Santa Clarita City Council
August 25, 2026

Agenda Item: 1

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

PLANNING COMMISSION

AGENDA REPORT

CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING
PLANNING MANAGER APPROVAL:

DATE: July 7, 2026
SUBJECT: MC26-038: CITYWIDE MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE

RESIDENTIAL OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS AND RELATED

AMENDMENTS TO THE SCMC
APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita
LOCATION: Citywide
CASE PLANNER: Zarui Chaparyan

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Planning Commission:

1. Conduct the public hearing;

2. Determine that the project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption;

3. Adopt Resolution P26-04, recommending the City Council approve Master Case 26-038, consisting of Objective Design Standards and Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) Amendment 26-003 (UDC26-002); and

4. Take additional, related action that may be desirable.

REQUEST
The City of Santa Clarita (City) proposes Citywide multifamily and mixed-use Objective Design Standards (ODS) and to update the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC), including text amendments to Chapter 17 (Zoning) to address administrative procedures for ODS. The proposal would implement Programs HP-2.1 and HP-2.2 of the City’s Housing Element (HE). 1 Packet Pg. 8

BACKGROUND
State Housing Laws and ODS
In recent years, the State of California (State) has adopted a series of housing laws, including Senate Bill (SB) 330, SB 35 and Assembly Bill (AB) 2011, which require the City to adopt ODS or forego enforcing architectural and site design guidelines on certain residential projects. The Legislature’s goal is to streamline design review of multifamily and mixed-use housing projects.

Objective Design Standards are designed to ensure that new residential development is reviewed under measurable and verifiable criteria to streamline the approval process for certain types of multifamily and mixed-use developments. Objective Design Standards do not apply to commercial, industrial or single-family residential projects. While design guidelines, including the City’s current Community Character and Design Guidelines (CCDG), provide the City with greater flexibility during the review process to ensure quality architecture and site design in projects, ODS removes subjectivity from the review process. To the extent feasible, the ODS will:

1. Continue to produce development projects that meet the City’s high standards for architecture;

2. Be consistent with the community character established by the City Council;

3. Provide a streamlined review process for applicants;

4. Be consistent with the City’s HE of the General Plan; and

5. Meet the requirements of the state housing law.

City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element (HE)
The City’s 6th cycle HE was adopted by the City Council on June 27, 2023, and certified by the Department of Housing and Community Development on August 22, 2023. The HE identifies several programs to help the City reach its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 10,031 new units. Specific to ODS and the proposed zoning amendments are the following Housing Programs identified by the HE:
• HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with State Law. This program identifies several potential zoning code changes to support the City in reaching its RHNA allocation, some of which were recently adopted with SB 9 and the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) changes in April 2026. Amongst the code changes is the development of ODS for multifamily and mixed-use projects and the integration of the standard conditions of approval currently applied through the Development Review process into the objective design and development standards for development projects with residential components. These changes are proposed to be implemented by updating the CCDG referenced in the SCMC.
• HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures. This program would remove the City’s discretionary findings requirement for site suitability for development projects. These changes would be implemented through amendments to the SCMC. Refer to Exhibit D.

Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Early Action Planning 1 Packet Pg. 9

(REAP) Grant
On October 8, 2024, the City Council authorized a Memorandum of Understanding between SCAG and the City for a Sub-regional Partnership Program Grant, in the amount of $250,000 to prepare multifamily and mixed-use housing ODS. On May 13, 2025, the City Council appropriated these funds for RRM Design Group (RRM) to draft the proposed ODS at staff’s direction.

Stakeholder Meetings
The City held two stakeholder meetings on January 27 and January 29, 2026 with members of the local development community. Similar meetings have been conducted for other City projects, including the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan and Town Center Specific Plan. The purpose of these meetings was to help ensure that the ODS would be a practical and implementable document for future projects.

The primary feedback of the stakeholders included that the ODS should be realistic, avoid unnecessary development costs, and maintain community characteristics. Stakeholders were particularly in favor of a more predictable approval process and asked for an “opt out” option, should they be unable or unwilling to meet all the ODS.

Development Committee Meeting
The City held a Development Committee meeting on May 1, 2026, to discuss the proposed ODS and associated code amendments. The discussion focused on how the ODS would be implemented, including potential impacts on existing development, Specific Plans, affordable housing laws, and the City's review authority under the proposed opt-out provision.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Objective Design Standards
The proposed ODS for multifamily and mixed-use development will help the City maintain local control over project design while preserving the established community character. The City Council adopted the CCDG in 2002 and updated it in 2009 to provide direction for site planning and building design for new developments. The guidelines established the architectural character of the City’s four communities of Valencia, Saugus, Canyon Country, and Newhall. The ODS project proposes revisions to Chapter 5 (Multifamily Residential Guidelines) of the CCDG, converting existing guidelines into ODS and integrating standards applicable to mixed-use development, where appropriate. As a result of this consolidation, Chapter 7 (Mixed-Use Design Guidelines) of the CCDG will be removed from the document. The modifications to Chapter 5 also require that design elements included in each of the City’s communities must be incorporated into multifamily and mixed-use projects, requiring developers to incorporate specific architectural styles identified in the CCDG into proposed architecture and site design.

The proposed ODS are limited to policy and regulatory guidance and will not result in any physical development or construction.
1 Packet Pg. 10

In all, there are 63 proposed ODS, with 99 design guidelines remaining in Chapter 5. Design guidelines for commercial, industrial, and single-family development projects were not changed.

In collaboration with RRM, staff identified key design elements to standardize and ensure they are applied correctly. The most important design elements are included as ODS. The 99 remaining non-objective guidelines will allow design flexibility and creativity. During project review, staff may recommend, but not mandate, the application of these guidelines on multifamily and mixed-use housing projects. Existing CCDG design guidelines are converted into objective standards in several ways:

1. Creating objectivity by removing terms like “shall” or “should” and adding “must” and “required” to the guidelines to mandate the standard.

2. Providing a menu of options for applicants to choose from to comply with a standard.

3. Providing standalone, clear, measurable objectives that must be achieved.

Note that the proposed standards are the minimum thresholds required for projects; applicants may always propose more. Refer to Figure 1 for proposed examples.

Figure 1: Proposed ODS Examples
Objective Design Standard CCDG Existing Subjective Standard Buildings with a footprint greater than 4,000
square feet and two stories or taller must include
massing elements at each story (for example, a
three-story building would have at least one
massing element on the first story; one massing
element on the second story; and one massing
element on the third story).

Large projects should be broken up into
groups of structures of various heights.

Roof lines must not extend horizontally more than
40 feet in length without a two-foot variation in
height.

Roof lines should be varied in height, and
long horizontal roof lines should be broken
up.

Individual residential dwelling unit entrances
located on the ground floor must be emphasized
and clearly defined with at least two of the
following:
i. Porch or stoop that is at least six feet wide and
four feet deep.
ii. Patio.
iii. Terrace.
iv. Weather protection covering in the form of an
awning or recessed doorway. Recessed doorways
must be a minimum depth of two feet.
v. Architectural detailing such as lighting features
or decorative address lettering.
vi. Transition in color or material.

The entrances to individual units should be
visible from nearby parking areas where
possible. Building entrances should be
emphasized through the use of lighting,
landscaping and architecture.

Facades of commercial uses on the ground floor
facing either the street, public area (plaza or
courtyard), or primary entrance oriented
The vertical plane of the building façade
should be broken up with a high level of
articulation (e.g., projecting entry or
1 Packet Pg. 11

towards a parking area must be a minimum 75
percent transparent through the use of windows,
doors, and storefronts.
window features, recessed elements,
transparent storefronts, identifiable retail
spaces, and awning and entrance canopies),
especially at ground level.

In addition to providing project applicants the minimum standards for approval, individual ODS include community-specific standards to preserve the established character of the Newhall, Valencia, Saugus, and Canyon Country communities. For example, a hypothetical, new 17,000- square-foot, three-story multifamily project in Valencia must break up massing by using at least one of the following materials for each story:
• Native stone veneer;
• Cement plaster stucco;
• Smooth and hand-troweled stucco;
• Tile;
• Wood siding/shingles; or
• Cement fiber siding.

In comparison, a similarly proposed project in Newhall would need to break up massing by using at least one of the following materials for each story:
• Accent tile;
• Stucco or timber corbels, lintels, sills;
• Clay tile vents;
• Recessed niches;
• Arches;
• Colonnades;
• Wrought iron; or
• Canvas awnings, wood porches, and balconies, shading devices.

This effort helps preserve high-quality architecture, while satisfying state mandates for ODS.

Refer to Exhibit A for the proposed ODS and updated CCDG.

Review and Approval Process
Use of the proposed ODS will require an Architectural Design Review (ADR) and Development Review (DR). The ODS only apply to the architectural review; the City cannot deny a housing project based on architecture if all the ODS are met. Land use approvals, height review, Hillside Development Review, Ridgeline Alteration Permit, and other discretionary processes will still require a discretionary review. Environmental concerns will be addressed separately, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to determine whether a project is exempt and/or requires an environmental document.

The following section outlines hypothetical scenarios in which discretionary review would occur for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects. These include, but are not limited to:

Scenario #1: Discretionary Reviews for Land Uses
1 Packet Pg. 12

Certain land uses require discretionary review by the Planning Commission and/or City Council. These include Hillside Development Reviews, Ridgeline Alteration Permits, Planned Development Permits, and Conditional Use Permits. Another example of a staff-level discretionary permit is the Minor Use Permit, which does not require a Planning Commission decision.

An example is a multifamily or mixed-use project that meets all proposed ODS and requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the land use, pursuant to SCMC Chapter 17.42. These include:

CUP for height over 35 feet;
CUP for Community Care Facility in a UR3, UR4, UR5, CR, CC, or CN zone; CUP for Multifamily development in a CC or CN zone;
CUP for live/work units in UR3, UR4, UR5, CC, CN, BP and I zones.

In these scenarios, only the project’s architecture would be subject to a ministerial review if the project otherwise follows the City’s proposed ODS. The land use(s) would be subject to a discretionary review by the Planning Commission and are appealable to the City Council.

Scenario #2: Remodels/Renovations
Pursuant to SB 330, remodel/renovation projects that add affordable and market-rate units must comply with ODS. This aligns with other jurisdictions where substantial changes (such as façade updates and square footage additions to existing multifamily and mixed-use projects) must comply with ODS.

In the City, more than a ten percent addition to the existing square footage or project area requires a higher level of discretionary review (SCMC § 17.09.020(A)(3-4)). Accordingly, a renovation project adding more than ten percent in building area would be required to apply ODS to the overall project design.

Scenario #3: Waivers and Concessions
Multifamily and mixed-use projects that provide affordable units pursuant to the Density Bonus Law (Government Code §§ 65915-65918), may qualify for unlimited waivers and up to four concessions. These may be used to opt out of the proposed ODS and the City’s design guidelines.

Scenario #4: Opt-out Provision
The City will provide an “opt-out” opportunity for developers who do not or cannot meet all ODS. Consistent with other jurisdictions’ ODS, the Director would utilize a discretionary Administrative Permit (AP) and ADR, and apply the existing subjective design guidelines to project review.

While the discretionary application may be reviewed at the staff level, potential exists for the project to be appealed to the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission may approve or deny the project at that point – a decision that could be appealed to the City Council. Under 1 Packet Pg. 13

these circumstances, the five-meeting rule of the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (Government Code § 65905.5) may apply. Consequently, a final decision for the project must be made by the fifth hearing.

Summary of Proposed SCMC Changes
The proposed project would also update the SCMC to implement Program HP-2.2. The proposed SCMC amendments consist of text amendments only; no changes to the City's zoning map, land use designations, or development densities are proposed.

Summary of Proposed Changes includes:
• Amendments to SCMC § 17.06.130 – Findings and Decisions to update finding 4, such that multifamily and mixed-use housing projects do not need to comply with site suitability;
• Amendments to SCMC § 17.11.020 – Definitions, such that a definition for ODS is added;
• Amendments to SCMC § 17.23.100 – Administrative Permit, such that an Administrative Permit is required for projects that do not comply with the proposed ODS; and • Amendments to SCMC § 17.37.030 – Specific Plan (SP) Zone, such that housing projects in specific plans are required to comply with the proposed ODS.

All proposed SCMC amendment language is detailed in a redline/strikethrough document included with this staff report as Exhibit C. The same language is provided as it would appear (without redlines) in the SCMC as Exhibit D.

ANALYSIS
As the proposed ODS are proposed as part of a resolution, and not an amendment to the SCMC, findings were not made. Full compliance with the proposed ODS removes the City’s subjective discretion on architecture and site design for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects. If projects meet the proposed ODS, the City may not deny or alter a project based on architecture and/or site design. However, if developers opt out of ODS, or the underlying land use requires a discretionary entitlement, then the City will require a discretionary review of the project.

Findings
SCMC Amendments
The proposed SCMC amendments are subject to SCMC § 17.28.120(I). The following findings of SCMC § 17.06.130 are made for the proposed code amendments:

1. That the proposal is consistent with the General Plan.

The proposed amendments, by themselves, do not result in any physical development.

Individual development projects would require separate CEQA analysis. Adopting the amendments will implement California housing law and the City’s HE, specifically, HE Program HP-2.2 to update administrative procedures and materials for consistency with 1 Packet Pg. 14

State requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability.

The amendments allow for permit streamlining and clarify procedures for review when projects opt out of ODS application. Therefore, this finding is met.

2. The proposed amendments are allowed within the applicable underlying zone and comply with all other applicable provisions of this code.

The proposed amendments would not change development densities or the City’s zoning map; the proposed amendments implement mandated state legislation that applies to proposed development in the City, bringing the SCMC into consistency with California law. Therefore, this finding is met.

3. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located.

The proposed amendments will not result in any physical development. The proposed amendments provide a framework for design objectives. Any future proposed projects will be required to comply with applicable law to ensure the health, interest, safety, and general welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met.

4. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal's physical suitability for the site shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. The design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use;
b. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;
c. Public protection services (e.g., Fire protection, Sheriff protection, etc.) are readily available; and
d. The provision of utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal, etc.) is adequate to serve the site.

While the proposed amendments will not result in any physical development, they would amend the SCMC to remove this finding for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects.

This amendment will support the City’s HE Program and State requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability. Therefore, this finding is met.

SCMC § 17.28.120 requires the following additional findings to be made for the proposed project:

1. Principles and Standards for Amendments. The Council shall approve an amendment 1 Packet Pg. 15

other than a zone change only after all of the following required findings can be substantiated:
a. The amendment is consistent with the adjacent area, if applicable; The proposed amendments would apply to residential and mixed-use properties throughout the City and are consistent with the principles of the General Plan as aforementioned. The project does not result in physical development. Therefore, this finding is met.
b. The amendment is consistent with the principles of the General Plan; The proposed amendment does not alter the General Plan Land Use Map or Zoning Map, and does not alter the General Plan densities or population projections. Rather, the amendments adhere to required State legislation and the City’s HE programs.

Therefore, this finding is met.
c. Approval of the amendment will be in the interest of public health, convenience, safety, and general welfare and in conformity with good zoning practice; The proposed amendments comply with state housing law and the City’s HE programs, and convert existing guidelines to standards. Any future development will be required to comply with applicable state and local building and fire codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met. d. The amendment is consistent with other applicable provisions of this code; The proposed text amendments to the SCMC are drafted to be consistent with all other provisions of this code. Therefore, this finding is met. e. Is necessary to implement the General Plan and/or that the public convenience, the general welfare or good zoning practice justifies such action.

The proposed amendments implement the City’s HE Program HP-2.2 and address current state housing legislation to streamline multifamily and mixed-use housing projects and provide housing to meet the City’s RHNA numbers. Additionally, any future development will still be required to comply with applicable building and fire codes for the general welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met.

ENVIRONMENTAL
A Notice of Exemption was prepared for the proposed project. The project is exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) Section 15061(b)(3), the common-sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential to cause a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the 1 Packet Pg. 16

activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.

NOTICING
All notices required by law were completed which consisted of a one-eighth page legal advertisement in The Signal newspaper on May 26, 2026. As of the writing of this staff report, staff has received no correspondence from the community.

CONCLUSION
As described above, the multifamily and mixed-use residential ODS are necessary to address state housing laws like SB 330, SB 35 and AB 2011 and implement the City’s HE Program HP-2.1; and the proposed SCMC amendments are necessary to implement the HE Program HP-2.2.

City Council action is required to adopt the ODS and approve amendments to the SCMC. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution recommending approval of the proposed ODS and SCMC amendments to the City Council.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission:

1. Adopt Resolution P26-04, recommending the City Council approve Master Case 26-038, consisting of Objective Design Standards and SCMC Amendment 26-003 (UDC26-002); and determine that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.

ATTACHMENTS
MC26-038 Resolution
Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean
Exhibit B - ODS -Redline
Exhibit C - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Redlines
Exhibit D - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean
Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2
Exhibit F - MC26-038 NOE
CC Resolution Draft
CC Ordinance Draft
1 Packet Pg. 17

RESOLUTION P26-04

A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA

CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MASTER CASE 26-038, ADOPTING THE PROPOSED MULTIFAMILY AND MIXED-USE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS; AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES; AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA’S HOUSING ELEMENT

THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT FOR MASTER CASE 26-038. The Planning Commission makes the following findings of fact:

A. The City of Santa Clarita (City) periodically prepares updates to the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC), including the subdivision regulations (Title 16) and zoning regulations (Title 17), as well as amendments to various City Council-approved guidelines and policies;
B. The City Council adopted the Community Character and Design Guidelines (CCDG) in 2002 and updated them in 2009 to provide direction for site planning and building design for new developments;
C. The City Council adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element on June 27, 2023, and the Department of Housing and Community Development certified the Housing Element on August 22, 2023. The Housing Element included Program HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with state Law and Program HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures;
D. Various California legislation, including Senate Bill (SB) 330, SB 35, and Assembly Bill (AB) 2011, prevents the City from enforcing subjective design guidelines on qualifying multifamily and mixed-use housing projects;
E. To implement the Housing Element’s Program HP-2.1, the City seeks to amend the CCDG to convert multifamily and mixed-use design guidelines to Objective Design Standards (ODS) (Project);
F. To accommodate changes to the CCDG and design process, as well as to implement HE Program HP-2.2, SCMC §§ 17.06.130, 17.11.020, 17.23.100, and 17.37.030 must be amended;
G. The Project was duly noticed in accordance with the public hearing noticing requirements of the SCMC, and a one-eighth page advertisement was placed in The Signal Newspaper on May 26, 2026;

1.a
Packet Pg. 18
Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

H. The City reviewed the Project’s environmental impacts pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and the CEQA Guidelines (14 California Code of Regulations §§15000, et seq.; collectively, “CEQA”);
I. The Planning Commission meeting was cancelled on June 16, 2026 due to a lack of Quorum;
J. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on the Project commencing on June 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., or later, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, California; and
K. At the public hearing, the Planning Commission considered the entire administrative record, including, without limitation, the staff presentation, staff report, and public testimony. This Resolution, and its findings, are made based upon the evidence presented to the Commission at its July 7, 2026 hearing, including, without limitation, the staff report submitted by the Community Development Director.

SECTION 2. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF MASTER CASE 26-038. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the Planning Commission finds, and recommends the City Council find, as follows:

A. A Notice of Exemption for this project was prepared in compliance with the CEQA; B. The project is exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines § 15061(b)(3), the common sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA; C. The documents and other materials that constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the Planning Commission is based is the Master Case 26-038 project file, and this project file is located within the Community Development Department and is in the custody of the Director of Community Development; and D. Based upon the findings set forth above, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council find that the Notice of Exemption for this project was prepared in compliance with CEQA.

SECTION 3. GENERAL FINDINGS FOR MASTER CASE 26-038. Based on the foregoing facts and findings for Master Case 26-038, the Planning Commission determines and recommends that the City Council determine as follows:

A. That the proposal is consistent with the General Plan; The proposed amendments do not result in any physical development. Adopting the amendments will support California housing law and the City’s Housing Element,

1.a
Packet Pg. 19
Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

specifically, Housing Element Program HP-2.2, to update administrative procedures and materials for consistency with state requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability.

The amendments allow for permit streamlining and clarify procedures for review when projects opt out of ODS application. Therefore, this finding is met.

B. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of the Unified Development Code (UDC); The proposed amendments would not change development densities or the City’s zoning map; the proposed amendments implement mandated state legislation that applies to proposed development in the City, bringing the SCMC into consistency with California law. Therefore, this finding is met.

C. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and
The proposed amendments will not result in any physical development. The proposed amendments provide a framework for design objectives. Any future proposed projects will be required to comply with state building and fire codes to ensure health, interest, safety, and general welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met.

D. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal’s physical suitability for the site shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. The design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use;

2. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;

3. Public protection services (e.g. Fire protection, Sheriff protection, etc.) are readily available; and

4. The provision of utilities (e.g. potable water, schools. Solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal, etc.) is adequate to serve the site.

While the proposed amendments will not result in any physical development, they would amend the SCMC to remove this finding for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects.

This amendment will support the City’s Housing Element Program and state requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability. Therefore, this

1.a
Packet Pg. 20
Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

finding is met.

SECTION 4. ADDITIONAL FINDINGS FOR UDC26-002. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings for Master Case 26-038 including UDC26-002, the Planning Commission determines, and recommends that the City Council determine, as follows:

A. The amendments are consistent with the adjacent area, if applicable; The proposed amendments would apply to residential and mixed-use properties throughout the City and are consistent with the principles of the General Plan as aforementioned. The project does not result in physical development. Therefore, this finding is met.

B. The amendments are consistent with the principles of the General Plan; The proposed amendment does not alter the General Plan Land Use Map or Zoning Map, and does not alter the General Plan densities or population projections. Rather, the amendments adhere to required State legislation and the City’s Housing Element programs. Therefore, this finding is met.

C. Approval of the amendments will be in the interest of public health, convenience, safety, and general welfare and in conformity with good zoning practice; The proposed amendments comply with state housing law and the City’s Housing Element programs, and convert existing guidelines to standards. Any future development will be required to comply with applicable state and local building and fire codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met.

D. The amendments are consistent with other applicable provisions of this code; and The proposed text amendments to the SCMC are drafted to be consistent with all other provisions of this code. Therefore, this finding is met.

E. Is necessary to implement the General Plan and/or that the public convenience, the general welfare or good zoning practice justifies such action.

The proposed amendments are required to implement the City’s Housing Element Program HP-2.2 and address current state housing legislation to streamline multifamily and mixed-use housing projects and provide housing to meet the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) numbers. Additionally, any future development will still be required to comply with applicable law for the general welfare of the public. Therefore, this finding is met.

SECTION 5: DETERMINATION; APPROVALS. The Planning Commission recommends the City Council takes the following actions:

Adopt an ordinance finding the project exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the common sense exemption, and approving Master Case 26-038, consisting of UDC26-002,

1.a
Packet Pg. 21
Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

amending various sections of the SCMC implementing California law, including without limitation, administrative procedures and applicability of ODS, and the City’s adopted housing element, as further described in the attached draft Ordinance and Exhibits “A”to “E,” which are incorporated by reference.

SECTION 6: RELIANCE ON RECORD. Each and every one of the findings and determinations in this Resolution are based on the competent and substantial evidence, both oral and written, contained in the entire record relating to the project. The findings and determinations constitute the independent findings and determinations of the Planning Commission in all respects and are fully and completely supported by substantial evidence in the record as a whole.

SECTION 7: SUMMARIES OF INFORMATION. All summaries of information in the findings, which precede this section, are based on the substantial evidence in the record. The absence of any particular fact from any such summary is not an indication that a particular finding is not based in part on that fact.

SECTION 8: NOTICE. The Secretary is directed to provide a copy of this Resolution to the Planning Commission and any other person requesting a copy.

SECTION 9: EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution becomes effective immediately upon adoption and memorializes the Planning Commission’s final decision made on July 7, 2026.

SECTION 9: SEVERABILITY. If any part of this Resolution or its application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the Planning Commission intends that such invalidity will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or applications and, to this end, the provisions of this Resolution are severable.

SECTION 10: CONSTRUCTION. This Resolution must be broadly construed in order to achieve the purposes stated in this Resolution. It is the Planning Commission’s intent that the provisions of this Resolution be interpreted or implemented by the City and others in a manner that facilitates the purposes set forth in this Resolution.

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Packet Pg. 22
Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 7
th day of July, 2026.

CHAIRPERSON

PLANNING COMMISSION
ATTEST:

KELLY ZELAYA, SECRETARY

PLANNING COMMISSION

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
I, Kelly Zelaya, Planning Commission Secretary of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 7
th day of July, 2026, by the following vote of
the Planning Commission:

AYES: COMMISSIONERS:

NOES: COMMISSIONERS:

ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:

PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY

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Attachment: MC26-038 Resolution (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) Objective Design
Standards
Chapters 1, 3, and 5

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards) March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
Chapter 1 Introduction

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this Santa Clarita Community Character and Design Guidelines document is to guide the creation of new residential, commercial, mixed-use, and industrial developments and give clear direction for the renovation and redevelopment of built areas. This document supersedes the Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines (adopted in 2002) and includes up-to-date planning trends and guidelines written to promote the high quality standards that the City and the community value. The intent of these guidelines is to retain and encourage architectural variety, promote quality development, and ensure that both existing and new development: • Is compatible in size, scale, and appearance with the character of Santa Clarita.
• Is attractive and an asset to the community. • Preserves and enhances natural features of a site. • Incorporates quality articulation, community character features, multiple building forms, desirable building details, and other elements that display excellence in design.
• Provides pedestrian-oriented design to enrich the pedestrian experience. • Includes pedestrian friendly amenities such as pedestrian connections, plazas, seating, bike racks, fountains, and other similar features, for the enjoyment of the community and visitors.
• Promotes the use of high quality materials.
1 - PURPOSE

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1 - PURPOSE
• Promotes well-landscaped parking lots with efficient pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
• Provides suggestions for ways to improve the environmental performance of projects through the strategic incorporation of green building components.

The guidelines have been written to make it easy for a property owner, architect, developer, City staff, and members of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, Planning Commission, and City Council to use. The guidelines describe the design review process, citywide goals and objectives, site planning concepts, and architectural design guidelines for residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects. Specific guidelines have been drafted to ensure that architectural quality and character is preserved within each of the four communities of the City - Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. In essence, the purpose of this document is to provide clear and concise direction through a user-friendly document that is easy to administer.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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Chapter 1 Introduction

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2. GOALS
The overarching objective of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document is the desire to establish communities that possess unique qualities that make them special and memorable. How the distinct communities are integrated within the overall fabric of the City is essential to each community’s success. The following goals guided the development of the design guidelines in this document.

A. Sense of Timelessness
A sense of timelessness is a feeling that the design and quality of development in the community will neither be frozen in time nor look like it was built yesterday. The community should have characteristics that suggest long-term value. The physical fabric of a community should reflect cultural, aesthetic, and historic character and yet be adaptive to functional changes.

B. Sense of Ownership
Each sector of the community must have a sense of ownership and a belief that they will benefit from the economic health and quality of life within the community. There should be a feeling that the attributes of the community command an economic premium. Whether or not there is individual property ownership, there must be a sense that everyone has a stake in the overall well being of the community. 2 - GOALS

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Chapter 1 Introduction

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2 - GOALS
C. Sense of Place and Identity
The built and natural environment must be interwoven and should express a special sense of place. The community character should create a feeling of an original, and not duplicated, place. There should be a perception that the community has a unique identity and attributes that differentiate it from other urban neighborhoods.

D. Sense of Community
A sense of community is a belief that each individual has a responsibility and obligation to work toward the well being of the community. An acknowledgment of that community is the interconnectedness within the neighborhood and with other sectors of the community and linkage to surrounding neighborhoods.

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3. GUIDELINE USERS
The guidelines are designed for a variety of user groups. A description of how each type of user can benefit from the guidelines is described below.

A. Property Owners:

The guidelines provide property owners with a clear and simple design review process. This document works in conjunction with the General Plan, Unified Development Code, and Uniform Building Code for the City of Santa Clarita and provides a clear set of expectations and responsibilities for property owners. This document broadens the scope of the design process beyond basic code requirements and takes the attention to detail, quality, and character to the next level.

B. Design Professionals and Developers:

The guidelines provide a clear and graphic direction for renovation and new construction. The guidelines serve as an information tool that can provide a link between the property owner and the designer or developer and will clarify the aspects of quality design.

C. City Staff:

City staff uses the guidelines in assisting applicants and their representatives with all aspects of project development including site planning, building orientation, building massing and articulation, architectural themes, and other amenities that work together to create a sense of place. The guidelines serve as the basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. City staff will also use these guidelines when working with the Planning Commission and the City Council.

D. Review Bodies:

The guidelines provide the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, Planning Commission, City Council, and other reviewing agencies with a basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. 3 - GUIDELINE USERS

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Chapter 1 Introduction

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4 - CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION

4. CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION
No single architectural theme is being promoted, but rather the emphasis is to promote variety. With exception of those styles provided in Chapter 2, many of the styles and patterns shown in the following pictures and graphic illustrations represent a concept of recommended building elements and details as opposed to thematic images. Caution should be exercised when considering architectural styles that have recently become popular (i.e. “trendy”) but have not yet stood the test of time. In addition, historic styles that cannot be faithfully replicated should be avoided.

Sustainable planning and design concepts were used as a foundation from which the guidelines in this document were drafted. The core principles of Smart Growth and New Urbanism as well the key components of LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which are defined in Chapter 2, were integrated throughout this document to ensure that proposed developments are planned and designed to reduce impacts on the surrounding environment. Conventional design and construction methods can produce buildings that contribute to excessive resource consumption, that generate waste, and that are expensive to operate. Sustainable principles that can improve the environmental performance of a project without forcing excessive costs on builders or developers have been marked with a white bar throughout the document.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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4 - CONTENTS AND ORGANIZATION
This document is organized as follows:

Chapter 5 (Multi-Family Residential and Mixed-Use) this chapter, unlike any of the other chapters, contains both design guidelines and objective design standards for multi-family residential and mixed-use commercial developments.

Objective Design Standards are required by the State of California and are defined by California Government Code, Section 65913.4; objective design standards are required to be clear and measurable. These are complimented by the design guidelines which promote community character and design continuity. The design guidelines maintain neighborhood character and scale while providing design direction and promoting quality design. All new multifamily and mixed-use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3.

Chapter 6 (Commercial) includes design guidelines for commercial development to ensure commercial components such as on-site parking, loading and service areas, trash enclosures, lighting, and signage are properly designed. Special design considerations are also addressed.

Chapter 7 (Industrial & Business Park) includes design guidelines for industrial development. If not designed properly, industrial facilities can diminish the visual quality of the surrounding areas and can become undesirable land uses. These guidelines address visual and functional aspects of industrial and business park developments and provide guidance to reduce environmental impacts.

Chapter 1 (Introduction) contains the purpose and goals of this document and sets the framework for the design review process.

Chapter 2 (Design Trends and Community Setting) reviews the latest and most influential trends in planning and design that promote efficient sustainable development practices and provide a foundation for the design principles and guidelines contained in this document.

Chapter 3 (Community Character) identifies the architectural details that define the architectural character prescribed for each one of the four communities of the City. Multifamily and mixed-use development must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in this Chapter and must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5.

Chapter 4 (Single-Family Residential) depicts the specific site planning and design and building design guidelines that pertain to single-family neighborhood development. The focus here is the creation of a neighborhood that offers public spaces, lush landscaping and a close-knit neighborhood feel, rather than a sterile housing tract lacking variety and personality.
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3 4
5 6
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Chapter 1 Introduction

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5 - RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS

5. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING

DOCUMENTS
A. Consistency with the Unified Development Code and
General Plan:

This document is a tool for the implementation of the City of Santa Clarita’s Unified Development Code (UDC) and the General Plan. While the guidelines contained herein are not standards intended to supersede the requirements of the UDC, the guidelines should be considered “recommended practices” that both the Planning Commission and Planning Division consider important to the design of projects within the City.

B. Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan:

The Community Character and Design Guidelines work hand in hand with the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan. The Beautification Master Plan focuses on improvements within the public rights-of-way.

These improvements include streetscape and landscape enhancements, fencing, gateways, monuments, and signage both on a regional and community scale. The Design Guidelines focus on private property improvements outside the public rights-of-way. Both documents contain design guidelines that help guide improvements and aid the City of Santa Clarita in accomplishing their long-term goal of city-wide beautification. The documents strive to maintain the identity of the individual communities, while at the same time unifying the City of Santa Clarita.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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Chapter 1 Introduction

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
5 - RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS
C. Old Town Newhall Specific Plan (Adopted 2005, Updated 2022):

The quality and character of the architecture depicted in this Community Character and Design Guidelines document guides development throughout the entire City, which includes the community of Newhall. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005, contains specific standards and guidelines for development within the 271-acre downtown area. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan depicts specific zones and a variety of architectural types. The building form is further defined by a set of development standards. Therefore, the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan takes the architectural theme and character defined in this document a step further to fit the specific requirements in each of the zones in the downtown area as defined by that document.

D. 2026 Update to 2009 Community Character and Design
Guidelines:

This version of the Community Character and Design Guidelines document modernized the original document adopted in 2009 with updated imagery, graphics, and text.

Specific updates to individual chapters include: • Chapter 1 - Introduction had moderate changes made to the text to explain the updated processes in relation to the newly added objective standards. • Chapter 2 - Design Trends and Urban Form had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 3 - Community Character was revised to provide better visual examples of desired community character.
• Chapter 4 - Single Family Residential Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 5 - Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards and Design Guidelines have been revised and reorganized. Multi-family and mixed-use content have been combined into Chapter 5, accompanied by newly developed objective design standards and graphics.
• Chapter 6 - Commercial Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 7 - Industrial and Business Park Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged. 1-9

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS

6. APPLICATION PROCESS
All applications for development reviews, minor use permits, variances, conditional use permits, tentative tract maps, grading permits, or other entitlements that include physical alteration or construction, shall be reviewed to ensure consistency with these guidelines. The Director of Community Development and/or the Planning Commission or City Council will decide if a proposed project is consistent with the overall intent of this document.

The adjacent diagram depicts the application and approval process. • CONSTRUCTION
•• FINAL PLANNING • INSPECTION • BUILDING • PERMIT • SUBMIT • PLANS • plan • check • revisions
• DESIGN • REVIEW
• PREPARE • CONSTRUCTION • DOCUMENTS
• approval• approval
• revisions
• revisions
• SUBMIT • /PREPARE • PLANS • DEVELOPMENT • REVIEW • COMMITTEE • INITIAL • ONESTOP • PUBLIC • MEETINGS

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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Chapter 1 Introduction

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
A. Initial Meeting
The purpose of the initial meeting is to advise the project applicant of applicable design guidelines (such as this document), design review policies, and other specific design criteria that may affect the project’s design. During the initial meeting, the City will provide the applicant with all of the application information, including the following:

1. Entitlement application.

2. Application requirement checklists for all necessary entitlements.

3. Copies of the relevant sections of the Community Character and Design Guidelines document.

4. Design questionnaire – to help the developer demonstrate that the guidelines set forth in this document have been reviewed and incorporated into the project design.

5. Environmental questionnaire - to determine the environmental impacts of the project.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
B. One Stop
In many instances, an applicant may want to obtain more detailed information regarding the feasibility of a potential development without committing the required application fees. In order to provide preliminary comments without the financial commitment required by a formal application submittal, the City has developed a preliminary One Stop review process. The One Stop process described below is encouraged as an initial review of a project to ensure all the required components of a development package are provided by the applicant before continuing on with the formal review process.

In order to ensure a proper review of a project during the One Stop process, the applicant should provide at minimum the following material:

1. Conceptual Site Plan.

2. Elevations (color with material callouts).

3. Conceptual Floor Plan.

4. Aerial Photograph of the Site (depicting the project site and surrounding uses).

5. Photographs (of the project site and surrounding uses).

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use March 24, 2009
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Chapter 1 Introduction

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
In addition to the materials previously listed, the applicant should also demonstrate how the proposed project will relate to the surrounding environment and how the landscape design is to be incorporated as an integral part of the project. An analysis of the existing site conditions should include a review of a site’s physical properties, amenities, special issues, and neighboring environment. Specific design considerations that should be examined include the following:

1. Existing Conditions Analysis
a. Basic Site Data: Boundaries and dimensions; location of adjacent streets, sidewalks, and rights-of-way; location of setback lines and easements; existing structures and built improvements.
b. Existing Natural Features: Location, size, and species of mature trees; topography; patterns of surface drainage; and other important natural features that are either amenities or potential hazards in development.
c. Neighboring Environment: Analysis of the site and project impacts; land use, the site design, form, character, age and important site details on neighboring properties.
d. Locale: Available services and facilities including local parks, shopping centers, bus stops, bike lanes, and parking.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
C. Site Design Objectives

1. Develop compatible relationships among the topography, building placement, and existing open spaces.

2. Provide a transition from existing to new development by careful placement and massing of buildings, well-designed and strategically located landscaping, and other appropriate methods.

3. A conceptual landscape plan, prepared by a licensed landscape architect, should be submitted with the One Stop pre-application package to demonstrate that the site plan includes plantings that are effectively integrated with the surrounding topography, site design, and architectural design of the project. The conceptual plan should have a preliminary plant list with plant genuses, species, and common names. Plantings should be complementary to the characteristics of the project’s surrounding area and suitable for the environmental conditions of Santa Clarita.

D. Application Submittal
Upon submittal of a One Stop application, the various City departments that are part of the Development Review Committee provide preliminary comments regarding the submittal requirements and comments regarding the potential development. If the developer decides to formally submit a project after going through the One Stop process, the applicant will receive a credit for the cost of the One Stop toward the required processing fees.

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Chapter 1 Introduction

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6 - APPLICATION PROCESS
Following the initial meeting or One Stop, plans are produced and submitted as part of the application process to the City. Specific submittal requirements vary by project type and should be obtained from the City during the Initial Meeting. All applicants must complete a Design Questionnaire as part of the formal submittal. In addition to the required application materials, developers are encouraged to provide before and after photo simulations and renderings in order to demonstrate that the design of the project meets the requirements of these guidelines. Design review is implemented by City staff and the City’s architectural consultant.

Depending upon the level of permit, a project may be approved by staff, the Planning Commission, the Redevelopment Agency, or the City Council. If a public hearing is necessary, the project goes to the Planning Commission and/or to City Council for approval.

E. Design Questionnaire
In an effort to ensure that projects conform to adopted design and architectural guidelines, the City has created a form that will be used in the development review process. The applicant is required to fill out this form completely and submit it as part of the application process. Refer to the City’s website for the Design Questionnaire Form.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
CHAPTER 3

COMMUNITY CHARACTER

INTRODUCTION
The City of Santa Clarita is the third largest city in Los Angeles County and encompasses approximately 73 square miles. The City contains four main communities: Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia, as well as several smaller communities such as Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon. Each one of these individual communities has its own identity and character. While it is important to create a “citywide” identity, it is equally important to preserve and enhance the individual community identities. Although specific architectural character exists within each community, it is important to recognize that quality design satisfies basic guiding design principles regardless of the building’s architectural style.

For example, mechanical equipment should be screened, buildings should be well proportioned, and massing should be modulated regardless of whether the architectural style is Mission Revival or Victorian. Thus, general design guidelines have been provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7 to guide design, while this chapter supplements the other chapters by providing direction for architectural style and character for projects within each community. In addition to the guidelines provided here, special standards are located in the UDC for Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon.

In contrast to the other chapters, Chapter 5 provides both objective standards and design guidelines for multifamily and mixed-use development. Unlike the design guidelines in Chapters 4 - 7, the objective standards in Chapter 5 are mandatory rather than advisory. All new multifamily and mixed-use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3.
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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
This chapter focuses primarily on Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia and integrates input obtained from the public by participating in a Visual Preference Survey, stakeholder interviews, and several public workshops conducted during the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan process.

Recommendations from the Citywide Design Committee, the City’s General Plan, and the existing Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines have also been incorporated. This chapter contains maps defining community boundaries as well as examples of building styles and desired materials specific to each community.

Excerpts from the Community Design Element and Land Use Element of the General Plan have been included to describe past and present design characteristics and architectural styles for each community. It is the intent of the Community Design Element and this document to provide design flexibility for urban design and architectural concepts in order to avoid architectural monotony and lack of design innovation.
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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

1. CANYON COUNTRY
A.Community Identity
Canyon Country has the largest population of any community in the City and comprises the eastern portion of the City. It contains a wide range of housing types, including large-lot single-family custom homes, single-family tract homes, multi-family development, and mobile home parks. Commercial and manufacturing activities have historically been concentrated along both sides of Soledad Canyon Road and along the northern portion of Sierra Highway. However, recent development has been focused in close proximity to Golden Valley Road, the eastern section of the City’s Cross Valley Connector. The Canyon Country area is home to the Centre Pointe Business Park, which includes a large retail development and the City’s Sports Complex and an industrial hub in the Honby area. The College of the Canyons has developed a second campus on the northern section of Sierra Highway to serve the continued growth of the Canyon Country area.

The landscape and terrain in this area is arid and rugged. The architectural style tends to reflect the rural character and desert atmosphere. The commercial and industrial developments incorporate a wide variety of architectural styles and uses. For example, along one section of Soledad Canyon Road there is an existing older mobile home park with a high density Cape Cod style condominium complex located directly to the south. Other new development includes medium-sized California ranch style homes, Santa Fe and Mediterranean style houses, and Contemporary styled townhomes, multifamily buildings, and commercial shopping center.

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
Homes along the northern section of Sierra Highway are generally rural and of very low density. Many of the homes are on custom lots with a variety of architectural styles; however, near the Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon intersection are multi-family developments.

Mediterranean and contemporary architectural styles are present. Some development has also encroached onto the hillsides and ridgelines.

The Santa Clara River is a prevalent feature in Canyon Country as it parallels large reaches of Soledad Canyon Road. The riverbed provides natural open space and presents a major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to create a greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley.

The Sand Canyon Special Standards District, a sub-community of Canyon Country, is located in the southeastern part of Canyon Country and is comprised of predominantly low-density single-family residential and equestrian uses. The area is rural with extensive stands of oaks and is characterized by large, upscale single-family homes and lots. The community is accessible via Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road and is bordered on the south and east by the Angeles National Forest.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
Canyon Country is a place full of community pride and rural character.

Surrounded by a series of mountains and canyons that also penetrate the community, the location contributes to community members’ appreciation for the natural environment. In addition to natural sensitivity, Canyon Country is a community that encourages economic and cultural diversity.

The following characteristics were used to describe Canyon Country during a public workshop. • Family-oriented • Rural • Rustic • Equestrian • Country • Mountainous • River trails • Outdoor-oriented • Natural • Best kept secret • Small town feel • Community involvement • Friendly 3-5

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
B. Architectural Character & Specific
Community Needs
The desired architectural character for Canyon Country is a rustic, natural, and timeless style. Heavy timber and river rock or natural stone are materials that are strongly encouraged within the community. Residents would like to see projects that incorporate water features, trellises, special paving, and plaza spaces.

C.Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Canyon Country.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Canyon Country community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings of materials are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-6

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Rough, split-face masonry.
f. Wood siding (vertical rough sawn board and batten siding and/or horizontal rough sawn lap siding) or wood shingles.
g. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch horizontal siding). h. Brick.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated materials such as cement brick.
b. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
c. Metal siding.
d. Slump stone.
e. Precision block.
f. Highly polished materials.
g. Spray on “Spanish lace” or knock down stucco.
h. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
i. Corrugated fiberglass.
3-7

1.b
Packet Pg. 46
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, and sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels, and trusses.
d. Heavy wood beams.
e. Exposed timber rafter tails.
f. Clay tile vents.
g. Wood vents.
h. Recessed niches.
i. Arches.
j. Colonnades.
k. Deep overhangs.
l. Wrought iron.
m. Wood trellises/shading devices.
n. Decorative knee bracing.
o. Wood casement or fixed windows (multi-lite).
p. Wood doors with wood trim.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Chrome.
b. Plastic.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-8

1.b
Packet Pg. 47
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Standing seam/metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
d. S-tiles.
3-9

1.b
Packet Pg. 48
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
D.Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich complementary accents, are appropriate color choices for Canyon Country.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Bright colored and stark white walls are discouraged.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

5. Brighter colors should be used as accents.
3-10

1.b
Packet Pg. 49
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
1 - CANYON COUNTRY
E. Design Considerations
Many existing shopping centers within the community are in need of renovation. Facade and character upgrades can make a dramatic difference in the attractiveness and desirability of a retail property. Simple cosmetic changes such as painting, incorporating appropriate signage and lighting, and installing shading devices can significantly improve the appearance of a building. The removal of unsafe and unsightly building components, such as deteriorated stucco and other materials, will also greatly enhance the aesthetics of the entire community. 3-11

1.b
Packet Pg. 50
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

2. NEWHALL
A.Community Identity
Newhall was the earliest permanent settlement in the Valley, established in 1876 in conjunction with the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This area was a typical western town of oil, mining, and railroad workers. Many residents were first attracted to Newhall because of its rural environment and open space. Early rural ranch style homes built on large lots located south of Lyons Avenue reflect the community’s sporadic and independent growth. The architecture of the Newhall homes reflects a diversity of architectural styles. The newer homes, on smaller lots, reflect popular design styles from the 1950s to the present.

Much of the early commercial development in the downtown Newhall area occupies single-story older buildings and serves neighborhoods along Newhall Avenue. Commercial development along Lyons Avenue, with some exceptions, follows the common style of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and includes numerous small and mid-sized wood and stucco strip centers. Recent attempts have been made to improve the aesthetics of the commercial area by building community shopping centers that incorporate historic elements of the area. Examples of building styles include Spanish buildings with terra cotta tile roofs, a Victorian-style shopping center, and western-theme buildings.

WHITTAKER

BERMITE
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STEVENSON RANCH PKWY

MAIN ST

MCBEAN PKWY

MCBEAN PKWY

NEWHALL RANCH RD

LYONS AV

SAND CANYORND

THEOLD RD

RAILROAD AV

PICO CANYON RD

NEWHALL AV

MAGIC MOUNTAIN PKWY

THE OLD RD

SOLEDAD CANYON RD

THE OLDRD

VALENCIA BLV D

SIERRA HWY

BOUQUET CANYONRD
NORTH

VALENCIA
SAND
CANYON

FRIENDLY
VALLEY

PLACERITA
CANYON

NORTHBRIDGE

NEWHALL
Q:\PROJECTS\CD\080705k1\mxd\newhall.mxd
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.
´ 0 0.5 1
Miles
City of Santa Clarita
Newhall
3-12

1.b
Packet Pg. 51
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
Along the southern end of Newhall Avenue are several small, one-story, older neighborhood commercial uses. Further to the north, along Newhall Avenue adjoining the railroad tracks, are older industrial developments. Many of the industrial and commercial land uses along this strip of road are surrounded by vacant lots.

Newhall has developed very much on its own, without regard to any particular architectural style, street development standards, or consistent streetscapes.

Large stands of oak trees are scattered throughout the community. Prior to the completion of the interstate system, Newhall Avenue, formerly known as San Fernando Road, was a principal link in the historic circulation system between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. The roadway still serves as one of the key traffic arteries within the City.

The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005 and revised in May of 2022, sets design parameters for sub-areas throughout the downtown area that complement the following Newhall-wide design guidelines. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan document goes into greater detail by identifying specific forms and details that fit the architectural types that are prescribed for the downtown area. The quality of architecture, however, must meet the directives of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document.
3-13

1.b
Packet Pg. 52
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
Placerita Canyon Special Standards District, a subcommunity of Newhall, is a rural and oak-studded residential area northeast of downtown Newhall.

Equestrian-oriented residential areas placed among oak woodlands typify most of the development in the area. A substantial amount of new home construction has occurred in recent years. Historically, the area contained scattered ranches, some of which remain today. Newer homes include Tudor, Ranch, French Country, Victorian, and other styles on larger lots of one-half acre or greater. Oil fields are located in the eastern portion of the canyon, west of SR-14. East of the freeway, Placerita Canyon Special Standards District is predominantly undeveloped, with much of the land as part of the Angeles National Forest. The Placerita Canyon Special Standards District is also home to the Master’s University and Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio.

Newhall is a community rich in history. Evolving from an Indian trading center to an important destination in the quests for gold and then oil, it soon became a railroad flag stop of general stores, saloons, and churches. As the film industry grew, Newhall became the home of early western silent screen movies.
3-14

1.b
Packet Pg. 53
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
These strong roots are still very important to the residents of Newhall. The passion for history and love of the old film stars help to identify the essence of Newhall.

The following characteristics were used to describe Newhall during public workshops. • Western movies • William S. Hart • Passion for history • Cowboys • Melody Ranch – filming • Rich cultural heritage • Oak of the Golden Dream • Oil fields (Mentryville) • Community involvement 3-15

1.b
Packet Pg. 54
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
B. Old Town Newhall
The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan regulates the downtown area and establishes a direction for architectural styles and character in the area.

Any project within the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan area will be required to comply with the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan in-lieu of these guidelines.

C.Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Newhall’s downtown core possesses a historic feel consisting primarily of Victorian, Western, and Mission Revival architecture. Outside of the downtown core the architecture takes on a variety of styles, but the historic flavor influences new development. Residents feel that outside of the district, quality materials and good site and building design are more important than theme architecture. Developers should be encouraged to capture the essence of Newhall without being tied to a specific architectural style.
3-16

1.b
Packet Pg. 55
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
D.Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Newhall.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Newhall community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design, rather than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-17

1.b
Packet Pg. 56
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Horizontal siding of wood or fiber cement board (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch exposures).
f. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, 12-inch horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
b. Highly polished materials.
c. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
d. Corrugated metal/fiberglass panels.
e. Metal siding.
f. Spray-on or knock-down stucco.
g. Exposed steel framing.
3-18

1.b
Packet Pg. 57
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels.
d. Clay tile vents.
e. Wood vents.
f. Recessed niches.
g. Arches.
h. Colonnades.
i. Wrought iron.
j. Canvas awnings, wood porches, and balconies/shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-19

1.b
Packet Pg. 58
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials and colors include, but are not limited to:
a. Maxitile (simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles). b. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
c. Bright or dark-colored roofing.
d. S-tiles.
3-20

1.b
Packet Pg. 59
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
2 - NEWHALL
E. Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Given the Victorian architectural influence, a broader spectrum of colors is desirable in Newhall.

2. Muted shades of virtually any color is appropriate.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Brighter colors should be used as accents.

F. Design Considerations
Although a variation in architectural style is encouraged throughout the community, San Fernando Road warrants special consideration. The Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan identifies it as a primary corridor within the community and, consequently, projects should be designed to prominently address the street edge. Projects should incorporate a landscaped parkway and, where possible, a split rail fence. Buildings should be placed at the street edge with parking located behind. 3-21

1.b
Packet Pg. 60
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

3. SAUGUS
A.Community Identity
Established in 1887, Saugus is named for the Massachusetts birthplace of founder Henry Mayo Newhall and owes its existence to the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Similar to Newhall in its early development, Saugus began as a rural community with large residential lots and open spaces. The residential areas of Saugus are located in Seco Canyon and Bouquet Canyon, with townhouses located on the heights above the junction of the two canyons. Much of the development in Saugus has moved into the canyon and hill areas in a series of suburban tracts. Many of the older homes are California ranch style. Strip commercial centers, prevalent in Saugus along Soledad Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road, consist primarily of stucco, wood, and Spanish styles with terra cotta tile roofs.

The natural areas remaining in the center of the City known as the Whittaker-Bermite property present a major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to create a greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley. The northern part of Saugus is hilly, the streets are tree-lined, and much of this area is covered with natural vegetation. The Saugus area is home to Central Park, the City’s largest park and outdoor recreation facility, which includes numerous multi-purpose fields and amenities.

WHITTAKER

BERMITE
!"^$ ?ßE

STEVENSON RANCH PKWY

MAIN ST

MCBEAN PKWY

MCBEAN PKWY

NEWHALL RANCH RD

LYONS AV

SAND CANYORND

THEOLD RD

RAILROAD AV

PICO CANYON RD

NEWHALL AV

MAGIC MOUNTAIN PKWY

THE OLD RD

SOLEDAD CANYON RD

THE OLDRD

VALENCIA BLV D

SIERRA HWY

BOUQUET CANYONRD
NORTH

VALENCIA
SAND
CANYON

FRIENDLY
VALLEY

PLACERITA
CANYON

NORTHBRIDGE
SAUGUS
Q:\PROJECTS\CD\080705k1\mxd\saugus.mxd
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.
´ 0 0.5 1
Miles
City of Santa Clarita
Saugus
3-22

1.b
Packet Pg. 61
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
Residents of Saugus think of themselves as a family-oriented, rural community.

They value the surrounding canyons, the abundance of cottonwoods, and the rustic and ranch character of the community. Local residences used the following characteristics to describe Saugus during a public workshop. • Old mining community • Ranching community • Community of homes • Family-oriented • Hillside community • Open space • Canyons • Middle of the valley • Small business • Cottonwoods • Natural wildlife • Gateway to natural forest • Large lots • Rustic • Home to the road runner • Sycamore and oak trees • Soft natural green look rather than clipped manicured look 3-23

1.b
Packet Pg. 62
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
B. Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Saugus is one of the oldest communities within the City and for the most part is completely built-out. For this reason, the majority of the future projects within this community will be commercial building and shopping center rehabilitation. Members of the Saugus community have expressed a desire to see the existing stark white commercial architecture that lacks detail and overhangs updated in order to create aesthetically pleasing and well designed shopping areas. Renovation and/or expansion raises property values, reinforces or improves the character of the community, and inspires other property owners and designers to make improvements to their properties, which in turn enhances the entire community. 3-24

1.b
Packet Pg. 63
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
C.Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Saugus.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Saugus community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-25

1.b
Packet Pg. 64
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Natural stone veneer.
b. Float finished stucco.
c. Tile.
d. Flash fired brick.
e. Precast concrete.
f. Concrete.
g. Wood shingles/shakes.
h. Smooth sand finished hand troweled stucco.
i. Hand troweled plaster surfaces.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated materials such as cement brick.
b. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
c. Metal siding.
d. Slump stone.
e. Precision block.
f. Highly polished materials.
g. Spray on “Spanish lace” or knock down stucco.
h. Mirror glass and heavily tinted glass.
i. Corrugated fiberglass.
3-26

1.b
Packet Pg. 65
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Ornamental tile for accent.
b. Build up stucco relief.
c. Prefabricated molding forms.
d. Inlaid tile.
e. Painted wainscoting.
f. Natural stone.
g. Wrought iron.
h. Clay tile vents.
i. Wood attic vents.
j. Timber lintels.
k. Recessed niches.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
3-27

1.b
Packet Pg. 66
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Concrete roof tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles.
d. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Built-up flat roofing.
d. Fiber cement units that imitate slate, wood shakes, or mission tile. e. S-tiles.
3-28

1.b
Packet Pg. 67
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
3 - SAUGUS
D.Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle, earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich complementary accents, are appropri- ate color choices for Saugus.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Dark blue and brightly colored roofing is expressly discouraged, as are vibrantly colored and stark white walls.

E. Design Considerations
Existing parking lots lack shade trees, landscaping, and pedestrian amenities. Community members feel that the addition of these site features would improve the shopping experience and encourage shoppers to stay within the community to make their purchases. 3-29

1.b
Packet Pg. 68
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

4. VALENCIA
A.Community Identity
The community of Valencia is part of the original 37,500 acre Newhall Ranch. Named after a city in Spain, Valencia was dedicated in 1965 and developed as a planned community. Residential, commercial, and industrial developments form the basic community structure and are supported by additional shopping centers, recreational facilities, schools, colleges, a hospital, golf courses, professional offices, and other support services that are connected by a system of walkways called “paseos”. The community is home to the local Los Angeles County Civic Center, College of the Canyons, and California Institute of the Arts.

WHITTAKER

BERMITE
!"^$ ?ßE

STEVENSON RANCH PKWY

MAIN ST

MCBEAN PKWY

MCBEAN PKWY

NEWHALL RANCH RD

LYONS AV

SAND CANYORND

THEOLD RD

RAILROAD AV

PICO CANYON RD

NEWHALL AV

MAGIC MOUNTAIN PKWY

THE OLD RD

SOLEDAD CANYON RD

THE OLDRD

VALENCIA BLV D

SIERRA HWY

BOUQUET CANYONRD
NORTH

VALENCIA
SAND
CANYON

FRIENDLY
VALLEY

PLACERITA
CANYON

NORTHBRIDGE

VALENCIA
Q:\PROJECTS\CD\080705k1\mxd\valencia.mxd
The City of Santa Clarita does not warrant
the accuracy of the data and assumes no
liability for any errors or omissions.
´ 0 0.5 1
Miles
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia
3-30

1.b
Packet Pg. 69
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
The southern section of Valencia was first developed in the late 1960s and reflects the architectural style of that period. These neighborhoods include the areas along Orchard Village Road, Wiley Canyon Road, and McBean Parkway, which feature relatively homogeneous suburban tract housing. The homes are on medium-sized landscaped lots. The streets were designed and planned for residential uses and landscaped to create a community atmosphere.

Recent residential development has occurred in the hilly section of Valencia north of Newhall Ranch Road. These homes reflect several different modern architectural styles. The neighborhoods are planned with paseos, parks, and other amenities.
3-31

1.b
Packet Pg. 70
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 3 Community Character

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
Commercial uses in Valencia were planned and located in centers such as the regional mall, Town Center Drive, auto row, and smaller neighborhood centers. These centers incorporate a Spanish and Mediterranean architectural style.

Industrial land use in the area is located in a business and industrial center in the northern section of the area near Rye Canyon Road. The area contains wide streets with generous landscaped setbacks and one to three-story buildings.

Although it is probably the most urban community in Santa Clarita, Valencia still has a touch of rural character. It is the combination of lush landscaping, urban architecture, and sophistication in a suburban setting that defines Valencia’s character. The following characteristics were used to describe Valencia during a public workshop. • Family • High quality of life • Cleanliness • Paseo system • Safe and secure • Lush landscaping • Pedestrian friendly • Well lit • Tight knit community • Stability of real estate values • Community pride • Pristine marketing corridor 3-32

1.b
Packet Pg. 71
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
B. Architectural Character & Specific Community
Needs
Much of the desired architectural character for Valencia is established by the currently existing buildings. The mixture of bright colors, natural materials, and contemporary design create a favorable array of architectural style within the community. The area with the most potential for new development is the industrial center. Architects are encouraged to provide innovative designs with unique forms and articulation on all sides of the building. Careful planning for employee break areas and outdoor seating is also a concern. These spaces should be designed, not just created within left over areas, and should include special paving and furnishings.

C.Exterior Building Materials
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 7. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent chapters must be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Valencia.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Valencia community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations. 3-33

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. Native stone veneer.
b. Cement plaster stucco.
c. Smooth and hand-troweled stucco.
d. Tile.
e. Wood siding/shingles.
f. Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to:
a. T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch to 12-inch increments).
b. Highly polished materials.
c. Mirror or heavily tinted glazing.
d. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
e. Metal siding.
f. Spray-on or knock-down stucco.
g. Exposed steel framing.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Accent tile.
b. Stucco corbels, lintels, sills.
c. Timber lintels, sills, corbels.
d. Clay tile vents.
e. Wood vents.
f. Recessed niches.
g. Arches.
h. Colonnades.
i. Wrought iron.
j. Wood trellises/shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to:
a. Plastic.
b. Chrome.
c. Aluminum windows.
d. Highly polished materials.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Clay tiles.
b. Cement tiles.
c. Dimensional asphalt/ composite shingles.
d. Metal roofing.
e. “Cool roof” built-up roofing.
f. Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to:
a. Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles.
b. Wood shingles/shakes.
c. Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels.
d. S-tiles.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 3 Community Character
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 29, 2026
4 - VALENCIA
D.Colors
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Bold, rich colors such as rust, ocher, and olive greens are appropriate in Valencia.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three colors are rec- ommended.

3. Stark white walls are discouraged unless used where authentically appropriate, such as on a Mission style building.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

E. Design Considerations
Valencia has become a community that supports progressive thinking and creativity through the built form. In addition to showcasing successful contemporary architecture, Valencia has become a street-side gallery for public art. To continue the infusion of art throughout the community, each project should consider what is appropriate to their location and scale and design an integrated place to exhibit public artwork. The public art for each project, regardless of size or visual impact, will, in time, significantly contribute to the richness of Valencia.
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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
CHAPTER 5

MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL & MIXED-USE

OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES

INTRODUCTION
Multifamily developments are higher density residential buildings such as apartments, condominiums, and townhomes. Similarly, mixed-use developments combine two or more different uses, such as residential, commercial, or office, within a single building or connected series of buildings. These types of development are typically comprised of attached units with common facilities such as parking, open space, and recreation areas. This chapter provides general standards and guidelines for the design of multi-family and mixed-use development in all areas of the City. The standards are mandatory and written to be objective and measurable. In contrast, the guidelines are not objective, and applicants are encouraged to incorporate applicable guidelines where feasible to achieve higher-quality outcomes. The design guidelines and objective standards apply to any addition, remodeling, relocation, or construction requiring a building permit within the City. Additionally, multifamily and mixed-use housing projects must also include community specific exterior building materials, colors and design considerations of Chapter 3. If a new project falls within either the Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, or Valencia neighborhood, the exterior building materials, colors, and design considerations of Chapter 3 must be applied in addition to the standards and guidelines listed in this chapter. The following text in Section 1 (Site Planning and Design), Section 2 (Building Design), and Section 3 (Utilitarian Aspects) of this chapter apply to all projects. Standards provided in Section 4 (Mixed Use) are strictly for mixed-use projects. The following topics are addressed:

1. Site Planning and Design

2. Building Design

3. Utilitarian Aspects

4. Mixed Use
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026

PROCESS
Applicants may opt-out of using one or more of the following objective design standards (ODS) via an Administrative Permit. In these instances, projects will proceed under the City’s standard Architectural Design Review Permit process.

In an opt-out scenario, the Applicant must: • Apply for an Administrative Permit for staff level review at no fee. Included in the application, the Applicant must state in writing their intent to not satisfy the City’s ODS requirements;
• Apply for an Architectural Design Review Permit.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

1. SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
A.Site Layout
The primary project objective must be constructing a high-quality residential environment. Multifamily residential and mixed-use developments surrounded by high walls, parking lots, and rows of carports and/or garages along public streets should be avoided while pedestrian circulation, appropriate landscaping, and functional public and private common areas should be prioritized.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects along Collector or Local streets as defined in the City of Santa Clarita General Plan and adjacent to pedestrian oriented development, must be located adjacent to the primary street.

Parking lots must be located in the rear of the site, away from the primary street frontage. Where the lot configuration does not permit rear access due to the absence of a rear or side alley, easement, or secondary street providing vehicular access, vehicular access and parking lots must be located to the side of the primary structure, provided parking lots are set back a minimum of 10 feet from the primary street property line and adequately screened in alignment with Parking Lot Area Screening Objective Standards.
b. Multifamily and mixed-use projects must not feature street facing building frontages that extend horizontally along a public sidewalk for more than 100 feet without incorporating at least one (1) of the following design methods in order to provide natural ventilation and usable outdoor space:
i. Outdoor courtyards adjacent to the public right-of-way which provide ventilation and outdoor space.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
09 ii. Arcades a minimum of six (6) feet deep.
iii. Separation of buildings into two individual buildings with an incorporated courtyard/entrance providing access to
internal uses such as residential dwellings, commercial uses, or private open space areas.

2. Design Guidelines
a. The design of multifamily and mixed-use developments should consider compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. b. Intensified landscaping, increased setbacks, and building orientation should be utilized as a means of providing adequate separation between such land uses.
c. Multifamily and mixed-use structures should be clustered.

Clustering creates plazas or pedestrian malls and prevents long “barrack-like” or continuous rows of structures.
d. Natural amenities such as views, mature trees, creeks, riparian corridors, and similar features unique to the site should be preserved.
e. Building placement should not limit solar access by shading adjacent rooftops.
f. Orient buildings on an east/west axis to maximize the use of natural daylighting.
g. Narrow floor plan depths should be used to maximize daylight, exterior views, and natural ventilation. Use a courtyard atria to bring light and air into interior spaces.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
B. Vehicular Access, Circulation and Parking Lot
Areas
Site plans should balance the need to provide adequate vehicular access with the need to eliminate unnecessary driveway entrances and should provide access points that are coordinated with other properties.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects requiring more than 100 parking spaces must break up parking areas into a series of smaller connected parking areas of no more than 75 parking spaces.
b. Projects of over 20,000 square feet or more must include a primary vehicular access into the project incorporating at least two of the following accent features:
i. Brick, pavers, colored, patterned, textured, and/or permeable paving treatments a minimum of 12 feet deep from back of sidewalk.
ii. Landscaping on both sides of the project entry consisting of a minimum of two trees (minimum 24-inch box), four shrubs (minimum 5-gallon), and ground cover plantings, within a landscaped area a minimum of 10 feet wide by 10 feet deep. iii. Landscaped medians (minimum width of at least seven (7) feet.
iv. Where permissible, architectural monument signs.
v. Masonry or wrought iron walls or gates, a minimum of 36 inches in height.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Project entry features should reflect the overall architectural identity or character of the development.
b. Projects that include more than one vehicular drive access should feature at least one decorative entry drive. 5-5 See Objective Standard B(1)(b)(i.).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
C.Parking Lot Area Screening
Screening should be provided at the edge of all parking areas.

1. Objective Standards
a. A 36-inch to 42-inch tall berm, hedge, or masonry wall must be used to screen any parking at the street periphery. Breaks must be provided to allow pedestrian circulation at least every 100 feet or as required by the California Building Code. If the parking lot elevation is 36-inches or more below the adjacent street, then no berm, hedge, or masonry is required.
b. Both sides of all perimeter walls or fences must include at least one (1) of the following treatments:
i. Application of a cap or ledge at the top of the wall, projecting a minimum of two inches.
ii. A pattern of reveals, recesses, or pilasters at intervals of no more than 15 feet. Long expanses of fence or wall surfaces must be offset a minimum of 18 inches at least every 50 feet.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Where topography allows, parking lots could also be located above or below the adjacent street grade to effectively screen parking without the addition of substantial screen walls or landscaping. b. Landscaped buffer area provided between parking areas and public rights-of-way should not be included in the minimum five percent landscaping within the parking lot interior calculation required by the UDC. This buffer should be designed to provide stormwater retention through swales, sumps, etc.
c. Transitioning between walls, berms, and landscape materials is highly recommended in locations where parking lot screening is required.
d. Fences and walls placed adjacent to parking lot areas should feature styles that are complementary to the primary structure. 5-6 See Design Guideline C(1)(b).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
D.Pedestrian Access
Adequate pedestrian circulation should be provided to all pedestrians for safe passage throughout the internal site.

1. Objective Standards
a. Dedicated pedestrian access must be provided to each building primary entrance, vehicle parking area, private open space area, trash and recycling enclosure, and adjacent residential, recreational, and commercial uses. Such pedestrian access must include:
i. A minimum of one (1) directional sign at each primary pedestrian decision point;
ii. A change in paving material, paving color, or paving pattern from the adjacent vehicular circulation surface (e.g. use of brick, stamped concrete, or painted/striped surfaces where the vehicular surface is standard asphalt or broom-finished concrete). The on-site pedestrian circulation system must be directly connected to off-site public sidewalks..
b. Enhanced paving treatment, such as brick, textured/colored concrete, or asphalt, or clearly delineated crosswalks, such as painted or striped crosswalks, must be used where primary pedestrian paths cross vehicular drive aisles.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Meandering paths are generally preferred over long straight path alignments.
b. Paths made from permeable materials, such as decomposed granite, should be limited to private open space areas to create a more park-like setting and allow for stormwater percolation. c. Projects should provide internal and/or public pedestrian connections that are direct, convenient, and pleasant and that have appropriate amenities such as decorative paving treatments or benches. 5-7

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
d. Pedestrian connections and/or plazas should be provided with adequate weather protection (awnings or canopies) and appropriate pedestrian amenities, such as street tree grates, outdoor seating, bus waiting areas, trash cans, mail boxes, sidewalk displays, public art.

E. Paving Treatment
Specialty paving should be provided adjacent to building entries or facades, in plazas and courtyards or seating areas, at intersections, at mid-block between buildings, and adjacent to parks.

1. Objective Standards
a. Building entrances must be clearly indicated through the use of patterns and colors. At least one (1) of the following must be installed at each building entrance onsite: tile, brick, textured or colored concrete, in order to provide clear identification of access points into buildings.
b. At least one (1) of the following permeable pavement materials must comprise a minimum of 50% of the hardscape materials used in common amenity spaces of multi-family and mixed use projects:
i. Porous asphalt.
ii. Paver blocks.
iii. Lattice blocks.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Reuse of materials such as brick and flagstone is encouraged where possible.
b. Light colored paving should be incorporated near buildings to reduce the amount of heat radiating onto buildings and people. 5-8

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
F. Garages and Accessory Structures
Garages, carports, and other accessory structures should be designed as integral parts of the development.

1. Objective Standards
a. Garages must not be placed along the primary street unless the site lacks any alternative driveway access for residential parking. b. Garage doors must be recessed at least four (4) inches from the exterior wall.
c. Detached garages and accessory structures must incorporate at least two of the same exterior cladding materials used on the primary structure (e.g., if the primary structure uses stucco and stone veneer, the detached garage must use stucco and stone veneer) and must use at least one (1) exterior color found on the primary structure.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Garages should be located to have the least amount of visual impact on the street.
b. When viewed from the street, garages should be subordinate to the main living area. Where possible, the garage should be recessed behind the dwelling unit and not located between the main living area and the street.
c. Garages should be located along alleys and/or secondary streets when available.
d. Flat roofs are discouraged on detached garages and accessory structures.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
G.Public Space, Common Amenities, Park Land
and Trails
Public or private common amenity space designated for onsite residents, as well as pedestrian connections to such spaces, should be provided to enhance the living environment and contribute to a walkable neighborhood character.

1. Objective Standards
a. Pedestrian pathways must connect to any onsite private parks and any adjacent offsite or connecting jogging or hiking trails, bicycle pathways, equestrian trails, or parkways. In the event the site is adjacent to public parks or neighborhood parks included within the community-wide park system, pedestrian pathways must be provided to connect to adjacent public parks.
b. Any common amenity space greater than 600 square feet dedicated to public and/or private use must contain shading provided through umbrellas, awnings, or trees and a trash and recycling receptacle, as well as incorporate at least two (2) of the following features:
i. Outdoor seating with at least two (2) benches or tables. ii. Dog relief area with a dog waste station.
iii. One (1) prominently located art feature.
iv. One (1) children play structure or tot lot.
v. Picnic area with at least two (2) tables and one (1) barbeque grill with shading provided.
vi. Gardening area with at least four (4) beds or raised vegetable boxes.
vii. One (1) improved outdoor game area such as bocce, shuffle board, or similar amenity.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

2. Design Guidelines
a. Private outdoor space should focus on areas that are usable to the residents and not remainder parcels with marginal utility. b. A transition area should be provided between new development and adjacent open space to preserve the rural feel of the Valley. c. A river-oriented recreational greenbelt and trails system should be constructed along the Santa Clara River to tie together the communities of Santa Clarita.
d. Bicycle and pedestrian pathways should access a project at visually pleasing locations rather than service areas.
e. Buildings, parking areas, and open space should be arranged to minimize the use of sound walls next to freeway, arterial, and/or collector streets.
f. Public spaces should be clearly recognizable as “public” (e.g., a plaza within view of a street or other public space) and publicly accessible (i.e., a pedestrian accessible), and the space should be able to be occupied by people (i.e., a person can stand or sit in the area).
g. Public rooftop gardens, or viewing areas, should have street level signage directing access.
h. Where possible, larger public spaces should be located near the main pedestrian access to the development.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
H.Planting Design
Plants should be used to define building entrances, parking lots, and the edges of various land uses. Plants should also be used to buffer and screen neighboring properties and to enhance the quality and functional aspects of landscaping. Consider safety, environmental impacts, and accent elements when selecting and locating landscaping features..

1. Objective Standards
a. Landscaping and irrigation must comply with applicable Landscaping and Irrigation Standards within SCMC Section

17.51.030.
b. Landscaping must not obstruct solar access to adjacent solar collectors for water heating, space heating or cooling, or electricity generation.
c. The ultimate width of a trees canopy must be located no closer than ten feet to street lights.
d. Artificial or synthetic plants, except for turf, are prohibited.

The use of artificial and synthetic turf may count towards required landscaping but may not exceed 50% of the required landscaping and is not permitted in front or street side setbacks.

The installation of artificial and synthetic turf must meet the requirements of SCMC Section 17.51.030.C.3.
e. Irrigation plans must be provided for all onsite plants. Irrigation systems must incorporate water efficient technologies such as drip emitters, sub-grade capillary action irrigation for turf areas, evapotranspiration controllers, and moisture sensors. The use of recycled water must be used for irrigation when available. 5-12

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
f. Long-term soil stabilization must be considered when developing a landscape plan on sloped sites or projects with cut and fill slopes. See SCMC Section 17.51.020.C.4.a. Water runoff should be retained to reduce the risk of flooding. Stabilization must be achieved by methods such as planting native erosion control vegetation, including a mix of trees, shrubs, vines and/ or other ground covers with stabilizing mulch to naturalize the hillsides.
i. Cut and fill slopes less than five feet in height must be planted to cover the slopes completely within six months of planting.
ii. Cut and fill slopes exceeding five feet in vertical height must be planted in accordance of SCMC Section 17.51.030.C.2. g. Deciduous species, perennials, and grasses or grass-like plants must not be used for privacy screening.
h. Dense, evergreen trees, shrubs, and/or vines must be used to screen the following areas from public view: trash and recycling enclosures, surface parking areas, storage areas, loading areas, public utility equipment, and mechanical equipment. Screening plantings must be of a species and size sufficient to achieve a minimum 80% visual opacity within three years of planting, as demonstrated on the approved landscape plan.
i. All landscaping in areas designated as a very high fire hazard severity zone must be subject to the requirements of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Additional landscape design requirements may be required by the Fire Department for any project that is located within a fire sensitive area. The applicant, architect, and/or landscape architect are encouraged to consult with the Fire Marshall for “Interface Zone” requirements. j. Trees and shrubs must be placed to not interfere with vehicular sight lines located at driveways, parking lot entrances, vehicular intersections, etc. 5-13

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March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

2. Design Guidelines
a. Landscape areas should contain a mix of plant sizes and materials to ensure variety.
b. 36-inch box trees or larger are strongly encouraged in front and side yard setback areas.
c. At least one mature specimen tree (I.e., 48-inch box or 60-inch box) should be prominently located at main focal areas and/or be visible from project frontages.
d. The clustering of trees is encouraged and trees should be used to shade streets, sidewalks, and parking areas and create an intimate scale, enclosure spaces, and frame views. However, tree placement should respect the long-range views and solar access of surrounding neighbors and prevent damage to adjoining property.
e. Seasonal shading from trees and shrubs on southern and western facades should be used when developing planting schemes for courtyards and streetscapes. Deciduous trees provide solar control during summer and winter while providing fall color, seasonal flower, and other desired effects. f. Accent planting should be used to emphasize primary building and site entries, key activity hubs, and main focal areas. In addition, the incorporation of decorative focal elements are encouraged to accentuate views (i.e. recirculating water elements and public art).
g. Vines and potted plants should be used to provide wall, column, and post texture and color, as well as to accentuate entryways, courtyards, and sidewalks.
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Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
h. Nuisance trees that drop flowers and fruit should not be located within the ultimate width of the canopy extending over pedestrian walkways, pools and play equipment areas, parking areas, public sidewalks.
i. Lawn areas should be planted to serve a functional purpose and not be located in areas that are difficult to irrigate or maintain.

Sod should be used for turf installation. Special permission should be obtained from the City to install lawns by seeding. j. Lineal root barriers should be installed at each tree trunk located within six feet of the curb or walk or building foundation and should not extend six feet to each side of the trunk of the tree.

Root barriers on the curb side should be 24 inches deep and root barriers on the walkway side should be 18 inches deep.
k. Plant materials should be primarily drought-tolerant and/or California native plant materials, and not include invasive plants listed by the California Invasive Plant Council, or other plants determined to be invasive by a qualified botanist or biologist.

Drought tolerant turf or warm season turf should be used for lawn areas where possible.
l. Drip irrigation systems should be used in all areas except for turf irrigation and small ornamental plantings. The irrigation systems should be designed to apply water slowly allowing plants to be deep watered.
m. Each street tree should be watered by two deep watering bubblers separate from all other irrigation.
n. Explore opportunities to reuse rainwater and/or grey water for irrigation.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
o. Plants located directly below the eaves or at a rain gutter outlet should be sturdy and have a subsurface matrix of roots to tolerate heavy sheet flow and periodic saturation consistent with the Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan. Urban runoff can be greatly reduced by diverting stormwater from impervious areas, such as concrete surfaces, to planted areas. Infiltration basins where water can seep into the ground should be used. p. Due to challenging soil conditions found throughout the Valley, extra care should be given to prepare and apply soil amendments prior to planting. “Structural soil” should be considered for tree planting in areas that might be subject to compaction, such as street edges, narrow medians, and parking lots.
q. Short lived plants, plants susceptible to disease, and large expanses of single plant varieties should be avoided due to an unchanging appearance and the potential for complete loss of landscaping if struck with disease.
r. Landscape screening should be located to obscure direct sight lines from communal areas such as parking areas, common mailboxes, and pedestrian walkways into dwelling units and private recreational space. Strategically located landscaping may be used in combination with walls, fencing, berms, and/ or trellises to provide screening.
s. Important natural resources on the project site should be retained when feasible (i.e. landmark, specimen or native trees).

Oak tree removals are subject to SCMC Section 17.51.040. 5-16

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
1 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
I. Parking Lot Area Planting
Provide well-planted parking areas. Plants should create a functional and attractive parking environment.

1. Objective Standards
a. Parking spaces may overhang into a planted area a maximum of two (2) feet. However, the two feet encroachment and the required protective curb area must be counted only as a part of the length of the parking stall and must not be calculated as planted area or setback.
b. All planted areas must be bordered by a concrete curb adjacent to the parking surface that is a minimum of six (6) inches high.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Evergreen shade trees should be planted within parking lots to reduce the heat island effect. Parking lot trees with 30 to 40-foot canopies should be planted to shade parked cars and create a more attractive environment.
b. Consideration of plant materials adjacent to parking spaces should be a priority. Thorns, stickers, and shaper leaves should be avoided.
c. Parking lot area planting should comply with all local/ state Standard Urban Storm Water Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) requirements.
5-17

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Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN

2. BUILDING DESIGN
Building forms and facades influence cohesiveness, comfort, and aesthetic pride and can generate pedestrian activity and increase a sense of security. Any good design should take into consideration fundamental design principles including continuity, mass, scale, rhythm, and proportion. All new buildings and remodels should incorporate 360-degree architecture, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation.

The following standards and guidelines are intended to provide a general framework for design, and do not mandate specific architectural styles, themes, or details. Chapter 3 of this document should be consulted prior to developing building design drawings to ensure that the appropriate community character is incorporated into the building design. The City will be open to considering innovative, alternative design concepts that were not envisioned at the time that these guidelines were written; however an attempt should be made to comply with the general intent of the guidelines provided.
5-18

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Packet Pg. 94
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
A.Building Massing and Articulation
Mass is defined as a three-dimensional form, such as a cube, box, cylinder, pyramid, or cone. The way the forms are sized directly relates to the way building elements are emphasized or de-emphasized. Voids or open spaces in the forms can change the form’s appearance and make the building more interesting and less imposing. Articulation refers to the way architectural design divides uniform building forms into smaller, visually distinct elements. Through transitions in materials, colors, textures, and the use of setbacks or projections, articulation clarifies how a building’s components relate to one another. When done correctly, articulation establishes human scale and adds visual richness. Building designers should incorporate 360-degree architecture in all buildings, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation. Acknowledging sensitivity to a budget, it is expected that the highest level of articulation will occur on the front facade and facades visible from public streets.

1. Objective Standards
a. Buildings with a footprint greater than 4,000 square feet and two (2) stories or taller, must include massing elements at each story (for example a three-story building would have at least one (1) massing element on the first story, (1) massing element on the second story, and one (1) massing element on the third story). b. Building facades on all sides of the building must not extend more than 55 feet in length without the inclusion of one of the following:
i. A change in wall plane depth of at least two (2) feet (projected or recessed elements).
ii. A change in roof height of at least two (2) feet.
iii. Projecting or recessed building entrances or porches. iv. Balconies for each residential unit.
5-19
See Objective Standard A(1)(a).

1.b
Packet Pg. 95
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
v. Architectural detailing consisting of columns (minimum eight (8) inches in width and projecting a minimum of four (4) inches from the wall surface) or arcades (minimum six (6) feet of walking space between facade and arcade, and eight (8) feet in height at the lowest point). Use of columns and/ or arcades must be consistent with Chapter 3 - Community Character.
vi. Use of moldings, trim bands, or a change in exterior material at least once every 20 horizontal feet and at each floor transition.
c. Building facades must not include blank wall space (defined as an uninterrupted area of a single material with no windows, doors, projections, recesses, trim, or material changes) that is larger than 10 feet by 10 feet in size.
d. Buildings must be designed to differentiate uniformly between a defined base; a middle or body; and a top, cornice, or parapet cap through the use of contrasting materials, colors, or textures change.
e. Lower walls of buildings adjacent to a pedestrian-oriented street, from finished grade to a height of 12 feet, must incorporate at least one of the following design elements:
i. Arches;
ii. Trellises;
iii. Awnings (refer to Objective Standard C(1)(e) for awning dimensions).
iv. Recessed entries.
v. Display windows.
5-20
See Objective Standard A(1)(b).

1.b
Packet Pg. 96
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
f. Multifamily and mixed-use projects on corner lots must include at least one (1) or more of the following features on both street-facing facades within 25 feet of the intersection:
i. Vertical elements such as towers that extend a minimum of 3 feet above adjacent roof elements.
ii. A different roof style than the adjacent facades of the building.

Flat roofs are not permitted; slopes must be between 2:12 and 6:12.
iii. Building entrances on the ground floor within 25 feet of the street corner must include a massing break of at least 24 inches in depth by eight (8) feet in height.
iv. A variation of material, color, or fenestration pattern of windows and doors from the rest of the façade.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Several smaller, compact building footprints, rather than one large building, should be used to provide an intimate scale and a more efficient envelope for optimizing daylighting and passive solar heating and cooling functions. To accomplish this, large projects, such as twelve or more residential units, should be broken into smaller buildings with several different building heights proposed. b. Combination of one, one and one half, and two story units should be used to create visual interest and variation in the massing and building height.
c. Structures with greater height should include additional setbacks and steps within the massing to create a transition in heights from adjacent properties and to avoid dominating the character of the neighborhood.
d. Surface detailing should not serve as a substitute for well-integrated and distinctive massing. e. Building elements and details should be consistent with the chosen architectural style. 5-21
See Objective Standard A(1)(f).

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Packet Pg. 97
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
B. Roof Forms
Roof forms should be in alignment with the selected architectural style through roof pitch and material selection.

1. Objective Standards
a. Roof lines must not extend horizontally more than 55 feet in length without a two (2) foot variation in height.
b. Where roofs exceed 60 linear feet, cross gables or accent roofs must equal a minimum of 30% of the roof façade.
c. Flat roofs must provide parapets around the perimeter of the roof with parapets extending at least six (6) inches above all rooftop equipment. Parapet design must comply with all County of Los Angeles Fire Department Fire Code Standards.
d. Rooftop equipment must not be visible to pedestrians and be located at least ten (10) feet away from the roof edge. e. Parapets must be adorned with precast treatment, banding, cornice or dentil details, or similar edge treatment (for example, parapet with a minimum of four (4) inches in height and a minimum of two (2) inch extrusion from the wall.
f. Eaves and rakes must include at least one (1) of the following:
i. Minimum 18 inch overhang.
ii. Corbel end beams or rafter tails at three (3) feet maximum spacing.
iii. Cornices with a minimum projection of at least four (4) inches.
iv. Scalloped stucco transition to roof tile edges.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Roofs covering the entire building, such as hips and gables should be used instead of mansard roofs. 5-22
See Objective Standard B(1)(a).

See Objective Standard B(1)(b).

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Packet Pg. 98
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
C.Windows, Doors and Awnings
Windows and doors help to define the architectural style of a building while providing daylight to interior spaces and visual interest to building facades.

These features are sometimes accented through the use of awnings.

1. Objective Standards
a. Window and door type, material, and shape must be consistent on each elevation (with allowance for features or accent windows) and consistent with Chapter 3 - Community Character. Up to 20% of the total window area on any elevation may deviate from the primary window type(s) as feature or accent windows, provided such accent windows are identified on the submitted building elevations. b. Windows must be articulated with at least two (2) of the following:
i. Decorative lintels applied to all windows.
ii. Window trim on all windows, a minimum of three and a half (3.5) inches.
iii. One (1) feature window per façade (bay window, bow window, arched window, dormer window, or angled window).
iv. Shutters or awnings on 30% of windows.
v. Recessed from the outer wall plane a minimum of three (3) inches. vi. Non-white vinyl, or non-vinyl frame material on all windows. vii. Window sills projecting a minimum of one and a half (1.5) inches beyond the wall surface.
c. Unless offset by more than five (5) feet horizontally, to enhance privacy, windows for residential units on side elevations within 10 feet of adjacent structures, or private outdoor spaces serving adjacent units, must be designed with at least one (1) of the following:
i. Non-transparent glazing;
ii. Frosted/patterned glass; 5-23

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Packet Pg. 99
Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
iii. Permanent architectural screens or affixed louvers at windows;
iv. Or utilization of high or transom windows.
d. Awnings, weather protection coverings, or recessed doorways must be incorporated on multifamily and mixed-use primary building entries to clearly define the entrance and orient pedestrians.
e. Awnings must be made of metal, must feature a minimum depth of three (3) feet, and must be at least seven (7) feet off of the ground to accommodate pedestrian traffic.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Window distribution should assist in improving building scale. b. Maximize daylighting and views through window placement and design. Passive solar design can be used to reduce heating requirements by 30 percent to 50 percent, thus saving money and energy. For organization of the facade, primary upper and lower windows should stack vertically whenever possible. c. EPA “Energy Star” labeled windows with low-e coatings are encouraged.
d. Awnings should be used to add color, form, and relief to the building and enhance building articulation.
e. Awnings should not be wrapped around buildings in continuous bands. Awnings should only be placed on top of doors, windows, and other openings such as paseo entrances.
f. Consideration should be given to placing awnings and canopies on south-facing facades to provide aesthetic enhancement while assisting in cooling the building during the summer months. g. Any shutters should be proportionate to the adjacent windows to create the appearance of real and functional shutters. 5-24
See Objective Standard C(1)(e).

1.b
Packet Pg. 100 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
D.Residential Dwelling Unit Access and Building
Entrances
All entrances should be clearly identifiable and emphasized using lighting, landscaping, and architecture.

1. Objective Standards
a. Individual residential dwelling unit entrances located on the ground floor must be emphasized and clearly defined with at least two (2) of the following:
i. Porch or stoop that is at least six (6) feet wide and four (4) feet deep.
ii. Patio.
iii. Terrace.
iv. Weather protection covering in the form of an awning or recessed doorway. Recessed doorways must be a minimum
depth of two (2) feet.
v. Architectural detailing such as lighting features or decorative address lettering.
vi. Transition in color or material.
b. Building entrances must be oriented towards adjacent public sidewalks.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Access points to units should be clustered in groups of four or less. Long, monotonous access balconies and corridors that provide access to five or more units should be avoided. b. Every building should have at least one entrance that does not require passage through a parking lot or garage to gain access. 5-25
See Objective Standard D(1)(a).

1.b
Packet Pg. 101 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
E. Materials and Colors
The selection and placement of building materials should provide visual interest at the pedestrian level. Heavier materials should be used to form the building base and as accents on upper stories and walls. Materials and colors should be used to enhance buildings and adjacent pedestrian spaces by adding color, shadows, and interesting forms. Materials and color selection must also align with the corresponding community identity found in the Community Character guidelines established in Chapter 3.

1. Objective Standards
a. Projects must include at least two (2) of the following materials:
i. Wood.
ii. Stone.
iii. Brick.
iv. Stucco.
v. Wood composite siding (for example Hardie siding).
vi. Stone veneer.
vii. Vertical board siding.
viii.Tile.
b. Projects must include at least one (1) primary color and at least one (1) accent color.
c. Accent materials or colors must make up at least 10% of facades facing the primary street.
d. Material changes on building facades must occur at a change in wall plane of at least two (2) inches in depth (projection or recess) or at an inside corner where two wall planes meet.

Material changes on a single, flat wall plane without a change in plane or inside corner are prohibited. 5-26
See Objective Standard E(1)(d).

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Packet Pg. 102 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
2 - BUILDING DESIGN
e. Natural materials, such as brick, stone, copper, wood, must be left the natural color.
f. Stairways must be constructed of smooth stucco, plaster, or wood and be consistent with the approved materials of the corresponding neighborhood as defined in Chapter 3 - Community Character . Open metal, prefabricated stairs will not be allowed.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Materials selected for multifamily and mixed-use projects should be aesthetically pleasing but very durable and should require low maintenance.
b. Materials should be utilized that reduce the transfer of heat into and/or out of the building.
c. Recycled content materials, such as wood substitutes, recycled concrete, and asphalt, as well as non-toxic materials, should be used wherever possible.
d. The entire development should utilize a consistent architectural style and materials. However; if the intent is to differentiate between uses, some architectural details should vary slightly. 5-27

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Packet Pg. 103 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS

3. UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
A.Utilitarian Equipment
All utilitarian equipment and features should be integrated into the site plan and should either be aesthetically screened from view or designed to complement the architectural style of the project. Utility service areas should be part of the early site design process, rather than an afterthought at the construction document phase.

1. Objective Standards
a. Any outdoor equipment, whether on a roof, side of a structure, or the ground must be fully screened from view (landscaping may be used to screen ground mounted equipment). The material or elements used for screening of outdoor equipment must be as tall or taller than the equipment in which it is screening and adequate space for maintenance must be provided.
b. Utility service areas, such as electrical panels, must be placed within enclosures constructed of at least one exterior cladding material used on the primary building facade, and painted or finished in a color matching the adjacent building wall.

Enclosures must be a minimum of six (6) inches taller than the enclosed equipment on all sides (ensure manufacture recommendations are met).
c. Utility enclosures, excluding entrances for maintenance access, must be screened by at least one of the following:
i. Solid masonry walls.
ii. Berms.
iii. Landscaping.
5-28

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Packet Pg. 104 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
d. Common box mailbox enclosures must incorporate at least one (1) of the following:
i. A material or color identical to a material or color used on the primary building façade.
ii. A roof form (e.g., gable, hip, or flat with parapet) matching the roof form of the primary structure.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Where screen walls are used, the walls should be designed to blend with the site’s architecture.
b. Transformers required to be installed adjacent to the street should be placed underground.
c. Guardrails should complement the architectural style of the building.
d. Ramps should be integrated into the site design and can be used to create functional or unique spaces.
e. Gutters and downspouts on the exterior of the building should be decorative or designed to integrate with the building facade. 5-29

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Packet Pg. 105 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
B. Trash and Recycling Enclosures
Trash and recycling enclosures should be carefully designed, located, and integrated into the site plan.

1. Objective Standards
a. Trash and recycling enclosures must be screened with a solid masonry wall constructed of at least one (1) exterior material used on the primary building facade and must include
landscaping consisting of a minimum of one (1) 5-gallon shrub for every three (3) linear feet of enclosure perimeter. Enclosure walls must be a minimum of six (6) feet in height.

2. Design Guidelines
a. A pedestrian entrance to the trash and recycling enclosure should be provided so that the large access gates do not have to be opened as often.
b. Trash and recycling bins should be conveniently accessible for collection and maintenance and should not block access drives during loading operations.
c. Drainage from adjoining roof and pavement should be diverted around the trash and recycling area.
d. Architecturally designed roof structures on trash and recycling enclosures should be used to create a finished looking structure. 5-30

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Packet Pg. 106 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
C.Lighting
Effective lighting provides safety and direction for vehicles and pedestrians while enhancing architectural building and landscape details. These guidelines apply to on-site lighting for parking areas and lights associated with the building in private development projects.

Light types may include pole lights, spotlighting, wall-mounted sconces, parking lighting, and landscape lighting.

1. Objective Standards
a. Lighting must comply with applicable Outdoor Lighting Standards within SCMC Section 17.51.050.
b. Outdoor lighting fixtures must match the primary building’s architectural style by using colors, materials, and design features that are commonly associated with that style, including but not limited to finish type, fixture form, and detailing.

2. Design Guidelines
a. Light fixtures should be designed or selected to be
architecturally compatible with the main structure or theme of the development.
b. The intensity of light, level of light as measured in footcandles, and the type of bulb or source should be carefully addressed.

Lighting levels should not be so intense as to draw attention to the glow or glare of the light source.
c. Spotlighting or glare from any site lighting should be shielded from adjacent properties and directed at a specific object or target area.
d. Exposed bulbs should not be used. Cut-off lighting is preferred. 5-31

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Packet Pg. 107 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
3 - UTILITARIAN ASPECTS
e. Uplighting of building elements and trees should use the lowest wattage possible to minimize impacts to the night sky. Light sources for wall washing and tree lighting should be hidden. f. Where landscaping is lit, low-voltage lighting should be used whenever possible to conserve energy. Energy efficient lamps and ballasts, controlled by photoelectric methods or timers, should be incorporated.
g. The height of a light pole should be appropriate in scale for the building or the complex and the surrounding area.
h. Accent lighting should be used to illuminate walkways, entries, seating areas, and/or specimen plants and trees.
i. Walkways and paseos should be lit to an average of one and one half to two footcandles in intensity to ensure safe nighttime conditions.
j. Use renewable energy sources for lighting, such as solar microturbine.
k. Recreational amenities and courtyards should be well lit to enhance the pedestrian experience and create a safe
environment.
5-32

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Packet Pg. 108 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE

4. MIXED-USE
Mixed-use development is designed to integrate residential, commercial, and public and private spaces all within the same cohesive area. New development should emphasize the pedestrian experience rather than automobile dependence and foster more connected neighborhoods. Typically comprised of ground floor commercial uses, upper‑story residential dwelling units, and thoughtfully designed transitions between uses to create a vibrant streetscape and a strong sense of place.
5-33

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Packet Pg. 109 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
A.Site Planning and Design

1. Objective Standards
a. Sidewalks and/or plazas on mixed-use projects must include at least one (1) weather protection or covering in the form of an awning, canopy, umbrella, etc., for each individual internal space to ensure some form of weather coverage is available throughout the entire project.
b. In instances where the building frontage of a mixed-use buildings is not built to the back of sidewalk, the space between back of sidewalk and building frontage must be occupied by one of the following:
i. Plaza.
ii. Outdoor dining area.
iii. Pedestrian amenities (for example seating areas, children play areas, or BBQ stations).

2. Design Guidelines
a. Both vertical or horizontal integration of uses should be allowed in mixed-use development, with an emphasis on tying the uses together with appropriate pedestrian linkages.
b. Mixed-use projects should be designed to create a pedestrian-scale environment through appropriate street and sidewalk widths, block lengths, relationships of buildings to streets, and use of public spaces.
c. Consideration should be given to the location and placement of commercial and residential uses on mixed-use projects to reduce odor, noise, light and glare, visual and other conflicts between uses.
5-34

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Packet Pg. 110 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
d. In new mixed-use projects, public space should satisfy the following criteria:
i. Provide areas for informal meetings and social interaction with other people or areas for passive and active uses as appropriate.
ii. Provide a strong image and sense of place.
iii. Be a part of the pedestrian linkage throughout the development and adjacent land uses.
iv. Provide an overall theme and visual connection between spaces and uses within the development.
v. Include areas of various shapes, sizes, and configurations throughout the development.
vi. At least one (1) awning, weather covering, canopy should be provided in public outdoor spaces to ensure public space is usable year-round.
vii. Create a pleasant pedestrian environment.
viii.Create an interconnected open space system.
ix. Energize commercial retail activity.
e. Public spaces should be clearly recognizable as “public” (such as plazas) and publicly accessible, and the space should be able to be occupied by people (a person can stand or sit in the area). f. In mixed-use projects, public spaces should be located adjacent to the commercial component of the development that can be converted for joint use with outdoor dining and pedestrian access. However, when used in conjunction with an outdoor dining area, the areas should be designed in such a manner that pedestrian access is not being impeded or hindered. The minimum vertical dimension for clear pedestrian access should be eight (8) feet.
5-35

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Packet Pg. 111 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Chapter 5 Multi-Family Residential & Mixed-Use

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
March 24, 2009
Revised: June 30, 2026
4 - MIXED USE
B.Building Design

1. Objective Standards
a. Ground floor commercial uses on mixed-use projects must include storefront entrances oriented on the façade fronting the primary street.
b. Mixed-use projects must include at least one (1) entrance for each proposed use (offices with more than one (1) suite are not required to satisfy this standard). In addition, at least one (1) building entrance must be provided for each ground floor individual commercial tenant. Commercial uses provided on upper floors must be allowed to share a ground floor entrance. c. Mixed-use buildings with more than one ground level
commercial tenant must clearly differentiate and articulate individual commercial tenant spaces through the addition of at least two of the following:
i. Recessed entries a minimum of two (2) feet.
ii. Awning and/or entrance canopies.
iii. Color and material transition.

2. Design Guidelines
a. The architectural design of mixed-use projects should demonstrate a cohesive approach between the residential and commercial portions in terms of style, colors and materials, and overall character.
b. Mixed-use development should utilize a consistent architectural style and materials. However; if the intent is to differentiate between uses, some architectural details should vary slightly. 5-36

1.b
Packet Pg. 112 Attachment: Exhibit A - Proposed ODS Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Objective Design
Standards – Redline
Version
Chapters 1, 3, 5 and 7

1.c
Packet Pg. 113 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)

SANTA CLARITACOMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009
C H A P T E R 1

INTRO D U C T I O N

PURPOSE
The purpose of this Santa Clarita Community Character and Design Guidelines document is to guide the creation of new residential, commercial, mixed-use, and industrial developments and give clear direction for the renovation and redevelopment of built areas. This document supersedes the Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines (adopted in 2002) and includes up-to-date planning trends and guidelines written to promote the high quality standards that the City and the community value. The intent of these guidelines is to retain and encourage architectural variety, promote quality development, and ensure that both existing and new development: • Is compatible in size,scale, and appearance with the character of Santa Clarita.
• Is attractive and an asset to the community. • Preserves and enhances natural features of a site.
• Incorporates quality articulation, community character features, multiple building forms, desirable building
details, and other elements that display excellence in
design.
• Provides pedestrian-oriented design to enrich the
pedestrian experience.
introduction 1-1

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Packet Pg. 114 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITACOMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

P U R P O S E AND GO ALS
PURPOSE ( C O N T.)
• Includespedestrianfriendly amenities such as pedestrian connections, plazas, seating, bike racks, fountains, and other similar features, for the enjoyment of the
community and visitors.
• Promotes the use of high quality materials. • Promotes well -landscaped parking lots with efficient pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
• Provides suggestions for ways to improve the
environmental performance of projects through the
strategic incorporation of green building components.

The guidelines have been written to make it easy fora property owner, architect, developer, City staff, and members of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission,
Planning Commission, and City Council to use. The guidelines describe the design review process, citywide goals and
objectives, site planning concepts, and architectural design guidelines forresidential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use projects. Specific guidelines have been drafted to ensure that architectural quality and character is preserved within each of the four communitie s of the City - Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia. In essence, the purpose of this document is to provide clear and concise direction througha user-friendly document that is easy to administer. 1 - 2 introduction MARCH 24, 2009

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P U R P O S E AND GO ALS G OALS
The overarching objective of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document is the desire to establish
communities that possess unique qualities that make them special and memorable. How the distinct communities are integrated within the overall fabric of the City is essential to each commu nity’s success. The following goals guided the development of the design guidelines in this document.

Sense of Timelessness
A sense of timelessness is a feeling that the design and quality of development in the community will neither be frozen in time nor look like it was built yesterday. The community should have characteristics that suggest long-term value. The physical fabric of a community should reflect cultural, aesthetic, and historic character and yet be adaptive to functional changes.

Sense of Ownership
Each sector of the community must have a sense of ownership anda belief that they will benefit from the economic health and quality of life within the community. There should be a feeling that the attributes of the community command an economic premium. Whether or not there isindividual property ownership, there must be a sense that everyone has a stake in the overall well being of the community.

MARCH 24, 2009 introduction 1-3

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P U R P O S E AND GO ALS
GOALS ( C O N T.)
Sense of Place and Identity
The built and natural environment must be interwoven and should express a special sense of place.The community character should createa feeling of an original, and not duplicated, place.

There should bea perception that the community hasa unique identity and attributes that differentiate it from other urban neighborhoods.

Sense of Community
A sense of community is a belief that each individual has a responsibility and obligation to work toward the well being of the community. An acknowledgment of that community is the interconnectedness within the neighborhood and with other sectors of the community and linkage to surrounding neighborhoods. 1 - 4 introduction

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P U R P O S E AND GO ALS

GUIDELINE USERS
The guidelines are designed for a variety of user groups. A description of how each type of user can benefit from the guidelines is described below.

Property Owners:

The guidelines provide property owners witha clear and simple design review process. This document works in conjunction with the General Plan, Unified Development Code, and Uniform Building Code for the City of Santa Clarita and provides a clear set of expectations and responsibilities for property owners. This document broadens the scope of the design process beyond basic code requirements and takes the attention to detail, quality, and character to the next level.

Design Professionals and Developers:

The guidelines provide a clear and graphic direction for renovation and new construction. The guidelines serve as an information tool that can provide a link between the property owner and the designer or developer and will clarify the aspects of quality design.
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P U R P O S E AND GO ALS
GUIDELINE USERS ( C O N T.)
City Staff:

City staff uses the guidelines in assisting applicants and their representatives with all aspects of project development including site planning, building orientation, building massing and articulation, architectural themes, and other amenities that work together to createa sense of place. The guidelines serve as the basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. City staff will also use these guidelines when working with the Planning Commission and the City Council.

Review Bodies:

The guidelines provide the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission, Planning Commission, City Council, and other reviewing agencies with a basis for evaluating proposals for quality of design. 1 - 6 introduction

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C O N T E N T S AND O R G A N I Z A T I O N

CONTENTS& ORGANIZ AT ION
This document is a compilation of design guidelines and recommendations that provide direction for new development and redevelopment. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the intent and purpose of the guidelines. Chapter 2 provides a discussion of design trends and quality design principles.

Chapter 3 helps to define the individual character of each community within Santa Clarita and lists suggested building materials and identifies specific design considerations. These community-specific guidelines are intended to complement the general design guidelines provided in the following land use chapters. Chapter 4 - Chapter 8 provide guidelines for five land use categories: single-family residential, multi-family residential, commercial,mixed-use, and industrial, respectively.

No single architectural theme is being promoted, but ratherthe emphasis is to promote variety. With exception of those styles provided in Chapter 2, many of the styles and patterns shown in the following pictures and graphic illustrations represent a concept of recommended building elements and details as opposed to thematic images. Caution should be exercised when considering architectural styles that have recently become popular (i.e. “trendy”) but have not yet stood the test of time. In addition, historic styles that cannot be faithfully replicated should be avoided.
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C O N T E N T S AND O R G A N I Z A T I O N
CONTENTS& ORGANIZ AT ION (C O N T.)
Sustainable planning and design concepts were used as a foundation from which the guidelines in this document were drafted. The core principles of Smart Growth and New Urbanism as well the key components of LEED™(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which are defined in Chapter 2, were integrated throughout this document to ensure that proposed developments are planned and designed to reduce impacts on the surrounding environment. Conventional design and
construction methods can produce buildings that contribute to excessive resource consumption, that generate waste, and that are expensive to operate. Sustainable principles that can improve the environmental performance of a project without forcing excessive costs on builders or developers have been marked with a white bar throughout the document.

This document is organized as follows:

Chapter 1 (Introduction) contains the purpose and goals of this document and sets the framework for the design review
process. 1 - 8 introduction

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CONTENTS &ORGANIZ AT ION (C O N T. )
Chapter 2 (Design Trends and Community Setting) reviews the latest and most influential trends in planning and design that promote efficient sustainable development practices and provide a foundation for the design principles and guidelines contained in this document.

Chapter 3 (Individual Community Character) identifies the architectural details that define the architectural character prescribed for each one of the four communities of the City. Multifamily and mixed -use development must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in this Chapter and must comply with objective standards set forth in Chapter 5.

Chapter 4 (Single -Family Residential) depicts the specific site planning and design and building design guidelines that pertain to single -family neighborhood development.

The focus here is the creation of a neighborhood that offers public spaces, lush landscaping and a close -knit neighborhood feel, rather than a sterile housing tract lacking variety and personality.

Chapter 5 (Multi-Family Residential and Mixed-Use) this chapter, unlike any of the other chapters, contains both design guidelines and objective design standards for multi -family residential and mixed -use commercial developments. Objective Design Standards are required by the State of California and are de fined by California Government Code, Section 65913.4; objective design standards are required to be clear and measurable. These are complimented by the design guidelines which promote community character and design continuity. The design guidelines maintain neighborhood character and scale while providing design direction and promoting quality design. All new multifamily and mixed -use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3. sets similar parameters as Chapter 4 but for the denser product type of multi -family residential development. Chapter 5 also includes guidelines for utility and mechanical equipment and lighting. For multi-family developments, the integration of appealing public gathering places, decorative hardscape and landscape plantings, and other resident amenities is even more critical given the higher intensity of development. in

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CONTENTS &ORGANIZ AT ION (C O N T.)
Chapter 6 (Commercial) includes design guidelines for
commercial development to ensure commercial components
such as on-site parking, loading and service areas, trash enclosures, lighting, and signage are properly designed. Special design considerations are also addressed.

Chapter 7 (Mixed-use) includes design guidelines for mixed- use projects and the unique requirements these developments entail. This chapter is supported by case studies. Special attention is given to pedestrian connectivity and amenities as well as commercial building layout and orientation in mixed-use projects.

Chapter 78 (Industrial & Business Park Development) includes design guidelines for industrial development. If not designed properly, industrial facilities can diminish the visual quality of the surrounding areas and can become undesirable land uses.

These guidelines address visual and functional aspects of industrial and business park developments and provide
guidance to reduce environmental impacts. 1-10 introduction

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R E L A T I O N S H I PTOOTH E R P L A N N I N G D O C U M E N T S

REL AT IONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS
Consistency with the Unified Development Code and General Plan:

This document is a tool for the implementation of the City of Santa Clarita’sUnified Development Code (UDC) and the General Plan. While the guidelines contained herein are not standards intended to supersede the requirements of the UDC, the
guidelines should be considered “recommended practices” that both the Planning Commission and Planning Division consider important to the design of projects within the City.

Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan:

The Community Character and Design Guidelines work hand in hand with the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan. The Beautification Master Plan focuses on improvements within the public rights-of-way. These improvements include streetscape and landscape enhancements, fencing, gateways, monuments, and signage both on a regional and community scale. The Design Guidelines focus on private property improvements outside the public rights-of-way. Both documents contain design guidelines that help guide improvements and aid the City of Santa Clarita in accomplishing their long-term goal of city-wide beautification. The documents strive to maintain the identity of the individual communi ties, while at the same time unifying the City of Santa Clarita.
introduction 1-11

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R E L A T I O N S H I P TO OTH E R P L A N N I N G D O C U M E N T S

REL AT IONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS
( C O N T. )
Old TownDowntown Newhall Specific Plan (Adopted 2005, Updated 2022):

The quality and character of the architecture depicted in this Community Character and Design Guidelines document guides development throughout the entire City, which includes the community of Newhall. The Old Town Downtown Newhall
Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005, contains specific standards and guidelines for development within the 271-acre downtown area. The Old TownDowntown Newhall Specific Plan depicts specific zones and a variety of architectural types. The building form is further defined by a set of development standards. Therefore, the Old Town Downtown Newhall Specific Plan takes the architectural theme and character defined in this document a step further to fit the specific requirements in each ofthe zones in the downtown area as defined by that document. 1-12 introduction

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REL AT IONSHIP TO OTHER PLANNING DOCUMENTS
( C O N T.)
Existing Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines (Adopted in 20022026 Update to 2009 Community Character and Design Guidelines):

This version of the Community Character and Design Guidelines document modernized the original document adopted in 2009 with updated imagery, graphics, and text.

Specific updates to individual chapters include:
• Chapter 1 - Introduction had moderate changes made to the text to explain the updated processes in relation to the newly added objective standards.
• Chapter 2 - Design Trends and Urban Form had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 3 - Community Character was revised to provide better visual examples of desired community character.
• Chapter 4 - Single Family Residential Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 5 - Multi-Family and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards and Design Guidelines have been revised and reorganized. Multi-family and mixed-use content have been combined into Chapter 5, accompanied by newly developed objective design standards and graphics.
• Chapter 6 - Commercial Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged.
• Chapter 7 - Industrial and Business Park Design Guidelines had select imagery updated but otherwise remains unchanged. This Community Character and Design Guidelines document supersedes the existing ArchitecturalDesign Guidelines adopted in 2002. The 2002 document was used asa basis from which this document was drafted.

This update includes new and revised guidelines that support the latest planning trends and City and community goals as described in Chapter 2 of this document. This document goes beyond architectural design to encompass a more comprehensive treatment of the built environment and quality urban design.

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SANTA CLARITACOMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES

INITIAL MEETING

ONESTOP REVIEW

DEVELOPMENT REVIEWCOMMITTEE PUBLIC MEETINGS

DESIGNREVIEW PREPARECONSTRUCTIONDOCUMENTS SUBMITPLANS

BUILDINGPERMIT

CONSTRUCTION FINALPLANNINGINSPECTION
MARCH 24, 2009
approval approval
plan check
revisions

A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S

APPLIC ATION PROCESS
All applications for development reviews, minor use permits, variances, conditional use permits, tentative tract maps, grading permits, or other entitlements that include physical alteration or construction, shall be reviewed to ensure consistency with these guidelines. The Director of Community Development and/or the Planning Commission or/City Council will decide if a proposed project is consistent with the overall intent of this document.

The adjacent diagram depicts the application and approval process.
1-14 introduction

SUBMIT/PREPAREPLANS
revisions revisions

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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S

INITIAL MEETING
The purpose of the initial meeting is to advise the project applicant of applicable design guidelines (such as this document), design review policies, and other specific design criteria that may affect the project’s design. During the initial meeting, the City will provide the applicant with all of the application information, including the following:

1. Entitlement application.

2. Application requirement checklists for all necessary entitlements.

3. Copies of the relevant sections of the Community
Character and Design Guidelines document.

4. Design questionnaire – to help the developer
demonstrate that the guidelines set forth in this
document have been reviewed and incorporated into
the project design.

5. Environmental questionnaire - to determine the
environmental impacts of the project.
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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S

ONE STOP
In many instances, an applicant a developer may want to obtain more detailed information regarding the feasibility of a potential development without committing the required
application fees. In order to provide preliminary comments without the financial commitment required by a formal
application submittal, the City has developeda preliminary One Stop review process. The One Stop process described below is encouraged as an initial review ofa project to ensure all the required components of a development package are provided by the applicant before continuing on with the formal review process.

In order to ensure a proper review of a project during the One Stop process, the applicant should provide at minimum the following material:

1. Conceptual Site Plan.

2. Elevations (color with material callouts).

3. Conceptual Floor Plan.

4. Aerial Photograph of the Site (depicting the project site and surrounding uses).

5. Photographs (of the project site and surrounding uses). 1-16 introduction

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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S
ONE STOP ( C O N T.)
In addition to the materials previously listed, the applicant should also demonstrate how the proposed project will relate to the surrounding environment and how the landscape design is to be incorporated as an integral part of the project. An analysis of the existing site conditions should includea review ofa site’s physical properties, amenities, special issues, and neighboring environment. Specific design considerations that should be examined include the following:

Existing Conditions Analysis

1. Basic Site Data: Boundaries and dimensions; location of adjacent streets, sidewalks, and rights-of-way; location of setback lines and easements; existing structures and built improvements.

2. Existing Natural Features: Location, size, and species of mature trees; topography; patterns of surface drainage; and other important natural features that are either
amenities or potential hazards in development.

3. Neighboring Environment: Analysisofthesiteandproject impacts; land use, the site design, form, character, age and important site details on neighboring properties.

4. Locale: Available services and facilities including local parks, shopping centers, bus stops, bike lanes, and
parking.

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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S
ONE STOP ( C O N T.)
Site Design Objectives

1. Develop compatible relationships among the

2. 3.
topography, building placement, and existing open
spaces.

Provide a transition from existing to new development
by careful placement and massing of buildings, well-
designed and strategically located landscaping, and
other appropriate methods.

A conceptual landscape plan, prepared by a licensed
landscape architect, should be submitted with the One
Stop pre-application package to demonstrate that the
site plan includes plantings that are effectively
integrated with the surrounding topography, site design, and architectural design of the project. The conceptual plan should have a preliminary plant list with plant
genuses, species, and common names. Plantings should
be complementary to the characteristics of the project’s surrounding area and suitable for the environmental
conditions of Santa Clarita. 1-18 introduction

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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S

APPLIC ATION SUBMIT TAL
Upon submittal of a One Stop application, the various City departments that are part of the Development Review
Committee provide preliminary comments regarding the
submittal requirements and comments regarding the potential development. If the developer decides to formally submit a project after going through the One Stop process, the applicant will receive a credit for the cost of the One Stop toward the required processing fees.

Following the initial meeting or One Stop, plans are produced and submitted as part of the application process to the City.

Specific submittal requirements vary by project type and should be obtained from the City during the Initial Meeting. All applicants must complete a Design Questionnaire as part of the formal submittal. In addition to the required application materials, developers are encouraged to provide before and after photo simulations and renderings in order to demonstrate that the design of the project meets the requirements of these guidelines. Design review is implemented by City staff and the City’s architectural consultant. Depending upon the level of permit, a project may be approved by staff, the Planning Commission, the Redevelopment Agency, or the City Council. If a public hearing is necessary, the project goes to the Planning Commission and/or to City Council for approval.
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SANTA CLARITACOMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 300
Santa Clarita, CA 91355

DESIGN QUESTIONNAIRE
In an effort to ensure that projects conform to adopted design and architectural guidelines, the City has created this form that will be used in development review process. The applicant is required to fill out this form completely. If sections are left blank, the associated application file may be deemed incomplete.

A. Background

1. Master Case No.:

2. Project Title:

3. Project Location (street address or description):

4. Assessor's Parcel Number(s):

5. Brief Project Description:

6. Name of Applicant: Phone:

Fax: E-mail:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

7. Is the project located in a Specific Plan area or a Planned Development Overlay? Yes No If yes, please list:

8. This project is best described as:

Single Family Residential Multi-family Commercial Mixed-Use

9. The subject property islocated in:

Canyon Country Newhall Saugus Valencia
- 1 -

3. Decorative paving features have been incorporated into the project to delineate pedestrian paths, driveways, entries, public spaces, etc.:

Yes / No
III. Open Space/Natural Resources Preservation

1. Describe how this project provides access to usable open space and preserves natural resources (land forms, habitat, views, distinctive features, etc.):

2. The project incorporates “full cut-off” lighting that reduces glare and prevents light-spill-over into adjoining properties: Yes / No

3. The proposed landscape plan utilizes drought-tolerant and native species of plants:

Yes / No Describe:

IV. Circulation/Parking

1. Planted parkways exist between sidewalks and all driveways, streets, and other paved areas: Yes / No

2. Landscape strips and planters separate buildings from sidewalks, parking or paved areas, and other structures: Yes / No

3. Parking is well landscaped and screened from public view: Yes / No Describe:

4. Surface parking lots are shaded with canopy trees: Yes / No

5. A combination of side-loading, front-loading, detached and rear garages are integrated into site design to reduce their visual impact: Yes / No Provide percentage of total parking spaces for each type:
- 3 -
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A P P L I C ATION PR O CE S S

DESIGN QUESTIONNAIRE
In an effort to ensure that projects conform to adopted design and architectural guidelines, the City has created a form that will be used in the development review process. The applicant is required to fill out this form completely and submit it as part of the application process. Refer to Appendix A for the Design Questionnaire Form. Refer to the City’s website for the Design Questionnaire Form.
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MARCH 24, 2009
CHAPTER 3

COMMUN I TYCHARACTE R I N T R O D U C T I O N
The City of Santa Clarita is located in the center of the Santa Clarita Valley Planning Area, which encompasses approximately 200 square miles.

Within this area, there are approximately 50 squaremiles that make up the City.The City of Santa Clarita is the third largest city in Los Angeles County and encompasses approx imately 73 square miles. The City contains four main communities: Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia, as well as several smaller communities such as Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon. Each one ofthese individual communities has its own identity and character. While it is important to create a “citywide” identity, it is equally important to preserve and enhance the individual community identities.

Although specific architectural character exists within each community, it is important to recognize that quality design satisfies basic guiding design principles regardless of the building’s architectural style. For example, mechanical equipment should be screened, buildings should be well proportioned, and massing should be modulated regardless of whether the architectural style is Mission Revival or Victorian. Thus, general design guidelines have been provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 78 to guide design, while this chapter builds upon these guidelines and provides supplements the other chapters by providing direction for architectural style and character for projects within each community. In addition to the guidelines provided here, special standards are located in the UDC for Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon.

In contrast to the other chapters, Chapter 5 provides both objective standards and design guidelines for multifamily and mixed-use development. Unlike the design guidelines in Chapters 4 - 7, the objective standards in Chapter 5 are mandatory rather than a dvisory. All new multifamily and mixed-use projects in the City must comply with the objective standards set forth in Chapter 5 and must be consistent with the style, material and color guidelines outlined in Chapter 3. community character

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CO M MU N I TY C HARACTER I N T R O D U C T I O N (
CONT . )
This chapter focuses primarily on Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia and integrates input obtained from the public by participating in a Visual Preference Survey,
stakeholder interviews, and several public workshops conducted during the Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan process.

Recommendations from the Citywide Design Committee, the City’s General Plan, and the existing Santa Clarita Architectural Design Guidelines have also been incorporated. This chapter contains maps defining community boundaries as well as
examples of building styles and desired materials specific to each community.

Excerpts from the Community Design Element and Land Use Element of the General Plan have been included to describe past and present design characteristics and architectural styles for each community. It is the intent of the Community Design Element and this document to provide design flexibility for urban design and architectural concepts in order to avoid architectural monotony and lack of design innovation.
3-2community character

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CANYON COU N T R Y

COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY
Canyon Country has the largest population of any community in the City and comprises the eastern portion of the City. It contains a wide range of housing types, including large-lot single-family custom homes, single-family tract homes, multi- family development, and mobile home parks. Commercial and manufacturing activities have historically been concentrated along both sides of Soledad Canyon Road and along the northern portion of Sierra Highway. However, recent development has been focused in close proximity to Golden Valley Road, the eastern section of the City’s Cross Valley Connector. The Canyon Country area is home to the Centre Pointe Business Park, which includesa large retail development and the City’s Sports Complex and an industrial hub in the Honby area. The College of the Canyons has developeda second campus on the northern section of Sierra Highway to serve the continued growth of the Canyon Country area.

The landscape and terrain in this area is arid and rugged. The architectural style tends to reflect the rural character and desert atmosphere. The commercial and industrial developments
incorporate a wide variety of architectural styles and uses. For example, along one section of Soldead Canyon Road there is an existing older mobile home park with a high density Cape Cod style condominium complex located directly to the south. Other new development includes medium-sized California ranch style homes as well as Santa Fe and Mediterranean style houses , and Contemporary styled townhomes, multifamily buildings, and commercial shopping center..

MARCH 24, 2009
CANYON

COUNTRY
VYAð
ß0t
0 0.51
Miles

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C A NYONCO U N T R Y
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Homes along the northern section of Sierra Highway are
generally rural and of very low density. Many of the homes are on custom lots with a variety of architectural styles; however, near the Sierra Highway and Soledad Canyon intersection are multi-family developments. Mediterranean and contemporary architectural styles are present. Some development has also encroached onto the hillsides and ridgelines.

The Santa Clara River isa prevalent feature in Canyon Country as it parallels large reaches of Soledad Canyon Road. The riverbed provides natural open space and presents a major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to createa greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley.

The San Canyon Special Standards District Sand Canyon area , a sub-community of Canyon Country, is located in the
southeastern part of Canyon Country and is comprised of predominantly low-density single-family residential and equestrian uses. The area is rural with extensive stands of oaks and is characterized by large, upscale single- family homes and lots. The community is accessible via Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road and is bordered on the south and east by the Angeles National Forest.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Canyon Country is a place full of community pride and rural character. Surrounded by a series of mountains and canyons that also penetrate the community, the location contributes to community members’ appreciation for the natural environment.

In addition to naturalsensitivity, Canyon Country isa community that encourages economic and cultural diversity.

The following characteristics were used to describe Canyon Country during a public workshop. •••••••
Family-oriented
Rural
Rustic
Equestrian
Country
Mountainous
River trails
••••••Outdoor-oriented
Natural
Best kept secret
Small town feel
Community involvement
Friendly
community character3- 5

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y

A R CH I TE C TU R ALCHA R A C TER &

S P E C I F I C C O M M U N I T Y N E E D S
The desired architectural character for Canyon Country is a rustic, natural, and timeless style. Heavy timber and river rock or natural stone are materials that are strongly encouraged within the community. Residents would like to see projects that incorporate water features, trellises, special paving, and plaza spaces. 3-6community character

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Packet Pg. 139 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

C A NYONCO U N T R Y

EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I AL S
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 78. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent following chapters must should be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Canyon Country.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Canyon Country community.

The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings of materials are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections. New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations.

MARCH 24, 2009 community character
3- 7

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Packet Pg. 140 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Native stone veneer. • Cement plaster stucco. • Smooth and hand-troweled stucco. • Tile. • Rough, split-face masonry. • Wood siding (vertical rough sawn board and batten siding and/or horizontal rough sawn
lap siding) or wood shingles.
• Cement/fiber siding (6-inch,8-inch, or 12-inch
horizontal siding).
• Brick.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Simulated materials such as cement brick. • T-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at 8-inch
to 12-inch increments).
• Metalsiding. • Slump stone. • Precision block. • Highly polished materials. • Spray on “Spanish lace”or knock down stucco. • Mirrorglass and heavily tinted glass. • Corrugated fiberglass. 3-8community character

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Packet Pg. 141 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Accent tile. • Stucco corbels, lintels, and sills. • Timber lintels, sills, corbels, and trusses. • Heavy wood beams. • Exposed timber rafter tails. • Clay tile vents. • Wood vents. • Recessed niches. • Arches. • Colonnades. • Deep overhangs. • Wrought iron. • Wood trellises/shading devices. • Decorative knee bracing. • Wood casement or fixed windows (multi -lite).
• Wood doors with wood trim.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Chrome. • Plastic. • Aluminum windows. • Highly polished materials. community character3- 9

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Packet Pg. 142 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not
limited to: • Clay tiles. • Cement tiles. • Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles. • Standing seam/metal roofing. • “Cool roof”built-up roofing. • Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to: • Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles. • Wood shingles/shakes. • Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels. • S-tiles. 3- 10community character

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Packet Pg. 143 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y

COLOR S
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-
coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich
complementary accents, are appropriate color choices
for Canyon Country.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three
colors are recommended.

3. Bright colored and stark white walls are discouraged.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

5. Brighter colors should be used as accents.
community character3-11

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

C A NYONCO U N T R Y

DES I GNCONS I DERAT I ON S
Many existing shopping centers within the community are in need of renovation. Facade and character upgrades can make a dramatic difference in the attractiveness and desirability of a retail property. Simple cosmetic changes such as painting, incorporating appropriate signage and lighting, and installing shading devices can significantly improve the appearance of a building. The removal of unsafe and unsightly building components, suchasdeterioratedstuccoandothermaterials, will also greatly enhance the aest hetics of the entire community. 3- 12community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

NEWHAL L

COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY
Newhall was the earliest permanent settlement in the Valley, established in 1876 in conjunction with the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This area was a typical western town of oil, mining, and railroad workers. Many residents were first attracted to Newhall because of its rural environment and open space. Early rural ranch style homes built on large lots located south of Lyons Avenue reflect the community’s sporadic and independent growth. The architecture of the Newhall homes reflects a diversity of architectural styles. The newer homes, on smaller lots, reflect popular design styles from the 1950s to the present.

Much of the early commercial development in the downtown Newhall area occupies single-story older buildings and serves neighborhoods along Newhall Avenue. Commercial
development along Lyons Avenue, with some exceptions,
follows the common style of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and includes numerous small and mid-sized wood and stucco
strip centers. Recent attempts have been made to improve the aesthetics of the commercial area by building community shopping centers that incorporate historic elements of the area.

Examples of building styles include Spanish buildings with terra cotta tile roofs, a Victorian-style shopping center, and western- theme buildings.

MARCH 24, 2009 community character
3-13
YðAV
ßt NEWHALL
0 0.51
Miles

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

N EWHALL
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Along the southern end of Newhall Avenue are several small, one-story, older neighborhood commercial uses. Further to the north, along Newhall Avenue adjoining the railroad tracks, are older industrial developments. Many of the industrial and commercial land uses along this strip of road are surrounded by vacant lots.

Newhall has developed very much on its own, without regard to any particular architectural style,street development standards, or consistent streetscapes. Large stands of oak trees are scattered throughout the community. Prior to the completion of the interstatesystem, Newhall Avenue, formerly known as San Fernando Road, was a principal link in the historic circulation system between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. The roadway still serves as one of the key traffic arteries within the City.

The Old Town Downtown Newhall Specific Plan, adopted in December of 2005 and revised in May of 2022, sets design parameters for sub-areas throughout the downtown area that complement the following Newhall- wide design guidelines.

The Old TownDowntown Newhall Specific Plan document goes into greater detail by identifying specific forms and details that fit the architectural types that are prescribed for the downtown area. The quality of architecture, however, must meet the directives of this Community Character and Design Guidelines document.
3- 14community character
MARCH 24, 2009

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Placerita Canyon Special Standards District , a subcommunity of Newhall, is a rural and oak-studded residential area northeast of downtown Newhall. Equestrian-oriented residential areas placed among oak woodlands typify most of the development in the area. A substantial amount of new home construction has occurred in recent years. Historically, the area contained scattered ranches, some of which remain today. Newer homes include Tudor, Ranch, French Country, Victorian, and other styles on larger lots of one-half acre or greater. Oil fields are located in the eastern portion of the canyon, west of SR-14. East of the freeway, Placerita Canyon Special Standards District is predominantly undeveloped, with much of the land as part of the Angeles National Forest. The Placerita Canyon Special Standards District area is also home to the Master’s
UniversityCollege , Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch Motion P icture Studio, and the Placerita Canyon Nature Center.

Newhall isa community rich in history. Evolving from an Indian trading center to an important destination in the quests for gold and then oil, itsoon becamea railroad flag stop of general stores, saloons, and churches. As the film industry grew, Newhall became the home of early western silent screen movies.
community character3-15

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
These strong roots are still very important to the residents of Newhall. The passion for history and love of the old film stars help to identify the essence of Newhall.

The following characteristics were used to describe Newhall during public workshops. • Westernmovies • William S. Hart • Passion for history • Cowboys • Melody Ranch – filming • Rich cultural heritage • Oak of the Golden Dream • Oil fields (Mentryville) • Community involvement 3- 16community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL

DOWNTOWNNEW H AL L
The Old Town Downtown Newhall Specific Plan regulates the downtown area and establishes a direction for architectural styles and character in the area. Any project within the Old TownDowntown Newhall Specific Plan Area will be required to comply with the Old Town Downtown Newhall Specific Plan in- lieu of these guidelines.
community character3-17

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL

A R CH I TE C TU R ALCHA R A C TER &

S P E C I F I C C O M M U N I T Y N E E D S
Newhall’s downtown core possesses a historic feel consisting primarily of Victorian, Western,and Mission Revival architecture.

Outside of the downtown core the architecture takes ona variety of styles, but the historic flavor influences new development.

Residents feel that outside of the district, quality materials and good site and building design are more important than theme architecture. Developers should be encouraged to capture the essence of Newhall without being tied toa specific architectural style.
3- 18community character

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Packet Pg. 151 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL

EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I AL S
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 78. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequentfollowing chapters mustshould be reviewed in
conjunction with this section when building in Newhall.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed forthe Newhall community. The materialslisted as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design, rather than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections.

New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations.
community character3-19

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Packet Pg. 152 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Native stone veneer. • Cement plaster stucco. • Smooth and hand-troweled stucco. • Tile. • Horizontal siding of wood or fiber cement board (6-inch,8-inch, or 12-inch
exposures).
• Cement/fiber siding (6-inch,8-inch, 12-inch
horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • T
-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood
with vertical grooves at8-inch to 12-inch
increments).
• Highly polished materials. • Mirrorglass and heavily tinted glass. • Corrugated metal/fiberglass panels. • Metalsiding. • Spray-on or knock-down stucco. • Exposed steel framing. 3- 20community character

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Packet Pg. 153 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Accent tile. • Stucco corbels, lintels, sills. • Timber lintels, sills, corbels. • Clay tile vents. • Wood vents. • Recessed niches. • Arches. • Colonnades. • Wrought iron. • Canvas awnings, wood porches, and balconies/ shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Plastic. • Chrome. • Aluminum windows. • Highly polished materials. community character3-21

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Packet Pg. 154 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not
limited to: • Clay tiles. • Cement tiles. • Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles. • Metalroofing. • “Cool roof”built-up roofing. • Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials and colors include, but are not limited to: • Maxitile (simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles).
• Corrugated metal/ fiberglass panels. • Bright or dark-colored roofing. • S-tiles. 3- 22community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL

COLOR S
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-
coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Given the Victorian architectural influence, a broader spectrum of colors is desirable in Newhall.

2. Muted shades of virtually any color is appropriate.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Brighter colors should be used as accents.
community character3-23

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

N EWHALL

DES I GNCONS I DERAT I ON S
Although a variation in architectural style is encouraged throughout the community, San Fernando Road warrants
special consideration. The Santa Clarita Beautification Master Plan identifies it as a primary corridor within the community and, consequently, projects should be designed to prominently address the street edge. Projects should incorporate a
landscaped parkway and, where possible, a split rail fence.

Buildings should be placed at the street edge with parking located behind.
3- 24community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

SAUGU S

COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY
Established in 1887, Saugus is named for the Massachusetts birthplace of founder Henry Mayo Newhall and owes its
existence to the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Similar to Newhall in its early development, Saugus began as a rural community with large residential lots and open spaces.

The residential areas of Saugus are located in Seco Canyon and Bouquet Canyon, with townhouses located on the heights above the junction of the two canyons. Much of the development in Saugus has moved into the canyon and hill areas in a series of suburban tracts. Many of the older homes are California ranch style. Strip commercial centers, prevalent in Saugus along Soledad Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road, consist
primarily of stucco, wood, and Spanish styles with terra cotta tile roofs.

The natural areas remaining in the center of the City known as the Whittaker-Bermite property presenta major opportunity for enhancement of the area and the ability to create a greenbelt connecting the community with other areas of the Valley. The northern part of Saugus is hilly, the streets are tree-lined, and much of this area is covered with natural vegetation. The Saugus area is home to Central Park, the City’s largest park and outdoor recreation facility, which includes numerous multi-purpose fields and amenities.

MARCH 24, 2009 community character
3-25
SAUGUS
VðAY
ßt
0 0.51
Miles

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Residents of Saugus think of themselves as a family-oriented, rural community. They value the surrounding canyons, the abundance of cottonwoods, and the rustic and ranch character of the community. Local residences used the following
characteristics to describe Saugus during a public workshop. •••••••••• Old mining community
Ranching community
Community of homes
Family-oriented
Hillside community
Open space
Canyons
Middle of the valley
Small business
Cottonwoods
••Natural wildlife
Gateway to natural
forest
• Large lots • Rustic • Home to the road
runner
• Sycamore and oak trees • Soft natural green look
rather than clipped
manicured look
3- 26community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS

A R CH I TE C TU R ALCHA R A C TER &

S P E C I F I C C O M M U N I T Y N E E D S
Saugus is one of the oldest communities within the City and for the most part is completely built-out. For this reason, the majority of the future projects within this community will be commercial building and shopping center rehabilitation.

Members of the Saugus community have expressed a desire to see the existing stark white commercial architecture that lacks detail and overhangs updated in order to create aesthetically pleasing and well designed shopping areas. Renovation and/ or expansion raises proper ty values, reinforces or improves the character of the community, and inspires other property owners and designers to make improvements to their properties, which in turn enhances the entire community.
community character3-27

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

S AUGUS

EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I AL S
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 78. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in the subsequent following chapters mustshould be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Saugus.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed forthe Saugus community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while those listed as“inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections.

New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations.
3- 28community character MARCH 24, 2009

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Packet Pg. 161 Attachment: Exhibit B - ODS -Redline (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential

SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Natural stone veneer. • Float finished stucco. • Tile. • Flash fired brick. • Precast concrete. • Concrete. • Wood shingles/shakes. • Smooth sand finished hand troweled stucco. • Hand troweled plaster surfaces.

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Simulated materials such as cement brick. • T-111 siding (4 -foot by 8-foot plywood with vertical grooves at8-inch to 12-inch
increments).
• Metalsiding. • Slump stone. • Precision block. • Highly polished materials. • Spray on “Spanish lace”or knock down stucco. • Mirrorglass and heavily tinted glass. • Corrugated fiberglass. community character3-29

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Ornamental tile for accent. • Build up stucco relief. • Prefabricated molding forms. • Inlaid tile. • Painted wainscoting. • Natural stone. • Wrought iron. • Clay tile vents. • Wood attic vents. • Timber lintels. • Recessed niches.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Plastic. • Chrome. • Aluminum windows. • Highly polished materials. 3- 30community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not
limited to: • Clay tiles. • Concrete roof tiles. • Dimensional asphalt/composite shingles. • Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to: • Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles. • Wood shingles/shakes. • Built-up flat roofing. • Fiber cement units that imitate slate, wood shakes, or mission tile.
•S-tiles.
community character3-31

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS

COLOR S
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-
coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Light, subtle, earth tones such as tan, beige, sand, and cream, used in conjunction with bold, rich
complementary accents, are appropriate color choices
for Saugus.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three
colors are recommended.

3. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.

4. Dark blue and brightly colored roofing is expressly
discouraged, as are vibrantly colored and stark white
walls.
3- 32community character

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S AUGUS

DES I GNCONS I DERAT I ON S
Existing parking lots lack shade trees, landscaping, and pedestrian amenities. Community members feel that the
addition of these site features would improve the shopping experience and encourage shoppers to stay within the
community to make their purchases.
community character3-33

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

VALENC I A

COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY
The community of Valencia is part of the original 37,500 acre Newhall Ranch , a Mexican land grant now owned by the
Newhall Land and Farming Company. Named after a city in Spain, Valencia was dedicated in 1965 and developed as a planned community. Residential, commercial, and industrial developments form the basic community structure and are supported by additional shopping centers,recreational facilities, schools, colleges, a hospital, golf courses, professional offices, and other support services that are connected by a system of walkways called “paseos”. The community is home to the local Los Angeles County Civic Center, College of the Canyons, and California Institute of the Arts.

The southern section of Valencia was first developed in the late 1960s and reflects the architectural style of that period. These neighborhoods include the areas along Orchard Village Road, Wiley Canyon Road, and McBean Parkway, which feature
relatively homogeneous suburban tract housing. The homes are on medium-sized landscaped lots. The streets were designed and planned for residential uses and landscaped to create a community atmosphere.
3- 34community character MARCH 24, 2009
VALENCIA VYAð
0tß
0 0.51
Miles

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

VALENC I A
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(C O NT . )
Recent residential development has occurred in the hilly section of Valencia north of Newhall Ranch Road. These homes reflect several different modern architectural styles. The
neighborhoods are planned with paseos, parks, and other amenities.

Commercial uses in Valencia were planned and located in centers such as the regional mall, Town Center Drive, auto row, and smaller neighborhood centers. These centers incorporate a Spanish and Mediterranean architectural style.

Industrial land use in the area is located in a business and industrial center in the northern section of the area near Rye Canyon Road. The area contains wide streets with generous landscaped setbacks and one to three-story buildings.
community character3-35

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VALENC I A
COMMUN I TY I DENT I TY(CONT . )
Although it is probably the most urban community in Santa Clarita, Valencia still has a touch of rural character. It is the combination of lush landscaping, urban architecture, and sophistication in a suburban setting that defines Valencia’s character. The following characteristics were used to describe Valencia during a public workshop. • Family • High quality of life • Cleanliness • Paseo system • Safe and secure • Lush landscaping • Pedestrian friendly • Well lit • Tight knit community • Stability of real estate values • Community pride • Pristine marketing corridor 3- 36community character

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MARCH 24, 2009

VALENC I A

A R CH I TE C TU R ALCHA R A C TER &

S P E C I F I C C O M M U N I T Y N E E D S
Much of the desired architectural character for Valencia is established by the currently existing buildings. The mixture of bright colors, natural materials,and contemporary design create a favorable array of architectural style within the community.

The area with the most potential for new development is the industrial center. Architects are encouraged to provide innovative designs with unique forms and articulation on all sides of the building. Careful planning for employee break areas and outdoor seating is also a concern. These spaces should be designed, not just created within left over areas, and should include special paving and furnishings.
community character3-37

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VALENC I A

EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I AL S
These guidelines are intended to complement the general guidelines provided in Chapter 4 - Chapter 78. The basic recommendations for color and material selection in t he subsequent chapters must should be reviewed in conjunction with this section when building in Valencia.

The following listings of appropriate and inappropriate materials were developed for the Valencia community. The materials listed as “appropriate” have generally stood the test of time as having desirable aesthetic qualities, while the materials listed as “inappropriate” have failed to withstand the test of time. Certain materials have been omitted because the success or failure of these materials has traditionally had more to do with the overall design than the materials selected.

These listings are intended to provide general guidance, and are not intended to be exhaustive; designers should not feel that they must limit their material palette to the following selections.

New materials and refined fabrication methods are continually being introduced, and Santa Clarita encourages designers to take advantage of these innovations.
3- 38community character
MARCH 24, 2009

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MARCH 24, 2009

VALENC I A
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

1. Appropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • Native stone veneer. • Cement plaster stucco. • Smooth and hand-troweled stucco. • Tile. • Wood siding/shingles. • Cement/fiber siding (6-inch, 8-inch, or 12 -inch
horizontal siding).

2. Inappropriate primary wall surfaces include, but are not limited to: • T
-111 siding (4-foot by 8-foot plywood
with vertical grooves at8-inch to 12-inch
increments).
• Highly polished materials. • Mirroror heavily tinted glazing. • Corrugated metal/fiberglass panels. • Metalsiding. • Spray-on or knock-down stucco. • Exposed steel framing. community character3-39

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VALENC I A
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

3. Appropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Accent tile. • Stucco corbels, lintels, sills. • Timber lintels, sills, corbels. • Clay tile vents. • Wood vents. • Recessed niches. • Arches. • Colonnades. • Wrought iron. • Wood trellises/shading devices.

4. Inappropriate wall articulation and accents include, but are not limited to: • Plastic. • Chrome. • Aluminum windows. • Highly polished materials. 3- 40community character

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VALENC I A
EXTER I ORBU I LD I NG M ATER I ALS ( CONT . )

5. Appropriate roofing materials include, but are not
limited to: • Clay tiles. • Cement tiles. • Dimensional asphalt/ composite shingles. • Metalroofing. • “Cool roof”built-up roofing. • Traditional tapered barrel tiles.

6. Inappropriate roofing materials include, but are not limited to: • Simulated clay or concrete roofing tiles. • Wood shingles/shakes. • Corrugated metal/fiberglass panels. • S-tiles. community character3-41

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VALENC I A

COLOR S
The following guidelines are intended to promote well-
coordinated color palettes that integrate with the other exterior features of a building.

1. Bold, rich colors such as rust, ocher, and olive greens are appropriate in Valencia.

2. Simple color schemes involving a maximum of three
colors are recommended.

3. Stark white walls are discouraged unless used where
authentically appropriate, such as on a Mission style
building.

4. Certain materials, such as stone and brick, have distinct coloring in their natural state and should be thought of as an element of the color palette used. These materials should not be painted.
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VALENC I A

DES I GNCONS I DERAT I ON S
Valencia has become a community that supports progressive thinking and creativity through the built form. In addition to showcasing successful contemporary architecture, Valencia has become a street-side gallery for public art. To continue the infusion of art throughout the community, each project should consider what is appropriate to their location and scale and design an integrated place to exhibit public artwork. The public art for each project, regardless of size or visual impact, will, in time, significantly contribute to the richness of Valencia. community character3-43

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TH I S PAGE I NTENT I ONALLY LEFT BLAN K
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CHAPTER 5

MULT I -FAM I LYRES I DENT I A L & MIXED-USE

O BJECTIVEDESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES

INTRODUC TION
Introduction has been re written to address chang es to Chapter

5. Multi-family developments are higher density residential buildings such as apartments, condominiums, and townhomes.

These developments are typically comprised of attached units with common facilities such as parking, open space, and recreation areas. This chapter provides general guidelines for the design of multi-family development in all areas of the City, with the exception of Specific Plan areas. The provisions of this section should apply to any addition, remodeling, relocation, or construction requiring a building permit within the City.

The following topics are addressed:

1. Site Planning and Design

2. Building Design

3. Utilitarian Aspects
Note: “Green Building” principles are identified with an oak tree symbol.

A Process section has been added to provide direction for applicants.

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SITE PLANNING&DESIGN
The primary project objective mustshould be on constructinga high quality residential environment. Residential developments surrounded by high walls, parking lots, and rows of carports and/or garages along public streets should be avoided.

1. The design of multi-family developments should
consider compatibility with the surrounding
neighborhood.

2. Dwellings should incorporate porches, trellises,

3. 4.
landscaping, and other featuresto extend the living area toward the street and soften the transition between the street and the dwelling. When placed correctly, these
elements can also provide shading.

Incompatible uses, such as industrial operations, auto
repair, etc., should be buffered from residential
development. Intensified landscaping, increased
setbacks, and building orientation should be utilized as a means of providing adequate separation between
such land uses.

New structures should be clustered. Clustering creates
plazas or pedestrian malls and prevents long “barrack-
like” or continuous rows of structures.
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M0A8RCH 24,2009

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
SITE PLANNING&DESIGN(CONT . )

5. Buildings should be placed close to, and oriented toward, the street. (Rewritten as a standard).

6.5.Natural amenities such as views, mature trees, creeks, riparian corridors, and similar features unique to the site should be preserved.

7. Where possible, utilize courtyards or other methods
to break up the building mass and provide natural
ventilation. (Rewritten as a standard).

8.6.Building placement should not limit solar access by shading adjacent rooftops.

9.7.Orient buildings on an east/west axis to maximize the use of natural daylighting.

10.8. Narrow floor plan depths should be used to
maximize daylight, exterior views, and natural
ventilation. Use a courtyard atria to bring light and air into interior spaces.
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99 S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

S I TEGRAD I N G
Development should relate to the natural surroundings and minimize grading by following the natural contours as much as possible.

1. Graded slopes should be rounded and contoured to
blend with the existing terrain.

2. Significant natural vegetation should be retained and incorporated into the project whenever possible. Hillside landscaping should be used to minimize the project’s
potential visual impacts.

3. The natural contours of the land should be respected when developing on sloped properties. Terraced
parking lots, stepped building pads, and larger setbacks should be used to preserve the general shape of natural landforms and to minimize grade differentials with
adjacent streets and adjoining properties.
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

VEHICULAR ACCESS, CIRCULATION&PARKING
Site plans should balance the need to provide adequate
vehicular access with the need to eliminate unnecessary driveway entrances and should provide access points that are coordinated with other properties.

1. Long rows of garages or parking spaces should be
avoided. (Rewritten as a standard).

2. The site area adjacent to the street should not be
dominated with parking. Parking should be
concentrated in areas behind buildings and away from
the street when possible. (Rewritten as a standard).

3. Dwelling units should be visible from the parking areas servicing the units.

4. Large projects should break up parking areas into a
series of smaller connected parking areasto create visual interest and reduce “heat island” effects. (Rewritten as a standard).

5. Parking areas should be separated from a building with botha raised pedestrian sidewalk (minimum4-foot) and
a landscape strip (minimum 8-foot).

6. Parking lots should be landscaped with shade trees per UDC requirements.

7. Parking lots should provide areas for bicycle and
motorcycle parking.
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PARK I NG LOTAREASCREEN I N G
Screening should be provided at the edge of all parking areas.

1. A landscaping buffer should be provided between
parking areas and public rights-of-way. The landscaped
buffer area should not be included when calculating the minimum five percent landscaping within the parking
lot interior. This buffer should be designed to provide stormwater retention through swales, sumps, etc.

2. A 36-inch to 42-inch high berm, headlight hedge, or
masonry wall should be used to screen any parking at
the street periphery. Breaksshould be provided to allow pedestrian circulation. A combination of walls, berms,
and landscape material is highly recommended.
(Rewritten as a standard).

3.2.Where topography allows, parking lots could also be located above or below the adjacent street grade to
effectively screen parking without the addition of
substantial screen walls or landscaping.

4.3.Parking lots graded atleast 48-inches below the adjacent street grade will effectively be screened without the
addition ofa 36-inch to 42-inch high wall or landscaping, but the hillside should still be landscaped. (Rewritten as a standard).

5.4.Both sides of all perimeter walls or fences should be architecturally treated. Walls should be finished and
designed to complement the surrounding development.

Long expanses of fence or wall surfaces should be offset and architecturally designed to prevent monotony.

Landscape pockets should be provided. (Rewritten as a
standard).
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

ENTRYDR I VE S
Easily identifiable and aesthetically pleasing entrances designed to complement the style of the project should be provided.

1. The principal vehicular access intoa multi-family housing project should be through an entry drive rather than
a parking drive. Colored, textured, and/or permeable
paving treatments at entry drives are encouraged.
(Rewritten as a standard).

2. A combination of the following accent features shall be incorporated into the project entry: • Ornamental landscaping. • Landscaped medians (minimum seven feet). • Waterfeatures. • Architectural monuments. • Decorative walls. • Enhanced paving (colored, textured, and/or permeable).(Rewritten as a standard).

3.1.Project entry features should reflect the overall
architectural identity or character of the development.

4. Driveway entries should align with existing or planned median openings and adjacent driveways.

5. The number of site access points should be minimized. multi-family residential5-7

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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PEDESTR I ANACCES S
Parking areas should be designed so that cars and pedestrians are separated.

1. The need for pedestrians to cross parking aisles should be minimized. Landscape island walkways should be
used to connect parking and building entries. (Rewritten as a standard).

2. Pedestrian linkages to nearby neighborhoods and other commercial projects should be provided. (Rewritten as a standard).

3. Provide easily identifiable pedestrian access from the street and/or sidewalk to key areas within the site. The on-site pedestrian circulation system should be directly connected to off-site public sidewalks. (Rewritten as a standard).

4.1.Meandering paths are generally preferred over long
straight path alignments.

5.2.Paths made from permeable materials, such as
decomposed granite, can createa more park-like setting
and allow for stormwater percolation.

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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PAV I NGTREATMEN T
Specialty paving should be provided adjacent to building entries or facades, in plazas and courtyards or seating areas, at intersections, at mid-block between buildings, and adjacent to parks.

1. Patterns and colors should be installed in paving
treatments using tile, brick, or textured concrete in order to provide clearidentification ofpedestrian access points into buildings, parking features (i.e., handicap spaces, pedestrian loading, bus stops/pull-outs, etc.), entry
drives, and pedestrian crossings within the site.
(Rewritten as a standard).

2. Permeable surfaces, such as loose aggregate, paving
stones, permeable concrete pavers, or wooden decks,
should be used for pedestrian surfaces. (Rewritten as a standard).

3.2.Specify reuse of materials such as brick and flagstone where possible.

4. Install surfaces that encourage pedestrian traffic and stormwater infiltration, such as porous asphalt, paver
blocks, lattice blocks, and grasscrete, whenever traffic requirements allow or as required by the Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan. (Rewritten as a standard).

5.3.Light colored paving should be incorporated near
buildings to reduce the amount of heat radiating onto
buildings and people.

MARCH 24, 2009

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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

GARAGE S &ACCESSO R Y STRUCTURE S
Garages, carports, and other accessory structures should be designed as integral parts of the development.

1. Garages and parking areas should be located to have the least amount of visual impact on the street.

2. When viewed from the street, garages should be
subordinate to the main living area. Where possible, the garage should be recessed behind the dwelling unit and
not located between the main living area and the street.

3. Garage doors should be recessed into, rather than flush with, the exterior wall. (Rewritten as a standard).

4. Detached garages and accessory structures should be
designed as an integral part of the architecture of the project and should be similar in materials, color, and
detail to the principal structures of a development.
(Rewritten as a standard).

5. Detached garages and accessory structures should
incorporate roof slopes and materials similar to the
principal structures of a development. Flat roofs are
discouraged.
5-10multi-family residential

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MARCH 24, 2009

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PUBL I CSPACE , COMMON AMENITIES, PARKLAN D
&TRA I L S
Public or private common open space, as well as pedestrian connections to such spaces, should be provided to enhance the living environment and contribute toa walkable neighborhood character.

1. Residents of housing projects should have safe, efficient, and convenient access to usable open space, whether
public or private, for recreation and social activities.

2. Convenient access to public or private parks should
be incorporated into the project by way of bicycle and
pedestrian pathways. (Rewritten as a standard).

3.1.A transition area should be provided between new
development and adjacent open space to preserve the
rural feel of the Valley.

4.2.A river-oriented recreational greenbelt and trails system should be constructed along the Santa Clara River to tie together the communities of Santa Clarita.

5. Where possible, connections should be provided
between neighborhood parks and the larger
community-wide park system, i.e. jogging and hiking
trails, bicycle paths, and/or equestrian trail links.
(Rewritten as a standard).

6.3.Bicycle and pedestrian pathways should accessa project at visually pleasing locations rather than service areas.

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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
PUBL I CSPACE , PARKLAN D & TRA I LS ( CO N T . )

7. Open space should focus on areas that are usable to the residents and not merely remainder parcels with
marginal utility.

8. Infrastructure elements such as stormwater retention basins should be incorporated into the overall open
space plan.

9.8.Buildings, parking areas, and open space should be
arranged to minimize the use of sound walls next to
freeway, arterial, and/or collector streets.
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

NATURALRESOURCESPRESERVAT I O N
Careful planning shall be taken into consideration when working in sensitive natural or native areas. Prominent and distinctive natural features of the community should be preserved and integrated as open space for the use and visual enjoyment of all City residents.

1. Building and landscaping design should complement
and respect environmentally sensitive areas such as the Santa Clara River corridor or those designated in the Best Management Practices Guidebook.

2. Attractive natural amenities, such as rock outcroppings, vegetation, streams, and drainage areas, should be
incorporated into the development of projects to protect the environment and provide landscape orientation,
visual interest, scale, and/or recreational opportunities.

3. Major landforms, such as ridgelines, natural
drainageways, streams, rivers, valleys, and significant vegetation, should be retained, especially where these
features contribute to the overall community identity.

4. Open space and recreational uses tied to the Santa Clara River corridor as identified in the Land Use Element and Open Space Plan should be preserved and enhanced.

5. All oak tree preservation ordinances shall apply to all work proposed in areas where native oak trees exist.
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NATURALRESOURCESPRESERVAT I ON(CONT . )

6. Development should be clustered on less

7. 8.

9. environmentally sensitive areas of the site to maximize open space preservation and resource protection.

New developments should consider, preserve, and/or
improve natural conditions on or adjacent to the site,
such as wildlife habitats, streams, creeks, and views.

Where appropriate, new developments should restore
riparian habitats to a natural state.

A transition between development and adjacent open
space, sensitive areas, and/or forest lands should be
designed to help preserve the rural character of the
Valley. Transitions may include larger lots, buffer areas, and landscaping to blend development with the
surrounding open area.
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PLANT I NGDES I G N
Plants should be used to define building entrances, parking lots, and the edges of various land uses. Plants should also be used to buffer and screen neighboring properties. Consider safety, environmental impacts, and accent elements when selecting and locating landscaping features.

1. Plants should include 24-inch, 36-inch and 48-inch box trees (15-gallon size in slopes), 5- gallon and 15-gallon size shrubs, and ground cover.

2. Trees and shrubs should be located and adequately
spaced to allow for mature and long-term growth. Trees
and shrubs that create minimal root problems should be
selected.

3.1.Treesshould be used to create an intimate scale, enclose spaces, and frame views, but placement should respect
the long-range views of surrounding neighbors.

4.2.Seasonal shading from trees and shrubs on southern
and western facades should be used when developing
planting schemes for courtyards and streetscapes.

Deciduous trees provide solar control during summer
and winter while providing fall color, seasonal flow er, and other desired effects.

5.3.Accent planting should be used around entries and key activity hubs.
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S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
PLANT I NGDES I GN(CONT . )

6.4.Vines and potted plants should be used to provide wall, column, and post texture and color, as well as to
accentuate entryways, courtyards, and sidewalks.

7.5.Nuisance trees that drop flowers and fruit should be avoided near pedestrian walkways to maintain clear
paths of travel.

8.6.Lawn areas should be planted to serve a functional
purpose. Turf installation should be limited due to high watering needs. Sod should be used forturf installation.

Special permission should be obtained from the City to
install lawns by seeding.

9. Plantsshould be grouped into high and low maintenance zones and high and low traffic areas.

10. Street trees should be located no closer than five feet to utilities.

11. Street trees should be located no closer than ten feet to street lights, unless otherwise directed by the City.
(Rewritten as a standard).

12.7. Lineal root barriers should be installed at each tree planted within six feet of the curb or walk. Root barriers on the curb side should be 24 inches deep and root
barriers on the walkway side should be 18 inches deep.

Root barriers should extend six feet to each side of the trunk of the tree.
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PLANT I NGDES I GN(CONT . )

13. Drought tolerant grasses should be used for lawn areas where possible.

14. All plants should be coordinated with irrigation plans.

Native and low water use plants should be used in
conjunction with an efficient water system, such as drip irrigation. Drip irrigation systems should be used in all areas except for turf irrigation and small ornamental
plantings. The irrigation systems should be designed to apply water slowly allowing plants to be deep watered.

Each streettree should be watered by two deep watering
bubblers separate from all other irrigation.

15. Irrigation systems should utilize water conserving
methods and incorporate water efficient technologies
such as drip emitters, sub-grade capillary action
irrigation for turf areas, evapotranspiration controllers, and moisture sensors. (Rewritten as a standard).

16.15. Explore opportunities to reuse rain water and/or grey water for irrigation.
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PLANT I NGDES I GN(CONT . )

17. Plants located directly below the eaves or ata rain gutter outlet should be sturdy and havea subsurface matrix of
rootsto tolerateheavy sheet flow and periodic saturation consistent with the Standard Urban Stormwater
Mitigation Plan. Urban runoff can be greatly reduced by diverting stormwater from impervious areas, such as
concrete surfaces, to planted areas. Infiltration basins where water can seep into the ground should be used.

18. Due to challenging soil conditions found throughout the Valley, extra care should be given to prepare and
apply soil amendments prior to planting. “Structural
soil” should be considered for tree planting in areasthat might be subject to compaction, such as street edges,
narrow medians, and parking lots.

19. Long-term soil stabilization should be considered when developinga landscape plan. Stabilization can be
achieved by planting native vegetation, including, but
not limited to, native grass, sod, trees,shrubs, vines and/ or other ground covering. (Rewritten as a standard).
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
PLANT I NGDES I GN(CONT . )

20. Short lived plants, plants susceptible to disease, and large expanses of single plant varieties should be avoided due to an unchanging appearance and the potential for
complete loss of landscaping if struck with disease.

21. Planting should be used to screen less desirable areas from public view, i.e., trash enclosures, parking areas, storage areas, loading areas, public utilities, and
mechanical equipment. (Rewritten as a standard).

22. The applicant, architect, and/or landscape architect should consult with the Fire Marshall for“Interface Zone” requirements.(Rewritten as a standard).

23. All plants should be compatible with Sunset Western Garden Book’s climate zone 18.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN

PARK I NG LOTAREAPLANT I N G
Provide well planted parking areas. Plants should create a functional and attractive parking environment.

1. Parking lot trees with 30 to 40-foot canopies should be planted to shade parked cars and create a more attractive environment.

2. Consideration of plant materials adjacent to parking spaces should be a priority. Thorns, stickers, and sharp leaves should be avoided.

3. Landscape islands should bea minimum of five feet wide to allow tree growth and to avoid hitting tree trunks.

4. Wheremore than ten automobile parking spaces exist on a lot or parcel of land, areas not used for vehicle parking and maneuvering, or for the movement of pedestrians
to and from vehicles, should be used for plants to reduce “heat island” effects. The required trees should be
distributed throughout the parking lot to maximize the
aesthetic effect and compatibility with adjoining uses.

5. Parking spaces should be allowed to overhang into a
planted areaa maximum of two feet. However, the two
feet encroachment and the required protective curb
area should be counted only as a part of the length of
the parking stall and should not be calculated as planted area or setback. (Rewritten as a standard).

6. All planted areasshould be bordered bya concrete curb adjacent to the parking surface that isa minimum of five inches high. (Rewritten as a standard).
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
multi-family residential

BU I LD I NGDES I G N
Building forms and facades influence cohesiveness, comfort, and aesthetic pride and can generate pedestrian activity and increasea sense of security. Any good design should take into consideration fundamental design principals including continuity, mass, scale, rhythm, and proportion. All new buildings and remodels should incorporate 360-degree
architecture, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation.

The following guidelines are intended to provide a general framework for design, and do not mandate specific architectural styles, themes, or details. Chapter 3 of this document should be consulted prior to developing building design drawings to ensure that the appropriate community character is
incorporated into the building design. The City will be open to considering innovative, alternative design concepts that were not envisioned at the time that these guidelines were written; however an attempt should be made to comply with the general intent of the guidelines provided.

MARCH 24, 2009 multi
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 B U I L D I N G D E S I G N M ASS I NGAND ARTICULATION Introduction text was rewritten.

Mass is defined as a three-dimensional form, such as a cube, box, cylinder, pyramid, or cone. The way the forms are sized directly relates to the way building elements are emphasized or de-emphasized. Voids or open spaces in the forms can change the form’s appearance and make the building more interesting and less imposing.

1. Large projects should be broken up into groups of
structures of various heights. (Rewritten as a standard).

2.1.Several smaller, compact building footprints, rather than one large building, should be used to provide an
intimate scale and a more efficient envelope for
optimizing daylighting and passive solar heating and
cooling functions.

3. Buildings designs should include a combination of the following techniques: • Variation in the wall plane (projecting and recessed elements).
• Variation in wall height. • Roofs located at different levels.(Rewritten as a standard). 5-22

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential
Changes in Massing Detail
MARCH 24, 2009

BU I L D I N G D ES I GN
MASS I NG(C O NT . )

4. Combinations of one, one and one half, and two story units should be used to create visual interest and
variation in the massing and building height.

5. Where appropriate,the upper stories of new multi-family buildings should be stepped back to reduce the scale of facades that face the street, courtyards, or open space areas.

6.5.Structures with greater height should include additional setbacks and steps within the massing to create a
transition in heights from adjacent properties and to
avoid dominating the character of the neighborhood.

7. Vertical elements such as towers may be used to accent horizontal massing and provide visual interest.
(Rewritten as a standard).
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 B U I L D I N G D E S I G N S C A L E Scale is the proportion of one object to another. “Human” or “intimate” scale incorporates building and landscape elements that are modest in size. “Monumental” scale incorporates large or grand building elements. The individual components of the building also have relationships to each other and to the building as a whole, which contributes to the overall scale of a building.

1. Building scale should be reduced through the proper
use of window patterns, structural bays, roof overhangs, wall materials, awnings, moldings, fixtures, and other
details.(Rewritten as a standard).

2. Architectural details and materials on lower walls that relate to human scale such as arches,trellises,or awnings should be utilized. (Rewritten as a standard).

3. Window distribution and shape can be a significant
building scale determinant.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential

BU I L D I N G D ES I GN

ART I CULAT I O N
Building designers should incorporate 360-degree architecture in all buildings, which is the full articulation of all building facades, including variation in massing, roof forms, wall planes, and surface articulation.

1. Long, unbroken facades and box-like forms should be
avoided. Elements such as balconies, porches, arcades,
dormers, and cross gables should be used to add visual
interest.(Rewritten as a standard).

2. To the extent possible, each of the dwelling units should be individually recognizable. The following methods
could be used to break up building massing: • Vary front setbacks within same structure. • Stagger and jog unit planes. • Design a maximum of two adjacent units with identical wall and roof lines.
• Vary building orientations to avoid monotony and long garage door corridors.

3. Building facades should be well-articulated with
windows, wall articulations, moldings, pilasters, trellises, exposed chimneys, variation of building materials, etc.

Blank walls should be avoided. (Rewritten as a standard).

4.2.Buildings should be designed with the integration of varied texture, relief, and design accents on all walls.

MARCH 24, 2009

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential B U I L D I N G D E
S I GN
ART I CULAT I ON ( CO N T . )

5. Acknowledging sensitivity to a budget, it is expected that the highest level of articulation will occur on the front facade and facades visible from public streets.

However, similar massing, materials, and details should be incorporated into all building e levations.

6. There should be a change in wall planes on all sides of the structure visible from a public street. Wall planes should not run in one continuous direction for more
than 50 feet without a significant offset. (Rewritten as a standard).

7. Architectural elements that add visual interest, scale, and character, such as recessed or projecting balconies, trellises, recessed windows, insets, verandas, porches, and materials and textures are strongly encouraged.

These featuresshould be used to create shadow patterns
that contribute to a building’s character. (Rewritten as a standard).

8.3.Building elements and details should be consistent with the chosen architectural style.

9.4.Surface detailing should not serve as a substitute for well integrated and distinctive massing.

10. Guardrails or low walls should be utilized on balconies and porches where necessary for safety purposes.

11. Chimneys should be exposed as architectural features rather than hidden within a wall surface. Chimney caps
should be decorative and conceal spark arrestors.
ulti-family residential
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 B U I L D I N G D E S I G N R O O F F O R M S Roofs should reflecta residential appearance through roof pitch and material selection.

1. Roof lines should be varied in height, and long horizontal roof lines should be broken up. (Rewritten as a
standard).

2.1.Roofs covering the entire building, such as hips and gables, are preferred over mansard roofs.

3. Roof materials, colors, and forms should be consistent with the desired architecture.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER & DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential
Locate large planters
over structural columns
Lightweight sod roof
Retention Baffles
Waterproof
membrane
Lightweight, low
water-retention
soil mix
MARCH 24, 2009

B U I L D I N G D E S I G N

R O O F G A R D E N S
Gardens on balconies, terraces, and roofs add visual interest, provide habitat for wildlife, slow stormwater runoff, and create opportunities for decorative gardens.

1. Incorporate roof gardens where possible.

2. Where appropriate, drought -tolerant perennial grasses and ground covers that require minimal maintenance
should be planted on moderately sloped and flat roofs.

3. Soil depths, roof drainage, and waterproof membranes should be considered during the structural design of the building.

4. Drip irrigation systems should be used with roof gardens to conserve water.

5. The following elements should be considered when
planning a roof garden:
• Structural design of the building, including
earthquake forces.
• Necessary watering of plants.
• Maintenance of roof drainage.
• Access to maintain the plants.

6. Roof gardens located in a fire zone should not contain plants that dry out during the winter months.
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Ideal Soil Depths:
~ Groundcovers - 12”
~ Flowers - 12” to 18”
~ Shrubs - 18” to 24”
~ Trees - 30” to 36”

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential

BU I L D I N G D ES I GN

W I NDOW S ,DOOR S &AWN I NG S
Windows and doors help to define the architectural style of a building while providing daylight to interior spaces and visual interest to building facades. These features may be accented through the use of awnings.

1. Window and door type, material,shape, and proportion should complement the architectural style of the home.
(Rewritten as a standard).

2.1.Maximize daylighting and views through window
placement and design. Passive solar design can be used
to reduce heating requirements by 30 percent to 50
percent, thus saving money and energy. However, south
facing windows should be shaded with an overhang or
awnings to reduce summer sun exposure.

3. Window articulation, such as sills, trim, kickers, shutters, or awnings, should be applied, where appropriate to the architectural style, to improve the facade of the home. (Rewritten as a standard).

4. For organization of the facade, primary upper and lower windows should stack vertically whenever possible.

5. To enhance privacy, windows on side elevations of
adjacent structures should be staggered whenever
possible. Windows should not be positioned directly
opposite of windows in the adjacent structure.
(Rewritten as a standard).

6. Where appropriate to the architectural style, windows should be generously inset from the wallsa minimum of
three inches to create shade and shadow detail.
(Rewritten as a standard).

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential B U I L D I N G D E
S I GN
W I NDOW S , DOOR S & AWN I NGS(CONT . )

7.2.Any faux shutters should be proportionate to the
adjacent windows to create the appearance of real and
functional shutters.

8.3.EPA “Energy Star” labeled windows with low-e coatings are encouraged.

9.4.Permanent shading devices such as awnings and
canopies on south-facing facades should be incorporated into building designs to provide aesthetic enhancement
while assisting in cooling the building during the
summer months.

10. Awnings should be incorporated to define building
entries and better orient pedestrians. (Rewritten as a
standard).

11.5. Awnings should be used to add color, form, and
reliefto the building.

12. Property owners should not propose installing awnings unless they are prepared to maintain and regularly
replace the awnings every eight to ten years.

13. Awnings should be made of cloth and not plastic or vinyl and should be high enough off of the ground to allow
for pedestrian traffic.(Rewritten as a standard).

14.6. Awnings should not be wrapped around buildings
in continuous bands. Awnings should only be placed
on top of doors, windows, and other openings such as
paseo entrances.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 B U I L D I N G D E S I G N

RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNIT ACCESS AND BUILDING ENTRANCES D W E L L I N G U N I T A C C E S S & E X T E R I O R S T A I R S All entrances should be clearly identifiable and emphasized using lighting, landscaping, and architecture.

1. Access points to units should be clustered in groups of four or less. Long, monotonous access balconies and
corridorsthat provide access to five or more units should be avoided.

2. The entrances to individual units should be visible from nearby parking areas where possible. Building entrances should be emphasized through the use of lighting,
landscaping, and architecture.

3. Simple, clean, bold projections of stairways should be used to complement the architectural massing and form
of multi-family structures.

4. Stairways should be constructed of smooth stucco,
plaster, or wood, with accent trim of complementary
colors. Thin-looking, open metal, prefabricated stairs
are discouraged. (Rewritten as a standard).

5.2.Handrails should be provided on stairways.
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& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential
Recommended
Change in plane
with change in
material
Not Recommended
Material or color
change at outside corner
Not Recommended
Change of materials on
same plane
MARCH 24, 2009

BU I L D I N G D ES I GN

MATER I AL S & COLOR S
The selection and placement of building materials should provide visual interest at the pedestrian level. Heavier materials should be used to form the building base and as accents on upper stories and walls. Materials and colors should be used to enhance buildings and adjacent pedestrian spaces by adding color, shadows, and interesting forms.

1. Utilizing a variety of materials on a wall plane is
encouraged. (Rewritten as a standard).

2. Material changes should occur at a change in plane
where the changes tend to appear substantial and
integral to the structure, preferably at an inside corner.

Material changes not occurring at a change in plane
appear “tacked-on” and should be avoided. (Rewritten
as a standard).

3.1.Materials selected for multi-family projects should be aesthetically pleasing but very durable and should
require low maintenance.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 B U I L D I N G D E S I G N M A T E R I A L S & C O L O R S ( C O N T . )

4. Materials should be utilized that reduce the transfer of heat into and/or out of the building.

5. Recycled content materials, such as wood substitutes, recycled concrete, and asphalt, as well as non-toxic
materials, should be used wherever possible.

6. Natural materials, such as brick, stone, copper, etc., should be left the natural color. (Rewritten as a
standard).

7. Large areas of intense light color should be avoided.

While more subdued colors usually work best for overall building color, bright or accent colors are typically
appropriate for trim, windows, doors, and key
architectural elements.
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& DESIGN GUIDELINES

S I T E P L A N N I N G& D ES I GN
multi-family residential

UTILI TA RIAN ASPECTS
All utilitarian equipment and features should be integrated into the site plan and should either be aesthetically screened from view or designed to complement the architectural style of the project. Utility service areas should be part of the early site design process, rather than an afterthought at the construction document phase.

1. Any outdoor equipment, whether ona roof, side of a
structure, or the ground should be appropriately
screened from view. The method of screening should be
architecturally integrated with the adjacent structure in terms of materials, color, shape, and size. (Rewritten as a standard).

2. Utility service areas, such as electrical panels, should be placed within enclosures that are architecturally
integrated into the building design. (Rewritten as a
standard).

3.A combination of elements should be used forscreening, including solid masonry walls, berms, and landscaping.
(Rewritten as a standard).

4.1.Where screen walls are used, the walls should be
designed to blend with the site’s architecture.

5.2.Transformers required to be installed adjacent to the street should be placed underground.

6. Satellite dishes should not be mounted on the roof or be visible from the street.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S UTILI TA RIAN ASPECTS (C ONT.)

7. Guardrails should complement the architectural style of the building.

8. Ramps should be integrated into the site design and can be used to create functional or unique spaces.

9. The design of new and remodeled structures should
incorporate easy access to all fire apparatus.

10. Access for fire apparatus should be part of the planning process so as not to disrupt the visual integrity of a
project.

11.9. Gutters and downspouts on the exterior of the
building should be decorative or designed to integrate
with the building facade.

12. Drainage should be directed to permeable areas such as yards, open channels, or vegetated areas, avoiding
discharge to roads and minimizing discharge to the
storm drain system.

13. Common box mailbox enclosures should be designed
similar in form, materials, and color to the surrounding buildings. (Rewritten as a standard).
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S

TRASH&RECY CLING ENCL OSURES
Trash and recycling enclosures should be carefully designed, located, and integrated into the site plan.

1. Every property should provide a trash and recycling
enclosure that is capable of handling the refuse
generated by that site.

2. At least half of the trash and recycling area should be dedicated to recycling containers.

3. Trash and recycling enclosures should be screened with landscaping and wall materials that are architecturally compatible to the building design. (Rewritten as a
standard).

4. The trash and recycling enclosure should be consistent with the design of the project and the building
architecture. Similar or the same materials should be
used on the enclosure as the surrounding buildings.

Architecturally designed roof structures should be used to create a finished looking structure. (Rewritten as a standard).

5.1.A pedestrian entrance to the trash and recycling
enclosure should be provided so that the large access
gates do not have to be opened as often.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S TRASH&RECY CLING ENCL OSURES (C ONT.)

6. Trash and recycling bins should be conveniently
accessible for collection and maintenance and should
not block access drives during loading operations.

7. Trash and recycling enclosures should be separated from adjacent parking stalls by a minimum three-foot wide
planter with low-growing plant materials to ensure that adequate space is available for passengers to access a
vehicle in an adjacent parking space.

8.7.Drainage from adjoining roof and pavement should be diverted around the trash and recycling area.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S

LIGHTING
Effective lighting provides safety and direction for vehicles and pedestrians while enhancing architectural building and
landscape details. These guidelines apply to on-site lighting for parking areas and lights associated with the building in private development projects. Light types may include pole lights, spotlighting, wall-mounted sconces, parking lighting, and landscape lighting.

1. Light fixtures should be designed or selected to be
architecturally compatible with the main structure or
theme of the development.

2. The intensity of light, level of light as measured in footcandles, and the type of bulb or source should be
carefully addressed. Lighting levels should not be so
intense as to draw attention to the glow or glare of the light source.

3. Spotlighting or glare from any site lighting should be shielded from adjacent properties and directed at a
specific object or target area.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S LIGHTING (C ONT.)

4. Exposed bulbs should not be used. Cut-off lighting is preferred.

5. Uplighting of building elements and trees should use the lowest wattage possible to minimize impacts to the
night sky. Light sources for wall washing and tree
lighting should be hidden.

6. Where landscaping is lit, low-voltage lighting should be used whenever possible to conserve energy. Energy
efficient lamps and ballasts, controlled by photoelectric methods or timers, should be incorporated.

7. The height ofa light pole should be appropriate in scale for the building or the complex and the surrounding
area.

8. Accent lighting should be used to illuminate walkways, entries, seating areas, and/or specimen plants and trees. multi-family residential5-39

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
multi-family residential MARCH 24, 2009 U T I L I T A R I A N A S P E C T S LIGHTING (C ONT.)

9. Walkways and paseos should be lit to an average of one and one half to two footcandles in intensity to ensure
safe nighttime conditions.

10. Use renewable energy sources for lighting, such as solar microturbine.

11. Recreational amenities and courtyards should be well lit to enhance the pedestrian experience and create a safe
environment.

Section 4. Mixed-Use follows the lighting section
with Site Pl anning and Design and Building Design
objective standards and design guidelines specific to
mixed-use projects.

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& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009
C H A P T E R 7 M I X E D U S E I N T R O D U C T I O N Why is mixed use important for Santa Clarita?
Many traditional town centers pre-date the advent of modern- day zoning and the automobile. These town centers feature tightly clustered stores, housing, and civic uses within walking distances to each other and often near public transit. Santa Clarita has the unique opportunity to concentrate mixed use development within its four distinct communities. A “smartgrowth” tool, mixed use development can reduce auto dependence, preserve green space and natural resources, promote revitalization, enhance economic development,
and provide modestly priced housing. Mixed use offers
residents more of a sense of community and opportunities to socialize with their neighbors by creating an environment that promotes impromptu social encounters.
mixed use
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009 I N T R O D U C T I O N ( C O N T . )
What are the benefits of Mixed Use Development?
Mixed use development is an excellent way to incorporate a mix of housing types on a small scale while enhancing the traditional character of the four Santa Clarita communities.

Mixed use is also primarily a vehicle for revitalizing struggling areas and spurring economic development, especially in the community hubs. The following list describes additional mixed use advantages from which communities such as Santa Clarita can benefit:

1. Spurs revitalization.

2. Encourages high quality design by providing both
greater flexibility and more control.

3. Preserves and enhances traditional village centers.

4. Promotesa village-style mix ofretail,restaurants, offices, civic uses, and multi-family housing.

5. Provides more housing opportunities and choices.

6. May increase affordable housing opportunities.
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MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSE I N T R O D
UCT I ON(CONT . )

7. Enhances an area’s unique identity and development
potential (e.g., village centers, locations near bike paths, or “gateway” areas).

8. Promotes pedestrian and bicycle travel.

9. Reduces auto dependency, roadway congestion, and air pollution by collocating multiple destinations.

10. Promotesa sense of community.

11. Promotesa sense of place.

12. Encourages economic investment.

13. Promotes efficient use of land and infrastructure.

14. Increases revenues.
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MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES

OVERALLDES I G N
The following design guidelines have been provided to guide the design process for mixed use development within the City. In general,a mixed use project should follow the relevant guidelines stated in previous chapters of this document. For example, the design of storefronts should be consistent with the commercial section, and the residential portion should be designed in accordance with the residential sections of this document.

Overarching key elements to consider are existing architectural character of the neighborhood and/or district; continuity of building scale and architectural massing; transition to adjacent developments; treatment of the street level and upper level architectural detailing; roof forms; rhythm of windows and doors; and the relationship of buildings to public spaces such as streets, plazas, other open spaces, and public parking. 7-4mixed use

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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES
OVERALLDES I GN(CONT . )

1. On the Land Use Map, integrate land use districts in a manner that promotes healthy, walkable communities
by providing an appropriate mix of residential,
employment, and service uses in proximity to each
other.

2. New buildings should draw upon the fundamental
architectural characteristics of existing buildings in the four communities within Santa Clarita.

3. All facades should be given equal design consideration.

4. Within urban portions of the Valley that are served by rail transit, and within the Town Center in areas served by bus transit, promote development of intense, mixed
use environments that offer opportunities for residents to live, work, shop, and recreate without having to use their vehicles, with residential density from a minimum of 11 dwelling units per acre and commercial uses
incorporated at a minimum range of 10 percent to 20
percent of the total floor area.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES
OVERALLDES I GN(CONT . )

5. Both vertical or horizontal integration of uses should be allowed in mixed use development, with an emphasis
on tying the uses together with appropriate pedestrian
linkages.

6. Adequate open space and amenities should be provided to support both commercial and residential uses,
including, but not limited to, plazas and landscaped
walkways. (Rewritten as a standard).

7.6.Mixed use projects should be designed to create a
pedestrian-scale environment through appropriate
street and sidewalk widths, block lengths, relationships of buildings to streets, and use of public spaces.

8. New mixed use projects should include a design
scheme of visual interest without clutter throughout the development.

9. Building scale and architectural massing of new projects should incorporate elements fora reasonable transition
to adjacent existing, or future, developments.
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& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES
OVERALLDES I GN(CONT . )

10. Where multiple buildings are planned in a mixed use development, the structures should be of varying heights to create visual interest from the street.The ground level facade for a multi-level structure should have a distinct look from the facade of the floor levels above (e.g.,
using different architectural elements, such as building material or trim accent, lighting, cornice lines, awnings, projections, window treatments and sizes, and/or paint
colors).(Rewritten as a standard)

11.10. Theverticalplaneofthebuildingfacadeshouldbebrok
en up witha high level of articulation (e.g., projecting entry or window features, recessed elements,
transparent storefronts, identifiable retail spaces, and awning and entrance canopies), especially at ground
level. (Rewritten as a standard).

12. To define the streetfrontage and pedestrian areas,mixed use and commercial buildings should generally be built
to property lines (back of sidewalk) or other publicly
accessible areas.

13. Where possible, provide clearly marked and separated driveways and parking areas for each proposed use.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES
OVERALLDES I GN(CONT . )

14. When multiple uses are proposed in the same building, there should be separate and convenient entrances for
each use.(Rewritten as a standard).

15. Commercial uses should attempt to shield parking lot and security lighting to avoid impacts on the surrounding residential areas. (Rewritten as a standard).

16.14. The entire mixed use development should utilize a consistent architectural style and materials. However;
if the intent is to differentiate between uses, some
architectural details should vary slightly.

17. For mixed use projects that are over two stories in height, portions of the upper stories should be recessed from the front facade to reduce the overall massing of
the building.

18. Mixed use projects should use only a minimal amount of commercial signage and place signs only where most
appropriate.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
City of Palo Alto
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES

SECUR I TY
Encourage the use of design to minimize opportunities for crime and to increase public safety.

1. Building entrances, parking areas, private and public open spaces, and pathways should be accentuated
with appropriate features such as landscaping, accent
lighting, pavement treatment, art, and signs that will
draw attention to the areas. These features should be
placed or designed in a manner that does not obscure
the view into the area.

2. The proposed layout, building, and landscape design
should promote natural surveillance. Physical features
and activities should be oriented and designed in ways
that maximize the ability to see through the site. For
example, window placement, the use of front porches
or stoops, the use of low or see-through walls, and
the appropriate use of landscaping and lighting can
promote natural surveillance. Sight-obscuring shrubs
and walls should be avoided, except where necessary for buffering between commercial uses and lower density
residential.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES
SECUR I TY(C O NT . )

3. The proposed site layout and building design should
encourage activity in public spaces. For example,
locating outdoor seating in areas that are visible from inside a restaurant helps to discourage crime and
supports the activity of dining.

4. The development should control access wherever
possible by properly siting and designing entrances and exits and through the appropriate use of lighting, signs, and/or other features.

5. Security gates and fencing should be used for the
residential access into a mixed use development.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES

PEDESTR I AN-OR I ENTEDGU I DEL I NE S
New mixed use projects should provide a human scale for pedestrian access, safety, and comfort. Mixed use projects should promote a design that will provide direct and safe access between the site and adjacent land uses and that is convenient and pleasant for the pedestrian.

1. The site layout should cluster buildings on the site to create interconnected pedestrian promenades that
promote linked trips.

2. The development should provide internal and/or public pedestrian connections that are direct, convenient,
and pleasant and that have appropriate amenities (e.g., attractive sidewalks and benches). Sidewalks and/
or plazas should be provided with weather protection
(e.g., awnings/canopies) and appropriate pedestrian
amenities (e.g., street tree grates, outdoor seating, bus waiting areas, trash cans, mail boxes, sidewalk displays, public art, etc.).(Rewritten as a standard).
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES
PEDESTR I AN-OR I ENTEDGU I DEL I NES(CONT.)

3. The development should be designed to be well
integrated with adjacent land uses. “Integrated” means
that uses are within a comfortable walking distance
(i.e., ¼ mile radius) and are connected to each other
with direct, convenient, and attractive sidewalks and/or pathways.

4. Buildings should have at least one primary entrance
facing a street or be directly accessible by a sidewalk or plaza within 20 feet of the primary entrance. (Rewritten as a standard).

5. Main building entrances should be open directly to the outside.

6. Every building should have at least one entrance that does not require passage througha parking lot or garage to gain access.

7. Corner buildings should have corner entrances
whenever possible.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES
PEDESTR I AN-OR I ENTEDGU I DEL I NES(CONT.)

8. Windows or window displays should be provided along
at least 30 percent of the building’s ground floor facade, particularly in the commercial portion. (Rewritten as a standard).

9. Where street connections are not practical, pedestrian connections may be made to and through the
development in-lieu of planned street connections.

Pedestrian connections through buildings should also
be considered. Pedestrian connections should include
amenities similar to furnishings found along a typical
sidewalk.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES

PUBL I CSPACE
The purpose of public space is to provide areasfor passive and active social interaction. Areas that are accessible to the passing public are considered public spaces and are as important to a development as those private spaces accessible only to the residents of the site. Public spaces should be surrounded by attractively designed buildings and landscaping elements, as well as uses that effectively shape and energize the public space to create a focal point for activity. The quality of the public space area is considered to be of utmost importance. Therefore,the location and design of public space is critical to ensure that it is useable year-round.

1. Asa whole, public space should satisfy the following criteria: • Provide areasforinformal meetings and social interaction with other people or areas for
passive and active uses as appropriate.
• Be accessible to residents. • Provide a strong image and sense of place. • Be a part of the pedestrian linkage throughout the development and adjacent land uses.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES
P UBL I CSPACE(CONT . )
••••••Provide an overall theme and visual
connection between spaces and uses within
the development.

Include areas of various shapes, sizes, and
configurations throughout the development.

Be designed or located to ensure that it
is usable year-round by providing areas
that have awnings, wind breaks, sun shade,
and/or landscaping that can provide shelter
from the elements.

Create a pleasant pedestrian environment.

Create an interconnected open space system.

Energize commercial retail activity.

2. Public space may include, but is not limited to, outdoor areas such as plazas, outdoor dining areas, rooftop
gardens, and landscaped areas designed for active or
passive use.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES
P UBL I CSPACE(CONT . )

3. Public spaces should be clearly recognizable as “public” (e.g.,a plaza within view ofa street or other public space) and publicly accessible (i.e.,a pedestrian accessible), and the space should be able to be occupied by people (i.e., a person can stand or sit in the area).

4. Public rooftop gardens should have street level signage directing access.

5.4.Public spaces should be located adjacent to the
commercial component of the development that can
be converted for joint use with outdoor dining and
pedestrian access. However, when used in conjunction
with an outdoor dining area, the areas should be
designed in such a manner that pedestrian access is
not being impeded or hindered. The minimum vertical
dimension for clear pedestrian access should be eight
feet.

6. Where possible, larger public spaces should be located near the main pedestrian access to the development.

7.A residential development ina mixed use project
can benefit from the addition of a private open space
accessible only to the residents.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES

L I V E / WORKUN I TS
Since the live/work unit is a business location, its use may be similar to commercial use. However, the needs of the resident occupying sucha unit should also bea concern. Live/work units should incorporate the following criteria:

1. Live/work units may not be converted to an allresidential use without the review and approval of the Director of
Community Development.

2. Live/work units may be converted to an all commercial use, with the review and approval of the Director of
Community Development; however, upon change of
ownership, the space would return to a live/work unit.

3. Live/workunitsmayconstituteallorpartoftheresidential percentage of the mixed use development.A mixed use
development should not consist exclusively of live/work units.

4. Live/work units should be located near the commercial portion of the mixed use development.

5. Live/work units should not be located on a existing
primarily commercial street frontage.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES

ON-S I TEPARK I N G
Site plans should balance the needs of adequate parking and vehicular access with aesthetic appeal.

1. Where parking demands for different uses peak during different times of the day, parking should be shared.

2. Parking and vehicle drives should be located away from building entrances and not betweena building entrance
and the street, except as may be allowed when a direct
pedestrian connection is provided from the sidewalk to
the building entrance.

3. Surface parking should not be located on commercial
streetfrontages. However, ifsurface parking is proposed on a street frontage, it must be screened from view.

4. Large parking areas should be avoided. It is preferable to create small, connected parking lots utilizing shared driveways.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E D U SEPO L IC I ES
ON-S I TEPARK I NG(CONT . )

5. Residential and retail or office parking areas should be separated wherever possible.

6. The minimum number of parking spaces required by
the Mixed Use Ordinance must be provided for each
residential unit.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X EDUSEPO L IC I ES

UT I L I TAR I ANASPECTS
Utility areas should be part of the early building design process, rather than an afterthought at the construction document phase.

1. Auxiliary structures such as trash enclosures, loading and storage areas,phone booths, and vending machines
should be integrated into the overall design of the
building.

2. Loading, trash, and storage areas should be located
away from seating areas and designed to fit with the
architectural style of the building.

3. Outdoor storage areas, including trash and recycling enclosures, should be located to the rear or sides of a building and screened from public view to the maximum
extent possible by walls, berms, or landscaping. Wall
screening should be of similar materials as the primary buildings. Chain link gates or fences are not appropriate for screening.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X ED U SECASESTU D I ES

SANTANARO W

S ANJOSE,C A
Santana Row, located in San Jose, California, is a pedestrian- oriented mixed use neighborhood rich in cultural diversity and unique atmosphere. Its concept is derived from European villages that offer a variety of pedestrian experiences on an urban street. It allows residents to enjoy the convenience of urban living with local amenities and entertainment. Specialty shops, retail, and restaurants line the streets, providing leisure recreation in an urban environment.

Santana Row provides an attractive destination due to its variety in architectural character, pedestrian-friendly design, and mix of national retailstores. The project incorporatesa mixed use urban village comprised of residential units, restaurants, and retail.

Mixed use neighborhoods eliminate the necessity for vehicle traffic, while encouraging residents to walk to shops, dining, and parks. Retail was strategically placed, with anchor stores on corners for high visibility. Specialty shops and restaurants are located in the interior fora variety of architectural character and appeal. The architectural character follows an ‘evolutionary’ process, enhancing the visual quality and diversity of the street facade over a period of time.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
www.interlandusa.com
Doug Dun/BAR Architects
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E DUSECASES T U D I ES
S ANTANAROW(CO N T . )

S ANJOSE,C A
Since residential units provide life and character to a street edge, higher density products were placed above the retail component. Lofts and flats are located above retail areas, while lower density townhouses and villas surround the project perimeter. Interior courtyards and open spaces allow residents privacy,comfort,and safetyfromnoise and traffic.Widesidewalks and landscaped medians reduce traffic congestion and provide shade. Parallel parking along arterial streets provides a buffer between traffic and pedestrian corridors. Parking structures are located underground, behind retail, or elevated above retail to limit the visual impact. Parking structures are located to enhance pedestrian circulation and accessibility throughout the project.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X ED U SECASESTU D I ES

THEMARKETCOMMO N

C L A RE N DON,VA
The Market Common in Arlington, Virginia is a mixed use development designed to provide a new commercial center along the Metrorail line connecting to the greater Washington D.C. area. The Market Common offers pedestrian leisure with restaurants and retail surrounding a common green. High density residential units above the retail providea variety of housing types for the community. Townhouses line the perimeter of the project to match the character of the residential neighborhoods nearby.

The mixed use neighborhood was designed surrounding a
park. A U-shaped street combines accessibility and visibility to businesses while parallel parking increases the residential quality ofa neighborhood shopping destination.A landscaped park in the center, with fountains and gathering areas,increases the visual appeal and sense of place forthe community. By facing the park, the 216,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space reduces the traffic congestion typically found aligning major thoroughfares. The residential component offers 300 for-sale and rental units facing both the retail area and onto adjacent residential streets to the rear of the retail area. Eighty-seven townhouses located across the street uphold the architectural character and quality of the surrounding neighborhoods. Over 100,000 square feet of office space is also included within the development. Plenty of parking is provided for both residents and local businesses.
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SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY CHARACTER
& DESIGN GUIDELINES
MARCH 24, 2009

M I X E DUSECASES T U D I ES

STA P LETON

D E N V E R ,CO
Stapleton is the largest infill redevelopment project in the United States and, subsequently, one of the most complex.

Project planning began during the late 1980s, when the City of Denver decided to close Stapleton International Airport after the newer, higher-capacity Denver International Airport opened approximately 20 minutes away. Soon after the airport closed, the City of Denver and local citizens’ groups began planning for Stapleton’s reuse.

Stapleton was conceived as a sustainable community and is intended to integrate jobs, housing, and the environment.

Based on traditional neighborhood design principles,
Stapleton provides physical and economic connections to the surrounding neighborhoods. The community’s abundant trails and open space encourage walking and biking. Residential development will meet or exceed Built Green Colorado
standards, which include infrastructure planning, water reuse, energy conservation, and innovative stormwater management approaches.
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17.06.130 Findings and Decision.
* * *
B. Required Findings. The review authority may approve the application only after the applicant substantiates the following required findings:

1. The proposal is consistent with the General Plan;

2. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of this code;

3. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and

4. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal’s physical suitability for the site include, without limitation, the following:
a. For projects that are not multi-family or mixed-use housing, the design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use.
i. Multi‑family and mixed‑use housing projects must comply with Objective Design Standards;
b. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;
c. Public protection services (e.g., Fire protection, Sheriff protection) are readily available; and
d. Providing utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal) is adequate to serve the site.
* * *
§ 17.11.020 Definitions.
* * *
“Objective Design Standards” are zoning, subdivision, and design review standards that regulate the location, form, site layout, and appearance of multifamily and mixed-use residential development that are verifiable by reference to a uniform benchmark.

Objective design standards may be contained in this code, specific plans, overlay

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Packet Pg. 242 Attachment: Exhibit C - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Redlines (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective zones, subdivision and landscaping requirements, or other applicable land development regulations adopted by the City Council, and apply only to the extent they are stated with sufficient clarity that compliance can be determined in a purely ministerial manner. * * *

17.23.100 Administrative Permit.
* * *
B. Applicability.

1. To safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, administrative permit approval is required before the building official issues any building permit for new single-family homes, additions, and activities or construction of improvements which are permitted at the discretion of the Director. An administrative permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

2. An administrative permit is required for any multi-family or mixed-use housing project that does not fully comply with the Objective Design Standards.

3. Requests for an administrative permit are filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.
* * *

17.37.030 Specific Plan (SP) Zone.

The specific plan zoning designation identifies lands in the planning area that are governed by an adopted specific plan. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards are determined by the adopted specific plan.

Development within a specific plan that includes multi-family or mixed-use housing must comply with the Objective Design Standards. Where a specific plan established design requirements more restrictive than the Objective Design Standards, the more restrictive standards apply.

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Packet Pg. 243 Attachment: Exhibit C - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Redlines (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Exhibit D

17.06.130 Findings and Decision.
* * *
B. Required Findings. The review authority may approve the application only after the applicant substantiates the following required findings:

1. The proposal is consistent with the General Plan;

2. The proposal is allowed within the applicable underlying zone and complies with all other applicable provisions of this code;

3. The proposal will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare, or be materially detrimental or injurious to the improvements, persons, property, or uses in the vicinity and zone in which the property is located; and

4. The proposal is physically suitable for the site. The factors related to the proposal’s physical suitability for the site include, without limitation, the following:
a. For projects that are not multi-family or mixed-use housing, the design, location, shape, size, and operating characteristics are suitable for the proposed use.
i. Multi‑family and mixed‑use housing projects must comply with Objective Design Standards;
b. The highways or streets that provide access to the site are of sufficient width and are improved as necessary to carry the kind and quantity of traffic such proposal would generate;
c. Public protection services (e.g., Fire protection, Sheriff protection) are readily available; and
d. Providing utilities (e.g., potable water, schools, solid waste collection and disposal, storm drainage, wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal) is adequate to serve the site.
* * *
§ 17.11.020 Definitions.
* * *
“Objective Design Standards” are zoning, subdivision, and design review standards that regulate the location, form, site layout, and appearance of multifamily and mixed-use residential development that are verifiable by reference to a uniform benchmark.

Objective design standards may be contained in this code, specific plans, overlay

1.e
Packet Pg. 244 Attachment: Exhibit D - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective zones, subdivision and landscaping requirements, or other applicable land development regulations adopted by the City Council, and apply only to the extent they are stated with sufficient clarity that compliance can be determined in a purely ministerial manner. * * *

17.23.100 Administrative Permit.
* * *
B. Applicability.

1. To safeguard and enhance the appearance and quality of development in the City, administrative permit approval is required before the building official issues any building permit for new single-family homes, additions, and activities or construction of improvements which are permitted at the discretion of the Director. An administrative permit shall be filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.

2. An administrative permit is required for any multi-family or mixed-use housing project that does not fully comply with the Objective Design Standards.

3. Requests for an administrative permit are filed as a Class II application, subject to this chapter.
* * *

17.37.030 Specific Plan (SP) Zone.

The specific plan zoning designation identifies lands in the planning area that are governed by an adopted specific plan. Specific allowable uses, maximum intensity standards, and development standards are determined by the adopted specific plan.

Development within a specific plan that includes multi-family or mixed-use housing must comply with the Objective Design Standards. Where a specific plan established design requirements more restrictive than the Objective Design Standards, the more restrictive standards apply.

1.e
Packet Pg. 245 Attachment: Exhibit D - Proposed SCMC Amendments - Clean (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Housing Element
Programs HP-2.1
and HP-2.2

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Packet Pg. 246 Attachment: Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023
49 Program HP- 1.14: Sites Identified in Multiple Planning Periods:

Government Code § 65583 requires analysis and justification of the sites included in the sites inventory of the City’s Housing Element. The Housing Element may only count non-vacant sites included in one previous Housing Element inventory and vacant sites included in two previous Housing Elements if the sites are subject to a program that allows affordable housing by right. Some sites within this Housing Element were used in previous cycles, and this program is included to address the by-right approval requirement. Per Government Code § 65583, the use by-right of these sites during the planning period is restricted to developments in which at least 20 percent of the units in the development are affordable to lower income households. This provision is valid on the condition that these sites have sufficient water, sewer, and other dry utilities available and accessible, or that they are included in an existing General Plan program or other mandatory program or plan to secure sufficient water, sewer, dry utilities supply to support housing development.

Prior to the end of 2022, Community Development Department staff will provide a pop-up “Notice” in Accela for each inventoried parcel subject to these requirements.

The Notice will prompt staff to not require a Conditional Use Permit application for a residential development project on that site if at least 20% of the units are provided as affordable. A training session will be held to ensure that all staff are aware of the by-right allowances for projects providing at least 20% of units as affordable on these specific sites. The Unified Development Code will be amended concurrent with the Housing Element to ensure compliance with Government Code § 65583.2(c).

Timeline: Adopt code amendment with Housing Element. Set up Notice in Accela prior to the end of 2022. Within the first three years of the planning period, ensure staff receives training.

Ongoing.

Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget
Program HP-2.1: Zoning Code Changes for Consistency with State Law City staff will bring forward Municipal Code amendments to address recent changes to state law. Specific Code amendments to ensure compliance include but are not limited to the following:
• Transitional Housing: Allow transitional and supportive housing in all zone districts that allow residential uses, subject to only those restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. (SB 2, 2007)
• Supportive Housing: Supportive housing, as defined in Government Code Section 65650, to be a by-right use in all zones where multifamily and mixed-uses are permitted. (AB 2162)

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Packet Pg. 247 Attachment: Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023
50 • Emergency Shelters: Review development standards for emergency shelters, particularly Standard D, and revise to be objective (SB 2, 2007) • Low Barrier Navigation Centers: to be a use by-right in zones where multifamily and mixed-uses are permitted, including the nonresidential zones where multifamily is permitted. (GC 65660)
• Employee and Agricultural Worker Housing: employee housing for six or fewer employees is to be treated as a single-family structure and permitted in the same manner as other dwellings of the same type in the same zone.

Employee housing consisting of not more than 12 units or 36 beds are to be considered an agricultural use and permitted in the same manner as other agricultural uses in the same zone (AB 1783)
• ADUs: Update Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance pursuant to HCD’s ADU Guidebook, including allowing such units by-right in all residential zones and reduction of side and rear setbacks as well as to reflect changes in these laws made by AB 3182, AB 68, and SB 13.
• Group Homes: Allow group homes for seven or more residents as a permitted use in residential zones. Review current code requirements for all housing types serving people with disabilities for consistency with fair housing laws and make amendments as necessary, including ensuring the number of parking spaces for residential care facilities do not exceed those of other non-group home uses of the same form in the same zone.
• Design Review: Develop Objective Design and Development Standards for multi-family and mixed-use projects, and integrate the standard conditions of approval currently applied through the Development Review process into the objective design and development standards for development projects with residential components.
• Parking: Adopt the parking requirements for multifamily affordable housing from Government Code Section 65915 into the Code to provide clear standards and expectations for potential developers to use the reduced parking requirements without the need to make a separate request.

Additionally, undertake a parking study and consult with not less than four developers with local experience to identify the most appropriate parking ratio and identify any constraints posed by the City’s current parking requirements for market rate multifamily development, especially as it relates to 1 bedroom unit and studios. Based upon the outcome of this study, amend the ordinance to mitigate any identified constraints by July 2025.

Timeline: Review by June 2023; Make necessary amendments to address transitional housing, supportive housing, emergency shelter standards, low barrier navigation centers, employee and agricultural worker housing, ADUs, group homes, and parking requirements for multifamily affordable housing by the end of 2023 Develop Objective Design and Development Standards by 2024 Undertake parking study and amend ordinance by July 2025 Responsibility: Community Development Department

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Packet Pg. 248 Attachment: Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023
51 Funding: Departmental Budget
Objective: Facilitate special needs housing, including transitional, supportive, senior, group home, and affordable housing, for 700 households by the end of the planning period.

Program HP-2.2: Updates to Administrative Procedures
Prior to the dates specified in each sub-program below, City staff will update the following administrative procedures and materials:
• SB 35: The City will develop an SB 35 application process, including the pre-application and the procedure that will be used to provide a streamlined ministerial approval process to qualified residential and mixed-use development projects. The written procedures and checklists shall be developed and made available on the City’s website no later than January 1, 2023.
• Development Fees and Transparency Requirements: The City will meet the new transparency and development fees requirements of AB 602 and SB 319 by 1) posting all required information about development standards and fees to an easily accessed location on the City’s website by January 1, 2023; and 2) ensuring that new development impact fee studies and resulting fees comply with the new AB 602 requirements for fee studies prior to initiation of the next fees study in 2024.
• Fee Deferrals: The City will defer fee collection for residential developments until final building inspection or issuance of the certificate of occupancy, whichever occurs first, unless the requirements of Government Code 66007(b) have been met.
• Expedited Processing for Affordable Housing Projects: The City will continue to expedite processing for affordable housing projects, including one-stop preliminary review, concurrent application review, designation of a primary contact, and fast-tracking of construction and grading plan review, permitting and inspection. Promotion of the Expedited Processing program will occur as a part of Program HP-2.10, the Proactive Outreach Program, to be initiated in 2023 and provided as ongoing throughout the 6th planning cycle. • Parking handout: The City will create and publish explanatory documents to delineate between the different parking requirements for different types of multifamily housing projects and mixed-use projects as updated by AB 2345, including those providing affordable units and those located close to transit. • Design Review: The City will review and amend its design review requirements to remove discretionary findings related to site suitability, including Finding 4.

Timeline: SB 35 Procedures: July 1, 2023;
Fee Transparency: July 1, 2023;

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Packet Pg. 249 Attachment: Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Santa Clarita – Housing Element June 2023
52 Fee Deferrals: Begin implementing July 1, 2023
AB 602 Requirements (Development Fees): 2024;
Parking Handout: July 30, 2023;
Amend Design Review findings: end of 2024
Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget
Program HP-2.3: Specific Plan Code Review
The City will review its Specific Plans to determine if changes are needed to comply with State laws related to transitional housing, supportive housing, group homes (community care facilities) and Low Barrier Navigation Centers. The review will be completed by the end of 2022, with any needed Specific Plan amendments occurring by the end of 2023.

Timeline: Review by end of 2023; amend by end of 2024
Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: Departmental Budget

Program HP-2.4: Continuing Affordability
Ensure that the City’s lending guidelines require long-term affordability of at least 55 years for affordable rental units and through a shared equity or other similar affordability mechanism for affordable ownership units.

Timeline: Review funding guidelines in 2022; then ongoing Responsibility: Community Development Department
Funding: HOME, CDBG, Bonds, PDA/TOD funds

Program HP-2.5: Collaboration with Non-Profit Affordable Housing Developers The City continues to partner with non-profit affordable housing developers for the creation of new affordable housing developments and will continue to be responsive to the proposals of housing developers. The City is committed to supporting proposed projects that show promise to provide affordable housing to meet the City’s identified housing needs, including for seniors, disabled, and families, especially those who are extremely low-income. Currently, affordable housing developers approach the City informally with projects in various stages of development, making it difficult to bring projects to fruition. A formal Request for Qualifications/Proposals (RFP/RFQ) will streamline and clarify this process. The RFP/RFQ will include information on the affordable housing goals of the City, including the provision of housing for large households and extremely low-income households. The RFP/RFQ for this program will be posted by Summer 2023 and will include at least one outreach meeting/event to gauge housing developers’ interest. The RFP/RFQ process, once posted, will be made

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Packet Pg. 250 Attachment: Exhibit E - Housing Element Programs HP2.1 and 2.2 (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective

NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
TO: FROM:
[X] County Clerk City of Santa Clarita
County of Los Angeles Community Development
12400 E. Imperial Hwy., Rm. 2001 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite #302 Norwalk, CA 90650 Santa Clarita, CA 91355
[ ] Office of Planning and Research
1400 Tenth Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
DATE: [Date]
PROJECT NAME: Santa Clarita Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Architectural Objective Design Standards and UDC Updates
PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita, Department of Community Development (Contact: Zarui Chaparyan; 661.255.4916)
PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City of Santa Clarita (City) is preparing City-wide multifamily and mixed-use Objective Design Standards and updating the Santa Clarita Municipal Code (SCMC) to address administrative procedures for Objective Design Standards to implement the City’s Housing Element Programs HP-2.1 and HP-2.2.

This is to advise that the [ ] Director of Community Development [ ] Planning Commission [X] City Council of the City of Santa Clarita has approved the above project on [DATE]. Review of the project by the Department of Community Development found that the project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

EXEMPT STATUS: A Notice of Exemption was prepared for the proposed project. The project is exempt from additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code of Regs. § 15000, et seq.) Section 15061(b)(3), the common sense exemption. The activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.

Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.

Person or agency carrying out the project: City of Santa Clarita, Department of Community Development.

This is to certify that the Notice of Exemption with comments/responses and record of project approval is available for public review at:

City of Santa Clarita
Community Development Department
23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302
Santa Clarita, California 91355
(661) 255-4330
Contact Person/Title: Zarui Chaparyan, Associate Planner Signature:

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Packet Pg. 251 Attachment: Exhibit F - MC26-038 NOE (MC26-038 Santa Clarita - Multifamily and Mixed-Use Residential Objective Design Standards)