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For purposes only of this chapter, the terms used in this chapter have the meaning set forth below:
Applied Water. The portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
Automatic Irrigation Controller. A timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
Backflow Prevention Device. A safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
Certificate of Substantial Completion. The document required under Section 16.28.050C 3.
Certified Irrigation Designer. 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 or the Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program
Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor. A person certified to perform landscape irrigation 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 or the Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor program.
Check Valve or Anti-Drain Valve. A valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.
Compost. The safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials that is beneficial to plant growth.
Conversion Factor (0.62). The number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
Distribution Uniformity. The measure of the uniformity of irrigation water over a defined area.
Drip Irrigation. 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.
Established Landscape. The point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of growth.
ET Adjustment Factor or ETAF. A factor of.55 for residential areas and .45 for non-residential areas, 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. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
Evapotranspiration. The process by which a quantity of water evaporates from adjacent soil and other surfaces and is transpired by plants during a specified time.
Flow Sensor. An inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to an automatic combination flow sensor/controller may also function as a landscape water meter or submeter.
Fuel Modification Plan Guideline. Guidelines from the City of Murrieta Fire and Rescue to assist residents and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity zone.
Hardscapes. Any durable material (pervious and non-pervious).
Hydrozone. A portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and rooting depth that are served by one irrigation valve or set of valves with the same schedule. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.
Invasive Species. Non-indigenous species (e.g., plants or animals) that adversely affect the habitats they invade economically, environmentally, or ecologically and includes those species listed within the Western Riverside County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan as such plan may be amended from time to time and any invasive species identified as such by the city. Lists of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and USDA invasive and noxious weeds database.
Irrigation Audit. An in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission uniformity reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification program or other U.S Environmental Protection Agency "Watersense" labeled auditing program.
Licensed landscape architect. A person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the State of California pursuant to the California Business and Professions Code section 5615.
Landscape Area or LA. 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 nonirrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation). Landscape Area includes Special Landscape Areas as defined below.
Landscape Contractor. A person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
Local Water Purveyor. Any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water company that provides retail water service.
Low Volume Irrigation. The application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
Maximum Applied Water Allowance or MAWA. The upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area calculated using the following formula:
MAWA = (ETo)(0.62)[(ETAF x LA) + ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year) (55.0 for Murrieta)
0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons)
ET Adjustment Factor (ETAF) = .55 for residential areas and .45 for non-residential areas. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8.
LA = Landscape Area including SLA (square feet)
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
Mulch. Any material placed on the soil to conserve soil moisture, moderate soil temperature, prevent soil erosion and/or prevent weed growth, including such materials as bark, wood chips, rock, gravel, decomposed granite, or other suitable material.
Non-Residential Landscape. Landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial and public settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public assembly. It also includes portions of common areas of common interest development with designated recreational areas.
Overspray. The irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area.
Pervious. Any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil.
Plant Factor. Or "plant water use factor" is a value that, when multiplied by ETO, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter, the plant factor range for very low water use plants is 0 to 0.1, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0.1 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 used pursuant to the requirements of this chapter shall be derived from the publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" as the same may be amended from time to time. Plant factors may also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
Recreational Area. Areas, excluding private single family residential areas, designated for active play, recreation or public assembly in parks, sports fields, picnic grounds, amphitheaters or golf courses, tees, fairways, roughs, surrounds and greens.
Recycled Water. Any kind of treated, reclaimed, 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. A standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants and is 55.0 inches per year for purposes of this chapter.
Rehabilitated Landscape. Any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the applicability requirements of Section 16.28.020 and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet.
Residential Landscapes. Landscaping surrounding single or multi-family homes.
Runoff. Water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope.
Special landscape Area or SLA. An area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, recreational areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.
Synthetic Turf. An artificial product manufactured from synthetic materials that effectively simulate the appearance of natural turf, grass, sod, or lawn. The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpet as a replacement of synthetic turf or natural turf shall be prohibited.
Water Feature. A design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or 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.
WUCOLS. The Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, and the Department of Water Resources as amended from time to time.
(Ord. 539 § 5, 2018; Ord. 443 § 3, 2010; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
A. All landscape plan approvals are subject to and dependent upon the applicant complying with all applicable city ordinances, codes, regulations, and adopted policies.
B. If the water purveyor for a proposed project has adopted more restrictive water efficient landscaping requirements, all landscaping and irrigation plans submitted shall comply with the water purveyor's requirements. Said plans shall be accompanied by a written document from the water purveyor delineating the more restrictive requirements.
C. Landscape design shall facilitate the implementation of landscape maintenance practices which foster long-term water conservation and plant viability. These practices may include, but not be limited to, scheduling irrigation based on established industry standards, conducting irrigation audits and establishing a water budget to limit the amount of water applied per landscape acre.
D. Landscaping for fuel modification zones shall be subject to standards required by the city's Fire Department, and they shall include plant materials, plant spacing, and irrigation as directed by the Fire Department, in consultation with the Development Services Department, and/or Community Services Department.
E. Landscaping adjacent to the Western Riverside County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan ("MSHCP") conservation areas shall avoid invasive species as listed in the MSHCP.
F. To the extent feasible, existing mature trees that represent the existing significant landscaping elements shall be preserved as identified in Chapter 16.42 (Tree Preservation).
G. In the event covenants, conditions, and restrictions are required by the city for any permit subject to this chapter, a condition shall be incorporated into any project approval prohibiting the use of water-intensive landscaping and requiring the use of low water use landscaping pursuant to the provisions of this chapter in connection with common area/open space landscaping. Additionally, such a condition shall also require the covenants, conditions, and restrictions to incorporate provisions concerning landscape irrigation system management and maintenance. Covenants, conditions, and restrictions shall not prohibit use of low-water use plants. Covenants, conditions, and restrictions shall not prohibit the replacement of natural turf with less water-intensive plant species.
(Ord. 539 § 6, 2018; Ord. 443 § 3, 2010; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
The following required landscape and irrigation plans shall be submitted and reviewed in accordance with the applicable Development Code review procedures for the permit, map or other land use entitlement requested.
A. Landscape Concept Plan. A landscape concept plan shall be submitted as part of an application for a land use entitlement. The land use entitlement application shall not be deemed complete without a complete Landscape Concept Plan.
1. The Landscape Concept Plan shall provide a design layout that demonstrates the desired landscaping program for the project in terms of location, size/scale, function, theme, and similar attributes, as identified in the application submittal requirements.
2. The Landscape Concept Plan shall provide the review authority with a clear understanding of the landscaping program prior to the preparation of detailed construction landscape and irrigation plans.
B. Landscape Documentation Package. After discretionary land use entitlement approval and prior to the issuance of a building permit for a project, a landscape documentation package (as further described in Section 16.28.060) shall be prepared for the project and submitted for review and approval by the director.
A licensed landscape architect shall sign all documents and plans required as part of the landscape documentation package verifying compliance with this Chapter. Any plans submitted without the signature of a licensed landscape architect shall not be accepted for review. Homeowner provided landscape projects may be designed by any person authorized to design a landscape in accordance with State law.
C. Certificate of Completion and Security. Prior to the issuance of a certificate of use and occupancy or final inspection, the applicant shall:
1. Complete installation of landscaping and irrigation components.
2. Conduct and submit an irrigation audit as further described in Section 16.28.090B, which shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor prior to the final field observation. See State of California Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook.
3. Prepare and submit to the city a Certificate of Completion for review which shall be signed and certified by a either a licensed landscape architect following a field observation conducted by a landscape architect or landscape contractor, certified irrigation designer, or other licensed or certified professional who has installed the landscape project per the Landscape Documentation Packet. Such certification shall indicate:
a. All plant materials and irrigation system components have been installed in accordance with the approved final landscape and irrigation plans approved as part of the Landscape Documentation Packet;
b. The automatic irrigation controller has been set according to the irrigation schedule;
c. The irrigation system has been adjusted to maximize irrigation efficiency and eliminate overspray and runoff; and
d. That a copy of the irrigation and maintenance schedule has been given to the property owner and placed in the irrigation controller enclosure after lamination.
e. Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the Certificate of Completion.
f. Irrigation audit report (See 16.28.090(B))
g. Soil analysis report, if not submitted with the Landscape Documentation Package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations.
h. A diagram of the irrigation plan showing hydrozones shall be kept with the irrigation controller for subsequent management purposes.
4. Deliver a copy of the certification of substantial completion to the retail water supplier, and the property owner of record.
5. All landscape projects, except for developer and homeowner-installed single family residential landscaping, and other landscapes as determined by the Director, shall post performance securities to guarantee the adequate maintenance of the landscaping and irrigation system in accordance with the approved plans for a period of one (1) year from the date of occupancy subject to the following requirements:
a. The security amount and agreement shall be posted with the Planning Department.
b. The performance securities shall be released one (1) year after final clearance of the installed landscaping by the city, upon written request by the owner, if the landscaping has been adequately maintained. The Director shall determine the condition of the landscape and whether the bond will be released. A deposit to cover re-inspection of the landscape, at the current city rate shall be posted prior to re-inspection for maintenance bond release.
D. The Director shall have the right to enter upon the project site at any time before, during and after installation of the landscaping to conduct inspections for the purpose of enforcing this chapter.
(Ord. 539 § 7, 2018; Ord. 443 § 3, 2010; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
A landscape documentation package shall be prepared following approval of the land use entitlement application by the review authority and shall be comprised of the following elements, each as further described below: a Water Efficient Worksheet, a Landscape Design Plan, an Irrigation Design Plan, a Grading Design Plan, and a Soil Management Report.
A. Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet.
1. A water efficient landscape worksheet contains information on the plant factor, irrigation method, irrigation efficiency, and area associated with each hydrozone. Calculations are then made to show that the evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF) for the landscape project does not exceed a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for non- residential areas, exclusive of Special Landscape Areas. The ETAF for a landscape project is based on the plant factors and irrigation methods selected. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance is calculated based on the maximum ETAF allowed (0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for non-residential areas) and expressed as annual gallons required. The Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU) is calculated based on the plants used and irrigation method selected for the landscape design. ETWU must be below the MAWA.
2. A project's water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements:
a. The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS or from horticultural researchers with academic institutions or professional associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.1 for very low water using plants, 0.1 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 surface area of 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 new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
B. Landscape Design Plan. Projects subject to these regulations shall comply with the following plant and irrigation requirements:
1. Plant and Materials Requirements. Consistent with the landscape standards established in Section 16.28.080, plant and material selections shall comply with the following;
a. The applicant shall choose and group plant species with similar water demands to facilitate efficient irrigation. Estimated total water use in the landscape area shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance.
b. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include one or more of the following:
1) Selection of water-conserving plant, tree and natural turf species, especially local native plants;
2) Selection of plants based on local climate suitability, disease and pest resistance;
3) Protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation;
4) Selection of trees based on applicable tree ordinance or tree shading guidelines, and size at maturity as appropriate for the planting area;
5) Selection of plants from local and regional landscape program lists; and
6) Selection of plants from local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines.
c. Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use as identified in section 16.060(C)(17)(c)(4) and (5).
d. Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. Methods to achieve water efficiency shall include on or more of the following:
1) Use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System, or approved equal, which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate;
2) Recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure (i.e., buildings, sidewalks, power lines), allow for adequate soil volume for healthy root growth; and
3) Consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain.
e. High water use plants, characterized by a plant factor of 0.7 to 1.0, are prohibited in street medians.
f. Turf is not allowed on slopes greater that 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.
g. Natural turf areas shall be used in response to functional needs and in compliance with the approved project water budget.
h. Plant selection 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 sections 4291 (a) and (b). Fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches shall be avoided. Refer to the local Fuel Modification Plan guidelines.
i. Invasive species of plants shall be avoided especially near parks, buffers, greenbelts, water bodies, and open spaces because of their potential to cause harm to environmentally sensitive areas.
j. Water quality management plan best management practices that affect the landscaping shall be identified on the detailed construction landscape plans (i.e., swales, permeable paving, sub-grade tanks).
2. Water Features.
a. Decorative water features shall use recirculating water systems.
b. Where available, recycled water shall be used as the source for irrigation and decorative water features.
3. Soil Preparation.
a. Prior to planting of any materials, compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition to maximize water retention and infiltration. On engineered slopes, only amended planting holes need meet this condition.
b. Soil amendments such as compost shall be provided to improve water holding capacity of soil where soil conditions warrant. No sewage sludge shall be allowed. All fertilizers and soil amendments shall consist of organic materials.
c. Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected.
d. All exposed surfaces of non-turf areas within the developed landscape area shall be mulched with a minimum four- (4) inch layer of material except in areas with groundcover planted from flats. In this instance, the mulch depth shall be a minimum of three (3) inches of approved material. To provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife, up to 5% of the landscape area may be left without mulch. Designated insect habitat must be included in the landscape design plan as such.
e. Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes that meet current engineering standards.
f. For landscape installation, compost at a rate of a minimum of four cubic yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area shall be incorporated to a depth of six inches into the soil. Soils with a greater than 6% organic matter in the top 6 inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
g. Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer shall take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products unless the recycled post-consumer organic products are not locally available. Organic mulches are not required where prohibited by local Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines or other applicable local ordinances.
4. Minimum Design Plan Detail. The landscape design plan shall be prepared by a licensed landscape architect (homeowner provided landscaping projects may also use any other person authorized to design a landscape in accordance with State law) using water budget calculations described in Section 16.28.060A 2, and, at a minimum, shall:
a. Delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method; 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;
b. Identify recreational areas;
c. Identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants;
d. Identify areas irrigated with recycled water;
e. Identify type of mulch and application depth;
f. Identify soil amendments, type, and quantity;
g. Identify type and surface area of water features;
h. Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious);
i. Identify location 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 included, but are not limited to:
1) Grade impervious surfaces, such as driveways, during construction to drain to vegetated areas.
2) Minimize the area of impervious surfaces such as paved areas, roof and concrete driveways.
3) Incorporate pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., gravel, permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete) that minimize runoff.
4) Direct runoff from paved surfaces and roof areas into planting beds or landscaped areas to maximize site water capture and reuse.
5) Incorporate rain gardens, cisterns, and other rain harvesting or catchment systems.
6) Incorporate infiltration beds, swales, basins and drywells to capture storm water and dry weather runoff and increase percolation into the soil.
7) Consider constructed wetlands and ponds that retain water, equalize excess flow, and filter pollutants.
8) Vegetation utilized in and around detention basins in projects within Compatibility Zones B through E of French Valley Airport Influence Area (AIA) shall not include landscaping that would provide food or cover for bird species that would be incompatible with airport operations. Additionally, landscaping in projects that are located within Compatibility Zones B and C, shall provide sufficient separation between trees to avoid the creation of a continuous canopy, and landscaping in and around a detention basins shall not include vegetation that produces seeds, fruits, or berries.
j . Identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies as discussed in Section 16.060(B)(4)(i);
k. Identify any applicable graywater discharge piping, system components and areas(s) of distribution; and
l. Contain the following certification from the landscape architect: "I have complied with the criteria established in Chapter 16.28 of the Murrieta Municipal Code and applied them for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan.
C. Irrigation Design Plan. The irrigation design plan shall be prepared and signed by a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an irrigation system in accordance with state law and shall include system design and hydrozones that are consistent with planting plan requirements that outline a project's equivalent water demand and irrigation efficiency.
1 Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or exceed an average irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip system devices.
2. All irrigation systems shall be designed to prevent runoff, over-spray, low-head drainage and other similar conditions where water flows off-site on to adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walk, roadways, or structures. Irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed, and maintained to achieve as high an overall efficiency as possible. 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.
3. Landscaped areas shall be required to provide automatic irrigation controllers, utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory which automatically adjusts the frequency and/or duration of irrigation events in response to changing weather conditions for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems unless the use of the property would otherwise prohibit use of a timer. The planting areas shall be grouped in relation to moisture-control zones based on similarity of water requirements (i.e., turf separate from shrub and groundcover, full sun exposure areas separate from shade areas, top of slope separate from toe of slope). Additional water conservation technology may be required, where necessary, at the discretion of the Community Development Director, or designee.
4. Water systems for common open space areas shall use non-potable water, if approved facilities are made available by the water purveyor. Provisions for the conversion to a nonpotable water system shall be provided within the landscape plan. Water systems designed to utilize non-potable water shall be designed to meet all applicable standards of the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, the Riverside County Health Department, and the water purveyor.
5. Separate valves shall be provided for separate water use planting areas, so that plants with similar water needs are irrigated by the same irrigation valve. All installations shall rely on highly efficient state-of-the-art irrigation systems to eliminate runoff, and maximize irrigation efficiency.
6. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured. 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 the installation.
7. The capacity of the irrigation system shall not exceed:
a. The capacity required for peak water demand based on water budget calculations;
b. Meter capacity; and
c. Backflow preventer type and device capacity.
8. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer.
9. In mulched planting areas, the use of low-volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
10. Non-turf areas shall be irrigated with drip irrigation.
11. Landscape areas including turf less than ten (10) feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or other means that produces no runoff or overspray.
12. Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within twenty-four (24) inches of any nonpermeable surface, unless:
a. The landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff to the public right-ofway or storm drain system occurs; or
b. The adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping area.
c. Allowable irrigation within the setback from non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow non-spray technology.
d. The irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the Landscape Documentation Package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation design plan in Section 16.28.060(C)(2). Prevention overspray and overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
13. Overhead irrigation shall be limited to the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.
14. All irrigation systems shall be equipped with the following:
a. An automatic irrigation controller;
b. A rain sensing device to prevent irrigation during rainy weather;
c. Anti-drain valves or check valves installed at strategic points to minimize or prevent lowhead drainage;
d. A manual shut-off 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 or routine repair;
e. A pressure regulator when the static water pressure is above or below the recommended operating pressure of the irrigation system;
f. Backflow prevention devices;
g. Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are required for all non-residential landscapes and residential landscape of 5,000 sq. ft. or larger;
h. Master shut-off valves are required on all projects except landscapes that make use of technologies that allow for the individual control of sprinklers that are individually pressurized in a system equipped with low pressure shut down features; and
i. All irrigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers/International Code Council (ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard". All sprinkler heads installed in the landscape must document a distribution uniformity low quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in ASABE/ICC 802-2014.
15. Landscape water meters, defined as either a dedicated water service meter or private submeter shall be installed for all non-residential irrigated landscapes of 1,000 sq. ft. but not more than 5,000 sq.ft. and residential irrigated landscapes of 5,000 sq. ft. or greater.
16. Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an application 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.
17. Irrigation design plans shall identify and site the following:
a. Hydrozones;
b. Each hydrozone shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation;
c. A hydrozone information table shall be prepared for each 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 place on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf to facilitate the appropriate irrigation of trees. The mature size and extent of the root zone shall be considered when designing irrigation for the tree.
4) Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water use, or moderate and high water use may be allowed if the plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective plant water uses and their plant factor or if 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. Use this valve number in the hydrozone table included in the Landscape Documentation Packet. This table can also assist with the irrigation audit and programming the controller.
d. The areas irrigated by each valve;
e. Irrigation point of connection (POC) to the water system;
f. Static water pressure at POC;
g. Location and size of water meter(s), service laterals, and backflow preventers;
h. Location, size, and type of all components of the irrigation system, including automatic controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads and nozzles, pressure regulator, drip and low volume irrigation equipment;
i. Total flow rate (gallons per minute), and design operating pressure (psi) for each overhead spray and bubbler circuit, and total flow rate (gallons per hour) and design operating pressure (psi) for each drip and low volume irrigation circuit;
j. Precipitation rate (inches per hour) for each overhead spray circuit;
k. Irrigation legend with the manufacturer name, model number, and general description for all specified equipment, separate symbols for all irrigation equipment with different spray patterns, spray radius, and precipitation rate;
l. Irrigation system details for assembly and installation;
m. Recommended irrigation schedule for each month, including number of irrigation days per week, number of start times (cycles) per day, minutes of run time per cycle, and estimated amount of applied irrigation water, expressed in gallons per month and gallons per year, for the established landscape; and
n. Irrigation design plans shall contain the following statement, "I agree to comply with the criteria contained in Chapter 16.28 of the Murrieta Municipal Code and to apply them for the efficient use of water in this irrigation design plan.
18. For each valve, two (2) irrigation schedules shall be prepared, one for the initial establishment period of six (6) months and one for the established landscape, which incorporate the specific water needs of the plants and turf throughout the calendar year.
D. Grading Design Plan. The grading design plan shall be drawn on base sheets, be fully dimensioned, and include information specified below.
1. Indicate finished configurations and elevations of the landscaped area, including the height of graded slopes, drainage patterns, pad elevations, and finish grade.
2. Include rough/precise grade elevations prepared in accordance with Chapter 15.52 (Grading, Erosion and Sediment Control) of the Murrieta Municipal Code for the project by a licensed civil engineer.
E. Soil Management Report. A soil management report shall be prepared based upon soils analysis and shall include recommendations for soil preparation for the project approved plant material, in accordance with the following:
1. Soils sampling and analysis shall be conducted by a certified soils analysis laboratory and in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants.
2. The soils analysis shall include:
a. Soil texture;
b. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table;
c. pH;
d. Total soluble salts;
e. Sodium;
f. Nutrients-macro;
g. Nutrients-micro;
h. Percent organic matter; and
i. Soil preparation recommendations.
3. In projects with multiple landscape installation (i.e. production home developments) a soil sampling rate of 1 in 7 lots or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement. Large landscape project shall sample at a rate equivalent to 1 in 7 lots.
4. The soil management 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.
5. The applicant shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil management report recommendations to the local agency with certificate of substantial completion.
F. Recycled Water.
1. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water.
2. All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and State laws.
3. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET adjustment Factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0.
G. Graywater systems. Promote the efficient use of water and are encouraged to assist in on-site landscape irrigation. All graywater systems shall conform to the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances standards.
(Ord. 539 § 8, 2018; Ord. 443 §3, 2010; Ord. 293 § 1 (part), 2004; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
A. General Requirements. Landscaping shall be provided as follows:
1. Setbacks. All setback and open space areas required by this development code shall be landscaped, except where a required setback is occupied by a sidewalk or driveway, or where a required setback is screened from public view and it is determined by the director that landscaping is not necessary to fulfill the purposes of this chapter.
2. Unused Areas. All areas of a project site shall be landscaped unless it is determined by the director. The director shall determine the level or intensity of landscaping to be provided for vacant areas based on an approved phasing plan. Landscaping within vacant pad sites shall not be counted towards meeting the landscape area requirements of this section.
3. Parking Areas. Parking areas shall be landscaped in compliance with Chapter 16.34 (OffStreet Parking and Loading Standards). Parking lot landscaping, including perimeter screening, may be counted in order to meet the landscape area requirements of this section.
B. Zoning District Landscaping Requirements. Each land use shall provide and maintain landscaped areas in compliance with Table 16.28-1 for the applicable zoning district. The landscape area requirements identified in the following table (Table 16.28-1) may include setback areas and other unused areas of the site that are not intended for future use. Parking lot landscaping may be counted towards meeting the requirements of this section.
MINIMUM LANDSCAPED AREA BY ZONING DISTRICT | |
Zoning District | Minimum % of Site Area Required to be Landscaped |
Multi-Family 1, Residential (MF1) Multi-Family 2, Residential (MF2) Multi-Family 3, Residential (MF3) | Ten (10) percent |
Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Business Park (BP) | Fifteen (15) percent |
Office (O) Office Research Park (ORP) Innovation (INN) Community Commercial (CC) Regional Commercial (RC) | Twenty (20) percent |
Rural Residential (RR) Estate Residential ER-1) Estate Residential (ER-2) Estate Residential (ER-3) Single-Family 1, Residential (SR-1) Single-Family 2, Residential (SR-2) | Twenty-five (25) percent of front yard area |
General Industrial (GI) General Industrial - A (GI-A) | Five (5) percent |
C. New Single-family Residences. New single-family developments and custom homes shall provide landscaping with an automatic irrigation system for the area of the site between the street curb and the front of the structure from side property line to side property line. The landscape design should include a combination of trees, shrubs, groundcover, mulch, and hardscape, and shall emphasize water-conserving plant materials and irrigation to the greatest extent feasible.
1. Front yard landscaping shall be provided in all residential zoning districts. The minimum landscaped area should be located within the front yard setback, whenever possible, as identified in Table 3-4.
2. A minimum of one (1) street tree (24 inch-box) forty (40) feet on center (two (2) feet on private side of property) and two (2) shade trees (1 5-gallon) on the property shall be provided. Corner lots shall provide a minimum of three shade trees (15-gallon minimum).
3. Front yard landscaping shall also include a variety of drought-tolerant shrubs, ground cover, and planting at a minimum of ten (10) 5-gallon size shrubs and twelve (12) I-gallon size shrubs. The quantity of shrubs and groundcover may be adjusted due to irregular lot size (i.e. cul-de-sac lots, flag lots), subject to the director's determination.
4. For purposes of this section, landscape area shall consist of a variety of plantings and hardscape that should be selected and provided appropriately for their intended use and as an integral part of the overall project design.
5. Synthetic turf may be incorporated as an element of a landscaping plan as a substitute for natural turf and for the purposes of water conservation. The Community Development Director shall review and approval all requests to install synthetic turf subject to the following criteria:
a. Synthetic turf shall consist of lifelike individual blades of grass that emulate real grass in look and color and have a minimum pile height of one and one-half (1 1/2) inches. The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a substitute for synthetic turf or natural turf is prohibited.
b. Synthetic turf shall be permitted only in combination with other live plant materials (i.e. trees, shrubs, and groundcovers) that are designed to achieve an overall natural landscaped appearance for the property.
c. In no case shall synthetic turf be used in combination with natural turf in the same landscape areas, or in a landscaping scheme where both elements can be viewed together.
d. Property drainage shall be provided for all synthetic turf installations to prevent excess runoff or pooling of water. In some cases, a drainage plan prepared by a Registered Civil Engineer may be required.
e. Synthetic turf shall be installed in a professional manner and routinely maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn.
f. Synthetic turf shall not be included as part of the landscape area when calculating the MAWA.
` 6. Residential model home requirements. All model homes that are landscaped shall use signs and written information to demonstrate 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 featuring elements such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and others that contribute to the overall water efficient theme.
b. Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes.
D. Hardscaping.
1. Hardscaped materials may be allowed as a portion of the minimum required landscaping in Table 3-4. The requirements in Table 3-4 may be reduced by up to twenty-five (25) percent for projects of fifteen (15) acres or larger that include enhanced hardscape materials, and shall include public art, sculpture and/or water features. The hardscape shall be stone or masonry, and shall provide a distinctively different visual appearance from the normal paved and concrete surfaces of the project. The hardscape materials shall be used in areas of pedestrian circulation, seating areas, pedestrian corridors crossing driveways, at project entries and in similar locations within a project site. The use of permeable materials that provide a varied visual appearance is highly encouraged.
2. This condition shall apply to all commercial and industrial projects over fifteen (15) acres. For the purposes of this section, "public art" shall mean the creation of an original work including but not limited to earthworks, mosaics, murals and sculptures. For the purposes of this section, "water feature" shall include but is not limited to fountains or pools designed as an architectural feature.
3. The minimum standard of performance shall be that the public art and water feature components shall have a value of not less than one (1) percent of the building permit valuation. Prior to issuance of the building permit, the proposed public art and/or water feature shall be approved by the Planning Commission.
(Ord. 559-20 § 6, 2020; Ord. 539 § 9, 2018; Ord. 492 Exhibit 9, 2014; Ord. 443 § 3, 2010; Ord. 367 § 8, 2006; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
Landscape areas and materials shall be designed, installed, and maintained in compliance with the following:
A. General Design Standards. The following features shall be incorporated into the design of the proposed landscape and shown on required landscape plans:
1. Landscaping shall be planned as an integral part of the overall project design and not simply located in excess space after parking areas and structures have been planned;
2. Pedestrian access to sidewalks and structures shall be considered in the design of all landscaped areas;
3. Landscape planting shall be provided for all adjacent public rights-of-way, in compliance with Chapter 16.108 (Improvements);
4. With the exception of single-family residential units, landscape adjacent to driveways and parking areas shall be protected from vehicle damage through the provision of minimum six (6) inch high concrete curbs or other types of barriers as approved by the director;
5. Landscaped areas shall not be less than five (5) feet in width, except where determined by the director;
6. Concrete strips, a minimum of four (4) inches in width, shall be provided to separate all turf areas from other landscaped areas, except for single-family residential landscape projects;
7. Permeable surfaces shall be used wherever permissible in place of impervious paving, to encourage on-site water infiltration and support water conservation measures. Permeable surfaces shall be identified on plans; and
8. Protective tree grates shall be provided for trees planted in pedestrian areas, except for single-family residential landscape projects and as determined by the director.
B. Plant Materials. Plant materials shall be selected and installed to comply with the following requirements:
1. A mix of plant materials shall be provided in compliance with the following table (Table 3-5). Calculations documenting the required mix shall be shown on the landscape plan;
MINIMUM REQUIRED MIX OF PLANT MATERIALS | |
Plant Material | Minimum Required Percentage |
Trees | |
Twenty-four (24) inch box | 35%* |
Fifteen- (15)-gallon | 65% |
Shrubs | |
Five- (5-) gallon | |
One- (1-) gallon (herbaceous only) with city approval | |
Groundcover | |
Coverage within two (2) years | 100% |
A greater percentage of specimen trees may be utilized with a corresponding reduction in the number of fifteen- (15-) gallon trees subject to the review of the director. | |
2. Trees for shade shall be provided for buildings/structures, as well as for parking lots and open space areas. These trees can be deciduous or evergreen and are to be incorporated to provide natural cooling opportunities for the purpose of energy and water conservation;
3. Trees shall be planted in areas of public view adjacent to and along structures, at an equivalent of at least one (1) tree per thirty (30) linear feet of structure. Other areas shall provide trees at a ratio of one (1) tree for each three hundred (300) square feet of landscaped area. The clustering of trees is encouraged;
4. Mature specimen trees in thirty-six (36) inch and forty-eight (48) inch boxes shall be provided for large projects in sufficient quantity subject to the approval of the director, to provide variety and emphasis at main focal areas;
5. All trees shall be staked or guyed (on a case-by-case basis) subject to the review of the director and in compliance with city standards;
6. Trees and shrubs shall be planted so that at maturity they do not interfere with service lines and traffic safety sight areas;
7. Trees and shrubs shall be planted and maintained in a manner that protects the basic rights of adjacent property owners, particularly the right to solar access;
8. Trees planted near public sidewalks or curbs shall be of a species and installed in a manner that prevents physical damage to sidewalks, curbs, gutters and other public improvements; and
9. Groundcover shall be of live plant material. Limited quantities of gravel, colored rock, bark, and similar materials may be used in combination with a living groundcover.
(Ord. 539 § 10, 2018; Ord. 443 §3, 2010; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
A. Maintenance. Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A landscape maintenance schedule consistent with Section 16.28.060(C)(17)(m) shall be prepared and submitted with the Certificate of Completion and provided to the property owner and director. The maintenance schedule shall identify plant types (i.e., turf, shrubs, groundcover, trees, etc.), mulch and/or inorganic groundcover, and shall indicate the frequency of pruning and fertilizer applications by plant type and the replenishment of mulch.
Maintenance of approved landscaping shall consist of regular watering, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, clearing of debris and weeds, monitoring for pests and disease, the removal and timely replacement of dead plants, and the repair and timely replacement of irrigation systems and integrated architectural features.
Repair of irrigation equipment shall be done with originally specified material or their equivalent or with components with greater efficiency.
B. Irrigation Audits. New or rehabilitated landscape areas, subject to the provisions of this chapter, shall be subject to an irrigation audit. The irrigation audit shall include inspection of plant materials and irrigation systems in accordance with the State of California Landscape Water Management Program, as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditors Handbook (latest edition).
In large projects or projects with multiple landscape installation (i.e. production home developments) an auditing rate of 1 in 7 lots or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement.
Irrigation audits will be coordinated with the water purveyor and shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
(Ord. 539 § 11, 2018; Ord. 443 §3, 2010; Ord. 182 § 2 (part), 1997)
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