HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP 19J; Car Country Initiatives 2 & 4; Specific Plan No. 19(J); 2015-03-24
CAR COUNTRY
CARLSBAD
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT SP 19(J)
MARCH 24, 2015
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WITHDRAWN: October 7, 1991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 # 7031, January 15, 2014
City Council Ordinance # CS-248, March 25, 2014
City Council Ordinance # CS-270, March 24, 2015
(approving CCC Suggested Mods)
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
-i-
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
B. Definitions............................................................................................................ 2-3
C. Site Development Plan Requirement and Decision-Making Authority ............... 2-5
D. Coastal Development Permit Requirement .......................................................... 2-6
II. AUTO FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ............................................................. 2-7
A. Permitted Uses ..................................................................................................... 2-7
B. Building Areas ..................................................................................................... 2-7
C. Building Heights .................................................................................................. 2-7
D. Architectural Design and Materials ..................................................................... 2-8
E. Building Setbacks .............................................................................................. 2-10
F. Parking ............................................................................................................... 2-11
G. Parking Structures .............................................................................................. 2-12
H. Paging Systems .................................................................................................. 2-12
I. Outdoor Lighting ............................................................................................... 2-12
J. Fencing ............................................................................................................... 2-13
K. Undeveloped Areas ............................................................................................ 2-14
L. Trash Collection ................................................................................................. 2-14
M. Loading .............................................................................................................. 2-14
N. Storage ............................................................................................................... 2-14
O. Utility Services................................................................................................... 2-14
P. Roof Equipment ................................................................................................. 2-14
III. GENERAL COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ................................................ 2-15
A. General Purpose ................................................................................................. 2-15
B. Approval of Land Uses ...................................................................................... 2-15
C. Land Uses........................................................................................................... 2-15
D. Building Areas ................................................................................................... 2-16
E. Building Heights ................................................................................................ 2-16
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
-ii-
F. Architectural Design and Materials ................................................................... 2-16
G. Building Setbacks .............................................................................................. 2-17
H. General Parking Requirements .......................................................................... 2-18
I. Required Parking Spaces ................................................................................... 2-18
J. Adjustment of Required Parking. ...................................................................... 2-19
K. Outdoor Lighting ............................................................................................... 2-19
L. Fencing ............................................................................................................... 2-20
M. Undeveloped Areas ............................................................................................ 2-21
N. Trash Collection ................................................................................................. 2-21
O. Loading .............................................................................................................. 2-21
P. Utility Services................................................................................................... 2-21
Q. Roof Equipment ................................................................................................. 2-21
IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ............................................................................................... 2-22
A. Purpose ............................................................................................................... 2-22
B. Approval Procedures .......................................................................................... 2-22
C. Landscape Areas ................................................................................................ 2-22
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
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
E. General Provisions ............................................................................................... 3-4
F. Amendments ........................................................................................................ 3-6
II. DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS .................................................................................. 3-7
A. Subdivision Process ............................................................................................. 3-7
B. Site Development Plan Requirement and Decision-Making Authority ............... 3-7
C. Coastal Development Permit Requirement .......................................................... 3-8
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
-iii-
III. PROJECT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ........................................................................... 3-9
A. Permitted Uses ..................................................................................................... 3-9
B. Building Coverage ............................................................................................. 3-10
C. Building Height .................................................................................................. 3-10
D. Architectural Design and Materials ................................................................... 3-10
E. Building Setbacks .............................................................................................. 3-12
F. Parking ............................................................................................................... 3-13
G. Parking Structures .............................................................................................. 3-15
H. Loading .............................................................................................................. 3-15
I. Storage ............................................................................................................... 3-15
J. Paging System .................................................................................................... 3-15
K. Special Events Promotions ................................................................................ 3-17
L. Outdoor Lighting ............................................................................................... 3-17
M. Fencing and Screening ....................................................................................... 3-18
N. Trash Collection ................................................................................................. 3-18
O. Equipment and Roofs ......................................................................................... 3-18
P. Utility Services................................................................................................... 3-19
Q. Driveway Locations ........................................................................................... 3-19
R. Grading .............................................................................................................. 3-19
S. Undeveloped Areas ............................................................................................ 3-19
T. Performance Standards ...................................................................................... 3-19
U. Test Driving ....................................................................................................... 3-20
V. Employee Eating Area ....................................................................................... 3-20
IV. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS ............................................................................................... 3-21
A. Landscape Areas ................................................................................................ 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
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Chapter/Title Page
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PART 4 – COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM
PURPOSE ...................................................................................................................................... 4-1
A. Sign Permit Procedures ........................................................................................ 4-1
B. General Standards ................................................................................................ 4-1
C. Franchise Signs .................................................................................................... 4-2
D. Signs on Dealerships Immediately Adjacent to I-5 ............................................. 4-2
E. On-Site Directional Signs .................................................................................... 4-2
F. Car Country Identification Signs ......................................................................... 4-3
G. Regional Commercial Sign .................................................................................. 4-4
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD LIST OF FIGURES
SPECIFIC PLAN 19
Figure/Title Page
-v-
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 ............................................................................................................. 2-9
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 ........................................................................................................... 3-11
3-5 LOTS 1, 2 &3 SCREENING FROM CANNON ROAD ............................................................. 3-14
3-6 TURNOUT POCKET .......................................................................................................... 3-16
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-1
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 Standards.
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
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
Standards, which is applicable to both the Original and Expansion Areas.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
1-3
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD INTRODUCTION SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 1
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-1
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
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-3
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 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 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
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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C. Site 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:
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-7
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-8
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.
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
appropriate decision-making authority.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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E. Building Setbacks
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).
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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e. All other uses – such parking as may be required by CMC Chapter
21.44 for a specific use.
f. All required customer and employee parking spaces shall be striped
and designated as such to the satisfaction of the City 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 City 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 corridor as the highest priority and
to minimize glare away from adjacent properties as a secondary
priority.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
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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
approval of the 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, shall be metal halide, induction
lighting, or other low-energy usage light fixtures 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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-14
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 CMC
Chapter 21.42.
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.
M. Loading
Provision for loading and unloading shall be provided on site. Such area shall not
be permitted in the front yard setback.
N. Storage
Outdoor storage shall be visually screened from exterior view by fencing as
required in Section J (Fencing).
O. Utility Services
All utility, including telephone, services to the building shall be underground and
shall be screened where exposed to exterior view.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-15
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 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
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-16
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 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.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-17
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. 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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-18
4. Rear Yard Setback
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.
Parking that is proposed on another site shall comply with the requirements of
CMC Section 21.44.040.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-19
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 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 CMC Section 21.44.080 – Joint Use Parking.
K. Outdoor Lighting
1. Purpose
The general intent of this section is to achieve the following goals:
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 corridor as the highest
priority and to minimize glare away from adjacent properties as a
secondary priority.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-20
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
approval of the appropriate decision-making authority.
3. Lighting Restrictions
Light fixtures for display areas of the automobile agencies and for
general lighting of the commercial developments, shall be metal 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.
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
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-21
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 CMC
Chapter 21.42.
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.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-22
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 appropriate
decision-making authority.
C. Landscape Areas
1. Front Yard Landscaping
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
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-23
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.
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
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. Maintenance
standards to be observed shall include the following:
1. Lawn and ground covers – Trimmed and mowed
2. Weeds and Debris – To be removed
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD ORIGINAL SP 19 AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 2
2-24
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
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 24” 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
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-1
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-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 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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SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-2
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-3
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SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-4
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 City Planner shall resolve them in a manner
consistent with the Municipal Code, adopted City plans and City policy.
Such decisions by the City 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.
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. The plans shall be
evaluated in accordance with municipal ordinances and policies in effect
at the time said plans are before the appropriate decision-making
authority.
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CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-6
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 Planning 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
Amendments to this document may be initiated by an application to the City
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-7
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
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-8
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-9
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
Permit)*
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:
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-10
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
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.
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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3-11
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-12
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).
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-13
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 City Planner. Within the setback along Cannon Road,
display of the sale motor vehicles may be permitted upon approval of the
City 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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-14
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-15
e. All other uses – such as parking as may be required by CMC
Section 21.44 for a specific use.
f. All required customer and employee parking spaces shall be
striped and designated as such to the satisfaction of the City
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 Development Plans.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-16
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-17
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
City 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
metal halide, induction lighting, or other low-energy usage light fixture
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 luminaires 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 Development
Plan 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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-18
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 City 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 City 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 City
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-19
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 CMC 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 CMC Chapter 21.42.
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.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-20
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 Site Development 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
Transportation Director and City 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).
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-21
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 Planning 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.
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.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-22
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 City 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.
4. Shrubbery - not less than one gallon size.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-23
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 %
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD EXPANSION AREA
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 3
3-24
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 STANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
4-1
I. COMPREHENSIVE SIGN STANDARDS
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 Ordinance) shall apply except as
specifically stated in the following specific plan sign standards. 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 require a sign
permit which shall be determined by the City Planner (or designee) to be in compliance with the Specific Plan and CMC Chapter 21.41, except as otherwise defined in this section.
2. Appeals
The decision of the City Planner may be appealed to the Planning
Commission pursuant to CMC Section 21.54.140. All appeals shall be noticed in accordance with CMC Section 21.54.060.
B. General Standards
1. Each lot will be permitted signage equal to two square feet per lineal foot
of building frontage.
2. Within Car Country Plaza (Lots 2 & 3 of the Expansion Area), signs for uses other than motor vehicle dealerships shall conform to the sign regulations of the Carlsbad Municipal Code as it may be amended from
time to time.
3. All signs will be reviewed by the City Planner to ensure compatibility and
to protect the public interest.
4. All signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets. Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street.
5. Signs oriented to surface streets, but still visible from Interstate 5, shall be
consistent in size, color and illumination with those of the existing auto
park.
6. All signs shall be placed so as not to be detrimental to traffic safety to the satisfaction of the Traffic Engineer.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN STANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
4-2
7. No portion of 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
1. One freestanding sign may be placed on each lot provided the sign area of the 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 or monument sign may be allowed.
3. All franchise signs on a lot (wall, fascia, awning, monument and freestanding) shall be counted towards the aggregate sign area allowed 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.
D. Signs on Dealerships Immediately Adjacent to Interstate 5
1. Dealers whose lots are immediately adjacent to Interstate 5 may have
wall mounted or fascia signs facing the freeway, subject to the following
requirements:
a. Signs 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. Signs 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.
E. On-Site Directional Signs
1. Each lot is permitted to have on-site directional signs. Such signs shall
meet the following criteria:
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN STANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
4-3
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 or other
commercial entity 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 (south side only)/Paseo Del Norte
Cannon Road (south side only)/Car Country Drive
Paseo Del Norte/Car Country Drive
Cannon Road (south side only)between Car Country Drive and
Paseo Del Norte
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN STANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
4-4
c. Signs may be located on new or existing site/retaining walls or
they may be constructed as freestanding monument signs. d. Entry monument signs shall not exceed eight feet in height.
e. 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 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 regional commercial sign shall be permitted within the Car Country Specific Plan Area. The primary purpose of the sign, which may
be oriented to Interstate 5, shall be to advertise the entire Car Country
development.
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD COMPREHENSIVE SIGN STANDARDS
SPECIFIC PLAN 19 PART 4
4-5
2. This sign shall not exceed 35 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. The procedure by which permits for such signage shall be obtained is set
forth in Sections A and B above, unless specified otherwise.
5. Coastal Development Permit
Any Regional Commercial 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.