HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 4.02 Water Efficient LandscpG~~~ OF Dp~~~
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~9~~;~1Z STAFF REPORT C I T Y C L E R K
~ ~ ~ DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL File #~~00~-0(~^
~~LIFOR~~
DATE: May 17, 2011
, TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: ~ Joni Pattillo, City Manager
SUBJECT: PLPA-2011-00017 City of Dublin Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance
Report prepared by Martha Aja, Environmental Specialist~~~
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Assembly Bill (AB) 1881 directed the Department of Water Resources to update the Model
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Local agencies have the option to either adopt the
updated State Model Ordinance or adopt a different Ordinance that is at least as effective in
conserving water as the updated Model Ordinance. If a local agency takes no action, the
updated State Model Ordinance takes effect as if it were adopted. The City of Dub{in has
elected to prepare a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. The City's Ordinance is based on
the updated Model Ordinance; however, slight modifications have been made to the Model
Ordinance to make it specific to Dublin. The City's Draft Ordinance is at least as effective in
conserving water as the State's Model Ordinance.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council waive the reading and adopt an Ordinance deleting
Dublin-Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 relating to Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and
adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations. _
,
• ,~i
ub tted y:
Community Development Director
G~ .
Revie By
Assistant City Manager
Page ~ of 2 ITEM NO. ~~- "
DESCRIPTION:
Background.
Assembly Bill (AB) 325 (1990) established the first California Model Water Efficient. Canciscape
Ordinance (WELO). AB 1881, which was passed in 2006, directed the Department of Water
Resources to update the Model WELO.
One of the main objectives of the updated Model WELO is to reduce water use to tfie lowest
practical amount and set an upper water use limit for development that may not be exceeded.
The updated WELO also establishes provisions for water management practices and water
waste prevention. Additionally, the Model WELO promotes the values and benefits . of
landscapes while simultaneously recognizing the need to use water efficiently.
Local agencies have the option to either adopt the updated Model Ordinance or adopt a
different ordinance that is at least as effective in conserving water as the updated Model
Ordinance. If a focal agency takes no action, the updated Model Ordinance takes effect as if it
were adopted by the local agency. The Model Ordinance took effect on January 1, 2010;
however, the City of Dublin has elected to prepare a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
based on the Model Ordinance.
On May 3, 2011, the City Council waived the reading and introduced the Ordinance deleting
Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a
new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations. Please refer to the May 3, 2011
City Council Staff Report for a complete discussion of this Ordinance (Attachment 1). The City
Council is currently requested to waive the second reading and adopt the Ordinance
(Attachment 2).
ATTACHMENTS: 1. City Council Staff Report dated May 3, 2011 (without
~ attachments). - _ ~ _ .
2. Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88
relating to Water Effi~ient Landscaping Regulations and
adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping
Regulations. _
G: IPA#120111PLPA-2011-00017 Water Effecient Landscape OrdinancelCiry Counci15.17.111CCSR S 1 ~ 11 WELO JB.doc _;
Page 2 of.2
G~~~ OF DU~~~
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= 19 ~a~'s~ ST'AFF R~F'ORT' C 1 T Y C L E d~ @~C
~~``~1~ % DIU~LIfV CI`TY COUNCIL F~i~ #/^- 0~0-O~o
- - . l 3~
. . _ ~
DATE; May 3, 2011
TO: ,~~ Honorable Mayor and City Gouncilmembers
: FROftA. . '...~ .~ Joni Pattillo, City Manager
~ -
- SUBJECT: ., ~ PUBLIC HEARING: PLPA-2011-00017 City of Dublin Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance
Report prepared by Martha Aja, Environmental Specialist ~',~~:`,
° -° EXE~CUTIVE SUMNIARY:
~ Assembiy Biil (AB) 1881 directed the Department of Water Resources to update the Model
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Local agencies have the option to either adopt the
~u'pdated State Model Ordinance or adopt a different Ordinance that is at least as effective in
`conserving water as the updated Model Ordinance. lf a local agency takes no action, the
>"~ updated State Model Ordinance takes effect as if it were adopted. The City of Dublin has
~` :.elected to prepare a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. The City's Ordinance is based on
the updated Model Ordinance; however, slight modifications have been made to the Model
~ `-.Ordinance to make it specific to Dublin. The City's Draft Ordinance is at least as effective in
~' conserving wat'er as the State's Model Ordinance.
~ FfNANCIAL IMPACT: None -
RECOMMENDATlON: .
Staff. recommends that the City Council: 1) Receive Staff presentation; 2) Open the public
- hearing; 3) Take testimony from the public; 4) Glose the public hearing and deliberate; and 5)
1Naive the -reading and introduce an Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88
Wafer Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water _Efficient
Landscaping Regulatrons.
~ , ~ ~; ~-~. /
~ ubm tted ~y: evie e y
Community Development Director Assistant City Manager
~
~_ .;> -
ATTACHMENT 1
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E.. ~ . _ ~~~ ~ - . ~ ~ ~ ~ , ~, ~ ; ~~,,~ , , ,
DESCRIPT{ON:
Background
~ ~~
~
Assembly Bill (AB) 325 (1990) established the first California Model Water EfFicient Landscape
Ordinance (WELO): AB 1881, which was passed in 2006, directed the Department of Water
Resources to update the Model WELO.
:1_„
~..
One of the main objectives of the updated Model WELO is to reduce water use to the lowest
practical amount and set an upper water use limit for development that may not be exceeded.
The updated WELO also establishes provisions for-water management practices and~water -
waste prevention. Additionally, the Modei WELO promotes the values and benefits of
landscapes while simultaneously recognizing the need to use water efficiently. _
AB 1881 contains several requirements to be included in the updated Model WELO, which
include:
~ Minimize overspray and run-off;
~ Appropriate use and grouping of plants;
0 Automatic irrigation systems and schedules;
~ Soil assessment and soil management plans;
o {nclude {andscape mainfenance practices;
• Encourage the capture and retention of storm water on-site;
e Encourage the use of recycled water; and
~ Educate water users.
The City of Dublin's existing Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (Attachment 1) was
adopted in 1997 as Chapter 8.88 of the Dublin Municipal Code. The Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance adopted by the State is significantly different than the City's current
Ordinance. Some of the major differences include:
• The City's current Ordinance applies to projects that have landscaped areas greater than
5,000 square feet; while the proposed Ordinance applies to projects that have
landscaped areas greater than 2,500 square feet.
= The Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF) in Dublin's current Ordinance is 0.8
and the new ETAF is 0.7. The ETAF is 1.0 in the proposed ordinance for special
landscape areas, which incfude recreational turf projects (parks, golf courses, ball fields),
projects irrigated with recycled water and edible landscapes. A more complete discussion
of ETAF can be found on page 4 of this report under Water Budget.
a In the proposed Ordinance, local agencies are required to provide information to owners
of new single-family homes regarding water efficient landscapes.
Local agencies have. the option to either adopt the updated Model Ordinance or adopt a
different ordinance that is at least as effective in conserving water as the updated Model
Ordinance. If a local agency takes no action, the updated Model Ordinance takes effect as if it
were adopted by the local agency. The Model Ordinance took effect on January 1, 2010;
however, the City of Dublin has elected to prepare a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
based on the Modef Ordinance. ~
; _.
-;-,_
,~;~ .
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Page 2 of 6
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Tlie draft Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations (Attachment 2} would amend the existing
- Dublin Zoning Ordinance by deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 relating to Water-
Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adoptirig a new Chapter 8.88 relating to Water Efficient
~_. : Landscaping Regulations. .
: AiVALYSIS.
The Draft Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is based on the State's Model Ordinance.
~ Slight modifcations have been made to the Model Ordinance to make it specific to the City of
Dublin. The Draft Ordinance was prepared with input from Staff, the City Attomey and the City's
" consultant landscape architect to ensure that it is as. effective as the State's Model Ordinance.
Applicabilitv '> ,
The following landscape projects will be subject to the City's WELO:
, ~. 1. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for City projects and private
~~ ~. development projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500
. square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or site
~ development review.
-' 2.: -New const~uction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in
~ single-family and multi-family projects with a landscape area.equal to or greater
than 2,500 square feet re.quiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or site
~: , development review.
i 3: New construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-
~ hired in single-family and multi-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 site development review. .
-" ~ 4: ~ Existing landscapes limited to Sections 8.88.070. ~
~~' 5` - Gemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of
cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Sections 8.88.040.E,
_ 8.88.050.E and 8.88.060; and existing cemeteries are limited to Section 8.88.070.
The. "landscape area" shall be used to determine if a City project, private development project or
- homeowner-provided landscape is subject to the City's WELO. As defined in the Ordinance,
~"landscape area" means 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 non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-
~ irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native
vegetation).
~- As noted above, new construction landscapes which are , homeowner-provided and/or
homeowner-hired are subject to the City's WELO only if the landscape area (as defined above)
~ is, greater than 5,000 square feet. There are very few singfe-family homes within the City that
~- - would trigger the City's WELO.
Page 3 of 6
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Water Budget
The City's Ordinance, like the State's Model Ordinance, requires water budget calculations for
the landscape to, be submitted as part of the design. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance
(MAWA) establishes the maximum amount of water that may be used annually to irrigate a
landscape area. While the Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU) is the estimated amount of
waterto be used annually based on the design. The ETWU may not exceed the MAWA.
Both calculations use evapotranspiration (ET) data. ET is the amount of water loss by
evaporation from soil and by plant transpiration during a specific period of time. ET data is
based on tlie amount of water loss by turfgrasses and agricultural crops that provide an
estimate of the amount of water to be replaced by irrigation. Reference evapotranspiration
(ETo) is based on the above for a particufar geographical region. The ETo of 46:2 inches per
year used in this ordinance is based on the nearest referenced location, which is in Pleasanton.
Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF) of 0.7 is used as a water conservation
management tool to reduce the amount of water applied to replace ET. The ETAF of 0.7 means
70% of the water loss through ET is replaced. This factor has been adjusted from 0.8 in the
previous City and Stat,e Ordinance. Generally, 100% of ET is not required to maintain plant
health, appearance and reasonable growth. Special Landscape Areas (SLA), including
recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and
vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are allowed an ETAF of 1.0.
~:.
~
Chanqes to the State's Model Ordinance
Slight modifications have been made to the Model Ordinance to make it specific to Dublin, ~;,
consistent with the rest of the Dublin Municipal Code and easier to use. The City's Draft
Ordinance is at least as effective in conserving water as the State's updated Model Ordinance.
Some of the more notable changes that were made to the State's Model Ordinance include the
,
following: ~.
• Removed all the government code citations/references; -
s Added definitions for City, decorative water feature, District, private development and
stabilizing mulch products; ' ,
• Modified the applicability section by referencing the "landscape area" definition;
•. Revised the Landsca,ping Documentation Package section to be consistent with current
Dublin procedures; ~ ~
• Used 46.2 as the Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) in the Maximum Applied Water
Calculations;
e Modified the Maximum Allowed 1/Vater Aflowance calculations - examples that are
specific to Dublin;
e Changed the mulch requirement from 2 inches to 3 inches because 3 inches is what is
recommended by the Bay Friendly Landscape Guidefines and the Alameda Countywide
Clean Water Program C.3 Stormwater Technical Guidance;
• Removed the model homes information from the public education section and created a
new model homes category; •
• Added DSRSD's provisions for using recyclEd water; _
e Modified the.Storm Water Management section to reference Chapter 7.74 (Stormwater
Management Discharge Control) of the DMC; and ~
• Made modifications to the water waste prevention section.
Paqe 4 of 6
~ ~ ~~ ~
A red-fined version of the City's Draft Ordinance is induded as Attachment 3. The red-lined
- version compares tlie City's WELO to the State's WELO.
` P.LANRIING COfVINIISSION ACTION ~
On April 12, 2011, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to review the proposed
- Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations. The Planning Commission Staff Report is included as
~. Attachme.nt 4 and the draft minutes of the Planning Commission meeting are included as
Attachment 5.. ~
-_ The Planning Commission deliberated and approved the followings resolution by a 5-0 vate:
~ Resolution 11-14, recommending the City Councii adopt an Ordinance deleting Dublin ~
-~ : Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a
- ~. new Chapter 8.88 Vl/ater Efficient Landscaping Regulations (Attachment 6).
° REVIEW BY APPLICABLE DEPARTI~iENTS ~ AGEIVCIES:
~} The . Draft Ordinance was distributed internally to . the various City Departments to review,
including .,Parks- & Gommunity Services, Public Works, and the Fire Prevention Bureau. -
~~ Additionally, the Draft Ordinance was reviewed by MCE and the Dublin San Ramon Services
District.:' The changes recommended by the various departments were incorporated, as
appropriate.
; . ~ ~
` ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
This ,Ordinance is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15307 of the State
- Califor'nia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Regulations (14 Cal. Code Regs. Section 15307).
~ Section, ;15307 establishes a Categorical Exemption for actions taken to assure the
.~> maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of a natural resource where the
' regulatory process involves procedures for. the protection of the environment. The adoption of
~ this Ordinance will result in the enhancement and protection of water resources in the City, and
~ will not result in cumulative adverse environmental impacts.
NOTICING REQUIRElViENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
~~ The City's Draft Ordin_ance was distributed to the development community for review and
comment. The City received two comments: one from Jeff Lawrence of Braddock & Logan and
one from Aaron Ross-Swain of Standard Pacific. The City reviewed the comments and provided
a response to comments (Attachment 7). No additional changes were made to the City's Draft
Ordinance based on the comments that were received from the development community.
;. A~Public Hearing Notice, was published in the Valley Times and posted at several locations
~ ~fhroughout the Cify and e-mailed to the development community.
Page5of6
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ATTACHMENTS: 1) Chapter 8.88 (Water Efficient Landscaping
Regulations) Dublin Zoning Ordinance. ,. ,,
2) ~ Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipai Code Chapter ! -
~ 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and
. adoPting . a new Chapter 8.88 Water Effcient
Landscaping Regulations.
3) Red-line version of the City's Water Efficient ._,
Landscape Regulations. ~ ~.
, 4) April 12, 2011 Planning Commission Staff Report ":
(without attachments).. ~
5)~ Draft Planning Commission meeting minutes, April 12,
2011. ~
6) Planning Commission Resolution 11-14 recommending
~ the City Council adopt an Ordinance deleting Dublin
. Municipaf Code ~ Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient
, Lanciscaping Regulations and adopting a new Chapter
8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations. ~
7) Response to Developer Comments.
PaQe 6 of 6
°~~~o
ORDINANCE NO. -11
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
*********
DELETING DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.88 RELATING TO WATER-EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS AND ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 8.88 RELATING TO
WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
The City Council of the City of Dublin does hereby ordain as follows:
Section 1:
Compliance with California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"): The City Council finds
and declares that the adoption of this Ordinance will result in the enhancement and protection of
water resources in the City, and will not result in cumulative adverse environmental impacts, and
is thus exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15307 of the State California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which establishes a CEQA Categorical Exemption for
actions taken to assure the maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of a natural
resource where the regulatory process involves procedures for the protection of the
environment.
Section 2: Section 8.88 of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby deleted in its entirety.
Section 3: A new Section 8.88 is hereby added to the Dublin Municipal Code to read as
follows:
0
CHAPTER 8.88 WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
8.88.010 Applicability.
A. The requirements of this Chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
1. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for City projects and private
development projects with a landscape area (as defined in this Ordinance) equal
to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan
check or site development review.
2. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in
single-family and multi-family projects with a landscape area (as defined in this
Ordinance) equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or
landscape permit, plan check, or site development review.
3. New construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-
hired in single-family and multi-family residential projects with a total project
landscape area (as defined in this Ordinance) equal to or greater than 5,000
square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or site
development review. ~
4. Existing landscapes limited to Sections 8.88.070.
5. Cemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of
cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Sections 8.88.040.E,
8.88.050.E and 8.88.060; and existing cemeteries are limited to Section 8.88.070.
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ATTACHMENT 2
~ ~0
B. 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.
8.88.020 Definitions.
A. The terms used in this Chapter have the meaning set forth below:
"Applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the
landscape.
"Automatic irrigation controller" means an automatic timing device used to remotely
control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers schedule
irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
"Backflow prevention device" means 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" means the document required under Section 8.88.050.A.
"Certified irrigation designer" means a person certified to design irrigation systems by an
accredited academic institution a professional trade organization or other program such
as the US Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation designer certification
program and Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program.
"Certified fandscape irrigation auditor" means a person certified to perform landscape
irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization
or other program such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense
irrigation auditor certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape
Irrigation Auditor program.
"Check valve" or "anti-drain valve" means 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.
"City" means the City of Dublin.
"Common interest developments" means community apartment projects, condominium
projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section 1351.
"Conversion factor (0.62)" means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year
to gallons per square foot per year.
"Decorative water feature" means a water feature that does not perForm a recreational
function.
"District" means the Dublin San Ramon Services District.
"Drip irrigation" means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission
devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are
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specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of
plants.
"Ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to
establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the portion of total precipitation
which becomes available for plant growth.
"Emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the
system to the soil.
"Established landscape" means 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" means 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 Water Use" (ETWU) means the total water used for the landscape as
described in Section 8.88.040.E.
"ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of 0.7, that, when applied to reference
evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, finro major influences
upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. A combined plant
mix with a site-wide average of 0.5 is the basis of the plant factor portion of this
calculation. For purposes of the ETAF, 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. ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
"Evapotranspiration rate" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and
other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
"Flow rate" means 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" means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).
"Homeowner-provided landscaping" means any landscaping 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" means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water
needs. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.
"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).
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"Invasive plant species" means species of plants not historically found in California at
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" means any weed 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 at the California lnvasive Plant Inyentory and USDA
invasive and noxious weeds database.
"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
preparation of an irrigation schedule.
"Irrigation efficiency" (IE) means 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 Ordinance is 0.71. Irrigation
systems shall be designed, maintained and managed to meet or exceed the average
irrigation efficiency.
"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.
"Irrigation water use analysis" means an analysis of water use data based on meter
readings and billing data.
"Landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to practice landscape
architecture in the state of California Business and Professions Code, Section 5615.
"Landscape area" means 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 non-
pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development
(e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation).
"Landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the state of California to construct,
maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
"Landscape Documentation Package" means the documents required under Section
8.88.040.D.
"Landscape project" means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape
area" for the purposes of this Chapter, meeting requirements under Section 8.88.010.
"Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or
sprinklers from the valve.
"Local water purveyor" means the Dublin San Ramon Services District ("DSRSD").
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Low volume irrigation means 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" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to
the valve or outlet.
"Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the upper limit of annual applied
water for the established landscaped area as specified in Section 8.88.040.E. 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, areas
permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable
gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF
not to exceed 1.0. ,
"Microclimate" means 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.
"Mined-land reclamation projects" means any surface mining operation with a reclamation
plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
"Mulch" means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, 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" means, for the purposes of this Chapter, a new building with
landscaping or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an
associated building.
"Operating pressure" means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are
designed by the manufacturer to operate.
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems" means systems that deliver water through the air
(e.g., spray heads and rotors).
"Overspray" means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
"Pervious" means 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" is a factor, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the
amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this 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 this Chapter are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2000
publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species".
"Precipitation rate" means the rate of application of water measured in inches per hour.
5
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"Private development" means a developer installed project in which the cumulative
landscape area of the development project is evaluated to determine applicability with the
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
"Project applicanY' means the individual or entity submitting a Landscape Documentation
Package required under Section 8.88.040, to request a permit, plan check, or design
review from the City. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her
designee..
"Rain sensor" or "rain. sensing shutoff device" means a component which automatically
suspends an irrigation event when it rains.
"Record drawing" or "as-builts" means 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" means areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields,
and golf courses where turf provides a playing surface.
"Recycled water", "reclaimed water", or "treated sewage effluent water" means treated or
recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape
irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption.
"Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo" means a standard measurement of
environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in
inches per day, month, or year, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large
field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference
evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the Maximum Applied Water
Allowance so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated.
"Rehabilitated landscape" means any re-landscaping project that requires a permit , plan
check, or design review, meets the requirements of Section 8.88.010, and the modified
landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet, is 50% of the total
landscape area, and the modifications are completed within one year.
"Runoff' means 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 when there is a
slope.
"Site Development Review" means a discretionary planning entitlement established to
preserve the architectural character and scale of neighborhoods and the community and
to ensure compliance with development regulations and the requirements of the zoning
district. ~
"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.
"Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and
clay. ~
6
~3 ~~
"Speciai Landscape Area" (SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated solely
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" means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
"Stabilizing mulch products" means mulch material that will knit together and resist
floating with surface runoff or other materials such as hydraulic mulch, jute mesh, and
erosion control blankets and applied to the soil surface for the beneficial purpose of
preventing soil erosion.
"Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when
water is not flowing.
"Station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of ,valves that operate
simultaneously.
"Swing joint" means 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" means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky
bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses.
Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and
Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses.
"Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
"Water conserving plant species" means a plant species identified as having a low plant
factor.
"Water feature" means 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 stormwater 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" means the time of day irrigation is allowed.
"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, 2000.
7
8.88.030 Provisions for New Construction or Rehabititated Landscapes. I~~~~'~
The City may designate another agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of
the requirements contained in this Chapter. The City may collaborate with water purveyors to
define each entity's specific responsibilities relating to this Chapter..
8.88.040 Landscape Documentation Package
A. Compliance with Landscape Documentation Package. Prior to construction, the City
shall:
1. Provide the project applicant with a copy of this Chapter and procedure for
permits, plan checks or Site Development Reviews.
2. Approve or deny Site Development Reviews, as applicable.
3. Review the Landscape Documentation Package submitted by the project
applicant.
4. Approve or deny the Landscape Documentation Package.
5. Approve the plan check.
6. Upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package, submit a copy of
the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the District.
7. Provide the project applicant with a checklist of all documents in Landscape
Documentation Package.
B. Upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package by the City, the project
applicant shall:
1. Receive approval of the plan check and record the date of approval in the
Certificate of Completion.
2. Submit a copy of the approved Landscape Documentation Package along with
the record drawings, and any other information to the property owner or his/her
designee.
C. Elements of the Landscape Documentation Package.
1. The Landscape Documentation Package shall include the following elements:
a. Project information.
1. Date.
2. Project applicant.
3. Project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)).
4. Total landscape area (square feet).
5. Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery,
homeowner-installed).
6. Water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled).
7. Project contacts to include contact information for the project
applicant and property owner.
8. Applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with
the requirements of Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and submit
a comp{ete Landscape Documentation Package."
8
b. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet. I~ ~~
~
1. Hydrozone information table.
2. Water budget calculations.
i. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA).
ii. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU).
3. Soil management report.
4. Landscape design plan.
5. Irrigation design plan.
6. Grading design plan.
D.
Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
1. A project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet
which contains two sections:
2.
3
a. A hydrozone information table for the landscape project.
b. A water budget calculation for the landscape project. For the calculation of
the Maximum Applied Water AI{owance and Estimated Total Water Use, a
project applicant shall use the ETo of 46.2 for Pleasanton, Alameda County
as found in the CIMIS Reference Evapotranspiration Zones Map,
Department of Water Resources, 1999.
Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
a. The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS. The plant factor ranges from
0 to 0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate water use
plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants.
b. All water features shalf be included in the high water use hydrozone and
temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use
hydrozone.
c. All Special Landscape Areas shall be identified and their water use
calculated as described below.
d. ETAF for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
The Maximum Applied Water Allowance shall be calculated using the equation:
MAWA =(ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) +(0.3 x SLA)]
The example calculations below are hypothetical to demonstrate proper use of the
equations and do not represent an existing and/or planned landscape project. The
ETo values used in these calculations are for planning purposes only. For actual
irrigation scheduling, automatic irrigation controllers are required and shall use
current reference evapotranspiration data, such as from the California lrrigation
9
_ . ~~ ~_ ~3~
Management Information System (CIMIS), other equivalent data, or soil moisture
sensor data. ~
MAWA calculation, Example 1: a hypothetical landscape project in Dublin , CA
with an irrigated landscape area of 50,000 square feet without any Special
Landscape Area (SLA= 0, no edible plants, recreational areas, or use of recycled
water). To calculate MAWA, the annual reference evapotranspiration value for
Dublin is 46.2 inches.
MAWA =(ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) +(0.3 x SLA)]
MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons)
0.7 = ET Adjustment Factor (ETAF)
LA = Landscape Area including SLA (square feet)
0.3 = Additional Water Allowance for SLA
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
MAWA =(46.2 inches) (0.62) [(0.7 x 50,000 square feet) +(0.3 x 0)]
= 1,002,540 gallons per year
To convert from gallons per year to hundred-cubic-feet per year:
= 1,002,540/748 = 1,340 hundred-cubic-feet per year
(100 cubic feet = 748 gallons)
MAWA calculation, Example 2: In this next hypothetical example, the landscape
project in Dublin, CA has the same ETo value of 46.2 inches and a total landscape
area of 50,000 square feet. Within the 50,000 square foot project, there is now a
2,000 square foot area planted with edible plants. This 2,000 square foot area is
considered to be a Special Landscape Area.
MAWA =(ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) +(0.3 x SLA)]
MAWA =(46.2 inches) (0.62) ((0.7 x 50,000 square feet) +(0.3 x 2,000
square feet)]
= 28.64 x[35,000 + 600] gallons per year
= 28.64 x 35,600 gallons per year
=1,019,584 gallons per year or 1,363 hundred-cubic-feet per year
4. Estimated Total Water Use.
The Estimated Total Water Use shall be calculated using the equation below. The
sum of the Estimated Total Water Use calculated for all hydrozones shall not
exceed MAWA.
ETWU =(ETo)(0.62) P I~ A+ SLA
C ) Where:
ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use per year (gallons)
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches)
PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS (8.88.020)
HA = Hydrozone Area [high, medium, and low water use areas] (sq. ft.)
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
0.62 = Conversion Factor
IE = Irrigation Efficiency (minimum 0.71)
10
ETWU calculation Exam le 1: landsca e area is 50,000 s uare feet; Ilan~"vZa e~r
p p Q P
use type, plant factor, and hydrozone area are shown in the table below. The ETo
value is 46.2 inches per year. There are no Special Landscape Areas (recreational
area, area permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants, and area irrigated
with recycled water) in this example.
H drozone
Plant Water Use
T e s Plant
Factor
PF '' Hydrozone
Area (HA)
s uare feet
PF x HA
s uare feet
1 High 0.8 7,000 5,600
2 Hi h 0.7 10,000 7,000
3
Medium
0.5
16,000 8,000
4 Low 0.3 7,000 2,100
5 Low 0.2 10,000 2,000
Sum 24,700
'Plant Factortrom WUC;ULS
ETWU = (46.2)(0.62)r 24,700 + OJ
` 0.71
= 996,488
Compare ETWU with MAWA: For this example MAWA =(46.2) (0.62) [(0.7 x
50,000) +(0.3 x 0)] = 1,002,540 gallons per year. The ETWU (996,488 gallons per
year) is less than MAWA (1,002,540 gallons per year). In this example, the water
budget complies with the MAWA.
ETWU calculation Example 2: total landscape area is 50,000 square feet, 2,000
square feet of which is planted with edible plants. The edible plant area is
considered a Special Landscape Area (SLA). The reference evapotranspiration
value is 46.2 inches per year. The plant type, plant factor, and hydrozone area are
shown in the table below.
H drozone
Plant Water
Use T e s Plant
Factor
PF)'` Hydrozone
Area (HA)
s uare feet
PF x HA
s uare feet
1 High 0.8 7,000 5,600
2 High 0.7 9,000 6,300
3 Medium 0.5 15,000 7,500
4 Low 0.3 7,000 2,100
5 Low 0.2 10,000 2,000
Sum 23,500
6 SLA 1.0 2,000 2,000
'Plant Factor trom WUCULS
ETWU = (46.2)(0.62)( 23,500 + 2,000J
~ o.~i
_ (28.64) (33,099 + 2,000)
= 1,005,235 gallons per year
Compare ETWU with MAWA. For this example:
11
MAWA = (46.2) (0.62) [(0.7 x.50,000) + (0.3 x 2,000)] ~ ~ ~
= 28.64 x [35,000 + 600] /~
= 28.64 x 35,600
=1,019,584 gallons per year
The ETWU (1,005,235 gallons per year) is less than MAWA (1,019,584 gallons
per year). For this example, the water budget complies with the MAWA.
E. Soil Management Report. In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant
growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her
designee, as follows:
1. Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
a. Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol,
including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended
plants. ~
b. The soil analysis may include:
1. Soil texture.
2. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture
infiltration rate table.
3. pH.
4. Total soluble salts.
5. Sodium.
6. Boron.
7. Percent organic matter.
8. Recommendations.
2. The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall comply with one of the following:
a. ' If significant mass grading is not planned, the soil analysis report shall be
submitted to the City as part of the Landscape Documentation Package; or
b. If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be
submitted to the City as part of the Certificate of Completion.
c. The soil analysis report shall be made available, in a timely manner, to the
professionals preparing the landscape design plans and irrigation design
plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans.
d. The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall submit documentation
verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the City
with Certificate of Completion.
F. Landscape Design Plan.
1. For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned
for the intended function of the project. A landscape design plan meeting the
12
following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape
Documentation Package. IO~ ~p , 2~
`~cJ
a. Plant Material.
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 Allowance. To encourage the efficient
use of water, the following is highly recommended:
i. Protection and preservation of native species and
natural vegetation.
ii. Selection of water-conserving plant and turF species.
iii. Selection of plants based on disease and pest
resistance. ~
iv. Selection of trees based on any ordinances,
guidelines or other regulations applicable to the
project.
v. Selection of plants from local and regional landscape
program plant lists.
2. Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use,
with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as
specified in Section 8.88.040.G.1.b.
3. Plants shall 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 following
is highly recommended:
i. 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;
ii. 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]; and
iii. Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to
maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.
4. Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the
slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25%
means 1 foot of vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of
horizontal length (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent).
5. 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 per Public Resources Code
Section 4291(a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly
flammable mulches.
6. The use of invasive and/or noxious plant species is strongly
discouraged.
7. The architectural guidelines of a common interest development,
which include community apartment projects, condominiums,
13
-~ ~~~
planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not proh bit or
include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-
water use plants as a group.
b. Water Features
1. Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.
2. Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for
decorative water features.
3. Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water
use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation.
4. Pool and spa covers are highly recommended.
c. Mulch and Amendments
1. A minimum three inch (3") layer of mulch shall be applied on all
exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turF areas, creeping
or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch
is inadvisable.
2. Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes greater than
25% (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent).
3. The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded
applications shall meet the mulching requirement.
4. Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to
recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the
plants selected (see Section 8.88.040.E).
2. The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall:
a. Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method.
b. Identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed water use.
Temporarily irrigated areas of the landscape shall be included in the low
water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation.
c. Identify recreational areas
d. Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants.
e. Identify areas irrigated with recycled water.
f. Identify type of mulch and application depth.
g. Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity.
h. Identify type and surface area of water features.
Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious)
14
ai ~~
Identify 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:
1. Infiltration beds, swales, and basins that allow water to collect and
soak into the ground.
2. Constructed wetlands and retention ponds that retain water, handle
excess flow, and filter pollutants.
3. Pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., permeable pavers or blocks,
pervious or porous concrete, etc.) that minimize runoff.
k. Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies (e.g., rain
gardens, cisterns, etc.).
Contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and applied them for the efficient use of water
in the landscape design plan."
m. Bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape
contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. (See
Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2, 5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5,
5641.6, 6701, 7027.5 of the Business and Professions Code, Section
832.27 of Title16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of
the Food and Agriculture Code.)
G. Irrigation Design Plan.
1. For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all,the requirements
listed in this section and the manufacturers' recommendations. The irrigation
system and its related 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.
a. System.
1. Dedicated landscape water meters are highly recommended on
landscape areas smaller than 5,000 square feet to facilitate water
. management.
2. Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or
soil moisture sensor data shall be required for irrigation scheduling in
all irrigation systems.
3. 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.
i. If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic
pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices
such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other
15
a a ~3'~
devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic
pressure of the irrigation system.
ii. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow
reading of the 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.
4. Sensors (rain, freeze, 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.
5. 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 of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an
emergency (such as a main line break) or routine repair.
6. Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the potable
water supply from contamination by the irrigation system. A project
applicant shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public
health) or the District for additional backflow prevention
requirements.
7. Low flow and high flow sensors that detect and report low and high
flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are
recommended.
8. The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head
drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation
water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-
irrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures.
9. Relevant information from the soil management plan, such as soil
type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation
systems.
10. The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones
of the landscape design plan.
11. The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a
minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section
8.88.040.D regarding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
12. The project applicant shall inquire with the District about peak water
operating demands (on the water supply system) or water
restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
13. In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is
required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
14. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched
precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's
recommendations.
15. Sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible
distribution uniformity using the manufacturer's recommendations.
16. Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all
risers subject to damage that are adjacent to high traffic areas.
16
~3 ~30
17. Check valves or anti-drain valves are required for all irr gation
systems.
18. Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, including turF, less than eight (8)
feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface
irrigation or low volume irrigation system.
19. Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any
non-permeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from
non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow
non-spray 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:
i. the landscape area is adjacent to permeable surFacing and no
runoff occurs; or
ii. the adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and
constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or
iii. 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 8.88.040.G. Prevention of overspray
and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
20. Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irrigation
system with a precipitation rate exceeding 0.75 inches 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 no runoff or
erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be
confirmed during the irrigation audit.
b. Hydrozone.
1. Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, s~ope, sun
exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use.
2. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based
on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone.
3. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from
shrubs, groundcovers, and turf.
4. Individual hyclrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water
use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:
i. plant factor catculation is based on the proportions of the
respective plant water uses and their plant factor; or
ii. the plant factor of the higher water using plant is used for
calculations.
5. Individual hydrozones that mix high and low water use plants shall
not be permitted.
6. 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, designate the areas irrigated by each
valve, and assign a number to each valve.
17
2. The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain: ~~ ~, `~ O
a. location and size of any separate water meters for landscape included in
the design plan;
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 8.88.090;
f. the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and applied them accordingly for the efficient
use of water in the irrigation design plan"; and
g. the signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer,
licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an
irrigation system. (See Sections 5500.1, 5615, 5641, 5641.1, 5641.2,
5641.3, 5641.4, 5641.5, 5641.6, 6701, 7027.5 of the Business and
Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of
Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agricultural Code.)
H. 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 other City permits satisfies this requirement.
The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates
finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including:
a. height of graded slopes;
b. drainage patterns;
c. pad elevations;
d. finish grade; and
e. stormwater retention improvements, if applicable.
2. To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project
applicants: ~
18
a~ ~o
a. g'rade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within pro~rty lines
and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes;
b. avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and
c. avoid soil compaction in landscape areas.
3. The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I have complied
with the criteria of Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and applied them
accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall bear
the signature of a licensed professional as authorized by law.
8.88.050 Certificate of Completion.
A. The Certificate of Completion shall include the following elements and shall be
required prior to final sign-off of the building permit:
1. Project information sheet that contains:
a. date;
b. project name;
c. project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address;
d. project address and location; and
e. property owner name, telephone, and mailing address;
2. 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 per the approved Landscape Documentation Package.
Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction,
these "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification.
3. Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section
8.88.050.D).
4. Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section 8.88.050.E)
5. Irrigation audit report (see Section 8.88.060).
6. Soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape Documentation Package, and
documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see
Section 8.88.040.E).
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B. The project applicant shall: " ~~ 3~
~
Submit the signed Certificate of Completion to the City for review.
2. Ensure that copies of the approved Certificate of Completion are submitted to the
local water purveyor and property owner or his or her designee.
C. The City shall:
Receive the signed Certificate of Completion from the project applicant.
2. Approve or deny the Certificate of Completion. If the Certificate of Completion is
denied, the City shall provide information to the project applicant regarding
reapplication, or other assistance.
D. 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:
1. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
Overhead irrigation with potable water shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and
10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation
differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter of the two shall apply. Operation of
the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allbwed for auditing
and system maintenance: If irrigated with recycled water operation of the irrigation
system shall be scheduled between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Irrigation with
recycled water outside of the allowable watering window is allowed providing there
is qualified supervisory personnel on-site to oversee the irrigation process to
minimize human contact. When using recycled water, the District's requirements
shall be used.
2. For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to
irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference
evapotranspiration, 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). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic
irrigation controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS)
or soil moisture sensor data or centralized irrigation system with a weather station,
flow sensor and master valve.
3. Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted
for each of the following:
a. the plant establishment period;
b. the established landscape; and
c. temporarily irrigated areas.
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4. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that
apply~ a~ 3'V
~
a. irrigation inteNal (days between irrigation);
b. irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff);
c. number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff;
d. amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthty basis;
e. application rate setting;
f. root depth setting;
g. plant type setting;
h. soil type;
i. slope factor setting;
j. shade factor setting; and
k. irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting.
E. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
1. Landscapes shall' be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular
maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the Certificate of Completion.
2. A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, routine
inspection; adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components;
aerating~ and dethatching turf areas; replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning;
weeding in all landscape areas, and removing and obstruction to emission
devices. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is
allowed for auditing and system maintenance.
3. Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed
components or their equivalents or better to achieve the desired uniformity and
distribution rates.
4. A project applicant is encouraged to implement sustainable or environmentally-
friendly practices for overall landscape maintenance.
8.88.060 Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation Water Use Analysis.
A. All landscape irrigation audits required by this Chapter shall be conducted by a certified
landscape irrigation auditor.
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B. For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed afte"r Jan~~~
2010, as described in Section 8.88.010:
1. The project appficant shafl submit an irrigation audit report with the Certificate of
Completion to the City that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system
tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity; reporting overspray or run off that
causes overfand flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
2. The City may administer programs that including, but not be limited to, irrigation
water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the
Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
8.88.070 Existing Landscapes.
A. This section 8.88.070 shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before the
effective date of this Chapter and are over one acre in size.
1. For all landscapes subject to this section that have a separate water meter, the
City may administer programs including, but not be limited to, irrigation water use
analyses, irrigation surveys, soil and water analysis, and irrigation audits 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).
2. For all landscapes subject to this section that do not have a separate meter, the
City may administer programs including, but not be limited to, irrigation surveys
and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as
necessary in order to prevent water waste. ~
8.88.080 Public Education.
A. Publications. Education is a critical component to promote the efficient use of water in
landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of design, installation, management and
maintenance that save water is encouraged in the community. Information about the design,
installation, management, and maintenance of water efficient landscapes is available from the
District.
B. Model Homes. At least one model home that is landscaped in each development
consisting of eight or more homes shall use signs and written information to demonstrate the
principles of water efficient landscapes described in this Chapter.
1. 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.
2. Information shall be provided by the project developer at the site of all such model
homes about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient
landscapes.
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8.88.090 Recycled Water. pp~ ~~~
A. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall aliow for the current and future
use of recycled water, unless the project is located in an area in which recycled water is
unavailable and will not be available for the foreseeable future, or a written exemption has been
granted as described in Section 8.88.090.B. The District has specific provision in their District
Code that governs the use of Recycled Water. {n accordance with these provisions, applicants
should:
1. Use recycled water in accordance with the District's Ordinance.
2. Label sites and install Recycled Water signage in accordance with the DistricYs
Recycled Water Use Guidelines.
3. Install the on-site Recycled Water system in accordance with the District's
Specifications, Section IV.
4. Install a Pressure Reduction Valve (PRV) immediately downstream of the Recycled
Water Meter as per the District's Recycled Water Guidelines, Section IV. The PRV is
to protect the applicant's system from pressure fluctuations during the daily operation
of the DistricYs RW system.
5. The Recycled Water System is subject to the required on-site coverage test and
cross-connection tests perFormed by the District.
B. Irrigation systems and decorative water features shall use recycled water unless a written
exemption has been granted by the local water purveyor stating that recycled water meeting all
public health codes and standards is not available and will not be available for the foreseeable
future. ~
C. All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with
the District's Code and all applicable {oca{ and State laws.
D. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET
Adjustment Factor for Special Landscape Areas shaii not exceed 1.0.
8.8$.100 Water Waste Prevention,
It shall be a violation of this Chapter for any property to maintain inefficient landscape irrigation
which results in runoff leaving the target landscape due to Iow head drainage, overspray, or
other similar conditions, and where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas,
walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures. The foregoing shall not~ apply where either of the
following apply:
1) the target landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or
2) the adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely
to landscaping.
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8.88.110 Storm Water Management. ~~ ~ ~
~
Stormwater management practices .to minimize runoff and increase infiltration to recharge
groundwater and improve water quality are required by Chapter 7.74 (Stormwater Management
and Discharge Control) of the Dublin Municipal Code.
Section 4. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable and if any provision,
clause, sentence, word or part thereof is held illegal, invalid, unconstitutional, or inapplicable to
any person or circumstances, such illegality, invalidity, unconstitutionality, or inapplicability shall
not affect or impair any of the remaining provisions, clauses, sentences, sections, words or parts
thereof of the ordinance or their applicability to other persons or circumstances.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be enforced thirty (30) days
following its adoption.
Section 6. Posting. The City Clerk of the City of Dublin shall cause this Ordinance to be
posted in at least three (3) public places in the City of Dublin in accordance with Section 36933
of the Government Code of the State of California.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th,day of May, 2011.
AYES: ~
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
G:\PA#~2011\PLPA-2011-00017 Water Effecient Landscape Ordinance\Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance 8 88.DOC
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