property to the rear of the property, between the side property line of the parcel and the closest side of the principal building
Story height: The vertical distance from floor to ceiling For the topmost story, it is measured from the top of the floor finish to the bottom of the ceiling joists or, where there is not a ceiling, to the bottom of the roof rafters Street: A right of way that is defined in Section 2.9
Paseos, driveways, parking aisles, fire lanes, and alleys are not streets
Street, Front: The side of the lot that is adjacent to a street A property may have multiple fronts
Street, Side: (Applicable only to corner lots) The side of the lot that is adjacent to a street or public open space that is not considered the front (see Street, Front)
Through lot: A lot which extends from one street frontage to another, across the entire span of the block
Trellis: A frame of latticework used as a screen or as a support for climbing plants
89 | Chapter 14: Glossary
End of Code.

City Council and Authorities ConcurrentJanuary 9, 2024

City Council and Authorities Concurrent
January 9, 2024