HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/28/2023PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
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Tuesday, February 28, 2023
6:30 PM
Diamond Bar City Hall – Windmill Community Room
21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
PUBLIC ADVISORY:
Consistent with State Assembly Bill 361, members of the Planning Commission may be present
or participate telephonically. Members of the public are encouraged to participate and address
the Planning Commission during the public comment portion of the meeting either in person or
via teleconference. If you would like to attend the meeting in person, please note that face
coverings are recommended.
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How to Observe the Meeting From Home:
Members of the public can observe the meeting by calling +1 (914) 61 4 -3221, Access Code: 908 -142-
565 or visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5633406528227857493 .
How to Submit Public Comment: The public may provide public comment by attending the meeting in
person, by sending an email, or by logging into the teleconference. Please send email public comments
to Planning@DiamondBarCA.gov by 5:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting and indicate in the Subject Line
“FOR PUBLIC COMMENT.” Written comments will be distributed to the Planning Commission members
and read into the record at the meeting, up to a maximum of five minutes.
Alternatively, public comment may be submitted by logging onto the meeting through this link:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5633406528227857493 . Members of the public will be
called upon one at a time during the Public Comment portion of the agenda. Speakers are limited to five
minutes per agenda item, unless the Chairperson determines otherwise.
American Disability Act Accommodations:
Pursuant to the Executive Order, and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need
special assistance to participate in the Planning Commission Meeting, please contact the Community
Development Office (909) 839-7030 within 72 hours of the meeting. Commission recordings will be
available upon request the day following the Planning Commission Meeting.
CHAIRPERSON RAYMOND WOLFE
VICE CHAIRPERSON KENNETH MOK
COMMISSIONER NAILA BARLAS
COMMISSIONER MAHENDRA GARG
COMMISSIONER WILLIAM RAWLINGS
City of Diamond Bar
Planning Commission
MEETING RULES
PUBLIC INPUT
Members of the public may address the Planning Commission on any item of business on the
agenda during the time the item is taken up by the Planning Commission. In addition, membe rs
of the public may, during the Public Comment period address the Planning Commission on any
Consent Calendar item or any matter not on the agenda and within the Planning Commission’s
subject matter jurisdiction. Any material to be submitted to the Planni ng Commission at the
meeting should be submitted through the Minutes Secretary.
Speakers are limited to five minutes per agenda item, unless the Chairperson determines
otherwise. The Chairperson may adjust this time limit depending on the number of peopl e
wishing to speak, the complexity of the matter, the length of the agenda, the hour and any other
relevant consideration. Speakers may address the Planning Commission only once on an
agenda item, except during public hearings, when the applicant/appellan t may be afforded a
rebuttal.
Public comments must be directed to the Planning Commission. Behavior that disrupts the
orderly conduct of the meeting may result in the speaker being removed from the meeting.
INFORMATION RELATING TO AGENDAS AND ACTIONS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Agendas for regular Planning Commission meetings are available 72 hours prior to the meeting
and are posted in the City’s regular posting locations and on the City’s website at
www.diamondbarca.gov. The Planning Commission may ta ke action on any item listed on the
agenda.
Copies of staff reports or other written documentation relating to agenda items are on file in the
Planning Division of the Community Development Depart ment, located at 21810 Copley Drive,
and are available for public inspection upon request. If you have questions regarding an agenda
item, please call (909) 839-7030 during regular business hours.
HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION
Copies of Agenda, Rules of the Planning Commission, Recordings of Meetings (909) 839-7030
Email: info@diamondbarca.gov
Website: www.diamondbarca.gov
The City of Diamond Bar thanks you in advance for taking all precautions to prevent spreading the
COVID-19 virus.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
PLANNING COMMISSION
February 28, 2023
AGENDA
Next Resolution No. 2023-05
CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
1. ROLL CALL: COMMISSIONERS: Naila Barlas, Mahendra Garg, William
Rawlings, Kenneth Mok, Vice Chairperson, Raymond Wolfe, Chairperson
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Chairperson
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
"Public Comments" is the time reserved on each regular meeting agenda to
provide an opportunity for members of the public to directly address the Planning
Commission on consent calendar items or other matters of interest not on the
agenda that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Planning
Commission. Although the Planning Commission values your comments,
pursuant to the brown act, members of the Planning Commission or staff may
briefly respond to public comments if necessary, but no extended discussion and
no action on such matters may take place. There is a five-minute maximum time
limit when addressing the Planning Commission. Please complete a speake r
card and hand it to the Minutes Secretary (completion of this form is voluntary).
The Planning Commission will call on in-person speakers first and then
teleconference callers, one at a time to give their name and if there is an agenda
item number they wish to speak on before providing their comment. If you wish to
speak on a public hearing item or Planning Commission consideration item, you
will then be called upon to speak at that point in the agenda.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items listed on the consent calendar are considered routine and
are approved by a single motion. Consent calendar items may be removed from
the agenda by request of the Planning Commission only:
4.1 Minutes of the Planning Commission Regular Meeting –
December 13, 2022.
4.2 Minutes of the Planning Commission Regular Meeting – February 14,
2023.
5. OLD BUSINESS: None
FEBRUARY 28, 2023 PAGE 2 PLANNING COMMISSION
6. NEW BUSINESS:
6.1 Annual General Plan Status Update
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission
approve the report and forward it to the City Council to receive and file.
7. PUBLIC HEARING(S):
7.1 Development Review and Tree Permit No. PL2020 -31 - Under the
authority of Diamond Bar Municipal Code Sections 22.48 and 22.38, the
applicant, Pete Volbeda, and property owner, Manohar Bha tia, are
requesting Development Review approval to construct a new s ingle-family
residence consisting of 13,535 square feet of living space, a 704 square-
foot garage, and 1,300 square feet of porch/balcony areas on a 1.64 -acre
undeveloped parcel. A Tree Permit (TP) is also requested to remove
three protected coast live oak and six California black walnut trees and
replace with 27 coast live oak trees on site. The subject property is zoned
Rural Residential (RR) with an underlying General Plan land use
designation of Rural Residential.
PROJECT ADDRESS: 23121 Ridge Line Road
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
PROPERTY OWNER: Manohar Bhatia
17753 Via San Jose
Rowland Heights, CA 91786
APPLICANT: Pete Volbeda
215 N 2nd Avenue #B
Upland, CA 91786
ENVIRONMENAL DETERMINATION: The project has been reviewed for
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Based
on that assessment, the City has determined the project to be
Categorically Exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to the
provisions of Article 19 Section 15303(a) (construction of a new single-
family residence) of the CEQA Guidelines. No further environmental
review is required.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission
approve Development Review and Tree Permit Planning Case
No. PL2020-31 based on the findings of fact, and subject to the conditions
of approval as listed within the draft resolution
8. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
9. STAFF COMMENTS / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
FEBRUARY 28, 2023 PAGE 3 PLANNING COMMISSION
10. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
11. ADJOURNMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, March 7, 2023, 6:30 pm
South Coast Air Quality Management District
21865 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
TRAFFIC AND
TRANSPORTATION
COMMISSION MEETING:
Thursday, March 9, 2023, 6:30 pm
Windmill Community Room
Diamond Bar City Hall
21810 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING:
Tuesday, March 14, 2023, 6:30 pm
Windmill Community Room
Diamond Bar City Hall
21810 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING:
Tuesday, March 21, 2023, 6:30 pm
South Coast Air Quality Management District
21865 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
TOWN CENTER SPECIFIC
PLAN WORKSHOP #2:
Wednesday, March 22, 2023, 6:00 pm
Diamond Bar Center
1600 Grand Avenue
Diamond Bar, CA
PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION MEETING:
Thursday, March 23, 2023, 6:30 pm
Windmill Community Room
Diamond Bar City Hall
21810 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING:
Tuesday, March 28, 2023, 6:30 pm
Windmill Community Room
Diamond Bar City Hall
21810 Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA
MINUTES OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 13, 2022
Consistent with State Assembly Bill 361, members of the Planning Commission were
present or participated telephonically. Members of the public were encouraged to participate
and address the Planning Commission and for those attending in person, face coverings
were recommended.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair/Wolfe called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Vice Chairman Mok led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners present: Naila Barlas, Mahendra Garg
(telephonically), William Rawlings, Vice-Chair Kenneth
Mok and Chair Raymond Wolfe
Staff Present : Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; Grace
Lee, Senior Planner; James Eggart, Assistant City Attorney; Stella Marquez, Administrative
Coordinator.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Chair/Wolfe
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
4.1 Continued Use of Teleconferencing in accordance with Assembly Bill 361 for
meetings of the Planning Commission subject to State Open Meeting Laws.
4.2 Minutes of the Planning Commission’s Regular Meeting of October 25, 2022.
4.3 Minutes of the Planning Commission’s Regular Meeting of November 22,
2022.
C/Barlas moved, VC/Mok seconded, to approve the Consent Calendar as
presented with C/Garg abstaining on Item 4.2. Motion carried by the following
Roll Call vote
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Rawlings, VC/Mok,
Chair/Wolfe
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
5. OLD BUSINESS: None
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6. NEW BUSINESS: None
7. PUBLIC HEARING(S):
7.1 Development Review – Planning Case No. PL2022-78 – Under the authority
of DBMC Section 22.48, the applicant and property owner requested
Development Review approval to construct a new 2,743 square foot, two-story
single family residence measuring approximately 27 feet high with a 583
square foot garage on an undeveloped 11,225 square foot (0.26 acre) parcel
on the north side of N. Diamond Bar Boulevard, between Soltaire Street and
Highland Valley Road. The subject property is zoned Low Density Residential
(RL) with an underlying General Plan land use designation of Low Density
Residential (RL).
PROJECT ADDRESS: 1111 N. Diamond Bar Boulevard
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
PROPERTY OWNER: James Chin Chou
1359 Bentley Court
West Covina, CA 91791
APPLICANT: Creative Design Associates
17528 Rowland Street, 2nd Floor
City of Industry, CA 91748
SP/Lee provided staff’s report and recommended Planning Commission
approval of Development Review No. PL2022-78, based on the findings of
Diamond Bar Municipal Code (DBMC) Section 22.48.040, subject to
conditions of approval as listed within the resolution.
Chair/Wolfe opened the public hearing.
Ken Lee, applicant, commended staff and especially, SP/Lee for her tenacity
and assistance in helping the owner work through this project. The applicant
purchased the property in 2010 and has moved forward to this point with a
revised project and to the best of their knowledge, complied with all comments
received from the last City Council meeting in 2020 to render this project
compatible with the neighborhood.
Douglas Barcon said he was concerned about the issue of northbound
Diamond Bar Boulevard traffic attempting to enter the residence.
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Felino Bautista (telephonically), 1141 Flintlock, spoke in opposition to the
project and cited speeding traffic on the street.
Robin Smith (telephonically) commended Planning staff for their work and
positive changes toward the redesign of the project. However, this speculative
project is, in her opinion, a glaring problem for the community and she believes
the site would be better suited for a cell tower.
Chair/Wolfe closed the public hearing.
SP/Lee responded to C/Garg that drivers proceeding northbound on
N. Diamond Bar Boulevard are permitted to make a U-Turn on Soltaire Street
from the left turn lane. Chair/Wolfe explained that per the traffic code, U-Turns
are permitted where left turns are allowed unless there is specific signage
disallowing the procedure. C/Garg said he wou ld like to see a new sign
indicating both a left turn and U-Turn to replace the current signage at Soltaire.
SP/Lee reminded the public that with respect to industry standards site
distances are assessed using the posted speed limit to determine the minimum
requirement and in addition, during the previous public hearing, the applicant’s
traffic engineer stated that there is sufficient sight distance for a car traveling
at 75 mph to react to a vehicle leaving the project site driveway.
Chair/Wolfe reopened the public hearing.
VC/Mok asked the applicant to comment on whether construction vehicles
would be able to park on the project site and Mr. Peng responded that when
the site is being developed, it is empty and offers plenty of space for trucks to
come in and park. Ultimately, the building coverage is 23 percent of the land
which leaves 75 percent of the land available for phasing during construction.
VC/Mok commented that the proposed horseshoe driveway dimensions would
sufficiently accommodate sanitation, delivery and service vehicles.
C/Rawlings said he appreciated the amount of work the owners have done in
working with the City. Although he finds the residential zoning to be
inappropriate, and does not believe the proposed structure will benefit the City,
he does acknowledge there has been substantial work to comply with the
City’s development standards and he will not oppose the project.
Chair/Wolfe closed the public hearing.
Following Commissioner’s comments, Chair/Wolfe moved, VC/Mok seconded,
to approve Development Review No. PL2022-78, based on the findings of
Diamond Bar Municipal Code (DBMC) Section 22.48.040, subject to
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DECEMBER 13, 2022 4 PLANNING COMMISSION
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conditions of approval as listed within the resolution. Motion carried 4-1 by the
following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, VC/Mok, Chair/Wolfe
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: Rawlings
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
8. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS/INFORMATION ITEMS:
VC/Mok commented that the first Windmill Lighting ceremony was fantastic and he
hoped it would become an annual event. The Snow Fest was a wonderful event as
well and hoped that event would continue to be held each winter.
C/Barlas thanked everyone for being involved in tonight’s democratic process and
wished everyone Happy Holidays and a Merry Christmas.
C/Garg thanked the Planning staff for a fantastic job and wished everyone Happy
Holidays. He enjoys working with his colleagues and looks forward to continuing the
work next year.
C/Rawlings appreciated everyone’s feedback on the Public Hearing Item and
congratulated the property owner. He said it was wonderful to be at the Snow Fest
and wished everyone Happy Holidays and a Merry Christmas.
Chair/Wolfe wished everyone Happy Holidays.
9. STAFF COMMENTS/INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
CDD/Gubman stated that there will be no Planning Commission on December 28 th
and the Commission will reconvene telephonically on January 10 th, 2023, to readopt
AB361. There is a very important Planning Commission meeting scheduled for
January 24th which is a joint Planning Commission/City Council Study Session on the
Town Center Specific Plan which will be held at the Diamond Bar Center to allow for
accommodation of interested members of the public who have been invested in this
project and wish to participate in the joint session.
On behalf of the Community Development Department CDD/Gubman wished
everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year and Happy
Holidays.
10. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
As listed in the agenda.
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DECEMBER 13, 2022 5 PLANNING COMMISSION
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ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Planning Commission,
Chair/Wolfe adjourned the Regular Planning Commission meeting at 7:13 p.m. to
January 10, 2023.
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this __________ February, 2023.
Attest:
Respectfully Submitted,
_______________________________________
Greg Gubman, Community Development Director
_____________________________
Raymond Wolfe, Chairperson
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MINUTES OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 14, 2023
Consistent with State Assembly Bill 361, members of the Planning Commission and staff
were present or participated telephonically. Members of the public were encouraged to
participate and address the Planning Commission during the public comment portion o f the
meeting either in person or via teleconference and for those attending in person, face
coverings were recommended.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chair/Wolfe called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Vice Chair Mok led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Commissioners present: Naila Barlas, Mahendra Garg
(telephonically), William Rawlings (telephonically), Vice-
Chair Kenneth Mok and Chair Raymond Wolfe
Staff Present : Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; James
Eggert, Assistant City Attorney (telephonically); Grace Lee, Senior Planner; Mayuko (May)
Nakajima, Associate Planner; Dat Tran, Associate Planner; Stella Marquez, Administrative
Coordinator.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Chair/Wolfe
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None Offered
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
4.1 Minutes of the December 13, 2022, Regular Planning Commission Meeting –
continued to February 28, 2023.
4.2 Minutes of the January 10, 2023, Regular Planning Commission Meeting.
4.3 Minutes of the January 24, 2023, Special Joint City Council / Planning
Commission Meeting.
4.4 Minutes of the February 2, 2023, Regular Planning Commission Meeting.
VC/Mok, moved, C/Barlas seconded, to approve Consent Calendar Items 4.2,
4.3 and 4.4 as presented. Motion carried by the following Roll Call Vote:
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FEBRUARY 14, 2023 2 PLANNING COMMISSION
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AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Rawlings, VC/Mok,
Chair/Wolfe
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
5. OLD BUSINESS: None
6. NEW BUSINESS: None
7. PUBLIC HEARING(S):
7.1 Development Review and Tree Permit Planning Case No. PL2022 -62 –
Under the authority of Diamond Bar Municipal Code Sections 22.48 and 22.38,
the applicant and property owner requested Development Review approval to
construct a new single-family residence consisting of 10,885 square feet of
living space, a 942 square foot garage, 694 square feet of patio/balcony areas,
and a 115 square foot accessory structure on a 1.25-acre undeveloped parcel.
A Tree Permit was requested to remove on protected Coast Live Oak tree and
replace it with three (3) Coast Live Oak trees onsite. The subject property is
zoned Rural Residential (RR) with an underlying General Plan land use
designation of Rural Residential.
PROJECT ADDRESS: 2626 Wagon Train Lane
Diamond Bar, CA 91789
PROPERTY OWNER: Sumer Vardhan
2127 Derringer Lane
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
APPLICANT: Pete Volbeda
215 N. 2nd Avenue #B
Upland, CA 91786
AP/Nakajima presented the staff report and recommended Planning
Commission approval of Development Review and Tree Permit Planning Case
No. PL2022-62 based on the findings of Fact, and subject to the conditions of
approval as listed within the Resolution.
Chair/Wolfe opened the public hearing.
Pete Volbeda, Applicant Architect, thanked staff.
Chair/Wolfe closed the public hearing.
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FEBRUARY 14, 2023 3 PLANNING COMMISSION
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C/Barlas moved, C/Rawlings seconded, to approve Development Review and
Tree Permit Planning Case No. PL2022-62 based on the findings of Fact, and
subject to the conditions of approval as listed within the Resolution. Motion
carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Rawlings, VC/Mok,
Chair/Wolfe
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
7.2 Development Review – Planning Case No. PL2022-115 – Under the
authority of Diamond Bar Municipal Code Section 22.46, the applicant/property
owner requested Development Review approval to add an 890 square -foot
two-story addition and an 84 square-foot porch to an existing 1,306 square-
foot, to an existing one-story single-family residence located at 20849 East
Cliffside Lane. The subject property is zoned Low Density Residential (RL)
with an underlying General Plan land use designation of Low Density
Residential.
PROJECT ADDRESS: 20849 East Cliffside Lane
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
PROPERTY OWNER/ Xinqin Lai
APPLICANT: 20849 East Cliffside Lane
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
AP/Tran presented the staff report and recommended Planning Commission
approval of Development Review, Planning Case No. PL2022-115 based on
the Findings of Fact, and subject to the conditions of approval as listed within
the Resolution.
C/Garg asked if the square footage (890 square feet) referenced in the
presentation includes both the first floor and the second floor.
Chair/Wolfe responded to C/Garg, clarifying that the 890 square feet includes
both the first and second floor.
AP/Tran responded that the first floor is 645 square feet and the second floor
is 245 square feet.
Chair/Wolfe opened the public hearing.
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FEBRUARY 14, 2023 4 PLANNING COMMISSION
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With no one wishing to speak on this item, Chair/Wolfe closed the public
hearing.
C/Garg moved, C/Rawlings seconded, to approve Development Review –
Planning Case No. PL2022-115 based on the Findings of Fact, and subject to
the conditions of approval as listed within the Resolution. Motion carried by
the following Roll call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Rawlings, VC/Mok,
Chair/Wolfe
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
8. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS/INFORMATION ITEMS:
C/Garg congratulated the two property owners on approval of their beautiful
properties.
C/Rawlings commended staff on the tremendous amount of work they and others put
into these projects on behalf of the property owners which adds a significant value to
the City.
VC/Mok asked everyone to be safe and keep Turkey and Syria in their thoughts.
Chair/Wolfe wished everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day.
9. STAFF COMMENTS/INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
CDD/Gubman stated that there are two items on the February 28 th agenda, a public
hearing for a custom home in The Country and the annual General Plan Status report.
The governor is expected to rescind the Emergency Declaration pertaining to COVID-
19 at the end of February and if that happens, AB 361 will expire and future meeting
participation will take place in-house with Commissioners being required to physically
attend at the scheduled location. Any Commissioner(s) wishing to participate
remotely after the expiration of AB 361 will do so under the Brown Act requirements
for posting the individual Commissioner’s physical location, details of which are
available through the City Clerk’s office or by contacting CDD/Gubman.
10. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
As listed in the agenda.
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FEBRUARY 14, 2023 5 PLANNING COMMISSION
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ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Planning Commission,
Chair/Wolfe adjourned the Regular Planning Commission meeting at 6:57 p.m.
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this ____________________________, 2023.
Attest:
Respectfully Submitted,
_______________________________________
Greg Gubman, Community Development Director
_____________________________
Raymond Wolfe, Chairperson
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PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 6.1
MEETING DATE: February 28, 2023
CASE/FILE NUMBER: General Plan Status Report for 2022
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BACKGROUND:
State law requires all California cities and counties to prepare and adopt a
comprehensive, long-term General Plan to guide their physical development. The
General Plan is a policy document comprised of goals and policies for implementation.
In the fall of 2016, the City embarked on a comprehensive update to the General Plan to
create a community vision and blueprint for the City through 2040. The City Council
adopted Diamond Bar General Plan 2040 on December 17, 2019.
Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65400(b), the City is required to
submit an annual General Plan status report to the local legislative body (City Council),
the State Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), and State Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) on the sta tus of the General Plan, its
implementation progress, and how the City is meeting the region’s housing needs. The
attached report lists the City’s progress toward the implementation of the updated
General Plan for the period of January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.
Major accomplishments during this period include the following:
• Housing Element Update: The State Department of Housing and Community
Development certified the Housing Element Update for the 2021-2029 (6th Cycle)
planning period. As of this writing, Diamond Bar’s Housing Element, along with
approximately 44 percent of the 197 jurisdictions in the SCAG region, received
compliance letters from HCD. Adoption of the Housing Element implements General
Plan Goal LU-G-7 to promote a variety of housing and neighborhood types that
respond to a range of income, household sizes, and accessibility levels.
• Town Center Specific Plan: The City entered into a Consulting Services
Agreement with Torti Gallas + Partners to prepare the Town Center Specific Plan in
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ~ 21810 COPLEY DRIVE ~ DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765 ~ TEL. (909) 839-7030 ~ FAX (909) 861-3117
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General Plan Status Report for 2022 Page 2 of 3
the Town Center Mixed-Use focus area. The TCSP will provide the regulatory and
urban design framework to establish a downtown, or “Town Center” in Diamond Bar
as a walkable place with entertainment, retail, restaurants, community gathering
spaces and urban housing opportunities. Planning activities that took place in 2022
included a community workshop to introduce the specific plan process to residents
and stakeholders, and a weeklong design charette where the community’s ideas and
feedback were translated into drawings and sketches. The TCSP implements
General Plan Goals LU-G-4 and CC-G-4, as well as Policies LU-P-7, LU-P-8, ED-P-
3, CC-P-5, CC-P-9, CC-P-17 and CC-P-21.
• Short-Term Rental Ordinance: The City adopted a short-term rental ordinance to
clarify the existing prohibition on short-term rentals. The ordinance also
strengthened the City’s enforcement position by establishing not only the rental, but
also the advertising of short-term rentals to be misdemeanor offenses. Adoption of
this ordinance advances the policies and programs of the General Plan to preserving
neighborhoods and expanding housing opportunities. Short-term rentals are at odds
with these goals by removing housing, including ADUs, from the City’s housing
stock. A reduction in permanent housing units can put an upward pressure on rental
prices and negatively affect housing affordability. Adoption of the ordinance
implements Housing Element Program 9 to maintain adequate housing sites.
• Landscape Assessment District No. 39-2022: Through interactive and
cooperative work with the community, the City has been able to go through a
successful balloting (Prop 218) process in District 39. District 39 was dissolved and
District 39-2022 was formed to replace the dissolved district with an identical service
area. Due to the higher assessment (with the option to increase by CPI annually),
District 39 is self-supporting again after over a decade of being subsidized by the
General Fund. It is a success story of cooperation between the commun ity and the
City. A similar successful process was completed for District 41 (now 41-2021) in
2021. This accomplishment implements General Plan Policy PF-P-12.
A complete summary of the City’s progress toward implementing the General Plan is
provided in Attachment A.
PREPARED BY:
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General Plan Status Report for 2022 Page 3 of 3
REVIEWED BY:
Attachments:
A. 2022 GP Status Report Matrix Final
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Status Report 2022
Period beginning January 1, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022
OVERVIEW
On December 17, 2019, the City Council adopted Diamond Bar General Plan 2040, which is a State mandated document that the City uses to plan the framework for its future physical, socia l, and economic
development. The General Plan is considered a long-term document that projects development within a community for approximately 20 years. The General Plan serves as the foundation for all land use decisions
and provides a vision and blueprint about how a community will grow, reflecting community priorities and values while shaping the future.
The City of Diamond Bar General Plan consists of the following eight elements (“Chapters”):
1) Land Use & Economic Development 2) Community Character & Placemaking 3) Circulation 4) Resource Conservation
5) Public Facilities & Services 6) Public Safety 7) Community Health & Sustainability 8) Housing
The following information summarizes the status of the goals and policies that the City has implemented for each chapter of the updated General Plan in 2020. Each chapter is organized by color scheme for
navigation.
1. Land Use & Economic Development
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
LAND USE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
This chapter provides the overall framework for the physical development of the community and the distribution and intensity of land uses upon which many of the goals and policies in other chapters are based.
GENERAL
Goals
LU-G-4 Land Use
Locate new residential growth in or adjacent to mixed -use centers
and transit stations to support regional and statewide efforts to
encourage sustainable land use planning and smart growth
principles.
In May 2022, the City entered into a Consultant Services Agreement
with Torti Gallas + Partners to prepare the Town Center Specific Plan
for the Town Center Mixed-Use focus area. The TCSP will provide
the regulatory and urban design framework to establish a downtown,
or “Town Center” in Diamond Bar as a walkable place with
entertainment, retail, restaurants community gathering spaces and
urban housing opportunities.
Community
Development
Policies
LU-P-1 Land Use
Ensure that the scale and massing of new development provides
sensitive transitions or design techniques in building height, bulk,
and landscaping to minimize impacts on adjacent, less intensive
uses, particularly residential uses.
On May 17, 2022, the City approved a seven-lot residential
subdivision located between the southern terminus of Crooked
Creek Drive and the southern City limits. The project is designed to
minimize negative impacts on surrounding uses through appropriate
setbacks, building separations and heights, landscaping, and
window and door placements. Furthermore, the development is
designed to minimize visual impacts to the surrounding homes by
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
use of landscape screening and gradual transitions of the slope
plane with terraced, plantable retaining walls.
LU-P-2 Land Use
Allow clustering or transferring of all or part of the development
potential of a site to a portion of the site to protect significant
environmental resources such as vegetated habitats, sensitive
species, wildlife movement corridors, water features, and
geological features within proposed developments as open space
if the developer takes action to preserve the open space in
perpetuity.
Preservation can occur through methods including, but not
limited to, dedication to the City or a conservation entity such
as a conservancy, mitigation bank, or trust, or through
conservation easements, deed restrictions, or other means.
The seven-lot subdivision described under Policy LU-P-1 is designed
to minimize negative impacts to the existing hillside. The main
access road curves away from the hillside to follow the natural
contours, thereby substantially reducing the retaining wall heights
and minimize potential aesthetic and biological impacts to the
eastern portion of the site. 10.4 acres of the 12.9-acre site will be
preserved as open space area and will remain undeveloped in
perpetuity, with the exception of the planting of mitigation trees and
installation of temporary irrigation as part of the project.
Community
Development
LU-P-3 Land Use
As opportunities arise, collaborate with regional agencies and
neighboring jurisdictions on land use and transportation planning in
line with regional planning efforts such as the Regional
Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy.
On November 30, 2022, the Planning Division reviewed and
submitted household and employment data, and land use and
entitlement maps for the Southern California Association of
Government’s (SCAG) Connect SOCAL 2024, The 2024 Regional
Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy.
Community
Development
LU-P-4 Land Use
Monitor and evaluate potential impacts of proposed adjacent, local,
and regional developments to anticipate and require mitigation to
the greatest extent feasible to reduce land use, circulation, and
economic impacts on Diamond Bar.
On December 6, 2022, staff attending a public scoping meeting for
the Notice of Preparation of a Draft Environmental Impact Report for
the Royal Vista Residential and Parks project located adjacent to
and in proximity to the City’s east boundary (approximately
southwest of Golden Springs and Calbourne Drive). The proposed
project would redevelop portions of the existing private golf course
into 360 residences and two recreational/open space trail and park
areas on a 75.64-acre site. On December 12, 2022, staff provided
written comments to LA County Department of Regional Planning
requesting that the Draft EIR analyze the potential blight, land use,
public safety, and transportation impacts associated with the project.
Community
Development
LU-P-5 Land Use
Ensure that adequate public services, facilities, and infrastructure
are available or provided to support new development, including
water, wastewater, stormwater, solid waste, transportation, public
safety, and parks.
Safe, Clean Water Program (Measure W)
Staff prepared and submitted the City’s Measure W Annual Plan and
executed Fund Transfer Agreement to the County of Los Angeles for
processing as the final items required by the County to disperse the
local return funds to Diamond Bar. The Annual Plan outlined the
City’s proposed Measure W expenditures for the fiscal year,
including CIP projects, routine maintenance, consultant costs, efforts
to pursue grant funding, and staff time. As a result, Diamond Bar
received $836,902.45 for FY 2022-2023.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
In 2022, Measure W funds were used to design and construct a
drainage solution for the persistent groundwater seeping onto
Flapjack Drive's public streets, creating algae and potential slip
hazards. Additionally, funds are currently being used to construct
drainage diversion gutters for the Canyon Loop Trail Improvement
Project in order to divert runoff around the trail, preventing erosion
and slip hazards. Funds were also used to sweep and cleanup the
right of way throughout the City in order to prevent debris from
entering the storm drain system and removing slip hazards from the
sidewalks and streets.
Also applies to Community, Character, and Placemaking Chapter
policies CC-P-5 and CC-P-6, and Resource Conservation Chapter
Goal RC-G-12.
LU-P-6 Land Use
When appropriate, require new development to pay its fair share of
the public facilities and off-site improvements needed to serve the
proposed use.
The Public Works Dept. requires all new development projects to pay
their fair share of public improvements, including a City sewer fee
(when applicable), traffic, and road infrastructure. An example of
such a project paying its fair share in 2022 was the Brea Canyon
Business Park project located at 850 S. Brea Canyon Road.
Public Works
LU-P-7 Land Use
As larger vacant or underutilized sites within the built environment
are developed or redeveloped, maximize multimodal accessibility
with appropriately designed street networks, and walkable block
sizes scaled to proposed uses.
The Town Center Specific Plan (see Goal LU-G-4 above) will
establish a fine-grained street and block grid to encourage
pedestrian and bicycle circulation, and improved connectivity
between the east and west sides of Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Community
Development
RESIDENTIAL
Goals
LU-G-7 Land Use Promote a variety of housing and neighborhood types that respond
to a range of income, household sizes, and accessibility levels.
On October 5, 2022, the State Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) certified the Housing Element
Update for the 2021-2029 planning period (sixth cycle) which
included analyses of the community’s housing needs, opportunities
and constraints, as well as policies and programs to facilitate the
construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of housing for all
economic segments of the community.
On July 20, 2021, the City adopted its Accessory Dwelling Unit
(ADU) Ordinance to comply with current ADU law pursuant to AB
3182 (2020) and SB 13, AB 68, AB 881, AB 587, AB 670, and AB
671 (2019). The City has been processing new ADUs in accordance
with the new State laws and continues to encourage ADUs and
Junior ADUs, which provide an affordable housing option for lower
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
income households. In 2022, 42 building permits for ADUs were
issued.
Policies
LU-P-8 Land Use
Ensure that new residential development be compatible with the
prevailing character of the surrounding neighborhood in terms of
building scale, density, massing, and design. Where the General
Plan designates higher densities, provide adequate transitions to
existing development.
All new residential development requires review and approval by the
Planning Commission through a Development Review application
process to assess a project’s compatibility, architectural design, size,
scale and massing with the neighborhood. The Planning
Commission reviews the design to ensure compliance with the City’s
General Plan policies and design guidelines, and to minimize
adverse effects of the proposed project upon the surrounding
properties and the City in general. In compliance with recent
legislation, the City has begun the process of formulating objective
design standards for residential development, beginning with the
drafting of the Town Center Specific Plan regulatory document.
Community
Development
LU-P-9 Land Use
Incorporate architectural and landscape design features in new
development that create more pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods,
such as orientation to the street; set-back, or detached garages;
tree-lined streets; and landscaped parkways between streets and
sidewalks.
Through the development review process, all new development is
reviewed to promote high functional and aesthetic architectural and
landscape standards to complement and add to the economic,
physical, and social character of Diamond Bar.
Community
Development
COMMERCIAL, OFFICE, AND INDUSTRIAL
Policies
LU-P-14 Land Use
Improve vehicular accessibility, traffic flow, and parking availability
as well as pedestrian and bicycle access and amenities within
office, commercial, and industrial areas.
During project review, staff ensures that all office, commercial, and
industrial areas provide improved vehicular accessibility, traffic flow,
and parking availability as well as review for opportunities to
incorporate pedestrian and bicycle access and amenities.
Adaptive Traffic Control System
The City's Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) is a traffic
management strategy in which traffic signal timing changes or
adapts based on actual traffic demand. This is accomplished using
an adaptive traffic control system consisting of both hardware an d
software. The system's deployment (hardware and software) was
completed and deployed in 2020. Considering the unusual
fluctuations in the traffic load due to COVID-19 in the City's main
arterials during 2020 and parts of 2021, the system proved to be
responsive to those changes by updating signal timing in real -time.
In 2022, the system recently received software and database
upgrades. Staff continues to fine-tune the system for a robust
coverage of the traffic circulation on the City’s main arterials.
Community
Development
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
Diamond Bar Boulevard/SR60 Eastbound Ramp Intersection
project (Diamond Bar Blvd dual left turn to SR-60 East onramp)
In 2022, the City worked with Metro and San Gabriel Valley Council
of Governments (SGVCOG) and got Metro Board’s approval for a
$1M funding request for the City’s Diamond Bar Blvd. Dual Left Turn
at SR60 EB Ramp Project. This project will be constructed as a
change order to the main 57/60 Confluence Project.
MIXED USE
Goals – General
LU-G-12 Land Use
Encourage compact mixed-use developments and projects that are
walkable, designed to encourage community interaction, and fulfill
a diversity of local commercial, employment, housing, and
recreational needs.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
LU-G-13 Land Use Maximize multi-modal accessibility to and connectivity within
mixed-use areas. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-P-7. Community
Development
LU-G-14 Land Use
Foster development of nodes or clusters of mixed-use centers to
promote city and neighborhood identity, improve accessibility to
stores, parks, natural open spaces, and services, and promote
walkable, pedestrian-scaled retail and dining destinations.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
Goals – Town Center Mixed Use G
LU-G-22 Land Use
Promote and support the commercial area on both sides of
Diamond Bar Boulevard from Golden Springs Drive to SR-60 as a
vibrant, pedestrian-oriented Town Center that serves as Diamond
Bar’s primary specialty retail and dining destination and is
accessible to all Diamond Bar residents.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
LU-G-23 Land Use Ensure an inviting and comfortable public realm to encourage
pedestrian activity in the Town Center area. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
LU-G-24 Land Use Allow residential and office uses as secondary to commercial (retail,
dining, and entertainment) uses. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
Policies – General
LU-P-19 Land Use
To meet the recreational needs of new residents, ensure that new
residential and mixed-use developments larger than four acres
incorporate public parkland in the neighborhoods where such
developments are located. Residential and mixed-use
developments under four acres may provide dedicated parkland, in
A 7-unit residential subdivision was approved by the City Council on
May 17, 2022. The in-lieu fee for the project was determined to be
$270,319 and shall be paid prior to the issuance of building permits
for the construction of the homes within the subdivision.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
lieu fees, or a combination, in accordance with Diamond Bar’s park
acreage standards.
Policies – Town Center Mixed Use
LU-P-35 Land Use
Ensure that any reuse, redevelopment, or refurbishment of the
Town Center area maintains a dominance of retail, dining, and
entertainment uses. Allow residential uses within the designation’s
permitted maximum range, as well as offices, either on upper floors
or otherwise in locations that do not detract from the area’s
predominant role as a community shopping, dining, and
entertainment destination.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
LU-P-36 Land Use
Prioritize and support renovation, infill, and reuse of the existing
commercial center. Require, where appropriate, redesign and
modernization of architectural treatment and the introduction of
finer-grained pedestrian network, as well as utilization of parking
lots to create central gathering spaces and make the Town Center
more pedestrian-friendly.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
LU-P-37 Land Use
Utilize buildings and streetscapes to define the public realm and
encourage pedestrian activity and comfort.
To further promote these objectives, incorporate attractive
landscaping elements and usable outdoor green spaces,
and discourage new drive through uses.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
LU-P-38 Land Use
Promote site designs that create an active street frontage and
screen off-street parking from the Diamond Bar Boulevard and
Golden Springs Drive frontages.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
LU-P-39 Land Use
Streetscape and intersection improvements along the major
corridors of South Diamond Bar Boulevard and Golden Springs
Drive should enhance connectivity, comfort, and safety for all
modes of travel, and increase accessibility to and from surrounding
areas.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
LU-P-41 Land Use
Maximize accessibility for transit, automobiles, cyclists, and
pedestrians to the Town Center from surrounding neighborhoods,
the Metrolink station, and other Diamond Bar destinations.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
LU-P-42 Land Use
Avoid expanses of surface parking and encourage the
consolidation and location of parking to the rear or side of buildings
where appropriate.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
LU-P-43 Land Use
When updating the Development Code’s parking standards or
preparing specific plans, evaluate parking ratios for the Town
Center to balance the financial feasibility of development projects
with the provision of adequate parking for visitors. Coordinate with
developers and transit agencies to the extent possible to provide
alternative modes of transportation to allow for reduced parking
requirements.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
PUBLIC FACILITIES, OPEN SPACE, AND HILLSIDES
Goals
LU-P-54 Land Use
When a public agency determines that land it owns is no longer
needed, advocate for the property to first be offered to other
agencies, including the City of Diamond Bar, for public uses, prior
to conversion to private sector use.
The City continued to follow up with Caltrans regarding the status of
the vacant property at the former SR60 EB ramps on Golden Springs
Drive at Brea Canyon Road.
Public Works
LU-P-55 Land Use
Preserve publicly-owned, undeveloped hillsides, as well as
privately-owned hillsides with an Open Space General Plan
designation, as natural open space in perpetuity. On privately-
owned property which has a residential land use designation,
preserve hillsides as natural open space through Diamond Bar’s
Hillside Management Ordinance by allowing residential
development only at the permitted densities and where
development would not detract from the protection and overall
perception of the hillsides as natural topographic and ecological
features, or negatively impact public safety or welfare.
On May 17, 2022, the City approved a 7-lot residential subdivision
located between the southern terminus of Crooked Creek Drive and
the southern City limits. 10.4 acres of the 12.9-acre site will be
preserved as open space area and will remain undeveloped in
perpetuity, with the exception of the planting of mitigation trees and
installation of temporary irrigation as part of the project.
Community
Development
LU-P-56 Land Use
Ensure that development on privately owned, residentially
designated land in hillside areas is compatible with surrounding
natural areas promoting the following design principles:
a) Minimize—as articulated by the landform grading criteria of
the Development Code’s Hillside Management
regulations—excavation, grading, and earthwork to retain
natural vegetation and topography;
b) Preserve existing vistas of significant hillside features such
as ridgelines, particularly from public places;
c) Do not create unsafe conditions;
d) Incorporate site and architectural designs that are sensitive
to natural contours and land forms and hydrological
features;
e) Preserve natural watersheds, including existing vegetation
within undeveloped hillside areas to the maximum extent
feasible, including mature trees and native plant materials;
All new residential development requires review and approval by the
Planning Commission through a Development Review application
process to ensure compliance with the design principles listed.
Violation Prevention
To preserve resources and prevent code violations, the City issued
9 NPDES Notices of Violation, mostly related to illicit discharges into
the storm drain system.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter policies CR-P-60, CR-P-62, and
CR-P-64, Resource Conservation Chapter goals and policies RC-G-
7, RC-P-23, and RC-P-33, and Public Safety Chapter policy PS-P-3.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
f) Incorporate fuel modification as part of the Fire
Department’s approved fuel modification program;
g) Utilize planting palettes consisting of drought tolerant, fire
resistant, non-invasive plants that are native to or
compatible with those in the surrounding area; and
h) Group plants within swale areas to more closely reflect
natural conditions within landform graded slopes.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Goals
ED-G-1 Economic Development
Prioritize infill development opportunities and the reuse of existing
vacant commercial space to grow the city’s base of residents and
employment to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability and promote
conservation of natural open space.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
Policies – Commercial Centers
ED-P-3 Economic Development
Create commercial centers or districts that have a sense of place
and provide attractive places to shop, dine, and gather. Within
these areas, support the development of uses and distinct
characters that complement other commercial areas within
Diamond Bar and adjacent jurisdictions.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4.
On July 21, 2022, a community workshop was held at the Diamond
Bar Center to introduce the Town Center Specific Plan process and
encourage an open exchange of ideas about the desired look, feel
and palette of land uses for the new downtown. More than 100
residents attended the workshop. During the week of August 22,
2022, a weeklong design charrette also took place at the City Hall
Windmill Room. The design exercise kicked off by incorporating the
public input from the prior month’s workshop into drawings and
sketches. The public were able to stop in, meet with the architects
and designers, critique the design concepts, and mark up the design
team’s drawings. There were evening presentations to share with
the public how the design concepts and alternatives evolved over
the course of the weeklong exercises. During the charrette, as well
as weeks leading up to it, the project team conducted stakeholder
interviews with most of the Town Center property owners and
community leaders.
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Policies – Community-Serving Uses
ED-P-6 Economic Development
Work with property owners of existing office centers to increase the
daytime population and facilitate opportunities to attract quality
office tenants and supporting commercial businesses.
Although not within an office center, Providence Health & Services
opened a 27,000 square-foot medical office facility at 253 S.
Diamond Bar Boulevard, within the Diamond Bar Ranch shopping
Center (part of the Town Center Specific Plan project area), adding
60-to-70 high-paying jobs to the daytime population. The addition to
Diamond Bar’s workforce has benefited the local economy through
its patronage of surrounding retail, restaurant, service and fuel sales
businesses.
The new three-story medical office building in the Brea Canyon
Business Park located at 850 S. Brea Canyon Road is nearing its
final stages of construction. Estimated completion is the first quarter
of 2023.
Community
Development
ED-P-7 Economic Development Allow for home occupations where compatible with the privacy and
residential character of the neighborhood.
Home based businesses are allowed, and are required to comply
with the operating standards in Diamond Bar Municipal Code Section
22.42.070, where the business shall be incidental and secondary to
the residential use of the property. Modifications that alter the
character of the residence or change its occupancy classification are
prohibited, and activities that create nuisances, such as glare, light,
noise, solid waste, or other characteristics in excess of that
customarily associated with similar residential uses are prohibited.
Eighty-eight home based business licenses were issued in 2022.
Community
Development
2. Community Character & Placemaking
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER & PLACEMAKING
This Chapter guides the physical form and character of the City by providing strategies to strengthen the City’s identity thr ough both new development and public improvements. Placemaking elements include
features such as monuments and decorative treatments that define City entry points, public art installations, decorative stre etscape elements at key intersections or districts, and landscaping that creates a
memorable and unified character. The Goals and Polices contained in this Chapter provide direction to incorporate such elements into both new development proj ects and public improvements. The majority of
the Goals and Policies are related to the new opportunities within the four mixed-use focus areas and encourage walkable and pedestrian -oriented neighborhoods.
OVERALL CHARACTER & DESIGN
Goals
CC-G-2 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage development within mixed-use areas that is inviting to
pedestrians, promotes community interaction and activity, and
contributes to an engaging street environment.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
CC-G-4 Community Character &
Placemaking
Preserve the scale and character of existing residential
neighborhoods and ensure sensitive transitions between densities
and uses.
All new residential development requires review and approval by the
Planning Commission through a Development Review application
process to assess a project’s compatibility, architectural design,
size, scale and massing with the neighborhood. The Planning
Commission reviews the design to ensure compliance with the City’s
General Plan policies and design guidelines, and ensure sensitive
transitions between densities and uses. Beginning with the Town
Center Specific Plan, efforts are underway to establish objective
design standards to support this goal.
Community
Development
CC-G-5 Community Character &
Placemaking
Provide an expanded pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure network
to improve connectivity throughout the city where topography and
technology permit.
Diamond Bar Boulevard Complete Streets Corridor
The design of the Diamond Bar Boulevard Complete Streets Project
was completed in 2020. The construction cost for the project is
estimated to be around $6 million. The City has secured $3 million
in Metro grant funding for construction. In June, the City submitted
a grant application for ATP Cycle 6 funding. While the project was
not selected for the first round of grant funding consideration, the
project is being considered for funding during the secondary
Metropolitan Planning Organization allocation..
Golden Springs Drive from Lemon Avenue to Brea Canyon
Road Rehabilitation
The City improved approximately 0.6 miles of bike lanes as a part of
the Diamond Bar Blvd Rehabilitation Project completed in October.
The existing Class II bike lanes were re-striped to add a 4’ wide
buffered zone, providing greater separation between bicyclists and
vehicles. This design is being incorporated into all future arterial
rehabilitation projects.
Also applies to Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goals
CC-G-7 and CC-G-10 and Policies CC-P-5 through CC-P-7, CC-P-
9, and Circulation Chapter Goal CR-G-2 and Policies CR-P-4, CR-
P-14, and CR-P-29.
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Policies – City Identity
CC-P-1 Community Character &
Placemaking
Develop visual gateways at entry points to the city and at the
entrances to the Neighborhood Mixed Use, Town Center, Transit-
Oriented Mixed Use, and Community Core areas. Establish a
gateway design palette and guidelines consistent with the existing
gateway at Grand Avenue and Longview Drive, employing the
same or a similar elements of streetscape design, monument
signage, lighting, and building massing and setback.
Grand Avenue/Golden Springs Drive Intersection
Improvements
The construction of the intersection improvements project
commenced in 2021 and will continue through mid-2023. Several
components of the work were completed in 2022, i.e., slope grading,
parts of the sidewalk work, decorative street lights, traffic signal
poles installation, tunnel, and decorative retaining walls. Golf course
tunnel relocation, storm drain improvement, pavement works on the
widening of the streets, completion of the sidewalks, and
landscaping on medians and slope landscape will be completed
during 2023.
Also applies to Community Character & Placemaking Chapter
Policies CC-P-4 through CC-P-7, CC-P-9 and Circulation Chapter
Policy CR-P-27.
Also applies to Community Character & Placemaking Chapter
Policies CC-P-4 through CC-P-7, CC-P-9 and Circulation Chapter
Policy CR-P-27.
Street Name Sign Design
Procurement of residential street name signs with the new design
(new windmill logo, new typeface, etc.) was completed for half of the
City and the installation (replacement) of the signs started in 2021.
The second half of the residential areas of the City will be covered in
2023.
Procurement of Internally Illuminated street name signs--with the
new design--and LED safety lights for arterial streets started in 2022
and the installation works are scheduled to be completed in 2023.
Procurement of new bus shelters for the City-wide replacement of
bus shelters started in 2022. Among other upgrades, the new bus
shelters will feature a City logo on the back panel.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter Policies CR-P-20 and CR-P-21.
Public Works
CC-P-4 Community Character &
Placemaking
Continue to support community identity with streetscape
improvement and beautification projects in both existing residential
areas and commercial centers, as well as new mixed-use areas that
incorporate unified landscaping and pedestrian amenities.
Amenities should include seating, bus shelters, pedestrian safety
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-P-1. Public Works
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treatments such as sidewalk bulb-outs and widening and improved
crosswalks, and city-branded decorative elements such as street
lighting, concrete pavers, tree grates, and theme rails.
CC-P-5 Community Character &
Placemaking
Establish a landscaping palette made up of native, drought-tolerant
plants and stormwater management systems with a view to
enhancing beautification and sustainable landscaping practices.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-5 and
Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 and
Policy CC-P-1.
The streetscape design in the TCSP project area will be centered
around reducing the number of years to carbon neutral/zero carbon
in order to reduce the effects of climate change by planting
evergreen trees and installation of cool pavements such as hydro
pavers.
Community
Development and
Public Works
CC-P-6 Community Character &
Placemaking
Prioritize sustainability in site design. When incorporating on-site
stormwater management through the use of bioswales, rain
gardens, permeable pavement, and/or other available low-impact
development technologies, require such features to be aesthetically
integrated into the site design.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-5 and
Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 and
Policy CC-P-1.
Sunset Crossing Park
The proposed Sunset Crossing Park is located adjacent to the
Diamond Bar Channel, which handles the drainage from
approximately 1,600 acres within the City of Diamond Bar. This
makes the park an excellent candidate for a water quality treatment
facility that can be incorporated into the proposed park’s design. To
further study the feasibility of such a treatment facility, staff submitted
an application to the LA County Flood Control District for funding
through their Measure W Technical Resources Program (TRP),
which funds the development of Project Feasibility Studies for water
quality purposes. The City was awarded $300,000 in TRP funding
that is being used to fund the feasibility study prepared by Technical
Assistance Teams from the County, add the Sunset Crossing Park
project to an eligible water quality plan, and address other
prerequisites to apply for the Infrastructure Program, which awards
construction funding to water quality projects. Monthly
design/coordination meetings were taking place in 2022 to discuss
project alternatives. Only the stormwater capture/treatment-related
elements and certain landscape elements would be eligible for
Measure W funding.
Also applies to Resource Conservation Chapter Policy RC-P-22 and
Public Facilities & Services Chapter Goal PF-G-1 and Policies PF-
P-3 and PF-P-12.
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Policies – Streetscapes & Building to Street Interface
CC-P-7 Community Character &
Placemaking
Ensure that new development provides an integrated pattern of
roadways, bicycle routes and paths, and pedestrian connections
within and between neighborhoods that are safe, comfortable, and
accessible sidewalks for people of all ages and abilities.
See Land Use Chapter Policy LU-P-7 and Community Character &
Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 and Policy CC-P-1. Public Works
CC-P-9 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage pedestrian orientation in mixed-use development using
a variety of site planning and architectural strategies, such as
locating and orienting buildings to street frontages, plazas, or
pedestrian paseos; providing visual transparency through
fenestration; entries and arcades close to the street edge and
sidewalk; and/or incorporating porches, patios, or outdoor spaces
that overlook or interact with front yards or sidewalks.
The TCSP will develop form-based development standards and
guidelines that are customized to deliver development consistent
with the community’s vision for the TCSP area. Form-based codes
provides a land development regulation that fosters predictable built
results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form (rather
than separation of uses_ as the organizing principle for the code).
The TSCP is intended to create vibrant public realm with a high
intensity mix of uses to include retail, office, hotel, civic, and
residential uses, and a bustling active environment during both day
and evening hours. Numerous new public spaces, both hardscape
squares and landscaped greener park spaces, will be located
throughout the Plan area to provide a variety of environments that
will serve residents and downtown visitors alike.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and LU-P-7 and Community
Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 and Policy CC-P-1.
Community
Development
CC-P-11 Community Character &
Placemaking
In residential and mixed-use areas, use traffic calming measures
such as pavers, bollards, sidewalk bulb-outs, and speed humps to
slow travel speeds.
Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP)
In residential neighborhoods, the NTMP continues to be an effective
tool in providing a procedure to implement traffic calming devices in
neighborhoods that experience speeding and cut-through traffic. The
program’s goal is to improve the livability of neighborhoods by
empowering residents with the proper calming devices to modify
driver behavior.
Staff completed the first two NTMP meetings with the Hawkwood
Drive neighborhood to introduce the program and review the initial
design with the community. Final plans were approved, and
construction quotes were procured for the project.
The final plans were approved, and construction was completed for
the N Del Sol NTMP as approved by the neighborhood residents.
Staff will follow up with the neighborhood and collect traffic data in
approximately six months to gauge the effectiveness of the traffic-
calming measures.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter Policies CR-P-22 and CR-P-23
and Community Health & Sustainability Policy CHS-P-29.
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Policies – Parks & Open Spaces
CC-P-13 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage landscaped common public spaces to be incorporated
into new mixed-use development. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
CC-P-16 Community Character &
Placemaking
Ensure that common spaces be integrated elements of
development, coordinating landscaping and amenities with the
projects’ architecture and character.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
Policies – Site Planning & Parking
CC-P-17 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage the aggregation of individual small lots into larger
development parcels within mixed-use areas that will support an
appropriately-scaled, cohesive and economically viable
development.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4.
The TCSP is an important component of the City’s overall strategy
to revitalize older areas and expand housing production. Incentives
for lot consolidation are being considered as the TCSP is being
crafted to encourage the improvement of underutilized properties.
Community
Development
CC-P-18 Community Character &
Placemaking
As large vacant or underutilized sites are developed or
redeveloped, maximize multimodal accessibility with fine -grained
street networks and walkable block sizes. Generally limit new block
sizes to a maximum of about 400 feet in length. Mid-block plazas or
alleys may be considered if the intent is to ensure fine-grained
patterns where pedestrian access can be accommodated in
intervals no more than 400 feet apart.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7. Community
Development
CC-P-21 Community Character &
Placemaking
Site plans should be designed to create pedestrian-oriented
neighborhoods that follow these guidelines:
a) Buildings should be oriented to the street;
b) Garages and parking areas should be screened and/or
located at the side or rear of properties wherever possible;
and
c) Landscaping, sidewalk conditions, and other streetscape
elements should be improved during rehabilitation and new
construction.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-7.
Some of the planning goals for the TCSP include the following:
1. To implement the community vision, goals and policies of the
General Plan, which established the Town Center Mixed-Use
land use designation to “foster the development of a vibrant,
pedestrian-oriented Town Center in Diamond Bar that serves
as a place for Diamond Bar’s residents to shop, dine, and
gather.
2. To make the town center a complete neighborhood with a
sense of place, that takes advantage of its location, to provide
residents and visitors a unique experience.
3. Ensure that the physical design and programming of the town
center supports health, wellbeing, and environmental
sustainability, the latter so as to make progress toward
meeting the greenhouse gas reduction targets of the
Diamond Bar Climate Action Plan by supporting compact,
infill, mixed-use development.
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4. The town center allows for car-lite/car-optional living allowing
those who choose not to use their car on a daily basis or who
choose not to own a car at all to be easily accommodated thus
furthering progress to the City’s climate action goals.
5. The town center provides great public spaces, and small
parks with regenerative landscapes to support the goal of
environmental sustainability.
CC-P-22 Community Character &
Placemaking
Orient buildings adjacent to public spaces such that entries,
windows, and seating areas face the public space.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-23 Community Character &
Placemaking
Where appropriate and feasible, locate and orient active uses (such
as commercial uses and parks) along the street edges of new
mixed-use development, at street corners, or along main roadways
internal to larger developments.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-25 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage the design of shared parking for commercial and office
uses where possible.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-26 Community Character &
Placemaking
Establish reduced minimum commercial parking requirements for
all development within new mixed-use land use designations.
Reduced parking requirements should be supported by proximity to
transit, shared parking, and technologies that, once mainstreamed,
would reduce the need for conventional parking layouts.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
Development
Policies – Building Massing and Design
CC-P-32 Community Character &
Placemaking
Emphasize human-scaled design within large-scale commercial
and mixed-use centers. Employ measures such as articulated
massing, awnings, and landscape elements to break down the
scale of development.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-33 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage new mixed-use and commercial development to
incorporate visual quality and interest in architectural design on all
visible sides of buildings through the following approaches:
a) Utilizing varied massing and roof types, floor plans, detailed
planting design, or color and materials;
b) Maintaining overall harmony while providing smaller-scale
variety; and
c) Articulating building facades with distinctive architectural
features like awnings, windows, doors, and other such
elements.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
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CC-P-35 Community Character &
Placemaking
Ensure the protection of views of hillsides and ridges from public
streets, parks, trails, and community facilities by requiring a visual
impact analysis for new development that identifies potential
impacts to visual resources as well as feasible measures to mitigate
any potential impacts.
On May 17, 2022, the City approved a 7-lot residential subdivision
located between the southern terminus of Crooked Creek Drive and
the southern City limits. The Project is designed to minimize
negative impacts to the existing hillside. The main access road
curves away from the hillside to follow the natural contours, thereby
substantially reducing the retaining wall heights and minimize
potential aesthetic and biological impacts to the eastern portion of
the site. Additionally, a row of large trees will be planted along the
rear yards of the new homes to not only minimize the visual impact
of the development, but to maintain privacy for the existing and future
residents. With the proposed landscape easement in the rear yards
of these residential lots, a landscaping buffer will be maintained in
order to provide some visual relief to existing homes.
Community
Development
NEIGHBORHOOD MIXED USE FOCUS AREA
Goals
CC-G-7 Community Character &
Placemaking
Create a well-designed, walkable, mixed-use neighborhood that
encourages community interaction, showcases the city’s identity,
and is integrated with residential uses to the east.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 Community
Development
CC-G-8 Community Character &
Placemaking
Promote vertical and horizontal mixed-use development along
Diamond Bar Boulevard. See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 Community
Development
Policies
TOWN CENTER MIXED USE FOCUS AREA
Goals
CC-G-11 Community Character &
Placemaking
Support an intense mix of active uses on both sides of Diamond Bar
Boulevard within the Town Center focus area. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy LU-P-21. Community
Development
CC-G-12 Community Character &
Placemaking
Establish an inviting and comfortable public realm that encourages
pedestrian activity in the Town Center focus area.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-G-13 Community Character &
Placemaking
Establish a new pedestrian-oriented “Main Street” within the Town
Center focus area lined with retail uses.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
Policies
CC-P-41 Community Character &
Placemaking
Through development review, ensure that the Town Center remains
predominantly a community shopping, dining, and entertainment
destination, and that residential uses and offices are located so as
not to detract from this image.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
Development
CC-P-42 Community Character &
Placemaking
Prioritize retail and other uses that promote pedestrian activity on
the ground floor of buildings.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
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CC-P-43 Community Character &
Placemaking
Establish gateways to the Town Center area at the intersections of
Diamond Bar Boulevard and Golden Springs Drive and at Diamond
Bar Boulevard and Palomino Drive. Gateway elements should be
consistent with the gateway design palette.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-44 Community Character &
Placemaking
As the Town Center redevelops, enhance pedestrian connectivity
throughout the district through the incorporation of a new “Main
Street” within the western portion of the focus area that is off of or
set back from Diamond Bar Boulevard.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-45 Community Character &
Placemaking
The design of new development should be pedestrian -oriented, with
the majority of building frontages located at the new street edge and
with entrances located along the roadway or along pedestrian
pathways or public spaces.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-46 Community Character &
Placemaking
Ensure that new buildings employ horizontal and vertical building
articulation and diversity in color, materials, scale, texture, and
building volumes.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
Development
CC-P-47 Community Character &
Placemaking
Develop specific building height and other development standards
through implementation mechanisms such as the City’s Zoning
Ordinance or a master or specific planning process.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
Development
CC-P-48 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage dining establishments to incorporate outdoor dining or
sidewalk cafés. See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
Development
CC-P-49 Community Character &
Placemaking
Encourage reductions in surface parking and allow for the
development of consolidated parking structures, provided that they
are screened from view from Diamond Bar Boulevard and Golden
Springs Drive.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-50 Community Character &
Placemaking
Where possible, above-grade parking structures should be
wrapped with pedestrian uses where they front onto active streets.
If active uses are not feasible, frontages should be architecturally
attractive. This may include unique designs and materials such as
glass, articulated masonry, murals, or landscaping setbacks.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CC-P-51 Community Character &
Placemaking
Enhance the pedestrian experience along Diamond Bar Boulevard
within the Town Center area with widened sidewalks, shade trees,
and pedestrian amenities such as street furniture, attractive paving,
pedestrian-scaled lighting, and landscape buffers.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
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3. Circulation
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
CIRCULATION
This Chapter is aimed at improving the transportation network within the City, balancing the circulation needs with safety an d access across a variety of modes of transportation, including automobile travel,
public transit, non-motorized transportation and goods movement through a Complete Streets approach.
TRANSPORTATION NETWORK AND STREET DESIGN
Goals
CR-G-3 Circulation
Strive to achieve a finer grained network of streets and
pedestrian/bicycle connections as development occurs, especially
in focus areas such as the Transit-Oriented, Neighborhood, Town
Center, and Community Core mixed-use areas.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CR-G-4 Circulation
Design roadways serving pedestrian-oriented mixed-use areas to
promote neighborhood interaction, pedestrian comfort and
walkability, and commercial patronage.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
CR-G-5 Circulation
Develop neighborhood streets and alleys that encourage walking,
biking, and outdoor activity through engineering and urban design
principles that reduce the potential for speeding and cut-through
traffic, which may include traffic calming measures.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
Policies
CR-P-1 Circulation
When redesigning streets, plan for the needs of different modes by
incorporating elements such as shade for pedestrians, safe
pedestrian-friendly crossings/ intersections, lighting at the
pedestrian scale, bike lanes, signage visible to relevant modes,
transit amenities, etc.
Citywide Bus Shelter Replacement
In 2022, the City signed an agreement with a new bus shelter
advertisement franchisee to: a) Replace all bus shelters and
unsheltered bus stops amenities city-wide using Prop A funding, b)
Manage advertising on the future bus shelters, and c) Maintain all
bus stops (sheltered and unsheltered).
Procurement of the new shelters, benches, and trash cans started in
2022, and the construction work and the transition from the old
franchisee to the new franchisee will be completed in 2023.
Additionally, in 2021, The Foothill Transit Grant program re -opened
its call for applications after a one year delay. The City applied for a
grant to replace two bus shelters. The City was awarded the grant in
2022, procurement is currently underway, followed by construction
early 2023. This project grant will be coordinated with the City-wide
bus shelter replacement project.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter Goal CR-P-3, CR-G-13 and
Policies CR-P-8 and CR-P-48
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
CR-P-2 Circulation
Promote new street designs and efforts to retrofit existing streets in
residential neighborhoods minimize traffic volumes and/or speed as
appropriate without compromising connectivity for emergency
vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and users of mobility devices.
Local Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Grant
Application
Federal regulations require each state to develop a Strategic
Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) to reduce traffic accident fatalities and
serious injuries on all public roadways. While the SHSP is used as a
statewide approach for improving roadway safety, a Local Road
Safety Plan (LRSP) is the means for providing City-owned roads with
the opportunity to address unique highway safety needs in their
jurisdictions while contributing to the SHSP. The City applied for and
was awarded a grant by Caltrans to develop an LRSP. The City’s
LRSP was completed in, and its findings were presented to the City’s
Traffic and Transportation Commission 2022. An LRSP is a
recommended prerequisite to apply for specific State Grant
applications, including HSIP Grants which are awarded to implement
the recommendations in the LRSP. In 2022, the City submitted a
Caltrans Cycle 11 HSIP Grant application with a list of proposed
traffic improvements. Caltrans will award Grants during 2023.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter Policies CR-P-19, CR-P-26, CR-
P-45, and CR-P-65, and Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-35.
Public Works
CR-P-3 Circulation
Plan for and provide new connections within the Transit -Oriented,
Neighborhood, Town Center, and Community Core mixed-use
areas to create finer grained, pedestrian-scaled circulation
networks that support the development of connected and
accessible neighborhoods. Connections should facilitate the use of
alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, such as walking,
bicycling, and transit by improving the safety and accessibility of
those modes.
See Circulation Chapter Policies CR-P-1 and Goal CR-G-13. Public Works
CR-P-4 Circulation
Develop traffic calming strategies for Diamond Bar Boulevard
between Temple Avenue and Golden Springs Drive in order to
provide a safe and comfortable pedestrian-friendly environment
along and through the Neighborhood Mixed Use and Town Center
Mixed Use areas.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5. Public Works
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VEHICLE CIRCULATION
Policies – Level of Service (LOS) Standards
CR-P-14 Circulation
Prioritize pedestrian movement and safety— through wider
sidewalks, more frequent pedestrian crossings, sidewalk bulbouts,
median pedestrian refuges etc.—rather than LOS in Community
Character Priority Areas, which are areas designated for higher
density mixed-use development in the General Plan.
See Section 4.4 for more detailed policies on bicycle and
pedestrian movement in mixed-use areas.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5 Public Works
CR-P-16 Circulation
Allow exceptions to LOS standards upon findings by the City
Council that achieving the designated LOS would:
a) Be technologically or economically infeasible; or
b) Compromise the City’s ability to support other important
policy priorities, including but not limited to:
i. Promoting alternate modes of transportation;
ii. Ensuring pedestrian, bicycle and automobile safety,
comfort, and convenience;
iii. Reducing VMT and GHG emissions; and
iv. Preserving and enhancing character of the
community.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-2. Public Works
Policies – Adaptive Traffic Control (ATCS) & Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS)
CR-P-20 Circulation
Implement measures such as additional signal timing and
synchronization, speed limit regulations, and ITS techniques to
increase safety and reduce congestion. Maintain a pavement
management system and maintenance program for all public
roadways throughout the City.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-14.
Battery Back-Up and CCTV Replacement Program
Battery backup units are a critical part of the City’s public safety
efforts as they allow traffic signals to operate fully for a short period
and then operate on red flash for several hours in an emergency
resulting in a power outage. CCTV cameras display live feeds of the
City’s most heavily used intersections, allowing staff to view and
diagnose any traffic or Public Safety concerns quickly. The City
implemented a multi-year program to replace battery backup
systems that have reached their useful life on the City’s 66 signalized
intersections. The City is also implementing CCTV cameras at
intersections that do not already have them. Year 1 of the multi-year
program was completed in 2022. The year 2 project is currently
underway and scheduled to be completed by mid-2023.
Also applies to Circulation Chapter policy CR-P-21.
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CR-P-21 Circulation
On an ongoing basis, examine opportunities to avoid delay,
spillover, or cut-through traffic onto Diamond Bar’s roadways
through techniques such as adaptive traffic control systems along
major corridors and traffic calming measures along cut-through
routes that would reduce speeds and discourage drivers from
electing to drive on them. Consider financial and technological
feasibility and community priorities to determine whether and how
strategies should be implemented.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-14
and Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-20. Public Works
Policies – Safety
CR-P-22 Circulation
Implement traffic calming measures to slow traffic on local and
collector residential streets and prioritize these measures over
congestion management where appropriate and feasible.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-P-11 Public Works
CR-P-23 Circulation
Maintain the integrity of existing residential areas and discourage
cut-through traffic by retaining cul-de-sacs and implementing other
traffic calming measures that promote safe driving at speeds
appropriate to the surrounding neighborhood, particularly at
Prospectors Road, Chaparral Drive, Sunset Crossing Road,
Lycoming Street, and Washington Street.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-P-11 Public Works
Policies – Inter-Jurisdictional Coordination
CR-P-26 Circulation
As opportunities arise, coordinate with other jurisdictions, including
neighboring cities, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County,
and Caltrans, on improvements to street segments common to the
City of Diamond Bar and other jurisdictions.
Cooperative Agreement with Caltrans for Traffic Detour During
SR-57 Pavement Rehabilitation
Caltrans District 7 roadway resurfacing and restoration project along
the State Route 57 (SR-57) freeway (the "Project") between the
County line and near Grand Ave continued in 2022. Under California
Streets and Highways Code Section 93, Caltrans is authorized to
construct and maintain detours that may be necessary to facilitate
traffic movement where state highways are closed or obstructed by
construction or otherwise. The City of Diamond Bar roadways will be
affected during Project-related traffic detours. The Project estimated
16 extended weekend closure detours (over eight two -day
weekends) for the Project's duration, which will be scheduled to be
implemented during the low traffic hours. No long full closure was
scheduled in 2021, but seven (7) closures have been completed in
2022. City staff and traffic consultants have been monitoring the
traffic flow and adjusting the City traffic signals timing as needed to
ensure a steady traffic flow during the detours. The City and Caltrans
negotiated a Traffic Detour Cooperative Agreement; the City will be
reimbursed for the traffic monitoring and signal adjustment and
additional Sheriff's services, as applicable. Per the Agreement and
upon completion of the Project, Caltrans, at its costs, will restore the
City streets impacted by the detours to their original condition before
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the detours. To achieve that goal, Caltrans, in coordination with the
City staff, evaluated the condition of streets before and after the
Project.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-2.
CR-P-27 Circulation
Encourage improvements to regional routes and arterial streets to
account for environmental, aesthetic, and noise concerns, as well
as to provide adequate buffers to adjacent land uses.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policies CC-P-1 Public Works
CR-P-29 Circulation Solicit State and Federal funds to improve area freeways and local
streets. See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Goal CC-G-5. Public Works
PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE CIRCULATION
Policies – Bicycle & Pedestrian Movement in Mixed Use Areas
CR-P-40 Circulation
Provide for a vibrant Town Center that encourages pedestrian
activity and comfort within the Town Center Mixed Use area while
accommodating through traffic along Diamond Bar Boulevard
through the following strategies:
a) Establishing a new pedestrian-oriented main street or
pedestrian pathway in the Town Center;
b) Enhancing the pedestrian experience along Diamond Bar
Boulevard within the Town Center area with widened
sidewalks, shade trees, and pedestrian amenities such as
street furniture, attractive paving, pedestrian-scaled lighting,
and landscape buffers;
c) Buffering bike lanes along Diamond Bar Boulevard;
d) Improving crosswalks at the intersection of Diamond Bar
Boulevard and Palomino Drive, at Diamond Bar Boulevard
and Golden Springs Drive, and where Diamond Bar
Boulevard intersects with the driveway to the Town Center;
and
e) Strengthening cyclist and pedestrian connections between
the Town Center area and nearby schools to provide safe
and convenient routes to the Town Center for students by
identifying barriers such as safety hazards and gaps in the
bicycle and pedestrian networks and implementing
improvements to address those barriers.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policies LU-P-7 and CC-
P-21.
Community
Development
Policies – Safety
CR-P-43 Circulation
When planning capital improvement programs, ensure that projects
incorporate measures that strengthen the protection of cyclists in
bike lanes by implementing improvements such as increasing
visibility of lane markings and signage, increasing bike lane widths,
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-20 Public Works
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raising lanes, designing safer intersection crossings and turns, and
buffering lanes from traffic wherever feasible, prioritizing bicycle
lanes along arterials.
CR-P-45 Circulation
Routinely review pedestrian and cyclist collision data for type,
location, severity, and cause, and develop strategies to prevent
these collisions.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-2 Public Works
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Goals
CR-G-13 Circulation Support the availability, efficiency, and effectiveness of public
transit service.
SGV Public Transit Feasibility Study
In 2021, the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments
(SGVCOG)—in partnership with Los Angeles Metro (Metro)—
started conducting a feasibility study to evaluate and improve
mobility in the San Gabriel Valley. The work continued in 2022, and
the City has been actively participating in the Technical Advisory
Committee of the study and provided its feedback on the alternatives
to protect the City’s interests, including the General Plan
recommendations.
Also applicable to Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-3
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-1
Public Works and City
Manager’s Office
Policies
CR-P-48 Circulation
As opportunities arise, work with Foothill Transit to maintain and
improve bus stops and shelters, as well as identify areas where
service can be improved or expanded to increase system use.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-1 Public Works
PARKING
Goals
CR-G-14 Circulation
Provide adequate parking for all land use types, while balancing this
against the need to promote walkable, mixed-use districts and
neighborhoods in targeted areas, and promoting ride -sharing and
alternative transportation modes.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4. Community
Development
GOODS MOVEMENT
Policies – Truck Routes
CR-P-60 Circulation Use Figure 4-4: Goods Movement as the guide for designating truck
routes in the City. See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56 Public Works
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CR-P-62 Circulation
Maintain truck routes with signage between industrial areas and
freeway interchanges to discourage truck travel through residential
neighborhoods, and provide truck route information to truck routing
software providers.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56 Public Works
CR-P-64 Circulation
Continue prohibiting trucks heavier than 5 tons from operating on
designated residential streets, except for emergency, maintenance,
residential moving trucks, and transit vehicles, to maintain
pavement integrity.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56 Public Works
CR-P-65 Circulation
Periodically review collision data for type, location, severity, and
cause. Develop countermeasures for sites with recurrent truck -
involved collisions.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-2 Public Works
4. Resource Conservation
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
RESOURCE CONSERVATION
A conservation element is required to provide guidance for the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, including water quality and hydraulic force, forests, soils, rivers and other waters,
harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals, and others as applicable to each jurisdiction. An open space element is intended to e nsure that cities and counties recognize that open space land is a limited and valuable
resource, and that they prepare and carry out open space plans to guide the comprehensive long -range preservation and conservation of open space land. The Resource Conservation Chapter provides policies
to guide the City’s stewardship of its resources, ensuring the conservation and enhancement of open spaces, biological resour ces, water and air quality, and cultural resources.
OPEN SPACE
Goals
RC-G-1 Resource Conservation
Create and maintain a balanced open space system that will
preserve scenic beauty and community identity, protect important
biological resources, provide open space for outdoor recreation and
the enjoyment of nature, conserve natural resources, and ensure
public health and safety.
The City has partnered with Michael Baker International and
Endemic Environmental Services during the construction of the
Canyon Loop Trail to ensure the necessary mitigation measures are
enforced.
Parks & Recreation
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Goals
RC-G-6 Resource Conservation
Utilize native and drought-tolerant vegetation in landscaping, site
stabilization and restoration where practical to prevent the spread
of invasive plant species into natural open spaces.
During project review, the Planning Division ensures that the plant
palette is diverse, Southern California native and drought-tolerant
vegetation is utilized, and that the planting and irrigation plans
comply with the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance.
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Policies
RC-P-9 Resource Conservation
Require, as part of the environmental review process prior to
approval of discretionary development projects involving parcels
within, adjacent to, or surrounding a significant biological resource
area, a biotic resources evaluation of the site by a qualified biologist.
Focused plant surveys shall be conducted at the appropriate time
of year, and local reference populations checked to ensure
detectability of the target species. Wildlife shall also be evaluated
by a qualified biologist through appropriate survey or trapping
techniques necessary to determine presence. Such evaluation shall
analyze the existing and potential natural resources of a given site
as well as the potential for significant adverse impacts on biological
resources. The report shall identify measures to avoid, minimize, or
mitigate any impacts to species that have been observed or have
the potential of being present on the site. In approving any permit
based on the evaluation, the City shall require implementation of
mitigation measures supported by the evaluation, or work with the
applicant to modify the project if mitigation is determined not to be
adequate to reduce the impacts to a non-significant level.
The City Council approved a residential project on May 17, 2022
which includes the development of seven new single-family
residences. As part of the CEQA process, the applicant submitted a
biological resources assessment and arborist report. The reports
were peer reviewed by the City’s environmental consultant, who
verified the accuracy of the reports and updated the information
based on current findings. The biological resources assessment
included a general biological survey and a focused botanical survey.
The City was provided a list of recommended mitigation measures
to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any impacts to species that have been
observed or have the potential of being present on the site.
Community
Development
RC-P-10 Resource Conservation
Require, to the greatest extent feasible, new development to
preserve mature native trees including oak and walnut, and trees of
significant cultural or historical value such as sycamore and arroyo
willow, etc., as set forth under the Diamond Bar Tree Preservation
and Protection Ordinance. Review the ordinance periodically and
update it as necessary to reflect current best practices.
The Planning Division reviews each project to evaluate if a protected
tree can be preserved or retained on site. If preservation is not
feasible, trees are required to be replanted at a minimum 3:1 ratio
pursuant to the City’s Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance.
The City Council approved a residential project which includes the
development of seven new single-family residences on May 17,
2022. As part of the project, a Tree Permit was approved for the
removal of 62 existing protected trees consisting of 58 Southern
California black walnuts and four coast live oaks. Consistent with the
City’s Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance, the applicant is
proposing to replant mitigation trees on site with 201 Southern
California black walnuts and 12 coast live oaks. All other protected
trees that are not within the development area are being retained
and preserved in place.
Community
Development
RC-P-12 Resource Conservation
Support and cooperate with the efforts of other local, State, and
federal agencies, groups, and private entities—including Los
Angeles County, neighboring jurisdictions, and conservation
groups—to preserve environmentally sensitive hillsides, canyon
areas, wildlife corridors and riparian areas within Diamond Bar’s
SOI, including the Puente - Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor, Tres
Hermanos Ranch, Tonner Canyon, and SEA 15 to provide
regional connectivity, and to sustain the ecological function of
natural habitats and biological resources.
The City has worked closely with the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS), as well as California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW) during the Canyon Loop Trail project to ensure that the City
is complying with all state and federal requirements for the
protection, replacement and restoration of native habitat affected by
the project.
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a) Discourage development in areas with identified significant
biological resources, such as SEAs.
b) Discourage development in riparian habitats, streambeds,
wetlands, coastal sage scrub, cactus scrub, and native
woodlands in order to maintain and support their
preservation in a natural state, unaltered by grading, fill, or
diversion activities.
c) Preserve and restore oak woodlands and other native
woodlands that are conserved in perpetuity with a goal of
no net loss of existing woodlands.
RC-P-14 Resource Conservation
Support and cooperate with the efforts of local school districts,
environmental groups and volunteers to offer environmental
education programs.
In 2016, the City of Diamond Bar established a partnership with
Discovery Cube of Santa Ana. This partnership’s main goal was to
bring environmental awareness to Diamond Bar based schools.
Approximately 1,000 5th and 6th graders participate in an assembly
addressing various environmental topics, followed by a school field
trip to Discovery Cube of Santa Ana.
City Manager’s Office
WATER RESOURCES
Goals
RC-G-7 Resource Conservation
Protect waterways—including creeks, riverines, artesian springs,
seeps, and wetlands—and watersheds in Diamond Bar from
pollution and degradation as a result of urban activities.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56
and Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-4. Public Works
RC-G-12 Resource Conservation Pursue methods to control, capture, and reuse stormwater runoff
for the purposes of groundwater recharge and local water recovery. See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-5. Public Works
Policies – Water Conservation
RC-P-19 Resource Conservation Encourage the implementation of the latest water conservation
technologies into new developments.
Building and Safety requires water conservation fixtures as required
in CALGreen and the California Plumbing Code.
Community
Development
Policies – Water Quality
RC-P-22 Resource Conservation
Protect and, where feasible, enhance or restore the City’s
waterways and drainages, preventing erosion along the banks,
removing litter and debris, and promoting riparian vegetation and
buffers.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-P-6. Public Works
RC-P-23 Resource Conservation
Ensure that post-development peak stormwater runoff discharge
rates do not exceed the estimated predevelopment rate and that dry
weather runoff from new development not exceed the pre -
development baseline flow rate to receiving water bodies.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56. Public Works
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AIR QUALITY
Policies
RC-P-24 Resource Conservation
Encourage new development to minimize impacts on air quality
through the following measures: a. Use of building materials and
methods that minimize air pollution. b. Use of fuel-efficient heating
equipment, and other appliances, such as water heaters, swimming
pool heaters, cooking equipment, refrigerators, furnaces, boiler
units, and low or zero-emitting architectural coatings. c. Use of
clean air technology beyond what is required by South Coast Air
Quality Management District (SCAQMD), leveraging State and local
funding sources.
• Building & Safety implements the California Green Building
Code (CALGreen). Whenever a building permit is issued for
construction, CALGreen requires the building inspector to
verify the reduction of dust and volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). Dust control measures include watering of dirt on
projects that are moving earthwork and VOCs are limited in
quantity by requiring materials with certified lower VOCs be
used.
• Through the implementation of the California Energy Code
and CALGreen, more efficient equipment and reduced VOC’s
are required respectively. The CA Energy Code requires
highly efficient heating and cooling systems through requiring
high seasonal energy efficiency ratings and energy efficient
materials such as low-E (low emissivity) windows. The CA
Energy Code also requires high efficacy lighting, energy
efficient switching and sensors, certified cooktop hoods,
rooftop solar installations in new construction, and mostly
instantaneous water heaters for new construction. CALGreen
requires low emitting architectural coatings through limiting
the VOC’s and requiring certified listed low-emitting products
including paints and sealants.
• CALGreen requires clean air within buildings including
through requiring higher minimum efficiency reporting value
(MERV) filters and minimum outdoor air circulation. Higher
filtration removes contaminants and outdoor air circulation
reduces carbon dioxide levels within structures.
Community
Development
RC-P-26 Resource Conservation
Ensure that new development projects are designed and
implemented to be consistent with the South Coast Air Quality
Management Plan.
Building & Safety follows various SCAQMD rules including requiring
SCAQMD proof of notification before some projects are demolished,
preventing wood burning fireplaces from being installed, prevention
of excessive dust on construction sites, and requiring SCAQMD
notification prior to the issuance of permits for char-broilers.
Community
Development
RC-P-28 Resource Conservation
Cooperate with the ongoing efforts of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), SCAQMD, the Southern California
Association of Governments (SCAG), and the State of California Air
Resources Board in improving air quality in the regional air basin.
Building & Safety Department requires all construction projects to
provide proper mechanical ventilation systems pursuant to the
California Mechanical Code. The California Building Code limits the
amount of hazardous materials on a site which could lead to further
Toxic Air Contaminants. During construction, dust mitigation and
erosion control are required and enforced by the building inspector
on any construction project. The remainder of this work is conducted
through the Public Works Department.
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EV Charging Stations City-wide
The Public Works Dept. participated in a regional EV Charging and
need feasibility study sponsored by SCAG. With the City’s
participation, five facilities Citywide were selected as pilot sites for
the study, among which two facilities belong to the City of Diamond
Bar (Diamond Bar Center and Washington Park).
Public Works
RC-P-30 Resource Conservation
For new or modified land uses that have the potential to emit dust,
odors, or TACs that would impact sensitive receptors, require the
business owners to obtain all necessary SCAQMD clearances or
permits prior to business license or building permit issuance.
Sensitive receptors include residences, schools, childcare centers,
playgrounds, parks and other recreational facilities, nursing homes,
hospitals, and other medical care facilities.
The Public Works Department requires an erosion control plan to be
provided prior to permit issuance, including sandbags around the
property and intermittent watering of a grading site. Prior to any
demolition, the Building & Safety Division requires that SCAQMD to
be notified before permits are issued.
Community
Development
Public Works
RC-P-33 Resource Conservation
Require construction and grading plans to include State and
AQMD-mandated measures to the maximum extent possible
fugitive dust and pollutants generated by construction activities and
those related to vehicle and equipment cleaning, fueling and
maintenance as well as mono-nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions
from vehicle and equipment operations.
Public Works implements all dust control measures during grading
with assistance from Building & Safety during construction.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56.
Community
Development
Public Works
5. Public Facilities and Services
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC FACILITIES & SERVICES
This Chapter sets forth the policy framework for the City to manage infrastructure and services, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that public utilities, services, and programs can meet the needs of the community
into the future.
PARKS & RECREATION
Goals
PF-G-1 Public Facilities &
Services
Maintain and expand the system of parks, recreation facilities, open
spaces, and trails that meet the active and passive recreational
needs of residents of all ages and abilities.
The Parks and Recreation Department, along with Public Works
Department, continues to update outdoor court lighting, youth
playgrounds, and has neared completion of the Canyon Loop Trail
renovations.
See Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-P-6.
Parks and Recreation
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Policies – General
PF-P-3 Public Facilities &
Services
Identify and pursue funding and financial resources to acquire land
for parks and to continue providing high quality maintenance of
parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
Staff applied for Proposition 68 State funding, Measure A and
Measure W funding to improve and create parks and open space. Parks and Recreation
PF-P-5 Public Facilities &
Services
Continue cooperative efforts with the Walnut Valley and Pomona
Unified School Districts through joint use agreements for park and
recreational facilities.
City staff continue to utilize the revised Joint Use Agreement with
Walnut Valley Unified School District for indoor athletic space for
community programming.
Parks & Recreation
Policies – Parks & Recreation Facilities
PF-P-8 Public Facilities &
Services
Develop and maintain a parkland dedication requirement/in -lieu fee
consistent with the General Plan standard of five acres per 1,000
residents in Diamond Bar.
On May 17, 2022, the City approved a seven-lot residential
subdivision located between the southern terminus of Crooked
Creek Drive and the southern City limits. Pursuant to DBMC Section
21.32.040, the in-lieu fee for this project is determined to be
$270,319 and shall be paid prior to the issuance of building permits
for the construction of any residential structure(s) within the
subdivision.
Community
Development
PF-P-9 Public Facilities &
Services
Prioritize public parkland dedication as a condition of new
residential development, allowing the use of in lieu fees only where
parkland dedication is not feasible, to ensure a public park system
available to the entire community.
On May 17, 2022, the City approved a seven-lot residential
subdivision located between the southern terminus of Crooked
Creek Drive and the southern City limits. Due to the unique
topographical and geotechnical constraints of the property, the
project was required to pay the in-lieu park fees for the project
instead of dedicating parkland.
Community
Development
PF-P-12 Public Facilities &
Services
Routinely review existing funding mechanisms and seek new
funding opportunities to support additional parks and recreation
facilities and programs, such as State and federal grants, Park
Bonds and property tax assessments, Community Facility Districts,
and Lighting and Landscape Assessment Districts.
Landscape Assessment Districts
The City’s General Fund subsidized Landscape Assessment District
Nos. 39 and 41 for over ten years. After an unsuccessful attempt in
2019, the City went through another process to dissolve the two
districts. Through interactive and cooperative work with the
community, a successful balloting (Prop 218) process took place in
District 39. District 39 was dissolved and District 39-2022 was
formed, in 2022, to replace the dissolved district with an identical
service area. Due to the higher assessment (with the option to
increase by CPI annually), District 39 is self-supporting again after
over a decade. This eliminated the need to subsidize the district by
General Fund. It’s a success story of cooperation between the
community and the City. A similar successful process was completed
for District 41 (now 41-2021) in 2021.
Also see Community Character & Placemaking Chapter Policy CC-
P-6.
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PF-P-14 Public Facilities &
Services
Preserve existing and future City-owned recreational open space
as recreational open space in perpetuity. City-owned recreational
open space includes undeveloped areas of City parks that are
available for passive recreational use, and portions of designated
open space land that have been dedicated to the City for use as
trails.
See Chapter 2, Land Use and Economic Development and Chapter
5, Resource Conservation for additional policies regarding the
preservation of open space.
The Canyon Loop Trail project will create a safer trail experience for
residents while preserving the natural habitat. Improvements such
as gabion walls, stairs, and water erosion devices will extend the life
of the hard pan trail and increase safety for those accessing the trail.
Parks & Recreation
PF-P-16 Public Facilities &
Services
Continue to provide programming and services for seniors,
including active programs, classes, and activities and outings,
adjusting programming based on needs and prefer ences,
particularly as Diamond Bar’s residents age.
The department continues to modify many programs to include
virtual delivery methods and implemented Covid-19 safety measures
to re-open safely per guidelines issued by LA County Department of
Public Health.
Parks and Recreation
Policies – Trails
PF-P-21 Public Facilities &
Services
Seek grants and alternative funding mechanisms for trail
development and maintenance.
Staff applied for Proposition 68, Measure A, Measure W, and Habitat
Conservation Grant funding. Parks and Recreation
UTILITIES
Goals
PF-G-6 Public Facilities &
Services
Ensure that public facilities and services, including water,
wastewater, sewage, electricity, natural gas, and solid waste, are
provided in a safe, efficient, and timely manner to meet the current
and future needs of the city.
Sewer Pump Stations Refurbishment
In 2019, a wastewater system master plan was prepared. I n 2020,
the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works hired a
consultant to design two pump stations assigned the highest priority
for refurbishment in the master plan. The design work continued in
2022, and the City assisted the County in field investigations and
stakeholder meetings to complete PDR (Project Design Report) for
two pump stations in the City. The design plans are at 30%.
New Underground Utility DistrictIn 2021 the City studied different
project alternatives to create a new Underground Utility District
(UUD) by using the City’s $1.6M Rule 20A undergrounding work
credit. Subsequently, the City worked with Southern California
Edison (SCE) to evaluate each option's financial feasibility and
constructability. Eventually, the most feasible alternatives were
shared were the City Council. The City Council approved the Brea
Canyon Dr. UUD to go through the formation process. The City
Council established the UUD by adopting a Resolution after a public
hearing and an approval letter from SCE. The Resolution was shared
with SCE to activate the City’s Rule 20A program. The project design
was completed in 2022. Additionally, in 2000, the City Council
approved an easement to SCE for two strips of land in Heritage Park
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for SCE to install underground and aboveground equipment
necessary for the utility undergrounding project.
Also applies to Public Facilities & Services Chapter Policies PF-P-
37 and PF-P-38.
Policies – Water & Wastewater
PF-P-37 Public Facilities &
Services
As opportunities arise, work with the Los Angeles County Public
Works Department (LACPWD) and Los Angeles County Sanitation
District (LACSD) to ensure that wastewater treatment conveyance
systems and treatment facility capacity is available to serve planned
development within Diamond Bar.
See Public Facilities & Services Chapter Goal PF-G-6. Public Works
PF-P-38 Public Facilities &
Services
Continue to monitor and assess wastewater and sewer system
operations to identify and subsequently address system
deficiencies.
See Public Facilities & Services Chapter Goal PF-G-6. Public Works
6. Public Safety
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC SAFETY
The purpose of this Chapter is to identify the natural and man -made public health and safety hazards that exist within the City, and to establish preventative and responsive policies and programs to mitigate
their potential impacts, particularly in light of our unique environmental, seismic, and topographic conditions. This Chapter also addresses the excellent public safety services provided by the L.A. County Sheriff’s
and Fire Departments, and endorses the continuation of the contract model of government for the continuation of these service s. Lastly, the Public Safety Chapter addresses noise and serves to limit the exposure
of the community to excessive noise levels. The Goals and Policies emphasize partnerships with local, regional and State agencies to ensure the City’s readiness for publ ic safety threats through action plans
and educational efforts.
SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
Goals
PS-G-1 Public Safety
Partner with the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments
in community education efforts aimed at preventing potential loss of
life, physical injury, property damage, public health hazards, and
nuisances from seismic ground shaking and other geologic hazards
such as landslides and mudslides.
The City and its public safety partners continue outreach efforts to
residents on safety, including earthquake, fire, emergency
preparedness topics, and pandemics such as COVID-19. The City’s
public safety partners work in coordination with the City’s Public
Information Division to communicate time sensitive information to
residents through the City’s website, as well as the Neighbo rhood
Watch Program. The City also distributes outreach materials via
print and electronic media that focuses on public safety and
emergency preparedness related topics, such as earthquake
preparedness, as well as important and timely public health orders
and social distancing guidelines. Updated information was included
in the most recent Hazard Mitigation Plan, which was adopted by
Council and approved by FEMA July 19, 2022.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-5 and Goal PS-
G-5.
Policies
PS-P-2 Public Safety
Require areas identified as having significant liquefaction potential
(including secondary seismic hazards such as differential
compaction, lateral spreading, settlement, rock fall, and landslide)
to undergo site-specific geotechnical investigation prior to
development and to mitigate the potential hazard to a level of
insignificance or, if mitigation is not possible, to preserve these
areas as open space or agriculture.
Figure 7-3 (Page 7-8 of the Public Safety Element) shows areas
where historical occurrence of liquefaction, or local geological,
geotechnical, and groundwater conditions indicate a potential for
permanent ground displacements.
Through the development review process, all projects proposing
development on lands with known geotechnical and/or geological
issues, including lands identified as Restricted Use Areas (RUA), are
required to prepare a Geotechnical Study acceptable to the City
Engineer, pursuant to the Municipal Code requirements as provided
in Diamond Bar Municipal Code Section 15.00.320.
Public Works
PS-P-3 Public Safety
Periodically update the grading standards to supplement the State
and local building and construction safety codes with detailed
information regarding rules, interpretations, standard specifications,
procedures requirements, forms, and other information applicable
to control excavation, grading, and earthwork construction, and
provide guidelines for preparation of geotechnical reports in the city.
See Land Use & Economic Development Chapter Policy LU-P-56. Public Works
PS-P-4 Public Safety
Carry out a review of City-owned critical facilities that may be
vulnerable to major earthquakes and landslides and develop
programs to upgrade them.
Diamond Bar Center Slope Stabilization Project
The City became aware of concrete separations along the northern
side of the Diamond Bar Center. A decision was made to take
preventative measures to ensure long-lasting slope stability and
prevent any potential risk to the facility. Therefore in 2020, the City
conducted a geotechnical investigation and sampled the soil
conditions of the northern slope at the facility. All geotechnical
characterization and lab analyses of the subsurface soil conditions
were complete. This data was utilized to prepare a formal soil report
to develop design plans and project specifications. The design of a
slope stabilization engineering solution was completed in 2021. The
construction works commenced in late 2022 and will be completed
early 2023. The construction budget was included in the CIP for FY
2022/23.
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-6.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
PS-P-5 Public Safety
Develop a City-based public awareness/ earthquake preparedness
program to educate the public about seismic hazards and what to
do in the event of an earthquake.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-1. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-6 Public Safety
Prevent and control soil erosion and corresponding landslide risks
on public property and in conjunction with new private development
through hillside protection and management.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-6.
Public Works and
Community
Development
FLOOD HAZARDS AND PROTECTION
Goals
PS-G-2 Public Safety
Implement measures aimed at preventing the potential for loss of
life, physical injury, property damage, public health hazards, and
nuisances from the effects of a 100- year storm and associated
flooding.
The City prepared a comprehensive update to the City’s Hazard
Mitigation Plan (Plan) with the assistance of a Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) grant, which was adopted by the City
Council and approved by FEMA July 19, 2022. The Plan Update
includes an all-hazards summary of potential risks to the City from
earthquakes, fires, floods, severe storms, and other natural
disasters. The Plan will provide information to assist the City in
planning for 100-year floods, significant earthquakes, all with the
ultimate goal of minimizing the loss of life and damage to property.
The Plan, in concert with the City’s Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP), can eventually be used to support resilient planning,
mitigation, reconstruction strategies, and response efforts to climate
conditions and incidents impacting the community. The Plan review
process included a public comment period, including initial
submission and review by FEMA. Very High Severity Fire Zones
have been mapped throughout the City hillside areas requiring new
construction to be fire-resistant at exterior surfaces exposed to
wildland areas.
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Goals PS-G-3 and PS-G-8 and
Policies PS-P-7, PS-P-38, PS-P-39, and PS-P-44.
City Manager’s Office
Policies
PS-P-7 Public Safety
Work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as
needed to ensure that the City’s floodplain information is up to date
with the latest available hydrologic and hydraulic engineering data.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-8 Public Safety
Continue to implement flood control programs, such as the City’s
Grading and Floodplain Ordinances, that reduce flood hazards to
comply with State flood risk management requirements.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
PS-P-9 Public Safety
Consider the impacts to health and safety from potential flooding
on future development in flood-prone areas, including those
identified as being within the 100- or 500-year floodplains. Require
installation of protective structures or other design measures to
protect proposed building and development sites from the effects
of flooding in these areas.
Figure 7-4 (Page 7-12 of the Public Safety Element) shows flood
zones in and around the Planning Area based on FEMA’s 2016
flood hazard data.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
FIRE HAZARDS
Goals
PS-G-3 Public Safety
Partner with the Los Angeles County Fire Department and affiliated
agencies to implement hazard mitigation plans and community
education efforts aimed at preventing the potential for loss of life,
physical injury, property damage, public health hazards, and
nuisances from wildland and urban fires.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
Policies – General
PS-P-14 Public Safety
Educate the public about fire hazards and fire prevention. Work
with the County of Los Angeles Fire Department and CAL FIRE to
disseminate information on fire weather watches and fire risks and
encourage all Diamond Bar residents to engage in risk reduction
and fire preparedness activities.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department maintains information on
family fire preparedness plans and risk reduction measures such as
vegetation management.
The City continues to expand upon public education and outreach
efforts to educate residents about fire and weather-related hazards
through a variety of platforms such as the City’s website, the monthly
DBConnection newsletter, public presentations, the emergency alert
system, and informational videos. The information, in collaboration
with City and Public Safety partners with Los Angeles County Sheriff
and Fire Departments, is aimed at improving public safety
preparedness efforts, increase resident awareness, and ensure
compliance with State and County Public Health Orders. The Los
Angeles County Fire Department also has an active fire brush
clearance program that incorporates inspections from local fire
stations in areas of know fire danger to ensure that residents are
aware of mitigation measures they can implement on their property.
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-9 and Policies PS-
P-18 and PS-P-42.
City Manager’s Office
PS-P-16 Public Safety
For privately-owned property within areas designated for
development that are subject to high wildfire risk, condition approval
of development upon the implementation of measures to reduce
risks associated with that development, including, but not limited to,
fuel modification plans and Fire Code requirements in effect at the
time of project approval.
Prior to building permit issuance, all residential projects located in
the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone are required to submit landscape
plans designed to comply with the requirements of the Los Angeles
County Fire Department’s Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines in terms
of plant selection, placement and maintenance. The final landscape
and fuel modification plans are submitted to the Los Angeles Fire
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
Department for review and approval.
PS-P-18 Public Safety
Work cooperatively with the County of Los Angeles Fire
Department, CAL FIRE, and fire protection agencies of neighboring
jurisdictions to address regional wildfire threats.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. City Manager’s Office
Policies – Fire Hazard Severity Zones & State Responsibility Areas
PS-P-19 Public Safety
Maintain and update the City’s High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
map consistent with changes in designation by CAL FIRE to ensure
that the County of Los Angeles Fire Department is protecting the
community from wildland-urban fires as future development takes
place.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-20 Public Safety
Prior to permit approval, ensure that all new development located
in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a State Responsibility
Area (SRA) is served by adequate infrastructure, including safe
access for emergency response vehicles, visible street signs, and
water supplies for fire suppression.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. Community
Development
PS-P-21 Public Safety
Collaborate with the County of Los Angeles Fire Department to
ensure that properties in and adjacent to High or Very High Fire
Hazard Severity Zones as indicated in Figure 7-6 are adequately
protected from wildland fire hazards in a manner that minimizes the
destruction of natural vegetation and ecosystems through
inspection and enforcement. Update Figure 7-6 as new information
becomes available from CAL FIRE.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. Community
Development
PS-P-22 Public Safety
Support the County of Los Angeles Fire Department’s Provision of
weed abatement and brush thinning and removal services in High
and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Areas in order to curb potential
fire hazards.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. Community
Development
PS-P-23 Public Safety
Where development is proposed within High or Very High Fire
Hazard Severity Zones, ensure that the County of Los Angeles Fire
Department has the opportunity to review the proposal in terms of
its vulnerability to fire hazards and its potential as a source of fire,
including fuel modification plan review for new development or
additions that are equal or greater than 50 percent of the existing
square footage.
Prior to building permit issuance, all residential projects located in
the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone are required to submit landscape
plans designed to comply with the requirements of the Los Angeles
County Fire Department’s Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines in terms
of plant selection, placement and maintenance. The final landscape
and fuel modification plans are submitted to the Los Angeles Fire
Department for review and approval.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND OPERATIONS
Goals
PS-G-4 Public Safety
Support the enforcement of applicable local, County, State, and
federal regulations pertaining to the manufacture, use,
transportation, storage and disposal of hazardous materials and
wastes in the City with the primary focus on preventing injury, loss
of life, and damage to property resulting from the potential
detrimental effects (short- and long-term) associated with the
release of such substances.
NPDES Business Inspections
Per the State Water Board’s NPDES MS4 permit, the City of
Diamond Bar is required to perform stormwater inspections every
five years for certain commercial/industrial facilities identified in the
permit. Diamond Bar has roughly 200 applicable facilities, including
restaurants, auto repair shops, and retail gasoline outlets. The City
prepared all required information and coordinated with a consultant,
who performed these inspections on the City’s behalf. The inspector
visited each business in person, educated the business owners on
permit requirements, and performed inspections identifying any
NPDES compliance issues. The second round of inspections for
about 100 businesses was completed between February – April
2022.
Also applies to Resource Conservation Chapter Goal RC-G-7.
Public Works
Policies
PS-P-28 Public Safety
Promote public awareness and participation in household
hazardous waste management, solid waste, and recycling
programs.
For additional policies related to household hazardous waste
management, solid waste, and recycling programs, see Chapter 8:
Community Health and Sustainability Element.
The City’s contracted residential and commercial waste haulers
continue to offer comprehensive waste collection and curbside
recycling services citywide. Curbside recycling services include
collection of green waste; bulky items; and household hazardous
waste, including electronic waste, used oil, paint products, batteries,
garden chemicals, household chemicals and hypodermic needles.
All City and LA County environmental programs are promoted
through a wide variety of outlets, and on an ongoing basis. Program
specific flyers and post cards are distributed at City Hall, the
Diamond Bar library, Diamond Bar Center, Heritage Park, during
events, and as billing inserts. City media outlets include the annual
EnviroLink newsletter, the monthly city newsletter DB Connection,
an extensive website, and DBTV Channel 3. Additionally, each of
the City's waste haulers maintains a website that highlights available
programs and instructions for participation. Used motor oil recycling
kits (containing a drain container, funnel, filter bags, shop towels,
and a filter wrench) were distributed to interested do-it-yourselfers
community events, and from City Hall.
The City also works with Los Angeles County Public Works to
provide a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) event in the City
once a year. The HHW event takes most forms of electronic and
hazardous waste including paint, batteries, and other toxic materials
that are recycled and do not enter the waste stream. The City
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promotes the Los Angeles County Public Works HHW events
throughout the year in addition to promoting the County’s hotline 1-
888-CLEAN LA and their dedicated website.
SHERIFF, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Goals
PS-G-5 Public Safety
Maintain safety services that are responsive to citizens’ needs to
ensure a safe and secure environment for people and property in
the community.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-1. City Manager’s Office
PS-G-6 Public Safety
Support community-based policing partnerships to enhance public
awareness of crime prevention and strengthen the relationship
between the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and
neighborhoods throughout the city.
The City continues to distribute information through its “Let’s Talk
Public Safety” program, primarily through law enforcement safety
blogs and videos. This is a collaboration between the City, the Los
Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the Los Angeles County
Fire Department, and is an extension of the existing Neighborhood
Watch and Business Watch programs. The reinstituted “Coffee with
a Cop” meetings are held once a month at locations through the City,
where residents and businesses can talk with a member of the
Sheriff’s Department about crime and other law enforcement
techniques
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-30.
City Manager’s Office
PS-G-7 Public Safety Provide effective emergency preparedness and response
programs. See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
Policies
PS-P-30 Public Safety
Continue to promote the establishment of neighborhood watch and
business watch programs to encourage community participation in
the patrol of neighborhoods.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-6. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-31 Public Safety
Continue to utilize the contract model of government with Los
Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments and provide
facilities, staffing, and equipment to attain the shortest possible
response times as set forth by the adopted standards of those
public safety organizations.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-32 Public Safety
Support the achievement of police and fire response times through
the implementation of traffic management measures that mitigate
congestion during peak rush hour and during school drop -off and
pick-up times.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
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PS-P-35 Public Safety
Work cooperatively with the Los Angeles County Fire Department,
CAL FIRE, and fire protection agencies of neighboring jurisdictions
to ensure that all portions of the Planning Area are served and
accessible within an effective response time.
Wildfire Prevention in Assessment Districts
The City continues to provide fire brush and other wildfire
prevention-related maintenance at the Landscape Assessment
Districts 39-2022 and 41-2021.
See Circulation Chapter Policy CR-P-2.
Public Works
PS-P-37 Public Safety
Maintain area-wide mutual aid agreements and communication
links with adjacent governmental authorities and other participating
jurisdictions.
The City continues to expand upon its emergency preparedness and
response capabilities through testing and exercises. The dedicated
EOC provides the City with added flexibility to coordinate and
respond to emergencies, provide redundant communications to
public safety agencies, and enable added communications to
residents. City Hall also has a backup power generator to ensure
critical systems are operational in the event of a prolonged
emergency outage, with redundant communications capabilities
including the Sheriff’s Department and County Office of Emergency
Management (OEM). Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,
the City EOC has been activated virtually to monitor impacts to the
City and coordinate response efforts with County Office OEM, local
school districts, and adjoining municipalities.
Also applies to Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-7 and Policies PS-
P-40, PS-P-41, and PS-P-43.
City Manager’s Office
EMERGENCY AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Goals
PS-G-8 Public Safety
Use the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Operations
Plan to address mitigation and response for local hazards, including
seismic hazards, flood hazards, fire hazards, hazardous materials
incidents, and hazardous sites, and to plan for the protection of
critical facilities (i.e., schools, hospitals), disaster and emergency
response preparedness and recovery, evacuation routes, peak load
water supply requirements, and minimum road width and clearance
around structures.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
PS-G-9 Public Safety
Conduct emergency and disaster management planning in a
collaborative manner with State and local agencies and neighboring
jurisdictions, while striving for self-sufficiency in City-level
emergency response.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. City Manager’s Office
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Policies
PS-P-38 Public Safety
Maintain, review, and update Diamond Bar’s Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan as needed to take into account new hazard
conditions in the Planning Area and new emergency management
techniques.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-39 Public Safety
Adopt, implement and update as necessary the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan to develop strategies to address changing risks from
flood, drought, fire, landslides, seismic activity, hazardous
materials, and other potential hazards, including strategies related
to monitoring, emergency preparedness, development policies,
conservation, vulnerable populations, and community resilience.
See Public Safety Chapter Goal PS-G-2. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-40 Public Safety
Continue to coordinate the City’s emergency preparedness and
response plans and operations with the State Office of Emergency
Management, Los Angeles County, schools, and other neighboring
jurisdictions.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-41 Public Safety
Maintain and expand as necessary community emergency
preparedness resources including personnel, equipment, material,
specialized medical and other training, and auxiliary
communications.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-42 Public Safety
Continue to disseminate public information and alerts regarding the
nature and extent of possible natural and manmade hazards,
resources identifying measures residents and businesses can take
to prepare for and minimize damage resulting from these hazards,
citywide response plans, and evacuation routes.
• The City and its public safety partners continue outreach
efforts on safety topics, including earthquakes, wildfires,
weather-related impacts, and emergency preparedness.
Information and education resources are made available to
residents and businesses through a variety of print and
electronic platforms, including the City’s monthly newsletter-
Diamond Bar Connection and City website.
• City staff routinely uses its social media outlets to increase
awareness of its Emergency Alert notification system and to
encourage registration by residents and businesses to
receive time-sensitive notices by email, text or voicemail
regarding emergency situations, such as evacuations or
roadway closures.
• In response to the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), the
City continues to manage a dedicated resource hub on the
City web to provide COVID-19 prevention and education,
information regarding temporary changes to City operations,
virtual programs and meetings. Additionally, information is
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distributed to residents and businesses via print, electronic
notices and signage posted at City facilities.
PS-P-43 Public Safety
Require all City staff to be adequately trained to respond to
emergency situations, and conduct regular emergency
preparedness drills with local organizations including the Los
Angeles County fire and Sheriff’s departments.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-14. City Manager’s Office
PS-P-44 Public Safety
Leverage pre- and post-disaster assistance programs to support
resilient planning, mitigation, and reconstruction strategies that
consider future climate conditions, such as the California
Governor’s Office of Emergency Services’ Hazard Mitigation Grant
Program and California Disaster Assistance Act.
See Public Safety Chapter Policy PS-P-37. City Manager’s Office
7. Community Health & Sustainability
POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
COMMUNITY HEALTH & SUSTAINABILITY
The Goals and Policies in this Chapter identify strategies to facilitate healthy and active lifestyles, social connections and celebrating diversity, access to healthy food, and climate change resilience. Many of
these strategies could be incorporated into existing or future City programs and Development Code standards .
ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
Goals
CHS-G-3 Community Health &
Sustainability
Promote the use of public parks, recreational and other spaces for
healthy exercise and physical activity.
Staff has taken a proactive approach to increase the quantity of
enrichment programs offered to residents and witne ssed a dramatic
registration increase as residents become more comfortable
returning to group activities.
Parks & Recreation
Policies
CHS-P-10 Community Health &
Sustainability
Promote social engagement and healthy lifestyles for older adults
by continuing to organize and offer appropriate cultural,
recreational, and assistance programs, activities, and services.
The new Wednesday Walkers program encourages seniors to walk
through City parks once per week and discuss current events with
City staff. This program continues to grow and has received
exceptional feedback.
Parks & Recreation
CHS-P-13 Community Health &
Sustainability
Support the provisions of spaces, programs and facilities across the
community to provide opportunities for artistic and cultural
engagement and expression for all members of the Diamond Bar
community.
The City has partnered with Alchemy Theater to provide weekly live
performances at Summitridge Park. These performances are free
and take place in a setting similar to Concerts in the Park. The past
summer included a spotlight on “Shakespeare in the Park”.
Parks & Recreation
CHS-P-14 Community Health &
Sustainability
Encourage the development of “destinations”—such as the clusters
of commercial uses that draw residents from the entire community
into the Neighborhood Mixed Use, the Transit-Oriented Mixed Use,
and the Town Center focus areas.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21. Community
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
HEALTHY FOOD
Policies
CHS-P-21 Community Health &
Sustainability
Promote healthy food and beverages at City-sponsored events,
programs, and recreation activities. Ensure that safe, clean drinking
water is available for the public at all City-owned buildings where
public programs occur.
Clean drinking water is available at all City facilities and a variety of
food trucks typically provide an array of food and beverage options at
City-sponsored special events.
Parks & Recreation
PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Policies
CHS-P-30 Community Health &
Sustainability
Support a better informed and civically engaged community by
making information available both in print and electronic format,
and, to the extent possible, provide this information in the
languages predominantly spoken in the community.
• The City continues to use a variety of print, electronic and
online communication tools to provide information about local
and regional programs and services that may affect resident
quality of life. Information is made available to residents via
the City website, electronic newsletters, social media
platforms, the City’s printed monthly newsletter (Diamond Bar
Connection), and virtual and in-person presentations.
• After the relaxation of COVID-19 safety guidelines that
restricted in-person gatherings, many of the temporary virtual
services remained in place to expand resident engagement,
including teleconferencing options to participate in all City
Council and Commission meetings, the option to meet with
staff using video conferencing, request construction permits
using an online application via the City’s website, and submit
a service request using the City’s official mobile app, Diamond
Bar Connected.
Public Information
CLIMATE CHANGE AND GREENHOUSE GASES
Goals
CHS-G-14 Community Health &
Sustainability
Encourage waste reduction and diversion practices to meet State
targets and reduce GHG emissions.
The City is compliant with State Laws, which regulate waste
management and recycling. The City continues to offer various
economic incentives that encourage source reduction and recycling:
1) Residential refuse rates are based on a pay-as-you-throw system.
Three refuse cart sizes are available (35, 64, and 96 gallon), and cost
increases with cart size; 2) one additional recycling cart, and one
additional green waste cart, are available to each residence at no
cost; 3) residents may earn a yard waste discount equal to 12% if
they implement backyard composting, and agree to relinquish their
green waste cart; 4) a recycling rebate is issued to residents in any
year that the residential waste hauler earns recycling revenues that
exceed a specified threshold; 5) all commercial and multi-family
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
waste is processed at the hauler's MRF, however recycling bins are
available at a greatly discounted price; 6) used oil drain containers
and reusable shopping bags are distributed to residents at no cost,
and; 7) businesses and schools may apply for the City's Recycling
Bins Grant, which provides free recycling receptacles (7 to 50 gallon
capacity) to qualifying applicants.
CHS-P-39 Community Health &
Sustainability
Support Southern California Edison (SCE) and Southern California
Gas Company's (SoCalGas) efforts to increase public awareness
of energy conservation technology and best practices.
The City has partnered with the San Gabriel Valley Council of
Governments (SGVCOG) and the Southern California Regional
Energy Network (SoCalREN) to increase public awareness of energy
conservation technologies and best practices from Southern
California Edison and the Gas Company. Information is distributed
through the City’s Envirolink newsletter, as well as direct
communication from partner agencies and utility providers.
City Manager’s
Office
CHS-P-44 Community Health &
Sustainability
Promote energy conservation and retrofitting of existing buildings
through the implementation of the Green Building Codes.
The Building & Safety Division implements CALGreen by requiring
all construction projects to meet State requirements. This is done
through requiring all waste hauling by the City’s franchise hauler or
to a recycling facility, requiring low emitting vehicle parking for new
commercial projects, limiting VOCs, inspecting erosion control, and
requiring low water usage in plumbing.
Community
Development
Policies – Waste Reduction & Recycling
CHS-P-46 Community Health &
Sustainability
In order to achieve compliance with the source reduction goals set
forth under Assembly Bill (AB) 939 amendments thereto,
incorporate solid waste diversion goal performance standards into
the contracts with the City’s franchise waste haulers, and enforce
the City’s Construction and Demolition Waste Ordinance.
The City’s franchise agreements incorporate solid waste diversion
standards to meet State recycling goals, including the new
regulations aimed at diverting food waste. The City will continue to
build on the successful implementation of food waste d iversion
programs, with targeted outreach by providing technical assistance
for businesses wishing to start a food recycling, recovery, or donation
program. In July 2022, the food diversion program was expanded to
include residential accounts.
The City's waste haulers are required by contract to divert at least
75% of all construction and demolition (C&D) debris, including inert
material. 100% of concrete/asphalt dirt is diverted by both waste
haulers. Residential and commercial haulers have met and exceeded
the C&D requirement. The City worked with the haulers to identify
specific projects that fall under the C&D requirement including roof
projects, demolitions, additions, new construction and remodels. The
residential waste hauler operates a C&D facility in Los Angeles, this
location began processing more projects and resulted in an 83.3%
diversion in the C&D category. City ordinance requires that for all
C&D projects of at least 1,000 square feet, a diversion deposit and a
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
Recycling and Waste Reduction Application be submitted before
work begins; a Final Compliance Report and associated weight
tickets must be submitted after project completion.
Also applies to Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy
CHS-P-50.
CHS-P-47 Community Health &
Sustainability
Reduce the disposal of household hazardous wastes in landfills
through continued cooperation with waste pick-up service
providers, the County Sanitation Districts, and the Los Angeles
County Department of Public Works in the provision of curbside
pick-up and annual household waste round up events.
The City’s contracted residential and commercial waste haulers
continue to offer comprehensive waste collection and curbside
recycling services citywide. Curbside recycling services include
collection of green waste; bulky items; and household hazardous
waste, including electronic waste, used oil, paint products, batteries,
garden chemicals, household chemicals and hypodermic needles.
The City also works with Los Angeles County Public Works to provide
a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) event in the City once a year
in February. The HHW event takes most forms of electronic and
hazardous waste including paint, batteries, and other toxic materials
that are recycled and do not enter the waste stream. The City
promotes the Los Angeles County Public Works HHW events
throughout the year in addition to promoting the County’s hotline 1-
888-CLEAN LA and their dedicated website.
The City continues to contract with Waste Management, At Your Door
Special Collections, to provide curbside recycling of HHW materials.
The City participates in and promotes the LA County Household
Hazardous Waste Roundup program. LA County sponsored its
annual HHW roundup in Diamond Bar. The listed events were
advertised by the City through the distribution of flyers and/or
placement of event information on its online event calendar.
Numerous schools and non-profit organizations hold e-waste
collection events throughout the year as a fundraising effort.
Also applies to Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy
CHS-P-48
City Manager’s
Office
CHS-P-48 Community Health &
Sustainability
Continue to promote the safe disposal of household hazardous
waste through public education and incentives.
See Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy CHS-P-47.
The City’s contracted residential and commercial waste haulers
continue to offer comprehensive waste collection and curbside
recycling services citywide. Curbside recycling services include
collection of green waste; bulky items; and household hazardous
waste, including electronic waste, used oil, paint products, batteries,
garden chemicals, household chemicals and hypodermic needles.
Information on these programs is distributed by the haulers, as well
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
as City resources including website, social media, mail and email
distribution.
Also applies to Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy
CHS-P-52.
CHS-P-49 Community Health &
Sustainability
Continue to educate residential, commercial, and industrial
generators about source reduction and recycling programs and
encourage their participation in these programs through
promotional campaigns and incentives.
See Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy CHS-P-47. City Manager’s
Office
CHS-P-50 Community Health &
Sustainability
Encourage generators of edible food to have contracts or
agreements with food rescue organizations to minimize edible food
from being disposed of or destroyed.
Albertson's, Sprouts, Target and Walmart have internal food waste
recycling programs that include donation and composting. All
franchise green waste collections, as well as third-party green waste
collections are taken to facilities that process this material into soils
products.
The City contracted with Abound Food Care to provide food recovery
consulting services through June, 2025. In May 2022, the City applied
and was awarded a CalRecycle Organics Program Grant in the
amount of $85,300. A portion of these grant funds are proposed to be
utilized to fund the consulting costs associated with capacity planning
food recovery activities. Founded in 2021, Abound Food Care
(Abound) is a registered 501(C)3 corporation, bringing together
nonprofit, public, and private partners to minimize food waste and
food insecurity. Abound has longstanding stakeholder relationships
within the public, private and nonprofit sectors to assist with
implementing successful edible food recovery programs. Abound
integrates with various tech platforms to track food donations in order
to meet regulatory reporting requirements. Abound will assist the City
to meet state law and will have a scope of work that includes the
following tasks:
• Manage edible food recovery contracts between Tier 1 and
Tier 2 food waste generators as identified by the city and in
accordance with SB1383.
• Manage and assist in the execution of food recovery
agreements.
• Provide the use of a technology platform to aggregate pounds
recovered and report to the city on a monthly basis.
• Monitor food donations and provide food donors and food
recovery organizations assistance as needed.
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POLICY # CHAPTER GOALS & POLICIES STATUS DEPARTMENT
• Conduct the annual inspection of Tier 1 food generators to
identify SB1383 compliance.
• Provide educational materials to food waste generators and
food recovery organizations, including but not limited to
benefits of participation in food recovery and SB1383
compliance regulations.
• Provide the City with a list of Food Recovery organizations to
put on the website.
• Conduct targeted and recorded outreach to health permitted
food waste generators in cooperation and conjunction with city
staff.
See Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy CHS-P-46.
CHS-P-51 Community Health &
Sustainability
Encourage residents and businesses to compost leaves, grass
clippings, food waste, and other organic materials by promoting
existing food waste pickup services, residential waste hauler rate
composting discounts, and residential backyard composting.
The City’s contracted residential and commercial waste haulers
continue to offer comprehensive waste collection and curbside
recycling services citywide. Organics collection is provided by the
City’s commercial provider Valley Vista Services, with residential
service scheduled to take place middle 2022.
City Manager’s
Office
CHS-P-52 Community Health &
Sustainability
Collaborate with the City’s contract waste haulers to educate and
encourage residents and businesses about waste reduction
strategies.
See Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy CHS-P-48. City Manager’s
Office
CHS-P-53 Community Health &
Sustainability
Support and cooperate with County and State regulatory agency
efforts to require commercial and industrial generators to develop
and implement a source reduction and recycling plan tailored to
their individual waste streams.
See Community Health & Sustainability Chapter Policy CHS-P-47. City Manager’s
Office
Policies – Climate Change Resiliency
CHS-P-57 Community Health &
Sustainability
Encourage water conservation, drought-tolerant landscaping and
the use of greywater and reclaimed and recycled water, where
appropriate, with a view to reducing water use.
During project review, the Planning Division ensures that the plant
palette is diverse, Southern California native and drought -tolerant
vegetation is utilized, and that the planting and irrigation plans comply
with the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance. Also,
reclaimed water is required for nonresidential irrigation systems
where available,.
See Resource Conservation Chapter Goal RC-G-6.
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8. Housing Element
2013-2021 Housing Element Program Evaluation
PROGRAM # OBJECTIVES STATUS
HOUSING
The Housing Element, which has been certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), identifies and makes provisions for existing and future housing needs. While most of these
enabling policies require the participation of the private sector, the City also actively participates in implementation by budgeting a portion of its annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation to fund the
City’s Home Improvement Program (HIP). The HIP provides zero-interest deferred loans of up to $20,000 to eligible low-income households to perform essential home repairs and improvements. Low-income households
are also eligible to participate in the Los Angeles County Community Development Commission’s CDBG-funded Home Ownership Program (HOP) for first-time homebuyer assistance.
The City will file the Housing Element Annual Progress (APR) with HCD and Office of Planning and Research (OPR) by April 1, 2023, which outlines progress on the implementation of the adopted 2013-2021 Housing
Element. The table below summarizes the 2013-2021 Housing Element housing programs offered through the Community Development Department along with program objectives, accomplishments, and implementation
status.
On October 5, 2022, HCD certified the Housing Element Update for the 2021 -2029 planning period (sixth cycle). The City will continue timely and effective implementation of all housing programs included in the sixth
cycle update.
1. Residential Neighborhood Improvement
Program
Proactive program conducts neighborhood inspections on a regular basis
throughout the entire city/focused code enforcement linked with
rehabilitation assistance to correct code violations.
The City continues to operate the code enforcement program. This program
is successful and is being continued. Code enforcement cases have
increased in number and complexity due to factors including aging housing
stock and the declining financial resources of longtime residents. Staff
presented these findings to the Neighborhood Improvement Committee (a
subcommittee of the City Council), which eventually led to funding for a new,
fulltime code enforcement officer position as part of the FY 2022/23 City
budget. The code enforcement officers and building inspectors are typically
the first public officials to learn which homeowners lack the financial resources
to correct property maintenance violations, and in the process, become aware
of other deferred maintenance issues. The officers carry copies of the City’s
Home Improvement Program (HIP) brochures and inform homeowners
potentially in need of assistance that the City offers no-interest, deferred loans
for essential home repairs.
2. Home Improvement Program
Improve neighborhoods evidencing deferred maintenance through
property maintenance and rehab. Provide minor repair and rehabilitation
to 10 units annually.
The City allocates at least $100,000 of its annual CDBG award to the Home
Improvement Program. The HIP provides zero-interest loans of up to $20,000
to low- and very-low-income homeowners, which do not need to be repaid
unless the home is sold or refinanced. There is a waiting list of pre-screened
applicants, and HIP loans are processed in the order received. The HIP is
successful in improving housing conditions and is being continued at available
funding levels.
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PROGRAM # OBJECTIVES STATUS
3. Single-Family Rehabilitation Program Provide ongoing advertisement of loans available through the County for
qualified homeowners. Implementation ongoing.
The City advertised these programs on the City website and will provide
information to interested homebuyers annually via CIty newsletters and
through social media.
4. Section 8 Rental Assistance Program Direct eligible households to the County Section 8 program.
This program is beneficial in reducing problems such as overpayment and
overcrowding. City continues to coordinate with the County on the Section 8
program. Handouts are available at the public counter and contact information
is regularly provided to requestors. The program is being continued.
5. Preservation of Assisted Housing
Preserve 100 percent of the 149 low- and moderate-income units in The
Seasons Apartments.
Diamond Bar contains only one assisted housing project, the 149 -unit
Seasons Apartments (formerly Heritage Park) for senior citizens. This project
was constructed in 1988 and was originally financed under the Los Angeles
County Multi-Family Mortgage Revenue Bond program. The project was
refinanced in November 1999 under the California Community Development
Authority's Multi-Family Housing Re-funding Bond, and was transferred to the
Corporate Fund for Housing, a non-profit organization. According to the terms
of the new bond agreement, income restrictions for residents and
corresponding rent limits were set. For the duration of the bond, which expires
December 2, 2034, all units will be affordable: 30 units (20%) will be very-low-
income, 82 units (55%) will be low-income, and 37 units will be moderate-
income (defined as 100% AMI). All units will be preserved.
6. Mobile Home Park Preservation
Support preservation of City's two mobile home parks as important
affordable housing resources. Maintain residential zoning, and enforce
State closure requirements as necessary.
Zoning for mobile home parks is successful in preserving this affordable
housing option and is being continued. No proposals to close the parks were
submitted. The City will continue to support preservation of its two mobile
home parks as important affordable housing resources.
7. First-time Homebuyer Assistance Programs
Advertise County's Home Ownership Program (HOP) and Mortgage
Credit Certificate (MCC) and provide information to interested
homebuyers. In addition, the City will work with realtors to make them
aware of these programs.
The City advertised these programs on the City website and will provide
information to interested homebuyers annually via CIty newsletters and
through social media. In addition, the City will work with realtors to make them
aware of these programs.
8. Senior and Workforce Housing Development
Identify and evaluate sites suitable for new senior and workforce housing.
The City will post information on the City website during the first year of
the planning period regarding the City's interest in assisting in the
development of senior and workforce housing, provide information on
available regulatory and financial incentives, and assist developers in
applying for funds. The City will also contact local colleges and
universities annually to identify potential partnership opportunities for
affordable housing.
This program is intended to encourage affordable housing development and
is being continued. The City is a member of the San Gabriel Valley Regional
Housing Trust (SGVRHT), which is a joint powers authority. SGVRHT’s focus
is primarily on providing funding assistance in the planning and construction
of new homeless and affordable housing. The Trust provides funding and
loans to help bridge funding gaps for affordable housing projects. Land Use
Policies 10 and 28, which were adopted in the 2019 General Plan Update,
also encourage the production of senior and workforce housing.
9. Land Use Element and Zoning Maintain adequate sites commensurate with the Regional Housing Needs
Allocation (RHNA).
The City has maintained adequate sites for housing development at all income
levels and ensure compliance with No Net Loss requirements. This program
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PROGRAM # OBJECTIVES STATUS
is being revised and expanded to reflect the new RHNA allocation for the
2021-2029 period. In May 2022, the City entered into a Consultant Services
Agreement with Torti Gallas+Partners to prepare the Town Center Specific
Plan (TCSP) in the Town Center Mixed-Use focus area, which is one of the
sites to accommodate the RHNA. On November 15, 2022, the City notified
the water and sewer providers immediately upon adoption of the Housing
Element.
On December 6, 2022, the City adopted a short-term rental ordinance to
clarify the existing prohibition on short-term rentals. If homes are utilized for
transient occupancy, they are no longer part of our housing stock. Prohibiting
home sharing is also a way to preserve affordable housing opportunities as
rooms and secondary units can be used for permanent housing rather than
transient stays. A reduction in permanent housing units can put an upward
pressure on rental prices and negatively affect housing affordability.
10. Mixed Use Development
The City will prepare a handout and marketing materials encouraging
mixed use development where appropriate and make it available to
interested developers during the first year of the planning period. A review
of potential areas that may be appropriate for mixed-use development will
be initiated by 2015 as part of a comprehensive General Plan update.
In December 2019, the City adopted the Comprehensive General Plan Update
that created community visions and blueprint for growth and development in
the City through 2040. One of the key features of the new General Plan was
the establishment of three new Focus Areas where substantial land use
changes are planned as part of a strategy to provide walkable mixed -use
activity centers. Goals and policies to promote mixed use developments are
as follows: Land Use Goals 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 22, 24, 26, Land Use
Policies 15, 16, 21, 23, 27, 28, 29, 35, 45; Community Character and
Placemaking Goals 7, 8, 14, 17; and Circulation Goal 4.
In May 2022, the City entered into a Consultant Services Agreement with Torti
Gallas+Partners to prepare the Town Center Specific Plan in the Town Center
Mixed-Use focus area. The TCSP will provide the regulatory and urban design
framework to establish a downtown, or “Town Center” in Diamond Bar as a
walkable place with entertainment, retail, restaurants, community gathering
spaces, and urban housing opportunities. This program is an important
component of the City’s overall strategy to revitalize older areas and expand
housing production. Over the past summer, the City launched the TCSP
website to keep the public informed about the project and upcoming e vents;
a community workshop was held to introduce the specific plan process; a
weeklong charette was held with a design exercise, public design studio,and
stakeholder interviews.
See Land Use Chapter Goal LU-G-4 and Policy CC-P-21.
11. Second Units Continue to encourage construction of accessory dwelling units pursuant
to the provisions of its Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance, and
In 2017, the City approved an amendment to the municipal code pertaining to
accessory dwelling units to satisfy all of the requirements of Government
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PROGRAM # OBJECTIVES STATUS
make an informational handout available for distribution at the public
counter.
Code §§65852.150-65852.2. Per AB 68 (Ting), AB 587 (Friedman), AB 671
(Friedman), AB 881 (Bloom), SB 13 (Wieckowski) that went into e ffect
January 1, 2020. In 2021 the City adopted a subsequent amendment to ADU
regulations in accordance with the new State laws. The updated ADU
Ordinance has been effective in supporting the production of ADUs and
provides affordable rents to low- and moderate-income households. The City
continues to encourage accessory dwelling units and this program is being
continued.
Forty-two (42) building permits for ADUs totaling 31,915 sq. ft. were issued.
12. Emergency Shelters and
Transitional/Supportive Housing
Continue to facilitate emergency shelters and transitional/supportive
housing, and continue participating in the San Gabriel Valley Council of
Governments (SGVCOG) homeless study to address homelessness.
This program creates opportunities for a variety of housing for persons with
special needs and is being continued with revisions to ensure compliance with
recent changes to State law. The City continues to participate with LAHSA
and SGVCOG on efforts to address homelessness throughout the planning
period.
13. Redevelopment of Underutilized Sites
Encourage interested property owners to pursue redevelopment of
underutilized properties though the provision of incentives and
concessions.
The TCSP is an important component of the City’s overall strategy to revitalize
older areas and expand housing production. The TCSP is being crafted to
incentivize the development of housing in the focus area with a mix of uses,
range of housing densities, housing types, and level of affordability. An
inclusionary housing requirement is also being considered to be incorporated
into the TCSP regulations.
14. Affordable Housing Incentives/ Density Bonus
Encourage the production of affordable housing through the use of
density bonus, and provide a handout summarizing the benefits and
requirements of affordable housing incentives/density bonus provisions.
This program is being continued in compliance with recent changes to State
density bonus law. City staff discusses opportunities for affordable housing
and density bonuses with developers for housing projects. As mentioned
above, an inclusionary housing requirement is also being considered for the
TCSP, in addition to other incentives to increase density. The density bonus
program is among several tools the City utilizes to facilitate affordable
housing.
The City is also a member of the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust
(SGVRHT), which is a joint powers authority. SGVRHT’s focus is primarily on
providing fundings assistance in the planning and construction of new
homeless and affordable housing. The Trust provides funding and loans to
help bridge funding gaps for affordable housing projects.
15. Efficient Project Processing
Continue to offer streamlined development processing, and periodically
review departmental processing procedures to ensure efficient project
processing.
The City continues to offer efficient permit processing. As a small city, staff is
able to work closely with applicants through the review and approval process,
thereby helping to expedite the entitlement process to issuance of building
and zoning permits. In addition, the City has several procedures in place to
minimize project review times, which include concurrent processing, pre-
application reviews, and recently adopted General Plan EIR, which allows for
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Climate Action Plan
CAP POLICIES AND ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION GENERAL PLAN GOALS & POLICIES
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (“CAP”)
A Climate Action Plan is a comprehensive inventory of specific activities a public agency should undertake to reduce greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions that originate within its jurisdiction. The City of Diamond Bar
adopted a Climate Action Plan concurrently with the General Plan Update to document how it will be able to reduce its GHG emissions in compliance with State mandates and goals to the year 2040, which is the horizon
year for the General Plan Update. The table below lists the General Plan Update goals and policies that have been implemented to reduce GHG emissions, quantifies emissions reductions, and explains how these
policies and actions will be implemented and organized according to the following categories: 1. Pedestrian Improvements and Increased Connectivity; 2. Bikeway System Improvements; 3. Traffic Calming; 4. Electric
Vehicle Infrastructure; 5. Parking Facilities and Policies; and 6. Transportation Improvements.
PROGRAM # OBJECTIVES STATUS
individual projects that fall within the scope of the EIR to utilize this as
environmental clearance under CEQA.
Practices to streamline the issuances for residential projects such as room
additions and ADUs have been implemented to eliminate the need to submit
a separate application for Planning prior to applying for building permits. The
pandemic accelerated implementation of online permit services, and by June
2020, applicants were able to submit applications, plans and payments
entirely online. In 2022, the City received six proposals in response to an RFP
for a new Enterprise Land Management system. This program will be further
enhanced through revisions to the Development Code.
16. Fair Housing Program
Continue to promote fair housing practices, provide educational
information on fair housing to the public, and cooperate with the Greater
Los Angeles Apartment Association in providing fair housing information
to landlords and at libraries, senior centers, recreation centers, and Social
Security and employment offices. Continue to refer fair housing
complaints to the San Gabriel Valley and Long Beach Fair Housing
Foundation, and maintain an open dialogue with the Foundation
regarding the nature of complaints received.
This program is being continued and expanded to reflect new requirements to
affirmatively further fair housing. The City continues to distribute fair housing
information at the public counter through brochures, and refers fair housing
related complaints to the Housing Rights Center.
17. Reasonable Accommodation for Persons with
Disabilities
Continue to implement reasonable accommodation procedures for
persons with disabilities in compliance with SB 520.
The City supports the provision of housing for disabled persons through
zoning opportunities for transitional housing, reasonable accommodation
procedures, and programs to facilitate affordable housing. In 2010, the City
adopted an ordinance to facilitate reasonable accommodations. This program
is an important component of the City’s overall efforts to address the special
housing needs of persons with disabilities and is being continued and revised
to include additional amendments to City regulations to incorporate recent
changes to State law.
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CAP POLICIES AND ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION GENERAL PLAN GOALS & POLICIES
1. Pedestrian Improvements and
Increased Connectivity
The General Plan Update includes policies that create more walkable, livable neighborhoods by expanding the multi -
modal transportation system and creating a safe, pedestrian -oriented environment. Providing an improved pedestrian
network and increasing connectivity encourages people to walk more and results in people driving less, causing a
reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT).
LU-P-9: See status above.
LU-P-14: See status above.
CC-G-5: See status above.
CC-P-4: See status above.
CC-P-7: See status above.
CC-P-9: See status above.
CC-P-21: See status above.
2. Bikeway System Improvements
The General Plan Update provides strategies for maximizing multi -modal accessibility to and connectivity within mixed
use areas, including the Metrolink Station and new Town Center. With the total bicycle improvements listed in the General
Plan Update, there would be approximately 2.4 miles of bike lanes per square mile. Diamond Bar currently has
approximately 2,840 people per square miles. This corresponds to a 0.06 percen t reduction in VMT emissions.
LU-P-14: See status above.
CC-G-5: See status above.
CC-P-7: See status above.
CR-G-2: See status above.
CR-P-30: See status above.
CR-P-43: See status above
3. Traffic Calming
A 0.25 percent reduction in VMT was assumed to occur from the traffic calming improvements to make streets safer and
more comfortable for pedestrian travel. Traffic calming devices include roundabouts, corner bulb -outs, speed cushions,
surface textures, raised pavement, road narrowing, and other devices that encourage people to drive more slowly or to
walk or bike instead of using a vehicle, especially for short trips in and around residential neighborhoods.
CR-P-4: See status above.
CR-P-21: See status above.
CR-P-22: See status above.
CR-P-23: See status above.
4. Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
A 0.05 percent reduction in VMT was assumed to occur from installation of electric vehicle infrastructure, which will
encourage Diamond Bar residents, businesses, and the City vehicle fleet to switch to clean fuel and electric vehicles in
order to reduce energy use and cost and transportation related GHG emissions.
RC-P-28: See status above.
5. Parking Facilities and Policies
Parking policies reflect both the necessity of providing for adequate and appropriately located vehicle and bicycle parking
in existing and new development, and priorities related to safety, urban design, and transportation management. Reduced
parking standards and other policies reducing parking availability have an estimated 5 to 12.5 percent VMT reduction.
Conservatively assuming the effect of General Plan parking reduction strategies would result in the lower end of VMT
reduction, the cumulative reduction from implementations would result in a 5 percent VMT re duction.
N/A
6. Transportation Improvements
Transit service can provide an alternative to automobile travel and is a critical mode of transportation for those who cannot
drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The General Plan policies support Metrolin k ridership by improving bus, bicycle,
and pedestrian connections to the station and by introducing Transit-Oriented Mixed-Use development around the station.
Conservatively assuming the combined effect of these strategies, summing the low end of the VMT reduction ranges
gives a 0.62 percent reduction in VMT emissions.
CR-G-13: See status above.
CR-P-48: See status above.
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PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 7.1
MEETING DATE: February 28, 2023
CASE/FILE NUMBER: Development Review and Tree Permit No.
PL2020-31
PROJECT LOCATION:
23121 Ridge Line Road, Diamond Bar, CA
91765 (APN 8713-005-013)
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION: Rural Residential (RR)
ZONING DISTRICT: Rural Residential (RR)
PROPERTY OWNER:
Manohar Bhatia
17753 Via San Jose
Rowland Heights, CA 91786
APPLICANT:
Pete Volbeda
215 N 2nd Ave #B
Upland, CA 91786
SUMMARY:
The applicant is requesting approval of a Development Review (DR) application to
construct a new single-family residence consisting of 13,535 square feet of living space,
a 704 square-foot garage and 1,300 square feet of porch/balcony areas on a 1.64 gross
acre undeveloped parcel. A Tree Permit (TP) is also requested to remove three
protected coast live oaks and six California black walnut trees and replace them with 27
coast live oak trees on site.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment A) approving Development Review and
Tree Permit No. PL2020-31, based on the findings of Diamond Bar Municipal Code
(DBMC) Sections 22.48 and 22.38, subject to conditions.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ~ 21810 COPLEY DRIVE ~ DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765 ~ TEL. (909) 839-7030 ~ FAX (909) 861-3117
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Site (Plan View) Aerial
BACKGROUND:
The project site is located in the Diamond Bar Country Estates (The Country), on the
north side of Ridge Line Road, between Rusty Spur Road and Rocky View Road. The
site is currently undeveloped with a steep, descending northwest -facing slope with an
elevation ranging from approximately 1,008 feet above sea level at the northeastern
corner to 1,226 feet at the southwestern corner. There are 15 coast live oak trees and
ten California black walnut trees on the property, which are all classified as protected
trees. The site supports a mix of oak/walnut woodland, disturbed coastal sage scrub,
and weedy communities.
The proposed project is currently being reviewed by the Diamond Bar Country Estates
Architectural Committee.
The property is legally described as Lot 37 of Tract No. 30091, and the Assessor’s
Parcel Number (APN) is 8713-005-013.
Site and Surrounding General Plan, Zoning and Land Uses
The image below highlights the subject property:
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Project Site
Adjacent Property to the East
Adjacent Property to the West
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Aerial View
The following table summarizes the land use status of the subject property and its
surroundings:
General Plan Designation Zoning
District Land Use
Site Rural Residential RR Undeveloped
North Low Medium Residential RLM Single-Family Residential
South Rural Residential RR Single-Family Residential
East Rural Residential RR Undeveloped
West Rural Residential RR Single-Family Residential
N
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Project Description
Site Plan
As stated, the property’s gross lot area is 71,438 square feet (1.64 acres), which
includes a 30-foot wide private street easement along the frontage of Ridge Line Road.
The property is a rectangular-shaped lot with a net buildable area (i.e., minus the private
street easement) of 66,647 square feet (1.53 acres). The property is a hillside property
with a steep descending slope at 41 percent that starts from the private street easement
to the rear property line.
The proposed house is situated towards the front of the lot, 30 feet from the edge of the
private street easement line along Ridge Line Road with the front entrance facing the
street. A circular driveway is proposed in the front yard which provides access to a four-
car garage. A series of retaining walls, described in further detail below, will facilitate
split-level pads to construct the home, as well as create a 25-foot rear pad to comply
with the City’s development standards for the rear setback. Due to topographical
constraints, no swimming pool, accessory structures, or other amenities are proposed,
with the exception of decorative landscape and hardscape features. Landscaping is
proposed throughout the front and rear of the house to enhance the architecture and to
create an overall site design that blends in with the neighboring homes and the natural
environment to the site. The removal and replacement of the nine protected trees are
discussed under the “Tree Permit” section below.
Grading Plan
The applicant is proposing to cut 1,100 cubic yards of soil and fill 564 cubic yards of soil
throughout the property to expand the existing building pad. Therefore, 536 cubic yards
would have to be exported from the site.
The applicant is proposing three tiers of retaining walls, with a maximum height of four
feet, at the rear of the property to support fills above the natural grade to create the
buildable pad for the house. Another retaining wall, with a maximum height of four feet,
is proposed on the east side yard to support a cut below the natural grade. All exposed
portions of the proposed retaining walls will be stuccoed and painted to match the
house.
Architecture
The architectural style is Mediterranean with eclectic details, and will include elem ents
such as clay “S”-shaped tiles on a hipped roof with a 4:12 pitch, precast concrete
surrounds and balusters, arched vinyl windows with stucco over foam trim, earth-toned
smooth stucco, corbels and clad with stone veneer at the bottom of the structure.
Additionally, the design includes a front porch and balcony/patio areas. Balconies with
precast stone balusters and decorative wrought iron are proposed throughout the four
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levels of the house. From street view, the building has an appearance of a two -story
structure, but the rear of the building steps down to four levels.
Since the proposed color of the exterior stucco accent color, foam eave, exterior trim,
window sills, etc. is similar to that of the exterior wall stucco, a condition has been
added to the draft resolution to propose a color that provides more contrast at building
plan check.
The proposed four-level house’s floor plan is comprised of the following components:
• Basement Floor – Gymnasium room and jacuzzi.
• Lower Floor – Theatre, game room, great room, two bedrooms with bathrooms
and walk-in closets.
• First Floor – Garage, common areas (foyer, living room, family room, kitchen with
wok, dining room), powder room, one bedroom with a bathroom and walk -in
closet.
• Second Floor – Master suite with a bathroom and walk-in closet, three bedrooms
with a bathroom and walk-in closet, and a laundry room.
• A front porch and balcony areas totaling 1,300 square feet are proposed
throughout the four levels of the residence.
• An elevator providing access to all levels.
The floor area distribution is summarized on the following page:
Front Elevation
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PROJECT SUMMARY (square footage)
Living Area
o Basement
o Lower Floor
o Street-Level Floor
o Second Floor
2,796
3,988
3,933
2,818
13,535
Non-Livable Area
o Garage 704
o Front Porch 102
o Balconies 1,198
o Deck 1,300
3,304
TOTAL FLOOR AREA 16,839
The height of the building is 35 feet, measured from the finished grade to the highest
point of the roofline.
Landscape Plan
The applicant is proposing to plant four 24-inch box fruitless olive trees in the front yard.
Sixteen existing protected trees will remain on the property. Additionally, 27 coast live
oak trees will be planted as replacement trees in the rear yard. Three coast live oaks
and six California black walnut trees are proposed to be removed due to its location in
the area of construction. The Tree Permit section below provides further analysis on the
removal of trees and appropriate mitigation. Additionally, various 5 -gallon and 1-gallon
shrubs that have a variety of color, texture, and form are proposed throughout the front,
side and rear yards. Overall, landscaping consists of drought tolerant and non-invasive
species to minimize irrigation and reduce the area of turf. The project is required to
comply with the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, and compliance will be
verified during building plan check and final inspections.
The subject property is located within the Los Angeles County Fire Department “High
Fire Hazard Severity Zone.” Therefore, the proposed landscaping must comply with the
Fire Department’s Fuel Modification Plan requirements. The landscape plans will be
submitted for review and approval by the Fire Department during building plan check.
ANALYSIS:
Review Authority
The proposed project requires Planning Commission review and approval of two
entitlement applications: Development Review (DR) and a Tree Permit (TP). The
analysis that follows provides the basis for staff’s recommendation to approve the DR
and TP applications.
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Development Review (DBMC Chapter 22.48)
New construction of a single-family home requires Planning Commission approval of a
Development Review application. Development Review approval is required to ensure
compliance with the City’s General Plan policies, development standards, and design
guidelines, and to minimize adverse effects of the proposed proje ct upon the
surrounding properties and the City in general.
As stated in Section 22.48.010 of the Development Code, the Development Review
process was established to ensure that new development and additions to existing
development are consistent with the General Plan “through the promotion of high
functional and aesthetic standards to complement and add to the economic, physical,
and social character” of Diamond Bar.
Development Standards: The following table compares the proposed project with the
City’s development standards for residential development in the RR zone:
Development Feature Residential Development
Standards Proposed
Meets
Requirements
Front Setback 30 feet 30 feet Yes
Side Setbacks 15 feet on one side,
10 feet on the other
15 feet – east side
10 feet – west side Yes
Side Yard Minimum
Between Adjoining
Structures
25 feet 29’-4” – west side
undeveloped – east side Yes
Rear Setback 25 feet 25 feet Yes
Lot Coverage Maximum of 30% 15% Yes
Max. Building Height 35 feet 35 feet Yes
Parking 2-car garage 4-car garage Yes
Retaining Wall Height 4-foot exposed
(Supporting fill)
4-foot exposed
(Supporting fill) Yes
Tree Permit (DBMC Section 22.38.110)
A Tree Permit is required when the removal or protection of a protected tree is
requested. A protected tree is any of the following:
• Native oak, walnut, sycamore and willow trees with a diameter at breast height
(“DBH” i.e., 4.5 feet above ground level) of eight inches or greater, and located
on parcels larger than one-half acre in area;
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• Trees of significant historical or value as designated by the City Council;
• Any tree required to be preserved or relocated as a condition of approval for a
discretionary permit;
• Any tree required to be planted as a condition of approval for a discretionary
permit; or
• A stand of trees, the nature of which makes each tree dependent upon the others
for survival.
Trees that are so damaged, diseased or in danger of falling (as verified by an arborist)
that cannot be effectively preserved, or its presence is a threat to other protected trees
or existing or proposed structures are exempted from being replaced at a three to one
(3:1) ratio.
The applicant submitted a tree report prepared by a licensed arborist dated June 7,
2021 and a biological assessment prepa red by a qualified biologist dated July 8, 2021.
There are 25 trees on site that are considered protected , including 15 coast live oaks
with DBH that ranges from 8 to 30 inches and 10 California black walnuts with DBH that
ranges from 5 and 20 inches. Three coast live oaks and six California black walnut trees
are proposed to be removed due to their location in the area of construction and cannot
be preserved in place. Trees to remain will be retained and protected in place with
protective, chain-link fencing to be installed prior to construction activities. The protected
trees will be replaced at a 3:1 ratio with a total of 27 coast live oak trees (five 24 -inch
box and twenty-two 15-gallon size) at the rear yard of the property (outside of existing
oak/walnut woodland habitat), which is the required amount of mitigation trees to be
planted.
For work close to the protected zone, protective measures shall include, but are not
limited to the following:
• Tree protection fencing will be a minimum of five feet h igh and located five feet
from the drip line of the trees.
• Fencing will be of a flexible configuration or chain link, supported by vertical
posts at a maximum of ten-foot intervals to keep the fencing upright and in place.
• A sign posted on the fencing which states “Warning: Tree Protection Zone” and
stating the requirements of all workers in the protection zone.
• Throughout the course of construction, the tree protection fencing shall be
maintained and the site shall be maintained and cleaned at all times. No
construction staging or disposal of construction materials or byproducts, including
but not limited to paint, plaster, or chemical solutions is allowed in the tree
protection zone.
These protective measures are included as conditions in the attached resolution.
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Biological Assessment
In addition to the existence of protected trees, the biological assessment indicates that
the site supports approximately 0.90 acre of oak/walnut woodland, a natural community
characterized by coast live oaks and California black walnut trees. Otherwise, there are
no listed or otherwise highly sensitive plant or wildlife species that were observed during
the field visit. The report also notes that no wetlands, riparian habitat, or sensitive
natural communities are present and the site does not represent a component of any
recognized or apparent habitat linkage/wildlife movement corridor.
To reduce potentially significant impacts to biological resources as a result of the tree
removals, the biological assessment recommends the following protective measures:
• Replacement trees shall be planted on site, outside of existing oak/walnut
woodland habitat, and shall be subject to a minimum of five years of
maintenance and monitoring to ensure their successful establishment. Any trees
lost or observed to be in poor or declining health within the five -year
establishment period shall be replaced at a minimum ratio of 1:1. After all trees
have been established, all temporary irrigation systems (i.e., those outside of
project landscaping and Fuel Modification Zones A and B) shall be removed.
• Landscaping within Fuel Modification Zone B shall be limited to locally native
plant species.
• Soil and roots of any and all native plants installed shall be tested and certified to
be free of Phytophthora (a pathogen that is destructive to vegetation) prior to
Location of Trees
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planting. All container plants shall be obtained from a native plant nursery that
employs Best Management Practices specifically designed to reduce the
incidence of Phytophthora to undetectable levels.
• Any necessary pruning or removal of trees shall be conducted outside of the
typical nesting season for native birds in the region, which generally extends from
February 1 to August 31. If pruning or removal of any trees or large shrubs must
be conducted during the nesting bird season, a qualified biologist shall first
conduct a survey to determine whether any native birds are nesting in the area. If
any active nests are found (i.e., complete nests with at least one egg), they
should be avoided until after all young have fledged from the nest.
With implementation of the protective measures above, the project would not result in
any significant impacts to biological resources. All protective measures are included as
conditions in the attached resolution.
Compliance with Hillside Management Ordinance (DBMC Section 22.22)
The proposed project was reviewed for compliance with the City’s Hillside Management
Design Guidelines and regulations. The project complies with all of the regulations and
guidelines to ensure that development will complement the character and topography of
hillside areas set forth in the Development Code, and incorporates the following
features:
• The maximum building height is 35 feet, which is the maximum height allowed;
• The single-family residence is constructed into the hillside, which gives the
appearance of a two-story structure from the street;
• All proposed retaining walls associated with the building pads are at a maximum
exposed height of four feet; and
• Earth tone building materials and color schemes are used that blend in with the
natural landscape.
The project complies with all of the regulations and guidelines to ensure that
development will complement the character and topography of hillside areas set forth in
the Development Code.
Compatibility with Neighborhood
The proposed project is designed to be compatible with the character of the existing
homes in the neighborhood. The new house will not be intrusive to neighboring homes
since the proposed house will not block existing views from adjacent properties. The
property to the west will continue to have views from the rear yard to the north. The
property to the east is undeveloped. The property across the street to the south will
continue to have views to the north and south.
The proposed house is comparable in mass and scale to existing homes on similar lots
in The Country. The architecture in The Country is eclectic, and includes a variety of
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architectural designs. The scale and proportions of the proposed home are well
balanced and appropriate for the site. In sum, the proposed project fits the character of
the neighborhood on which it is proposed.
The project incorporates the principles of the City’s Residential Design Guidelines as
follows:
• The new single-family residence will conform to all development standards, including
building height, lot coverage and setbacks, which is consistent with other homes in
The Country;
• The project is terraced on four pad levels. From the street view, the building has an
appearance of a two-story structure, but the rear of the building steps down to four
levels.
• A gradual transition between the project and adjacent uses is achieved through
appropriate setbacks, building height, landscaping, and window and door placement;
• The proposed new single-family residence is appropriate in mass and scale to the
site;
• Elevations are treated with detailed architectural elements;
• The exterior finish materials and colors blend with the natural environment; and
• Effective landscape design should serve the dual purpose of intrinsically enhancing
a project setting, as well as integrating the landscaping into the overall architectural
design. Staff finds the proposed plant palette to be diverse, and the plant selections
are compatible with Southern California native landscapes.
Additional Review
The Public Works Department and Building and Safety Division reviewed this project,
and their comments are included in the attached resolution as conditions of approval.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING:
On February 17, 2023, public hearing notices were mailed to property owners within a
1,000-foot radius of the project site. On February 17, 2023, the notice was published in
the San Gabriel Valley Tribune newspaper. A notice display board was posted at the
site, and a copy of the notice was posted at the City's designated community posting
sites.
Public Comments Received
No comments have been received as of the publication date of this report.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
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This project has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA). Based on that assessment, the City has determined the project to be
Categorically Exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to the provisions of
Article 19 Section 15303(a) (construction of a new single-family residence) of the CEQA
Guidelines. No further environmental review is required.
PREPARED BY:
REVIEWED BY:
Attachments:
A. Draft Resolution No. 2023-XX, Standard Conditions of Approval
B. Site Plan, Floor Plan, Elevation, Roof Plan, Conceptual Landscape Plan, Grading
Plan
C. Color and Material Board
D. Arborist Report Dated June 7, 2021
E. Biological Assessment Dated July 8, 2021
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PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND
BAR, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. PL2020-31 TO
CONSTRUCT A NEW 13,535 SQUARE-FOOT SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE, A
704 SQUARE-FOOT GARAGE, 1,300 SQUARE FEET OF PATIO/BALCONY
AREAS ON A 1.64-GROSS ACRE LOT, LOCATED AT 23121 RIDGE LINE
ROAD, DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765 (APN 8713-005-013). A TREE PERMIT IS
ALSO REQUESTED TO REMOVE THREE COAST LIVE OAKS AND SIX
CALIFORNIA BLACK WALNUT TREES AND REPLACE THEM WITH 27 COAST
LIVE OAK TREES ON SITE.
A. RECITALS
1. The property owner, Manohar Bhatia, and applicant, Pete Volbeda, have filed
an application for Development Review and Tree Permit No. PL2020-31 for a
property located at 23121 Ridge Line Road, Diamond Bar, County of Los
Angeles, California.
2. The following approvals are requested from the Planning Commission:
(a) Development Review to construct a new single-family residence
consisting of 13,535 square feet of living space, a 704 square-foot
garage and 1,300 square feet of porch/balcony areas on a 1.64 -acre
undeveloped parcel.
(b) Tree Permit to remove three protected coast live oaks and six California
black walnut trees and replace them with 27 coast live oak trees on site.
Hereinafter in this Resolution, the subject Development Review and Tree
Permit shall be referred to as the "Proposed Project."
3. The subject property is made up of one parcel totaling 71,438 gross square
feet (1.64 gross acres). It is located in the Rural Residential (RR) zone with
an underlying General Plan land use designation of Rural Residential.
4. The legal description of the subject property is Lot 37 of Tract No. 30091, and
the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) is 8713-005-013.
5. On February 17, 2023, public hearing notices were mailed to property owners
within a 1,000-foot radius of the Project site. On February 17, 2023,
notification of the public hearing for this project was published in the San
Gabriel Valley Tribune newspaper. Also, public notices were posted at the
project site and the City’s designated community posting sites.
6. On February 28, 2023, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar
conducted a duly noticed public hearing, solicited testimony from all interested
individuals, and concluded said hearing on that date.
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B. RESOLUTION
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning
Commission of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth
in the Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct; and
2. The Planning Commission hereby determines the Project to be Categorically
Exempt from the provisions of the California Environm ental Quality Act
(CEQA) pursuant to the provisions of Article 19 Section 15303(a) (construction
of a new single-family residence) of the CEQA Guidelines. Therefore, no
further environmental review is required.
C. FINDINGS OF FACT
Based on the findings and conclusions set forth herein and as prescribed under
Diamond Bar Municipal Code (DBMC) Sections 22.48 and 22.38, this Planning
Commission hereby finds as follows:
Development Review Findings (DBMC Section 22.48.040)
1. The design and layout of the proposed development is consistent with the
applicable elements of the City's General Plan, City Design Guidelines, and
development standards of the applicable district, design guidelines, and
architectural criteria for special areas (e.g., theme areas, specific plans,
community plans, boulevards or planned developments):
The design of the Project is consistent with the applicable elements of the
City’s General Plan, City Design Guidelines and development standards. The
City’s General Plan Policy LU-P-56 requires that development on privately-
owned, residentially designated land in hillside areas shall be compatible with
the surrounding natural areas promoting design principles such as minimizing
grading, preserving existing vistas, incorporate site and architectural design
that is sensitive to the hillsides, and require fuel modification. A Mediterranean
style with eclectic details is being proposed with clay “S”-shaped tiles on a
hipped roof with a 4:12 pitch, precast concrete surrounds and balusters, and
earth-toned shades for the exterior finish as not to detract from the hillsides.
The Project will also be required to implement fuel modification.
A gradual transition between the project and adjacent uses is achieved
through appropriate setbacks, building height, and window and door
placement. Additionally, the design includes a front porch and balcony/patio
areas throughout the four levels of the home. All elevations are architecturally
treated and strongly articulated along the visible façade [City’s Design
Guidelines B. Architecture (3)].
The Project complies with all development standards of the Rural Residential
zoning district by complying with all development standards such as required
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setbacks, building height, and lot coverage. The project site is not part of any
theme area, specific plan, community plan, boulevard or planned
development.
2. The design and layout of the proposed development will not interfere with the
use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or future developments, and will
not create traffic or pedestrian hazards;
The proposed residence will not interfere with the use and enjoyment of
neighboring existing or future developments because the use of the project
site is designed for a single-family home and the surrounding uses are also
single-family homes.
The proposed residence will not interfere with vehicular or pedestrian
movements, such as access or other functional requirements of a single-family
home because it complies with the requirements for driveway widths and
exceeds the minimum number of required off-street parking spaces.
3. The architectural design of the proposed development is compatible with the
character of the surrounding neighborhood and will maintain and enhance the
harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by
Chapter 22.48: Development Review Standards, the City’s Design Guidelines,
the City's General Plan, or any applicable specific plan;
The City’s General Plan Policy LU-P-56 requires that residential development
be compatible with the prevailing character of the surrounding neighborhood
in terms of building scale, density, massing, and design. The City’s General
Plan Goal CC-G-4 also requires the preservation of the scale and character of
existing residential neighborhoods and ensure sensitive transitions between
densities and uses. The City’s Design Guidelines Architecture (1) requires
compatibility with the surrounding character including harmonious building
style, form, size, color, material and roofline.
The scale and proportions of the proposed residence are well balanced and
appropriate for the 1.64 gross acre site. The Mediterranean architectural style
is compatible with other homes in the neighborhood since the architecture in
The Country is eclectic, and includes a variety of architectural designs. The
Project minimizes negative impacts on surrounding uses since the house will
not block existing views from adjacent properties. In sum, the Project fits the
character of the neighborhood on which it is proposed.
4. The design of the proposed development will provide a desirable environment
for its occupants and visiting public as well as its neighbors through good
aesthetic use of materials, texture, color, and will remain aesthetically
appealing;
The applicant is proposing a Mediterranean architectural style with eclectic
details, which includes elements such as hipped roofs with a 4:12 pitch, earth-
toned smooth stucco, precast concrete surrounds and balusters, arched vinyl
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windows with stucco over foam trim, earth-toned smooth stucco, corbels and
clad with stone veneer at the bottom of the structure.
The proposed residence will not be intrusive to neighboring homes. Light
colored shades for the exterior finish are used to soften the building’s visual
impact and assist in preserving the hillside’s aesthetic value. Also,
landscaping is integrated into the site to complement the massing of the house
and blend in with neighboring homes and the natural environment of the site
in order to maintain a desirable environment. The scale and proportions of the
proposed home are well balanced and appropriate for the site.
5. The proposed development will not be detrimental to public health, safety or
welfare or materially injurious (e.g., negative effect on property values or
resale(s) of property) to the properties or improvements in the vicinity; and
Before the issuance of any City permits, the proposed project is required to
comply with all conditions within the approved resolution, the Building and
Safety Division, Public Works Department and Los Angeles County Fire
Department requirements.
Through the permit and inspection process, the referenced agencies will
ensure that the proposed project is not detrimental to the public health, s afety
or welfare or materially injurious to the properties or improvements in the
vicinity.
6. The proposed project has been reviewed in compliance with the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The proposed project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth under Article 19
Section 15303(a) (construction of a new single-family residence) of the CEQA
Guidelines.
Tree Permit Finding (DBMC Section 22.38.110)
1. The tree is a public nuisance by causing damage to improvements
(e.g., building foundations, retaining walls, roadways/driveways, patios, and
decks) and appropriate mitigation measures will be implemented in
compliance with DBMC Section 22.38.140 (Tree protection requirements)
below.
The applicant submitted a tree report prepared by a licensed arborist dated
June 7, 2021 and a biological assessment prepared by a qualified biologist
dated July 8, 2021. There are 25 trees on site that are considered protected,
including 15 coast live oaks with DBH that ranges from 8 to 30 inches and 10
California black walnuts with DBH that ranges from 5 and 20 inches. Three
coast live oaks and six California black walnut trees are proposed to be
removed due to its location in the area of construction and cannot be preserved
in place. Trees to remain will be retained and protected in place with protective,
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chain-link fencing to be installed prior to construction activities. The protected
trees will be replaced at a 3:1 ratio with a total of 27 coast live oak trees (five
24-inch box and twenty-two (22) 15-gallon size) at the rear yard of the property
(outside of existing oak/walnut woodland habitat), which is the required
amount of mitigation trees to be planted. The planting of new protected
species will provide sufficient replacement of the natural landscape.
Based upon the findings and conclusion set forth above, the Planning Commission hereby
approves this Application, subject to the following conditions:
1. Development shall substantially comply with the plans and documents
presented to the Planning Commission at the public hearing.
2. Prior to building permit issuance, the required landscape plan shall be
designed to meet the requirements of the Los Angeles County Fire
Department’s Fuel Modification Plan Guidelines in terms of plant selection,
placement and maintenance. The final landscape and fuel modification plans
shall be submitted to the Los Angeles County Fire Department for review and
approval.
3. Prior to building permit issuance, a Certification of Design, together with
landscape and irrigation plans prepared by a licensed landscape architect,
shall be submitted to the Planning Division for review and approval by the
City’s Consulting Landscape Architect. Landscape and irrigation plans shall
comply with the updated Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance.
4. Prior to the issuance of a demolition, grading or building permit, the protected
trees shall be barricaded by chain link fencing with a minimum height of five
feet, or by another protective barrier approved by the Community Development
Director or designee. Chain link fencing shall be supported by vertical posts at
a maximum of ten-foot intervals to keep the fencing upright and in place.
Barriers shall be placed at least five (5) feet from the drip line of the trees. A
sign posted on the fencing which states “Warning: Tree Protection Zone” and
stating the requirements of all workers in the protection zone. Throughout the
course of construction, the tree protection fencing shall be maintained and the
site shall be maintained and cleaned at all times. No construction staging or
disposal of construction materials or byproducts, including but not limited to
paint, plaster, or chemical solutions is allowed in the tree protection zone. The
fencing plan shall be shown on the grading plan and other applicable
construction documents and the Applicant, Owner or construction manager
shall contact the Planning Division to conduct a site visit prior to
commencement of any work to ensure this condition is met.
5. All work conducted close to the protected zone of protected trees shall be
performed within the presence of a qualified arborist. A 48-hour notice shall
be provided to the arborist and the Planning Division prior to the planned start
of work.
6. If protective measures fail to ensure the survival of any protected tree during
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construction activity or within three years after approval of final inspection, a
minimum of three 24-inch box protected species shall be planted on the
property for each protected tree that dies.
7. Replacement trees shall be planted on site, outside of existing oak/walnut
woodland habitat, and shall be subject to a minimum of five years of
maintenance and monitoring to ensure their successful establishment. Any
trees lost or observed to be in poor or declining health within the five -year
establishment period shall be replaced at a minimum ratio of 1:1. After all trees
have been established, all temporary irrigation systems (i.e., those outside of
project landscaping and Fuel Modification Zones A and B) shall be removed.
8. Landscaping within Fuel Modification Zone B shall be limited to locally native
plant species.
9. Soil and roots of any and all native plants installed shall be tested and certified
to be free of Phytophthora prior to planting. All container plants shall be
obtained from a native plant nursery that employs Best Management Practices
specifically designed to reduce the incidence of Phytophthora to undetectable
levels.
10. Any necessary pruning or removal of trees shall be conducted outside of the
typical nesting season for native birds in the region, which generally extends
from February 1 to August 31. If pruning or removal of any trees or large shrubs
must be conducted during the nesting bird season, a qualified biologist shall
first conduct a survey to determine whether any native birds are nesting in the
area. If any active nests are found (i.e., complete nests with at least one egg),
they should be avoided until after all young have fledged from the nest.
11. On the plans submitted for building plan check, revise the color of the “exterior
stucco accent color, foam eave, exterior trim, window sills, etc.” to a color that
provides more contrast from the exterior wall stucco.
12. Standard Conditions. The applicant shall comply with the standard
development conditions attached hereto.
The Planning Commission shall:
a. Certify to the adoption of this Resolution; and
b. Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution, by certified mail to
the property owner, Manohar Bhatia, 17753 Via San Jose, Rowland
Heights, CA 91786, and applicant, Pete Volbeda, 215 N 2nd Ave #B,
Upland, CA 91786.
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APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF FEBRUARY 2023, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
By: ______________________________________
Raymond Wolfe, Chairperson
I, Greg Gubman, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular meeting of the Planning
Commission held on the 28th day of February 2023, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ABSTAIN: Commissioners:
ATTEST: ______________________________________
Greg Gubman, Secretary
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
STANDARD CONDITIONS
USE PERMITS, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL NEW AND
REMODELED STRUCTURES
PROJECT #: Development Review and Tree Permit No. PL2020-31
SUBJECT: To construct a new single-family residence consisting of
13,535 square feet of living space, a 704 square-foot garage and
1,300 square feet of porch/balcony areas on a 1.64-acre
undeveloped parcel. A Tree Permit is also requested to remove
three protected coast live oaks and six California black walnut
trees and replace them with 27 coast live oak trees on site.
PROPERTY
OWNER: Manohar Bhatia, 17753 Via San Jose, Rowland Heights, CA 91786
APPLICANT: Pete Volbeda, 215 N 2nd Ave #B, Upland, CA 91786
LOCATION: 23121 Ridge Line Road, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
ALL OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS APPLY TO YOUR PROJECT.
I. APPLICANT SHALL CONTACT THE PLANNING DIVISION AT (909) 839-7030,
FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, and
its officers, agents and employees, from any claim, action, or
proceeding to attack, set-aside, void or annul, the approval of
Development Review and Tree Permit No. PL2020-31 brought within
the time period provided by Government Code Section 66499.37. In
the event the city and/or its officers, agents and employees are made a
party of any such action:
(a) Applicant shall provide a defense to the City defendants or at the
City's option reimburse the City its costs of defense, including
reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred in defense of such claims.
(b) Applicant shall promptly pay any final judgment rendered against
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the City defendants. The City shall promptly notify the applicant
of any claim, action of proceeding, and shall cooperate fully in
the defense thereof.
2. This approval shall not be effective for any purpose until the applicant
and owner of the property involved have filed, within twenty-one
(21) days of approval of this Development Review and Tree Permit
No. PL2020-31, at the City of Diamond Bar Community Development
Department, their affidavit stating that they are aware of and agree to
accept all the conditions of this approval. Further, this approval shall
not be effective until the applicants pay remaining City processing fees,
school fees and fees for the review of submitted reports.
3. All designers, architects, engineers, and contractors associated with
this project shall obtain a Diamond Bar Business License; and a zoning
approval for those businesses located in Diamond Bar.
4. Signed copies of Planning Commission Resolution No. 2023-XX,
Standard Conditions, and all conditions of approval shall be included on
the plans (full size). The sheet(s) are for information only to all parties
involved in the construction/grading activities and are not required to be
wet sealed/stamped by a licensed Engineer/Architect.
5. Prior to the plan check, revised site plans and building elevations
incorporating all Conditions of Approval shall be submitted for Planning
Division review and approval.
6. Prior to any use of the project site or business activity being
commenced thereon, all conditions of approval shall be completed.
7. The project site shall be maintained and operated in full compliance with
the conditions of approval and all laws, or other applicable regulations.
8. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with all sections of
the Development Code, all other applicable City Ordinances, and any
applicable Specific Plan in effect at the time of building permit issuance.
9. All site, grading, landscape/irrigation, and roof plans, and elevation
plans shall be coordinated for consistency prior to issuance of City
permits (such as grading, tree removal, encroachment, building, etc.,)
or approved use has commenced, whichever comes first.
10. The hours during which construction activities causing the operation of
any tools or equipment used in construction, drilling, repair, alteration,
or demolition work are limited to Monday through Saturday, between
the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and are not allowed at any time
on Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.
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11. The property owner/applicant shall remove the public hearing notice
board within three days of this project's approval.
12. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of City Planning and
Building and Safety Divisions, Public Works Department, and the Fire
Department.
13. Prior to issuance of building permits, the applicant shall record, and
provide the City with a conformed recorded copy of, a Covenant and
Agreement or similar document in a form approved by the City Attorney,
which restricts the rental of rooms or other portions of the property
under two or more separate agreements and prohibits use of the
property as a boarding or rooming house, except to the extent otherwise
permitted by the Diamond Bar Municipal Code or applicable state or
federal law.
B. FEES/DEPOSITS
1. Applicant shall pay development fees (including but not limited to
Planning, Building and Safety Divisions, and Public Works Department)
at the established rates, prior to issuance of building or grading permit
(whichever comes first), as required by the City. School fees as required
shall be paid prior to the issuance of building permit. In addition, the
applicant shall pay all remaining prorated City project review and
processing fees prior to issuance of grading or building permit,
whichever comes first.
2. Prior to any plan check, all deposit accounts for the processing of this
project shall have no deficits.
C. TIME LIMITS
1. The approval of Development Review and Tree Permit No. PL2020-31
expires within two years from the date of approval if the use has not
been exercised as defined per Diamond Bar Municipal Code (DBMC)
Section 22.66.050 (b)(1). In accordance with DBMC
Section 22.60.050(c), the applicant may request, in writing, a one -year
time extension for Planning Commission consideration. Such a request
must be submitted to the Planning Division prior to the expiration date
and be accompanied by the review fee in accordance with the fee
schedule in effect at the time of submittal.
D. SITE DEVELOPMENT
1. This approval is to construct a new single-family residence consisting
of 13,535 square feet of living space, a 704 square-foot garage and
1,300 square feet of porch/balcony areas at 23121 Ridge Line Road,
as described in the staff report and depicted on the approved plans on
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file with the Planning Division, subject to the conditions listed below.
2. The construction documents submitted for plan check shall be in
substantial compliance with the architectural plans approved by the
Planning Commission, as modified pursuant to the conditions below. If
the plan check submittal is not in substantial compliance with the
approved Development Review submittal, the plans may require further
staff review and re-notification of the surrounding property owners,
which may delay the project and entail additional fees.
3. To ensure compliance with the provisions of the Planning Commission
approval, a final inspection is required from the Planning Division when
work for any phase of the project has been completed. The applicant
shall inform the Planning Division and schedule an appointment for
such an inspection.
4. The above conditions shall run with the land and shall be binding upon
all future owners, operators, or successors thereto of the property. Non -
compliance with any condition of approval or mitigation measure
imposed as a condition of the approval shall constitute a violation of the
City’s Development Code. Violations may be enforced in accordance
with the provisions of the Development Code.
5. Failure to comply with any of the conditions set forth above or as
subsequently amended in writing by the City, may result in failure to
obtain a building final and/or a certificate of occupancy until full
compliance is reached. The City’s requirement for full compliance may
require minor corrections and/or complete demolition of a non -
compliant improvement, regardless of costs incurred where the project
does not comply with design requirements and approvals that the
applicant agreed to when permits were pulled to construct the project.
6. The project site shall be developed and maintained in substantial
conformance with the approved plans submitted to, approved, and
amended herein by the Planning Commission, on file with the Planning
Division, the conditions contained herein, and the Development Code
regulations.
7. All ground-mounted utility appurtenances such as transformers, air
conditioning condensers, etc., shall be located out of public view and
adequately screened through the use of a combination of concrete or
masonry walls, berms, and/or landscaping to the satisfaction of the
Planning Division.
8. All roof-mounted equipment shall be screened from public view.
9. All structures, including walls, trash enclosures, canopies, etc., shall be
maintained in a structurally sound, safe manner with a clean, orderly
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appearance. All graffiti shall be removed within 72 hours by the
property owners/occupant.
10. All landscaping, structures, architectural features and public
improvements damaged during construction shall be repaired or
replaced upon project completion.
E. SOLID WASTE
1. The site shall be maintained in a condition, which is free of debris both
during and after the construction, addition, or implementation of the
entitlement approved herein. The removal of all trash, debris, and
refuse, whether during or subsequent to construction shall be done only
by the property owner, applicant or by a duly permitted waste
contractor, who has been authorized by the City to provide collection,
transportation, and disposal of solid waste from residential, commercial,
construction, and industrial areas within the City. It shall be the
applicant's obligation to ensure that the waste contractor used has
obtained permits from the City of Diamond Bar to provide such services.
2. Mandatory solid waste disposal services shall be provided by th e City
franchised waste hauler to all parcels/lots or uses affected by approval
of this project.
F. FIRE PROTECTION STANDARDS
1. Development shall be constructed to reduce the potential for spread of
brushfire.
(i) In the case of a conflict, where more restrictive provisions are
contained in the current State and Local Building Code or in the Fire
Code, the more restrictive provisions shall prevail.
(ii) Roofs shall be covered with noncombustible materials as defined in
the building code. Open eave ends shall be stopped in order to
prevent bird nests or other combustible material lodging within the
roof and to preclude entry of flames.
(iii) Exterior walls shall be surfaced with noncombustible or fire-resistant
materials.
(iv) Balconies, patio roofs, eaves and other similar overhangs shall be
of noncombustible construction or shall be protected by fire -
resistant material in compliance with the building code.
2. A permanent fuel modification area shall be required around
development projects or portions thereof that are adjacent or exposed
to hazardous fire areas for the purpose of fire protection. The required
width of the fuel modification area shall be based on applicable building
and fire codes and a fire hazard analysis study developed by the fire
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marshal.
II. APPLICANT SHALL CONTACT THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
(909) 839-7040, FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
A. GENERAL
1. An application for the assignment of a new address shall be submitted
concurrently with the grading plan.
2. An Erosion Control Plan shall be submitted concurrently with the grading plan
clearly detailing erosion control measures. These measures shall be
implemented during construction. The erosion control plan shall conform to
national Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) standards and
incorporate the appropriate Best Management Practices (BMP’s) as specified
in the Storm Water BMP Certification. For construction activity which disturbs
one acre or greater soil a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will
be needed.
3. Per NPDES Permit (CAS004001) for MS4 Discharges within the Coastal
Watershed of Los Angeles County (Order No. R4-2012-0175), a new single-
family hillside home development project shall include mitigation measures to:
(i) Conserve natural areas;
(ii) Protect slopes and channels;
(iii) Provide storm drain system stenciling and signage;
(iv) Divert roof runoff to vegetated areas before discharge unless the
diversion would result in slope instability; and
(v) Direct surface flow to vegetated areas before discharge, unless the
diversion would result in slope instability.
These mitigation measures shall be included with the submitted grading
plans and implemented during construction.
4. Grading and construction activities and the transportation of equipment and
materials and operation of heavy grading equipment shall be limited to
between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Dust generated by grading and construction activities shall be reduced by
watering the soil prior to and during the activities and in accordance with South
Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 402 and Rule 403. Reclaimed
water shall be used whenever possible. Additionally, all construction
equipment shall be properly muffled to reduce noise levels.
B. SOILS REPORT/GRADING/RETAINING WALLS
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1. Prior to grading plan submittal, a geotechnical report prepared by a
Geotechnical Engineer, licensed by the State of California, shall be submitted
by the applicant for approval by the City.
2. Upon approval of the geotechnical report, the applicant shall submit drainage
and grading plans prepared by a Civil Engineer, licensed by the State of
California, prepared in accordance with the City’s requirements for the City’s
review and approval. A list of requirements for grading plan check is available
from the Public Works Department. All grading (cut and fill) calculations shall
be submitted to the City concurrently with the grading plan.
3. Finished slopes shall conform to City Code Section 22.22.080-Grading.
4. All easements and flood hazard areas shall be clearly identified on the grading
plan.
5. The grading plan shall show the location of any retaining walls and the
elevations of the top of wall/footing/retaining and the finished grade on both
sides of the retaining wall. Construction details for retaining walls shall be
shown on the grading plan. Calculations and details of retaining walls shall be
submitted to the Building and Safety Division for review and appr oval.
6. All equipment staging areas shall be located on the project site. Staging area,
including material stockpile and equipment storage area, shall be enclosed
within a 6-foot-high chain link fence. All access points in the defense shall be
locked whenever the construction site is not supervised.
7. Grading of the subject property shall be in accordance with the California
Building Code, City Grading Ordinance, Hillside Management Ordinance and
acceptable grading practices.
8. The maximum grade of driveways serving building pad areas shall be 15
percent. Driveways with a slope of 15 percent shall incorporate grooves for
traction into the construction as required by the City Engineer.
9. All slopes shall be seeded per landscape plan and/or fuel modification plan
with native grasses or planted with ground cover, shrubs, and trees for erosion
control upon completion of grading or some other alternative method of
erosion control shall be completed to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and
a permanent irrigation system shall be installed.
10. Submit a stockpile plan showing the proposed location for stockpile for grading
export materials, and the route of transport.
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11. A pre-construction meeting shall be held at the project site with the grading
contractor, applicant, and city grading inspector at least 48 hours prior to
commencing grading operations.
12. Rough grade certifications by project soils and civil engineers and the as -
graded geotechnical report shall be submitted for review and approval prior to
issuance of building permits for the foundation of the residential structure.
Retaining wall permits may be issued without a rough grade certificate.
13. Final grade certifications by project soils and civil engineers shall be submitted
to the Public Works Department prior to the issuance of any project final
inspections/certificate of occupancy respectively.
C. DRAINAGE
1. Detailed drainage system information of the lot with careful attention to any
flood hazard area shall be submitted. All drainage/runoff from the
development shall be conveyed from the site to the natural drainage course.
No on-site drainage shall be conveyed to adjacent parcels, unless that is the
natural drainage course.
2. Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, a complete hydrology and hydraulic
study shall be prepared by a Civil Engineer registered in the State of California
to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and Los Angeles Public Works
Department.
E. UTILITIES
1. Easements, satisfactory to the City Engineer and the utility companies, for
public utility and public services purpose shall be offered and shown on the
detailed site plan for dedication to the City or affected utility company.
2. Will Serve Letters shall be submitted stating that adequate facilities are or will
be available to serve the proposed project shall be submitted to the City from
all utilities such as, but not limited to, phone, gas, water, electric, and cable.
3. Applicant shall relocate and underground any existing on-site utilities to the
satisfaction of the City Engineer and the respective utility owner.
4. Underground utilities shall not be constructed within the drip line of any mature
tree except as approved by a registered arborist.
F. SEWERS
1. Applicant shall obtain connection permit(s) from the City and County Sanitation
District prior to issuance of building permits.
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2. Any homeowner that installs a new septic tank system, repairs and existing
septic tank or adds any plumbing fixture units or bedroom equivalents to the
facility served by an existing septic system will need to submit a Notice of Intent
(NOI) to the Regional Water Quality Control Board for Waste Discharge
Requirements and submit a copy of the sent NOI and check to the City. Please
refer to City handouts.
3. Applicant, at applicant’s sole cost and expense, shall construct the sewer
system in accordance with the City, Los Angeles County Public Works
Division. Sewer plans shall be submitted to the Building and Safety Division
for review and approval by the City.
III. APPLICANT SHALL CONTACT THE BUILDING AND SAFETY DIVISION,
(909) 839-7020, FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
General Conditions:
1. At the time of plan check submittal, plans and construction shall conform to
current State and Local Building Code (i.e. 2019 California Building Code
series will apply) requirements and all other applicable construction codes,
ordinances and regulations in effect.
2. Provisions for CAL Green shall be implemented onto plans and certification
shall be provided by a third party as required by the Building Division. Specific
water, waste, low VOC, and related conservation measures shall be shown on
plans. Construction shall conform to the current CAL Green Code.
3. Only one single-family dwelling is allowed on this property unless specifically
approved otherwise per CBC 202.
4. The sub-basement/underfloor space shall not be used for habitable space.
Plan Check – Items to be addressed prior to plan approval:
5. The minimum design load for wind in this area is 110 M.P.H. exposures “C”
and the site is within seismic zone D or E. The applicant shall submit drawings
and calculations prepared by a California State licensed Architect/Engineer
with wet stamp and signature.
6. This project shall comply with the energy conservation requirements of the
State of California Energy Commission. All lighting shall be high efficacy or
equivalent per the current California Energy Code 119 and 150(k).
7. Indoor air quality shall be provided consistent with ASHRAE 62.2 as required
per California Energy Code 150(o).
8. Public Works/Engineering Department is required to review and approve
grading plans that clearly show all finish elevations, drainage, and retaining
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wall(s) locations. These plans shall be consistent with the site plan submitted
to the Building & Safety Division.
9. “Separate permits are required for retaining walls and other accessory
detached structures” and shall be noted on plans.
10. All balconies shall be designed for 1.5 times the live load for the area served
per CBC Table 1607.1 and provide ventilation in the joist space per CBC
2304.12.2.6.
11. All easements shall be shown on the site plan.
12. Fire Department approval shall be required. Contact the Fire Department to
check the fire zone for the location of your property. If this project is located in
High Hazard Fire Zone, it shall meet requirements of the fire zone per CBC
Chapter 7A.
a. All unenclosed under-floor areas shall be constructed as exterior wall.
b. All openings into the attic, floor and/or other enclosed areas shall be
covered with corrosion-resistant wire mesh not less than 1/4 inch or more
than 1/2 inch in any dimension except where such openings are equipped
with sash or door.
c. Eaves shall be protected.
d. Exterior construction shall be one-hour or non-combustible.
e. Fuel modification plans shall be approved through LA County Fire Fuel
Modification Unit.
f. LA County Fire shall approve plans for fire flow availability due to home
being over 3600 sf as required per CFC Appendix B105.1.
13. All retaining walls shall be separately submitted to the Building & Safety and
Public Works/Engineering Departments for review and approval.
14. A soils report is required per CBC 1803 and all recommendations of the soils
report shall be adhered to.
15. Slope setbacks shall be consistent with California Building Code Figure
1805.3.1 and California Residential Code R403.1.7. Foundations shall provide
a minimum distance to daylight.
16. Light and ventilation shall comply with CBC 1203 and 1205. This includes
master bedroom suite 1.
17. Design for future electric vehicle charging shall be provided consistent with
CAL Green 4.106.4.
18. New single-family dwellings shall have solar panels installed in conformance
with CA Energy Code 150.1(c)14.
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Permit – Items required prior to building permit issuance:
19. Solid waste management of construction material shall incorporate recycling
material collection per Diamond Bar Municipal Code 8.16 of Title 8. The
contractor shall complete all required forms and pay applicable deposits prior
to permit.
20. Prior to building permit issuance, all school district fees shall be paid. Please
obtain a form from the Building and Safety Division to take directly to the school
district.
21. Submit grading plans clearly showing all finish elevations, drainage, and
retaining wall locations. No building permits shall be issued prior to submitting
a pad certification.
22. Sewer connections require sewer connection fees and approval from the LA
County Sanitation District.
23. AQMD notification is required at least 10 days prior to any demolition. Proof
of notification is required at permit issuance.
24. All workers on the job shall be covered by workman’s compensation insurance
under a licensed general contractor. Any changes to the contractor shall be
updated on the building permit.
25. The basement retaining wall must be separated from the house plans and
separately permitted in order to certify the building pad before permit issuance
of the house structure.
Construction – Conditions required during construction:
26. Fire sprinklers are required for new single-family dwellings (CRC R313.2).
Sprinklers shall be approved by LA County Fire Department prior to installation
and shall be inspected at framing stage and finalization of construction.
27. Occupancy of the facilities shall not commence until all California Building
Code and State Fire Marshal regulations have been met. The buildings shall
be inspected for compliance prior to occupancy.
28. Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of this Code
shall expire and become null and void unless the work authorized by such
permit is commenced within one year after permit issuance, and if a successful
inspection has not been obtained from the building official within one-hundred-
eighty (180) days from the date of permit issuance or the last successful
inspection. A successful inspection shall mean a documented passed
inspection by the city building inspector as outlined in Section 110.6.
29. All structures and property shall be maintained in a safe and clean manner
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during construction. The property shall be free of debris, trash, and weeds.
30. All equipment staging areas shall be maintained in an orderly manner and
screened behind a minimum 6’ high fence.
31. A height and setback survey may be required at completion of framing and
foundations construction phases respectively.
32. The project shall be protected by a construction fence to the satisfaction of the
Building Official, and shall comply with the NPDES & BMP requirements (sand
bags, etc.). All fencing shall be view obstructing with opaque surfaces.
33. The applicant shall contact Dig Alert and have underground utility locations
marked by the utility companies prior to any exc avation. Contact Dig Alert by
dialing 811 or their website at www.digalert.org.
34. The applicant shall first request and secure approval from the City for any
changes or deviations from approved plans prior to proceeding with any work
in accordance with such changes or deviations.
35. All glazing in hazardous locations shall be labeled as safety glass. The
labeling shall be visible for inspection.
36. Pursuant to California Residential Code (CRC) Section R315, carbon
monoxide detectors are required in halls leading to sleeping rooms.
37. Drainage patterns shall match the approved grading/drainage plan from the
Public Works/Engineering Department. Surface water shall drain away from
the building at a 2% minimum slope. The final as -built conditions shall match
the grading/drainage plan or otherwise approved as-built grading/drainage
plan.
38. Decks, roofs, and other flat surfaces shall slope at least 1/4”/ft with approved
and listed water proofing material. Guardrails shall be provided for these
surfaces at least 42” minimum in height, 4” maximum spacing between rails,
and capable of resisting at least 20 pounds per lineal foot of lateral load.
39. Special inspections and structural observation will be required in conformance
with CBC 1704 to 1709.
END
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RESIDENCECSS-DISTURBED 0.40 acWEEDS 0.26 acOWW 0.10 acOWW 0.48 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 acOWW 0.28 acOWW 0.04 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 ac5OFSHEETSSCALESHEETJOB NO.1/16"=1'-0"13099DRAWNDATE08-13-15CHECKEDR.S.P.M.Phone: 909 373 19591937 West 9th StreetUpland, CA 91786pmay@philmaydesign.comwww.philmaydesign.comREVISIONSBYL-1APN# 8713 005 013
LOT 37 TRACT 30091 Fax: 909 373 1958p
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TDATE05-31-23RENEWAL DATE13EPCDNSa.SMAyASIGNATURE0AHCIRCE4TN23121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
BHATIA RESIDENCE
DIAMOND BAR, CA16'0'40'32'48'TITLE SHEETScale: 1/16" = 1'-0"SITE PLAN12-26-2022Water Purveyor:Walnut Valley Water District271 S. Brea Canyon RoadWalnut, CA 91789(909) 595-1268Water Type:Potable Water03-25-2022MonthAdjust IrrigationScheduleInspect TreeStakingFlush DripValvesJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec¥RECOMMENDED MINIMUM LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULEWEEKLY TASKSMINIMUM RECOMMENDED YEARLY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULExCheck all irrigation equipment and adjust/ align as required.xRepair irrigation equipment with originally specified materials as needed.xInspect all landscape areas for pests/ pathogens.xWeed all shrub/ groundcover areas as needed.xRemove landscape debris.xAerating and dethatching turf areas.xRepair planting well and/ or grade around plants to eliminate runoff.xPerform corrective pruning to eliminate hazards and damage to plant after2nd Year of Growth.¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥Add Mulch(Maintain 3" Layer)¥¥¥¥Fertilization: Referenceto Agronomical Soil'sreport on these plans¥¥¥¥09-14-2020BHATIA RESIDENCE23121 RIDGELINE RD.DIAMOND BAR, CALANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURAL PLANS06-05-2106-18-202103-25-202212-08-20227.1.bPacket Pg. 116
106104105101102103113114121120119122123111AARESIDENCE1071345115116117118124CSS-DISTURBED 0.40 acWEEDS 0.26 acOWW 0.10 acOWW 0.48 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 acOWW 0.28 acOWW 0.04 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 ac5OFSHEETSSCALESHEETJOB NO.1/16"=1'-0"13099DRAWNDATE08-13-15CHECKEDR.S.P.M.Phone: 909 373 19591937 West 9th StreetUpland, CA 91786pmay@philmaydesign.comwww.philmaydesign.comREVISIONSBYL-2APN# 8713 005 013
LOT 37 TRACT 30091 Fax: 909 373 195823121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
BHATIA RESIDENCE
DIAMOND BAR, CA16'0'40'32'48'TREE INVENTORY PLANScale: 1/16" = 1'-0"SITE PLANp
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RESIDENCECSS-DISTURBED 0.40 acWEEDS 0.26 acOWW 0.10 acOWW 0.48 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 acOWW 0.28 acOWW 0.04 acCSS-DISTURBED 0.04 ac5OFSHEETSSCALESHEETJOB NO.1/16"=1'-0"13099DRAWNDATE08-13-15CHECKEDR.S.P.M.Phone: 909 373 19591937 West 9th StreetUpland, CA 91786pmay@philmaydesign.comwww.philmaydesign.comREVISIONSBYPLANTING PLAN
APN# 8713 005 013
LOT 37 TRACT 30091 Fax: 909 373 195823121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
BHATIA RESIDENCE
DIAMOND BAR, CAL-316'0'40'32'48'SECTION VIEW N.T.STREE PLANTING DETAIL 1SECTION VIEW N.T.SSHRUB PLANTING DETAIL 2SECTION VIEW N.T.SGROUNDCOVER PLANTING DETAIL3p
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111111111111111111111111RESIDENCE2222222222221121IRRIGATION LEGENDSYMBOLMFGMODEL/ DESCRIPTIONPATN.GPMPSIRADDET5OFSHEETSSCALESHEETJOB NO.1/16"=1'-0"13099DRAWNDATE08-13-15CHECKEDR.S.P.M.Phone: 909 373 19591937 West 9th StreetUpland, CA 91786pmay@philmaydesign.comwww.philmaydesign.comREVISIONSBYIRRIGATION PLAN
APN# 8713 005 013
LOT 37 TRACT 30091 Fax: 909 373 195816'0'40'32'48'23121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
BHATIA RESIDENCE
DIAMOND BAR, CAL-4SEE SHEET L-4 FOR IRRIGATION DETAILSSEE SHEET L-4 FOR IRRIGATION SCHEDULESMonthAdjust IrrigationScheduleInspect TreeStakingFlush DripValvesJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec¥RECOMMENDED MINIMUM LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULEWEEKLY TASKSMINIMUM RECOMMENDED YEARLY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULExCheck all irrigation equipment and adjust/ align as required.xRepair irrigation equipment with originally specified materials as needed.xInspect all landscape areas for pests/ pathogens.xWeed all shrub/ groundcover areas as needed.xRemove landscape debris.xAerating and dethatching turf areas.xRepair planting well and/ or grade around plants to eliminate runoff.xPerform corrective pruning to eliminate hazards and damage to plant after2nd Year of Growth.¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥Add Mulch(Maintain 3" Layer)¥¥¥¥p
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21IRRIGATION LEGENDSYMBOLMFGMODEL/ DESCRIPTIONPATN.GPMPSIRADDET5OFSHEETSSCALESHEETJOB NO.AS NOTED13099DRAWNDATE08-13-15CHECKEDR.S.P.M.Phone: 909 373 19591937 West 9th StreetUpland, CA 91786pmay@philmaydesign.comwww.philmaydesign.comREVISIONSBYIRRIGATION DETAILS
APN# 8713 005 013
LOT 37 TRACT 30091 Fax: 909 373 195823121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
BHATIA RESIDENCE
DIAMOND BAR, CAL-5N.T.SSLEEVESGN.T.STECHLINE CV END FEED LAYOUTH(PLUMBED TO POLY) N.T.STechline LINE FLUSHING VALVECN.T.SBALL VALVEKN.T.SREMOTE CONTROL VALVEIHIGH=4.5 - 17.6 GPM OR LOW= 0.25 - 4.4 GPM N.T.SHIGH/ LOW FLOW CONTROL ZONE ASSEMBLYJMonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5022356777632210010015025030035035035030015010010050IRRIGATION SCHEDULES - ESTABLISHMENT PERIOD (6-MONTHS)DRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEMMonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2012245566522120404060100100120120100404020MP ROTATOR SYSTEM505050505050505050502020202020202020202020MonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5022345666532210010015020025030030030025015010010050IRRIGATION SCHEDULES - AFTER ESTABLISHMENT PERIODDRIP IRRIGATION SYSTEMMonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2012234455422120404060808010010080404020MP ROTATOR SYSTEM505050505050505050502020202020202020202020MonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4235577754328121620202828282016128TREE BUBBLERS444444444444MonthMaximumMinutes per starttimeStart times perweekTotal minutes perweekJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4235577754328121620202828282016128TREE BUBBLERS444444444444N.T.SRISER INSTALLATIONA1LEGEND2POP-UP SPRAY- SEE LEGEND."UVR" PVC SCH. 40TEE OR ELL.3"UVR" PVC SCH. 80 NIPPLE-LENGTH AS REQUIRED.4FINISH GRADE.5V.I.T. PRODUCTS PS-18#4 x 12" REBAR ROD W/DOUBLE "J" HOOKED RAD.AT ONE END TO HOLD PIPESECURELY IN PLACE, INSTALL10' O.C.6SHC. 40 PVC "UVR"LATERAL LINE PIPE.INSTALLED ON GRADE.7#4 x 30" REBAR STEEL STAKE.8V.I.T PRODUCT #ST9SPRINKLER TIES (2 REQ'D).9TOP OF SLOPE9423817NOTE:USE TEFLON TAPE ON ALL PCV TOPCV MALE PIPE THREADS.564N.T.SPOPUP DETAIL ON GRADEBN.T.SHOSE BIBEN.T.SBACKFLOW PREVENTERLTYPICAL DETAIL N.T.SPIPE & WIRE TRENCHINGN.T.SPRESSURE REGULATORRN.T.SPRO-C HUNTER IRRIGATION CONTROLLERFN.T.SWEATHER SENSORFp
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TDATERENEWAL DATE13EPCDNSa.SMAyASIGNATURE0AHCIRCE4T09-14-202005-31-2312-26-202206-05-202103-25-202212-08-2022Point of Connection # 1Maximum Applied Water Allowance (MAWA)Total MAWA = (ETo x 0.7 x LA in Sq. Ft. x 0.62) = Gallons per year for LAwhere:MAWA = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallons per year)ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration Appendix C (inches per year)0.7 = Evapotranspiration Adjustment Factor (ETAF)1.0 = ETAF for Special Landscaped AreaLA = Landscaped Area (square feet)0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons per square foot)MAWA Calculation:MAWA for LA=Total MAWA =EToETAFLA or SLA (ft2)ConversionMAWA (Gallons Per Year)xxx=49.60.6213,7850.7368,446.00368,446.00 Gal./ YearEstimated Applied Water UseEAWU = ETo x KL [/$[·,( *DOORQVSHU\HDUwhere:EAWU = Estimated Applied Water Use (gallons per year)ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration Appendix C (inches per year)KL = Landscape CoefficientLA = Landscaped Area (square feet)0.62 = Conversion factor (to gallons per square foot)IE = Irrigation Efficiency = IME x DU (See definition in Appendix Efor example IE percentages)IME = Irrigation Management Efficiency (90%)DU = Distribution Uniformity of irrigation headKL = Ks x Kd x KmcKs = species factor (range = 0.1-0.9) (see WUCOLS list for values)Kd = density factor (range = 0.5-1.3) (see WUCOLS for density value ranges)Kmc = microclimate factor (range = 0.5-1.4) (see WUCOLS)ETo KL LAConversion IEEAWU (Gallons per year)=57,899.00EAWU CalculationWarm Season Turf=xx0.620.9012,216x¸0.75278,879.00 Gal./ Year13,785Total EAWU =49.613,785=220,980.00Medium Water Using Shrubxx0.620.501,569x¸0.8549.67.1.bPacket Pg. 120
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1
TREE REPORT
FOR
SITE ADDRESS
23121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765
REPORT DONE BY:
PHIL MAY
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
2532 WALLACE AVE.
FULLERTON,CA 92831
(909) 373-1959
MIKE PARKER
CERTIFIED ARBORIST WE3414A
California Arbor Care Inc
P.O. Box 746
Chino, CA 91708
909-590-4100 Fax 909-590-4165
June 7, 2021
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2
INTRODUCTION
This Tree Report was prepared at the request of property owner who is proposing to building a new
single-family residence on this property. This arborist report of surveyed existing established was
prepared to inventory and map existing trees to be potentially impacted by the project.
SUMMARY
Site Address: 23121 Ridge Line Road, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Project Description: New Single-Family Residence
Number of Protected Native Trees on Site: 25 (15 - Coast Live Oak) (10- S. Cal. Black Walnuts)
Number of Native Trees Removals: 9 (3 - Coast Live Oak) (6- S. Cal. Black Walnuts)
PROTECTED TREES
The property is in the jurisdiction of the City of Diamond Bar Protected Tree Ordinance. The City has
adopted this regulation to recognize the aesthetic, environmental, ecological, economic benefits
and the historical legacy that native trees provide the community.
NEIGHBOR TREES
I have also inspected the neighboring properties to confirm there is no protected or mitigated trees
that will be affected, encroach upon by proposed construction.
INVENTORY METHODS
The inventory and report were prepared in accordance with the City of Diamond Bar Protected Tree
Ordinance guidelines. The inventory was conducted using survey map showing project and parcel
boundaries, contours, and tree canopy locations. Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) was used to inspect
trees. Species, diameter, and condition were recorded on trees having a diameter of 8-inches or
greater at breast height (DBH) were inventoried and numbered. Information recorded for each of
these trees included tree number, species, DBH, height and condition. Tree condition was rated
“excellent”, “good”, “fair”, “poor”, and “dead” with “poor” meaning that that tree was dying due to
a variety of conditions, and “dead” meaning that the tree has died and should be removed. A
complete key of tree conditions is on the tree inventory table.
This report is limited by:
Not all tree defects may be visible from observation position on the ground
Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) does not include diagnostic testing.
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RESULTS
Tree Distribution
The subject property contains twenty-five (25) Mitigated or protected trees consisting of the following
species. Fifteen (15) Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak tree. Ten (10) Juglans californica, S. California
Black Walnut. See “Tree Inventory Plan” sheet L-1 for location and tree information reference.
Inventory
A total of twenty-five (25) trees in the regulated size class (8-inches DBH and larger) were inventoried
and recorded for this report. Information recorded included, number, species, DBH, height and
condition. Inventory trees consists of fifteen (15) Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak and Ten (10)
Juglans californica, S. California Black Walnut. See “Tree Inventory Plan” sheet L-1 for location and
tree information reference.
TREE INVENTORY TABLE
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PROTECTED TREES
The subject property contains twenty-five (25) mitigated trees due to a DBH of 8” or higher.
Native protected trees consist of the following (15) Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak and Ten (10)
Juglans californica, S. California Black Walnut. Due to proposed construction of Single-Family
Residence the following trees are scheduled to be removed. Three (3) Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live
Oak trees, tree identification number# 105,106 & 107. Six (6) Juglans californica, S. California Black
Walnut, tree identification number# 1,3,101,102,103 & 104. Rest of trees are scheduled to remain and
protect in place. See “Tree Inventory Plan” sheet L-1 for location and tree information reference.
PRESERVATION NOTES
For protected trees near proposed construction areas, the following tree preservation items must be
followed.
1. Fencing must be installed within the drip line prior to the construction phase of the project.
2. Where possible provide a layer of mulch 3” thick around root zone.
3. No supplemental irrigation should be introduced to existing tree base.
4. Keep proposed drainage flow away from tree protected zone.
5. Limit the percentage of soil compaction within the drip line of tree.
TREE MAINTENANCE AND PRUNING
Some trees do not generally require pruning. The occasional removal of dead twigs or wood is
typical. Occasionally a tree has a defect or structural condition that would benefit from pruning. Any
pruning activity should be performed under the guidance of a certified arborist or tree expert.
Because each cut has the potential to change the growth of the tree, no branch should be
removed without a reason. Common reasons for pruning are to remove dead branches, to remove
crowded or rubbing limbs, and to eliminate hazards. Trees may also be pruned to increase light and
air penetration to the inside of the tree’s crown or to the landscape below. In most cases, mature
trees are pruned as a corrective or preventive measure.
Routine thinning does not necessarily improve the health of a tree. Trees produce a dense crown of
leaves to manufacture the sugar used as energy for growth and development. Removal of foliage
through pruning can reduce growth and stored energy reserves. Heavy pruning can be a significant
health stress for the tree.
PRUNING TECHNIQUES – FROM THE I.S.A. GUIDELINE
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Specific types of pruning may be necessary to maintain a mature tree in a healthy, safe, and
attractive condition.
Cleaning is the removal of dead, dying, diseased, crowded, weakly attached, and low- vigor
branches from the crown of a tree.
Thinning is the selective removal of branches to increase light penetration and air movement through
the crown. Thinning opens the foliage of a tree, reduces weight on heavy limbs, and helps retain the
tree’s natural shape.
Raising removes the lower branches from a tree to provide clearance for buildings, vehicles,
pedestrians, and vistas.
Reduction reduces the size of a tree, often for clearance for utility lines. Reducing the height or
spread of a tree is best accomplished by pruning back the leaders and branch terminals to lateral
branches that are large enough to assume the terminal roles (at least one-third the diameter of the
cut stem). Compared to topping, reduction helps maintain the form and structural integrity of the
tree.
WOUND DRESSINGS
Wound dressings were once thought to accelerate wound closure, protect against insects and
diseases, and reduce decay. However, research has shown that dressings do not reduce decay or
speed closure and rarely prevent insect or disease infestations. Most experts recommend that wound
dressings not be used.
DISEASES AND INSECTS
Continual observation and monitoring of your tree can alert you to any abnormal changes. Some
indicators are: excessive leaf drop, leaf discoloration, sap oozing from the trunk and bark with
unusual cracks. Should you observe any changes, you should contact a Tree specialist or Certified
Arborist to review the tree and provide specific recommendations. Trees are susceptible to hundreds
of pests, many of which are typical and may not cause enough harm to warrant the use of
chemicals. However, diseases and insects may be indication of further stress that should be identified
by a professional.
DEFINITION OF TREE CONDITION RATING
Good
No trunk or root cavities or injuries p
No indication of hollowness
Root crown is at or slightly above grade
No decay present except for small stubs
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Strong structure
Tapered trunk
No fungus evident
Below average amount of dead limbs
No co-dominant branching
No large callused areas, callusing intact
No evidence of large-scale insect infestation
Average growth rate
No excessive limb weight
Normal foliage, tree not suppressed
Fair
No decay in the root crown and no major decay in the trunk or limbs
Small cavities may be present
No fungus evident
Some small to moderate callusing injuries may be present
Some suppression or crowded growing conditions present
Average amount of dead wood limbs
Small cavities may be present
Foliage size, color, and density may vary
Poor
Significant cavities, dead areas, and decay present
Tree structurally defective
Decay present in the root crown or base of trunk
Fungus bodies present indicating internal decay
Dead limbs above normal
Co-dominant branching with included bark present
Foliage is below average in size and color
Pest damage may be present
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SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Looking east from top of slope
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Looking north/west from top of slope
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Trees # 4 & 5 Quercus agrifolia, Live Coast Oak (looking West)
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Tree #121 Quercus agrifolia, Live Coast Oak (looking East)
END OF REPORT
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316 Monrovia Avenue Long Beach, CA 90803 562-477-2181 robb@hamiltonbiological.com
H AMILTON B IOLOGICAL
July 8, 2021
Mr. Pete Volbeda
164 North Benton, No. 100
Upland, CA 91786
SUBJECT: BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT, 23121 RIDGE LINE ROAD
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Dear Mr. Volbeda,
At your request, I have conducted a Biological Assessment required by the City of Dia-
mond Bar (City) associated with the proposed construction of a new single-family resi-
dence with a building footprint of 4,388 square feet (0.10 acre) on a lot covering 71,438
square feet (1.64 acres). The current plan proposes reduced impacts to native oak and
walnut trees compared with previous iterations. Figures 1 and 2 show the project loca-
tion.
The biological assessment (1) maps and describes the site’s plant communities; (2) iden-
tifies the plant and wildlife species present, or potentially occurring, on the site, includ-
ing listed and otherwise sensitive species; and (3) evaluates the potential biological ef-
fects of proposed actions in the context of the applicable local, state, and federal plan-
ning regulations and policies. This letter report describes the study’s methods, reports
my observations, and specifies my recommendations and conclusions.
METHODS
On July 2, 2020, I reviewed soils information for the site (United States Department of
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 2017).
On June 16, 2021, I accessed Calflora (www.calflora.org) and the California Native Plant
Society’s Online Inventory (www.rareplants.cnps.org) and searched for sensitive plant
species known from the Diamond Bar area.
On June 16, 2021, I reviewed the California Natural Diversity Data Base (2021a, 2021b,
2021c) to develop a list of a list of sensitive species recorded in the U.S. Geologic Sur-
vey’s San Dimas and Yorba Linda 7.5’ topographic quadrangles.
This report was prepared in compliance with the Resource Conservation section of the
Diamond Bar General Plan 2040, including all resource conservation goals and policies.
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Figure 1. The property is located in The Country Estates section of Diamond Bar. Aerial Source: Google
Earth Pro.
Figure 2. The property is located in a natural canyon on the north side of Ridge Line Road, in an area of low-
density housing. Aerial Source: Google Earth Pro.
Figure 1. Regional Location
Scale 1 inch = 2.1 miles
Hamilton Biological
Figure 2. Project Vicinity
Scale 1 inch = 400 feet
Hamilton Biological
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On July 3, 2020, I conducted a field visit from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. The temperature was
81–84° F, skies were clear, and winds were 1–4 miles per hour. I walked the upper part
of the project site, near Ridge Line Drive, and recorded all plant species observed. I also
recorded all wildlife species present on and directly adjacent to the site, including ex-
amination of the site for tracks, scat, and other sign. I mapped the plant communities
present, and evaluated the potential for wildlife to move through the site.
On July 21, 2020, I revisited the site from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The temperature was
72–76° F, skies were clear, and winds were 1–3 miles per hour. I walked the lower,
norther part of the project site and field-checked the draft plant community map. I rec-
orded plant species not previously observed on the site. I also recorded all wildlife spe-
cies present on and directly adjacent to the site, including examination of the site for
tracks, scat, and other sign.
RESULTS
Please refer to the attached species lists for the scientific names of all species recorded
during the surveys. In the following discussions, scientific names are provided only for
plant species, and for and wildlife species not recorded during the surveys.
Topography and Surrounding Land Uses
The property occupies a mesa and steep, northwest-facing slope on the edge of an exist-
ing residential neighborhood. Elevation ranges from approximately 1,008 feet at the
northeastern corner of the property to 1,226 feet at the southwestern corner of the prop-
erty. No streambeds or seasonal drainage courses occur on the project site.
Soils
Soils on the relatively flat part of the project site, along Ridge Line Road, consist of
Counterfeit-Nacimiento, warm-Urban land association, 20 to 55 percent slopes. The
Counterfeit series consists of deep, well-drained soils on manmade hillslope terraces
that formed from human- transported materials that originated from material weath-
ered from colluvium and/or residuum weathered from calcareous sedimentary rocks.
The remainder of the site — the steep, northwest-facing slope — consists of Apollo,
warm-Calleguas complex, 20 to 65 percent slopes. The Apollo series consists of deep,
well drained soils that formed in colluvium and/ or residuum weathered from calcare-
ous shale. The Calleguas series consists of very shallow and shallow, well drained soils
that formed in residuum weathered from sedimentary rocks. These soils are on crests
and side slopes of hills.
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Plant Communities
The site supports a mix of oak/walnut woodland, disturbed coastal sage scrub, and
weedy communities (Figure 3).
Figure 3. Plant Communities. The project site supports oak/walnut woodland (OWW), disturbed coastal sage
scrub (CSS-Dist.), and disturbed/weedy communities (Weeds).
Oak/Walnut Woodland
The project site supports approximately 0.90 acre of oak/walnut woodland, a natural
community characterized by Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and Southern California
Black Walnut (Juglans californica) trees. Native shrubs observed in the understory in-
cluded Poison Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Blue
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea), Lemonade Berry (Rhus integrifolia), Sticky
Monkeyflower (Diplacus aurantiacus), and Fuchsia-flowered Gooseberry (Ribes specio-
sum), and Common Bedstraw (Galium aparine). The understory also showed evidence of
Figure 3. Plant Communities
Scale 1 inch = 180 feet
Hamilton Biological
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extensive past disturbance in the form of dense weeds, including Italian Thistle (Car-
duus pycnocephalus), Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum), Tocalote (Centaurea melitensis),
Common Sowthistle (Sonchus oleraceus), and Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca serriola).
Coastal Sage Scrub – Disturbed
This disturbed native community, covering approximately 0.48 acre on the lower slope
of the project site, is dominated by a mix of native shrubs, such as Purple Sage (Salvia
leucophylla), California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), Poison Oak, and Giant Wild Rye
(Elymus condensatus), mixed with various exotic weeds, especially Italian Thistle, Milk
Thistle, and Tocalote.
Weedy – Disturbed
This disturbed community, covering approximately 0.26 acre on the upper slope of the
project site, is dominated by predominantly exotic weeds and annual grasses. Weedy
exotic species present included Tocalote, Milk Thistle, Russian Thistle (Salsola tragus),
Tree Tobacco (Nicotiana glauca), and Prickly Lettuce, along with native Telegraph Weed
(Heterotheca grandiflora). Non-native grasses present included Smilo Grass (Stipa milia-
cea) and Ripgut Brome (Bromus diandrus).
Site Photos
Photos 1–5, below, show the site conditions.
Photo 1. View from
the east end of the site,
facing west, showing
the disturbed condi-
tion of the site’s south-
ern plateau, along
Ridge Line Road.
July 8, 2020.
Robert A. Hamilton
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Photo 2. View from the southern
plateau, looking down the slope to
the north, showing native oak and
walnut trees with disturbed under-
story. The trees in the foreground
will be removed for project
construction. July 8, 2020.
Robert A. Hamilton
Photo 3. View facing west showing
disturbed, weedy habitat at the
northern edge of the proposed
grading envelope. All oak and
walnut trees shown in this image
will be removed for construction.
July 8, 2020.
Robert A. Hamilton
Photo 4. View facing north from
the northern edge of the grading
limits showing oak/walnut wood-
land with native understory of
Poison Oak and one Fuchsia-
flowered Gooseberry plant.
July 8, 2020.
Robert A. Hamilton
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Photo 5. View from the northwest
corner of the site, facing south-
east, showing disturbed coastal
sage scrub and walnut trees in the
northern part of the site,
downslope of the grading limits.
The green patch of vegetation in
the middle of the image is native
Giant Wild Rye. July 21, 2020.
Robert A. Hamilton
Wildlife
One species of reptile, the Western Fence Lizard, was detected on the site.
A total of 22 bird species was observed, most of them resident species typical of
oak/walnut woodlands. These include the Band-tailed Pigeon, Anna’s Hummingbird,
Red-shouldered Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Acorn Woodpecker, Hutton’s Vireo, Cali-
fornia Scrub-Jay, Bewick’s Wren, House Finch, Lesser Goldfinch, and Spotted Towhee.
The Ash-throated Flycatcher and Hooded Oriole, summer-resident species that winter
far to south after completion of nesting, were also observed.
Two mammalian species, Botta’s Pocket Gopher (diggings observed) and California
Ground Squirrel, were detected.
It is to be expected that various other species of amphibian, reptile, bird, and mammal
occur on the site, as well. Species with potential regulatory status that are known from
the general project vicinity are discussed in the following section, Sensitive Biological
Resources.
Sensitive Biological Resources
Sensitive species are listed as threatened or endangered by state or federal govern-
ments, or are of current local, regional or state concern (see California Natural Diversity
Database 2021a, 2021b, 2021c; Allen et al. 2009). Legal protection for sensitive species
varies widely, from the relatively comprehensive protection extended to listed threat-
ened/endangered species to no legal status at present.
No listed or otherwise highly sensitive plant or wildlife species were observed on the
site during the field visit. The following Table A includes plant and wildlife species
known from oak woodland habitat in the general area of the project site, as determined
through review of the literature.
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Table A uses the following abbreviations:
• E Endangered (listed by State or Federal governments). “Take” of the species
or disturbance of occupied habitat are prohibited unless specifically authorized.
• FP Fully Protected by the State of California. These species may not be taken
or possessed at any time, although take may be authorized for necessary scien-
tific research.
• T Threatened (listed by State or Federal governments). “Take” of the spe-
cies or disturbance of occupied habitat are prohibited unless specifically au-
thorized.
• SSC Species of Special Concern. The California Department of Fish and Wild-
life has designated certain vertebrate species as Species of Special Concern be-
cause declining population levels, limited ranges, and/or continuing threats
have made them vulnerable to extinction. The goal of designating species as
Species of Special Concern is to halt or reverse their decline by calling attention
to their plight and addressing the issues of concern early enough to secure their
long term viability. Not all Species of Special Concern have declined equally;
some species may be just starting to decline, while others may have already
reached the point where they meet the criteria for listing as a Threatened or En-
dangered species under the State and/or Federal Endangered Species Acts.
• CNPS California Native Plant Society. Table A includes plant species assigned
the following ranks by CNPS:
o 1A, referring to species CNPS presumes to be extinct.
o 1B.1, referring to species CNPS considers to be rare, threatened, or endangered in
California and elsewhere; seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences
threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat).
o 1B.2, referring to species CNPS considers to be rare, threatened, or endangered in
California and elsewhere; moderately threatened in California (20-80% of occurrenc-
es threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat).
o 1B.3, referring to species CNPS considers to be rare, threatened, or endangered in
California and elsewhere; not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occur-
rences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat).
o 2B.2, referring to species CNPS considers to be rare, threatened, or endangered in
California, but more common elsewhere; moderately threatened in California (20-
80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat).
o 4.1, referring to species of limited distribution or infrequent throughout a broader ar-
ea in California, whose status should be monitored regularly; moderately threatened
in California (>80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of
threat).
o 4.2, referring to species of limited distribution or infrequent throughout a broader ar-
ea in California, whose status should be monitored regularly; moderately threatened
in California (20-80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of
threat).
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o 4.3, referring to species of limited distribution or infrequent throughout a broader ar-
ea in California, whose status should be monitored regularly; not very threatened in
California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened / low degree and immediacy of
threat or no current threats known).
• NatureServe Element Rankings. In some cases, species have not been granted
special status by state or federal agencies, but they may be recognized as eco-
logically sensitive by the California Natural Diversity Database, which uses a
ranking methodology maintained by NatureServe. Species are given a Global
rank (G-rank) that applies to the taxon’s entire distribution, and a State rank (S-
rank) that applies to the taxon’s state distribution. Taxa with rankings of G1, G2,
G3, S1, S2, or S3 may be considered “sensitive” and potentially worthy of spe-
cial consideration in resource planning. NatureServe Element Rankings are
identified in Table A only for taxa that have no other federal or state/CNPS spe-
cial status. If no rank provided, either the taxon’s rank is above G3/S3 (and is
thus considered “apparently secure” or “secure” at global and state levels) or
the taxon is not yet ranked.
NatureServe Ranks:
o G1, Critically Imperiled, referring to taxa at very high risk of extinction due to extreme
rarity ( often 5 or fewer populations), very steep declines, or other factors.
o G2, Imperiled, referring to taxa at high risk of extinction due to very restricted range,
very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors.
o G3, Vulnerable, referring to taxa at moderate risk of extinction due to a restricted
range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines,
or other factors.
o S1, Critically Imperiled, referring to taxa critically imperiled in the state because of ex-
treme rarity (often 5 or fewer populations) or because of factor(s) such as very steep de-
clines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
o S2, Imperiled, referring to taxa imperiled in the state because of rarity due to very re-
stricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors
making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
o S3, Vulnerable, referring to taxa vulnerable in the state due to a restricted range, rela-
tively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines, or other fac-
tors making it vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
• Los Angeles County Sensitive Bird Species. Species considered to be at risk
and/or declining at a local scale within Los Angeles County; see Allen et al.
(2009).
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Table A. Sensitive Species
Latin name
Common
name Fed State CNPS
Local and/or
Regional Status
Discussion
Plants
Brodiaea filifolia
Thread-
leaved
Brodiaea
T E 1B.1
Known from clay soils in
various plant communi-
ties; not known from the
Puente Hills.
Very low potential for
occurrence due to lack of
clay soils, lack of records
from the project vicinity,
and disturbed condition of
site.
Calochortus
catalinae
Catalina
Mariposa
Lily
— — 4.2
Widespread in region,
including in project
vicinity.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Calochortus
clavatus var.
gracilis
Slender
Mariposa
Lily
— — 1B.2
Widespread in region.
Historical records from
project vicinity.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Calochortus
plummerae
Plummer’s
Mariposa
Lily
— — 4.2
Widespread in region.
Several records from
project vicinity.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Calochortus
weedii var.
intermedius
Intermediate
Mariposa
Lily
— — 4.2
Widespread in region.
Several records from
project vicinity.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Convolvulus
simulans
Small-
flowered
Morning
Glory
— — 4.2 Coastal scrub, grasslands,
in clay or serpentine soils.
Very low potential for
occurrence due to lack of
clay soils and disturbed
condition of site.
Horkelia
cuneata ssp.
puberula
Mesa
Horkelia — — 1B.1
Sandy openings in native
communities. Scattered
records across the region.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Juglans
californica
Southern
California
Black
Walnut
— — 4.2 Widespread in
region. Present on site.
Lepidium
virginicum
var. robinsonii
Robinson’s
Pepper
Grass
— — 4.3 Chaparral and coastal
sage scrub.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Microseris
douglasii var.
platycarpha
Small-
flowered
Microseris
— — 4.2 Chaparral and coastal
sage scrub.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Phacelia hubbyi Hubby’s
Phacelia — — 4.2
Chaparral and coastal
sage scrub in the Puente
Hills and Pomona area.
Not present. Would have
been visible during the
field survey but was not
observed.
Piperia cooperi Cooper’s
Rein-orchid — — 4.2
Known from scrub, chap-
arral, and oak/walnut
woodlands in the region.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
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Latin name
Common
name Fed State CNPS
Local and/or
Regional Status
Discussion
Polygala cornuta
var. fishiae
Fish’s
Milkwort — — 4.3 Oak/walnut woodlands
and chaparral.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Invertebrates
Bombas crotchii Crotch’s
Bumblebee — S1S2 —
Recorded at scattered
locations in southern
California.
Low potential for
occurrence due to dis-
turbed condition of site.
Helminthoglypta
traskii
Trask’s
Shoulder-
band Snail
— G1G2
S1 —
Recorded at scattered
locations in southern
California.
Moderate potential to
occur in oak/walnut wood-
lands on the site.
Helminthoglypta
tudiculata
Southern
California
Shoulder-
band Snail
— S1S2 —
Recorded at scattered
locations in southern
California.
Moderate potential to
occur in oak/walnut wood-
lands on the site.
Reptiles
Anniella
stebbinsi
So. Califor-
nia Legless
Lizard
— SSC —
Local in a variety of
habitats with sandy soil or
deep leaf-litter.
Moderate potential on
property in oak/walnut
woodland.
Aspidoscelis
tigris stejnegeri
Coastal
Whiptail — SSC — Widespread in the region,
in various habitats.
Moderate potential to
occur; tolerant of
disturbance.
Crotalus ruber
Red
Diamond
Rattlesnake
— SSC —
Widespread in the region,
in various habitats; asso-
ciated with rocky out-
crops.
Low potential to occur;
site lacks rocky outcrops.
Salvadora
hexalepis
virgultea
Coast Patch-
nosed Snake — SSC —
Widespread in the region,
in brushy and rocky
habitats.
Moderate potential on
property to occur.
Birds
Asio otus Long-eared
Owl — SSC —
Resident in riparian and
oak woodlands; normally
well removed from exist-
ing development.
Very low potential for
occurrence due to proximi-
ty of existing development
and disturbed condition of
site.
Geococcyx
californianus
Greater
Roadrunner — — —
Los Angeles County Sen-
sitive Bird Species. Resi-
dent in chaparral and
coastal sage scrub where
there is room for running.
Moderate potential for
occurrence in parts of the
site kept open and not
choked with weeds or oth-
er vegetation.
Polioptila
californica
californica
Coastal
California
Gnatcatcher
T SSC —
Resident in open coastal
sage scrub, typically on
relatively shallow slopes.
Coastal sage scrub on the
site is unsuitable because it
is small, disturbed, sur-
rounded by trees, and on a
steep slope.
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Latin name
Common
name Fed State CNPS
Local and/or
Regional Status
Discussion
Setophaga
petechia
Yellow
Warbler — SSC —
Nests in riparian and oak
woodlands, typically near
water in our area.
Very low potential to nest
on site due to lack of ripar-
ian habitat; would have
been detectable during
surveys. Expected to pass
through on migration.
Mammals
Antrozous
pallidus Pallid Bat — SSC —
Widespread in various
habitats, foraging on the
ground and in vegetation.
Roosts in rock crevices
and under tree bark. Ma-
ternal roosts active be-
tween March and August.
Moderate potential to for-
age or roost on site.
Neotoma lepida
intermedia
San Diego
Desert
Woodrat
— SSC —
Found in chaparral,
coastal sage scrub,
and oak woodland.
Considered absent; no
woodrat nests observed
during site visits.
Wildlife Movement
The project site lies near the edge of the urban/wildland interface, and is not within or
near an area identified as a potential “choke point” for wildlife movement on Figure 5-5
in the City’s General Plan (“Movement Choke Points”). Based on the site’s steep topog-
raphy, dense vegetation, and the existing homes that line Ridge Line Drive directly
south of the project site, the site does not appear to play a substantial role in facilitating
the movement of any terrestrial wildlife species through the local area or wider region.
Regulations Protecting Nesting Birds
Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 implemented the 1916 Conven-
tion between the U.S. and Great Britain (for Canada) for the protection of migratory
birds. Later amendments implemented treaties between the U.S. and Mexico, the U.S.
and Japan, and the U.S. and the Soviet Union (now Russia). At the heart of the MBTA is
this language:
Establishment of a Federal prohibition, unless permitted by regulations, to “pursue, hunt,
take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, offer to pur-
chase, purchase, deliver for shipment, ship, cause to be shipped, deliver for transporta-
tion, transport, cause to be transported, carry, or cause to be carried by any means what-
ever, receive for shipment, transportation or carriage, or export, at any time, or in any
manner, any migratory bird, included in the terms of this Convention . . . for the protec-
tion of migratory birds . . . or any part, nest, or egg of any such bird.” (16 U.S.C. 703)
This language has been broadly interpreted to prohibit disruption of bird nesting, even
if such disturbance occurs incidental to otherwise lawful activities.
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California Fish and Game Code
Section 3503 of the California Fish and Game Code states, “It is unlawful to take, pos-
sess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by
this code or any regulation made pursuant thereto.” Thus, in California, it remains a po-
tential State offense to knowingly disrupt an active nest of virtually any native bird spe-
cies. The term “active nest” is not clearly defined in the Fish and Game Code, and in
some circumstances may be left to the discretion of the biologist in the field.
Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance
The City’s Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance (Municipal Code, Title 22 De-
velopment Code, Article 3, Site Planning and General Development Standards, Chapter
22.38 Tree Preservation and Protection) is designed to protect native oak (Quercus sp.),
walnut (Juglans sp.), sycamore (Platanus racemosa), and willow (Salix sp.) measuring
eight inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH) within City jurisdiction. Ac-
cording to the Ordinance, no person shall remove or relocate a protected tree or develop
within the protection zone of a protected tree without first obtaining a Tree Removal
Permit from the Director of the City’s Community and Development Services Depart-
ment. In accordance with the Ordinance, replacement trees shall be planted at a mini-
mum of 3:1 for residential parcels greater than 20,000 square feet and commercial and
industrial properties; however, the Director or Planning Commission has final approv-
al.
EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL PROJECT EFFECTS
As shown on Figure 4, on the next page, the southern part of the property would be
graded to establish building pads for a single new residence (0.27 acre shown in orange
screen); permanently irrigated fuel modification zone “B” would be planted with native
Giant Wild Rye and Coast Live Oak (0.09 acre shown in blue screen); and the remainder
of the property (1.28 acre) would remain preserved as natural open space. A total of 18
native Southern California Black Walnuts would be planted in the area of disturbed
coastal sage scrub habitat in the central part of the site, with temporary irrigation pro-
vided until they become established.
No wetlands, riparian habitat, or sensitive natural communities are present. The site
does not represent a component of any recognized or apparent habitat linkage/wildlife
movement corridor.
The property supports 25 native trees of sufficient size (trunk diameter greater than 8
inches at 4.5 feet above natural grade) to be afforded protection under the City’s Tree
and Tree Protection Ordinance (May and Parker 2021). Proposed removal of 6 Southern
California Black Walnuts (Juglans californica) and 3 Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia) of
this size represents a potentially significant impact before mitigation. Prior to removal
of any protected tree, a Tree Removal Permit would be required from the City of Dia-
mond Bar.
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Figure 4, Project Effects. The limits of proposed grading limits are indicated with red screen (0.27 acre), and
the limits of proposed fuel modification zone “B” are indicated with blue screen (0.09 acre). The remainder
of the property (1.28 acre) would be preserved as natural open space.
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The 0.09 acre of oak/walnut woodland proposed for removal, and the 0.05 acre of
oak/walnut woodland that may be affected by required fuel modification actions,
provide potentially suitable habitat for the following special-status wildlife species that
have at least a moderate potential to occur on the project site:
• Southern California Black Walnut (Juglans californica). Occurs on the site.
• Trask’s Shoulder-band Snail (Helminthoglypta traskii). Moderate potential to oc-
cur on the site.
• Southern California Shoulder-band Snail (Helminthoglypta tudiculata). Moder-
ate potential to occur on the site.
• Southern California Legless Lizard (Anniella stebbinsi). Moderate potential to
occur on the site.
• Coastal Whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri). Moderate potential to occur on
the site.
• Coast Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea). Moderate potential to
occur on the site.
• Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus). Moderate potential to occur on
the site.
• Pallid Bat (Antrozous pallidus). Moderate potential to occur on the site.
The proposed grading and fuel modification impacts to approximately 0.09 acre of gen-
erally intact natural communities on the site represent a contribution to cumulatively
significant impacts to these non-listed species associated with past and ongoing loss,
fragmentation, and degradation of their required habitats in the local area and wider
region. These impacts are potentially significant before mitigation.
The planting of native oaks, walnuts, and various native shrub species as mitigation
and native landscaping can have potentially significant impacts to surrounding natural
vegetation through introduction of Phytophthora soil pathogens known to cause Sudden
Oak Death Syndrome and other diseases (Sims and Garbelotto 2021). Since such plant-
ings will be required to achieve regulatory compliance, this represents a potentially sig-
nificant impact of the project.
Disruption of the nesting of any native bird species would represent a violation of the
federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and/or Sections 3503 and 3513 of the California Fish
and Game Code. This impact is potentially significant before mitigation.
RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES
Mitigation Measure 1: Replacement of Protected Trees
Prior to removal of 6 walnut and 3 oak trees covered under the City’s Tree Protection
Ordinance, the Applicant is required to obtain a Tree Removal Permit from the City. In
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accordance with the Ordinance, replacement trees should be planted at a minimum of
3:1 (18 walnuts and 9 oaks). The replacement trees should be planted on the project site,
outside of existing oak/walnut woodland habitat, and should be subject to a minimum
of five years of maintenance and monitoring to ensure their successful establishment.
Any trees lost or observed to be in poor or declining health within the five-year
establishment period should be replaced at a minimum ratio of 1:1. After all trees have
been established, all temporary irrigation systems (i.e., those outside of project
landscaping and Fuel Modification Zones A and B) should be removed.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure 1 would reduce to the project’s potentially
significant impacts to City-protected native trees to below the level of significance.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure 1, together with Mitigation Measure 2 described
below, and preservation of approximately 1.28 acre of the site as natural open space,
would reduce to below the level of significance the project’s contribution to
cumulatively significant impacts to special-status plant and wildlife species.
Mitigation Measure 2: Native Species in Fuel Modification Zone B
To reduce potentially significant impacts associated with Zone B fuel modification ac-
tions, landscaping within Zone B should be limited to locally native plant species ap-
proved for use within Zone B. The current landscape plan calls for extensive plantings
of Giant Wild Rye (Elymus condensatus), a large native grass that occurs in the central
part of the project site, and 5 native Coast Live Oaks in Zone B.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure 2, together with Mitigation Measure 1 described
above, and preservation of approximately half of the project site as natural open space,
would reduce to below the level of significance the project’s contribution to
cumulatively significant impacts to special-status plant and wildlife species.
Mitigation Measure 3: Avoidance of Soil-borne Pathogens
To avoid potentially significant impacts associated with the introduction of Phytophthora
soil pathogens, the City should require that the soil and roots of any and all native
plants installed as part of this project be tested and certified to be free of Phytophthora
prior to planting. To help attain this outcome, it is recommended that all container
plants be obtained from a native plant nursery that employs Best Management Practices
specifically designed to reduce the incidence of Phytophthora to undetectable levels
(see Sims et al. 2018).
Mitigation Measure 4: Avoidance of Impacts to Nesting Birds
In order to avoid potential impacts to actively nesting birds, it is recommended that any
necessary pruning or removal of trees be conducted outside of the typical nesting sea-
son for native birds in the region. This period is variable, but generally extends from
February 1 to August 31. If pruning or removal of any trees or large shrubs must be
conducted during the nesting bird season, a qualified biologist should first conduct a
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survey to determine whether any native birds are nesting in the area. If any active nests
are found (i.e., complete nests with at least one egg), they should be avoided until after
all young have fledged from the nest.
FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE & CONCLUSION
With implementation of the recommended mitigation/avoidance measures, project im-
plementation would not result in any significant impacts to biological resources.
Please call me at 562-477-2181 if you have questions or wish to further discuss any mat-
ters; you may send e-mail to robb@hamiltonbiological.com.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Hamilton
President, Hamilton Biological, Inc.
LITERATURE CITED
Allen, L. W., and Los Angeles County Sensitive Bird Species Working Group. 2009. Los
Angeles County’s Sensitive Bird Species. Western Tanager 75(3):E1–E11.
http://planning.lacounty.gov/site/sea/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/LA-Countys-
Sensitive-Bird-Species.pdf
California Natural Diversity Database. 2021a. Special Animals List. Current list of wildlife
taxa considered to be rare, threatened, endangered, or otherwise “sensitive” by the
State of California. List dated April 2021.
California Natural Diversity Database. 2021b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and
Lichens List. Current list of vegetative taxa considered to be rare, threatened, en-
dangered, or otherwise “sensitive” by the State of California. List dated April 2021.
California Natural Diversity Data Base. 2021c. Rarefind data accessed online on July 16,
2021, for the U.S. Geologic Survey’s San Dimas and Yorba Linda 7.5’ topographic
quadrangles.
May, P., and M. Parker. 2021. Tree Report for 23121 Ridge Line Drive, Diamond Bar, CA
91765. Report dated June 7, 2021, prepared for the property owner.
Sims, L.L., Tjosvold, S., Chambers, D., and Garbelotto, M. 2018. Control of Phytophthora
species in plant stock for habitat restoration through best management practices.
Plant Pathology 68:196–204. https://nature.berkeley.edu/matteolab/wp-
content/uploads/2018/09/Sims_et_al-2018-Plant_Pathology.pdf
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Sims, L.L., and Garbelotto, M. 2021. Phytophthora species repeatedly introduced in
Northern California through restoration projects can spread into adjacent sites. Bio-
logical Invasions. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-021-02496-6
https://nature.berkeley.edu/matteolab/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Sims-
Garbelotto2021_Article_PhytophthoraSpeciesRepeatedlyI.pdf
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2017.
Supplement to the soil survey of Los Angeles County, California, Southeastern Part.
http://soils.usda.gov/survey/printed_surveys/.
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LIST OF VASCULAR PLANTS AND VERTEBRATE WILDLIFE DETECTED
The following list identifies plant and wildlife species detected during the current study
in upland habitats within the expanded study area. Sources:
Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation,
with data contributed by public and private institutions and individuals, includ-
ing the Consortium of California Herbaria. 2014. Berkeley, California: The Calflo-
ra Database [a non-profit organization]. http://www.calflora.org/
* Taxon not native to the study area
VASCULAR PLANTS
SECTION: EUDICOTS
Adoxaceae - Elderberry Family
Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea, Blue Elderberry
Anacardiaceae - Cashew Family
Rhus integrifolia, Lemonade Berry
Toxicodendron diversilobum, Poison Oak
Asteraceae - Sunflower Family
Artemisia californica, California Sagebrush
* Carduus pycnocephalus, Italian Thistle
* Centaurea melitensis, Tocalote
Heterotheca grandiflora, Telegraph Weed
* Lactuca serriola, Prickly Lettuce
Pseudognaphalium californica, California Everlasting
* Silybum marianum, Milk Thistle
* Sonchus oleraceus, Common Sowthistle
Boraginaceae – Forget-me-not Family
Phacelia sp., phacelia
Brassicaceae - Mustard Family
* Brassica nigra, Black Mustard
* Hirschfeldia incana, Short-pod Mustard
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Caryophyllaceae - Pink Family
* Stellaria media, Chickweed
Chenopodiaceae - Goosefoot Family
* Salsola tragus, Russian Thistle
Cucurbitaceae - Cucumber Family
Marah macrocarpa, Wild Cucumber
Fagaceae – Oak Family
Quercus agrifolia, Coast Live Oak
Grossulariaceae – Currant Family
Ribes speciosum, Fuchsia-flowered Gooseberry
Juglandaceae – Walnut Family
Juglans californica, Southern California Black Walnut
Lamiaceae - Mint Family
* Marrubium vulgare, Horehound
Salvia leucophylla, Purple Sage
Phrymaceae – Lopseed Family
Diplacus aurantiacus, Sticky Monkeyflower
Rosaceae – Rose Family
Heteromeles arbutifolia, Toyon
Rubiaceae – Bedstraw Family
Galium aparine, Common Bedstraw
Solanaceae – Nightshade Family
* Nicotiana glauca, Tree Tobacco
Solanum douglasii, Douglas’s Nightshade
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SECTION: MONOCOTS
Poaceae - Grass Family
* Bromus diandrus, Ripgut Brome
Elymus condensatus, Giant Wild Rye
* Stipa miliacea, Smilo Grass
VERTEBRATE WILDLIFE
CLASS REPTILIA – REPTILES
Phrynosomatidae – North American Spiny Lizard Family
Sceloperus occidentalis, Western Fence Lizard
CLASS AVES – BIRDS
Columbidae – Pigeon and Dove Family
Patagioenas fasciata, Band-tailed Pigeon
Trochilidae - Hummingbird Family
Calypte anna, Anna’s Hummingbird
Accipitridae – Vultures, Hawks, and Allies
Accipiter cooperii, Cooper's Hawk
Buteo lineatus, Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis, Red-tailed Hawk
Strygidae – Typical Owls
Bubo virginianus, Great Horned Owl
Picidae – Woodpecker Family
Melanerpes formicivorus, Acorn Woodpecker
Dryobates nuttallii, Nuttall’s Woodpecker
Tyrannidae – Tyrant-Flycatcher Family
Sayornis nigricans, Black Phoebe
Myiarchus cinerascens, Ash-throated Flycatcher
Vireonidae – Vireo Family
Vireo huttoni, Hutton’s Vireo
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Corvidae – Jay, Magpie, Crow, and Raven Family
Aphelocoma californica, California Scrub-Jay
Corvus corax, Common Raven
Aegthalidae - Bushtit Family
Psaltriparus minimus, Bushtit
Troglodytidae - Wren Family
Troglodytes aedon, House Wren
Thryomanes bewickii, Bewick’s Wren
Mimidae – Thrasher, Mockingbird, and Ally Family
Mimus polyglottos, Northern Mockingbird
Fringillidae - Finch Family
Haemorhous mexicanus, House Finch
Spinus psaltria, Lesser Goldfinch
Passerellidae – New World Sparrow Family
Melozone crissalis, California Towhee
Pipilo maculatus, Spotted Towhee
Icteridae – New World Blackbird and Oriole Family
Icterus cucullatus, Hooded Oriole
CLASS MAMMALIA – MAMMALS
Geomyidae - Pocket Gopher Family
Thomomys bottae, Botta’s Pocket Gopher (holes observed)
Sciuridae - Squirrel Family
Otospermophilus beecheyi, California Ground Squirrel
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Project Status Report CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
February 28, 2023 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
LEGEND PH = PUBLIC HEARING
AP = ASSIGNED PLANNER
PC = PLANNING COMMISSION
CC = CITY COUNCIL
PROPERTY LOCATION
PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW File # AP Applicant PC
2/28/23
CC
3/7/23
PC
3/14/23
CC
3/21/23
PC
3/28/23
CC
4/4/23
23121 Ridge Line Rd.
(New single-family residence)
DR PL2020-31 MN Pete Volbeda PH
Annual General Plan Status Report GL X X
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW
Property Location AP Applicant
None
PENDING ITEMS
Property Location File # AP Applicant Status
1625 Bears Den Rd.
(Addition to single family residence)
DR PL2021-01 MN/DT Pete Volbeda Third incomplete letter sent 8/31/21 – waiting for additional information
1930 Brea Canyon Rd #112
(Educational use)
CUP PL2023-3 MN Youth Development
Resource Center
Under review
1198 Chisolm Trail Dr.
(New single-family residence)
DR PL2021-51 JT/DT Michael Wu First incomplete letter sent 7/21/21 – waiting for additional information
2725 Clear Creek
(New Single-Family Residence) PL2022-74 DT Diane Shi First incomplete letter sent 9/15/22 – waiting for additional information
1519 Derringer Lane
(New Single-Family Residence)
PL2022-112 DT David Senft First incomplete letter sent 12/27/22 – waiting for additional information
2001 Derringer Lane
(2-lot subdivision)
TPM 83036/DR
PL2021-46
MN Gurbachan S. Juneja Third incomplete letter sent 11/09/22 – waiting for additional information
Development Code Amendment
(Code cleanup)
DCA PL2022-59 MN/GL City of Diamond Bar Under review
22432 Falconburn Way
(Addition to single family residence)
DR, MCUP PL2022-117 MN Aamir Raza First incomplete letter sent 1/19/23 – waiting for additional information
Gentle Springs Ln. and
S. Prospectors Rd.
GPA, ZC, VTTM, DR
PL2021-23
GL Tranquil Garden LLC First incomplete letter sent 4/16/21 – waiting for additional information
2234 Indian Creek Rd.
(New single-family residence)
DR PL2020-159 MN Jeffrey Sun Second incomplete letter sent 9/30/21 – waiting for additional information
9.1
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Project Status Report CITY OF DIAMOND BAR Page 2
February 28, 2023
PENDING ITEMS (continued)
Property Location File # AP Applicant Status
22909 Lazy Trail Rd.
(Addition and remodel to single family
residence)
DR, MCUP PL2021-05 JT/DT Walt Patroske Fourth incomplete letter sent 7/18/22 – waiting for additional information
2235 Morning Canyon Rd.
(20-unit condos)
TTM 83836, DR, TP
PL2022-89
MN Samir M. Khoury First incomplete letter sent 10/17/22 -waiting for additional information
23901 Ridge Line (2-lot Subdivision) PL2022-119 DT Pete Volbeda First incomplete letter sent 1/26/23 – waiting for additional information
Walnut Valley Unified School District
(Billboard Ordinance)
PL2021-43 GL/MN WVUSD Under review
9.1
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CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
AND AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
I, Stella Marquez, Administrative Coordinator for the City of Diamond Bar, CA, declare as
follows:
I hereby certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that on
February 23, 20231 1 posted the February 28, 2023, Planning Commission Agenda,
pursuant to Government Code Section 54950 et.seq., at the following locations:
SCAOMD/Government Center, 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA
Heritage Park, 2900 Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar, CA
Diamond Bar City Hall, 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA
City website: www.diamondbarca.gov
Diamond Bar Library, 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA
Executed on February 23, 2023, at Diamond Bar, California.
Stella Marquez
Community Developme Dept.
g \\s\affidavitpostinb doc