HomeMy WebLinkAbout19 - Zoning Amendment for Recovery FacilitiesCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item No. 19
July 13, 2004
TO: MAYOR & MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Robert Burnham, City Attorney
644 -3131, rburnham e city. newport- beach. ca. us
SUBJECT: Zoning Amendment/Recovery Facilities
ISSUE:
Should the City Council introduce, and pass to second reading and adoption,
amendments to the Zoning Code (Exhibit A) that are intended to preserve the character
of residential neighborhoods in a manner consistent with State and Federal
statutory/decisional law related to the regulation of recovery facilities?
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council introduce and pass to second reading the
proposed amendments to the Zoning Code.
BACKGROUND:
On February 24, 2004, the City Council initiated amendments to the Zoning Code
"pertaining to recovery facilities in residential districts." On May 20, 2004, the Planning
Commission conducted a noticed public hearing relative to proposed amendments to
various provisions of the Zoning Code. The Planning Commission held a second
hearing on June 17, 2004. The Planning Commission (4 ayes, 2 nays and one absent)
voted to approve the Exhibit A with the understanding that the definition of campus be
revised to specify three or more structures located within a radius of 300 yards.
For purposes of this memo, we are using the term "recovery facilities" to mean dwelling
units that house persons who are "abstinent in recovery' or who suffer from a disorder
or other condition that would constitute a "handicap" under Federal or State law. Based
on research conducted to date, special counsel and staff believe the following is an
accurate summary of the statutory and decisional law that is most relevant to the
regulation of recovery facilities:
1. State law requires the City to treat State - licensed drug or alcohol treatment
facilities serving six or fewer occupants as single family residential uses. State law also
preempts local ordinances imposing special building, fire safety, fee or permit
requirements on State - licensed drug or alcohol treatment facilities serving six or fewer
occupants. According to State law, the number of occupants does not include the State
licensee, members of the licensee's family, or persons employed at the facility.
2. The Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988 (FHAA) prevents the City's from
adopting or enforcing zoning ordinances that impact recovery facilities for handicapped
individuals differently than non - handicapped residential uses in the same zone unless the
City: (a) can prove the ordinance is necessary to further a legitimate governmental
interest; and (b) reasonably accommodates handicapped individuals /uses by waiving
enforcement unless we can prove that a waiver would impose an undue burden on the
City and undermine the basic purpose of the ordinance.
3. The FHAA and related case law prohibits the City from, among other things,
establishing a "one person per bedroom room' requirement for recovery facilities,
imposing distance requirements between recovery facilities, and or preventing "for -
profit" entities from establishing or operating recovery facilities.
4. The provisions of State law relative to the treatment of State - licensed recovery
facilities serving six or fewer occupants and the provisions of the FHAA that prohibit
discrimination combine to prevent the City from treating unlicensed recovery facilities
differently than State - licensed recovery facilities.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF MAY 20, 2004
At the Planning Commission meeting on May 20th, staff and special counsel presented
the proposed Zoning Code amendments that were drafted in an effort to preserve the
unique character of our diverse residential neighborhood in a manner consistent with
State and Federal statutory and decisional law. The amendments presented on May
20, 2004 can be summarized as follows:
1. Various definitions — including "single family dwelling" and "family" — were
modified and the term "single housekeeping unit" has been added. (20.03.030)
2. Certain "Residential Use Classifications" were modified to more closely conform
to law and the term "Residential Care, General" was added. (20.05.030)
3. A "Reasonable Accommodation" process was added to provide a mechanism for
persons to request, and for the City to evaluate and approve when appropriate, a
"Reasonable Accommodation." (Section 20.91.020)
4. The matrix of permitted land uses in Residential Districts was been modified to
permit "Residential Care, Limited" (recovery facilities with six or fewer occupants per
dwelling unit) in all Districts. The matrix was also modified to prohibit Residential Care,
General" in R -1 and R -A zones (20.10.020) and require a "Reasonable Accommodation"
for "Residential Care, General" (recovery facilities with seven or more occupants per
dwelling unit) uses in all other residential zones.
During the public hearing on May 20th, members of the Planning Commission and the
public commented on, and asked staff and special counsel to evaluate, a number of
issues. The issues included: (a) why special counsel and staff were proposing
amendments that allow recovery facilities with seven or more occupants per dwelling
unit in the R1.5 and R -2 zones with a reasonable accommodation; (b) the extent of the
City's ability to consider parcel size as a factor in the zones in which recovery facilities
are located and /or the reasonable accommodation determination; (c) the factors —
including impact on the neighborhood - the City could or should consider in granting a
reasonable accommodation; (d) the extent of the City's ability to adopt and apply special
parking standards to recovery facilities; (e) whether the Planning Director or the
Planning Commission should make the initial determination on a reasonable
accommodation; (e) the City's ability, if any, to establish limits on the number of
recovery facilities in a particular neighborhood or geographic area; and (f) the manner in
which neighboring communities are dealing with recovery facilities.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF JUNE 17. 2004
On June 17, 2004, staff and special counsel presented the Planning Commission with a
revised ordinance that responded, where possible, to issues raised during the May 20th
meeting. The major changes to the ordinance presented on May 201h were: (a) the
addition of a definition of campus to mean three or more buildings being used together
for a common purpose where one of the buildings provides a service for the users of all
buildings; (b) the addition of a "Federal Exception Permit' (FEP) requirement for
recovery facilities in R -1.5, R -2 and MFR zones and delineation of some of the factors
that the Planning Commission could consider in deciding whether to grant or deny an
FEP; and (c) designating the Planning Commission — rather than the Planning Director -
as the initial decision maker on an application for an FEP.
DISCUSSION
The proposed ordinance (Exhibit A) conforms to the recommendation of the Planning
Commission represents what staff and special counsel believe is the most appropriate
vehicle to reconcile State and Federal restrictions on our ability to regulate recovery
facilities with the desire of the City Council to preserve the unique character of different
residential neighborhoods. Newport Beach is home to residential areas — such as the
R -1.5 and R -2 zones near the beach and bay - that have a relatively high percentage of
renters and a sizeable number of dwelling units that are offered as vacation rentals
during the summer and to college students during the winter. These R -1.5 and R -2
zones are characterized by relatively small lots and, based on anecdotal evidence,
relatively high densities. For these reasons, the proposed ordinance prohibits recovery
facilities in R -1 zones (or the equivalent) and requires recovery facilities serving 7 or
more occupants in the R 1 -5 and R -2 zones to obtain a Federal Exception Permit.
Members of the Planning Commission and those who testified at the two public
hearings suggested various amendments that would establish special development
standards for recovery facilities. Staff and special counsel are aware of no hard
evidence to support a finding that recovery facilities — other than situations involving a
"campus" - have a greater impact on parking than other residential uses. However, we
have evidence that suggests the concentration of recovery facilities in an area can
increase the volume of traffic and the number of large commercial vehicles entering and
leaving the area — so we have incorporated those considerations into the Federal
Exception Permit process. We have previously offered the opinion, based on legal
research, that the City does not have the authority to regulate the number of recovery
facilities in a given area or require that recovery facilities be separated by a specific
distance. Finally, special counsel has prepared a matrix of the recovery facility
regulations adopted by neighboring jurisdictions (Exhibit B).
The proposed ordinance — which would amend provisions of the Zoning Code — does
not address issues related to licenses that recovery facilities might be required to obtain
under other provisions of the Municipal Code or the application of other provisions that
regulate the conduct of people or require permits of certain land uses. This office and
special counsel will be reviewing those issues separately and will provide the City
Council with an analysis sometime in the near future.
The proposed amendments are exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15305 (Minor
Alterations in Land Use Limitations) of the CEQA Guidelines.
Su fitted by
Robert Burnham, City Attorney
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA
AMENDING SECTIONS 20.03.030, 20.05.030, 20.05.040, 20.10.010 20.10.020 and Chapter
20.91 OF THE NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ALL
CATEGORIES OF GROUP LIVING
WHEREAS, the City has adopted regulations on different types of group living
arrangements at various times throughout the City's history; and
WHEREAS, the existing regulations on group living are confusing and in need of
refinement; and
WHEREAS, in light of the Fair Housing Act Amendments, 42 U.S.C. § 3601, et seq.
(the "Act "), the City desires to codify its process for providing Federal Exception Permits when
appropriate under the Act;
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Newport Beach hereby ordains as
follows:
SECTION 1. The following definitions contained in Section 20.03.030 of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code are hereby amended to read as follows:
"Campus" means three or more buildings in a residential zone
within a 300 yard radius of one another that are used together for a
common purpose where one or more of the buildings provides a
service for the occupants of all the buildings such as when one
building serves as a kitchen/food service area for the occupants of
the other buildings.
"Dwelling, multifamily" means a building containing three or
more dwelling units, each of which is for occupancy by one
family.
"Dwelling, single- family" means a building containing one
dwelling unit for occupancy by one family.
"Dwelling, two family" means a building containing two
dwelling units, each of which is for occupancy by a one family.
"Family" means one or more persons living as a Single
Housekeeping Unit. The term "Family" shall include residential
care, limited facilities for six or fewer mentally disabled, mentally
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disordered or otherwise handicapped persons, but no other living
group not living together as a single housekeeping unit.
"Single Housekeeping Unit" means the functional equivalent
of a traditional family, whose members are a non - transient,
interactive group of persons jointly occupying a single dwelling
unit, including the joint use of common areas and sharing
household activities and responsibilities such as meals, chores, and
expenses.
SECTION 2. The following definitions contained in Section 20.05.030 of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code are hereby amended to read in their entirety as follows:
"Day -Care, Limited" means non - residential, non - medical care
and supervision of twelve (12) or fewer persons on a less than
twenty -four hour basis. This classification includes, but is not
limited to nursery schools, preschools, and day -care centers for
children (large and small family day -care homes) and adults.
"Group residential" means shared living quarters without
separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or unit. This
classification includes boarding houses, dormitories, fraternities,
sororities, and private residential clubs, but excludes Residential
Care- Limited, Residential Care - General, and residential hotels (see
Single -Room Occupancy (SRO) Residential Hotels, Section
20.05.050(EE)(4)).
"Residential Care - Limited" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for six or fewer persons with physical or mental impairments
which substantially limit one or more of such person's major life
activities. This classification also includes, but is not limited to
group homes, sober living environments, recovery facilities, and
establishments providing non - medical care for persons in need of
personal services, supervision, protection, or assistance essential
for sustaining the activities of daily living.
"Residential Care, General" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for seven or more persons with physical or mental
impairments which substantially limit one or more of such
person's major life activities. This classification includes but is
not limited to group homes, sober living environnents, recovery
facilities and establishments providing non - medical care for
persons in need of personal services, supervision, protection or
assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living.
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"Single- Family Residential" means buildings containing one
dwelling unit located on a single lot for occupancy by one family.
This classification includes mobile home and factory built housing.
"Two- Family Residential" means buildings containing two
dwelling units located on a single lot, each unit limited to
occupancy by a single family. This classification includes mobile
home and factory built housing.
SECTION 3. The definition of "Residential Care, General" contained in Section
20.05.040 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby amended to read in its entirety as
follows:
"Residential Care, General" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for seven or more persons with physical or mental
impairments which substantially limit one or more of such
person's major life activities. This classification includes but is
not limited to group homes, sober living environments, recovery
facilities and establishments providing non - medical care for
persons in need of personal services, supervision, protection or
assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living.
SECTION 4. Subsection Hof Section 20.10.010 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code
is hereby amended to read in its entirety as follows:
H. Provide public services and facilities to accommodate
planned population and densities.
The specific residential districts and their purposes are as
follows:
Residential - Agricultural (R -A) District. Provides areas for
single- family residential and light farming uses.
Single - Family Residential (R -1) District. This is the City's
most restrictive residential zoning district, established to provide
for a stable, social neighborhood for single- family residential land
uses by limiting occupancy to one family.
Restricted Two Family Residential (R -1.5) District. Provides
areas for single- family and two family residential land uses with
the total gross floor area of all buildings limited to a maximum
floor area ratio of 1.5 times the buildable area.
Two Family Residential (R -2) District. Provides areas for
single - family and two family residential land uses.
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Multifamily Residential (MFR) District. Provides areas for
single - family, two - family, and multiple family residential land
uses.
SECTION 5. Section 20.10.020 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.10.020 Residential Districts: Land Use Regulations.
The following schedule establishes the land uses defined in Chapter 20.05 as
permitted or conditionally permitted in residential districts, and includes special
requirements, if any, applicable to specific uses. The letter "P" designates use
classifications permitted in residential districts. The letter "L" designates use
classifications subject to certain limitations prescribed under the "Additional Use
Regulations" which follows. The letters "UP" designate use classifications permitted on
approval of a use permit, as provided in Chapter 20.91. The letters "PD /U" designate use
classifications permitted on approval of a use permit issued by the Planning Director, as
provided in Chapter 20.91. The letters "P /UP" designate use classifications which are
permitted when located on the site of another permitted use, but which require a use permit
when located on the site of a conditional use. The letters RA designates use classifications
for which a Federal Exception Permit must first be obtained pursuant to Chapter 20.91.
Letters in parentheses in the "Additional Regulations" column refer to "Additional Use
Regulations" following the schedule. Where letters in parentheses are opposite a use
classification heading, referenced regulations shall apply to all use classifications under
the heading.
Residential Districts: Land Use Regulations
P = Permitted
UP = Use permit
PD/U = Use permit issued by the Planning Director
L = Limited (see Additional Use Regulations)
FEP = Federal Exception Permit
= Not Permitted
R -A R -1 R -1.5 R -2 MFR Regulations
RESIDENTIAL
F
F
(A), (B), (C)
Day-care, Limited i I' ......................... _q�, I�. I' . I'..._......._
Group Residential r. —F
-�
Residential Carc, L,imitcd P P P IP
Residential Care, General
—F
---
Fi - I PP
FI ?P
iT,
Single_familyResidential
1' I "IP, (U), (E) (M)
Multifamily Residential
I
P (D)
Two-Family Residential
F__F_';I'
P `
P •
(U)
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PUBLIC AND SEMI- PUBLICIF�'
_.
_
Cemeteries
Clubs and Lodges
L -2 L -2 I. -2 L -2
Convalescent Facilities
'
Day -Care, General
.........._ ..........._ ...................
— UP UP UI' j UP
Govemment Offices
--- UP UP UI'
UP
Ilospdals
F UP UP UP
UI'
Park and Recreation Facilities : UP UP ;l"` UP
!'ublic Safety Pacilitles UP UI' UP UP UPS —'
' Religious Assembly JUP _' UI'
UP
IUP
i Schools, Public and Private 1UP ,up
UP
UP
FUP
Utilities, Major UP
UP UP
UP
UP
Utilities, Minor I' 1' ; I'�
COMMERCIAL USES
I(A), (B), (C)
Horticulture, Limited F
Nurseries.. IP ._._.
�- 7.
_
IVehicle/Equipinent Sales and
Services
- Commercial Parking Facility
F__
1. -3
1: 3
[: 3
L -3
Visitor Accommodations r
-Bed and Breakfast Inns
-SRO Residential I Iotels
��F-
�
UP
,JAGRICULTURAL AND
i EXTRACTIVE USES
Animal husbandry
..._..._...... ___........ _ ........
F�—
. _._.
F -F
.:
.
..._ ............. _........ _.... i
Crop Production _.. _
�'.F_[
�J
Mining and Processing :
L 4
I. 4
L 4 L 4
��
I A H
( )
ACCESSORY USISS
-� -�^
(A), (B), (C)
Accessory Structures and Uses
P/[JI'
I' /UI' I'/UP
P/UP
(I)
TEMPORARY USES
��
� ��—
(A), (11), (C)
Circuses and Carnivals
Ir
I' :F
P
P
(K)
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Commercial Filming, Limited [P rP 1' P ;1 P (K)
Personal Property Sales P'- 1' I ;IP
P I(L) i
Heliports, Temporary L-5
L-5 (J)
Real Estate Offices, Temporary (L_5
[
-5
L -5
1. -5
I► 5 'I(B) I
Residential Districts: Additional Laud Use Regulations
L -1: Twenty (20) acres minimum.
L -2: Limited to yacht clubs, use permit required.
L -3: Public or no fee private lots for automobiles may be permitted in any residential district adjacent to
any commercial or industrial district subject to the securing of a use permit in each case.
L-4: See Chapter 20.8 1, Oil Wells.
L -5: Subject to the approval of the Planning Director.
(A): See Section 20.60.025, Relocatable Buildings.
(B): See Section 20.60.015, Temporary Structures and Uses.
(C): See Section 20.60.050, Outdoor Lighting.
(D): With the exception of uses in the R -1 Zone, any dwelling unit otherwise permitted by this
Code may be used for short term lodging purposes as defined in Chapter 5.95 of the Municipal Code
subject to the securing of
I . A business license pursuant to Chapter 5.04 of the Municipal Code.
2. A transient occupancy registration certificate pursuant to Section 3.16.060 of the
Municipal Code.
3. A short term lodging permit pursuant to Chapter 5.95 of the Municipal Code.
(E): See Chapter 20.85, Accessory Dwelling Units.
(F): See Section 20.60.110, Bed and Breakfast Inns.
(G): Keeping of Animals in the R -A District. The following regulations shall apply to the keeping
of animals in the R -A District:
1. Large Animals. The keeping of large animals (as defined in Section 20.03.030)
shall be subject to the following regulations:
a. Horses. One horse may be kept for each ten thousand (10,000) square feet
of lot area, up to a maximum of three horses; provided, the horse or horses are kept for recreational
purposes only. The keeping of four or more horses for recreational uses shall require a use permit issued by
the Planning Director. The keeping of horses for commercial purposes shall require a use permit issued by
the Planning Commission.
b. Other Large Animals. Other large animals, including goats, sheep, pigs
and cows, may be kept on lots of fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet or more and the number shall not
exceed two adult animals of any one species.
C. Total Number Permitted. The total number of large animals shall not
exceed six. Offspring are exempt until such time as they are weaned.
2. Domestic and Exotic Animals. The number of domestic and exotic animals (as
defined in Section 20.03.030) shall not exceed six. Offspring are exempt up to the age of three months. The
keeping of four or more dogs over the age of three months shall require a kemiel license pursuant to
Section 7.04.090 of the Municipal Code. The keeping of wild animals shall require a permit pursuant to
Chapter 7.08 of the Municipal Code.
3. Small Animals. The number of small animals, other than domestic and exotic
animals (as defined in Section 20.03.030), shall not exceed six. Offspring are exempt up to the age of three
months.
4. Control.
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a. Domestic Animals. No such animals, except for cats, shall be permitted to
run at large, but shall be confined, at all times within a suitable enclosure or otherwise under the control of
the owner of the property.
b. Other Animals. No animal, other than domestic animals, shall be
permitted to run at large, but shall be confined, at all times within a suitable enclosure.
(H): See Chapter 20.8 1, Oil Wells.
(I): See Section 20.60.100, Home Occupations in Residential Districts.
(J): See Section 20.60.055, Heliports and Helistops.
(K): Special event permit required, see Chapter 5.10 of the Municipal Code.
(L): See Section 20.60.120, Personal Property Sales in Residential Districts.
(M): See Section 20.60.125, Design Standards for Mobile Homes on Individual Lots.
SECTION 6. Section 20.91.015 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.015 Use Permit, Variance, or Federal Exception Permit
Requisite to Other Permits.
No building permit or certificate of occupancy shall be issued
in any case where a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit is required by the terns of this code unless and until such
use pen-nit, variance or Federal Exception Permit has been granted
by the Planning Director or the Planning Commission or by the
affirmative vote of the City Council on appeal or review and then
only in accordance with the terns and conditions of the use permit,
variance or Federal Exception Permit granted.
SECTION 7. Section 20.91.020 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.020 Application for Use Permit, Variance, or Federal
Exception Permit.
An application for a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit shall be filed in a manner consistent with the requirements
contained in Chapter 20.90, Application Filing and Fees.
SECTION 8. Section 20.91.025 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.025 Duties of the Planning Director and the Planning
Commission.
A. Authority. The Planning Commission shall approve,
conditionally approve, or disapprove applications for use permits,
variances and Federal Exception Permits, unless the authority for
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an administrative decision on a use permit is specifically assigned
to the Planning Director in the individual chapters of this code. 1
Exception. The City Council shall have final decision - making
authority on the applications for use permits, variances and Federal
Exception Permits filed concurrently with amendments to the
general plan, zoning code, or a planned community development
plan or with a development agreement.
B. Rendering of Decision. After the conclusion of the hearing
on any application for a use permit, variance or Federal Exception
Permit, the Planning Commission shall render a decision within
thirty -five (35) days. Where the authority for an administrative
decision on a use permit is assigned to the Planning Director, the
Planning Director shall render a decision within fourteen (14) days
of the acceptance of a completed application.
C. Report to the Planning Commission. Upon rendering a
decision on a use permit, the Planning Director shall report to the
Planning Commission at the next regular meeting or within
fourteen (14) days of the decision, whichever is appropriate.
D. Notice of Decision. Upon the rendering of a decision on a
use pennit by the Planning Director, a notice of the decision shall
be mailed to the applicant and all owners of property within three
hundred (300) feet of the boundaries of the site.
SECTION 9. Section 20.91.030 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.030 Notice and Public Hearing.
A. Public Hearings. The Planning Commission shall hold a
public hearing on an application for a use permit, variance, or
Federal Exception Permit . Public hearings are not required for
applications where the authority for an administrative decision on a
use permit is assigned to the Planning Director.
B. Timing of Hearings. A public hearing shall be held on all
use permit, variance, and Federal Exception Permit applications,
except as otherwise provided in this chapter, within sixty (60) days
after the acceptance of a completed application.
The Planning Commission Direetefshall have the ability to review an application for a
reasonable Federal Exception Permit regardless of whether this code specifically
provides for such a reason -able °eeeffi edatiefiFederal Exception Permit when otherwise
required by state or federal law.
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C. Required Notice. Notice of a public hearing or an
administrative decision shall be given as follows:
1. Mailed or Delivered Notice.
a. Residential Districts. At least ten days prior to the hearing
or an administrative decision, notice shall be mailed to the
applicant and all owners of property within three hundred (300)
feet of the boundaries of the site, as shown on the last equalized
assessment roll or, alternatively, from such other records as contain
more recent addresses. It shall be the responsibility of the
applicant to obtain and provide to the City the names and addresses
of owners as required by this section.
b. Nonresidential Districts. At least ten days prior to the
hearing or an administrative decision, notice shall be mailed to the
applicant and all owners of property within three hundred (300)
feet, excluding intervening rights -of -way and waterways, of the
boundaries of the site, as shown on the last equalized assessment
roll or, alternatively, from such other records as contain more
recent addresses. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to
obtain and provide to the City the names and addresses of owners
as required by this section.
2. Posted Notice. Notice shall be posted in not less than two
conspicuous places on or close to the property at least ten days
prior to the hearing or the administrative decision.
3. Published Notice. Notice shall be published in at least one
newspaper of general circulation within the City, at least ten days
prior to the hearing.
D. Contents of Notice. The notice of public hearing or of the
decision of the Planning Director shall contain:
1. A description of the location of the project site and the
purpose of the application;
2. A statement of the time, place, and purpose of the public
hearing or of the purpose of the administrative decision;
3. A reference to application materials on file for detailed
information;
4. A statement that any interested person or authorized agent
may appear and be heard at the planning hearing and an
explanation of their rights of appeal in the case of an
administrative decision.
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E. Continuance. Upon the date set for a public hearing before
the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission may continue
the hearing to another date without giving further notice thereof if
the date of the continued hearing is announced in open meeting.
SECTION 10. Section 20.91.035 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.035 Required Findings.
The Planning Commission or the Planning Director, as the case
may be, shall approve or conditionally approve an application for a
use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit if, on the basis
of the application, plans, materials, and testimony submitted, the
Planning Commission or the Planning Director finds:
A. For Use Permits.
1. That the proposed location of the use is in accord with the
objectives of this code and the purposes of the district in which the
site is located;
2. That the proposed location of the use permit and the
proposed conditions under which it would be operated or
maintained will be consistent with the general plan and the purpose
of the district in which the site is located; will not be detrimental to
the public health, safety, peace, morals, comfort, or welfare of
persons residing or working in or adjacent to the neighborhood of
such use; and will not be detrimental to the properties or
improvements in the vicinity or to the general welfare of the city;
3. That the proposed use will comply with the provisions of
this code, including any specific condition required for the
proposed use in the district in which it would be located.
B. For Variances.
1. That because of special circumstances applicable to the
property, including size, shape, topography, location or
surroundings, the strict application of this code deprives such
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and
under identical zoning classification;
2. The granting of the application is necessary for the
preservation and enjoyment of substantial property rights of the
applicant;
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3. The granting of the application is consistent with the
purposes of this code and will not constitute a grant of special
privilege inconsistent with the limitations on other properties in the
vicinity and in the same zoning district;
4. The granting of such application will not, under the
circumstances of the particular case, materially affect adversely the
health or safety of persons residing or working in the neighborhood
of the property of the applicant and will not under the
circumstances of the particular case be materially detrimental to
the public welfare or injurious to property or improvements in the
neighborhood.
C. For Federal Exception Permits 2.
The Federal Exception Permit sought is handicapped-
related.
2. The applicant has demonstrated that the living group
residing in the Dwelling functions as a Single Housekeeping Unit
as evidenced by factors including, but not limited to a lack of
transiencey among its members. For the purposes of Federal
Exception Permits in other than the R -1 Zone, a lack of transiencey
shall mean the household does not change more than 50% of its
members in any given calendar year.
3. The Federal Exception Permit neither requires a
fundamental alteration in the nature of a program affected by the
Federal Exception Permit nor imposes an undue financial or
administrative burden on the City which creates an undue hardship
on the City. To the extent authorized by law, the factors the
Planning Commission, or the City Council on review or appeal
may consider the following in deciding whether to grant a Federal
Exception Permit include, but are not necessarily limited to:
(i) whether vehicular traffic congestion in the
neighborhood would be increased to an extent that would be
contrary to, or violate, any relevant provision of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code if the Federal Exception Permit was
approved;
Z A "Federal Exception Permit' is the name of the permit and application process necessary to
obtain a "reasonable accommodation' as that term is used in the Federal Fair Housing Act
Amendments (FHAA) and the case law implementing the FHAA The application for a Federal
Exception Permit shall be approved unless the evidence in the administrative record establishes
one of the findings for denial.
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(ii) whether the nature of vehicular traffic, such as the
frequency or duration of trips by commercial vehicles, would be
altered to a such an extent that it would be contrary to, or violate,
any relevant provision of the Newport Beach Municipal Code if
the Federal Exception Permit was approved; or
(iii) whether development or use standards established
in the Newport Beach Municipal Code and that are applicable to
other residential uses in the neighborhood would be violated; or
(iv) whether a Campus would be established in a
residential zone if the Federal Exception Pennit were granted;
SECTION 11. Section 20.91.040 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Pennits.
20.91.040 Conditions of Approval.
The Planning Commission or the Planning Director, as the case
may be, may impose such conditions in connection with the
granting of a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit as
they deem necessary to secure the purposes of this code and may
require guarantees and evidence that such conditions are being or
will be complied with. Such conditions may include requirements
for off - street parking facilities as determined in each case.
SECTION 12. Section 20.91.045 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.045 Effective Date.
Use permits, variances, and Federal Exception Pennits shall
not become effective for fourteen (14) days after being granted,
and in the event an appeal is filed or if the Planning Commission
or the City Council shall exercise its right to review any such
decision under the provisions of Chapter 20.95, the permit shall not
become effective unless and until a decision granting the use
permit, variance or Federal Exception Permit is made by the
Planning Commission or the City Council.
SECTION 13. Section 20.91.050 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C. relating to Federal Exception Pennits.
20.91.050 Expiration, Time Extension, Violation, Discontinuance, and
Revocation.
A. Expiration. Any use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit
granted in accordance with the terns of this code shall expire
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within twenty -four (24) months from the effective date of approval
or at an alternative time specified as a condition of approval
unless:
1. A grading permit has been issued and grading has been
substantially completed; or
2. A building permit has been issued and construction has
commenced; or
3. A certificate of occupancy has been issued; or
4. The use is established; or
5. A time extension has been granted.
In cases where a coastal permit is required, the time period shall not begin
until the effective date of approval of the coastal permit.
B. Time Extension. The Planning Director may grant a time extension
for a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit for a period
or periods not to exceed three years. An application for a time
extension shall be made in writing to the Planning Director no less
than thirty (30) days or more than ninety (90) days prior to the
expiration date.
C. Violation of Terms. Any use permit, variance, or Federal
Exception Permit granted in accordance with the terms of this code
may be revoked if any of the conditions or terms of such use
permit, variance or Federal Exception Permit are violated, or if any
law or ordinance is violated in connection therewith.
D. Discontinuance. A use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit shall lapse if the exercise of rights granted by it is
discontinued for one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days.
E. Revocation. Procedures for revocation shall be as prescribed by
Chapter 20.96, Enforcement.
SECTION 14. Section 20.91.055 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.055 Amendments and New Applications.
A. Amendments. A request for changes in conditions of approval of a
use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit or a change to
plans that would affect a condition of approval shall be treated as a
new application. The Planning Director may waive the requirement
261/066751-0059
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for a new application if the changes are minor, do not involve
substantial alterations or additions to the plan or the conditions of
approval, and are consistent with the intent of the original
approval.
B. New Applications. If an application for a use permit, variance, or
Federal Exception Pen-nit is disapproved, no new application for
the same, or substantially the same, use permit, variance or Federal
Exception Permit shall be filed within one year of the date of
denial of the initial application unless the denial is made without
prejudice.
26PO66751-0059
512369.01 a07 /06 /04 -14-
MEMORANDUM
TO: Bob Burnham, City Attorney, City of Newport Beach
FROM: Jeffrey A. Goldfarb
DATE: July 6, 2004
FILE NO.: 066751-0059
RE: Nearby Cities' Mechanism for Regulating Sober Living Environments
You have asked that we review the mechanism that adjoining cities use for the regulation
of sober living facilities. We have reviewed the Municipal codes for the Cities of Costa Mesa,
Irvine and Laguna Beach. Below is a discussion of each city's regulatory approach.
I. City of Irvine
The City of Irvine defines a sober living facility "as any house, institution, hotel or
similar place that provides room and board, or rooms only, and operates as a drug and alcohol
free residential facility." (Irvine Zoning Ord. § I -2 -1.) Irvine permits sober living facilities in
all residential zones with the exception of the "estate density residential zone" (one house per
acre) without regard to the number of persons the facility serves and without regard to whether
the residents are living together as a single housekeeping unit. (Irvine Municipal Code § 3 -3 -1.)
Irvine also includes regulates a category of uses entitled "Residential Care facilities," (Irvine
Zoning Ord. § I -2 -1.) which are defined as "any family home, group care facility or similar
facility providing 24 -hour non - medical services, supervisions or assistance essential for
sustaining the activities of daily living. Residential Care facilities includes shelters, board and
care facilities, half way houses, wards of the juvenal court and the like and excludes Sober living
facilities." (Id.) The Irvine Zoning Ordinance allows Residential Care facilities in all residential
zones with a Conditional Use Permit. (Irvine Municipal Code § 3 -3 -1.) Because Residential
Care facilities expressly exclude all "Sober Living Facilities," the Irvine Zoning Ordinance
would allow all drug and alcohol free group living facilities, in every residential zoned as a
matter of right without regard to number of residents.
II. City of Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa includes sober living facilities within the definition of residential care
facilities (which are state licensed facilities), and residential service facilities (which are not state
licensed facilities). Residential Care and Service facilities serving 6 or fewer are permitted in all
of the city's residential zones. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.) Residential Care and
Service facilities serving 7 or more are prohibited in the City's R -I zone, and conditionally
permitted in all other residential zones of the City. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.) The
City Code also contains a special category of Residential Care and Service facilities referred to
261/066751 -0059
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EXHIBIT B
Bob Burnham, City Attorney, City of Newport
Beach
July 6, 2004
Page 2
as a "Referral Facility." A Referral Facility is a Residential Care or Residential Service facility
where one or more of the person's residency in the facility is pursuant to a court order or
directive from an agency in the criminal justice system. The category does not, however, include
state license facilities containing 6 or fewer persons. Referral Facilities are prohibited in the
City's R -1 zone and permitted by conditional use permit in all of the City's other residential
zones. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.)
III. City of Laguna Beach
The City of Laguna Beach does not expressly regulate sober living homes, residential
treatment facilities or other group homes. The city does, however, limit residency to "families,"
defined as "an individual or two or more persons related by flood, marriage or adoption, living
together or a group of not more than six persons (excluding servants) not all of whom are related
by blood, marriage or adoption but all of them are living together as a single housekeeping unit
within a dwelling so that all persons within the unit maintain free access to all living spaces
within the dwelling. (Laguna Beach Municipal Code § 25.08.012.) Under state law, all
residential care facilities and alcohol rehabilitation facilities serving 6 or fewer persons would
therefore be permitted in all the City's residential zones. It is unclear how the City regulates
residential care facilities, group homes or alcohol recovery facilities serving 7 or more.
261/066751 -0059
507735.01 a06116104
TO:MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL - Agenda Item No. 19
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH July 13,2004
FROM: HOMEOWNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS b PRESERVE
USES OF GENERAL PLAN AND INTEGRITY OF RESIDENTIAL
COMMUNITIES, if r
Represented by Oberman,Orozco et al. and their legal counsel I
SUBJECT: ZONING AMENDMENT RE. DRUG RECOVERY FACILITIES
We have reviewed the Notes and Recommendations to the City Council from the
Planning Commission and office of the City attorney. In addition to citizen review,
We,at our own expense,retained expert legal counsel to research and provide a position
which would both support the City `s General Plan and land uses and related community
interests,and provide required accommodations under State and Federal law,as
applicable. Written recommendations were provided to the City attorney's office and the
Planning Commission in that regard.
Their review and research,and opinion as to decisional and case law,is different than that
of the City attorney and his special counsel. Specifically:
- Zoning or General Plan provisions which support community infrastructure,health and
safety, and use compatability represent " legitiate governmental interest" under the law;
-Case law(of which there is very little) relating specifically to Drug Rehab /recovery
facilities of 7 beds or greater,and those associated with those facilities /ie. All of those
subject to state license due to superivison requirements ,size or other criteria states that a
City can take action to prevent Camp uses,defined as 2 or more facilities using common
facilities or supervision for any purposes; AND ;
-Local governmental through its Plan and Zoning Ordinances can,through business
license and permitting requirements,impose management of uses which are
Nonconforming or deemed incompatible with character of community.This includes
drug rehab facilities with customers requiring supervision of any size,and facilities of 7
beds or greater.
-The City's "legitimate governmental interest" is to protect the integrity of the
community.
Our position is that the proposed Amendments do not support,and in fact damage,the
residents of the subject community,the Balboa Penninsula ,residential zones for the
following reasons:
1.The Penninsula is,by inherent character,a dense area where various Residential uses
literally exist side by side and in pervasive and close proximity to one
another.Therefore,the proposal to allow in certain Residential areas without review or
conditional use permitting practically results in one or multiple facilities being right on
top of Residential zones comprised of long -term residents .
2.The condition above,requires that in order to preserve the community's interest,the
conditional use permitting process needs to be applied to use proposals which are
potentially non - conforming and incompatible with existing use. In order to be able to
manage such uses,the City needs to require registration of such businesses through its
business licensing process(as do all other cities),without regard to tax status(hospitals
obtain business licenses ).
We therefore object to the Amendments as recommended and propose that:
1. The City not allow drug rehab facilities with supervision requirements and those
of 7 beds or greater in any Residential zone which does not include material
mixed commercial /industrial /retail use.
2. The City require ALL facilities subject to business controls(as with any other
business) to obtain business licenses as registration to operate within the City;
AND;
3.That the City characterize all facilities not protected as those without supervision and
6 or under beds /occupants with proposed locations in Residential neighborhoods be
characterized as non - conforming uses,and be subject to the normal public notice and
review and conditional use approval and permitting process.
COSTA MESA ,IRVINE,ORANGE,and many others do this already ...why won't
Newport Beach?
4.The Impacted area is,in reality,much greater than the proposed distance-We would
propose that anything within a 1000 yard radius would create impact.
5.The City conduct an audit to identify and verify the status of facilities on the Balboa
Penninsula: 1 -2 facilities could potentially be acceptable. Certainly 11 or more large
facilities represents an Over - concentration which stresses infrastructure,and puts undue
burden on local residents.
At the City attorney's request(and at our personal expense),our attorneys prepared and
submitted in writing recommended protocols for the City Planning Commission and
Council which it is of the opinion would provide both use management and legal
compliance. We urge the Council to review these recommendations and act upon them
prior to finalizing any decision.
We have made every good faith effort to assist the City with making a sound policy
decision We advise the City that it has a fiduciary obligation to protect the interest of the
MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY,INCLUDING ITS RESIDENTS FROM
DAMAGE AND LONG -TERM ADVERSE IMPACT. THANK YOU FOR YOUR
CONSIDERATION.
Cc: D.Cottriel- Pillsbury Winthrop LLP
-13- ,3N
X19
LAW OFFICES OF
FACSIMILE DANIEL C. CARLTON (949)757-0707
(949) 752 -2141
2600 MICHELSON DRIVE, SUITE 1120
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA 92612 Legal Assistant
Heather Dorris
July 12, 2004
HAND DELIVERED
City Council
City of Newport Beach
3300 Newport Blvd.
Newport Beach, CA 92658
Re: July 13, 2004 Hearing
Agenda Item 19
Proposed Zoning Amendment/Recovery Facilities
City of Newport Beach Planning Commission Staff Report, dated July 13,
2004, in re Agenda Item No. 19
Dear Mayor Ridgeway and City Council Members:
This will confirm that this office represents Narconon Southern California. Our
client received on July 9, 2004 a copy of the latest Planning Commission Staff Report
summary with recommendation regarding the proposed zoning amendments for
recovery facilities for the Hearing scheduled for July 13, 2004 as Agenda Item No. 19
with Exhibits A (the proposed ordinance amendment) and Exhibit B (Memorandum
dated July 6, 2004), A copy is attached for your review. Although we have not had the
opportunity to study the proposed amendments, a cursory review raises the following
issues of concern:
1. We note that the newly coined term "federal exception permit" does not
exist under state and federal laws. It appears that the use of this term is an attempt to
circumvent applicable laws.
2. The amendment attempts to create a new category of definitions,
delineating the difference between Residential Care, General and Multi- Family
Residential. The amendment attempts to place additional burdens on an applicant for
Residential Care, General under MFR. Once again, to the extent that these proposed
changes discriminate against recovery facilities, they are oppressive and burdensome
and in violation of state and federal laws.
3. In order to obtain a reasonable accommodation, apparently an Applicant
must prove that there is a lack of transiency among its members. This is defined in
City Council
City of Newport
July 12, 2004
Page 2
section 10 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code 20.91.035c.2 as "a lack of transiency
has meant that the household does not change more than 50% of its members in any
calendar year."
We question how this can be justified in light of state and federal laws regarding
discriminatory practices against recovery facilities. Is the City going to apply this
definition also to residential rental properties?
4. The Amendment requires a finding that traffic congestion or the nature of
vehicular traffic would not be altered to violate any municipal code. We understand that
a hotel is being proposed on the peninsula. It seems obvious that a recovery facility
would generate far less traffic and congestion (and transients) than would a hotel. Will
the same standards apply?
5. State and federal laws are quite clear that the City must provide
reasonable accommodations to recovery facilities in order to avoid discrimination. As
long as the final ordinance is in line with state and federal laws, our client will support it.
Thank you for your consideration in addressing these issues.
Respectfully,
DANIEL C. CARLTON
DCC:td
cc: Jon Stearman, DLA Narconcon Southern California (via facsimile)
Robert Burnham, Newport Beach City Attorney (via facsimile)
Jeffrey A. Goldfarb, Special Counsel to City of Newport Beach (via facsimile)
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item No. 19
July 13, 2004
TO: MAYOR & MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Robert Burnham, City Attorney
644 - 3131, rburnhamCa2citv.newaort- beach.ca.us
SUBJECT: Zoning Amendment/Recovery Facilities
ISSUE:
Should the City Council introduce, and pass to second reading and adoption,
amendments to the Zoning Code (Exhibit A) that are intended to preserve the character
of residential neighborhoods in a manner consistent with State and Federal
statutory/decisional law related to the regulation of recovery facilities?
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council introduce and pass to second reading the
proposed amendments to the Zoning Code.
BACKGROUND:
On February 24. 2004, the City Council initiated amendments to the Zoning Code
"pertaining to recovery facilities in residential districts." On May 20, 2004, the Planning
Commission conducted a noticed public hearing relative to proposed amendments to
various provisions of the Zoning Code. The Planning Commission held a second
hearing on June 17, 2004. The Planning Commission (4 ayes, 2 nays and one absent)
voted to approve the Exhibit A with the understanding that the definition of campus be
revised to specify three or more structures located within a radius of 300 yards.
For purposes of this memo, we are using the term "recovery facilities" to mean dwelling
units that house persons who are "abstinent in recovery" or who suffer from a disorder
or other condition that would constitute a "handicap" under Federal or State law. Based
on research conducted to date, special counsel and staff believe the following is an
accurate summary of the statutory and decisional law that is most relevant to the
regulation of recovery facilities:
1. State law requires the City to treat State - licensed drug or alcohol treatment
facilities serving six or fewer occupants as single family residential uses. State law also
preempts local ordinances imposing special building, fire safety, fee or permit
requirements on State - licensed drug or alcohol treatment facilities serving six or fewer
occupants. According to State law, the number of occupants does not include the State
licensee, members of the licensee's family, or persons employed at the facility.
2. The Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988 (FHAA) prevents the City's from
adopting or enforcing zoning ordinances that impact recovery facilities for handicapped
individuals differently than non - handicapped residential uses in the same zone unless the
City: (a) can prove the ordinance is necessary to further a legitimate governmental
interest; and (b) reasonably accommodates handicapped individuals /uses by waiving
enforcement unless we can prove that a waiver would impose an undue burden on the
City and undermine the basic purpose of the ordinance.
3. The FHAA and related case law prohibits the City from, among other things,
establishing a "one person per bedroom room" requirement for recovery facilities,
imposing distance requirements between recovery facilities, and or preventing "for -
profit" entities from establishing or operating recovery facilities.
4. The provisions of State law relative to the treatment of State - licensed recovery
facilities serving six or fewer occupants and the provisions of the FHAA that prohibit
discrimination combine to prevent the City from treating unlicensed recovery facilities
differently than State - licensed recovery facilities.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF MAY 20. 2004
At the Planning Commission meeting on May 20th, staff and special counsel presented
the proposed Zoning Code amendments that were drafted in an effort to preserve the
unique character of our diverse residential neighborhood in a manner consistent with
State and Federal statutory and decisional law. The amendments presented on May
20, 2004 can be summarized as follows:
1. Various definitions — including "single family dwelling" and "family' — were
modified and the term "single housekeeping unit" has been added. (20.03.030)
2. Certain "Residential Use Classifications" were modified to more closely conform
to law and the term "Residential Care, General" was added. (20.05.030)
3. A "Reasonable Accommodation" process was added to provide a mechanism for
persons to request, and for the City to evaluate and approve when appropriate, a
"Reasonable Accommodation." (Section 20.91.020)
4. The matrix of permitted land uses in Residential Districts was been modified to
pen-nit "Residential Care, Limited" (recovery facilities with six or fewer occupants per
dwelling unit) in all Districts. The matrix was also modified to prohibit Residential Care,
General" in R -1 and R -A zones (20.10.020) and require a "Reasonable Accommodation"
for "Residential Care, General" (recovery facilities with seven or more occupants per
dwelling unit) uses in all other residential zones.
During the public hearing on May 20th, members of the Planning Commission and the
public commented on, and asked staff and special counsel to evaluate, a number of
issues. The issues included: (a) why special counsel and staff were proposing
amendments that allow recovery facilities with seven or more occupants per dwelling
unit in the R4.5 and R -2 zones with a reasonable accommodation; (b) the extent of the
City's ability to consider parcel size as a factor in the zones in which recovery facilities
are located and/or the reasonable accommodation determination; (c) the factors —
including impact on the neighborhood - the City could or should consider in granting a
reasonable accommodation; (d) the extent of the City's ability to adopt and apply special
parking standards to recovery facilities; (e) whether the Planning Director or the
Planning Commission should make the initial determination on a reasonable
accommodation; (e) the City's ability, if any, to establish limits on the number of
recovery facilities in a particular neighborhood or geographic area; and (f) the manner in
which neighboring communities are dealing with recovery facilities.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF JUNE 17 2004
On June 17, 2004, staff and special counsel presented the Planning Commission with a
revised ordinance that responded, where possible, to issues raised during the May 20th
meeting. The major changes to the ordinance presented on May 20"' were: (a) the
addition of a definition of campus to mean three or more buildings being used together
for a common purpose where one of the buildings provides a service for the users of aA
buildings; (b) the addition of a "Federal Exception Permit" (FEP) requirement for
recovery facilities in R -1.5, R -2 and MFR zones and delineation of some of the factors
that the Planning Commission could consider in deciding whether to grant or deny an
FEP; and (c) designating the Planning Commission — rather than the Planning Director -
as the initial decision maker on an application for an FEP.
DISCUSSION
The proposed ordinance (Exhibit A) conforms to the recommendation of the Planning
Commission represents what staff and special counsel believe is the most appropriate
vehicle to reconcile State and Federal restrictions on our ability to regulate recovery
facilities with the desire of the City Council to preserve the unique character of different
residential neighborhoods. Newport Beach is home to residential areas — such as the
R -1.5 and R -2 zones near the beach and bay - that have a relatively high percentage of
renters and a sizeable number of dwelling units that are offered as vacation rentals
during the summer and to college students during the winter. These R -1.5 and R -2
zones are characterized by relatively small lots and, based on anecdotal evidence,
relatively high densities. For these reasons, the proposed ordinance prohibits recovery
facilities in R -1 zones (or the equivalent) and requires recovery facilities serving 7 or
more occupants in the R 1 -5 and R -2 zones to obtain a Federal Exception Permit.
Members of the Planning Commission and those who testified at the two public
hearings suggested various amendments that would establish special development
standards for recovery facilities. Staff and special counsel are aware of no hard
evidence to support a finding that recovery facilities — other than situations involving a
"campus" - have a greater impact on parking than other residential uses. However, we
have evidence that suggests the concentration of recovery facilities in an area can
increase the volume of traffic and the number of large commercial vehicles entering and
leaving the area — so we have incorporated those considerations into the Federal
Exception Permit process. We have previously offered the opinion, based on legal
research, that the City does not have the authority to regulate the number of recovery
facilities in a given area or require that recovery facilities be separated by a specific
distance. Finally, special counsel has prepared a matrix of the recovery facility
regulations adopted by neighboring jurisdictions (Exhibit B).
The proposed ordinance — which would amend provisions of the Zoning Code — does
not address issues related to licenses that recovery facilities might be required to obtain
under other provisions of the Municipal Code or the application of other provisions that
regulate the conduct of people or require permits of certain land uses. This office and
special counsel will be reviewing those issues separately and will provide the City
Council with an analysis sometime in the near future.
The proposed amendments are exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15305 (Minor
Alterations in Land Use Limitations) of the CEQA Guidelines.
Su itted by:
/Robert Burnham, City Attorney
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. _
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA
AMENDING SECTIONS 20.03.030, 20.05.030, 20.05.040, 20.10.010 20.10.020 and Chapter
20.91 OF THE NEWPORT BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ALL
CATEGORIES OF GROUP LIVING
WHEREAS, the City has adopted regulations on different types of group living
arrangements at various times throughout the City's history; and
WHEREAS, the existing regulations on group living are confusing and in need of
refinement; and
WHEREAS, in light of the Fair Housing Act Amendments, 42 U.S.C. § 3601, et seq.
(the "Act "), the City desires to codify its process for providing Federal Exception Permits when
appropriate under the Act;
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Newport Beach hereby ordains as
follows:
SECTION 1. The following definitions contained in Section 20.03.030 of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code are hereby amended to read as follows:
"Campus" means three or more buildings in a residential zone
within a 300 yard radius of one another that are used together for a
common purpose where one or more of the buildings provides a
service for the occupants of all the buildings such as when one
building serves as a kitchen/food service area for the occupants of
the other buildings.
"Dwelling, multifamily" means a building containing three or
more dwelling units, each of which is for occupancy by one
family.
"Dwelling, single - family" means a building containing one
dwelling unit for occupancy by one family.
"Dwelling, two family" means a building containing two
dwelling units, each of which is for occupancy by a one family.
"Family" means one or more persons living as a Single
Housekeeping Unit. The term "Family" shall include residential
care, limited facilities for six or fewer mentally disabled, mentally
261/066751 -0059
512369.01 a07/06iO4 EXHIBIT �
disordered or otherwise handicapped persons, but no other living
group not living together as a single housekeeping unit.
"Single Housekeeping Unit" means the functional equivalent
of a traditional family, whose members are a non - transient,
interactive group of persons jointly occupying a single dwelling
unit, including the joint use of common areas and sharing
household activities and responsibilities such as meals, chores, and
expenses.
SECTION 2. The following definitions contained in Section 20.05.030 of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code are hereby amended to read in their entirety as follows:
"Day -Care, Limited" means non - residential, non - medical care
and supervision of twelve (12) or fewer persons on a less than
twenty -four hour basis. This classification includes, but is not
limited to nursery schools, preschools, and day -care centers for
children (large and small family day -care homes) and adults.
"Group residential" means shared living quarters without
separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or unit. This
classification includes boarding houses, dormitories, fraternities,
sororities, and private residential clubs, but excludes Residential
Care - Limited, Residential Care - General, and residential hotels (see
Single -Room Occupancy (SRO) Residential Hotels, Section
20.05.050(EE)(4)).
"Residential Care - Limited" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for six or fewer persons with physical or mental impairments
which substantially limit one or more of such person's major life
activities. This classification also includes, but is not limited to
group homes, sober living environments, recovery facilities, and
establishments providing non - medical care for persons in need of
personal services, supervision, protection, or assistance essential
for sustaining the activities of daily living.
"Residential Care, General" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for seven or more persons with physical or mental
impairments which substantially limit one or more of such
person's major life activities. This classification includes but is
not limited to group homes, sober living environments, recovery
facilities and establishments providing non - medical care for
persons in need of personal services, supervision, protection or
assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living.
2611066751.0059
512769.01 a07106/04 -2-
"Single- Family Residential" means buildings containing one
dwelling unit located on a single lot for occupancy by one family.
This classification includes mobile home and factory built housing.
"Two- Family Residential" means buildings containing two
dwelling units located on a single lot, each unit limited to
occupancy by a single family. This classification includes mobile
home and factory built housing.
SECTION 3. The definition of "Residential Care, General" contained in Section
20.05.040 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby amended to read in its entirety as
follows:
"Residential Care, General" means shared living quarters
without separate kitchen or bathroom facilities for each room or
unit for seven or more persons with physical or mental
impairments which substantially limit one or more of such
person's major life activities. This classification includes but is
not limited to group homes, sober living environments, recovery
facilities and establishments providing non - medical care for
persons in need of personal services, supervision, protection or
assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living.
SECTION 4. Subsection H of Section 20.10.010 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code
is hereby amended to read in its entirety as follows:
H. Provide public services and facilities to accommodate
planned population and densities.
The specific residential districts and their purposes are as
follows:
Residential - Agricultural (R -A) District. Provides areas for
single - family residential and light farming uses.
Single - Family Residential (R -1) District. This is the City's
most restrictive residential zoning district, established to provide
for a stable, social neighborhood for single - family residential land
uses by limiting occupancy to one family.
Restricted Two Family Residential (R -1.5) District. Provides
Totalfor sin family and t, family residential land uses with
fh total gros3�oor area of albuildings limited to a maximum
floor area ratio of 1.5 times the buildable area.
Two�Family Residential (R -2) District. Provides areas for
single - family and two family residential land uses.
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Multifamily Residential (MFR) District. Provides areas for
single - family, two - family, and multiple family residential land
uses.
SECTION 5. Section 20.10.020 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.10.020 Residential Districts: Land Use Regulations.
The following schedule establishes the land uses defined in Chapter 20.05 as
permitted or conditionally permitted in residential districts, and includes special
requirements, if any, applicable to specific uses. The letter "P" designates use
classifications permitted in residential districts. The letter "L" designates use
classifications subject to certain limitations prescribed under the "Additional Use
Regulations" which follows. The letters "UP" designate use classifications permitted on
approval of a use permit, as provided in Chapter 20.91. The letters "PD/U" designate use
classifications permitted on approval of a use permit issued by the Planning Director, as
provided in Chapter 20.91. The letters "P/UP" designate use classifications which are
permitted when located on the site of another permitted use, but which require a use permit
when located on the site of a conditional use. The letters RA designates use classifications
for which a Federal Exception Permit must first be obtained pursuant to Chapter 20.91.
Letters in parentheses in the "Additional Regulations" column refer to "Additional Use
Regulations" following the schedule. Where letters in parentheses are opposite a use
classification heading, referenced regulations shall apply to all use classifications under
the heading.
Residential Districts: Land Use Regulations
P = Permitted
UP = Use permit
PD/U = Use permit issued by the Planning Director
L = Limited (see Additional Use Regulations)
FEP = Federal Exception Permit
= Not Permitted
j R -A RR -1 R -1.5 RR -2 MFR Additional
- - -.... - .- ._......... - -- - _...... Regulations - °--
RESIDENTIAL
-
Day -Care, Limited-
il`_..11`___
--
IRes
�---
dential CareaLimited
- - - - -- -- - - - -- ... _
Residential Care, Genera( ;�
_
',
FEp
I FEP
FEP I
Single - family Residential 'Ir.
iP _--iii?
-- - lip
(p), (E) (M)
Multifamily Residential1I_
-_
Ip
(p)
Two-Family Residential
P
(D)
-._...
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MLIC AND SEMI-PUI3lLkC:!1____
emeteries
---
Clubs and Lodges
-2—
Fi:
Convalescent Facilities
Day-Care, General IF_
]Government Offices
F
. i I
Hospitals
;JPark anq Recreation Facilities
Public Safety Facilities
Religious Assembly
l—
Schools, Public and Private
jUtilities, Major
FGE
1UP - �Fup
--- -- -f
jUtilities, Minor
JCOMMERCIAL USES ;F__
;F7777F__
__F
lHorticWWT, Umited !
_
Nurseries !rDl
F
f
F- !F.
jF-__
7F.
hi cle /Equipment Sales and
..vices
I 7Com.mercial Parking Facility
L -3 _—','rL-37
L-3
JL-3
f
IVisitor Accommodations
F-7
F
T-T...
F _____,.F
I -Bed ..and -Breakfast .Inns .-
Fu_
F( . ...... .. ..
F
-SRO Residential Hotels ---7..F7_
F
F
F__ -..F
------
AGRICULTURAL AND
J EXTRACTIVE USE
(A), (B), (C)
Animal husbandry PD/ (G)
Production
JACCESSORY USES
Accessory Structures and
Uses
T7_1
ITEMPORARY USES
cuses and Carnivals FP-Fp--,Fp-,Fp-, FP
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:ommercial Filming, Limited iIP P 113 1I P I p
_
ersonal Property Sales P P Pte- Pte- P
Estate Offices,
Residential Districts: Additional Land Use Regulations
L -1: Twenty (20) acres minimum.
L -2: Limited to yacht clubs, use permit required.
L -3: Public or no fee private lots for automobiles may be permitted in any residential district adjacent to
any commercial or industrial district subject to the securing of a use permit in each case.
L-4: See Chapter 20.8 1, Oil Wells.
L -5: Subject to the approval of the Planning Director.
(A): See Section 20.60.025, Relocatable Buildings.
(B): See Section 20.60.015, Temporary Structures and Uses.
(C): See Section 20.60.050, Outdoor Lighting. .
(D): With the exception of uses in the R -1 Zone, any dwelling unit otherwise permitted by this
Code may be used for short term lodging purposes as defined in Chapter 5.95 of the Municipal Code
subject to the securing of:
1. A business license pursuant to Chapter 5.04 of the Municipal Code.
2. A transient occupancy registration certificate pursuant to Section 3.16.060 of the
Municipal Code.
3. A short term lodging permit pursuant to Chapter 5.95 of the Municipal Code.
(E): See Chapter 20.85, Accessory Dwelling Units.
(F): See Sectiou 20.60.110, Bed and Breakfast Inns.
(G): Keeping of Animals in the R -A District. The following regulations shall apply to the keeping
of animals in the R -A District:
1. Large Animals. The keeping of large animals (as defined in Section 20.03.030)
shall be subject to the following regulations:
a. Horses. One horse may be kept for each ten thousand (10,000) square feet
of lot area, up to a maximum of three horses; provided, the horse or horses are kept for recreational
purposes only. The keeping of four or more horses for recreational uses sliall require a use permit issued by
the Planning Director. The keeping of horses for commercial purposes shall require a use permit issued by
the Planning Commission.
b. Other Large Animals. Other large animals, including goats, sheep, pigs
and cows, may be kept on lots of fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet or more and the number shall not
exceed two adult animals of any one species.
C. Total Number Permitted. The total number of large animals shall not
exceed six. Offspring are exempt until such time as they are weaned.
2. Domestic and Exotic Animals. The number of domestic and exotic animals (as
defined in Section 20.03.030) shall not exceed six. Offspring are exempt up to the age of three months. The
keeping of four or more dogs over the age of three months shall require a kennel license pursuant to
Section 7.04.090 of the Municipal Code. The keeping of wild animals shall require a permit pursuant to
Chapter 7.08 of the Municipal Code.
3. Small Animals. The number of small animals, other than domestic and exotic
animals (as defined in Section 20.03.030), shall not exceed six. Offspring are exempt up to the age of three
months.
4. Control.
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a. Domestic Animals. No such animals, except for cats, shall be permitted to
un at large, but shall be confined, at all times within a suitable enclosure or otherwise under the control of
the owner of the property.
b. Other Animals. No animal, other than domestic animals, shall be
permitted to run at large, but shall be confined, at all times within a suitable enclosure.
(H): See Chapter 20.8 1, Oil Wells.
(I): See Section 20.60.100, Home Occupations in Residential Districts.
(J): See Section 20.60.055, Heliports and Helistops.
(K): Special event permit required, see Chapter 5.10 of the Municipal Code.
(L): See Section 20.60.120, Personal Property Sales in Residential Districts.
(M): See Section 20.60.125, Design Standards for Mobile Homes on Individual Lots.
SECTION 6. Section 20.91.015 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.015 Use Permit, Variance, or Federal Exception Permit
Requisite to Other Permits.
No building permit or certificate of occupancy shall be issued
in any case where a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit is required by the terms of this code unless and until such
use permit, variance or Federal Exception Permit has been granted
by the Planning Director or the Planning Commission or by the
affirmative vote of the City Council on appeal or review and then
only in accordance with the terms and conditions of the use permit,
variance or Federal Exception Permit granted.
SECTION 7. Section 20.91.020 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.020 Application for Use Permit, Variance, or Federal
Exception Permit.
An application for a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit shall be filed in a manner consistent with the requirements
contained in Chapter 20.90, Application Filing and Fees.
SECTION S. Section 20.91.025 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.025 Duties of the Planning Director and the Planning
Commission.
A. Authority. The Planning Commission shall approve,
conditionally approve, or disapprove applications for use permits,
variances and Federal Exception Permits, unless the authority for
26M66751-0059
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an administrative decision on a use permit is specifically assigned
to the Planning Director in the individual chapters of this code. 1
Exception. The City Council shall have final decision - making
authority on the applications for use permits, variances and Federal
Exception Permits filed concurrently with amendments to the
general plan, zoning code, or a planned community development
plan or with a development agreement.
B. Rendering of Decision. After the conclusion of the hearing
on any application for a use permit, variance or Federal Exception
Permit, the Planning Commission shall render a decision within
thirty -five (35) days. Where the authority for an administrative
decision on a use permit is assigned to the Planning Director, the
Planning Director shall render a decision within fourteen (14) days
of the acceptance of a completed application.
C. Report to the Planning Commission. Upon rendering a
decision on a use permit, the Planning Director shall report to the
Planning Commission at the next regular meeting or within
fourteen (14) days of the decision, whichever is appropriate.
D. Notice of Decision. Upon the rendering of a decision on a
use permit by the Planning Director, a notice of the decision shall
be mailed to the applicant and all owners of property within three
hundred (300) feet of the boundaries of the site.
SECTION 9. Section 20.91.030 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read in its entirety as follows:
20.91.030 Notice and Public Ilearing.
A. Public Hearings. The Planning Commission shall bold a
public hearing on an application for a use permit, variance, or
Federal Exception Permit . Public hearings are not required for
applications where the authority for an administrative decision on a
use permit is assigned to the Planning Director.
B. Timing of Hearings. A public hearing shall be held on all
use permit, variance, and Federal Exception Permit applications,
except as otherwise provided in this chapter, within sixty (60) days
after the acceptance of a completed application.
The Planning Commission DkeeteFShall have the ability to review an application for a
Federal Exception Permit regardless of whether this code specifically
provides for such a feasenable alprommedatie iFederal Exertion Permit when otherwise
required by state or federal law.
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C. Required Notice. Notice of a public hearing or an
administrative decision shall be given as follows:
1. Mailed or Delivered Notice.
a. Residential Districts. At least ten days prior to the hearing
or an administrative decision, notice shall be mailed to the
applicant and all owners of property within three hundred (300)
feet of the boundaries of the site, as shown on the last equalized
assessment roll or, alternatively, from such other records as contain
more recent addresses. It shall be the responsibility of the
applicant to obtain and provide to the City the names and addresses
of owners as required by this section.
b. Nonresidential Districts. At least ten days prior to the
hearing or an administrative decision, notice shall be mailed to the
applicant and all owners of property within three hundred (300)
feet, excluding intervening rights -of -way and waterways, of the
boundaries of the site, as shown on the last equalized assessment
roll or, alternatively, from such other records as contain more
recent addresses. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to
obtain and provide to the City the names and addresses of owners
as required by this section.
2. Posted Notice. Notice shall be posted in not less than two
conspicuous places on or close to the property at least ten days
prior to the hearing or the administrative decision.
3. Published Notice. Notice shall be published in at least one
newspaper of general circulation within the City, at least ten days
prior to the hearing.
D. Contents of Notice. The notice of public hearing or of the
decision of the Planning Director shall contain:
1. A description of the location of the project site and the
purpose of the application;
2. A statement of the time, place, and purpose of the public
hearing or of the purpose of the administrative decision;
3. A reference to application materials on file for detailed
information;
4. A statement that any interested person or authorized agent
may appear and be heard at the planning hearing and an
explanation of their rights of appeal in the case of an
administrative decision.
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E. Continuance. Upon the date set for a public hearing before
the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission may continue
the hearing to another date without giving further notice thereof if
the date of the continued hearing is announced in open meeting.
SECTION 10. Section 20.91.035 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.035 Required Findings.
The Planning Commission or the Planning Director, as the case
maybe, shall approve or conditionally approve an application for a
use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit if, on the basis
of the application, plans, materials, and testimony submitted, the
Planning Commission or the Planning Director finds:
A. For Use Permits.
I. That the proposed location of the use is in accord with the
objectives of this code and the purposes of the district in which the
site is located;
2. That the proposed location of the use permit and the
proposed conditions under which it would be operated or
maintained will be consistent with the general plan and the purpose
of the district in which the site is located; will not be detrimental to
the public health, safety, peace, morals, comfort, or welfare of
persons residing or working in or adjacent to the neighborhood of
such use; and will not be detrimental to the properties or
improvements in the vicinity or to the general welfare of the city;
3. That the proposed use will comply with the provisions of
this code, including any specific condition required for the
proposed use in the district in which it would be located.
B. For Variances.
I. That because of special circumstances applicable to the
property, including size, shape, topography, location or
surroundings, the strict application of this code deprives such
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and
under identical zoning classification;
2. The granting of the application is necessary for the
preservation and enjoyment of substantial property rights of the
applicant;
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3. The granting of the application is consistent with the
purposes of this code and will not constitute a grant of special
privilege inconsistent with the limitations on other properties in the
vicinity and in the same zoning district;
4. The granting of such application will not, under the
circumstances of the particular case, materially affect adversely the
health or safety of persons residing or working in the neighborhood
of the property of the applicant and will not under the
circumstances of the particular case be materially detrimental to
the public welfare or injurious to property or improvements in the
neighborhood.
C. For Federal Exception Permits2.
The Federal Exception Permit sought is handicapped-
related.
2. The applicant has demonstrated that the living group
residing in the Dwelling functions as a Single Housekeeping Unit
as evidenced by factors including, but not limited to a lack of
transiencey among its members. For the purposes of Federal
Exception Permits in other than the R -I Zone, a lack of transiencey
shall mean the household does not change more than 50% of its
members in any given calendar year.
3. The Federal Exception Permit neither requires a
fundamental alteration in the nature of a program affected by the
Federal Exception Permit nor imposes an undue financial or
administrative burden on the City which creates an undue hardship
on the City. To the extent authorized by law, the factors the
Planning Commission, or the City Council on review or appeal
may consider the following in deciding whether to grant a Federal
Exception Permit include, but are not necessarily limited to:
(i) whether vehicular traffic congestion in the
neighborhood would be increased to an extent that would be
contrary to, or violate, any relevant provision of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code if the Federal Exception Permit was
approved;
2 A "Federal Exception Permit" is the name of the permit and application process necessary to
obtain a "reasonable accommodation' as that tern is used in the Federal Fair Housing Act
Amendments (FHAA) and the case law implementing the FHAA. The application for a Federal
Exception Permit shall be approved unless the evidence in the administrative record establishes
one of the findings for denial.
2611066751 -0059
512769.01 a0M6104
(ii) whether the nature of vehicular traffic, such as the
frequency or duration of trips by commercial vehicles, would be
altered to a such an extent that it would be contrary to, or violate,
any relevant provision of the Newport Beach Municipal Code if
the Federal Exception Permit was approved; or
(iii) whether development or use standards established
in the Newport Beach Municipal Code and that are applicable to
other residential uses in the neighborhood would be violated; or
(iv) whether a Campus would be established in a
residential zone if the Federal Exception Permit were granted;
SECTION 11. Section 20.91.040 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.040 Conditions of Approval.
The Planning Commission or the Planning Director, as the case
maybe, may impose such conditions in connection with the
granting of a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit as
they deem necessary to secure the purposes of this code and may
require guarantees and evidence that such conditions are being or
will be complied with. Such conditions may include requirements
for off - street parking facilities as determined in each case.
SECTION 12. Section 20.91.045 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.045 Effective Date.
Use permits, variances, and Federal Exception Permits shall
not become effective for fourteen (14) days after being granted,
and in the event an appeal is filed or if the Planning Commission
or the City Council shall exercise its right to review any such
decision under the provisions of Chapter 20.95, the permit shall not
become effective unless and until a decision granting the use
permit, variance or Federal Exception Pennit is made by the
Planning Commission or the City Council.
SECTION 13. Section 20.91.050 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection C. relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.050 Expiration, Time Extension, Violation, Discontinuance, and
Revocation.
A. Expiration. Any use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit
granted in accordance with the terms of this code shall expire
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512369.01 a01/06/04 -12-
within twenty -four (24) months from the effective date of approval
or at an alternative time specified as a condition of approval
unless:
1. A grading permit has been issued and grading has been
substantially completed; or
2. A building permit has been issued and construction has
commenced; or
3. A certificate of occupancy has been issued; or
4. The use is established; or
5. A time extension has been granted.
In cases where a coastal permit is required, the time period shall not begin
until the effective date of approval of the coastal permit.
B. Time Extension. The Planning Director may grant a time extension
for a use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit for a period
or periods not to exceed three years. An application for a time
extension shall be made in writing to the Planning Director no less
than thirty (30) days or more than ninety (90) days prior to the
expiration date.
C. Violation of Terns. Any use permit, variance, or Federal
Exception Permit granted in accordance with the terns of this code
may be revoked if any of the conditions or terns of such use
permit, variance or Federal Exception Permit are violated, or if any
law or ordinance is violated in connection therewith.
D. Discontinuance. A use permit, variance, or Federal Exception
Permit shall lapse if the exercise of rights granted by it is
discontinued for one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days.
E. Revocation. Procedures for revocation shall be as prescribed by
Chapter 20.96, Enforcement.
SECTION 14. Section 20.91.055 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended relating to Federal Exception Permits.
20.91.055 Amendments and New Applications.
A. Amendments. A request for changes in conditions of approval of a
use permit, variance, or Federal Exception Permit or a change to
plans that would affect a condition of approval shall be treated as a
new application. The Planning Director may waive the requirement
261/066751 -0059
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for a new application if the changes are minor, do not involve
substantial alterations or additions to the plan or the conditions of
approval, and are consistent with the intent of the original
approval.
B. New Applications. If an application for a use permit, variance, or
Federal Exception Permit is disapproved, no new application for
the same, or substantially the same, use permit, variance or Federal
Exception Permit shall be filed within one year of the date of
denial of the initial application unless the denial is made without
prejudice.
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Bob Burnham, City Attorney, City of Newport
Beach
July 6, 2004
Page 2
as a "Referral Facility." A Referral Facility is a Residential Care or Residential Service facility
where one or more of the person's residency in the facility is pursuant to a court order or
directive from an agency in the criminal justice system. The category does not, however, include
state license facilities containing 6 or fewer persons. Referral Facilities are prohibited in the
City's R -I zone and permitted by conditional use permit in all of the City's other residential
zones. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.)
III. City of Laguna Beach
The City of Laguna Beach does not expressly regulate sober living homes, residential
treatment facilities or other group homes. The city does, however, limit residency to "families,"
defined as "an individual or two or more persons related by flood, marriage or adoption, living
together or a group of not more than six persons (excluding servants) not all of whom are related
by blood, marriage or adoption but all of them are living together as a single housekeeping unit
within a dwelling so that all persons within the unit maintain free access to all living spaces
within the dwelling. (Laguna Beach Municipal Code § 25.08.012.) Under state law, all
residential care facilities and alcohol rehabilitation facilities serving 6 or fewer persons would
therefore be permitted in all the City's residential zones. It is unclear how the City regulates
residential care facilities, group homes or alcohol recovery facilities serving 7 or more.
261/066751-0059
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MEMORANDUM
TO:
Bob Burnham, City Attorney, City of Newport Beach
FROM:
Jeffrey A. Goldfarb
DATE:
July 6, 2004
FILE NO.:
066751 -0059
RE: Nearby Cities' Mechanism for Regulating Sober Living Environments
You have asked that we review the mechanism that adjoining cities use for the regulation
of sober living facilities. We have reviewed the Municipal codes for the Cities of Costa Mesa,
Irvine and Laguna Beach. Below is a discussion of each city's regulatory approach.
I. City of Irvine
The City of Irvine defines a sober living facility "as any house, institution, hotel or
similar place that provides room and board, or rooms only, and operates as a drug and alcohol
free residential facility." (Irvine Zoning Ord. § 1 -2 -1.) Irvine permits sober living facilities in
all residential zones with the exception of the "estate density residential zone" (one house per
acre) without regard to the number of persons the facility serves and without regard to whether
the residents are living together as a single housekeeping unit. (Irvine Municipal Code § 3 -3 -1.)
Irvine also includes regulates a category of uses entitled "Residential Care facilities," (Irvine
Zoning Ord. § 1 -2 -1.) which are defined as "any family home, group care facility or similar
facility providing 24 -hour non - medical services, supervisions or assistance essential for
sustaining the activities of daily living. Residential Care facilities includes shelters, board and
care facilities, half way houses, wards of the juvenal court and the like and excludes Sober living
facilities." (Id.) The Irvine Zoning Ordinance allows Residential Care facilities in all residential
zones with a Conditional Use Permit. (Irvine Municipal Code § 3 -3 -1.) Because Residential
Care facilities expressly exclude all "Sober Living Facilities," the Irvine Zoning Ordinance
would allow all drug and alcohol free group living facilities, in every residential zoned as a
matter of right without regard to number of residents.
lI. City of Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa includes sober living facilities within the definition of residential care
facilities (which are state licensed facilities), and residential service facilities (which are not state
licensed facilities). Residential Care and Service facilities serving 6 or fewer are permitted in all
of the city's residential zones. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.) Residential Care and
Service facilities serving 7 or more are prohibited in the City's R -I zone, and conditionally
permitted in all other residential zones of the City. (Costa Mesa Municipal Code § 13 -30.) The
City Code also contains a special category of Residential Care and Service facilities referred to
261/066751 -0059
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VVUTDTrP i
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Group Homes in Residential Zones
Code Amendment No. 2004 -005 (PA2004 -102)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Newport Beach will hold a
public hearing regarding a proposed amendment to the Title 20 of the Municipal Code regarding
group homes in residential zones. The proposed amendment will establish new definitions
applicable to group homes and amends where and how group homes may operate within
residential zones. Specifically, the amendment will create a procedure where reasonable
accommodation can be made to allow group homes of 7 or more persons in the R -1.5, R -2 and
MFR zones citywide. Additionally, the amendment will prohibit group homes of 7 or more
persons from the R -1 and R -A zones citywide.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the proposed action is not defined as a project
under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it involves general policy and
procedure making activities not associated with a project or a physical change in the environment
(Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines).
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that said public hearing will be held on July 13.
2004, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Newport Beach City Hall, 3300
Newport Boulevard, Newport Beach, California, at which time and place any and all persons
interested may appear and be heard thereon. If you challenge this project in court, you may be
limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this
notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the public hearing. For
information call (949) 644 -3200.
\D. �
rA �;\'k -c-
to-
LaVonne M. ffarkless, City Clerk
City of Newport Beach
�0 .jo\ -o�{
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Group Homes in Residential Zones
Code Amendment No. 2004 -005 (PA2004 -102)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Newport Beach will hold a
public hearing regarding a proposed amendment to the Title 20 of the Municipal Code regarding
group homes in residential zones. The proposed amendment will establish new definitions
applicable to group homes and amends where and how group homes may operate within
residential zones. Specifically, the amendment will create a procedure where reasonable
accommodation can be made to allow group homes of 7 or more persons in the R -1.5, R -2 and
MFR zones citywide. Additionally, the amendment will prohibit group homes of 7 or more
persons from the R -1 and R -A zones citywide.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the proposed action is not defined as a project
under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it involves general policy and
procedure making activities not associated with a project or a physical change in the environment
(Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines).
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that said public hearing will be held on July 13,
2004, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Newport Beach City Hall, 3300
Newport Boulevard, Newport Beach, California, at which time and place any and all persons
interested may appear and be heard thereon. If you challenge this project in court, you may be
limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this
notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the public hearing. For
information call (949) 644 -3200.
LaVonne M. Harkless, City Clerk
City of Newport Beach
Balboa Island Board and Care Cameo Homes Newport Beach Plaza
300 Apolena 1411 Mariners Drive 1455 Superior Ave.
Newport Beach, California 92662 Newport Beach, California 92660 Newport Beach, California 92663
Pat Moore Foundation
1216 Balboa Blvd., W.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Solutions by the Sea
1601 Balboa Blvd., W.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Crown Cove Senior Care Comm.
3901 E. Coast Hwy.
Newport Beach, California 92625
South Coast Children's Society
745 Dover Dr.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Avalon at Newport — East
4000 Hilaria Way
Newport Beach, California 92663
Avalon at Newport
393 Hospital Rd.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Heathers — Kent, The
1615 Kent Lane
Newport Beach, California 92660
Cameo Homes
2512 Lighthouse Lane
Newport Beach, California 92625
Discovery House
620 Marguerite
Newport Beach, California 92625
Gregory's Care Residence
227 Milford Drive
Newport Beach, California 92625
Narcanon Southern California
1810 W. Oceanfront
Newport Beach, California 92663
Relapse Prevention Program
471 Old Newport Rd.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Coastal Family Therapy Services
1000 Quail Street, Suite 220
Newport Beach, California 92660
Ziai - Nosrat, Roya
10 Riez
Newport Beach, California 92657
Balboa Island Board and Care
324 Ruby
Balboa, California 92662
Sober Living by the Sea, Inc.
4500 -4504 Seashore Drive
Newport Beach, California 92663
Sober Living by the Sea, Inc.
4800 Seashore Drive, Units A & B
Newport Beach, California 92663
St. Andres Presbyterian Church
600 St. Andrews Rd.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Ocean Recovery dba Solutions by
the Sea
3419 Via Lido
Newport Beach, California 92663
Dr. Linda Orozco
1805 W. Balboa Blvd.
Newport Beach, California 92663
Dave C. Johnson
33460 Megan Ct.
Lake Ellsinore, California 92530-
2402
Creative Covers
William G. Cooper
1234 Balboa Blvd. E. #F
Newport Beach, California 92661
Coastal Recovery Living
427 East 17th Street, Suite 351
Costa Mesa, California 92627
Authorized to Publish Advertisements of all kinds including public notices by
Decree of the Superior Court of Orange County, California. Number A -6214,
September 29. 1961, and A -24831 June 11, 1963.
PROOF OF PUBLICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA)
) ss.
COUNTY OF ORANGE )
I am a Citizen of the United States and a
resident of the County aforesaid; I am
over the age of eighteen years, and not a
party to or interested in the below entitled
matter. I am a principal clerk of the
NEWPORT BEACH - COSTA MESA
DAILY PILOT, a newspaper of general
circulation, printed and published in the
City of Costa Mesa, County of Orange,
State of California, and that attached
Notice is a true and complete copy as
was printed and published on the
following dates:
July 3, 2004
I declare, under penalty of perjury, that
the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed on July 3, 2004
at Costa Mesa, California.
Signature
NOME OFPUBUCHEARRIG or m persons in the
R -1.ore 5, R -2 and MFR
MS
Of" HA 111 zones citywide. Addi-
ReAdmuZ011ES tionally, the amendment
will prohibit group
co&k dmntk homes of 7 or more
2ON405VA20WIq persons from the R -1
NOTICE IS HEREBY and R -A zones citywide.
GIVEN that the City NOTICE IS HEREBY
F
Council of the City of URTHER GIVEN that
the proposed action is
Newport Beach will hold
not defined as a project
a public hearing re- Environmental the California
amendg a proposed Environmental Quality
amendment the Title pct (CEQA) because it
20 of the Municipal Code
homes involves general policy
in reside group homes and procedure making
in residential zones. The activities not associated oa
will establish amendment with a project or e
will establish new tleto physical change a the
group applicable to environment (Section
group homes and 15378 of the CEQA
amends where and how Guidelines).
group homes may OP- NOTICE IS HEREBY
erate within residential FURTHER GIVEN that
zones. Specifically, the mid public hearing will
amendment will create be held on July 13, 2004,
a procedure where at the hour of 7:00 p.m.
reasonable accommo. in the Council Chambers
dation can be made to p{ the NewDOrt' Beach
allow grou0 homes of 7 City Hall, 3300 Newport
Boulevard, Newport
Beach, California, at
which time and place
any and all persons
interested may appear
and be heard thereon. If
You challenge this
project in court, you
may be Jim ited to raising
only those issues you or
someone else raised at
the public hearing
described in this notice
or in written corre-
spondence delivered to
the City at, or prior to,
the Public hearing. For
information call (949)
644 -3200.
LoVonae M. Harkless,
City Clerk
City of Newport Beach
/ P u b lis had Newport
/ Beach /Costa Mesa July
3,
2004 Sa675