Article 3 — PLANNING COMMISSION

For every application subject to design review pursuant to section 25-3-14, the planning commission shall base its decision on the following findings:

A. That the proposed development plans and design features will integrate harmoniously with, and enhance the character and design of, both the immediate neighborhood and the surrounding areas of the city.

• B. That the plan and design will enhance the desirability and enjoyment of the immediate neighborhood.

• C. That the plan and design of the buildings, parking areas, signs, landscaping, lighting, and other site features indicate that consideration has been given to both the functional aspects of the site development, such as automobile and pedestrian circulation, and the visual impacts of the development from the view of the public streets.

• D. That the plan and design shall tend to enhance property values and appearance in the immediate neighborhood and surrounding areas with an accompanying betterment of conditions affecting the public health, safety, and welfare. (Ord. #1639, §12)

For every application for design review, the planning commission shall consider the following factors in applying criteria when making findings with respect to site plan and design review:

A. The height, bulk, and other design features of all structures should be in proportion to the building site with a balance and unity among external features so as to present a harmonious appearance.

B. The design of structures and grounds should contribute to the physical character of the community while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the existing and proposed adjoining development.

C. The layout, orientation, and location of structures and their relationship to one another and to open spaces, parking areas, pedestrian walks, signs, illumination, and landscaping should be interrelated and arranged as to achieve an efficient and harmonious development.

D. Each building shall reflect due consideration of a total design concept which shall be an integral part of the design treatment and architectural detail accomplished in a professional manner consistent with good design practices.

E. The grading and development of sites should be accomplished with due regard for the qualities of the natural terrain and landscape; trees, shrubs, and other natural features should not be indiscriminately destroyed.

F. The location and type of landscape plantings should consider the following:

1. Landscaping should separate or screen storage, parking, and service areas from the street and adjoining building sites.

2. Landscaping should break up large expanses of paved areas.

3. Landscaping should separate building areas from paved areas.

G. The design, size, lighting, placement, and character of signs should be appropriately related to the structures and grounds and be in harmony with the general development of the site and the surrounding neighborhood.

H. The mechanical equipment or machinery, trash, and other exterior service areas necessary to serve the structure should be concealed or treated in a manner which is in harmony with the design of the structures and grounds.

I. When a site subject to design review is within or adjacent to a residential zone, the proposed improvements to such site should show consideration for the R zoned district and not impinge upon the character or value of the residential area. (Ord. #1639, §12)

If there is substantial change from the original design plans, the matter or plans shall be resubmitted to the planning commission, subject to all of the provisions of this section, as if it were a new design review. (Ord. #1639, §12)

The Lynwood planning commission shall further have the duties pursuant to Section 36500 et seq. of the Streets and Highway Code of the State of California formerly performed by the Parking and Business Improvement District Advisory Board (PBID) established on November 27, 1985, Ordinance 1262. The planning commission shall meet to perform the duties of the PBID on those dates and times which coincide with the meeting times and dates of the planning commission and only when business of the PBID is required to be transacted. (Ord. #1639, §12)

Nothing in this section 25-3 is intended to restrict the powers and duties otherwise pertaining to any city body, agency, commission, or staff. (Ord. #1639, §12) Table of Contents Previous Next

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