§ 9-26.050. Commercial and Industrial District Height Limit Exceptions

The height limits established for certain zoning district by Table 2-6 may be modified in compliance with this Section. See also Section 9-30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for additional exceptions applicable to all zoning districts.

A.

Principal structure in the CO, CPD, or Industrial Zones - GI, LI, and CI. A multi-story structure exceeding 48 feet or three stories in height, measured as defined by the California Administrative Code Title 19, shall comply with all of the following standards:

1.

Fire safety provisions. The structure shall be equipped with a Fire Department communication system and an automatic fire sprinkler system.

2.

Helistop. A helistop shall be provided on a structure that exceeds 75 feet in height.

3.

Setback requirements. Independent front, rear, internal, and side yards shall be provided, each with a minimum depth equal to the structure height. The Commission may deviate from these setback standards through the Conditional Use Permit process subject to making appropriate findings relating to either Subsection (A)(3)(a) or (b), below. When deviation from setback requirements is based upon a finding under either Subsection (A)(3)(a) or (b), below, the setback directly related to the finding shall be varied. For example, if the finding is based upon the proximity of the structure to the freeway, only the setback from the freeway may be modified. Other applicable rear, front or side yards with minimum depth equal to the structure height shall apply:

a.

Deviations from setback requirements may be allowed because of proximity of the structure to the Simi Valley-San Fernando Valley Freeway or another commercial/industrial building;

b.

Deviations from setback requirements may be allowed because of an unusual lot configuration if one of the following findings is made:

(1)

Strict application of the setback requirements applicable to structures that exceed 48 feet or exceeding three stories is not possible due to the size or shape of the lot, however the structure has been designed so that the underlying purposes of the setback requirement, i.e., effect on neighboring structures with respect to light, shadows, visibility, solar energy, ventilation, air, noise, safety or privacy, have been satisfied.

(2)

A lot configuration that is such that compliance with the setback standards would result in the owner of the property being unable to make a reasonable use of his property in the manner and for the purposes which other property of like character in the same vicinity and zone can be used.

4.

Traffic Study. A site specific traffic study evaluating traffic impacts of the development on the surrounding street system shall be submitted. The study shall include daily and peak hour traffic generation characteristics of the proposed development, turning movement and peak directional traffic projections, and a traffic volume to roadway capacity comparison at the current traffic level and at traffic levels associated with ultimate General Plan development. The study shall also include potential mitigation measures for projected traffic service levels lower than desirable levels of traffic service.

B.

Principal structures in all zones other than CO, CN, and CPD. A proposed structure may exceed the height limits required by Table 2-6 for a commercial zoning district other than CO, CN, or CPD with Conditional Use Permit approval. To grant the permit, the Commission shall first find that additional height will be compatible with surrounding land uses, and the General Plan and not adversely impact the health, safety or welfare of surrounding property owners.

(§ 5, Ord. 1085, eff. January 6, 2006 and § 3 (Exh. A), Ord. No. 1248, eff. November 12, 2015)