HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP 19J; Car Country Initiatives 2 & 4; Specific Plan (SP)
The City of Carlsbad Planning Division
A REPORT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Item No.
Application complete date: N/A
P.C. AGENDA OF: January 15, 2014 Project Planner: Barbara Kennedy
Project Engineer: N/A
SUBJECT: SP 19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4 – Request for a
recommendation of approval for Specific Plan Amendment SP 19(J) and Local Coastal
Program Amendment LCPA 12-01 to 1) update the Car Country Comprehensive Sign
Program by modifying the existing sign standards and by adding provisions for a digital
display sign to address the unique needs of the automotive sales industry, and 2) to
streamline the permit and review process for minor improvements for property
generally located on the south side of Cannon Road, north and west of Car Country
Drive, and east of Interstate 5 within the Mello II Segment of the Local Coastal Program
and Local Facilities Management Zone 3. The City Planner has determined that the
proposed Specific Plan amendments are exempt from the provisions of CEQA, pursuant
to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
I. RECOMMENDATION
That the Planning Commission ADOPT Planning Commission Resolutions No. 7031 and 7032
RECOMMENDING APPROVAL of Specific Plan Amendment SP 19(J) and Local Coastal Program
Amendment LCPA 12-01 based on the findings and subject to the conditions contained therein.
II. INTRODUCTION
The 78-acre Car Country Carlsbad Auto Mall (Car Country) is located north and west of Car Country
Drive, south of Cannon Road and east of the I-5 freeway. Development within Car Country must comply
with the regulations and development standards of the Car Country Specific Plan (Specific Plan). The
proposed Specific Plan amendments would accomplish two objectives: 1) to update the Car Country
Comprehensive Sign Program (Sign Program) by modifying the existing sign standards and by adding
provisions for a digital display sign to address the unique needs of the automotive sales industry, and 2)
to streamline the permit and review process for minor improvements. The Specific Plan, which serves as
the implementing ordinance for the Local Coastal Program (LCP), regulates the uses and provides the
development standards for Car Country Carlsbad. Therefore, both a Specific Plan amendment and an
LCP amendment are required. The project meets all regulations applicable to the legislative and
discretionary actions and all necessary findings to approve this proposal can be made.
III. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND
In November of 2009, the City Council directed staff to engage representatives of the city’s car
dealerships in a public outreach program with the goal of developing a list of potential improvements to
Car Country Carlsbad and the car dealerships on Avenida Encinas. In early 2010, the Car Country
Carlsbad Working Group was formed. Through a collaborative effort between city staff and
representatives of the dealerships, dozens of suggestions were developed within four topic areas: 1)
General Appearance, 2) Sign Program, 3) Traffic and Safety and 4) Minor Updates to Specific Plan. A
Summary Recommendations Report was prepared and presented to the City Council at their April 2011
workshop. At that workshop, the City Council directed staff to return with a report detailing staff’s
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SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
January 15, 2014
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recommendations, cost estimates and prioritization for 30 individual recommendations within the four
topic areas. Two of the topic areas, Initiative 2: Sign Program and Initiative 4: Minor Updates to Specific
Plan, are the subject of this proposed amendment.
Initiative 2 contains a number of recommendations related to updating the Sign Program and Initiative 4
consists of recommended minor updates to the Specific Plan that address streamlining the approval
process for certain project types and modifying the text to improve readability. The recommendations
and actions for these two initiatives are briefly summarized below:
Initiative 2 – Sign Program
1. Consider allowing for a higher pole sign (up to 50 feet) with LED and changing message with the
potential for the city to advertise for public events and community service messages.
Modifications to the standards for the existing freeway-oriented sign (Regional Commercial Sign)
would allow an increase in height from 35 to 50 feet for a “static” sign. Additionally, subject to
approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and Coastal Development Permit by the City Council, a
Digital Display Sign could be integrated into a Regional Commercial Sign. Sign size, height,
messaging and operational features would be evaluated through the CUP process. Subsequent to
the working group recommendations, the dealerships’ representative indicated that in order to
achieve the desired freeway visibility, a maximum digital sign area of 625 square feet (25 ft. x 25
ft.) and a maximum overall sign height of 65 feet would be required. These dimensions have been
included in the proposed sign standards at the request of the dealerships.
2. Allow for directional signs specific to the needs of each dealership.
Although the current Sign Program does not include any provisions for on-site directional signs,
directional signs are permitted by the citywide Sign Ordinance. The purpose of on-site
directional signs is to facilitate internal pedestrian and vehicular traffic to the various uses on a
lot, such as a service area or parts department. The Sign Ordinance allows three signs per
driveway, and each sign may have a maximum size of six square feet with a maximum height of
six feet. The recently revised Sign Ordinance approved an increase in the sign height from four
feet to six feet. The proposed Car Country standards for on-site directional signs are consistent
with the recently adopted Sign Ordinance.
3. Allow for monument signs to identify Car County Carlsbad specifically.
The revised standards for the Car Country Identification signs would allow an increase in the
aggregate sign area (from 360 sf. to 600 sf.) but would reduce the allowable sign area for each
monument sign from 150 sf. to 60 sf. Additionally, the standards would specify the number and
general locations of these signs. The modifications would also allow for a new type of
freestanding sign (Wayfinding Sign) to assist customers with locating the various dealerships. Up
to four 14 ft. tall signs would be allowed at secondary intersections. These signs would be
designed with a uniform Car Country theme and would include only dealership names and
directional arrows.
4. Allow for monument signs to identify each individual dealership specifically.
The sign standards currently allow one freestanding sign on a lot. The existing standard would
be revised to allow a monument sign in addition to the allowable freestanding sign. There
would be no change to the current allowance for an additional freestanding or monument sign
for each additional franchise. A revision is also proposed to remove the limitation of 55 square
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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feet of sign area per sign and instead, allow the sign area to be regulated through the allowable
(aggregate) sign area for each lot.
Initiative 4 – Minor Updates to Specific Plan
1. Consider establishing a minor administrative approval process that would allow for an
administrative approval process for modifications and additions to existing facilities.
The proposed revisions would establish two new categories for review: Exempt Projects that
could be reviewed in conjunction with a building permit and a Minor Site Development Plan for
qualifying modifications and additions to existing facilities that would require administrative
approval. The intent of the proposed modifications is to streamline the permit and review
process by reassigning the approval authority to the lowest appropriate decision-making
authority.
2. Update the Specific Plan to complete miscellaneous minor changes to clean-up inconsistencies
and provide clarity of interpretation and implementation.
The proposed minor text modifications would update the text with current terminology and
would eliminate obsolete or outdated requirements. Additionally, Part 4: “Comprehensive Sign
Program” would be changed to “Comprehensive Sign Standards” and the entire section would be
reformatted to reflect the proposed sign modifications as well as to eliminate ambiguities and
improve readability.
Detailed descriptions of the proposed Specific Plan amendments are provided below in the analysis
section of this report together with a comparison of the proposed sign revisions with the existing
Specific Plan and citywide Sign Ordinance (Table A) and a summary table (Table B) of the proposed
Specific Plan text amendments.
IV. ANALYSIS
The proposed project is subject to the following plans, ordinances and standards as analyzed within the
following sections of this staff report:
A. General Plan Regional Commercial (R) Land Use designation;
B. C-2 and C-2-Q Zone (General Commercial/Qualified Development Overlay) Chapters 21.28 and
21.06 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code;
C. Sign Ordinance (Chapter 21.41 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code);
D. Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan (SP 19); and
E. Local Coastal Program (Mello II Segment).
The recommendation for approval for this Specific Plan Amendment and Local Coastal Program
Amendment was developed by analyzing the project’s consistency with the applicable regulations and
policies. The project’s compliance with each of the above regulations is discussed in detail in the
following sections.
A. General Plan
The proposed amendments are consistent with the policies and programs of the General Plan. The
existing Regional Commercial (R) General Plan Land Use designation for the site was adopted
concurrently with the Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan to achieve consistency. The Regional
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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Commercial Land Use designation allows for the development of automobile dealerships which draw
customers from outside of the City. The proposed amendments do not include a change in the land use
and therefore, the Specific Plan will continue to comply with the General Plan.
B. Zoning
The Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan area is located in the General Commercial (C-2) and General
Commercial-Qualified Development Overlay (C-2-Q) zones. However, development proposals within the
Specific Plan area are subject to the unique development standards of the Specific Plan rather than the
City’s Zoning Ordinance. Similar to the General Plan Land Use designation, the zoning designations for
the site were adopted concurrently with the Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan to achieve consistency.
The proposed amendments do not include a change in the zoning and therefore, the Specific Plan will
continue to comply with the zone designations.
C. Sign Ordinance
An amendment to the citywide Sign Ordinance (CMC Chapter 21.41) was recently approved by the City
Council on August 27, 2013. However, in order for the amended Sign Ordinance to be effective in the
Coastal Zone (where Car Country Carlsbad is located) the associated Local Coastal Program Amendment
(LCPA) must be approved by the California Coastal Commission. This is important to note because the
amended Sign Ordinance includes provisions that could allow a digital display sign for regional
commercial centers that are designated Regional Commercial (R) by the General Plan, are within a
Specific or Master Plan, and which have frontage on a freeway, upon approval of a Conditional Use
Permit by the City Council.
It is also important to understand that the Car Country “Comprehensive Sign Program” (to be renamed
“Comprehensive Sign Standards”) has historically functioned, and would continue to function, as
“alternative sign standards” rather than a “sign program” as defined by the citywide Sign Ordinance. A
sign program would typically show the design, dimensions, colors, materials, etc. of each sign located on
a building(s) or lease space within a commercial development. Instead, unique sign standards are
incorporated into the Specific Plan so that there is consistency in the number and types of signs allowed
for each dealership within Car Country. This approach provides flexibility to address the unique needs of
the automotive sales industry and the advertising needs of individual franchises. The sign standards in
the Specific Plan supersede those in the Sign Ordinance (CMC Chapter 21.41), including those in CMC
Section 21.41.090 – Coastal Sign Standards. However, if sign standards are not specifically defined in the
Specific Plan, then the Sign Ordinance regulations would apply.
In the following section, Table A – Summary of Proposed Sign Standard Provisions and Revisions
provides a comparison of the proposed sign standards with both the existing Specific Plan regulations
and the citywide Sign Ordinance.
D. Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan
The purpose of this Specific Plan amendment is to implement several of the recommendations of the Car
Country Carlsbad Working Group, as directed by the City Council at their April 2011 workshop. The two
topic areas discussed below, Initiative 2 - Sign Program and Initiative 4 - Minor Updates to Specific Plan,
contain the recommendations which are the subject of these proposed amendments.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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Initiative 2 – Sign Program
The purpose of this initiative is to consider revisions to the existing Car Country sign standards in order
to address the changing needs of the automotive sales industry. The proposed revisions would allow
flexibility for each dealership to comply with franchise-specific sign requirements and to address on-site
circulation needs; would establish a consistent design theme for the auto mall; and would further
identify Car Country as a unique entity within the city through proposed modifications to the existing
freeway-oriented sign. Many of the existing sign standards will remain the same with no revisions to
type, size or height of signs. Other revisions clarify terms, eliminate errors and redundancies, or
reformat the sign standards.
Table A below, summarizes the major provisions of the existing sign standards and provides a
comparison with the proposed revisions and the citywide Sign Ordinance. The major revisions and
additions are shown as underline. A detailed discussion of the major revisions follows this table. The
complete strikethrough/underline revisions to the existing standards are provided in Attachment 5.
TABLE A - SUMMARY OF SIGN STANDARD PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS
SIGN TYPE/
PURPOSE EXISTING PROPOSED CITYWIDE SIGN ORDINANCE(1)
Aggregate
Sign Area per
Lot
Two sf. per lineal foot of
building frontage.
Applies to wall, fascia or
awning signs, and
freestanding and/or
monument franchise
signs.
No revisions. One sf. per lineal foot of
building frontage.
Applies to wall, fascia or
awning signs.
Franchise
Signs
Franchise signs
advertise
individual
dealerships.
Freestanding Sign
Max. area per sign: 55 sf.
Max. height: Shall not
exceed the height of the
building or 35 ft.,
whichever is less.
Freestanding Sign
Max. area per sign: May
not exceed the allowable
sign area for the lot.
Max. height: Shall not
exceed the height of the
building or 35 ft.,
whichever is less.
Freestanding (Pole) Sign
Permitted sign type, but
not allowed in this zone.
(Allowed for freeway
service stations: max. 50 sf.
and up to 35 ft. tall)
Monument Sign
Max. area per sign: 55 sf.
Max. height: 8 ft.
Monument Sign
Max. area per sign: May
not exceed the allowable
sign area for the lot.
Max. height: 8 ft.
Monument Sign
Max area per sign: 60 sf.
Max. height: 6 ft. above
average grade.
Number of Franchise Signs
per Lot
One freestanding sign
per lot.
One additional
freestanding or
monument sign if more
than one franchise is
located on the lot.
Number of Franchise Signs
per Lot
One monument sign and
one freestanding sign per
lot.
One additional
freestanding or
monument sign if more
than one franchise is
located on the lot.
Number of Franchise Signs
per Lot
One per driveway
entrance.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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TABLE A - SUMMARY OF SIGN STANDARD PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS (CONTINUED)
SIGN TYPE/
PURPOSE EXISTING PROPOSED CITYWIDE SIGN ORDINANCE(1)
Wall, Fascia or
Awning Sign
Refer above to “Aggregate
Sign Area per Lot.” No
maximum letter height or
length of sign.
No revisions.
Maximum letter height
varies according to the size
of the building size or lease
space.
Fascia sign: centered on
fascia.
Awning sign: over doors or
windows.
Length of sign shall not
exceed 75% of the length
of the building frontage.
Signs on
Dealerships
Adjacent to I-5
Only wall mounted or
fascia signs are allowed.
Signs shall face the
freeway. Signs
perpendicular or at an
angle are not allowed.
Signs may not exceed the
roof height (no roof
signs).
Allows additional sign
area of one sf per lineal
foot of building frontage
facing the freeway.
Allowed sign area shall
not be used to calculate
permitted sign area for
other signs.
Maximum letter height
shall not exceed 1/3 of
the height of the building
on which it is placed.
No revisions.
Not addressed.
No additional sign area
allowed for businesses
facing the freeway.
On-Site
Directional
Signs
To guide/
direct
pedestrian or
vehicular
traffic to uses
on the same
site. Facilitates
internal traffic
to each
dealership
located on the
lot.
Currently allowed
pursuant to the citywide
Sign Ordinance.
The previous Sign
Ordinance allowed a sign
height of 4 ft.
Max. area per sign: 6 sf.
Number of signs allowed:
3 per driveway entrance.
Max height: 6 ft.
Signs do not count
towards the total
allowable sign area
May only contain non-
commercial messages or
directional symbols.
Max. area per sign: 6 sf.
Number of signs allowed: 3
per driveway entrance.
Max height: 6 ft.
Signs do not count towards
the total allowable sign
area
May only contain non-
commercial messages or
directional symbols.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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TABLE A - SUMMARY OF SIGN STANDARD PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS (CONTINUED)
SIGN TYPE/
PURPOSE EXISTING PROPOSED CITYWIDE SIGN ORDINANCE(1)
Car Country
Identification
Signs
Max. aggregate sign area:
360 sf.
Unified design theme
which complements the
architectural design.
Subdued sign and
lettering colors.
Provide landscaping at
base of sign.
Max. aggregate sign area:
600 sf.
Unified design theme
which complements the
architectural design.
Subdued sign and
lettering colors.
Provide landscaping at
base of sign.
Requires a
comprehensive sign
program.
Not addressed.
Identification signs for a
commercial center would
fall within the category of
monument signs.
Monument
signs identify
Car Country in
general.
Monument Signs
Max. area per sign: 150 sf.
Number of signs allowed:
Not specified.
Max height: 8 ft.
May be located on
site/retaining walls or as
freestanding monuments.
Location not specified.
Monument Signs
Max. area per sign: 60 sf.
Number of signs allowed: 6
Max height: 8 ft.
May be located on
site/retaining walls or as
freestanding monuments.
Allowed at or near
primary entry points to
Car Country.
Not addressed.
Wayfinding
Signs guide
customers to
the individual
dealerships
within Car
Country.
Wayfinding Signs
Not addressed.
Wayfinding Signs
Max. area per sign: 60 sf.
Number of signs allowed:
4
Max height: 14 ft.
Allowed at secondary
intersections, mid-block
locations or other
appropriate locations.
The “Car Country”
identification shall be
incorporated into the
sign.
Not addressed.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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TABLE A - SUMMARY OF SIGN STANDARD PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS (CONTINUED)
SIGN TYPE/
PURPOSE EXISTING PROPOSED CITYWIDE SIGN ORDINANCE(1)
Regional
Commercial
Sign (formerly
“Freeway
Oriented Sign”).
Used to
advertise the
entire Car
Country and
may be
oriented to I-5.
Freeway Oriented Sign
Max. area per sign: 150 sf.
Number of signs allowed: 1
Max height: 35 ft.
Digital Display Sign
Not permitted.
Regional Commercial Sign
Max. area per sign: 150 sf.
Number of signs allowed: 1
Max height: 50 ft.
Digital Display Sign
A digital display sign may
be located on the
Regional Commercial Sign
subject to approval of a
CUP by the City Council.
Maximum height: 65 ft. as
determined through the
CUP process.
Maximum size: 625 sf.
(25 ft. x 25ft.) as
determined through the
CUP process.
The CUP shall include
specific sign development
standards (e.g., “dwell
time” transition between
messages, and brightness
of screen.)
Regional Commercial Sign
Max. area per sign: 150 sf.
Number of signs allowed: 1
Max height: 35 ft.
Digital Display Sign
A digital display sign may
be located on the Regional
Commercial Sign subject to
approval of a CUP by the City
Council.
Maximum height:
Determined through the
CUP process.
Maximum size: Determined
through the CUP process.
The CUP shall include
specific sign development
standards (e.g., “dwell
time” transition between
messages, and brightness
of screen.)
(1) Based on the Citywide Sign Ordinance (CMC Chapter 21.41) approved by the City Council on 8/27/2013.
The most substantial revisions to the Sign Program affect the regulations for Franchise Signs, Car
Country Identification Signs and the Regional Commercial Sign as discussed below:
Franchise Signs
Two types of franchise signs are allowed in Car Country: freestanding signs and monument signs. The
current Sign Standards allow one freestanding sign per lot. The proposed revisions would allow both a
monument and a freestanding sign on each lot. Allowing a monument sign will provide increased
visibility for the franchise at the street level rather than only from a taller freestanding sign. If more
than one franchise is located on a lot, then an additional freestanding or monument sign may be
allowed. No revisions are proposed to this existing provision for multiple franchises on one lot.
Currently, freestanding and monument signs are allowed a maximum sign area of 55 square feet. This
maximum would be eliminated to provide the opportunity for multiple franchises to be displayed on one
sign. This increased flexibility for displaying franchise signs helps each dealership to comply with
franchise-specific sign requirements and meets the objective of allowing signs that are specific to the
needs of each dealership.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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Car Country Identification Signs
The current Sign Program allows “Direction Signs” for the purpose of identifying Car Country in general.
The signs are envisioned as combined entry/directional monument signs that have a unified design
theme. Signs of this nature have never been installed and the design, number of signs and their
locations have not been specified. (There are two monument signs for Car Country Plaza, but the
purpose of these signs is to identify the development area located southwest of the intersection of
Cannon Road and Car Country Drive which contains auto-related uses rather than identifying Car
Country in general.) During the workshop, the dealership representatives expressed interest in
developing a second type of Car Country identification sign that would help customers with way-finding
to the various dealerships. To address this request, the proposed amendment now includes two types
of signs to identify Car Country: Entry Monument Signs and Wayfinding Signs.
The revisions for Car Country Entry Monument signs specify that up to six monument signs may be
located at or near primary entrance points such as Cannon Road and Paseo del Norte. Individual
dealership names/logos would not be allowed on these signs. The second type of sign, Wayfinding
Signs, would be designed to direct customers to the various dealerships. Up to four wayfinding signs,
with a maximum height of 14 feet, would be allowed at secondary intersections, mid-block locations, or
other appropriate locations. The signs would be designed with an established Car Country identification
theme and would contain standardized non-commercial messages (e.g. dealership names) and
directional symbols (arrows).
Currently, signs that are used to identify Car Country are allowed to have a maximum sign area of 150
square feet. However, because the recently amended Sign Ordinance revises the way that sign area is
measured (area within the perimeter of the text/graphic area), the revisions recommend reducing the
allowable sign area to a maximum of 60 square feet which is consistent with the maximum sign area
allowed for monument signs under the Sign Ordinance. Also, the current standards allow a cumulative
sign area of about 360 square feet (100 square feet plus 3 square feet per acre of property within the
development). The revisions propose an increase to 600 square feet of cumulative sign area which
equals the total sign area needed if each of the allowable entry monument and wayfinding signs were
constructed with 60 square feet of sign area. Lastly, any proposal for entry monument or wayfinding
signs would require approval of a comprehensive sign program to ensure a consistent design theme and
to establish specific locations for these two types of Car Country identification signs.
Regional Commercial Sign (previously referred to as “freestanding” or “freeway-oriented sign”)
The existing Sign Program allows one “freestanding sign” which may be oriented to Interstate 5 for the
purpose of advertising the entire Car Country development. The existing sign (located near the north
end of Ken Grody Ford, just south of Car Country Park) complies with the maximum 35 foot height limit
and 150 square foot maximum sign area. The proposed revision would allow for a 15 foot increase in
the allowable height to a maximum of 50 feet with no increase in the allowable static sign area.
The revisions also respond to the dealership representatives’ request to include provisions that would
allow up to 625 square feet (25 ft. x 25 ft.) of digital display sign area with a maximum sign height of up
to 65 feet to meet their advertising needs and to stay competitive with other dealerships in the region.
As previously mentioned, the recently amended citywide Sign Ordinance allows digital display signs for
regional commercial centers such as Car Country Carlsbad and Westfield Mall, upon approval of a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) by the City Council. The digital display sign area and total height is not
specified in the citywide Ordinance and the specific sign development standards such as design, height
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
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and sign area, together with specific operational standards (e.g., “dwell time” transition between
messages, and brightness of screen) would be reviewed through the CUP process. Conditional uses are
subject to certain findings of fact to ensure: 1) that the use is necessary or desirable for the
development of the community, and is in harmony with the elements and objectives of the General
Plan, and any applicable Local Coastal Program, Master Plan or Specific Plan; 2) that the use is not
detrimental to existing uses or uses specifically permitted in the zone; 3) that the site is adequate in size
and shape to accommodate any yards, setbacks, buffers or landscaping that may be required in order to
integrate the use with other uses in the neighborhood, and 4) that the street system serving the use is
adequate to properly handle all traffic generated by the proposed use (N/A in this instance). Conditions
may also be added prior to granting approval of a CUP. In the case of a digital display sign, conditions
might address the “dwell time” transition between messages and brightness of the screen.
The revisions proposed for the regional commercial sign are generally in alignment with Initiative 2 of
the Car Country Working Group. The exception is that instead of a 50 foot tall sign, the dealership
representatives are requesting a 65 foot tall regional commercial sign with 625 square feet of digital
display area which they have indicated is necessary for optimal visibility. Although the revised Specific
Plan sign standards incorporate these provisions, it is important to note that the ultimate sign height
and size of display would require review and approval through the CUP process. However, the revised
sign standards have been structured to allow a 50 foot high, 150 square foot, static regional commercial
sign (without a CUP) which would allow a 15 foot increase in height for the existing (or a replacement) sign.
Initiative 4 – Minor Updates to Specific Plan
The objective of this initiative is to simplify and streamline the approval process for minor
improvements, to clean-up inconsistencies, and to provide clarity of interpretation within the Specific
Plan text.
Currently, any proposed improvement on a lot generally requires approval of a Site Development Plan
(SDP) by the Planning Commission at a public hearing. In order to streamline the permit and review
process, revisions are proposed to reassign the approval authority to the lowest appropriate decision-
making authority and to establish a minor administrative approval process (i.e. a Minor SDP). The Minor
SDP would allow for administrative approvals by the City Planner for modifications and additions to
existing facilities provided that the improvements are in full compliance with the provisions of the
Specific Plan. In addition, a new category of “Exemptions” has been developed. Exempt projects are
those that are considered to be minor improvements that are consistent with all development standards
and all aspects of the Specific Plan.
The three categories of review and decision-making authority are summarized below:
Exemptions
The following types of projects would be exempt from discretionary review and could be approved in
conjunction with the building permit review:
Any addition to an existing building that would result in an increase of less than ten percent of
the internal floor area of the existing building.
Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of less than ten percent of the
combined internal floor area of all existing buildings on the site.
Any interior or exterior improvements that do not add square footage (e.g. architectural façade
enhancements, landscaping).
Modifications to outdoor lighting plans.
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Minor Site Development Plan
The following types of projects would require administrative approval by the City Planner:
Any addition to an existing building that would result in an increase of between ten and fifty
percent of the internal floor area of the existing building.
Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of between ten and fifty percent
of the combined internal floor area of all existing buildings on the site.
Site Development Plan
The following types of projects would require approval by the Planning Commission at a public hearing:
Any improvement to a structure that would result in an increase of more than fifty percent of
the internal floor area of an existing structure.
Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of more than fifty percent of the
combined internal floor area of all existing buildings on the site.
Construction of any new building(s) or permanent physical improvements on a vacant lot.
The proposed revisions would result in a simplified review and approval process for less complex
projects. Additionally, reassigning the approval authority to the lowest appropriate decision-maker is
consistent with the recently approved “Land Use Decision Making” amendment to the Zoning
Ordinance. The proposed Specific Plan amendment will result in an improved, simplified and
streamlined process for minor improvements which will translate into a savings of time and costs for
both the dealerships and the City.
The second component of Initiative 4 is a minor clean-up of the Specific Plan text to eliminate
inconsistencies and provide clarity of interpretation. A summary of the proposed text revisions is
included below in Table B. The complete strikeout/underline revisions to the Car Country Specific Plan
are provided in Attachment 5.
TABLE B - SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SPECIFIC PLAN TEXT AMENDMENTS
Revision Page number in final text version
Revise “Comprehensive Sign Program” to “Comprehensive Sign
Standards,” include proposed revisions as described in Initiative 2,
and reformat the entire section to improve readability.
Part 4
Revise “Planning Director” to “City Planner”. Numerous locations
Replace Planning Commission” with “appropriate decision-making
authority”.
Numerous locations
Replace “Development Approval Procedures” section with new
procedures entitled “Site Development Plan Requirement and
Decision-Making Authority.”
2-5 and 2-6
Relocate/rephrase “Coastal Development Permit Requirements. 2-6
Edits to “Lighting Restrictions” to reflect current technology. 2-13 and 2-20
Clarify that parking proposed on another site is subject to CMC
Section 21.44.040.
2-18
Revise Landscape “Approval Procedures” to delete references to
landscape plan submittal requirements. This section is superseded
by standard city landscape submittal requirements.
2-22
Delete text requiring periodic inspections of landscaping as
directed by the Planning Commission.
2-23
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
January 15, 2014
Page 12
TABLE B - SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SPECIFIC PLAN TEXT AMENDMENTS (CONTINUED)
Revision Page number in final text version
Revised to require approval of a Site Development Plan unless
exempt.
3-4
Add clarification that amendments are subject to approval of a
Local Coastal Program Amendment by the Coastal Commission.
3-6
Replace “Site Development Plan” section with new procedures
entitled “Site Development Plan Requirement and Decision-
Making Authority.”
3-7 and 3-8
Relocate/rephrase “Coastal Development Permit Requirements.” 3-8
Edits to “Lighting Restrictions” to reflect current technology. 3-17
Various text amendments to revise page numbers, correct
typographical errors and reference appropriate code sections and
divisions/departments.
Throughout document (see strike-
out version)
E. Local Coastal Program Consistency
The purpose of the proposed Local Coastal Program Amendment is to ensure consistency between the
proposed Specific Plan Amendment and the Land Use Policies of the Mello II Segment of the Local
Coastal Program (LCP). The Specific Plan implements the intent of the Regional Commercial (R) General
Plan Land Use designation and General Commercial (GC) LCP Land Use designation and serves as the
implementing ordinance for the LCP. The original Car Country Specific Plan was found to be consistent
with the coastal regulations in effect at the time as indicated in the permit issued June 15, 1973 by the
San Diego Coast Regional Commission. Most recently, LCPA 02-11 (associated with amendment SP 19(I))
was approved by the Coastal Commission on November 14, 2006 (Major Amendment No. 2-06A).
The proposed amendments would not affect any of the Mello II Land Use Policies related to grading,
landscaping, erosion, steep slopes, landslides and slope instability, seismic hazards, erosion control
practices, or removal of native vegetation. Additionally, the proposed revisions would not affect the
Specific Plan’s consistency with the following Mello II Land Use Policies that are applicable to this site:
Policy 1-1 Allowable Land Uses and Policy 7-10 Parking because the proposed amendments do not affect
the land use or parking regulations in the Specific Plan. The remaining relevant Mello II Land Use
Policies are discussed below.
Policy 8-1, Site Development Review, applies the Scenic Preservation Overlay Zone “where necessary”
throughout the coastal zone to ensure the maintenance of existing views and panoramas. The Scenic
Preservation Overlay Zone is implemented by the “Q” – Qualified Development Overlay Zone which
requires Planning Commission approval of a Site Development Plan (SDP) for development proposals.
Consistent with Policy 8-1, the Specific Plan area also requires approval of an SDP for development
proposals. The proposed revisions to streamline the SDP review process do not affect any development
standards such as building height or lot coverage, and therefore, would not affect existing views or
panoramas of the coastline.
The proposed amendments result in reassigning the approval authority for two new development
classifications: “Exemptions” and “Minor Site Development Plans.” Exemptions are those types of
projects that are very minor in nature and which may be approved through the building permit review
process. Minor Site Development Plans are those that would allow for administrative approval by the
City Planner. Projects that would result in significant improvements would still be subject to approval of
an SDP by the Planning Commission. Reassigning the approval authority to the lowest appropriate
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
January 15, 2014
Page 13
decision-maker is also consistent with the Coastal Commissions’ recent approval of the City’s LCPA for
Land Use Decision-Making. In all instances, a project would be reviewed to ensure that it complies with
all development standards and is consistent with all aspects of the Specific Plan. Additionally,
development proposals would be required to obtain approval of a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) or
minor CDP unless exempt. A summary of the categories of review and decision-making level is provided
in the Analysis Section (Part D - Initiative 4) of this report.
Policy 8-5, Signage, states that “On-premise signs should be designed as an integral part of new
development.” This policy is implemented through the Car Country Comprehensive Sign Standards.
Policy 8-5 also includes sign standards that are applicable to businesses and shopping centers and which
prohibit tall freestanding and roof signs and off-premise signs and billboards. Lastly, the policy states
that current city regulations shall govern the number of square feet in each permitted sign.
The Car Country Specific Plan was developed for a unique use in the City of Carlsbad and it contains
unique sign standards that address the need to identify Car Country as a regional destination and as well
as the need to identify individual dealerships. The proposed revisions refine the existing standards and
require a consistent theme for Car Country identification signs. The revised standards will also allow
flexibility for each dealership to comply with franchise-specific sign requirements without increasing the
overall permitted sign area. Many of the existing sign standards will remain with no revisions to type,
size or height of signs. Other revisions clarify terms, eliminate errors and redundancies, or reformat the
sign standards.
Revisions to signs that identify Car Country in general are described in Section D.3 of the Specific Plan. A
sign program will need to be developed for Car Country Identification Signs to ensure that a consistent
design theme is maintained and that monument and wayfinding signs function as an integral component
of the auto mall. Revisions are also proposed to the existing regional commercial (freeway-oriented)
sign standards. The Specific Plan currently allows a 35 foot high sign to advertise Car Country. The
modifications propose a 15 foot increase in height for this sign (up to 50 feet tall) so that the sign has
greater visibility from south-bound traffic on the I-5. Additionally, the proposed amendment includes
provisions for a digital display sign to be incorporated into the regional commercial sign. These
provisions could allow a sign up to 65 feet tall with up to 625 square feet (25’ x 25’) of digital display
area. The digital display sign would be used to identify the auto mall as a regional designation. Any
future proposal for a digital display sign would require approval of a Coastal Development Permit and
Conditional Use Permit by the City Council as described in Section D. 4 of the Specific Plan.
A primary concern was to determine if the additional sign height would impact views of the coastline.
The roads surrounding Car Country are lower than the freeway and there are no views of the coast from
the auto mall. Views of the coast from the elevation of the freeway would not be affected because the
sign would be located on the east side of the freeway. The ocean can be seen from various points along
Armada Drive which is located about a half mile east of Car Country. Although a 65 foot tall sign can be
seen from these higher elevations, the backdrop to the sign would be the freeway/developed areas and
views of the ocean or coastline would not be obstructed.
As stated previously, the existing Car Country Comprehensive Sign Program serves as “alternative sign
standards” for the Specific Plan. The sign standards contained in the Specific Plan, which is adopted by
ordinance, supersede those in the citywide Sign Ordinance. Similarly, the Specific Plan is the
implementing ordinance for the LCP. The proposed amendments to the Car Country Sign Program can
be found to comply with Policy 8-5 in that the signs are an “integral part” of the Specific Plan and are
necessary for the development and identification of the auto mall.
SP-19(J)/LCPA 12-01 – CAR COUNTRY INITIATIVES 2 & 4
January 15, 2014
Page 14
The proposed amendments to the Specific Plan will not result in any inconsistencies with the policies of
the General Plan and Mello II LCP Land Use Plan. A six-week LCPA public notice of availability period,
which began on November 29, 2013 and ends on January 10, 2014, is required for the project. As of the
date of preparation of this report, one email (objecting to the digital display sign) and a letter from
CalTrans has been received. The CalTrans comments regarding potential light and glare from a digital
display sign have been addressed under the Sign Standards (Part 4) for Digital Display Signs (page 4-7) by
requiring any future proposal (subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit) for a digital display sign
to comply with the California Vehicle Code maximum light output limits and/or the Outdoor Advertising
Association of America recommended light output limits, whichever is more restrictive. The CalTrans
letter also included general guidelines pertaining to the placement of display message boards near State
highways/ freeways. The proposed Car Country sign standards for a digital display sign would not
conflict with any of these guidelines. All correspondence is included in this staff report as Attachment 4.
V. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The City Planner has determined that the proposed Specific Plan amendments are exempt from the
provisions of CEQA, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (General Rule), where it can be
seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect
on the environment. A Notice of Exemption will be filed by the City Planner upon approval of the
project.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 7031 (SP)
2. Planning Commission Resolution No. 7032 (LCPA)
3. Location Map
4. Correspondence
5. Strikethrough/underline version of Car Country Specific Plan SP 19(J)
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SFLEET STCAR COUNTRY DRSP 19(J) / LCPA 12-01
Car Country Initiatives 2 & 4
SITE MAPEL CAM REALC A R LSB AD VILL AGE DR
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ATTACHMENT 4
CAR COUNTRY
CARLSBAD
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 (I)
SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT SP 19(J)
JANUARY 15, 2014
Strikethrough text will be deleted
double strikethrough text will be moved
underlined text is new text
double underlined text is relocated text
TRI-CITY AUTO CENTER
SP-19
(Develop 50 acre auto center consisting of six dealers having nine
major lines of automobiles, east of I-5, south of Cannon Road and
north of Palomar Airport Road)
APPROVED BY:
City Council Ordinance #9288, January 18, 1972
***
CAR COUNTRY
SP-19(A)
(Implement development standards; including signage)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #2274, May 9, 1984
City Council Ordinance #9720, June 19, 1984
***
SP-19(B)
(To allow the Planning Commission to consider minor
modifications to Sec. 21.41.075(b) of the Sign Ordinance)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #2340, August 22, 1984
City Council Ordinance #9734, January 22, 1985
***
SP-19(C)
(35 acre expansion to existing Car Country, South of Cannon
Road, east of Paseo Del Norte, north of Palomar Airport Road)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #2692, November 12, 1987
City Council Ordinance #9842, December 22, 1987
***
SP-19(D)
(Expanding additional automotive services for four lots to allow
development and revenues to the City of Carlsbad until the
economics and dealerships are available)
APPROVED BY:
City Council Ordinance #NS-214, October 6, 1992
***
SP-19(E)
(Deli - primarily for the use of tenants and customers of Car
Country Plaza)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #3220, May 15, 1991
City Council Ordinance #NS-166, August 20, 1991
***
SP-19(F)
(Used car dealership and car wash with non self-serve gas pumps)
WITHDRAWN: October 7, 1991
***
SP-19(G)
(Comprehensive Sign Program for Car Country Specific Plan)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #3750, April 19, 1995
City Council Ordinance #NS-315, June 27, 1995
City Council Ordinance #NS-317, July 18, 1995
***
SP-19(H)
(Expansion to include new offices, service bays & parking)
DENIED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #3889, January 17, 1996
City Council Resolution #96-141, April 23, 1996
***
SP-19(I)
(Modification to parking standard and addition of standards for the
development of parking structures)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #6042, March 15, 2006
City Council Ordinance #NS-799, April 18, 2006
***
SP-19(J)
(Modifications to approval process and provisions for signs)
APPROVED BY:
Planning Commission Resolution #
City Council Ordinance #
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
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PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
I. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 1-1
A. Purpose and Organization .................................................................................... 1-1
B. Background .......................................................................................................... 1-1
PART 2 – ORIGINAL CAR COUNTRY AREA
I. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................. 2-1
A. General Statement and Purpose ........................................................................... 2-1
1. Purpose ..................................................................................................... 2 1
2. Development Standards ........................................................................... 2 1
3. Statement on Utilities Availability........................................................... 2 3
4. Carlsbad City Requirements .................................................................... 2 3
B. Definitions............................................................................................................ 2-3
1. General Statement and Purpose ............................................................... 2 3
2. Definitions................................................................................................ 2 3
C. Development Approval ProceduresSite Development Plan Requirement and
Decision-Making Authority ............................................................................................. 2-5
1. Site Development Plan ......................................................................................... 2 5
D. Coastal Development Permit Requirement .......................................................... 2-6
II. AUTO FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ........................................................... 2-67
A. Permitted Uses ................................................................................................... 2-67
B. Building Areas ................................................................................................... 2-67
C. Building Heights ................................................................................................ 2-67
D. Architectural Design and Materials ................................................................... 2-78
E. Building Setbacks ............................................................................................ 2-910
F. Parking ........................................................................................................... 2-1011
G. Parking Structures .......................................................................................... 2-1012
H. Paging Systems .............................................................................................. 2-1112
I. Outdoor Lighting ........................................................................................... 2-1112
J. Fencing ........................................................................................................... 2-1213
K. Undeveloped Areas ........................................................................................ 2-1314
L. Trash Collection ............................................................................................. 2-1314
M. Loading .......................................................................................................... 2-1314
N. Storage ........................................................................................................... 2-1314
O. Utility Services ............................................................................................... 2-1314
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
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P. Roof Equipment ............................................................................................. 2-1314
III. GENERAL COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ............................................ 2-1415
A. General Purpose ............................................................................................. 2-1415
B. Approval of Land Uses .................................................................................. 2-1415
C. Land Uses....................................................................................................... 2-1415
D. Building Areas ............................................................................................... 2-1516
E. Building Heights ............................................................................................ 2-1516
F. Architectural Design and Materials ............................................................... 2-1516
G. Building Setbacks .......................................................................................... 2-1617
H. General Parking Requirements ...................................................................... 2-1718
I. Required Parking Spaces ............................................................................... 2-1718
J. Adjustment of Required Parking. .................................................................. 2-1819
K. Outdoor Lighting ........................................................................................... 2-1819
L. Fencing ........................................................................................................... 2-1920
M. Undeveloped Areas ........................................................................................ 2-2021
N. Trash Collection ............................................................................................. 2-2021
O. Loading .......................................................................................................... 2-2021
P. Utility Services ............................................................................................... 2-2021
Q. Roof Equipment ............................................................................................. 2-2021
IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ........................................................................................... 2-2122
A. Purpose ........................................................................................................... 2-2122
B. Approval Procedures ...................................................................................... 2-2122
C. Landscape Areas ................................................................................................ 2-22
1. Front Yard Landscaping ........................................................................ 2 22
2. Rear Yard Landscaping .......................................................................... 2 22
3. Side Yard Landscaping .......................................................................... 2 22
4. Interior Landscaping .............................................................................. 2 22
5. Percentage Area Landscaping ................................................................ 2 22
6. Sloping Earth Banks .............................................................................. 2 23
D. Wheel Stops and Concrete Curbs ...................................................................... 2-23
E. Completion of Landscaping ............................................................................... 2-23
F. Maintenance of Landscaping ............................................................................. 2-23
G. Landscaping Materials and Details .................................................................... 2-24
PART 3 – CAR COUNTRY EXPANSION AREA
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
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I. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 3-1
A. Purpose ................................................................................................................. 3-1
B. Location ............................................................................................................... 3-1
C. General Plan and Zoning Designations ................................................................ 3-1
D. General Development Concept ............................................................................ 3-4
1. Land Use .................................................................................................. 3 4
2. Circulation................................................................................................ 3 4
E. General Provisions ............................................................................................... 3-4
F. Amendments ........................................................................................................ 3-6
II. DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS .................................................................................. 3-7
A. Subdivision Process ............................................................................................. 3-7
B. Site Development PlanSite Development Plan Requirement and Decision-Making
Authority .......................................................................................................................... 3-7
C. Coastal Development Permit Requirement .......................................................... 3-8
III. PROJECT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ......................................................................... 3-89
A. Permitted Uses ................................................................................................... 3-89
B. Building Coverage ........................................................................................... 3-910
C. Building Height ................................................................................................ 3-910
D. Architectural Design and Materials ................................................................. 3-910
E. Building Setbacks .......................................................................................... 3-1112
F. Parking ........................................................................................................... 3-1213
G. Parking Structures .......................................................................................... 3-1415
H. Loading .......................................................................................................... 3-1415
I. Storage ........................................................................................................... 3-1415
J. Paging System ................................................................................................ 3-1415
K. Special Events Promotions ............................................................................ 3-1617
L. Outdoor Lighting ........................................................................................... 3-1617
M. Fencing and Screening ................................................................................... 3-1718
N. Trash Collection ............................................................................................. 3-1718
O. Equipment and Roofs ..................................................................................... 3-1718
P. Utility Services ............................................................................................... 3-1819
Q. Driveway Locations ....................................................................................... 3-1819
R. Grading .......................................................................................................... 3-1819
S. Undeveloped Areas ........................................................................................ 3-1819
T. Performance Standards .................................................................................. 3-1819
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
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U. Test Driving ................................................................................................... 3-1920
V. Employee Eating Area ....................................................................................... 3-20
IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ............................................................................................... 3-21
A. Landscape Areas ................................................................................................ 3-21
1. Front Yard and Side Street Landscaping ............................................... 3 21
2. Interior Landscaping .............................................................................. 3 21
3. Percentage Area Landscaping ................................................................ 3 21
4. Sloping Earth Banks .............................................................................. 3 21
B. Wheel Stops and Concrete Curbs ...................................................................... 3-21
C. Maintenance of Landscaping ............................................................................. 3-22
D. Landscaping Materials and Design .................................................................... 3-22
V. ADDENDUM .................................................................................................................... 3-23
Uses for Lots 2 & 3 per SDP 88-3 ................................................................................. 3-23
PART 4 – COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM
PURPOSE ...................................................................................................................................... 4-1
A. Sign Permit Procedures ........................................................................................ 4-1
B. Permitted SignageGeneral Standards ................................................................... 4-1
C. Franchise Signs .................................................................................................... 4-2
D. Signs on Dealerships Immediately Adjacent to I-5Direction Signs .................. 4-32
E. Sign Compliance with Coastal ZoneOn-Site Directional Signs ........................ 4-32
F. Sign PlacementCar Country Identification Signs ................................................ 4-3
G. Dealerships Immediately Adjacent to I 5Regional Commercial Sign ............... 4-34
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD LIST OF FIGURES
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Figure/Title Page
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PART 1 – INTRODUCTION
1-1 VICINITY MAP .................................................................................................................. 1-3
1-2 PROJECT AREA .................................................................................................................. 1-4
PART 2 – ORIGINAL CAR COUNTRY AREA
2-1 ORIGINAL PROJECT AREA ................................................................................................. 2-2
2-2 GARAGE SECTION ........................................................................................................... 2-89
PART 3 – CAR COUNTRY EXPANSION AREA
3-1 VICINITY MAP .................................................................................................................. 3-2
3-2 EXPANSION AREA ............................................................................................................. 3-3
3-3 SITE PLAN ......................................................................................................................... 3-5
3-4 GARAGE SECTION ....................................................................................................... 3-1011
3-5 LOTS 1, 2 &3 SCREENING FROM CANNON ROAD ......................................................... 3-1314
3-6 TURNOUT POCKET ...................................................................................................... 3-1516
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-1
JHA\SP 19(I) March, 2006November 2013DraftJanuary 15, 2014 Strikethrough/Underline
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose and Organization
This Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan sets forth the zoning and development
plan for the Car Country Auto and Shopping Center. The document’s primary
function is to provide a comprehensive description of land use, design guidelines,
development standards and implementation programs to direct future
development. The specific plan will provide the necessary regulations so that
subsequent development applications, consistent with this document, may be
processed and approved by the City as a part of a comprehensive planning effort.
The Car Country Auto and Shopping Center is a planned commercial
development featuring a combination of new car dealerships with other
commercial enterprises. The center contains approximately 78 acres and is
located north of Palomar Airport Road, south of Cannon Road and immediately
adjacent to the east side of the I-5 corridor. The specific plan’s regional location
is illustrated by Figure 1-1.
This document is divided into four sections; Introduction, Original Car Country
Area, the Car Country Expansion Area and the Comprehensive Sign
ProgramStandards. Although the original Car Country Area and the Car Counrty
Expansion Area are independent specific plan areas, the overall goal is to
comprehensively develop Car Country so that future development will
complement and enhance existing and future uses within the specific plan area as
well as the surrounding areas. Figure 1-2 shows the boundaries of the original
and expansion areas of this specific plan.
B. Background
The original Car Country Specific Plan (SP 19) was adopted by the City of
Carlsbad in January 1972. The original document established the development
restrictions, standards and control procedures related to the development of the
original Car Country Auto Park. These standards and procedures are included in
this document as Part 2 and shall only be applicable to the Original area.
The Car Country Expansion Amendment (SP 19C) was adopted by the City of
Carlsbad in December 1987. The amendment established the development
regulations for the 35-acre expansion area located immediately east of the original
Car Country Auto Park. The document, included as Part 3, was developed to be a
“self-contained” plan that did not require reference to the original specific plan.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-2
JHA\SP 19(I) March, 2006November 2013DraftJanuary 15, 2014 Strikethrough/Underline
In keeping with the approvals for the Car Country area, this document has been
organized to divide the development regulations into three areas; the Original Car
Country Area; the Car Country Expansion Area and the Comprehensive Sign
ProgramStandards, which is applicable to both the Original and Expansion Areas.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-3
JHA\SP 19(I) March, 2006November 2013DraftJanuary 15, 2014 Strikethrough/Underline
Figure 1-1 Vicinity Map
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-4
JHA\SP 19(I) March, 2006November 2013DraftJanuary 15, 2014 Strikethrough/Underline
Figure 1-2 Project Area
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-1
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I. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A. General Statement and Purpose
1. Purpose
The Car Country Carlsbad Auto and Shopping Center is a planned
commercial development featuring the combination of new car dealerships
with other commercial enterprises. The site selected is most appropriate
to attracting a growing market of auto-oriented customers in fast growing
North San Diego County.
The center is located in the City of Carlsbad with a fabulous exposure on
Freeway Interstate 5, as shown on Figure 2-1. The site commands a range
of customer areas from the three immediate cities of' Oceanside, Carlsbad
and Vista which are within a 5 mile radius as well as the larger automotive
market of the North San Diego County.
This proposed commercial development is harmonious with the master
planning, concepts of San Diego County and the City of Carlsbad. These
master planning concepts and other studies confirm that Car Country
Carlsbad is in an ideal area for this commercial center serving the local
needs of the three cities and the extended automotive needs of North San
Diego County.
2. Development Standards
The quality of the development shall be based upon the highest and best
standards with appropriate development restrictions, standards and control
procedures. In general, these standards shall be oriented to achieve a
commercial shopping environment of Spanish/Mediterranean Architecture
with limited signing and extensive landscaping. This development is
intended to be environmentally oriented towards enhancing the beauty, the
nature and the history of this area.
The developers have set aside approximately forty-four thousand square
feet of land for a park as an example of the objective desired for this
Center.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-2
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Figure 2-1 Original Project Area
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-3
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3. Statement on Utilities Availability
All utilities including gas, electricity, water, sewer and telephone are
available by underground service.
4. City of Carlsbad Requirements
Except as otherwise stated in this these development standards, the
requirements of the City of Carlsbad shall apply. Where conflicts between
these standards and the City requirements (such as Planning, Zoning and
the Building Code) occur, the City requirements shall be mandatory.
B. Definitions
1. General Statement and Purpose
The usage of words meant in these development standards is that generally
intended in the building industry or as defined in this section. Where
conflicts arise as to the definition of words, the decision of the Planning
Director City Planner on the meaning of a word shall be final, unless
appealed pursuant to CMC Section 21.54.140.
2. Definitions
Alter or Alterations
Any change, addition or modification in construction or occupancy.
Area (Floor)
The area included within the surrounding exterior walls of a building.
Area (Elevation)
The area included within the height and length of a building.
Building
Any structure built for the support, shelter or enclosure of persons,
animals, chattels or property of any kind.
Building Line
An imaginary line parallel to the property line specifying the closest point
from a building to the property line.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-4
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Front of Lot
The boundary of the lot facing Paseo Del Norte.
Height of Building
Building height shall be measured pursuant to Carlsbad Municipal Code
(CMC) Section 21.04.065.
Mezzanine
An intermediate floor placed in any story or room. When the total area of
any Mezzanine exceeds 33 1/-3 percent of' the total floor area of the room,
it shall be considered as constituting an additional story.
Sign
Any structure, device, or contrivance, electric or non-electric and all parts
thereof which are erected or used for advertising purposes upon or within
which any poster, bill, bulletin, printing, lettering, painting, device or
other advertising of any kind whatsoever is used, placed, posted, tacked,
nailed pasted or otherwise fastened or affixed.
Story
The portion of a building included between the upper surface of any floor
and the upper surface of the floor next above except that the topmost story
shall be that portion of a building included between the upper surface of
the topmost floor and the ceiling or roof above.
Structure
That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of kind or any
piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined together in
some definite manner.
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C. velopment Approval ProceduresSite Development Plan Requirement and
Decision-Making Authority
A Site Development Plan shall be required for all new development as noted
below.
1. Exemptions
a. The following project types are exempt from the requirement for a
Minor Site Development Plan or Site Development Plan provided
that the City Planner determines that the project meets all
development standards and is consistent with all aspects of the Car
Country Specific Plan:
1) Any addition to an existing building that would result in an
increase of less than ten percent of the internal floor area of
the existing building.
2) Construction of new buildings that would result in an
increase of less than ten percent of the combined internal
floor area of all existing buildings on the site.
3) Any interior or exterior improvements that do not add
square footage (e.g. architectural façade enhancements).
4) Modifications to outdoor lighting plans.
2. Minor Site Development Plan
The following project types require administrative approval of a Minor
Site Development Plan in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06:
a. Any addition to an existing building that would result in an
increase of between ten and fifty percent of the internal floor area
of the existing building.
b. Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of
between ten and fifty percent of the combined internal floor area of
all existing buildings on the site.
3. Site Development Plan
The following project types require approval of a Site Development Plan
in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06:
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a. Any improvement to a building that would result in an increase of
more than fifty percent of the internal floor areas of an existing
building.
b. Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of
more than fifty percent of the combined internal floor area of all
existing buildings on the site.
c. Construction of any new building(s) or permanent physical
improvements on a vacant lot.
D. Coastal Development Permit Requirement
Unless found to be exempt, all development shall be required to obtain approval
of a Coastal Development Permit in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.201.
1. Site Development Plan
Prior to building permit issuance for any lot, the applicant or any successor is
required to obtain approval of a site development plan in accordance with Chapter
21.06 (Qualified Development Overlay Zone) of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
The Planning Commission shall review the site development plan in accordance
with the General Plan, City Zoning Ordinance, this document and any other
applicable policies. At the conclusion of a public hearing, the Planning
Commission shall approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the site
development plan.
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II. Auto Facilities Development Standards
A. Permitted Uses
1. Automobile sales, new and used
2. Automobile repair
3. Automobile wash
4. Automotive parts
5. Tire sales and service
6. New car storage
7. Automobile body shop
8. Truck & Recreational Vehicles Sales and Service
9. Rental and leasing of vehicles permitted to be sold
10. Parking Structures for the storage of new cars, employee parking and/or
service bays
11. All businesses other than new car sales and service shall be accessory to a
new car sales and service business
B. Building Coverage
Building coverage shall not exceed 25 percent coverage of each project site area.
Allowable total building coverage may be increased to 50% when a parking
structure is included as a part of a Site Development Plan.
C. Building Heights
For developments west of Paseo Del Norte, building heights shall be restricted as
follows:
Service Buildings – one story and 24’ maximum
Main Building – one story and 24’ maximum (Parts, showroom, offices)
Parking Structures – three stories and 35’ maximum to top of roof deck, as
shown in Figure 2-2. Height protrusions up to 45’ are allowed per CMC
Section 21.46.020 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
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For developments east of Paseo Del Norte, building heights shall be restricted as
follows:
Service Buildings – one story and 24’ maximum
Main Building – two stories and 35' maximum (Parts, showroom, offices)
Parking Structures – three stories and 35’ maximum to top of roof deck, as
shown in Figure 2-2. Height protrusions up to 45’ are allowed per CMC
Section 21.46.020 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
D. Architectural Design and Materials
The design of exterior building elements and fencing shall be of a Spanish or
Mediterranean architectural style. The texture, color, and materials used shall be
harmonious with the Spanish or Mediterranean motif. The quality of design and
the selection of materials and colors shall be reviewed and approved by the
Planning Commissionby the appropriate decision-making authority.The decision
of the Planning Commission shall be final.
All structures located in the Car Country area shall comply with the following
design standards:
1. Exterior walls shall incorporate design elements that are consistent with
the Spanish or Mediterranean architectural styles. Examples of these
elements include, but are not limited to, slump stone adobe, stucco, arches,
arcades, cornices, corbels, balustrades, fountains, and door/window
details. Alternative design elements and materials may be incorporated
into the architecture subject to the determination that the elements are
found to be consistent with the Spanish or Mediterranean styles.
2. All buildings shall have an exterior color consistent with the Spanish and
Mediterranean architectural styles. The use of warm, muted earth tones is
required.
3. If a roof element is incorporated into the building design, the roof shall
include a mission clay barrel tile or S-tile design of terra cotta coloring i.e.
red El Camino blend, or Bernardo blend.
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Figure 2-2 Garage Section
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E. Building Setbacks
Buildings shall be set back from the property line in accordance with the
following schedules.
For properties west of Paseo Del Norte, the following setbacks shall be observed:
1. Front Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet (including
parking structures which include uses besides parking).
2. Side Yard Setback
Ten (10) feet minimum.
Roof overhangs and other unsupported architectural devices may project
six (6) feet into the setback area.
3. Street Side Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet (including
parking structures which include uses besides parking).
4. Rear Yard Setback
Twenty (20) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
For properties east of Paseo Del Norte, the following setbacks shall be observed:
1. Front Yard Setback
Forty-five (45) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other architectural
devices may project six (6) feet into setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet (including
parking structures which include uses besides parking).
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2. Side Yard Setback
Ten (10) feet minimum.
Roof overhangs and other architectural devices may project six (6) feet
into the setback area.
3. Street Side Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet (including
parking structures which include uses besides parking).
F. Parking
The intent of this section is to provide sufficient parking in areas such that on-
street parking will be minimized.
1. General Parking Standards for Motor Vehicle Dealerships
a. Sales – One space per 400 square feet of gross floor area. Gross
floor area includes all interior areas that are not specified below,
including but not limited to: interior display, reception areas,
private offices, and closing rooms.
20% of the required stalls shall be designated as customer parking.
b. Repair – Four spaces per work bay for the first three bays. Two
spaces per bay for each bay in excess of three. Work bays shall
not count as parking spaces.
c. Parts –
Customer Parking: 1 space per 1,000 square feet of gross floor
area for auto parts.
Employee Parking: 1 space per 1,250 square feet of gross floor
area for auto parts.
d. Storage and Display (New and Used Vehicle Inventory) – On-site
storage of vehicles is permitted as long as it does not encroach into
any employee or customer designated parking spaces.
e. All other uses – such parking as may be required by Section CMC
Chapter 21.44 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code for a specific use.
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f. All required customer and employee parking spaces shall be
striped and designated as such to the satisfaction of the Planning
DirectorCity Planner.
G. Parking Structures
Parking structures may be used for the storage of new cars, employee parking
and/or to provide ground level areas for sales, service, and/or parts. Design of the
structure shall be consistent with Sections C, D & E and complementary with
existing buildings on and off-site. All vehicles shall be screened from outside
views by the structure walls and/or landscaping.
Landscaping shall be provided to screen the structure from surrounding properties
and I-5 corridor.
H. Paging Systems
Outdoor sound system for music and/or for paging shall be designed to minimize
noise nuisance to adjoining properties. Speakers shall be spaced to minimize
sound levels and oriented away from adjoining properties. Upon completion of
construction, the outdoor sound system shall be tested for noise and where
necessary it shall be adjusted to the satisfaction of the Planning DirectorCity
Planner.
I. Outdoor Lighting
1. Purpose
The general intent of this section is to achieve the following goals:
All display and security lighting for each dealership shall be
designed for uniformity.
Lighting shall be designed to minimize glare away from Paseo Del
Norte and from the Interstate 5 cooridor corridor as the highest
priority and to minimize glare away from adjacent properties as a
secondary priority.
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2. Design
All outdoor light fixtures and pole specifications with respect to height,
type, projected angle of light, material, colors and use, shall be subject to
specific approval of the Planning Commission appropriate decision-
making authority.
Lighting for the roof level of parking structures shall be limited to the use
of bollards or lighting attached to the parapet walls. Roof top lighting
shall not exceed the height of the parapet wall.
3. Lighting Restrictions
Light fixtures for display areas of the automobile agencies and for general
lighting of the commercial developments, will shall be of themetal halide,
induction lighting, or other low-energy usage light fixtures metallic vapor
and quartz variety (no florescent arm type fixtures will be allowed) as
approved by the appropriate decision-making authority. All fixtures will
be mounted on tapered square or round-type poles.
J. Fencing
1. Prohibited Materials:
Wire fencing and gates
2. Fencing and Gate Design
The design of fence and gates shall be appropriate to and similar to the
Spanish or Mediterranean motif required for the buildings.
Material shall be of approved masonry, stucco or wood.
3. Screening
Storage areas, loading areas, service yards shall be screened from view
from the outside by fencing.
Height of fence shall average 8 feet in height and be limited to maximum
and minimum heights of 9 feet and 7 feet respectively.
Parking structures shall be screened from view from the outside by a
combination of fencing and landscaping.
4. Fencing Setback
Fencing may be placed without setback from the property lines except as
follows where setback for the fencing shall be observed.
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Northerly Property Lines of Lots 1 and 4 Fencing Setback – 5 feet minimum
Westerly Property Lines of Lots 1 and 10 Fencing Setback – 5 feet
minimum
Property Lines along Paseo Del Norte Fencing Setback – 25 feet minimum
K. Undeveloped Areas
Undeveloped areas/slopes shall be planted and maintained in a dean, neat and
orderly manner. Undeveloped lots shall not be used for the storage of
automobiles unless a Conditional Use Permit is processed pursuant to Section
CMC Chapter 21.42 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
K. L. Trash Collection
There shall be provided a completely screened trash collection area. Screening
materials shall be of masonry walls. The ground shall be paved with 4” minimum
concrete.
No trash collection shall be permitted in the front yard setback.
L. M. Loading
Provision for loading and unloading shall be provided on site. Such area shall not
be permitted in the front yard setback.
M. N. Storage
Outdoor storage shall be visually screened from exterior view by fencing as
required in Section J (Fencing).
N. O. Utility Services
All utility, including telephone, services to the building shall be underground and
shall be screened where exposed to exterior view.
O. P. Roof Equipment
All equipment including air conditioning equipment shall not be permitted on the
roof unless screened in an approved manner from horizontal view.
Vents for plumbing, air exhaust and air inlets are permitted on the roof without
screening.
Special care shall be exercised in the location and sizing of exhaust vent for the
paint spray booth so as to reduce its view to the freeway or to Paseo Del Norte.
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III. GENERAL COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
A. General Purpose
The purpose of this section is to maintain the high development standards
contemplated for Car Country Carlsbad or commercial uses other than Auto
Dealer Facilities which are controlled under Section II of these standards.
B. Approval of Land Uses
It is intended that the usual commercial uses permitted upon commercial zoned
property shall be allowed for those sites indicated to be general commercial and
the un-named Auto Dealer Site (lots 1, 4, 6 and 7) subject to review and approval
of the Planning Commission. The discretion of the Planning Commission with
respect to approval of land uses shall be limited to minimizing undesirable
duplications within Car Country Carlsbad.
Request for approval of proposed land uses for a general commercial
development shall be submitted for approval as stated in Section I.C of a Site
Development Plan in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06.
C. Land Uses
1. Professional and Business Offices
Accountants
Architects
Attorneys
Banks
Dentists
Doctors
Economic Consultants
Engineers
Laboratories
Optometrists
Savings & Loan
Surveyors
Telephone Answering
Travel Agency
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2. Commercial Uses
Book Store
Camera Shop
Delicatessen
Department Store
Florist
Hotel
Jewelry Store
Liquor
Motel
Pharmacy
Reproductions
Restaurant
Service Station
Tobacco Store
D. Building Coverage
Building coverage shall not exceed 40 percent coverage of the project site area.
E. Building Heights
Building heights shall be limited as follows:
Lot 1: One story – 24' max.
Lots 4, 6, 7: No restrictions except as required by the City of Carlsbad and
Planning Commission project conditions of approval.
F. Architectural Design and Materials
The design of exterior building elements and fencing shall be of a Spanish or
Mediterranean architectural style. The texture, color and materials used shall be
harmonious with the Spanish or Mediterranean motif. The quality of design and
the selection of materials and colors shall be reviewed and approved by the
appropriate decision-making authority.for approval in the preliminary
submission. The decision of the Planning Commission shall be final.
All structures located in the Car Country area shall comply with the following
design standards:
1. Exterior walls shall incorporate design elements that are consistent with
the Spanish or Mediterranean architectural styles. Examples of these
elements include, but are not limited to, slump stone adobe, stucco,
arches, arcades, cornices, corbels, balustrades, fountains, and
door/window details.
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32. All buildings shall have an exterior color consistent with the Spanish and
Mediterranean architectural styles. The use of warm, muted earth tones
are is required.
43. All roofs will include a mission clay barrel tile or S-tile design of terra
cotta coloring i.e. red El Camino blend, or Bernardo blend.
G. Building Setbacks
Buildings shall be setback from the property line in accordance with the
following schedules.
Lot 1 Shall have the following setbacks:
1. Front Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
2. Side Yard Setback
Ten (10) feet minimum.
3. Rear Yard Setback
Twenty (20) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Lot 4 Shall have the following setbacks:
1. Front Yard Setback
Forty-five (45) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
2. Side Yard Setback (South)
Ten (10) feet minimum
3. Side Yard Setback (North)
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
4. Rear Yard Setback
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Ten (10) feet minimum.
Lot 6 and Lot 7 if used as general commercial (in lieu of auto dealership) shall
have the following setbacks:
1. Front Yard Setback
Seventy-five (75) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into set-back area.
2. Side Yard Setback
Twenty (20) feet Minimum. Roof overhangs and other architectural
devices may project six (6) feet into setback area.
3. Rear Yard Setback
Ten (10) feet minimum.
H. General Parking Requirements
The intent of this section is to provide adequate parking areas on site so as to
reasonably eliminate the need for any parking on the street.
Parking required in this section shall be provided on-site or on another site
within 400 feet of the project. Where parking is provided on another site, an
agreement approved by the City of Carlsbad shall be recorded. Such agreement
shall be signed by the owners of both properties and shall stipulate permanent
reservation of parking for use in connection with the project.
Parking that is proposed on another site shall comply with the requirements of
CMC Section 21.44.040.
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I. Required Parking Spaces
Parking spaces required shall be based upon the following:
1. Professional Business Offices:
One space per each 250 sq. ft. of gross floor area.
2. Restaurants, Bars:
a. Less than four thousand square feet in size – One space/one
hundred square feet gross floor area.
b. Four thousand square feet or greater – Forty plus one space/fifty
square feet of floor space in excess of four thousand square feet.
3. Commercial:
One space per each 300 sq. feet of gross floor area.
4. Hotels and Motels:
1.2 spaces per unit.
J. Adjustment of Required Parking.
Required on- site parking may be adjusted by approval of the City of Carlsbad
and the Planning Commission appropriate decision-making authority upon a
reasonable showing. Such showing may include the following:
1. Combined use of parking on an auto dealer site provided that maximum
parking needs of the separate facilities occur at different times.
2. Compliance with Carlsbad Municipal CodeCMC Section
21.44.050(a)(4)080 – Joint Use Parking.
K. Outdoor Lighting
1. Purpose
The general intent of this section is to achieve the following goals:.
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a. All display and security lighting shall be designed for uniformity
of design concepts for the area.
b. Lighting shall be designed to minimize glare away from Paseo
Del Norte and from the Interstate-5 cooridor corridor as the
highest priority and to minimize glare away from adjacent
properties as a secondary priority.
2. Design
All outdoor light fixtures and pole specifications with respect to height,
type, projected angle of light, material, colors and use, shall be subject to
specific approval of the Planning Commissionappropriate decision-
making authority.
3. Lighting Restrictions
Light fixtures for display areas of the automobile agencies and for
general lighting of the commercial developments, will shall be of the
metallic vapor and quartz varietymetal halide, induction lighting, or
other low-energy usage light fixtures (no florescent arm-type fixtures
will be allowed) as approved by the appropriate decision-making
authority. All fixtures will be mounted on tapered square or round-type
poles.
L. Fencing
1. Prohibited Materials
Wire fencing and gates.
2. Fencing and Gate Design
The design of fence and gates shall be appropriate to and similar to the
Spanish or Mediterranean motif required for the buildings.
Material shall be approved masonry, stucco or wood.
3. Screening
Storage areas, loading areas, service yards, shall be screened from view
from the outside by fencing.
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Height of fence shall average 8 feet in height and be limited to maximum
and minimum heights of 9 feet and 7 feet respectively.
4. Fencing Setback
Fencing may be placed without setback from the property lines except as
follows where setback for the fencing shall be observed:
Northerly Property Lines of Lot 1 and 4 Fencing Setback – 5 feet
minimum
Westerly Property Lines of Lots 1 and 10 Fencing Setback – 5 feet
minimum
Property Lines along Paseo Del Norte Fencing Setback – 25 feet minimum
M. Undeveloped Areas
Undeveloped areas/slopes shall be planted and maintained in a clean, neat and
orderly manner. Undeveloped lots shall not be used for the storage of
automobiles unless a Conditional Use Permit is processed pursuant to Section
CMC Chapter 21.42 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
N. Trash Collection
There shall be provided a completely screened trash collection area. Screening
materials shall be of masonry walls. The ground shall be paved with 4"
minimum concrete.
No trash collection shall be permitted in the front yard setback.
O. Loading
Provision for loading and unloading area shall be provided on site. Such area
shall not be permitted in the front yard setback.
P. Utility Services
All utility, including telephone, services to the building shall be underground
and shall be screened where exposed to exterior view.
Q. Roof Equipment
All equipment including air conditioning equipment shall not be permitted on
the roof.
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Vents for plumbing air exhaust and air inlets are permitted on the roof.
Special care shall be exercised in the location and sizing of exhaust vent for the
paint spray booth so as to reduce its view to the freeway or to Paseo Del Norte.
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IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS
A. Purpose
The purpose of the Landscape Standards is to provide landscaping in harmony with the
goals of' the Car Country Carlsbad Specific Plan to achieve a planned commercial
development of the best quality and appropriate to the Spanish or Mediterranean design
motif.
B. Approval Procedures
All landscaping concept plans shall be subject to the approval of the Planning
Commission as indicated in Section I.C except as follows:appropriate decision-making
authority.
1. All landscape plans except for the preliminary submission must be
executed by an approved Landscape Architect and the project architect.
2. Submissions to the City of Carlsbad shall be in 2 steps as follows:
Step I – Conceptual Landscape Plan
Show shapes and dimensions of landscaped areas including street
parkway. These areas shall be colored in green. Show approximate
location of trees. This plan shall be submitted together with other
materials required in the preliminary submittal per the City of Carlsbad’s
Landscape Manual.
Step II Detailed Landscape and Irrigation plans.
Detailed plans shall be prepared by an approved Landscape Architect
under coordination and approval of the project architect. These plans
shall be submitted as part of the construction documents.
C. Landscape Areas
1. Front Yard Landscaping
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For lots west of' Paseo Del Norte, there shall be a minimum landscape
strip of not less than 8 feet in addition to landscaping the Paseo Del
Norte parkway width of 5 feet.
For lots east of Paseo Del Norte, there shall be a minimum landscape
strip of not less than 10 feet in addition to landscaping the Paseo Del
Norte parkway width of 5 feet.
2. Rear Yard Landscaping
For lots west of Paseo Del Norte, there shall be a minimum landscape
strip of not less than 5 feet.
3. Side Yard Landscaping
A minimum landscape width of 5 feet shall be observed along the side
property lines. Where a side yard occurs along a cul-de-sac side street,
such yard shall be provided with a minimum landscape width of 8 feet in
addition to landscaping of the parkway.
4. Interior Landscaping
Landscaping in the interior of display parking areas shall be provided in
addition to the boundary strip landscaping. Such landscaping shall be in
accordance with good design practice and other requirements of the
landscape development standards.
5. Percentage Area Landscaping
In the public display areas visible from Paseo Del Norte, or from the
Interstate 5 corridor, there shall be landscape areas provided along the
perimeter and interiors of such areas to provide a total landscape area not
less than ten (10) percent of the total display area involved.
The developer may reduce the required minimum landscape strip for
design purposes of providing enlarged area landscaping. In such
instance the minimum landscape strip permitted shall be 3 feet and the
percentage of total area landscaped shall remain 10 percent.
6. Sloping Earth Banks
Areas in which grading has caused sloping earth banks shall be
landscaped and irrigated in a manner to protect the soil from erosion.
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The horizontal projected area of the sloping bank shall be included as
part of the required landscaping.
D. Wheel Stops and Concrete Curbs
In public display and customer areas where landscaping abuts the paved area, 6”
high concrete curbs and concrete bumper stops shall be provided.
E. Completion of Landscaping
All landscaping shall have been completed and approved by the Planning
DirectorPlanning Division before occupancy of the structure and conduct of
business is permitted.
F. Maintenance of Landscaping
All landscaping shall be maintained in the best of standards. Periodic
inspections shall be made as directed by the Planning Commission. Where
reports are made for improving the maintenance of the landscaping, such
corrective work shall be executed within 30 days from receipt of the report.
Maintenance standards to be observed shall include the following:
1. Lawn and ground covers – Trimmed and mowed
2. Weeds and Debris – To be removed
3. Health conditions – Plantings shall be maintained in a healthy and
growing condition with pruning, fertilization and cultivation a regular
part of the maintenance program.
4. Damaged Landscaping – Plantings damaged by storm and other acts of
nature or by vandalism shall be corrected as advised by the City of
Carlsbad within 30 days from advice of the City.
5. Irrigation System – Shall be kept in working condition.
G. Landscaping Materials and Details
Required landscaping shall consist of a designed combination of trees, ground
cover and shrubbery. These materials shall be of limited selection to give
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greater unity to the visual quality of the development and shall be selected for
concern of climate and maintenance.
In general, the landscape materials shall be based upon the following
requirements:
Street Trees Not less than 24” Box spacing, 40 feet o.c. max.
Boundary Landscape Trees Not less than 24” Box spacing 40 feet o.c.
max.
Parking Areas Trees Not less than 2024” Box 1 tree per each 20 cars
displayed
Ground Cover Designed for full coverage in a maximum of 6 months
Shrubbery Not less than 1 gal size
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I. INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose
The purpose of this document is to establish development regulations for the
approximately 35-acre Car Country Expansion area. An overriding goal is to
uphold and surpass the high quality standards of the existing Car Country. At
buildout, the expansion area should complement and enhance the existing auto
park.
This document is incorporated as an amendment into Specific Plan 19 which
was adopted in January 1972. However, upon initial adoption the development
restrictions contained herein only govern the expansion area and do not apply to
the existing Car Country. The Car Country Expansion Area Amendment has
been written as a “self self-contained” document which does not require
reference to the original 1972 Specific Plan or subsequent revisions. The
original Specific Plan (SP-19) is contained in Part 2 of this document.
The Car Country Expansion Amendment implements but does not supersede the
General Plan, the Local Coastal Plan or the provisions of Title 21 of the
Carlsbad Municipal Code (CMC). This document shall constitute the zoning for
all land covered by this plan and no use or development inconsistent with this
plan shall be permitted.
B. Location
The Car Country Expansion area contains approximately 35 acres and is located
south of Cannon Road, east of the existing Car Country area, west of
Agricultural Preserve No. 76-1 and north of Palomar Airport Road. Figure 3-1
illustrates the location of the project within the region. The project site and
adjacent properties, including the original Car Country Auto Park, are illustrated
in Figure 3-2. The property located in the City of Carlsbad contains
approximately 35 acres and described as follows: "A portion of Lot H" of the
Rancho Agua Hedionda, Map 823 in the City of Carlsbad, County of San Diego,
State of California.
C. General Plan and Zoning Designations
The site is designated by the City of Carlsbad's General Plan as Extensive
Regional Commercial (R). These commercial areas are oriented to establishments
which sell large, low volume, high cost items such as automobiles. The adopted
zoning for the expansion area is C-2(Q). Both General Plan and zoning are
consistent with the designations for the original area included within Car
Country.
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Figure 3-1 Vicinity Map
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Figure 3-2 Expansion Area
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D. General Development Concept
1. Land Use
The Car Country Expansion area will continue the land use pattern
established in the original auto park. Figure 3-3 illustrates the
Development Concept Plan. The primary use of the area will be retailing
of new and used motor vehicles.
2. Circulation
Primary access to the site will be from Car Country Drive which
provides access from Paseo Del Norte to Cannon Road.
E. General Provisions
1. Except as specifically stated in this plan, the requirements of the C-2
zone and all other applicable provisions of the zoning, subdivision,
grading and building codes (and any amendments thereto) of the City of
Carlsbad shall apply.
2. Where minor questions arise regarding interpretation of this Specific
Plan Amendment, the Planning DirectorCity Planner shall resolve them
in a manner consistent with the Municipal Code, adopted City plans and
City policy. Such decisions by the Planning DirectorCity Planner may
be appealed to the Planning Commission and City Council.
3. The Car Country Expansion has been approved under the express
condition that the applicant shall pay a Public Facilities Fee as required
by City Council Policy No. 17, dated July 28, 1987, on file with the City
Clerk and incorporated herein by reference and according to the
agreement executed by the applicant for payment of said fee.
4. This project shall comply with all conditions and mitigation required by
the Zone 3 Local Facilities Plan and any future amendments to that plan
made prior to issuance of building permits.
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Figure 3-3 Site Plan
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5. Unless found to be exempt, all development shall be required to obtain
approval of a Site Development Plan consistent with Section II.B of this
plan and in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06. Prior to development
of any of the lots under this Specific Plan a Site Development Plan
pursuant to Chapter 21.06 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code shall be
submitted to the City of Carlsbad for a Planning Commission approval.
These The plans shall be evaluated in accordance with municipal
ordinances and policies in effect at the time said plans are before the
Planning Commissionappropriate decision-making authority.
6. Approval of this Specific Plan or approval and construction of a part of
the development pursuant to this amendment shall not vest any rights in
the balance of the Specific Plan nor create any vested rights in the
approval of any subsequent development
7. All land and/or easements required by this Specific Plan for public
streets and public utility purposes shall be granted to the City of
Carlsbad without cost to the City and free of all liens and encumbrances,
except as otherwise conditioned by the Tentative Tract Map.
8. Approval of this plan does not constitute and guarantee individual
development within the Specific Plan Amendment area will be approved,
nor that the availability of public facilities and services will necessarily
coincide with any owner or developer's timetable for construction
Availability of public services will be evaluated in the context of
subsequent individual approvals and the adopted Local Facilities
Management Plan for Zone 3.
9. Prior to development, a landscape and irrigation plan shall be approved
by the Parks and Recreation DirectorPlanning Division.
10. Car Country Drive shall be a single loaded street.
11. All proposed development shall comply with the grading and resource
preservation policies of the underlying Local Coastal Program.
12. Prior to issuance of building permits, the developer of any site shall be
required to obtain a Coastal Permit.
F. Amendments
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Amendments to this document may be initiated by an application to the
Planning DirectorCity Planner, subject to a recommendation of approval by the
Planning Commission and approval by the City Council. Amendments are also
subject to review and approval of a Local Coastal Program Amendment by the
California Coastal Commission.
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II. DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS
A. Subdivision Process
Prior to any development there shall have been a final subdivision map for Car
Country Expansion in conformance with the State Subdivision Map Act and
Title 20 of the City of Carlsbad Municipal Code.
B. Site Development Plan Requirement and Decision-Making Authority
C. B.
A Site Development Plan shall be required for all new development as noted
below.
1. Exemptions
a. The following project types are exempt from the requirement for
a Minor Site Development Plan or Site Development Plan
provided that the City Planner determines that the project meets
all development standards and is consistent with all aspects of the
Car Country Specific Plan:
1) Any addition to an existing building that would result in
an increase of less than ten percent of the internal floor
area of the existing building.
2) Construction of new buildings that would result in an
increase of less than ten percent of the combined internal
floor area of all existing buildings on the site.
3) Any interior or exterior improvements that do not add
square footage (e.g. architectural façade enhancements).
4) Modifications to outdoor lighting plans.
2. Minor Site Development Plan
The following project types require administrative approval of a Minor
Site Development Plan in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06:
a. Any addition to an existing building that would result in an
increase of between ten and fifty percent of the internal floor area
of the existing building.
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b. Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of
between ten and fifty percent of the combined internal floor area
of all existing buildings on the site.
3. Site Development Plan
The following project types require approval of a Site Development Plan
in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.06:
a. Any improvement to a building that would result in an increase
of more than fifty percent of the internal floor areas of an existing
building.
b. Construction of new buildings that would result in an increase of
more than fifty percent of the combined internal floor area of all
existing buildings on the site.
c. Construction of any new building(s) or permanent improvements
on a vacant lot.
C. Coastal Development Permit Requirement
Unless found to be exempt, all development shall be required to obtain approval
of a Coastal Development Permit in accordance with CMC Chapter 21.201.Prior
to building permit issuance for any lot, the applicant or any successor is required
to obtain approval of a site development plan in accordance with Chapter 21.06
(Qualified Development Overlay Zone) of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
The Planning Commission shall review the site development plan in accordance
with the General Plan, City Zoning Ordinance, this document and any other
applicable policies. At the conclusion of a public hearing, the Planning
Commission shall approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the site
development plan.
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III. PROJECT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
This section sets forth development standards which shall apply to all lots within the
Car Country Expansion Specific Plan. New car sales is the principle allowed use of the
Car Country Expansion and is allowed on all lots. In addition to new car sales certain
other uses described in this section are allowed on Lots 2-3.
A. Permitted Uses
1. All Lots
a. Motor vehicle dealerships for the retail sales, leasing, renting and
servicing of new and used automobiles and other motor vehicles
such as recreational vehicles but whose primary activity is new
vehicle sales.
b. Auto rental and leasing (subject to approval of a Conditional Use
permitPermit)*
c. Used vehicle sales (subject to approval of a Conditional Use
Permit)*
d. Auto repair - foreign and domestic (subject to approval of a
Conditional Use Permit)*
e. Parking Structures for the storage of new cars, employee parking
and/or service bays.
* Subject to the finding that the use is associated with an existing or
proposed new auto dealership in Car Country, a finding that no
new auto dealerships are available at the time of approval and, a
condition that any time a new car dealership becomes available,
the uses identified in section III.A.1 (b, c, and d) shall be abated
and/or modified so that the new auto dealership becomes the
primary use of the site.
2. Lots 2-3
a. All permitted uses cited in (1.) above.
b. Retail automotive parts sales and service including but not
limited to the following:
1) Tire sales and service
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2) Muffler shops
3) Brake shops
4) Wheel alignment and suspension services
5) Tune-up and oil changing facilities
6) Transmission repair
7) Auto detailing and interior work
8) Auto accessories
9) Car wash (Dealership Only)
c. Auto rental and leasing.
d. Restaurant (subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit).
e. A 1,080 square foot delicatessen located as shown in Exhibits
'A'-'C' of Planning Commission Resolution No. 3221.
B. Building Coverage
Building coverage for uses described in A.l.a above shall not exceed 25 percent.
Allowable total building coverage may be increased to 50% when a parking
structure is a part of a Site Development Plan.
C. Building Height
No building, excluding parking structures, shall exceed a height of thirty feet or
two stories.
Parking Structures – three stories and 35’ maximum to top of roof deck, as
shown in Figure 3-4. Height protrusions up to 45’ are allowed per CMC Section
21.46.020 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
D. Architectural Design and Materials
The design of exterior building elements and fencing shall be compatible with
the existing style of Car Country, generally described as Spanish or
Mediterranean motifs. Special attention shall be given to the architectural
details of all west facing elevations to ensure that they are visually attractive
when viewed from 1-5 and Paseo Del Norte.
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Figure 3-4 Garage Section
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All structures located in the Car Country area shall comply with the following
design standards:
1. Exterior walls shall incorporate design elements that are consistent with
the Spanish or Mediterranean architectural styles. Examples of these
elements include, but are not limited to, slump stone adobe, stucco,
arches, arcades, cornices, corbels, balustrades, fountains, and
door/window details. Alternative design elements and materials may be
incorporated into the architecture subject to the determination that the
elements are found to be consistent with the Spanish or Mediterranean
styles.
2. All buildings shall have an exterior color consistent with the Spanish and
Mediterranean architectural styles. The use of warm, muted earth tones
is required.
3. If a roof element is incorporated into the building design, the roof shall
include a mission clay barrel tile or S-tile design of terra cotta coloring
i.e. red El Camino blend, or Bernardo blend.
Irrespective of use, all lot improvements, with the exception of Lots 2 and 3,
shall be designed and constructed in their entirety as new motor dealerships to
include both sales and service facilities as a contiguous whole.
E. Building Setbacks
1. Front Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet
(including parking structures which include uses besides parking).
2. Side Yard Setbacks
Ten (10) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and unsupported architectural
devices may project six (6) feet into the setback.
3. Street Side Yard Setback
Twenty-five (25) feet minimum. Roof overhangs and other unsupported
architectural devices may project six (6) feet into the setback area.
Parking structures shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet
(including parking structures which include uses besides parking).
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4. Rear Yard Setback
Access rights to Cannon Road shall be relinquished for Lots 1-3. Along
Cannon Road a minimum rear yard setback of thirty-five (35) feet shall
be maintained for all buildings. A minimum twenty-five (25) foot
landscaped setback shall be maintained for all open parking or driveways
along Cannon Road. Any driveway within this setback shall be screened
from the street by a mixture of mounding and landscaping to the
satisfaction of the Planning DirectorCity Planner. Within the setback
along Cannon Road, display of the sale motor vehicles may be permitted
upon approval of the Planning DirectorCity Planner. See Figure 3-5 for
design detail.
F. Parking
The intent of this section is to provide sufficient parking areas on site such that
on-street parking will be minimized.
1. General Parking Standards for Motor Vehicle Dealerships
a. Sales – One space per 400 square feet of gross floor area. Gross
floor area includes all interior areas that are not specified below,
including but not limited to: interior display, reception areas,
private offices, and closing rooms.
20% of the required stalls shall be designated as customer
parking.
b. Repair – Four spaces per work bay for the first three bays. Two
spaces per bay for each bay in excess of three. Work bays shall
not count as parking spaces.
c. Parts –
Customer Parking: 1 space per 1,000 square feet of gross floor
area for auto parts.
Employee Parking: 1 space per 1,250 square feet of gross floor
area for auto parts.
d. Storage and Display (New and Used Vehicle Inventory) – On-site
storage of vehicles is permitted as long as it does not encroach into
any employee or customer designated parking spaces.
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Figure 3-5 Lots1, 2 & 3 Screening from Cannon Road
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e. All other uses – such as parking as may be required by CMC
Section 21.44 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code for a specific use.
f. All required customer and employee parking spaces shall be
striped and designated as such to the satisfaction of the Planning
DirectorCity Planner.
G. Parking Structures
Parking structures may be used for the storage of new cars, employee parking
and/or provide areas for sales, service, and/or parts. Design of the structure
shall be consistent with Sections C, D & E and complementary with existing
buildings on and off-site. All vehicles shall be screened from outside views by
the structure walls and/or landscaping.
Landscaping shall be provided to screen the structure from surrounding
properties and the I-5 corridor.
H. Loading
Provisions for loading and unloading shall be provided as follows:
1. Loading areas shall not be allowed in front yard or side street setbacks.
2. Three off-site truck turnouts shall be required along the easterly side of
Car Country Drive as illustrated in Figure 3-6.
3. In addition to the truck turnouts, each dealer should provide for on-site
loading areas for parts and accessories, these shall be clearly shown on
all Site dDevelopment pPlans.
I. Storage
Other than new and used vehicles held for sale to the public, no materials,
supplies, or equipment, shall be stored in any area on a site except inside closed
buildings or behind fencing as described in Section III.M.
J. Paging System
Outdoor sound systems for music and/or for paging shall be designed to noise
nuisance to adjoining properties and shall not impact adjacent neighborhoods.
Speakers shall be spaced to minimize sound levels and oriented away from
adjoining properties and shall not exceed a decibel level of 3 DB's over
ambient.
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Figure 3-6 Turnout Pocket
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noise level. Upon completion of construction, the outdoor sound system shall be
tested for noise and where necessary it shall be adjusted to the satisfaction of the
Planning DirectorCity Planner.
K. Special Events Promotions
Special promotional events such as helium or hot-air balloons, large cranes and
similar promotional devices or activities which have a significant visual or noise
impact upon surrounding properties shall not be allowed.
L. Outdoor Lighting
The intent of this section is to achieve the following goals:
1. All display and security lighting for each dealership shall be designed for
uniformity.
2. Lighting shall be designed to minimize glare to surrounding properties
and distant neighborhoods.
All outdoor lighting fixtures and pole specifications with respect to
height, type, projected angle of light, material, colors and use, shall be
consistent with the existing Car Country. All lighting fixtures for
display areas of vehicle dealerships and general commercial lighting
shall be metallic vapor and quartz variety metal halide, induction
lighting, or other low-energy usage light fixture (no fluorescent arm type
fixtures)as allowed by the appropriate decision-making authority.
Maximum lumination for outdoor lighting shall be 100-foot candles.
Additionally, no lights shall be above a ninety (90) percent angle.
The number of poles shall be kept to a minimum where possible by
combining several luminairesries on a single pole. The pole height shall
not exceed a maximum of twenty (20) feet. Flood lamps mounted at
ground level for lighting cars is permissible if concealed and if the flood
lighting is not glaring or objectionable when viewed from adjacent
streets or properties. To reduce the projects off-site impacts, fifty (50)
percent of all outdoor lights shall be turned off after 10 p.m. Each Site
dDevelopment pPlan shall include a detailed lighting plan.
Lighting for the roof level of parking structures shall be shall be limited
to the use of bollards or lighting attached to the parapet walls. Roof top
lighting shall not exceed the height of the parapet wall.
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M. Fencing and Screening
1. Prohibited Materials
Wire fencing and gates shall not be allowed.
2. Fencing and Gate Design
The design of fencing and gates shall be appropriate to and similar to the
Spanish or Mediterranean motifs required for the buildings. Materials
shall be masonry, stucco, wood, or other similar materials as permitted
by the Planning DirectorCity Planner.
3. Screening
On-site storage areas, loading areas and service bays shall be screened
from view from the outside by fencing.
Height of fence shall average 8 feet and be limited to maximum and
minimum heights of 9 feet and 7 feet respectively.
Parking structures shall be screened from view from the outside by a
combination of fencing and landscaping.
4. Fencing Setback
Fencing in the front yard and street sideyard setbacks shall not exceed
thirty (30) inches in height
N. Trash Collection
Trash receptacle areas shall be enclosed by a six-foot high masonry wall with
gates pursuant to City standards. Location of said receptacles shall be approved
by the Planning DirectorCity Planner. All enclosures shall be of similar colors
and/or materials to the project they serve and shall be designed to the
satisfaction of the Planning DirectorCity Planner.
O. Equipment and Roofs
1. All exterior equipment and appurtenances shall not be permitted on the
roof unless entirely enclosed.
2. All equipment screening shall be architecturally compatible with the
main building(s) on the site and shall enclose the equipment from the
view of adjoining properties to the east to the first ridge line and public
streets.
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3. All pitched roofs shall be of material compatible with the building
exterior (tile, shingle, wood), or all flat roofs shall be screened or fully
enclosed by such material viewed from the first ridgeline east of Car
Country Expansion.
P. Utility Services
All utilities services shall be underground. Transformer or terminal equipment
shall be visually screened from view from streets and adjacent properties.
Q. Driveway Locations
Lots shown on Figure 3-3 shall have one driveway except Lots 3, 4, and 10. If
lots are merged, the development proposal shall attempt to reduce the number of
driveway locations to comply with the City's standard requiring a minimum of
300 feet between driveways. Precise driveway locations will be determined
during site plan review for each lot.
R. Grading
Grading shall be completed in one phase per an approved City of Carlsbad
grading plan.
S. Undeveloped Areas
Undeveloped areas/slopes shall be planted and maintained in a clean, neat and
orderly manner as required by Section 11.06.130 of the Carlsbad Grading
OrdinanceCMC Chapter 15.16 – Grading and Erosion Control. Undeveloped
lots shall not be used for the storage of automobiles unless a Conditional Use
Permit is processed pursuant to Section CMC Chapter 21.42 of the Carlsbad
Municipal Code.
T. Performance Standards
All motor vehicle dealerships and related automotive service facilities shall
comply with the following performance standards:
1. The maximum allowable exterior noise level of any use shall not exceed
sixty-five Ldn as measured at the property line. Where a structure is
occupied by more than one use, the noise level shall not be in excess of
45 Ldn as measured within the interior space of the neighboring
establishment. Noise caused by motor vehicles traveling to and from the
site are exempt from standard.
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2. All uses shall be operated so as not to emit matter causing unpleasant
odors which are perceptible to the average person while within or
beyond the lot containing such uses.
3. All uses shall be so operated so as not to generate vibration discernible
without instruments by the average person while on or beyond the lot
upon which the source is located or within an adjoining enclosed space if
more than one establishment occupies a structure. Vibration caused by
motor vehicles, and temporary construction is exempted from this
standard.
4. All uses shall be operated so as not to produce humidity, heat, glare or
high-intensity illumination which is perceptible without instruments by
the average person while on or beyond the lot containing the use.
5. All uses shall meet the air-quality standards of the San Diego County Air
Quality Control Board (AQCB). In addition, all uses shall be operated
so as not to emit particulate matter or air contaminants which are readily
detectable without instruments by the average person while in the lot
containing such uses.
6. All discharge of industrial waste shall be in conformity with the
provisions of Chapter 13.16 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
Businesses which produce grease, oil or other toxins as a by-product of
their operation, shall provide on-site grease-traps to prevent these
products from entering the public drainage system. This information
shall be indicated on the sSite dDevelopment plans Plan and shall be
designed to the satisfaction of the Carlsbad Fire Chief.
U. Test Driving
Auto dealers shall provide to all sales and service employees a map which
designates areas for test driving. This map shall note that test driving in
residential areas shall be strictly prohibited. This map shall be approved by the
City EngineerTransportation Director and Planning DirectorCity Planner, prior
to issuance of building permits.
V. Employee Eating Area
Outdoor eating facilities for employees shall be provided consistent with CMC
Section 21.34.070 (3) of the Carlsbad Zoning Ordinance.
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IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS
The purpose of the Landscape Standards is to provide landscaping which is in harmony
with the existing Car Country and is appropriate to the Spanish or Mediterranean design
motifs.
A. Landscape Areas
1. Front Yard and Side Street Landscaping
A ten-foot landscaped area shall be constructed along the public rights-
of-way for Car Country Drive and Auto Center Court. Said area shall
include a five-foot strip in addition to the five-foot parkway width.
Along Cannon Road, a minimum twenty-five foot Landscape Area
consistent with Section III.E.3 of the Specific Plan shall be provided.
Maintenance programs for the Landscaped Area shall be subject to
approval of the Parks and Recreation DirectorPlanning Division.
2. Interior Landscaping
Landscaping in the interior of display parking areas shall be provided in
addition to the front yard landscaping strip. Such landscaping shall be in
accordance with good design practice and other requirements of this
Section.
3. Percentage Area Landscaping
Consistent with the existing auto park, five (5) percent of all on-site
paved areas exclusive of setback areas shall be landscaped. Design and
maintenance of landscaped areas shall be subject to approval by the
Parks and Recreation Director.
4. Sloping Earth Banks
Areas in which grading has caused sloping earth banks shall be
landscaped and irrigated in a manner to protect the soil from erosion.
B. Wheel Stops and Concrete Curbs
In public display and customer areas where landscaping abuts the paved area,
six-inch high concrete curbs and concrete bumper stops shall be provided.
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C. Maintenance of Landscaping
Maintenance standards to be observed shall include the following:
1. Lawn and ground covers shall be trimmed and mowed.
2. Weeds and debris shall be removed.
3. Plantings shall be maintained in a healthy and growing condition with
pruning, fertilization and cultivation a regular part of the maintenance
program.
4. The irrigation system shall be maintained in good working condition.
5. The developer of the Car Country Expansion shall enter into an
agreement with the property owner to the east of Car Country Drive to
ensure that the slopes created by the construction of Car Country Drive
are properly landscaped and maintained. This agreement shall be
approved by the Planning DirectorCity Planner prior to final map
approval.
D. Landscaping Materials and Design
Required landscaping shall consist of a designed combination of trees, ground
cover and shrubbery. These materials shall be of limited selection to give
greater unity to the visual quality of the development and shall be selected for
concern of climate and maintenance. The predominant species of trees within
the project shall be consistent with those species planted within the existing Car
Country. These species include: Eucalyptus Citriodora, Ficus Rubiginosa and
Cocos Plumosa.
In general the landscape materials shall be based on the following requirements:
1. Street Trees - not less than 24” box. Maximum spacing of 40' on-center.
2. Parking Area Trees - not less than 24” box. One tree is required per each
20 cars displayed.
3. Ground Cover - designed for full coverage in a maximum of six months.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
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4. Shrubbery - not less than one gallon size.
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V. ADDENDUM
Uses for Lots 2 & 3 per SDP 88-3 Exhibit “Y” dated 10/19/88
PROJECT SUMMARY
Uses
Permitted Uses
As per Specific Plan 19(c) retail automotive parts sales and service including
but not limited to the following:
1) Tire sales and service
2) Muffler shops
3) Brake shops
4) Wheel alignment and suspension services
5) Tune-up and oil changing facilities
6) Transmission repair
7) Auto detailing and interior work
8) Auto accessories
The following uses are specifically prohibited at the subject site:
1) Radiator repair shop
2) Battery rebuilding shop
3) Automobile painting shop
4) Body repair shop
5) Automobile frame straightening shop
6) Automobile towing operations
7) Automobile salvage shop
Conditional Uses
A restaurant is permitted at the proposed location subject to the provisions of Condition
#11 of Planning Commission Resolution 2776.
Site Use:
Site Area 161,520 SF (3.7 AC)
Building Coverage 20.8 %
Landscaping 31.5 %
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SPECIFIC PLAN 19C PART 3
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Square Footage:
Building A Building B Total
Retail 7,200 600 7,800
Warehouse 2,440 600 3,040
Service Bays 38 Bays 12 Bays 50 Bays
Restaurant (not approved) 4500 4,500
Parking:
Required Provided
Retail (1:200) 39 39
Warehouse (1:1000) 4 4
Service Bays 106 106
Restaurant (not approved) 50 50
199 199
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAMSTANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
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I. COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAMSTANDARDS
The purpose of this section is to establish the sign standards necessary to ensure
coordinated exposure and tenant identification within the Car Country Specific Plan area.
A primary consideration is preventing visual blight and traffic safety problems. Carlsbad
Municipal Code (CMC) Chapter 21.41 (Sign RegulationsOrdinance) shall apply except
as specifically stated in the following specific plan consolidated sign
regulationsstandards. If there is a conflict between these specific plan sign standards and
those in CMC Chapter 21.41, the specific plan sign standards shall prevail.
A. Sign Permit Procedures
1. Permit
All signs within the Car Country Specific Plan area shall be subject to a
require a sign permit which shall be determined by the Planning
DirectorCity Planner (or designee) to be in compliance with the Specific
Plan and CMC Chapter 21.41, (CMC). except as otherwise defined in this
section.
2. Appeals
The decision of the Planning DirectorCity Planner may be appealed to the
Planning Commission pursuant to CMC Section 21.54.140. In a similar
manner, the decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the
City Council.
The appeal shall be filed with the secretary of the Planning Commission
(for Planning Commission appeals), or the City Clerk (for Council
appeals) within ten (10) calendar days of the decision. Appeals shall be
accompanied by a filing fee as specified in the City fee schedule.
Appeals Noticing
All appeals shall be noticed in accordance with CMC Section 21.54.060 of
the zoning ordinance as it may be amended from time to time.
B. General Standards Permitted Signage
Signs permitted shall meet the following standards:
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1. Each lot will be permitted signage equal to two square feet per lineal foot
of building frontage.
2. One freestanding sign may be placed on each lot provided the sign area of
the freestanding sign is included within the aggregate sign area permitted
as stated in paragraph B.1. above.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right of way
line, or be within fifteen feet of any driveway or curb line.
4. Monument signs shall not exceed a height of eight feet.
5. Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of any building which is
located on the same site, and in no event shall the signs be over thirty five
feet high.
6.2. Within Car Country Plaza (Lots 2 & 3 of the Expansion Area), Ssigns for
uses other than motor vehicle dealerships on Lots 2 3 shall conform to the
sign regulations of the Carlsbad Municipal Code as it may be amended
from time to time.
7.3. All signs will be reviewed by the Planning DirectorCity Planner to ensure
compatibility and to protect the public interest.
8.4. All signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street.
9.5. Signs oriented to surface streets, but still visible from Interstate 5, shall be
consistent in size, color and illumination with those of the exisiting auto
park.
10. Only one freestanding sign advertising the entire car country development,
may be oriented to Interstate 5. This sign shall be a maximum of 35 feet
high and 150 square feet in area.
6. All signs shall be placed so as not to be detrimental to traffic safety to the
satisfaction of the Traffic Engineer.
7. No portion of such any sign shall extend over or into the public right-of-
way unless approved otherwise by the appropriate decision-maker.
8. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Coastal Zone.
C. Franchise Signs
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAMSTANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
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1. One monument sign and one freestanding sign may be placed on each lot
provided the sign area of the freestanding sign is signs are included within
the aggregate sign area permitted as stated in paragraph B.1. above.
2. If more than one franchise is located on one lot, an additional freestanding
sign, wall or monument sign may be allowed. Such signs shall meet the
following criteria:
Monument signs shall not exceed eight feet in height.
3.2. The aggregate sign area for the entire development shall not exceed the
All franchise signs on a lot (wall, fascia, awning, monument and
freestanding) shall be counted towards the aggregate sign area allowed for
the development on that lot according to the provisions of Paragraph B.1.
above.
4. Monument signs shall not exceed eight feet in height.
5. Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of any building which is
located on the same site, and in no event shall the signs be over thirty-five
feet high.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right of way,
or be within fifteen feet of any driveway or curb line.
4. The maximum sign area for any such sign shall not exceed fifty five
square feet.
5. The signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street.
D. Direction Signs
1. The maximum aggregate sign area of all entry/directional signs is 100
square feet plus 3 square feet per acre of property within the development.
The maximum area for any individual sign is 150 square feet.
2. A sign permit application shall be submitted for these signs.
3. Entry and directional signs shall be combined into one sign.
4. These signs shall be placed within the boundaries of the Car Country
Specific Plan.
5. A unified design theme which is complimentary to the design of the
existing architecture shall be used.
6. The base of entry/directional signs should be landscaped to provide an
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SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
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attractive setting, and ground definition of the signs.
7. The appearance of the sign should be unified by a common design.
Subdued sign and lettering colors should be used consistent with the
design theme of the center.
E. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Coastal Zone.
F. All signs shall be placed so as not to be detrimental to traffic safety to the
satisfaction of the Traffic Engineer.
D. Signs on Dealerships iImmediately aAdjacent to Interstate 5
Notwithstanding Section 21.41.030, 10(A) and (B) and 21.41.010 (3)(B)
of the Carlsbad Municipal Code, the following regulations shall apply:
1. Dealers whose lots are immediately adjacent to Interstate 5 may have
wall mounted or fascia signs only, facing the freeway, subject to the
following requirements:
a. Such sSigns shall be wall-mounted or fascia signs only. Signs
perpendicular or at an angle to the building are prohibited.
b. Signs shall not exceed the height of the building on which it is
located. Roof mounted signs are prohibited.
c. Such sSigns shall not be larger than one square foot per linear foot
of frontage of the buildings facing Interstate 5. The area for these
signs is in addition to other signs permitted for the dealership and
shall not be used to calculate permitted sign area for other signs as
set forth in Section B.1 above.
d. The maximum height dimension of such signs shall not exceed
one- third of the height of the building elevation on which it is
placed.
2. The procedure by which permits for such signage shall be obtained is set
forth in Sections A and E above.
E. On-Site Directional Signs
1. Each lot is permitted to have on-site directional signs. Such signs shall
meet the following criteria:
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SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
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a. Signs may only contain non-commercial messages or directional
symbols that are designed to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular
traffic to uses on the same site.
b. Signs shall be located to facilitate traffic internal to the individual
dealerships located on that lot.
2. On-site directional sign standards:
a. The maximum number of on-site directional signs shall not exceed
three per driveway entrance.
b. Signs shall not be larger than six square feet per sign.
c. On-site directional signs shall not exceed six feet in height.
3. On-site directional signs shall not count towards the permitted aggregate
sign area as stated in Paragraph B.1 above.
F. Car Country Identification Signs
1. Two types of identification signs, “Entry Monument Signs” and
“Wayfinding Signs” shall be permitted within the boundaries of the Car
Country Specific Plan for the purpose of identifying Car Country in
general and for guiding customers to the various dealerships within Car
Country.
2. The maximum aggregate sign area of all Car Country Identification Signs
is 600 square feet.
3. The sign area of the Car Country identification signs shall not count
against the maximum aggregate sign area allowed for each lot by the
provisions of paragraph B.1 above.
4. Entry Monument Signs
a. Up to six entry monument signs that specifically identify Car
Country as a whole may be allowed. Individual dealership
names/logos are not permitted on these signs.
b. The entry monument signs shall be allowed at or near the primary
entry points to Car Country at:
Cannon Road/Paseo Del Norte
Cannon Road/Car Country Drive
Paseo Del Norte/Car Country Drive
Cannon Road between Car Country Drive and Paseo Del Norte
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAMSTANDARDS
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b. Signs may be located on new or existing site/retaining walls or
they may be constructed as freestanding monument signs.
c. Entry monument signs shall not exceed eight feet in height.
d. The sign area for any individual entry monument sign shall not
exceed 60 square feet.
5. Wayfinding Signs
a. Up to four wayfinding signs may be allowed for the purpose of
guiding customers to the various individual dealerships.
b. The wayfinding signs shall generally be allowed at secondary
intersections (Auto Center Court and Car Country Alley), mid-
block locations, or other appropriate locations as provided for in an
approved sign program.
c. Wayfinding signs shall not exceed 14 feet in height.
d. The sign area for any individual wayfinding sign shall not exceed
60 square feet.
e. A unified letter height, color and font shall be used for directional
arrows and dealerships names. The “Car Country” identification
shall be incorporated into these signs.
6. The entry monument and wayfinding signs shall be unified by a common
design theme which is complementary to the Spanish/Mediterranean
architectural theme of the Car Country development. Subdued sign and
lettering colors should be used consistent with the design theme of the
center.
7. The base of all identification signs shall be landscaped to provide an
attractive setting and ground definition to the signs.
8. An application for a sign program shall be submitted for all proposed Car
Country Identification Signs as a comprehensive package, rather than
individually. The sign program shall be approved by the appropriate
decision-making authority.
G. Regional Commercial Sign
1. Only one freestanding regional commercial sign shall be permitted within
the Car Country Specific Plan Area. The primary purpose of the sign,
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAMSTANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
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which may be oriented to Interstate 5, shall be to advertiseing the entire
cCar cCountry development,
may be oriented to Interstate 5.
2. This sign shall be a maximum of 35 feet highnot exceed 50 feet in height
and 150 square feet of static sign area.
3. The design of the regional commercial sign shall be complementary to the
Spanish/Mediterranean architectural theme of the Car County
development.
4. Digital Display Sign
a. A digital display sign may be located on the regional commercial
sign subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit by the
City Council.
b. The overall height of the regional commercial sign shall not exceed
65 feet and the digital display sign area shall not exceed 625 square
feet (25 ft. height x 25 ft. width). The design, the size of the digital
display area and the overall sign height shall be reviewed through
the CUP process.
c. The Conditional Use Permit will include detailed digital display
sign development standards. Specific operational details of the sign
(i.e.: the “dwell time”, the time of transition between messages and
the brightness of the screen) will be decided through approval of
the Conditional Use Permit by the City Council.
d. The digital display sign shall be designed so as not to create a
potentially significant safety impact to motorists and other
highway users due to light and glare. At a maximum, the light
output shall not exceed the limits imposed under California
Vehicle Code Section 21466.5 (Light Impairing Drivers Vision) or
the recommendations of the Outdoor Advertising Association of
America (OAAA), whichever is more restrictive. Light levels
emitted from the digital display sign shall be set to adjust, based on
ambient light conditions at any given time (i.e., night versus
daytime).
e. The Conditional Use Permit application shall include document-
ation that the digital display sign has been submitted to the Airport
Land Use Commission for an obstruction analysis by the FAA to
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ensure that there are no conflicts with the height and size of the
sign or any concerns related to reception.
5. Coastal Development Permit
Any Regional Commercial/Digital Display Sign proposal requires the
approval of a coastal development permit and must be consistent with all
applicable policies and requirements of the certified Local Coastal
Program.
6. The procedure by which permits for such signage shall be obtained is set
forth in Sections A and E B above, unless specified otherwise.