LIVERMORE CALIFORNIA

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1 LIVERMORE CALIFORNIA PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT APPLICATION NO.: Municipal Code Amendment APPLICANT: PROJECT PLANNER: City of Livermore Frank Guido, Associate Planner PROJECT DESCRIPTION: A request to amend Municipal Code Chapter 13.25, the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, to be consistent with an updated State model water efficient landscape ordinance RECOMMENDATION: LOCATION: ZONING: GENERAL PLAN: SITE AREA: CEQA STATUS: NOTICE AREA: Ordinance adoption Citywide Various Various Various Exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act per the General Rule in 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Citywide via newspaper of general circulation MEETING DATE: AGENDA ITEM:

2 LIVERMORE PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT TO: Chairperson West and Members of the Planning Commission PREPARED BY: Frank Guido, Associate Planner REVIEWED BY: Paul Spence, Principal Planner Scott Lee, Senior Planner DATE: October 19, 2010 SUBJECT: Municipal Code Amendment (amendment of Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance) SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning Commission recommend the City Council introduce an ordinance amending Municipal Code, Chapter 13.25, Water Efficient Landscapes. BACKGROUND In July 1992, the State of California enacted the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act (Assembly Bill 325), resulting in a State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance with a requirement for cities to adopt an equivalent ordinance. In December 1992, the City adopted an ordinance at least as effective as and closely adhering to the 1992 State model, found at Chapter of the Municipal Code, Water Efficient Landscaping (attached). In September 2006, the Governor signed Assembly Bill 1881 into law, which amended the original Water Conservation in Landscaping Act, including a requirement to update the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. In September 2009, the California Department of Water Resources adopted a final updated model ordinance (Attached). The intent of the State's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is to achieve increased landscape water use efficiency in new development. 1 6

3 Since the City did not adopt an ordinance locally by this past January 1, 2010, the updated 2009 State model is effective until such time the City adopts its own local version. Staff has prepared the attached amended Chapter as the City's updated Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. It is beneficial for the City to adopt its own amended ordinance as it can balance flexibilities with additional sustainable practices to result in an amended ordinance that is at least as effective or more effective than the updated State Model Water Efficient Ordinance; that can cross reference other landscape related ordinances, policies, and codes; and that is reformatted and reorganized to integrate into our Municipal Code format. The goal of the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is to save water, which in turn saves the landowner in long-term water costs and is good for the environment. All other jurisdictions in the State have a similar ordinance or use the State model, which creates consistent standards for property owners and developers. This update does not change the entitlement process for projects, the timeline for approval, nor create any new permits or fees. In amending the City ordinance, staff consulted with Zone 7 Water Agency, California Water Service Company, our own municipal Water Service, Livermore Area Recreation and Park District, a soil laboratory, the Irrigation Association, and a small selection of irrigation auditors, landscape designers including Gates and Associates, architects, landscape maintenance companies, and builders to solicit input on the ordinance. PROJECT DESCRIPTION/ANALYSIS Summary Overview The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance places requirements on new landscapes using very specific sets of requirements in landscape and irrigation design. The requirements are specific as to establishing a water budget; estimating landscape water use from the expected water needs of selected plants; and determining specifications for soil management, irrigation system design, and grading. Side-by-Side Comparison Document An 11-inch-by-17-inch document is provided in the packet, which consolidates and compares side-by-side the 2009 updated State model (with modifications recommended by StopWaste.Org as explained below); existing Municipal Code Chapter text; and the proposed Municipal Code Chapter recommended by staff for adoption to implement the updated State Model Water Efficient Ordinance. Stopwaste.org is the Alameda County Waste Management Authority and the Alameda County Source Reduction and Recycling Board operating as one public agency. The side-by side comparison includes the State model with highlighted (italicized) 2 7

4 recommendations provided by StopWaste.Org to its member agencies, since staff incorporated some of their recommendations. These recommendations include a set of principles called Bay-friendly landscaping, which generally promotes better soil health, water conservation, water quality protection, pollution prevention, and protection of natural resources in general and especially the San Francisco Bay watershed. The State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance sections and 1992 City ordinance sections are re-ordered to correspond to the proposed amended City ordinance sections in order to allow for side-by-side comparison. In some cases, parts of a State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance section may appear more than once because a provision may affect more than one proposed City ordinance section. Applicability The ordinance would apply only to development projects requiring a City approval. It applies to new residential and non-residential development projects and redesigned landscapes meeting minimum size criteria. However, homeowners redesigning their landscaping would be exempt. An important difference between the 1992 and 2009 State model ordinances is that the 1992 model exempted sites using recycled water from the ordinance, and the current model does not. However, it does increase the amount of water allowed landscapes irrigated with recycled water, as compared to non-recycled water irrigated landscapes. For projects needing City approval, such as a design review or building permit, per proposed Section (B), the ordinance would apply to the following, which is consistent with the new State model: "1. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agency projects and private non-residential development projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet; 2. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes, which are developer-installed in single-family and multi-family projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet; or 3. New construction landscapes, which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired in single-family and multi-family residential development projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet." It should be noted that "rehabilitated" landscapes mean those in which at least 50 percent of the landscape is being completely redesigned and does not refer to routine maintenance, such as replacing plants like for like. The ordinance includes exemptions from its provisions per the State model for historic sites, ecological restoration projects, mined land reclamation projects, and plant collections, such as botanical gardens. The ordinance also explicitly states that it is not 8 3

5 applicable to agriculture and homeowner landscape redesigns. The ordinance would also exempt community gardens because of similarity to agriculture with its inherent seasonal turnover in food plantings and attendant difficulties in conforming to an ordinance intended for semi-permanent decorative landscapes and recreational areas. Basic Concepts The 1992 and 2009 State models use the basic concepts of water budgeting; estimating landscape water use from its design (e.g., plant water needs and irrigation equipment types), and providing specifications to manage the design of irrigation and grading, soils analysis, and verification of installation per approved plans. Water Budget At the heart of the 2009 State model ordinance, as in the 1992 State model ordinance, is establishment of a water budget. The water budget is calculated using a formula specified by the State (Proposed Section (B)(1)). The formula relies on factors adjusted to Livermore's climate and on the area of the landscape in square feet. Landscapes and irrigation systems must be designed to not exceed the water budget. The updated State model also creates a new defined term, "special landscape area," which is incorporated into the proposed City ordinance and which includes landscapes irrigated with recycled water, recreation areas, such as parks and edible-plant gardens. Special landscape areas are given additional water allowance by the formula compared to other landscape areas. Bioswales, if irrigated, would also be included in special landscape areas. Staff recommends these stormwater treatment features receive a higher water budget because to function they are often include grasses needing supplemental irrigation. Estimated Water Use Consistent with the 2009 State Model Water Efficient Ordinance, the estimated water use of a landscape project is required to be part of the permit review of a landscape design. The estimated water use must remain below the water budget. Estimated water use is calculated with a formula specified by the State model (Proposed Section (B)(2)). The formula calculates estimated water for each subarea of the landscape called a hydrozone and adds the results for all hydrozones. Hydrozones are a central landscape water efficiency concept in both the 1992 and 2009 State model ordinances. 4 9

6 Hydrozones, Plant Factors, and Irrigation Efficiency "Hydrozones" are areas containing plants with similar water needs and irrigation equipment with similar efficiency. The formulas for estimating irrigation water use rely on numeric figures assigned to hydrozones called "plant factors" and "irrigation efficiencies," both of which are briefly explained below. Plant Factors A plant factors is an estimate of a plant species' water need relative to other plants (e.g., low, medium, and high water use plants). The numbers are on a scale of 0 to 1 (e.g., 0.1 is very low water need and 0.9 is very high). Generally, a plant's water needs are lower if they are drought tolerant or are accustomed to temperate climates, such as the Livermore region and accordingly lower plant factor numbers are assigned to them. Plants are assigned a higher plant factor number if they are less drought tolerant and need relatively more frequent applications of water to survive. The State model specifies using as a primary source for estimating relative water use, the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension (WUCOLS). (Proposed Section (B)(4)). Irrigation Efficiency Irrigation efficiency is another important factor in calculating estimated water use, and is a measure of a given irrigation equipment category's relative efficiency in delivering water. It is expressed on a scale of 0 to 1 with a higher number (e.g., 0.8) indicating a higher proportion of applied water is expected to actually reach the plant's root zones, with lower numbers indicating less efficiency. Generally, equipment that targets lower volumes of water in a smaller area at or near the plants' base is more efficient (e.g., drip irrigation). Conversely, equipment that sprays higher volumes and pressures of water over a larger more dispersed area is less efficient. The 1992 City ordinance included charts of plant factors and irrigation efficiencies as an assist to staff in administering and designers in applying the ordinance. Staff recommends retaining these charts. Staff recommends minor adjustments in plant factors to add temporarily irrigated areas as required by the State model. The recommended adjustments also recognize Livermore's hotter climate (and higher plant water needs) compared to cooler more humid microclimates, such as San Francisco's with which Livermore is regionally grouped in the above-referenced WUCOLS book. 10 5

7 Staff also recommends minor adjustments in the irrigation efficiency chart to recognize advancements in equipment efficiency in delivering water; State model restrictions on spray irrigation in very small landscape areas to avoid water waste; and use of updated defined terms. Other Important Provisions of the Ordinance. Overview The 1992 and 2009 State models both contain requirements for several important and interrelated landscape design concepts that can affect water use beyond the water budget calculation and use of hydrozones in landscape design. These areas include the landscape design itself (plant selection and their organization in a plan), soil analysis, grading design, and irrigation design, and a final verification to be provided by the permit applicant's qualified landscape professional that the landscape installation conforms to the approved landscape and irrigation design. The proposed amendments to the City ordinance is consistent with the 2009 State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance as summarized below with notable recommendations highlighted. Soil Management Proposed Section (0) contains soil analysis specifications. The State model allows for deferring soil analysis if mass grading occurs, which makes sense as the soil tested could be much different following mass grading and which is included in proposed Section (C)(2). Staff recommends requiring use of organic fertilizers as recommended by Stopwaste.org ; however, with an option to use chemical fertilizers provided they are slow release. For larger landscapes of 10,000 square feet or more, staff recommends a more detailed soil analysis and soil treatment approach as cost-justified by the greater economies of scale associated with a larger landscape. Such measures include more intensive soil analysis and recommendations to increase soil organic content and the use of soil amendments specifically designed to ensure greater air and water access to the roots of trees adjacent to compacted areas, such as parking lot trees. Landscape Design The proposed City ordinance is consistent with the State model relative to landscape standards, with additional provisions to conserve water noted below. The State model prevents new common interest developments from containing provisions in their Covenants, Codes and Restrictions having the effect of discouraging low water use plants or requiring turf (proposed in Section (D)(1)(f)). 6 11

8 Staff recommends limits on turf in new landscapes of 50 percent for residential uses and 25 percent for non-residential uses, with recreation areas, which include private backyard lawns, exempted. Turf is one of the largest uses of water in a landscape; therefore, this one simple measure will have significant impact on reducing landscape water use while not affecting the amount of turf a residence can have in a private yard; i.e., in new residential development it would only affect street frontage yards. Staff recommends prohibiting invasive plant species as recommended by Stopwaste.org and the local USDA resource offices ( is attached). Prohibiting invasive species is water efficient because one characteristic of invasive species includes aggressive spreading, and they use up water intended for other plants. Once extracted from the landscape, other plants require replanting and another establishment period, which usually entails higher water need, as intended plants re-establish. Another consideration is that herbicides which may be used to control invasive plant species can toxically load the soil, reducing soil biomass and, therefore, the soil's and landscape's efficiency in retaining water. Staff recommends text proposed by the USDA regarding invasive plant species as proposed in Section (D)(1)(d). The prohibition will have negligible effect on landscape design flexibility and appearance for new landscapes, while having environmental benefits. Copies of the referenced lists of invasive species are attached. Irrigation Design The proposed City ordinance includes an additional requirement to ensure irrigation efficiency for turf areas with a contiguous area of 10,000 square feet or more, due to the greater water use, and, therefore, potential for water inefficiency associated with large turf areas (see Section (E)(4)(f)). The State model requires the use of weather information to assist in irrigation scheduling, for example to avoid irrigation during rain. Staff recommends a definition of "smart irrigation controller" and requiring such a controller for new landscape projects. A smart irrigation controller is a type of automatic irrigation controller that encompasses the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance controller requirements for weather-based irrigation scheduling to increase water efficiency and is increasingly used in new landscape projects. An important new feature of the 2009 State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is a requirement for low-volume irrigation, defined as lower pressure non-spray sprinkler irrigation, for specified landscape areas in which higher pressure irrigation could result in waste via overspray or run-off. These areas include narrow landscape areas under 8 feet in a dimension, mulched areas, within 2 feet of pavement, and on slopes, with an opportunity for an applicant to propose spray equipment if it can demonstrate run-off and water waste will be avoided by the design. (See Section (E)(4)(h)). 12 7

9 Staff also recommends that if grey water is ever used in irrigation that it be applied with low-volume irrigation. Grey water is non-toilet, non-kitchen-sink wastewater recycled for irrigation use. Such systems are not currently in use in Livermore but could be proposed in the future. Therefore, staff recommends allowing for the possibility of grey water use in irrigation but requiring low volume irrigation to avoid aerosolizing grey water with higher pressure spray. Grading Design Proposed Section (F) covers grading design. Staff recommends incorporating a topsoil protection provision indicated as important by StopWaste.org (Section (F)(3)) and recommended by the local USDA soil scientist. Topsoil stockpiling is a relatively simple way to utilize existing site resources, as the top few inches of native soil are usually richer in biomass, texture and nutrients conducive to plant growth, instead of allowing it to be "lost in the shuffle" of development. Landscape Irrigation Installation Certification The above described landscape design components would be reviewed for compliance with the ordinance as part of a permit application. Following compliance, a permit can be issued. The proposed City ordinance is consistent with the State model by requiring a signed verification that the landscape and irrigation system that is installed is consistent with the design approved pursuant to the permit and is, therefore, water efficient (see Section ). Staff consulted with irrigation auditors and irrigation maintenance companies to inform the proposed code text. The verification requirements are to be completed by a qualified irrigation professional and include an evaluation of the irrigation system to ensure it is properly installed; that scheduling programming is tailored to the landscape, and that key provisions of the irrigation design requirements are met. Public Education The 1992 and 2009 State model ordinances require cities to make water conservation information available to residents and that model home complexes make available details about the water conserving aspects of the development to potential homebuyers. These provisions are in proposed Section Staff also recommends requiring model home complexes provide homebuyers the controller manual, a diagram of the home's landscape plant palette and irrigation system, and a copy of StopWaste.Org's Bay-Friendly Gardening Guide, or an equivalent information source describing environmentally sustainable landscape design, irrigation, soil management, and maintenance practices. 8 13

10 Existing Landscapes and General Water Conservation Section addresses existing landscapes as required by the 2009 State model. Section (A) contains common sense direction to owners of existing landscapes on how to maintain them to be water efficient. Section (B) uses the minimum threshold required by the State model (one acre) for landscapes to be subject to considering recommendations resulting from an audit by their water seller to help them increase water efficiency. (The City has two water retailers, the City and California Water Service Company.) Section (C) contains the language required by the State model prohibiting existing common interest developments from containing provisions having the effect of discouraging low water use plants or requiring keeping turf. Staff recommends a provision for historic properties whereby only the staff or Historic Preservation Commission can assess on a case-by-case basis whether strict application of the provision to a historic resource would degrade its ability to convey the resource's historic significance. Consistency with General Plan and Development Code The proposed ordinance is consistent with Climate Change Element (CLI) policies, specifically to review and update the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Policy CLI- 1.4-P3). As the Climate Change Element states, "Water is an important and scarce resource and the importation of water to the City requires energy which produces GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions. As a result, water conservation and efficiency both help to reduce GHGs." Additionally the proposed ordinance is consistent with the Infrastructure and Public Services Element (INF), which requires compliance with the mandatory State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Policy INF-1.3-P4). Development Code Chapter 4.05 (Landscape Standards) references compliance with the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. The proposed ordinance is consistent with this and other provisions of the Development Code. SUMMARY The proposed amended Municipal Code Chapter (Water Efficient Landscape) is at least as effective as the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance in promoting water efficiency in landscaping. It is beneficial for the City to adopt its own ordinance as it can be tailored to and organized to fit the Municipal Code format, can cross reference other landscape related 14 9

11 ordinances, policies, and codes, and can balance flexibilities with additional sustainable practices to result in an equivalently effective landscape water conservation ordinance. The goal of the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance is to save water, which in turn saves the landowner in long-term water costs and is good for the environment. All other jurisdictions in the State have a similar ordinance or use the State model, which creates consistent standards for property owners and developers. OTHER AGENCY/DEPARTMENT COMMENTS Staff consulted with various agencies as noted in the report and considered received comments in the draft ordinance. Public Comments No public comments were received in response to the public notice as of the date of report preparation. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per the General Rule in Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The proposed ordinance will not decrease and, in some cases, will increase measures to promote water efficiency in landscaping as compared to the 1992 City Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, and it is at least as effective as the 2009 State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance in promoting landscape water efficiency. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning Commission adopt the attached resolution, making the findings, and recommend the City Council: 1. instruct the staff to file the Notice of Exemption with the Alameda County Clerk; and 2. adopt Municipal Code Amendment ATTACHMENTS 1. Resolution Recommending Adoption City Ordinance State Model Proposed City Ordinance Text 5. Letter from USDA 6. USDA Invasive Species List 10 15

12 7. California Invasive Plant Council Invasive Species List 8. Side- by-side Texts of 2009 Model, 1992 City Ordinance, and 2010 Proposed City Ordinance (on 11-inch-by-17-inch paper in Commissioners' packets only and available at the meeting) 16 11

13 IN THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LIVERMORE STATE OF CALIFORNIA A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING ADOPTION Of an amended Municipal Code Chapter 13.25, the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, to be consistent with the updated 2009 State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance WHEREAS, the City initiated an application for Municipal Code Amendment ; WHEREAS, a Public Hearing Notice was published in a newspaper of local circulation; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on October 19, 2010, considered the staff recommendation for recommending adoption, heard public testimony, and adopted the following findings: The proposed ordinance is consistent with the General Plan. The proposed ordinance is consistent with Climate Change Element (CLI) policies, specifically to review and update the water efficient landscape ordinance (Policy CLI-1.4-P3). As the Climate Change Element states, "Water is an important and scarce resource and the importation of water to the City requires energy, which produces GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions. As a result, water conservation and efficiency both help to reduce GHGs." Additionally the proposed ordinance is consistent with the Infrastructure and Public Services Element (INF) which requires compliance with the mandatory state model ordinance (Policy INF-1.3-P4). 2. The proposed ordinance is consistent with the Development Code. Development Code Chapter 4.05 (Landscape Standards) references compliance with the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. The proposed ordinance is consistent with this provision and other provisions of the Development Code. 3. The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per the General Rule in Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The proposed ordinance will not decrease, and in some cases, will increase measures to promote water efficiency in landscaping as compared to the 1992 City water efficient landscaping ordinance and it is at least as effective as the 2009 State model ordinance in promoting landscape water efficiency. BE IT RESOLVED by the Livermore Planning Commission that, based on the above findings, Municipal Code Amendment is recommended to the City Council for adoption. Resolution No. 17

14 On the motion by Commissioner, seconded by Commissioner, the foregoing Resolution was adopted at the Planning Commission meeting of October 19, 2010, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: Darryl L. West, Chairperson by Fred Osborn, Planning Manager Secretary to the Planning Commission Resolution No.

15 Chapter WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE Sections: Authority Findings Purpose Applicability Definitions Landscape documentation package required Elements of a landscape documentation package Public education Authority. This chapter is enacted under the Water Conservation and Landscaping Act (Government Code Section et seq.) and is a "water efficient landscape ordinance" adopted by a local agency under that Act. (Ord , 1992) Findings Purpose. A. The city council finds and declares that the state of California is historically an arid environment with limited amounts of water resources. There are enormous costs to the citizens and ecosystem of the state to maintain current water resources systems and create new systems to meet current and future demands for water. Therefore, the city council finds that it is in the public interest of the citizens of the city and the state to require the wise and efficient use of a limited and costly resource through regulations that require and promote water conservation. B. The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for designing, installing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes in new and existing development projects. This is accomplished through the requirements for responsible landscape design, irrigation and management which utilize reasonable amounts of water while ensuring that aesthetic, functional, energy and environmental benefits of landscapes are achieved with the maximum amount of design freedom. (Ord , 1992) Applicability. A. Except as noted in subsections B and C of this section, the provisions of this chapter apply to: 1. All new and rehabilitated landscaping installed either for or by public agencies; 2. All new and rehabilitated landscaping for commercial and industrial development projects that require a permit or discretionary approval from the city; 3. All new and rehabilitated developer-installed landscaping in multifamily residential projects; 4. All new developer-installed landscaping in single-family residential projects B. Only the water budget provisions of this chapter (LMC (B)) shall apply to: ient 1...memoaftoemerweameral.a. 19

16 1. All new homeowner provided landscaping in single-family projects. LMC 13,25.060(G)(2)(a) requiring a separate landscaping water meter, does not apply to single-family homes. C. The following categories of users are exempt from this chapter: 1. Cemeteries; 2. Registered historical sites; 3. Ecological restoration projects and mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; 4. Projects using reclaimed water as defined and approved by the city; 5. Projects that contain less than 2,500 square feet of landscape area. (Ord , 1992) Definitions. 1. "Amendment" means any material added to the soil to alter the ph or improve the physical properties of the soil. 2. "Anti-drain or check valve" means a valve, located under a sprinkler head and installed lower than the lowest head on the system, to hold water in the system so it minimizes drainage from the lower elevation sprinkler heads. 3. "Application rate" means the depth of water applied to a given area, usually measured in inches per hour 4. "Applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape. 5. "Automatic controller" means a mechanical or solid state timer, capable of operating valve stations to set the days and length of time of a water application. 6. "Backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system. 7. "Bubbler" means an irrigation head that delivers water to the root zone by "flooding" the planted area, usually measured in gallons per minute. Bubblers exhibit a trickle, umbrella, or short stream pattern. 8. "Conversion factor" means a number that converts the maximum landscape water allowance from square feet to gallons per square foot per year. 9. "Cycle" means the complete operation of an irrigation controller station. 10. "Drip irrigation" means surface or subsurface irrigation systems which apply water through low volume emitters. 11. "Ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem. 12. "Established landscape" means the point in time at which plants in the landscape have developed roots into the soil adjacent to the root ball. 13. "Establishment period" means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape. 14. "Estimated applied water use" means the annual total amount of water estimated to be needed to keep the plants in the landscape healthy. 15. "ET adjustment factor" means a factor of 0.7 applied to reference evapotranspiration, that adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, the two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. 2 20

17 16. "Evapotranspiration" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil surfaces and transpired by plants during a specific time, expressed in inches per day, month or year. 17. "Flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes and valves (gallons per minute or cubic feet per second). 18. "Grading" means earthwork performed to alter the natural contours of an area. 19. "Hydrozone" means a portion of the landscaped area having similar microclimate, and soil conditions, and plants with similar water needs that are served by a valve or set of valves with the same schedule. A hydrozone may be irrigated or nonirrigated. For example, a naturalized area planted with native vegetation that will not need supplemental irrigation once established in a nonirrigated hydrozone. 20. "Hardscape" means and includes paving, decks, patios, and other hard, nonporous surfaces. 21. "Infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (inches per hour). 22. "Irrigated landscape area" means the entire parcel less the building footprint, driveways, nonirrigated portions of parking lots, and other hardscape areas. Landscape areas encompass all portions of a development site to be improved with planting and irrigation. They include water bodies such as fountains, swimming pools and ponds. Natural open spaces without irrigation systems are not included. 23. "Irrigation efficiency" means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system, characteristics and management practices. 24. "Irrigation system" means a complete connection of system components, including the water source, the water distribution network, controller and the necessary irrigation equipment. 25. "Landscape irrigation audit" means a process to perform site inspections, evaluate irrigations systems, and develop efficient irrigation schedules. 26. "Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water from the source to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve or outlet. 27. "Low water using or extra-drought-tolerant plant" means a plant that can survive without irrigation throughout the year once established, although supplemental water may be desirable during drought periods for improved appearance and disease resistance. Plants in Water-Conserving-Plants and Landscape for the Bay Area (second edition), published by East Bay Municipal Utility District, that can tolerate "no water after second year" are examples of such plants. 28. "Main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet. 29. "Maximum applied water allowance" or "water budget." For design purpose, it is the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area. It 3 21

18 is based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscaped area. 30. "Median" means a planted area which separates two roadways or divides a portion of a road into two or more lanes. 31. "Moderate water using or semi-drought-tolerant plant" means a plant that can survive throughout the year with occasional irrigation. 32. "Mined-land reclamation projects" means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Projects: Mining and Reclamation Act of "Mulch" means materials such as leaves, bark, straw, or sawdust, left loose and applied to the soil surface to retain moisture, retard weed growth, or prevent erosion. 34. "High water using or nondrought-tolerant plant" means a plant that will require regular irrigation for adequate appearance, growth and disease resistance. 35. "Operating pressure" means the pressure at which a system of sprinklers is designed to operate, usually indicated at the base of a sprinkler. 36. "Overspray" means water which is delivered beyond the landscaped area, wetting pavements, walks, structures, or other nonlandscaped areas. 37. "Plant factor" means a factor that when multiplied by reference evapotranspiration estimates the amount of water used by plants. 38. "Point of connection" means the point at which an irrigation system connects into public water system. This is usually that point at which the meter and back-flow prevention device is located or will be installed. 39. "Precipitation rate" means the rate of water arriving at the soil surface via rainfall or an irrigation system discharge, expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (inches per hour). 40. "Rain sensing device" means a device wired to the automatic controller that shuts off the irrigation system when it rains. 41. "Recreational area" means of active play or recreation such as sports fields, school yards, picnic grounds, or other areas with intense foot traffic. 42. "Recycled water" or "reclaimed water" means treated or recycled wastewater of a quality reclaimed water suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation; not intended for human consumption. 43. "Reference evapotranspiration" means the evapotranspiration rate for a particular geographical area, such as the city. 44. "Rehabilitated landscape" means any planting area in which at least 50 percent of the landscape area is replaced or modified. Examples include a change of landscape, installations of a new irrigation system, and grading modifications. 45. "Remote control valve" means a valve in an irrigation system which is activated by an automatic electric controller via an electric control wire. 46. "Runoff' means water which is not absorbed by the soil to which it is applied. Runoff usually occurs when water is applied at too great a precipitation rate, when water is applied to saturated soils, or when water is applied to a steep slope. 4 22

19 47. "Site plan" means a base sheet that includes the basic information that will appear on all plans, such as natural features, roads, buildings, or other structures to remain on-site. 48. "Soil moisture sensor" means an instrument for measuring the moisture content of the soil and capable of interruption of the irrigation cycle sensor when excessive or inadequate moisture is detected. 49. "Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on the percentage of sand, silt, and clay in the soil. 50. "Spray head" means an irrigation head that sprays water through a nozzle. 51. "Stream head" means an irrigation head that projects water through a rotor in single or multiple streams. 52. "Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing. 53. "Station" means an area served by one valve or a set of valves that operate simultaneously. 54. "Turf" means a surface layer of earth containing mowed grass with its roots. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore paspalum, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses. 55. "Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system. 56. "Water conservation concept statement" means a one-page checklist and a narrative summary of the project. (Ord , 1992) Landscape documentation package required. A. For projects subject to all of the provisions of this chapter, the property owner must submit a landscape documentation package to the city in compliance with the requirements of this chapter in order to be eligible for the issuance of a building permit. No building permits will be issued for projects that include incomplete packages, or that include plans which are inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter. The package must be prepared by an architect or landscape architect licensed by the state and it must include the following items. The items listed in this section are described in more detail in LMC Water conservation concept statement; 2. Calculation of maximum applied water allowance; 3. Calculation of the estimated applied water use; 4. Landscape design plan; 5. Irrigation design plan; 6. Irrigation schedule; 7. Maintenance schedule; 8. Landscape irrigation audit schedule; 9. Grading plan; 10. Soil analysis; 11. Certification of substantial completion (to be submitted after installation of the project); 12. Architect or landscape architect stamp. 5 23

20 B. The property owner shall submit items 1-6, 9, 10, and 12 from subsection A of this section for review and approval concurrently with submittal of the design review committee application for the project. The irrigation plan for this submittal may be conceptual in nature, that is, it may consist of a written description and diagram that depicts what types of irrigation equipment (drip, spray sprinklers, stream sprinklers, etc.) shall be used in what areas of the plan. (Ord , 1992) Elements of a landscape documentation package. A. Water Conservation Concept Statement. Each landscape documentation package shall include a cover sheet referred to as the water conservation concept statement. It shall serve as a checklist to verify that the elements of the landscape documentation package have been completed and shall include a narrative summary of the project. B. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance (Water Budget). 1. A project's maximum applied water allowance shall be calculated using the following formula: MAWA = (LA) (20.5) where: MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance (gallons per year) LA = Landscaped area (square feet) 20.5 = Conversion factor (square feet to gallons per square foot per year). The conversion factor is made up of the reference evapotranspiration (47.2) multiplied by the ET adjustment factor (0.7) multiplied by.62 to convert square feet to gallons per square foot per year. 2. An example calculation of the maximum applied water allowance is: Landscaped area of 10,000 square feet in Livermore. MAWA = (LA) (20.5) = (10,000 square feet) (20.5) = 205,000 gallons per year = cubic feet per year (205,000/748 = 274). 3. Portions of landscaped areas in public and private projects such as parks, playgrounds, sports fields, golf courses, or school yards where turf provides a playing surface or serves other recreational purposes are permitted to request an increase in the maximum applied water allowance. A statement shall be included with the landscape design plan, designating areas to be used for such purposes and specifying any needed amount of additional water above the maximum applied water allowance because of high plant factors (but not due to irrigation inefficiency). Such requests shall be evaluated and, if the plan uses water efficiently throughout the project, approved by the planning director. C. Estimated Applied Water Use. 1. The estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. 2. A calculation of the estimated applied water use shall be submitted with the landscape documentation package. It shall be calculated by summing the amount of water recommend in the irrigation schedule, or calculated from the following formula. 6 24

21 3. The estimated total water use of the entire landscaped equals the sum of the estimated water use of all hydrozones in that landscaped area. EWU (hydrozone) = (47.2) (PF) (HA) (0.62) (1E) EWU = Estimated water use, per hydrozone (in gallons per year) 47.2 = Reference evapotranspiration rate for Livermore (in inches per year) PF = Plant factor HA = Hydrozone area (in square feet) 0.62 = Conversion factor (from inches to gallons) IE = Irrigation efficiency. 4. Precipitation may not be used as a source of water in this calculation. D. Plant Factors. For the purpose of this chapter, the following plant factors shall be used for each type of plant material. These figures are based on average plant densities and average microclimate conditions. For the purpose of this chapter, plants are divided into high, medium and low water requirement categories. A list of plants within each of these categories is on file with the planning department. That list is not comprehensive, and is designed to assist the designer in choosing appropriate plant materials. The designer is encouraged to use plants not on the list; provided, that appropriate information is provided to substantiate the water requirements of those plants. Such information might consist of reference material from a published source or other data acceptable to the director of planning. Plant Type Plant Factor Recirculating water features 1.0 Uncovered pools and spas 0.8 Cool season grasses 0.8 Warm season grasses 0.7 High water using trees, shrubs and groundcovers 0.7 Moderate water using trees, shrubs and groundcovers 0.5 Covered pools and spas 0.5 Low water using trees, shrubs and groundcovers 0.2 E. Irrigation Efficiency. For the purpose of this chapter, the following irrigation efficiency numbers shall be used for each of the following irrigation equipment categories. Irrigation Equipment Type Irrigation Efficiency Drip emitters (both above and below ground) 0.9 Bubblers 0.85 Stream sprinklers in planter strips 10 feet or wider 0.75 Spray sprinklers in planter strips 10 feet or wider Sprinklers in planter strips less 7 25

22 than 10 feet wide 0.4 F. Landscape Design Plan. A landscape design plan shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. 1. Plant Selection and Grouping. a. Any plants may be used in the landscape, providing the estimated applied water use recommended does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance and that the plants meet the specifications set forth in subsections (F)(1)(b) and (F)(1)(c) of this section. b. Plants having similar water use shall generally be grouped together in distinct hydrozones. c. Plants having nearly similar water use may be grouped together, that is, high and medium water using plants may be grouped, or medium and low water using plants may be grouped together. However, high and low water using plants shall not be grouped together in the same hydrozone. For mixed plant hydrozones, the more water intensive plant factor (higher number) shall be used for the entire hydrozone. 2. Water Features. a. Recirculating water shall be used for all decorative water features. 3. Landscape Design Plan Specifications. The landscape design plan shall be drawn on project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies the following: a. Designation of hydrozones; b. Landscape materials, trees, shrubs, ground cover, turf, and existing vegetation. Planting symbols shall be clearly drawn and plants labeled by botanical name, common name, container size, spacing and quantities of each group of plants indicated; c. Property lines and street names; d. Streets, driveways, walkways, and other paved areas; e. Pools, spas, ponds, water features, fences and retaining walls; f. Existing and proposed buildings and structures including the location of windows and doorways; g. Natural features, including, but not limited to, rock outcroppings; h. Soil, planting, and irrigation details; i. A calculation showing the square footage of each hydrozone and the total landscaped area; j. Designation of special recreational areas such as playgrounds, or sports fields where turf serves as a playing surface. G. Irrigation Design Plan. An irrigation design plan meeting the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. 1. Irrigation Design Criteria. a. Point of Connection. All irrigation equipment must be connected to the landscape water meter for a project. No portion of the irrigation system may be connected to the domestic water meter, unless only one water meter is required for the property. b. Runoff and Overspray. The irrigation system shall deliver water at a rate compatible with the soil types and infiltration rates of the site. All irrigation 8 26

23 systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways or structures. Proper irrigation equipment and schedules, including such features such as repeat cycles, shall be used to closely match maximum application rates to infiltration rates. 2. Equipment. a. Water Meters. Separate landscape water meters shall be installed for all newly installed or renovated projects subject to this chapter (except singlefamily homes). All irrigation equipment throughout all projects must be connected to the landscape water meter. b. Controllers. Automatic electronic controllers shall be required for all irrigation systems and must be able to accommodate all aspects of the design. At a minimum the controller shall have the capability to create two independent programs, include three cycle start times per program, have a battery backup to protect the program in the case of power failure, and contain a rain switch to interrupt the program in the case of rain. c. Valves. Electronic valves are required for all irrigation systems. A valve may irrigate a maximum of one hydrozone of plants with similar water use as described in the plant selection and grouping section. d. Sprinkler Heads and Emitters. Heads and emitters shall have compatible application rates within each control valve circuit. Sprinkler heads shall be selected for proper area coverage, application rate, operating pressure, adjustment capability, and ease of maintenance. e. Antidrain (Check) Valves. Antidrain valves shall be installed at strategic low points throughout the plan to avoid low-head drainage. f. Rain Sensing Override Devices. Rain sensing override devices are recommended on all irrigation systems and are required on all projects that contain at least 10,000 square feet of landscape area. g. Soil Moisture Sensing Devises. Soil moisture sensing devices are recommended on all irrigation systems. 3. Irrigation Design Plan Specifications. The irrigation system shall be designed to be consistent with the planting design hydrozones. The irrigation design plan shall be drawn on project base sheets. It should be separate from, but use the same format as, the landscape design plan. The scale shall be the same as that used for the landscape design plan. The irrigation design plan shall accurately and clearly identify: a. Location and size of separate water meters for landscape irrigation; b. Location, type, and size of all components of the irrigation system, including automatic controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, emitters, moisture sensing devices, rain sensing devices, quick couplers, and backflow prevention devices; c. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply; d. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour, and design operating pressure (psi) for each station. 9 27

24 H. Irrigation Schedules. Irrigation schedules satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package. 1. An annual irrigation program with monthly irrigation schedules shall be required for the plant establishment period, for the established landscape, and for any temporarily irrigated areas. 2. The irrigation schedule shall: a. Include run time (in minutes per cycle) suggested number of cycles per day, and frequency of irrigation for each station; and b. Provide the amount of applied water (in 100 cubic feet and gallons) recommended on a monthly and annual basis. 3. The total amount of water for the project shall include water designated in the estimated total water use calculation including any water needed for any water features. 4. Recreational areas designated in the landscape design shall be highlighted and the irrigation schedule shall indicate if any additional water is needed above the maximum applied water allowance because of high plant factors (but not due to irrigation inefficiency). 5. Whenever possible, irrigation scheduling shall incorporate the use of evapotranspiration data such as those from the California Irrigation Management System (CIMIS) weather stations to apply the appropriate levels of water for different climate. 6. Landscape irrigation shall normally be scheduled during nondaylight hours to reduce irrigating during times of high wind or high temperature. I. Maintenance Schedules. A regular maintenance schedule satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape documentation package: 1. Landscaping shall be maintained to ensure water efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, checking, adjusting, and repairing irrigation equipment, resetting the automatic controller, aerating and dethatching turf areas, replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning, and weeding in all landscaped areas. 2. Repair of irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally specified materials or their equivalents. J. Landscape Irrigation Audit Schedules. A schedule of landscape irrigation audits, for all but single-family residences, satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted to the city as part of the landscape documentation package: 1. At a minimum, audits shall be in accordance with the State of California Landscape Water Management Program as described in the Landscape Irrigation Auditor Handbook. 2. The schedule shall provide for landscape irrigation audits to be conducted by certified landscape auditors once every five years. This requirement shall be waived if, in the last five years, the project has not at any time used more water on an annual basis than permitted by the maximum applied water allowance

25 3. An audit shall also be required if the project's water use exceeds its maximum applied water allowance by 10 percent or more on an annual basis or by 20 percent or more on a monthly basis. K. Grading Design Plan. Grading design plans satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the submittal requirements. 1. A grading design plan shall be drawn on project base sheets. For clarity, it may be separate from but use the same format as the landscape design plan. 2. The grading plan shall indicate finished configurations and elevations of the landscaped area, including the height of graded slopes, drainage patterns, pad elevations, and finish grade. It should also include existing spot elevations at the base of each existing shrub or tree that will remain, including proposed elevation changes within their drip lines. L. Soils. 1. A soil analysis satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the submittal requirements. a. Determination of soil texture, indicating the percentage of organic matter; b. An approximate soil infiltration rate (either measured or derived from soil texture/infiltration rate tables). A range of infiltration rates shall be noted where appropriate; c. Measure of ph, and total soluble salts. 2. A mulch of at least three inches shall be applied to all planting areas except turf. M. Certification. The city shall not grant a final certificate of occupancy for any project subject to the provisions of this chapter until the property owner submits a certificate of substantial completion to the city planning department consistent with this section. 1. Upon completing the installation of the landscaping and the irrigation system, an irrigation audit shall be conducted by an architect, landscape architect or licensed contractor prior to the final field inspection by the city. 2. A licensed architect, landscape architect or contractor shall conduct a final field observation and shall provide a certificate of substantial completion to the city planning department. The certificate shall specifically indicate that plants were installed as specified, that the irrigation audit has been performed, along with a list of any observed deficiencies, and documentation that those deficiencies have been corrected. A sample of such a form is available in the city planning department. (Ord , 1992) Public education. A. Publication. 1. The city shall provide information to owners of all new, single-family residential homes explaining their maximum applied water allowance (water budget) and regarding the design, installation and maintenance of water efficient landscapes. 2. The city shall also provide information about the efficient use of landscape water to all water users throughout the city

26 3. The city shall also recognize those projects that are the most efficient users of landscaping water based on a comparison to their water budget. B. Model Homes. All model home complexes that include landscaping shall demonstrate the principles of water efficient landscapes as described in this chapter. 1. The project developer shall make available to all visitors of the model home complex a brochure depicting the landscape plan for each model, identifying all plant material by both common and botanical name, identifying whether each plant is a low, medium or high water using plant, describing hydrozones within the plan, describing the irrigation equipment used, and describing any other features which contribute to the overall water efficiency of the landscape plan. 2. For at least one model home in each project, the developer shall place signs to: a. Identify it as a water efficient landscape; b. Identify all plant materials within the plan by both common and botanical name, including their relative water use; c. Identify hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and any other features which contribute to the overall water efficiency of the plan. 3. All model homes are strongly encouraged to be more water efficient than the minimum required by this chapter, especially for the model home with signs. (Ord , 1992) 12 30

27 Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance California Code of Regulations 1 31

28 Title 23. Waters Division 2. Department of Water Resources Chapter 2.7. Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance 490. Purpose. (a) The State Legislature has found: (1) that the waters of the state are of limited supply and are subject to ever increasing demands; (2) that the continuation of California's economic prosperity is dependent on the availability of adequate supplies of water for future uses; (3) that it is the policy of the State to promote the conservation and efficient use of water and to prevent the waste of this valuable resource; (4) that landscapes are essential to the quality of life in California by providing areas for active and passive recreation and as an enhancement to the environment by cleaning air and water, preventing erosion, offering fire protection, and replacing ecosystems lost to development; and (5) that landscape design, installation, maintenance and management can and should be water efficient; and (6) that Section 2 of Article X of the California Constitution specifies that the right to use water is limited to the amount reasonably required for the beneficial use to be served and the right does not and shall not extend to waste or unreasonable method of use. (b) Consistent with these legislative findings, the purpose of this model ordinance is to: (1) promote the values and benefits of landscapes while recognizing the need to invest water and other resources as efficiently as possible; (2) establish a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects; (3) establish provisions for water management practices and water waste prevention for existing landscapes; (4) use water efficiently without waste by setting a Maximum Applied Water Allowance as an upper limit for water use and reduce water use to the lowest practical amount; (5) promote the benefits of consistent landscape ordinances with neighboring local and regional agencies; (6) encourage local agencies and water purveyors to use economic incentives that promote the efficient use of water, such as implementing a tiered-rate structure; and (7) encourage local agencies to designate the necessary authority that implements and enforces the provisions of the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance or its local landscape ordinance. Note: Authority cited: Section 65593, Government Code. Reference: Sections 65591, 65593, 65596, Government Code Applicability (a) After January 1, 2010, this ordinance shall apply to all of the following landscape projects: (1) new construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agency projects and private development projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review; (2) new construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in singlefamily and multi-family projects with a landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check, or design review; (3) new construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeowner-hired in single-family and multi-family residential projects with a total project landscape area equal to or 32 2

29 greater than 5,000 square feet requiring a building or landscape permit, plan check or design review; (4) existing landscapes limited to Sections 493, and 493.2; and (5) cemeteries. Recognizing the special landscape management needs of cemeteries, new and rehabilitated cemeteries are limited to Sections 492.4, and ; and existing cemeteries are limited to Sections 493, and (b) This ordinance does not apply to: (1) registered local, state or federal historical sites; (2) ecological restoration projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; (3) mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; or (4) plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Definitions. The terms used in this ordinance have the meaning set forth below: (a) "applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape. (b) "automatic irrigation controller" means an automatic timing device used to remotely control valves that operate an irrigation system. Automatic irrigation controllers schedule irrigation events using either evapotranspiration (weather-based) or soil moisture data. (c) "backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system. (d) "Certificate of Completion" means the document required under Section (e) "certified irrigation designer" means 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. (f) "certified landscape irrigation auditor" means 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 certification program and Irrigation Association's Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor program. (g) "check valve" or "anti-drain valve" means a valve located under a sprinkler head, or other location in the irrigation system, to hold water in the system to prevent drainage from sprinkler heads when the sprinkler is off. (h) "common interest developments" means community apartment projects, condominium projects, planned developments, and stock cooperatives per Civil Code Section (i) "conversion factor (0.62)" means the number that converts acre-inches per acre per year to gallons per square foot per year (j) "drip irrigation" means any non-spray low volume irrigation system utilizing emission devices with a flow rate measured in gallons per hour. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants. (k) "ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem. (I)"effective precipitation" or "usable rainfall" (Eppt) means the portion of total precipitation which becomes available for plant growth. (m) "emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil. 3 33

30 (n) "established landscape" means 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. (o) "establishment period of the plants" means 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. (p) "Estimated Total Water Use" (ETWU) means the total water used for the landscape as described in Section (q) "ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of 0.7, that, when applied to reference evapotranspiration, adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, two major influences upon the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape. A combined plant mix with a site-wide average of 0.5 is the basis of the plant factor portion of this calculation. For purposes of the ETAF, the average irrigation efficiency is Therefore, the ET Adjustment Factor is (0.7)=(0.5/0.71). ETAF for a Special Landscape Area shall not exceed 1.0. ETAF for existing non-rehabilitated landscapes is 0.8. (r) "evapotranspiration rate" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil and other surfaces and transpired by plants during a specified time. (s) "flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes, valves and emission devices, measured in gallons per minute, gallons per hour, or cubic feet per second. (t) "hardscapes" means any durable material (pervious and non-pervious). (u) "homeowner-provided landscaping" means any landscaping either installed by a private individual for a single family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. A homeowner, for purposes of this ordinance, is a person who occupies the dwelling he or she owns. This excludes speculative homes, which are not owner-occupied dwellings. (v) "hydrozone" means a portion of the landscaped area having plants with similar water needs. A hydrozone may be irrigated or non-irrigated. (w) "infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour). (x)"invasive plant species" means species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside cultivated areas and can damage environmental or economic resources. Invasive species may be regulated by county agricultural agencies as noxious species. "Noxious weeds" means any weed designated by the Weed Control Regulations in the Weed Control Act and identified on a Regional District noxious weed control list. Lists of invasive plants are maintained at the California Invasive Plant Inventory and USDA invasive and noxious weeds database. (y) "irrigation audit" means 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. (z) "irrigation efficiency" (1E) means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and management practices. The minimum average irrigation efficiency for purposes of this ordinance is Greater irrigation efficiency can be expected from well designed and maintained systems. (aa) "irrigation survey" means 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. 34 4

31 (bb) "irrigation water use analysis" means an analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing data. (cc) "landscape architect" means a person who holds a license to practice landscape architecture in the state of California Business and Professions Code, Section (dd) "landscape area" means all the planting areas, turf areas, and water features in a landscape design plan subject to the Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculation. The landscape area does not include footprints of buildings or structures, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, decks, patios, gravel or stone walks, other pervious or non-pervious hardscapes, and other non-irrigated areas designated for non-development (e.g., open spaces and existing native vegetation). (ee) "landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the state of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems. (ff) "Landscape Documentation Package" means the documents required under Section (gg) "landscape project" means total area of landscape in a project as defined in "landscape area" for the purposes of this ordinance, meeting requirements under Section (hh) "lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve. (ii) "local agency" means a city or county, including a charter city or charter county, that is responsible for adopting and implementing the ordinance. The local agency is also responsible for the enforcement of this ordinance, including but not limited to, approval of a permit and plan check or design review of a project. (jj) "local water purveyor" means any entity, including a public agency, city, county, or private water company that provides retail water service. (kk) "low volume irrigation" means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters such as drip, drip lines, and bubblers. Low volume irrigation systems are specifically designed to apply small volumes of water slowly at or near the root zone of plants. (II) "main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet. (mm) "Maximum Applied Water Allowance" (MAWA) means the upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area as specified in Section It is based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration, the ET Adjustment Factor, and the size of the landscape area. The Estimated Total Water Use shall not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Special Landscape Areas, including recreation areas, areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants such as orchards and vegetable gardens, and areas irrigated with recycled water are subject to the MAWA with an ETAF not to exceed 1.0. (nn) "microclimate" means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, or proximity to reflective surfaces. (oo) "mined-land reclamation projects" means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of (pp) "mulch" means any organic material such as leaves, bark, straw, compost, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and 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. (qq) "new construction" means, for the purposes of this ordinance, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, or greenbelt without an associated building. (rr) "operating pressure" means the pressure at which the parts of an irrigation system are designed by the manufacturer to operate. 5 35

32 (ss) "overhead sprinkler irrigation systems" means systems that deliver water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors). (tt) "overspray" means the irrigation water which is delivered beyond the target area. (uu) "permit" means an authorizing document issued by local agencies for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes. (vv) "pervious" means any surface or material that allows the passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil. (ww) "plant factor" or "plant water use factor" is a factor, when multiplied by ETo, estimates the amount of water needed by plants. For purposes of this ordinance, the plant factor range for low water use plants is 0 to 0.3, the plant factor range for moderate water use plants is 0.4 to 0.6, and the plant factor range for high water use plants is 0.7 to 1.0. Plant factors cited in this ordinance are derived from the Department of Water Resources 2000 publication "Water Use Classification of Landscape Species". (xx) "precipitation rate" means the rate of application of water measured in inches per hour. (yy) "project applicant" means the individual or entity submitting a Landscape Documentation Package required under Section 492.3, to request a permit, plan check, or design review from the local agency. A project applicant may be the property owner or his or her designee. (zz) "rain sensor" or "rain sensing shutoff device" means a component which automatically suspends an irrigation event when it rains. (aaa) "record drawing" or "as-builts" means a set of reproducible drawings which show significant changes in the work made during construction and which are usually based on drawings marked up in the field and other data furnished by the contractor. (bbb) "recreational area" means areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, and golf courses where turf provides a playing surface. (ccc) "recycled water", "reclaimed water", or "treated sewage effluent water" means treated or recycled waste water of a quality suitable for non-potable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features. This water is not intended for human consumption. (ddd) "reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo" means a standard measurement of environmental parameters which affect the water use of plants. ETo is expressed in inches per day, month, or year as represented in Section 495.1, and is an estimate of the evapotranspiration of a large field of four- to seven-inch tall, cool-season grass that is well watered. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the Maximum Applied Water Allowance so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated. (eee) "rehabilitated landscape" means any re-landscaping project that requires a permit, plan check, or design review, meets the requirements of Section 490.1, and the modified landscape area is equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet, is 50% of the total landscape area, and the modifications are completed within one year. (fff) "runoff' means water which is not absorbed by the soil or landscape to which it is applied and flows from the landscape area. For example, runoff may result from water that is applied at too great a rate (application rate exceeds infiltration rate) or when there is a slope. (ggg) "soil moisture sensing device" or "soil moisture sensor" means a device that measures the amount of water in the soil. The device may also suspend or initiate an irrigation event. (hhh) "soil texture" means the classification of soil based on its percentage of sand, silt, and clay. (iii)"special Landscape Area" (SLA) means an area of the landscape dedicated solely to edible plants, areas irrigated with recycled water, water features using recycled water and areas dedicated to active play such as parks, sports fields, golf courses, and where turf provides a playing surface. (jjj) "sprinkler head" means a device which delivers water through a nozzle. 36 6

33 (kkk) "static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing. (Ill) "station" means an area served by one valve or by a set of valves that operate simultaneously. (mmm) "swing joint" means an irrigation component that provides a flexible, leak-free connection between the emission device and lateral pipeline to allow movement in any direction and to prevent equipment damage. (nnn) "turf" means a ground cover surface of mowed grass. Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue are cool-season grasses. Bermudagrass, Kikuyugrass, Seashore Paspalum, St. Augustinegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Buffalo grass are warm-season grasses. (000) "valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system. (ppp) "water conserving plant species" means a plant species identified as having a low plant factor. (qqq) "water feature" means a design element where open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function. Water features include ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools (where water is artificially supplied). The surface area of water features is included in the high water use hydrozone of the landscape area. Constructed wetlands used for on-site wastewater treatment or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used solely for water treatment or stormwater retention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation. (rrr) "watering window" means the time of day irrigation is allowed. (sss) "WUCOLS" means the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, the Department of Water Resources and the Bureau of Reclamation, Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Sections 65592, 65596, Government Code, 492. Provisions for New Construction or Rehabilitated Landscapes. (a) A local agency may designate another agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of the requirements contained in this ordinance. Local agencies may collaborate with water purveyors to define each entity's specific responsibilities relating to this ordinance. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Compliance with Landscape Documentation Package. (a) Prior to construction, the local agency shall: (1) provide the project applicant with the ordinance and procedures for permits, plan checks, or design reviews; (2) review the Landscape Documentation Package submitted by the project applicant; (3) approve or deny the Landscape Documentation Package; (4) issue a permit or approve the plan check or design review for the project applicant; and (5) upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package, submit a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the local water purveyor. (b) Prior to construction, the project applicant shall: (1) submit a Landscape Documentation Package to the local agency. 7 37

34 (c) Upon approval of the Landscape Documentation Package by the local agency, the project applicant shall: (1) receive a permit or approval of the plan check or design review and record the date of the permit in the Certificate of Completion; (2) submit a copy of the approved Landscape Documentation Package along with the record drawings, and any other information to the property owner or his/her designee; and (3) submit a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet to the local water purveyor. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Penalties. (a) A local agency may establish and administer penalties to the project applicant for noncompliance with the ordinance to the extent permitted by law. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Elements of the Landscape Documentation Package. (a) The Landscape Documentation Package shall include the following six (6) elements: (1) project information; (A) date (B) project applicant (C) project address (if available, parcel and/or lot number(s)) (D) total landscape area (square feet) (E) project type (e.g., new, rehabilitated, public, private, cemetery, homeowner-installed) (F) water supply type (e.g., potable, recycled, well) and identify the local retail water purveyor if the applicant is not served by a private well (G) checklist of all documents in Landscape Documentation Package (H) project contacts to include contact information for the project applicant and property owner (I) applicant signature and date with statement, "I agree to comply with the requirements of the water efficient landscape ordinance and submit a complete Landscape Documentation Package". (2) Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet; (A) hydrozone information table (B) water budget calculations 1. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) 2. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU) (3) soil management report; (4) landscape design plan; (5) irrigation design plan; and (6) grading design plan. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet. 38

35 (a) A project applicant shall complete the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet which contains two sections (see sample worksheet in Appendix B): (1) a hydrozone information table (see Appendix B, Section A) for the landscape project; and (2) a water budget calculation (see Appendix B, Section B) for the landscape project. For the calculation of the Maximum Applied Water Allowance and Estimated Total Water Use, a project applicant shall use the ETo values from the Reference Evapotranspiration Table in Appendix A. For geographic areas not covered in Appendix A, use data from other cities located nearby in the same reference evapotranspiration zone, as found in the CIMIS Reference Evapotranspiration Zones Map, Department of Water Resources, (b) Water budget calculations shall adhere to the following requirements: (1) The plant factor used shall be from WUCOLS. The plant factor ranges from 0 to 0.3 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. (2) All water features shall be included in the high water use hydrozone and temporarily irrigated areas shall be included in the low water use hydrozone. (3) All Special Landscape Areas shall be identified and their water use calculated as described below. (4) ETAF for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. (c) Maximum Applied Water Allowance The Maximum Applied Water Allowance shall be calculated using the equation: MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] The example calculations below are hypothetical to demonstrate proper use of the equations and do not represent an existing and/or planned landscape project. The ETo values used in these calculations are from the Reference Evapotranspiration Table in Appendix A, for planning purposes only. For actual irrigation scheduling, automatic irrigation controllers are required and shall use current reference evapotranspiration data, such as from the California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS), other equivalent data, or soil moisture sensor data. (1) Example MAWA calculation: a hypothetical landscape project in Fresno, CA with an irrigated landscape area of 50,000 square feet without any Special Landscape Area (SLA= 0, no edible plants, recreational areas, or use of recycled water). To calculate MAWA, the annual reference evapotranspiration value for Fresno is 51.1 inches as listed in the Reference Evapotranspiration Table in Appendix A. MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year) ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year) 0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons) 0.7 = ET Adjustment Factor (ETAF) LA = Landscape Area including SLA (square feet) 0.3 = Additional Water Allowance for SLA SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet) MAWA = (51.1 inches) (0.62) [(0.7 x 50,000 square feet) + (0.3 x 0)] = 1,108,870 gallons per year To convert from gallons per year to hundred-cubic-feet per year: = 1,108,870/748 = 1,482 hundred-cubic-feet per year (100 cubic feet = 748 gallons) 9 39

36 (2) In this next hypothetical example, the landscape project in Fresno, CA has the same ETo value of 51.1 inches and a total landscape area of 50,000 square feet. Within the 50,000 square foot project, there is now a 2,000 square foot area planted with edible plants. This 2,000 square foot area is considered to be a Special Landscape Area. MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] MAWA = (51.1 inches) (0.62) [(0.7 x 50,000 square feet) + (0.3 x 2,000 square feet)] = x [35, ] gallons per year = x 35,600 gallons per year =1,127,808 gallons per year or 1,508 hundred-cubic-feet per year (d) Estimated Total Water Use. The Estimated Total Water Use shall be calculated using the equation below. The sum of the Estimated Total Water Use calculated for all hydrozones shall not exceed MAWA. ETWU = (ETo)(0.62) ( PE x HA + SLA Where: ETWU = Estimated Total Water Use per year (gallons) ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches) PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS (see Section 491) HA = Hydrozone Area [high, medium, and low water use areas] (square feet) SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet) 0.62 = Conversion Factor IE = Irrigation Efficiency (minimum 0.71) (1) Example ETWU calculation: landscape area is 50,000 square feet; plant water use type, plant factor, and hydrozone area are shown in the table below. The ETo value is 51.1 inches per year. There are no Special Landscape Areas (recreational area, area permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants, and area irrigated with recycled water) in this example. Plant Hydrozone Plant Water Factor Area (HA) PF x HA Hydrozone Use Type(s) (PF)* (square feet) (square feet) 1 High 0.8 7,000 5,600 2 High ,000 7,000 3 Medium ,000 8,000 4 Low 0.3 7,000 2,100 5 Low ,000 2,000 *Plant Factor from WUCOLS Sum 24,700 ETWU = ( 51.1)(0.62) ( ' = 1,102,116 gallons per year Compare ETWU with MAWA: For this example MAWA = (51.1) (0.62) [(0.7 x 50,000) + (0.3 x 0)] = 1,108,870 gallons per year. The ETWU (1,102,116 gallons per year) is less than MAWA (1,108,870 gallons per year). In this example, the water budget complies with the MAWA

37 (2) Example ETWU calculation: total landscape area is 50,000 square feet, 2,000 square feet of which is planted with edible plants. The edible plant area is considered a Special Landscape Area (SLA). The reference evapotranspiration value is 51.1 inches per year. The plant type, plant factor, and hydrozone area are shown in the table below. Hydrozone Plant Factor (PF)* Hydrozone Area (HA) (square feet) Plant Water Use Type(s) 1 High 0.8 7,000 5,600 2 High 0.7 9,000 6,300 3 Medium ,000 7,500 4 Low 0.3 7,000 2,100 5 Low ,000 2,000 PF x HA (square feet) Sum 23,500 6 SLA 1.0 2,000 2,000 Factor from WUCOLS *Plant ETWU = (51.1)( ' , = (31.68) (33, ,000) = 1,111,936 gallons per year Compare ETWU with MAWA. For this example: MAWA = (51.1) (0.62) [(0.7 x 50,000) + (0.3 x 2,000)] = x [35, ] = x 35,600 =1,127,808 gallons per year The ETWU (1,111,936 gallons per year) is less than MAWA (1,127,808 gallons per year). For this example, the water budget complies with the MAWA. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Soil Management Report. (a) In order to reduce runoff and encourage healthy plant growth, a soil management report shall be completed by the project applicant, or his/her designee, as follows: (1) Submit soil samples to a laboratory for analysis and recommendations. (A) Soil sampling shall be conducted in accordance with laboratory protocol, including protocols regarding adequate sampling depth for the intended plants. (B) The soil analysis may include: 1. soil texture; 2. infiltration rate determined by laboratory test or soil texture infiltration rate table; 3. ph; 11 41

38 4. total soluble salts; 5. sodium; 6. percent organic matter; and 7. recommendations. (2) The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall comply with one of the following: (A) If significant mass grading is not planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the Landscape Documentation Package; or (B) If significant mass grading is planned, the soil analysis report shall be submitted to the local agency as part of the Certificate of Completion. (3) The soil analysis report shall be made available, in a timely manner, to the professionals preparing the landscape design plans and irrigation design plans to make any necessary adjustments to the design plans. (4) The project applicant, or his/her designee, shall submit documentation verifying implementation of soil analysis report recommendations to the local agency with Certificate of Completion. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Landscape Design Plan. (a) For the efficient use of water, a landscape shall be carefully designed and planned for the intended function of the project. A landscape design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Documentation Package. (1) Plant Material (A) Any plant may be selected for the landscape, providing the Estimated Total Water Use in the landscape area does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. To encourage the efficient use of water, the following is highly recommended: 1. protection and preservation of native species and natural vegetation; 2. selection of water-conserving plant and turf species; 3. selection of plants based on disease and pest resistance; 4. selection of trees based on applicable local tree ordinances or tree shading guidelines; and 5. selection of plants from local and regional landscape program plant lists. (B) Each hydrozone shall have plant materials with similar water use, with the exception of hydrozones with plants of mixed water use, as specified in Section 492.7(a)(2)(D). (C) Plants shall be selected and planted appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions of the project site. To encourage the efficient use of water, the following is highly recommended: 1. use the Sunset Western Climate Zone System which takes into account temperature, humidity, elevation, terrain, latitude, and varying degrees of continental and marine influence on local climate; 2. recognize the horticultural attributes of plants (i.e., mature plant size, invasive surface roots) to minimize damage to property or infrastructure [e.g., buildings, sidewalks, power lines]; and 3. consider the solar orientation for plant placement to maximize summer shade and winter solar gain. (D) Turf is not allowed on slopes greater than 25% where the toe of the slope is adjacent to an impermeable hardscape and where 25% means 1 foot of vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of horizontal length (rise divided by run x 100 = slope percent). (E) A landscape design plan for projects in fire-prone areas shall address fire safety and prevention. A defensible space or zone around a building or structure is required per Public 42 12

39 Resources Code Section 4291(a) and (b). Avoid fire-prone plant materials and highly flammable mulches. (F) The use of invasive and/or noxious plant species is strongly discouraged. (G) The architectural guidelines of a common interest development, which include community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, and stock cooperatives, shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-water use plants as a group. (2) Water Features (A) Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features. (B) Where available, recycled water shall be used as a source for decorative water features. (C) Surface area of a water feature shall be included in the high water use hydrozone area of the water budget calculation. (D) Pool and spa covers are highly recommended. (3) Mulch and Amendments (A) A minimum two inch (2") layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated. (B) Stabilizing mulching products shall be used on slopes. (C) The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydro-seeded applications shall meet the mulching requirement. (D) Soil amendments shall be incorporated according to recommendations of the soil report and what is appropriate for the plants selected (see Section 492.5). (b) The landscape design plan, at a minimum, shall: (1) delineate and label each hydrozone by number, letter, or other method; (2) identify each hydrozone as low, moderate, high water, or mixed water use. Temporarily irrigated areas of the landscape shall be included in the low water use hydrozone for the water budget calculation; (3) identify recreational areas; (4) identify areas permanently and solely dedicated to edible plants; (5) identify areas irrigated with recycled water; (6) identify type of mulch and application depth; (7) identify soil amendments, type, and quantity; (8) identify type and surface area of water features; (9) identify hardscapes (pervious and non-pervious); (10) identify location and installation details of any applicable stormwater best management practices that encourage on-site retention and infiltration of stormwater. Stormwater best management practices are encouraged in the landscape design plan and examples include, but are not limited to: (A) infiltration beds, swales, and basins that allow water to collect and soak into the ground; (B) constructed wetlands and retention ponds that retain water, handle excess flow, and filter pollutants; and (C) pervious or porous surfaces (e.g., permeable pavers or blocks, pervious or porous concrete, etc.) that minimize runoff. (11) identify any applicable rain harvesting or catchment technologies (e.g., rain gardens, cisterns, etc.); (12) contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them for the efficient use of water in the landscape design plan"; and (13) bear the signature of a licensed landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design a landscape. (See Sections , 5615, 5641, 13 43

40 5641.1, , , , , , 6701, of the Business and Professions Code, Section of Title16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agriculture Code.) Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code and Section 1351, Civil Code Irrigation Design Plan. (a) For the efficient use of water, an irrigation system shall meet all the requirements listed in this section and the manufacturers' recommendations. The irrigation system and its related components shall be planned and designed to allow for proper installation, management, and maintenance. An irrigation design plan meeting the following design criteria shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Documentation Package. (1) System (A) Dedicated landscape water meters are highly recommended on landscape areas smaller than 5,000 square feet to facilitate water management. (B) Automatic irrigation controllers utilizing either evapotranspiration or soil moisture sensor data shall be required for irrigation scheduling in all irrigation systems. (C) The irrigation system shall be designed to ensure that the dynamic pressure at each emission device is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range for optimal performance. 1. If the static pressure is above or below the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system, pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be installed to meet the required dynamic pressure of the irrigation system. 2. Static water pressure, dynamic or operating pressure. and flow reading of the water supply shall be measured at the point of connection. These pressure and flow measurements shall be conducted at the design stage. If the measurements are not available at the design stage, the measurements shall be conducted at installation. (0) Sensors (rain, freeze, wind, etc.), either integral or auxiliary, that suspend or alter irrigation operation during unfavorable weather conditions shall be required on all irrigation systems, as appropriate for local climatic conditions. Irrigation should be avoided during windy or freezing weather or during rain. (E) Manual shut-off valves (such as a gate valve, ball valve, or butterfly valve) shall be required, as close as possible to the point of connection of the water supply, to minimize water loss in case of an emergency (such as a main line break) or routine repair. (F) Backflow prevention devices shall be required to protect the water supply from contamination by the irrigation system. A project applicant shall refer to the applicable local agency code (i.e., public health) for additional backflow prevention requirements. (G) High flow sensors that detect and report high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction are recommended. (H) The irrigation system shall be designed to prevent runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where irrigation water flows onto non-targeted areas, such as adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, hardscapes, roadways, or structures. (I) Relevant information from the soil management plan, such as soil type and infiltration rate, shall be utilized when designing irrigation systems. (J) The design of the irrigation system shall conform to the hydrozones of the landscape design plan

41 (K) The irrigation system must be designed and installed to meet, at a minimum, the irrigation efficiency criteria as described in Section regarding the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. (L) It is highly recommended that the project applicant or local agency inquire with the local water purveyor about peak water operating demands (on the water supply system) or water restrictions that may impact the effectiveness of the irrigation system. (M) In mulched planting areas, the use of low volume irrigation is required to maximize water infiltration into the root zone. (N) Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall have matched precipitation rates, unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer's recommendations. (0) Head to head coverage is recommended. However, sprinkler spacing shall be designed to achieve the highest possible distribution uniformity using the manufacturer's recommendations. (P) Swing joints or other riser-protection components are required on all risers subject to damage that are adjacent to high traffic areas. (0) Check valves or anti-drain valves are required for all irrigation systems. (R) Narrow or irregularly shaped areas, including turf, less than eight (8) feet in width in any direction shall be irrigated with subsurface irrigation or low volume irrigation system. (S) Overhead irrigation shall not be permitted within 24 inches of any non-permeable surface. Allowable irrigation within the setback from non-permeable surfaces may include drip, drip line, or other low flow non-spray technology. The setback area may be planted or unplanted. The surfacing of the setback may be mulch, gravel, or other porous material. These restrictions may be modified if: 1. the landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or 2. the adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping; or 3. the irrigation designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the Landscape Documentation Package and clearly demonstrates strict adherence to irrigation system design criteria in Section (a)(1)(h). Prevention of overspray and runoff must be confirmed during the irrigation audit. (T) Slopes greater than 25% shall not be irrigated with an irrigation system with a precipitation rate exceeding 0.75 inches per hour. This restriction may be modified if the landscape designer specifies an alternative design or technology, as part of the Landscape Documentation Package, and clearly demonstrates no runoff or erosion will occur. Prevention of runoff and erosion must be confirmed during the irrigation audit. (2) Hydrozone (A) Each valve shall irrigate a hydrozone with similar site, slope, sun exposure, soil conditions, and plant materials with similar water use. (B) Sprinkler heads and other emission devices shall be selected based on what is appropriate for the plant type within that hydrozone. (C) Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf. (D) Individual hydrozones that mix plants of moderate and low water use, or moderate and high water use, may be allowed if: 1. plant factor calculation is based on the proportions of the respective plant water uses and their plant factor; or 2. the plant factor of the higher water using plant is used for calculations. (E) Individual hydrozones that mix high and low water use plants shall not be permitted. (F) On the landscape design plan and irrigation design plan, hydrozone areas shall be designated by number, letter, or other designation. On the irrigation design plan, designate the 15 45

42 areas irrigated by each valve, and assign a number to each valve. Use this valve number in the Hydrozone Information Table (see Appendix B Section A). This table can also assist with the irrigation audit and programming the controller. (b) The irrigation design plan, at a minimum, shall contain: (1) location and size of separate water meters for landscape; (2) 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; (3) static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply; (4) flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (pressure per square inch) for each station; (5) recycled water irrigation systems as specified in Section ; (6) the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the irrigation design plan"; and (7) the signature of a licensed landscape architect, certified irrigation designer, licensed landscape contractor, or any other person authorized to design an irrigation system. (See Sections , 5615, 5641, , , , , , , 6701, of the Business and Professions Code, Section of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations, and Section 6721 of the Food and Agricultural Code.) Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Grading Design Plan. (a) For the efficient use of water, grading of a project site shall be designed to minimize soil erosion, runoff, and water waste. A grading plan shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Documentation Package. A comprehensive grading plan prepared by a civil engineer for other local agency permits satisfies this requirement. (1) The project applicant shall submit a landscape grading plan that indicates finished configurations and elevations of the landscape area including: (A) height of graded slopes; (B) drainage patterns; (C) pad elevations; (D) finish grade; and (E) stormwater retention improvements, if applicable. (2) To prevent excessive erosion and runoff, it is highly recommended that project applicants: (A) grade so that all irrigation and normal rainfall remains within property lines and does not drain on to non-permeable hardscapes; (B) avoid disruption of natural drainage patterns and undisturbed soil; and (C) avoid soil compaction in landscape areas. (3) The grading design plan shall contain the following statement: "I have complied with the criteria of the ordinance and applied them accordingly for the efficient use of water in the grading design plan" and shall bear the signature of a licensed professional as authorized by law. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Certificate of Completion. (a) The Certificate of Completion (see Appendix C for a sample certificate) shall include the following six (6) elements: 46 16

43 (1) project information sheet that contains: (A) date; (B) project name; (C) project applicant name, telephone, and mailing address; (D) project address and location; and (E) property owner name, telephone, and mailing address; (2) certification by either the signer of the landscape design plan, the signer of the irrigation design plan, or the licensed landscape contractor that the landscape project has been installed per the approved Landscape Documentation Package; (A) where there have been significant changes made in the field during construction, these "asbuilt" or record drawings shall be included with the certification; (3) irrigation scheduling parameters used to set the controller (see Section ); (4) landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see Section ); (5) irrigation audit report (see Section ); and (6) soil analysis report, if not submitted with Landscape Documentation Package, and documentation verifying implementation of soil report recommendations (see Section 492.5). (b) The project applicant shall: (1) submit the signed Certificate of Completion to the local agency for review; (2) ensure that copies of the approved Certificate of Completion are submitted to the local water purveyor and property owner or his or her designee. (c) The local agency shall: (1) receive the signed Certificate of Completion from the project applicant; (2) approve or deny the Certificate of Completion. If the Certificate of Completion is denied, the local agency shall provide information to the project applicant regarding reapplication, appeal, or other assistance. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Irrigation Scheduling. (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) Overhead irrigation shall be scheduled between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. unless weather conditions prevent it. If allowable hours of irrigation differ from the local water purveyor, the stricter of the two shall apply. 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

44 (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; (I) slope factor setting; (J) shade factor setting; and (K) irrigation uniformity or efficiency setting. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule. (a) Landscapes shall be maintained to ensure water use efficiency. A regular maintenance schedule shall be submitted with the Certificate of Completion. (b) A regular maintenance schedule shall include, but not be limited to, routine inspection; adjustment and repair of the irrigation system and its components; aerating and dethatching turf areas; replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding in all landscape areas, and removing and obstruction to emission devices. Operation of the irrigation system outside the normal watering window is allowed for auditing and system maintenance. (c) Repair of all irrigation equipment shall be done with the originally installed components or their equivalents. (d) A project applicant is encouraged to implement sustainable or environmentally-friendly practices for overall landscape maintenance. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation Water Use Analysis. (a) All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. (b) For new construction and rehabilitated landscape projects installed after January 1, 2010, as described in Section 490.1: (1) the project applicant shall submit an irrigation audit report with the Certificate of Completion to the local agency that may include, but is not limited to: inspection, system tune-up, system test with distribution uniformity, reporting overspray or run off that causes overland flow, and preparation of an irrigation schedule; (2) the local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analysis, irrigation audits, and irrigation surveys for compliance with the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code

45 Irrigation Efficiency. (a) For the purpose of determining Maximum Applied Water Allowance, average irrigation efficiency is assumed to be irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained, and managed to meet or exceed an average landscape irrigation efficiency of Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Recycled Water. (a) The installation of recycled water irrigation systems shall allow for the current and future use of recycled water, unless a written exemption has been granted as described in Section (b). (b) Irrigation systems and decorative water features shall use recycled water unless a written exemption has been granted by the local water purveyor stating that recycled water meeting all public health codes and standards is not available and will not be available for the foreseeable future. (c) All recycled water irrigation systems shall be designed and operated in accordance with all applicable local and State laws. (d) Landscapes using recycled water are considered Special Landscape Areas. The ET Adjustment Factor for Special Landscape Areas shall not exceed 1.0. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Stormwater Management. (a) Stormwater management practices minimize runoff and increase infiltration which recharges groundwater and improves water quality. Implementing stormwater best management practices into the landscape and grading design plans to minimize runoff and to increase on-site retention and infiltration are encouraged. (b) Project applicants shall refer to the local agency or Regional Water Quality Control Board for information on any applicable stormwater ordinances and stormwater management plans. (c) Rain gardens, cisterns, and other landscapes features and practices that increase rainwater capture and create opportunities for infiltration and/or onsite storage are recommended. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Public Education. (a) Publications. Education is a critical component to promote the efficient use of water in landscapes. The use of appropriate principles of design, installation, management and maintenance that save water is encouraged in the community. (1) A local agency shall provide information to owners of new, single-family residential homes regarding the design, installation, management, and maintenance of water efficient landscapes

46 (b) Model Homes. All model homes that are landscaped shall use signs and written information to demonstrate the principles of water efficient landscapes described in this ordinance. (1) Signs shall be used to identify the model as an example of a water efficient landscape featuring elements such as hydrozones, irrigation equipment, and others that contribute to the overall water efficient theme. (2) Information shall be provided about designing, installing, managing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Environmental Review. (a) The local agency must comply with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as appropriate. Note: Authority cited: Section 21082, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 21080, 21082, Public Resources Code Provisions for Existing Landscapes. (a) A local agency may designate another agency, such as a water purveyor, to implement some or all of the requirements contained in this ordinance. Local agencies may collaborate with water purveyors to define each entity's specific responsibilities relating to this ordinance. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Irrigation Audit, Irrigation Survey, and Irrigation Water Use Analysis. (a) This section, 493.1, shall apply to all existing landscapes that were installed before January 1, 2010 and are over one acre in size. (1) For all landscapes in 493.1(a) that have a water meter, the local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation water use analyses, irrigation surveys, and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary to reduce landscape water use to a level that does not exceed the Maximum Applied Water Allowance for existing landscapes. The Maximum Applied Water Allowance for existing landscapes shall be calculated as: MAWA = (0.8) (ETo)(LA)(0.62). (2) For all landscapes in 493.1(a), that do not have a meter, the local agency shall administer programs that may include, but not be limited to, irrigation surveys and irrigation audits to evaluate water use and provide recommendations as necessary in order to prevent water waste (b) All landscape irrigation audits shall be conducted by a certified landscape irrigation auditor. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Water Waste Prevention. (a) Local agencies shall prevent water waste resulting from inefficient landscape irrigation by prohibiting runoff from leaving the target landscape due to low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walks, 50 20

47 roadways, parking lots, or structures. Penalties for violation of these prohibitions shall be established locally. (b) Restrictions regarding overspray and runoff may be modified if: (1) the landscape area is adjacent to permeable surfacing and no runoff occurs; or (2) the adjacent non-permeable surfaces are designed and constructed to drain entirely to landscaping. Note: Authority cited: Section 65594, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code Effective Precipitation. (a) A local agency may consider Effective Precipitation (25% of annual precipitation) in tracking water use and may use the following equation to calculate Maximum Applied Water Allowance: MAWA= (ETo - Eppt) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)]. Note: Authority Cited: Section 65595, Government Code. Reference: Section 65596, Government Code. Appendices. Appendix A. Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table

48 52 Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* County and City ALAMEDA Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annua ETo Fremont Livermore Oakland Oakland Foothills Pleasanton Union City ,2 ALPINE Markleeville AMADOR Jackson Shanandoah Valley BUTTE Chico Durham Gridley Oroville CALAVERAS San Andreas COLUSA Colusa Williams CONTRA COSTA Benicia Brentwood Concord

49 Courtland Martinez Moraga Pittsburg Walnut Creek DEL NORTE Crescent City EL DORADO Camino FRESNO Clovis Coalinga Firebaugh FivePoints Fresno Fresno State Friant Kerman Kingsburg Mendota Orange Cove Panoche Parlier Reedley Westlands Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* County and City GLENN Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annua ETo Orland Willows HUMBOLDT Eureka Ferndale Garberville Hoopa IMPERIAL Brawley Calipatria/Mulberry El Centro Holtville Meloland Palo Verde II Seeley Westmoreland Yuma INY0 Bishop Death Valley Jct

50 Independence A Lower Haiwee Res Oasis KERN Arvin Bakersfield Bakersfield/Bonanza Bakersfield/Greenlee Belridge Blackwells Corner Buttonwillow China Lake Delano Famoso Grapevine lnyokern Isabella Dam Lamont Lost Hills McFarland/Kern Shafter Taft Tehachapi KINGS Caruthers Corcoran Hanford Kettleman Lemoore Stratford Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* Annua County and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo LAKE Lakeport Lower Lake LASSEN Buntingville Ravendale Susanville LOS ANGELES Burbank Claremont El Dorado Glendale Glendora Gorman

51 Hollywood Hills Lancaster Long Beach Los Angeles Monrovia Palmdale Pasadena Pearblossom Pomona Redondo Beach San Fernando Santa Clarita Santa Monica MADERA Chowchilla Madera Raymond , MARIN Black Point Novato Point San Pedro San Rafael MARIPOSA Coulterville Mariposa Yosemite Village MENDOCINO Fort Bragg Hopland Point Arena 1, Sanel Valley Ukiah MERCED Kesterson Los Banos Merced Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* Annua County and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo MODOC Modoc/Alturas MONO Bridgeport MONTEREY Arroyo Seco Castroville Gonzales Greenfield

52 56 King City King City-Oasis Rd Long Valley Monterey Pajaro Salinas Salinas North San Ardo San Juan Soled ad NAPA Angwin Carneros Oakville St Helena Yountville NEVADA Grass Valley Nevada City ORANGE Irvine Laguna Beach Santa Ana PLACER Auburn Blue Canyon Colfax Roseville Soda Springs Tahoe City Truckee PLUMAS Portola Quincy RIVERSIDE Beaumont Blythe Cathedral City Coachella Desert Center Elsinore Indio Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* Annua County and City Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ETo RIVERSIDE La Quinta Mecca Oasis

53 Palm Deser Palm Springs Rancho California Rancho Mirage Ripley Salton Sea North Temecula East II Thermal Riverside UC Winchester SACRAMENTO Fair Oaks Sacramento Twitchell Island SAN BENITO Hollister San Benito San Juan Valley SAN BERNARDINO Baker Barstow NE Big Bear Lake Chino Crestline Lake Arrowhead Lucerne Valley Needles Newberry Springs San Bernardino Twentynine Palms Victorville SAN DIEGO Chula Vista Escondido SPV Miramar Oceanside Otay Lake Pine Valley Ramona San Diego Santee Torrey Pines Warner Springs SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco SAN JOAQUIN Farmington Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* 27 57

54 58 County and City SAN JOAQUIN Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annua ETo Lodi West Manteca Stockton Tracy SAN LUIS OBISPO Arroyo Grande Atascadero Morro Bay , Nipomo Paso Robles San Luis Obispo San Miguel San Simeon SAN MATEO Hal Moon Bay Redwood City Woodside SANTA BARBARA Betteravia Carpenteria Cuyama Goleta Goleta Foothills Guadalupe Lompoc Los Alamos Santa Barbara Santa Maria Santa Ynez Sisquoc Solvang SANTA CLARA Gilroy Los Gatos Morgan Hill Palo Alto San Jose SANTA CRUZ De Laveaga Green Valley Rd , Santa Cruz Watsonville Webb SHASTA Burney Fall River Mills

55 Glenburn McArthur Redding Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* County and City SIERRA Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annua ETo Downieville Sierraville SISKIYOU Happy Camp MacDoel Mt Shasta Tule lake FS Weed Yreka SOLANO Dixon Fairfield Hastings Tract Putah Creek Rio Vista Suisun Valley Winters SONOMA Bennett Valley Cloverdale Fort Ross Healdsburg Lincoln Petaluma Santa Rosa Valley of the Moon Windsor STANISLAUS Denair La Grange Modesto Newman Oakdale , Patterson Turlock SUTTER Nicolaus Yuba City TEHAMA Corning Gerber

56 Gerber Dryland Red Bluff TRINITY Hay Fork Weaverville , TULARE Alpaugh Badger Delano Appendix A - Reference Evapotranspiration (ETo) Table* County and City TULARE Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annua ETo Dinuba Lindcove Porterville Visalia TUOLUMNE Groveland Sonora VENTURA Camarillo Oxnard Piru Port Hueneme Thousand Oaks Ventura YOLO Bryte Davis Esparto Winters Woodland Zamora YUBA Browns Valley Brownsville * The values in this table were derived from: 1) California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS); 2) Reference EvapoTranspiration Zones Map, UC Dept. of Land, Air & Water Resources and California Dept of Water Resources 1999; and 3) Reference Evapotranspiration for California, University of California, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (1987) Bulletin 1922, 4) Determining Daily Reference Evapotranspiration, Cooperative Extension UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (1987), Publication Leaflet

57 Appendix B Sample Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet. WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE WORKSHEET This worksheet is filled out by the project applicant and it is a required element of the Landscape Documentation Package. Please complete all sections (A and B) of the worksheet. SECTION A. HYDROZONE INFORMATION TABLE Please complete the hydrozone table(s) for each hydrozone. Use as many tables as necessary to provide the square footage of landscape area per hydrozone. Hydrozone* Zone or Valve Irrigation Method** Area (Sq. Ft.) % of Landscape Area * Hydrozone HW = High Water Use Plants MW = Moderate Water Use Plants LW = Low Water Use Plants **Irrigation Method MS = Micro-spray S = Spray R = Rotor B= Bubbler D= Drip 0 = Other 31 61

58 SECTION B. WATER BUDGET CALCULATIONS Section Bl. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA) The project's Maximum Applied Water Allowance shall be calculated using this equation: MAWA = (ETo) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] where: MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year) ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration from Appendix A (inches per year) 0.7 = ET Adjustment Factor (ETAF) LA = Landscaped Area includes Special Landscape Area (square feet) 0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons per square foot) SLA = Portion of the landscape area identified as Special Landscape Area (square feet) 0.3 = the additional ET Adjustment Factor for Special Landscape Area ( = 0.3) Maximum Applied Water Allowance = gallons per year Show calculations. Effective Precipitation (Eppt) If considering Effective Precipitation, use 25% of annual precipitation. Use the following equation to calculate Maximum Applied Water Allowance: MAWA= (ETo Eppt) (0.62) [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] Maximum Applied Water Allowance = gallons per year Show calculations. 6 2

59 Section B2. Estimated Total Water Use (ETWU) The project's Estimated Total Water Use is calculated using the following formula: ETWU = (ETo)(0.62) ( x HA + SLA IE where: ETWU = Estimated total water use per year (gallons per year) ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches per year) PF = Plant Factor from WUCOLS (see Definitions) HA = Hydrozone Area [high, medium, and low water use areas] (square feet) SLA = Special Landscape Area (square feet) 0.62 = Conversion Factor (to gallons per square foot) IE = Irrigation Efficiency (minimum 0.71) Hydrozone Table for Calculating ETWU Please complete the hydrozone table(s). Use as many tables as necessary. Hydrozone Plant Water Use Type(s) Plant Factor (PF) Area (HA) (square feet) PF x HA (square feet) r- SLA Su 33 63

60 Estimated Total Water Use = gallons Show calculations. Appendix C Sample Certificate of Completion. CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION This certificate is filled out by the project applicant upon completion of the landscape project. Date PART 1. PROJECT INFORMATION SHEET Project Name Name of Project Applicant Telephone No. Fax No. Title Address Company Street Address City State Zip Code Project Address and Location: Street Address City Parcel, tract or lot number, if available. Latitude/Longitude (optional) State I Zip Code _I 64 34

61 Property Owner or his/her designee: Name Telephone No. Fax No. Title Address Company Street Address City State Zip Code Property Owner "I/we certify that I/we have received copies of all the documents within the Landscape Documentation Package and the Certificate of Completion and that it is our responsibility to see that the project is maintained in accordance with the Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Schedule." Property Owner Signature Date Please answer the questions below: 1. Date the Landscape Documentation Package was submitted to the local agency 2. Date the Landscape Documentation Package was approved by the local agency 3. Date that a copy of the Water Efficient Landscape Worksheet (including the Water Budget Calculation) was submitted to the local water purveyor PART 2. CERTIFICATION OF INSTALLATION ACCORDING TO THE LANDSCAPE DOCUMENTATION PACKAGE "I/we certify that based upon periodic site observations, the work has been substantially completed in accordance with the ordinance and that the landscape planting and irrigation installation conform with the criteria and specifications of the approved Landscape Documentation Package." Signature* Date Name (print) Telephone No

62 Fax No. Title Address License No. or Certification No. Company Street Address City State Zip Code *Signer of the landscape design plan, signer of the irrigation plan, or a licensed landscape contractor. PART 3. IRRIGATION SCHEDULING Attach parameters for setting the irrigation schedule on controller per ordinance Section PART 4. SCHEDULE OF LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION MAINTENANCE Attach schedule of Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance per ordinance Section PART 5. LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION AUDIT REPORT Attach Landscape Irrigation Audit Report per ordinance Section PART 6. SOIL MANAGEMENT REPORT Attach soil analysis report, if not previously submitted with the Landscape Documentation Package per ordinance Section Attach documentation verifying implementation of recommendations from soil analysis report per ordinance Section

63 Draft Proposed Amended Chapter Water Efficient Landscape Authority Findings Purpose Applicability Definitions Submittal Requirements Landscape Design Documentation Package Elements Landscape Installation Certification Package Elements Public Education Water Waste Prevention Violation Authority. This chapter is enacted under the Water Conservation in Landscaping Act (Government Code Section et seq.) and is a "water efficient landscape ordinance" adopted by a local agency under that Act Findings Purpose. A. Findings. The city council finds and declares that the state of California is historically an arid environment with limited amounts of water resources subject to ever increasing demands. There are enormous costs to the residents and ecosystem of the state to maintain current water resources systems and create new systems to meet current and future demands for water. The State's, region's, and City's continued economic prosperity is dependent on continued water availability. Landscapes are essential to our quality of life, for example by providing areas for passive recreation and enhancing the environment by cleaning air and water and preventing erosion. Landscape design, installation, maintenance, and management can be water efficient. Therefore, the city council finds that it is in the public interest of the residents of the city and the state to require the wise and efficient use of a limited and costly resource through regulations that require and promote water conservation. B. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for designing, installing, and maintaining water efficient landscapes that avoid runoff and other water waste in landscape projects. This is accomplished through the requirements for responsible landscape design, soil care, irrigation design and scheduling, and management which utilize reasonable amounts of water while ensuring that aesthetic, functional, energy and environmental benefits of landscapes are achieved with design flexibility Applicability. A. Projects meeting the applicability criteria of subsection B of this section, and for which an application is deemed complete on or after the date of adoption of this ordinance, shall comply with the submittal requirements of section B. Except as noted in subsections C, D and E of this section, the provisions of this chapter apply to landscape projects that require a permit, as that term is defined in section , and are: 1 Attac 67

64 Draft New construction and rehabilitated landscapes for public agency projects and private non-residential development projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet; 2. New construction and rehabilitated landscapes which are developer-installed in single-family and multi-family projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 2,500 square feet; or 3. New construction landscapes which are homeowner-provided and/or homeownerhired in single-family and multi-family residential development projects with a total project landscape area equal to or greater than 5,000 square feet. C. The exceptions to the requirements of subsection A of this section are that: 1. Only the water budget, irrigation evaluation, and landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule requirements shall apply to cemeteries (See sections (B); (B); and (D)); and 2. A separate landscape water meter is not required for a single family home. D. Installed landscapes not meeting the criteria of subsection A of this section are subject only to the water waste prevention provisions of section E. The following categories of uses are exempt from this chapter: 1. Rehabilitated landscape projects that are homeowner-provided landscaping; 2. Agricultural and horticultural commerce (for example commercial activities such as farming of grains, wine grapes, vegetables, fruit and nut trees and other agricultural crop production; greenhouses; nurseries; and floriculture facilities); 3. Plant collections, as part of botanical gardens and arboretums open to the public; 4. Registered historical sites; 5. Ecological restoration projects and mined-land reclamation projects that do not require a permanent irrigation system; and 6. Community gardens open to the public. F. Other related ordinances. Project applicants shall be required to consult other applicable ordinances, policies, and regulations with landscaping related requirements applicable in the City including but not limited to: 1. Tree Preservation ordinance (see Livermore Municipal Code chapters (Article II); 2. The landscape sections of any checklists or scorecards which may be required by City ordinance including but not limited to the Civic Green Building ordinance; Civic Residential and Non-Residential Green Building ordinance; and Civic Bay-Friendly Landscaping ordinance (see Livermore Municipal Code chapters 15.32, 15.76, and 15.80, respectively); 3. The current Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program requirements and published associated technical guidance; 4. City of Livermore Design Standards and Guidelines 5. The current Building Code standards applicable in the City of Livermore; and 6. Any applicable specific plan Definitions. 1. "Amendment" means any material added to the soil to alter the ph or improve the natural physical properties of the soil, such as increased organic content, water retention, water infiltration, and drainage. 2. "Anti-drain or check valve" means a valve, located under a sprinkler head and installed 2 68

65 Draft lower than the lowest head on the system, to hold water in the system when not in use so it minimizes drainage from the lower elevation sprinkler heads. 3. "Application rate" means the depth of water applied to a given area, usually measured in inches per hour. 4. "Applied water" means the portion of water supplied by the irrigation system to the landscape. 5. "Automatic controller" means a mechanical or solid state timer, capable of operating valve stations to set the days and length of time of a water application. 6. "Backflow prevention device" means a safety device used to prevent pollution or contamination of the water supply due to the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system. 7. "Bay-Friendly" is a holistic approach to gardening and landscaping developed and espoused by StopWaste.Org that works in harmony with the natural conditions of the San Francisco Bay watershed. Bay-Friendly practices foster soil health, conserve water and other valuable resources while reducing waste and preventing pollution. 8. "Bay-Friendly Landscape Guidelines" means the most recent version of the guidelines developed by StopWaste.Org for use in the professional design, construction and maintenance of landscapes.. 8. "Bubbler" means an irrigation head that delivers water to the root zone by flooding the planted area, usually measured in gallons per minute. Bubblers exhibit a trickle, umbrella, or short stream pattern. 9. "Certified landscape irrigation auditor" means a person certified to perform landscape irrigation audits by an accredited academic institution, a professional trade organization or other program. 10. "CIMIS" means the California Irrigation and Management Information System, which is a network of weather stations located around the state which collects reference evapotranspiration data andmanaged by the California Department of Water Resources. 11. "Compost" is an organic amendment that is the product of controlled biological decomposition of organic materials, often including urban plant debris and food waste. It is an organic matter resource that has the unique ability to improve the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of soils or growing media. It contains plant nutrients but is typically not characterized as a fertilizer. 12. "Conversion factor" means a number that converts the maximum landscape water allowance from inches per square feet to gallons per square foot per year. 13. "Cycle" means the complete operation of an irrigation controller station. 14. "Director" means the Community Development Department Director or his or her designee. 15. "Department" means the Community Development Department. 16. "Distribution Uniformity, lower quarter" means a measure of the uniformity of applied irrigation water over an area. It is a ratio of the average of the lowest twenty-five percent measurements to the overall average measurement, gathered through the use of distributed catch cans, commonly used to evaluate the uniformity of coverage of one or more irrigation sprinkler heads. 17. "Drip irrigation" means surface or subsurface irrigation systems which apply water through low volume emitters. 18. "Drought resistant soil" means soil that has been supplemented, for example by addition of an amendment such as compost and by covering with mulch, to maximize rainfall infiltration, increase the soil's capacity to hold water, and allow for plant roots to penetrate and proliferate such that the landscape can survive with less than the Maximum Applied Water Allowance. 3 69

66 Draft "Drought tolerant, extra." "Extra drought tolerant" refers to a plant or landscape that can survive without irrigation throughout the year once established, although supplemental water may be desirable during drought periods for improved appearance and disease resistance. Plants in Water-Conserving-Plants and Landscape for the Bay Area (latest edition), published by East Bay Municipal Utility District, that can tolerate "no water after second year" are examples of such plants. Also known as "xeric" or "xeriscape" plants or landscapes. 20. "Ecological restoration project" means a project where the site is intentionally altered to establish a defined, indigenous, historic ecosystem. 21. "Emitter" means a drip irrigation emission device that delivers water slowly from the system to the soil. 22. "Established landscape" means the point in time at which plants in the landscape have developed roots into the soil adjacent to the root ball. Typically most plants are established after one or two years of growth. 23. "Establishment period" means the first year after installing the plant in the landscape or the first two years if irrigation will be terminated after establishment. 24. "Estimated applied water use" means the annual total amount of water estimated to be needed to keep the plants in the landscape healthy. 25. "ET adjustment factor" (ETAF) means a factor of 0.7 applied to reference evapotranspiration, that establishes the amount of water available to maintain the landscape and that will influence plant selection and take into account irrigation efficiency. See "reference evapotranspiration." 26. "Evapotranspiration" means the quantity of water evaporated from adjacent soil surfaces and transpired by plants during a specific time, expressed in inches per day, month or year. See, too, "reference evapotranspiration," 27. "Fertilizer" means a substance added to soil to provide it nutrients. 28. "Flow rate" means the rate at which water flows through pipes and valves (gallons per minute or cubic feet per second). 29. "Grading" means earthwork performed to alter the natural contours of an area. 30. "Grasses, cool-season." Cool-season grasses means grasses that green up and grow more during the spring, sets seed in early summer, then go dormant during warmer seasons until fall, when they begin growing again; e.g., Annual bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Perennial ryegrass, Red fescue, and Tall fescue. 31. "Grasses, warm-season." Warm-season grasses mean grasses that green up and grow more during the summer, set seed in fall, and go dormant during cold seasons, e.g., Seashore paspalum, St. Augustine grass, Zoysiagrass, Bahiagrass. and Buffalo grass. 32. "Green roof" means a roof of a structure is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, typically planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems. 33. "Grey water" means wastewater generated from on-site activities such as laundry, bathroom wash basins, and bathing, which can be recycled and treated so it becomes suitable for uses such as landscape irrigation and constructed wetlands, and which meets all applicable local, state, and federal regulations and is approved for such uses by the city. Greywater does not include toilet water, waste water from kitchen sinks, and laundry water from soiled diapers. 34. "Hardscape" means and includes paving, decks, patios, and other hard, nonporous surfaces. 35. "High flow sensors" or "flow meters" detect and report high flow conditions created by system damage or malfunction. 36. "High water using plant" means a plant that will require regular irrigation for adequate 4 70

67 Draft appearance, growth and disease resistance. The primary initial reference which shall be consulted for determining the water use category of a plant is the plant list in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (see definition of "WUCOLS"). 37. "Homeowner-provided landscaping" means any landscaping either installed by a private individual for an owner-occupied detached or attached single family residence or installed by a licensed contractor hired by a homeowner. 38. "Hydrozone" means a portion of the landscaped area having similar microclimate, and soil conditions, and plants with similar water needs that are served by a valve or set of valves with the same schedule. A hydrozone may be irrigated or nonirrigated. For example, a naturalized area planted with native vegetation that will not need supplemental irrigation once established in a nonirrigated hydrozone. 39. "Infiltration rate" means the rate of water entry into the soil expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (e.g., inches per hour). This value depends to a great extent on the texture of the soil and whether the soil is overly compacted. 40. "Invasive plant species" means species of plants not historically found in California that spread outside cultivated areas and can also damage environmental or economic resources. Their growth habits tend to be aggressive and they typically have high reproductive capacity and tendency to overrun the ecosystem they inhabit. Invasive species may be regulated by county agricultural agencies as noxious weeds. "Noxious weeds" means any weed designated by the Weed Control Regulations in the Noxious Weed Control Act and identified on a Regional District noxious weed control list. Lists of invasive plants include but are not limited to the California Invasive Plant Council inventory; the USDA invasive and noxious weeds database; and California Department of Food and Agriculture database. 41. "Irrigated" means supplied with equipment that can apply water from an irrigation system. 42. "Irrigation efficiency" means the measurement of the amount of water beneficially used divided by the amount of water applied. Irrigation efficiency is derived from measurements and estimates of irrigation system characteristics and from management practices. An example of how estimating can be done is by comparing water meter readings to estimated water need over a period of time such as a billing period. 43. "Irrigation system" means a complete connection of system components, including the water source, the water distribution network, controller and the necessary irrigation equipment. 44. "Landscape architect" means a person licensed to practice landscape architecture in the state of California Business and Professions Code, Section 5615 whose license is in good standing. 45. "Landscape area" means the total cumulative area of the portions of a project development site to be improved with planting and irrigation. It includes water bodies supplied with water such as fountains, swimming pools and ponds. It is the area subject to the Maximum Applied Water Allowance calculation. Natural open spaces and non-irrigated stormwater treatment areas (e.g., a detention pond, or non-irrigated bio-swales), building footprints, walkways, decks, patios, driveways, non-irrigated synthetic turf, nonirrigated portions of parking lots, and other non-irrigated hardscape areas are not included. 46. "Landscape contractor" means a person licensed by the state of California to construct, maintain, repair, install, or subcontract the development of landscape systems whose license is in good standing. 47. "Landscape irrigation audit" means an in-depth evaluation of the performance of an irrigation system conducted by a professional qualified to be a Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor. An irrigation audit includes, but is not limited to, site inspections, verification of proper 5 71

68 Draft equipment, proper installation and proper adjustment, evaluation of irrigations systems (e.g., system test with distribution uniformity, reporting and recommending mitigations for overspray or runoff that causes overland flow and development of efficient irrigation schedules). 48. "Landscape irrigation survey" means 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. 49. "Landscape irrigation water use analysis" means an analysis of water use data based on meter readings and billing data. 50. "Landscape project" means the landscape area subject to the provisions of this chapter per section "Lateral line" means the water delivery pipeline that supplies water from the source to the emitters or sprinklers from the valve or outlet. 52. "Low water using plant" means a plant that can survive throughout the year with little irrigation and is semi-drought tolerant. The primary initial reference which shall be consulted for determining the water use category of a plant is the plant list in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (see definition of "WUCOLS"). 53. "Low volume irrigation" means the application of irrigation water at low pressure through a system of tubing or lateral lines and low-volume emitters which may include but are not limited to drip, drip lines, micro-sprayers, and bubblers and whichtarget small volumes of water at or near the root zone of plants. 54. "Main line" means the pressurized pipeline that delivers water from the water source to the valve or outlet. 55. "Matched precipitation rate" means that the emitter or sprinkler heads in a system or zone have similar precipitation rates. 56. "Maximum applied water allowance" or "water budget" meansthe calculated annual upper limit of annual applied water for the established landscaped area, based upon the area's reference evapotranspiration (ET), the ET adjustment factor, and the size of the landscaped area. 57. "Median" means a planted area which separates two roadways or divides a portion of a road into two or more lanes. 58. "Micro-spray" means spray irrigation through micro tubing to a series of nozzles attached to risers delivering water in small volumes and which suchrisers may be fixed or designed to pop-up. 59. "Microclimate" means the climate of a small, specific area that may contrast with the climate of the overall landscape area due to factors such as wind, sun exposure, plant density, slope, or proximity to reflective surfaces. 60. "Mined-land reclamation projects" means any surface mining operation with a reclamation plan approved in accordance with the Surface Projects: Mining and Reclamation Act of "Moderate water using or semi-drought-tolerant plant" means a plant that can survive throughout the year with occasional irrigation. The primary initial reference which shall be consulted for determining the water use category of a plant is the plant list in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (see definition of "WUCOLS"). 62. "Mulch" means materials such as leaves, arbor or wood chips, recycled wood waste, straw, compost, sawdust, or inorganic mineral materials such as rocks, gravel, and decomposed granite left loose and applied to the soil surface to retain moisture, retard weed growth, moderate soil temperature, or prevent erosion. 63. "New construction" means, for the purposes of this ordinance, a new building with a landscape or other new landscape, such as a park, playground, streetscape landscaping 6 72

69 Draft such as median or planter strip, or greenbelt without an associated building. 64. "Operating pressure" means the pressure at which a system of sprinklers is designed to operate, usually indicated at the base of a sprinkler. 65. "Overspray" means water which is delivered beyond the landscaped area, wetting pavements, walks, structures, or other nonlandscaped areas. 66. "Permit" means an authorization issued by the City for new construction or rehabilitated landscapes and can include but not be limited to a building or landscape permit, plan check, land use entitlement, design review, encroachment permit, or capital improvement project approval. 67. "Permeable" has the same meaning as pervious. 68. "Pervious" means any surface or material that allows the substantial passage of water through the material and into the underlying soil such that runoff is substantially avoided. 69. "Plant factor" means a factor that when multiplied by reference evapotranspiration estimates the amount of water used by plants. 70. "Point of connection" means the point at which an irrigation system connects into the public water system and is usually the point at which the meter and back-flow prevention device is located or will be installed. 71. "Precipitation rate" means the rate of water arriving at the landscape surface via rainfall or an irrigation system discharge, expressed as a depth of water per unit of time (inches per hour). 72. "Project development site" means the area of land under common ownership and use which contains the landscape area subject to a permit, and which may contain other features including but not be limited to buildings, structures, and/or circulation routes. 73. "Rain sensor" or "Rain sensing shutoff device" means a device in wired or wireless communication with the automatic controller that shuts off the irrigation system when it rains. 74. "Record drawing" or "as built" drawings means a set of construction plans or computer file including the original design and noting all design deviations approved by the director. These drawings should also show the location of all major underground components, dimensioned from permanent features "Recreational area" means areas designed for passive or active physical activity or recreation such as parks, sports fields, school yards, golf courses, picnic grounds, or other similar areas where turf typically provides all or a portion of the landscape surface; turf areas in private residential non-street-frontage yards; decorative water features (e.g., fountains) open to public access; pools designed for human swimming; and hot tubs. 76. "Recycled water" means treated or recycled wastewater of a quality suitable for nonpotable uses such as landscape irrigation and water features not intended for human consumption, and which is provided by the water purveyor or may be provided on site as grey water if approved for landscape irrigation use via an approved grey water irrigation system. 77. "Reference evapotranspiration" or "ETo" means the evapotranspiration rate for a particular geographical area, such as the city. Reference evapotranspiration means a standard measurement of environmental parameters that acts as a reference point for establishing relative differences in the water use of plants. For purposes of this ordinance it is expressed in inches per year. Reference evapotranspiration is used as the basis of determining the maximum applied water allowance so that regional differences in climate can be accommodated. 78. "Registered Historical Site" means a site that is listed in a national, state or local register or inventory of historic resources or is zoned with a historic preservation (HP) combining district overlay. 7 73

70 74 Draft "Rehabilitated landscape means any existing planting area in which at least 50 percent of the landscape area is substantially redesigned, which may include but not be limited to new plant pallette, substantially replaced irrigation system, and substantial grading modifications, but excludes replacement of plants like for like as part of ongoing or routine maintenance. 80. "Remote control valve" means a valve in an irrigation system which is activated by an automatic electric controller via a wired or wireless signal. 81. "Runoff' means water which is not absorbed by the surface to which it is applied. Runoff usually occurs when water is applied at too great a precipitation rate (e.g., application rate exceeds soil infiltration rate), when water is applied to saturated soils, or when water is applied to a steep slope. 82. "Smart irrigation controller" means an electronic automatic irrigation controller that is weater- or soil- moisture based with a timing device used to operate remote control valves that operate an irrigation system, which schedules irrigation events using evapotranspiration (weather-based) data such as that from the California Irrigation and Management Information System (see definition of CIMIS) and/or data from an integral or auxiliary soil-moisture or rain sensor, and which may also include a high flow sensor for high flow damage or malfunction control. 83. "Soil moisture sensor" means an instrument for measuring the moisture content of the soil and capable of interruption of the irrigation cycle sensor when excessive moisture is detected. 84. "Soil texture" means the classification of soil based on the percentage of sand, silt, and clay in the soil. Soil texture largely determines the amount of water that can be stored in a soil as well as the soil infiltration rate. 85. "Special Landscape Area" (SLA) means areas of the landscape irrigated with recycled water; water features using recycled water; areas dedicated solely to edible plants; recreational areas as that term is defined in this section; and areas necessary for stormwater treatment such as bioswales which are irrigated. 86. "Sprinkler" means irrigation that projects pressurized water through the air (e.g., spray heads and rotors). 87. "Sprinkler, rotor head" means a sprinkler head that projects a rotating stream or streams of water. 88. "Sprinkler, spray head" means -a sprinkler head that sprays water through a spray nozzle. 89. "Static water pressure" means the pipeline or municipal water supply pressure when water is not flowing. 90. "Station" means an area served by one valve or a set of valves that operate simultaneously. 91. "Temporarily irrigated area" means a hydrozone which will be irrigated for only the plant establishment period, not to exceed two years from the date of planting. 92. "Topsoil" means the top approximately 6 to 8 inches of undeveloped site soil. 93. 'Turf' means a surface layer of earth containing mowed grass with its roots. See definitions of "grasses, warm-season" and "grasses, cool-season." 94. "Valve" means a device used to control the flow of water in the irrigation system. 95. "Very low water using plant" means a plant that can survive throughout the year with little or no irrigation and is generally extra drought tolerant. The primary initial reference which shall be consulted for determining the water use category of a plant is the plant list in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (see definition of "WUCOLS"). 96 "Water conserving plant species" means a plant species identified as having a low plant factor. 8

71 Draft "Water feature" means a design element where artificially applied open water performs an aesthetic or recreational function, including ponds, lakes, waterfalls, fountains, artificial streams, spas, and swimming pools. Constructed wetlands such as bioswales used for onsite wastewater treatment or stormwater best management practices that are not irrigated and used primarily for water treatment or stormwater retention or detention are not water features and, therefore, are not subject to the water budget calculation. 98. "Water purveyor" means the public or private owner or operator of the water supplying an approved water supply which provides the water that will be used to irrigate a landscape project. 99. "WUCOLS" means the most recent (2000 or later edition) Water Use Classification of Landscape Species published by the University of California Cooperative Extension, the Department of Water Resources and the Bureau of Reclamation Submittal requirements. A. For projects subject to the provisions of this chapter, the property owner or property owner's authorized agent must submit a landscape design documentation package meeting the requirements of subsection B of this section prior to issuace of a permit and a landscape installation certification package meeting the requirements of subsection C of this section following landscape installation. B. Landscape design documentation package: The property owner shall submit a landscape design documentation package consisting of items 1 through 6 below for review and approval with any permit application for the project. A complete landscape design documentation package must be submitted to the city in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and approved in order to be eligible for the issuance of a permit. The package must be prepared by an architect or landscape architect licensed by the state in good standing and it must include the following items which are detailed in section of this chapter. 1. Landscape design documentation package checklist (See subsection (A) of this chapter); 2. Water budget and hydrozone calculations (see subsection (B) of this chapter); 3. Soil management plan (see subsection (C) of this chapter); 4. Landscape design plan (see subsection (D) of this chapter); 5. Irrigation design plan (see subsection (E) of this chapter); and 6. Grading plan (see section (F) of this chapter). C. Landscape installation certification package: Following installation and prior to occupancy, the property owner shall submit a landscape installation certification package consisting of items 1 through 4 below for review and approval. A complete landscape installation certification package must be submitted to the city in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and approved in order to be eligible for a final inspection sign-off or certificate of occupancy. The package must be prepared by an architect, landscape architect, or landscape contractor licensed by the state in good standing and it must include the following items which are described in more detail in section of this chapter. 1. Landscape installation certification and checklist (see subsection (A) of this chapter); 2. Irrigation evaluation (see subsection (B) of this chapter); 9 75

72 Draft Irrigation scheduling parameters (see subsection (0) of this chapter); 4. Landscape and irrigation maintenance schedule (see subsection (D) of this chapter) Landscape design documentation package elements. A. Checklist and project information. Each landscape design documentation package shall include a checklist signed by a licensed architect or landscape architect on a form approved by the director and listing and verifying that all elements required by this section have been completed and submitted. B. Water budget and hydrozone calculations. The landscape project's maximum applied water allowance, hydrozone summary, and estimated applied water use, as described below, shall be submitted with the landscape design documentation package. 1. Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA, or water budget). A project's maximum applied water allowance shall be calculated using the following formula: MAWA = (47.2)(0.62) x [(0.7 x LA) + (0.3 x SLA)] MAWA = Maximum applied water allowance (gallons per year) 47.2 = Livermore reference evapotranspiration (Eto) in inches per square foot per year 0.62 = Conversion factor from inches to gallons per square foot 0.7 = Evapotranspiration (ET) Adjustment Factor (ETAF) LA = Landscape area (square feet) 0.3 = Additional water allowance for special landscape area (SLA) SLA = Landscape area that meets this chapter's definition of special landscape area (square feet) a. An example calculation of the maximum applied water allowance for a hypothetical total project landscape area of 10,000 square feet, with no special landscape area, is below. MAWA = (47.2)(0.62) x [(0.7 x 10,000 sq ft) + 0 sq ft)] = (29.264)(7,000) gallons per year = 204,848 gallons per year b. An example calculation of the maximum applied water allowance for a hypothetical total project landscape area of 10,000 square feet, including 2,000 square feet of special landscape area, is below. MAWA = (47.2)(0.62) x [(0.7 x 10,000 sq ft) + (0.3 x 2,000 sq ft)] = x [(0.7 x 10,000 sq ft) + (0.3 x 2,000 sq ft)] = x (7, ) gallons per year = x 7,600 gallons per year = 222,406 gallons per year c. An example calculation of the maximum applied water allowance for a hypothetical total project landscape area of 10,000 square feet, all of which is special landscape area, is below. MAWA = (47.2)(0.62) x [(0.7 x 10,000 sq ft) + (0.3 x 10,000 sq ft)] = x (7, ,000) gallons per year = x 10,000 gallons per year = 292,640 gallons per year 10 76

73 Draft Estimated Applied Water Use. The total estimated applied water use shall not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. Precipitation may not be used as a source of water in calculating total estimated applied water use. The total estimated applied water use shall be the sum of the estimated applied water use calculated for each of the landscape design plan hydrozones using the following formula. EAWU = EAWU (non-sla hydrozones) + EAWU (SLA) EAWU = Total project estimated applied water use in gallons per year EAWU (non-sla hydrozones) = [(47.2)(0.62)1 x [(PF x HA)/IE] calculated separately for each hydrozone not meeting the definition of special landscape area (SLA), then added together for all such hydrozones. EAWU (SLA) = [(47.2)(0.62)] x (SLA) 47.2 = Livermore reference evapotranspiration (Eto) in inches per square foot per year 0.62 = Conversion factor from inches to gallons per square foot HA = Hydrozone area (in square feet) PF = Hydrozone plant factor selected per subsection (B)(4) of this section IE = Hydrozone irrigation efficiency elected per subsection (B)(5) of this section SLA = Landscape area that meets this chapter's definition of special landscape area (square feet) 3. Hydrozone summary. A summary table form of the landscape and irrigation design plan's hydrozones (see subsections D and E of this section) shall be submitted and which shall include at a minimum for each hydrozone: a. Its area in square feet and a designation (e.g., a number or letter) matching each hydrozone to the corresponding landscape and irrigation design plan hydrozones. b. The highest water requirement category of its plant material and corresponding plant factor selected from the list of plant factors in subsection (B)(4) of this section; and c. Its proposed type of irrigation equipment and corresponding irrigation efficiency number selected from the list of irrigation efficiency numbers in subsection (B)(5) of this section. 4. Plant Factors. For the purpose of this chapter, the following plant factors shall be used for each type of plant material. These figures are based on average plant densities and general microclimate conditions of Livermore. For the purpose of this chapter, plants are divided into high (H), moderate (M), low (L) and very low (VL) water requirement categories. The initial reference which shall be consulted for determining the category of a plant is the plant list in the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS), as defined in section of this chapter), a copy of which is on file with the Department. Project applicants may request an alternate plant factor number for a specific plant species provided the request is substantiated by reference material from a published source or other data submitted to and approved by the director. As to plant selection, that list is not comprehensive, and the designer may use plants not on the list, provided that appropriate information is provided to substantiate the water requirements of those plants, such as reference material from a published source or other data acceptable to the director. Plant Type Plant Factor Recirculating water features (use 1.0 surface area) 11 77

74 Draft Uncovered pools and spas 0.9 Cool season grasses 0.8 High water using trees, 0.8 shrubs and groundcovers Warm season grasses 0.7 Moderate water using trees, 0.5 shrubs and groundcovers Covered pools and spas 0.5 Low water using trees, 0.3 shrubs and groundcovers Temporarily irrigated areas 0.3 Very Low or extra drought tolerant water using trees, shrubs and groundcovers Irrigation Efficiency. For the purpose of this chapter, the following irrigation efficiency numbers shall be used for each of the following irrigation equipment categories. Project applicants may request an alternate irrigation efficiency number for specific equipment provided the request is substantiated by reference material from a published source or other data such as manufacturer s ecifications submitted to and approved by the director. Irrigation Equipment Type Irrigation Efficiency Drip irrigation 0.9 (both above and below ground) Bubblers and/or micro spray Rotor head sprinklers in planter areas feet or wider Rotor head sprinklers in planter areas less than 8 feet wide Spray head sprinklers in planter areas 8 feet or wider Spray head sprinklers in planter areas less than 8 feet wide Water features not permitted Applicant to propose based on how water applied 6. If requested by the local water purveyor, the city shall require the project applicant to submit a copy of the water budget calculations required by this section to the water purveyor. C. Soil Management Plan

75 Draft The purpose of this section is to improve the soil's ability to absorb and retain water; have generally drought resistant soil; reduce runoff and erosion; and promote healthy plant growth. 2. If mass grading is proposed that will remove a foot or more of existing grade, submittal of the soils analysis report required by subsections (C)(3) and (C)(4) of this section may be deferred until after rough grading is completed at the discretion of the director, provided that the requirements of subsections (C)(3) and (C)(4) of this section are completed and made available with resulting recommendations to the project landscape professional and incorporated into the landscape design plan in the final approved construction plans. Deferred soil analysis shall analyze sample(s) of topsoil preserved per grading requirements of subsection (F)(2)(b) of this section and other soils likely to be planted. 3. A soil analysis report using adequate sampling depth for the intended plants satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the submittal requirements. a. Determination of soil texture, indicating the percentage of organic matter; b. An approximate soil infiltration rate (either measured or derived from soil texture/infiltration rate tables). A range of infiltration rates shall be noted where appropriate; c. Measure of ph, and total soluble salts; d. Any recommended amendments to the soil to meet the purpose of this section. e. Fertilizers if used shall be specified as either organic and non-synthetic, or controlled release (slower release) if synthetic. f. Recommendations shall be tailored to recycled water if applicable. 4. Additional requirements for larger landscapes: In addition to the requirements of subsection (C)(3) of this section, the following soil analysis report requirements shall apply to project development sites with a total landscape area of 10,000 square feet or more, and are recommended for smaller landscape areas. The soil analysis shall also identify: a. Measurement of essential nutrients; b. Identification of critical soil limitations including but not limited to, compacted, water logged, or thin soils; c. Areas of quality topsoil to be preserved; d. Actions to mitigate identified critical soil limitations; e. Amendment of soils designed to promote healthy water and air access to the root zone of trees to be planted within 5 feet of any pavement or other compacted area; and f. The amount of compost to achieve a minimum 3.5% organic matter content by dry weight unless the soil report recommends an alternative percent of organic matter tailored to the plant materials specified in the landscape design plan. 5. Mulch. a. A mulch of at least three inches shall be applied to all planting areas except turf. b. Stabilizing mulch products shall be applied to slopes of 3 to 1 or greater (where 3 to 1 means 1 foot of vertical elevation change for every 3 feet of horizontal length). c. The mulching portion of the seed/mulch slurry in hydroseed applications shall meet the requirement of at least 3 inches of mulch. D. Landscape Design Plan. A landscape design plan satisfying the following conditions 13 79

76 Draft shall be submitted as part of the landscape design documentation package. 1. Plant Selection and Grouping. Any plants may be used in the landscape, with water conserving plant species encouraged, subject to the following conditions. a. Water budget compliance. The estimated applied water use recommended does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance. b. Use of hydrozones. Plants having similar water use shall generally be grouped together in distinct hydrozones (see subsection (B)(3) of this section). Other considerations for establishing hydrozones may include sun exposure, soil condition, and slope. Plants having nearly similar water use may be grouped together, that is, high and medium water using plants may be grouped, or medium and low water using plants may be grouped together. However, high and low water using plants shall not be grouped together in the same hydrozone. For mixed plant hydrozones, the more water intensive plant factor (higher number) shall be used for the entire hydrozone. c. Amount of turf. Total irrigated areas specified as turf shall be limited to 50% for residential uses and 25% for non-residential uses, with turf bioswales necessary for stormwater treatment and recreational areas exempted. d. Invasive plant species. Plants listed as invasive (A, B, and C rated) by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), or listed as invasive (high or moderate rated) by the California Invasive Plant Council's (IPC) database of invasive species, shall not be used, except a turf plant rated C by CDFA or rated Moderate by Cal-IPC shall be permitted for use on sports fields and high traffic recreation areas. Project applicants may request to use other plant specie(s) rated C by CDFA or rated Moderate by Cal-IPC provided the request is substantiated by evidence submitted to and approved by the director that clearly establishes that due to plant or site characteristics the use of the requested plant will not have detrimental ecological effects on parks, greenbelts, waterbodies, water ways, and open spaces. e. Fire prone areas. Landscapes in fire prone wildland areas shall be designed to comply with any applicable Fire Department regulations and to create a defensible space around a building as required by Public Resources Code Section f. Homeowners Associations and Common Interest Developments. The covenants, codes and restrictions (i.e., CC&Rs) of a common interest development, which may include but not be limited to community apartment projects, condominiums, planned developments, stock cooperatives, or single family subdivisions governed by a Homeowners Association shall not prohibit or include conditions that have the effect of prohibiting the use of low-water use plants as a group. Further, said guidelines shall not prohibit the removal of turf, nor restrict or prohibit the reduction of turf in lieu of more water efficient alternatives. 2. Water Features. a. Recycled water where it is an approved supply of water shall be used for all decorative water features. b. Recirculating water shall be used for all decorative water features. c. Pool and spa covers are highly recommended. 3. Soil erosion and runoff management. a. The landscape and grading plans shall be coordinated to minimize irrigation and stormwater runoff and to maximize on-site retention and infiltration of irrigation water and stormwater. Examples of practices include but are not limited to directing runoff to landscape areas, bioswales, rain gardens and/or similar features

77 Draft b. Turf shall not be specified on slopes of 4 to 1 or greater if the toe of the slope is next to an impermeable surface (where 4 to 1 means 1 foot of vertical elevation change for every 4 feet of horizontal length). 4. Landscape Design Plan Submittal Requirements. The landscape design plan shall demonstrate how it meets the requirements of sub-sections (D)(1) (plant selection and grouping), (D)(2) (water features) if applicable, and (D)(3) (soil erosion and runoff management) of this section, and shall be drawn on project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies and includes the following: a. Designation of hydrozones. Depict each hydrozone and its plant factor. Provide the square footage of each hydrozone and the total landscaped area that matches the square footage amounts in the hydrozone summary table required by subsection (B)(3) of this section; b. Designation and square footage of landscape areas or features meeting this chapter's definition of special landscape area if any; c. Landscape materials, trees, shrubs, ground cover, turf, and existing vegetation. Planting symbols shall be clearly drawn and plants labeled by botanical name, common name, container size, spacing and quantities of each group of plants indicated. Include the water requirement category of each plant material (very low (VL), low (L), moderate (M) or high (H)) as described in subsection (B)(4) (Plant Factors) of this section; d. Natural features, including, but not limited to, rock outcroppings and existing trees. Include trunk circumference measured four and one-half feet above grade for existing trees (see Tree Preservation in LMC Chapter Article II); e. Soil management information (see subsection (C) (soil management plan) of this section; f. Context information including but not limited to property lines, adjacent street name(s), existing and proposed buildings, structures, and retaining walls; f. Impermeable surface information including but not limited to streets, driveways, walkways, and other paved areas adjacent to or integrated with the landscape project; g. Pools, spas, ponds, and water features and the surface area in square feet of all such features; h. Location of slopes greater than 25% (where 25% means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length); i. Location and description of any proposed rain harvesting or catchment facilities, bioswales, green waste recycling areas, and/or green roofs; and j. The statement, "I have complied with the criteria of Livermore Municipal Code Chapter and have applied them for efficient use of water in the landscape design plan," and the signature of a licensed architect or landscape architect E. Irrigation Design Plan. An irrigation design plan meeting the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape design documentation package. 1. Purposes. The purpose of an irrigation design plan shall be to apply water in a way that does not exceed the maximum applied water allowance, and that meets plant water needs while avoiding water waste such as overspray, runoff, and low head drainage. Irrigation systems shall be designed to achieve a minimum 0.71 irrigation efficiency. 2. For design review the irrigation design plan may be conceptual, consisting of a written description and diagram depicting hydrozones and what types of irrigation equipment (drip, spray sprinklers, stream sprinklers, etc.) shall be used in each hydrozone, provided that compliance with all requirements is fully documented within approved construction plans 15 81

78 Draft Irrigation Design Criteria. a. Hydrozones. The irrigation design plan shall be zoned to implement the hydrozones identified in the summary table and the landscape design plan (subsections (B)(3) and (D)(1) of this section); b. Point of Connection. All irrigation equipment must be connected to the landscape water meter for a project. No portion of the irrigation system may be connected to the domestic water meter, unless only one water meter is required for the property. c. Runoff and Overspray. The irrigation system shall deliver water at a rate compatible with the soil types and infiltration rates of the site. All irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent property, nonirrigated areas, walks, roadways or structures. Proper irrigation equipment and schedules, including such features such as repeat cycles, shall be used to closely match maximum application rates to infiltration rates. d. Pressure regulation. The irrigation system shall be designed to keep dynamic pressure at each emission device within the manufacturer's recommended pressure range. Static water pressure shall be measured at the point of connection if available at the design stage, or otherwise shall be estimated. If static pressure is outside the irrigation system's required dynamic pressure range, then pressure-regulating devices such as inline pressure regulators, booster pumps, or other devices shall be specified. e. Recycled water. If a separate landscape water meter is required and where recycled water is an approved supply of water, recycled water shall be used for landscape irrigation. 4. Equipment. a. Water Meters. Separate landscape water meters shall be installed for all new construction or rehabilitation landscape projects subject to this chapter (except single-family homes). All irrigation equipment throughout all projects must be connected to the landscape water meter. b. Controllers. Smart irrigation controllers shall be required for all irrigation systems and must be able to accommodate all aspects of the design. Individual controllers irrigating an area of 10,000 or more square feet shall be installed with a rain sensor(s) which shall be properly installed (e.g., in a location suitable for detecting rain without interference from structures and irrigation spray). c. Valves. Electronic valves are required for all irrigation systems. A valve may irrigate a maximum of one hydrozone of plants with similar water use. Where feasible, trees shall be placed on separate valves from shrubs, groundcovers, and turf. d. Sprinkler Heads shall have compatible application rates within each control valve circuit. Sprinkler heads shall be selected for proper and uniform area coverage, application rate, operating pressure, adjustment capability, and ease of maintenance. Riser protection devices (e.g., swing joints) shall be specified for damage prone or high traffic areas. e. Sprinkler heads must match precipitation rates unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. f. Sprinkler irrigation for any contiguous turf area that is 10,000 or more square feet in size must be designed to achieve a minimum 0.7 lower quarter distribution uniformity, to be verified by the landscape installation certification. g. Anti-drain (Check) Valves. Anti-drain valves shall be installed at strategic low points throughout the plan to avoid low-head drainage. h. Low volume equipment areas. Low volume irrigation shall be used in all the 16 82

79 Draft following areas, unless an alternative design having the effect of low volume irrigation (e.g., micro-sprayers) and which will avoid runoff and erosion is approved by the director as part of the landscape design documentation package and verified by the landscape installation certification. 1. Landscape areas less than 8 feet in width in any direction; 2. Mulched areas; 3. Within 24 inches of a non-permeable surface unless no runoff occurs or the adjacent non permeable surface drains entirely to permeable surfaces capable of admitting and retaining the irrigation runoff; 4. On slopes greater than 25% (where 25% means one foot of vertical elevation change for every four feet of horizontal length); and 5. Any landscape area irrigated with grey water. i. Irrigation of slopes greater than 25% shall not exceed an application rate of 0.75 inches per hour, unless an alternative design avoiding overspray and runoff is approved by the director (e.g., the toe of the slope drains entirely to permeable surfaces). 5. Irrigation Design Plan Submittal Requirements. The irrigation design plan shall bear the signature of an architect, landscape architect, or landscape contractor licensed by the state in good standing. The irrigation design plan shall demonstrate how it meets the requirements of sub-sections (E)(3) (irrigation design criteria) and (E)(4) (equipment) of this section, and shall be drawn on project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies and includes the following: a. Location and size of separate water meters for landscape irrigation; b. Location, type, and size of all components of the irrigation system, including automatic controllers, main and lateral lines, valves, sprinkler heads, emitters, moisture sensing devices, rain sensing devices, quick couplers, and backflow prevention devices; c. Static water pressure at the point of connection to the public water supply; d. Flow rate (gallons per minute), application rate (inches per hour), and design operating pressure (psi) for each station; e. Each area to be irrigated by each valve; f. Location of soil moisture or rain sensor(s) if any; and g. The statement, "I have complied with the criteria of Livermore Municipal Code Chapter and have applied them for efficient use of water in the landscape design plan," and the signature of an architect, landscape architect, or landscape contractor licensed by the state in good standing. F. Grading Design Plan. Grading design plans satisfying the following conditions shall be submitted as part of the landscape design documentation package. 1. Grading design purposes. Grading of a project landscape area shall be designed to minimize soil erosion; avoid compaction of and protect topsoil where space allows stockpiling topsoil; maximize on-site retention and infiltration of water; confine runoff to the property; direct runoff to permeable surfaces; and avoid soil compaction in landscape areas. If applicable, the grading design plan shall also comply with any best management practice guidelines, stormwater ordinances, stormwater management plans and any other related requirements that have been adopted by any federal, State of California, regional and/or city agency for any activity, operation or facility which may cause or contribute to stormwater pollution. 2. Grading Design Submittal Requirements. The grading design plan shall meet the 17 83

80 Draft purposes of (F)(1), may be separate from but use the same format as the landscape design plan, and shall be drawn on project base sheets at a scale that accurately and clearly identifies and includes the following: a. The grading plan shall indicate finished configurations and elevations of the landscaped area, including the height of graded slopes, drainage patterns, pad elevations, and finish grade. It should also include existing spot elevations at the base of each existing shrub or tree that will remain, including proposed elevation changes within their drip lines. b. The grading plan shall include specifications to avoid topsoil compaction. Additionally, if storage space exists, the grading plan shall indicate areas to stockpile topsoil for reincorporation into planting areas and specify to the grading contractor to remove and store topsoil prior to rough grading, and protect it from wind and rain erosion Landscape Installation Certification Package Elements. A. Signed certification. The city shall not grant a final inspection sign-off or certificate of occupancy for any project until the property owner submits a landscape installation certification package to the Department consistent with this section for review and approval by the director. A licensed architect, landscape architect, or landscape contractor shall prepare the package. The landscape installation certification package shall consist of a signed certification on a form approved by the director and attachments 1-5 below and attachment 6 below, if applicable. The certification shall specifically indicate that the landscape project was installed per the landscape design documentation package and that the irrigation evaluation has been performed, along with a list of any observed deficiencies, and documentation that those deficiencies have been corrected. A sample of such a form is available in the Department. 1. An irrigation evaluation per the requirements of subsection B of this section; 2. A summary of controller setting parameters per the requirements of subsection C of this section; 3. A maintenance schedule per the requirements of subsection D of this section; 4. Verification of implementation of soil management recommendations meeting the requirements of subsection (C) of this chapter; and 5. The statement, "The landscape project has been installed substantially in accordance with the approved landscape documentation package," and signature of the person preparing the certification. 6. Record drawings of the irrigation system if irrigation system installation deviated, with approval of the director, from the design submitted and approved with the landscape design documentation package. B. Irrigation Evaluation. A landscape irrigation evaluation meeting the following conditions shall be submitted with the landscape certification package. 1. Audit or survey requirement. For newly installed irrigation systems, a landscape irrigation survey, as that term is defined in , shall be conducted. For projects relying on a preexisting irrigation system, a landscape irrigation audit, as that term is defined in section of this chapter, shall be conducted. The landscape design plan, irrigation design plan, and irrigation schedule shall be made available to the person conducting the irrigation evaluation. 2. For projects developed into multiple saleable lots, the irrigation evaluation may be limited to a common area (e.g., project green space or park) and a representative sample of the lots