San Marcos Development Code Effective 10.17.23

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CHAPTER

Zoning regulations

Description. An open area at grade, or within 30 inches of grade, that serves as an open space, plaza or outdoor dining area. A forecourt is designed for pedestrian activity that is often related to the operation of the business(es) with entrances that open into the forecourt and windows that look into the forecourt. Refer to Table 1.9 in the Design Guidelines for ideas of how to maintain the street wall when utilizing a forecourt, as well as strategies that activate the edge of the forecourt. General Requirements:

Forecourt

• A forecourt must be no more than one-third of the length of the building face, and in no case longer than 50 feet in width.

• A forecourt must be no less than 10’ in depth.

• The depth of the forecourt should not exceed the general width.

50 ft. Maximum

• A maximum of one forecourt is permitted per lot.

• A forecourt meeting the above requirements is considered part of the building for the purpose of measuring the build-to zone. • The forecourt shall include a landscaping feature (such as planters) and features that encourage pedestrian activity (such as benches or tables).

Description. A covered passage extending along the outside wall of a building supported by arches or columns that is open on 3 sides. General Requirements:

Gallery

• A gallery must have a clear depth from the support columns to the building’s facade of at least 8 feet and a clear height above the sidewalk of at least 9 feet. • A gallery must be contiguous and extend over at least 75% of the width of the building facade. • A gallery may extend into a primary or side street setback. • A gallery may encroach up 9 feet into the public right-of-way but must be at least 2 feet inside the curb line or edge of pavement, whichever is greater.

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San Marcos Development Code Amended: October 17, 2023