18-0515_VERMEULEN RANCH CENTER, LLC_D1_Agenda Report_Encl 2_App CI NITIAL S TUDY/MITIGATED N EGATIVE D ECLARATION
MARCH 2018
T HE F ARM S PECIFIC P LAN P ROJECT
C ITY OF S AN J UAN C APISTRANO, C ALIFORNIA
P:\JCA1703\CEQA\Pre-Print MND\Draft MND.docx «03/02/18»
APPENDIX C
SPECIFIC PLAN
T HE F ARM S PECIFIC P LAN P ROJECT
C ITY OF S AN J UAN C APISTRANO, C ALIFORNIA
I NITIAL S TUDY/MITIGATED N EGATIVE D ECLARATION
M ARCH 2018
P:\JCA1703\CEQA\Pre-Print MND\Draft MND.docx «03/02/18»
This page intentionally left blank
THE FARM
San Juan Capistrano
JULY APRIL 20172018
Specific Plan No. 20142018-01 (rev.1)
Applicant:
Spieker Senior Development Partners
P.O. Box 160
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693
Contact: Troy Bourne, Partner
Submitted to:
City of San Juan Capistrano
32400 Paseo Adelanto
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Contact: Sergio Klotz, Assistant Community Development Director
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
55386.00001\8755767.7 -i-
I. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 1
I.1. Purpose and Scope of the Specific Plan ....................................................................... 1
Exhibit I-1: Specific Plan Area Boundaries ................................................ 2
I.2. General Plan Consistency ............................................................................................ 3
I.3. City Adoption Process ................................................................................................. 3
I.4. Project Background ...................................................................................................... 3
Exhibit I-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Conditions ................................... 4
I.5. Project Definition ......................................................................................................... 4
I.6. Project Objectives ........................................................................................................ 5
II. Land Use, Grading Plan and Landscape Plans .................................................................. 7
II.1. Site Context/Existing Conditions ................................................................................. 7
Exhibit II-1: Adjacent Land Uses ................................................................. 7
II.2. Land Use Plan .............................................................................................................. 8
Exhibit II-2: Land Use Plan .......................................................................... 9
Exhibit II-3: Land Use Area Diagram ........................................................ 11
Exhibit II-4: Villa Elevations ...................................................................... 13
Exhibit II-5: Garden Terrace Elevations ..................................................... 13
Exhibit II-6: Courtyard Apartment Elevations ........................................... 14
Exhibit II-7: Maintenance Building Elevations .......................................... 15
Exhibit II-8: Health Care Center Elevations ............................................... 17
II.3. Grading Plan .............................................................................................................. 17
Exhibit II-94: Grading Plan .......................................................................... 18
II.4. Lighting and Landscaping Plans ................................................................................ 18
Exhibit II-1015: Lighting Plan .......................................................................... 19
Exhibit II-116: Landscaping Plan ................................................................... 20
II.5. Phasing Plan for Development................................................................................... 21
Exhibit II-127: Phasing Plan ........................................................................... 21
III. Circulation and Infrastructure .......................................................................................... 23
III.1. Circulation and Parking ............................................................................................. 23
Exhibit III-1: Regional Circulation .............................................................. 23
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(continued)
Page
55386.00001\8755767.7 -ii-
Exhibit III-2: Local Circulation ................................................................... 25
Exhibit III-3: Pedestrian Circulation ............................................................ 27
Exhibit III-4: Parking ................................................................................... 29
III.2. Water and Sewer Service ........................................................................................... 30
Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan ............................................................................. 30
Exhibit III-6: Water Quality Management Plan ........................................... 31
Exhibit III-7: Sewer Plan ............................................................................. 32
III.3. Drainage Plan – Hydrology and Water Quality ......................................................... 33
Exhibit III-8: Hydrology Study .................................................................... 34
III.4. Utility Service ............................................................................................................ 35
IV. Development Standards/Regulations ............................................................................... 37
IV.1. Introduction ................................................................................................................ 37
IV.2. General Provisions ..................................................................................................... 37
IV.3. Zone District Established ........................................................................................... 37
IV.4. Use Regulations ......................................................................................................... 38
IV.5. Development Standards ............................................................................................. 39
V. Design Guidelines ............................................................................................................ 43
V.1. Introduction and Applicability ................................................................................... 43
V.2. Villa Design GuidelinesThe Farm Design Guidelines............................................... 43
V.3. Garden Terraces and Courtyard Apartments Design Guidelines ............................... 45
V.4. Health Care Center Design Guidelines ...................................................................... 48
V.5. Landscape and Lighting Guidelines ........................................................................... 49
VI. Implementation and Administration ................................................................................ 51
VI.1. Specific Plan Adjustments/Amendments ................................................................... 51
VI.2. Implementation .......................................................................................................... 52
Appendix A: Relationship of Specific Plan to General Plan
Appendix B: Project Exhibits
The FARM Specific Plan
Section I: Introduction
55386.00001\8755767.7 I-1
I. Introduction
I.1. Purpose and Scope of the Specific Plan
The City of San Juan Capistrano General Plan was adopted by the City Council in 1999. The
General Plan Land Use Map (2002) designates the 35-acre Spieker/Vermeulen property site as
“Agri-Business,” a component of the “Industrial” land use grouping. The site is likewise
designated as “Agri-Business” on the City’s Official Zoning Map (2002)zoned Specific
Plan/Precise Plan.
In order to accommodate The FARM project, the General Plan land use designation is being
modified to “Specific Plan/Precise Plan”. Similarly, the existing zoning for the site is already
“Specific Plan/Precise Plan” to accommodate the project. Adoption of The FARM Specific
Plan, this revision for The Farm 180 unit residential plan will implement the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan and make compatible the City’s Zoning Ordinance, as amended.
Section 65450 et. seq. of the California Government Code (Title 7, Division 1, Chapter 3, Article
8) authorizes cities to “…prepare specific plans for the systematic implementation of the general
plan for all or a part of the area covered by the general plan.”
Section 65451 of the California Government Code specifies content requirements for Specific
Plans as follows:
(a) The specific plan shall include text and a diagram or diagrams which specify all
of the following in detail:
(1) The distribution, location, and extent of the uses of land, including open
space, within the area covered by the plan.
(2) The proposed distribution, location, and extent and intensity of major
components of public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage,
solid waste disposal, energy, and other essential facilities proposed to be
located within the area covered by the plan and needed to support the land
uses described in the plan.
(3) Standards and criteria by which development will proceed, and standards
for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources,
where applicable.
(4) A program of implementation measures including regulations, programs,
public works projects, and financing measures necessary to carry out
paragraphs (1), (2), and (3).
(5) The specific plan shall include a statement of the relationship of the
specific plan to the general plan.
The FARM revised Specific Plan has been prepared based on the Specific Plan content
requirements of Section 65451 of the California Government Code. The boundaries of the
Specific Plan area are shown on Exhibit I-1: Specific Plan Area Boundaries.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section I: Introduction
55386.00001\8755767.7 I-2
Exhibit I-1: Specific Plan Area Boundaries
The FARM Specific Plan
Section I: Introduction
55386.00001\8755767.7 I-3
I.2. General Plan Consistency
A detailed analysis demonstrating the relationship of The FARM Specific Plan to the San Juan
Capistrano General Plan is included as Appendix A. The analysis discusses how the project
relates to the goals and policies of the City General Plan.
The FARM Specific Plan furthers the City’s General Plan economic goals by providing fiscal
stability, particularly through stimulus to the neighboring Farm Market and the nearby
downtown Mission District. It furthers the General Plan goal of providing a desirable
community for citizens to work, shop, reside and recreate. The architectural design of the project
will be consistent and compatible with the existing character of the city and its development will
help meet the City’s housing goals, including providing up to 180 new housing options. The
project is located in close proximity to public transportation access points. In addition, the
project provides passive and active open space uses for its residents and their guests, including
walking paths. The project is compatible with neighboring public institutional and residential
land uses and employs responsible environmental measures.
I.3. City Adoption Process
A Specific Plan is adopted by the City Council after review and recommendation by the Planning
Commission. Both the Planning Commission, in its advisory role, and the City Council, in its
approval role, may approve, deny, or modify a Specific Plan. Upon approval, a Specific Plan
replaces the project site’s zoning and General Plan land use designation. This Specific Plan is a
revision to the existing adopted Specific Plan.
I.4. Project Background
The approximately 35-acre “The FARM” project site is located at 32382 Del Obispo Street in
San Juan Capistrano. From approximately 1938 to 1975, the land was used for citrus and other
agricultural production. In approximately 1975, the site began a transition from traditional in-
ground agriculture production to use as a plant and material warehousing, growing and
distribution center. In 1994, the then current tenant paved large portions of the site to facilitate
construction of commercial glass greenhouses and loading docks for tractor trailer distribution
vehicles. No portion of the site has been used for in-ground agriculture production since 1998.
In 2014 the Agricultural tenant relocated to another County where agricultural uses were more
productive and infrastructure of both water and work force was available.
See Exhibit I-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Uses.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section I: Introduction
55386.00001\8755767.7 I-4
Exhibit I-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Conditions
The City and its agents evaluated Vermeulen property for permanent open space preservation
merit in both 1990 (in connection with Measure D) and again in 2008 (in connection with
Measure Y). In both instances, the City, elected not to acquire and convert the site from an
industrial use to publically owned open space use but instead acquired other properties both
within and outside the City.
In 1975, a retail center was constructed on 8 acres adjacent to the 35-acre parcel. The center was
expanded to its current size in 1989. The proposed The FARM project does not propose to alter
the existing retail land uses or improvements.
I.5. Project Definition
The Spieker/Vermeulen development plan, The FARM, provides for a master-planned
community with up to 180 comfortable homes and a large walking/riding trail that leads from
Del Obispo Street to Via Positiva which will than connect to a future trail leading to the Ecology
Center.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section I: Introduction
55386.00001\8755767.7 I-5
I.6. Project Objectives
The FARM residential development project objectives include:
Establish appropriate General Plan land use and compatible zoning designations to optimize the
potential of the project site and facilitate achievement of project objectives.
• Provide an opportunity to create a mixed-use environment integrating existing adjoining
commercial and institutional uses with a new residential community and community
serving pedestrian trail.
• Provide a positive financial impact on the neighboring Farm Market and nearby
downtown Mission District.
• Create a high quality residential community.
• Generate additional revenue for the City and Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD)
through significantly increased property values with minimal increases in enrollment at
local schools.
• Create a residential community within walking distance of an elementary and middle
school, Community Center, public park, Sports Park and Ecology Center.
• In addition, resident spending at local restaurants and retail centers will contribute to
increased retail sales and associated tax revenue.
• Promote the efficient use of water and energy through incorporation of conservation
measures, including a comprehensive water quality management plan.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-6
55386.00001\8755767.7
II. Land Use, Grading Plan and Landscape Plans
II.1. Site Context/Existing Conditions
The FARM project will be located on approximately 35 acres of land between Del Obispo Street
and Alipaz Street, north of Via Positiva in the city of San Juan Capistrano. (Assessor’s Parcel
Numbers 121-182-53 and 121-182-17). See Exhibit II-1: Adjacent Land Uses.
Exhibit II-1: Adjacent Land Uses
The Specific Plan area is located in an area characterized by Public and Institutional land uses
including:
• Assisted living facility (Del Obispo Terrace, 32200 Del Obispo St.),
• Church complexes (Mariners Church Ocean Hills, 32222 Del Obispo St. and Community
Presbyterian Church, 32202 Del Obispo St.)
• Public and private schools (Marco Forester Middle School, 25601 Camino Del Avion,
Del Obispo Elementary School, 25591 Camino Del Avion, Kinoshita Elementary School,
2 Via Positiva, Community Presbyterian Preschool, 32202 Del Obispo St., and Heart
Christian Academy, 32222 Del Obispo St.)
Specific
Plan Area
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-7
55386.00001\8755767.7
In addition, the area includes many types of Residential land uses (very low, low, medium, and
high density uses in the form of single family detached, a mobile home park (Rancho Alipaz
Mobile Home Park, 32371 Alipaz St.), and multi-family apartments (Valle Plaza Apartments,
32552 Alipaz St.)).
The surrounding area also includes publicly owned land consisting of the San Juan Capistrano
Community Center and Sports Park (25925 Camino del Avion) which carries a Community Park
land use designation and South Coast Farms (32701 Alipaz St.), a private farm and retail
operator currently leasing land acquired by the City in 1990. This property includes the noted
Ecology Center. South Coast Farms carries an Agri-Business land use designation.
The Specific Plan area currently consists as vacant land with both paved and unpaved surfaces.
No portions of the Specific Plan area remain undisturbed, in a natural condition.
See Exhibit I-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Conditions.
A Phase I Assessment, conducted on the Specific Plan area, did not reveal evidence of any
recognized environmental conditions or environmental concerns (“Phase I Environmental Site
Assessment: Vermeulen Ranch Center”, April 2013, prepared by GeoTek, Inc.).
II.2. Land Use Plan
The FARM project contains two defining elements. First, it provides up to 180 new residences
of varying sizes and styles.
See Exhibit II-2: Land Use Plan.
The Specific Plan is designed to provide an integrated project with new single family housing
and convenient access to retail and recreational uses. The plan, for The FARM, includes a large
walking path, through the community, leading to the Ecology Center.
See Exhibit II-116: Landscaping Plan for locations of passive and active open space and
recreation uses.
The Specific Plan and subsequent subdivision development plan are designed to significantly
upgrade the site’s hydrology and water quality by reducing storm flows to pre-development
levels through detention and other measures designed to comply with state-of-the-art storm water
and water quality regulations, all as described in Section III.3 of the Specific Plan. The Specific
Plan also includes water conservation features, including “purple pipes” available for use of
reclaimed water, when available and as part of the subdivision development approvals.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-8
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-2: Land Use Plan
The FARM will be designed in a Classic California Spanish style and or styling consistent with
an agricultural theme in keeping with San Juan Capistrano’s landmark architectural heritage.
The individual components of The FARM are described in greater detail below.
See Exhibit II-3: Land Use Area Diagram.
Final Land Use Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-9
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-3: Land Use Area Diagram
Final Land Use Area Diagram
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-10
55386.00001\8755767.7
II.3. Grading Plan
The FARM Specific Plan Area is located near the Newport-Inglewood (offshore) and San
Joaquin Hills faults, as zoned under the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act 1974- 2007,
and is considered a seismically active region of Southern California. However, the Hazard Zone
Maps for the Dana Point quadrangle indicate that the Specific Plan Area is not located within a
zone susceptible to earthquake-induced landslides.
Topographically, the site is relatively flat with a slight slope to the east/southeast and a few
minor slopes existing within and adjacent to the site.
Exhibit II-94: Grading Plan for the Specific Plan Area shows an overall grading area of
approximately 35 acres.
Construction of water quality features such as planting media for bioswales and select gravel for
infiltration areas will be part of the later subdivision development application approvals.
Implementation of the Grading Plan includes approval of a Grading Plan Modification, since
existing grades will be altered by more than two feet.
Exhibit II-4: Grading Plan
Final Grading Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-11
55386.00001\8755767.7
II.4. Lighting and Landscaping Plans
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting for The FARM project will include normal residential lighting features that
includes downward directed and shielded lights.
Exhibit II-105: Lighting Plan, as part of the subdivision development approval will include
lighting that will be shielded, recessed, or directed downward so that it is contained within The
FARM Specific Plan Area, to the extent possible. The lighting fixtures will be selected to
prevent glare and spillover onto adjacent properties and to minimize lighting of the night sky.
The FARM project will incorporate energy efficient lighting technologies. Landscape accent
lights will be utilized to highlight landscape focal points, the community trail and on-site
directional monument signs. Locations of exterior lights will comply with the City of San Juan
Capistrano’s safety standards and Sec. 9-3.529.
Exhibit II-5: Lighting Plan
Landscaping
The project landscaping will enhance the aesthetic character of The FARM Specific Plan area.
Final Lighting Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-12
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-116: Landscape Plan will identify and develop open space areas, trails and uses for
residents to conveniently access and enjoy passive and active outdoor amenities.
The plant palette for the Landscape Plan will include drought-tolerant native and adapted plant
species suitable to the San Juan Capistrano climate. The landscape design will include drought-
tolerant, low- to moderate-water-use plants which meet the City of San Juan Capistrano’s Water
Efficient Landscape Guidelines (Ordinance 966) and Sec. 9-3.527.
Landscaping for The FARM will include a range of conservation and sustainability features
including:
1. Utilization of "smart" weather-based irrigation controllers.
2. Exclusion of landscape materials that are listed on the Invasive Plant Inventory of
the California Invasive Plant Council.
3. Inclusion of California or Mediterranean Species requiring occasional or little
watering.
4. Utilization of bubblers or low-flow sprinklers for all non-turf areas.
Exhibit II-6: Landscaping Plan
Final Landscaping Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-13
55386.00001\8755767.7
The landscaping for the The Farm Road, Agriculture Perimeter, Entry Monumentation and Parks
all play an important role in establishing the character and quality of the overall feel of the The
Farm landscape. Each landscape component will contribute to the overall unity of the landscape
character. To achieve the seamless integration of landscape materials throughout the entire
Community several Landscape Zones have will be been defined as part of a future development
application. Each landscape zone will define areas of similar landscape visual character and
planting design. A plant palette has will be been established for each zone.
The Farm Road:
The streetscapes are a critical component in establishing the character of the community and
neighborhoods and help to define the public realm. The selection of plant material is intended to
promote walkability and pedestrian activity through tree lined streets and parkways that vary in
width to create a more natural setting. The parkways will be rural in character and open in
appearance. Groupings of large scale trees with drought tolerant shrubs, groundcovers and
ornamental grasses will be reminiscent of the community’s rural nature.
Primary Street Trees: located closest to the street and provides each roadway with its scale and
form. Spacing is 30’ on-center maximum and drought tolerant when established.
Shrubs: used in landscape easements and medians to soften the ground plane and visually link all
landscape materials. Large massings of singular type shrubs will be selected according to maturity
size, color, texture and seasonal interest and will be placed to not obstruct important pedestrian or
vehicular sightlines or threaten the safety of pedestrians. Low growing shrubs will be used in
combination with groundcovers and grasses in the medians, parkways and behind sidewalks
Shrubssidewalks Shrubs will be selected for their drought tolerant characteristics.
Groundcovers and ornamental grasses: drought tolerant groundcover species and grasses,
including park turf will be low water usage types.
44’
20’
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-14
55386.00001\8755767.7
Trees - minimum 24” box size:
Parkway:
Citrus species Citrus
Schinus molle California Pepper
Background Tree:
Citrus species Citrus
Eucalyptus maculata Spotted Gum
Harvest Park and Community Trail:
Harvest Park, centrally located adjacent to The Farm Road provides a safe and comfortable
public realm where people can enjoy their surroundings and a logical natural “green
infrastructure”... The Park & Community Trail creates places to relax, foster community
interaction and provides opportunities for continuing environmental education. Harvest Park
creates an identity and sense of place as well as provide visual breaks within the built
neighborhoods. These less formal landscaped space will be open and large enough to
accommodate a variety of passive to informal active uses including a tot lot. Facilities in this
Park are not intended to provide active recreation to resident beyond The Farm Specific Plan
area. The Community Trail consist of widened open space corridor with landscaping and a Class
I multi-use trail that will provide a linkage throughout the community. In addition to the Trail
other informal recreation activities such as picnic tables and seating areas may occur.
Harvest Park Trees- minimum 24” box size:
Arbutus ‘Marina’ Strawberry Tree
Lagerstroenia indica Crape Myrtle
Olea europaea Olive
Pinus eldarica Afghan Pine
Pistacia chinensis Chinese Pistache
Platanus a. ‘Bloodgood’ London Plane Tree
Platanus racemosa Western Sycamore
Quercus agrifolia CA. Live Oak
Rhus lancea African Sumac
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-15
55386.00001\8755767.7
The Farm Entry:
The Community Entries will create a strong community design through the use of landscape
materials and streetscape design elements. These design elements include large massing of
singular plantings, low stone walls, signage and logo for identification, street lighting, hardscape
and landscape treatments.
Trees- minimum 24” box size:
Olea europaea ‘wilsoni’ Fruitless Olive
Eucalyptus maculata Spotted Gum
Pinus eldarica Afghan Pine
Agriculture Perimeter:
The Agriculture Perimeter is at the perimeter of the site and creates
a generous landscape buffer to the public realm as well reinforces
the community identity.
Trees- minimum 24” box size:
Citrus species Citrus – 2 rows
Lyonothamnus floribundus Catalina Ironwood
Pinus eldarica Afghan Pine
Tristania conferta Brisbane Box
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-16
55386.00001\8755767.7
II.5. Phasing Plan for Development
The FARM project will be constructed in phases (See Exhibit II-12: Phasing Plan):
1. The size of Phase 1 may be adjusted upward based on pre-sales. The majority of
the community amenities, such as the traversing Ecology Trail, will be
constructed in Phase 1. It is anticipated that construction of Phase 1 will occur
over an approximately one to two-year period. All mass grading, backbone utility
installations and off-site infrastructure enhancements associated with The FARM
project will be completed in connection with the construction of Phase 1.
2. Phase 2 includes the remainder of the project’s residences. Construction of Phase
2 is expected to occur over an approximately 18-60 month period.
Exhibit II-7: Phasing Plan
The FARM Specific Plan
Section II: Project Description/Land Use and Grading Plan
II-17
55386.00001\8755767.7
Final Phasing Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-18
55386.00001\8755767.7
III. Circulation and Infrastructure
III.1. Circulation and Parking
Vehicular Circulation
Regional Access to The FARM is provided by the San Diego Freeway (I-5) which bisects the
City of San Juan Capistrano in a north/south direction. I-5 connects to the San Joaquin Hills
Transportation Corridor (SR-73) in an east/west direction in the northern portion of the City.
Ortega Highway (SR-74) extends in an east/west direction, north of The FARM project, and
Pacific Coast Highway (1) extends in an east/west direction south of the project site.
See Exhibit III-1: Regional Circulation.
Exhibit III-1: Regional Circulation
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-19
55386.00001\8755767.7
Local access to the project site is provided by Del Obispo Street and Alipaz Street. Del Obispo
Street (from Ortega Highway to the City’s southwestern boundary) is designated as a Secondary
Arterial roadway by the City of San Juan Capistrano General Plan. Alipaz Street (west of
Camino Capistrano) is also designated as a Secondary Arterial roadway.
See Exhibit III-2: Local Circulation. The General Plan Circulation Element (p. 12-13) defines
a Secondary Arterial as:
Typically constructed within a right-of-way of 80 feet with a curb-
to-curb pavement width of 64 feet. These four-lane undivided
roadways serve as collectors, distributing traffic between local
streets and four-lane divided arterials. The maximum capacity of
this roadway is 22,500 average daily trips and 2,250 peak hour
trips.
The FARM project includes two entrances. The primary entrance is located on Del Obispo
Street, directly across from the primary entrance to the new Oliva housing development by New
Home Company. The project includes the installation of a new traffic signal at the new four-leg
primary intersection of Del Obispo Street/Via Pimienta – Project Driveway. The secondary, but
equal entrance, is located on Via Positiva with a direct access then located on Alipaz Street,
where a signalized intersection now exists.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-20
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-2: Local Circulation
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-21
55386.00001\8755767.7
Pedestrian Circulation
Pedestrian access within The FARM project includes XXX6-foot-wide lighted pedestrian
walkways throughout the site and designated crossing areas and a 20-foot wide multi-use trail.
As shown in Exhibit III-3, Pedestrian Circulation, these walkways connect the residences
In addition to convenient onsite pedestrian access, the project site is located within a short walk
of City trails, the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, Sports Park, Ecology Center and the
existing retail center located immediately southwest of The FARM project.
The Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) provides transit service to the Specific Plan site.
Existing bus routes are located in the vicinity of the project site including a bus line stop located
within one quarter mile of The FARM project.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-22
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-3: Pedestrian Circulation
Final Pedestrian Circulation
Plan
at the time a Development
Application is submittedto
be provided with Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-23
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-4: Exhibit III-4 Parking
Final Parking Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-24
55386.00001\8755767.7
III.2. Water and Sewer Service
Water Service Plan
The FARM project site, as with the majority of the City of San Juan Capistrano, receives
domestic water service from the City of San Juan Capistrano Utilities Department.
See Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan. Dexter Wilson Engineering, Inc. prepared an ‘Overview of
Potable Water Service for the Spieker/Vermeulen property in the City of San Juan Capistrano’
on February 4, 2014. That plan shows the existing infrastructure available to future housing.
See Exhibit-III-6: Water Quality Management Plan. The Specific Plan and subsequent
subdivision development plans will include installation of “purple pipes” available for use of
reclaimed water, when available.
The Project may include up to three connections made to the existing 10” public water lines that
are owned and operated by the City of San Juan Capistrano and are located in Del Obispo Street
and Via Positiva. The existing water system can support the maximum expected fire flow of
3,000 gpm for the proposed project.
The onsite potable water distribution system will be part of the improvements and plans
contained in the approvals of the subdivision maps. The onsite potable water system is a public
system constructed to the standards of the City of San Juan Capistrano. The on-site potable
water service system will include 8” and 12” water distribution piping looped in a way that
ensures reliability and redundancy for the water supply system. Ten inch piping will not be used
as the City of San Juan Capistrano no longer accepts this pipe size.
Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan
Final Utility Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-25
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-6: Water Quality Management Plan
Sewer Service Plan
The City provides sewer service to the project site via backbone collection and conveyance
systems. See Exhibit III-7: Sewer Plan and Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan. Dexter Wilson
Engineering, Inc. prepared an ‘Overview of Sewer Service for the Spieker CCRC” plan in the
City of San Juan Capistrano’ on January 29, 2014.
The existing sewer infrastructure near The FARM project includes a City of San Juan Capistrano
8” gravity sewer in Via Positiva on the south side of the project. This existing line runs east
along Via Positiva and connects to an 18” trunk line in Alipaz Street. The 18” gravity sewer line
flows south on Alipaz until it connects with a 21” line running along San Juan Creek. This line
continues south adjacent to San Juan Creek until it is disposed of at the SOCWA Jay B. Latham
Regional Treatment Plant in the City of Dana Point.
The onsite sewer system for The FARM project is planned to collect sewer flows within the site
and convey them toward the southeast entrance. This configuration follows the general slope of
the topography and minimizes the offsite connection to a single location at Via Positiva. Since
the minimum gravity sewer line size for the City is 8” diameter, most of the sewer collection
system will be this size.
Final Water Quality
Management Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-26
55386.00001\8755767.7
Eight-inch (8”) gravity sewer lines are adequate for the onsite collection system up to the final
segment exiting the site. The last segment is expected to be 10” in diameter in order to meet the
City’s flow depth design criteria, as described below. The onsite sewer collection system flows,
depth of flow, and sizing will be a part of the final design of the onsite improvements for the
subsequent subdivision development plans for up to the 180 homes.
Exhibit III-7: Sewer Plan
Final Sewer Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-27
55386.00001\8755767.7
III.3. Drainage Plan – Hydrology and Water Quality
Hydrology
The City maintains storm drainage collection and conveyance facilities within the City.
Regional flood control facilities (e.g. Horno Creek, San Juan Creek) are maintained both by the
City and the Orange County Flood Control District.
Three major creeks traverse through the City to the east of the Specific Plan area: San Juan
Creek, Trabuco Creek, and Oso Creek. In addition, a tributary to San Juan Creek, Horno Creek,
is also located east of The FARM Specific Plan area. The Specific Plan Area is not located
within a flood hazard area, as identified on the United States Federal Emergency Management
Agency’s (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map. Surface runoff and flows from the City are
directed into San Juan Creek before being discharged into the Pacific Ocean to the south.
A Hydrology Study was prepared for the Spieker CCRC development (Charles Hartman &
Associates, November 2013). The hydrology calculations contained within the Hydrology Study
were performed using the 1986 Orange County Flood Control District Hydrology Manual. An
updated Hydrology study will be done for the development subdivision plan
See Exhibit III-8: Hydrology Study.
Natural drainage at the site is generally toward the southeast, conforming to the natural
topography on and surrounding the project site.
Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan shows on-site drainage patterns, as well as the existing and proposed
drainage system for The FARM Specific Plan area.
The site outfalls to an existing 78” drain line located in Alipaz Street at the southeast corner of
the site. The Specific Plan area lies within Flood Zone X as designated by current FEMA Map
(No. 06059C0506J). Post-development drainage patterns will substantially conform to the pre-
development pattern. The Specific Plan area slopes to the southeast from Del Obispo Street at
elevation 112 to Alipaz Street at elevation 68.
Proposed storm flows exiting the site will be reduced to pre-development levels using
appropriate facilities located near the downstream end of the storm drain system. An
underground circular detention tank will be installed. This system will detain the peak flow
while releasing flow at a rate equal to or less than the pre-development flow by the use of an
orifice sized to release the required flow. The released flow will then be conveyed to the existing
storm system at Alipaz Street and Via Positiva.
See Exhibit III-6: Water Quality Management Plan.
The Specific Plan area has emergency overflow available to the current drainage outlet located at
the southwest corner of the project at Alipaz Street.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-28
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-8: Hydrology Study
Final Hydrology Study
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submittedwith Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Section III: Circulation and Infrastructure
III-29
55386.00001\8755767.7
Water Quality
A “Preliminary Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for San Juan Capistrano CCRC” was
prepared in November 2013 by Charles Hartman and Associates. See Exhibit III-6: Water
Quality Management Plan. It was prepared to comply with the requirements of the City of San
Juan Capistrano’s Local Implementation Plan and Water Quality Ordinance, as well as the
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit, Order R9-2009-0002 which requires the
preparation of a project WQMP for priority development projects (a designation which applies to
The FARM project).
The earlier WQMP identified a combination of Best Management Practices (BMPs) which
includes Low Impact Development (LID) Site Design, Source Control and Treatment Control
measures to be implemented for The FARM project and will be further detailed in an updated
WQMP prepared as part of the subdivision development application. These proposed design and
control measures will employ a multi-level strategy consisting of: 1) reducing or eliminating
post-project runoff; 2) controlling sources of pollutants; and 3) treating storm water runoff before
discharging it to the storm drain system or to receiving waters.
The proposed project will minimize impervious areas by providing large landscaped areas
including a small park and the traversing trail system. The streets, sidewalks and parking areas
will be constructed to the minimum widths necessary.
III.4. Utility Service
Electrical service to the City of San Juan Capistrano is provided by San Diego Gas & Electric
(SDG&E) through a grid of transmission lines and related facilities. Natural gas is also provided
by SDG&E, which maintains a local system of transmission lines, distribution lines, and supply
regulation stations.
The City contracts with CR&R, a private waste hauler, to collect and dispose of the solid waste
generated within the City, which is collected and transported to one of the three regional landfills
operated and maintained by OC Waste and Recycling. The FARM project utilizes the following
practices with respect to its Waste Management Plan:
Waste is classified as both recycled and non-recycled with a targeted diversion rate exceeding
50%. Each home will have separate cans for recycled and non-recycled trash. Cans are emptied
once a week on regularly scheduled pick-ups with the local provider using standard trash trucks.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-30
55386.00001\8755767.7
IV. Development Standards/Regulations
IV.1. Introduction
The Specific Plan/Precise Plan (SP/PP) District regulations included in this Chapter are adopted
pursuant to Section 9-3.317 of Title 9 of the San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code (Land Use
Code.) The purpose of the land use regulations is to define permitted uses, development
standards and other zoning regulations for The FARM project.
In cases where a land use or a development regulation is not addressed in this Chapter, the
appropriate section of the Land Use Code shall govern. In cases of conflict between a land use
or a development regulation in this Chapter, and the Land Use Code, this Chapter shall prevail.
IV.2. General Provisions
The following land use regulations specify permitted land uses and development standards
including lot size, setbacks, building heights and floor area ratio.
The Planning Director shall have the authority to review proposed land uses that are not listed in
the land use regulations. The Planning Director may then determine that a proposed unlisted use
may be permitted if the proposed use:
• Is compatible with the purpose and intent of the subject land use district;
• Is of a nature that is comparable to the principal, temporary or conditional uses permitted
in the subject land use district; and,
• Will not be detrimental to property in the vicinity of the proposed use.
IV.3. Zone District Established
The following zone district is hereby established for regulating development and land uses:
Specific Plan/Precise Plan District (SP/PP). The SP/PP zone district is consistent with the City’s
General Plan as demonstrated in Appendix A of this Specific Plan.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-31
55386.00001\8755767.7
IV.4. Use Regulations
The purpose of the use regulations is to specify the allowable uses, including any qualifying
descriptions or definitions and requirements for conditional use permits, accessory uses, and
temporary use permits.
(a) PRINCIPAL USES AND STRUCTURES PERMITTED
(b) TEMPORARY/PERIODIC USES AND STRUCTURES PERMITTED
(1) Temporary real estate offices and signs, subject to the requirements of the
applicable section(s) of the Land Use Code
(2) Temporary construction facilities, including trailers, subject to the
requirements of the applicable section(s) of the Land Use Code.
IV.5. Development Standards
Table 4-2 specifies the development standards for the The FARM.
Single –Family -4,000 (RS-4,000) District for The FARM
The purpose and intent of the Single-Family-4,000 (RS-4,000) District is to provide for the establishment
and regulation of residential areas developed with single-family detached dwellings, all on individual lots
owned and maintained by the individual homeowners.
Table 4-1 identifies the uses permitted in the Single-Family-4,000 (RS-4,000),
Used listed as conditionally permitted uses are subject to the review requirements and conditions
contained in Section 9-2.315 of the San Juan Capistrano Zoning code. Accessory uses are subject to the
review requirements and conditions contained in Section 9-3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures.
The “notes and exceptions” column of Table XXX 4-1 indicates more precisely the use regulations for
specific uses or operating characteristics. The notes and exceptions must be reviewed in conjunction with
the other information for the class of use.
Certain permitted and conditional permitted uses may be subject to special conditions regarding location,
operation, or the design of use. The sections of this title governing these uses are identified in the “notes
and exceptions” column of Table 4-1.
Table 4-1
Uses in the RS-4000 Residential District
(please refer to the end of the table for notes)
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-32
55386.00001\8755767.7
Use RS-
4,000 Notes and Exceptions
Accessory dwelling unit (single-family) P
Accessory uses and structures incidental to the operation of a
permitted use A
Alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment residential facilities
that are licensed by the State for a maximum of 6 or fewer persons P See California Health and Safety
Code §§ 11834.02 and 11834.23.
Animal grazing, breeding, boarding, and training __
Animal raising (noncommercial) __
Apiaries —
Bed and breakfast establishments C Subject to Section 9-3.509, Bed and
Breakfasts.
Boarding and rooming houses, long-term —
Boarding and rooming houses, short-term —
Cemeteries C
Church, religious, or fraternal C
Includes synagogues, temples,
mosques, and other buildings used for
the purposes herein but excludes day
care centers, and private and/or
secondary educational facilities.
Community care facilities that are licensed by the State for a
maximum of 6 or fewer persons P See California Health and Safety
Code § 1502(a)(1)—(18).
Crop and tree farming —
Day care centers — See California Health and Safety
Code § 1596.76.
Equestrian facilities (communal) C a. Must be in conjunction with a
subdivision.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-33
55386.00001\8755767.7
Use RS-
4,000 Notes and Exceptions
b. Subject to Section 9-3.515,
Equestrian Standards.
Family day care homes, large C
Family day care homes, small P
Home businesses A Subject to Section 9-3.523, Home
Business.
Horse keeping (noncommercial) —
Horse stables and equestrian centers (commercial) —
Hotels —
Kennels (commercial) —
Kennels (noncommercial) —
Manufactured and modular homes on a permanent foundation
system P
Mining, oil drilling, and other resource extraction C Includes necessary incidental buildings
and appurtenances.
Mobilehome parks —
Parks (public and private) P
Plant nurseries and storage —
Public buildings and facilities P
a. Includes public schools, museums,
libraries, governmental buildings,
parks, fire stations, public utility
offices and exchanges, bus, and
railroad stations.
b. Excludes police stations and
hospitals.
Recreation and community centers (noncommercial public and
private) A
a. Tennis courts and other outdoor
recreational uses within such centers
shall conform to the requirements of
Sections 9-3.501, Accessory Uses and
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-34
55386.00001\8755767.7
Use RS-
4,000 Notes and Exceptions
Structures, and 9-3.529, Lighting
Standards.
b. The outdoor night lighting of tennis
courts and other recreational uses shall
not be permitted unless a conditional
use permit is approved by the City.
Recycling facilities —
Residential dwellings (detached SFD) P
Residential dwellings (attached SFD) —
Residential dwelling units (duplex, two-family) —
Residential dwelling units (multiple-family, apartments and
cooperatives) —
Residential dwelling units (multiple-family, townhouses, condos) —
Residential dwelling (temporary) A
Allowed during the construction of a
permanent single-family residence on
an individual lot in accordance with the
provisions of Section 9-3.553,
Temporary Uses and Structures.
Swimming schools, tennis clubs and schools, and similar activities —
Tennis/sport courts, swimming pools, and similar improvements on
individual residential lots C
a. The requirements of Sections 9-
3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures,
and 9-3.529, Lighting Standards.
b. The outdoor night lighting of such
tennis courts or other recreational uses
shall not be permitted unless a
conditional use permit is approved by
the City.
P = Principal use permitted by right
— = Not permitted
A = Accessory use permitted by right (subject to Section 9-3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures)
C = Conditional use permit required (subject to Section 9-2.317, Conditional Use Permit)
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-35
55386.00001\8755767.7
Use RS-4000 Notes and Exceptions Accessory use and structures incidental to the
operation of a permitted use A Alcoholism recovery residential facilities (for 6
or fewer persons) P Child day care centers C Church, religious or fraternal
C Includes synagogues, temples,
mosques, and other buildings used
for the purposes herein but excludes
day care centers and private and/or
secondary educational facilities Equestrian facilities (communal)
C
A. Must be in conjunction with
subdivision.
B. Subject to Section 9-3, 515,
Equestrian Standards.
Family care homes (for 14 or fewer children)
P
Home business
A
Subject to Section 9-3, 523 Home
Business
Manufactured and modular homes on a
permanent foundation system
P
Manufactured or modular structures
shall not be permitted in the MDR-
4,000 District. Where permitted
both types of structures shall be
subject to the design guidelines of
subsections ( c ), Development
Standards of this section.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-36
55386.00001\8755767.7
Parks (public and private) P Public buildings and facilities
p
A. Includes public schools,
museums, libraries, government
buildings, parks, fire stations, public
utility offices and exchanges.
B. Excludes police stations and
hospitals. Recreation and community centers (non-
commercial public and private)
A
A. Tennis courts and other outdoor
recreational uses within such centers
shall conform to the requirements of
Sections 9-3.501. Accessory Uses
and Structures and 9-3.529, Lighting
standards.
B. The outdoor night lighting of
tennis courts and other recreations
uses shall not be permitted unless a
conditional use permit is approved
by the City. Residential care facilities (6 or fewer persons)
P
Residential care facilities (over 6 persons)
P
Residential dwellings (detached SFPD)
P
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-37
55386.00001\8755767.7
Residential dwelling (temporary)
A
Allowed during construction of a
permanent single-family residence
or an individual lot in accordance
with the provisions of Section 9-
3.553, Temporary Uses and
Structures. Secondary dwelling unit (single-family)
A
Subject to Section 9-3.501,
Accessory Uses and Structures
Tennis/sports courts, swimming pools, and
similar improvements on individual residential
lots
C
A. The requirements of Sections 9-
3.501, Accessory Uses and
Structures, and 9-3.529, Lighting
Standards.
B. The outdoor night lighting of
such tennis courts or other
recreational uses shall not be
permitted unless a conditional use
permit is approved by the City.
*Other uses may be allow in the District with a conditional use permit if they are deemed by the
Planning Commission to be compatible with the existing or proposed residential use.
P= Principal use permitted by right
A= Accessory use permitted by right (subject to Section 9-3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures)
C= Conditional use permit required (subject to Section 9.2.317, Conditional Use Permit)
( c ) Development standards
( 1 ) Table 4-2 identifies the development standards for the Single Family-4,000 (RS-4,000),
Table 4-2
Development Standards for Residential District
One
Story1
One
Story1
One
Story1
One
Story1
Two
Story1
Two
Story1
Two
Story1
Two
Story1
Two
Story1
District Max.
Density
Min. Lot
Area
Min.
Street
Frontage
Min.
Front
Yard2,3
Min.
Side
Yard2,4,5
Min. Rear
Yard2,6,7,
Max. Lot
Coverage
Ratio
Min.
Front
Yard2,3
Min.
Side
Yard2,4,5
Min. Rear
Yard2,6,7,
Max. Lot
Coverage
ratio8
Max.
2nd
floor/1st
floor
ratio
Bldg. Hgt.
RS-4,0009,10,11 8 du/ac 4,000 sq.
ft. 50 ft. 18 ft. 5 ft. 16 ft. 0.50 20 ft. 10-5 ft. 20 ft. 0.35 80% 35 ft.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-38
55386.00001\8755767.7
Max. = Maximum, Min. = Minimum, DU = Dwelling Unit, Yd. = Yard, Bldg. = Building, and Hgt. = Height
Notes:
1 All new residential projects shall incorporate a combination of one- and two-story units adjacent to all master planned arterial streets, with
at least 20% of the total project units being one story.
2 The criteria for measuring setbacks on irregularly shaped and cul-de-sac lots are set forth in Section 9-4.315, Irregular and Cul-de-sac
Lots.
3 The setback for garages shall maintain the minimum setbacks for the district. For those residential districts that allow a minimum front
yard of 18 feet or less, a minimum setback of 18 feet from the front property line shall be maintained for the garage. If the garage is a side entry,
the front yard setback may be reduced to a minimum of 10 feet. However, in no instance shall side entry garages using this standard exceed 20%
of the total units for the residential project.
4 Architectural projections may extend into required side yards no more than 40%, or more than 3 feet whichever is greater.
5 Minimum exterior side yards shall not be less than 10 feet for all districts.
6 On lots with an existing building setback encroachment into a required side or rear yard, structural additions having the same said
encroachment shall be permitted without the approval of a variance. However, no new encroachment in excess of that existing, nor any new
encroachment may be permitted without the approval of a variance (see Section 9-3.533, Nonconforming Uses, Lots, and Structures).
Notwithstanding the preceding, any side setback encroachments for dwellings within the Capistrano Garden Homes 2 project area shall require a
variance or an exception.
7 Open patios may extend up to a minimum of 5 feet from rear property lines pursuant to Section 9-3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures.
8 The overall building square footage for the primary structure shall not exceed that using the floor area ratio. For the purposes of
calculating overall square footage, open volume ceilings that include second story area shall be included as square footage as if a second floor has
been installed; said area shall include garage and enclosed porches.
9 All front, side, and exterior side architectural elevations shall be fully articulated with the integration of details and materials consistent with
the approved architectural style of the unit for residential subdivision.
10 Single-family Design Standards. In all districts where single-family dwellings (site-built, modular, or manufactured home) are permitted,
such dwellings shall be subject to the development standards for that district as well as the following requirements:
(a) The minimum width of the residential dwelling shall be 20 feet outside dimension measured to the building line. For the purposes of this
section, the width shall be distinguished from the length of the building as the dimension having the lesser measurement;
(b) The exterior sides shall be covered with wood, stucco, masonry, or other material of similar texture and durability. Metal siding shall not
be permitted;
(c) The roof material shall be wood shingle or shake, slate, tile, or other material of similar appearance, texture, substance, and durability;
(d) Roof eaves and gables shall be no less than 12 inches, measured from the vertical side of the unit, unless otherwise approved by the
Planning Commission. The preceding criteria shall be administered by either the Planning Director or Planning Commission, depending on which
is responsible for reviewing specific residential projects or custom homes prior to plan check.
11 Projects that propose 7,000 square foot lots or less shall provide private common recreational facilities equal to 250 square feet per unit. In
addition, the minimum setback from a master planned arterial street shall be 25 feet as measured from the ultimate right-of-way. A homeowner
association shall be created to maintain all the recreational facilities and landscaping and to assume other responsibilities as appropriate. The
organization, legal authority, duties, and obligations for such homeowner association shall be set forth in a set of Codes, Covenants, and
Restrictions (CC&R) to be approved by the Planning Commission and recorded with the final tract map. Such CC&R shall incorporate provisions
for the City to take over or otherwise provide for the maintenance of all the recreational facilities, landscaping, and common areas should the City
determine that adequate maintenance is not being performed.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-39
55386.00001\8755767.7
One Story One Story
One
Story
One
Story
Two
Story
Two
Story
Two
Story Two Story Two Story
District Max.
Density
Min.
Lot
Area
Min.
Street
Front-
age
Min. Front
Yard
Min. Side
Yard
Min.
Rear
Yard
Max. Lot
Cover-
age Ratio
Min.
Front
Yard
Min.
Side
Yard
Min.
Rear
Yard
Max. Lot
Coverage Ratio
Max. 2nd
floor/1st floor
ratio
Bldg.
Hgt.
RS-4,000
10,11,14 8 du/ac 4,000
sq.ft. 50 ft. 18 ft. 5 ft. 16 ft. 0.5 20 ft. 10-5 ft. 20 ft. 0% 80% 35 ft.
Note: Max = Maximum, Min = Minimum, DU= Dwelling Unit, Yd = Yard, Bldg. = Building and Hgt. =
Height
1. All new residential projects shall incorporate a combination of one- and two-story units
adjacent to all master planned arterial streets, with at least 10 percent of the total project units
being one story.
2. Lots with street frontages below the minimum set forth in this table may be permitted without
the approval of a variance if all of the following conditions are met.
(a) The lot’s street frontage remains a minimum of 20 feet;
(b) The lot is designed such that the reduced width portion constitutes an access corridor to the
buildable portion, which is set back away from the street;
(c) The minimum width of the buildable portion of the lot conforms to the requirements of the
table; and
(d) The Planning Commission determines that adequate visitor parking will be provided on the
lot to compensate for the loss of street frontage parking.
The actual creation of reduced frontage lots shall be subject to normal City approval of required tract or
parcel maps. Reduced frontage portion of such lots shall not be included in the computation of lot area
(see Section 9-4.315, Irregular and Cul-de-sac Lots).
3. The criteria for measuring setbacks on irregularly shaped and cul-de-sac lots are set forth in
Section 9-4.315, Irregular and Cul-de-sac Lots.
4. The setback for garages shall maintain the minimum setbacks for the district. For those
residential districts that allow a minimum front yard of 18 feet or less, a minimum setback of 18
feet from the front property line shall be maintained for the garage. If the garage is a side entry,
the front yard setback may be reduced to a minimum of 10 feet. However, in no instance shall
side entry garages using the standard exceed 20% of the total units for the residential project.
In the MRD-4,000 District, garages shall comply with Section 9-3.310 (C) (2) of these regulations.
5. Architectural projections may extend into required side yards no more than 40% of the
applicable district requirement, or more than 3 feet, whichever is greater.
6. Minimum exterior side yards shall not be less than 10 feet.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-40
55386.00001\8755767.7
7. In the RS-4000, open patios may extend up to a minimum of 5 feet from rear property lines
pursuant to Section9-3.501, Accessory Uses and Structures.
8. The overall building square footage for the primary structure shall not exceed that using the
floor area ratio. For the purposes of calculating overall square footage, open volume ceilings
that include second story area shall be included as square footage as if a second floor has been
installed said area shall include garage and enclosed porches.
9. All front, side, and exterior side architectural elevations shall be fully articulated with the
integration of details and materials consistent with the approved architectural style of the unit
for residential subdivision.
10. Single-family Design Standards. In all districts where single-family dwellings (site-built, modular,
or manufactured home) are permitted, such dwellings shall be subject to the development
standards for that district as well as the following requirements:
(a) The minimum width of the residential dwelling shall be 20 feet outside dimension measured
to the building line. For the purposes of this section, the width shall be distinguished from
the length of the building as the dimension having the lesser measurement.
(b) The exterior sides shall be covered with wood, stucco, masonry, or other material of similar
texture and durability. Metal siding shall not be permitted.
(c) The roof material shall be wood shingle or shake, slate, tile, or other material of similar
appearance, texture, substance and durability;
(d) Roof eaves and gables shall be no less than 12 inches, measured from the vertical side of the
unit, unless otherwise approved by the Planning Commission. The preceding criteria shall
be administered by either the Planning Director or Planning Commission, depending on
which is responsible for reviewing specific residential projects or custom homes prior to plan
check.
Projects that proposes 7,000 square foot lots or less shall provide private common recreational facilities
equal to 250 square feet per unit. In addition, the minimum setback from a master planned arterial
street shall be 25 feet as measured from the ultimate right-of-way. A homeowner association shall be
created to maintain all the recreational facilities and landscaping and to assume other responsibilities as
appropriate. The organization, legal authority, duties, and obligations for such homeowner association
shall be set forth in a set of Codes, Covenants and Restrictions (CC&R) to be approved by the Planning
Commission and recorded with the final tract map. Such CC&R shall incorporate provisions for the City
to take over or otherwise provide for the maintenance of all recreational facilities, landscaping, and
common areas should the City determine the adequate maintenance is not being performed.
Development review. Project proposed within the Single-Family-4,000(RS-4000 The Farm Specific Plan),
shall be subject to applicable review procedures as set forth in Article 3 Development Review
Procedures of Chapter 2 of the San Juan Capistrano Zoning Code. .
Supplementary district and temporary use regulations. For sign, parking, fence, swimming pool, and
similar regulations for the The Farm Specific Plan Single-Family-4,000 (RS-4,000) see Article 5
Supplementary District Regulations of the Zoning Code.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-41
55386.00001\8755767.7
Development of the Specific Plan is also subject to all the mitigation Measures of the
Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) adoted for the Specific Plan.
V. Design Guidelines
V.1. Introduction and Applicability
The City of San Juan Capistrano Design Guidelines (dated September 1, 2003) include detailed
design guidelines for a range of land use types, including residential, commercial and industrial.
The adopted City of San Juan Capistrano Design Guidelines address the land uses associated
with The FARM project. The adopted Design Guidelines were reviewed, and applicable
guidelines contained therein are provided below. In some cases the text of the guideline(s)
below does not match verbatim the text of the guideline(s) contained in the adopted City of San
Juan Capistrano Design Guidelines, as amended and augmented to address the single family
residential uses of The FARM.
The intent of the following design guidelines for The FARM is to ensure a high quality of
development that enhances the visual and functional quality of San Juan Capistrano and to
comply with the relevant goals, objectives and policies of the City of San Juan Capistrano
General Plan.
The FARM site plan and architectural design will also be reviewed through the City’s
Architectural ControlDevelopment Review process. This process could yield further direction
on the project’s design.
V.2. The FARM Design Guidelines
General Design Objectives
• Establish high-quality, pedestrian friendly and functional site arrangement for residences,
parking and landscaping areas.
• Provide stylistically authentic and creative architectural design solutions that convey a
sense of timelessness and elegance.
• Create visual interest by utilizing architectural and landscape concepts that maintain a
sense of harmony and proportion along street frontages and other areas of the project
exposed to public view.
• Provide adequate open space.
• Provide adequate on-site and street parking.
• Utilize high quality details and materials.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-42
55386.00001\8755767.7
Site Planning
• Minimize use of retaining walls.
• Acknowledge the site’s positive characteristics through appropriate placement of
structures, circulation patterns and open space.
• Incorporate “entry” and “edge” design features. Ornamental landscaping, open space
areas, architectural monumentation and enhanced paving may be utilized to create a
unique design statement and distinguish new development from its surroundings.
• Design sidewalks so that they are safe, attractive and well-defined by landscaping.
• Provide a four-foot minimum clear width (exclusive of curb) for sidewalks. Where the
site plan allows, incorporate landscaped parkways between street curbs and sidewalk
areas.
• Accommodate adequate off-street parking areas. Provision of eighteen-foot minimum
driveways is encouraged.
• Provide a landscaped planting area between adjacent driveways to minimize adverse
visual impacts from expansive driveway surfaces.
• Provide pathways to open space areas and vistas.
• Enhance and architecturally complement walls and fences by adjoining landscaping.
Tiered planting should be provided adjacent to perimeter walls to soften their appearance
from surrounding areas.
• Integrate site entry gates architecturally within the overall project design theme.
• Provide for vehicle maneuvering, stacking and emergency access on site.
• Minimize adverse visual impacts of parking areas, carports, and garage doors by proper
siting and design.
• Provide a four-foot minimum clear width for walkways.
• Ensure that pedestrian walkways are safe, attractive and well-defined by landscaping.
• Screen mechanical and utility equipment. The design of all screening devices should
complement building architecture as well as materials and colors of adjacent structures.
• Minimize visual impact of transformers, valves, timers and other utility apparatus from
public rights-of-way. Transformer units which are required to be installed along street
frontages should be undergrounded or otherwise screened from public view with
landscaping.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-43
55386.00001\8755767.7
• Ensure that trash, storage enclosures and other ancillary structures, such as grouped mail
boxes, are architecturally compatible with the project theme.
• Construct community perimeter walls of high quality, enduring construction materials
such as masonry and/or ornamental metal (view fencing).
• Enhance and architecturally complement walls and fences by adjoining landscaping.
Tiered planting should be provided adjacent to perimeter walls to soften their appearance
from surrounding areas.
• Ensure compatibility with abutting residential uses in terms of the project’s building
height, scale, and mass by considering increased setback buffers, intensified landscaping
or design elements.
•
Architectural
• Develop a high quality residential environment.
• Enhance and take advantage of the site’s unique natural amenities through building
design. Home design should be inspiring, functional and enduring.
• Provide compatibility in terms of form, size, color, materials and roofline with the
character of existing development in the surrounding area through the architectural
design.
• Emphasize and reflect the presence and importance of people through the use of “human
scale” proportions and architectural building details.
• Take into consideration scale, style and proportion of the overall architectural form in the
arrangement and design of architectural elements such as windows, doors, cornice details,
etc.
• Employ consistently the project’s architectural style on all building elevations.
• Provide roof articulation, and avoid flat roofs, in building design.
• Study carefully and coordinate harmoniously window sizes and their arrangement on a
building elevation.
• Use consistently specific window style and level of detail.
• Use multiple panel door designs, windows or other architectural detailing on garage
doors to reduce their impact and scale.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-44
55386.00001\8755767.7
• Take the surrounding development into consideration in the selection and application of
building materials and colors.
• Complement, stylistically, materials to architectural details.
• Change colors and materials infrequently. Change colors and materials at interior corners
and coincide with vertical and horizontal wall plane changes.
• Take into consideration scale, style and proportion of the overall architectural form in the
arrangement and design of architectural elements such as windows, doors, cornice details,
etc.
• Include architectural elements such as balconies and porches to add visual interest, scale
and enhance the architectural character of the neighborhood. Develop a high quality
residential environment.
• Use the buildings’ massing and dimensional ratios of building components to create a
harmonious visual balance and contribute to the architectural rhythm.
• Include façade offsets as part of the building design in order to reduce visual massing
impacts of multi-story structures.
• Avoid unarticulated, boxy and/or monotonous building façades that lack “human scale”.
• Use distinctive architectural elements, materials and colors to denote primary building
entries or individual unit entries.
• Project a residential appearance through use of pitched roof design solutions and use of
appropriate roofing materials.
• Use verandas, porches and other types of covered outdoor areas to provide human scale
proportions to building façades and establish defensible space area boundaries.
• Use pilasters, awnings and comparable architectural embellishments.
• Design ancillary structures such as carports, detached garages, recreational buildings and
storage structures as an integral part of the project architecture.
• Accessory and service structures should be similar in material, color, and detail to the
primary building.
• Screen all mechanical equipment from view, to the extent feasible. All screening
enclosures should be compatible with the architecture, colors and materials of the main
building(s).
• Coordinate, vertically and horizontally, the placement of fenestration elements on a
building’s façade. Consistent use of the same or complementary window and door styles
on a building should be provided.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-45
55386.00001\8755767.7
• Choose materials to complement the overall project design and context. Building
materials should convey a sense of quality and permanence.
• Provide exterior building materials and colors that are stylistically authentic and
complementary to the overall architectural design. Frequent changes in
construtionconstruction materials should be avoided.
• Change materials in wall planes, preferably at interior corner locations to avoid a
“tacked-on” appearance.
• Use muted colors and deep hues that reflect the project site’s context.
• Ensure compatibility of the colors and materials of accessory structures, trellises, porches
or colonnades with the main residence.
• Match the color of fascia or wall materials with gutters and downspouts, unless designed
as an outstanding architectural feature.
• Use building materials such as brick, wood accents, and stucco
V.3. Landscape and Lighting Guidelines
Lighting
• Avoid direct glare of site and building lighting onto adjoining property and streets.
• Utilize decorative light fixtures.
• Locate pedestrian-scale lighting along all pedestrian routes.
• Install street lighting fixtures in a staggered configuration on both sides of the street to
meet required lighting levels.
Landscape
• Utilize landscaping to frame, soften and embellish the quality of the environment, buffer
from noise and screen undesirable views.
• Design project landscaping to contribute towards achieving an overall cohesive
appearance and compatibility with surroundings.
• Provide tiered planting (tree-shrub-turf) and decorative hardscape to enhance the visual
character of the project.
• Encourage the use of the following planting design concepts: Use planting to soften
building lines with shadows and patterns. Use canopy trees in parking areas and passive
The FARM Specific Plan
Section V: Design Guidelines
V-46
55386.00001\8755767.7
open space areas. Use specimen trees in informal groupings or rows at major focal
points. Use berms, plantings and walls to screen parking lots, trash enclosures, storage
areas, utility boxes, etc.
• Provide landscaping adjacent to the perimeter areas of buildings.
• Protect landscaping from vehicular and pedestrian encroachment.
• Preserve and integrate existing vegetation within the overall landscape plan for the
project.
• Select landscape materials that are appropriate for the climatic zone of the City and for
the function they are intending to serve including visual screening space definition,
privacy and accenting purposes.
• Place plant materials so that they do not interfere with lighting or restrict access to
emergency apparatus.
• Provide a minimum of eight feet between the center of trees or large shrubs and fire
hydrants, fire department sprinklers and standpipe connections.
• Install root barriers (guards) between planting and adjoining hardscape areas. A five-foot
minimum clearance should be provided between root barriers and adjacent hardscape
areas.
• Cluster trees on property lines to screen buildings and take advantage of views.
• Locate plant materials in a manner that simulates natural conditions.
• Preserve and incorporate existing mature, healthy trees in the overall landscape plan.
• Ensure the natural quality and appearance of selected planting materials in common area
landscaping and maintenance.
• Install slope plantings all slopes with gradients greater than 6:1 and with a vertical height
of three feet within thirty days of completion of finish grading.
• Space all plant materials appropriately to control soil erosion.
• Plant trees, shrubs and ground cover in undulating groupings to improve the character of
manufactured slopes.
• Include permanent irrigation systems in new or vegetated slopes.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section VI: Implementation and Administration
VI-47
55386.00001\8755767.7
VI. Implementation and Administration
VI.1. Specific Plan Adjustments/Amendments
Introduction
During implementation of The FARM Specific Plan, the need may arise to make revisions and/or
modifications to the adopted Specific Plan document and/or exhibit(s) in order to respond to
market conditions and to ensure consistency in design within the Specific Plan area. These
necessary modifications may be minor in nature or they may require more substantive revision(s)
to the approved Specific Plan. The extent of the modification requested, as well as its
conformance with the overall intent of The FARM Specific Plan and the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan, will determine whether administrative review/approval, or formal
review/approval by the City Council, will be required. Both processes are discussed below.
Minor/Administrative Adjustments/Revisions
The following minor adjustments/revisions are subject to administrative review and approval:
• Revisions to the project acreage not exceeding ten (10) percent of the area prior to the
revision(s). These changes in acreage may result from final road alignments, final site
design, and configuration of the final slopes.
• Realignment or modifications to the internal streets serving The FARM Specific Plan
Area.
• Changes in site design features associated with The FARM Specific Plan Area, including,
but not limited to, paving, lighting, landscape/hardscape treatments, etc.
• Changes in building design features including, but not limited to, changes in elevations,
floor plans, etc.
• Revisions to the development standards as follows:
- A decrease of not more than five (5) percent of any required setback
- An increase of not more than five (5) percent of the permitted height of a building
• Any other modifications/revisions determined by the Planning Director to be of similar
scope and magnitude.
• Decisions of the Planning Director (or designee) on minor adjustment/revisions are
appealable to the Planning Commission and subsequently to the City Council.
The FARM Specific Plan
Section VI: Implementation and Administration
VI-48
55386.00001\8755767.7
Specific Plan Amendments
Modifications Amendments to the adopted The FARM Specific Plan shall be processed in the
same manner provided for a Comprehensive Development Plan as set forth in subsection (d) of
Section 9-3.315 Planned Community (PC) District of the Municipal Code. not determined to be
minor in nature may be adopted by amendment to The FARM Specific Plan pursuant to the
procedure for the original adoption of the Specific Plan.
Specific Plan amendments must conform to the City of San Juan Capistrano General Plan and
will be evaluated to for potential environmental impacts.
VI.2. Implementation
All building permits issued within The FARM Specific Plan Area shall be subject to review prior
to approval to ensure conformance with the approved The FARM Specific Plan and the approved
Architectural Control for the Specific Plan Area.
Financing associated with the development of The FARM will be obtained by the landowners.
No public financing is associated with the project.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-49
55386.00001\8755767.7
Appendix
INTRODUCTION
This Appendix to The FARM Specific Plan discusses how The FARM project relates to the
goals and policies contained in the various elements of the City of San Juan Capistrano General
Plan. Section 65450 et. seq. of the California Government Code (Title 7, Division 1, Chapter 3,
Article 8) authorizes cities to “…prepare specific plans for the systematic implementation of the
general plan for all or a part of the area covered by the general plan.”
The California Government Code identifies content requirements for Specific Plans (Section
65451). Among those is a requirement that “…the specific plan shall include a statement of the
relationship of the specific plan to the general plan”.
The following is an analysis of The FARM Specific Plan’s consistency with the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan. The City of San Juan Capistrano General Plan includes the following
twelve topical elements:
• Land Use Element
• Circulation Element
• Housing Element
• Conservation/Open Space Element
• Safety Element
• Noise Element
• Cultural Resources Element
• Community Design Element
• Growth Management Element
• Parks and Recreation Element
• Public Services and Utilities Element
• Floodplain Management Element
LAND USE ELEMENT
Land Use Goal 1: Develop a balanced land use pattern to ensure that revenue generation
matches the City's responsibility for provision and maintenance of public services and facilities.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-50
55386.00001\8755767.7
1.1: Encourage a land use composition in San Juan Capistrano that provides a balance or surplus
between the generation of public revenues and the cost of providing public facilities and
services.
1.2: Encourage commercial, tourist-oriented, and industrial development that is compatible with
existing land uses within the City to improve the generation of sales tax, property tax, and hotel
occupancy tax.
1.3: Encourage mixed commercial and residential use projects in the Mission District downtown
area to conserve land and provide additional housing opportunities and population to support
commercial services and retail sales.
Consistency Discussion:
Development of The FARM project will provide a significant increase in city property tax receipts
associated with the Specific Plan area. Residents of the community and their visitors will
contribute to an increase in retail sales revenue and related city sales tax receipts at local
dining, shopping and tourist oriented venues.
Land Use Goal 2: Control and direct future growth within the City to preserve the rural village-
like character of the community.
Policies:
2.1: Continue controlling growth through the implementation of the City's residential growth
management program.
2.2: Assure that new development is consistent and compatible with the existing character of the
City.
2.3: Ensure that development corresponds to the provision of public facilities and services.
Consistency Discussion:
Detailed design guidelines have been provided in the Specific Plan to ensure the project is
consistent and compatible with the existing character of the City. The FARM Specific Plan is
located adjacent to roadway and utility infrastructure to support its development. Section III of
the Specific Plan provides detailed information on infrastructure provisions associated with The
FARM project.
Land Use Goal 3: Distribute additional population within the City based on risk factors.
Policies:
3.1: Confine higher density land uses to the valley areas outside of the floodplain.
3.2: Limit density of development in the hillsides, floodplains, and other high-risk areas.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-51
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area is situated within a valley area and is not located within a high-
risk area. The site is located outside of designated floodplains. The “Geotechnical Due-
Diligence Evaluation, Proposed Retirement Community, Armstrong Nursery/Del Obispo
Property, City of San Juan Capistrano”, prepared by GMU Geotechnical, Inc. (dated August 1,
2013), determined that the project is “feasible and practical from a geotechnical engineering
perspective.” This determination is valid for the FARM Specific Plan. Additional studies will be
provided as part of the subdivision development application approvals to reconfirm the
geotechnical stability of the area.
Land Use Goal 4: Preserve major areas of open space and natural features.
Policies:
4.1: Preserve areas of natural hazards, such as landslides and floodplains, which would
jeopardize the public health and safety.
4.2: Implement land and open space rights acquisition programs to allow for the long-term
preservation of open space resources.
4.3: Preserve designated ridgelines and the immediate adjacent area to maintain the open space
character of the community.
Consistency Discussion:
As discussed under Land Use Goal 3, above, the geotechnical evaluation prepared for the
earlier project did not determine that there were any geotechnical hazards associated with the
Specific Plan Area that would jeopardize public health and safety. The General Plan does not
identify any ridgelines on or adjacent to the Specific Plan Area, nor does it identify open-space
resources associated with the Specific Plan Area.
Land Use Goal 5: Encourage commercial development which serves community needs and is
located in the existing central business district.
Policies:
5.1: Encourage the location and retention of businesses within the downtown Mission District.
Consistency Discussion:
Residents of The Farm community and their guests will provide economic stimulation to
restaurants and other businesses in the downtown Mission district, located just minutes from
The FARM project.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-52
55386.00001\8755767.7
Land Use Goal 6: Enhance or redevelop underperforming commercial centers.
Policies:
6.1: Allow for the transition of the oversupply of commercial land use to other economically
viable revenue producing land uses.
Consistency Discussion:
The immediate proximity of The FARM project to the existing Vermeulen shopping center will
provide revitalization to the center’s existing commercial uses.
Land Use Goal 7: Enhance and maintain the character of neighborhoods.
Policies:
7.1: Preserve and enhance the quality of San Juan Capistrano neighborhoods by avoiding or
abating the intrusion of non-conforming buildings and uses.
7.2: Ensure that new development is compatible with the physical characteristics of its site,
surrounding land uses, and available public infrastructure.
7.3: Utilize programs for rehabilitation of physical development, infrastructure and
undergrounding of utilities within the City to improve community neighborhoods.
7.4: Protect the existing population and social character of older areas subject to rehabilitation
and redevelopment.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan establishes new development standards for the Specific Plan Area. It
also contains detailed design guidelines, the implementation of which will help to preserve and
enhance the quality of San Juan Capistrano neighborhoods and ensure that The FARM is
compatible with the physical characteristics of the Specific Plan Area, the surrounding land
uses, and the available public infrastructure (refer to Section III of the Specific Plan for a
detailed discussion of infrastructure provision associated with Specific Plan implementation.)
CIRCULATION ELEMENT
Circulation Goal 1: Provide a system of roadways that meets the needs of the community.
Policies:
1.1: Provide and maintain a City circulation system that is in balance with the land uses in San
Juan Capistrano.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-53
55386.00001\8755767.7
1.2: Implement the City’s Master Plan of Streets and Highways.
1.3: Coordinate improvements to the City circulation system with other major transportation
improvement programs.
1.4: Improve the San Juan Capistrano circulation system roadways in concert with land
development to ensure sufficient levels of service.
1.5: Improve existing arterial system that serves regional circulation patterns in order to reduce
local congestion (Ortega Highway at I-5).
1.6: Reduce the congestion along local arterial roadways in commercial areas by driveway
access consolidation, parking area interconnections and similar actions.
Consistency Discussion:
Section III of The FARM Specific Plan addresses both vehicular and pedestrian circulation
associated with project. As part of The FARM Specific Plan, a traffic study was prepared. The
Traffic Impact Analysis of the Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for The FARM
Specific Plan concludes that The FARM project will have no significant or un-mitig able
mitigatable impacts to traffic or circulation.
Circulation Goal 2: Promote an advanced public transportation network.
Policies:
2.1: Encourage the increased use and expansion of public transportation opportunities.
2.2: Promote new employment-producing development in areas where public transit is
convenient and desirable.
2.3: Encourage the provision of additional regional public transportation services and support
facilities, such as park-and-ride lots.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan area is located within one-quarter mile of a bus stop. The area
surrounding the Project site is served by existing bus routes. The FARM Specific Plan
represents a diverse employment producing development where public transit is convenient
and desirable.
Circulation Goal 3: Provide an extensive public bicycle, pedestrian, and equestrian trails
network.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-54
55386.00001\8755767.7
3.1: Provide and maintain an extensive trails network that supports bicycles, pedestrians, and
horses and is coordinated with those networks of adjacent jurisdictions.
Consistency Discussion:
Pedestrian access within The FARM includes a network of lighted pedestrian walkways. These
walkways and expanded traversing trail system connects the residences to the local public
recreation amenities, the Ecology Center and will provide access throughout The FARM for
residents, guests.
Circulation Goal 4: Minimize the conflict between the automobile, commercial vehicles,
pedestrians, horses, and bicycles.
Policies:
4.1: Provide sufficient right-of-way widths along roadways to incorporate features that buffer
pedestrians, horses, and bicycles from vehicular traffic.
4.2: Provide traffic management improvements within areas where through traffic creates public
safety problems.
4.3: Install additional street improvements within areas where necessary to improve vehicular
and non-vehicular safety.
4.4: Apply creative traffic management approaches to address congestion in areas with unique
problems, such as schools, businesses with drive-through access, and other special situations.
Consistency Discussion:
Section III of The FARM Specific Plan addresses both vehicular and pedestrian circulation
associated with project. The plan includes a network of pedestrian walkways designed to
provide safe and convenient access to and between community’s amenities and residences.
The Specific Plan Area is serviced by private roadways conforming to the standards found in
the San Juan Capistrano General Plan.
Circulation Goal 5: Achieve the development of regional transportation facilities.
Policies:
5.1: Support the implementation of the Orange County Master Plan of Arterial Highways and
the south Foothill Tollway Segment (Segment CP).
5.2: Work closely with adjacent jurisdictions and transportation agencies to ensure that
development projects outside San Juan Capistrano do not adversely impact the City or other
providers of public transportation service within the City.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-55
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does not identify considerations related to the development of regional
transportation facilities. The implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the
City’s efforts with respect to Circulation Goal 5 for the City of San Juan Capistrano.
HOUSING ELEMENT
Housing Goal 1: To create and maintain "decent housing and a suitable living environment" for
all households in the community.
Policies:
1.1: To encourage all households to maintain and rehabilitate all housing to prevent
deterioration.
1.2: To preserve all housing and neighborhoods throughout the City in a safe environment to
live, work and play.
1.3: To encourage the rehabilitation of deteriorating houses where feasible and provide
assistance when necessary for households who cannot afford the costs of such improvements.
1.4: To obtain the rehabilitation of 120 units over the next six years. For the purposes of this goal
it is anticipated that 20 units per year will be rehabilitated.
1.5: To provide and maintain an adequate level of services and facilities in all areas of the City.
Consistency Discussion:
The Spieker/Vermeulen “The FARM Specific Plan” plan directly implements Housing Goal 1 by
developing a residential community within the Specific Plan Area. A total of up to 180
individually owned homes will be developed. An active Home Owners Association will maintain
the common areas without the need for public funding.
Housing Goal 2: To achieve housing production levels to the maximum extent feasible with
available funding to meet projected needs.
Policies:
2.1: Consistent with the Land Use Element, encourage the construction of a variety of housing
types and sizes of housing throughout the community.
2.2: To continue the City's program of allowing the placement of mobile homes, factory built
housing on vacant residential parcels in single family zoning districts.
2.3: To create funding opportunities for the purchase of affordable housing by very low, low and
moderate income households.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-56
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan The Spieker/Vermuelen “The FARM residential community directly
implements Housing Goal 2 by developing a total of 180 residential units. These residences
complement the range of housing types and sizes available within the City of San Juan
Capistrano.
Housing Goal 3: To encourage, whenever possible, the creation of new affordable housing units
on those sites identified by the City as suitable for such development.
Policies:
3.1: To promote and encourage the new construction of private sector, including nonprofit
housing organizations, rental housing for very low, low and moderate income households.
3.2: To facilitate the production of 100 rental units through approved and potential developments
over the next six years which will be affordable to very low and low income households. To be
able to meet this objective, the City will provide expedited development review of any
development application for affordable units during the Housing Element cycle.
3.3: To target City owned sites available for housing production for working families.
Consistency Discussion:
Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts with Goal 3 as the
City will require any future residential development of the site to have at least 10% of the new
units be affordable housing or to pay an “in lieu” fee so that said affordable housing units can
be developed elsewhere in the City. It is anticipated that 15% of the residents of The FARM
project will qualify as low to moderate-income households. The diverse nature of the
independent living residences, from affordable one bedroom apartments to large single level
homes allows for the services and benefits associated with the comprehensive community to
be enjoyed by residents of varying income levels t.
Housing Goal 4: To the maximum extent feasible, develop assistance programs to address the
needs to provide affordable housing for the City's current and future households.
Policies:
4.1: To continue participation in the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program through
the County of Orange.
4.2: Implement affordability agreements for all housing projects that receive financial assistance
from the City and/or Community Redevelopment Agency.
4.3: Continue to participate in the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program (MCCP).
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-57
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan does not address considerations related to the City’s development of
housing assistance programs. Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the
City’s efforts to develop housing assistance programs.
Housing Goal 5: To satisfy housing needs through the use of assistance programs that utilize
existing housing units and the production of new housing units.
Policies:
5.1: Continue the rental subsidy program to assist low and very low income households.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does not address considerations related to the City’s development of
housing assistance programs. Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the
City’s efforts to develop or implement its rental subsidy program.
Housing Goal 6: To continue reviewing residential development applications with multiple
discretionary reviews concurrently and to expedite, whenever possible, when part of an
affordable housing program and/or project.
Policies:
6.1: Continue to encourage affordable housing applications through the adoption of density
bonus and financial assistance programs of the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency.
6.2: To continue cooperative agreements, as appropriate with State, County and other agencies,
so that community housing needs are met to the greatest degree possible.
6.3: To evaluate procedures and innovative techniques and technology advances in reducing the
cost of land use regulations on housing choices.
6.4: To continue a program to constantly evaluate procedures and regulations that will result in
expeditious processing of development applications at reduced cost to the applicant.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does not address considerations related to the City’s expedited
processing of affordable housing applications. Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will
not impede the City’s efforts to expedite applications.
Housing Goal 7: To promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, religion,
sex, marital status, sexual preference, ancestry, national origin, or color.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-58
55386.00001\8755767.7
7.1: Continue efforts to facilitate the unimpeded access to housing without consideration of
arbitrary distinctions.
7.2: Continue adopted procedures whereby the City refers apparent violations of the law to
enforcement agencies for consideration of remedial actions.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan The FARM will be designed for residents of all ages and will not
discriminate based on race, religion, sex, marital status, sexual preference, ancestry, national
origin, or color.
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Conservation/Open Space Goal 1: Preserve and enhance open space resources.
Policies:
1.1: Identify remaining areas which should be preserved and enhanced as open space resources.
1.2: Continue to implement land and open space-rights acquisition of appropriate properties to
allow for the long-term preservation of open space resources.
1.3: Identify and implement funding programs to maintain open space lands.
Consistency Discussion:
The General Plan does not identify open space resources associated with the Specific Plan
Area. However, The FARM Specific Plan The FARM does include a number of outdoor
amenities to enhance its open space, both passive and active, including a traversing walking
paths and a small park.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 2: Protect and preserve important ecological and biological
resources.
Policies:
2.1: Use proper land use planning to reduce the impact of urban development on important
ecological and biological resources.
2. 2: Preserve important ecological and biological resources as open space.
2.3: Develop open space uses in an ecologically sensitive manner.
2.4: Continue to designate the City as a bird sanctuary to preserve and protect the populations of
all migratory birds which serve as a prime resource to the character and history of the
community.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-59
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area does not contain important ecological and biological resources.
Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to protect and
preserve its ecological and biological resources. The General Plan does not identify open
space resources associated with the Specific Plan Area.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 3: Preserve existing agricultural activity.
Policies:
3.1: Implement economic programs that promote the long-term viability of designated
agricultural parcels within the City.
3.2: Reduce the negative impacts resulting from urban uses and neighboring agricultural uses in
close proximity.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area is currently identified as an Agri-Business site in the General
Plan’s Industrial land use category. However, no portion of the site is being used to grow in-
ground agricultural products. Ten years ago, much of the site was paved with concrete and
asphalt to facilitate construction of warehouses, loading docks, greenhouses and related
roadways in order to accommodate the site’s current previous use as a regional warehousing,
distribution and growing center for plant material and container plants. A California Agricultural
Land Evaluation and Site Assessment was performed for an earlier proposed project, which
evaluated the agricultural value of the project site using the accepted California LESA Model.
This study assigned the project site a total LESA score of 63.45 out of a possible 100, with a
SA subscore of 18.75. Based on the objective LESA scale, the Land Evaluation and Site
Assessment concluded that “pursuant to the LESA model, the proposed conversion of the site
from agriculture to non-agricultural uses would not be considered to be significant.” Further,
development of The FARM project will not negatively impact neighboring parcels currently
being used for active agricultural purposes.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 4: Prevent incompatible development in areas that should be
preserved for scenic, historic, conservation, or public safety purposes.
Policies:
4.1: Assure incompatible development is avoided in those areas that are designated to be
preserved for scenic, historic, conservation, or public safety purposes.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-60
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area is located in an area characterized by public and institutional
land uses including assisted living facilities, churches and both public and private schools.
Additionally, various types of residential development, from low to high density, surround the
project site. The project is compatible with the existing development in its vicinity.
Implementation of the Specific Plan will not affect areas designated by the City for preservation
for scenic, historic, conservation or public safety purposes.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 5: Shape and guide development in order to achieve efficient
growth and maintain community scale and identity.
Policies:
5.1: Encourage high-quality design in new development and redevelopment to maintain the low-
density character of the City.
5.2: Ensure that new development integrates and preserves areas designated for scenic, historic,
conservation, or public safety reasons.
5.3: Ensure that no buildings will encroach upon any ridgeline designated for preservation.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM subdivision of the siteSpecific Plan preserves the low-density character of the City
while also conveniently locating most residents near the services the community provides. No
ridgeline is present, no historic structures are impacted. Section V of The FARM Specific Plan
contains detailed design guidelines governing general design, site planning, architecture,
outdoor lighting and landscaping. These guidelines will ensure a high-quality design that will
maintain the identity and scale of San Juan Capistrano.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 6: Improve air quality.
Policies:
6.1: Cooperate with the South Coast Air Quality Management District and Southern California
Association of Governments in their efforts to implement the regional Air Quality Management
Plan.
6.2: Cooperate and participate in regional air quality, management planning, programs, and
enforcement measures.
6.3: Implement City-wide traffic flow improvements.
6.4: Achieve a greater balance between jobs and housing in San Juan Capistrano.
6.5: Integrate air quality planning with land use and transportation planning.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-61
55386.00001\8755767.7
6.6: Promote energy conservation and recycling by the public and private sectors.
Consistency Discussion:
The Draft IS/MND EIR for The FARM Specific Plan includes a detailed Air Quality and
Greenhouse Gas Analysis Study that analyzes the air quality impacts of the project. The Air
Quality Study Analysis concludes that The FARM project will not result in unavoidable or
significant adverse impacts to air quality or generate greenhouse gas emissions that may have
a significant impact on the environment. . (Air Quality Study §§ 4.3.8 and 4.3.10.) The Air
Quality Study also analyzes any cumulative impacts to air quality from The FARM project and
concludes that when considered with the cumulative projects in the vicinity of The FARM
project, there are no cumulatively significant air quality impacts. (Air Quality Study § 4.3.9.)
Chapter III of The FARM Specific Plan contains information on the community’s Solid Waste
Management Plan including descriptions of diversion rates exceeding 50%. Implementation of
The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to participate in regional air quality,
management planning, programs, and enforcement measures. Buildings within The FARM will
exceed all Title 24 energy efficiency standards. Energy efficient measures will include energy
efficient lamp technologies which will be implemented on interior and exterior lights.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 7: Protect water quality.
Policies:
7.1: Coordinate water quality and supply programs with the responsible water agencies.
7.2: Encourage the production and use of recycled water.
7.3: Conserve and protect watershed areas.
Consistency Discussion:
Chapter III of The FARM Specific Plan describes the initial Conceptual Water Quality
Management Plan prepared for the Specific Plan Area. All water collected in the storm drain
system as a result of implementation of The FARM Specific Plan and subsequent subdivision
development of the site will be filtered onsite using natural and mechanical methods. The
Specific Plan Area on-site storm drain system will be designed to ensure the City storm drain
system receives no additional impact as a result of the development of the 180 home
community.
Conservation/Open Space Goal 8: Encourage active citizen involvement to establish and
achieve community goals.
Policies:
8.1: Solicit citizen participation during the early stages of major public and regulatory programs.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-62
55386.00001\8755767.7
8.2: Develop appropriate vehicles, such as newsletters, information brochures, cable television
programming and announcements, and other methods, to communicate important information to
the population of San Juan Capistrano.
Consistency Discussion:
Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to encourage active
citizen involvement to establish and achieve community goals. The Specific Plan itself
implements applicable community goals of the General Plan.
SAFETY ELEMENT
Safety Goal 1: Reduce the risk to the community from hazards related to geologic conditions,
seismic activity, wildfires, structural fires and flooding.
Policies:
1.1: Reduce the risk of impacts from geologic and seismic hazards by applying proper
development engineering, building construction, and retrofitting requirements.
1.2: Protect the community from flooding hazards by providing and maintaining flood control
facilities and limiting development within the floodplain.
1.3: Reduce the risk of wildfire hazards by requiring fire retardant landscaping and project
design for development located in areas of high wildfire risk.
1.4. Reduce the risk of fire to the community by coordinating with the Orange County Fire
Authority.
1.5 All residential projects with more than 48 units should be required to provide a secondary
access to the project site. The secondary access may be designated as emergency access only.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan The FARM subdivision will been designed with an internal circulation
system that allows adequate fire access to all structures. The FARM Specific Plan Area is not
located within a high risk area. It is located outside of a designated floodplain. The
“Geotechnical Due-Diligence Evaluation, Proposed Retirement Community, Armstrong
Nursery/Del Obispo Property, City of San Juan Capistrano”, prepared by GMU Geotechnical,
Inc. (dated August 1, 2013), determined that the CCRC project is “feasible and practical from a
geotechnical engineering perspective.” An updated Geotechnical Evaluation will be provided
with the subdivision development applications.
Safety Goal 2: Protect the community from hazards related to air pollution, nuclear power
production, hazardous materials and ground transportation.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-63
55386.00001\8755767.7
2.1: Work with responsible federal, state and county agencies to decrease air pollution emissions
occurring within the air basin to reduce the risk posed by air pollution.
2.2: Coordinate with federal and state agencies and Southern California Edison to reduce the
risks related to nuclear power production.
2.3: Cooperate with responsible federal, state, and county agencies to minimize the risk to the
community from the use and transportation of hazardous materials through the City.
2.4: Reduce the per capita production of household hazardous waste in San Juan Capistrano in
concert with the County of Orange plans for reducing hazardous waste.
2.5: Reduce the risk from ground transportation hazards, such as rail and roadway systems.
Consistency Discussion:
A “Phase I Environmental Site Assessment: Vermeulen Ranch Center” (prepared by Geotek,
Inc., dated April 11, 2013) was prepared for the Specific Plan Area. With respect to hazardous
materials, it concluded that there was “no evidence of a recognized environmental condition or
environmental concern” within the Specific Plan Area. Implementation of The FARM Specific
Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to protect the community from hazards related to air
pollution, nuclear power production, hazardous materials and ground transportation.
Safety Goal 3: Protect citizens and businesses from criminal activity.
Policies:
3.1: Coordinate with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to reduce the risk of criminal
activity.
3.2: Apply design techniques and standards aimed at reducing criminal activity to new
development and redevelopment.
3.3: Promote after school programs, volunteer programs and Neighborhood Watch programs to
reduce the risk of criminal activity.
3.4: Improve public awareness of both the responsiveness of the Orange County Sheriff’s
Department and ways to reduce criminal activity within the City.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan The FARM project incorporates a range of defensible space
components, including outdoor lighting and landscaping, to help reduce the risk of criminal
activity within the Specific Plan Area.
Safety Goal 4: Improve the ability of the City to respond effectively to natural and human-
caused emergencies.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-64
55386.00001\8755767.7
Policies:
4.1: Support the development of local preparedness plans and multi-jurisdictional cooperation
and communication for emergency situations consistent with the Standardized Emergency
Management System (SEMS).
4.2: Educate residents and businesses regarding appropriate actions to safeguard life and
property during and immediately after emergencies.
Consistency Discussion:
Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to respond
effectively to natural and human-caused emergencies.
NOISE ELEMENT
Noise Goal 1: Minimize the effects of noise through proper land use planning.
Policies:
1.1: Utilize noise/land use compatibility standards as a guide for future planning and
development decisions.
1.2: Provide noise control measures and sound attenuating construction in areas of new
construction or rehabilitation.
Consistency Discussion:
Development of The FARM Specific Plan The FARM will adhere to the City’s General Plan and
Municipal Code with respect to noise levels for new construction. The FARM Specific Plan The
FARM residences will be designed to meet single event interior noise levels of 50 dBA or less
in bedrooms and 55 dBA or less in other rooms.
Noise Goal 2: Minimize transportation-related noise impacts.
Policies:
2.1: Reduce transportation-related noise impacts to sensitive land uses through the use of noise
control measures.
2.2: Control truck traffic routing to reduce transportation-related noise impacts to sensitive land
uses.
2.3: Incorporate sound-reduction design in development projects impacted by transportation-
related noise.
2.4: Oppose airport operations that result in excessive noise from overflights.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-65
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
Like much of the Capistrano Valley, the Specific Plan Area is subject to occasional train horns,
but the distance from the railroad tracks and other sources of ground-borne noise levels
minimize the potential for resident exposure to ground-borne vibration and associated noise
levels. The Specific Plan Area is not located within two miles of a public or private airstrip and
would not expose residents to its associated noise levels.
Noise Goal 3: Minimize non-transportation-related noise impacts.
Policies:
3.1: Reduce the impacts of noise-producing land uses and activities on noise-sensitive land uses.
3.2: Incorporate sound-reduction design in new construction or rehabilitation projects impacted
by non-transportation-related noise.
Consistency Discussion:
Development of The FARM Specific Plan The FARM will adhere to the City’s General Plan and
Municipal Code with respect to noise levels for new construction. The FARM residences will
be designed to meet single event interior noise levels of 50 dBA or less in bedrooms and 55
dBA or less in other rooms.
CULTURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT
Cultural Resources Goal 1: Preserve and protect historical, archaeological, and paleontological
resources.
Policies:
1.1: Balance the benefits of development with the project’s potential impacts to existing cultural
resources.
1.2: Identify, designate, and protect buildings and sites of historic importance.
1.3: Identify funding programs to assist private property owners in the preservation of buildings
and sites of historic importance.
Consistency Discussion:
The buildings that exist within the Specific Plan Area are not of historical value or listed in the
California Register of Historical Resources. Prior to grading, an archaeologist, with expertise
in California prehistoric archaeology, and a Certified Native American Monitor will be consulted
to ensure that if important archaeological and Native American Cultural resources could
potentially be impacted, an appropriate archaeological monitoring program will be designed.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-66
55386.00001\8755767.7
COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT
Community Design Goal 1: Encourage and preserve a sense of place.
Policies:
1.1: Preserve significant amounts of land and important natural features for open space.
1.2: Encourage high-quality and human scale design in development to maintain the character of
the City.
1.3: Encourage the participation by all members of the community in activities which promote
the City and create local pride.
Consistency Discussion:
The General Plan does not identify open space resources associated with the Specific Plan
Area. However, The FARM Specific Plan does include a number of outdoor amenities to
enhance its open space, both passive and active, including walk ing paths and a small park.
Section V of The FARM Specific Plan contains detailed design guidelines governing general
design, site planning, architecture, outdoor lighting and landscaping. These guidelines will
ensure a high-quality and human design which will preserve a sense of place. The pedestrian
circulation plan program provided for residents of The FARM Specific Plan will allow for and
encourage participation by residents in nearby community events, ecology training and similar
activities.
Community Design Goal 2: Preserve the historic character of the community.
Policies:
2.1: Encourage development which complements the City's traditional, historic character through
site design, architecture, and landscaping.
Consistency Discussion:
Section V of The FARM Specific Plan contains detailed design guidelines governing general
design, site planning, architecture, outdoor lighting and landscaping. These guidelines will
complement San Juan Capistrano’s historic character.
Community Design Goal 3: Preserve and enhance natural features.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-67
55386.00001\8755767.7
3.1: Limit development of important natural characteristics such as ridgelines, unique hillside
features and creeks.
3.2: Encourage the recreational use of natural features, such as hillsides and creeks.
3.3: Preserve and enhance scenic transportation corridors, including Interstate 5 and the railroad.
3.4: Preserve important view sheds.
Consistency Discussion:
The Specific Plan Area is not located within the view shed of a state or City-designated scenic
highway corridor. There are no unique natural features within the Specific Plan Area.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Growth Management Goal 1: Coordinate rational and orderly growth that assures the
economic and efficient provision of public services and infrastructure to new development.
Policies:
1.1: Continue to implement service standards for public services and infrastructure which
provide sufficient services to community residents and businesses.
1.2: Approve only those development proposals for which there is sufficient funding through the
developer, City or other agency to provide a level of public service and infrastructure which meet
the established goals.
1.3: Monitor growth to ensure that service standards are achieved.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan is located adjacent to roadway and utility infrastructure to support its
development. Section III of the Specific Plan provides detailed information on existing
infrastructure provision associated with The FARM project. Subsequent subdivision
development activities will add infrastructure improvements.
Growth Management Goal 2: Provide sufficient regional transportation facilities.
Policies:
2.1: Work closely with the OCTA, Caltrans, surrounding jurisdictions, and other transportation
agencies to obtain needed transportation funding and facilities.
2.2: Encourage the expansion of alternative means of regional public transportation.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-68
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan expands alternative means of transportation. The project site is
located in close pedestrian proximity to City trails, the San Juan Capistrano Community Center
and Sports Park, and the retail center located immediately southwest of the site. Both
scheduled and non-scheduled transportation services, such as Uber, provide, provide
residents with access to nearby off-site amenities including shopping and dining venues,
religious services, doctor’s appointments, as well as other activities. The FARM is located within
one-quarter mile of a bus line stop.
Growth Management Goal 3: Provide for a balance of jobs and housing through land use
planning.
Policies:
3.1: Consider jobs/housing balance in the City and region as a factor in land use decision-
making.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan expands housing opportunities within the City by providing up to 180
new residential dwellings with easy access to nearby commercial centers and community
recreation opportunities.
Growth Management Goal 4: Coordinate and cooperate with other public agencies to address
regional issues and opportunities.
Policies:
4.1: Participate with other public agencies in cooperative efforts to address important regional
issues.
4.2: Monitor major new developments proposed in adjacent communities to ensure that impacts
on San Juan Capistrano are mitigated.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does address considerations related to the City’s cooperation with
other public agencies to address regional issues and opportunities; implementation of The
FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to address important regional issues.
PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT
Parks and Recreation Goal 1: Provide, develop, and maintain ample park and recreational
facilities that provide a diversity of recreational activities.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-69
55386.00001\8755767.7
1.1: Coordinate with local groups to identify and meet the community's recreational needs.
1.2: Work with the County and other agencies' planning for the development of regional parks
and regional linkages which will be accessible to City residents.
1.3: Identify and implement funding programs to maintain and expand park and recreational
facilities.
1.4: Develop and maintain a balanced system of public and private recreational lands, facilities,
and programs to meet the needs of the community.
1.5: Operate and maintain public park and recreational facilities in a manner that ensures safe
and convenient access for all members of the community.
1.6: Increase the accessibility of existing open space areas for recreational activities.
1. 7: Provide parkland improvements and facilities that are durable and economical to maintain.
1.8: Publicize park and recreation opportunities in San Juan Capistrano to the community.
1.9: Utilize existing public utility easements for recreation and open space.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan project is designed to provide numerous on site recreational facilities
that include a small park and the traversing multi-use trail that accesses the Community Center,
public schools, the preserved farming area and the noted Ecology Center.
Parks and Recreation Goal 2: Develop and expand the existing bicycle, hiking, and equestrian
trail system and facilities.
Policies:
2.1: Develop and expand the existing trails network that supports bicycles, pedestrians, and
horses, and coordinate linkages with those networks of adjacent jurisdictions.
2.2: Preserve the equestrian lifestyle by designating land for the preservation or provision of new
equestrian facilities.
2.3: Encourage the affordable provision of equestrian facilities within the City.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does address considerations related to the City’s existing bicycle,
hiking, and equestrian trail system and facilities with the additional of the traversing trail.
Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not impede the City’s efforts to develop and
expand existing bicycle, hiking, and equestrian trail system and facilities.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-70
55386.00001\8755767.7
Parks and Recreation Goal 3: Reduce the impact of adjacent cities' residents on San Juan
Capistrano's recreational facilities.
Policies:
3.1: Develop and implement programs which distribute the cost of building and maintaining
recreational facilities to the actual users with credit to City residents for past and current payment
for providing facilities through Measure "D" bonds.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan includes a Development Agreement with a provision to make
financial cash contribution to the City that will be used toward the acquisition, construction
and/or maintenance of City Facilities.and subsequent subdivision activities will provide
recreation and agricultural funding. Therefore, the Specific Plan and does not interfere with
the City’s programs to reduce the impact of adjacent cities' residents on San Juan
Capistrano's recreational facilities.
PUBLIC SERVICES AND UTILITIES ELEMENT
Public Services and Utilities Goal 1: Work with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to
provide a sufficient level of law enforcement.
Policies:
1.1: Work closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in determining and meeting
community needs for law enforcement services.
1.2: Periodically evaluate the level of law enforcement services to ensure that San Juan
Capistrano has appropriate levels of law enforcement services.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan incorporates a range of defensible space components, including
outdoor lighting and landscaping, to help reduce the risk of criminal activity within the Specific
Plan Area.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 2: Work with the Orange County Fire Authority to provide a
sufficient level of fire protection.
Policies:
2.1: Work closely with the Orange County Fire Authority in determining and meeting
community needs for fire protection services and facilities.
2.2: Periodically evaluate the level of fire protection service to ensure that San Juan Capistrano
has appropriate levels of fire protection services.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-71
55386.00001\8755767.7
Consistency Discussion:
Development under The FARM Specific Plan will be reviewed by the Orange County Fire
Authority to ensure that the community has adequate fire protection. Section III of the Specific
Plan contains a Utility Plan which identifies the on-site water system, including fire protection
requirements.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 3: Work effectively with the Capistrano Unified School
District to provide a sufficient level of public education.
Policies:
3.1: Work closely with Capistrano Unified School District in determining and meeting
community needs for public education and related activities.
3.2: Work with Capistrano Unified School District in investigating potential locations and
funding sources for new schools, including a future high school.
Consistency Discussion:
The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) is responsible for providing public education
facilities in the City, including for the Specific Plan Area. It is anticipated that increased property
taxes associated with development of The FARM Specific Plan project will contribute to the
funding of the school district’s activities.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 4: Provide sufficient community facilities.
Policies:
4.1: Work closely with community groups in providing community facilities which meet the
needs of the community.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan includes provisions for community facilities for its residents including
t. The addition of the a new local park . In addition, FARM Specific Plan includes a Development
Agreement with a provision to make financial cash contribution to the City that will be used
toward the acquisition, construction and/or maintenance of and the construction of the
traversing trail will facilitate access to the Community Center and the Ecology Center. Later
funding, collected as part of a Development Agreement will fund new City facilities.recreation
resources that might include a skate board park or other community needs.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 5: Work closely with the Orange County Public Library to
provide a sufficient level of library facilities and services.
Policies:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-72
55386.00001\8755767.7
5.1: Work closely with the Orange County Public Library in determining and meeting
community needs for library facilities and services, including hours of operation.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan does not interfere with the City’s efforts to work closely with the Orange
County Public Library to provide a sufficient level of library facilities. The FARM will provide
state of the art internet connection capabilities to allow residents access to information.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 6: Provide sufficient levels of water and sewer service.
Policies:
6.1: Provide sufficient levels of water and sewer service to meet the needs of the community.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan is located adjacent to water and sewer infrastructure to support its
development. Section III of The FARM Specific Plan provides detailed information with respect
to on-site water and sewer system provisions for the project. Detailed infrastructure
improvements will be part of the subsequent subdivision development applications.
Public Services and Utilities Goal 7: Work effectively with providers of natural gas,
electricity, telephone, cable television and solid waste disposal to provide sufficient levels of
these services.
Policies:
7.1: Work closely with providers of energy, communications and solid waste disposal in
determining and meeting the needs of the community for energy, communications and solid
waste disposal.
7.2: Encourage energy efficient development.
7.3: Encourage the expansion of telecommunications capabilities to promote economic
development of the community.
7.4: Reduce the per capita production of solid waste in San Juan Capistrano in concert with the
City’s Source Reduction and Recycling Element.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan will achieve a 50 percent diversion rate of all disposable material. The
residential buildings will exceed all Title 24 energy efficiency standards. Energy efficient
measures will include energy efficient lamp technologies which will be implemented on interior
and exterior lights.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-73
55386.00001\8755767.7
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Floodplain Management Goal 1: Protect life and property from floodwaters.
Policies:
1.1: Limit development within the floodplain to minimize risks to life and property and satisfy
the flood insurance and other requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA).
1.2: Prevent the placement of unauthorized fill material in creeks and floodplains in order to
avoid alteration of flow characteristics and bridge scour.
1.3: Construct new flood protection improvements where determined necessary by the City,
County and Army Corps of Engineers.
1.4: Improve existing bridges to improve the flow of the associated streams.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area is not located within a floodplain. In accordance with the initial
Water Quality Management Plan described in Chapter III of The FARM Specific Plan, all water
collected in the storm drain system as a result of implementation of The FARM Specific Plan
will be filtered onsite using natural and mechanical methods. The storm drain system has been
designed to ensure the City storm drain system receives no additional impact as a result of the
development of the 180 residential homes.
Floodplain Management Goal 2: Preserve and enhance the natural character of the creeks and
their floodplains.
Policies:
2.1: Use environmentally sensitive treatments where creek improvements are necessary to
preserve wetlands.
2.2: Enhance and/or restore the creeks and their floodplains as part of private development
projects and public works projects.
2.3: Flood protection improvements for stream banks are encouraged to use linings such as soil,
cement, “armorflex”, earth covered rip rap, or other environmentally sensitive treatments that
provide effective and durable flood protection.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: Relationship to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan
Appendix-74
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan Area is not located within a floodplain. Implementation of The FARM
Specific Plan will not interfere with the City’s efforts to preserve and enhance the natural
character of the creeks and their floodplains.
Floodplain Management Goal 3: Preserve and enhance recreational opportunities and
amenities provided by the creeks and their floodplains.
Policies:
3.1: Preserve existing park and recreational land uses adjacent to all creeks.
3.2: Construct bicycle and equestrian trails along all of the creeks, and include underpasses for
the trails beneath bridges, as well as safe trails on bridges.
Consistency Discussion:
The FARM Specific Plan Area is not located within a floodplain. Nor is it located adjacent to
creekside park and recreational land uses. Implementation of The FARM Specific Plan will not
interfere with the City’s efforts and enhance recreational opportunities and amenities provided
by the creeks and their floodplains.
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-1
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit I-1: Specific Plan Area Boundaries
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-2
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-1: Adjacent Land Uses
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-3
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-2: Land Use Plan
Final Land Use Plan
to be provided at the time a
Development Application is
submitted with SubvisionSub
vision Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-4
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-3: Land Use Area Diagram
Final Land Use Area Diagram
to be provided with
Subvision Subdivision Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-5
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-6
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-7
55386.00001\8755767.7
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-8
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-9: Grading Plan
Final Grading Plan
to be provided with
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-9
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-10: Lighting Plan
Final Lighting Plan
to be provided with
Subvision Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-10
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-11: Landscaping Plan
Final Landscaping Plan
to be provided with
Sbii M
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-11
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit II-12: Phasing Plan
Final Phasing Plan
to be provided with Subvision
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-12
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-1: Regional Circulation
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-13
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-2: Local Circulation
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-14
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-3: Pedestrian Circulation
Final PedetrianPedestrian
Circulation Plan
to be provided with Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-15
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-4: Parking
Final Parking Plan
to be provided with Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-16
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-5: Utility Plan
Final Utility Plan
to be provided with Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-17
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-6: Water Quality Management Plan
Final Water Quality Management
Plan
to be provided with Subvision Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-18
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-7: Sewer Plan
Final Sewer Plan
to be provided with Subvision
Map
Park
The FARM Specific Plan
Appendix: B - Exhibits
Appendix B-19
55386.00001\8755767.7
Exhibit III-8: Hydrology Study
Final Hydrology Study
to be provided with Subvision
Map
Park