Open Space and Landscaping Requirements for RS-8 Zoning in Concord
The RS-8 Single-Family Residential district in Concord requires a minimum lot coverage of 35 percent and a minimum landscape area coverage as specified for single-family dwellings, typically focusing on the front yard. Additionally, RS-8 development must comply with general development standards, including specific requirements for tree preservation, screening, and parking lot landscaping where applicable.
Residential Open Space and Landscaping Standards
In the RS-8 Single-Family Residential district, development must adhere to established standards for lot coverage and landscaping to maintain the residential character of the neighborhood.
Lot Coverage and Height Standards for RS-8
The RS-8 district is categorized under the Single-Family Residential designation, which maintains specific dimensional and coverage limitations.
| Standard | RS-8 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Lot Coverage | 35 percent |
| Maximum Building Height | 30 feet |
| Minimum Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Minimum Interior Side Setback | 5, 10 feet |
| Minimum Aggregate Side Setback | 15 feet |
| Minimum Rear Setback | 20 feet |
Note: For RS-8 residential development, the minimum front setback is 20 feet [Section 18.30.030].
General Landscaping and Open Space Requirements
Beyond the specific district requirements, residential development in the RS-8 district must comply with the city's general development standards:
- Private and Common Open Space: Residential projects consisting of three or more new dwelling units must provide a minimum of 200 square feet of private and/or common open space per dwelling unit [Section 18.150.100]. At least 60 square feet of this requirement must be provided as private open space per unit [Section 18.150.100].
- Tree Preservation: Protected trees, including specific native species such as Valley oak and Coast live oak, must be preserved. Any removal or relocation of a protected tree associated with a planning permit requires a tree permit and often mandates replacement planting at a minimum ratio of three replacement trees for every one removed [Section 18.310.020, Section 18.310.060].
- Landscaping Materials: All required front yards must be landscaped. Plant materials should be selected for low water demand and drought tolerance, consistent with the city’s water efficient landscaping requirements [Section 18.165.070].
Performance and Maintenance
All required landscaping in the RS-8 district must be permanently maintained in a healthy and thriving condition. This includes regular irrigation maintenance, trimming of vegetation to keep paths clear, and the prohibition of water waste such as excessive runoff or overspray [Section 18.165.080].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.30.030 (RR and RS districts – Development standards)
- Section 18.150.100 (Open space and recreational facilities for residential development)
- Section 18.165.070 (Landscape standards)
- Section 18.165.080 (Maintenance of landscape areas)
- Section 18.310.020 (Applicability - Tree Preservation)
- Section 18.310.060 (Replacement trees)