Open Space and Landscaping Requirements for the RS-7 Zoning District in Concord
In the RS-7 Single-Family Residential zoning district in the City of Concord, properties must maintain a maximum lot coverage of 35 percent for single-family residences. While specific open space mandates for individual single-family lots are generally managed through development standards and landscaping, properties in the RS-7 district must also comply with traffic visibility requirements and maintain front yard landscaping.
Landscaping and Open Space Standards in RS-7
The RS-7 zoning district is classified under the Single-Family Residential category, which is intended for low-density residential neighborhoods with a density range of 2.5 to 10 units per net acre [Section 18.30.010].
Lot Coverage and Building Height
Development in the RS-7 district must adhere to specific intensity and height limitations to ensure compatibility with the residential character of the City of Concord [Section 18.30.030]:
| Standard | RS-7 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Lot Coverage (Single-Family) | 35 percent |
| Maximum Building Height (Single-Family) | 30 feet |
Landscaping Requirements
Landscaping for single-family dwellings in the City of Concord, including those in the RS-7 district, is primarily governed by the general requirement to maintain front yard areas [Section 18.165.050]. Additionally, if a single-family dwelling project involves new construction or an addition with 5,000 square feet or more of landscape area, it must comply with the water-efficient landscaping standards; however, all street-facing yards must be landscaped in accordance with the City of Concord development code [Section 18.165.030].
Traffic Visibility and Fencing
To maintain public safety and preserve neighborhood character, the City of Concord enforces strict visibility and fencing standards within the RS-7 district [Section 18.150.170]:
- Visibility Triangle: No fence, wall, structure, sign, or landscaping element may exceed three feet in height within the visibility triangle created at street intersections or where a driveway meets the property line.
- Fencing: Fences and walls located along a front property line or within a required front setback in an RS-7 district shall not exceed three feet in height [Section 18.150.040]. On properties where residential uses are allowed, such as RS-7, fences and walls shall not exceed a maximum height of six feet, subject to specific exceptions for side or rear yard setbacks [Section 18.150.040].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.30.010 (Purpose - Residential Districts)
- Section 18.30.030 (Table 18.30.030 – RR and RS districts – Development standards)
- Section 18.150.040 (Fences and walls)
- Section 18.150.170 (Traffic visibility at intersections and driveways)
- Section 18.165.030 (Landscape plan and irrigation plans)
- Section 18.165.050 (Landscape requirements)