HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance - 2449 - Amend Title 16
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SUMMARY OF
CITY OF REDDING
ORDINANCE NO. 2449
The following is a summary Report of the City of Redding's Ordinance No. 2449, an
ordinance of the City Council of the City of Redding amending Redding Municipal Code Title 16
(Buildings and Construction) by adding Chapter 16.70 (Water Efficient Landscaping) relating to
implementing state requirements mandated by the California Water Conservation in Landscaping
Act of 2006
The proposed ordinance was introduced and read by the Redding City Council on January
5,2010, and will be considered for adoption at its next regular meeting. The Ordinance establishes
a comprehensive scheme of regulation containing the following elements as described in the Section
headings.
Sections:
16.70.010
16.70.020
16.70.030
16.70.040
16.70.050
16.70.060
16.70.070
16.70.080
16.70.090
16.70.100
16.70.110
16.70.120
16.70.130
16.70.140
16.70.150
16.70.160
16.70.170
16.70.180
Purpose
Applicability
Defmitions
Landscape Plan Review and Approval Required
Elements of Landscape Documentation Package
Certificate of Completion
Irrigation Scheduling
Irrigation Maintenance Schedule
Irrigation Audit, Survey, and Water Use Analysis
Irrigation Efficiency
Recycled Water
Stormwater Management
Model Homes
Environmental Review
Provisions for Existing Landscapes
Water-Waste Prevention
Reserved
Enforcement
DATED: January 12, 2010
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SUMMARY OF
CITY OF REDDING
ORDINANCE NO. 2449
The following is a summary Report of the City of Redding's Ordinance No. 2449, an
ordinance of the City Council of the City of Redding amending Redding Municipal Code Title 16
(Buildings and Construction) by adding Chapter 16.70 (Water Efficient Landscaping) relating to
implementing state requirements mandated by the California Water Conservation in Landscaping
Act of 2006
The Ordinance establishes a comprehensive scheme of regulation containing the following
elements as described in the Section headings.
Sections:
16.70.010
16.70.020
16.70.030
16.70.040
16.70.050
16.70.060
16.70.070
16.70.080
16.70.090
16.70.100
16.70.110
16.70.120
16.70.130
16.70.140
16.70.150
16.70.160
16.70.170
16.70.180
Purpose
Applicability
Defmitions
Landscape Plan Review and Approval Required
Elements of Landscape Documentation Package
Certificate of Completion
Irrigation Scheduling
Irrigation Maintenance Schedule
Irrigation Audit, Survey, and Water Use Analysis
Irrigation Efficiency
Recycled Water
Stormwater Management
Model Homes
Environmental Review
Provisions for Existing Landscapes
Water-Waste Prevention
Reserved
Enforcement
Ordinance No. 2449 was introduced and read at a regular meeting of the City Council of the
City of Redding on 5th day of January, 2010, and was duly read and adopted on the 19th day of
January, 2010, at a regular meeting of the City Council by the following vote:
Ayes:
Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
Council Members:
Council Members:
Council Members:
Council Members:
Bosetti, Dickerson, McArthur, Stegall, and Jones
None
None
None
A complete copy of Ordinance No. 2449 is on file and available for review in the Office of
the City Clerk.
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ORDINANCE NO. 2449
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF REDDING AMENDING
TITLE 16 (BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION) BY ADDING
CHAPTER 16.70 (WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE) RELATING
TO IMPLEMENTING STATE REQUIREMENTS MANDATED BY
THE CALIFORNIA WATER CONSERVATION IN LANDSCAPING
ACT OF 2006
WHEREAS, the California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AS 1881)
mandates that after January 1, 20 I 0, the City of Redding is required to implement and apply certain
new regulations to specified landscape projects; and,
WHEREAS, as a means to implement the regulatory mandates of AS 1881, it is necessary for
the City to either adopt a model ordinance crafted by state regulators or adopt a local ordinance
containing the mandatory provisions of AS 1881 in a format consistent with how the City processes
development applications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds it is in the best interest of the local development
community to adopt a City of Redding ordinance containing the basic requirements of AS 1881;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF REDDING AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Title 16 of the Redding Municipal Code is amended to add Chapter 16.70 with
a title to read as follows:
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
Sections:
16.70.010 Purpose
16.70.020 Applicability
16.70.030 Defmitions
16.70.040 Landscape Plan Review and Approval Required
16.70.050 Elements of Landscape Documentation Package
16.70.060 Certificate of Completion
16.70.070 Irrigation Scheduling
16.70.080 Irrigation Maintenance Schedule
16.70.090 Irrigation Audit, Survey, and Water Use Analysis
16.70.100 Irrigation Efficiency
16.70.110 Recycled Water
16.70.120 Stormwater Management
16.70.130 Model Homes
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16.70.140 Environmental Review
16.70.150 Provisions for Existing Landscapes
16.70.160 Water-Waste Prevention
16.70.170 Reserved
16.70.180 Enforcement
Section 2. Title 16 of the Redding Municipal Code is amended to add Sections 16.70.010
through 16.70.180 to Chapter 16.70 to read as follows:
16.70.010 PURPOSE
This chapter is intended to comply with the provisions of the California Water Conservation in
Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881), Chapter 3, Article 10.8, Government Code. The specific
purposes of these regulations are to:
A. Promote the values and benefits oflandscapes, while recognizing the need to invest water and
other resources as efficiently as possible.
B. Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design.
C. Ensure the attainment of water efficient landscape goals by requiring that landscapes not
exceed a maximum water demand.
D. Establish a structure for designing, installing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes in
new projects.
E. Establish provisions for water-management practices and water-waste prevention for
established landscapes.
F. Establish the City's responsibilities for administrating programs to ensure compliance with the
provisions for this chapter and of the California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of
2006.
G. Establish provisions for water-management programs that may include, but are not limited to:
irrigation water use analyses, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the
Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
H. Achieve water conservation by raising public awareness of the need for an effective
management program through education and incentives.
16.70.020 APPLICABILITY
This section shall apply to all the following landscape projects:
A. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public-agency projects and private
commercial or industrial development projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than
2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review.
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B. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in single-family
and multiple-family projects with a common landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500
square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review.
C. New construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired in
single-family and multiple-family residential projects with a total project landscape area equal
to or greater than 5,000 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or
design review.
D. All subdivision model homes with front-yard landscape installed by the developer.
E. Landscapes over one acre in size installed before January 1, 2010, are subject to the limited
provisions in Section 16.70.150.
F. Cemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of cemeteries, the
following shall apply:
1. New and rehabilitated cemeteries are subject to the limited provisions of
Sections 16.70.050.B, 16.70.080, and 16.70.090.
2. Existing cemeteries are subject to the limited provisions in Section 16.70.150.
G. This chapter does not apply to:
1. Registered local, state, or federal historical sites.
2. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system.
3. Mined land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system.
4. Plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums, open to the public.
16.70.030 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this chapter, the following words shall have the meanings set forth below:
Applied Water The portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
Backflow Prevention Device A safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the
water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
Certificate of Completion The document required under Section 16.70.060, Certificate of
Completion.
Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor A person certified to perform landscape irrigation audits
by an accredited academic institution; a professional trade organization; or other programs, such as
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation auditor certification program and
the Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor program.
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Certified Irrigation Designer A person certified to design irrigation systems by an accredited
academic institution; a professional trade organization; or other programs, such as the
u.s. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation designer certification program and
the Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program.
Check Valve or Anti-Drain Valve A valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the
irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the
sprinkler is off.
Common Interest Developments Community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned
developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section 1351.
Controller An automatic timing device used to remotely control valves to operate an irrigation
system. A weather-based controller is a controller that uses evapotranspiration or weather data to
determine when to irrigate. A self-adjusting irrigation controller is a controller that uses sensor data
(i.e., soil-moisture sensor).
Conversion Factor (0.62) The number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons-per-
square-foot per year.
Drip Irrigation Anynonspray low-volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow
rate measured in gallons per hour. Low-volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply
small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
Ecological Restoration Project A project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a
defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
Effective Precipitation or Usable Rainfall (Eppt) The portion of total precipitation which
becomes available for plant growth.
Emitter A drip-irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil.
Established Landscape The point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root
growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
Establishment Period of the Plants The first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the
first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are
established after one or two years of growth.
Estimated Total Waster Use (ETWU) The total water used for the landscape as described in
Section 16.70.050.B.
ET Adjustment Factor (ET AF) A factor of 0.7 that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration,
adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that
needs to be applied to the landscape.
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A combined plant mix with a site-wide average of 0.5 is the basis of the plant-factor portion ofthis
calculation. For purposes of the ET AF, the average irrigation efficiency is 0.71. Therefore, the ET
Adjustment Factor is (0.7)=(0.5/0.71). ETAF for a Special Landscape Area shall not exceed 1.0.
ET AF for existing, nonrehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
Evapotranspiration Rate The quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces
and transpired by plants during a specified time.
Flow Rate The rate at which water flows through pipes, valves, and emission devices measured in
gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second.
Hardscapes Any durable material (pervious and nonpervious).
Homeowner-Provided Landscape Any landscape either installed by a private individual for a
single-family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. A homeowner,
for purposes of this chapter, is a person who occupies the dwelling he or she owns. This excludes
speculative homes, which are not owner-occupied dwellings.
Hydrozone A portion ofthe landscaped area having plants with similar water needs. A hydrozone
may be irrigated or nonirrigated.
IntIltration Rate The rate of water entry into the soil expressed as depth of water per unit of time
(e.g., inches per hour).
Invasive Plant Species Species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside
cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be
regulated by county agricultural agencies as noxious species. "Noxious weeds" refers to any weed
that is designated by the Weed Control Regulations in the Weed Control Act and identified on a
regional district noxious weed control list. Lists of invasive plants are maintained in the California
Invasive Plant Inventory and U.S. Department of Agriculture's invasive and noxious weeds database.
Irrigation Audit 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 preparation of an irrigation schedule.
Irrigation Efficiency (IE) The measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by
the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of
irrigation-system characteristics and management practices. The minimum average irrigation
efficiency for purposes of this chapter is 0.71. Greater irrigation efficiency can be expected from
well- designed and maintained systems.
Irrigation Survey 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.
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Irrigation Water Use Analysis An analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing
data.
Landscape Architect A person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the state
of Cali fomi a (Business and Professions Code, Section 5615).
Landscape Area All the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan
subject to the Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include
footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone
walks, other pervious or nonpervious hardscapes, and other nonirrigated areas designated for
nondevelopment (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
Landscape Contractor A person licensed (with a valid C-27 license) by the state of California to
construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development oflandscape systems.
Landscape Documentation Package The documents required under Section 16.70.050.
Landscape Project Total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the
purposes of the Water Efficient Landscape chapter, meeting requirements under Section 16.70.020.
Lateral Line The water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the
valve.
Local Water Purveyor Any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water
company, that provides retail water service.
Low-Volume Irrigation The application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of
tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters, such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low-volume
irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root
zone of plants.
Main Line The pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAW A) The upper limit of annual applied water for the
established landscaped area as specified in Section 16.70.050B.3. It is based upon the area's
reference evapotranspiration, the ET Adjustment Factor, and the size of the landscape area. The
Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Special
Landscape Areas-including recreation areas; area permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants,
such as orchards and vegetable gardens; and areas irrigated with recycled water-are subject to the
MAW A, with an ET AF not to exceed 1.0.
Microclimate The climate of a small specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall
landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective
surfaces.
Mine Land Reclamation Projects Any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approval
in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
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Mulch Any organic material (such as leaves, bark, or straw) or inorganic mineral materials (such
as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite) left loose and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial
purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating soil temperature, and preventing
soil erosion.
New Construction For the purposes of the Water Efficient Landscape chapter, a new building with
a landscape or other new landscape.
Operating Pressure The pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the
manufacturer to operate.
Overhead Sprinkler Irrigation Systems Systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray
heads and rotors).
Overspray The irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
Permit An authorized document issued by the City of Redding for new construction orrehabilitated
landscape.
Pervious Any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the
underlying soil.
Plant Factor or Plant Water Use Factor A factor, when multiplied by ETo, that estimates the
amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of the Water Efficient Landscape chapter, the plant
factor range for low-water-use plants is 0 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate-water-use plants
is 0.4 to 0.6, and the plant factor range for high-water-use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in
the Water Efficient Landscape chapter are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2000
publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species."
Precipitation Rate The rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.
Project Applicant The individual or entity submitting a Landscape Documentation Package
required under Section 16.70.050 to request a permit, plan check, or use permit from the City of
Redding. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee.
Rain Sensor or Rain-Sensing Shutoff Device A component which automatically suspends an
irrigation event when it rains.
Record Drawing or As-Builts A set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in
the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field
and other data furnished by the contractor.
Recreational Area Areas dedicated to active play, such as parks, sports fields, and golf courses,
where turf provides a playing surface.
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Recycled Water, Reclaimed Water, or Treated Sewage Effluent Water Treated or recycled
wastewater of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses, such as landscape irrigation and water features.
This water is not intended for human consumption.
Reference Evapotranspiration, or ETo A standard measurement of environmental parameters
which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year as
represented in Section l6.70.050.B.2.a, Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet, and is an estimate
ofthe evapotranspiration ofa large field of 4- to 7-inch-tall cool-season grass that is well-watered.
Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the Maximum Applied Water
Allowances, so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated.
Rehabilitated Landscape Any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or use
permit; meets the requirements of Section 16.07.020, Applicability; where the modified landscape
area is greater than 2,500 square feet; and 50 percent of the total landscape area and the
modifications occur within one year.
Runoff Water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from
the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate
(application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or where there is a slope.
Soil Moisture Sensing Device or Soil Moisture Sensor A device that measures the amount of
water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event.
Soil Texture The classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay.
Special District Bella Vista, Centerville, Clear Creek.
Special Landscape Area (SLA) An area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants; areas
irrigated with recycled water; water features using recycled water; and areas dedicated to active play,
such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface.
Sprinkler Head A device which delivers water through a nozzle.
Static Water Pressure The pipeline or municipal water-supply pressure when water is not flowing.
Station An area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
Swing Joint An irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the
emission device and lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment
damage.
Turf A groundcover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial
ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass,
Seashore Paspalum grass, St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season
grasses.
Valve A device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
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Water-Conserving Plant Species A plant species identified as having a low plant factor.
Water Feature A design element where open water performs 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 area of water features is included in the
high-water-use hydrozone of the landscape area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater
treatment or storrnwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water
treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water
budget calculation.
Watering Window The time of day irrigation is allowed.
WUCOLS 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, 2000.
16.70.040 LANDSCAPE DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE REVIEW AND APPROVAL
REQUIRED
A complete landscape documentation package must be submitted and found to satisfy the
requirements of this chapter prior to authorization for water service and the installation of a new
water meter or a change in water service.
A. City Water Applications. Landscape plans submitted as part of a building plan application
through the Building Division shall be routed for review in accordance with procedures
established by the Building Official for review.
B. Water District Applications. Water-conservation measures adopted by any special water
district with jurisdiction within the city limits that are more restrictive than these standards
shall supercede City standards.
C. Plan Check Approval Process. The project applicant shall be notified in writing if plans are
found to be incomplete or inconsistent with the standards and indicate where such additions
or revisions are necessary.
D. Application Fee. A filing fee set by resolution of the City Council shall accompany each
application.
E. Upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package, the project applicant shall:
I. Receive a building permit and record the date of the permit on the Certificate of
Completion.
2. Provide a copy of the approved Landscape Documentation Package to the property owner
or site manager.
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3. Submit a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the Municipal Utility
Department or to the appropriate water district, whichever is applicable to the project
site.
F. In the event that a water-supply emergency is declared by a water purveyor, these landscape
requirements shall be deferred for those projects served within the impacted area until such
time as the water-supply emergency has been lifted.
16.70.050 ELEMENTS OF LANDSCAPE DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE
The Landscape Documentation Package shall contain the following:
A. Water Efficiency Application Form.
B. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet consisting of:
I. A hydrozone information table and a hydrozone map for the landscape project.
2. A water budget calculation for the landscape project, adhering to the following:
a. For the calculation of the Maximum Applied Water Allowance and Estimated Total
Water Use, the following ETo values shall apply:
REFERENCE EVAPOTRANSPIRATION (ETo) TABLE
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Ju1 Aug Sep Oct Nav Dec Aunual ETa
1.2 1.4 2.6 4.1 5.6 7.1 8.5 7.3 5.3 3.2 1.4 0.9 48.8
b. The plant factors used shall be from WUCOLS, which are as follows:
1. Low-water-use plants = 0 to 0.3
11. Moderate-water-use plants = 0.4 to 0.6
iii. High-water-use plants= 0.7 to 1.0
c. All water features shall be included in the high-water-use hydrozone, and
temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low-water-use hydrozone.
d. All Special Landscape Areas shall be identified and their water use calculated; the
ET AF for all Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
3. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAW A)
a. A project's Maximum Applied Water Allowance shall be calculated using the
following formula:
MAWA
(ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)]
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Where:
MAWA =
0.62 =
0.7 =
LA =
0.3 =
SLA
ETo
.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)
Conversion Factor
ET Adjustment Factor
Landscape Area (square feet)
Additional Water Allowance for SLA
Special Landscape Area (square feet)
Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
4. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU)
a. The Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maximum Applied Water
Allowance.
b. The sum of the Estimated Total Water Use calculations for all hydrozones shall not
exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
c. A project's Estimated Total Water Use shall be calculated using the following
formula:
ETWU
Where:
ETWU =
ETa =
PF =
HA =
0.62 =
IE =
C. Soil Management Report
(ETo) (0.62) [(PF x HA) -;- IE + SLA]
Estimated Total Water Use (gallons per year)
Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
Plant Factor from WUCOLS
Hydrozone Area (square feet)
Conversion Factor
Irrigation Efficiency (minimum 0.71)
In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report
satisfYing the following criteria shall be submitted as a part ofthe Landscape Documentation
Package:
Results of a soils analysis prepared by a qualified professional or laboratory; soil sampling
shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding
adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.
1. The soil analysis shall include the following:
a. Determination of soil texture, indicating the percentage of organic matter.
b. An appropriate soil infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil
texture/infiltration rate tables.
c. Measure of pH.
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d. Total soluble salts and sodium.
e. Recommendations
2. The project applicant shal1 submit documentation verifying implementation of soil
analysis report recommendations in the Landscape Plan.
D. Landscape Design Plan.
A landscape design plan meeting the fol1owing requirements shal1 be submitted as part of the
Landscape Documentation Package.
1. Plant Material
a. Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the Estimated Total Water
Use in the landscape area does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water
Al1owance. To encourage the efficient use of water, the fol1owing practices are
highly recommended:
1. Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation.
11. Selection of water-conserving plant and turf species.
iii. Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists.
b. Each hydrozone shal1 have plant materials with similar water use, with the
exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use as specified in Section
l6.70.050.E.l.d, Elements of Landscape Documentation Package - Irrigation
Design Plan - Irrigation System.
c. Plants shal1 be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to
the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. To
encourage the efficient use of water, the fol1owing is highly recommended:
1. Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System, which takes into account
temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of
continental and marine influence on local climate.
11. Recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size,
invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure
(e.g., buildings, sidewalks, power lines).
111. Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade
and winter solar gain.
d. Turf is not al10wed on slopes greater than 25 percent where the toe of the slope is
adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25 percent means 1 foot of
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vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of horizontal length (rise divided by
run x 100 = slope percent).
e. A landscape design plan for projects in fire-prone areas shall address fire safety and
prevention. A defensible space or zone around a building or structure is required
in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 4291(a) and (b) and
Chapter 9.20 ofthe Redding Municipal Code. A void fire-prone plant materials and
highly flammable mulches.
f. The use of invasive and/or noxious plant species is discouraged.
g. The architectural guidelines of a common-interest development, which includes
community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, and stock
cooperatives, shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of
prohibiting the use oflow-water-use plants as a group.
2. Water Features
a. Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
b. Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water
features.
c. Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high-water-use hydrozone
area of the water budget calculation.
d. Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.
3. Mulch and Amendments
a. A minimum 2-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of
planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting ground covers, or direct
seeding applications.
b. Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes.
c. The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro seeded applications shall
meet the mulching requirement.
d. Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the Soil
Management Report and what is appropriate for the plants selected.
4. Landscape Plan
The project Landscape Plan shall, at a minimum, provide the following information, in
addition to meeting the form and content of the City of Redding Landscape Plan
Standards adopted by the Planning Commission:
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a. Delineation and labeling of each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method.
b. Identification of each hydrozone as low, moderate, high, or mixed water use.
c. Identification of recreational areas.
d. Identification of areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants.
e. Identification of areas irrigated with recycled water
f. Identification of type of mulch and application depth.
g. Identification of soil amendments, type, and quantity.
h. Identification of type and surface area of water features.
i. Identification ofhardscapes (pervious and nonpervious).
J. Location and installation details of any applicable stormwater best management
practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater.
Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the Landscape Design
Plan and examples include, but are not limited to:
i. Infiltration beds, swales, and basins that allow water to collect and soak into
the ground.
ii. Constructed wetlands and retention ponds that retain water, handle excess
flow, and filter pollutants.
111. Pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or
porous concrete) that minimize runoff.
k. Identification of any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies (e.g., rain
gardens, cisterns, etc.).
1. Contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the Water-
Efficient Landscape chapter and applied it for the efficient use of water in the
Landscape Design Plan."
m. The signature of a licensed landscape architect; licensed landscape contractor, who
is a designerlbuilder; or as stipulated under the State Business and Professions
Code.
E. Irrigation Design Plan.
For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this
section and the manufacturer's recommendations. The irrigation system and its related
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components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and
maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be
submitted as part of the Landscape Documentation Package.
1. Irrigation System
a. Dedicated landscape water meters are required for landscape projects greater than
5,000 square feet to facilitate water management and are highly recommended for
projects less than 5,000 square feet.
b. Weather-based irrigation controllers or soil moisture-based controllers or other
self-adjusting irrigation controllers shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all
irrigation systems.
c. The irrigation system shall be designed to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each
emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for
optimal performance.
1. If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the
irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices, such as in-line pressure
regulators, booster pumps, or other devices, shall be installed to meet the
required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system.
n. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure, and flow reading ofthe
water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure
and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the
measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall
be conducted at installation.
d. Sensors (rain, freezing weather, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that
suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall
be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions.
Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain.
e. Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall
be required as close as possible to the point of connection to the water supply to
minimize water loss in case of an emergency (such as a mainline break) or routine
repair.
f. Backflow-prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from
contamination by the irrigation system. Backflow-prevention devices shall be
installed in accordance with the City of Redding Public Works Construction
Standards and State Building, Plumbing, and Health and Safety Codes.
g. High-flow sensors that detect and report high-flow conditions created by system
damage or malfunction are recommended.
h. The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage,
overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto
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nontargeted areas, such as adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, hardscapes,
roadways, or structures.
1. Relevant information from the soil management plan, such as soil type and
infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation systems.
J. The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones of the
Landscape Design Plan.
k. The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet irrigation efficiency
criteria as described in Section 16.70.050.B, Elements of Landscape
Documentation Package - Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet, regarding the
Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
I. If water is being provided by a local water district (i.e., Bella Vista, Centerville, or
Clear Creek Water District), the project applicant shall consult with the appropriate
district about peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water
restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
m. In mulched planting areas, the use oflow-volume irrigation is required to maximize
water infiltration into the root zone.
n. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates
unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations.
o. Head-to-head coverage is recommended. However, sprinkler spacing shall be
designed to achieve the highest possible distribution uniformity using the
manufacturer's recommendations.
p. Swingjoints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject
to damage that are adjacent to high-traffic areas.
q. Check valves or anti-drain valves are required for all irrigation systems.
r. Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, including turf less than 8 feet in width in any
direction, shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or low-volume irrigation
technology.
s. Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any nonpermeable
surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from nonpermeable surfaces may
include drip, drip line, or other low-flow nonspray technology. The setback area
may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel,
or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if any of the
following occur:
1. The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and there is no
overspray or runoff.
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ll. The adjacent nonpermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain
entirely to landscape.
111. The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology as part
of the Landscape Documentation Package and clearly demonstrates strict
adherence to irrigation system design criteria in Section 16.70.050.E.l.h,
Elements of Landscape Documentation Package - Irrigation Design Plan -
Irrigation System. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed
during an irrigation audit.
t. Slopes greater than 25 percent shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with
a precipitation rate exceeding 0.75 inch per hour. This restriction may be modified
if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology as part of the
Landscape Documentation Package and clearly demonstrates that no runoff or
erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during
irrigation audit.
u. Hydrozone.
I. Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure,
soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.
ll. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what
is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone.
111. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs,
groundcovers, and turf.
IV. Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate- and low-water use or
moderate- and high-water use may be allowed if either of the following
occurs:
(a) Plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective
plant water uses and their plant factor.
(b) The plant factor of the higher-water-using plant is used for calculations.
v. Individual hydrozones that mix high- and low-water-use plants shall not be
permitted.
VI. On the Landscape Design Plan and Irrigation Design Plan, hydrozone areas
shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation. On the Irrigation
Design Plan, the areas irrigated by each valve shall be designated and
assigned a number to each valve. This valve number shall be provided in the
Hydrozone Information Table and used to assist with preinspection and final
inspection of the irrigation system and programming the controller.
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2. Irrigation Design Plan Specifications.
The Irrigation Design Plan shall, at a minimum, contain the following:
a. Location and size of separate water meters for landscape.
b. Location, type, and size of all components of the irrigation system, including
controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture-sensing
devices, rain switches, quick couplers, pressure regulators, and backflow-
prevention devices.
c. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply.
d. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design
operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station.
e. Recycled water-irrigation systems as specified in Section 16.70.110, Recycled
Water.
f. The following statement: "1 have complied with the criteria of the water efficient
landscape chapter and applied it accordingly for the efficient use of water in the
Irrigation Design Plan."
g. The signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer,
licensed landscape contractor who is a designerlbuilder, or any other person
authorized to design an irrigation system. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615,5641
through 5641.6, 6701, 7027.5 of the Business and Professions Code, Section
832.27 ofTitle 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the
Food and Agriculture Code.
F. Grading Design Plan.
For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil
erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the Landscape
Documentation Package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer for a
grading permit satisfies this requirement.
I. The project applicant shall submit a Landscape Grading Plan that indicates finished
configurations and elevations of the landscape area, including the height of graded
slopes, drainage patterns, pad elevations, finish grade percent or ratios of slope, and
stormwater-retention improvements, if applicable.
2. To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, the grading plan shan be designed to the extent
practical to:
a. Grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and
does not drain onto nonpermeable hardscapes.
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b. A void disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil.
c. Avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
3. The Grading Design Plan shall bear the signature of a licensed professional as authorized
by law and contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the
Water Efficient Landscape Chapter and applied it accordingly for the efficient use of
water in the Grading Design Plan."
16.70.060 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
Upon completion of the installation of landscape and irrigation systems in compliance with the
approved Landscape Design Plan, a Certificate of Completion shall be submitted to the City or
appropriate water district for review and to the owner of record. The City or appropriate water
district shall review the Certificate of Completion and shall approve or deny the certificate. If the
Certificate of Completion is denied, the City or appropriate water district shall provide information
to the project applicant regarding reapplication, appeal, or other assistance. The Certificate of
Completion shall include the following elements:
A. Project information. This shall include, but is not limited to the date; project name; project
address and location; project applicant's name, telephone number, and mailing address; and
property owner's name, telephone number, and mailing address.
B. Certification by either the signer of the Landscape Design Plan, the signer of the Irrigation
Design Plan, or the licensed landscape contractor that the landscape project has been installed
in accordance with the approved Landscape Documentation Package. Where there have been
significant approved changes made in the field during construction, "as-built" or record
drawings shall be included with the certification.
C. Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section 16.70.070, Irrigation
Scheduling).
D. Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section 16.70.080, Irrigation Maintenance
Schedule) .
E. Irrigation audit report (see Section 16.70.090, Irrigation Audit, Survey, and Water Analysis).
F. Soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape Documentation Package, and
documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see Section
16.70.050.C, Elements of Landscape Documentation Package - Soil Management Report).
16.70.070 IRRIGATION SCHEDULING
For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and evaluated
to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shall
meet the following criteria:
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A. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
B. Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. unless weather conditions
prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation differ from the City or water district, the stricter of
the two shall apply. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window
is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
C. For implementation of the irrigation schedule, irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate,
and current reference evapotranspiration shall be considered, so that applied water meets the
Estimated Total Water Use. Total annual applied water shall be less than or equal to
Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA). Irrigation schedules shall be regulated by
automatic irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data or soil moisture
sensor data.
D. Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted for each of
the following:
I. The plant establishment period.
2. The established landscape.
3. Temporarily irrigated areas.
E. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all the following that apply:
1. Irrigation interval (days between irrigation).
2. Irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff).
3. Number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff.
4. Amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly basis.
5. Application-rate setting.
6. Root-depth setting.
7. Plant-type setting.
8. Soil-type setting.
9. Slope-factor setting.
10. Shade-factor setting.
II. Irrigation-uniformity or efficiency setting.
16.70.080 LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency.
A. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the Certificate of Completion. A
regular maintenance schedule shall include, but is not limited to: routine inspection,
adjustment and repair ofthe irrigation system and its components; aerating and dethatching turf
areas; replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding in all landscape areas; and removing
obstructions to emission devices. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal
watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
B. Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or
their equivalents.
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C. A project applicant is encouraged to implement sustainable or environmentally friendly
practices for overall landscape maintenance.
16.70.090 IRRIGATION AUDIT, IRRIGATION SURVEY, AND IRRIGATION WATER
USE ANALYSIS
An irrigation audit is required for new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed
after January 1, 2010. All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape
irrigation auditor. The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the Certificate
of Completion to the local agency that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up,
system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and
preparation of an irrigation schedule.
16.70.100 IRRIGATION EFFICIENCY
For the purpose of determining Maximum Applied Water Allowance, average irrigation efficiency
is assumed to be 0.71. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or
exceed an average landscape irrigation efficiency of 0.71.
16.70.110 RECYCLED WATER
The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of
recycled water unless a written exemption has been granted as described in Section 16.70.11 O(A).
A. Irrigation systems and decorative water features shall use recycled water unless a written
exemption has been granted by the City or water district, whichever is applicable, stating that
recycled water meeting all public health codes and standards is not available and will not be
available for the foreseeable future.
B. All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all
applicable local and state laws.
C. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET Adjustment
Factor for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
16.70.120 STORMW ATER MANAGEMENT
Stormwater-management practices minimize runoff and increase infiltration, which recharges
groundwater and improves water quality. hnplementing stormwater best management practices into
the Landscape and Grading Design Plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site retention and
infiltration are encouraged.
A. Project applicants shall refer to the City or Regional Water Quality Control Board for
information on any applicable stormwater ordinances and stormwater-management plans.
B. Rain gardens, cisterns, and other landscapes features and practices that increase rainwater
capture and create opportunities for infiltration and/or on-site storage are recommended.
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16.70.130 MODEL HOMES
All model homes that are landscaped shall use signs and written information to demonstrate the
principles of water efficient landscapes described this chapter.
A. Signs shall be used to identify the'model as an example of a water efficient landscape featuring
elements, such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and others that contribute to the overall
water efficient theme.
B. Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water
efficient landscapes.
16.70.140 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Projects subject to the Water Efficient Landscape chapter shall comply with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as appropriate.
16.70.150 PROVISIONS FOR EXISTING LANDSCAPES
This section shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before January 1, 2010, and are
over one acre in size.
A. Landscapes that have a water meter are subject to a City irrigation or appropriate water district
audit of irrigation water use to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary
to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water
Allowance for existing landscapes. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance for existing
landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA = (0.8}(ETo}(LA}(0.62). Landscape irrigation
audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
B. Landscapes that do not have a water meter are subject to a City audit of irrigation water use to
evaluate water use and provide recommendations, as necessary, in order to prevent water
waste.
16.70.160 WATER-WASTE PREVENTION
A. It shall be unlawful for any Responsible Party (as defined in Section 1.14.020 of the Redding
Municipal Code) to willfully permit runoff to leave the target landscape area due to low-head
drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property,
nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures.
B. Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff may be modified if either of the following occurs:
I. The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs.
2. The adjacent nonpermeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to
landscape.
16.70.170 RESERVED
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16.70.180 ENFORCEMENT
A violation of any portion of this chapter and of guidelines adopted pursuant to this chapter is subject
to the provisions in Redding Municipal Code Chapter 1.13, Administrative Citations, in addition to
other civil or administrative remedies.
Section 3. The passage of this ordinance is not a "project" according to the definition in
the California Envirorunental Quality Act and, therefore, is not subject to the provisions requiring
envirorunental review.
Section 4. This ordinance shall take effect 30 days after the date of its adoption, and the
City Clerk shall certify to the adoption thereof and cause its publication according to law.
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing ordinance was introduced and read by the City
Council at a regular meeting on the 5th day of January, 2010, and was duly read and adopted at a
regular meeting on the 19th day of January, 2010, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Bosetti, Dickerson, McArthur, Stegall, and Jones
None
None
None
ATTEST:
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FORM APPROVED:
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'RICHARD A. DUVERN , City Attorney
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