San Marcos Development Code (effective November 3, 2021)

7 C H A P T E R

Supplemental Development Standards

Article 2: Landscaping and Screening

D. Additions and Increases in Gross Floor Area

1. When a building or site is increased in gross floor area or improved site area by up to 25%, landscaping is required for the additional floor or site area only. 2. When the gross floor area or improved site area is increased by more than 25%, both the existing use and the additional floor or site area must conform to the landscaping requirements of this LDC. E. Change in Use. A change in use does not trigger application of this section except when there is a specific use standard requiring landscaping for the new use. F. Landscaping and screening installed under the requirements of this ar ticle shall be consistent with the species type and installation requirements in Sections 7.2.4.1, 7.2.4.2, and Appendix D of the San Marcos Design Manual. Section 7.2.1.3 Administrative Adjustment The Planning Director, in accordance with Section 2.8.5.1, may approve a request for administrative adjustment subject to the following findings: A. The approved administrative alternate meets the intent of the landscaping and screening regulations; B. The approved administrative alternate conforms with the Comprehensive Plan and adopted City plans; and C. The approved administrative alternate is considered equal to or better than the standard.

Division 1: GENERAL LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS

Section 7.2.1.1 Intent

The intent of the landscaping and buffer yard regulations are to:

A. Promote attractive development and preserve or enhance the appearance and character of the surrounding area through the use of landscaping. B. Promote native and/or adapted, drought-tolerant species to conserve water and promote local biodiversity. D. Eliminate or minimize conflicts between potentially incompatible but otherwise permitted land uses on adjoining lots through buffering, which may include a combination of setbacks and visual buffers or barriers. E. Prescribe standards for the development and maintenance of plantings, fences, and walls. F. Ensure safe vehicular and pedestrian circulation to the building and on-site when landscaping and buffering is implemented. Section 7.2.1.2 Applicability 1. No Final Cer tificate of Occupancy shall be issued until landscaping has been provided in accordance with the requirements of this Development Code. 2. In instances where plantings cannot be completed prior to temporary building occupancy due to drought, weather or other conditions refer to Section 2.7.1.7. B. New Development or Redevelopment. Any new development or redevelopment of land must fully comply with the standards and regulations of this section. C. Renovations and Repairs. A building or site may be renovated or repaired without providing additional landscaping provided there is no increase in gross floor area or improved site area. C. Enhance stormwater management systems on the site. A. General

Division 2: TRANSITIONAL PROTECTIVE YARDS

Section 7.2.2.1 Intent

A transitional protective yard is intended to minimize conflicts between potentially incompatible, but otherwise permitted land uses on abutting proper ty. A transitional protective yard may be located within a required setback.

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Amended: November 3, 2021 San Marcos Development Code