CC Ordinance No. 16-2142 Repeal Chapter 14.15 of the Cupertino Municipal Code Entitled Landscaping Ordinance and Replace it with a New Chapter 14.15 Entitled Landscape OrdinanceORDINANCE NO. 16-2142
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO TO
REPEAL CHAPTER 14.15 OF THE CUPERTINO MUNICIPAL CODE ENTITLED
"LANDSCAPING ORDINANCE" AND REPLACE IT WITH A NEW CHAPTER
14.15 ENTITLED "LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE" IN ORDER TO IMPROVE
READABILITY AND TO COMPLY WITH STATE-MANDATED UPDATES TO
THE MODEL WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE.
WHEREAS, this Ordinance is determined to be categorically exempt from the
requirements of the California Quality Act of 1970, together with related State CEQA
Guidelines (collectively, "CEQA") in that it is action taken by a regulatory agency, as
authorized by state or local ordinance, to assure the maintenance, restoration,
enhancement, or protection of the environment (Section 15308) or is exempt under
CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty to have no
possibility of a significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is the decision-making body for this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council before taking action on this Ordinance has reviewed the
exemptions, and using its independent judgment, determines the Ordinance to be
exempt from CEQA as stated above;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE OF CITY OF CUPERTINO
DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Statement of Purpose. This ordinance establishes new water-efficient
landscaping and irrigation requirements as State-mandated.
Section 2. Code Amendment. Chapter 14.15 of Title 14 of the Cupertino Municipal
Code entitled "Landscaping Ordinance" is repealed in its entirety and replaced
with Chapter 14.15 entitled "Landscape Ordinance" of the Cupertino Municipal
Code to be numbered and entitled to read as shown in Attachment A.
Section 3. Severability. Should any provision of this Ordinance, or its application to
any person or circumstance, be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction
to be unlawfut unenforceable or otherwise void, that determination shall have
no effect on any other provision of this Ordinance or the application of this
Ordinance to any other person or circumstance and, to that end, the provisions
hereof are severable.
Section 4. E,[fective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty days after adoption
as provided by Government Code Section 36937.
Ordinance No. 16-2142
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Section 5. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of
this Ordinance and shall give notice of its adoption as required by law. Pursuant
to Government Code Section 36933, a summary of this Ordinance may be
published and posted in lieu of publication and posting of the entire text.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the Cupertino City Council the 15th day of
March, 2016 and ENACTED at a regular meeting of the Cupertino City Council on this
5th of April, 2016 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
Members of the City Council
Chang, Vaidhyanathan, Paul, Sinks, Wong
None
None
None
APPROVED:
Ordinance No. 16-2142
Page 3 of 26
Section
14.15.010. Intent.
14.15.020. Applicability.
14.15.030. Definitions.
ATTACHMENT II A"
Chapter 14.15
LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE
14.15.040. Prescriptive Compliance Option.
14.15.050. Landscape Documentation Package.
14.15.060. Water-Efficient Design Elements.
14.15.070. Water Budget Calculation.
14.15.080. Soil Analysis.
14.15.090. Recycled Water.
14.15.100. Graywater Systems.
14.15.110. Irrigation Schedule.
14.15.120. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
14.15.130. Landscape and Irrigation Installation Report.
14.15.140. Landscape Maintenance Agreement.
14.15.150. Audit of Existing Landscapes Larger Than One Acre.
14.15.160. Public Education.
14.15.170. Local Agency Reporting.
14.15.180. Penalties.
Ordinance No. 16-2142
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14.15.010. Intent.
The intent of this chapter is to reduce water waste in landscaping by promoting the use of
region-appropriate plants that require minimal supplemental irrigation, and by establishing
standards for irrigation efficiency.
14.15.020. Applicability.
A. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to:
1. Projects that require a building permit, or planning permit, or grading permit, as
identified in Table 14.15.020.
Table 14.15.020
Type of Project Total Requirement Landscape Area
Building Permits
< 500 s.f. Prescriptive Compliance Application
(Appendix A) -Informational only
New home in Rl, RHS, Prescriptive Compliance Application (Appendix A) or Al or R2 Zones 500 s.f. -2,500 s.f. Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
> 2,500 s.f. Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
Planning Permit or Grading Permit
< 500 s.f. Prescriptive Compliance Application
New home in Rl, RHS,
(Appendix A) -Informational only
Al or R2 Zones 500 s.f. -2,500 s.f. Prescriptive Compliance Application (Appendix A) or
Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
> 2,500 s.f. Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
Commercial, industrial, :::: 2,500 s.f. Prescriptive Compliance Application (Appendix A) or
office, multi-family Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
residential, public and > 2,500 s.f. Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050) institutional projects
Any landscape :::: 2,500 s.f. Prescriptive Compliance Application
installation or (Appendix A) -Required
rehabilitation project >2,500 s.f. Landscape Documentation Package (Sec. 14.15.050)
Water Budget Worksheet (Appendix B)
New and rehabilitated > 0 s.f. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule (Sec.
cemeteries 14.15.120)
Landscape Installation Report (Sec. 14.15.130)
Existing and established Water Budget Worksheet (Appendix B) landscapes, including > 1 acre Audit of Established Landscapes (Sec. 14.15.150) cemeteries
2. Projects with.landscape areas less than 2,500 square feet using graywater or on-site
rainwater capture to entirely meet the landscape water requirement (Estimated Total
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Water Use) of the lot is subject only to the irrigation system requirements in the
Prescriptive Compliance Option (Appendix A).
3. The City may require a Landscape Documentation Package and/or other documents
deemed necessary for any project, regardless of total landscape area, that is determined
to have an impact due to a unique geographical or environmentally sensitive location,
including but not limited to, projects proposed on slopes greater than 30%, in geo-
hazard areas near riparian corridors, creeks and or/waterways.
B. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:
1. New or rehabilitated landscapes that do not require a building permit or planning
permit;
2. New landscapes that require a building or planning permit with areas less than five
hundred square feet;
3. Registered local, state or federal historical sites where landscaping establishes a
historical landscape style, as determined by the City Council;
4. Surface mine reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system;
5. Ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system;
6. Community gardens or plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums
open to the public; or
7. Any commercial cultivation of agricultural products; including, but not limited to
products of farms, orchards, production nurseries and forests.
14.15.030. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply, unless it is apparent from the
context that a different meaning is intended.
Applied water: The portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape.
Automatic irrigation controller: A timing device used to remotely control valves that operate
an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers are able to self-adjust and schedule
irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data.
Backflow prevention device: A safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the
water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system.
Certificate of Completion: The document required as part of the Landscape Documentation
Package, Prescriptive Compliance Option, and listed as Appendix C.
Certified irrigation designer: A person certified to design irrigation systems by an accredited
academic institution, a professional trade organization or other program such as the US
Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation designer certification program
and Irrigation Association's Certified Irrigation Designer program.
Certified landscape irrigation auditor: A person certified to perform landscape irrigation
audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization or other
program, such as the US Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense irrigation auditor
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certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor
program.
Certified professional: A certified irrigation designer, certified landscape irrigation auditor,
licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, licensed professional engineer,
or any other person authorized by the state to design a landscape, an irrigation system, or
authorized to complete a water budget.
Compost: The safe and stable product of controlled biologic decomposition of organic materials
that is beneficial to plant growth.
Conversion factor: The number (0.62) that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per
square foot per year.
Distribution uniformity: The measure of the uniformity of irrigation water a defined area.
Ecological restoration project: A project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a
defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem.
Effective precipitation (Eppt) or usable rainfall: The portion of total precipitation which
becomes available for plant growth.
Established landscape: The point at which plants in the landscape have developed significant
root growth into the soil. Typically, most plants are established after one or two years of
growth.
Establishment period of plants: The first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the
first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. Typically, most plants are
established after one or two years of growth. Native habitat mitigation areas and trees may
need three to five years for establishment.
Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU): The total water used for the landscape as described in
AppendixB.
Evapotranspiration adjustment factor (ETAF): A factor of 0.55 for residential areas and 0.45 for
non-residential areas, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant
factors and irrigation efficiency. The ETAF for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special
Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. The ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is
0.8.
Evapotranspiration rate: The quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other
surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time.
Flow sensor: An inline device installed at the supply point of the irrigation system that
produces a repeatable signal proportional to flow rate. Flow sensors must be connected to
an automatic irrigation controller, or flow monitor capable of receiving flow signals and
operating master valves. This combination flow sensor/controller may also function as a
landscape water meter or submeter.
Friable: A soil condition that is easily crumbled or loosely compacted down to a minimum
depth per planting material requirements, whereby the root structure of newly planted
material will be allowed to spread unimpeded.
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Fuel Modification Plan Guideline: The guidelines from a local fire authority to assist residents
and businesses that are developing land or building structures in a fire hazard severity
zone.
Graywater: A untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by any toilet discharge, has
not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes, and does not
present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating
wastes. Graywater includes, but is not limited to, wastewater from bathtubs, showers,
bathroom washbasins, clothes washing machines, and laundry tubs, but does not include
wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. Refer to Health and Safety Code Section
17922.12.
Hardscape: Any constructed feature in a landscape built of concrete, stone, wood, or other such
non-pervious or pervious durable material, including, but not limited to, patios, walkways,
and retaining walls.
High water use plant: A plant species whose demonstrated water needs are incompatible with
local climate and soil conditions such that regular supplemental irrigation is required.
Species classified "high water use" by "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species"
(WUCOLS), having a regionally adjusted plant factor of 0.7 through 1.0, shall be considered
high water use plants. High water use plants are prohibited in street medians.
Hydrozone: A portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs and
rooting depth. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated.
Invasive plant species: Species of plants, listed in the invasive plant inventory of the California
Invasive Plant Council (IPC) and the USDA invasive and noxious weeds database that have
been identified as invasive to areas within the !PC-delineated Central West (CW) region.
Irrigation audit: An in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted
by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited
to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity or emission
uniformity, reporting overspray or runoff that causes overland flow, and preparation of an
irrigation schedule. The audit must be conducted in a manner consistent with the Irrigation
Association's Landscape Irrigation Auditor Certification program or other U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency "WaterSense" labeled auditing program.
Irrigation efficiency (IE): The measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided
by the amount of water applied. The irrigation efficiency for purposes of this Chapter is
75% for overhead spray devices and 81 % for drip systems.
Irrigation survey: An evaluation of an irrigation system that is less detailed than an irrigation
audit. An irrigation survey includes, but is not limited to: inspection, system test, and
written recommendations to improve performance of the irrigation system.
Landscape architect: A person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in
California as further defined by the California Business and Professions Code Section 5615.
Landscape area: All the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape
installation. The landscape area does not include footprints of buildings or structures,
sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or
Ordinance No. 16-2142
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non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development
(e.g., open spaces and existing wildland or native vegetation).
Landscape contractor: A person licensed by the State of California to construct, maintain,
repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems.
Landscape project: An undertaking of landscape design and installation on a particular area of
land. A landscape project may be associated with an individual lot, a building project, or a
multi-phased development. It may also be a larger, comprehensive landscape scheme that
is not coupled with an individual building project.
Landscape Documentation Package: The documents required under Section 14.15.050.
Landscape water meter: An inline device installed at the irrigation supply point that measures
the flow of water into the irrigation system and is connected to a totalizer to record water
use. A landscape water meter may either be a customer service meter dedicated to
landscape use provided by the local water purveyor or a privately owned meter or
submeter.
Lateral line: The water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from
the valve.
Low water use plant: A plant species whose demonstrated water needs are compatible with
local climate and soil conditions such that regular supplemental irrigation is not required to
sustain the plant after it has become established. Species classified as "very low water use"
and "low water use" by "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" (WUCOLS),
having a regionally adjusted plant factor of 0.0 through 0.3, shall be considered low water
use plants.
Low-volume irrigation: The application of irrigation water through a system of tubing or
lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines and bubblers specifically
designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants. Certain
rotary emitters designed to provide highly efficient water distribution may also be included
in this definition, at the discretion of the Director of Community Development.
Master shut-off valve: An automatic valve installed at the irrigation supply point which
controls water flow into the irrigation system. When this valve is closed water will not be
supplied to the irrigation system. A master valve will greatly reduce any water loss due to a
leaky station valve.
Maxim.um. Applied Water Allowance (MAWA): The upper limit of annual applied water for
the established landscaped area calculated using the formula specified in Appendix B.
Mined-land reclamation projects: Any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan
approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
Mulch: Any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral
materials such as rocks, gravel, or decomposed granite, left loose and applied to the soil
surface for the beneficial purposes of reducing evaporation, suppressing weeds, moderating
soil temperature, and preventing soil erosion.
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Native plant: A plant indigenous to a specific area of consideration. For the purpose of this
Chapter, the term refers to plants indigenous to the coastal ranges of central and northern
California, and more specifically to such plants that are suited to the ecology of the present
or historic natural community in the project's vicinity.
New construction: A new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park,
playground, or greenbelt without an associated building, for the purpose of this ordinance.
Non-residential landscape: Landscapes in commercial, institutional, industrial or public
settings that may have areas designated for recreation or public safety assembly. It also
includes portions of common areas of common interest developments with designated
recreational areas.
Operating pressure: The pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by
the manufacturer to operate.
Overhead sprinkler irrigation system or overhead spray irrigation system: A system that
delivers water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors).
Overspray: Irrigation water that is delivered beyond the target area.
Planning Permit: Any permit as defined in Cupertino Municipal Code, Chapter 19.08, for the
purpose of this ordinance.
Plant factor: A number, which, when multiplied by reference evapotranspiration (ETo ),
estimates the amount of water needed by plants. The plant factor ranges from 0.0 to 0.1 for
very low water use plants, 0.1to0.3 for low water use plants, from 0.4 to 0.6 for moderate
water use plants, and from 0.7 to 1.0 for high water use plants. Plant factors are based on the
"Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" (WUCOLS) publication. Plant factors may
also be obtained from horticultural researchers from academic institutions or professional
associations as approved by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
Rain sensor or rain sensing shutoff device: A component that automatically suspends an
irrigation event when it rains.
Recycled water: Treated wastewater, including reclaimed water or treated sewage effluent
water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses including landscape irrigation and water
features.
Reference evapotranspiration (ETo): A standard measurement of environmental parameters
that affect the water use of plants.
Rehabilitated landscape: Any re-landscaping project that requires an architectural and site
approval, design review, grading permit, use permit, or a discretionary permit of any sort,
or requires a new or expanded water service application.
Runoff: Water that is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows
from the landscape area.
Soil moisture sensor: A device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may
also initiate or suspend irrigation.
Special landscape area (SLA): An area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants,
recreation areas, areas irrigated with recycled water, or water features using recycled water.
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Sprinkler head or spray head: A device that delivers water through a nozzle.
Station: An area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously.
Submeter: A metering device to measure water applied to the landscape that is installed after
the primary utility water meter.
Turf: A ground cover surface consisting of non-native grass species that is customarily mowed.
Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, red fescue, and tall fescue are
examples of cool-season turf grasses. Bermuda grass, Kikuyu grass, seashore paspalum, St.
Augustine grass, zoysia grass, and buffalo grass are warm-season turf grasses.
Valve: A device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system.
Water feature: A landscape design element where open water performs an aesthetic or
recreational function. Water features include ponds, fountains, lakes, waterfalls, artificial
streams and any design elements where water is supplied artificially. Spas and swimming
pools that are ancillary to single-family, two-family and multi-family residential uses also
are considered water features.
Wet surface area: The surface area of that portion of a water feature that functions to contain
water, such as the water surface of a swimming pool, spa, or garden pond. For a fountain or
other feature with flowing water, wet surface area shall be measured as a two dimensional
plane bounded by the perimeter of the area where water has been designed to flow.
Wildland urban interface: A geographic area identified by Chapter 16.74 of this Code to be at
a significant risk from wildfires.
WUCOLS: The publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species" published by the
University of California Cooperative Extension, and the Department of Water Resources
2014.
14.15.040. Prescriptive Compliance Option.
Unless otherwise specified, the following prescriptive requirements shall be submitted to the
Director of Community Development when a landscape project is subject to the requirements of
the prescriptive compliance option, prior to final permit issuance.
A. Water-Efficient Landscape Checklist (Appendix A)
B. Landscape Design Plans
C. Irrigation Plans
The following items shall be submitted to the Director of Community Development when a
landscape project is subject to the requirements of the prescriptive compliance option, prior to
final inspection
D. Certificate of Completion and Certificate of Installation, following installation of
landscaping materials and irrigation hardware (Appendix C)
E. Irrigation Schedule (Section 14.15. 110)
F. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule (Section 14.15.120)
G. Landscape Maintenance Agreement (Section 14.15.140)
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14.15.050. Landscape Documentation Package.
Unless otherwise specified, the following items shall be submitted to the Director of
Community Development when a landscape project is subject to the requirements of this
chapter, prior to final permit issuance.
A. Water-Efficient Landscape Checklist (Appendix A)
B. Water Budget Calculations (Appendix B) completed by a certified landscape professional
C. Landscape, Irrigation, and Grading Design Plans (Appendix D) completed by a certified
professional
D. Soil Management Report (Section 14.15.080), if necessary
The following items shall be submitted to the Director of Community Development when a
landscape project is subject to the requirements of this chapter, prior to final inspection
E. Certificate of Completion and Certificate of Installation, following installation of
landscaping materials and irrigation hardware (Appendix C)
F. Irrigation Schedule (Section 14.15. 110)
G. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule (Section 14.15.120)
H. Landscape and Irrigation Installation Report (Section 14.15.130)
I. Landscape Maintenance Agreement (Section 14.15.140)
14.15.060. Water-Efficient Design Elements.
Projects set forth in Section 14.15.020 requiring a Landscape Documentation Package shall
comply with all applicable criteria of this section.
A. Plant Material:
All plant material shall be chosen and arranged per requirements in Table 14.15.060(A).
Table 14.15.060(A)
1 Options to demonstrate water efficiency
a. i. Total turf area shall not b. Prepare a water budget
exceed 25% of the landscape OR calculation, per the provisions of
area, or 1,250 square feet, Section 14.15.070.
whichever is lesser in area and
ii. At least 80% of the plants
within non-turf areas shall be
native or low water-use
AND
2 Turf Restrictions
a. Turf shall not be planted on slopes greater than 25%.
b. Turf areas shall not be less than ten (10) feet wide.
3 Non-turf Restrictions
a. Plants shall be arranged appropriately based upon the site's climate, slopes, sun
exposure, soil characteristics, wildfire susceptibility and other site conditions
appropriate for the selected plants.
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b. The horticultural attributes of plant species (e.g., mature plant size, invasive roots, and
structural attributes) shall be considered, in order to minimize the potential for damage
to property or infrastructure (e.g., buildings, septic systems, sidewalks, power lines).
c. Fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches are strongly discouraged. In
areas designated wildland urban interface by Chapter 16.74 of this Code, plants shall be
selected, arranged and maintained to provide defensible space for wildfire protection, in
conformance with Public Resources Code Section 4291.
d. Invasive plant species/noxious weeds:
i. Installation shall be prohibited.
ii. Existing within or adjacent to the proposed landscape area shall be removed prior to
installation of new landscaping.
The architectural guidelines, conditions, covenants or restrictions of a common interest
4 development shall not supersede this chapter by either prohibiting low water use plants, or
including conditions that have the effect of restricting the use of low water use plants.
B. Hydrozones:
1. Plant materials of similar water use shall be grouped in hydrozones.
2. Mixed plant materials & hydrozoning: If plant materials of differing water uses are
mixed, for purposes of preparing a water budget use Table 14.15.060(B).
Table 14.15.060 (B)
Mixed plant materials Requirements
Low and moderate water use plants Allowed. All plants classified as moderate
water use for MAW A calculations.
High water use plants with low and Not allowed in any hydrozone.
moderate water use plants
C. Irrigation System:
The irrigation system proposed for any project shall meet the requirements outlined in Table
14.15.060 (C)
Table 14.15.060 (C)
Category Requirements
Shall meet all requirements per manufacturer's specifications and this
Irrigation System table.
Irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and
Design designed to allow for proper installation, management and maintenance.
Required for:
Dedicated Landscape a) All non-residential irrigated landscapes ~ 1,000 s.f.
Water Meter b) All residential irrigated landscapes ~ 5,000 s.f.
Automatic Irrigation Required for irrigation scheduling, utilizing evapotranspiration or soil
Controllers moisture sensor data utilizing non-volatile memory
Pressure regulator A pressure regulating device is required if the water pressure is below
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Sensors
Separate Valve
Water Waste
Type of Irrigation
hardware
Low-volume Irrigation
Average Irrigation
Efficiency
Irrigation Times
D. Soil Preparation:
or exceeds the recommended pressure of the specified irrigation devices.
a) Integral or auxiliary, required to suspend or alter irrigation
operation during unfavorable weather conditions.
b) Flow sensors that detect high flow conditions due to system
damage or malfunction are required: for all non-residential
landscapes and residential landscapes ~ 5,000 s.f.
Required for each hydrozone. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on
separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers and turf.
Irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head
drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions.
Sprinkler heads shall be selected based on a distribution uniformity low
quarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined in American Society
of Agricultural and Biological Engineers' /International Code Council's
(ASABE/ICC) 802-2014 "Landscaped Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter
Standard.
Required in mulched areas
Required in areas with slope> 25%
Required within 24 inches of a non-permeable surface
Required in any narrow or irregularly shaped areas that are less than ten
(10) feet in width in any direction.
Systems shall be designed, maintained and managed to meet or exceed
average landscape Irrigation efficiency of 70%.
Limited to between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m., unless unfavorable weather
prevents it or renders irrigation unnecessary.
Irrigation outside the normal designated window is allowed for auditing
and system maintenance only.
The proposed project shall incorporate soil preparation to meet the requirements outlined in
Table 14.15.060 (D)
Table 14.15.060(D)
Type of soil
amendment/ conditioning Requirements
Minimum eight (8) inches, non-compacted topsoil shall be available
for water absorption and root growth in planted areas.
Topsoil Minimum may be waived where a landscaped professional
determines that practical limitations (e.g., slope and other
geotechnical factors), necessitate a lesser soil depth that is viable for
the chosen plant materials
Compacted soils shall be transformed to a friable condition prior to
Compacted soils the planting of any materials. On engineered slopes, only amended
planting holes need to meet this requirement.
Compost needs to be applied at a rate of a minimum of four cubic
Compost yards per 1,000 square feet of permeable area to a depth of six inches
into the soil. Soils with greater than 6% organic matter in the top 6
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Other amendments
Mulch
Stabilizing mulching
products
E. Water Features:
inches of soil are exempt from adding compost and tilling.
Compost, fertilizer or other materials, shall be added according to the
soil conditions at the project site and based on what is appropriate for
the chosen plant materials.
Minimum three (3) inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed
soil surfaces of planting areas.
Organic mulch materials made from recycled or post-consumer shall
take precedence over inorganic materials or virgin forest products
Not needed in areas of direct seeding application (e.g. hydro-seed)
Required for use on slopes.
1. Recirculating water systems shall be used for all water features.
2. All pools and spas shall have covers.
3. Water features are limited to 10% of the landscaped area unless a water budget is
prepared.
4. If water budget is prepared or required, use Table 14.15.070(E) for MA WA calculations.
Table 14.15.060(E)
% of landscape area Water usage for MAW A calculation
Water features (including pools and spas)~ 10% Medium
Water features (including pools and spas)> 10% High
14.15.070. Water Budget Calculation.
Project applicant may elect to submit a water budget calculation for the landscape project. A
water budget must be completed by a certified professional who is authorized by the State of
California to complete a water budget. Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following
requirements:
A. All special landscape areas shall be identified and their water use included in the water
budget calculations (Appendix B).
B. All other factors are as defined in Sections 14.15.030, 14.15.070, and Appendix B.
C. Maximum applied water allowance shall be calculated for each project using the formulae
outlined in Table 14.15.070: MAWA Calculation.
Table 14.15.070: MAWA Calculation
1. For existing non-rehabilitated
landscapes > 1 acre that have dedicated MAWA= (ETo) (0.62) (LA) (0.8)
irrigation meters
2. For all new and rehabilitated MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(ETAF x LA)+ ((1-
landscapes ETAF)x SLA)]
Ordinance No. 16-2142
Page 15 of 26
Where:
MAW A= Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)
ETo =Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year)
0.62 =Conversion Factor (acre-inches to gallons)
LA =Landscape Area (square feet)
0.55 =Reference Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF)
for residential areas
0.45 =Reference Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF)
for non-residential areas
1-ETAF =Additional Water Allowance for SLA
SLA =Special Landscape Area (square feet)
D. Estimated total water use (ETWU) shall be calculated for each hydrozone using the equation
below. The sum of the ETWU calculated for all hydro zones shall not exceed the MA WA
calculated using the formula above.
ETWU = (ETo)(0.62)(ETAF)(Area)
Where:
ETWU =Estimated Total Water Use per year (gallons)
ETo =Reference Evapotranspiration (inches)
0.62 =Conversion Factor
Area =Total Landscape Area (square feet)
14.15.080. Soil Analysis.
The Director of Community Development or his/her designee shall have discretion to require
soil analysis as a condition of approval for any planning permits, grading permit, or any type of
discretionary permit, especially where large mass scale grading is anticipated. In projects with
multiple landscape installations (i.e. production home developments) a soil sampling at a rate of
1 in 7 lots or approximately 15% will satisfy this requirement.
A soil analysis report shall document the various characteristics of the soil (e.g. soil texture,
infiltration rate, pH, soluble salt content, percent organic matter, etc.), and provide
recommendations for amendments as appropriate to optimize the productivity and water-
efficiency of the soil.
The soil analysis report shall be made available to the professionals preparing the landscape
and irrigation design plans in a timely manner either before or during the design process. A
copy of the soils analysis report shall be submitted to the Director of Community Development
as part of the Landscape Documentation Package.
14.15.090. Recycled Water.
A. The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future
use of recycled water.
Ordinance No. 16-2142
Page 16 of 26
B. All recycled water irrigations systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all
applicable local and State laws.
C. Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET
Adjustment Factor for new and existing (non-rehabilitated) Special Landscape Areas shall
not exceed 1.0.
14.15.100. Graywater Systems.
A. Graywater systems promote the efficient use of water and are encouraged to assist in on-site
landscape irrigation. All graywater systems shall conform to the California Plumbing Code
(Title 24, Part 5, Chapter 16) and any applicable local ordinance standards. Refer to Section
14.15.020 for the applicability of this ordinance to landscape areas less than 2,500 square feet
with the Estimated Total Water Use met entirely by graywater.
14.15.110. Irrigation Schedule.
A. For the efficient use of water, all irrigation schedules shall be developed, managed, and
evaluated to utilize the minimum amount of water required to maintain plant health.
Irrigation schedules shall meet the following criteria:
1. Irrigation scheduling shall be regulated by automatic irrigation controllers.
2. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for
auditing and system maintenance.
3. For implementation of the irrigation schedule, particular attention must be paid to
irrigation run times, emission device, flow rate, and current reference
evapotranspiration, so that applied water meets the Estimated Total Water Use. Total
annual applied water shall be less than or equal to Maximum Applied Water Allowance
(MAWA). Actual irrigation schedules shall be regulated by automatic irrigation
controllers using current reference evapotranspiration data (e.g., CIMIS) or soil moisture
sensor data.
4. Parameters used to set the automatic controller shall be developed and submitted for
each of the following:
a. the plant establishment period;
b. the established landscape; and
c. temporarily irrigated areas.
5. Each irrigation schedule shall consider for each station all of the following that apply:
a. irrigation interval (days between irrigation);
b. irrigation run times (hours or minutes per irrigation event to avoid runoff);
c. number of cycle starts required for each irrigation event to avoid runoff;
d. amount of applied water scheduled to be applied on a monthly basis;
e. application rate setting;
f. root depth setting;
g. plant type setting;
h. soil type;
Ordinance No. 16-2142
Page 17 of 26
i. slope factor setting;
j. shade factor setting; and
k. irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting.
14.15.120. Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule.
Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure successful establishment following installation, and
to ensure water use efficiency consistent with this chapter. A maintenance schedule shall be
established and submitted to the Director of Community Development or his/her designee,
either with the Landscape Documentation Package, with the landscape installation report or
any time before the landscape installation report is submitted.
A. Schedules should take into account water requirements for the plant establishment period
and water requirements for established landscapes.
B. Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or
their equivalents or with components with greater efficiency.
C. Maintenance shall include, but not be limited to the following: routine inspection; pressure
testing, adjustment and repair of the irrigation system; aerating and de-thatching turf areas;
replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; replanting of failed plants; weeding; pest control;
and removing obstructions to emission devices.
D. Failed plants shall be replaced with the same or functionally equivalent plants that may be
size-adjusted as appropriate for the stage of growth of the overall installation. Failing plants
shall either be replaced, or be revived through appropriate adjustments in water, nutrients,
pest control or other factors as recommended by a landscaping professional.
14.15.130. Landscape and Irrigation Installation Report.
Landscape installation audit for new or rehabilitated landscapes shall be conducted by a
certified landscape professional after the landscaping and irrigation system have been installed.
The findings of the assessment shall be consolidated into a landscape installation report.
A. The landscape installation report shall include, but is not limited to: inspection to confirm
that the landscaping and irrigation system are installed as specified in the landscape and
irrigation design plan, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting
overspray or run off that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule.
B. The landscape installation report shall include the following statement: "The landscape and
irrigation system have been installed as specified in the landscape and irrigation design plan
and complies with the criteria of the ordinance and the permit."
14.15.140. Landscape Maintenance Agreement.
A. Prior to final inspections and final occupancy, the owner(s) of the property shall enter into a
formal written landscape maintenance agreement with the City. The City shall record this
agreement, against the property or properties involved, with the County of Santa Clara
Ordinance No. 16-2142
Page 18 of 26
Recorder's Office and it shall be binding on all subsequent owners of land served by the
proposed landscape.
B. The landscape maintenance agreement shall require that the installed landscape not be
modified and that maintenance activities not alter the level of water efficiency of the
landscape from its original design, unless approved by the City prior to the commencement
of the proposed modification or maintenance activity.
14.15.150. Audit of Existing Landscapes Larger Than One Acre.
The Director of Public Works may require audits to evaluate water use on existing landscapes
larger than one acre (installed prior to January l, 2010). The City shall adopt reasonable rules
and regulations on the process for determining what constitutes existing landscaping larger
than one acre. Such audits may also be initiated as a coordinated effort between the City and,
the Santa Clara Valley Water District or the City's water purveyors. This audit must be
completed by a certified landscape irrigation auditor.
Following the findings and recommendations of the certified landscape irrigation auditor, the
Director of Public Works may require adjustments to irrigation usage, irrigation hardware,
and/or landscape materials to reduce irrigation water use.
Landscape renovation or rehabilitation resulting from an audit shall be considered a landscape
project, and shall be subject to Section 14.15.050 and Table 14.15.070(C)(l).
14.15.160. Public Education.
A. The City may provide information, with assistance from the Santa Clara Valley Water
District and its water purveyors, to all applicants regarding the design, installation,
management and maintenance of water-efficient landscapes and irrigation systems.
B. All model homes that are landscaped shall have signs installed that provide information on
the principles of water-efficient landscaping.
14.15.170. Local Agency Reporting.
Local agencies responsible for administering individual ordinances shall report on their
updated ordinance to the Department of Water Resources. Annual reports will be due
by January 31st of each year and shall address the requirements as listed in California
Code of Regulations Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7, Section 495.
14.15.180. Penalties.
Non-compliance with any applicable provision of this chapter shall be subject to enforcement
action, as provided in Chapter 1.10 and/or Chapter 1.12 of this Code.
APPENDIX A-WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE CHECKLIST
WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE CHECKLIST
CUPERTINO
Co1111111111ity Devc/op111enl Depnrtmmt
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
408.777.3308/Fax 408.777.3333
planning@cupertino.org
http://cupertino.org/plannlng
PART 1: CERTIFIED/LICENSED PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION
LIC. /CERT.#
MAIL PHONE
PROFESSIONAL SEAL EMPM'Y &COMPANY ADDRESS
--------------R--------------------~-------·
PART 2: PROPERTY & PROPERTY OWNER INFORMATION
PROPERTY OWNER NAME E-MAIL
PROl'ERTY OWNER ADDRESS PHONE
PROJECT ADDRESS A.P.N.
PROJECT TYPE (CH!"Cl< Al'PUCAtll.E) WATER SOURCE
D New D Potable TOTAL LANDSCAPE AREA TURF PLANT AREA D Rehabilitated CJ Recycleli
D Non-Residential D On-site captured rainwater SQ.Fr. SQ.Fr.
D Graywater
WATER PURVEYOR NON-TURF PLANT AREA SPECIAL LANDSCAPE AREA
--- - -SQ.Fr.
PART 3: COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
Landscape Parameter
TURF AREA
D no turf
PLANTING AREA
SOIL MANAGElVIENT
IRRIGATION SYSTEM
D no irrigation
system
Requirements
Ttnf slmll not exceed 25% of the landscape area or 1,250 sq. ft., whichever is lesser i11 <11:e.i.
(No turf in non-residential area)
Turf shall not be planted on slopes mo1·e than 25%.
All portions of ltu·f areas shall be wider than ten (10) feet (tutless irrigated with
substuface irrigation or low volume inigation system).
At least 80% (100% for non-residential area) of non-turf area shall consist of
native or low water use plants.
No invasive and/ or noxious plant species shall be plm1ted.
Plm1ts with simila:r water needs slrnll be grouped wilhln hyclrozones. Each
hydmzone shall be controlled by a separate valve.
Atleast4atyds.ofcompool;six{6)in:ltESdeep,shillbaappliedper1,(00"'!-fr.oflaid.'l"f"rnP"-
A minimum three (3) inch layer of mttlch shall be applied on all exposed soil
surfaces of planting m·eas, except in areas of direct seeding application (e.g.
hydi:o-seeding).
Grading shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, mu-off, <Utd water waste.
Automatic ht'igation controlle1·s are required and must use evapotranspiration or
soil 1noish.U'e sensor data and utilize a min sensor.
frrigation controllers shall be a type which does not lose programming data in
the event tl1e primmy power sottl'ce is interrupted.
SQ.Fr.
Compliance
0 YES
0 YES
0 YES
Cl YES
0 YES
D YES
D YES
0 YES
D YES
0 YES
D YES
Pagel of2
a WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE CHECKLIST
Com1111111ity Development Department
10300 Torre Avenue 408.777.3308/Fax 408.777.3333
Cupel'tino, CA 95014 plruming@cupertino.org
CUPERTINO hllp://cuperUuo.org/planning
Landscape Parameter Requirements Compliance
IRRIGA T!ON SYSTEM Pressme regulators shall be installed on the inigation system to ensure the
dynamic pressme of the system is within the nwmfacturer's reconunended DYES
11ressure range.
Manual shut-off valves (sndt as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall 0 YES be installed as close to possible to !he point of connection of the water supply.
All il'rigation emission devices must meet the requirements set in the ANSI
standard, ASABE/ICC 802-2014 uLandscape Irrigation Sp1inkler and Emitter
Standai·d." All sprinkler he<•ds installed in the lai1dscape must docmnent a 0 YES
distribution ttuiforuuty low qnarter of 0.65 or higher using the protocol defined
inASABE/ICC 802-2014.
-
Dedicated h"rigalionmeters are required for non-l'esidenlial projects with more 0 YES thai1 l,OOO sq. ft. of landscape ru-ea.
WATER FEATURES Pool and spa covers shall be installed. DYES
O pool Recirculating water systems shall be used for all water features. 0 YES
D other:
[] no water features Wate1· features are llmited to 10% of the lillldscaped <ll"ea. 0 YES
I a1U aware of available i11fomiational resources reg<ll"tling m1tive and low water use plants, inigation efficiency, ru1cl other aspects
of water-efficient lai1dscapi11g. I certify tliat the infol'mation provided 011 this checklist is correct, and the installed landscape
complies wiU1 the requh"ements of dmpter 14.15 and/ or the requirements of tl1e Prescriptive CompliMce Option. I also tmderstai1d
that any changes to the project will necessitate a new checklist.
SIGNATURE OF PROPERTY OWNER OR AUTilORIZEDREPRESENTATIVE DATE
SIGNATURE OF LICENSED/CERTIPIED LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONAL DATE
Applicant Comments
r_-se ,-tdd.ih01l<tl pape1 if ne>:e~-s,ur·
Staff Ev,tlttation Staff Comments
D Approved
D Not Approved
Permit#
SIGNATURE DATE
PtZgc2 o/2
APPENDIX B -WATER BUDGET WORKSHEET
WATER BUDGET WORKSHEET
CUPERTINO
Co1111111111ity De<>elopmeut Depnrt111e11t
10300 Tone Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
PART 1: PROPERTY INFORMATION
PROJECT ADDRESS
REFERENCE ETo
45.3
TOTAL LANDSCAPE AREA
SQ.FT.
PART 2: SAMPLE HYDROZONE TABLE
REGULAR LANDSCAPE AREA
A.P.N.
NON-TURF PLANT AREA
SQ.IT.
408.777.3308/Fax 408.777.3333
planuing@cuperlino.org
http://cuperlino.org/plamtlng
SPEQAL LANDSCAPEAREA
SQ.Fr.
HYDROZONE PLANT IRRIGATION
MEl'HOV
IRRIGATION ETAF LANDSCAPE
AREA (SQ. FT.)
ETAPXLANV·
SCAPE AREA
ETWU
FACTOR(l'l') EFFICIENCY (IE) (PF/lE)
SPECIAL LANDSCAPE AREA
PART 3: WATER BUDGET CALCULATIONS
I (Y)+(Z) (ETWU)< (MAWA)I
PART 4: ETAF CALCULATIONS
Average ETAF fo1· Regular Landscapes= (B) +(A)
______ (ET AF) < (0.55 for residential)
______ (ET AF) < (0.45 for non-residential)
Site-wide ET AF = (B + D) + (A + C)
______ Site-wide ETAF
FOR."1ULAS
ETWU = ETo x 0.62 x (ETAF x Landscape Area)
Estin1ated Total VVater Use
TOTALS (A) (B) (Y)
TOTALS (C} (D) (Z)
DEFINITIONS
HYDROZONE: Put in hyclrozone #,letter, or planting
description. (e.g. 1, 2, 3; A, B, C; front porch, adjacent to driveway,
front lawn, etc.)
PLANT FACTOR (PF): Use WUCOLS to determine Plant Facto1·.
Plantfactors are 0-0.1 for ve,ry low water use plants; 0.1-0.3 for low
w.1ter use plantsr 0.4-0.6 for model'ate water ttse plruits, and 0.7-1.0
for high water Ltse plants.
IRRIGATION METHOD: Overhead spr.1y or d1ip
IRRJGA TION EFF!ClENCY (IE): 0.75 for spray and 0.81 for drip
ETAP: Tiw maximum average EvapoTranspil'ation Adjushnent
Facto1· for resi<lenf~"ll properties, exclusive of Special Landscape
Areas, is 0.55 and for non-residential properties is 0.45; ETAF for
new and existjng Special Landscape Areas sh,1ll not exceed 1.0.
ETo = evapatranspira.tion rate means the quantity of water
evaporated from adjacent soil and other sm·faces i:llld transpil'ed
by plants during a specified time
0.62 is a conversion factor tha.t converts ac1·e-inches/ac1'e/year to
gal!ons/sq.it./year.
MAWA = ETo x 0.62 x [(ETAF x Landscape Area)+ ((1-ETAF) x SLA)]
1'v!axllnun1 Applied Water Allowmlce
Pnge1 o/1
APPENDIX C-WELO COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
fl WELO COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
Community Develop111e11t Department
10300 Torre Avenue 408.777.3308/Fax 408.777.3333
Cupertino, CA 95014 planniug@cuperlino.org
CUPERTINO http://cupertino.org/ planning
PROJECT ADDRESS & A.P.N
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
----·
PROPERTY OWNER NAME E-MAIL
PROPERTY OWNER ADDRESS PHONE
I certify that I received copies of all the documents required in the L1ndscape Ordinance (CMC Chapter 14.15). I understand it is
my responsibility to record a maiulemu1ce agreement staling that the subject landsape is protected and to see that the project is
maintained in accordance with the hligation Schedule and the Lrnidscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule provided.
SIGNATURE OP PROPERTY OWNER DATE
CERTIFICATE OF INSTALLATION
COMPANY
ADDRESS
NAME
---·---··-·----·--·--·-·----------------------
TITLE UC./CERT.#
---------------·-----
E-MAIL PHONE
PROFESSIONAL SEAL
I certify that based upon pe1iodk site observations, the hmdscape planting and irrigation installation has been completed
in acconfance witl1 the Landscape Ordinance (CMC Chapter 14.15). I tmderstand that it is my responsibility to provide the
hngation Schedule and the L'lndscape illld Il'ligation Maintenance Schedtde to fue subject applicilllt/ property owner.
SIGNATURE OP UCENSED/CERTIPIED LANDSCAPE PROPESS!ONAL DATE
-
STAFF NOTES: 1. Presc1i11ti11e Compliance Applimtiou 6. frrigalian Sdwdule
{jHt'lllil #, i11spection 0 YES D Not Required 0 YES D Not Required
dllt~;)
2. Waler Efficient Lm1dscnpc Wo1hl1eet 7. Lmulsmpe and hrigation Mai11te111mce Scl1edu/e
0 YES [] Not Required D YES D Not Required
3. Laridsmpe Pim is 8. Soil Mn11age111ent Report
D YES D Not Required DYES D Not Required
4. I11ig11tio11 Plans 9. Irrigation Audit Report
DYES D Not Required D YES D Not Required
5. Gmdi11g Plans
0 YES D Not Required
Page 1 o/1
APPENDIX D-LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION PLANS STANDARDS
The landscape and irrigation design plan shall be prepared as follows:
A. The landscape and irrigation design plans shall incorporate all applicable elements
of Section 14.15.060 of Chapter 14.15 of the Cupertino Municipal Code.
B. The landscape design portion shall be prepared by, and bear the signature of, a
licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person
authorized by the State of California to design a landscape.
C. The irrigation design portion shall be prepared by, and bear the signature of, a
licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape
contractor, or any other person authorized by the State of California to design an
irrigation system.
D. Landscape Plans. The landscape design portion of the landscape and irrigation
design plan, at a minimum, shall:
1. Provide basic project information, such as applicant name, site address, total
landscape area and turf area (square feet), irrigation water source (e.g. municipal,
well, recycled), retail water purveyor (if applicable), and project contacts;
2. Identify, in tabular form, all plants to be installed as part of the project. The table
shall include the following:
a. Symbol (representing the plant on the plan).
b. Common name.
c. Botanical name.
d. Container size.
e. Quantity.
f. Type (e.g. grass, forb, succulent, vine, shrub, tree, etc.).
g. Water-efficient species identification. All "native" and "low water use" plant
species (defined in Section 14.15.030) shall be so labeled.
h. Unique physical specifications of plants (e.g., bare-root, field-potted, multi-
trunk, etc.), if applicable;
3. Include the following:
a. General notes, planting notes, plant layout based on size at maturity, species,
and symbol legend.
b. Spacing of proposed plantings.
c. Topography
d. Trunk diameter of all existing Protected Trees as defined in Chapter 14.18 of
the Cupertino Municipal Code.
e. Existing features to remain, such as trees, fencing, hardscape, etc.
f. Existing features to be removed.
g. Identification of pertinent site factors such as sun exposure, microclimate,
property lines, buildings, underground/above-ground utilities, existing
drainage features, etc.
h. Proposed grading. See Section 16.08 of the Cupertino Municipal Code for the
requirements of when a grading permit is required.
i. Seed mix, if applicable.
j. All planted landscape areas are required to have friable soil to maximize
water retention and infiltration;
4. Delineate and label each hydrozone;
5. Identify each hydrozone as low water, moderate water, high water, or mixed
(low/moderate) water use, as defined by WUCOLS;
6. Identify special landscape areas (areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible
plants, areas irrigated with recycled water;
7. Identify type of mulch and application depth;
8. Identify type and wet surface area of water features;
9. Identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious); and
10. Contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the Water
Conservation in Landscaping Ordinance and applied them for the efficient use of
water in the landscape design plan."
E. Irrigation Plans. The irrigation design portion of the landscape and irrigation
design plan, at a minimum, shall contain:
1. Location, type and size of all components of the irrigation system, including
controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, moisture sensing
devices, rain switches, quick couplers, pressure regulators, and backflow
prevention devices;
2. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply;
3. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design
operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station;
4. Irrigation schedule;
5. Location and size of separate water meters for landscape (if applicable); and,
6. The following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the Water
Conservation in Landscaping Ordinance and applied them accordingly for the
efficient use of water in the irrigation design plan."
F. Grading. If the landscape project area will be graded, then, at a minimum, grading
contours and quantities shall be shown on the landscape design plan. Grading shall
meet all applicable requirements of Chapter 16.08 of the Cupertino Municipal Code,
including permitting requirements for grading in excess of established permit
thresholds.
A geotechnical engineer should be consulted prior to the installation of landscaping
materials and irrigation hardware on slopes greater than 30%, or in any areas where
slope stability may be compromised.
G. Wildfire Management. Plant list shall exclude plant types that increase wildfire
susceptibility. In areas designated wildland urban interface, by Chapter 16.74 of the
Cupertino Municipal Code, the plan shall demonstrate that plants have been selected
and arranged to provide defensible space for wildfire protection, in conformance
with Public Resources Code Section 4291.
H. Storm Water Management. Storm water best management practices shall be
incorporated as appropriate into the landscape installation, the details of which shall
be shown on the landscape design plan. Installation shall be subject to the San
Francisco Bay Region's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
storm water discharge permit requirements and Chapter 9.18 of the Cupertino
Municipal Code.
It is strongly recommended that landscape areas be designed for capture and
infiltration capacity that is sufficient to prevent runoff from impervious surfaces (i.e.
roof and paved areas) from either: the one inch, 24-hour rain event or (2) the 85th
percentile, 24-hour rain event, and/or additional capacity as required by any
applicable local, regional, state or federal regulation.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA )
CITY OF CUPERTINO )
I, GRACE SCHMIDT, City Clerk and ex-officio Clerk of the City
Council of the City of Cupertino, California, do hereby certify the attached
to be a true and correct copy of Ordinance No. 16-2142, which was
enacted on April 5, 2016, and that it has been published or posted pursuant
to law (G.C. 40806).
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal
this gth day of April, 2016.
GRACE SCHMIDT, City Clerk and Ex-officio Clerk
of the City Council of the City of Cupertino, California