HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd. No. 2016-1351 Water Efficent Landscape RequirementsORDINANCE NO. 2016 -1351
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING AND RESTATING TITLE 19,
CHAPTER 19.08 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL
CODE REGARDING WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE
REQUIREMENTS
WHEREAS, Chapter 19.08 (Water Efficient Landscape Requirements) of the
Lake Elsinore Municipal Code ( "LEMC ") was most recently revised by the City Council
with its approval of Ordinance No. 1269 on December 22, 2009 in compliance with the
requirements of the Water Efficiency in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881); and
WHEREAS, on April 1, 2015 the Governor of the State of California issued
Executive Order B -29 -15 mandating water conservation efforts, including directing
California Department of Water Resources ( "DWR ") to update the State Model Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance; which was subsequently updated DWR and approved
by the California Water Commission on July 15, 2105; and
WHEREAS, the City of Lake Elsinore is required to take one of the following
actions: (1) adopt the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance ( "State Model
Ordinance "), (2) amend an existing or adopt a new local ordinance to meet the
requirements of the State Model Ordinance, (3) take no action and allow the State
Model Ordinance go into effect by default, or (4) allow the State Model Ordinance to go
into effect by default and then adopt a local ordinance at a later date; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend and restate LEMC Chapter 19.08 in order
to meet the requirements of the State Model Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on February 23, 2016, at a duly noticed public hearing, the City
Council has considered the proposed amendment of Chapter 19.08 as well as evidence
presented by the Community Development Department and other interested parties with
respect to this item.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE DOES
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council has reviewed and analyzed the proposed
amendment and restatement of LEMC Chapter 19.08 and finds and determines that the
proposed Water Efficient Landscape Requirements are "at least as effective as" the
minimum requirements included in the State's Model Ordinance.
SECTION 2. The City Council hereby finds and determines that the proposed
amendment of Chapter 19.08 of the LEMC is exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (Cal. Publ. Res. Code § §21000 et seq. "CEQA ") and the State CEQA
Guidelines (14. Cal. Code Regs § §15000 et seq.), specifically pursuant to Section
15307 (Class 7) and Section 15308 (Class 8) which exempt actions taken by regulatory
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agencies as authorized by state law or local ordinance to assure the maintenance,
restoration or enhancement of a natural resource or the protection of the environment
where the regulatory process involves procedures for protection of the environment. As
separate and independent grounds, the amendment of Chapter 19.08 is exempt from
the application of CEQA by Section 15061(b)(3) (common sense exemption) in that it
can be seen with a certainty that there is no possibility that adoption of Municipal Code
Amendment No. 2016 -02 may have a significant effect on the environment. These
findings are based on the fact that the proposed amendment is mandated by the State
of California, the revised Chapter 19.08 promotes the conservation and efficient use of a
natural resource (water) and that no new development is authorized, no increase in
density will occur, and no change in allowed uses is proposed or authorized and no
significant physical change in the environment will occur.
SECTION 3. Chapter 19.08 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code is hereby
amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:
Chapter 19.08
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
Sections:
19.08.010 Short title.
19.08.020 Purpose and intent.
19.08.030 Definitions.
19.08.040 Applicability.
19.08.050 Provisions for the review and certification of landscaping
and irrigation
19.08.060 Project information
19.08.070 Planting plan requirements
19.08.080 Irrigation design plan requirements
19.08.090 Soil management requirements
19.08.100 Grading design plan requirements
19.08.110 Certificate of completion.
19.08.120 Cemeteries, parks and schools.
19.08.010 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the "Water Efficient Landscape Requirements
Ordinance."
19.08.020 Purpose and intent.
It is the intent of the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore in adopting the
ordinance codified in this chapter to:
A. Promote the values and benefits of landscapes while recognizing the
need to invest water and other resources as efficiently as possible;
B. Establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining,
and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated
projects;
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C. Reduce water demands from landscapes without a decline in
landscape quality or quantity;
D Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design;
E. Establish provisions for water management practices and water waste
prevention that eliminate water waste from overspray and /or runoff;
F. Use water efficiently without waste by setting a Maximum Applied
Water Allowance (MAWA) as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to
the lowest practical amount;
G. Assure the attainment of water efficient landscape goals by requiring
that landscapes not exceed a maximum water demand of sixty percent (60 %) of its
reference evapotranspiration (ETO) or any lower percentage as may be required; and
H. Achieve water conservation by raising the public awareness of the need
to conserve water through education and motivation to embrace an effective water
demand management program.
19.08.030 Definitions.
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.
"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.
"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
Landscape Irrigation Designer program.
"Certified landscape irrigation auditor" means a person certified to perform
landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade
organization, or other program such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's
WaterSense irrigation auditor certification program and Irrigation Association's
Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor program.
"Check valve" or "anti -drain valve" means a valve located under a sprinkler
head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent
drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off.
"Controller" means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves
to operate an irrigation system. A "smart irrigation controller" is a weather -based
irrigation controller or a self- adjusting irrigation controller. A "weather -based
controller" is a controller that uses evapotranspiration or weather data to determine
when to irrigate. A "self- adjusting irrigation controller" is a controller that uses sensor
data (i.e., soil moisture sensor).
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"Conversion factor (0.62)" means the number that converts acre - inches per
acre per year to gallons per square foot per year.
"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 project" means a project where the site is intentionally
altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
"Effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the portion of total
precipitation which becomes available for plant growth.
"Emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly
from the system to the soil.
"Established landscape" means the point at which plants in the landscape
have developed significant root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are
established after one or two years of growth.
"Establishment period of the plants" means the first year after installing the
plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after
establishment. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of
growth.
"Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) is estimated water use based upon the
types of plant material used in your design (based upon WUCOLS classifications).
This cannot exceed the MAWA.
"ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of 0.55 for residential areas and
0.45 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. A combined plant mix
with a site -wide average of 0.43 is the basis of the plant factor portion of this
calculation. For purposes of the ETAF, the average irrigation efficiency is 0.75. The
ETAF for new and existing (non - rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall not
exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing, non - rehabilitated landscapes is 0.80.
"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.
" Hnrdscapes" 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 the 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.
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" Hydrozone" (HA) 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 Act and identified on a Regional District noxious weed control list. Lists
of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive 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 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 irrigation efficiency for purposes of this ordinance are
0.75 for overhead spray devices and 0.81 for drip systems. Greater irrigation
efficiency can be expected from well designed and maintained systems.
"Irrigation survey" means an evaluation of an irrigation system that is less
detailed than an irrigation audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited to:
inspection, system test, and written recommendations to improve performance of the
irrigation system.
"Irrigation water use analysis" means an analysis of water use data based on
meter readings and billing data.
"Landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to practice
landscape architecture pursuant to 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 includes footprints of buildings or
structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel, or stone walks,
other pervious or non - pervious hardscapes, and other non - irrigated areas designated
for non - development (e.g. open spaces and existing native vegetation).
"Landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the State of California to
construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape
systems.
"Landscape project" means the total area of landscape in a project as defined
in "landscape area" for the purposes of this chapter.
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"Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the
emitters or sprinklers from the valve.
"Local agency" means a city or county, including charter city or charter county,
that is responsible for adopting and implementing this chapter. The local agency is
also responsible for the enforcement of this ordinance, including but not limited to,
approval of a permit and plan check or design review of a project.
"Local water purveyor" means any entity, including a public agency, city,
county, or private water company that provides retail water service.
"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 or water slowly at or near the root zone of plants.
"Main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water
sources to the valve or outlet.
"Mass Grading" means the movement of earth by mechanical means to alter
the gross topographic features (elevations, slopes, existing contours) to prepare a
site for rough and /or precise grading and the construction of infrastructure, facilities
and improvements.
"Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the upper limit of annual
applied water for the established landscaped area. 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 irrigation 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.
"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 Ordinance, a new building
with a landscape 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).
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"Overspray" means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target
area.
"Permit" means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new
construction or rehabilitated landscapes.
"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" (PF) is a factor, when multiplied by
ETO, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this chapter,
the plant factor for moderate water use plants range from 0.4 to 0.6, for low water
use plants range from 0.1 to 0.3, and very low water use plants are less than 0.1.
Plant factors cited in this chapter are derived from the Department of Water
Resources 2014 publication, "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species."
"Precipitation rate" means the rate of application of water measures in inches
per hour.
"Project applicant" means the individual or entity submitting a landscape
documentation package to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the
local agency. 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.
"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 given
expressed in inches per day, month, or year, and is an estimate of the
evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven -inch tail, 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. Refer to the CIMIS Reference Evapotranspiration Zones Map,
Department of Water Resources, 1999.
"Rehabilitated landscape" means any re- landscaping project that requires a
permit, plan check, or design review.
"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.
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"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 Landscaped 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.
"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 blue grass,
Kentucky blue grass, Perennial rye grass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool -
season grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustine
grass, Zoysia grass, 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.
"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 and the Department
of Water Resources (2014 or most current WUCOLS version).
19.08.040 Applicability.
This chapter shall apply to all of the following landscape projects:
A. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agency projects
and private development projects requiring a building or landscape permit, plan
check or design review;
B. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer -
installed in single - family and multi - family projects requiring a building or landscape
permit, plan check or design review;
C. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are homeowner -
provided and /or homeowner -hired in single - family and multi - family residential
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projects when a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review is
required.
D. Rehabilitated landscapes which are homeowner - provided and /or
homeowner -hired for existing single - family residences shall be limited to compliance
with the provisions of LEMC 19.08.070, 19.08.080 and 19.08.130.
E. New and rehabilitated cemeteries, parks and schools.
F. In the event Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions are required by the
City of Lake Elsinore for any permit issued in accordance with the Lake Elsinore
Municipal Code, 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 consistent
with this chapter. This chapter shall not be construed as requiring landscaping of
common areas or open space that is intended to remain natural. Covenants,
Conditions, and Restrictions shall not prohibit use of low water use plants or the
replacement of turf with less water intensive plant species.
G. The following are exempt from the provisions of this chapter:
1. Registered local, state or federal historical sites;
2. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent
irrigation system and have an establishment period of less than three years;
3. Mined -land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent
irrigation system; and
4. Botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public.
19.08.050 Provisions for the review and certification of landscaping and
irrigation.
A. An applicant proposing any new or rehabilitated landscape subject to this
chapter shall prepare and submit an application to the Community Development
Director or designee, for review and approval, documentation including, but not
limited to the following:
1. Project information conforming to LEMC 19.08.060;
2. Planting plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.070;
3. Irrigation design plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.080;
4. Soil management plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.090; and
5. Grading design plan conforming to LEMC 19.08.100.
B. The planting plan and irrigation plan shall be reviewed to ensure that all
components of the plans adhere to the requirements of this chapter. No certificate of
occupancy or other final City approval shall be issued until the City reviews and
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approves the landscape and irrigation plans and the landscape and irrigation are
installed in accordance with the approved plans and inspected for completion and
consistency with approved plan by City staff. A copy of the approved landscape and
irrigation plans and conditions of approval shall be provided to the property owner or
site manager along with -any other information normally forwarded to the property
owner or site manager.
19.08.060 Project information.
The applicant shall complete and submit to the Community Development
Director or designee a project information sheet containing, at a minimum, the
following information:
A. The date that the project information sheet is submitted.
B. The applicant's name and the applicant's contact information.
C. The project owner and the project owner's contact information.
D. The project address including parcel and lot numbers.
E. Total landscape area (square feet).
F. Project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private).
G. Water supply (e.g., potable, well, recycled). Use of recycled water is
encouraged.
H. The water purveyor name and date that information was attained.
I. Applicant signature and date with statement "I agree to comply with the
requirements of Chapter 19.08 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code, as amended
from time to time, and to submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package."
19.08.070 Planting plan requirements.
A. The "Riverside County Guide to California Friendly Landscaping" ( "County
Landscaping Guide "), Western Municipal Water District's Water -wise 140, or any
other plant list that promotes the use of water efficient or California native plant
materials is hereby incorporated by reference to assist with developing water efficient
landscapes. Planting plans shall be, to the extent feasible, consistent with the County
Landscaping Guide or, upon adoption, the City of Lake Elsinore Landscape Design
Guidelines ( "City Landscape Guide "). Upon adoption of the City Landscape Guide,
planting plans shall be, to the extent feasible, consistent with the City Landscape
Guide.
B. Plant types shall be grouped together in regard to their water, soil, sun,
and shade requirements and in relationship to buildings. Plants with different water
needs shall be irrigated separately. Plants, or planting areas, with the following
classifications shall be grouped accordingly, consistent with the Water Use
Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS): moderate, low and very low.
Deviation from these groupings shall not be permitted.
C. Invasive species of plants, such as those indicated in the Riverside County
Guide to California Friendly Landscapes and the California Invasive Plant Council,
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shall be avoided especially near parks, buffers, greenbelts, water bodies, and open
spaces because of their potential to cause harm to environmentally sensitive areas.
D. All exposed surfaces of non -turf areas within the developed landscape
area shall be mulched with a minimum three inch (3") layer of material, except in
areas with groundcover planted from flats where mulch depth shall be one and one
half inches (1 ' /Z ").
E. Stabilizing erosion control products shall be used on slopes.
F. Turf areas:
1. Backyard turf areas shall be used in response to functional needs
and in compliance with the water budget.
2. Front yards and parkways shall consist of no turf and only have
moderate to very low trees, plants, shrubs and groundcovers.
G. Recycled water shall be used where available as the source for irrigation
and decorative water features.
H. Planting Plans shall identify and site the following:
1. New trees, existing trees (designated to be either protected or
removed), shrubs, ground covers, and turf areas within the proposed landscape area;
2. Designation of hydrozones;
3. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA):
a. MAWA means the upper limit of annual applied water for
the established landscaped area. It is based upon the area's reference
evapotranspiration (ET) - Adjustment Factor and the size of the landscape area.
b. Planting Plans for Single- family Residential, Multi- family
Residential, Commercial, Industrial and Institutional projects shall be prepared using
the following Water Budget Formulas in order to determine the maximum applied
water allowance:
MAWA (in gallons) = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA)] where:
MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons)
ETAF = ET Adjustment Factor (0.55 for residential areas and
0.45 for non - residential areas)
LA = Landscape Area (square feet).
C. Planting Plans for Single- family Residential, Multi- family
Residential, Commercial, Industrial and Institutional projects with Special Landscape
Areas shall be prepared using the following Water Budget Formulas in order to
determine the maximum applied water allowance:
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SLA)] where:
MAWA (in gallons) _ (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1 -ETAF) x
MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons)
ETAF= ET Adjustment Factor (0.55 for residential areas an 0.45
for non - residential areas) (ETAF for new and existing SLA's not to exceed 1.0)
LA = Landscape Area including SLA (square feet).
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
d. For the purposes of determining the Maximum Applied
Water Allowance (MAWA), irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.75 for overhead
sprays and 0.81 for drip. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and
managed to meet or exceed an irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead sprays and
0.81 for drip.
4. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU):
a. ETWU is estimated water use based upon the types of
plant material used in your design (based upon WUCOLS classifications).
b. For Single- family Residential, Multi- family Residential,
Commercial, Industrial and Institutional projects; ETWU for a given hydrozone is
calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) _ (ETo) (0.62) (PF / IE) (HA) where:
ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor
PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS
HA = Hydrozone Area in square feet.
IE = Irrigation efficiency (0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for
drip).
C. For Single- family Residential, Multi- family Residential,
Commercial, Industrial and Institutional projects with Special Landscape Areas;
ETWU for a given hydrozone is calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) _ (ETo) (0.62) [(PF / IE) (HA) + (1 x SLA)]
where:
ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor
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and 0.81 for drip).
PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS
HA = Hydrozone Area (square feet).
IE = Irrigation Efficiency (average of 0.75 for overhead sprays
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
d. Landscaping plans shall provide ETWU (in the same units
as the MAWA) for each valve circuit in the irrigation hydrozone. The sum of all
ETWU calculations shall not exceed the MAWA for the project.
e. The plant factor used shall be from the Water Use
Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS). The plant factor for moderate water
use plants range from 0.4 to 0.6, low water use plants range from 0.1 to 0.3, and very
low water use plants are less than 0.1.
f. All water features, such as fountains, shall be included in
the water use calculations and shall be indicated as a high water use hydrozone.
19.08.080 Irrigation design plan requirements.
A. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or
exceed an average irrigation efficiency of 0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip.
B. All irrigation systems shall be designed to prevent runoff, over - spray,
lowhead 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.
C. Landscaped areas shall be provided with a smart irrigation controller which
automatically adjusts the frequency and /or duration of irrigation events in response to
changing weather conditions. The irrigation controller shall be of a type that does not
lose programming data in the event the primary power source is interrupted. 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 (i.e., soil moisture sensors) may be
required, where necessary, at the discretion of the City.
1. 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 non - potable 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.
D. Separate valves shall be provided for separate water use planting areas, so
that plants with similar, water needs may be irrigated by the same irrigation valve. All
CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO. 2016 -1351
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installations shall rely on highly efficient state of the art irrigation systems to eliminate
runoff and maximize irrigation efficiency.
E. 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.
F. The capacity of the irrigation system shall not exceed:
1. the capacity required for peak water demand based on water
budget calculations;
2. meter capacity; or
3. backflow preventer type and device capacity.
G. Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched
precipitation rates.
H. In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to
maximize water infiltration into the root zone.
I. Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with
a precipitation rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified
if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the
submittal, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of
runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit.
J. Long- narrow, or irregularly shaped areas including turf less than ten (10)
feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or low -
volume irrigation technology.
K. 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:
1. the 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; or
3. the irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or
technology, as part of the submittal and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to the
irrigation design plan requirements. Prevention of overspray and runoff must be
confirmed during the irrigation audit.
L. Overhead irrigation shall be limited to the hours between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
M. All irrigation systems shall be equipped with the following:
1. A smart irrigation controller as noted in LEMC 19.08.080.C;
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2. A rain sensing device to prevent irrigation during rainy weather;
3. Anti -drain check valves installed at strategic points to minimize
or prevent low -head drainage;
4. 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;
5. A mainline pressure regulator when the static water pressure is
15% above or below the recommended operating pressure of the irrigation system;
6. Backflow prevention devices; and
7. Riser protection components for all risers in high traffic areas.
N. Dedicated landscape water meters shall be required for all projects with a
landscape area equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet. Single- family residences
and properties used for the commercial production of agricultural crops or livestock
are exempt from this provision.
19.08.090 Soil management plan requirements.
A. After mass grading, the project applicant or designee shall:
1. Perform a preliminary site inspection;
2. Determine the appropriate level of soil sampling and sampling
method needed to obtain representative soil sample(s);
3. Conduct a soil probe test to determine if the soil in the landscape
area has sufficient depth to support the intended plants; and
4. Obtain appropriate soil sample(s).
B. The project applicant or designee shall submit soil sample(s) to laboratory
for analysis and recommendation. The soil analysis shall include, to the extent
applicable:
rate tables;
1. Soil texture;
2. Infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration
3. pH;
4. Total soluble salts;
5. Sodium; and
6. Recommendations.
C. The project applicant or designee shall prepare documentation describing
the following:
1. Soil type;
2. Identification of limiting soil characteristics; and
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3. Identification of planned soil management actions to remediate
limiting soil characteristics
D. The project applicant or designee shall submit the soil analysis report and
documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to
the Director of Community Development or designee pursuant to the requirement of
LEMC 19.08.110.
E. Incorporate compost at a rate of at least 4 cubic yards per 1000 square feet
to a depth of 6" into landscape areas (unless otherwise directed in site agronomic
soils report)
F. In project with multiple landscape installations, (i.e. production home
developments), a soils sample rate of 1 in 7 lots, or approximately 15 %, will satisfy
the agronomic soils report requirement.
19.08.100 Grading design plan requirements.
If applicable, the landscape documentation package shall include
rough /precise grade elevation prepared for the project by a licensed civil engineer.
19.08.110 Certificate of completion.
A. Certificate of Completion Requirements. Prior to issuance of a certificate of
occupancy or final inspection for a project subject to this chapter, a Certificate of
Completion shall be submitted to the City certifying that the landscaping has been
completed in accordance with the approved planting, irrigation, plans for the project.
The Certificate of Completion shall be signed by a licensed landscape architect and
Certified Irrigation Auditor and shall include:
1. Date of the inspection; and,
2. Project information including:
a. Project name;
b Applicant's name, telephone, and mailing address;
c. Project address and location;
d. Property owner name and mailing address; and,
3. A statement that prior to backfilling, evidence that the party
responsible for irrigation installation conducted a preliminary field inspection of the
irrigation system; and,
4. A statement that the landscape has been installed in conformance
with the approved planting and irrigation plans; and,
5. An Irrigation audit report performed by a certified irrigation auditor
after project installation; and,
6. A statement that the smart irrigation controller has been set
according to the irrigation schedule; and,
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7. A statement that the irrigation system has been adjusted to maximize
irrigation efficiency and eliminate overspray and runoff; and,
8. A statement confirming that a copy of the approved landscape
documentation package, the irrigation schedule, and the maintenance schedule has
been given to the property owner and local water purveyor; and,
9. Verification that the maintenance schedule has been provided to the
Director of Community Development or designee.
B. Irrigation Audits. At a minimum, all landscape irrigation audits shall comply
with the Irrigation Association's "Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor Training
Manual" and shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. Any
Landscape Irrigation Auditor performing audits shall maintain a current certification.
C. Inspections. The Director of Community Development or designee 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.
19.08.120 Cemeteries, parks and schools.
Recognizing the special landscape management needs of new and
rehabilitated cemeteries, parks and schools;
A. New cemeteries, parks and schools shall comply with the provisions of
LEMC 19.08.050, 19.08.060, 19.08.070, 19.08.080, and 19.08.130 and use the
following for MAWA and ETWU formulas:
Planting Plans for new cemeteries, parks and school projects shall be
prepared using the following Water Budget Formulas in order to determine the
maximum applied water allowance:
MAWA (in gallons) _ (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA) + ((1 -ETAF) x SLA)] where:
MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons)
ETAF= ET Adjustment Factor (0.55 for residential areas an 0.45 for non-
residential areas) (ETAF for new and existing SLA's not to exceed 1.0)
LA = Total Landscape Area including SLA (square feet).
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
For new cemeteries, parks and school projects; ETWU for a given hydrozone
is calculated as follows:
ETWU (in gallons) _ (ETo) (0.62) [((PF / IE) (HA) + (1 x SLA)] where:
ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use
ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
J
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0.62 = Conversion Factor
PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS
HA = Hydrozone Area (square feet).
IE = Irrigation Efficiency (0.75 for overhead sprays and 0.81 for drip).
SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet)
B. Existing cemeteries shall comply with LEMC 19.08.130.
19.08.130 Water conservation requirements.
The following water conservation requirements are intended to avoid water
waste, are effective at all times, and are permanent:
A Limits on Watering Hours. Watering or irrigation of lawn, landscape or other
vegetated area with potable water is prohibited between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and
5:00 p.m. on any day, except by use of a handheld bucket or similar container, a
handheld hose equipped with a positive self - closing water shut -off nozzle or device,
or for very short periods of time for the express purpose of adjusting or repairing an
irrigation system. Overhead irrigation shall be limited to the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 6:00
a.m.
B. No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff. Watering or irrigating of any lawn,
landscape or other vegetated area in a manner that causes or allows excessive
water flow or runoff onto an adjoining sidewalk, driveway, street, alley, gutter or ditch
is prohibited.
C. No Washing Down Hard or Paved Surfaces. Washing down hard or paved
surfaces, including but not limited to sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking areas,
tennis courts, patios or alleys, is prohibited except when necessary to alleviate safety
or sanitary hazards, and then only by use of a handheld bucket or similar container, a
handheld hose equipped with a positive self - closing water shut -off device, a low
volume, high pressure cleaning machine equipped to recycle any water used, or a
low volume high pressure water broom.
D. Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks or Malfunctions. Excessive use, loss or
escape of water through breaks, leaks or other malfunctions in the water user's
plumbing or distribution system for any period of time after such escape of water
should have reasonably been discovered and corrected, and in no event more than
seven days, is prohibited.
19.08.140 Coordination with water purveyors.
The City of Lake Elsinore will coordinate with local water purveyors to identify
programs that enhance and encourage landscape water use efficiency such as:
A. Tiered water rate structure;
B. Allocation -based conservation water pricing structure;
C. A rate structure at least as effective as the above options;
D. Irrigation audits and /or irrigation surveys;
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E. Penalties for water waste.
SECTION 4. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this Ordinance to
any person or circumstance shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the
other provisions of this Ordinance and are hereby declared to be severable.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after the date of its
final passage. The City Clerk shall certify as to adoption of this Ordinance and cause
this Ordinance to be published and posted in the manner required by law.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Lake
Elsinore, California, on the 23rd day of February 2016, and ADOPTED at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, on the 8t" day of
March 2016.
rian-Tisdale
Mayor
ATTEST:
3
Susan M. Domen, MMC
City Clerk
AP ROVED AS TO FORM:
David H. Mann, Assistant City Attorney
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE )
I, Susan M. Domen, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Lake Elsinore, California, hereby
certify that Ordinance No. 2016 -1351 was introduced at the regular City Council
meeting of February 23, 2016, and adopted at the regular meeting of March 8, 2016, by
the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Member Jonson and Manos, Mayor Pro Tern Magee, and Mayor Tisdale
NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Hickman
ABSTAIN: None
Susan— M. Domen, MMC
City Clerk