draft city wide landscape design guidelines

City of Lake Elsinore

City-Wide Landscape Design Guidelines

DRAFT

February, 2010 Prepared By:

City of Lake Elsinore Community Development Department, Planning Division

130 S. Main Street Lake Elsinore, California 92530

www.lake-elsinore.org

With Assistance From:

David Evans & Associates, Inc. In Cooperation With:

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Chapter 1: Introduction I-1 Purpose Applicability Chapter 2: General Landscape Design Guidelines GLDG-3 Site Design Parking Lots Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 3: Single-Family Residential SF-10 Site Design Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 4: Multi-Family Residential MF-16 Site Design Parking Standards Chapter 5: Commercial C-19 Site Design Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 6: Industrial I-23 Site Design Parking Lots Planting Standards Chapter 7: Mixed Use MU-27 Site Design Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 8: Parks P-30 Site Design Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 9: Slopes S-34 Site Design Planting Standards

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Irrigation Standards Chapter 10: Public Area Landscape Design PAL-37 Design Guidelines Planting Standards Irrigation Standards Chapter 11: Landscape & Irrigation Plan Provisions LI - 41 Landscape Plans Irrigation Plans Calculation of Water Budget Chapter 12: Street Tree Master Plan ST- 48 General Provisions Implementation Phasing Tree Palette Selection Planting & Maintenance Responsibilities Planting and Irrigation Standards Potential Funding Mechanisms Chapter 13: Special Considerations SC-59 Corner & Curve Sight Distance Standards Use of Recycled Water for Irrigation Screening of Fire Department Connections Screening of Pad Mounted Electrical Transformers Attachments Figures

CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION Purpose:

The City of Lake Elsinore has established landscape design guidelines in order to create pleasant and attractive properties throughout the City. The City believes that proper landscape design promotes a sense of community, creates a more pleasant living and working environment and promotes water and resource conservation. The landscape guidelines compliment the City’s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and site development regulations contained in the City’s Zoning Ordinance. For the purpose of this document, the term “Landscape” or “Landscaping” primarily refers to plant material such as trees, shrubs, vines, and groundcover. The term “Landscape Design” takes into account all planting and irrigation design, and may include other materials such as, but not limited to, the following: organic and inorganic mulch (wood, gravel, decomposed granite, etc.) site furnishing, features, paving, soils, grading and drainage that have a direct affect on the functional and aesthetic design of a project. The landscape design guidelines will be utilized during the City’s design review process to accomplish the primary goals to:

Maintain the community’s quality of life for residents; Maintain property values; Attract growth in the local economy; Preserve the City’s natural beauty and visual character; and Protect and improve our environment.

The following general objectives expand on the above goals:

o Ensure the highest level of resource conservation including water conservation, ground water recharge, and green waste reduction;

o Promote water-efficient landscape design, water use management and water conservation through the use of water-efficient landscape, functional and limited use of turf grass, and aggressive use of water conserving irrigation technology and management;

o Reduce the water demands from landscapes without a decline in the plant quality or quantity;

o Retain flexibility and encourage creativity through appropriate design;

o Eliminate water waste from overspray and/or runoff. Landscape design with proper irrigation design is a critical component of any

successful development project. Landscaping should define a sense of space by making a statement, ensuring community continuity, complementing good architectural design, and creating a cohesive finished product. Landscape plans

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shall incorporate the general guidelines listed in Chapter 2 as well as the specific design guidelines relative to their respective product type listed herewith. Such plans shall also follow Chapter 11 of this document and incorporate the use of drought tolerant/water-efficient plants to reduce water demand. Landscape plans shall include plants found in the City of Lake Elsinore California Friendly Plant list (Plant List) included in this document as Attachment 1.

Applicability:

It is important to note that these design guidelines are not rigid requirements but general and illustrative in nature. They do, however, provide a design framework that the city will use to evaluate proposed developments. They may be interpreted with some flexibility in their application to specific projects. The landscape design guidelines as defined in this document will apply to all new residential, commercial, industrial, mixed-use, park developments and public right-of-way areas citywide unless otherwise specified within an approved Specific Plan or Planned Unit Development. The guidelines serve to supplement separate Municipal Code provisions pertaining to landscape improvements including, but not limited to the following:

• Chapter 5.116 Significant Palm Trees;

Chapter 5.120 Tree Preservation;

Chapter 19.08 Water Efficient Landscaping.

The guidelines are to be administered by the Community Development Department, Planning Division under the guidance of the Director of Community Development, Parks & Recreation Department and Public Works Department. Any decisions of the Director of Community Development concerning implementation of these guidelines may be appealed to the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission’s decision may be further appealed to the City Council.

CHAPTER 2 – GENERAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN GUIDELINES This chapter identifies the minimum general landscape design guidelines that are expected to be incorporated into all project types to the extent possible. Site Design:

a. Landscape design should be an integral part of the overall site design planning process.

b. Landscape design should be an integral part of the overall site grading and

drainage design process further supporting the California Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP’s)

c. Space devoted to landscaping should be thoughtfully planned from project

inception, not space left over after the building and parking have been sited.

d. Project landscape design should be designed to contribute towards achieving an overall cohesive appearance and compatibility with its surroundings.

e. Landscape and hardscape design should be compatible with and compliment

the chosen architectural style(s) of the home, tract or development.

f. A combination of trees and shrubs should be incorporated into the landscaping plans.

g. Specimen trees shall be strategically planted to assist new development in

looking “established” as quickly as possible.

h. Plant materials shall be placed to not interfere with the lighting of the premises or restrict access to emergency apparatus such as fire hydrants or fire alarm boxes. Trees or large shrubs shall not be planted under overhead lines or underground infrastructure if growth may interfere with such public utilities.

i. Vegetative ground cover that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff shall be

used. Permeable surfaces should be used wherever possible to reduce paving.

j. Trees and shrubs should be selected and planted to minimize root problems.

k. Deciduous trees, shrubs and hedges should be used to minimize solar heat

gain during the summer months and maximize it during winter.

l. To the extent possible, landscaping along street frontages should coordinate with adjacent street properties to provide a consistent visual corridor.

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m. Landscaping should be used to:

a. Define areas such as site and building entrances, key activity hubs, focal points and the street edge;

b. Provide screening for unattractive/unsightly service areas; and

c. Serve as buffers between neighboring uses.

d. Soften walls and fences.

e. Treat on-site water (drainage) prior to entering the storm drain system.

n. A variation of trees, shrubs, and groundcover should be used to landscape

developments.

o. The landscape design as viewed from the street or public right of way for all project types should contribute to the creation of a continuous and connected public realm. Front yards are part of the public realm and, though located on private property, should be designed in a manner that defines, unifies and enhances the public realm. Front yards that are configured in isolation and relate only to the needs and overall form of the buildings they are part of can only have a negative effect on the quality of the streetscape. The goal is to possess a strong public character, instead of dividing the public realm into a discontinuous, random series of private gardens. The street/public view landscape design of new buildings should be continuous and coordinated with that of existing neighboring ones.

p. Vines and potted plants should be used to provide wall, column and post

texture and color, as well as to accentuate entryways, courtyards and sidewalks.

q. Landscape is required to be in scale with adjacent buildings and be of

appropriate size at maturity to accomplish its intended goals. A balance of evergreen and deciduous trees should be used.

r. Landscape shall be incorporated around the base of buildings (except loading

or service areas) to soften the edge between the parking lot, structure(s), and street. Such landscape should be accentuated at entrances to provide a focal point.

s. Landscape shall be incorporated along drive aisles, alleys and building

corridors to soften the edges and building planes.

t. Compatible trees and shrubs shall be planted around swimming pools and other recreational facilities.

u. Berming in conjunction with landscape design should be used at the building

edge to reduce structure mass and height along facades.

v. Walkways should be provided along paths of likely travel through landscape areas to protect plant material from foot traffic.

w. Deciduous trees should be used to provide solar control during summer and

winter, provide fall color, seasonal flowers, and other desired effects.

x. Berms, boulders and rocks used for enhancement are encouraged.

y. Walls and fences should be integrated into the surrounding landscape. Appropriate scale, color materials and design are keys to the provision of privacy, preservation of views and enhancement of aesthetics.

z. Walls and fences should only be used when necessary for security and

screening purposes. Chain link fencing shall be prohibited.

aa. Garden walls and retaining walls exposed to public view should be finished with clad in brick, stone, smooth plaster or stucco and should be compatible with and complimentary to the architectural style of the onsite residences. Chain link fencing shall be prohibited.

bb. Planting shall be included as part of the design for fences and walls. It should

be used to soften and screen large masses of blank wall surface area to deter graffiti. Landscape pockets should be provided at minimum intervals of 50 feet along screen or perimeter walls.

Parking Lots:

a. Planting within parking areas should be protected from encroaching vehicles

by concrete curbing or raised planting areas.

b. Vehicular line of sight shall be maintained in all areas throughout the parking lot.

c. Canopy trees should be used in parking areas to reduce the impact of large

expanses of paving and to provide shade, as well as to reduce glare and heat build up. These trees shall have a 30-foot to 40-foot canopy potential and be sized at 24-inch box or larger at the time of installation.

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d. Trees in parking lots should be selected to provide adequate visual interest and shading when mature. Trees with messy fruit and excessive litter should be avoided.

e. Parking lot landscape should accent driveways, frame the major circulation

aisles, and highlight pedestrian pathways.

f. Where appropriate, due to a particular use or circumstance, parking lot landscape should consider security design features.

g. Parking areas shall provide interior planting islands and fingers in accordance

with Chapter 17 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code.

h. In parking areas, one 24-inch box tree shall be provided for every five parking spaces provided.

I. All parking lot street frontages should be screened by landscaping. Parking lot

landscape screening should be implemented by utilizing one or a combination of the following:

a. A 32-inch high (max) evergreen hedge.

b. A 32-inch high (max) earth berm with a slope no greater than 3.5:1 and

planted with low ground cover.

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Planting Standards: a. Synthetic turf may be considered as a substitute turf grass only in areas that

serve a functional need. For single-family residential properties, synthetic turf is allowed in side yards and rear yards only. It is not allowed in front yards. Landscape designs that include synthetic turf shall be reviewed for approval on a case-by-case basis.

b. Trees and large shrubs should be placed as follows:

o 8 ft. (min) between center of trees and edge of driveway, 10 ft. from water

meter or gas meter and sewer laterals. This may vary depending on project design and requirements with prior approval.

o 25 ft. (min) between center of trees and beginning of curb returns at

intersections.

o 25 ft. (min) between center of trees and large shrubs to utility poles and street lights.

o 10 ft. (min) between center of trees or large shrubs and fire hydrants and

fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections. This may vary depending on project design and requirements with prior approval

o A minimum of 6 ft. clearance is required between all trees and adjoining

hardscape areas, walls, or other structures, or else root-barriers shall be installed extending a minimum of 5 linear feet in both directions measured horizontally from the center of the tree trunk along such hardscape or structure.

c. All landscape areas shall be finished with no less than eight (8) inches of

amended topsoil. d. All landscape areas shall be finished with no less three (3) inches of mulch. e. Interim landscape areas at a minimum shall be covered with a hydro-seed

mix to prevent erosion and suppress dust. Automatic irrigation shall be required.

f. Re-circulating water systems shall be incorporated into the design of all water

features utilized in the landscape including, but not limited to, fountains and water falls.

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Irrigation Standards:

Irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed and maintained to achieve the highest overall efficiency possible. Efficiency is measured by the amount of water beneficially used to sustain plant life divided by the amount of water applied. Efficiency is affected by the attributes of the controller, method of irrigation, irrigation equipment, proper hydrozoning, site topography, condition and size of plants, and weather conditions. a. High efficiency irrigation methods shall be utilized using such equipment as

drip, micro-spray, and rotator-type spray nozzles. b. Rotors and spray heads shall be designed and installed with minimized

overspray onto paved surfaces, structures, and non-vegetated areas. The design shall be head to head coverage with matched precipitation nozzles and a maximum of 50% diameter overlap. Rotors and spray heads shall be zoned separately. Half rotors and full rotors shall be zoned separately unless matched precipitation nozzles are used.

c. For drip line installations, in-line pressure regulators shall be used per factory

recommendations for the specific irrigation products being used. If drip line is being installed, it must be filtered at the valve along with any other necessary equipment.

d. Irrigation systems shall be zoned according to plant water use, slope aspect,

and sun/shade microclimate. If low water use plants (that can also survive/flourish with medium water application) are used within a medium water use hydrozone, they must be counted as medium water use in the irrigation calculations.

e. Low head drainage is not permitted. Check valves are recommended. f. All irrigation plans shall be designed for recycled water in areas that are

scheduled for recycled water in the future. Coordination with water purveyor required.

g. Projects must include a “smart” irrigation controller with the following

attributes:

1. Real-time, weather based program adjustment capability.

2. On-site weather station or external ETo input.

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3. Rain sensors shall be placed within an unobstructed natural rainfall

area and located above the irrigation spray pattern.

4. Master valve or simultaneous operations (Does not apply to Single-Family Residences under 5,000 Square Feet in size).

5. Flow Sensor (Does not apply to Single-Family Residences under

5,000 Square Feet in size).

6. Multiple start times.

7. Minimum of two programs.

h. Systems shall be scheduled so that the irrigation precipitation rate does not exceed the infiltration rate of the soil.

i. A baseline irrigation schedule shall be provided on the plans for the six-month

initial plant establishment period. The contractor shall adjust the schedule to meet site specific requirements and use the baseline schedule to set the weather based controller. The schedule currently in effect shall be posted in the controller.

j. A second baseline irrigation schedule shall be provided on the plans which

incorporates the specific water needs of the plants throughout the post-establishment calendar year. The contractor shall adjust the schedule to meet the site specific requirements and use the baseline schedule to set the weather-based controller. The schedule currently in effect shall be posted in the controller.

k. The irrigation schedules shall include the recommended irrigation days per

week, number of cycles per day, minutes of run times per cycle, and estimated amount of applied irrigation water, expressed in gallons per month and gallons per year.

l. The controller shall be operational and set to real-time weather prior to the

completion of a minimum 90-day maintenance period of the installing contractor or owner

m. Pressure loss calculations for valve with worse condition shall be provided.

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CHAPTER 3. SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL

S I N G L E F A M I L Y R E S I D E N T I A L L A N D S C A P E

In addition to the minimum general design guidelines identified in Chapter 2, the following shall apply:

Site Design:

a. Residential Landscape should be used to define areas such as entrances to residences and tracts, provide a buffer to incompatible land uses, and provide screening when necessary.

b. Residential Landscape and hardscape should be compatible with and

compliment the chosen architectural style(s) of the residence(s) as well as the existing or proposed neighborhood theme.

c. A combination of trees and shrubs should be incorporated into the landscape

plans.

d. Specimen trees shall be strategically planted to assist new development in looking “established” as quickly as possible.

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e. Plant materials shall be placed to not interfere with the lighting of the premises or restrict access to emergency apparatus such as fire hydrants or fire alarm boxes. Trees or large shrubs shall not be planted under overhead lines or over underground infrastructure if growth may interfere with such public utilities.

f. Vegetative ground cover that will absorb rainwater and reduce runoff shall be

used. Permeable surfaces should be used wherever possible to reduce paving.

g. Trees and shrubs should be selected and planted to minimize root problems. h. Yard trees, deciduous trees, shrubs and hedges should all be used to

minimize solar heat gain during the summer and maximize it during winter.

i. To the extent possible, landscape design along street frontages should coordinate with adjacent street properties to provide a consistent visual corridor.

j. A minimum 5-foot wide planted parkway should be provided on arterial

corridors between the street and sidewalk. Parkways should be planted with shade trees to provide a more pleasant pedestrian environment and contribute to streetscape continuity. Parkways with trees shall be at least 8-feet wide. Turf shall not be planted within 3-feet of trunk of tree.

k. Many of the neighborhoods within Lake Elsinore are surrounded by perimeter

walls and fences. Therefore, the design of these walls and fences is crucial to the City’s image. With careful thought and creativity, walls and fences can do more than provide privacy – they can be an attractive element of the streetscape.

l. Walls and fences should be integrated into the surrounding landscape.

Appropriate scale, color, materials and design are keys to the provision of privacy, preservation of views and enhancement of aesthetics.

m. Garden walls and retaining walls exposed to public view should be made of or

clad in brick, stone, smooth plaster or stucco and should be compatible with and compliment the architectural style of the onsite residence. Chain link fencing shall be prohibited.

n. Landscaped areas outside tract perimeter walls or walls/fences of residential

lots along street frontages should be common areas maintained by a Homeowners Association or other entity approved by the City.

o. Monuments shall incorporate signature trees that compliment the community theme. A minimum 36-inch box tree or larger shall be used. Where only one signature tree is incorporated in the monument landscape plan, the tree shall be a 42-inch box size or greater.

p. Residential tracts (consisting of five or more lots) should incorporate a site

entry monument(s). Monuments shall define a sense of place, individuality and arrival. Each monument should be different from adjacent tracts and should compliment the architecture and theme of the residences within the tract.

R E S I D E N T I A L E N T R Y M O N U M E N T

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C O M M U N I T Y E N T R Y S T A T E M E N T

P E D E S T R I A N M O N U M E N T A C C E N T S

q. Monuments should include theme lighting and enhanced under story planting.

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r. A landscape maintenance bond shall be provided and approved for all

common area landscape improvements within residential tracts.

s. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigation and fertilizing of all common areas.

Planting Standards:

Front Yard Landscape Design

a. One 24-inch box street tree shall be provided at a ratio of one (1) tree per

each thirty (30) lineal feet of street frontage. Street trees may be clustered; however, the minimum ratio shall still be required. Street trees shall conform to the City’s Street Tree Master Plan (See Chapter 12) where applicable.

b. In addition to the street tree requirement above, at least one 24-inch box tree

shall be planted per front yard. Alternatively, two 15-gallon size trees can be used in place of the one 24-inch box tree where the size of the front yard areas allow for such.

c. Fifteen gallon trees shall be double staked and 24”-box trees or larger shall

meet tree-guying standards. d. A minimum shrub area shall be at least 25% of the total front yard area. Turf

must not exceed 70% of the front yard (excluding driveways) leaving at least 5% for hardscape. Synthetic turf is not permitted in front yard designs.

e. The minimum shrub specifications shall be 5 gallon size for

background/foundation and 1 gallon size for foreground. f. Each typical front yard shall have a minimum of three 15 gallon accent

shrubs, vines or espaliers in order to minimize exposed walls from the streetscape view. This is in addition to the shrubs mentioned above.

g. Shrubs are to be spaced to a maximum of 75% of their mature growth, i.e. a

4-foot diameter mature size – spaced at 3 feet o.c. h. Groundcovers: Rooted cuttings shall be planted at 8 inch o.c. minimum and

20 inch o.c. maximum (triangular spaced), depending on the variety of ground cover used.

i. Turf areas shall be used sparingly in response to functional needs and shall

be in compliance with the Water Budget Formula (See Attachment 2)

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a. Low head drainage is not permitted. Check valves are required on systems with low head drainage.

b. Residential Front Yard Typical Irrigation Plans must demonstrate that

sufficient capacity exists on the specified irrigation controller to supply adequate additional zones for future side and backyard landscape. More that one controller per residential unit shall be avoided.

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CHAPTER 4. MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL

M U L T I - F A M I L Y L A N D S C A P E

In addition to the minimum general design guidelines identified in Chapter 2, the following shall apply: Site Design: a. Landscape design should define site functions, enhance architecture, soften

the appearance of structures, buffer incompatible land uses and screen undesirable views such as loading and storage areas.

b. Undeveloped portions of phased multi-family residential projects should have

all landscape frontage improvements fully installed upon completion of the first phase of development.

c. Planting should be used to break-up uninterrupted building mass, expanses

of paved surfaces, frame views and connect development on adjacent pads.

d. Tiered planting (tree-shrub-groundcover) and decorative hardscape should be utilized to enhance the visual character of the project. All areas not covered

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by structures, with the exception of service yards, walkways, driveways, and parking spaces, should be landscaped.

e. Landscape shall be incorporated along drive aisles, alleys and building

corridors to soften the edges and building planes.

f. All multi-family residential projects shall include a hardscape element(s) which creates a focus for the development and creates an attractive, usable, people friendly, common open space. Appropriate hardscape elements include plaza areas, arbor or patio facilities, courtyards, atriums and outdoor gathering and eating areas. Interesting design features should be incorporated which draw people of all ages together.

g. Hardscape elements should be used in coordination with landscape to accent

site architecture and provide a connection between access ways and individual buildings onsite.

h. Common area furnishings and receptacles should relate to onsite building

architecture or the theme of the multi-family development.

i. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigation and fertilizing of all common areas.

j. A landscape maintenance bond shall be submitted and approved for all

common area landscape improvements.

M U L T I - F A M I L Y C O U R T Y A R D L A N D S C A P E

Planting Standards: Trees a. For every 750 square feet of required landscape area, at least one (1) tree

and ten (10) shrubs shall be provided. b. Twenty-four (24) inch box minimum size trees shall be provided on the site. c. Thirty-six (36) inch box accent trees (Single or Multi-trunk) or 15-foot (brown

trunk) palms should be provided at all site street corners, main vehicular entrances, and other public spaces such as leasing offices and recreational facilities

d. The use of any palms on-site shall be no less than 12-feet Brown Trunk

Height (BTH). e. All 24”-box trees or larger shall meet tree guying standards. Shrubs f. All shrubs specified to be planted in the back or mid-ground of a planter shall

be a minimum 5-gallon container size. Sub-shrubs (maximum 18” diameter) shall be specified as fore-ground planting and must be a minimum of 1 gallon container size. All shrubs shall be mass planted and shall fill a planter when mature.

g. Turf areas shall be used sparingly in response to functional needs and shall

be in compliance with the Water Budget Formula (See Attachment 2)

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CHAPTER 5. COMMERCIAL

C O M M E R C I A L H A R D S C A P E / L A N D S C A P E

In addition to the minimum general design guidelines identified in Chapter 2, the following shall apply: Site Design: a. Landscape should define site functions, enhance architecture, soften the

appearance of structures, buffer incompatible land uses and screen undesirable views such as loading and storage areas.

b. Undeveloped portions of phased commercial projects should have all

landscape frontage improvements fully installed upon completion of the first phase of development.

c. Landscape should be used to break-up uninterrupted building mass,

expanses of paved surfaces, frame views and connect development on adjacent pads.

d. Tiered planting (tree-shrub-groundcover) and decorative hardscape should be

utilized to enhance the visual character of the commercial project. All areas

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not covered by structures, with the exception of service yards, walkways, driveways, and parking spaces, should be landscaped.

e. No landscape area shall have a dimension of less than four (4) feet clear in

width except for vine pockets.

f. Special landscape treatments, such as intensifying the density and size of trees, accent trees, decorative structures, water features, accent lighting and special paving, should be provided at all primary commercial project entries, major street intersections and main building entrances and should highlight key features such as entry monument signs and other hardscape features.

g. Commercial developments larger than three (3) acres in size shall include a

hardscape element(s) which creates a focus for the development and creates an attractive, usable, people friendly, public open space. Appropriate hardscape elements include plaza areas, arbor or patio facilities, courtyards, atriums and outdoor gathering and eating areas. Interesting design features should be incorporated which draw people of all ages together such as novelty fountains, public art or historical references.

h. Hardscape elements should be used in coordination with planting to accent

site architecture and provide a connection between access ways and individual developments.

i. Public furnishings and recep - 12 -tacles should relate to onsite building

architecture or the theme of the commercial development.

M U L T I - L E V E L H A R D S C A P E / L A N D S C A P E

j. Walkways should be provided along paths of likely travel through landscape areas to protect planting from foot traffic.

k. Berms, boulders and rocks used for enhancement are encouraged.

l. Flowering trees and shrubs should be used to provide color and accent

entrances. Avoid using near ADA path of travel.

m. Walls and fences should only be used when necessary for security and screening purposes.

n. Murals, trellises, vines, and/or espaliers should be placed on large expanses

of walls at the rear or sides of buildings to break up the building mass and to create visual interest.

o. Berms, plantings and walls shall be used to screen trash enclosures, service

areas, storage areas and ground mounted utilities or mechanical equipment.

p. The use of vines and climbing plants on trellises and perimeter walls are encouraged.

q. The use of potted plants and hanging flower baskets are encouraged, but

should not impede pedestrian traffic. r. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide

landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigating and fertilizing of all onsite planting.

s. Undeveloped portions of phased commercial projects should have all

landscape frontage improvements fully installed upon completion of the first phase of development.

t. A landscape maintenance bond shall be submitted and approved for all onsite

landscape improvements. Planting Standards: Trees a. Twenty-four (24) inch box specimen trees shall be provided on the site based

on the following formula: one, 24-inch box specimen tree for every 10,000 sq. ft. of gross commercial building area on the property.

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b. A mix of tree sizes shall include at least: 25% 15-gallon, 70% 24-inch box and 5% 36-inch box.

c. One 24-inch box tree shall be provided for every twenty linear feet of all

planter areas of five feet to ten feet wide.

d. Thirty-six (36) inch box accent trees (Single or Multi-Trunk) or 15-foot (brown trunk) palms should be provided at all street corners, primary vehicular site entrances, main building entries and other public spaces such as plazas, courtyards or patios.

Shrubs e. All shrubs specified to be planted in the back or mid-ground or a planter shall

be a minimum 5-gallon container size. Sub-shrubs (maximum 18” diameter) shall be specified as fore-ground planting and must be a maximum of 1-gallon container size. All shrubs shall be mass planted and shall fill a planter when mature.


a. The controller shall be operational and set to real-time weather prior to the

completion of the 90-day maintenance period of the installing contractor.

b. Pressure loss calculations for valve with worse condition.

c. Commercial projects shall include a central controller programmed to distinguish irregular flows (e.g. broken valve, line, spray head, etc.) temporarily shut off the affected branch or the entire system, and send an immediate electronic message to the maintenance entity.

CHAPTER 6. INDUSTRIAL


I N D U S T R I A L D E V E L O P M E N T I M A G E Z O N E

Site Design: a. The City of Lake Elsinore realizes that new industrial development cannot

construct the level of landscape improvements that would be required in association with an office development. The City does want industrial development to look high quality, particularly from the public street. Therefore, the City will most closely scrutinize the “Image Zone” of all industrial development proposals. The area with the most public visibility shall be considered the “Image Zone”. The developer should strive to place considerable attention to aesthetics in this area.

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INDUSTRIAL

W A T E R F E A T U R E S / A C C E N T S b. For industrial uses, landscape should be used to define areas such as

entrances to buildings and parking lots, define plazas and break areas, define the edges of incompatible land uses, provide transition between neighboring properties. The most intensive landscape design should be planted in the “Image Zone”.

D E C O R A T I V E P A V I N G & L A N D S C A P E

c. A project’s plant palette should be themed to compliment the architectural style of the buildings within the industrial development.

d. All industrial developments shall provide outdoor plazas or enhanced site

features and landscape at the main building entries.

e. On larger sites, focal points should be developed to create a definite sense of identification. Plazas, landscape, fountains, artwork, textured pavement and changes in pavement levels may be combined to create focal points and identity.

f. Special landscape treatments, such as intensifying the density and size of

trees, accent trees, decorative structures, accent lighting and special paving should be provided at industrial site entries and should highlight key features such as entry monument signs and other hardscape features.

g. Undeveloped portions of phased industrial projects should have all landscape

frontage improvements fully installed upon completion of the first phase of development

h. All industrial developments shall provide outdoor employee break areas. The

areas shall include tables, benches or seat walls, trash receptacles, canopy trees and/or trellis.

i. Trellises, vines, and/or espaliers should be placed on large expanses of walls

where visible to the public to break up the building mass and to create visual interest.

j. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide

landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigating and fertilizing of all onsite planting.

k. A landscape maintenance bond shall be submitted and approved for all onsite

landscape improvements. Parking Lots: a. Parking areas in the “Image Zone” shall be separated from buildings by a

pedestrian sidewalk and a landscape strip (minimum 5-feet). The landscape strip should be directly adjacent to the building edge.

b. Parking areas within the “Image Zone” shall provide interior planting islands

and fingers in accordance with Chapter 17 of the Lake Elsinore Municipal Code.

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Planting Standards: Trees a. Twenty-four (24) inch box specimen trees shall be provided on the site based

on the following formula: one, 24-inch box specimen tree for every 20,000 sq. ft. of gross industrial building area on the property.

b. A mix of tree sizes shall include at least: 25% 15-gallon, 70% 24-inch box and

5% 36-inch box. Fifteen-gallon size trees shall be double staked and 24”-box trees and larger shall meet guying standards.


planter areas of four feet to ten feet wide. d. Thirty-six (36) inch box accent trees (Single or Multi-trunk) or 15-foot (brown

trunk) palms are required at all street corners, vehicular entrances, building entries and other public spaces such as plazas, courtyards or patios.

e. The use of any palms on-site shall be no less than 12-feet Brown Trunk

Height (BTH). Shrubs f. All shrubs specified to be planted in the back or mid-ground of a planter shall


g. Turf areas shall be used sparingly in response to functional needs and shall

be in compliance with the Water Budget Formula (See Attachment 2) Irrigation Standards:

a. The controller shall be operational and set to real-time weather prior to the

completion of the 90-day maintenance period of the installing contractor.

b. Pressure loss calculations for valve with worse condition.

c. Industrial projects shall include a Central Controller programmed to distinguish irregular flows (e.g. broken valve, line, spray head, etc.) temporarily shut off the affected branch or the entire system, and send an immediate electronic message to the maintenance entity.

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CHAPTER 7. MIXED USE


M I X E D - U S E L A N D S C A P E Site Design: a. Altogether, the landscape required in setback areas, plazas and parking

areas represents the minimum acceptable landscape coverage for sites. Developers are strongly encouraged to provide more than the minimum standard, particularly in publicly viewed areas in order to create a more attractive environment.

b. A project’s plant palette should be themed to compliment the color, materials,

architectural style, and scale of the building(s) within the mixed-use development.

c. New development should contribute to the public realm quality through

appropriate landscape features that compliment the theme and identity.

d. Landscape design should focus on creating a dramatic sense of arrival and diverse and interesting pedestrian spaces.

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e. Where appropriate, due to a particular use or circumstance, mixed-use

landscape improvements should consider security design features.

f. Landscape design should define site functions, enhance architecture, soften the appearance of structures, shade walkways, buffer incompatible land uses, mitigate building height and screen undesirable views such as loading and storage areas.

g. Landscape design should be used to break-up uninterrupted building mass,

expanses of paved surfaces, frame views and connect development on adjacent pads.

h. Tiered planting (tree-shrub-groundcover) and decorative hardscape should be

utilized to enhance the visual character of the project. All areas not covered by structures, with the exception of service yards, walkways, driveways and parking spaces, should be landscaped.

i. No landscape area shall have a dimension of less than four (4) feet clear in

width except for vine pockets.

j. Special landscape treatments, such as intensifying the density and size of trees, accent trees, ornamental plantings, decorative structures, accent lighting and special paving, should be provided to main building entrances, public plazas and open space areas and private common courtyard and plaza areas.

k. Hardscape elements should be used in coordination with planting design to

accent site architecture and provide connection between access ways and individual buildings or developments.

l. Public furnishings and receptacles should relate to onsite building architecture

or the theme of the mixed-use development and abutting public realm.

m. The use of potted plants and hanging flower baskets are encouraged, but should impede pedestrian traffic.

n. Flowering trees and shrubs should be used to provide color and accent

entrances. Avoid using near ADA path of travel.

o. Murals, trellises, vines, and/or espaliers should be placed on large expanses of walls at the rear or sides of buildings to break-up the building mass and to create visual interest.

p. Berms, plantings and walls shall be used to screen trash enclosures, service

areas, storage areas and ground mounted utilities or mechanical equipment.

q. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide

landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigation and fertilizing of all common areas.

r. A landscape maintenance bond shall be submitted and approved for all onsite

common landscape improvements. Planting Standards: Trees a. Twenty-four (24) inch box specimen trees shall be provided on the site based

on the following formula: one, 24-inch box specimen tree for every 10,000 sq. ft. of gross commercial building area on the property.

b. A mix of tree sizes shall include at least: 25% 15-gallon size trees, 70% 24-

inch box and 5% 36-inch box. Fifteen-gallon sixe trees shall be double staked and 24”-box trees or larger shall meet guying standards.


planter areas of five feet to ten feet wide. d. In parking areas, one 24-inch box tree shall be provided for every five parking

spaces provided. e. Thirty-six (36) inch box accent trees (single or multi-trunk) are required at all

public spaces such as plazas, courtyards or patios. f. The use of any palms on-site shall be no less than 12-feet Brown Trunk

Height (BTH). Shrubs g. All shrubs specified to be planted in the back or mid-ground of a planter shall


Irrigation Standards: a. Mixed-use projects shall include a Central Controller programmed to

distinguish irregular flows (e.g. broken valve, line, spray head, etc.) temporarily shut off the affected branch or the entire system, and send an immediate electronic message to the maintenance entity.

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CHAPTER 8. PARKS


P A R K L A N D S C A P E / H A R D S C A P E Site Design: a. The park developer should strive to emphasize a unique and innovative

design and promote individual character in the design of the park site. b. Sites, facilities, structures or landscapes of historic or cultural significance

within each park should be identified and included where possible in the park design.

c. A distinct theme should be developed for the park, when appropriate; to

establish a unique character that is consistent with the park’s activities and locations. The theme should be implemented through the use of characteristic architectural details, colors, materials, furnishings, play equipment, signage and plant selection.

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U N I F I E D P A R K D E S I G N

d. A unified park design should be achieved by providing repeated details, colors and materials throughout the park.

e. Adequate access shall be provided for fire, emergency and maintenance

equipment within the park facility.

f. The use of drought tolerant and native plant materials is encouraged where appropriate.

g. Park facilities shall be designed to minimize water use and maintenance

demands through the enhancement and preservation of the natural site characteristics.

h. Natural landscape features are desirable in some park designs, which include

natural plantings, water features, rock features or earth forms.

i. Park sites should be graded to provide topographic relief where appropriate including the use of berms.

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j. Park sites should be designed to balance (cut and fill).

k. At least one path of travel should be provided within the park to all major use

areas. A ten-foot wide path width is preferred.

l. Secondary walkways should be six-feet in width.

m. Concrete mow strips nine-inches in width should be constructed between all shrub/groundcover areas, and turf areas or along the base of all fencing and turf areas.

n. Security design features shall be incorporated into the design of the park

facility.

o. Selected trees shall fulfill the following criteria:

Be appropriate to the site specific environment; Tolerate heavy soil conditions; Tolerate freeze; No heavy litter or lengthy dropping of leaves, fruit or debris; Be disease and pest resistant; Have a deep rooting system and tolerate heat

p. A landscape maintenance plan shall be submitted and approved to guide

landscape maintenance staff on trimming, irrigating and fertilizing of all planting within private park facilities.

q. A landscape maintenance bond shall be submitted and approved for all onsite

private park facility landscape improvements. Planting Standards: Trees a. Trees: Minimum 15-gallon; unless otherwise specified. Fifteen gallon size

trees shall be double staked and 24”-box and larger shall meet guying standards.

b. Larger trees should be planted adjacent to picnic and playground areas to

achieve immediate shading. Sizes shall be reviewed and approved by the City Planning Division and Parks and Recreation Department.

c. Trees shall be planted no closer than 18-feet to any light fixture or vertical

structure.

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d. Plant flowering trees at all park entries where possible and appropriate.

e. Plant trees to buffer the street frontage, to organize and define use areas on the park site, to provide protection from wind, sun, and as a visual amenity to the park.

f. Do not plant summer flowering trees next to picnic areas or play areas to

reduce insect problems.

Shrubs & Groundcover g. Shrubs: Minimum 5-gallon for major shrubs and minimum 1-gallon for minor

shrubs. h. Groundcover and Vines: Minimum 1-gallon. Irrigation Standards:

a. All irrigation improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance

with all applicable standards identified in Section 5 of City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (Latest Edition).

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CHAPTER 9. SLOPES


L A N D S C A P E D S L O P E S W I T H V A R I E D S P E C I E S

Site Design: a. All proposed slopes with a gradient greater than 6:1 with a vertical height of 3

ft. or greater, shall be permanently re-vegetated. b. Re-vegetation should occur within 30-days of finished grading.

c. All plant material should be appropriately placed to control soil erosion.

d. Varied species and irregular plant spacing should achieve a natural

appearance on disturbed or graded slopes. Trees should be planted along contour lines in undulating groups to create grove effects that not only reinforce the natural undulating appearance of the slopes, but also soften the line of the graded slopes. A combination of trees, shrubs and groundcover

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which can grow to varying heights should be used to screen, soften and reduce the manufactured appearance of slopes.

e. All slopes should contain plantings of trees, shrubs, sub-shrubs and

groundcover grouped according to matched hydro-zones.

f. New or re-vegetated slopes shall include permanent irrigation systems.

g. Graded lots, on which no immediate building is intended to occur, shall receive temporary non-irrigated hydro-seed approved by the City. Erosion control measures, including hydro-seeding, on uncompleted grading projects shall be implemented by November 1 of each year.

h. Properties intended to be sold as lots only shall have required temporary non-

irrigated slopes hydro-seeded prior to November 1 or finished grade approval, whichever comes first.

Planting Standards: Single-Family & Multi-Family Residential a. As a minimum tree planting requirement, all landscaped rear yard or side yard

slopes shall have a minimum of two 15 gallon trees. Fifteen gallon size trees shall be double staked and 24”-box and larger shall meet guying standards;

b. One 15 gallon tree or larger, for each 400 square feet of slope. No less than

50% of the trees shall be evergreen trees;

c. Two shrubs for each sixty-four square feet of slope area. The ratio shall be 60% 1 gallon container size and 40% 5 gallon container size

d. Groundcovers: Rooted cuttings shall be planted at 12 inch o.c. minimum and

24 inch o.c. maximum (triangular spaced), depending on the variety of ground cover used;

e. Hydro-seed: In addition to slope ground cover requirements, a hydro-seed

mix is required for immediate erosion control of slope.

f. Jute netting shall not be used for slope erosion control on residential slopes.

g. Significant manufactured or altered slopes within a single-family residential tract development (20-feet tall and higher) shall be landscaped and maintained by a home owners association or other maintenance entity approved by the City so as to achieve a uniform appearance.

Commercial, Industrial, Mixed Use, Parks a. Trees shall be planted at a rate of one (15 gallon) tree per 400 square feet of

slope area. No less than 50 percent of the trees shall be evergreen trees. All trees shall be double staked.

b. Shrubs shall be mass planted five gallon size on all slopes with triangular

spacing at 75% of the mature diameter of the shrub (e.g. a shrub that grows to 20 feet should be spaced at 15 feet on-center or 75% of 20 feet).

c. All groundcovers should be one gallon container size. No hydro-seeding is

permitted on manufactured or natural slopes.

d. Slopes shall be landscaped with appropriate planting for immediate erosion control. Jute netting is also allowed to be used on commercial/industrial slopes.


a. All irrigation improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance

with all applicable standards identified in Section 5 of City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (Latest Edition)

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CHAPTER 10. PUBLIC AREA LANDSCAPE Landscape improvements within Public Right-of-Way areas, Community Facilities District and Landscape Maintenance District boundaries are generally maintained by the Public Works Department.

P U B L I C A R E A L A N D S C A P E Design Guidelines: a. Medians should have an18-inch wide (minimum) maintenance walk adjacent

to six-inch wide curbs around planting areas.

b. Medians that are five feet in width, and less, should receive enhanced paving only unless otherwise conditioned for the project.

c. Plant materials in medians adjacent to turning lanes, and other areas where

sight distance is critical, shall be 30 inches or less in height. d. Plant materials (mature height) and other landscape improvements over 30

inches in height shall be prohibited within the triangular area 50 feet back from extension of intersecting curb lines of two streets.

e. Plant materials (mature height) and landscape improvements over 30 inches

in height shall not be planted within five feet of driveways as measured from outer edge of mature growth.

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f. Turf grasses shall not be planted in medians and parkways.

g. Where possible, all Capital Improvement Projects within public right-of-way areas should incorporate landscape into the design of the project.

R I G H T - O F - W A Y L A N D S C A P E

h. Both “low” and “very low” plant species should be utilized where possible in public right-of-way areas.

Planting Standards: Trees a. The minimum acceptable size of street and parkway trees shall be 24-inch

box, except in larger parkways where a variety of container sizes may be appropriate.

b. Spacing of trees shall be 30 feet on center (average), and as appropriate to

selected species. Exceptions to the requirement shall be determined by the Public Works Department and Planning Division.

c. Street and parkway trees shall be selected in accordance with the Street Tree

Master Plan (See Chapter 10). No species other than those listed may be planted as street trees without written permission of the City Tree Committee.

d. Street trees should not be planted in utility easements unless approved by the

Public Works Department. e. Trees should be located and maintained to preserve a clear zone of at least

10 feet from street lights, fire hydrants, utility poles, meters, utility boxes and directional signs and traffic lights.

f. No street trees may be planted under or within ten (10) lateral feet of any

overhead utility wire or over or within five (5) lateral feet of any underground water line, sewer line, transmission line or other utility.

g. Trees should be planted a minimum of five feet horizontally from underground

utilities. h. Trees should be planted 4 feet from face-of-curb and edge of sidewalk to

trunk. i. Trees within five feet of hardscape improvements should be installed with root

control barriers to promote deep rooting. j. Trees planted in paved areas shall have adequate space for root growth

through maturity. A planting area of 25 square feet minimum shall be provided for each tree.

k. In addition to the above standards, all trees planted within public right-of-way

areas shall also comply with all other Public Works Department applicable design and planting standards identified in City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (Latest Edition).

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Shrubs, Vines & Groundcover l. All shrubs and vines shall be a minimum of five gallon in size.

m. Small accent plants shall be one gallon in size. n. Seventy-percent (70%) of all shrubs planted on slopes shall be one-gallon is

size. o. All shrubs, vines and groundcover shall be planted in accordance with the

standards identified in City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (Latest Edition). Irrigation Standards: a. All irrigation improvements located within public right-of-way areas shall be

designed and constructed in accordance with all applicable Public Works Department standards identified in City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (Latest Edition).

CHAPTER 11. LANDSCAPE & IRRIGATION PLAN PROVISIONS Landscape Plans:

Plant species must be selected from the Plant List included as Attachment 1 of this document. The species listed are not guaranteed for all situations. Consultation with a landscape architect, arborist, the proposed maintenance entity, or a local plant nursery is recommended. Please note that the Lake Elsinore area is located in either Sunset Climate zone 18 or 19. The following minimum standards, together with the appropriate design guidelines listed above, shall be incorporated into Landscape Plans: A. All landscape and irrigation construction plans shall be prepared by a Landscape

Architect licensed by the State of California.

B. Plants shall be selected based on their level of maintenance, durability, mature widths and heights, aesthetic appeal, and thematic qualities. A greater percentage of “low” and “very low” water use plant species is strongly encouraged.

C. Shade trees shall be provided for residential, commercial and industrial building,

parking lot and open space areas. They shall be incorporated to provide natural cooling opportunities and for the purpose of energy and water conservation.

D. In order to incorporate plant species other than those listed, the project applicant must provide the Director of Community Development with the following: 1. Water use requirements per Water Use Classification of Landscape

Species (WUCOLS III) or field data verifying the plant’s landscape (crop) coefficient.

2. Plant species description from Sunset Western Garden Book or other

comparable source. 3. Comparison to a similar species included in the plant list.

E. Plant species must be selected based on their appropriate plant hardiness climate zones as defined by Sunset Western Garden Book.

F. All non-turf planting areas (except hydroseeded areas) must be mulched on a regular basis to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature. Mulch depth, type, and maintenance replenishment frequency must be noted on the plans.

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1. Planting areas shall be mulched with a three inch (3”) minimum layer of

organic wood mulch. Areas of groundcover planted from flats shall be mulched with a one and one half inch (1 ½”) minimum layer of organic mulch

2. Color enhanced mulches are discouraged. 3. Mulch may be omitted for native re-vegetation projects upon the

recommendation of the project biologist.

G. Turf shall be used as a functional recreational element and not solely for aesthetic purposes. 1. Small, irregularly shaped turf areas shall be avoided. 2. Turf areas shall be sized and shaped to minimize overspray and runoff. 3. Lower water use, warm season turf grasses are encouraged. Grasses

such as Zoysia or UC Verde Buffalo Grass. 4. Turf is prohibited on slopes greater than 4:1. 5. Turf areas less than eight feet (8’) in width shall be irrigated with

subsurface irrigation or other low volume irrigation technology. 6. Overhead irrigation is prohibited within 24 inches of any non-permeable

surface (hardscape).

H. Plants must be grouped and irrigated on separate valve zones (hydrozones) based on their water use requirements, slope aspect, and sun/shade microclimate.

I. The contractor shall tag one plant of each variety with the plant’s scientific name, and cultivar or variety if applicable, and common name. This is to ensure that accurate replacement plants are installed if necessary.

J. Plans must note or specify that a site specific agronomic soils test is required and that contractors are required to follow the reports recommendations for amending the soil. Planting specifications and details including the recommendations from the soils analysis are required if applicable. A copy of the soil test shall be delivered to the Planning Division.

K. If low water use plants (those that can also survive/flourish with medium water application) are used in a medium water use hydrozone, they must be counted as medium water use in the irrigation calculations.

L. The Conceptual Landscape Plan is prepared as part of the application for a

specific entitlement type. The plan serves to provide the reviewing body with a general idea of the proposed landscape design and typically does not include irrigation improvements. At a minimum, the plan shall identify the following:

1. Name, address, and phone number of applicant, architect, and/or

landscape architect. 2. Graphic scale (with bar scale) and north arrow. 3. Date the plans were prepared. 4. Location and footprint of all proposed buildings, paved surfaces,

transformer and other utility connections, wall/fences, curbs and sidewalks.

5. Location of all ground mounted mechanical equipment and method of

screening. 6. Roof outlines including eave overhangs and architectural projections. 7. Graphically indicate all slopes, which equal or exceed 3:1. 8. Location and elevation of mounding, if proposed. 9. Location of the proposed rain sensor/switch. 10. Development phase lines, if proposed. 11. Add a note to indicate automatic irrigation system. 12. Location of landscape accent lighting and fixture details, if proposed. 13. Computation of landscape areas required by Zoning Ordinance for each

parcel and the square footage proposed to meet the requirement. 14. Graphically indicate all vehicle sight lines. 15. Location of all proposed plant material; trees (including street trees

located in the public right-of-way), shrubs and groundcover.

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16. A planting legend that identifies plant varieties (botanical and common names), sizes, quantities, and required spacing for each type of plant or tree.

17. Location, size and type of existing plantings on-site and labeling that

identifies if plantings are to remain, be relocated, or be removed. 18. Location and labeling of existing onsite rock outcroppings or other

significant natural features. 19. Dimensioned elevations/details of all proposed shade structures, water

features, raised planters, garden structures, art elements, public tables/seating, bollards, umbrellas, waste cans, drinking fountains, pottery, etc.

M. Once a project has been entitled, a Landscape Construction Plan shall be

prepared and approved by the Planning Division. The plan shall be drawn at the same scale as the Irrigation Plan and, at a minimum, shall identify the following: 1. Existing and proposed trees, shrubs, ground covers, vines and turf areas

indicated within the development landscape area and within publicly maintained landscape areas within 200 feet of proposed project site.

2. Legend including plant symbol, genus, species, common name, spacing,

size, quantity of each type of plant by container size, water use per applicable WUCOLS III Zone, and detail call-out (i.e.: P-1, P-2, P-3, etc.).

3. Location of each hydrozone. 4. Individual trees, shrubs and groundcover plants at their average growth

size to ensure coverage of the area to be landscaped. 5. Labels for all existing trees and vegetation that will either remain or be

removed. 6. Location of street lights. Trees shall be located so that there is a minimum

of ten feet of clearance with respect to the lights. 7. Root barriers noted for trees within six feet of hardscape. 8. Property lines, limit-of-work lines, streets, and street names. 9. Building locations, driveways, sidewalks and other hardscape features. 10. Topographic elevation lines to determine slope.

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11. Appropriate scale, title block, page numbers, north arrow, notes, details, and specifications.

12. Existing land uses adjacent to the boundaries of the project site. Irrigation Plans: Irrigation systems shall be designed, constructed, managed, and maintained to achieve the highest overall efficiency possible. Efficiency is measured by the amount of water beneficially used to sustain plant life divided by the amount of water applied. Efficiency is affected by the attributes of the controller, method of irrigation, irrigation equipment, proper hydrozoning, site topography, condition and size of plants, and weather conditions. Once a project has been entitled, an Irrigation Construction Plan shall be prepared and approved by the Planning Division. The plan shall be drawn at the same scale as the Landscape Construction Plan and, at a minimum, shall identify the following: 1. Location and size of service lateral(s) and water meter(s). 2. Point of connection (POC) location and static pressure at POC. 3. Total flow rate (gallons per minute) and designed operating pressure (psi)

for each overhead spray and bubbler circuit, the total flow rate (gallons per hour) and design operating pressure (psi) for each drip and love volume irrigation circuit.

4. Location, size and type of all irrigation components including, but not

limited to, smart controller, central controller (backflow prevention device, ball valves, anti-drain check valves, pressure supply (main) line, lateral lines, pipe sizing, valves, spray-heads, rotors, drip, low volume irrigation equipment, gallons per minute, pressure regulators, and pumps. EPA WaterSense components are strongly recommended.

5. Hydraulic Calculation worksheet including flow rate (gallons per minute)

and design operating pressure. 6. Precipitation rate (inches per hour) for each spray type circuit. 7. Irrigation legend with the symbol, manufacturer name, model number (or

non-proprietary description for publicly funded projects), separate symbols for irrigation equipment with different spray patterns, spray radius, and precipitation rate.

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8. Location, size and type (high, medium, low use rating of plant material) of each hydrozone.

9. Topographic elevation lines to determine slope. 10. Irrigation system details for assembly and installation. 11. Calculations for the projects landscape Water Budget (See below). Calculation of Water Budget:

Water budgets are used to assist designers and governing authorities. They are a tool to verify compliance with the state requirements for water conservation and they assist with water demand management. A water budget determines how much water a particular landscape needs over a specified period of time. The Maximum Annual Water Allowance (MAWA) is calculated and compared to the Estimated Annual Water Use (EAWU) to verify that the project landscape design does not exceed the allowed water use.

The City of Lake Elsinore uses the formula and tables included in Attachment 2 to determine water budgets. Attachment 2, the information below, and the sample worksheet (Attachment 3) following are designed to assist you in calculating a Water Budget for inclusion in your Irrigation Plan.

A. Maximum Annual Water Allowance and Evapotranspiration Rate (ETo).

ETo, or Annual Reference Evapotranspiration Rate, is the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil surfaces and transpired by plants in terms of inches for a particular climate zone. Your total square footage of landscape and ETo are essential components of the MAWA formula. Because ETo rates vary according to climate, the ETo rate must be identified for your project in order to calculate MAWA. ETo data is taken from the California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS). The closest representative CIMIS station to Lake Elsinore is Temecula.

B. Estimated Annual Water Use (EAWU).

The formula for EAWU is calculated for each hydrozone separately, and then the total of all hydrozones is divided by the Irrigation System Operation Efficiency (IS). In addition to the square footage of each hydrozone, the EAWU calculation relies on several other key factors. One is the average Plant Factor (PF) that is established by the WUCOLS III for plants that are considered high, medium, low and very low based on their water requirements. For purposes of the Water Budget Formula, cool season turf is considered to have a high water requirement

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and warm season turf is considered to have a medium water requirement. In addition all water features are considered to have a high water requirement.

The water use requirements also vary according to regional climate zones. Plant categories used in the calculations must be from the appropriate WUCOLS Regional Zone which in Lake Elsinore is WUCOLS III, Region 4.

Another key factor in calculating EAWU is the Irrigation Efficiency (IE). The IE is derived from measurements and estimates of the irrigation application method performance within controlled environmental conditions. The final factor in calculating EAWU is the Irrigation System Operation Efficiency. This number is derived from the efficiency of the controller. An EAWU calculation must be performed for each hydrozone within the proposed project.

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CHAPTER 12. STREET TREE MASTER PLAN General Provisions: Today, street trees are considered to be a valuable city resource that contributes significantly to the environment and economy of a neighborhood or district. In addition to providing greenery and softening views, trees also provide numerous environmental benefits, such as cooling temperatures during summer months, providing wind breaks, and filtering out carbon dioxide by releasing oxygen. Trees also enhance property values, which can attract home buyers and businesses to settle within a city.

S T R E E T T R E E D E S I G N

The City of Lake Elsinore is comprised of several districts and many distinct neighborhoods and commercial corridors each with its own unique development history and characteristics. The Street Tree Master Plan serves to preserve and enhance these qualities by establishing complementary but distinct sets of recommended species for each of these areas. This Master Plan should be used in conjunction with Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Sections 5.116 and 5.120.

The Plan uses the terms “Districts”, “Specific Plan Areas”, “Portals” and “Corridors” to identify the different types of specific sub-areas throughout the City.

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1. Planning Districts “Planning Districts” represent contiguous areas of the City that share certain common factors or features such as time of development, natural and manmade boundaries, landmarks and municipal land use policies that have contributed to making them unique and identifiable. Each district includes all the local streets located within the specific district (See Figure 1 for specific district boundaries). 2. Specific Plan Areas “Specific Plan Areas” refer to boundaries located throughout various districts, governed by an approved specific plan document which includes a street tree plan. These existing street tree guidelines and standards shall continue to apply to the various types of streets located within each specific boundary area (See Figure 2 for location of each specific plan). Approved specific plans which do not include street tree plans and provisions have not been identified in this Street Tree Master Plan. Moreover, any street frontages not identified in the approved specific plan shall be subject to the provisions of this Street Tree Master Plan. In addition to these specific plan areas, the Downtown Master Plan has streetscape provisions that cover a portion of the Historic District area. In addition, future approved Planned Unit Developments could include unique site specific conditions or policies related to street trees. Each of these documents should be reviewed separately to determine site specific requirements. 3. Portals “Portals” represent significant and important points of entry into the City. Portals are generally located where major commercial roads meet the City’s geographic boundaries. Portal trees are comprised of species that feature showy floral patterns or unique shapes that create a sense of arrival and serve to distinguish the City’s boundaries from neighboring cities or unincorporated areas. The specific location of each portal and site acquisition method will be determined over time on a case by case basis. Portal trees shall consist of a grouping of Mediterranean Fan Palms, Canary Island Date Palms and Crape Myrtle trees (See Figure 3 for map of portal locations).

PORTAL LOCATIONS MISSION TRAIL @ CITY LIMIT LINE GRAPE STREET @ CITY LIMIT LINE CANYON HILLS ROAD @ CITY LINE

RAILROAD CANYON ROAD @ CITY LIMIT LINE CENTRAL AVENUE @ CITY LIMIT LINE ORTEGA HIGHWAY @ CITY LIMIT LINE

TEMESCAL CANYON ROAD @ CITY LIMIT LINE

4. Corridors “Corridors” refer to major and secondary linear vehicular thoroughfares which traverse the city providing for vehicular circulation. These corridors may bisect one or more Districts or Specific Plan areas. Corridors include State Highways, Augmented Urban Arterials, Urban Arterials, Major, Secondary, Collectors and Divided Collectors traversing throughout the City limits (See Corridor Street Tree Table below).

Implementation Phasing:

It is anticipated that the full implementation of this master plan will require many years to accomplish given the various responsible parties and the ongoing financial and staff resources necessary. Therefore, the master plan has been split into two separate phases. Phase one includes the identification of appropriate tree palettes and planting locations along corridors and at portals. In addition, an appropriate variety of trees will also be identified for all local street frontages within each of the unique districts throughout the city should specific plans or other types of private development be proposed. Phase two will include the identification of appropriate individual tree species and planting locations along specific existing local streets within each of the identified districts throughout the city. This will require that each street be analyzed to determine existing or future parkway widths and irrigation improvement needs which will in turn assist with the selection of the appropriate tree species to fit in a specific location upon maturity.

Tree Palette Selection:

A variety of criteria were utilized in the selection of the various tree palettes in this master plan which include:

Historical and architectural characteristics and themes of specific sub-areas.

Existing natural characteristics and amenities within specific sub-areas.

Existing street tree species and groupings within specific sub-areas.

Existing approved specific plan street tree provisions in the area.

Size of a specific tree species at maturity.

Size of a specific tree planting area.

ST – 50

Tree root depth characteristics. Leaf, fruit and flower litter characteristics.

Heat, freeze and disease tolerance.

Based on the above criteria, a Street Tree District Map (Figure 1), Corridor Tree Plan (Figure 2) and Portal Tree Plan (Figure 3) are provided. In addition, a complete listing of allowed street tree species follows along with a photo and brief description.

Cupaniopsis Anacardioides (Carrotwood) Lagerstroemia Indica (Crape Myrtle)

Height – 40’ Width – 30’ Height – 25’ Width – 25’

Liquidambar Styraciflua (American Sweetgum) Magnolia Grandiflor (MajesticBeauty)


ST – 51

Pinus Canariensis (Canary Island Pine) Platnus Acerfolia (London Plane Tree)


Podocarupus Gracilior (Fern Pine) Phoenix Canariensis (Canary Island Date Palm)

Height – 40’ Width – 15’ Height – 60’ Width 50’

Washingtonia Filifara (California Fan Palm) Washingtonia Robusta ( Mexican Fan Palm)


ST – 52

Chamaerops (Mediterranean Fan Palm) Arecastrum Romanzoffianum (Queen Palm)

Height – 20’ Width – 20’ Height – 50’ Width 25’

Schinus Molle (California Pepper Tree) Ginko Biloba (Maidenhair Tree) Male Only


Koelreuteria Bipinnata (Chinese Flame Tree) Koelreuteria Paniculata (Goldenrain Tree)


ST – 53

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/76/Tree_for_identification.jpg�

Pistacia Chinensis (Chinese Pistache) Tristania Conferta (Brisbane Box)


Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor Tree) Quercus Ilex (Holly Oak) Height – 50’ Width – 60’ Height – 60’ Width – 60’

ST – 54

CORRIDOR STREET TREE LIST

Street/Road Location Tree Type Skylark Drive Between Union & Palomar London Plane Palomar Street Between Skylark & Corydon Magnolia & London Plane Corydon Street Between Union & Palomar London Plane Corydon Street Between Palomar & Mission Trail Existing Tree Must Be

Identified Mission Trail Between Corydon & Diamond

Drive Crape Myrtle, London Plane and Unidentified Pine

Malaga Road Between Mission Trail and Termination

California Pepper

Malaga Road Between Mission Trail & Casino London Plane & Chinese Flame

Casino Drive Between Malaga & Railroad Canyon

London Plane & Chinese Flame

Auto Center Drive Between Railroad Canyon & Franklin

London Plane and Chinese Flame

Avenue 6 Between Franklin and Lakeshore California Pepper Lakeshore Drive Between Diamond Drive and

Lakepoint Park California Pepper

Diamond Drive Between Malaga & Corydon Olive & Chinese Flame Hidden Trail Between Mission Trail &

Summerly Place Olive

Railroad Canyon Road Between Grape and Lakeshore Queen Palm Railroad Canyon Road Between Grape Street & City

Limits London Plane, Mexican Fan Palm & Existing Unidentified Tree

Grape Street Between Railroad Canyon & Malaga

Crape Myrtle & Magnolia

Canyon Hills Road Between Railroad Canyon & City Limits

Lost Road Between Canyon Hills & City Limits

London Plane

Cottonwood Canyon Road

Between Canyon Hills Road & City Limits

London Plane

Franklin Street Between Summerhill Drive & Ellis Street

Flint Street Between Ellis & Bancroft Canary Island Pine Summerhill Drive Between Railroad Canyon &

Ponte Russo Northern Red Oak, Sweetgum & Crape Myrtle (Pink)

Bella Vista Between Ponte Russo & La Strada

Chinese Pistache

ST-55

ST-56

Bella Vista Between La Strada & Summerhill Magnolia Canyon Estates Drive Between Summerhill & Franklin

Street Jacaranda & Queen Palm

Camino Del Norte Between 2nd Street & Franklin Street

Jacaranda & Queen Palm

2nd Street Between Camino Del Norte & Dexter


Dexter Avenue Between 2nd Street & Central Avenue


Railroad Canyon Road Between Summerhill & Lakeshore Queen Palm 2nd Street Between Dexter & Cambern Podocarpus Cambern Avenue Between 2nd & Central Avenue Podocarpus Rosetta Canyon Between Central & Terminus London Plane &

Unidentified Central Avenue Between Cambern & City Limits See Rosetta Canyon SP Elsinore Hills Road Camino Del Norte & Rosetta

Canyon London Plane & Crape Myrtle

Cambern Avenue Between Central & Collier London Plane Central Avenue Between Cambern & Collier Magnolia & Crape Myrtle Central Avenue Between Collier & Terminus Sweetgum Pasadena Street Between 3rd & 11th London Plane & Crape

Myrtle Chaney Street Between Lakeshore & Collier Magnolia & Date palm Collier Avenue Between Minthorn & Nichols

Road Crape Myrtle, Mexican Fan Palm, London Plane & Unidentified

Nichols Road Between I-15 & City Limits Maidenhair & Holy Oak Lakeshore Drive Between Riverside & Riley Canary Island Date Palm Limited Avenue Between Riley & Lakeshore Fern Pine Graham Avenue Between Riley & Lakeshore Unidentfied Existing Tree Heald Avenue Between Chaney & RIley California Pepper Tree Sumner Avenue Between Chaney & Riley Carrotwood Pottery Street Between Chaney & RIley Brisbane Box Langstaff Street Between Limited & Pottery Canary Island Pine Lewis Street Between Graham & Flint Mexican Fan Palm Ortega Highway Between City Limits & Grand Unidentified Pine Tree Grand Avenue Between Ortega Highway &

Riverside Mexican & California Fan Palms

Riverside Drive Grand to Collier Mexican & California Fan Palms

Joy Street Between Lakeshore & Machado Sweetgum Machado Street Between Lakeshore & Grand Sweetgum & Chinese

Flame Tree Grand Avenue Between Machado & Riverside Sweetgum

Lincoln Street Machado to Terminus London Plane Lincoln Street Between Machado & Riverside Crape Myrtle Lincoln Street Between Terminus & Coal Road London Plane Grand Avenue Between Audelo Street &

Lakeshore Magnolia & Crape Myrtle

Lake Street Between I-15 & Lakeshore Refer to Murdock Alberhill Ranch SP & Alberhill SP Amendment No. 1

Planting & Maintenance Responsibilities:

While the City has taken the initiative to prepare and adopt this Street Tree Master Plan, its implementation will be greatly accelerated by the assistance and participation of private developers and the citizens of Lake Elsinore. In accordance with existing Lake Elsinore Municipal Code provisions, street trees and irrigation shall be installed by a property owner at such time that the property is developed. All street trees shall be watered thoroughly the day they are planted. Owners and/or occupants of real developed property fronting on a public street(s) shall be responsible for continued adequate watering of the street trees abutting their property regardless of the party responsible for planting the tree. The abutting property owner shall bear the expense of replacement of street trees where death is the result of insufficient water and/or general negligence. The City may install street trees and irrigation improvements along both developed and/or undeveloped property frontages at any time. It shall be the responsibility of the City to irrigate all street trees along all undeveloped property frontages. Moreover, the City shall be responsible for the pruning and trimming of all street trees, as determined by the City, abutting public or private property regardless of whether such property is developed unless otherwise maintained by a Home Owners Association or other special written agreement entered into with the City. It shall be unlawful for any person to top or remove any street tree on public property without authorization by the City.

Planting & Irrigation Standards:

Street tree planting standards are listed in the Public Area Landscape Chapter of this document (See Chapter 9). Irrigation standards for street trees are found in City of Lake Elsinore Standard Plans (2008 Edition). Potential Funding Mechanisms:

A variety of potential funding mechanisms are available which can be pursued over time for street tree planting projects. Many of the programs are competitive and some require matching funds. In the case of benefit assessments or special taxes, approval by a vote of the property owners or registered voters would be required. The list includes the following:

ST-57

ST-58

California ReLeaf Urban Forestry Grant Program Green Trees for the Golden State – Cal. Dept. Forestry & Fire Protection Adopt-a-Tree Program Special Benefit Assessment District Special Taxes Private Community Fund Raising South Coast Air Quality Management District Tree Planting Partnership

Program

CHAPTER 13. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Corner and Curve Sight Distance Visibility Standards:

In order to ensure both vehicular and pedestrian safety, trees and shrubs adjacent to street intersections and curves shall be planted in accordance with the City adopted standards shown in Figure No.4.

Use of Recycled Water for Irrigation:

Recycled water determined to be available pursuant to Section 13550 of the California State Water Code shall be used for appropriate non-potable uses whenever it: a) provides and beneficial use to the customer, b) is economically and technically feasible, c) is consistent with applicable regulatory requirements, and d) is in the best interests of public health, safety and welfare. With the exception of non-common areas of single-family home residential developments, irrigation systems must be designed and installed to accommodate the current or future use of recycled water for standards and policies of the applicable recycled water purveyor. Recycled water systems shall be designed to meet regulatory requirements of the California Department of Public Health and locally recycled water purveyor.

The two existing water districts that serve the City of Lake Elsinore are the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) and the Elsinore Water District EWD). Each District has different recycled water facilities and provision requirements. EVMWD can be contacted at (951) 674-3146. EWD can be contacted at (951) 674-2168.

Screening of Fire Department Connections:

Where possible, Fire Department connections, hydrants, post indicator valves and double detector check valves should not be located at visually prominent locations such as the end of drive aisles or at site entrances, subject to approval by the Riverside County Fire Department. In accordance with Riverside County Fire Department requirements, a minimum three-foot (3’) clearance shall be maintained around the above noted equipment at all times. In addition, the equipment shall remain visible from the adjacent public right-of-way at all times. Non-thorn bearing vegetation should be utilized.

SC-59

S C R E E N I N G O F F I R E D E P A R T M E N T

C O N N E C T I O N S

Screening of Pad Mounted Electrical Transformers:

In accordance with Southern California Edison requirements an 8-foot wide level clear space should be maintained in front of ground mounted electrical transformers. In addition, a 3-foot wide clearance should be maintained at the sides and rear of the transformer. Non-thorn bearing vegetation should be utilized.

3’

TRANSFORMER 3’ 3’

8’ CLEAR AT FRONT OF THE UNIT

SC-60

S C R E E N I N G O F P A D M O U N T E D T R A N S F O R M E R S

ATTACHMENTS:

1. County of Riverside California Friendly Plant List 2. Water Budge Formula & Charts 3. Sample Water Budget Worksheet

FIGURES:

1. Citywide Street Tree Planning District Map 2. Citywide Existing Adopted Specific Plan Map 3. Portal Location Plan 4. Corner & Curve Sight Distance Visibility Standards

SC-61

draft city wide landscape design guidelines

Documents

irrigation design

term landscape design

proper landscape design

aesthetic design

landscape guidelines

irrigation screening

citys design review

purpose applicability