4. Standard:Seasonal Lighting may be displayed and shall not be used to create advertising messages or signs.
a. Temporary and seasonal installation of string lights, rope lights, or other decorative lighting is allowed for seasonal lighting between November 26th and March 1st subject to the following criteria:
b. Lights shall not be installed for more than 90 days; c. Lights shall be LED or low voltage (24 volts or less); d. Installation may be subject to building or fire department inspection.
5. Installation of string lights, rope lights, or other decorative lighting for a period longer than 90 days or outside of the November 26th through March 1st season will require approval of a minor review application. Review of the application will include a review of the total amount of exterior lighting on a site, curfew hours for lighting to be turned off, and energy efficiency. Lights shall be LED or low voltage (24 volts or less). A building permit may also be required for some lighting installations and installations may be subject to building and/or fire department inspection.
6. Pedestrian Zone Lighting
a. Pedestrian areas, including pedestrian plaza spaces, sidewalks and pedestrian only areas will have the opportunity to use light standards, bollards, lighting that spans the space as liner strings and lighting from architectural features (such as soffits).
b. Light standards may establish the level of light fixture up to 20 feet tall as measured from the finished grade.
c. The entire lighting assembly (pole and fixture) shall be painted a dark matte color such as brown, black or green,
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Development and Design Standards C-40 November 16, 2021 d. General light level shall not exceed 5.0 foot candles in pedestrian spaces or approved locations unless approved by the planning commission. e. Lighting shall not be attached to trees except for seasonal winter displays.
7. Street Lighting
a. Street lighting along primary and secondary streets will be designed in conjunction with the vehicular and pedestrian level needs. b. Light fixtures shall not exceed 20 feet in height except for cobra head fixtures placed at major intersections of state highways which conform to the state standard for height of such poles. The entire lighting assembly (pole and fixture) shall be painted a dark matte color such as brown, black or green. When lighting pedestrian spaces and sidewalks in conjunction with roadway lighting, pedestrian lighting shall be designed to have lower pole heights, rather than use the street light poles to illuminate pedestrian use areas.
c. Safety and security lighting needs are to be focused on the crossing points, street intersections and in areas where pedestrians are exposed to conflicts with traffic.
8. Lighting for Safety and Security
a. Secondary pedestrian areas or landscape zones with minor uses may be illuminated for security and pedestrian safety. These may include illumination level not to exceed 2.5 foot candles and may be a combination of pole lighting, feature lighting, bollards and lighting from architectural structures.
b. Level changes and features like steps are to be illuminated for pedestrian safety. Built in lighting or wall lights are the preferred design choice. Other methods will require approval by the planning commission. c. Walkways in all zones allow for lighting to ensure safely at night with bollard, feature, or pole standards. Lighting levels for pathways may not
9. Standard: Lighting may be used for outdoor landscaping, parking lots, street lights, walkways, illumination or highlighting architectural or landscape features only, and shall not be designed for, or used as, an advertising display. Illumination utilizing exterior light fixtures is permitted provided the following criteria are met:
a. Lighting shall only be directed downward (not above the horizontal plane) to avoid sky-lighting. Up-lighting for any purpose including the lighting of architectural or landscape architectural is not permitted except with overhead shields to prevent nighttime sky-lighting
b. The light source (bulbs), within a fixture as seen in elevation, shall not be visible, including the cobra head fixture style.
c. No light (freestanding or building mounted) shall spray off site. The use of cutoff shields, or other devices as approved by staff shall be required, including parking garages (Note: parking garages shall not have fluorescent lighting)
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Development and Design Standards C-41 November 16, 2021 d. The maximum height of exterior architectural building lighting and landscape lighting shall be 26 feet and the light source is shielded from view except for areas designated as Tourist Center District (TSC-C). e. Feature Lighting for Architectural Highlight and Landmarks in the Tourist Center District (TSC-C)
i. Architectural feature lighting and accents may be included as part of a lighting plan to prevent dark, uninviting, and oppressive building surfaces above the first floor. Illumination shall be for selective architectural features that serve to landmark, or otherwise highlight design features. Specifically, lighting of distinguished architectural features such as entries, arcades, chimneys, cornices, balconies, exterior trusses, highly textured material, knee braces, enriched architectural facades or landmark features are permitted subject to the following criteria:. (1) The lighting is subject to a visual analysis.
(2) Wall lighting of blank wall or repetitive wall facades shall not be permitted.
(3) Light features may be attached to buildings or structures as down lights, soffit lights or wall mounted lights.
(4) All accent lighting shall be directed downward.
(5) Lighting shall be restricted to incandescent type lights. (6) Roofs, in part or in total, shall not be illuminated. Such prohibition includes such methods as flood lighting,
reflective material, or lighting strips, including
neon/fluorescent tubing and the like.
ii. Landscape lighting is allowed to highlight elements of the landscape architecture or existing landscape features through the use of down lighting. Down lighting landscape can be done with concealed fixtures or fixtures with lens hoods to screen the light source. Landscape lighting fixtures must be dark colors including brown, gray, black or green.
(1) The lighting is subject to a visual analysis.
(2) The entire freestanding lighting assembly (pole and fixture) shall be painted a dark earth tone color such as black, dark green or dark brown, so as to blend into the forest character of the city.
(3) Lighting levels shall not exceed a maximum of 25 footcandles, measured within one foot of the base at ground level.
(4) Roofs, in part or in total, shall not be illuminated. Such prohibition includes such methods as flood lighting,
reflective material, or lighting strips, including
neon/fluorescent tubing, and the like.
(5) The entire freestanding lighting assembly (pole and fixture) shall be painted a dark earth tone color such as black, dark green, or dark brown, so as to blend into the forest character of the city.
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Development and Design Standards C-42 November 16, 2021 (6) Lighting levels shall not exceed a maximum of 25 footcandles, measured within one foot of the base at ground level.
(7) Lighting levels shall not exceed a maximum of 25 footcandles, measured within one foot of the base at ground level.
(8) Low pressure sodium lights (monochromatic orange
color) are not allowed.
I. Water Conservation: Water conservation is accepted as a practical and economical water management technique. Water conservation measures increase water supplies, save energy, and save money. Residential water use includes water used indoors and outdoors. The largest share of that typically is used for landscape irrigation. Bathroom fixtures typically account for the largest share of indoor water use. Water-using fixtures and appliances have in the past been designed with little or no regard for water efficiency. Today’s appliances however, are designed with a greater sensitivity toward efficiency.
1. Standard: Water conservation devices shall be installed in new facilities or when replaced in existing facilities.
2. Standard: Irrigation systems shall conform to water conservation standards contained within the landscaping standards (Standard 7) of this manual which is consistent with AB 325 (see also City Resolution No. 1992-97).
J. Street Right-of-Way Improvements: The improvement of the public right-of-way is necessary for the safety and convenience of the residents, improving the quality of the community and the lake and unifying the appearance of the community with the establishment of a consistent set of improvement standards.
1. Standard: All new road construction projects or the repair of existing improvements within the publicly owned right-of-way shall comply with the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards.
2. Standard: Road fixtures, including but not limited to retaining walls, safety barriers, traffic signals and controllers, light standards, and other structures, shall be designed and installed in compliance with the with the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards.
3. Standard: Color of road fixtures (other than signals, their auxiliary equipment and sign standards). Refer to the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards for specific details.
4. Standard: Signal poles and their ancillary equipment and sign structures. Refer to the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards for specific details.
5. Standard: Retaining walls and other erosion control devices. Refer to the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards and Chapter 36, City Grading Ordinance, for specific details.
6. Standard: Street improvements required. Public and private projects shall be required to construct off-site improvements including curb, gutter, sidewalk and other improvements required by the city engineering division, consistent with the standards contained within the City of South Lake Tahoe Public Improvement Engineering Standards, including street right-of-way improvements and landscaping standards, SLTCC 5-24, or at the discretion of the city engineer provide in-lieu fees when:
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Development and Design Standards C-43 November 16, 2021 a. The project involves new construction on raw land, a vacant lot and/or is a demolition and reconstruction project;
i. The project is processed as a special use permit and is determined by the city engineering division that the off-site improvements are necessary for the orderly development of the area;
ii. A public project, not subject to the special use permit process, is determined by the city engineering department to need off-site improvements for the orderly development of the area. (Ord. 903; Ord. 1002)
K. Scenic Highway Corridors: The Lake Tahoe Region offers many outstanding opportunities to view and photograph scenic resources. Many of these opportunities are available while driving around the lake on the main highways (US 50, State Routes 28, 89, 207, 267 and 431, and Pioneer Trail). The highways listed are also travel routes used in TRPA’s scenic quality thresholds. Maintaining and in some cases upgrading the scenic quality of the view from the road is the primary goal behind both scenic highway corridors and scenic quality thresholds.
All projects which are within the scenic highway corridors, as defined by the TRPA, of US 50, 89 and Pioneer Trail shall meet design standards listed below. (Note: A scenic corridor is defined as including the street right-of-way and property abutting such right-ofway, a distance of 300 feet.)
1. Standard: All new electrical lines which operate at 32 kilovolts or less, including service connection lines, shall be placed underground. Exceptions to this requirement will be based on the city finding that undergrounding would produce a greater environmental impact than above-ground installation. When new electrical lines are permitted to be installed above ground, the new lines, poles and hardware shall be screened from view of the scenic highway to the maximum extent possible.
2. Standard: All new communication lines including telephone lines, cable television lines, and service connection lines shall be placed under- ground. Exceptions to this requirement will be based on the city finding that undergrounding would produce a greater environmental impact than above-ground installation. When new communication lines are permitted to be installed above ground, the new lines, poles, and hardware shall be screened from view of the scenic highway to the maximum extent possible.
3. Standard: See also standards for street right-of-way improvements.
4. Standard: TRPA Code Section 66.2 development standards for rural transitional corridors shall apply to the applicable sections of Pioneer Trail.
L. Shorezone: The shorezone is regulated by the TRPA Code, Chapters 80 through 86, and not reiterated here. As a result, all projects which fall within this area shall be referred to the TRPA for review. The city’s review will be limited to providing input into the TRPA process and processing the project through the city permit process. 652
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Development and Design Standards C-44 November 16, 2021 M. Signage
Article I. Purpose and Scope
25-1 Authority.
This chapter is prepared pursuant to the TRPA Code of Ordinance is prepared pursuant to the TRPA Code of Ordinances, Section 38.2.3, which permits local jurisdictions to prepare equal or superior sign standards to the TRPA Sign Ordinance, contained in Chapter 38.
25-2 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter shall be to coordinate the type, placement and scale of signs within the different land-use categories and to recognize the commercial communication requirements of all sectors of the business community; to improve the visual quality of South Lake Tahoe; encourage the innovative use of design; to promote both renovation and proper maintenance; to allow for special circumstances; and to guarantee equal treatment under the law through accurate record keeping and consistent enforcement.
This shall be accomplished by regulation of the display, erection, use, and maintenance of signs. The use of signs is regulated according to category. The placement and scale of signs are regulated primarily by business square footage, number of streets that access the business, vehicle speed limit, designation of the street, height of sign, setback, and angle of the sign to the street.
Scope: This chapter shall not relate to building design. Nor shall the City Ordinance regulate official traffic or government signs (Note: the TRPA, Chapter 38 shall regulate the signs); the copy and message of signs; signs not intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way; interior window displays; scoreboards on athletic fields; flags of any nation or government; gravestones; religious symbols; memorial signs; the residential display of street numbers; or any display or construction not defined herein as a sign.
The primary intent of this Ordinance shall be to regulate signs of a commercial nature intended to be readable from any public street, recreation area, bike trail or from Lake Tahoe.
Article II. Definitions
25-3 Definitions.
1. “Abandoned Sign” means a sign, non-conforming or conforming which no longer identifies or advertises a bonafide business, lessor, service, owner, product or activity for a period of six months or longer. For Compliance, see SLTCC 25-19.
2. “Access” means any public vehicle access. Does not include pedestrian or service vehicle access.
3. “Animated Sign” (also see and note difference from changeable sign) means a sign or display manifesting either kinetic or illusionary motion occasioned by natural, manual, mechanical, electrical, or other means. Animated signs include the following types:
a. Naturally Energized: Signs whose motion is activated by wind or other atmospheric impingement. Wind-driven signs include flags, pennants, streamers, spinners, metallic disks, windsocks other similar devices designed to move in the wind.
b. Mechanically Energized: Signs manifesting a repetitious pre-programmed physical movement or rotation in either one or a series of planes activated by means of mechanically based drives.
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Development and Design Standards C-45 November 16, 2021 c. Electrically Energized: Illuminated signs whose motion or visual impression of motion is activated primarily by electrical means. Electrically energized animated signs are of two types:
i. Flashing Signs: Illuminated signs exhibiting a pre-programmed repetitious cyclical interruption of illumination from one or more sources in which the duration of the period of illumination (on phase) is either the same as or less than the duration of the period of darkness (off phase), and in which the intensity of illumination varies from zero (off) to 100 percent (on) during the programmed cycle.
ii. Illusionary Movement Signs: Illuminated signs exhibiting the illusion of movement by means of a pre-programmed repetitious sequential switching action in which illuminated elements of the sign are turned on or off to visually simulate the impression of motion characteristic of chasing, running, blinking, oscillating, twinkling, scintillating, or expanding and contracting light patterns.
4. “Appurtenant Sign” means a sign, emblem, or decal informing the public of goods, facilities, or services available on the premises, e.g., a credit card sign or a sign indicating hours of business, membership affiliation, chain service, spa, phones, business association.
5. Area. See “Sign, area of.”
6. “Area identification sign” identifies an area of a distinct character composed of more than one ownership, such as a neighborhood, subdivision, shopping or industrial area, or a large parcel(s) of land reserved for visual or usable open space, such as a conservatory area and the like.
7. “Awning” means a shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building constructed of canvas, plastic or similar nonrigid materials on a supporting framework. Compare “Marquee.”
8. “Awning sign” means a sign painted on, printed on, or attached flat against the surface of an awning.
9. Backlit Awning. See “Electric awning sign.”
10. “Balloon”means an inflatable bag filled with air or gas used for advertising or promotional purposes, whether or not it contains letters, words, phrases or logos.
11. “Banner Sign” means a piece of cloth or other flexible material such as plastic/vinyl sheets or canvas, that contains copy.
12. “Base Reference Budget (BRB)”means the amount of sign area, prior to adjustments, available to a business or a multiple business complex (MBC). This amount is calculated from:
a. Gross floor area of buildings; and
b. Number of streets that access the property; and
c. Whether the business is part of a multiple business complex.
13. “Building Sign” means any sign attached to a building and supported by a wall of a building, or the wall of a structure, including a mansard roof. Any permanent window signs shall be considered a building sign. For the purpose of this definition the following signs are considered as a part of the building sign area (see definition for more clarification).
a. Awning signs;
b. Canopy signs;
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Development and Design Standards C-46 November 16, 2021 c. Marquee signs;
d. Landscape wall signs;
e. Mansard roof signs;
f. Permanent window signs.
14. “Business” means a single commercial unit of operation. There may be more than one business within a building (see “Multiple business complex)”; or there may be a single business in one building on one project area.
14.1 “Can sign” means a sign in which the sign copy is placed on a transparent face, which is attached to an enclosed box or can, usually made of metal, that has an internal light source.
15. “Canopy Sign” means a sign affixed or applied to the exterior facing surface or surfaces of a building canopy or freestanding canopy.
16. “Canopy (Building)” means a structure or roof covered with fabric, metal or other material and supported by a building at one or more points or extremities and by columns or posts embedded in the ground at other points or extremities. May be illuminated by means of internal or external sources. (compare "Marquee")
17. “Canopy (Freestanding)” means a structure or roof covered with fabric, metal or other material supported by columns or posts embedded in the ground. May be illuminated by means of internal or external sources.
18. “Changeable Sign”means a sign whose informational content can be changed or altered by manual or electric, electro-mechanical, or electronic means.
Changeable signs include the following types:
a. Manually Activated: Signs whose alphabetic, numeric, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be changed or altered by manual means. (See also seasonal copy change)
b. Electrically Activated: Signs whose alphabetic, numeric, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be changed or altered on a fixed display surface composed of electrically illuminated or mechanically driven changeable segments. Includes the following two types:
i. Fixed Message Electronic Signs: Signs whose basic informational content has been pre-programmed to include only certain types of information, such as time, temperature, predictable traffic conditions, or other events.
ii. Computer Controlled Variable Message Electronic Signs: Signs whose informational content can be changed or altered by means of computerdriven electronic impulses.
19. City. Unless the context clearly discloses a contrary intent, the word “city” shall mean the city of South Lake Tahoe.
20. “Clearance (of a sign)” means the smallest vertical distance between the grade of the adjacent street, highway, or street curb and the lowest point of any sign, including framework and embellishments, extending over that grade.
21. “Clear Zone” means the area at a street corner or driveway defined as follows:
a. Street corner clear zone is created by extending the front property line and street side property line to a point and measuring from the point along the front property line and street side yard property line to a distance of 15 feet and connecting these two points to create a triangular area. 655
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Development and Design Standards C-47 November 16, 2021 b. Driveway clear zone is created by measuring, from the point of driveway and property line intersection, along the driveway and property lines to a distance of 15 feet and connecting these two points to create a triangular area.
21.1 “Community Benefit Sign” means a temporary sign displayed by a non-profit organization, to raise funds for a community wide benefit, such as the community blood drive and the like. It does not include advertising for a commercial for profit enterprise, such as a ski sale or private arts and craft show and the like.
22. “Construction sign” means a temporary sign identifying an architect, contractor, subcontractor, material supplier, funding sources and other related information pertinent to the property on which the sign is located.
23. “Copy” means the graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter, numeric, symbolic, or alphabetic form. Also see “Mural.”
24. “Copy area” means the area shall be calculated by enclosing the perimeter of the copy within a rectilinear geometric figure which encloses the extreme limits of the copy and measuring the area within the perimeter.
25. “Deceptive sign” means any sign which by varying the size of print, by wording, by coloration, or by any other device, give a normal viewer a false or deceptive impression of prices or rates, charges or services, or number of units available.
26. “Directional/Information Sign” means any sign which is used soley for the purpose of traffic or pedestrian information, direction or safety, and placed on the property to which or on which the public is directed and which contains no advertising copy.
27. “Double-faced sign” means a sign with two faces, essentially back-to-back. Each sign face is to be calculated to determine sign area.
28. “Electric awning sign” means an internally illuminated, fixed space-frame structure with translucent, flexible reinforced covering, designed to awning form and with graphics or copy applied to the visible surface of the awning.
29. “Electrical sign” means a sign or sign structure in which electrical wiring, connections, or fixtures are used.
30. Electronic Message Center. See “Changeable signs, electrically activated.”
31. “Embellishment” means a portion of a sign structure intended to accent a sign rather than to provide or carry additional message area, e.g., framing, roofing, foundations, landscaping and the like.
32 “Facade” means the entire building elevation including the parapet.
33. “Festoons” means a string of ribbons, tins, or pinwheels.
34. “Flag” means an article of cloth on flexible material displayed to the public. a. Official Flag. The flag of any nation, state, county, city or other recognized governmental entity, flown in accordance with the state and federal laws governing such displays. A U.S. flag shall be flown in conjunction with any foreign flag.
b. Insignia Flag. A flag bearing the insignia, name, device, rank, logo type, or similar designation of specific activities, political parties, person, agencies, private business, and the like.
35. Flashing Sign. See “Animated sign, electrically energized.”
36. “Freestanding Sign” means a sign which is permanently supported in a fixed location on the ground by poles, braces, a foundation, a planter, pedestal, 656
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Development and Design Standards C-48 November 16, 2021 retaining wall or other structure and not attached to or supported by any building..
Such signs include building wing wall signs(See also “Low Profile Sign)
37. “Frontage, street” means that portion of a project area bounded by public roadway.
38. “Graphic” means the use of letters, symbols, numbers to convey a message.
Note: Adding graphics to a mural creates copy.
39. “Government sign” means any temporary or permanent sign erected and maintained by the city, county, state, or federal government for traffic direction or for designation of or direction to any school, hospital, historical site, or public service property or facility.
40. “Grade” means the surface elevation of the street, or the natural ground elevation beneath the sign.
40.1 “Grand opening temporary activity” means a use which proposes a temporary activity to promote the opening of a new business at that location. For the purpose of the sign ordinance, a use shall have only one “grand opening temporary activity” and it shall occur no later than 30 days after issuance of city business license, change of operation review and/or an occupancy permit for the new business. As a “grand opening temporary activity,” it shall be subject to the same requirements as all temporary activities (SLTCC 32-21.1) including obtaining a planning permit. A “grand opening temporary activity” may have the limited use of balloons as outlined in SLTCC 25.5.1(G).
41. “Gross floor area (GFA)” means the measure of commercial square footage calculated as the floor area within the outer walls of a building or store space, including storage space. This shall not include stairwells and airshafts.
If more than one business is occupying the same floor space, the floor space shall be counted once to determine the gross floor area.
If a business occupies one floor of a two story business, the GFA shall be based on the one floor. Should the business extend to the second floor, its new sign area shall be recalculated including the second floor. Should the business revert back to the first floor, then the GFA reverts back to floor one. Any signage increase resulting from the expansion to the second floor shall now have to be reduced accordingly.
42. “Height (of a Sign)”, means
Freestanding Sign: the vertical distance measured from the highest point of the sign structure, including decorative embellishments, to the curb grade of the adjacent street or the surface grade beneath the sign, whichever is less.
Building Sign: the vertical distance measured form the highest point of the sign or sign structure to the building grade.
42.1. “Icon sign” means three-dimensional representation of an object that does not contain copy. Examples include a child’s building blocks to denote a children’s store or an ice cream cone to denote an ice cream shop. The intent of the icon sign is to provide business identification in a highly concentrated pedestrian environment (Mainstreet district of the South Tahoe redevelopment plan area) in a whimsical and entertaining manner without using copy. For sign area and locational standards, see SLTCC 25-45(C)(2)(a).
43. “Identification sign” means a sign whose copy is limited to the name and address of a multiple family or condominium complex, building, institution, or person or to the activity or occupation being identified.
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Development and Design Standards C-49 November 16, 2021
44. “Individual sign area” is computed from the BRB and is the allowable sign area for a specific individual sign, taking into account the following adjustments:
a. Specific individual sign setback;
b. Vehicle speed on the closest street;
c. Specific individual sign angle using the street frontage as a reference plane; and
d. Height.
45. “Illegal sign” means a sign which does not meet the requirements of this code, including but not limited to the placement or installation of a sign without first obtaining a city sign permit or installing a sign that is not consistent with the sign permit and which has not received legal nonconforming status.
46. “Illuminated sign” means a sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign. The following are types of illumination:
a. Diffuse. “Diffused lighting” is where the light source is internal and located behind a translucent sign face; i.e., internally illuminated electric can sign. b. Indirect. “Indirect lighting” is where the copy and/or the sign face are illuminated by an external light source. The external light source should be shielded from public view.
c. Direct. “Direct lighting” is where the sign copy is the light source, e.g., individual light bulbs organized to create the sign copy.
47. “Kiosk” means a pedestrian-oriented freestanding sign within public right-of-way used for display of information. All kiosk locations as well as information content shall be subject to the city use permit process.
48. “Landscape wall sign” means a sign attached to a retaining wall which is integrated into the project area landscape and the single sign face is parallel to the street.
49. “Lot” means a parcel of land legally defined on a subdivision or parcel map recorded with the El Dorado County recorder.
50. “Low profile sign” means a type of freestanding sign mounted directly to the ground with maximum height not to exceed six feet.
51. “Maintenance” means, for the purposes of this chapter, upkeep, or preservation of the condition of a sign in order to keep the existing components safe, neat and orderly in condition and appearance and to prevent corrosion or deterioration caused by weather, age or other conditions. Maintenance includes cleaning, painting, repair or replacement of defective parts of a sign. Maintenance does not include any changes to sign area, the copy, graphic design, or the external dimensions of the sign or structure.
52. “Mansard roof” means normally the roof slope exceeds 45 degrees (12:12). A roof-like facade architecturally comparable to a building wall.
53. “Mansard roof sign” means a sign attached to a mansard roof.
54. “Marquee” means a permanent roof-like structure or canopy of rigid materials supported by and extending from the facade of a building. Compare “Awning” and “Canopy sign.”
55. “Memorial signs” means tablets for names of buildings, date of erection, architects, etc. when built into the walls of a building. 658
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Development and Design Standards C-50 November 16, 2021
56. Monument Sign. See “Low profile sign.”
57. “Motor fuel price sign” means that portion of a freestanding sign which advertises the price of motor vehicle fuel offered for sale.
58. “Motor vehicle signs” means a sign attached, affixed or painted upon the exterior of a motor vehicle.
59. “Multiple business complex” means a building or group of buildings within a single architectural plan and within one project area housing two or more businesses with one or more parcels.
60. “Multiple business complex sign” means a sign whose purpose is to identify the MBC, not individual tenants.
61. “Multiple-faced sign” means a sign containing three or more sign faces, not necessarily in back-to-back configuration. Each sign face shall be calculated to determine sign area.
62. “Mural” means a picture pictograph (especially large) painted or applied directly on a wall, ceiling or roof, contains no copy and is not a visual representation of a business or service so as to be viewed as advertisement for the business or service.
63. “Nameplate” means a nonelectric, on-premises residential identification sign giving only the name and address of an occupant.
64. “Nonconforming sign” means a sign which was erected legally, but which does not comply with subsequently enacted sign restrictions and regulations.
65. “Occupancy” means the portion of a building or premises owned, leased, rented, or otherwise occupied for a given use.
66. “Off-Premise Sign” means a sign erected or maintained on a parcel or project area advertising an establishment, merchandise, service, or entertainment, which is not sold, produced, manufactured, or furnished at the property on which the use or activity advertised by the sign is not located.
67. “On-Premise Sign” means a sign erected or maintained on a parcel or project area on which the use or activity advertised by the sign is located.
68. “Official signs” means traffic, fire and police signs, signals, devices and markings of public agencies and utilities for which illumination and motion is permitted, other safety signs, and legal notices.
69. “Opaque background” means a sign background that doesn’t transmit light. For the purpose of this chapter the amount of light transmitted shall be limited to the range of approved background colors shown in Exhibit 3 (see also SLTCC 25- 34).
70. “Owner” means the legal owner of record. This information may be available through a search of the county recorder’s records or as shown on the most recent property tax roll provided by El Dorado County assessor. For the purposes of this chapter, the owner of property on which a sign is located is presumed to be the owner of the sign unless facts to the contrary are officially recorded or otherwise brought to the attention of the city, e.g., a sign leased from a sign company.
71. “Parapet” means the extension of a false front or wall above a roofline.
72. “Parking signs” means signs that state “Private Parking Only – Consent of the Owner Required” and shall be otherwise consistent with the California Vehicle Code Section 22658A.
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Development and Design Standards C-51 November 16, 2021
73. “Parked motor vehicle sign” means a sign attached to, located on, or located within any motor vehicle trailer or other related device, when parked for the primary purpose of displaying signage or to augment existing signage of a business located on the parcel, lot, or project area where the parked motor vehicle is located. A parked motor vehicle sign meets this definition if the copy is easily readable from a vehicle or pedestrian traveling upon a public right-of-way (of a scenic corridor). Examples of such signs are, business delivery vehicle(s), personal vehicles and the like. Excluded from this are vans or trucks which have short term deliveries of merchandise and goods to the retailer or restaurant.
74. “Pedestrian scale” means copy, graphics, proportions and locations that are easy to comprehend and intended to be primarily read by pedestrians.
74.1 “Pedestrian Sign” means a permanent sign in “pedestrian scale” which provides information and directions to pedestrians, such as a “directory/information sign” and kiosk sign.”
75. “Pennant” means a piece of cloth, plastic, paper, or other such material varying in size, shape or design to draw attention to the site where located.
76. “Permanently affixed” shall mean painted or permanently attached with glue, adhesive, bolts, nails, approved concrete footings, not intended to be easily removed. Tape shall not be considered as meeting this definition.
77. “Person” means any individual, corporation, association, firm, partnership, or similarly defined interest.
77.1 “Plant List” means the Recommended Native and Adaptive Species List adopted by TRPA.
78. “Point of purchase display” means advertising of a retail item accompanying its display, e.g., an advertisement on a soft drink or water dispenser, tire display, ice machines, etc.
79. “Pole cover” means cover enclosing or decorating poles or other structural supports of a sign.
79.1 “Political Sign” means a sign advertising a candidate for public office, a proposition, or other issue to be voted on by the general public.
22. “Portable Sign” means any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building.
23. “Project area” means one or more parcels or leases that are linked together for a common and definitive purpose, such as parking, or access, or utilities, or are under one umbrella management unit.
24. “Projecting Sign” means a sign, other than a flat building sign, which projects form and is supported by a wall of a building, and is not mounted parallel to the plan of the wall.
83. “Public right-of-way” means that portion of land owned by the public in which the street, sidewalk and utilities are placed. Note: Normally the public right-of-way is wider than the paved street.
84. “Real estate sign, on-premises” means a temporary sign advertising the real estate upon which the sign is located as being for rent, lease, or sale.
85. “Roofline” means the top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, excluding any mansards, cupolas, pylons, chimneys, or minor projections.
86. “Roof sign” means any sign erected over or on the roof of a building. No roof sign dormer can extend above the roofline as measured in elevation. 660
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87. “Room rate” means the posting of room rate signs and shall be consistent with this chapter and SLTCC 28A-6.
88. Rotating Sign. See “Animated sign, mechanically energized.”
89. Scenic Corridor. The following roads are considered scenic corridors: Lake Tahoe Boulevard, U.S. 89, U.S. Highway 50 and the Loop Roads.
90. “Sculpture” means to cut, carve, chisel, cast, weld, mold, etc., into statues or figures.
91. “Seasonal Change of Copy” means the changing of the sign face copy, to reflect the different seasons or seasonally uses.
92. “Seasonal graphics and murals” means such graphics and murals that depict seasonal events with no commercial messages. Examples include Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s and Father’s Day, Homecoming and the like.
93. Setback: Setback, for all signs shall be measured from the property-line.
94. “Sign” means any character, letter, figure, symbol, design, model or device or combination of these used to attract attention or convey a message and which is visible from a public street, public recreation area, bicycle trail or from Lake Tahoe. The term includes banners, pennants, streamers, moving mechanisms and lights. The term does not include scoreboards or ball field signs where the sign is oriented to the recreation use.
95. “Sign, Area of” means the sum total of display areas of one or more sign faces (also see sign face). If the sign is composed of individual letters or symbols using the wall as the background with no added decoration, the sign area shall be calculated by enclosing the perimeter of each word within a rectilinear geometric figure which encloses the extreme limits of the copy and measuring the area within the perimeter.
96. “Sign dormer” means a structure attached to the roof that provides a vertical mounting surface on a sloping roof. The dormer is usually constructed of the same material as the roof.
97. “Sign face” means the plane of a sign on which the copy is placed. A normal size frame is not considered as a part of the sign face.
98. “Snipe sign” means a temporary sign or poster affixed to a tree, fence, telephone pole, etc.
99. “Subdivision identification sign” means a freestanding or wall sign identifying a recognized subdivision, condominium complex or residential development. 100. “Temporary Sign” means any sign not intended for long term 101. “Under-canopy pedestrian-oriented sign” means a sign suspended beneath and not projecting beyond the face of a canopy, ceiling, roof, or marquee. 102. “Unit of operation” means an individual and separate unit of activity or function within a building, such as a single shop within a business complex or a single business occupying an entire building.
103. “Use” means the purpose for which a building, lot, sign, or structure is intended, designed, occupied, or maintained.
104. “Window” means an opening in a building for letting in light or air or for looking through, and having a pane(s) of glass set in a frame or sash. Note: Placing a false window on a building does not meet the definition of window and window signs. Also see “Parked motor vehicle sign.”
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Development and Design Standards C-53 November 16, 2021 105. “Window Sign” means all signs placed in a window which are intended to be primarily visible from a public right-of-way, includes permanent and temporary signs.
Note: A temporary window sign does not count as building sign area if it is within the 25% window area devoted to window signs.
25-5 Compliance Required: It shall hereafter be unlawful for any person to erect, place, or maintain a sign in the City of South Lake Tahoe except in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
25-5.1 Signs Prohibited: The following types of signs are prohibited in all districts:
A. Pennants, festoons, search lights;
B. Signs imitating or resembling official traffic or government signs or signals; C. Snipe signs, when located in the public right-of-way; D. Off premise parked motor vehicle signs
E. Portable signs not specifically permitted by this Ordinance, i.e., real estate signs F. Animated signs
G. Balloons; except for a “grand opening temporary activity” as part of a cityapproved TRPA permit for a temporary activity/use. The “grand opening temporary activity” use of balloons shall not exceed 72 continuous hours H. Changeable copy signs; computer controlled variable message electronics sings.
Exceptions:
1. Computer controlled variable message electronic signs that are include in City gateway signage and publicly owned community event signs.
2. Manually activated, changed seasonal copy changes
I. Insignia flags, unless otherwise allowed by this chapter.
J. Flags in the form of pennants or festoons, and the like, unless approved as part of a Temporary Activity Permit.
K. Sound producing signs
L. Illegal signs
M. Off-premise signs, except for "off premise" temporary real estate residential open house signs (see SLTCC 25-7) and garage sale signs (See SLTCC 25-7) allowed by this chapter.
N. Appurtenant Signs, unless counted as a part of approved signage area and each sign does not exceed 12" x 12'°. Further, no appurtenant sign shall be hung from or otherwise attached to a freestanding sign unless the attachment is included as a part of the sign face copy
O. All signs riot specifically noted
P. The display of sculpture, murals and seasonal graphics, unless approved by the City Planning Division.
Q. Window signs not contained within the 25% allowable window signage area.
R. Freestanding signs in clear zones that have height between 3’ and 1-‘ from grade or with pole/base support larger than 12 inches in diameter R. Signage for prohibited uses.
S. Signs not in compliance with this Chapter.
T. Hand held signs for commercial use
25-6 Planning Permits Required: Unless otherwise provided by this Ordinance, all signs shall require a Planning Permit and payment of fees as described in Article VII of this chapter.
25-7 Signs and Activities Not Requiring Permits: The following types of signs are exempt from permit requirements but shall be standards of this chapter.
A. Maintenance or cleaning of a sign.
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Development and Design Standards C-54 November 16, 2021 B. Memorial signs, when cut into masonry surfaces or when constructed of bronze or other metals and affixed to a wall, that do not exceed three square feet in area.
C. Temporary government signs indicating danger and/or service and safety information.
D. In residential areas, (1) name plates, (2) names on mailboxes or newspaper tubes, (3) private property parking or warning the public against trespassing or danger from animals, provided they do not exceed two square feet.
E. Signs not readable from a public street, recreation area, bicycle trail, or Lake Tahoe, such as window placards denoting community special events.
F. Directional and information signs on private property which conform to the following: 12" x 18" or smaller, which limit access, provide direction, parking admittance or pertain to security provisions; signs 18" x 18 °' or smaller, defining entrance or exit; and octagonal stop signs, 24'° or smaller. Any sign larger than the limits described shall be counted as either freestanding or building sign as appropriate.
Larger signs may be allowed in those instances where a business is located on a public street which is being repaired or reconstructed that negatively affects the economic viability of a business(s). Size of sign shall be subject to City review on a case by case basis. At a minimum, the sign shall not exceed 6 feet high and be setback a minimum of 5 feet from all property lines and be outside a defined corner clearzone.
G. Highway signs, street signs and other regulatory and directional signs which are located on a public right-of-way shall conform to the applicable sign standards set forth in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 1978, or other standards which may be contained in a memoranda of understanding between the TRPA and a public agency with jurisdiction over the travel way or upon design approval by the TRPA and a public agency with jurisdiction over the travel way.
H. Seasonal graphics and murals. At such time as the Seasonal Graphic or Mural has business related copy, the Seasonal Graphic or Mural is considered to be a business sign and the entire Seasonal Graphic or Mural, including copy, is considered sign area and requires a permit.
I. Off premise temporary real estate residential "Open House" signs provided the following standards are met:
1. The signs shall not exceed 3 square feet. Within the 3 square feet, all copy shall be placed including arrows, logos, name of real estate office, address and the like. The height of sign shall not exceed 3 feet. For the purpose of this provision, the 3 foot high signs may be placed on top of a snow berm.
2. All signs shall not be located within the public right-of way.
4. The signs shall not be allowed within the Tahoe Keys Blvd. median, the 15th street median and parkway, or the Loop Road median and parkway.
5. The maximum number of signs per "Open House" shall be limited to three (3).
6. The "Open House" signs shall be either freestanding, mounted on a stake, or an "A-frame." The location and/or size of such signs shall not create a traffic hazard.
7. The "Open House" signs shall be displayed only during the hours which the house is open for viewing, and the open house signs shall be immediately removed when the open house is closed for the day.
J. On-premise temporary real estate signs provided the following standards are met;
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Development and Design Standards C-55 November 16, 2021
1. Residential
a. One "For Sale" sign per premise, unless the property for sale has both a front and rear street frontage, in which case, two “for sale” signs are permitted;
b. On the day of showing, one "Open House" sign per premise; c. The standards for all signs shall be:
i. If freestanding, the sign area shall not exceed 3 square feet. Should the sign be mounted on a stake, the stake shall not exceed 5 feet in height. The sign or its supports shall not encroach into the public right-of-way and shall not create a traffic hazard or encroach into a clear zone area. Said sign may be double faced.
ii. If a wall sign, the area shall not exceed 3 square feet. iii. Shall not be illuminated; and
iv. Shall not contain more than two sign riders each a maximum side of 6”X18”; and
v. Shall not contain more than one flier box.
2 .Commercial
a. One "For Sale" sign per premise, unless the property for sale has both a front and rear street frontage, in which case, two “for sale” signs are permitted;
b. The standards for all signs shall be:
ii. If freestanding, the sign area shall not exceed 32 square feet; shall not exceed 6 feet in height. The sign or its supports shall be a minimum of five feet from the property lines and shall not encroach into a clear zone area. Said sign may be double faced;
iii. If a wall sign, the area shall not exceed 32 square feet; iv. Shall conform to the design standards contained in SLTCC 25-38 and 25-39; and
v. Shall not be illuminated.
K. Motor vehicle signs which conform to the following: non-projecting and permanently affixed to the exterior of the vehicle. Painted and magnetic signs are considered permanently affixed. Taped signs are not.
L. Commercial street address numbers which do not exceed 3 square feet. If greater than 3 square feet, shall require a permit and shall be calculated as a part of the sign area.
M. Open/closed signs which do not exceed 12 square inches and credit identification signs. This applies to all illuminated and non-illuminated signs and credit identification.
N. Window signage that does not exceed 25% of the window area. Each window shall have a maximum of 25 percent of window area for use of all permanent and temporary signs except for seasonal graphic displays. In a single façade which contains a group of windows that is visible from a street, the window signage for that façade may be concentrated in one window of that group. The permissible area shall be based on the total window of that façade’s widow grouping.
O. Banners and sandwich board signs in compliance with the following standards:
Displayed only during the following holiday periods: the month of December, New Year’s Eve day and New Year’s Eve, Martin Luther King weekend, President’s Day weekend, Memorial Day weekend, July 4th weekend, Labor Day weekend, Thanksgiving weekend, or during City sanctioned community events; 664
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Development and Design Standards C-56 November 16, 2021 i. Signs are not within a street right of way, sidewalk, bicycle path, pedestrian walkway, designated parking spaces, ADA accessible zone or path, or clear zone;
ii. Signs do not impede pedestrian or bicycle circulation; and iii. Signs are professionally designed and manufactured; or iv. Banner signs that are community benefit signs in areas designated by a community plan.
Q. Garage sale signs displayed Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday of a holiday weekend. Must be outside of street rights of way and must not impeded pedestrian, bicycle, or vehicle traffic.
R. The following temporary signs:
i. Temporary government signs.
ii. Temporary window signs, provided they are within the 25 percent allowable window area for signs.
iii. Temporary on- and off-premises real estate signs.
iv. “Community benefit” temporary activity signs at the Chamber of Commerce area and those “community benefit” temporary activity signs placed offpremises as a part of an approved community plan or area plan. 25-8. Maintenance.
All signs shall be properly maintained. Exposed surfaces shall be clean and painted if paint is required. Defective parts shall be replaced. The [City] TRPA shall have the right to order the repair or removal of any sign which is defective, damaged, or substantially deteriorated as defined in the Uniform Building Code.
25-9. Lighting.
Unless otherwise prohibited by this Ordinance, all signs may be illuminated consistent with this chapter.
25-10. Sign Contractor’s License or Exemption.
No person shall engage in the business of erecting, altering, relocating, constructing or maintaining signs without a valid contractor's license and meeting the provisions for all required state and federal licenses (unless said maintenance does not require a state or federal license) or meets the Uniform Building code "Owner/Builder", Section. 25-11 Insurance.
All persons involved in the business of maintenance, installation, alteration, or relocation of signs shall maintain all required insurance and shall file with the state a satisfactory certificate of insurance to indemnify the TRPA, state, county, or city against any form of liability.
25-12 Signs Permitted in all PAS.
Unless otherwise noted, the following signs requiring Planning Division permits, are permitted in all Plan Areas, and they shall conform with all standards of this chapter:
A. Political signs which conform to the following: for each parcel, one temporary sign per street frontage which is not greater than 12 square feet in area, is not internally illuminated, and is not displayed for more than 30 days in a calendar year, except that for 60 days preceding a general, primary or special election more than one such sign may be placed on each parcel, provided they are removed immediately after the election. (TRPA Section 2.3.4.E). 665
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Development and Design Standards C-57 November 16, 2021 B. Area identification signs which conform to the following additional standards:
1. Signs shall not exceed 25 square feet in area;
2. Signs shall be low profile signs and not exceed five feet in height, with the following exception:
The height of an area identification sign may exceed five feet, when:
a. The sign is placed on public property (or property which acts as public property such as property dedicated for public use), outside the public right-of-way;
b. The sign is placed within an approved community plan; c. The sign is placed within a community plan which allows multi-story buildings (above two);
d. The sign shall be constructed as part of a project subject to city review and approval;
e. The project shall have all of the following public infrastructure: curb, gutter, sidewalk, street lighting and drainage improvements; f. The sign setback shall conform to the freestanding sign setback and height chart shown in SLTCC 25-35(D);
g. The number and location of signs shall be included in each community plan;
h. Signs shall be landscaped as required by Article VIII, Sign Design Standards, with the following exceptions:
The landscaping requirements may be reduced when:
i. The sign will be constructed as a part of a project where the city has review and approval;
ii. The sign placement within the project is pedestrian oriented hardscape and therefore not conducive to meet the landscaping standards in Article VIII; and
iii. The project shall have full public improvements, including any of the following: curb, gutter, sidewalk, street lighting, and drainage improvements.
C. Construction Signs. One construction sign may be erected on site, provided it not exceed 32 square feet, six feet in height, shall be set back a minimum of five feet from all property lines and conform to the design standards contained in SLTCC 25-33 and 25-34. Such signs shall not be erected prior to the issuance of the project building permit and shall be removed within 10 days of completion of construction or building occupancy, whichever occurs first.
D. All public use signs.
E. Directional signs on public property which provide direction to public and semipublic uses, such as recreation uses, churches, hospitals, schools and the like.
Said signage shall be no larger than 18 inches by 18 inches. If located on Caltrans right-of-way, a Caltrans encroachment permit is required before issuance of this sign permit. If located on city right-of-way, a city encroachment permit is required before issuance of the sign permit.
25-13 Signs permitted in residential PAS.
For all signs not requiring permits, see SLTCC 25-7.
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Development and Design Standards C-58 November 16, 2021 A. The following signs do not require planning division permits: all signs listed in SLTCC 25-7.
B. The following signs requiring planning division permits are allowed in residential PAS. They shall conform with all standards of this chapter:
1. All signs permitted in all PAS (SLTCC 25-12).
2. Identification sign provided the following standards are met:
a. Sign area shall not exceed 32 square feet; and
b. One sign per street entrance.
3. For permitted nonresidential uses, including places of worship, but excluding home occupations, the following standards shall be required:
(a) freestanding sign not to exceed 32 square feet in sign area, and (b) building sign not to exceed 32 square feet in area.
C. Special regulations for residential PAS are as follows: all allowed freestanding signs shall be a low profile sign with a height limit of six feet and be set back a minimum of 15 feet from any public right-of-way.
25-14 Signs Permitted in Commercial/ Tourist Plan Areas.
A. The following signs do not require planning division permits: all signs not requiring permits (SLTCC 25-7).
B. The following signs require issuance of a permit by the planning division and are allowed in the above plan areas, provided they conform to the following standards and all other standards of this chapter:
1. All signs permitted in all PAS (SLTCC 25-12).
2. a. Under-canopy pedestrian-oriented signs shall not be counted as building signs provided they conform to the following:
i. Placed at right angle to pedestrian walk; and
ii. Located at or near the public entrance to the building; and iii. Not internally illuminated; and
iv. Do not exceed five square feet (each side) and are a minimum of eight feet above grade of the pedestrian walk.
b. Those under-canopy signs which do not conform to subsection (B)(2)(a) of this section shall be considered to be a building sign subject to requirements contained in SLTCC 25-39 through 25-41, and if in the Stateline/Ski Run CP, see SLTCC 25-42 through 25-45.
3. Building and Freestanding Signs. For information on size, location, setback, height, etc., see SLTCC 25-39 through 25-41, and if in the Stateline/Ski Run CP, see SLTCC 25-42 through 25-45.
4. Seasonal change of sign copy is subject to a limit of two changes per year:
one summer and one winter.
C. Special regulations for tourist accommodations uses are as follows: the maximum sign area for tourist accommodation use is:
1. For properties with entrance on one street, the maximum sign area shall be 120 square feet. Of that 120 square feet, a maximum of 80 square feet shall be permitted for a freestanding sign.
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Development and Design Standards C-59 November 16, 2021
2. For properties with major entrances on two, three or four street(s) (excluding service drives), the maximum sign area shall be 240 square feet, 360 square feet, and 480 square feet, respectively. Of the maximum allowed per street frontage, a maximum of 80 square feet may be used for any one freestanding sign.
Article V. Construction Specifications
25-15 Construction Specifications.
All signs shall be installed in compliance with the building and electrical codes as required by the city building division.
Article VI. Administration and Enforcement
25-16 Planning Divisions.
Planning division is authorized to process applications for sign permits and enforce and carry out all provisions of this chapter through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the TRPA and the city. The division is authorized to promulgate regulations, interpretations and procedures consistent with this function. [The division is empowered, upon presentation of proper identification, to enter or inspect any building, structure, or premises in the city for the purpose of inspection of a sign.
Should potential building and/or electrical code problems occur in this inspection, the division is authorized to request the building division to inspect the sign for possible building and electrical code violations in accordance with applicable provisions of state and federal law.]
25-17 Application for Permits.
Application for a sign permit for the erection, relocation, or change of copy shall be approved by the planning division upon a form provided by the division. Incomplete applications shall result in the immediate return of the application to the applicant without a decision.]
25-18 Permit Fees.
All applications for a sign permit shall be accompanied by the payment of a fee based upon the city council adopted fee schedule. Failure to provide the fee at the time of application submittal shall result in the immediate return of the application to the applicant without a decision.]
25-19 Permit Issuance.
The division staff shall issue a sign permit for the erection, relocation, or change of copy provided it is in receipt of a valid application (including fee) and provided the sign conforms to all applicable laws and regulations of this chapter.] 25-20 Revocation.
The division may revoke a sign permit for any false statement or misrepresentation of fact in the application. Any sign which has been erected, relocated, change of copy or color, based upon a false statement or misrepresentation, shall be considered an illegal sign and subject to the terms and conditions of this chapter. 25-21 Inspection Upon Completion.
Any person erecting, relocating, changing copy or color, for which a sign permit has been issued, shall notify the division when the work has been completed. The division shall inspect the sign for conformance with the permit. This inspection shall not relieve the applicant from obtaining any other inspection from other divisions or agencies. 668
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Development and Design Standards C-60 November 16, 2021 25-22 Exceptions
A. Exceptions to those design standards contained in Article IX and X of this chapter may be allowed, provided the following findings can be made:
1. The situation exists whereby strict application of the standard is unfair and infeasible to the applicant; and
2. The exception is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this chapter; and
3. The approval of the exception will not have a significant effect upon other property owners or occupants of property in the vicinity; and
4. The exception produces benefits equal to the benefits contained in this chapter.
B. In granting each exception the planning division staff may attach additional conditions necessary to carry out the spirit and purpose of this chapter in the public interest, including, but not limited to:
1. Removal of other nonconforming signs.
2. Copyrighted colors on logos. Those logos which do not conform to the standard with regard to color contrast would be allowed if the logo is placed on a dark background which would not be less than 40 percent of the sign area.
3. Reduction in sign area. This may involve the reduction in sign area for freestanding or building signs. The proposals which reduce the sign area for those signs that are visible from the scenic corridor shall provide more mitigation than those which are not.
C. A scenic analysis shall be required for any exception on a scenic threshold travel unit or recreation area. Those exemptions not on a scenic threshold travel unit or recreational area may require a scenic analysis.
D. Designated locally unique signs pursuant to Section 25-23 may be granted exceptions in order to preserve their locally unique attributes. 25-23 Locally Unique Signs.
i. A business or property owner may apply to have a sign designated as a “locally unique” sign. The application shall be made to the city planning division on a designated form and include a fee set by the planning division fee schedule. ii. The application will be considered by the city planning commission. Approval will be based on the following criteria:
a. The sign is in good condition and is in compliance with all building and safety code requirements;
b. The sign has historically been well maintained;
c. The sign advertises a business that is currently in operation and/or products or services currently provided by that business;
d. The sign does not degrade the scenic quality of the area; e. The sign does not impede existing, or planned for, vehicle, transit, bicycle, or pedestrian circulation;
f. The sign demonstrates a creative and unique design or construction technique;
g. The sign is a widely recognizable icon or landmark within the city. 669
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Development and Design Standards C-61 November 16, 2021 iii. The decision of the planning commission regarding the locally unique sign application shall be final and binding and applicant may not appeal this decision to any other decision making body.
25-24 Partial Compliance to Nonconforming Signs.
Modifications to existing nonconforming signs that bring a sign closer to compliance with this chapter shall be permitted provided:
i. The property owner has not received notification of a violation of this chapter or notification of nonconforming sign compliance requirements; ii. The sign does not create a safety hazard as determined by the city manager or his/her designee;
iii. The sign is in good aesthetic condition as determined by the city manager or his/her designee; and
iv. The property owner enters into a signed written agreement with the city agreeing that the sign will be brought into full compliance within five years from the date of enactment of this amended ordinance and that failure to do so shall result in enforcement proceedings as set forth in this chapter.
25-25 Violations.
A. Signs Displayed Without a Permit and Modifications to Existing Signs Without a Permit. If any sign is or has been installed or placed on any property prior to the receipt of a required city sign permit, it is in violation of this chapter. Signs in violation of this chapter shall be removed within 10 days of notification of the violation to the property owner. If not removed according to the notice, a monetary penalty shall be required pursuant to the planning division fee schedule. The payment of the penalty shall not relieve any person of any other requirements or penalties within this chapter.
B. Installed Signs Existing Prior to May 1, 1994 (Previously Legal Nonconforming).
Signs not brought into compliance within 90 days of city notification to the property owner that the amortization period for legal nonconforming signs has expired (expired May 2009) and legal nonconforming signs shall therefore be brought into compliance with this chapter. Failure to bring signs into compliance according to the notice will result in a monetary penalty pursuant to the planning division fee schedule.
25-26 Appeals.
Decisions of city staff on the approval or denial of a permit or determination of violations of this chapter may be appealed to the planning commission within five days of receipt of notification of the decision. The decision of the planning commission shall be final and binding and the applicant may not appeal this decision to any other decision-making body.
The following additional appeals procedures shall apply only to locally unique signs (SLTCC 25-23): The final decision of the planning commission may be appealed to the city council. Notice of appellant’s intent to appeal to the city council shall be served upon the city clerk in writing no later than five days following the planning commission’s decision.
Article VI. Conflict, Severability and Effective Date
25-27 Conflict.
If any portion of this chapter is found to be in conflict with any other provision of any zoning, building, fire, safety, or health ordinance of the city code, the provision which establishes the more restrictive standard shall prevail.] 670
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Development and Design Standards C-62 November 16, 2021 25-28 Severability.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this chapter or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this chapter or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is in effect and shall remain in full force and effect.
Article VIII. Sign Design Standards
25-29 Applicability.
The following design standards are applicable to all signs erected, relocated, or change of copy within the city, including the community plan areas unless the community plan has a standard specific to the area.
These standards have been developed to improve the scenic quality ranking of the scenic corridor.
25-30 Copy.
A. Standard. This chapter shall not regulate the copy message.
Guideline. Copy should be simple to read and limited to six to eight words, and denote the name and type of business or services rendered; using copy to display menus, products and the like adds to the complexity of the copy.
B. Standard. In Section 13531 et seq. of the Business and Professions Code, which regulates motor fuel price signs, the following shall be required:
1. The sign shall not advertise more than three major grades of motor vehicle fuel offered for sale (propane is not considered a motor vehicle fuel).
2. The numerals designating the price of motor fuel shall be the minimum size as allowed under Section 13531 et seq. of the Business and Professions Code.
C. Standard. Sign area containing copy required by law (such as state required gas prices, security exchange commission (NASAD)) will not be deducted from the maximum allowable sign area, provided the copy does not exceed the minimum size requirements of the law.
D. Standard. Any increase in sign area copy beyond what is required by law is allowable provided the additional area is deducted from the appropriate BRB.
E. Standards for Tourist Accommodations Only.
1. Standard. The display of amenities and affiliations provided shall be limited to the list of city-approved symbols based on The Symbol Sourcebook.
Should a symbol not exist then the city shall determine the appropriate symbol and include it in the list of city-approved symbols. The symbols shall be 12 inches by 12 inches and located in the bottom one-third of the sign face. Copy is not permitted in lieu of the symbols. (See Exhibit 1.) Guideline. The uniform symbols are intended to provide the public a consistent and easily understood set of amenities and affiliation symbols throughout the city and to also reduce the copy on signs.
In the design of the sign face, owners should allow for change of symbols, keeping in mind that the chapter does not allow changeable copy signage.
For example, on internally illuminated signs, the symbols could be made of vinyl attached to the face. Should the owner desire to change the symbol, it could be done by simply changing the one vinyl symbol.
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Development and Design Standards C-63 November 16, 2021
2. Standard. The vacancy/no vacancy signage shall be limited to a maximum height of letters of six inches.
Guideline. If exposed fluorescent tubing direct lighting is to be used for vacancy/no vacancy, the color red is suggested, as it is most visible as well as provides the public with a consistent color and symbol. 25-31 Lighting.
A. Standard. All illuminated signs shall have either or both indirect or diffused lighting.
Guideline. Indirect backlighting of individual letters is the encouraged method of sign illumination.
B. Standard. Indirect lighting sources shall be shielded to prevent the light source from being visible from a public right-of-way or adjacent property.
Guideline. Methods that can be used include an enclosure that extends past the light source sufficiently that will channel the light onto the sign face and not spill light to other areas. Landscape materials and mounding may also be used.
Approval of the shielding method and its design will be based on how well the standard is met.
C. Standard. The intensity of lighting shall not create a visual hazard to the public.
D. Standard. All internally illuminated signs shall have a background which transmits a limited amount of light. (For the standard, see SLTCC 25-34, Color.) 25-32 Landscaping.
A. Standard. All freestanding signs shall be placed wholly within a landscaped area. The minimum landscape area shall be equal to the city standard setback, and across the property frontage, excluding driveways. Should a sign not be located within the standard property setback, the sign shall be placed in a landscape island. The island shall have a minimum depth from each sign face/edge of 10 feet. (Also see SLTCC 5-24, Landscaping. Planning commission design manual shall apply.)
Guideline. See the city design manual and SLTCC 5-24.
B. Standard. In the event that the landscaping provisions cannot be met as they pertain to freestanding signs, because of the physical limitations of the property, the staff may grant an exception under SLTCC 25-22, Exceptions.
Multiple partial compliance applications may be approved prior to the required compliance deadline; however, additional new measures towards compliance must be provided for each application.
C. Standard. A security deposit for the installation of the required sign landscaping may be allowed by the staff based on the winter ground disturbance prohibition from October 15th through April 30th of each year. Staff may place conditions, as appropriate, to ensure timely compliance.
25-33 Construction.
A. Standard. All supporting devices and braces shall be an aesthetic contribution to the sign structure and not a utilitarian appendage to hold up a sign, e.g., angle iron, pipes, guy wires are not allowed.
B. Standard. Freestanding signs shall be supported by two or more poles/supports or a monument base.
Guideline. The use of monument bases in conjunction with low-profile signs is encouraged.
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Development and Design Standards C-64 November 16, 2021 25-34 Color.
A. Standard. Internally illuminated signs shall have backgrounds of a dark color, or opaque material which does not transmit light. If opaque, only the individual letters and/or symbols may be illuminated. Under day and night lighting conditions, the copy on internally illuminated signs shall be lighter than the background.
Guideline. Natural wood and high density foam core signs which can be carved and painted consistent with the design standards, including dark backgrounds, are also encouraged.
B. Standard. Externally illuminated signs may be any color background and copy except for bright neon colors (fluorescent) and reflective colors, which are prohibited.
Guideline. Bright colors are generally discouraged on signs except when used as accent colors.
C. Standard. The color standard shall not apply to nationally registered trademarks if the color is a part of the trademark. If the trademark only pertains to the copy, then the copy shall be placed on a city approved background color. The minimum background shall be 40 percent of the sign area.
Guideline. The use of trademarks on natural backgrounds is encouraged. 25-35 Sign location.
A. Standard. The maximum height of a roof sign shall not exceed 15 feet from grade and shall be placed within a sign dormer.
For building signs more than 50 feet from the property line, no sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building or mansard roof, unless the sign is placed on a “sign dormer” which is located within the bottom one-half of the roof, as seen in elevation.
Guideline. “Sign dormers” should be designed as an architectural element and materials should be compatible with the building. Buildings with flat roofs should construct a new roof to accommodate a roof dormer for signage. The minimum roof slope should be 5:12.
Individual letter signs should be used within “sign dormers” as they do not dominate the roof as do “canned” signs.
C. Standard. In the design of new buildings and major remodels, all improvements subject to design review shall identify signage locations.
Guideline. Architectural details of a building often suggest locations, size or shape of signs. Signs should complement the building and not be considered after the building is designed.
C. Standard. One freestanding sign shall be permitted per the street frontage or project area. Additional freestanding signs are only permitted on parcels or project areas on which there are more than one licensed business. In such circumstances, multiple freestanding signs shall only be permitted if each sign is at least 100 feet apart and each sign complies with all other provisions of this chapter.
1. Distance between freestanding signs shall be a minimum of 100 feet apart.
D. Standard. The location (setback) of a freestanding sign is subject to the maximum height allowed per the following setback chart, but in no case shall a sign be closer than five feet, zero inches to a property line. 673
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Development and Design Standards C-65 November 16, 2021 Guideline. Where possible a low-profile sign is encouraged.
Freestanding Sign Setback Height
13 or less 10.00
14 10.25
15 10.50
16 10.75
17 11.00
18 11.25
19 11.50
20 11.75
21 12.00
25-36 Multiple Business Complex.
Repealed by Ord. 888.
25-37 Sign height.
A. Standard. For freestanding signs, see SLTCC 25-35.
B. Standard. For all other signs, including window signs and banners:
1. If a single story building is located within 50 feet of the property line, the maximum sign height shall be 15 feet, measured from grade.
2. If a single story building is greater than 50 feet, the maximum sign height shall be 25 feet.
C. Standard. For multi-story buildings, a building sign height over 15 feet is allowed, up to a maximum of 25 feet.
25-38 General Sign Design.
All signs should promote the city value of enhancing the unique beauty of Lake Tahoe by adherence to a high aesthetic quality and professional construction standards.
Article IX. Sign Area Formula City-Wide
25-39 Introduction.
Signage is a very complex problem. A number of factors guide the process of sign regulation. These factors include legal constraints of local, state, and federal laws as well as factors such as topography, traffic speed and local demographic makeup.
Basic to the use of signs is the communicative aspect of signage, which in many cases is the only viable and cost effective means of advertising the presence of a business. It is this aspect that complicates the development of a sign ordinance as it is impossible to predict the communicative needs of all businesses. The rules that are developed may or may not serve the communicative needs of the sign user and the community.
This sign chapter will allow the individual business owners the flexibility to develop a sign package that will meet their own individual communication needs, within a framework that will be sensitive to the local environment.
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Development and Design Standards C-66 November 16, 2021 25-40 Concept.
Each business and multiple business complex (MBC) has a computed sign budget. From this budget, the business owner has the flexibility to apply the budget to freestanding and/or one or more building signs.
A. Standard. The area of each sign face shall be calculated to determine sign area.
For example, a freestanding sign, at right angles to the road with each sign face being 20 square feet, has a total area of 40 square feet. 25-41 Computing the Sign Area.
The calculation is a two-step process.
A. The first step is to establish the base reference budget (BRB) for the business or MBC.
B. The second step is to calculate the individual sign area for each freestanding and building sign.
These steps are translated into the following formulas:
For Step 1, calculate the BRB for signage identifying a business Where
A = Area of business floor space (feet)
C = 1.1 for businesses not located in a multiple business complex = 0.9 for businesses in a multiple business complex where signage is (or will be) provided to identify the complex
= 1.0 for businesses in a multiple business complex where signage is not (and will not) be provided to identify the complex
D = With respect to principal customer access
= 1.0 where the business is accessed by one street
= 1.41 where the business is accessed by two streets
= 1.73 where the business is accessed by three streets
= 2.0 where the business is accessed by four streets
For Step 1 calculate the BRB for signage identifying a multiple business complex Where
A = Area of business floor space for the entire complex (feet) D = With respect to principal customer access
= 0.50 where the business is accessed by one street
= 0.70 where the business is accessed by two streets
= 0.85 where the business is accessed by three streets
= 1.0 where the business is accessed by four streets
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Development and Design Standards C-67 November 16, 2021
1. Standard. The BRB used to calculate the sign area for each individual sign of a business when added together shall not exceed the total BRB for that business.
2. Standard. The BRB used to calculate the sign area for each individual sign of a multiple business complex when added together shall not exceed the total BRB for that multiple business complex.
3. Standard. Freestanding sign area shall be limited to 50 percent of the base reference budget (BRB).
If the project area qualifies for two freestanding signs, no single freestanding sign shall be permitted more than 35 percent of the BRB.
If the project area qualifies for three freestanding signs no single freestanding sign shall be permitted more than 28 percent of the BRB.
If the project area qualifies for four freestanding signs no single freestanding sign shall be permitted more than 25 percent of the BRB.
For Step 2 calculate the sign area for an individual sign.
Where
S = Vehicle speed limit on the street where the sign is to be viewed from (in miles per hour)
H = Height of the sign (as measure from finish grade to the top of the sign; in feet. Maximum height is 26 feet)
V = Horizontal viewing distance coefficient (as determined by the following chart)
Setback and Angle Table
Setback Footage Angle Values
Greater Than Less Than or Equal 0 to 15 16 to 30 31 to 45 46 to 60 61 to 75 76 to 90 >5 ft. < = 50 ft. 0.50 0.60 0.70 0.80 0.90 1.00
>50 ft. < = 100 ft. 0.55 0.65 0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05
>100 ft. < = 150 ft. 0.60 0.70 0.80 0.90 1.00 1.10
>150 ft. < = 200 ft. 0.65 0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.15
>200 ft. < = 250 ft. 0.70 0.80 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20
>250 ft. < = 300 ft. 0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25
>300 ft. < = 350 ft. 0.80 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30
>350 ft. < = 400 ft. 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.35
>400 ft. < = 450 ft. 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40
>450 ft. < = 500 ft. 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.35 1.45
>500 ft. 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50
These formulas have been incorporated into a computerized spread sheet program. The spread sheet format will permit the applicant the ability to easily adjust and manipulate the various factors to see what is the best signage package for the business or multiple business complex. (Exhibit 4.)
As an alternative to the computer, a manual worksheet has been developed to accomplish the same result. (Exhibit 5.)
C. The following shall not be considered sign area:
1. Pedestrian signs;
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Development and Design Standards C-68 November 16, 2021
2. Temporary signs;
3. Temporary window signs;
4. Sign embellishments; and
5. Appurtenant signs.
Article X. Tourist Core Area Plan Provisions
25-42 Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to augment the city-wide sign ordinance with a set of specific design standards tailored to meet the urban design plan for the Tourist Core Area Plan.
25-43 Scope.
The Tourist Core Area Plan is composed of two parts:
A. The redevelopment plan area; and
B. The area outside the redevelopment plan area. (See Exhibit 2.) Within the redevelopment plan area all the sections of the city-wide sign ordinance apply, however, Article VIII, Sign Design Standards, has been augmented with additional standards in SLTCC 25-44.
Within the area outside the redevelopment plan area, all the sections of the city-wide sign ordinance apply.
25-44 Redevelopment Sign Design Standards.
The following redevelopment sign design standards shall apply to the redevelopment plan area only. Should a conflict arise between the city-wide standards contained within Article VIII and the following standards, the redevelopment sign design standards shall apply.
A. Standard. Redevelopment plan area definitions:
1. Mainstreet District. This district is generally described as being located in the Stateline core area, along both sides of U.S. Highway 50, between Park Avenue/Heavenly Village Way and the California/Nevada state line and between Bellamy Court and Cedar/Friday/Laurel Avenues. (See city staff for precise boundaries.)
This district is oriented around intense pedestrian activity. As a result, the sign standards are reflective of a pedestrian environment: no freestanding signs are allowed; only building, landscape, wall and window signs are allowed.
2. Transitional District. This district is generally described as being located along both sides of U.S. Highway 50, adjacent to the Mainstreet district, between the California Loop Road diversion and Park Avenue/Heavenly Village Way and the North Loop Road and a line westerly of the extension of Cedar Avenue. (See city staff for precise boundaries.)
This district is characterized as being both pedestrian and automobile oriented. As such, the sign standards are sensitive to both traffic modes, but will only permit those freestanding signs that are low profile signs.
3. Parkway Districts. These districts are generally located:
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Development and Design Standards C-69 November 16, 2021 a. Along both sides of U.S. Highway 50 for the depth of the commercial property, from Herbert Avenue to the California Loop Road diversion; b. Along Ski Run Boulevard for the depth of the commercial property from U.S. Highway 50 to Paradise Avenue;
c. Within the Lakeside Motel district between Laurel Avenue and Cedar Avenue and Friday Avenue to Stateline Avenue. (See city staff for precise boundaries.)
The Parkway districts are characterized as automobile oriented and permit both freestanding and building signs.
B. Standard. All legal nonconforming signs shall be brought into conformance with this chapter when:
1. Refer to Article VI of this chapter for compliance triggers; or
2. A major remodel of a structure occurs, such as adding units or additional square footage is constructed; or
3. Curb, gutter, and sidewalks are constructed adjoining the property.
D. Standard. All redevelopment signs shall comply with the following color standards:
1. All copy appearing on a building, freestanding or window sign shall be placed on a dark background to create a contrast. Under day and night lighting conditions, the copy shall be lighter than the background.
2. The copy may be any color except for bright neon colors (fluorescent) and reflective colors, which are prohibited.
Guideline. Bright colors are generally discouraged on signs except when used as accent colors.
3. The color standard shall not apply to nationally registered trademarks if the color is a part of the trademark. If the trademark only pertains to the copy, then the copy shall be placed on a city approved background color. The minimum background shall be 40 percent of the sign area.
Guideline. The use of trademarks on natural backgrounds is encouraged. 25-45 Mainstreet District.
A. Standard. Freestanding signs shall not be permitted. (Note: Landscape wall signs, as defined, are not considered to be freestanding signs, but are counted as building signs.)
1. Exception: The Park Avenue/Heavenly Village Way and the Bellamy Court frontages in the Mainstreet district are allowed freestanding signs. The design standards for this exception sign are:
a. Materials: Stone retaining wall matching the architectural stone with metal lettering on a rectangular solid background. Metal letters may be applied directly to the stone wall as an option. No can signs allowed. b. Letter height: Up to two feet, zero inches.
c. Wall height: Up to four feet, zero inches, unless in a defined clear zone, in which case the sign can be up to three feet, zero inches. d. Sign area: Maximum of 20 square feet per sign face for a maximum of 40 square feet. The height and width of the solid backdrop on which the letters are attached shall be used to compute the sign area. The stone 678
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Development and Design Standards C-70 November 16, 2021 wall, on which the solid backdrop is attached, shall not be counted as sign area.
e. Installation method: Concrete footing.
f. Lighting: Up-lighting from nonvisible source on ground or back-lighted individual letters onto solid backdrop.
g. Sign Orientation: Either parallel or up to 90 degrees to the center lne of the street.
h. Number allowed – Major buildings:
i. Mountain Side.
1. Grand Summit Hotel: One on-site freestanding sign on Heavenly Village Way.
2. Timber Lodge: One on-site freestanding sign on Bellamy Court. ii. Lake Side.
1. None.
i. Purpose: To allow some auto-oriented signage in the non-intensive pedestrian public space, while maintaining a pedestrian scale for the sign.
With the following exception:
Two freestanding area identification signs conforming to the exemption standards contained in SLTCC 25-12(B)(2), may be located as follows:
i. Mountain Side.
1. One on the southeast corner of U.S. Highway 50 and Park Avenue/Heavenly Village Way;
ii. Lake Side.
1. One on the northwest corner of U.S. Highway 50 and Stateline Avenue.
B. Standard. Landscape wall signs: The design standards for a landscape wall sign are:
1. Materials: Stone retaining wall matching the architectural stone with metal lettering on a rectangular solid backdrop. Metal letters may be applied directly to the stone wall as an option. No can signs allowed.
2. Letter height: Up to two feet, zero inches.
3. Wall height: The wall on which the sign is placed shall not exceed four feet, zero inches, unless in a defined clear zone, in which case the wall can be up to three feet, zero inches.
Exception: If the wall is a part of a structural element to facilitate the use of the site, i.e., a retaining wall, the wall height shall be as high as deemed appropriate by an engineer to accomplish the wall’s purpose. As a part of the sign permit, conditions may be imposed to ensure a pedestrian scale is maintained for the wall, including terracing or other landscape features.
4. Sign area: Maximum of 40 square feet. This is a total maximum square footage for the sum of all landscape wall and building signs on the parcel.
The height and width of the solid backdrop on which the letters are attached shall be used to compute the sign area. The stone wall, on which the solid backdrop is attached, shall not be counted as sign area.
5. Installation method: Concrete footing.
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Development and Design Standards C-71 November 16, 2021
6. Lighting: Up-lighting from nonvisible source on ground or back-lighted individual letters onto solid backdrop.
7. Sign orientation: Only parallel to the centerline of the street.
8. Number allowed – Major buildings:
a. Mountain Side.
i. One for the Timber Lodge.
ii. One for the Gondola.
ii. One for Cecil’s Market.
iv. One for the transit center.
v. One for the Grand Summit on U.S. Highway 50.
b. Lake Side.
i. One for the Convention Center.
ii. One for Project A.
iii. One for Project B.
iv. One for Stardust Timeshare.
9. Purpose: To not have a proliferation of freestanding signs along the highway corridor but rather have those signs which are a part of a landscape feature, such as a retaining wall, be allowed to incorporate signage. If the sign is not a part of a landscape feature, then the sign may be permitted, provided it is integrated into the landscape so as not to be a dominant sign form. Such integration shall include such items as pedestrian amenities such as pedestrian seating, water feature, art, boulders or the use of landscape material to frame and soften the sign from all sides.
C. Standard. Building signs: There are two types of building signs: (1) those which provide secondary identification to the major buildings, and (2) those which identify the individual businesses.
The design standards are:
1. Secondary Identification of Major Buildings.
a. Materials: Signs may be metal or wood. No can signs allowed. b. Letter height: Up to one foot, two inches.
c. Sign height: Up to 15 feet.
d. Sign area: Maximum of 40 square feet. This is a total maximum square footage for the sum of all landscape wall and secondary identification of major building signs on the parcel.
e. Installation method: Flush attachment to building wall and avoid contrasting attachment anchors.
Exception: The parking garage building sign may use a projecting sign in lieu of a sign attached flush to building wall.
f. Lighting: Down-lighted from nonvisible source on building wall or backlighted individual letters onto solid backdrop. g. Sign orientation: Varies depending on building wall orientation. h. Number allowed – Major buildings:
i. Mountain Side.
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Development and Design Standards C-72 November 16, 2021
1. Four for the Timber Lodge.
2. Two for Cecil’s Market.
3. Two for the transit center.
4. None for the Gondola.
5. Two for the Grand Summit Hotel.
6. One for the cinema.
7. One for the parking garage.
ii. Lake Side.
1. Two for Project A (one on U.S. Highway 50 and one on the public space).
2. Two for Project B (one on U.S. Highway 50 and one on the public space).
3. Two for the Stardust Timeshare Hotel.
i. Purpose: To provide pedestrian level identification for major buildings in the project site.
2. Individual Businesses. There are three types of individual business signs: (a) those which provide identification to businesses with an elevation sign to be viewed from the street and sidewalks, (b) those which provide identification to businesses from within the pedestrian space under the canopy of the building arcade, and (c) a three-dimensional icon placed on a column of the building arcade.
a. Elevation Signs.
i. Materials: Signs may be metal or wood with a minimum edge thickness of two inches; no can signs will be permitted. ii. Letter height: Up to nine inches.
iii. Sign height above ground: Varies depending on the arcade fascia. iv. Sign area: In place of the formula, the sign area is regulated by the uniform backdrop dimensions of a height of one foot, eight inches and a length of 12 feet, zero inches (20 square feet).
v. Installation method: Signs shall be hung from the soffit board of the arcade. See city planning for criteria.
vi. Lighting: Down-lighted from nonvisible source from arcade wall or back-lighted individual letters. See city planning for criteria. vii. Sign orientation: Parallel to arcade.
viii. Number allowed: One for each tenant space.
ix. Purpose: To provide business locations with a building sign (elevation) that can be viewed from the street and sidewalk. b. Under-Canopy Projecting Arcade Sign.
i. Materials: Signs may be metal or wood; no can signs will be permitted.
ii. Letter height: Variable; typical is six inches.
iii. Sign height: Bottom of sign is no lower than eight feet from sidewalk, nor higher than 15 feet.
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Development and Design Standards C-73 November 16, 2021 iv. Sign area: In place of the formula, the sign area is regulated by the uniform backdrop dimensions of a maximum height of two feet, zero inches and a maximum length of three feet, six inches (each side is seven square feet for a total of 14 square feet)..
v. Installation method: Signs shall be attached to and hung at 90 degrees to the wall of the building. The mounting brackets shall be strong enough to prevent sagging over the life of the sign. vi. Lighting: None. The arcade lighting will illuminate the sign or backlighted individual letters. vii. Sign orientation: 90 degrees to the building wall on which it is attached.
ix. Number allowed: One for each tenant space.
x. Purpose: To provide identification to businesses from the pedestrian space under the canopy of the building arcade.
c. Icon Sign
i. Materials: Icon may be metal, plastic or wood.
ii. Letter height: No letters unless they are a significant and integral element of the icon, such as the letters ABC on a child’s building block.
iii. Sign height: Bottom of sign is no lower than eight feet from sidewalk, nor higher than 15 feet.
iv. Sign area: In place of the formula, the icon shall wholly fit within an imaginary cube with a maximum height of one and one-half feet, a maximum width of one and one-half feet and a depth of one and one-half feet. For the purpose of computing sign area, only the one dimensional plane shall be used. Therefore, the icon sign area shall be computed in the same manner as an under-canopy projecting sign, i.e., a double-sided sign (each side is two and one-half square feet for a total of five square feet).
v. Installation method: The icon shall be attached to the building arcade support column. The mounting brackets shall be strong enough to prevent sagging over the life of the sign.
vi. Lighting: None.
vii. Sign orientation: 90 degrees to the building arcade support column and oriented to the street or the sidewalk side of the arcade canopy and not oriented to the pedestrians under the arcade canopy. viii. Number allowed: One for each tenant space.
ix. Purpose: To provide iconic identification to businesses in a whimsical and entertaining manner creating a festive character to the pedestrian streetscape environment.
D. Standard. In addition to the building signs allowed in subsections A, B and C of this section, a computer-controlled variable message electronic sign is allowed in the Mainstreet sign district, subject to the following:
a. Materials: Sign materials are subject to the city-wide design standards in Article VIII.
b. Letter height: Sign letter height is subject to the city-wide design standards in Article VIII.
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Development and Design Standards C-74 November 16, 2021 c. Sign height: Maximum height is 25 feet.
d. Sign area: Sign area is a maximum of 80 square feet. The unused portion of the 80 square feet area shall not be transferred to other building signs allowed in subsections A, B and C of this section. The 80 square feet area may be split into multiple sign faces subject to the public hearing process. e. Installation method: Flush attachment to building wall and avoid contrasting attachment anchors.
f. Lighting: Sign lighting is subject to the city-wide design standards in Article VIII.
g. Sign orientation: Varies depending on building wall orientation. h. Number allowed – Major buildings:
i. Mountain Side.
1. None.
ii. Lake Side.
1. One for the Convention Center.
i. Purpose: To provide identification for activities within the Convention Center. j. Other.
i. The message and sign area illumination must remain constant, except for that period of time when the message is being changed. The rate of copy change shall not exceed four message changes per one-hour period.
ii. A public hearing and notice to surrounding property owners, including environmental documentation, shall be required for all computercontrolled variable message electronic signs. This public hearing is required irrespective of whether the sign needs an exception to any design standards contained in Articles VIII and X (see SLTCC 25-49, Exceptions).
iii. The intent of a computer-controlled variable message electronic sign is to convey a written message. The intent does not include a graphic and/or written message which includes motion, such as a television.
E. Standard. Seasonal graphics are allowed subject to the following:
1. All the public infrastructure has been installed according to a city approved master streetscape plan, including curbs, gutter, sidewalks/bike trails, landscaping and street lights;
2. All the signs are in conformance with the city sign ordinance and the building design and improvements are in conformance with the city design standards;
3. The light standard is designed to accept the seasonal graphic;
4. There is a business association in place;
5. Conform to the following:
a. Materials: Fabric, metal or wood; no can signs will be permitted; b. Letter height: Not applicable;
c. Sign height: Bottom of graphic is no lower than eight feet from sidewalk, nor higher than 15 feet;
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Development and Design Standards C-75 November 16, 2021 d. Sign area: A maximum length of four feet, zero inches and a maximum width of one foot, six inches;
e. Installation method: Signs shall be attached to the light pole on city building division approved mounting brackets to prevent bending from wind and snow loads over the life of the brackets;
f. Lighting: None. The streetlight will provide illumination; g. Sign orientation: 90 degrees to the street;
h. Number allowed: Maximum of two per light pole;
i. Purpose: To provide a festive character to the pedestrian streetscape environment;
6. Have city planning approval to ensure compliance with these provisions prior to installation.
25-46 Transition District.
A. Standard. The maximum height of freestanding signs shall be limited to lowprofile signs (see SLTCC 25-4, Definitions, for low profile).
1. Exception: Multiple business complexes in which the primary tenant is a major grocery store and set back a minimum of 150 feet from the front property line shall be allowed to have freestanding signs with heights consistent with the city sign formula.
B. Standard. The maximum area allowed in the Transitional district shall be 80 square feet.
1. Exception: Multiple business complexes in which the primary tenant is a major grocery store and set back a minimum of 150 feet from the front property line shall be allowed to have freestanding signs with sign areas consistent with the city sign formula. The design standards for this exception sign are:
a. Materials: Signs to be constructed of stone, metal and wood; no can signs will be permitted.
b. Letter height: Variable.
c. Sign height: Based on city sign formula.
d. Sign area: Based on city sign formula.
e. Installation method: Concrete footer with steel framing. f. Lighting: Down-lighting from nonvisible light source on the freestanding sign.
g. Sign orientation: Variable, based on city sign formula. h. Number allowed: Two; one on U.S. Highway 50 and one on Park Avenue.
i. Purpose: To provide tenant information for the neighborhood retail project.
C. Standard. The maximum building sign area shall be 40 square feet.
1. Exception: Multiple business complexes in which the primary tenant is a major grocery store and set back a minimum of 150 feet from the front property line shall be allowed to have building signs with sign areas 684
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Development and Design Standards C-76 November 16, 2021 consistent with the city sign formula. The design standard for this exception sign is:
a. Materials: Two-inch thick by 18- to 24-inch high, internally illuminated Plexiglas faced individual channel aluminum letters.
b. Letter height: Variable.
i. Major grocery store: Store name, up to four to eight feet; secondary uses, up to 24 inches.
ii. Major tenants’ names: Up to 30 inches.
iii. Other tenants’ names: Up to 18 inches.
c. Sign Height.
i. Major grocery store: Store name, up to 25 feet; secondary uses, up to 15 feet.
ii. Major tenants’ names: Up to 15 feet.
iii. Other tenants’ names: Up to 15 feet.
d. Sign area: Based on city sign formula.
e. Installation method: Letters affixed to a six by six painted channel raceway sandwiched between two arcade beams. See concept sketch. f. Lighting: Internally illuminated channel letters.
g. Sign orientation: Varies depending on arcade orientation. h. Number Allowed.
i. Major grocery store: Three.
ii. Major tenants: One for each tenant space.
iii. Other tenants: One for each tenant space.
i. Purpose: To provide tenant information for the neighborhood retail project.
25-47 Parkway Districts.
A. Standard: The maximum freestanding sign area allowed in the Parkway District shall be 80 square feet. The maximum building sign area shall be 40 square feet.
Exception: The signs for Hotel B of project 3 shall conform to the Mainstreet District signage standards as outlined in SLTCC 25-5
Guideline: The signs on Ski Run Blvd. should be limited to low profile signs to convey a pedestrian scale.
25-48 Sign Area Formula – Redevelopment Plan Area.
A. Mainstreet District. The formulas within Article IX are maintained, however, the standards contained in Article X take precedence over the city-wide ordinance and standards.
B. Transitional District. The formulas within Article IX are maintained, however, the standards contained in Article X take precedence over the city-wide ordinance and standards.
C. Parkway Districts. The formulas within Article IX are maintained, however, the standards contained in Article X take precedence over the city-wide ordinance and standards.
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Development and Design Standards C-77 November 16, 2021 25-49 Exceptions.
A. In addition to those exemptions noted within this chapter, the only other exceptions allowed are those design standards contained in Articles VIII and X of this chapter, provided the following findings can be made:
1. The situation exists whereby strict application of the standard is unfair and infeasible to the applicant; and
2. The exception is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this chapter; and
3. The approval of the exception will not have a significant effect upon other property owners or occupants of property in the vicinity; and
4. The exception produces benefits equal to the benefits contained in this chapter.
B. In granting each exception the planning division staff may attach additional conditions necessary to carry out the spirit and purpose of this chapter in the public interest, including, but not limited to:
1. Removal of other nonconforming signs.
2. Copyrighted colors on logos. Those logos which do not conform to the standard with regard to color contrast would be allowed if the logo is placed on a dark background which would not be less than 40 percent of the sign area.
3. Reduction in sign area. This may involve the reduction in sign area for freestanding or building signs. The proposals which reduce the sign area for those signs that are visible from the scenic corridor shall provide more mitigation than those which are not.
C. A scenic analysis shall be required for any exception on a scenic threshold travel unit or recreation area. Those exemptions not on a scenic threshold travel unit or recreational area may require a scenic analysis. The city and TRPA shall determine the level and type of scenic analysis.
D. A public hearing and notice to surrounding property owners shall be required for a computer-controlled variable message electronic sign exception(s).
H. Parking, Driveway and Loading Spaces: See City Code, Chapter 5, Article VIII, Parking, Driveways and Loading Spaces.
686
Tourist Core Area Plan
CSLT Green Building Program D-1 October 15, 2013
Appendix D
CITY OF SOUTH LAKE TAHOE GREEN
BUILDING PROGRAM
RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS
Level 1 – “Priority Plan Check”
For residential projects, including new construction, additions and remodels, City staff has drafted a list of “Recommended Green Measures for Residential Projects.” These measures are feasible to implement and do not require significant additional investment beyond the mandatory measures of building codes and the CalGreen Code. Additionally, they have a good “bang for the buck” and the City would like to encourage applicants to incorporate them into their residential projects.
Recommended Green Measures for Residential Projects
Appliances – All kitchen appliances meet Energy Star rating if an Energy Star designation is available for that appliance.
Reduction in cement uses – Foundation mixes contain at least 20% reduction in cement by replacing cement with products such as flyash, slag, silica fume, or rice hull ash. Renewable/Recycled materials – At least 20% of all hard floor covering in the home must be a recycled content material or be of rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo, cork, natural linoleum flooring, engineered wood products, or minimum of 50% recycled content tile.
Low VOC flooring – At least 80% of the total area of resilient flooring installed must be certified under the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RCFI) FloorScore program and at least 80% of the total area of carpet meet the CRI Green Label Plus requirements for carpet.
Radon Resistant construction – Radon resistant construction that meets the criteria of the Basic Techniques for Radon Resistant Construction recommended by the US EPA, is included in the project and the owner has been provided with information on radon risks, the radon resistant construction in the home, and radon testing options. Sustainable deck products – All decks surfaces utilize Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, salvaged wood, or recycled content plastic or composite decking. Plastic or composite decking materials must be approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshall for use in the Wildland Urban Interface area.
Low water consumption landscaping – The project does not include lawn area greater than 5% of the lot area and all landscaping is irrigated with a drip irrigation system that includes soil moisture control sensors.
Kitchen faucet – Maximum flow rate at sink faucets is not greater than 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.
687
Tourist Core Area Plan
CSLT Green Building Program D-2 October 15, 2013
Projects that incorporate these measures will be given priority for plan check, by all City Departments over projects that meet only mandatory requirements. An applicant will be required to submit the checklist along with supporting materials, and a signed testimony that the project complies with the measures with the building permit application. Compliance with the recommended green measures would be verified during the plan check and building inspections.
A fine of $500 would be imposed on projects that, at the time of building occupancy, have not incorporated the green measures but received priority plan check. Funds from the fine would be placed in an account that would be used for City sustainability efforts.
Level 2 – “Priority Plan Check, Allocation, and Recognition” As part of this program, it is important to utilize the nationally recognized green building certification systems so that the City’s green building success is recognized beyond the City limits. Builders and building owners may also find this important in their marketing efforts. An article in the January 2010 issue of Find Homebuilding magazine emphasized this point when stating that, “builders are looking to certification programs not only because they want to build better homes but also because they want to differentiate themselves from those who aren’t building homes of similar quality.” Certification provides proof that the home has been built to a widely recognized standard. The article goes on to state that, “certification becomes a powerful marketing tool for builders as well as homeowners who plan to sell their home one day.” Therefore, the second level of voluntary measures requires third party green building certification.
Residential buildings that obtain LEED, Energy Star or GreenPoint Rated certification would be eligible for the following:
Projects would receive priority plan check, over all other projects, by all City Departments.
Projects would receive recognition at a televised City Council meeting and on the City Website.
Proof of final certification will be required prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy. If certification is not obtained when occupancy is required, the applicant may post a security equal to $10,000 in order to receive a certificate of occupancy for the building. The security would be held until green building certification is obtained. If certification is not obtained within 1 year of occupancy, the security would be forfeited and deposited into the City fund to be used for City sustainability efforts. If the project is not requesting residential allocation(s) they can still qualify for the other incentives and would need to provide a signed testimony and documentation demonstrating their intent to obtain green building certification with their building permit application and provide final certification prior to occupancy.
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS
There is only one level of incentives provided for Commercial projects, “Priority Plan Check, Allocation, and Recognition.”
Buildings that obtain LEED certification or an Energy Star Label would be eligible for the following:
Projects would receive priority plan check, over all other projects, by all City Departments.
Residential projects would have eligible for CFA allocation from the City’s unallocated CFA Pool.
Projects would receive recognition at a televised City Council meeting and on the City Website.
688
Tourist Core Area Plan
CSLT Green Building Program D-3 October 15, 2013
When submitting a Design Review application for a new commercial project, applicants can include a request for Commercial Floor Area (CFA) form the City’s unallocated CFA pool.
Currently, these requests would require consideration by the City Planning Commission and eligible projects are required to meet the following criteria:
1. Be within an adopted Community Plan Area,
2. Meet the criteria for CFA allocation required by the applicable Community Plan,
3. Meet all applicable design standards,
4. Include the construction of improvements that will benefit the public and community which are more extensive than required by the applicable Community Plan or City Code, and
5. Provide an economic benefit to the community with enough significance to merit the allocation of the City’s CFA resource.
This policy for allocation of CFA from the unallocated pool was adopted by the City Council on June 7, 2007. In order to provide CFA as an incentive for green building certification, the policy would be amended to include LEED or Energy Star green building certification as one of the criteria. As part of the Design Review application, the applicant would indicate which certification program they will pursue. Prior to issuing a building permit, documentation that demonstrates pursuit of the certification is required (application for Designed to Earn the Energy Star, or LEED Project Registration). Proof of final certification will be required prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy. If certification is not obtained when occupancy is required, the applicant may post a security of $1.50 per square foot of the building (minimum security of $10,000) in order to obtain occupancy of the building. The security would be held until green building certification is obtained.
If certification is not obtained within 1 year of occupancy, the security would be forfeited and deposited into a City fund to be used for City sustainability efforts. If the project is not requesting commercial floor area they can still qualify for the other incentives.
GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION CRITERIA
Green building certification is required to obtain residential level 2 incentives or commercial incentives. Certification programs that have been found to be nationally recognized and achieve green building goals of the City are the LEED, GreenPoint Rated, and Energy Star programs. For more information on these programs, go to:
LEED: http://www.gbci.org/homepage.aspx
GreenPoint Rated: http://www.builditgreen.org/greenpoint-rated Energy Star: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm
Other green building certification programs are gaining recognition and there will likely be new ones in the future. In order to accommodate this trend, there would be an application process for other green building certification programs to be added to the list of LEED, GreenPoint Rated and Energy Star programs that qualify for the level 2 residential incentives and commercial incentives.
The application would be considered by the Planning Commission with a recommendation from the Sustainability Commission.
EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
It is important that knowledge of green building within the community in general be increased.
Knowledge of green building and its benefits can reduce utility bills, increase the quality of construction, increase indoor quality, and increase comfort of buildings.
At this time, the following efforts would be feasible for City staff to implement within the next year:
City publication of Residential and Commercial Green Building Guides – Summer 2010 689
Tourist Core Area Plan
CSLT Green Building Program D-4 October 15, 2013
Hold a workshop on the CalGreen Code mandatory requirements – Fall 2010 Prepare a list of green building materials and products for local building and hardware stores and encourage them to carry them in their inventories – Fall 2010 Establish Green Building Information Center at the Services Center building to provide clearinghouse information on Green Building – Continuous Effort South Lake Tahoe Green Building Website with information on green building certification programs and local architects, engineers, contractors, etc. with Green Building credentials or experience – Winter 2010
Advertising at the Services Center for Green Building education and events put on by other organizations
690
Stakeholder Workshop
Tourist Core Area Plan: 2023 Updates
Participant Feedback – Wednesday, February 1, 2023
Increasing Housing Opportunities: Density
General consensus that a minimum density requirement would make sense Potential impacts to parking needs are concerning; however, support for development incentives/alternatives and increase in alternative transportation options increases support
Increase in density also creates an increased opportunity for Vacation Home Rental and potential for those properties to act similar to hotels Concerns around affordability of these potential housing units for local residents Question regarding how coverage plays a part in constructing increased density; discussion around how area plans provide additional opportunity under TRPA regulation Should be an overall increase in vertical parking configurations Current disconnect in the park once theory; it isn’t used because there isn’t sufficient transportation options (e.g., frequent transit)
Lake Link proving an encouraging model, but not enough. Should be expanded to other parts of the City
Parking issues will require a cultural shift
Mammoth trolly as a good example for the City; several fixed route services that cross paths so several points to be picked up nearby with varying times so never a long wait; it is easy, affordable and has an app that gives route updates/times Increased density supported with good transportation availability TTD funding from the City could be used for more programs similar to Lake Link Explore requirements for mixed income projects
Inclusionary housing
Public frequently expresses concerns about additional high end and unaffordable housing in this area
Preserving recreational zones/areas (e.g., Van Sickle Bi-State Park) Increasing Housing Opportunities: Permissible Uses
Clarification of “Employee Housing” definition and use Special Use Permit for employee housing seems like an undue burden, housing should be allowed
Ensure preservation of open space/recreation
Employee housing allowed in recreation seems unusual and needs to be clear who the developer is of the employee housing; employee housing for individuals who work for the open space makes sense but not for another area of town; should be relatively limited ability to develop employee housing in recreation zoned areas Increasing Housing Opportunities: Boundary Changes
691
Current Area Plan boundary is unusual, further boundary changes should be explored to create a more intuitive boundary; especially around Pioneer Trail and leading to Heavenly Ski Resort CA Base Lodge
Opinion that neighborhood off of Moss Rd. should not be incorporated into the TCAP area
Activating Town Centers: Outdoor Dining
Expand for more outdoor dining opportunities which can be used year round Can have significant impacts to parking and other businesses in certain locations; effective transportation option is key
Activating Town Centers: Permissible Uses
Eating and drinking should be an allowed use throughout the Area Plan Provide flexibility for amusement and recreation uses so not all need Special Use Permits; some of the uses within the definition make sense, others large scale uses may need special attention
Smaller business types should be “Allowed Use”
Create improvements to public art standards
Increasing Transportation Opportunities: Infrastructure Implement a transit system similar to the design of the Mammoth Lake Trolly, extending to the Y
Improve bus transit system efficiency similar to the North Shore (TART) Improve fixed transit routes to destinations
Shifting investment to improving transit system
Proposed a change of transit agency (remove TTD)
Promote bike/walk access, businesses to maintain snow removal Potential for a pay-in system for snow removal to lift burden on property owners Improve/encourage/accommodate public transportation to minimize parking issues Provide more transportation options/contributions
Need for reliable bus transit times
Increasing Transportation Opportunities: Parking
Expanding parking in Ski Run area (Vail/Heavenly Ski Resort) Enforcing a time limit for parking (e.g., 2 hour minimum) Density increase could have an impact on parking enforcement Propose a parking hub or central parking areas, especially for day visitors/single destination
Improve bus system connections
Need to accommodate for recreational toys/items and families with gear Manage boat trailer parking
Parking enforcement on Lake Pkwy
Manage snow storage
Expand parking garages for Heavenly Village and Ski Run Recommend Vail to provide a designated parking garage/hub at Cal Base Lodge Address community needs vs. landlord opinion for residential parking Provide more parking spaces and zones for electric bikes and scooters 692
Parking garage management (e.g., signage showing where spaces are full or open) 693
Planning Commissions 2/23/2023 Area Plan Workshop
1. Density – Supportive
Consider higher density or density bonuses.
i. Higher density for affordable housing only (TRPA 31.4.1.) Support for minimum density standard.
2. Parking
Support reduction in parking and evaluate parking maximums. Support for parking in-lieu fees to fund transit. Needed more details (i.e., cost, how is transit funded)
A consensus is that increased transportation options are required to reduce the parking demand ratio.
Support parking hub concept.
Support for unbundling parking costs from the rental cost.
3. Outdoor dining
Support outdoor dining but need to determine the impacts (i.e., VMTs, parking) Required standards regarding:
i. Location: ensure it does not become haphazard or encroach/impact on public/pedestrian paths.
ii. Design standards: ADA compliance, awning/overhangs, seasonality considerations
Suggestion that if City is interested in increasing outdoor dining, the City should provide the CFA from the City Pool.
4. Multi-family
Concerned with MFD becoming high-end condos or conversion of existing MFD to condos.
What strategies can City deploy to discourage the development of lux condos? Supportive of affordable/moderate condo units
Higher density/coverage for MFD outside of town centers (NS) Public comment: higher density only for affordable units (EM) Higher density should be afforded for all MFD within walking distance of transit and transit stops.
5. Coverage
Higher coverage for MDF outside area plans
Support exempting coverage for EV chargers. Treat similar to pervious paver/pervious deck exemption
6. Bicycle Parking
More is needed; revise the standard.
7. Expansion of Area Plan Boundary
Support for expanding TVAP boundary, beyond what is currently proposed. i. Look at including parcels within X radius of existing/proposed transit. Ask if expanding south of Pioneer along Ski Run (fyi: S.A. #1 along Ski Run allows MFD)
8. Height
Supportive of height increases (e.g., TVAP adjacent to the town center) Ask if a height increase is being proposed for TCAP (TRPA is considering allowing more height in TCAP for affordable housing)
9. Transportation & Circulation
Heavenly Resort should provide transit (how does City engage Heavenly to provide this service?
694
Planning Commissions 2/23/2023 Area Plan Workshop
Traffic calming supported along EBR into town.
i. Understanding of Caltrans jurisdiction but include in policies. Need for pedestrian passage across/over EBR.
Look at ways to connect bike traffic from Eloise to LTB 695
TOURIST CORE AREA PLAN
2023 AMENDMENTS
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 16, 2023
696
WHAT ARE AREA PLANS
Comprehensive land use planning documents which
provide specific development objectives and standards
for a specified area which address:
Allows for planning with greater flexibility at a
community scale
Provides a framework for an increase in redevelopment and property investment
Creates a central permitting mechanism with TRPA
regulation
Land Use Regulations
Development and Design Standards
Environmental Improvements
Transportation
Recreation
Public Services
697
TOURIST CORE AREA PLAN
Adopted in 2013
2020 Boundary Amendment
• Incorporation of 3594 Pioneer Trail into the TSC-MUC
Special Area #1 district (formerly part of the Pioneer/Ski Run Plan Area 092)
2022 Amendment to Permitted Uses by Zoning District
• Allow industrial services, wholesale distribution, and smallscale manufacturing as special uses in the TSC-G Special Area #1
698
TOURIST CORE AREA PLAN
“The area is envisioned as a central destination that provides full services for tourists and permanent residents and offers unique experiences related to the many outdoor recreation possibilities that surround the core area. The revitalization of the South Shore will catalyze the transformation from a failing and vestigial gaming economy into a sustainable outdoor tourism recreational destination by incorporating active streetscapes, shopping, entertainment and outdoor dining opportunities. In addition, transit and alternative travel will provide an essential part of the envisioned destination resort experience resulting in significant environmental gain and improved scenic quality.” 699
Private Redevelopments
Hampton Inn
Desolation Hotel
Bijou Market Place
Transportation and Circulation
Greenway
Linear Park Improvements
Pioneer Trail Improvements
Ski Run Improvements
US 50 Improvements
Bike Paths, Lanes and Routes Improvements
Pedestrian Improvements
Stateline/Park Ave Complete Street Project
(Grant Application Pending)
SEZ Restoration Programs & Water
Quality Improvements
US50/Wildwood
Bijou Park Creek SEZ Restoration
TOURIST CORE AREA PLAN
IMPLEMENTATION
700
AMENDMENT GOALS
Implement Housing Element policies
Implement and incentivize transportation and
connectivity
Increase consistency with State laws regarding
housing and parking
Explore ways to activate town centers
General improvements and code corrections
701
PROCESS
Stakeholders Workshop
February 1, 2023
Planning Commission Workshop
February 23, 2023
City Council Information Meeting
May 16, 2023
Initial Environmental Review & Draft Amendments
In Progress
City Adoption
Estimated August
TRPA Adoption
Estimated September
PROVIDE INFORMATION
AND CONTEXT ABOUT
THE AREA PLAN UPDATE
SHARE PREVIOUSLY
RECEIVED
FEEDBACK
RECEIVE FEEDBACK
ON THE PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS
Today:
702
RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES
Residential Density
Increase maximum to 65 units/acre
Set a minimum standard of 8 units/acre
Accessory Dwelling Units
Level of review for residential projects
Create a uniform review process for market rate and income-restricted residential projects Develop objective design standards to create a greater number opportunities for ministerial review of residential projects
703
REVITALIZATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Adverting for Accessory Uses
Subject to the existing maximum sign area/number of
allowed signs
Commercial Design Standards
Make existing standards more objective
• Requiring design elements
• Building modulation
704
OUTDOOR DINNING & COMMERCIAL FLOOR AREA
Activate Streetscapes
More Opportunities for Outdoor
Dining
Create consistency between CFA
requirements for outdoor seating and
outdoor dining
Develop standards to allow outdoor dining
up to a designated maximum amount of
square footage which would not be subject
to CFA requirements
705
TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION
Allow and prepare for a transition from vehicle traffic to active and public transportation
Accommodations for alternative modes of transportation in place of vehicle parking spaces
Reduction in parking spaces for right of way improvements beyond the project’s street frontage
Shared parking or car share program
Increased bicycle parking
Parking space in-lieu fee. Funds used to develop or operate onstreet or off-street parking, alternative transportation or transit and related facilities or programs
Parking and transportation management plan
706
ELECTRIC VEHICLE & SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE
Encourage improvements to
infrastructure that facilitate electric
vehicles
Reduce constraints related to
coverage maximums and transfer
requirements
Exemptions or ministerial mitigation
process
707
AREA PLAN EXPANSIONS
TOURIST CORE
1. Addition to the Tourist Center Neighborhood Mixed-Use (TSC-NMX)
1 708
AREA PLAN DISTRICT CHANGES
TOURIST CORE
1. Recreation (REC) to Tourist Center Mixed-Use (TSC-MU) 1 TSC-MU Zoning would allow:
• Residential Uses
• Tourist Accommodation Uses
• General Retail and Personal
Service
• Professional Offices
• Resource Management and
Open Space Uses
709
PERMISSIBLE USES
Create consistency between areas that allow
multi-person, employee, and multi-family housing
Expand general retail and personal service to
include:
Health and athletic clubs
Day spas
Funeral parlors
Consolidate amusement & recreation and
assembly & entertainment
Distinguishing between small less impactful uses and
larger more impactful uses
710
QUESTIONS?
711
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
2023 Tourist Core Area Plan Amendments
Project Description
The City of South Lake Tahoe intends to amend the Tourist Core Area Plan (TCAP) and submit a formal area plan amendment application to TRPA in the near future. The purpose of the amendements range from general improvements and a need for greater consistency with recently amended TRPA regulations, state regulations, and City goals, to increasing housing opportunities and community equity in appropriate areas. Summarized below are the more significant policy and regulatory amendments that the City intends to pursue.
LAND USE, COMMUNITY DESIGN AND HOUSING
Residential Density
In order to improve the effectiveness of Housing policies and achievement of Housing goals within the adopted TCAP, the City is pursuing increasing allowed density and setting miniminum density standards for multi-family developments in and around town centers as follows:
A maximum density of 65 units per acre for multi-family residential development, based on the existing density standards in an area plan that permits a mixed-use project of residential and tourist units up to 65 units per acre. TRPA has determined that TAUs have a larger environmental impact with respect to Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMTs) and carrying capacity of the Tahoe Basin. Thus the increase in density for multi-family uses would not have a significant effect on the environment or result in an increase of VMTs over baseline conditions. The current densities allowed for multi-family residential development do not allow for affordable housing projects to be eligible and competitive for grants and financing available through state and federal programs, resulting in development of low density, large market rate units. The City is also proposing to establsih a minimum density of eight units per acre for multi-family projects, consistent with the City’s General Plan. Allowing higher densities for multi-family developments and requiring a minimum density, without changing coverage and height limitations is intended to increase opportunities to develop affordable housing and drive private developments to smaller and higher density market rate units. These changes will provide more opportunity for much needed housing in areas close to amenities, allow more concentration of development within Town Centers and increase feasibility of housing, infill and environmental redevelopment projects in these areas. To promote affordability by design, the amendments will consider establishing a maximum unit square footage for projects that utilize policy and development incentives established by the City and TRPA.
Allowing density bonus referenced in TRPA Code of Ordinaces 31.4.1 be applicable to all properties where multi-family residential is an allowed use, including properties within Area Plans.
712
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
Required housing mitigation for any reduction in density from existing conditions.
These changes are directed by Programs 2-8 and 1-4 of the City’s General Plan Housing Element and anticipated to be under review by the state Housing and Community Development Department with expected implementation by December 2023.
Mixed-use Development
The City proposes to create incentives that encourage production of housing in areas where residential use is appropriate to the setting and where mixed-use projects could address job and housing needs. The incentives would include alternative parking requirements and streamlined permitting. This also includes increasing height from 56 feet to 65 feet in the TSCMU district so parcels would be able to accommodate 4 story mixed-use developments while maintaining a pitched roof design.
This change is directed by Program 1-1 of the City’s General Plan Housing Element and anticipated to be under review by the state Housing and Community Development Department with expected implementation by December 2023.
Housing Accommodations
Reasonable Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities: To provide individuals, family members, caregivers, and/or anyone acting on behalf of the person with disabilities reasonable accommodation in rules, policies, practices, and procedures that may be necessary to ensure equal access to housing as feasible the city proposes to establish criteria for residential projects that would allow for modification of the TCAP standards. These modifications would address any needs for accommodation by persons with disabilities for additional land coverage for necessary site improvements beyond the additional land coverage allowances for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements in Chapter 30 of the TRPA Code of Ordinances.
Employee and Workforce Housing: To comply with the State Employee Housing Act the City will allow employee housing in the same locations as multi-family and multi-person residential projects (see “Permissible Uses” description below) and clarify employee housing does not need to be developed by the specific employer.
Residential Care Facilities: For consistency with California State Law, the City will specify that residential care facilities (group homes) of all sizes are allowed by right in all residential districts (see “Permissible Uses” description below).
These changes are directed by Programs 4-1, 4-2, 2-2 and 1-6 of the City’s General Plan Housing Element and anticipated to be under review by the state Housing and Community Development Department with expected implementation by December 2023.
Consistency with California State Law
AB-68: Allows accessory dwelling units as part of multi- and single- family residential properties. Clarify ADUs are subject to the South Lake Tahoe City Code. Define and clarify the difference between an accessory dwelling unit and TRPAs secondary units.
AB-682: Shared housing or co-living projects are eligible for density bonuses when a number of units are low or very low income. Update permitted uses and definitions to include shared housing or co-living and identify where they are allowed and when density bonus can be used. 713
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
Permissible Uses
The City will reevaluate Appendix C’s Table 1, Permitted Uses By Land Use District, and Table 2, List of Primary Uses and Use Definitions, and consider the following adjustments:
The City is proposing that where one of the following is curently allowed, all shall be allowed uses: multiple-family dwelling, multi-person dwelling, and employee housing. Define residential care facilities (group homes) and allowed by right in all residential districts.
Define shared housing or co-living projects in compliance with AB-682 and shall be allowed where the following uses are allowed: multiple-family dwelling, multi-person dwelling, and employee housing.
Incooperate empolyee housing into the definitions of mutli-family dwelling and multiperson dwelling. Identify where legal nonconforming uses exist and consider if these uses should be allowed.
Clarify use definitions; for example, indoor sauna, spa, and hottub facilites are currently included in the use description for both Amusements & Recreation and Personal Services.
Designate between large and small Amusement & Recreation uses. Currently the use category has no distinction for facilites of different sizes or capacities. The City is considering adding clarifying language such as what is included in Privately owned assembly and entertainment, which specifies the use is for facilites with a capacity of greater than 300 people.
Include eating and drinking as an allowed use in TSC-MU rather than a special use.
Traffic and Circulation
Parking: The City will be proposing alternative parking standards in an effort to decrease the need for parking infrastructure and continue to allow more flexible parking standards and shared parking for mixed-use and other housing projects. This will be implemented through one or more of the following:
Encouraging rental housing developers to unbundle parking and rent parking spaces separately from the units.
Allowing housing developers to pay an in-lieu fee to support public transportation access to the project site in-lieu of some of the parking requirements. Decrease in parking requirements for qualifying projects located within a distance of a transportation hub.
Creating objective standards for variances to the established parking standards. 714
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
These changes are directed by Program 1-3 of the City’s General Plan Housing Element and anticipated to be under review by the state Housing and Community Development Department with expected implementation by December 2023.
Complete Streets: Staff will review and update complete street policies and maps to match implementation feasibility including the following:
Update “Proposed Improvements Section” with short list of projects originally identified that have been completed and a new list of Implementation Projects. Update Figures and implementation projects for consistency with the TRPA Active Transportation Plan.
Establish a policy for complete street connections between TCAP and Lake Tahoe.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure: Staff will review and update project requirements for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure including:
Update policies and standards to clarify requirements for sidewalk and trail maintenance/snow removal.
Policy requiring frontage improvements consisting of sidewalk, drainage, and lighting improvements with new construction, additions of floor area, or significant remodels involving site work, unless waived by the Public Works Director. Policy requiring off-site sidewalk connections to existing sidewalk. Establish a value of off-site (beyond frontage) improvements and/or contribution to transit that would trigger an allowed automatic reduction in parking requirement. Further reduction in parking requirement would require permanent deed restriction regarding parking management.
REVITALIZATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Commercial Floor Area and Outdoor Dining
The City would like to reduce barriers associated with establishing outdoor dining in appropriate areas. Although outdoor seating is currently not considered Commercial Floor Area (CFA), outdoor dining is. Outdoor dining and seating provide opportunities to create more active streetscapes but are distinguished from indoor seating by their less intensive use due to seasonal weather in the Tahoe Region. The City is proposing to exempt outdoor dining areas from CFA requirements similar to the current application of the regulation to outdoor seating.
Advertising for Accessory Uses
The City is proposing to amend sign regulations to allow independent signage for accessory uses. No changes to the maximum sign area or number of signs allowed for a property are proposed.
715
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations & Sustainable Infrastructure A goal of the City of South Lake Tahoe is to remove barriers to sustainable infrastructure and achieve compliance with AB 1236 which requires ministerial permitting for EV charging stations and limits the ability to deny a permit to specific findings of adverse impact to public health or safety. Coverage has been a limiting factor where developments wish to install electric vehicle charging stations. Exempting EV charging infrastructure from counting towards coverage would allow for increased access to charging stations. Mitigation measures such as retiring coverage elsewhere in the watershed or allowing a percentage over maximum coverage for EV charging stations to be transferred to the site will be explored.
CFA Policy Clarification
Add a CFA policy clarifying that certain areas of recreation based primary commercial uses are exempt from CFA allocation. Examples include:
The area of play in an indoor tennis court
The area of water in an indoor swimming pool,
The area for skating in an indoor roller- or ice-skating rink The area dedicated to a climbing wall/climbing wall pit in a climbing gym The play area of a miniature golf course
DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN STANDARDS
Residential Standards and Review
The development and design standards generally do not differentiate between commercial and residential uses. These project types are often substantially different in form and design as they serve different purposes. Staff will be establishing different residential standards throughout the design standards, primarily by referring to the City Code Section 6.85 for Residential Development and Design Standards. These standards were adopted in compliance with California SB 35 and SB 330.
Currently, affordable housing projects require a higher level of decision maker consideration than market rate housing projects (TRPA Code Section 2.2). Proposed amendments would include new criteria for residential project review levels that treat affordable housing equal to market rate housing, exempting residential projects up to three units and residential projects that comply with objective development and design standards from discretionary and public hearing procedures.
Objective Design Standards (Commercial)
The current design standards address site design, building orientation and design, pedestrian access, bicycle parking, landscaping, lighting, signage, parking, driveway and loading spaces.
However, project aesthetic and visual quality is provided by the City’s Design Guidelines. The Guidelines currently provide a visual tool to guide project applicants on how to meet the required design standards in a manner that meets the desired aesthetic of the community. As part of Area Plan amendments staff will look to incorporate the concepts created in the Design Guidelines into objective standards to ensure that all projects meet the visual quality the City and TRPA is striving for. The objective standards may include, but would not be limited to, restricting the percent of stucco used, requiring minimum number of authorized materials, and requiring architectural features such as overhead canopies or brackets and overhangs. Staff 716
2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
will also be reviewing and updating established design standards if they do not sufficiently work toward addressing the Area Plan and General Plan goals and policies such as bicycle parking and pedestrian access.
Commercial Roof Pitch Requirements
Currently the Area Plan only allows for a roof slope of 5:12 to 12:12. Staff will be proposing criteria that allows for deviation from this standard when specific standards or findings can be made. Staff will also assess other aspects of height and roof standards to see what allowed flexibility can be added. The goal of this amendment would be to provide additional architectural opportunity for properties where the lots size, location, orientation, or use is restricted by the current standards.
Signage
Currently the Area Plan does not allow for the advertising of accessory uses. Staff is proposing to update the signage criteria to allow for accessory uses to have signage if they are within the allocated Base Reference Budget. The inclusion of accessory use signage will not increase the overall allowable signage in the area but will allow for business to advertise the diverse uses they offer. Additionally, throughout the signage requirements staff will be adding/modifying the text language to provide clarity where needed.
GENERAL IMPROVEMENTS
Area Plan Boundary Expansion Opportunities
Area Plans provide a unique opportunity for development. As part of the amendment process staff will be assessing parcels which boarder the area plan to see if underutilize properties may benefit from incorporation into the area plan. Areas currently being assessed for incorporation are two tourist accommodation parcels (APNs: 029-352-010 & 029-371-016) located adjacent to the TCAP. These parcels were identified for potential incorporation into the TSC-NMX district of the area plan as they could benefit from the increased density and coverage allowed in areas plans in order to facilitate additional redevelopment and housing opportunities in the vicinity of the town center.
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2023 TCAP Amendments: Project Description
Zoning Changes
As part of the Area Plan amendment, staff will be processing a zoning amendment application to rezoning the area identified in red below from recreation to tourist center mixed use to accommodate higher density housing opportunities.
Green Incentive Program Updates
The city will be reviewing the green building incentives to ensure the current incentive are still feasible and identifying previous measures which are now required rather than optional based on California Building Code updates and city ordinances. Staff will also look to incorporate new policies and certification programs that have been implemented or seen success since the plans initial adoption.
Code Corrections and Consistency
General improvements that will be made to TCAP include correcting City Code and TRPA Code references and incorporating amendments implemented by TRPA through Ordinance 2021-01.
During the City’s public outreach and public review processes additional amendments may be identified for consideration. City staff will work closely with TRPA staff to ensure continuity and open communication throughout the process.
TSC-MU Zoning would allow:
• Residential Uses
• Tourist Accommodation
Uses
• General Retail and
Personal Service
• Professional Offices
• Resource Management
and Open Space Uses
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City of South Lake Tahoe
Agenda Item Executive Summary
Joe Irvin, City Manager
Meeting Date: May 16, 2023
Agenda Item #: 16
Agenda Item: Agenda Planning Calendar
Executive Summary: The Agenda Planning Calendar is a projection of items coming before City Counci, for consideration.
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: A Councilmember may request that an item be placed on a future agenda. Upon the support of one (1) additional Council Member, direction shall be given to the City Manager to calendar the item for a convenient future agenda, but no sooner than the second meeting after the request was made, and/or modify the Agenda Planning Calendar as desired.
Responsible Staff Member: Joseph Irvin, City Manager
Responsible Staff Member: Joseph Irvin, City Manager (530) 542-6043 Reviewed and Approved By:
Susan Blankenship, City Clerk
Attachments:
APC -05 11 2023.pdf
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2023 Agenda Planning Calendar (Updated 05 11 2023)
Agenda Item Agenda Section
June 6, 9 a.m. CA/CM Annexation Study NB
Water Bottle Refill Station Funding
Tesla Chargers Contract Amendment 1
City Attny Local Hire Ordinance (First Reading) NB
City Clerk Proclamation June is Bike Month
Proclamation June is Pride Month
Dev Services Policy Regarding Disposition of TRPA Development Commodities Repeal of Arts & Crafts Fair Ordinance
Allocation Distribution Policy
BAE Housing Funding Study PSA Amendment
Finance Quarterly Financial Report Consent
Quarterly Investment Report Consent
TOT Collection process and Security Deposit Requirements NB Police Police Patrol Vehicle Replacement
SRO/LTUSD Contract 2023-2024
Department
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2023 Agenda Planning Calendar (Updated 05 11 2023)
Public Works EDC Service AREA 3 Snow Removal Parcel Assessment PH Red, White and Blue Crosswalk
Heavenly Area Parking Management Plan
Chain Control Ordinance (First Reading)
SB 1 Annual Projects
Parking and Noise Enforcement at Reagan Beach
June 20, 5:30 p.m.City Attny Local Hire Ordinance (Second Reading) Consent
CC/STRSA
City Manager 2023 Cannabis Grants
CalRecycle Used Oil Grant Application
Via cost analysis of municipal fixed-route and microtransit service Dev Services Permit Tracking and Public Portal Software PSA Award 3900/3908 Lake Tahoe Blvd DDA
REACH Code options UB
South Tahoe Refuse Report
Finance Annual Special Tax for CFD 2001-1 Series 2015 FY 2023-2024 Consent Mello-Roos Special Tax for Community Facilities District No. 1995-1 Consent 721
2023 Agenda Planning Calendar (Updated 05 11 2023)
Public Works Interim Fire Station 3 Upgrades
2023 Pavement Rehab Award
Vision Zero Grant Acceptance
CIP Presentation
School Zone Designation for Lake Tahoe Blvd
Aug 8, 9 a.m. City Manager TRPA Regional Grant Program (EV Charging/Pioneer Project) Dev Services PLHA Formula Grant Amendment
CDBG CV-1 Subrecipient Agreement-Boys & Girls Club
Inclusionary Housing Ordinance
Resiliency Center Grant
Public Works Financing Options for Stormwater Management and Snow Operations New Fire Station 3 Feasability Analysis UB
Bellamy Parking Garage Phase 1 Award
Broadband PPP Contract
Heavenly/Vail Update Parking Agreement
Aug 22, 9:00 a.m. Budget Workshop
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2023 Agenda Planning Calendar (Updated 05 11 2023)
City Attny Franchise Agreement with South Tahoe Refuse
Public Works Award PPE Broadband Master Plan
Award Contract - Rec Center Project
Award Police Department Roof Replacement
Sep 12, 9 a.m. Dev Services Pro-Housing Designation
City/CTC land exchange agreement
4139 Lake Tahoe Blvd (Chateau) update
Waiting list for Housing Needs
Public Works Hwy 50/89 Concrete/Pavement Option
Snow removal from City Sidewalks
City Attorney
City Attny/PW Amendments to Small Cell Policy
City Clerk Records Management Policy (Updated)
Policy - Use of Personal Devices for City Business
City Manager Comprehensive Energy Services Contract
Unscheduled/Pending
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2023 Agenda Planning Calendar (Updated 05 11 2023)
Electric Vehicle Charging Contract
Electric Municipality - Legal Feasability Analysis
SEED Solar Photovoltaic Project PPA
Dev Services Plan Area Statement Update for Tourist Accommodation Uses Employee Housing Bill of Rights
Local Housing Fundin Analysis:TOT
Single Room Occupancy Program Amendments
Finance Software Purchase
Fire Weed abatement/nusance Program - Defensable Space Policy Type III Fire Engine Purchase
Public Safety Pier at Ski Run Marina
Parks & Rec Parks Foundation MOU
Amendment 1 to Bijou Bike Park Association Maintenance Agreement Tahoe Swim Team Use Agreement
Bijou Golf Course "Rock the Lake" Event and Review
Public Works Award Contract EV Charging 1700 Shop Street 724