Ordinance Number 1080ORDINANCE NO. 1080
' AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN JUAN
CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA, TO (1) APPROVE REZONE 20-001 TO
AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP FROM COMMUNITY PARK TO
SPECIFIC PLAN/PRECISE PLAN AND CODE AMENDMENT 19-004 TO
CREATE A SPECIFIC PLAN FOR THE CITY -OWNED 65.5 -ACRE
PROPERTY, KNOWN AS THE NORTHWEST OPEN SPACE LOCATED
AT 30291 CAMINO CAPISTRANO (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBERS
121-050-04, 14, 18, 19, 21 (excluding the area identified as Parcel 1 of
Recorded Lot Line Adjustment 19-001), AND 998-123-99); AND (II)
DETERMINE THAT SAID ACTION IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYACT REVIEW, AS PER STATE
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15301
WHEREAS, on December 3, 2019, the City Council initiated a Code Amendment
and directed staff to create a Specific Plan for the City -Owned Northwest Open Space
Property, which plan would include the planned Northwest Open Space Community Park
("Putuidem Village") project and all other existing uses on the subject property, and to
change the property's current zoning from Community Park to Specific Plan/Precise Plan;
and,
I WHEREAS, the City of San Juan Capistrano is the owner of the real property
located at 30291 Camino Capistrano (Assessor's Parcel Numbers 121-050-04, 14, 18,
19, 21 (excluding the area identified as Parcel 1 of Recorded Lot Line Adjustment 19-
001), and 998-123-99); and,
WHEREAS, the proposed project is being processed pursuant to Section 9-2.309,
Code Amendment 19-004 and Section 9-2.315, Zone Change (Rezone 20-001), of Title
9, Land Use Code of the City of San Juan Capistrano to establish a Specific Plan that
includes regulations and standards for the project site, in the form of the proposed
Northwest Open Space Specific Plan; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 21067 of the Public Resources Code, and section
15367 of the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), the City
of San Juan Capistrano is the lead agency for the proposed project; and,
WHEREAS, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
the recommended action is exempt from CEQA review, as per State CEQA Guidelines
Section 15301, Existing Facilities. A Notice of Exemption (NOE) will be posted should the
project receive final approval; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly -noticed public hearing on
August 25, 2020 pursuant to Title 9, Land Use Code, Section 9-2.302 and City Council
' Policy 5 to consider public testimony on the proposed project, considered all relevant
public comments and recommended approval of the project to the City Council; and,
1 01080
WHEREAS, on September 15, 2020, the City Council held a duly noticed public
hearing to consider the provisions of this Ordinance and, following receipt of all written
and oral public comments, the City Council closed the public hearing, considered the I evidence presented, and deliberated.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of San Juan Capistrano hereby finds
and determines that all of the above Recitals are true and correct and incorporates
such Recitals into this Ordinance as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 2. CEQA.
Based upon its review of the entire record before it, the City Council of the City of San
Juan Capistrano does hereby find that the project is categorically exempt from further
environmental review under CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301,
Class 1 (Existing Facilities). The Class 1 exemption specifically exempts from further
environmental review the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing,
or minor alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical
equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or
former use." Here, the project involves a Specific Plan and Land Use Code amendment
that will correct the zoning of the Northwest Open Space (NWOS) Property from
Community Park to Specific Plan/Precise Plan so that the "Putuidem Village" project, '
along with other existing uses on the property—which are currently inconsistent with the
property's Community Park zoning designation—are made zoning consistent. This is a
minor zone change and Code amendment involving negligible or no expansion of existing
use.
Furthermore, none of the exceptions to the use of the Class 1 categorical exemption
identified in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply. The project will not result in
a cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type in the same place, over
time. There are no unusual circumstances surrounding the project that result in a
reasonably possibility of a significant effect on the environment. The project will not
damage scenic resources, including trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar
resources. The project does not include any hazardous waste sites, and the project will
not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Thus,
the Class 1 exemption applies, and no further environmental review is required.
The City Council directs staff to file a Notice of Exemption within five (5) days of the
adoption of this Ordinance.
SECTION 3. Rezone 20-001
The proposed zone change is consistent with the General Plan land use map and
applicable goals and policies because the proposed project consists of an '
amendment to the Official Zoning Map to establish a "SP/PP" (Specific
Plan/Precise Plan) Zone District. Should the City determine that the project
2 01080
Specific Plan is substantially consistent with goals and policies of the General Plan,
' especially the Land Use Element and Cultural Resources Element, the proposed
Specific Plan would implement those goals and policies. Specifically, the Specific
Plan is consistent with "Land Use Goal 4: Preserve major areas of open space and
natural features"' and with "Cultural Resources Goal 1: Preserve and protect
historical, archaeological, and paleontological resources."
2. The proposed zone change is consistent with the Land Use Code, including Article
1 General Plan Review and Table 2-1, Zoning Consistency Matrix because the
proposed amendment to the Official Zoning Map is consistent with the Title 9, Land
Use Code provisions established by Article 1 and Table 2-1. The singular proposed
map change is to the 65.5 acre -site, while the Specific Plan would create
development standards for the entire proposed project area. In terms of the
amendment to the Official Zoning Map, the change from "CP" (Community Park)
to "SP/PP" (Specific Plan/Precise Plan) results in development standards that are
specific to the project site and that need to reflect compatibility with the Northwest
Open Space area. Furthermore, Table 2-1 provides that the proposed Specific
Plan/Precise Plan zoning designation is consistent with Community Park (CP)
zoning designation.
3. The site of the proposed zone change is suitable for any of the land uses permitted
within the proposed zone district because the existing land uses comply with the
land uses outlined in the Specific Plan. Future development in the Northwest Open
' Space will be required to comply with the Specific Plan.
4. The uses allowed by the proposed zone change are compatible with existing and
planned uses on surrounding properties and the community in general because
the existing land uses will be compatible with the land uses outlined in the Specific
Plan.
5. The proposed zone change is reasonable and beneficial at this time because the
Specific Plan will legalize all of the existing land uses on the property, including the
forthcoming "Putuidem Village" project.
SECTION 4. Code Amendment 19-004
1. The proposed Land Use Code Amendment conforms with the goals and policies
of the General Plan because it provides for the fulfilment of the General Plan's
goals and policies, including Land Use Goal 4, which provides, "Preserve major
areas of open space and natural features"; and with Cultural Resources Goal 1,
which provides, "Preserve and protect historical, archaeological, and
paleontological resources." The proposed code amendment will allow for the
creation of a Specific Plan which will legalize existing land uses and provide
' development standards.
2. The proposed Land Use Code amendment is necessary to implement the General
Plan and to provide for public safety, convenience and/or general welfare because
3 01080
the proposed amendment achieves the goals and policies of the General Plan for
the reasons listed above.
3. The proposed Land Use Code amendment conforms with the intent of the '
Development Code and is consistent with all other related provisions thereof
because it provides, specifically, that the existing and future land uses must
conform to the Specific Plan.
4. The proposed Land Use Code amendment is reasonable and beneficial at this time
because the Specific Plan will legalize all of the existing land uses on the property,
including the forthcoming "Putuidem Village" project.
SECTION 4. Amendmenttothe San Juan Capistrano Official Zoning Map.
The proposed amendment to the San Juan Capistrano Official Zoning Map through
Rezone 20-001, and bearing the file number as follows:
Rezone 20-001
is hereby approved, and hereby adopted by the City Council and incorporated as part of
this Ordinance as Exhibit A.
SECTION 5. Amendment to the San Juan Capistrano Municipal Code —
Specific Plan.
The proposed Specific Plan (SP 2020-01) is hereby approved, and hereby adopted '
by the City Council and incorporated as part of this Ordinance as Exhibit B.
SECTION 6. Severability.
If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of
this Ordinance or any part hereof is for any reason held to be invalid, such invalidity shall
not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part hereof. The
City Council of the City of San Juan Capistrano hereby declares that it would have
passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase
hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions,
paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
SECTION 7. Publication.
The City Clerk is hereby directed to cause the following summary of this Ordinance
to be published by two (2) insertions in the Capistrano Dispatch, a newspaper of general
circulation that is printed, published, and circulated in the City of San Juan Capistrano.
SECTION 8. Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption. The City Clerk I shall attest to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause this Ordinance to be posted
and published in the manner required by law.
4 01080
SECTION 9. Location and Custodian of Records.
The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which
this Ordinance is based are located at the City Clerk's office located at 32400 Paseo
Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano, California 92675. The custodian of these records is the
City Clerk.
SECTION 10. City Clerk's Certification.
The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and cause the same
to be posted at the duly designated posting places within the City and published once
within fifteen (15) days after passage and adoption as required by law; or, in the
alternative, the City Clerk may cause to be published a summary of this Ordinance and a
certified copy of the text of this Ordinance shall be posted in the Office of the City Clerk
five (5) days prior to the date of adoption of this Ordinance; and, within fifteen (15) days
after adoption, the City Clerk shall cause to be published the aforementioned summary
and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, together with the vote for and against
the same, in the Office of the City Clerk.
PASSED APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of October 2020.
ATTESTt
MARA MORRIS, CITY CLERK,
�u
TROY A."BOURNE, ..-
5 01080
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE )SS.
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 1
I, MARIA MORRIS, City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a
true and correct copy of Ordinance No. 1080 which was regularly introduced and placed upon its first
reading at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 151h day of September 2020 and that thereafter,
said Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 61h day of
October 2020 by the following vote, to wit:
AYES COUNCIL MEMBERS: Maryott, Farias, Taylor and Mayor Bourne
NOES COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Reeve
MARIA MORRIS, LE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE 1 ss AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
I, MARIA MORRIS, declare as follows:
That I am the duly appointed and qualified City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano; That in compliance
with State laws, Government Code section 36933(1) of the State of California, on the 151h day of September
2020, at least 5 days prior to the adoption of the ordinance, I caused to be posted a certified copy of the
proposed ordinance entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN JUAN
CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA, TO (1) APPROVE REZONE 20-001 TO
AMEND THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP FROM COMMUNITY PARK TO
SPECIFIC PLAN/PRECISE PLAN AND CODE AMENDMENT 19-004 TO
CREATE A SPECIFIC PLAN FOR THE CITY -OWNED 65.5 -ACRE
PROPERTY, KNOWN AS THE NORTHWEST OPEN SPACE LOCATED
AT 30291 CAMINO CAPISTRANO (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBERS
121-050-04, 14, 18, 19, 21 (excluding the area identified as Parcel 1 of
Recorded Lot Line Adjustment 19-001) ''
998-123-99); AND (II)
DETERMINE THAT SAID ACTION IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALI A T REVIEW, AS PER
STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 1530 1
This document was posted in the Office of the City Clerk
MARIA MORRIS, CITY CLERK/
San Juan Capistrano, California
6 01080
STATE OF CALIFORNIA ►
COUNTY OF ORANGE ► ss
CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO )
I, MARIA MORRIS, declare as follows:
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
That I am the duly appointed and qualified City Clerk of the City of San Juan Capistrano; that in compliance
with State laws, Government Code section 36933(1) of the State of California.
On the 71" day of October 2020, 1 caused to be posted a certified copy of Ordinance No. 1080, adopted by
the City Council on October 6, 2020, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN JUAN
CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA, TO (1) APPROVE REZONE 20-001 TO AMEND
THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP FROM COMMUNITY PARK TO SPECIFIC
PLAN/PRECISE PLAN AND CODE AMENDMENT 19-004 TO CREATE A
SPECIFIC PLAN FOR THE CITY -OWNED 65.5 -ACRE PROPERTY, KNOWN
AS THE NORTHWEST OPEN SPACE LOCATED AT 30291 CAMINO
CAPISTRANO (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBERS 121-050-04, 14, 18, 19, 21
(excluding the area identified as Parcel 1 of Recorded Lot Line Adjustment 19-
001), AND 998-123-99); AND (11) DETERMINE THAT SAID ACTION IS
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT REVIEW, AS PER STATE CEgA G�JIDELINES SECTION 15301
This document was posted in the Office of the City Clerk
MARIA
San Ju
7
I
CITY CLERK
EXHIBIT A
Existing Zoning Designation (CP)
Proposed Zoning Designation (SP/PP)
I THE NORTHWEST OPEN SPACE
San Juan Capistrano
Specific Plan No. 2020-01
City of San Juan Capistrano
32400 Paseo Adelanto
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Ordinance No. 1080
August 2020
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
I. Introduction..........................................................................................................
3
1.1.
Purpose and Scope of the Specific Plan........................................................3
Exhibit 1-1A & 1-1 B: Specific Plan Area Boundaries................................5-6
'
1.2.
General Plan Consistency..............................................................................7
1.3.
City Adoption Process....................................................................................7
1.4.
Property Background......................................................................................7
Exhibit 1-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Conditions ...........................8
1.5.
Site Context/Existing Conditions.....................................................................9
Exhibit 1-3: Adjacent Land Uses.......................................................9
1.6.
Land Use Plan..............................................................................................10
11. Circulation
and Infrastructure.............................................................................10
11.1.
Circulation and Parking............:...................................................................10
Exhibit 11-1: Regional Circulation.....................................................10
11.2.
Water and Sewer Service.............................................................................11
11.3.
Drainage Plan — Hydrology and Water Quality.............................................11
11.4.
Utility Service................................................................................................12
111. Development Standards/Regulations.................................................................12
111.1.
Introduction...................................................................................................12
'
111.2.
General Provisions.......................................................................................12
111.3.
Use Regulations...........................................................................................12
111.4.
Development Standards...............................................................................13
111.5.
Specific Plan Adjustments/Amendments......................................................14
111.6.
Implementation.............................................................................................14
Appendix: Relationship of Specific Plan to General Plan.......................................1-9
E
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
I. Introduction
' 1.1. 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 65.5 -acre Northwest Open Space
property as "Community Park". The Community Park Land Use Designation allows sports
fields, public facilities, nature study centers and tot lots as permitted uses.
In accordance with Section 9-2.101 of the City's Land Use Code, a base zoning district is
required to be consistent with the applicable General Plan Land Use Designation and
such zoning consistency shall be determined by consulting the Zoning Consistency Matrix
Table (Table 2-1) that depicts which zoning districts are consistent with the various
General Plan Land Use Designations. According to Table 2-1, the General Plan Land Use
Designation of Community Park is consistent with the Specific Plan/Precise Plan zoning
district. As a result, the zoning designation of the Northwest Open Space property has
been changed from Community Park to Specifc Plan/ Precise Plan and the Northwest
Open Space (NWOS) Specific Plan ("Specific Plan") has been adopted to identify the
specific allowed uses on the property.
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.
3
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
The NWOS Specific Plan has been prepared based on the Specific Plan content
requirements of Section 65451 of the California Government Code. The boundaries of I the Specific Plan area are shown on Exhibit MA & MB: Specific Plan Area
Boundaries.
Il
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
' Exhibit I -1A - Specific Plan Area Boundary
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The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Exhibit 1-1 B - Specific Plan Area Boundary
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1 1 Specific Plan Boundary
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*** Please note that portions of the Northwest Open Space property are encumbered by recorded
conservation easements that preclude certain disturbance and development. Please contact the
City's Planning Division to confirm the easement locations on the City's GIS Map Database.***
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
1.2. General Plan Consistency
A detailed analysis demonstrating the relationship of The Northwest Open Space Specific
Plan uses to the San Juan Capistrano General Plan is included as Appendix A. The
analysis discusses how the Specific Plan relates to the goals and policies of the City
General Plan.
The NWOS Specific Plan furthers the City's General Plan Parks & Recreation Element
by preserving, protecting and enhancing open space uses, recreational facilities and trails
within the City. It furthers the General Plan goal of providing, developing and maintaining
ample park and recreational facilities that provide a diversity of recreational activities. The
NWOS includes a diversity of land uses including a dog park, equestrian facilities, and
trails. The eastern boundary of the NWOS is a habitat conservation area that furthers the
General Plan Conservation and Open Space Element goal by protecting and preserving
important ecological and biological resources; and by preventing incompatible
development in areas which should be preserved for scenic, historic, conservation, public
safety purposes. In addition, the Putuidem Village project will further the General Plan
Cultural Resources Element by preserving and protecting historical, archaeological, and
paleontological resources. The Putuidem Village project is located within the boundary of
the historically recorded village of Putuidem, the "mother village" for the Juaneno people
of the San Juan Capistrano Valley. The Williams/Swanner House is located in the NWOS
and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
' 1.3. 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 designation and Land Use
Code requirements.
1.4. Property Background
In 1993, the NWOS property was acquired by the City for potential future park use if grant
or local funds could be obtained. The original property encompassed approximately 70
acres. In 2020, a 3.85 -acre portion of the property bounded by Camino Capistrano,
Junipero Serra Road and Trabuco 'Creek was acquired by C&C Development for
development of an affordable housing project. The remaining portion of the NWOS
property measures 65.5 acres in area. Historically, the site was the "mother village" for
the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians of the San Juan Capistrano Valley. Prior to the
acquisition of the property, the primary use for several decades included commercial crop
production including Valencia Oranges. The property currently contains the
Williams/Swanner House which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Dr.
Joe Cortese dog park, and an equestrian staging area. See Exhibit 1-2: Specific Plan
Area Existing Conditions.
FA
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Exhibit 1-2: Specific Plan Area Existing Conditions
1.5. Site Context/Existing Conditions
The NWOS property encompasses approximately 65.5 acres and is located north of
Junipero Serra Road and west of Camino Capistrano in the City of San Juan Capistrano '
(Assessor's Parcel Numbers 121-050-04, 14, 18, 19, 21, and 998-123-99). See Exhibit
1-3: Adjacent Land Uses.
'3
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Exhibit 1-3: Adjacent Land Uses
The Specific Plan area is surrounded by various land uses including:
• Medium Low Density Residential.
• Very High Density Residential.
• General Open Space.
• Office/Research Park.
• Special Study.
The surrounding area also includes a City -owned parcel leased by a private Christmas
tree farm operator with a General Open Space designation, and an affordable housing
residential project (The Groves) which carries a Very High Density Residential
designation.
0
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
1.6. Land Use Plan
See page 13 for permitted by right uses and related structures. The Specific Plan area ,
may only be developed with the land uses described in the Land Use Plan.
II. Circulation and Infrastructure
11.1. Circulation and Parking
Vehicular Circulation
Regional Access to NWOS property is provided by the San Diego Freeway (1-5) which
bisects the City of San Juan Capistrano in a north/south direction. 1-5 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) and Pacific Coast Highway (SR -1)
extend in an east/west direction, south of the NWOS property.
Exhibit II -1: Regional Circulation
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The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Local access to the NWOS property is provided by Camino Capistrano. Camino
' Capistrano is designated as a Secondary Arterial roadway by the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan. 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.
Pedestrian Circulation & Parking
Pedestrian access within the NWOS property includes a multi -use trail that is located
along the eastern portion of the site and along Trabuco Creek. The NWOS property
provdes public parking within the Equestrian Staging Area and Dog Park.
11.2. Water and Sewer Service
Water Service
The NWOS property, as with the majority of the City of San Juan Capistrano, receives
domestic water service from the City of San Juan Capistrano Utilities Department. The
' City provides water to the site via a water service line located along Camino Capistrano;
and the existing infrastructure is available to any future development.
Sewer Service
The City provides sewer service to the NWOS property via an existing 8 -inch sewer main
that is connected to the Moulton Niguel Water District 12 -inch trunk line which is located
adjacent to the SCRRA westerly right-of-way line.
The existing 8 -inch sewer line was constructed in 2015 to serve the Swanner House and
NWOS future development. The City of San Juan Capistrano and Moulton Niguel Water
District entered into an agreement for the capacity discharge from the Swanner House
and two future restrooms.
11.3. Drainage Plan
Hvdrologv
The City maintains storm drainage collection and conveyance facilities within the City.
Regional flood control facilities are maintained both by the City and the Orange County
Flood Control District. Two major creeks traverse to the west (Oso Creek) and east
(Trabuco Creek) of the Specific Plan area. Portions of the Specific Plan area are located
' within a flood hazard area, as identified on the United States Federal Emergency
Management Agency's (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Map. Natural drainage at the site
is generally toward the southeast, conforming to the natural topography.
11
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Water Quality
A Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for any future development in the Specific ,
Plan area will be required. The WQMP will be 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
R9-2013-0001 which requires the preparation of a project WQMP for priority development
projects .
11.4 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.
III. Development Standards/Regulations
111.1. 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 NWOS property.
111.2. General Provisions
The following land use regulations specify permitted land uses and development
standards.
Development review. All new development within the Specific Plan area, shall be subject
to review and approval of development plans by the Developmnet Services Director,
Planning Commission and/or City Council in accordance with the development review
process, as set out in the applicable section(s) of the City's Land Use Code.
111.3. 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.
The Development Services Director shall have the authority to review proposed land uses
that are not listed below. The Director may 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;
12
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
• 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.
PERMITTED BY RIGHT USES AND RELATED STRUCTURES
1) Farming
2) Orchards
3) Dog Parks
4)
Picnic Areas
5)
Multi -Use Trails
6)
Restroom Facilities
7)
Equestrian Facilities
8)
Maintenance Facilities
9) Habitat Conservation. Areas
' 10) "Putuidem Village" and related events (as approved by the City Council on
December 3, 2019 along with any subsequent City Council approved revisions)
11)Williams/Swanner House Event Facility (includes social events such 'as weddings
and other celebratory gatherings, sale and service of alcohol, demonstrational
vineyard & wine tasting - winetasting room, historic depictions and planting of
Mission Grapes, educational programs, food and beverage services, historic
museum, live entertainment and caretaker quarters)
CONDITIONAL USES AND RELATED STRUCTURES
1) Wineries
2) Wedding Venues, except Williams/Swanner House Event Facility
3) Sale and Service of Alcohol, except at Williams/Swanner.House Event Facility
TEMPORARY/PERIODIC USES AND RELATED STRUCTURES
1) Temporary construction trailers, subject to the requirements of the applicable
section(s) of the Land Use Code.
' 111.4. Development Standards
The following development standards take precedence over any and all standards
contained in the City's Land Use Code.
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The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Structures shall be required to adhere to the following development standards:
Maximum Building Height: 35 feet ,
Maximum Floor Area Ratio: .05
Setbacks: From Dog Park: 25 feet
From Creek Edge: 100 feet
From Multi -Use Trail: 25 feet
From "Putuidem Village": 100 feet
From Northern Poperty Line: 30 feet
From Railroad Track Easement: 50 feet
From Williams/Swanner House Property: 50 feet
Architectural Style: The Spanish, Agrarian and Native American heritage of San Juan
Capistrano is apparent in its town design and traditional architectural building styles.
Structures within the NWOS shall be designed in with the following styles: Rural Agrarian,
Western or Early California. Regardless of style, structures must relate to Agrarian and
Native American heritage of the NWOS.
Signage: Subject to review and approval by the Development Services Director.
111.5. Specific Plan Adjustments/Amendments
Amendments to this Specific Plan shall be processed as set forth in Section 9-3.317 of '
the Municipal Code. Specific Plan amendments must conform to the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan and will be evaluated for potential environmental impacts in
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act.
111.6. Implementation
All building permits issued within the Specific Plan area shall be subject to review prior to
approval to ensure conformance with the Specific Plan and the approved entitlement
applications. •
14
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Appendix
' INTRODUCTION
This Appendix discusses how the Specific Plan 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 Specific Plan's consistency with the City of San Juan
Capistrano General Plan. The City of San Juan Capistrano General Plan includes the
following topical elements:
•
Land Use Element
•
Housing Element
•
Circulation Element
•
Safety Element
' •
Conservation/Open Space 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 4: Preserve major areas of open space and natural features.
Policy:
4.2: Implement land and open space rights acquisition programs to allow for the long-
term preservation of open space resources.
I
Consistency Discussion:
1
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
In 1993, the City purchased the Northwest Open Space (NWOS) property. The
property was acquired by the City for potential future park use and to protect the area
from future development.
HOUSING ELEMENT
Housing Goal 1: To create and maintain "decent housing and a suitable living
environment' for all households in the community.
Policy:
1.1: To encourage all households to maintain and rehabilitate all housing to prevent
deterioration.
Consistency Discussion:
The 1993 purchase of the Northwest Open Space (NWOS) property included the
historic Williams/Swanner House which has been renovated to prevent deterioration.
Following the renovation, the House was leased for residential use and is now used as
a wine tasting room, a museum and a special event venue.
CIRCULATION ELEMENT
Circulation Goal 3: Provide an extensive public bicycle, pedestrian, and equestrian trails
network.
Policies:
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 Specific Plan includes multiuse trails and walking paths.
The trails provide access within the Northwest Open Space to bicycles, pedestrians,
and horses.
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.
Consistency Discussion:
2
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
The Northwest Open Space includes a network of trails designed to provide safe and
convenient access to and between the current land uses and amenities. Vehicles
(except for emergency vehicles) are prohibited from accessing the trails. The Specific
Plan Area is serviced by a dedicated entrance.
SAFETY ELEMENT
Safety Goal 3: Protect citizens and businesses from criminal activity.
Policies:
3.1: Coordinate with the Orange County Sheriffs 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.
3.4: Improve public awareness of both the responsiveness of the Orange County Sheriffs
Department and ways to reduce criminal activity within the City.
Consistency Discussion
The Specific Plan area project incorporates a range of defensible space components,
including vehicular gates that provide security to the various land uses and facilities.
The gates are designed 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.
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 Specific Plan will not impede the City's efforts to respond
effectively to natural and human -caused emergencies.
3
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
Conservation/Open Space Goal 2: Protect and preserve important ecological and I 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.
Consistency Discussion:
The Specific Plan area contains important ecological and biological resources.
Implementation of the Specific Plan will not impede the City's efforts to protect and
preserve its ecological and biological resources.
NOISE ELEMENT I
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 Specific Plan will adhere to the City's General Plan and Municipal
Code with respect to noise levels for new construction.
CULTURAL RESOURCES ELEMENT
Cultural Resources Goal 1: Preserve and protect historical, archaeological, and
paleontological resources.
Policies:
Iv
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
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 Williams/Swanner House that exists within the Specific Plan Area is of historical
value and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, the Putuidem
Village project, located within the boundary of the historically recorded village of
Putuidem, the "mother village" for the Juaneno people of the San Juan Capistrano
Valley, will further the General Plan Cultural Resources Element by preserving and
protecting historical, archaeological, and paleontological resources. Prior to grading
for any project, 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 monitoring program will be designed.
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 Conservation & Open Space Element identifies the Specific Plan
Area as Community Park. The allowable uses and facilities within the Specific Plan
include several outdoor amenities that enhance the area with both passive and semi-
active uses, including walking paths, trails, equestrian facilities, a dog park and public
use of the historic Swan ner/WilIiams House for celebratory communal events, such as
weddings. The existing facilities were designed with detailed guidelines that governed
the general design, site planning, architecture and landscaping. The various trails and
uses provided for members of the community will promote the area and will encourage
participation by residents to become involved with future project planning.
5
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
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:
The Specific Plan area includes uses and facilities and development standards which
have been designed to complement the City's traditional, historic character through site
design, architecture, and landscaping.
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.
Consistency Discussion:
The Specific Plan is located adjacent to roadway and utility infrastructure to support its
development. Subsequent development activities will add infrastructure improvements.
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:
1.1: Coordinate with local groups to identify and meet the community's recreational needs.
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. '
Consistency Discussion:
9
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
The Specific Plan area is designed to provide numerous on-site facilities that include a
dog park, equestrian staging area, and a multi -use trail that provides access to the
Northwest Open Space.
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 Specific Plan does address considerations related to the City's existing bicycle,
hiking, and equestrian trail system and facilities. Implementation of the Specific Plan
will not impede the City's efforts to develop and expand existing bicycle, hiking, and
equestrian trail system and facilities.
IPUBLIC SERVICES AND UTILITIES ELEMENT
Public Services and Utilities Goal 1: Work with the Orange County Sheriffs
Department to provide a sufficient level of law enforcement.
Policies:
1.1: Work closely with the Orange County Sheriffs 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 Specific Plan area project incorporates a range of defensible space components,
including vehicular gates that provide security to the various land uses and facilities.
The gates are designed 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.
7
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
Policies:
2.1: Work closely with the Orange County Fire Authority in determining and meeting I 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.
Consistency Discussion:
Development under the Specific Plan will be reviewed by the Orange County Fire
Authority to ensure that the community has adequate fire protection.
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 Specific Plan includes community facilities for its residents. The facilities include a
dog park, equestrian staging area, and trails.
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 Specific Plan area is located adjacent to City water infrastructure, and a private
sewer main will connect the Specific Plan area to the Moulton Niguel Water District to
support its development. Detailed infrastructure improvements will be part of the
subsequent development applications.
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Floodplain Management Goal 1: Protect life and property from floodwaters.
Policies:
U
The Northwest Open Space Specific Plan
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.
11
Consistency Discussion:
Trabuco Creek traverses through the eastern portion of the Specific Plan area and
provides a confined flood zone along the creek edges. The existing land uses and
facilities are located outside of the dedicated flood zones and flood ways.
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.
Consistency Discussion:
Trabuco Creek traverses thru the eastern portion of the Specific Plan area and provides
a confined flood zone along the creek edges. The existing land uses and facilities are
located outside of the dedicated flood zones and flood ways. A habitat conservation
easement exists along the portion of Trabuco Creek that traverses through the Specific
Plan area.
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:
Trabuco Creek traverses through the eastern portion of the Specific Plan area and
provides a confined flood zone along the creek edges. The existing land uses and
facilities are located outside of the dedicated flood zones and flood ways. A habitat
conservation easement exists along the portion of Trabuco Creek that traverses
through the Specific Plan area.
0