HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 6.1 Water Efficient LandscapeG~~~ OF ~UB~y
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DATE:
May 3, 2011
TO: O~ Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
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FROM: 1' ~Joni Pattillo, City Manager
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SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARING: 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 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 water as the State's ModeleOrdinance. ~
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council: 1) Receive Staff presentation; 2) Open the public
hearing; 3) Take testimony from the public; 4) Close the public hearing and deliberate; and 5)
Waive the reading and introduce an Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88
Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient
Landscaping Regulations.
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ubm ted y:
Community Development Director
evie e y
Assistant City Manager
~ Pa e 1 of 6 ITEM NO. ~•~ ~
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STAFF REPORT C I T Y C L E R K
DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL File # ~0~0-0~0
DESCRIPTION:
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.
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 Model 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;
• Automatic irrigation systems and schedules;
• Soil assessment and soil management plans;
. Include landscape maintenance practices;
• Encourage the capture and retention of storm water on-site;
• 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 include 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.
• 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 Model Ordinance.
Page 2 of 6
The 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 adopting a new Chapter 8.88 relating to Water Efficient
Landscaping Regulatians.
ANALYSIS
The Draft Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is based on the State's Model Ordinance.
Slight modifications 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 Attorney and the City's
consultant landscape architect to ensure that it is as effective as the State's Model Ordinance.
A~plicability
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 construction 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 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 equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet requiring a building or
iandscape 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.
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 single-family homes within the City that
would trigger the City's WELO.
Page 3 of 6
Water Budqet
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
water to 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 the 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 particular 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 State 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 Mode! 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;
• Added definitions for City, decorative water feature, District, private development and
stabilizing mulch products;
• Modified the applieability section by referencing the "landscape area" definition;
• Revised the Landscaping Documentation Package section to be consistent with current
Dublin procedures;
• Used 46.2 as the Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) in the Maximum Applied Water
Calculations;
• Modified the Maximum Allowed Water Allowance calculations - examples that are
specific to Dublin;
• Changed the mulch requirement from 2 inches to 3 inches because 3 inches is what is
recommended by the Bay Friendly Landscape Guidelines and the Alameda Countywide
Clean UVater 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;
• 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.
Page 4 of 6
A red-lined version of the City's Draft Ordinance is included as Attachment 3. The red-lined
version compares the City's WELO to the State's WELO.
PLANNING COMMISSION 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
Attachment 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 vote:
• Resolution 11-14, recommending the City Council adopt an Ordinance deleting Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a
new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations (Attachment 6).
REVIEW BY APPLICABLE DEPARTMENTS & AGENCIES:
The Draft Ordinance was distributed internally to the various City Departments to review,
including Parks & Community Services, Public Works, and the Fire Prevention Bureau.
Additionalfy, 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
California 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 REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The City's Draft Ordinance 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
throughouf the City and e-mailed to the development community.
Page 5 of 6
ATTACHMENTS: 1) Chapter 8.88 (Water Efficient Landscaping
Regulations) Dublin Zoning Ordinance.
2) Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter
8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and
adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient
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
Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient
Landscaping Regulations and adopting a new Chapter
8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations.
7) Response to Developer Comments.
Page6of6
Chapter 8.88 WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS Page 1 of 11
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CHAPTER 8.88
WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
8.88.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to:
A. Reduce irrigation water consumption with no decline in the physical and visual quality of urban
landscaping.
B. Establish a sufficient but flexible structure for designing, installing and maintaining water-efficient
landscapes in local p.rojects.
8.88.020. Applicability.
A. The requirements of this Chapter shall apply to all building or development permits issued after
December 31, 1992, for:
1. All new and rehabilitated landscaping for public agency projects and private development
projects that require a development and/or building permit with new or rehabilitated landscapes
that meet the criteria of this Section, including but not limited to industrial, commercial and
recreational projects.
2. Developer-installed landscaping in single-family and multi-family projects.
B. The requirements of this Chapter do not apply to:
1. Homeowner-provided landscaping at existing and new single-family and multi-family
projects. i
2. Cemeteries.
3. Registered historical sites.
4. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system.
5. Landscaping irrigated solely by reclaimed water and to which no potable pipeline exists for
irrigation purposes.
6. Any project with a landscaped area less than five thousand (5,000) square feet.
8.88.030. Definitions.
For the purposes of these regulations, certain words and phrases shall be interpreted as set forth in
this Ch.apter unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended. Where any of
the definitions in this Chapter may conflict with definitions in Chapter 8.08, Definitions, the definitions
in this Chapter shall prevail for the purposes of this Chapter. The words used in this Chapter shall
have the meaning set forth as follows:
"Anti-drain valve" or "check valve" means a valve located under a sprinkler head to hold water in the
system so it minimizes drainage from the lower-elevation sprinkler heads.
"Application rate" means the depth of water applied to a given area, usually measured in inches per
hour.
"Applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
"Autorriatic contro~ler' means a mechanical or solid state timer, capable of operating valve stations to
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ATTACHMENT 1
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set the days and length of time of a water application.
"Backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contarnination of the
water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
"Certified landscape irrigation auditor" means an individual certified by the Irrigation Association (a
nationwide organization). The state of California provides training that is certified by the Irrigation
Association.
"City" means the City of Dublin.
"Conversion factor (0.62)" means a number that converts the maximum app~ied water allowance from
acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year. The conversion factor is calculated
as fo-fows:
(325,851 gallons/43,560 square feet)/
12 inches = (0.62)
325,851 ga{lons = one acre foot
43,560 square feet = one acre
12 inches = one foot
To convert gallons per year to 100-cubic-feet per year, another common billing unit for water, divide
gallons per year by 748. (748 gallons = 100 cubic feet.)
"Development permit" means approval for any type of development or development project as defined
in Government Code Sections 65927 and 65928.
"District" means the Dubiin San Ramon Services District.
"Ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a
defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Emitte~" means drip irrigation fittings that deliver water slowly from the system to the soil.
"Established landscape" means the point at which plants in the landscape have developed roots into
the soil adjacent to the root ball.
"Establishment period" means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape.
"Estimated applied water use" means the portion of the estimated total water use that is derived from
applied water. The estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water
allowance. The estimated applied water use may be the sum of the water recommended through the
irrigation schedule, as referenced in Section 8.88.040.B.3.
"Estimated total water use" means the annual total amount of water estimated to be needed to keep
the plants in the landscaped area healthy. It is based upon such factors as the local
evapotranspiration rate; the size of the landscaped area, the types of plants, and efficiency of the
irrigation system as described in Section 8.88.040.B.4.
"ET adjustment factor" means a factor of 0.8, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration,
adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two (2) 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
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calculation. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of the ET Adjustment Factor is 0.625. Therefore, the ~
ET Adjustment Factor (0.8) _ (0.5/0.625).
"Evapotranspiration" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil surfaces and
transpired by plants during a specific time.
"Flow rate" means the rate at which water f{ows through pipes and vaives (gallons per minute or cubic
feet per second).
"Hydrozone" means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs that are
served by a valve or set of valves with the same schedule. A hydrozone may be irrigated or
nonirrigated. For example, a naturalized area planted with native vegetation that will not need
supplementai irrigation once established is a nonirrigated hydrozone.
"Infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of
time (inches per hour).
"Irrigation efficiency" 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 irrigation efficiency for purposes of
this Chapter is 0.625. Greater irrigation efficiency can be expected from well-designed and maintained
systems.
"Landscape irrigation audit" means a process to perform site inspections, evaluate irrigation systems,
and develop efficient irrigation schedules.
"Landscaped area" means the entire parcel less the buiiding footprint, driveways, nonirrigated portions
of parking {ots, hardscapes - such as decks and patios, and other nonporous areas. Water features
are included in the calculation of the landscaped area. Areas dedicated to edible plants, such as
orchards or vegetable gardens, are not included.
"Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supp4ies water to the emitters or sprinklers from
the valve.
"Main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to 4he valve or
outlet.
"Maximum applied water allowance" means, for design purposes, the upper limit of annual applied
water for the established landscaped area as specified in Section 8.88.040.62. It is based upon the
area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscaped area.
The estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance.
"Mulch" means any material such as leaves, bark, straw or other materials left loose and applied to
the soil surFace for the beneficial purpose of reducing evaporation.
"Operating pressure" means the pressure at which a system of sprinklers is designed to operate,
usually indicated at the base of a sprinkler.
"Overhead sprinkler irrigation systems" means those with high flow rates (pop-ups, impulse sprinklers,
rotors, etc. ). ~
"Overspray" means the water which is delivered beyond the landscaped area, wetting pavements,
walks, strucfures or other nonlandscaped areas.
"PermiY' means a building or development permit for a project which, as part of its scope, involves the
installation of new landscaping or rehabilitating an existing landscape.
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"Plant facto~" means a factor that, when multiplied liy reference evapotranspiration, estimates the
amount of water used by plants. For purposes of this Chapter, the average plant factor of low water
using plants ranges from 0 to 0.3, for average water using plants the range is 0.4 to 0.6, and for high
water using plants the range is 0.7 to 1.0.
"Rain-sensing device" means a system which automatically shuts off the irrigation system when it
rains.
"Record drawing" or "as-builts" means a set of reproducible drawings which shows significant changes
in the work made during construction and which is usually based on drawings marked up in the field
and other data furnished by the contractor.
"Recreational areas" means areas of active play or recreation such as sports fields, schoolyards,
picnic grounds or other areas with intense foot traffic.
"Recycled water," "reclaimed water" or "treated sewage effluent wate-" means treated or recycled
wastewater of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation; 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 given in inches per day, month, or year as represented in
Section 8.88.060, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large fieid of four inches (4") to
seven inches (7") 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" means any relandscaping project that requires a permit.
"Runoff° means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows
from the area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application
rate exceeds i~filtration rate) or when there is a severe slope.
"Soil moisture-sensing device" means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil.
"Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on the percentage of sand, silt and clay in the soil.
"Sprinkler head" means a device which sprays water through a nozzle.
"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.
"Turf" means a surface layer of earth containing mowed grass with its roots. 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 conservation concept statemenY' means a one-page checklist and a narrative summary of the
project as shown in Section 8.88.040.B.
8.88.040 Provisions for new or rehabilitated landscapes.
A. Landscape Documentation Package.
1. A copy of the landscape documentation package conforming to this Chapter shall be
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submitted to the City. No development or building permit shall be issued until the City reviews
and approves the landscape documentation package.
2. A copy of the approved landscape documentation package shall be provided to the property
owner or site manager along with the record drawings and any other information normally
forwarded to the property owner or site manager.
3. A copy of the water conservation concept statement and the certificate of substantial
completion shall be sent by the project manager to the City and to ~the local retail water purveyor,
the Dublin San Ramon Services District, prior to the final sign-off of the permit by the City.
4. Each landscape documentation package shall include the following elements, which are
described in Section 8.88.040.6:
a. Water conservation concept statement;
b. Calculation of the maximum applied water allowance;
c. Calculation of the estimated applied water use;
d. Calculation of the estimated total water use;
e. Landscape design plan; ,
f. Irrigation design plan;
g. Irrigation scheduies;
h. Maintenance schedule;
i. Landscape irrigation audit schedule
j. Grading design plan;
k. Soil analysis (if applicable);
I. Certificate of substantial completion (to be submitted after installation of the project.)
B. Elements of Landscape Documentation Package.
1. Water Conservation Concept Statement. Each landscape documentation package shall
include a cover sheet, referred to as the water conservation concept statement. The City will
provide a sample statement. It shall serve as a checklist to verify that the elements of the
landscape documentation package have been completed and have a narrative summary of the
project.
2. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
a. A projecYs maximum applied water allowance shall be calculated using the following
formula:
MAWA = (ETO) (0.8) (LA) (0.62), where:
MAWA = maximum applied water allowance (gallons per year)
Eto = reference evapotranspiratoin (inches per year)
0.8 = ET adjustment factor
LA = landscaped area (square feet)
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0.62 = conversion factor (to gallons per square foot)
b. Portions of landscaped areas in public and private projects such as parks, playgrounds,
sports fields, golf courses or schoolyards where turf provides a playing surface or serves
other recreational purposes are considered recreational areas and may require water in
addition to the maximum applied water allowance. A statement shall be included with the
landscape design plan, designating recreational areas to be used for such purposes and
specifying any needed amount of additional water above the maximum applied water
allowance.
3. Estimated Applied Water Use.
a. The estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water
allowance.
b. A caiculation of the estimated applied water use shall be submitted with the landscape
documentation package. It may be ca~culated by summing the amount of water
recommended in the irrigation schedule.
4. Estimated ~otal Water Use. A calculation of the estimated total water use shall be
submitted with the landscape documentation package. The estimated total water use may be
calculated by summing the amount of water recommended in the irrigation schedule or calculate
from the following formula;
The estimated total water use for the entire landscaped area equals the sum of the estimated
water use of all hydrozones in that landscaped area.
EWU (hydrozone) _ (Eto) (PF) (HA) (.62)
(IE)
EWU (hydrozone) = estimated water use
(gallons per year)
Eto = reference evapotranspiration (inches
per year)
PF = plant factor
HA = hydrozone area (square feet)
; (.62)= conversion factor
IE = irrigation efficiency
5. Landscape Design Plan. A landscape design plan meeting the following requirements shall
be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.
a. Plant Selection and Grouping.
1. Any plants may be used in the ~landscape, providing the estimated applied water
use recommended does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance and that the
plants meet the specifications set forth in Sections 8.88.040.B.2 through 5 of this
Chapter.
' 2. Th+s Chapter adopts by reference the pfants listed in Water Conserving Plants and
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Landscapes for the Bay Area, publisNed by the East Bay Municipal Utility District, and
for determining water usage, the piants listed in the WUCOLS PROJECT (Water Use
, Classification of Landscape Species) developed by the University of California
' Cooperative Extension.
3. Plants having similar water use shall be grouped together in distinct hydrozones.
4. Plants shall be selected appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic,
geologic and topographical conditions of the site. Protection and preservation of native
species and natural areas is encouraged. The planting of trees is encouraged wherever
it is consistent with the other provisions of this Chapter..
5. Fire prevention needs shall be addressed in areas that are fire-prone. Information
about fire-prone areas and appropriate iandscaping for fire safety is available from the
Alameda County Fire Authority or the California Department of Forestry.
b. Water Features. ~
1. Recirculating water shall be used for decorative water features.
2. Pool and spa covers are encouraged.
c. Landscape Design Plan Specifications. The landscape design plan shall be drawn on
project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies:
1. Designation of hydrozones;
2. Landscape materials, trees, shrubs, groundcover, turf and other vegetation.
Planting symbols shall be clearly drawn and plants labeled by botanical name, common
name, container size, spacing and quantities of each group of plants indicated;
3. Property lines and street names;
4. Streets, driveways, walkways and other paved areas;
5. Pools, ponds, water features, fences and retaining walls;
6. Existing and proposed buildings and structures including elevation view if
applicable;
7. Natural features including but not limited to rock outcropppings, existing trees,
shrubs that will remain;
8. Tree staking, plant installation, soil preparation details, and any other applicable
planting and installation details;
9. A calculation of the total landscaped area in relation to the project site and a
calculation of total turf area in relation to the landscaped area;
10. Designation of recreation areas.
6. Irrigation Design Plan. An irrigation design plan meeting the following conditions shall be
submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. -
a. Irrigation Design Criteria.
1. Runoff and Overspray. Soil types and infiltration rate shall be considered when
designing irrigation systems. All irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, low
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head drainage, overspray or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent
property, nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways or structures. Proper irrigation equipment
and schedules, including features such as repeat cycles, shall be used to closely match
application rates to infiltration rates, therefore minimizing runoff. Special attention shall
be given to avoid runoff on slopes and to avoid overspray in planting areas with a width
less than ten feet (10'), and in median strips. No overhead sprinkler irrigation systems
shall be installed in median strips less than ten feet (10') wide
2. Irrigation Efficiency. For the purpose of determining the maximum applied water
a{lowance, irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.625. lrrigation systems shall be
designed, maintained and managed to meet or exceed 0.625 efficiency.
3. Equipment.
Water Meters: Separate landscape water meters shali be installed for all projects
except for single-family homes.
Controilers: Automatic control systems shal{ be required for all irrigation systems and
must be able to accommodate all aspects of the design.
Valves: Flants which require different amounts of water shall be irrigated by separate
valves. lf one valve is used for a given area, only plants with similar water use shali be
used in that area. Anti-drain (check) valves shall be installed in strategic points to
minimize or prevent low-head drainage.
Sprinkler Heads: Heads and emitters shalf have consistent application rates within
each control valve circuit. Sprinkler heads shall be selected for proper area coverage,
application rate, operating pressure, adjustment capability and ease of maintenance.
Rain-Sensing Override Devices: Rain-sensing override devices are recommended for
all irrigation systems.
Soil Moisture-Sensing Devices: It is recommended that soil moisture-sensing device
be considered where appropriate.
b. Recycled Water.
1. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems (dual distribution systems) shall
be required to allow for the current and future use of recycled water, unless a written
exemption has been granted as described in Section 8.88.040.6.6.b.2 of this Chapter.
2. Irrigation systems shall make use of recycled water unless a written exemption has
been granted by the District, stating that recycled water meeting all health standards is
not available and will not be available in the foreseeable future for this particular site.
3. The recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in
accordance with all local and state codes.
c. Irrigation Design Plan Specifications. Irrigation systems shall be designed to be
consistent with hydrozones. The irrigation design plan shall be drawn on project base
sheets. It shall be separate from, but use the same format as, the landscape design plan.
The scale shall be the same as that used for the landscape design plan described in Section
8.88.040.B. The irrigation design shall accurately and clearly identify:
1. Location and size of separate water meters for the landscape, if applicable;
2. Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including
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automatic controllers, main and late'ral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture-sensing ~
; devices, rain switches, quick couplers and backflow prevention devices;
3. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;
4. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour) and design
operating pressure (psi) for each station;
5. Recycled water irrigation systems as specified in Section 8.88.040.6.6.b.
7. Irrigation Schedules. Irrigation schedules satisfying the following conditions shall be
submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.
a. An annual irrigation program with monthly irrigation schedules shall be required for the
plant establishment period, for the established landscape, and for any temporarily irrigated
areas.
b. The irrigation schedule shall:
1. Include run time (in minutes per cycle), suggested number of cycles per day, and
frequency of irrigation for each station; and
2. Provide the amount of applied water (in hundred cubic feet, gallons, or in whatever
billing units the District uses) recommended on a monthly and annual basis.
c. The total amount of water for the project shall include water designated in the estimated
total water use calculation plus water needed for any water features, which shall be
considered as a high water using hydrozone.
d. Recreational areas designated in the landscape design plan shall be highlighted and
the irrigation schedule shall indicate if any additional water is needed above the maximum
applied water alfowance because of high plant factors (but not due to irrigation inefficiency).
e. Whenever possible, irrigation scheduling shall incorporate the use of evapotranspiration
data such as those from the California lrrigation Management Information System (CIMIS)
weather stations to apply the appropriate levels of water for different climates.
f. Whenever possible, landscape irrigation shall be scheduled between nine p.m.(9:00
p.m.) and seven a.m. (7:00 a.m.) to avoid irrigating during times of high wind or high
temperature. ~
8. Maintenance Schedules. A regular maintenance schedule satisfying the following
conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package:
a. Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water efficiency. A regular maintenance
schedule shall include but not be limited to checking, adjusting and repairing irrigation
equipment; resetting the automatic controller; aerating and dethatching turF areas;
replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning, and weeding in all landscaped areas.
b. Whenever possible, repair of irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally
specified materials or their equivalents.
9. Landscape Irrigation Audit Schedules. A schedule of landscape irrigation audits, for all
but single-family residences, satisfying the following conditions sha{I be submitted to the City as
part of the landscape documentation package.
' a. At a minimum, audits shall be in accordance with the State of California Landscape
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Chapter 8.88 WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGiJLATIONS Page 10 of 11
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Water Management Program as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook, ~
' the entire document, which is incorporated by reference. (See Landscape Irrigation Auditor
Handbook (June 199Q) version 5.5 (formerly Master Auditor Training), or as may be
updated.}
b. The schedule shall provide for landscape irrigation audits to be conducted by State-
certified landscape irrigation auditors at least once every five (5) years and submitted to the
locaf water purveyor, the Dublin San Ramon Services District. .
10. Grading Design Plan. Grading design plans satisfying the following conditions shall be
submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.
a. A grading design plan shall be drawn on project base sheets. It shall be separate from
but use the same format as the landscape design plan.
b. The grading design plan shall indicate finished configurations and elevations of the
landscaped area, including the height of graded sVopes, drainage patterns, pad elevations
and finish grade.
11. Soils.
a. A soil analysis for projects with landscaping over twenty thousand (20,000) square feet
satisfying conditions 1, 2 and 3 shall be prepared by a licensed soils lab or analyst and shall
be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package.
1. Determination of soil texture, indicating the percentage of organic matter;
2. An approximate soil infiltration rate (either measured or derived from soil
extra/infiltration rate tables). A range of infiltration rates shall be noted where
appropriate;
3. Measure of pH, and total soluble salts.
b. For projects with landscaping under twenty thousand (20,000) square feet (un~ess a
soils analysis has been undertaken), soil shall be amended using six (6) cubic yards of
nitrified soil conditioner per one thousand (1,000) square feet incorporated into the top six
inches (6") of soil.
c. A mulch of at least three inches (3") shall be applied to all planting areas except turf.
12. Certification.
a. Upon completing the installation of the landscaping and the irrigation system, an
irrigation audit shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor prior to the final
field observation. (See Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook as referenced in Section
8.88.040.B.9).
b. A licensed landscape architect or contractor, certified irrigation designer, or other
licensed or certified professional in a related field shall conduct a final field observation and,
prior to occupancy of the building or establishment of use of property, shall provide a
certificate of substantial completion to the City. The certificate shall specifically indicate that
plants were installed as specified, that the irrigation system was installed as designed, and
that an irrigation audit has been performed, along with a list of any observed deficiencies.
c. Certification shall be accomplished by completing a certificate of substantial completion
and delivering it to the City, to the retail water supplier, and to the owner of record. The City
will provide a sample certificate form.
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Chapter 8.88 WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
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C. Public Education.
I~ ~ a
1. Publications. Information about the efficient use of landscape water is available to water
users throughout the community from the District.
2. Model Homes. At least one (1) model home that is landscaped in each project consisting of
eight (8) or more homes shall demonstrate via signs and information the principles of water-
efficient landscapes described in this Chapter.
a. Signs shall be used to identify the model as an example of a water-efficient landscape
and featuring elements such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment and others which
contribute to the overall water-efficient theme. -
b. Information shall be provided by the project developer about designing, installing, and
maintaining water-efficient landscapes.
8.88.050 Provisions for existing landscapes.
A. Water Management. All existing landscaped areas in the City that are one (1) acre or more,
including golf courses, green belts, common areas, multifamily housing, businesses, parks,
cemeteries and publicly owned landscapes shall perform a landscape irrigation audit at the property
owner's request at least every five (5) years. At a minimum, the audit shall be in accordance with the
California Landscape Water Management Program as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditor
Handbook, the entire document which is incorporated by reference. (See Landscape Irrigation Auditor
Handbook, Department of Water Resources, Water Consenration Office (June 1990) version 5.5, or .
as may be updated.) Results shall be presented to the District for review. Recognition of projects that
stay within the maximum applied water allowance is encouraged.
B. Water Waste Prevention. Water waste prevention shall fall under the authority of the District.
8.88.060 Reference evapotranspiration.
Reference evapotranspiration in inches (historical data, extrapolated from twelve (12) month normal
year Eto maps and U.C. publication 21426) is as follows:
County City Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Annual
ETo
Alameda Livermore 1.2 1.5 2.9 4.4 5.9 6.6 7.4 6.4 5.3 3.2 1.5 0.9 472
Oakland 1.5 1.5 2.8 3.9 5.1 5.3 6.0 5.5 4.8 3.1 1.4 0.9 41.8
This page of the Dublin Municipal Code is current through
' Ordinance 2-il, passed MarcN 1, 2011..
Disclaimer: The City Clerk's Office has the official version of the Dublin
Municipal Code. Users should contact the City Clerk's Office for
; ordinances passed su bsequent to the ordinance cited above.
City Website:'Ztt~:;~!'d!t'L~l.:l.~1ti['?If'.:a.t:s/
City Telephone: (925) 833-8741
Code Publishing Company
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ORDINANCE NO. -11 I p~b~~ a
v
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:
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 rehabititated 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 devefopment 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.
1
ATTACHMENT 2
B. This Chapter does not apply to: I ~~
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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 landscape irrigatior~ auditor" means a person certified to perForm iandscape
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.
"DistricY' 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
2
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s ecificall desi ned to a I small volumes of water slowl t or near the root zon f"
p y g ppy ya eo
plants.
"Ecological restoration project" rrieans a project wfiere 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 instatling 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 fior plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two 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).
3
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"Invasive plant species" means 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" 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 Inventory 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 itow, 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
minimu,m 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 no.t 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, gravef 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"):
4
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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 {andscaped 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 pfant 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 app{ication of water measured in inches per hour.
5
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"Private develo ment" means a develo er installed ro'ect in which the cumulative~
P P p 1
landscape area of the development project is evaluated to determine applicability with the
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
"Project applicant" 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
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"Special Landscape Area" (SLA) means 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" 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.
"Va{ve" means a device used to controf the ffow 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 efement 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 a{lowed.
"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 Rehabilitated Landsca es. `~~ ~a
P
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 eight (8)
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 complete Landscape Documentation Package."
8
b. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
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:
a. A hydrozone information table for the landscape project.
a
~~~
b. A water budget calculation for the landscape project. For the calculation of
the Maximum Applied Water Allowance 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.
2. 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 shall 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.
3. 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 ptanned 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
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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+ SLAJ
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
a~~~ ~
ETWU calculation Example 1: tandscape area is 50,000 square feet; plant water
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
-rianc ractor Trom vvu~v~s
ETWU = (46.2)(0.62)(24,700 +0 i
~ a~t ~
= 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 pe s Plant
Factor
PF)" Hydrozone
Area (HA)
(square 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 WUGULS
ETwr~ _ ~46.a~~o.62~~ 23,soo + 2,000~
o.~i
_ (28.64) (33,099 + 2,000)
= 1,005,235 gallons per year
Compare ETWU with MAWA. For this example:
11
~~" V ~v2
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
~ ~~ 7a
following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the LandscapE~
Documentation Package.
a. Plant Material.
1. 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 regionat 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 Iandscape 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 prohibit r
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 sha{{ 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 incfuded 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 edib{e plants.
e. Identify areas irrigated with recycled water.
f. Identify type of mulch and application depth.
g. Identify soif amendments, type, and quantity.
h. Identify type and surface area of water features.
Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious).
14
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j. 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 inc{ude, 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.).
I. 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~~ ~
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. lrrigation 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
a~~~a~
17. Check valves or anti-drain valves are required for all irrigation
systems.
18. Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, inc{uding 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 riot 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 iandscaping; 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 inck~es 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, slope, 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 hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water
use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:
i. plant factor cafculation is based on the proportions of Yhe
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
~~ ~o~'
2. The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:
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-
a. grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property line~
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 six (6) 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).
19
~i ~~
B. The project applicant shall: ~
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:
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 allowed 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 eontact. When using recycled water, the District's requirements
shall be used. ~
2. For impfementation 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.
20
4. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that
~~~-
apply:
a. irrigation interval (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 monthly basis;
e. application rate setting;
f. root depth setting;
g. plant type setting;
h. soil type;
slope factor setting;
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 alf 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.
21
~,3~~a
B. For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after January 1-,
2010, as described in Section 8.88.010:
1. The project applicant shall 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 overland 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, installafion, 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.
22
~~ ~~
~
8.88.090 Recycled Water.
A. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow fior 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. In 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 District's
Recycled Water Use Guidelines.
3. Install the on-site Recycled Water system in accordance with the District's
Specifications, Sectioh 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 District's 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 DistricYs Code and all applicable local and State laws.
D. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET
Adjustment Factor for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
8.88.100 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 low head drainage, overspray, or
other similar conclitions, 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.
23
3 ~a
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 day of , 2011.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Mayor
24
ORDINANGE N(3. -11
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CI'T'Y COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
~t,r***~,t**
DELETING DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.88 RELATING 30 WATER-EFFICIENT
LANDSCAPIC~G REGULATIONS AND ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 8.88 RELATING TO
WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
The City Council of the City of Dublin daes herebv ordain as follows_ ___
__"________ _________'"_____F"_'"__'. ______"__'_-________ ___"
' -------~------
Section 1:
Compliance with Califarnia Environmental Qualitv Act {"CEQA"}: The Citv Council
declares this Ordinance is exem~rom CEQA per CEQA Guidelines Section 15601 b~.~3~
Section 15601(b} (3) states that CEQA applies only to those Rrojects that have the potential to
cause a siqnificant effect on the environment. This ado t_..~._ion.__of this Ordinance is exemPt from
CEQA because the Ordinance does not, ln itseif. allaw the constructian of any buildinq or
structure, but it sets forth the regulations that shalE be followed if and when a buiidinq or
structure is proposed to be constructed or a site is proposed to be developed. This Ordinance
of itself, therefore, has no patentiaE for resultinq in siqnificant ph~sical change in the
environment, directly or ultimately.
Section ~ Section 8.88 of the Dublin Municipal Code is hereby deleted in its entirety.
Section 3: A new Section 8.88 is herebv added to the Dublin Municipal Gode to read as
f0110WS:
CHAPTER $.88 WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPlNG REGULATIONS
8.88.010 Applicability.
A. 7he requirements of this Chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
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.
New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in
single-family and multi-family projects with a landscape area jas 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.
5b ~ a-
, DCI0t0d: S[ate Legislature has found:¶
(1) that ~
Deleted: wa[ers of the state are of
~ limited supply and are subject to ever
' increasing demands;
Deleted: (2) that the continuation of
- Califomia's economic prosperity is
dependent on the availabiliry of adequate
supplies of water for future uses;¶
(3) that it is Ihe policy of the Sta[e to
promo[e the conserva[ioo and efficient
use of water and [o prevent the was[e of
this valuable resource;¶
(4) that landscapes are essen[ial ro the
' quality of life in Califomia by providing
areas for active and passive recreation
and as an enhancement ro~the
environmen[ by cleaning a'u and wa[er,
preventing erosion, offering fve
~ protection, and replacing ecosystems lost
to development; and¶
(5) tha[ landscape design, installation,
maintenance and management can and
should be water efficien[; and¶
(6) Ihat
Deleted: 2 ot Articte X of thc
Ca[iti~ro:a Cans~itution speci~cs!h~t tha
ri~ht io :we ~vater fs li.mik;d to tiie ~irioitrl
;:asonably reyuirt;d for tii~ be~tcYicial use
to Le servcd and [be rilel~t does tzot and
>hall not.^stend to ~+~a;re or unre:asanabl:
:F,~~f~~~ ~~<<~5~~:
~(l~ i Co!is;stent u itlt titetie: ley;slative
tindings; ii~c purpo5e of this i3u;del
+ o*dia,anc° [s to: .
~:
i
~ D212ted: ) promote the values and
benefits of landscapes while recognizing
[he need [o inves[ water and other
resources as efficiently as possible;¶
(2) establish a struchue for planning,
designing, installing, main[aining and
managing wa[er efficient landscapes in
new construc[ion and rehabilitated
projecu; ¶
(3) establish provisions for water
management practices and wa[er was[e
prevention for existing landscapes;¶
~(4) use water efficiendy without waste by
setting a Maximum Applied Water
~ Allowance as an upper limit for water use
and reduce wa[er use to the lowest
practical aniount;¶
(5) promo[e the benefits of consis[ent
_ landscape ordinances with neighboring
local and regional agencies;¶
,(6) encourage local agencies and water
, purveyors [o use economic incentives that
~~, promote [he efficien[ use of water, such
'~ as implemen[ing a tiered-rate structure;
,.~,a¶ ~
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~
development review.
Deieted: 65593, Govemment Code.
Reference: Sections 65591, 65593,
65596, Govemment Code. ¶
Deleted: public agency
Deleted: design
Deleted: design
Deleted: design
ATTACHMENT 3
~a
4. Existing landscapes limited to Sections .88.070. ____ _._-- ~~eiecea:a~3,a93.~a„aa9s.z;a~,a J
5. Cemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of
cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Sections~.88.040:E, Deleted: a92.a,492.11
8.88.050.E and .88.060; and existin _ cemeteries are limited to Section -- oeiecea: a92.~2
~ --- - -- g - - ------- -------~ ----- ------- .- -
$.88.~~0. - DelOted: Sections 493, 493.1 and 4932
This Chapter does not apply to: _ -..-- ~eieced: o~a~~a~~e
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 coilections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the pubfic.
~ .88.U20._ Definitions.
~ A. The terms used in this Ch~ apter 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 landscape irrigation audito~" means a person certified to perForm landscape
irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professiona! 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 drairlage
from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.
"City" means the Gity of Dublin.
- DCIOted: Note: Authority Cited: Section
~ 65~95, Govemmen[ Code. Reference:
Section 65596, Governmen[ Code.¶
_ ¶
§ a9i
Deleted: ordinance
Deleted: 492.9
2
"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 Dubiin 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 specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone
of plants. ~
"Ecological restoration projecY' means a project where the site is intentionally altered to
establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfal!" (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.
Typicalfy, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
"Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) means the totai water used for the landscape as
described in Section .88.040.E. --- ------ - ----- --- ---- -------- --.. - ~eietea:a9z.a
"ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means 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. 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}
~ I ~~-
"Homeowner- rovided landsca in " means an landsca in either installed b a rivate ~
P P 9 Y P 9 Y P
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__ ._.- ~eietea: o~a~a~~e.
dwelling he or she owns. This excludes speculative hbmes, which are not owner-
occupied dweiiings.
"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).
"invasive plant species" means 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" 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 Inventory and USDA
invasive and noxious weeds database.
"Irrigation audiY' 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. Irri~ation systems shall be desiqned maintained and rnanaqed to meet or exceed ._--- ~eietea: c~ea~e~
--
the averaqe irrigation efficiency~ ______ __ __ _ _ _ .- - ~eiet~a: ~a~beeXPe~~eafro,»Weu
-------~--------------------------------------" designedandmaintainedsys[ems.
"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 architecY' 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).
4
"Landscape contracto~" 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
~.88.040.D.
"Landscape projecY' means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape
area" for the purposes of this Chapter, meeting_ requirements under Section .88.010.
- --- - ------ - - - - - -°
"Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or
sprinklers from the valve. -
`- -- ---------- - -- ----- - -- ------- - - ----------- - - ---- - ------------ ----
"Locai water purveyo~" means ~he Dublin San Ramon Services District {"DSRSD'~).
"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 '
bubbiers. 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 ~.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 rec~amation 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 materia{ 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.
V( ~ ~`'
t~
Deleted: 4923.
DeletCd: ordinance
Deleted: a9o.i
Deleted: (ii)'9ocal agency" means a
~ city or county, including a charter city or
charter county, that is responsible for
adopting and implementing the
ordinance. The local agency is also
responsible for the enforcemen[ of [his
ordinance, including but not limited to,
approval of a penni[ and plan check or
design review of a project.
Deleted: any entity, includi~g a public
agency, city, county, or private water
company [hat provides retail water
service
Deleted: 492.4.
"New construction" means, for the purposes of this Ch, apter, a new, building_with ___.-- ~eietea:o~a~~a~~e
-
~andscapinq or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or_greenbelt without _.-- ~eietea:a~a~aS~aPe
----- --
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 Ch, apter, _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 Ch, apter 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.
"Private deveiopment" means a developer instalfed proiect in which the cumulative
landseape area of the development project is evaluated to determine applicability with
the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
~I ~ ~~°
Deleted: (uiQ "pennit" means an
au[horizing document issued by bcal
agencies for new consWCtioii or
rehabilitated landscapes.
DEleted: ordinance
Deleted: ordinance
"Project applicanY' means the individual or entity submitting a Landscape
Documentation Package required under Section .8,~ 8.040,_ to request a_ permit, pI811 ._..--~ Deleted:492.3
-- - -------
check, or design review from the C~ ±ty. A project_applicant may be the property_owner or _._.-- oeietea: ~o~a~age~~Y
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 wate~" 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 ,..- - oeietea: aS~eP~ese~tea~~se~t~o~
field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference a9s.~
evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the Maximum Applied Water
Al~owance 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, 811CI tFl@ _,_.--~ Deleted: a9o.t
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.
6
"Runoff° means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is ~ 7~
~
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.
"Special Landscape Area" (SLA) means 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" means a device which delivers water through a nozzle.
"Stabilizinq mufch products" means mulch material that wili knit together_.and resist
floatinq with surface runoff ar other materials such as hvdraulic mulch, jute rriesh, and
erosion controf blankets and applied to the soi! surface for the beneficial purpose of
preventinq saii 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 Redamation, ZOOO. , Deleted: Note: Authority Cited: Section
~ 65595, Govemment Code. Reference:
Sections 65592, 65596, Govertunent
8.88.030. Provisions for New Construction or Rehabilitated Landscapes.
- .------- -- ------ -- - -- ------- - ---------- -- - ----------- - ----------- --- ----
-' coae.~i
t~
- - -------------- - - ----- - ------- - ------------ - ----- -- -- ---------- - -
The Citv may designate another agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of ~
'~
§ 49z
the requirements contained in this Cha~ter. The City may collaborate_with water purveyors to __
- _ ~~ peietea: ~~>a~o~a~age~~y
define each entity's specific responsibilities relating to this Ch~ apter. ____ __ ___ ___ _ ,, ~-~ De~etea: o~a;~a~~e. ~o~a~ a~en~~e5
8.88.040 Landsca e Documentation Packa @ ` Deleted: ordinance
, Deleted: local agency
A. Compliance with Landscape Documentation Package. Prior to construction, tF1Q Clt~ ,.' , DEIetEd: the ordinance
S~'la~~: , D212tEd: , or design reviews;
~"~ ,'
~ (4) issue a pemii[ or approve
Deleted:
1. Provide the project applicant with ~ caqy of this Chapter and procedure for .~
;'
'
_
permits, plan checks,or Site Development Reviews. _
- - ----- - -- --- --- ~
,
,
;' ,~ Deieted: o~aes~gn~e~~eW fo~~ne
P~o~e~~aPP~;~a~~;a~a
2. Approve or deny Site Development Reviews, as applicable. '- , oeietea: io~~~ Wa~eTP~~~eyo~.
3. Review the Landscape Documentation Package submitted by the project ~;' oeiecea: ~b> P~~o<<o ~o~sw~t~o~,
appliCallt: : ;', ~e~eted: 5nau: ~~ ~
4. . Approve or deny the Landscape Documentation Package_ ;',~ ~~>s~bn,~~
5. rove the lan chec
~`Pp - - --- -p -------- k`. - --------- - - - - - - - --- -----
--- - ;;'
= , ; -' ;
~e~etea: co ~he toca~ a~;e~~y
6. Upon approval of the Landscape Documeniation Package, Submlt 8 COpy of ;',
;
, pe~eted: ~ooa~ a~e~~y,
the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the istrict. _____ __ ___
' ;
; .
_;~; ;
oeiecea: ~~>~e~e~~eaPeR„~~o~
ith a checklist of all documents in Landscape
7. rovide the ro
ect a licant
P 1
pp
^~
~ --;
- ,
_
_
- -
- ----- --
---
Documentation Packag~, ~ ~ ; ,
; ; ; ,
~ DelEted: or design review
- ------ -- -- --- ------------ ------------
---------" "', Deleted:thepemiit
B. U on a roval of the Landsca e Documentation Packa e b the Cit the f0 2Ct
P PP P 9 Y ~L
P
~ , ,;;
%;;~~
~
D0leted: (3)submitacopyofthe Water
_
-
-------- - -
a lieant shall:
Pp ; ; -
;
,,, .
-
E~cien[ Landscape Worksheet to Ihe
io~a~ Wa~e~ Pu~~eyo~.t~
. ,
,,
'' ;
=
9
. -- --------- - ------ - ------ - -- ------- -- ------- --------- ------- - -
1. Receive approval of the plan check ~nd record the date of ~pproval in the -
~
' ~ No~e: ^u~,o~~ty caea: se~~;on 6ss9s,
------------------------- ------------
Certificate of Completion_ , Govemmen[Code. Reference: Sec[ion
6ss96,GovemmeniCode.¶
2. Submit a copy of the approved Landscape Documentation Package along ~~
with the record drawings, and any other information to the property owner or § 492.2 Penalties.¶
(a)Alocalagencymayes[ablishand
fllS~rlef C~2Slgfle2 adm+nisterpenaVtiestotheproject
_
~ applican[ for non-compliance with the
~------------------------------------------------------------------~-------------------------------------------------------- ' ordinancetotheextentpermittedbylaw.~~
C. Elements of the Landscape Documentation Package. ~
~ Note: Authority Cited: Sec[ion 65595,
Goverimient Code. Reference: Section
1. The Landscape Documentation Package shaA include the following eight (8) 6ss96,co~e~„e„tcoae.tii
_
elements: ¶
9
4
a. Project information. ~, ~ a9z.3
Deleted: su (6)
1. Date.
2. Project applicant.
3. Project address (if avaiiable, 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, recycleda _ _____ _
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 J~ublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and
submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package."
b. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
1. Nydrozone 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.
A project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet
which contains two section~: __
- - --------------- -- ----------
a. A hydrozone information table for the_landscape project__
~~~~~
Deleted: , well) and identify the local
retail water purveyor if the applicant is
^ot served by a priva[e well
DEIB.t2d: (G) checklist of all documen[s
in Landscape Documentation Package¶
(H) project
Deleted: the water efficien[ landscape
ordinance
DEIEted: (6) grading design plan.¶
¶
Note: Authority Ci[ed: Section 65595,
Govemment Code. Reference: Section
~ 65596, Goverrunen[ Code.¶
¶
,
§ as2.a
Deleted: (see sample worksheet in
Appendix B)
Deleted: (see Appendu B, Section A)
DEI2t0d: (see Appendix B, Sec[ion B)
Deleted: values from the Reference
Evapotransp'vation Table in Appendix A.
For geographic areas not covered in
Appendix A, use data from o[her cities
located nearby in the same reference
evapohanspiration zone,
b. A water budget calculation .~or the landscape_ project. For the calculation of ~
------------ ---
the Maximum Applied Water Allowance and Estimated Total Water Use, a
project applicant shall use the ETo,~f 462 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 W UCOLS. 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 piants.
b. 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.
c. All Special Landscape Areas shall be identified and their water use
. calculated as described below.
3.
ETAF for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
The Maximum Applied Water Allowance shall be calcufated 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
Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS), other equivalent data, or soil
moisture sensor data.
MAWA calculation, Example 1: a hypothetical landscape p~oject in ublin , 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
ublin is~46_2 inche~,--------- -- - -----------------------
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 =~6_2 inches) _(0 _62)_ j(0_7 x 50,000 square feet) +(0.3 x 0)]
= 1 0,~ 2,540 gallons per_year
- ------- - - - -----
To convert from gallons per year to hundred-cubic-feet per year:
= 1 02 540i748 = 1,340 hundred-cubio-feet per year______ __
,~.~_. -
(100 cubic feet = 748 gallons)
~ ~ ~
-- DeICtEd: from [he Reference
Evapotranspiration Table in Appendix A,
DelOted: Fresno
- DEletOd: Fresno
~ Deleted: 51. t
Delet2d: as listed in the Reference
Evapotranspira[ion Table in Appendix A~
------- ------ Deleted: S~.i
- Deleted: 108,870
, - Deleted: 108,870
Deleted: asz
MAWA calculation, Example 2: In this next hypothetical example, the landscape
project in ublin, CA has the same ETo value of 46.2 inches and a total ..- ~eiecea: F~es~o
- - - ----------------- -* _ --------- ---------- -- - -~~~
landscape area of 50,000 square feet. Within the 50,000 square foot project, Deleted:5i.1
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) j(0_7_x 50,000 square_feet) +(0.3 x 2,000_ __..- ~ Deleted: S~.i
square feet)j
=,28.64 x[35,000 + 600] gallons per year ----------- ------------------ oeietea: 3~.6s
= z8.64 x 35,600 gallons per year_ .-- oeietea: s~.6a
- ----------- - ------------ - -------- -
=1 1,~J 9,584 gallons per year or 1 3„~63 hundred-cubic-feet per year ____ ._____ Deietea: ~z~,808
- - --------- -
Deleted:5os _~
10
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)I P I~ `4 + SLA I
` ~ Where:
ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use per year (gallons)
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches)
PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS .8(~ 8.02Q)
-----------------------------------------
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)
~b~ ~~-
~ DEleted: see Section 491
ETWU caiculation Example 1: landscape area is 50,000 square feet; plant water
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 __ ____..-- oeiecea: s~.~
--- ---- - - -
(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)
square feet
PF x HA ,
s uare feet
1 Hi h 0.8 7,000 5,600
2 High 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 Factor from WUCOLS
•- ----- --24,700 -
ETWU = (46.2)(0.62) + 0
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~Q02,540 gallons per year._The ETWU 96 488 gallons
per year) is less than MAWA (1 02 540 gallons_per year). In this example, the_ ~~~~, -
water budget complies with the MAWA.
ETWU calculation Examqle 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.
~e~eted: ETWU=(51.1)(0.6~
~ DEI2ted: per year
Deleted: Sl.l
Deleted: 108,870
' Deleted: t,1o2,116
Deleted: 108,870
Deleted: 5 t. ~ ,
11
Hydrozone
Plant Water
Use Type(s) Plant
Factor
(PF)' Hydrozone
Area (HA)
(square feet)
PF x HA
(square 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 from WUCOLS ~
E 23,500 ~
..------ - - --ETwv = ~a6:z~(o.bz> +z;ooo -- - ---------- - -
o.~ ~
= 28.64) (33,099 + 2,000)
= 1 O,Q 5,235 gallons per year__ _________ ___
- - ------ ----
Compare ETWU with MAWA. For this example:
MAWA = 4( 62) (0 _62) [(0.7 x 50,000) +(0.3 x 2,000)]
- _~ X_ ~35,000 + 600~- - --- ---------
~-- -
= 2$.64 x 35,600
=1 19 584 gallons per year_ __----_-_---_-__ __
~1~~a
' -- Formatted: Position: Horizontal:
Left, Relative to: Column, Vertical: In
line, Relative to: Mar9in, Horizontal:
0", Wrap Around
- Deleted: ¶
~
---- -- - - ---------- ."" Deleted:5t.1
._.- Deleted:31.68
Deleted: ~27,808
~ The ETWU (1 a5 235 gallons_per year) is less than MAWA (1 019~584 gallons __.--- ~eieted: ~u,936
per year). For this example, the water budget complies with the MAWA. ~eieced: ~z~,aos
~,~. _Soil_ Management Report. __ ___ In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant _- ~eieced: No~e: n~tno~~tyc~~ea: se~t;o~
--- --------- -------------- --------------------------------------------------------------" .6559~,Govemmen[Code.Reference:
growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her se~~;o~ 6ss96, Govemment Code. ¶
designee, as follows: ~ q
§ a9zs
1. Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations.
a. Soii sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocoi,
including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended
plants.
b. The soil analysis may include:
1. Soil text~re.
2. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture
infiltration rate table.
3. pH.
4. Total sofub{e salts.
5. Sodium.
6. Boron.
7. Percent organic matter.
8. Recommendations.
- -.-- -- ----- ETWU =(51.1)(0.62) 20'~
~
=(3t.68
---------------------- ".--- Deleted: II1.936
12
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 Cit~! as_part of the Landscape Documentation Package; .__-- oeiecea: ~o~a~ a~e~~Y
-- - - -- - - --------
or
b. If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be
submitted to the Cit~ as part of the Certificate of Completion. __ _,_.--- oeieted: ~o~a~ase~~y
c. The soi{ analysis report sha11 be made avaifable, 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_ ________ _ ____ ,_.-- ~eietea: ~o~a~age~~Y
F. Landscape Design Plan.
For the etficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefufly designed and
planned for the intended function of the project. A landscape design plan meeting
the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape
Documentation Package.
a. Plant Material.
Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the
Estimated Total Water Use in the Iandscape 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 ~nv ordinance~,_ __._
guidelines or other regulations applicable to the ~
project.
v. Selection of plants from local and regional landscape
program plant lists.
2. Each hydrozone shal~ have plant materials with similar water use,
with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as
specified in Section~.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:
-- D812ted: applicable bcal tree
Deleted: or tree shading
~ Deleted:492J(a)(2)(D) ~
13
i. Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which "I~(~ ~ 4"
takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, ~ V
terrain, latitude, and vsrying degrees of continentaf
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., buiidings,
sidewalks, power lines]; and
iii. Consider the solar orientation for piant 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,
planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit 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.
Mulch and Amendments
1. A minimum hree inch (3") layer of mulch shall be. applied_on all _.._--- oeietea: ~Wo
------- -
exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turF areas, Deleted: 2
creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications
Wfl2f@ f71U~Cfl IS~IIaCjVIS2b~e. .-- Deleted:contraindicated
--- --- - -- --- -------- -- - -------- -~
2. Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes qreater than
25°tU ~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 $.88.040.E).__ -- oeietea: a92s
14
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.
TemporariVy 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 permariently 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.
i. Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious).
j. 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:
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
,publin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and applied them for the efficient use - ~eietea: ~ne o~a~a~~e
- - - ---------- - ---- ---
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 4andscape. (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.)
Irrigation Design Plan.
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
Del2ted: Note: Authority Cited: Section
~ ~ 6559~, Govemment Code. Reference:
Section 65596, Govemment Code and
Section 1351, Civil Code.¶
11
t~
§ 492.7
15
meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape ~I ~~ ~
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 devices shal~ 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 shafl 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 op table
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 backflaw prevention
requirements.
7. Low flow and hiqh 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.
16
10. The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones ,~~ ~~
of the landsca e desi n lan. ~
P 9 P
11. The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a
minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section
~.88.040.Q regarding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. __ _.-- ~eietea: a9z.a
12. _ The project applicant~Shall inquire with the +sfrict about peak wafer ___.-- oeietea:~~~i~~5n~~niy~e~o~»me~aea
~ operating demands (on the water supply system) or water thatthe
restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation .~ oeietea: o~ io~a~ a~e~~y
SyStef71. Deleted: local water purveyor
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. S rinkler s acin shall be desi ned to achieve the hi hest OSSII~Ie ,.--' D01Eted: (O) Head ro head coverage is
' - - -~ - - --- p------g---------------g--- - ------------- -~ -- p-- -----" recommended. However~sprinkler
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.
17. Check valves or anti-drain valves are required for all irrigation
systems.
18. Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, inciuding turf, less than eight
(8} feet in width in any direction shalf 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 ,~.88.040 _G.
Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during
the irrigation audit.
20. Slopes greater than 25% shali 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.
~ Deleted: a92J (a)(t)(H).
17
b. Hydrozone. ~3 ~ ~`
~
1. Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, 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 hydrozones that mix plants of moderafe and low water
use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if:
i. plant factor calculation 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 piants shall
not be permitted.
6. On the landscape design plan and irrigation design p1an, hydrozone
areas shail 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 valveti .-- ~eietea: use~;s~a~~e~~,~„ne.~~~he
_ __ Hydrozone Infomiation Table (see
Appendix B Section A). This table can
2. The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, SIlBI{ COflt81f1: also assist with the iirigation audit and
programming the controller.
a. location and size of a~separate water meters for landscape included in
the desiqn plan;
b. location, type and size of a11 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~ 8.090;_ _ __._--- ~eietea: a9z.~a
f. the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of ublin __ __ ___-- ~eietea: a,eo~a~~a~~e
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
18
Professions Code, Section 832.27 of Title 16 of the California Code of ~~ ~~
Regulations, and Section 6721 of the food and Agricultural Code.) ~
~ Ji. Grading Des9gn Plan. For the efficient use of water, grading of_ a project site shall_ ._..-- oeieced: r,o~e: n~~,oT+~YC~~ea: se~c;o~
be desi ned to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A radin lan shall be 6~59~,GovemmentCode.Reference:
9 g 9 p Section 6i596, Govemmen[ Code.¶
submitted as part of the Landscape Documentation Package. A comprehensive grading plan ~
re ared b a civil en ineer for other Cit ermits satisfies this re uirement ~ 492 $
~ P P Y 9~ ._Y p - ----------------- - Q -------- - -- - -------- -----
Deleted: local agency
1. 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:
a. grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property 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 ofpublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 and applied them --- oeietea: ~neo~a~„a~~e
- ---------
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.
I$.$$.OrJ~ CBrtIfICat2 Of COf11pI2t1017. _.--- Deleted: Note: Authority Cited: Section
--------------------
w"-------------------------------------- --------------------~----------------------------- -------------"
. 65595, Govemmen[ Code. Re erence:
Sec[ion 6>596, Govemmen[ Code.¶
A. The Certificate of Completion,shall_ include the following ive 5) elements and shall_ be _ § a9z.v
--- -------- - -
required prior to final siqn-off of the buiidinq permit: -- oeiecea: ~see aPPe„a~ c roT a 5~„P~e
certificate)
1. Project information sheet that contains: ~ ~eietea: 5~ ~6
a. date;
b. project name;
c. project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address;
19
project address and location; and
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.
1. Infiltration beds, swales, and basins that aliow water to coifect 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.
Where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction,
these "as-built" or record drawings shall be included with the certification_
~~ ~ ~
v ~
3. Irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section ~ _ oeietea: a~z.~o~;
8.88.05Q. D).
4. Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section ~.88.050.E). ____ .._--- ~eietea: a9z.~~>;
Irrigation audit report (see Section .88.060 . ~ _ __ _ ,.._--- ~eietea:a9z.~z>;a~a
Soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape Documentation Package,
and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see
SeCtion 8.88.040.E). ,..-- ~eieted: a9zs
B.
The project applicant shall:
Submit the signed Certificate of Completion to the C~ i#X for review.
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: ------ ----- - -- - -- --- --- --
_ -- Deleted:localagency
------ - -------- - --- Deleted: local agency
Receive the signed Certificate of Completion from the project applicant.
2. Approve or deny the Certificate of Completion. If the Certificate of Completion is
I denied, the C~ shall provide information to the project applicant regarding ... -- ~eieted: ~o~a~ ~se~~Y
reapplication, Qr other_assistance. oeiecea: apPea~,
~ p.__ __Irrigation_Scheduling. _ For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be ....- ~eietea: r,o~e: nutno~c~YC~~ea: se~~~o~
develo ed, mana ed, and evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water re uired to 65595,GovemmentCode.Reference:
P g q Section 65596, Govemment Code.¶
maintain plant health. Irrigation schedules shal~ meet the following criteria: ~
I tl
g avz.io
1. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
20
Overhead irrigation wiih potabie 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 outsicie the normal watering window . is allowed for
auditing and system maintenance. If irriqated with recvcled water oqeration of the
irriqation system shall be scheduled between 9:~0 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Irriqation
with recycled water outside of the ailowable waterinq window is allowed providinq
there is qualified supervisory personnel on-site ta oversee the irriqation process
to minimize human confact. When usinq recycled water, the Dis#rict's
reauirements 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 irriqation system with a weather
station fiow 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;
the established landscape; and
c. temporarily irrigated areas.
4. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that
apply:
a. irrigation interval (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 monthly basis;
e. application rate setting;
f. root depth setting;
g. plant type setting;
h. soil type;
i. slope factor setting;
~~ ~ ~
~
21
shade factor setting; and
irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting.
~ ,€ _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
~1 ~~
~
___ - DBleted: Note: Authority Cited: Section
- 65595, Government Code. Reference:
Section 65596, Govenunent Code.¶ .
~
tl
g a~z.>>
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 a{I 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 overaVl iandscape maintenance.
8.88.060 _Irrigation_Audit, Irrigation Survey, and _Irrigation_Water Use_Analysis. __
A. All landscape irrigation audits required bv this Chapter shall be conducted by a certified
fandscape irrigation auditor.
B. For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after January 1,
2010, as described in Section .8~ 8.010_
---- -~ ---~- --------------------------------------------------
, l Deleted: 490. t
' , Deleted: local agency
, D210t0d: ) the local agency shall
;, DQIetEd: may include
~ D210t2d: local agency may designate
a~iother agency, such as a water purveyor,
ro implement some or all of the
requirements contained in diis ordinance.
Local agencies may collabora[e with
water purveyors to define each entity's
specific responsibili[ies relating to this ~
ordinance.~
~
Note: Authoriry Cited: Sec[ion 65595,
Govemment Code. Reference: Section
65596, Govenunent Code.¶
~
§ 493.1 Irrigation Audit, Irrigation
Survey, and Irrigation Water Use
Analysis.~
(a)
Deleted: , a93.1,
Deleted: January 1, 2010
Deleted: in 493.1(^)
Deleted: local agency shall
DEI2ted: that may include
1. The project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the Certificate of
,,
, ,, ;
Completion to the CitX that_ may include, but is not_limited to: inspection, system ; ;
tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or run off
that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
2Y The City ma~administer_programs that~,ncludinq, 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.
.~,_ __ This sectioRg~g8.070 shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before,~,
effective date of this Chapter and are over one acre in size.
For all landscapes ~ubiect to this section that have a separate water meter, the
- - ----- -- - --------- - --------,
Gity ma~administer programsjncluding, but not be limited to, irrigation water_use ,.-
- D812t2d: Note: Authority Cited: Sec[ion
, 65595, Govertunent Code. Refere~ce:
Sec[ion 65596, Govemment Code.
Deleted: ¶
~i
§ 492.t2
22
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 ~SUbiect to this section that do not have a_separate meter, the
- ------------------------ -- --- -----------------------
~City may administer_programsjndudin~, 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 critica! component to promote the efficient use of water in
{andscapes. The use of appropriate principles of desiqn, installation, manaqement and
maintenance that save water is encouraqed in the community. Information about the desiqn,
installation, manaqement, and maintenance of water e~cient landscapes is available from the
District.
B. Madel Fiomes. At least one model home that is landscaped in each development
consistinq of eiqht or more homes shall use siqns and written information to demonstrate the
principles of water efficient landscapes described in this Ghapter.
Sigris 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.
Information shall be provided by the project developer at the site of all such
model homes about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water
e~cient landscapes.
8.88.090 Recvcled Water.
A. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future
use of recycled wafer, 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. In accordance with these provisions,
applicants should:
1. Use recycled water in accordance with the District's Ordinance.
2. Label sites and install Recycied Water siqnaqe in accordance with the DistricYs
Recvcled Water Use Guidelines.
3. Instal! the on-site Recycled Water svstem in accordance with the District's
Specifications, Section IV.
~s~~ ~
Deleted: in493.1(a),
Deleted: local agency shall
- DEI2ted: [hat may include
D212tEd: (b) All landscape irrigation
audits shall be conducted by a certified
landscape vrigation auditor.¶
~
Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595,
Govemmen[ Code. Reference: Section
65596, Govemment Code.¶
~
9
§ 493.? Wnter •
23
4. Instali a Pressure Reductian Valve (PRV} immediafely downstream of the Recycled
Water Meter as per the District's Recvcfed Water Guicfe{ines, Section IV. The PRV
is_to protect the aqplicanYs svs#em from pressure fluctuations durinq the daiiv
operation of the District's RW system.
5. The Recycled Water System is subiect to the re~c uired on-site coveraqe test and
cross-connection tests perFormed bv 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 recycied 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 local and State laws.
D. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET
Adjustment Factor for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
8.88.100 Water Waste Prevention.
..-------------- ------------- - -------- - -- ------- - - - ------- - -------- ----~---
It shall e a violation of this Chapter for any ropert to maintain inefficient landsca e irri ation
p p Y ------- ----------- p----g- - - -
which results in runoff leaving the_target landscape due to low head drainage, overspray, or ___
-- -- -- ---
other similar conditions, and where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas,
walks, roadways, parking lots, or structures. The foregoinq shall not apply where either of the
- -
followinq 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.
8.88.110 Storm Wa#er Manaqement.
Stormwater manaqement practices to minimize runoff and increase infiiltration to recharge
qroundwater and improve water qualitv are required bv Chapter 7.74 (Stormwater
Manapement and Discharqe Control) of the Dublin Municipal Code.
..-------------------------------------'------------------------------------------------------------------------'--"_
Section 4. Severabifitv. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable and if any provisson
- - - - - - -
clause, sentence, word or part thereof is held illeqal, inva(id, unconstitutional, or inappiicable to `,
any person or circumstan~es, such iileqality, invalidity, unconstitutionalitV, or inapplicabilify
shall not affect or impair any of the remaininq provisions, clauses, sentences, sections, words
or parts thereof of the ordinance or their applicability to other qersons or circumstances.
Sectinn 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shal( take effect and be enfarced thirty (30) days
following its adoption.
~ ~ O~
~
Deleted: (a) Local agencies
Deleted: prevent water waste resulting
from
Deleted: by prohibiting
~ D212C8d: Penal[ies for violation of these
prohibitions shall be established locally.
DEI2t2d: (b) ResRic[ions regarding
overspray and runoff may be modified iE ¶
~
D21Eted: Note: Authority cited: Section
65594, Govemmen[ Code. Reference:
Section 65596, Govemmen[ Code
Deleted: § 494. Effective
Precipitation.¶
(a) A local agency may consider
Effective Precipitation (25% ofannual
precipita[ion) in tracking wa[er use and
may use the following equation to
calculate Maximum Applied Wa[er
Allowance: ¶
MAW A= (ETo - Eppt) (0.62) [(OJ x LA)
+ (03 x SLA)].¶
~
Note: Au[hority Cited:
D010Yfd: ii3595, i~uven:rn,°r:t Codc-.
Rzt;~rence: Sectior 6~59(. G~.~vemn;e~ir
Codc
24
Section 6. Posting. The City Clerk of the City of Dublin shall cause this Ordinance to be
posted in at least three f3} public places in the City of Dubfir~ in accordance with Section 36933
of fhe Government Code of the State of California.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this day of . 2011.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAI N:
Mayor
ATTEST:
Clerk
~ O"'
25
l~l ~ ~
~
_ ___ ____ ____ ___ __ ___- _ _ ___ ___ _ __ _ _ - _____
Page l: [1] Deleted ~ _ marthaa ;. --- " 2/17/2011 3:58:00 PM
) promote the values and benefits of landscapes while recognizing the need to invest
water and other resources as efficiently as possible;
(2) establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining and managing
water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects;
(3) establish provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention for
existing landscapes;
(4) use water efficiently without waste by setting a Maximum Applied Water Allowance
as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount;
(5) promote the benefits of consistent landscape ordinances with neighboring local and
regional agencies;
(6) encourage local agencies and water purveyors to use economic incentives that
promote the efficient use of water, such as implementing a tiered-rate structure; and
(7) encourage local agencies to designate the necessary authority that implements and
enforces the provisions of the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance or its local
landscape ordinance.
Note: Authority cited:
i ` crrL
/~~~~ ~ `$z ~~~F~ ~~~o~~ ~O 1a
V~~~ PLAN(dING COIVIIlI115S90R!
~~~ .~% ,
D6~TE: . - _ April 12, 2011 .
TQ: . Planning Commission
SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARING: PLPA-2011-00017-City of Dublie~ Water Efficient
- -~ - Landscap'e 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 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 water as the State's Model Ordinance.
RECOMMENDATION: °
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission: 1) Receive Staff presentation; 2) Open the
public hearing; 3) Take testimony from the public; 4) Close the public hearing and deliberate; 5)
Adopt a Resolution recommending the City Council adopt an Ordinance deleting Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a new
Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations.
~'~~~'- ~~`
- ~-= ~
Submitted By: A
Environmental Specialist
~ ~~ '
Re ~ wed By
Planning Manager
COPIES TO: Applicant
File
Page 1 of 5
G:IPA#120111PLPA-2011-00017 Water Effecient Landscape OrdinancelPCSR 4.12. 91.doc
ATTACHMENT 4
:~;s_
DESCRIPTION:
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.
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 V1/ELO 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.
AB 1881 contains several requirements to be included in the updated Model WELO, which
include:
v Minimize overspray and run-off;
e Appropriate use and grouping of plants;
• Automatic irrigation systems and schedules; .
• Soil assessment and soil management plans; ' ~
~ Include landsca,pe maintenance practices; ~
~ Encourage the capture and retention of storm water on-site;
• 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 recently adopted by the State is significantly different than our 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 new ordinance for special landscape
areas, which include recreational turf projects. (parks, golf courses, ball fields), projects
irrigated with recycled water and edible landscapes. See the discussion under Water
Budget on page 4 of the Staff Report for a complete discussion of ETAF.
• In the 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 Qrdinance. If a
local agency takes no action, the updated Model Ordinance takes effect as if it were adopted by
#he 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. : ,
The draft Water Efficient Landscape Regulations (Exhibit A of Attachment 2) would amend the
existing Dublin Zoning Ordinance by deleting Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.88 relating to
2 of 5
Water-Efficient Landscaping Regulations and adopting a new Chapter 8.88 relating to Water
Efficient Landscaping Regulations. ~ r ~ ~
~~ ~
ANALYSIS ~
The Draft Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is based on the State's Model Ordinance. Slight
modificatiQns have been made to the Modei Ordinance to make it Specific to the City of Dublin.
The~ Draft Ordinarice was prepared with input from Staff, the City Attorney and the City's
corisu.ltant landscape architect.to ensure that it is as effective as the State's Model Ordinance.
Applicability .
The following~laridscape 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 cequiring a building or landscape permit, plan~ check or site development
reviev,i. ~
2: New construction 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 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 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.
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 single-family homes within the City that
would trigger the City's WE~.O.
Water Budget
The ~ity's Ordinance; like the State's Model ~Ordinance, contains two water budgets. A water
budget identifies the allowable water use for a landscape. The Maximum Applied Water
3 of 5
Allowance and tfie Estimated Total Water Use are the two methods used to determine the water
budget. ~ ~ . . ~~~ ~
The Maximum Applied Water Allowance is the maximum amount of water that majr be used
annually to irrigate a landscape area. The allowance is based upon the area's reference
evapotranspiration (ETo), the Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF) and the size of the
larrdscape area. Evapotranspiration .(ET) is the amount of water loss by evaporation from soil ~
and by plarit transpiration during a specific period of time. ET data is used to determine the
amourit-of water to be replaced by irrigation. Special Landscape Areas, including recreation
areas, orchards and vegetable gardens~, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to
the Maximum Applied Wafer Allowance with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0.. For all other
landscapes, the ETAF is not to exceed 0.7. ETAF is used as a water conservation management
tool to~reduce the amount of water applied to a landscape area. The ETAF of 0.7 means 70% of
the water.loss through ET is replaced. Generally, 100% of ET is not required to maintain health,
appearance and reasonable growth.
The Estimated Total Water Use is used to determine the actual water budget for the landscape
are and _ is .based on the water needs of the plants actually chosen for a given landscape. The
Estimated Total Water Use may not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance.
Changes 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:
~
v 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 Landscaping Documentation Package section to be consistent with current
Dublin procedures;
• Used 46.2 as the Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) in the Maximum Applied Water
Calculations;
• Modified the Maximum Allowed Water Allowance calculations - examples that are
specific to Dublin; `
•~ Changed the mulch requirement from 2 inches to 3 inches because 3 inches is what is
recommended by the Bay Friendly Landscape Guidelines 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;
•~ 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.
A rec~-lined ~ersion of the City's Draft Ordinance is included as Attachment 3. The red-lined
version compares the Cify's WELO to the State's WELO. '
4 of 5
~~VIE~V ~Y ~4PPLOCA~LE DEPARTMEft~TS ~ AG~NCIES: ~~ ~~
The Draft Ordinance was distributed internally to the various City Departments to review,
including Parks & Community Services, Public Works, and the Fire Prevention Bureau.
Additionally, the Draft Ordin~ance vdas reviewed by MCE and the Dublin San Ramon Services
District. The changes recommended by the various depai-tments were incorporated, as
appropriate.
NOTICING REQUIRENiENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The City's Draft Ordinance 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 4). No additional changes were made to the City's Draft
Ordinance based on the comments that were received from the development community.
A Public Notice was published in the Valley Times and posted at several.locations throughout
the City and e-mailed to the development community.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
This Ordinance is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15307 of the State
California 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.
ATTACHMENTS: 1) Chapter 8.88 (Water Efficient Landscaping
Regulations) Dublin Zoning Ordinance.
2) Resolution recommending the City Council adopt an
Ordinance deleting Dublin Municipal Code. Chapter
8.88 Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations and
adopting a new Chapter 8.88 Water Efficient
Landscaping Regulations, with draft City Council
Ordinance attached as Exhibit A.
3) Red-line version of the City's Water Efficient
- Landscape Regulations.
- 4) Response to Developer Comments
5 of 5
DRAFT
DRAFT
~
APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR AN ELECTRONIC READERBOARD
FREESTANDING SIGN AT DUBLIN HYUNDAI
6015 SCARLETT COURT (APN 941-0550-032-OZ & 03)
PLPA-2011-00012
Mr. Baker stated Staff will make the modifications to the MSP/SDR Resolution approval based
on the Commission's actions and prepare a Resolution of Denial for the CUP. He also reminded
the Applicant regarding the 10 day appeal period during which he may appeal the decision to
the City Council.
8.2 PLPA-2011-00017 City of Dublin Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
Martha Aja, Environmental Specialist, presented the project as. outlined in the Staff Report.
Chair Brown asked how Dublin uses recycled water.
Ms. Aja answered that Dublin uses recycled water for landscaping wherever it is available but it
is only available in the east and it would not be required to be used unless available.
Cm. Schaub mentioned that purple pipe has been installed in some areas to the west and asked
how the pipe is being used.
Mr. Baker stated that the purple pipe has been installed in some areas with the hope of someday
having the recycled water there.
Cm. Wehrenberg asked why Fresno was selected for the test city.
Ms. Aja was unsure but thought it might be because Fresno is located in the middle of
California.
Cm. Wehrenberg asked if the City will begin to require developers of large project to use
satellite irrigation for watering instead of having normal programming.
Ms. Aja answered that the satellite irrigation system senses if its raining and the sprinklers will
not go on which is a more complex system then used in the past.
Cm. Wehrenberg asked if this will be a requirement of the Ordinance.
Ms. Aja answered yes.
Chair Brown opened the public hearing and having no one to speak closed the public hearing.
'I'lnnning Comrrrissic,n f7prif 12, 20.11
~~fl,~~~~s~~gcxng 70
ATTACHMENT 5
DRAFT DRAFT
On a motion by Cm. Wehrenberg and seconded by Cm. Bhuthimethee, on a vote of 5-0, the
Planning Commission unanimously adopted: ~~~ a
RESOLUTION NO. 11-14
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT AN ORDINANCE DELETING DUBLIN
MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.88 WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
AND ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 8.88 WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING
REGULATIONS
NEW OR UNFINISHED BUSIl~ESS - NONE
OTHER BUSINESS - N
10.1 Brief INFORM TION ONLY reports from the Planning Cominission and/ or Staff,
including Co ittee Reports and Reports by the Planning Commission related to
meetings att nded at City Expense (AB 1234).
10.2 Cm. Wehr nberg asked about construction happening on the Palo Alto Medical Group
site. Mr. aker agreed to research the question and let the Commission know.
10.3 Mr. B er stated that at the last Commission meeting the Avalon Bay Site C project,
whic was approved, has been appealed by the Carpenter's Union and will be heard at
the ay 17~ City Council meeting as well as the regularly scheduled hearing of the
• pr ject. He also let the Commission know that the Star Lanes appeal will now be heard
the City Council on May 3ra.
ADT~JURNMENT - The meeting was adjourned at 8:39:56 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Alan Brown
Chair Planning Commission
ATTEST:
Jeff Baker
Planning Manager
G:~MINUTES~2011~PLANNINGCOMMISSION~04.7211 DRAFTPCMiruites.doc
~tl'lanst€n,~ C.'omrr~i~sacrrz ;~~SriC.12, 20.PI
~~gu&tr ~~`eetirrg 71
RESOLUTION NO. 11- 14 I,~ ~~
~~J ~ ~
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT AN ORDINANCE DELETING DUBLIN
MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.88 WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING REGULATIONS
AND ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 8.88 WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING
REGULATIONS
WHEREAS, recent State legislation, Assembly Bill 1881, directed the Department of
Water Resources to update the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Local agencies
were required to either adopt the updated State Model Ordinance or adopt an Ordinance that is
at least as effective as conserving water as the updated Model Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dublin desires to amend Chapter 8.88 of the Dublin Municipal
Code relating to Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations that is consistent with the City's
Municipal Code and it also is at least as effective in conserving water as the updated Model
Ordinance; and ~
WHEREAS, the City's Ordinance promotes the values and benefits of landscapes while
simultaneously recognizing the need to use water efficiently; and
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dublin Planning Commission held a public hearing on said
application on April 12, 2011 for which proper notice of the public hearing was given at all
respects as required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hear and consider all said reports,
recommendations and testimony herein above set forth and used its independent judgment to
evaluate the project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Dub~in Planning Commission does
hereby find that the proposed Ordinance, as set forth in Exhibit A of this Resolution, is
consistent with the Dublin General Plan, and all applicable Specific Plans, and recommends that
the City Council find the same.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Dublin Planning Commission recommends that
the City Council adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 8.88 of the Dublin Municipal Code
related to Water Efficient Landscaping Regulations as set forth in Exhibit A to this Resolution.
Attachment 6
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 12th day of April 2011 by the following vote: ~~
AYES: Brown, Wehrenberg, Schaub, O'Keefe, Buthimethee
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Planning Commission Chair
ATTEST:
Planning Manager
G:~PA#~201 I~PLPA-201 1-0001 7 Water Effecient Landscape Ordinance~PC Reso 4.12.1 l.doc
2
~ll ~~
~
Comments on the City of Dublin's
Draft Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
Comment from Jeff Lawrence of Braddock & Logan:
"The only item which we woufd request that the ordinance allow the use of subsurface
irrigation for sod and plantings."
Response: The draft Ordinance does allow, without restrictions, the use of subsurface
irrigation for turf and shrub areas.
Comment from Jeff Lawrence of Braddock & Logan: ~
"Line 1.a.18 from heading G(Irrigation Plan) in the Landscape Documentation Package
(8.88.040) states "Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, including turf, less than eight feet
in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or low volume
irrigation system." Braddock & Logan proposes future Positano neighborhood parkway
strips contain lawn and low accent planting irrigated with subsurface irrigation.
Parkways and front yard landscape would be on the same irrigation system."
Response: This is allowed by the draft Ordinance provided hydrozones comply with
Section 8.88.040.G.1.b.
Comment from Jeff Lawrence of Braddock & Logan:
To fulfill the City's Maximum Applied Water Allowance requirements Braddock & Logan
proposes a design in which lawn makes up a maximum of 25% of the total front
landscape area per residence. The total landscape includes front yards as well as the
parkway strip area directly in front of each property. See attached diagram for sample
layout.
Response: There are no restrictions to the amount of turf to be used providing the
Estimated Total Water Use does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance
calculation as required by Sections 8.88.020 and 8.88.040.D. Turf is not allowed on
slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable
hardscape as required by Section 8.88.040.F.1.a.4.
Comment from Aaron Ross-Swain of Standard Pacific:
"I still make the point that recycled water systems should be exempt from this
ordinance, as the goal of using recycled water is to use as much of it as possible to
avoid having to dump it into the Bay. North Marin Water District has exempted the use
of recycled water from their ordinance. The restrictions on having to use low water use
plants should be lifted for recycled water, as the higher water use plants are more
adaptable to the high salt levels in recycled water. Lawn is the best, and most
successful, plant to use with recycled water."
Response: Recycled water is a limited resource and should be used efficiently. Areas
irrigated with recycled water qualify as Special Landscape Areas per Section 8.88.020
allowing use of full referenced evapotranspiration in the Maximum Applied Water
Allowance calculation per Section 8.88.D.3. Areas irrigated with recycled water are not
exempt from the State Model Ordinance. North Marin Water District Ordinance does not
exempt use of recycled water as referenced.
There are no plant restrictions based on water use providing the Estimated Total Water
Use does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculation as required by
Sections 8.88.020 and 8.88.040.D. There have been many studies throughout California
~ ATTACHMENT 7
~a~ ~~
~
on selection of plants for recycled water and none suggest that higher water use plants
are more adaptable. See the hyperlinks below:
State Of Callfol'nia - http://www.water.ca.qov/wateruseefficiency/docs/recyluse.pdf
University of California Davis -
http:!/slosson.ucdavis.edu/Landscape Plant Selection Guide for Recvcled Water Irriqation/
Clty Of Satlta ROSa - http://ci.santa-rosa.ca.us/doclib/Documents/ut rw PlantList.pdf
Clty Of Sa11ta Barbal'a - http://www.santabarbaraca.qov/NR/rdonlyres/F1 EDB7DC-50AA-4614-A6DC-
CC7C7ED561 CB/0/Recycledwaterplantlistandsummary.pdf
Comment from Aaron Ross-Swain of Standard Pacific: ~
"Pushing the use of subsurface drip tubing, or even surface drip, is problematic,
because of the high levels of suspended solids and high levels of salts and other
elements in recycled water, which tend to clog the systems, and require the use of
sophisticated and costly filtering systems."
Response: Filtration of low volume irrigation, covering the irrigation emission devices
with soil or mulch, and automatic flush valves limit the tendency of clogging. Filtration
and flush valves are recommended and typically used on such systems.
Comment from Aaron Ross-Swain of Standard Pacific:
"Requiring the use of 3" of mulch will cause stem and crown rot in the plants, and will kill
them. This has been observed on several installations, and some agencies have
reduced their requirement back to 2", as it has always been. Every horticultural
consultant I have talked to agrees with this. Why would the City require something that
would kill what they are requiring to be installed?"
Response: The current City Ordinance requires 3 inches of mulch in planted areas.
Bay-Friendly Landscape Guidelines recommend 3 inches of mulch. Alameda
Countywide Clean Water Program C.3 Stormwater Technical Guidance Appendix L
requires 3 inches of mulch.
The benefits of mulch includes: reduce moisture evaporation; reduce of soil erosion; can
improve soil aeration; improve soil conditions; minimize weed competition; keep soil
cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter; and reduce soil compaction caused by
precipitation. Mulch should not be allowed to come in contact with a plant's trunk and
kept away from the root crown to prevent collar rot.
Prepared by: Brian Dutchover
Dutchover & Associates
March 24, 2011