Open Space and Landscaping Requirements for RR-40: Rural Residential District in Concord

The RR-40 Rural Residential district in Concord requires a minimum lot area of 40,000 square feet and maintains a maximum lot coverage of 20 percent for single-family residences. While specific open space mandates vary based on land use and project type, landscaping and resource management are governed by general development standards, including requirements for irrigation, tree preservation, and water-efficient landscaping.

RR-40 Residential Development Standards

The RR-40 district is specifically intended for rural single-family residential development. Development standards for this district are established to preserve neighborhood character and implement the general plan.

Standard	RR-40 Requirement
Density (minimum/maximum)	0 – 2.5 du/net acre
Lot Area (minimum)	40,000 sq. ft.
Lot Width (minimum)	150 ft. (single-family)
Lot Depth (minimum)	100 ft. (single-family)
Lot Coverage (maximum)	20 percent (single-family)
Building Height (maximum)	30 ft. (single-family)
Front Setback (minimum)	30 ft.
Interior Side Setback (minimum)	10 ft.
Aggregate Side Setback (minimum)	50 ft.
Corner Side Setback (minimum)	25 ft.
Rear Setback (minimum)	50 ft.

Note: For nonresidential development, lot coverage, height, and setbacks are established in compliance with requirements specified by the applicable permit or abutting district regulations [Section 18.30.030].

Landscaping and Open Space Provisions

Landscaping in Concord is required to improve site attractiveness, conserve water, and provide screening. Landscaping standards are generally applicable across various districts and development types.

Water Efficient Landscaping

All new landscaping must comply with the requirements in [Section 18.170.010], which adopts the state-mandated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. This regulation ensures that irrigation systems and plant materials are selected and maintained for low water demand and drought tolerance.

Tree Preservation and Protection

The removal of "protected trees" requires a tree permit if the removal is associated with a project requiring a planning permit [Section 18.310.020].

Protected Trees: Includes specific native trees (e.g., Valley oak, Blue oak, Coast live oak) with a diameter of 12 inches or more, or certain nonnative trees with a diameter of 24 inches or more [Section 18.310.020].
Tree Protection Zone (TPZ): A zone established at the outer edge of the tree canopy or drip zone in all directions [Section 18.310.020].
Replacement: If preservation is infeasible, a tree permit will typically require a replacement ratio of three replacement trees for every one tree removed [Section 18.310.060].

General Landscaping Standards

Landscape Plans: Preliminary and final landscape and irrigation plans are required for most new developments [Section 18.165.030].
Maintenance: All landscaping must be permanently maintained in a healthy and thriving condition, including irrigation systems and regular trimming [Section 18.165.080].
Water Waste: Inefficient irrigation leading to excessive runoff or spray onto structures, walkways, or adjacent properties is strictly prohibited [Section 18.165.080].

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