Santa Clara Zoning Code Overhaul: In a significant move, the Santa Clara City Council has voted unanimously to update its zoning code, marking the first comprehensive overhaul in over 50 years. This decision, made at the last meeting of the year, reflects the city’s commitment to aligning with state laws and adapting to modern development trends.
Andrew Crabtree, Director of Community Development, presented the changes at a high level in his final presentation before retirement. While the general plan sets the basic guidelines for the city’s development vision, the zoning code translates this vision into specific details such as building heights, setbacks, and parking requirements.
The update is designed to offer a consistent and cohesive set of guidelines to fulfill the intent of the general plan. Crabtree emphasized that as land uses change and new trends emerge, the code must evolve to address these shifts. The introduction of new zoning code districts aims to directly correlate with the general plan, facilitating effective implementation.
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Several changes in the code were driven by the need to adhere to state law. However, others were introduced to simplify existing regulations or expand on those that didn’t capture modern development trends. The goal is to support continued economic development without relying on the planned development designation, reserving it for developments of 25 acres or more.
Key changes in the zoning code update include the introduction of a low-level permitting process for seasonal uses like pumpkin patches, Christmas tree lots, and carnivals. There’s also an increase in the allowable data center height, new requirements for short-term rentals, and a mandate on “common habitable areas” for rentals, aiming to prevent the conversion of every inch of a rental into a bedroom.
The Council plans to adopt the map for the update in the spring of the following year.
In addition to the zoning code update, the Santa Clara City Council expressed solidarity by supporting a motion to stand “united against hate.” This resolution comes after a week of public testimony on the Israeli-Palestinian war, where residents implored the Council to take a stance.
Rather than diving into a divisive political topic, the Council opted for a more generic resolution to join the United Against Hate campaign. This initiative focuses on promoting diversity and combating identity-based hatred, including factors such as gender, sexual identity, race, religion, ethnicity, and age.
While details of the resolution remained vague, the Council unanimously supported the effort. United Against Hate, an offshoot of the anti-bullying Not In Our Town campaign, aims to celebrate a week in November each year dedicated to standing against hate through various events.
The Council also delved into a consent calendar item discussing negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers regarding overtime costs for a Christmas day game at Levi’s Stadium. Typically, consent items are voted on in a single motion, but this particular item grabbed attention.
The 49ers, who had previously covered overtime costs for City employees on holidays, were hesitant to do so for the Christmas day game against the Baltimore Ravens. The Council pushed for the team to pay roughly $100,000 in wages for other City employees required to work the holiday game.
City Manager Jovan Grogan explained that the team refused to pay the wages due to the Council’s decision to increase pay for police during non-holiday NFL games. While Measure J prevents the City from covering costs of NFL games, it is responsible for expenses beyond those negotiated, such as holiday overtime.
The Council unanimously approved negotiating with the 49ers to pay double time for the Christmas day game, and City employees will continue negotiations with the team to ensure coverage for the additional costs.
The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024, in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1500 Warburton Ave. in Santa Clara.
Our Reader’s Queries
How do I change my local zoning law?
To alter the zoning laws, you must submit a request for rezoning. This involves filling out an application that outlines the desired zoning classification change and provides supporting information such as the rationale behind the request, the impact on the area, and other relevant data. The application will then undergo a review process, followed by a public hearing where interested parties can voice their opinions. Finally, a decision will be made regarding the rezoning request.
How do I find my property zoning in Santa Clara County?
Discovering zoning information for your property is a breeze. You have two options: utilize our interactive map, MAP Santa Clara, to search by property address or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), or contact the Planning Division at 408-615-2450 or Planning@santaclaraca.gov. Our team is always ready to assist you with any inquiries you may have.
What is r2 zoning in San Jose?
The R-2 Two-Family Residence District is designated for the development of single-family and two-family subdivisions. Its purpose is to provide land for the construction, use, and occupancy of such residences. The density range allowed in this district is between eight to sixteen dwelling units per acre.
What is R1 8 zoning in San Jose CA?
Medium density residential (R1-8) is a land use category that primarily consists of single-family dwellings, including cluster housing. This type of development is designed to accommodate a moderate number of homes per acre, providing a balance between urban and suburban living. The R1-8 designation allows for a range of housing options, from detached homes to attached townhouses, while maintaining a cohesive neighborhood feel.