HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009/11/17 Item 13CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA STATEMENT
~~~ CITY OF
CHULAVISTA
11/17/09, Item ~,3
ITEM TITLE: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
ADDING TITLE 20.12 TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION
SUBMITTED BY: DEPUTY ~T ' MANAGER/DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
DIRECTO
REVIEWED BY: CITY MANAGER
4/STHS VOTE: YES ^ NO
SUMMARY
The State Legislature determined in the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act,
Government Code sections 65591 et seq., that the State's water resources are in limited
supply and that, while landscaping is essential to the quality of life in California, landscape
design, installation, maintenance and management must be water efficient. The Water
Conservation in Landscaping Act mandates City's to either adopt the State's Model Water
Ordinance or to adopt an ordinance of equal or greater efficacy by January 1, 2010. Staff
has prepazed this Landscape Water Conservation Ordinance to meet the State requirement.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Environmental Review Coordinator has reviewed the proposed activity for
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined
that the activity qualifies for a Class 7 categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15307
[Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources] of the State CEQA
Guidelines, because the proposed action seeks to implement a State mandate aimed at
conserving the City's water resources through proper landscape design, installation,
maintenance and water management techniques and standards. Thus, no further
environmental review is necessary.
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council hold the first reading of the Ordinance.
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Item No.: ~ 3
Meeting Date: 11-17-09
Page 2
BOARDS/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
The Resource Conservation Commission heard an information item on the draft
Landscape Water Conservation Ordinance on the September 28, 2009 and supported the
proposed increased requirements to conserve the use of water in Chula Vista landscapes.
DISCUSSION
The State Legislature passed the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (California
Code of Regulation, Title 23, Waters, Division 2., Department of Water Resources,
Chapter 2.7) and the Governor approved the bill on September 28, 2006. The purpose of
the State ordinance is to ensure efficient use of water in landscape design, installation,
maintenance and management and to minimize water waste throughout the State of
California.
Local jurisdictions are required to adopt the State ordinance or an ordinance of equal or
greater efficacy by January 1~`, 2010.
Throughout the past yeaz city staff has attended and contributed to meetings held by a
regional group known as the `Conservation Action Committee' (CAC), a group representing
water purveyors, the building industry, the landscape industry, local City & the County
jurisdictions and other interested bodies. The CAC have been preparing a local model water
ordinance that is applicable to the local conditions in San Diego. It achieves the objectives
of the state ordinance but is easier for agencies to implement than the one produced by the
state.
In addition, a multi disciplinary Chula Vista team has met regulazly to .fine tune the CAC's
model water ordinance to better fit Chula Vista's entitlement process. The ordinance
presented herein was crafted with representation from the Otay Water District and the
Sweetwater Authority.
The Chula Vista water conservation ordinance is at least as effective as the State
ordinance and in some azeas it is more effective in that it introduces public information
aspects of water conservation to applicants of small projects that are below the state
mandated thresholds of applicability.
In Chula Vista water purveyors actively monitor water usage and have programs in place
to work with high water users to help them identify waste and reduce their water use.
Because the ordinance requires installed landscapes to use only the amount of water
stated in the water budget and the existence of water usage monitoring programs by the
water purveyors, it does not impose extensive irrigation auditing responsibilities.
In essence the proposed ordinance requires landscaping projects above 2,500 square feet
to be subject to a yearly maximum available water allowance or "MAWA". This
MAWA will result in the installation of more "WaterSmart" landscaping throughout the
City, complimenting the City's Climate Change Measures (measure number 7), the City's
existing Water Conservation Program approved with resolution 2003-234, and the indoor
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water use standards outlined in the Chula
Chapter15.12).
DECISION MAKER CONFLICT
Item No.: ~~
Meeting Date: 11-17-09
Page 3
Vista Green Building Standards (CVMC
The decision associated by this action has been determined to be of citywide benefit and
consequently the 500 foot rule found in the California Code of Regulations, section
18704.2(a)(1) is not applicable.
CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMPACT
The requirement to create this ordinance was generated by the State of California making
it an un-funded mandate. There has been considerable staff effort associated with the
preparation of this ordinance as well as the participation in the regional effort. Total staff
costs have been $32,700 since inception in 2008.
ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT
The ordinance does generate a more detailed level of administrative review on small jobs,
however, on the larger projects, the typical developer deposit will cover the cost of the
plan review. The processes in the major plan review aze similar to those currently
undertaken, however some of the items currently being reviewed have become more
stringent. The current evaluation of the City's master fee schedule will ensure that staff
costs associated with implementing the program will be recovered.
The long-term benefits to the City and applicants will occur later with significant water
savings than traditional landscapes would generate. The typical water bill is likely to rise
by a double-digit % in the next five years. Adoption of this ordinance will help to offset
these future cost increases.
ATTACHMENTS
~{. Chula Vista Landscape Water Conservation Ordinance
Prepared by: Mary Radley, Landscape Architect, Development Services
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ORDINANCE NO.
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ADDING
,CHAPTER 20.12 TO TITLE 20 OF THE CHULA VISTA
MLTNICPAL CODE RELATING TO "LANDSCAPE WATER
CONSERVATION"
WHEREAS, the State Legislature determined in the Water Conservation in
Landscaping Act, Government Code sections 65591 et seq., that the State's water resources are
in limited supply and while landscaping is essential to the quality of life in California,
landscape design, installation, maintenance and management must be water efficient; and
WHEREAS, the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act mandates City's to either
adopt the State's Model Water Ordinance or to adopt an ordinance of equal or greater efficacy
by January 1, 2010, the purpose of which is to ensure efficient use of water in landscape
design, installation, maintenance and management and to minimize water waste throughout the
State of California; and
WHEREAS, the city determined that adoption of its own landscape water conservation
ordinance, of equal or greater efficacy to the State's Model Water Ordinance, as permitted by state
law, would better serve the needs and local conditions of Chula Vista; and
WHEREAS, in the development of the city's landscape water conservation ordinance city
staff met with the San Diego regional group `Conservation Action Committee' (CAC), a group
representing water purveyors, the building industry, the landscape industry, local City & the
County jurisdictions and other interested bodies to review pertinent landscape water conservation
issues relative to the San Diego region and the City of Chula Vista; and
WHEREAS, staff met with local Chula Vista water purveyors Otay Water District and
the Sweetwater Authority in the development of the landscape water conservation ordinance;
and
WHEREAS, the Chula Vista Resource Conservation Commission heard an information
item on the draft Landscape Water Conservation Ordinance on the September 28, 2009 and
expressed support for the proposed requirements to conserve the use of water in Chula Vista
landscapes; and
WHEREAS, The Environmental Review Coordinator has reviewed the proposed
activity for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has
determined that the activity qualifies for a Class 7 categorical exemption pursuant to Section
15307 [Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources] of the State
CEQA Guidelines, because the proposed action seeks to implement a State mandate aimed at
conserving the City's water resources through proper landscape design, installation,
maintenance and water management techniques and standards.
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Ordinance No.
Page 2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED, the Council of the City of Chula Vista does
hereby adopt and add Chapter 20.12 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code to read as follows:
SECTION I:
The ordinance language shall read per Attachment A
SECTION II:
This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force and effect on the 30th day from and after
its adoption.
Presented by
Gary Halbert, AICP, PE
Deputy City Manager/Director of
Development Services
Approved as to form by
Bart C. Mie e d
City Attorney
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Attachment A
CHAPTER 20.12 CHULA VISTA LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION
ORDINANCE
Sections:
20.12.010 Purpose
20.12.020 Definitions
20.12.030 Applicability
20.12.040 Exemptions
20.12.050 City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual
20.12.060 Landscape Documentation Package
20.12.070 Title Sheet
20.12.080 Soil Management Report
20.12.090 Planting Plan
20.12.100 Landscape Construction Plan
20.12.110 Irrigation Plans
20.12.120 Grading Plans
20.12.130 Irrigation System Design
20.12.140 Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)
20.12.150 Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)
20.12.160 Water Allowance /Water Use Comparison.
20.12.170 Limitations On The Use Of Water Features.
20.12.180 Turf Regulations
20.12.190 Public Education & Model Homes
20.12.200 Recycled Water & Gray Water
20.12.210 Landscape Installation
20.12.220 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance
20.12.030 Modified Approvals
20.12.240 Statement Of Substantial Conformance
20.12.250 City's Right To Inspect
20.12.260 Waste Water Prevention
20.12.010 Purpose
The State Legislature determined in the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act (the
"ACT"), Government Code sections 65591 et seq. that the State's water resources aze in
limited supply. The Legislature also recognized that while landscaping is essential to the
quality of life in California, landscape design, installation, maintenance and management
must be water efficient. The general purpose of this chapter is to establish water use
standazds for landscapes in Chula Vista that implement the landscape design
requirements established by the "ACT". Consistent with the Legislature's findings the
purpose of this ordinance is to:
A. Promote the values and benefits of landscapes while recognizing the need to
utilize water and other resources as efficiently as possible.
B. Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining and
managing water efficient landscapes in new and rehabilitated landscapes.
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C. Promote the use of recycled water, gray water & captured rainwater for irrigation
landscaping when it is available.
D. Use of water efficiently, and without waste, by setting a Maximum Applied Water
Allowance as an upper limit for water use at the lowest practical amount.
20.12.020 Definitions
A. "Applicant" means an individual or entity submitting a landscape documentation
package to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the City of Chula
Vista.
B. "Applied Water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to
the landscape.
C. "Building Permit" Means a permit to engage in a certain type of construction on
a specific location.
D. "City" means the City of Chula Vista.
E. "Cool season turf," means a type of turf that remains green in the winter months.
F. "Discretionary permit" means any permit requiring a decision making body to
exercise judgment prior to it's approval, conditional approval or denial.
G. "Ecological restoration project' means a project where the site is intentionally
altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
H. "Established" in the context of landscape, means the point at which plants in the
landscape have developed significant root growth into the site. Typically most
plants aze established after one or two yeazs.
I. "Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) means the total water used for the
landscape azea of the project.
J. "ET adjustment factor (ETAS" means a factor that when applied to "reference
evapotranspiration", adjusts for plant water requirements and imgation efficiency,
two major influences on the amount of water required for healthy landscapes.
K. "Evapotranspiration rate" means the quantity of water evaporated from
adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
See also `reference evapotranspiration.'
L. "Gray water" means the wastewater generated from domestic activities such as
dish washing, laundry and bathing.
M. "Hardscape" means any durable surface material, pervious or impervious.
N. "Homeowner provided "means installed either by a private individual or
installed by a licensed contractor hired by the homeowner.
O. "Hydrozone" means a portion of the landscape azea having plants with similar
water needs. A hydrozone may be irrigated ornon-irrigated.
P. "Infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a
depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour).
Q. "Irrigation audit" means an in-depth evaluation of the performance of an
irrigation system conducted by a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor. An
irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system
test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity, reporting overspray or
runoff that causes overland flow, and prepazation of an irrigation schedule.
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R. "Irrigation efficiency" (IE) Imgation efficiency means the measurement of the
amount of water beneficially used divided by the water applied. Irrigation
efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system
characteristics and management practices.
S. "Irrigation survey" means an evaluation of an irrigation system that is less
detailed than an irrigation audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited
to: inspection, system test, and written recommendations to improve performance
of the irrigation system
T. "Landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to practice landscape
architecture in the state of California, pursuant to Business and Professions Code,
Section 5615.
U. "Landscape area," means an azea with outdoor plants, turf and other vegetation
that uses water provided by the Otay Water District, the Sweetwater Authority or
other local water purveyor. A landscape area includes water features either in an
area with vegetation or that stands alone. A landscape azea does not include the
footprint of buildings, structures, decks, patios, sidewalks, driveways, gravel or
stone walkways void of plant materials, paved portions of parking lots or other
hard landscape. A landscape azea does not include an area without irrigation
designated for non-development such as designated open space or area with
existing natural vegetation or a transition zone.
V. "Landscape Manual" means the City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual as may
be amended from time to time.
W. "Landscape Documentation Package" means a package of drawings and other
documents that are required to be submitted to the City for approval in order to
demonstrate that the landscape design complies with the requirements of this
ordinance.
X. "Low head drainage" means a sprinkler head or other irrigation device that
continues to emit water to the zone in which it is located after it has shut off.
Y. "Low volume irrigation" means any equipment that uniformly delivers a low
volume of water to the landscape such as 0.5 inches, 0.7 inches and 1.0 inch per
hour.
Z. "Low water usage" means a plant species identified as having a low plant factor
in the context of plant selection. "High water usage" means a plant species
identified as having a high plant factor in the context of plant selection.
AA. "Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the maximum
allowed water use for a specific landscape azea based on the squaze footage of the
area, the ETAF and the reference ETo.
BB. "Mulch" means an organic material such as leaves bark, straw or
inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel or decomposed granite left loose
as applied to the soil surface to reduce evaporation, suppress weeds, moderate soil
temperature or prevent erosion.
CC. "Multi family residential development" means condominiums,
apartments and mobile homes.
DD. "New construction" means, for the purposes of this ordinance, a new
building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or
greenbelt without an associated building.
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EE. "Outdoor `WaterSmart' Package" means adocument/documents, for
example leaflets and a checklist of recommendations, describing landscape water
conservation principles and techniques appropriate to small landscape design and
installation.
FF. "Overspray" means the water from irrigation or that is delivered outside
an area targeted for the irrigation and makes contact with a surface not intended to
be irrigated.
GG. "Pervious" means any surfaces or material that allows the passage of
water through the material and into underlying soil.
HH. "Plant factor" means a factor that, when multiplied by the ETo, estimates
the amount of water a plant needs for healthy growth.
II. "Point of Connection" means the source of water for a specific irrigation
system.
JJ. "Precipitation rate" means the rate of application of water measured in
inches per hour.
KK. "Record drawing" or "as built" means a reproducible drawing which
shows significant changes in the work made during construction and which aze
usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the
contractor.
LL. "Recreation area" means an azea dedicated to active play such as parks,
sports fields, and golf courses.
MM. "Recycled water" means water that has been treated at the highest level
required by the California Department of Health Services for water not intended
for human consumption. "Tertiary treated recycled water" means water that has
been through three levels of treatment including filtration and disinfectant.
"Recycled water" is sometimes referred to as "reclaimed water".
NN. "Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo" means a standazd
measurement of environmental pazazneters that affect the water use of plants.
ETo is given in inches per day, month or year and is an estimate of the
evapotranspiration of a lazge field of four inches to seven inches tall, cool season
turf that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of
determining the MAWA so that regional difference in climate can be
accommodated.
00. "Rehabilitated landscape" means any re-landscaping project, that
requires a permit, plan check, or design review, in accordance with the
applicability criteria of this ordinance, where 50 percent of the total landscape
azea, and the modifications aze completed within one year. In the case of single-
family homes, only those construction projects that have impacts to landscaped
areas shall be deemed to be rehabilitated landscapes.
PP. "Residential development" means development of single family or
multi-family homes.
QQ. "Runoff' means water that is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to
which it is applied and flows from the landscaped area. For example, runoff may
result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds
infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.
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RR. "Smart controller" means a weather based or soil moisture based
irrigation controller that monitors and uses information about environmental
conditions far a specific location to automatically adjust watering schedules.
SS. "Soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor" means a
device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also
suspend or initiate an irrigation event.
TT. "Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on its percentage of
sand, silt, and clay.
UU. "Soil" means the growing medium available for plant growth.
VV. "Special landscaped area" means an area of landscape that falls into one
of the following categories:
1. Is used for growing edible plants including community gazdens.
2. Is irrigated with recycled water.
3. Is used for active play, or recreation, such as a park sports field or turf on a
golf course that provides a playing surface or a culturally significant
community space, as determined by the city manager.
WW. "Sprinkler head" means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
XX. "Statement of Substantial Conformance" references the form
administered by landscape inspectors.
YY. "Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply
pressure when water is not flowing.
ZZ. "Station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that
operate simultaneously.
AAA. "Turf' means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass,
Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue aze coal-
season grasses. Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore Paspalum, St.
Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Buffalo grass aze warm-season grasses.
BBB. "Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation
system.
CCC. "Vegetated area" means an area with vegetation that is irrigated.
DDD. "Warm season turf' means a type of turf that grows during warm
weather but becomes dormant during cold weather.
EEE. "Water feature" means a design element where open water provides an
aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls,
fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially
supplied). The surface azea of water features is included in the high water use
hydrozone of the landscape azea. Constructed wetlands used for on-site
wastewater treatment or storm water best management practices that are not
imgated and used solely for water treatment or storm water retention aze not
water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation.
FFF. "WUCOLS" means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species
published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, the Department
of Water Resources and the Bureau of Reclamation, as may be amended from
time to time.
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20.012.030 Applicability
After Jan 1, 2010, this ordinance shall apply to any project requiring a building permit,
discretionazy permit, or city approval of landscape and irrigation plans that is within the
following categories:
A. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agencies and private
development projects with a proposed cumulative landscape area equal to or
greater than 2,500 squaze feet. These include, but are not limited to,
industrial, commercial, cemetery, public, quasi-public, institutional, multi-
family residential development and developer installed front yards.
Applicants shall submit a Landscape Documentation Package to the city for
approval, by city signature, prior to the installation of the landscape
improvements.
B. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agencies and private
development projects including, but not limited to, industrial, commercial,
cemetery, public, quasi-public, multi-family residential development and
developer installed front yards with a cumulative landscape azea in the range
of 0 square feet - 2,499 square feet. These applicants shall receive an Outdoor
`WaterSmart' Package from the City.
C. New and rehabilitated construction of landscapes which aze homeowner
provided or contractor installed on behalf of the homeowner with a total
landscape area of equal to or greater than 5,000 squaze feet. Applicants shall
submit a Landscape Documentation Package to the city for approval, by city
signature, prior to the installation of the landscape improvements.
D. New and rehabilitated construction of landscapes which aze homeowner
provided or contractor installed on behalf of the homeowner with a total
landscape area in the range of 0 squaze feet to 4,999 square feet. These
applicants shall receive an Outdoor `WaterSmart' Package from the City.
E. A model home that includes a landscape area where the home is served by
either the Otay Water District, the Sweetwater Authority or the California
American Water Company. Applicants shall submit a Landscape
Documentation Package to the city for approval, by city signature, prior to the
installation of the landscape improvements
This ordinance shall apply to new applications and applications that have been through
one city plan check by city officials. Applications that have had two or more plan checks
are `grand fathered' in, with their current landscape design concept. However, it is
recommended that the applicant voluntazily modify landscape proposals that are high in
water use.
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20.12.040 Exemptions
This ordinance does not apply to the following:
A. Registered local, state or federal historical sites.
B. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation
system.
C. Mine land reclamation projects that do not require permanent irrigation
systems.
D. Plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the
public.
20.12.050 City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual
The City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual is incorporated into the Chula Vista
Municipal Code by reference. The City of Chula Vista Landscape Manual may be
periodically updated by the Director of Development Services.
20.12.060 Landscape Documentation Package
Project applicants shall submit the necessary information on required landscape and
irrigation plans in a form and manner prescribed by the Director of Development
Services. Necessary information shall include:
A. Title Sheet
B. Soil Management Report
C. Planting Plan
D. Landscape Construction Plan
E. Irrigation Plan
F. Grading Plan
20.12.070 Title Sheet
The title sheet shall contain items as described in the City of Chula Vista Landscape
Manual. The title sheet shall also contain the applicant's signature and a date along with
the statement "I am familiar with and agree to comply with the requirements for
landscape improvement plans as described in Chapter 20.12 of the Municipal Code.
I have prepared this plan in compliance with those regulations. I certify that the
plan implements the regulations to provide efficient landscape water use."
20.12.080 Soil Management Report
The soil management report shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect, licensed
civil engineer or licensed architect and contain the information described in CVMC
20.12.080.A and 20.12.080.B. The soil management report shall be based on site
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conditions after grading operations have been completed. The soil management report
information shall either be submitted as one of the sheets in the planting plan set or as a
sepazate document.
A. An analysis of the soil for the proposed landscape area of the project covering
information about soil texture, soil infiltration rate, pH, total soluble salts,
plant sodium, percent organic matter and horticultural suitability.
B. Recommendations for soil amendments that may be necessary to allow
healthy plant survival and growth in the landscape area using efficient
irrigation techniques.
20.12.090 Planting Plan
The planting plan shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect, licensed civil
engineer or licensed azchitect and contain, but is not limited to, the following
information:
A. A list/legend of all vegetation by botanical and common name that exists or is
proposed to be planted in the landscape area(s). For new planting include the
quantities, container size at planting, the location of each plant and the
associated hydrozone. Identify existing vegetation to remain and existing
vegetation to be removed.
B. The planting design shall group plants in hydrozones based on the moisture
requirements of those plants. A hydrozone may mix plants of moderate and
low water usage or plants with high water usage with plants of moderate water
usage. No hydrozone shall mix plants with high water usage with plants with
low water use. Plant factors aze available from WiJCOLS.
C. Plant selection shall take into account suitability of the soil and climatic
attributes as well as the availability of supplemental water available through
irrigation.
D. The planting plan set shall include planting details, specifications,
maintenance specifications and responsibilities.
E. Plant selections for all properties adjacent to a wild land-urban interface or
open space area shall comply with current Chula Vista Fire Department
guidelines and regulations.
F. The plan shall demonstrate compliance with best management practices
required by Section 14.20 of the municipal code.
20.12.100 Landscape Construction Plan
The landscape construction plan shall include all elements of hard landscape, paving and
drainage not shown on civil engineering plans. It shall include physical layout,
specifications and details. The landscape construction plan shall include plans, details
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and specifications of any water features that comprise the overall landscape
improvements.
20.12.110 Irrigation Plans
The irrigation plans shall be prepazed by a licensed landscape azchitect, licensed civil
engineer, licensed architect or an irrigation consultant. The irrigation plans shall include,
but are not be limited to, the following information:
A. The location, type and size of all components of the imgation system that will
provide water to the landscape area, including, but not limited to, controller,
water lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing devices, rain switches,
quick couplers, pressure regulators and backflow devices.
B. The irrigation water source and type (potable or recycled), point of
connection, the static water pressure at the point of connection, the application
rate in inches per hour and the design operating pressure in pounds per square
inch for each station.
C. Irrigation schedule information including typical irrigation schedules that
demonstrate that landscape can thrive using the MAWA calculated as part of
that package. Include specification notes for routine inspection, repair and
replacement of equipment and state the party responsible for maintenance.
D. A table that identifies MAWA for the improvements, including the
calculations used to determine the MAWA. The calculations shall be based on
the formula in pazagraph 20.12.140. Temporarily irrigated aeeas shall be
included in the low water use low water use hydrozone. The surface area of a
water feature or pool shall be included in the high water use areas for the
purposes of water budget calculation.
E. A table that identifies ETWU for the improvements and includes the
calculations used to determine the ETWU. The calculations shall be based on
the formula in pazagraph 20.12.150. Temporarily irrigated areas shall be
included in the low water use low water use hydrozone. The surface area of a
water feature or pool shall be included in the high water use areas for the
purposes of water budget calculation.
F. The plan shall demonstrate compliance with best management practices
required by Section 14.20 of the municipal code.
20.12.120 Grading Plans
Grading plans shall include site grading information including, but not
limited to, elevations, slope heights, drainage patterns, pad elevations, storm water
management, and finish grade. Previously approved grading plans that comply with the
City grading ordinance 15.04, "as built" grading plans or grading plans undergoing the
grading permit approval process are acceptable submittals.
20.12.130 Irrigation System Design
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The following techniques and practices shall be incorporated into the design of irrigation
systems:
A The irrigation system shall be designed to conform to the hydrozones of the
plants specified in the planting plan.
B The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, over spray, low-
head drainage and other similar conditions where irrigation water flows or
sprays onto area not intended for imgation and use low volume irrigation for
mulched areas wherever feasible.
C Portions of irrigation systems containing slopes greater than 25 percent shall
utilize a precipitation rate of 0.75 inches per hour or less to prevent runoff.
D Sprinkler heads and other low emission devices shall be selected based on
what is appropriate for the plant type in the hydrozone and shall have matched
precipitation rates unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's
recommendations.
E Sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution
uniformity.
F The system shall provide that only low volume irrigation is used to irrigate
any vegetation within 24 inches of an impermeable surface unless the adjacent
impermeable surfaces aze designed and constructed to cause water to drain
entirely into landscaped azeas.
G The irrigation system shall be regulated by means of a smart controller (either
evapotranspiration, weather based, soil moisture based or similar.).
H Irrigation projects equal or greater than 5,000 squaze feet shall include the
installation of a master valve and flow sensor to prevent water waste
associated with mainline breaks and other failures.
I Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs,
groundcover and turf.
20.12.140 Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)
All applicable landscapes shall not exceed the MAWA calculated for the project using
the following formula:
MAWA = (ETo)(0.62)[(0.7 x LA) +(0.3 x SLA)]
In which the following abbreviations apply:
1. MAWA =Maximum Applied Water Allowance in gallons/yeaz
2. ETo =Evapotranspiration in inches per year.
3. 0.62 =Conversion factor to gallons per squaze foot.
4. 0.7 = ET adjustment for plant factors and irrigation efficiency (ETAF).
5. LA =Landscape Area including SLA.
6. SLA =Portion of the landscape area identified as Special Landscape
azeas. Measured in squaze feet
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7. 0.3 =The additional ET adjustment factor for special landscape areas
* The City reserves the right to reduce the ET adjustment factor for
Special Landscape Areas that are the responsibility of the City to maintain.
20.12.150 Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)
All applicable landscape shall calculate the ETWU for each project using the following
Formula:
ETWU = (ETo)(0.62) ((PF X HA / IE) +SLA)
In which the following abbreviations apply;
1. ETWU =Estimated Total Water Use in gallons per yeaz.
2. ETo = Evapotranspiration in inches per year.
3. 0.62 =Conversion factor to gallons per squaze foot.
4. PF =Plant factor from WUCOLS.
5. HA = Hydrozone Area in square feet. Each HA shall be classified
according to its water use; high medium, or low according to the
legends on the planting plans.
6. IE =Irrigation Efficiency (Minimum average 0.71).
7. SLA =Special Landscape area in square feet.
20.12.160 Water Allowance /Water Use Comparison.
Irrigations plans shall state, in close proximity on the sheet, the MAWA and the ETWU
for each Point of Connection thereby demonstrating that the ETWU does not exceed
the MAWA.
Any sets of plans where the ETWU does exceed the MAWA shall not be approved by the
City of Chula Vista. (ETWU shall be equal to or less than MAWA)
20.12.170 Limitations On The Use Of Water Features.
The total of all water features for a project, other than single-family homes with a
landscape area of less than 5,000 squaze feet and a homeowners association or apartment
building swim complex that serves a residential project, shall be limited to 15 percent of
the total landscape area of the project.
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20.12.180 Turf Regulations
The following regulations shall apply to all projects that are required to submit a
landscape design package to the City for approval:
A. Turf shall not be used on slopes greater than 25 percent where the toe of the
slope is adjacent to an impermeable surface.
B. Only low volume irrigation shall be used for turf in a landscape azea where
any dimension of the landscape area is six feet or less wide.
C. On commercial, industrial or multi-family landscape no turf shall be installed
in a median, parking lot island or pazkway unless, if determined by the city
manager, limited use of turf is necessazy to provide safe access for pedestrians
leaving a pazked vehicle to reach the sidewalk.
D. On commercial, industrial or multifamily landscape no turf shall be installed
on any portion of the site that is inaccessible or unusable to a person who uses
the site.
E. On a commercial or industrial projects, decorative cool season turf shall not
be used. The use of warm season turf shall not exceed 15 percent of the total
landscape azea of a project.
F. An athletic field, park, golf course, cemetery or other similaz use shall be
designed to limit the use of turf to only those areas where it is essential for the
operation of the facility, as determined by the city manager. Areas where turf
is not essential to the operation of the facility shall be landscaped with plants
with lower water use requirements than turf.
G. No turf shall be allowed in a landscape azea that cannot be efficiently
irrigated, for example where overspray and run off cannot be avoided.
20.12.190 Public Education & Model Homes
All model homes shall cleazly display a sign, visible from the roadway adjacent to the
home using black writing (two inches high minimum) on a white sign stating, "THIS
MODEL HOME USES WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION".
Developers shall provide homebuyers with an Outdoor `WaterSmart' Package at move-in
and information about the City of Chula Vista Naturescape Program.
20.12.200 Recycled Water and Gray Water
Newly constructed and rehabilitated landscapes for public agencies and private
development projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 squaze feet
including, but are not limited to, industrial, commercial, cemetery, public, quasi-public,
institutional and multi-family residential development shall use recycled water for
irrigation purposes where it is available.
Use of recycled water or gray water for irrigation purposes does not excuse a person from
complying with all State and local laws and regulations related to recycled water use or
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gray water use.
20.12.210 Landscape Installation
An approved landscape design package shall be fully installed prior to final inspection.
20.12.220 Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance
Once the landscape on all projects, approved as a result of these regulations, is
established, it shall be maintained to ensure compliance with the approved MAWA by
the party responsible for landscape maintenance.
20.12.230 Modified Approvals
An Applicant may submit an application to modify part or all of their Landscape
Documentation Package.
20.12.240 Statement Of Substantial Conformance
For all projects approved by the City, the landscape architect of record shall state in
writing that the landscape improvements have been installed in compliance with the
approved Landscape Documentation Package. They shall be satisfied that the irrigation
system has been functionally tested, by testing, irrigation survey or irrigation audit, for,
but not limited to, the following: distribution uniformity, over spray and runoff have been
addressed, and water use can match the included calculations once plants are established
with the irrigation provided.
The City shall receive the signed landscape architect's statement prior to final inspection
and City issuance of a certificate of completion of the project.
20.12.250 City's Right to Inspect
The City has the right, but not the obligation, to inspect any landscape installation for
which it has an approved Landscape Documentation Package.
20.12.260 Waste Water Prevention
No new irrigation system (since the approval of this ordinance) shall allow irrigation
water to flow onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, structure, walkways, roadways
or other paved areas whether the cause is run off, low head drainage or other similar
condition. Penalties for violating any provisions of this chapter will be issued pursuant to
CVMC 1.41.100 et seq.
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