Rural Land (RLC) District Landscaping and Open Space Standards

The Rural Land Conservation (RLC) district in the City of Concord is primarily intended for hillside areas to ensure the protection of scenic value and rural character. Landscaping and open space in the RLC district are regulated under the Community Land Districts division, with specific requirements determined at the discretion of the review authority during the permit process [Section 18.60.010, Section 18.165.050].

Purpose of the RLC District

The Rural Land Conservation (RLC) district is applied to hillside areas located to the northeast and southeast of the city. The purpose of the RLC district is to protect the scenic value and rural character of these areas [Section 18.60.010].

Landscaping Requirements in the RLC District

For the Rural Land Conservation (RLC) district, the minimum area of the site to be landscaped is determined at the discretion of the review authority [Section 18.165.050]. All landscaping in the City of Concord must adhere to general standards designed to improve the city's attractiveness, conserve water, and provide shade [Section 18.165.010].

General Landscaping Standards

The City of Concord requires the following general landscaping practices for applicable developments:

Landscape Plans: A preliminary landscape plan prepared by a California licensed landscape architect or qualified professional must be submitted for projects where required by the development code [Section 18.165.030].
Irrigation: All landscaped areas must include an automatic irrigation system designed and installed in compliance with the water efficient landscaping requirements [Section 18.165.030].
Maintenance: All landscaping must be permanently maintained in a healthy, thriving condition. This includes regular maintenance of irrigation equipment, weeding, pruning, and replacement of dead or diseased plants [Section 18.165.080].
Water Waste Prohibited: Inefficient irrigation leading to excessive runoff, low head drainage, or overspray onto non-irrigated areas, roadways, or walks is prohibited [Section 18.165.080].

Open Space Requirements

The RLC district is categorized as a Community Land District. For these districts, the determination of open space and recreational facilities is made at the discretion of the review authority [Section 18.165.050].

General Provisions for Open Space

Open space in the City of Concord must meet specific standards to be considered functional:

Exclusive Dedication: Off-street parking and loading areas, driveways, and service areas cannot be counted as required open space [Section 18.150.100].
Surfacing: Open space areas may be surfaced with lawn, brick, flagstone, wood planking, concrete, or other serviceable, dust-free materials [Section 18.150.100].
Compatibility with Stormwater: The design and location of any required open space must be consistent with the city’s stormwater management provisions [Section 18.150.100].

Sections Cited