Attachment 1 - Revised Initial Draft of Land Use Element_52 pgs3
3.Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-1
Los Gatos is a mature, predominantly built-out community, but changes are expected over the planning period to
reflect changing community needs, especially the development of housing to meet all income needs . While there
is a limited amount of vacant land within the community, land use is dynamic, and changes within the existing built
portions of the community will occur as needs and demands fluctuate over time. Managing land use change in
order to maintain overall quality of life is a priority of this General Plan and the community. [Source: Existing
General Plan, modified]
The Land Use Element includes two key components that provide a framework to guide and shape the future
physical development of Los Gatos. First, this Element includes policies establishing land use designations that
identify the type and density/intensity of uses permissible in the Planning Area. These designations are shown on
the Land Use Diagram, which graphically illustrates the locations for these land use designations. The intent of
these land use designations is also described through the text and a table of accompanying development
standards in this Element. Second, this Element includes a series of goals and policies identifying the Town’s
philosophy for future change and development. Combined with the Community Design Element, these two
elements address a broad range of topics related to the physical struct ure and appearance of the Town’s built
environment and establish the image and character of the Town. These two elements serve as the primary policy
guidance for ensuring that new land uses are logically organized and developed in a way that is sustainabl e and
enhances Los Gatos’ unique identity. [Source: New Text]
The Land Use Element, together with the Community Design Element, address a broad range of topics related to
the Town’s physical structure and appearance. These two elements provide the primary policy guidance to ensure
new land uses are logically organized and are developed in a way that reinforces and enhances the character and
identity of Los Gatos. [Source: New Text]
The Land Use Element is divided into the following sections:
Contents
Section Title Page
Key Terms ........................................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.1 General Plan Buildout ......................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2 Implementing Middle Housing ............................................................................................ 3-7
3.3 A Plan for Neighborhood Connectivity ................................................................................ 3-9
3.4 Land Use Diagram, Designations, and Standards ........................................................... 3-10
3.5 Community Development ................................................................................................. 3-16
3.6 Special Planning Areas ..................................................................................................... 3-26
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3.7 Community Place Districts ................................................................................................ 3-28
3.8 Preserving Our History ..................................................................................................... 3-33
3.9 General Plan Use and Maintenance ................................................................................. 3-35
3.10 Civic Engagement ............................................................................................................. 3-37
3.11 Lifelong Learning .............................................................................................................. 3-39
3.12 Healthy Community........................................................................................................... 3-40
3.13 Interagency Coordination .................................................................................................. 3-41
3.14 Implementation Programs ................................................................................................. 3-42
Key Terms
Acre (Gross). An acre is a measurement of land area equal to 43,560 square feet. The gross acreage of a lot
includes all land within the boundaries of the lot (including, but not limited to, easements, streets, and rights -of-
way). The gross acreage is defined as the total area, measured on a horizontal plane, and is the measure used
for determination of density and intensity calculations.
Cluster Development. This is the grouping of residential structures in one portion of a development site, with the
intent to maintain larger areas of the overall site for open space, recreation, or agriculture uses.
Community Place District. Within the Los Gatos Planning Area, eight Community Place Districts were identified
based on the proximity of commercial services or employment to support additional development, easy access to
transportation systems, and having access to infrastructure needed to support future development. These
locations have the potential to facilitate mixed-use development and redevelopment at a variety of densities and
intensities. See Sections 3.5 and 4.5 for more information.
Density. Residential developments are regulated by an allowed density range (minimum and maximum)
measured in “dwelling units per acre.” Residential density is calculated by dividing the number of housings units
on the site (excluding second units) by the gross acreage of the site. The
diagramFigure 3-1 shows prototypical examples of different residential
densities for one-acre properties.
State planning law requires general plans to include standards for measuring
population density. Population density is determined by multiplying the
maximum number of units allowed within a
land use designation by
the average number of
persons per household
(as determined by the
California
Department of
Finance).
Figure 3-1 Density Examples
Flag Lot. A flag lot (also called a Corridor Lot) is a lot with access to a street by means of a strip of land having
less frontage or width than that required for the parcel and which expands into a larger area.
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Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Total building size is regulated by a maximum FAR standard. FAR means the gross
floor area of a building or buildings on a zoning plot
divided by the area of such zoning plot.is
calculated by dividing the floor area of
all buildings (combined) on the site by
the total (gross) square footage of the
site. Floor area means the entire
enclosed area of all floors that
are more than four (4)
feet above the
existing or
proposed grade,
measured from the
outer face of exterior walls or in the
case of shared walls from the
centerline. The maximum FAR standard
limits the overall size of development on a
property. As an example, a maximum FAR of 0.75
would allow 75,000 square feet of building floor area on
a 100,000-square foot lot. The 75,000 square feet could be
provided in one building or divided between multiple buildings.
(Los Gatos Code, Section 29.10.020, Definitions)
Figure 3-2 FAR Examples
The diagramsFigure 3-2 illustrate various building configurations representing FARs of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0. As
shown in the diagram, different interpretations of the same FAR standard can result in very different building
forms, and site characteristics.
Intensity. Non-residential developments are regulated by an allowed intensity. measured by a maximum FAR.
Intensity is a measure of the extent to which a land parcel is developed in conformity with the zoning ordinance.
Lot Coverage. Lot coverage is the percentage of a lot that is covered by all buildings compared to the total area
of the lot.
Middle Housing. Middle housing is a term used to describe a range of
house-scale buildings with multiple units that are compatible in scale and
form with detached single-family homes (Figure 3-3). Common housing
types include duplexes; triplexes; fourplexes; courtyard apartments;
cottage courts; townhomes; triplex stacked (vertical); and live-work
spaces. As this type of housing is often missing in communities, it is
often referred to as “Missing Middle” housing.
Figure 3-3 FAR Examples
Mixed-Use Development. Development projects where a variety of uses such as office, commercial,
institutional, and residential are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated project. These
developments are regulated by both the maximum residential density (units per acre) and max imum FAR
standard that incorporates both the residential and non-residential building floor areas. As an example, a one-
acre site with a maximum FAR of 2.0 and an allowed density range of 16 to 32 units per acre could be developed
with 87,120 square feet of total building space (commercial and residential, combined). The 87,120 square feet
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could be divided into a combination of commercial space and residential space. Up to 32 residential units would
be allowed within the 87,120 square feet.
Multi-Family Residential. Land with three or more attachedtwo or more dwelling units without respect to type or
ownership., such as triplexes, fourplexes, microunits, apartments, and condominiums.
Planning Area. State planning law requires that the General Plan cover all territory within the boundaries of the
Town as well as “any land outside its boundary which in the planning agency’s judgment bears relation to its
planning.” (Government Code Section 65300) This larger area is referred to as the Town’s “Planning Area.” The
Planning Area for the Los Gatos 2040 General Plan encompasses the entire area within the Town Limits and
unincorporated areas within the Town’s Sphere of Influence.
Sensitive Land Uses. Relative to issues of land use compatibility and adjacency, sensitive land uses typically
include residences; schools; nursing homes; historic sites; open space areas; hospitals and care facilities; places
of worship; and libraries.
Single-Family Residential. Detached dwelling units for residential uses, such as single-family homes,
townhomes, condominiums, and duplexes.
Sphere of Influence. The Sphere of Influence is the area determined by the Local Agency Formation
Commission (LAFCO) of Santa Clara County to represent the probable future physical boundary of the Town. The
adoption of Spheres of Influence is required by Government Code Section 56425.
Urban Service Area. The Los Gatos Urban Service Area (USA) is established by Santa Clara County LAFCO.
The USA delineates areas outside Town limits that are currently provided with urban services, facilities, and
utilities; or areas proposed to be annexed into a Town within the next five years.
3.1 General Plan Buildout
The 2040 General Plan development projections are shown in Table 3-1.designates land uses defining the type of
development that could occur throughout the Town through the planning horizon year of 2040 (see Figure 3-1 for
the Land Use Diagram). Development projections for the General Plan through the year 2040 were based on
direction from the Town Council on potential housing needed to meet the Town’s Regional Housing Needs
Allocation (RHNA), and potential non-residential market demand, development potential within the General Plan’s
Community Place Districts (see Section 3.5 and Section 4.5), as well as infill and redevelopment potential
throughout the community. for non-residential uses. The development projections include the development
potential of the General Plan’s Community Place Districts (see Section 3.5), as well as infill and redevelopment
throughout the community. The 2040 General Plan development projections are shown in Table 3‐1. [New Text]
Table 3-1 General Plan Buildout Through 2040
Land Use Existing (2019)
Additional
Development Projected
through 2040 Total by 2040
Residential (units)
Commercial/Office (acres)
Industrial (acres)
Parks (acres)
Schools (acres)
Source: Xxxx
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Figure 3-2Figure 3-4 Land Use Diagram
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3.2 Implementing Middle Housing
How to Meet the Housing Needs of Los Gatos
While housing and residential neighborhoods form the fabric that makes a community a home, finding a place to
call home in Los Gatos has been unattainable for many. The Town’s housing issues come from many factors, the
primary of which is affordability (high purchase and rental prices). Other related factors include a lack of unit types
and sizes to meet the needs of perspective residents. The aging population has also faced issues with the
shortage of smaller dwelling units to allow aging in place within the community. The domination of single -family
neighborhoods and the trend towards buildin g larger and larger homes has further contributed to the housing
issues in the Town.
These housing issues are not unique to Los Gatos and are seen throughout the Bay Area and many communities
in California. The State of California has been working with com munities to help meet the number and affordability
of housing units needed in the state. As part of the Housing Element process, the State dictates the number of
units, at a variety of income levels, that a jurisdiction must plan to help achieve. For Los Gatos, this is expected
to be over 2,000 dwelling units of various income levels over the next eight years.
To address the diversity of housing needed in Los Gatos and meet the requirements of State law, the Town
needs to look beyond the current process used to plan for housing. In the past, housing has typically fallen into
two categories: detached single-family homes and high-density multifamily apartments. To meet the diverse
needs of the community, Los Gatos, like other communities nationwide, needs to look towards to lessons of the
past where neighborhoods were a heterogeneous mix of housing types and affordabilities. This housing, which
lies between detached single-family and apartment buildings is often referred to as “Missing Middle” housing and
can include a mix of housing types including duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, cottage courts/clusters, and
townhomes (illustrated on Figure 3-5, below). Through design, these units can be compatible in form and
appearance with detached single-family homes.
Figure 3-5 Missing Middle Concept Illustrated
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Figure 3-6 Future Housing – Providing for Middle Housing
As part of the 2040 General Plan, a goal and supporting programs will be included to support the development of
Middle housing within existing Los Gatos neighborhoods. Figure 3-6 illustrates this concept using a variety of
Middle housing types. In the graphic below, the two blocks were laid out to be identical relative to lot lines and
existing structures, with the dwelling units shaded in white being existing dwelling units in a variety of sizes, but all
being single-family detached homes. The portion of the graphic on the bottom (labeled “With Missing Middle
Housing”) shows that same block with future development. The white shaded structures are those current units
remaining and the gold shaded structures are new Middle housing types. Some are in addition to existing
structures (“A” and “F”), one is a replacement structure on an existing lot (“C”), and two show the consolidation of
two lots to create one larger lot (“B” and “D”).
On a typical block in Town, the number of Middle units would likely be f ewer. This illustration is designed to show
potential ideas for how to incorporate a range of housing types and sizes into an existing neighborhood. In
addition to different types, the Middle concepts would also support the production of a variety of uni t sizes in the
500 to 1,000 square foot range.
Figure 3-7 Middle Housing Types Illustrated (Sample Concepts)
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December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-9
Provide opportunities for housing that can accommodate the needs, preferences,
and financial capabilities of current and future residents in terms of different
housing types, tenures, density, sizes, and costs. [Source: New Goal]
LU-1.1 Mixed Residential Neighborhoods
Encourage creation of mixed residential neighborhoods through new and innovative housing
types that meet the changing needs of Los Gatos households and expand housing choices in all
neighborhoods. These housing types include , but are not limited to, single dwelling units, multi-
dwelling units, accessory dwelling units, small and micro units, use of pre-fabricated homes, and
clustered housing/cottage housing. [Source: New Policy]
LU-1.2 Middle Housing
Support housing types and designs that increase density while maintaining consistency with
building scale and character in existing neighborhoods. This includes multi-unit or clustered
residential buildings that provide relatively smaller, less expensive units within existing
neighborhoods. [Source: New Policy]
LU-1.3 Housing Adaptation
Encourage the adaptation of existing residential units to support multi-family use.
[Source: New Policy]
3.3 A Plan for Neighborhood Connectivity
Recent community design in California has been heavily influenced by the automobile. Instead of looking at
providing easy access to goods and services near our homes, we have focused on moving in the larger region as
our priority, where travel over significant distances in a short period of time was the primary design factor. This
has led to an increased use of land for transportation systems and parking, the isolation of neighborhoods by
placement of wide arterial streets, and the concentration of essential services and shopping in a more distant,
regional context. This differs significantly from the earlier designs of communities that focused on a more
complete neighborhood with easy access and close proximity to goods and services.
This concept, first formulated by Carlos Moreno of Pantheon Sorbonne University in Paris, was designed to look
at creating a “15-minute city,” although in the United States, this has also been framed using the 20-minute
distance. In either case, this design has three defining features:
▪ Proximity. Uses must be in close proximity to each other.
▪ Diversity. Land uses need to provide a mix of residential and commercial services.
▪ Density. Success requires a density of residential uses to support the commercial services .
As part of the Town’s future, the 2040 General Plan will shift focus to reestablishing more complete neighborhood
areas that meet the daily needs of residents to be located within a 20-minute walk or bike ride.
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Provide for an urban fabric that supports a robust housing mix and convenient
access to goods and services that meet daily needs. [Source: New Goal]
LU-2.1 Mixed Uses and Convenience
Promote a mix of compatible uses in and adjancent to residential neighborhoods to serve the
basic, daily needs of nearby residents. This should include neighborhood shopping and services
available within a 20-minute walk or bike ride of all non-hillside residential areas in the following
categories:
▪ Convenience retail,
▪ Access to healthy food choices,
▪ Health services,
▪ Schools,
▪ Parks and open space,
▪ Access to transit, and
▪ Employment opportunities.
[Source: New Policy]
3.2 3.4 Land Use Diagram, Designations, and Standards
The core of the Land Use Element is the description of land use designations to classify and distinguish the
various land uses needed within the Town and corresponding levels of intensity, density, and allowable uses as
required by Government Code Section 65302(a). [New Text]
Land Use Diagram
Figure 3-4, the General Plan Land Use Diagram, shows the distribution of the land use designations allowed
within the Town’s Planning Area. The General Plan Land Use Diagram (see Figure 3-1) uses color-coded land
use designations to express the intended use of land within the Town of Los Gatos Planning Area. It shows
where and what kind of development may occur. State planning law requires that the General Plan cover all
territory within the boundaries of the adopting Town or county as well as “any land outside its boundary which in
the planning agency’s judgment bears relation to its planning.” (Government Code Section 65300) To carry out
this directive, most Towns and cities formally delineate a “planning area” boundary in their general plans.
[New Text]
It is common for the Land Use Diagram to be updated over time. Please check with the Los Gatos
Community Development Department to ensure you have the current version.
The General Plan Land Use Diagram includes residential, commercial, employment center (office and industrial),
specific plan, and public and open space designations that depict the types of land uses that will be allowed within
the Planning Area. Table 3-2 describes all of the land use designations along with their corresponding
development standards using the following columns:
▪ Group. The 16 land use designations in the General Plan are categorized into five groups. These groups
contain designations with similar land use types and purposes.
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▪ Designation. This column provides the name of each designation and the acronym used when referring
to the designation.
▪ Color. To the right of each designation name is the color that is assigned to this designation on the
Town’s Land Use Diagram (Figure 3-41).
▪ Description. This column contains a description of the purpose and application of each designation. The
Town’s Zoning Regulations provide further refinement and expansion of the list of uses allowed on any
given property. Not all allowed land uses may be appropriate for specific properties due to location,
adjacent uses, site-specific constraints, and other applicable General Plan policies.
▪ Standards. Designations allowing residential uses provide a minimum and maximum density, expressed
as dwelling units per acre (du/ac). Designations in the Residential Group also provide a maximum lot
coverage. For non-residential designations, a maximum FAR is provided for non-residential components.
All designations include a maximum height.
▪ Compatible Zoning. This column lists the Town’s zoning designations that are consistent with each
General Plan designation (as required by Policy LU-16.3).
A copy of the Land Use Diagram is available from the Town’s Community Development Department or can be
downloaded from the Town’s website. [New Text]
Land Use Designations and Standards
Table 3-2 divides the A total of 16 land use designations identified on the Land Use Diagram (Figure 3-4), divided
into six designation groups, are used on the Land Use Diagram and defined in Table 3-2. Table 3-1 and provides
guidance on types of uses appropriate for each land use designation as well as standards on density and
intensity. All standards listed in Table 3-2 must be applied to all projects. [New Text]
The Land Use Diagram is largely implemented through the Town’s zoning regulations. As shown on Table 3-2,
each land use designation has one or more compatible zoning districts. Whereas the General Plan land use
designations are intentionally broad, the zoning designations are more detailed and provide a v ariety of specific
development standards, including permitted and conditional uses, building heights, setbacks, lot coverage, and
parking requirements. While the Land Use Diagram guides zoning, it is not the same as the Town’s Zoning Map.
[New Text]
For non-residential land uses, the specific uses mentioned are illustrative, and other compatible uses, including
those authorized in any other Zoning District within the Town, may be permitted where authorized by a
Conditional Use Permit or Planned Development Overlay Zone. [Existing General Plan]
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Table 3-2 General Plan Land Use Designations and Development Standards
Designation Color Description Standards
Compatible
Zoning
RESIENDITIAL DESIGNATIONS
HR
Hillside
Residential
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
very low density, rural, and single-family residential
development types that can be done on large
single lots or as part of a cluster development.
This designation allows for development that is
compatible with the unique mountainous terrain
and rural character of the hillside areas. and
vegetation of parts of Los Gatos.
Density:
0 – 1 du/ac
Max. Height:
30 25 feet
HR
LDR
Low Density
Residential
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
single-family residential properties. It encourages
single-family residential development in either the
standard development established by standard
zoning or by innovative forms obtained through a
planned development.
Density:
1 – 12 du/ac
Lot Coverage:
Up to 50%
Max. Height:
30 feet
R-1
MDR
Medium
Density
Residential
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
multi-family residential, duplexes, and/or small lot
single-family homes.
Density:
14 – 24 du/ac
Lot Coverage:
Up to 75%
Max. Height:
35 feet
R-1D
R-D
R-M
HDR
High Density
Residential
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
more dense multi-family residential development.
Its objective is to provide quality housing in
proximity to transit and/or commercial and business
areas.
Density:
30 – 40 du/ac
Lot Coverage:
Up to 75%
Max. Height:
45 feet
R-M
MIXED USE DESIGNATION
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Designation Color Description Standards
Compatible
Zoning
MU
Mixed-Use
The purpose of this designation is to provide a
mixture of retail, office, and residential in a mixed-
use project, along with lodging, service,
recreational uses, and restaurants. Projects
developed under this designation shall maintain
primary orientation to arterial street frontages and
proper transitions and buffers to adjacent
residential properties.
Density:
30 – 40 du/ac
FAR:
Up to 3.0
Lot Coverage:
Up to 75%
Max. Height:
45 feet
CH
COMMERCIAL DESIGNATIONS
NC
Neighborhood
Commercial
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
necessary day-to-day commercial goods and
services required by the residents of the adjacent
neighborhoods. This designation encourages
concentrated and coordinated commercial
development at easily accessible locations.
Residential uses, developed using a mixed-use
format, are allowed in the designation.
Density:
10 – 20 du/ac
FAR:
Up to 1.0
Max. Height:
35 feet
C-1
CC
Community
Commercial
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
commercial goods and services to support
residents, businesses, and visitors, and are located
to serve the entire community. Residential uses,
developed using a mixed-use format, are allowed
in the designation.
Density:
20 – 30 du/ac
FAR:
Up to 3.0
Max. Height:
45 feet
C-1
CBD
Central
Business
District
The purpose of this designation is to encourage a
mixture of community-orientated commercial goods
and services within the Downtown. This
designation applies exclusively to the Downtown,
with the goal to accommodate and retain small-
town merchants and preserve the Town’s
character. The District shall maintain and expand
open spaces and mature tree growth without
increasing setbacks, as well as integrate new
construction with existing structures of
archeological and historical significance.
Residential uses, developed using a mixed-use
format, are allowed in the designation.
Density:
20 – 30 du/ac
FAR:
Up to 2.0
Max. Height:
45 feet
C-2
EMPLOYMENT CENTER DESIGNATIONS
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Designation Color Description Standards
Compatible
Zoning
OP
Office
Professional
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
professional and general business offices and
innovation centers. This designation applies to
various locations throughout the Town, often in
proximity to neighborhood- or community-oriented
commercial facilities, or as a buffer between
commercial and residential uses. The intent of this
designation is to satisfy the community’s need for
general business and professional services, local
employment, and residential uses.
Density:
none
FAR:
Up to 1.0
Max. Height:
35 feet
O
SC
Service
Commercial
The purpose of this designation is to provide for
service businesses. These businesses include
auto repair, building materials sales, paint
suppliers, janitorial services, towing businesses,
contractors offices and yards, laundries and dry
cleaners, as well as wholesaling, and warehousing
activities.
Density:
none
FAR:
Up to 1.0
Max. Height:
35 feet
LM
LI
Light
Industrial
The purpose of this designation is to allow for
large-scale office developments, well-controlled
research and development facilities, innovation
centers, industrial parks and service-oriented uses
subject to rigid development standards. These
uses shall respond to the community and regional-
wide needs.
Density:
none
FAR:
Up to 1.0
Max. Height:
35 feet
CM
SPECIFIC PLAN DESIGNATIONS
A-SP
Albright
Specific Plan
The purpose of this designation is to provide land
for the Albright Specific Plan.
As defined in
Specific Plan
A-SP
NF-SP
North Forty
Specific Plan
The purpose of this designation is to provide land
for the North 40 Specific Plan.
As defined in
Specific Plan
NF-SP
PUBLIC & OPEN SPACE DESIGNATIONS
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Designation Color Description Standards
Compatible
Zoning
PUB
Public
This designation identifies public and institutional
facilities in the Town such as the Civic Center,
schools, parks, libraries, hospitals, churches, and
fire stations.
Density:
none
FAR:
Up to 1.0
Max. Height:
35 feet
All zones
OS
Open Space
This designation identifies the location of public
parks, open space preserves, private preserves,
and stream corridors.
Density:
none
Max. Height:
30 feet
RC
AG
Agriculture
This designation identifies areas for commercial
agricultural crop production and properties under a
Williamson Act contract.
Density:
1 du/20 ac
Max. Height:
30 feet
RC
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3.3 3.5 Community Development
Over the course of this General Plan, the community will continue to develop and grow to meet the needs of
current and future residents, businesses, and visitors. Unlike many communities where growth is primarily on
vacant land, Los Gatos will see a higher percentage of change through the redevelopment of lands that have
additional development potential. The following goals and policies will allow growth while protecting the Town’s
aesthetics and character.In order to approach change in a way that maintains the high quality of life enjoyed in
Los Gatos and protect the small town feel and aesthetic, additional policy guidance on the various land use
groups (identified in Table 3-2) is provided in this section. [New Text]
GENERAL
Provide for well-planned, careful growth that reflects the Town’s existing character
and infrastructure. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-4]
LU-3.1 Healthy Balance of Land Uses
Promote and support a healthy balance of residential, commercial, office, open space,
institutional, and industrial businesses within the Town. [Source: New Policy]
LU-3.2 Adequate Physical Infrastructure
Allow development only with adequate physical infrastructure (e.g. transportation, sewers,
utilities, etc.) and social services (e.g. education, public safety, etc.). [Source: Existing Policy
LU-4.2]
LU-3.3 Public Costs
Only approve projects for which public costs can be justified by the overall benefit to the
community. [Source: Existing Policy LU-4.3]
LU-3.4 Reducing Project Impacts
Project’s shall be evaluated and the Town shall apply needed mitigation measures and/or
conditions of approval to reduce impacts on urban services, including schools, utilities, police,
and fire. [Source: Existing Policy LU-4.4, modified]
Use available land efficiently by encouraging appropriate infill development.
[Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-7]
LU-4.1 Infill Projects and Neighborhood Compatibility
Require that infill projects are compatibile with surrounding neighborhood, demonstrate that the
development meets the criteria contained in the Town’s Development Policy for In -Fill Projects,
contribute to the enhancement of the surrounding neighborhood when possible (e.g. improve
circulation), and do not detract from the existing quality of life in the neighborhood.
[Source: Existing Policies LU-7.2 and LU-7.3, modified]
LU-4.2 Infill Development in Context
Infill projects shall be designed in context with the neighborhood and surrounding zoning with
respect to the existing scale and character of surrounding structures and should blend rather than
compete with the established character of the area. [Source: Existing Policy LU-7.4]
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RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS
For land use designations under the Residential Designations Group on Table 3-2, the following apply.
Designations in this group are Hillside Residential, Low Density Residential, Medium Density Residential, and
High Density Residential.
Preserve and enhance the existing character and sense of place in residential
neighborhoods while expanding housing opportunities. [Source: Existing General
Plan, Goal: LU-6, modified]
LU-5.1 Infill and Reuse of Underutilized Sites for Housing
Promote infill residential development and redevelopment of underutilized parcels while
maintaining or enhancing the positive qualities of the surrounding neighborhoods.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-5.2 Missing Middle Housing
Promote and pursue a variety of residential densities and housing types so that housing can be
available in a broad range of costs, including housing affordable to low - and very-low income
households. This should include allowing a range of multi-unit or clustered housing types,
compatible in scale with detached single-family homes and neighborhoods. [Source: Existing
Policy LU-6.7, modified]
LU-5.3LU-5.2 Housing Needs Capacity
The Housing Element assumes that sites designated medium and high density residential will be
developed at the upper end of the density range. If the Town approves a development at a lower
density on one of these sites, staff shall identify one or more other sites to maintain the Town’s
capacity to meet its housing needs as identified in the Housing Element, subject to neighborhood
compatibility and mitigation of traffic impacts. [Source: Existing Policy LU-6.9]
LU-5.4LU-5.3 Neighborhood Characteristics
Promote livability, enjoyment, and safety for all residents through quality neighborhoods.
Characteristics of quality neighborhoods vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, but include
one or more of the following characteristics:
▪ A mix of housing types, styles, density, and affordability;
▪ Design and circulation features that create and maintain a pedestrian scale ;
▪ Nearby services and facilities including schools, parks, retail (e.g., grocery store, drug store),
restaurants and cafes, and community centers or other public facilities ;
▪ A tree canopy and well-maintained landscaping;
▪ A sense of personal safety;
▪ Convenient access to public transportation ; and
▪ Well-maintained housing and public facilities.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-5.5 Mixed Uses and Convenience
Promote a mix of compatible uses in neighborhoods to serve the daily needs of nearby residents,
including schools, parks, churches, and convenience retail stores. Neighborhood shopping a nd
services should be available within about one mile of all dwellings. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-18 Public Review Draft December 2020
LU-5.6LU-5.4 Adjacent Non-residential Development
Protect existing residential areas from the impacts of non-residential development. This could
include, but is not limited to, limitations on operations, placement of structures, height, and
placement of loading docks. [Source: Existing Policy LU-6.1, LU-6.3, modified]
For specifics on community design requirements, please refer to Chapter 4, Community Design.
LU-5.7LU-5.5 Home-Based Businesses
Allow small scale home-based businesses in residential designations, subject to regulations that
reduce potential negative impacts and ensure that the business won’t adversely impact the
character and overall quality of the neighborhood. [Source: Existing Policies LU-2.2 and LU-6.2,
modified]
LU-5.8LU-5.6 Public and Institutional Uses in Residential Neighborhoods
The Town shall permit non-commercial recreational uses, educational uses, faith organizations,
and daycare and congregate living facilities in residentially-designated areas when they meet
standards for development that protect neighborhood character. [Source: New Policy]
LU-5.9LU-5.7 Impacts to Neighborhood Character and Public Safety
Prohibit uses that may lead to the deterioration of residential neighborhoods, or adversely impact
the public safety or the residential character of the neighborhood. [Source: Existing Policy LU-6.4,
modified]
LU-5.10LU-5.8 Walkable Neighborhoods
Encourage walkable neighborhoods by managing vehicle speeds, providing bike l anes, and
maintaining sidewalks and street tree canopies. [Source: New Policy]
LU-5.11LU-5.9 Retrofit Neighborhoods to Improve Connectivity
Encourage existing developments to be retrofitted over time, as appropriate, to reduce
unnecessary walls and barriers and improve bike and pedestrian connections between residential
neighborhoods. [Source: New Policy]
LU-5.12LU-5.10 New Construction Compatibility
Ensure new construction, remodels, and additions are compatible and blend with the existing
neighborhood. [Source: Existing Policy LU-6.8]
LU-5.13LU-5.11 Neighborhood Maintenance
Support the maintainance and improvement of neighborhoods through the use of systematic code
enforcement, regulatory measures, cooperative neighborhood improvement programs, and other
measures. [Source: New Policy]
LU-5.14LU-5.12 Flag Lots
Flag lots shall only be allowed if their use would decrease the amount of public street required for
the subdivision; they arenecessary due to the physical constraints of the site; they provide for
protection of open space, mature native trees, or other natural resources; they are in context with
the existing scale and established character of the neighborhood; and they are deemed safe for
fire access and protection. [Source: Existing Policy LU-4.5, modified]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-19
LU-5.15LU-5.13 Flag Lots – Low Density and Medium Density Residential
Flag lots shall only be allowed in LDR and MDR residential designations if their use would allow
division of existing lots for residential infill development, and if the resulting lots meet designation
standards for minimum lot size and setbacks, are in context with the existing scale and
established character of the neighborhood, and are deemed safe for fire access and protection.
Lot frontage requirements can be waived if access is found to be safe. [Source: Existing Policy
LU-4.5, modified]
MIXED -USE DESIGNATIONS
For land use designations under the Mixed-use Designations Group on Table 3-2, the following apply. The
designation in this group is Mixed-Use.
Encourage development that integrates a mix of residential, commercial, and/or
office uses in appropriate areas, enabling residents to live close to businesses and
services. [Source: New Goal]
LU-6.1 Encourage Mixed-use Development
Implement and promote a land use pattern that facilitates the development of projects that mix
residential, commercial, and/or employment uses to enable residents to live close to businesses
and employment; promote walking, biking, and transit use; and increase opportunities for
community gathering and social interaction. [Source: New Policy]
LU-6.2 Mixed-use Objectives
The Town shall require mixed-use projects to comply with the following objectives:
▪ Include residential uses as a significant component of the project;
▪ Provide a blend of uses that are physically and functionally integrated through site layout,
architectural design, and landscaping to create a synergy between different uses and a
unique sense of place;
▪ Feature a compact design that reduces reliance on automobiles and promotes transit,
walking, and biking;
▪ Increase economic vitality;
▪ Feature a pedestrian-oriented design; and
▪ Include an attractive and accessible public realm that encourages community members to
gather and socialize. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-20 Public Review Draft December 2020
COMMERCIAL DESIGNATIONS
For land use designations under the Commercial Designations Group on Table 3-2, the following apply.
Designations in this group are Mixed-Use, Neighborhood Commercial, Community Commercial, and Central
Business District.
Provide residents, businesses, and visitors with an appropriate range of commercial
activities and services. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-9, modified]
LU-7.1 Strong Neighborhood Commercial Centers
Maintain a variety of commercial uses, including a strong Downtown commercial area combined
with Los Gatos Boulevard and strong neighborhood commercial centers to meet the shopping
needs of residents and to preserve the small-town atmosphere. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.2]
LU-7.2 Commercial Use Mix
Encourage a mix of retail and office uses in commercial areas, except in the Central Business
District designation, where retail should be emphasized and office should be limited to upper
floors and other areas as defined by the Town Code. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.3]
LU-7.3 Locally Owned Businesses
Encourage the development and retention of locally owned businesses and independent stores
and shops that are consistent with Los Gatos’ small-town character and scale. [Source: Existing
Policy LU-9.5 and LU-10.1, modified]
LU-7.4 Resident-oriented Services and Employment Opportunities
Encourage development that maintains and expands resident-oriented services and/or creates
employment opportunities for local residents. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.6]
LU-7.5 Retail Sales Tax Leakage
Retail sales tax “leakage” should be kept to a minimum by encouraging the development of in-
town convenience and comparative shopping opportunities. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.8,
modified]
LU-7.6 Buffers for Non-residential Uses
Buffers shall be required as conditions of approval for non-residential projects that are adjacent to
residential areas and may consist of landscaping, sound barriers, building setbacks, or open
space. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.9]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-21
Preserve Downtown Los Gatos as the historic center of the Town, with goods and
services for residents, while maintaining the existing Town identity, environment,
and commercial viability. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-10]
LU-8.1 Commercial Areas within Downtown
Recognize and encourage the different functions, land use patterns, and use mixes of the various
commercial areas within the Downtown (area defined on Figure 3-72). These include:
▪ The pedestrian scale and orientation of the Central Business District;
▪ The neighborhood-serving commercial land use pattern of areas north of Los Gatos-Saratoga
Road to Blossom Hill Road; and
▪ The mixed-use commercial activities along Santa Cruz Avenue and the service commercial
activities along University Avenue between Andrews Street and Blossom Hill Road.
[Source: Existing Policy LU-10.2, modified]
LU-8.2 Central Business District Boundaries
Establish and maintain clearly defined boundaries between the Central Business District
designation and adjacent residential neighborhoods. [Source: Existing Policy LU-10.3, modified]
LU-8.3 Mixed-Uses in Commercial Zones
Encourage mixed-uses to increase residential opportunities in commercial zones Downtown,
taking into consideration potential impacts to loss of commercial opportunities. [Source: Existing
Policy LU-10.4]
Ensure an appropriate mix of commercial land use types to maintain the economic
vitality of the community and continue to serve the needs of Town residents.
[Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-12, modified]
LU-9.1 Vacated Businesses
Encourage replacement of vacated business south of Los Gatos–Almaden Road and north of
Roberts Road/Shannon Road with neighborhood commercial, multi-family, or office uses.
[Source: Existing Policy LU-12.9]
LU-9.2 Residential Opportunities in Commercial Zones
Encourage mixed-uses to increase residential opportunities in commercial designations. [Source:
Existing Policy LU-12.4, modified]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-22 Public Review Draft December 2020
Figure 3-3Figure 3-8 Downtown Area Map
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-23
LU-9.3 Existing Auto Dealerships
Retain and enhance auto dealerships. [Source: Existing Policy LU-12.5]
EMPLOYMENT CENTER DESIGNATIONS
For land use designations under the Employment Centers Designations Group on Table 3-2, the following apply.
Designations in this group are Office Professional, Service Commercial, and Light Industrial.
Employment Center designations provide space for light industrial, office, and
research and development in order to increase access to local jobs. [Source: New
Goal]
LU-10.1 Industrial Compatibility
Require that industrial projects be designed to limit the impact of truck traffic, air, and noise
pollution on adjacent sensitive land uses. [Source: New Policy]
LU-10.2 Protect Industrially Designated Sites
Discourage the conversion of land designated as Office Professional, Service Commercial, or
Light Industrial to commercial, residential, or institutional uses. [Source: Existing Policy LU-9.4]
LU-10.3 Support Conversion of Warehouses
The Town shall support the conversion of existing warehousing and distribution facilities into
more employment intensive uses, such as light industrial, flex/incubator spaces, research and
development, and collaborative work spaces. [Source: New Policy]
LU-10.4 Employee Services
Enhance the working environment by promoting small retail areas and restaurants to serve
employees in Office Professional, Service Commercial, or Light Industrial designations . [Source:
New Policy]
SPECIFIC PLANS
A specific plan is a planning tool authorized by Government Code Section 65450, et seq., for the system atic
implementation of the General Plan for a defined portion of a community’s planning area. A specific plan must
specify in detail the land uses planned; public and private facilities needed to support the planned land uses;
phasing of development; planned infrastructure; standards for the conservation, development, and use of natural
resources; and a program of implementation measures, including financing measures. Specific plans and the
Town Zoning Code are key implementation mechanisms for the Genera l Plan. All provisions of specific plans
adopted by the Town must be consistent with the General Plan that they implement.
Two of the Town’s Specific Plans also have associated General Plan land use designations, which are listed
under the Specific Plans Group on Table 3-2 and shown on Figure 3-83. For the Albright Specific Plan (A-SP)
and North Forty Specific Plan (NF-SP) designations, the following apply:
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-24 Public Review Draft December 2020
Figure 3-4Figure 3-9 Specific Plan Locations
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-25
▪ Albright Specific Plan. Approved by voter initiative on June 3, 2014 (Measure A), the Albright Specific
Plan established a 21.6-acre special planning area located at 90-160 Albright Way and 14600 Winchester
Boulevard. The Specific Plan included development of up to 485,000 square feet of new office/research
and development space (including office serving amenities), one parking garage, surface parking areas,
new access driveways, and new landscaping and open space.
▪ North Forty Specific Plan. The North 40 Specific Plan was adopted by the Los Gatos Town Council on
June 17, 2015. The Specific Plan area is approximately 42 acres. The vision statement for the plan states
that “The North 40 Specific Plan is designed to reflect the special nature of our hometown. It celebrates our
history, agricultural heritage, hillside views, and small-town character. The North 40 is seamlessly woven
into the fabric of our community, complementing other Los Gatos residential and business neighborhoods.
It is respectful of precious community resources and offers unique attributes that enrich the quality of life of
all of our residents.” [Source: Background Report]
Use specific plans for strategic new growth areas with complex land use programs.
[Source: New Goal]
LU-11.1 Using Specific Plans
Require that specific plans are prepared, amended, updated, and implemented consistent with
this General Plan. Following adoption, specific plans should be considered for update over time if
to better reflect and serve the changing needs of the community. [Source: New Policy]
PUBLIC AND OPEN SPACE DESIGNATIONS
For land use designations under the Public and Open Space Designations Group on Table 3-2, the following
apply. Designations in this group are Public, Open Space, and Agriculture. [Source: New Text]
Provide for governmental, utility, institutional, educational, cultural, faith-based,
and social facilities and services that are located and designed to complement
and minimize incompatibility with Los Gatos’ neighborhoods and nearby sensitive
land uses. [Source: New Goal]
LU-12.1 Compatible Civic and Institutional Uses
Ensure that Town-owned buildings, sites, and infrastructure as well as those of other public
agencies and non-profit organizations and institutions are designed to be compatible in scale,
mass, character, and architecture with the neighborhood in which they are located or are
adjacent. [Source: New Policy]
LU-12.2 Compatibility with Los Gatos Civic Center Complex
Ensure that development (including new construction and remodeled and rehabilitated structures)
surrounding the Civic Center complex is compatible with the Civic Center. [Source: New Policy]
Policy direction on open space can be found in Chapter 6, Open Space, Parks, and Recreation
Element, in Section 6.1, Open Space.
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-26 Public Review Draft December 2020
3.4 3.6 Special Planning Areas
Development in Los Gatos is focused to achieve more specific outcomes by designating specific overlay zones
and special planning areas. These special planning areas have more detailed development guidelines while
remaining consistent with the overall direction of the General Plan. Los Gatos has three Overlay Zones
(discussed below), five Historic Districts, three Specific Plans, and the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan.
Policy direction on Historic Districts can be found in Section 3.6, Preserving our History of this chapter
and in Chapter 4, Community Design Element in Section 4.3, Historic Preservation.
Policy direction on the Albright and North Forty specific plans which have individual land use
designations can be found in Section 3.3 under the heading Specific Plans of this chapter.
OVERLAY ZONES
There are three overlay zones in the Town Code, Landmark and Historic Preservation, Planned Development,
and Public School Overlay Zones.
▪ Landmark and Historic Preservation (LHP) Overlay Zone. This zone is designated by Town Council
and is applied to individual sites and structures or small areas deemed to have architectural and/or
historical significance. The structure(s) in LHP overlays are subject to special standards regarding their
appearance, use, and maintenance.
▪ Planned Development (PD) Overlay Zone. The PD overlay zone is intended to ensure orderly planning
and quality design that will be in harmony with the existing or potential development of the surrounding
neighborhood. The Planned Development Overlay is a specially tailored development plan and ordinance
which designates the zoning regulations for the accompanying project, sets specific development
standards, and ensures that zoning and the General Plan are consistent. Commercial, residential, or
industrial property or a mixture of these uses may be considered for a Planned Development Overlay.
▪ Public School (PS) Overlay Zone. The PS overlay zone permits a variety of community-related and
education-related uses, including, but not limited to, museums, community centers, playgrounds, and
nursery schools. Any land owned by a public school district (regardless of underlying zone) may be
designated PS. [Source: Existing GP]
Implement overlay zones for specific areas requiring additional zoning protections.
[Source: New Goal]
LU-13.1 Using Overlay Zones
Apply an overlay zone on properties requiring additional direction relative to the use and
development of properties within each zone, consistent with this General Plan. [Source: New
Policy]
LU-13.2 Updating Overlay Zones
Overlay zones shall be considered for update over time if the update would better reflect and
serve the changing needs of the community. [Source: New Policy]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-27
LU-13.3 Planned Development Overlays
Development proposals on parcels greater than 40,000 square feet may be processed as a
planned development. [Source: Existing Policy CD-17.4]
LU-13.4 Public School Overlay
Use the Public School Overlay Zone to keep closed school sites in public ownership and to
preserve the playing fields as developed recreation spaces. [Source: Existing Policy OSP-5.7]
LU-13.5 School Site Reuse
Allow redevelopment of unused school sites commensurate with the surrounding residential
neighborhood and availability of services. [Source: Existing Policy LU-7.1]
LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN
Adopted by Town Council in 1997, the Los Gatos Boulevard Specific Plan is a policy framework for meeting a
series of short, medium, and long-range goals related to the commercial revitalization of Los Gatos Boulevard.
Under the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan, the community expressed interest in creati ng a shopping experience and
destination that complements but does not compete with the Downtown. This Specific Plan is based on a land
use concept for which higher density, mixed-use commercial development in the north of the Specific Plan area
transitions into residential and community clusters, and then into existing residential neighborhoods just south of
the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan area. The Los Gatos Boulevard Plan contains policies and design standards
targeting safe, attractive public improvements; pedestrian-oriented activity nodes; vital, commercial land use;
distinct gateways; and site-appropriate private improvements. [Source: Background Report]
Promote appropriate and compatible development along Los Gatos Boulevard
that complements the whole Town and serves residents and families. [Source:
Existing General Plan, Goal: LU-13]
LU-14.1 Los Gatos Boulevard Uses
Encourage a mix of uses along Los Gatos Boulevard, including, where appropriate, mixed -use
parcels that are compatible with surrounding uses. [Source: Existing Policy LU-12.2]
LU-14.2 Los Gatos Boulevard Intensity
Development shall transition from higher intensity uses at the north end of Los Gatos Boulevard
to existing residential uses at the south end of Los Gatos Boulevard. [Source: Existing Policy
LU-13.1]
LU-14.3 Commercial Uses along Los Gatos Boulevard
Commercial activity along Los Gatos Boulevard shall complement the whole Town and shall
provide a dependable source of income, employment opportunities, goods, and services.
[Source: Existing Policy LU-13.2]
HILLSIDE SPECIFIC PLAN
The Hillside Specific Plan establishes land use policy for the Hillside Study Area, an area of mountainous terrain
in the southeastern portion of the Town designated for Hillside Residential development. Adopted by Town
Council in 1978, the Specific Plan establishes a series of policies and standards related to land use, facilities,
services, circulation, fire protection, safety, and open space. These policies and standards are intended to
prevent deficiencies in access to water and sewer services, ensure conservation of the sensitive natural
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-28 Public Review Draft December 2020
environment, and address differences in Town and County land use regulations. Development in the Hillside
Specific Plan area is prohibited outside of designated “least restrictive development areas” (LRDAs) unless it is
compliant with conditions established in the Hillside Specific Plan.
Provision of housing for people of various income levels within the hillside area in a
manner that will not adversely affect the mountain environment or endanger
public health and safety. [Source: Hillside Specific Plan Goal 2]
LU-15.1LU-14.1 Maintain and Update Hillside Specific Plan
Maintain and update the Hillside Specific Plan as needed to reflect changes in community and the
need to protect the community from wildfire threats. [Source: New Policy]
LU-15.2LU-14.2 Preservation of Open Space
Open space easements shall be required by the deciding body for hillside subdivisions in
accordance with the topographical, ecological, aesthetic, and other conditions pertinent to the
making of such easements. [Source: Hillside Specific Plan, Policy 4.3.1]
LU-15.3LU-14.3 Clustering of Dwelling Units
Clustering of dwelling units should be encouraged to preserve the scenic nature of the hillsides
and to allow for economies in the construction of required public and private facilities. [Source:
Hillside Specific Plan, Policy 1.3.3]
3.5 3.7 Community Place Dist rict s
Within the Planning Area, eight Community Place Districts (individually referred to as “Districts”) were identified as
having the capacity to accommodate additional mixed-use development that would combine residential
development with new and existing commercial services and offices (Figure 3-94). Each of the eight Community
Place Districts are centered on a major intersection or corridor and extend generally a quarter-mile in all
directions. Although there are development opportunities in locations throughout Town, these eight locations
have been selected because they have the existing infrastructure necessary to support new mixes of land use
and additional housing. Each location has unique opportunities and challenges that are addressed in the General
Plan to create vibrant new community places. [New Text]
The policies in this section are supported by the design vision, policies, and programs provided in
Chapter 4, Community Design Element, Section 4.5, Community Place Districts. This section also
contains more detailed maps of each of the Community Place Districts.
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-29
▪ Downtown District. The Downtown District is defined by the
Downtown CBD land use designation. The core area of the
Downtown District is anchored by the Los Gatos Town Plaza Park,
the main square at the intersection of Santa Cruz Avenue and
Main Street and includes several distinct subareas: the historic
residential neighborhoods on the west; North Santa Cruz Avenue
corridor in the middle; the Towne Terrace subarea on the east; and
the Old Town/Main Street subarea to the south. The Downtown
District is composed of an abundant collection of retail shops,
boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and other hospitality-oriented
uses. Being that the Downtown is the original historic center of the
Town, it is naturally home to some of the iconic architectural styles
that makes Los Gatos unique.
Harwood Road District. The Harwood Road District is
focused on the intersection of Harwood Road and
Blossom Hill Road in Los Gatos. This District includes
the Blossom Hill Square Shopping Center which anchors
the intersection. This area abuts the City of San Jose
and beyond the commercial center it primarily includes
low-density residential, with a few medium-density
residential designated parcels intermixed.
▪ Lark Avenue District. The Lark District extends from
Winchester Boulevard, down a segment of University
Avenue, east to the Los Gatos Creek Trail. The area
includes most of the Town’s industrial uses and office
complexes, a mix of low- and medium-density
residential, as well as primary frontage on Los Gatos
Creek.
Old Town/
Main Street
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-30 Public Review Draft December 2020
Figure 3-5Figure 3-10 Community Place Districts
Chapter 4, Community Design Element, Section 4.5, Community Place Districts, contains more detailed maps of
each of the Community Place Districts.
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-31
▪ Los Gatos Boulevard District. The Los Gatos
Boulevard District extends from Louis Van Meter
Elementary School north to the Town border along Los
Gatos Boulevard. Currently, this area is primarily an
auto-oriented corridor with a mixture of stand-alone retail
and offices as well commercial centers, such as
Blossom Hill Pavilion, King’s Court, Cornerstone, El
Gato Village, and Los Gatos Village Square. Residential
neighborhoods backing the commercial corridor are
primarily low-density residential but include some
medium- density parcels.
▪ North Santa Cruz Avenue District. The North Santa
Cruz Avenue District extends along North Santa Cruz
Avenue between Blossom Hill Road and Los Gatos-
Saratoga Road. This area includes a mix of medium-
and high-density housing, as well as a strip of
commercial uses along North Santa Cruz Avenue. Uses
along North Santa Cruz Avenue vary from office and
professional, retail, light industrial, and hospitality.
Intermingled along North Santa Cruz Avenue are also
national retail chains such as a Safeway grocery store,
as well as infill high-density housing developments.
▪ Pollard Avenue District. The Pollard Road District is
focused around the intersection of Pollard Road and
More Avenue, abutting the City of Campbell. The District
includes the Rinconada Shopping Center which anchors
the intersection of Pollard Road and More Avenue. The
layout of the center, like many commercial centers in Los
Gatos, is auto-oriented with street fronting surface
parking with access points on either side of the
intersection. Surrounding the shopping center are low -
density and medium-density residential uses.
▪ Union Avenue District. The Union Avenue District is
focused on the intersection of Union Avenue and Los
Gatos-Almaden Road southwest of Blossom Hill Road
and Union Avenue in Los Gatos. Similar to the Harwood
District, this area abuts the City of San Jose. This
District includes the Downing Center (commercial
shopping center) which anchors the intersection of Union
Avenue and Los Gatos-Almaden Road. Other than the
shopping center, this area primarily includes low-density
and medium-density residential.
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-32 Public Review Draft December 2020
▪ Winchester Boulevard District. The Winchester
Boulevard District is focused on the intersection of
Winchester Boulevard and Knowles Drive, abutting the
City of Campbell. Unlike other areas in Town, this
District also includes designated office and medical uses
adjacent to Netflix and El Camino Hospital. Mixed in with
these uses are pockets of medium-density and high-
density residential.
Create well-defined nodes of activity containing an integrated mix of commercial,
office, and residential uses that enable Los Gatos residents to live close to
businesses and services, reduce automobile use, and increase bike and pedestrian
activity. [Source: New Goal]
LU-16.1LU-15.1 Integrated Approach
Take an integrated approach to planning Community Place Districts that considers and includes
opportunities to integrate with future uses that could be in each location, such as planning for
shared access, bike and pedestrian facilities, and protection of adjacent uses. [Source: New
Policy]
LU-16.2LU-15.2 Mixed Use Design Requirements
Require new development in designated Community Place Districts to incorporate mixed-use
developments to provide
▪ active uses behind sidewalks,
▪ limit the number of access driveways,
▪ use build-to lines when placing buildings on the site to minimize street -facing building
setbacks, and
▪ provide public ground floor spaces adjacent to sidewalks.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-16.3LU-15.3 Variability within Mixed Use Designations
Require mixed-use developments in designated Community Place Districts along an arterial
street-frontage to include vertical mixed-use unless a project proponent can demonstrate that a
vertical mixed-use frontage is not contextually appropriate given the location, scale, size, shape,
or other characteristic of the site and its surroundings. [Source: New Policy]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-33
3.6 3.8 Preserving Our History
In addition to individually designated sites and structures, Landmark and Historic Preservation (LHP) overlay
zones are designated by the Town Council and applied to small areas deemed to be of architectural and/or
historical significance. The structure(s) in LHP overlays are subject to special standards regarding their
appearance, use, and maintenance. The Town has established five historic districts with LHP overlay zones (see
Figure 3-105). [Source: New Text]
▪ Almond Grove Historic District. The Almond Grove Historic District was the first established district.
The approximately 40-acre area of land was originally an almond orchard. Many important contributors to
the development of the Town lived in the Almond Grove area. Fenilen Massol, Los Gatos mayor from
1894-97; George McMurty, the first treasurer of incorporated Los Gatos; and W.H.B. Trantham, who in
1885 became the first owner of the Los Gatos News are a few of the district’s notable historic figures. The
district was established by ordinance in 1980.
▪ Broadway Historic District. The Broadway Historic District is the site of the first residential subdivision
and first residential street in Los Gatos. The District is approximately 100 acres and was established by
ordinance in 1985.
▪ Los Gatos Historic Commercial District. The Los Gatos Historic Commercial District, listed on the
National Register of Historic Places and established by ordinance in 1991, is the home of the Town’s
earliest commercial intersection and surviving intact historic commercial buildings. The District is bounded
by Elm Street to the north, Main Street to the south, Los Gatos Creek to the east, and North Santa Cruz
Avenue to the west.
▪ Fairview Plaza Historic District. The Fairview Plaza Historic District, established by ordinance in 1992,
retains some of the same configurations mapped in 1885, as part of the “Fairview Addition.” It is also
home to a rare collection of Victorian and Craftsman homes, unique in their compact scale and proximity to
one another.
▪ University/Edelen Historic District. The University/Edelen Historic District, established by ordinance in
1991, is composed of five subdivisions that predate 1900, and contain a number of residential and
commercial structures of mixed architectural styles. The District is bounded by Los Gatos-Saratoga Road
to the north, the Historic Commercial District boundary near Main Street to the south, Los Gatos Creek to
the east, and the former Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way to the west. [Source: Background Report]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-34 Public Review Draft December 2020
Figure 3-6Figure 3-11 Historic Districts
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-35
All of Los Gatos’s historic districts are defined by structures that contribute to the district. In every district, the
transformation of these structures is tightly regulated, and the demolition of contributing structures is strictly
restricted. In addition, all restoration, rehabilitation, and new construction of principal units must adhere to a
series of guidelines for preserving architectural heritage and conforming to existing style within the district. Any
modifications to the original design are either restricted or prohibited. [Source: Background Report, modified]
Provide for the protection of Los Gatos’ cultural heritage through the protection
and maintenance of historic resources. [Source: New Goal]
LU-17.1LU-16.1 Historic Districts and Landmarks
Maintain maps on the Town’s website of Landmark and Historic Preservation (LHP) overlay
zones (districts are shown on Figure 3-105) and landmarks. These are districts and individual
sites deemed to be of architectural and/or historical significance. The properties or buildings may
be those that provide significant examples of architectural styles of the past, are landmarks in the
history of architecture in the Town, are unique and irreplaceable assets to the Town, or provide
for future generations examples of the physical surroundings in which past generations lived.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-17.2LU-16.2 Preserve Public Landmarks
Actively work to preserve public Landmarks. [Source: New Policy]
LU-17.3LU-16.3 Support the Preservation and Rehabilitation of Historical Resources
Support public and private efforts to preserve, rehabilitate, and continue the use of historic sites
and structures. [Source: New Policy]
For specifics on design requirements within a historic district, please refer to the Community Design
Element, Section 4.3, Historic Preservation.
3.7 3.9 General Plan Use and Maintenance
The Los Gatos General Plan is designed to be a living document that reflects the Town’s needs and desires,
which will evolve over time. The effectiveness of the General Plan ultimately depends on how the Town
implements and maintains the General Plan over its lifetime. This section is designed to ensure that the Town
provides for regular review and updating of this General Plan to ensure that it reflects the community’s needs and
aspirations, as well as consistency with changes in State law. [Source: New Text]
Ensure that land uses are appropriate and compatible with each other and guide
development in a pattern that will minimize land use conflicts between adjacent
land uses and promote the high quality of life enjoyed in Los Gatos. [Source: New
Goal]
LU-18.1LU-17.1 General Plan Land Use Diagram
Maintain and implement a Land Use Diagram for purposes of describing the types of allowed land
uses by geographic location and the density and/or intensity of allowed uses within each
designation. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-36 Public Review Draft December 2020
LU-18.2LU-17.2 General Plan Consistency
The goals and locational descriptions set forth in this Element are general guidelines for
determining whether land should be within a particular land use designation depicted on the
General Plan Land Use Diagram (Figure 3-41). The land use designation applied to a specific
parcel of land shall be as designated on the General Land Use Diagram, whether or not such
parcel meets all of the applicable criteria. [Source: New Policy]
LU-18.3LU-17.3 Zoning Consistency
Ensure that zoning designations are consistent with the General Land Use Diagram (Figure 3-41)
and the districts shown in the Compatibile Zoning column on Table 3-2. [Source: New Policy]
Promote the effective implementation and use of the General Plan Land Use
Diagram. [Source: New Goal]
LU-19.1LU-18.1 General Plan Land Use Amendments
When reviewing proposed General Plan amendments to modify or change land use designations
or the General Plan Land Use Diagram, the Town shall consider if the proposal:
▪ Maintains consistency with the General Plan Vision, Guiding Principles, and relevant goals
and policies;
▪ Minimizes the creation of a land use that is inconsistent with the policies, land uses, or
development standards of surrounding parcels;
▪ Enhances compatibility with existing or planned uses in the area;
▪ Addresses new physical, social, or economic factors that are relevant and were not present
at the time of General Plan adoption;
▪ Reduces the potential for undesired, growth-inducing precedent; and
▪ Demonstrates appropriate infrastructure and services are available, or amendment is
conditioned on requirements to provide or appropriately fund needed infrastructure and
services. [Source: New Policy]
LU-19.2LU-18.2 Land Use Boundary Interpretation
The Community Development Director shall determine, subject to appeal to the Planning
Commission and Town Council, the alignment of all land use boundaries depicted on the General
Plan Land Use Diagram, consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan. To the extent
feasible, the boundaries on the Land Use Diagram should follow natural or human-made
boundaries, such as:
▪ Parcel lines,
▪ Roads,
▪ Water courses,
▪ Utility corridors.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-19.3LU-18.3 Concurrent Zoning Change Processing
Zone changes, if necessary to implement a General Plan amendment, will be done concurrently
with the General Plan amendment, if needed to assure zoning consistency. [Source: New Policy]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-37
Maintain and implement the 2040 General Plan to reflect the changing needs of the
community and to remain consistent with State law. [Source: New Goal]
LU-20.1LU-19.1 Maintain Currency of the 2040 General Plan
Conduct a thorough review and update of the 2040 General Plan as needed to reflect changing
community needs and changes in State law. [Source: New Policy]
LU-20.2LU-19.2 Update Zoning and Other Plans and Programs for General Plan Consistency
Prepare and adopt timely updates to the Town’s Zoning Code and other applicable plan s and
programs to implement the 2040 General Plan. [Source: New Policy]
LU-20.3LU-19.3 Housing Element Updates
As directed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the
Town will update and implement a Housing Element that provides polic ies and programs to
encourage the provision of safe, well-designed, accessible, sanitary, and affordable residential
areas where people of all ages, races, and social backgrounds can live, work, and play.
[Source: New Policy]
3.8 3.10 Civic Engagement
While technical analysis can provide insight into the needs of an area, these practices fall short without full
participation by the individuals and groups that will be most affected by a decision. These individuals and groups
must have a seat at the table to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration, not only at the adoption phase,
but during the evaluation and development processes. [Source: New Text]
A key component of environmental justice pursuant to SB 1000 is identifying objectives and policies to
promote increased access to the public decision-making processes. In addition to the policies below,
policies specific to meeting the needs of traditionally underrepresented populations are included in
Chapter 2, Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element.
Promote meaningful dialogue and collaboration between members of
disadvantaged communities and decision-makers to advance social and
economic equity. [Source: Existing General Plan Goal: LU-5, modified]
LU-21.1LU-20.1 Community Input
The Town shall continue to facilitate opportunities for all residents and stakeholders to provide
meaningful and effective input on proposed planning activities early on and continuously
throughout plan development and the public review process. [Source: New Policy]
LU-21.2LU-20.2 Communication Channels
The Town shall continue to improve communication channels and methods for meaningful
dialogue between community members and decision-makers. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-38 Public Review Draft December 2020
LU-21.3LU-20.3 Times and Locations of Public Engagement Opportunities
The Town shall aim to hold meetings, workshops, and other public engagement opportunities at
times and locations that make it convenient for community members to attend, particularly
stakeholders who are the most likely to be directly affected by the outcome. [Source: New Policy]
LU-21.4LU-20.4 Variety of Public Communication Methods
The Town shall continue to share public information across a variety of media, technological, and
traditional platforms, and in languages based upon the demographics of the community. [Source:
Existing Action Item LU-5.1]
LU-21.5LU-20.5 Language Services
The Town will continue to evaluate the need for the provision of translation services, to the extent
feasible, in conveying important information to the community. [Source: New Policy]
LU-21.6LU-20.6 Leadership Development
Support existing leadership development programs for youth and adults to enhance the
understanding of the government’s role in the development of their community and to empower
residents to engage and influence planning and policy decisions. [Source: New Policy]
LU-21.7LU-20.7 Early Developer Contact
Encourage developers to engage as early as possible in discussions regarding the nature and
scope of the project and possible impacts and mitigation requirements. [Source: Existing Policy
LU-1.1, CD-17.6, modified]
LU-21.8LU-20.8 Involvement with the Town
Use task forces, ad hoc committees, and other means as appropriate to involve residential and
commercial interests in Town matters. [Source: Existing Policy LU-1.7and LU-5.1]
LU-21.9LU-20.9 Commercial Development Review
Require full public review for new commercial development to ensure compatibility with adjacent
neighborhoods and the Town. [Source: Existing Policy CD-17.7]
LU-21.10LU-20.10 Story Pole Requirement
Require the erection of story poles prior to the approval of new development. [Source: Existing
Policy CD-17.8]
LU-21.11LU-20.11 Assumptions
When the deciding body’s decision on a zoning approval is based on assumptions derived from
the applicant’s proposal, those assumptions shall become conditions of the approval. [Source:
Existing Policy CD-17.9]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-39
3.9 3.11 Lifelong Learni ng
Childcare and Early Childhood Development
Childcare and early childhood development are vital to the success of Los Gatos’ families and youth. These
services provide two key benefits. First, childcare makes it possible for parents, especially single -parents and
families with multiple jobs and job shifts, to work and financially support their families. Second, quality childcare
and childhood development programs play a crucial role in the future success of children.
Public School Facilities
Eight different school districts serve the residents of the Town of Los Gatos. These are the Los Gatos Union
School District, the Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District, the Campbell Union School District, the
Campbell Union High School District, the Cambrian Union Elementary District, Loma Prieta Joint Union
Elementary School District, Union Elementary School District, and Lakeside Joint School District.
This section discusses the general topic of education in terms of the concept of lifelong learning.
Information and policies concerning public school facilities are contained in Chapter 5, Public
Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Element in Section 5.10, Schools.
Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning is an ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge, primarily for personal
enjoyment and satisfaction. The term recognizes that learning is not confined to formal education and job training
but takes place throughout life and in a range of situations. [Source: New Text]
Enhance the educational support system serving the Town to the benefit of all
residents, regardless of age and location within the community. [Source: New Goal]
LU-22.1LU-21.1 Enhancing Availability
Coordinate with local school districts, park districts, childcare providers, and pre-schools to
identify opportunities to implement additional childcare and childhood development programs
throughout the Town. [Source: New Policy]
LU-22.2LU-21.2 Employer Sponsored Childcare
Work with commercial development applicants for single users employing more than 100 persons
to provide on-site childcare or offset the costs of off-site childcare for employees. [Source: New
Policy]
LU-22.3LU-21.3 Grant Funding
Coordinate with the school district and community organizations to pursue grant funding for
programs designed to improve schools and State standardized test scores. [Source: New Policy]
LU-22.4LU-21.4 Continuing Education
Encourage local colleges, vocational schools, and technical training institutes to maintain and
improve continuing education courses and certificate programs, including opportunities for on -line
learning. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-40 Public Review Draft December 2020
3.10 3.12 Healthy Community
A healthy community promotes a positive physical, social, and economic environmen t that supports the overall
well-being of its residents. While other parts of the General Plan also touch on aspects of health and quality of
life, the purpose of section is to promote a healthy lifestyle and improve residents’ quality of life.
Outdoor activity is also part of a healthier community. Bicycle and pedestrian options are covered in
Chapter 4, Mobility Element in Section 4.1, Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities, and Chapter 6, Open
Space, Parks, and Recreation Element in Section 6.2, Parks and Recreation, covers indoor and
outdoor recreation.
Ensure all residents have access to healthy foods. [Source: New Goal]
LU-23.1LU-22.1 Healthy Food Options
Encourage farmer’s markets and healthier food options within neighborhoods or near child-
oriented uses (e.g., schools, day care, parks). [Source: New Policy]
LU-23.2LU-22.2 Limit Concentrations of Alcohol and Tobacco
Establish zoning code requirements to guide locations and restrict concentrations of businesses
selling alcohol and tobacco near sensitive land uses. [Source: New Policy]
LU-23.3LU-22.3 Healthier Diet Options
Support programs that guide healthier diet options within the community. [Source: New Policy]
LU-23.4LU-22.4 Support Santa Clara County Efforts
Support Santa Clara County efforts and public health programs that improve access to healthy
foods, address food inequities, and provide food education to help residents make healthier food
choices. [Source: New Policy]
LU-23.5LU-22.5 Support Acceptance of
Government-Issued Vouchers
Support the acceptance of Government-issued
food vouchers (such as WIC and CalFRESH)
via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card at
food retailers and farmers markets.
[Source: New Policy]
LU-23.6LU-22.6 Healthy Food at Government-
sponsored Events
The Town shall provide healthy foods at Town-
sponsored meetings and events when food is
provided. [Source: New Policy]
LU-23.7LU-22.7 Nutritional Vending Machine Options
The Town shall encourage nutritional options for vending machines in Town-owned and leased
locations. [Source: New Policy]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-41
3.11 3.13 Interagency Coordination
There are many local, regional, state, and federal agencies that have land use planning, permitting, or
development review authority in the Los Gatos Planning Area and surrounding region. It is critical that there is
coordination among agencies to ensure regulatory compliance, increase efficiency for development projects, and
eliminate redundancies among agencies.
Enhance interagency coordination to achieve mutually beneficial land use
development and conservation. [Source: Existing General Plan Goal: LU-3, modified]
LU-24.1LU-23.1 Regional Planning
Continue and expand Town participation in planning processes in neighboring jurisdictions, Santa
Clara County, and regional agencies and organizations in order to develop innovative, effective,
and coordinated land use, transportation, and hillside development plans and standards that will
help preserve the Town’s small-town character. [Source: Existing Policy LU-1.6, modified]
LU-24.2LU-23.2 Unincorporated Islands
Cooperate with the County of Santa Clara to encourage the annexation of unincorporated islands
within the Town’s Planning Area into the incorporated Town limits. The Town will not require the
installation of curbs, gutters, sidewalks, or street lights as a condition of annexation nor will these
improvements be imposed on annexed areas unless the residents of the area request such
improvements and are willing to establish an assessment district or other mechanism to fund
such improvements. This does not prevent the Town from requiring such improvements as a
condition of approval of any zoning or subdivision approval if such conditions are normally made
on those items and the improvements would be in keeping with the neighborhood.
[Source: Existing Policy LU-3.1, modified]
LU-24.3LU-23.3 Consultation with State and Federal Agencies
Continue to consult with applicable State and Federal regulatory agencies during project review
and permitting in order to understand and mitigate potential impacts. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-42 Public Review Draft December 2020
3.12 3.14 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing A Zoning Update for Missing Middle
The Town shall update the Zoning Code to
allow for all housing types considered for
the provision of Middle housing types as
part of Low Density Residential and Medium
Density Residential designations.
LU-1.1
LU-1.2
LU-1.3
Community
Development
◼
B Expansion of Allowed Housing Types
The Town shall research existing regulatory
impediments to the creation of new housing
types that have the potential to fulfill unmet
housing needs (e.g., tiny homes, co-
housing developments) and if necessary,
shall amend applicable ordinances to allow
for their development. [Source: New
Program]
LU-1.13.2
LU-1.23.2
LU-1.3
LU-1.4
Community
Development
◼
C Code Enforcement
The Town shall actively enforce the State
Housing Code to ensure that unsafe,
dilapidated residential structures are
rehabilitated or demolished. [Source: New
Program]
LU-3.13
LU-5.117
Code
Compliance
◼
D Identify Needed Businesses
The Town will work to retain current
businesses and providing business liaison
services to assist prospective businesses
[Source: Existing Action LU-9.1, modified]
LU-7.1
LU-57.2
LU-7.3
LU-5.5
Town Manager
Community
Development
◼
E Inspect Commercial Landscaping
Periodically inspect all commercial
landscaping to ensure that approved
landscaping is maintained. [Source: Existing
Action CD-8.1]
LU-6.2
LU-7.6LU-5.7
Parks and
Public Works
◼
F Study Historic Review Expansion
Conduct a study and amend the Town Code
to require proposed developments that are
otherwise exempt from historic review, but
that might have an impact on sites of
designated or suspected historic
significance to be referred to the Historic
Preservation Committee for review and
recommendation. [Source: Existing Action
CD-12.3]
LU-1614.1
LU-1614.3
Community
Development
◼
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-43
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing G Study Hillside Density
Conduct a study to determine whether
hillside properties should be downzoned to
lower densities. [Source: Existing Action
CD-14.2]
LU-1413.1
LU-14.3
LU-15.1
LU-16.1
Community
Development
◼
H Ten-year General Plan Review
The Town shall conduct a thorough review
of the General Plan every ten years from
the date of final approval, and revise and
update as necessary. This review can
include the following:
▪ Modify, add, or delete goals, policies,
or programs to reflect notable
changes in the Town over the
previous period;
▪ Remove or modify programs that
have been completed or require
additional time;
▪ Modify or add new goals, policies, or
programs to reflect changing needs
within the Town; and
▪ Modify to reflect applicable changes
in state law.
[Source: New Program]
LU-1715.1
LU-1916.1
LU-19.3
LU-17.1
Community
Development
◼
I Zoning Code Update
The Town shall update the Town Zoning
Code to:
▪ Implement the 2040 General Plan;
▪ Be consistent with the direction in
the 2040 General Plan;
▪ Provide for objective design
standards; and
▪ Remove Conditional Use Permits for
residential uses, to the extent
feasible.
[Source: New Program]
LU-1715.3
LU-1816.3
LU-1917.2
Community
Development
◼
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-44 Public Review Draft December 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing J Develop Informative Outreach Program
Develop an education and outreach
program to inform neighborhoods, realtors,
developers, architects, and designers about
the Town’s design guidelines and
standards. Project application packages
should include the relevant guidelines and
standards. [Source: Existing Action
CD-17.3]
LU-2018.1
LU-2018.7
LU-2018.8
Community
Development
Town Manager
◼
K Distribute Neighborhood Meeting
Guidelines
Prepare and distribute information
describing guidelines for conducting
neighborhood meetings and criteria for
reporting the results of neighborhood
meetings with project applications. [Source:
Existing Action CD-17.4]
LU-2018.1
LU-2018.7
LU-2018.8
CDD
Town Manager
◼
L Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Outlets
Explore establishing zoning code limitations
on the density of alcohol and tobacco
outlets near sensitive receptors such as
schools, childcare facilities, senior housing,
parks, etc., consistent with State law.
[Source: New Program]
LU-2220.2
Town Manager
Community
Development
◼
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-45
Status of Goals, Policies, and Actions from Existing General Plan
For reference during first GPAC review of element. Will be removed in subsequent versions.
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
LU G LU-1 To preserve, promote, and protect the existing small-town
character and quality of life within Los Gatos.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-1.1 Encourage developers to engage in discussions as early as
possible regarding the nature and scope of the project and
possible impacts and mitigation requirements.
LU-19.7
CD-18.6
LU P LU-1.2 Ensure that new development preserves and promotes
existing commercial centers consistent with the
maintenance of a small-scale, small-town atmosphere and
image.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-1.3 To preserve existing trees, natural vegetation, natural
topography, riparian corridors, and wildlife habitats, and
promote high quality, well-designed, environmentally
sensitive, and diverse landscaping in new and existing
developments.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-1.4 Infill projects shall be designed in context with the
neighborhood and surrounding zoning with respect to the
existing scale and character of surrounding structures, and
should blend rather than compete with the established
character of the area.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-1.5 Encourage private/public funding, development, and
operation of cultural amenities, activities, and centers
consistent with the small-town character of Los Gatos.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-1.6 Recognizing that our ability to preserve small-town
character is somewhat dependent on decisions in
surrounding communities, continue and expand Town
participation in planning processes in neighboring
jurisdictions and regional bodies in order to develop
innovative, effective, and coordinated land use,
transportation, and hillside development plans and
standards that will help preserve our small-town character.
LU-22.1
LU P LU-1.7 Use task forces, ad hoc committees and other means as
appropriate to involve residential and commercial interests
in Town matters.
LU-19.8
Combined
LU P LU-1.8 Commercial development of any type (office, retail,
research and development, etc.) shall be designed in
keeping with the small-town character of Los Gatos.
See policies in
CD Element
LU G LU-2 To maintain a balanced, economically stable community
within environmental goals.
LU-1 covers
LU P LU-2.1 Minimize vehicle miles traveled for goods and services by
allowing and encouraging stores that provide these goods
within walking distance of neighborhoods in Los Gatos.
LU-3.5
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-46 Public Review Draft December 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
LU P LU-2.2 Promote telecommuting and home-based businesses by
allowing live-work and work-live uses in existing and future
residential development.
LU-3.7
LU G LU-3 To coordinate with surrounding jurisdictions andother local
and regional agencies that may affect LosGatos’s future
development patterns and character.
LU-22
LU P LU-3.1 Cooperate with the County of Santa Clara to encourage the
annexation of unincorporated islands into the Town. The
Town will not require the installation of curbs, gutters,
sidewalks, or street lights as a condition of annexation nor
will these improvements be imposed on annexed areas
unless the residents of the area request such improvements
and are willing to participate in the cost of such
improvements. This does not prevent the Town from
requiring such improvements as a condition of approval of
any zoning or subdivision approval if such conditions are
normally made on those items and the improvements
would be in keeping with the neighborhood.
LU-22.2
LU P LU-3.2 Work with Santa Clara County to ensure that projects
developed in the County meet Town policies and standards,
do not induce further development, and do not unduly
burden the Town.
Deleted
Addressed by LU-3.1
LU G LU-4 To provide for well-planned, careful growth that reflects
the Town’s existing character and infrastructure.
LU-1
LU P LU-4.1 Integrate planning for the North Forty area, Los Gatos
Boulevard, Vasona Light Rail area, and Downtown so that
development in each area takes into consideration the
Town as a whole.
Deleted
No longer needed
LU P LU-4.2 Allow development only with adequate physical
infrastructure (e.g. transportation, sewers, utilities, etc.)
and social services (e.g. education, public safety, etc.).
LU-1.2
LU P LU-4.3 Only approve projects for which public costs can be
justified
by the overall benefit to the community.
LU-1.3
LU P LU-4.4 Project applicants shall evaluate and provide appropriate
mitigation measures to reduce impacts on urban services
including schools, utilities, police, and fire.
LU-1.4
LU P LU-4.5 Discourage corridor lots. Corridor lots shall only be allowed
if the use of a corridor lot decreases the amount of public
street required for the subdivision, contributes to the
surrounding neighborhood, and is in context with the
existing scale and established character of the
neighborhood. The subdivider shall also demonstrate that
the use of a corridor lot benefits surrounding properties.
LU-3.14
LU-3.15
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-47
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
LU G LU-5 To encourage public involvement in Town planning
processes.
LU-18
LU P LU-5.1 Use task forces, ad hoc committees, and other means
asappropriate to involve residential and commercial
interestsin Town matters.
LU-19.8
Combined
LU A LU-5.1 Utilize traditional communication tools and new media and
technology to provide clear and current information on
Town processes and decisions and to encourage public
participation in Town government.
LU-19.4
LU G LU-6 To preserve and enhance the existing character and sense
of place in residential neighborhoods.
LU-3
LU P LU-6.1 Protect existing residential areas from the impacts of
nonresidential development.
LU-3.6
Combined
LU P LU-6.2 Allow non-residential activity in residential areas only when
the character and quality of the neighborhood can be
maintained.
LU-3.7
LU P LU-6.3 Protect existing residential areas from adjacent
nonresidential uses by assuring that buffers are developed
and maintained.
LU-3.6
Combined
LU P LU-6.4 Prohibit uses that may lead to the deterioration of
residential neighborhoods, or adversely impact the public
safety or the residential character of a residential
neighborhood.
LU-3.9
LU P LU-6.5 The type, density, and intensity of new land use shall be
consistent with that of the immediate neighborhood.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-6.6 In order to reduce landfill, conserve resources, and
preserve neighborhood character, demolitions shall be
discouraged in established residential neighborhoods and
applicants shall submit structural reports to determine
whether the demolition of any principal structure is
justified. If allowed, the replacement house should be
similar in size and scale to other homes in the
neighborhood and maintain the neighborhood character.
Deleted
LU P LU-6.7 Continue to encourage a variety of housing types and sizes
that is balanced throughout the Town and within
neighborhoods, and that is also compatible with the
character of the surrounding neighborhood.
LU-3.2
Addresses
LU P LU-6.8 New construction, remodels, and additions shall be
compatible and blend with the existing neighborhood.
LU-3.12
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-48 Public Review Draft December 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
LU P LU-6.9 The Housing Element assumes that sites designated
mediumand high density residential will be developed at
theupper end of the density range. If the Town approves
adevelopment at a lower density on one of these sites,
staffshall identify one or more other sites to maintain
theTown’s capacity to meet its housing needs as identified
inthe Housing Element, subject to neighborhood
compatibilityand mitigation of traffic impacts.
LU-3.3
LU P LU-6.10 Require applicants to submit letters of justification to show
how new residential development contributes to the
balance of types and sizes of housing available in Los Gatos.
Deleted
LU A LU-6.1 Develop standards for traffic, noise, intensity, and overall
size for non-residential uses in residential zones.
See policies in MOB
and SUS Elements
LU A LU-6.2 The conditional use permit approvals for non-residential
uses in residential zones shall be reviewed by the Planning
Commission on an as-needed basis for any adverse impacts,
nuisances, or any required modifications.
Deleted
Zoning issue
LU G LU-7 To use available land efficiently by encouraging appropriate
infill development.
LU-2
LU P LU-7.1 Allow redevelopment of unused school sites commensurate
with the surrounding residential neighborhood and
availability of services.
LU-11.5
LU P LU-7.2 To ensure compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods,
infill projects shall demonstrate that the development
meets the criteria contained in the Development Policy for
In-Fill Projects and the deciding body shall make findings
consistent with this policy.
LU-2.1
Combined
LU P LU-7.3 Infill projects shall contribute to the further development of
the surrounding neighborhood (e.g. improve circulation,
contribute to or provide neighborhood unity, eliminate a
blighted area) and shall not detract from the existing
quality of life.
LU-2.1
Combined
LU P LU-7.4 Infill projects shall be designed in context with the
neighborhood and surrounding zoning with respect to the
existing scale and character of surrounding structures, and
should blend rather than compete with the established
character of the area.
LU-2.2
LU G LU-8 To uphold and enforce adopted land use regulations. Deleted
LU P LU-8.1 Maintain a Code Compliance function to effectively enforce
the land use regulations in the Town Code.
LU-3.13
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LU P LU-8.2 Town staff shall identify major violations (illegal units, sign
violations, illegal uses, tree removals, grading violations,
etc.) without waiting for public complaint. Town staff shall
act on minor violations (illegally parked cars, boats, trailers
and campers, etc.) based on public complaints. Additional
violations that may be observed during investigation of a
complaint shall also be acted on.
Deleted
LU G LU-9 To provide residents with adequate commercial and
industrial services.
LU-5
LU P LU-9.1 Ensure that new development preserves and promotes
existing commercial centers consistent with the
maintenance of a small-scale, small-town atmosphere and
image.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-9.2 Maintain a variety of commercial uses, including a strong
Downtown commercial area combined with Los Gatos
Boulevard and strong neighborhood commercial centers to
meet the shopping needs of residents and to preserve the
small-town atmosphere.
LU-5.1
LU P LU-9.3 Encourage a mix of retail and office uses in commercial
areas, except in the Central Business District designation,
where retail should be emphasized and office should be
limited to upper floors and other areas as defined by the
Town Code.
LU-5.2
LU P LU-9.4 Encourage existing light industry and service commercial
uses to remain or be replaced with similar uses.
LU-8.2
LU P LU-9.5 Encourage the development and retention of locally owned
stores and shops.
LU-5.3
Combined
LU P LU-9.6 Encourage development that maintains and expands
resident-oriented services and/or creates employment
opportunities for local residents consistent with overall
land use policies of the Town.
LU-5.4
LU P LU-9.7 “Broadening the tax base” shall never be the sole reason
for allowing new commercial development or approving a
change in a commercial land use.
Deleted
LU P LU-9.8 Retail sales tax “leakage” should be kept to a minimum by
providing in-town convenience and comparative shopping
opportunities.
LU-5.5
LU P LU-9.9 Buffers shall be required as conditions of approval for
nonresidential projects that are adjacent to residential
areas and may consist of landscaping, sound barriers,
building setbacks, or open space.
LU-5.6
LU P LU-9.10 Prohibit new commercial or industrial zoning adjacent to
school sites and carefully consider the impacts of new
school sites in industrial and commercial land use
designations.
Deleted
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LU A LU-9.1 The Town should identify those businesses that are needed
in the Town and actively recruit those businesses.
LU-C
LU G LU-10 To preserve Downtown Los Gatos as the historic center of
the Town, with goods and services for local residents, while
maintaining the existing Town identity, environment, and
commercial viability.
LU-6
LU P LU-10.1 Encourage the development and retention of small
businesses and independent stores and shops Downtown
that are consistent with small-town character and scale.
LU-5.3
Combined
LU P LU-10.2 Recognize and encourage the different functions, land use
patterns, and use mixes of the various commercial areas
within the Downtown. These include:
▪ The pedestrian scale and orientation of the Central
Business District.
▪ The neighborhood-serving commercial land use
pattern of areas north of Saratoga Avenue to
Blossom Hill Road.
▪ The mixed-use commercial activities along Santa
Cruz Avenue and the service commercial activities
along University Avenue between Andrews Street
and Blossom Hill Road.
LU-6.1
LU P LU-10.3 Establish and maintain strong boundaries between the
Central Business District designation and adjacent
residential neighborhoods.
LU-6.2
LU P LU-10.4 Encourage mixed uses to increase residential opportunities
in commercial zones Downtown, taking into consideration
potential impacts to loss of commercial opportunities.
LU-6.3
LU G LU-11 To plan for development of a variety of uses in the North
Forty area in a coordinated and comprehensive way.
Deleted, complete
LU P LU-11.1 Zoning shall be changed as part of development
applications to provide consistency with the Vasona Light
Rail Element and other elements of this General Plan and
with any future specific plan prepared for this area.
Deleted, complete
LU P LU-11.2 The Town shall encourage uses that serve Town residents.
These include, but are not limited to, open space,
playfields, office, retail, and other commercial uses.
Residential uses may be permitted as part of mixed-use
development and only with acceptable mitigation of
adverse noise, air quality, and other environmental
hazards.
Deleted, complete
LU P LU-11.3 Provide coordinated infrastructure in the North Forty area. Deleted, complete
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LU P LU-11.4 Include a variety of regional destination and local-serving
commercial uses in the North Forty area, following a logical
land use pattern that takes advantage of the site
opportunities while protecting adjacent uses.
Deleted, complete
LU P LU-11.5 Avoid negative effects on the long-term development
potentialof the area surrounding the North Forty area.
Deleted, complete
LU P LU-11.6 Incorporate multi-modal links from the North Forty area to
the Vasona Light Rail station into the North Forty Specific
Plan.
Deleted, complete
LU A LU-11.1 Prepare and adopt a specific plan for the North Forty area
prior to development of the site.
Deleted, complete
LU G LU-12 To ensure an appropriate mix of land use types along Los
Gatos Boulevard in order to maintain the economic vitality
of the corridor and continue to serve the needs of Town
residents.
LU-12
LU P LU-12-1 Encourage redevelopment and assemblage of parcels that
have experienced a high vacancy rate over a prolonged
period of time, possibly including appropriate and
compatible re-zoning.
Deleted
LU P LU-12-2 Encourage a mix of uses along Los Gatos Boulevard,
including, where appropriate, mixed-use parcels that are
compatible with surrounding uses.
LU-12.1
LU P LU-12-3 New landscaping, streetscape improvements and new
development along Los Gatos Boulevard shall incorporate
pedestrian amenities, scale, and design.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-12-4 Encourage mixed uses to increase residential opportunities
in commercial zones.
LU-7.2
LU P LU-12-5 Retain and enhance auto dealerships. Deleted
LU P LU-12-6 Neighborhood commercial, multi-family residential, and
office uses shall be concentrated south of Los Gatos–
Almaden Road.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-12-7 New and relocating auto-related businesses shall be located
north of Los Gatos–Almaden Road, adjacent to existing
auto dealerships, or on a vacant site previously used for
permitted auto sales.
Deleted
LU P LU-12-8 Uses on Los Gatos Boulevard south of Roberts Road shall be
residential or office; existing non-residential uses shall not
be intensified; and existing vacant property and residential
uses shall be developed as Single Family Residential.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-12-9 Encourage replacement of vacated business south of Los
Gatos–Almaden Road and north of Roberts Road/Shannon
Road with neighborhood commercial, multi-family, or office
uses.
LU-7.1
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LU G LU-13 To promote appropriate and compatible developmentalong
Los Gatos Boulevard that complementsthe whole Town and
serves residents and families.
LU-12
LU P LU-13.1 Development shall transition from higher intensity uses at
the north end of Los Gatos Boulevard to existing residential
uses at the south end of Los Gatos Boulevard.
LU-12.2
LU P LU-13.2 Commercial activity along Los Gatos Boulevard shall
complement the whole Town and shall provide a
dependable source of income, employment opportunities,
goods, and services.
LU-12.3
LU P LU-13.3 New projects along Los Gatos Boulevard shall incorporate a
family and resident orientation.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-13.4 New development along Los Gatos Boulevard shall be
designed to minimize adverse impacts on adjacent
residential areas.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-13.5 Establish and maintain appropriate boundaries between
the commercial uses along Los Gatos Boulevard and
adjacent residential neighborhoods.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-13.6 Provide more pedestrian/bike areas and links to adjacent
residential areas to foster neighborhood use of commercial
centers.
See policies in
CD Element
LU P LU-13.7 Allow auto dealers and other commercial property owners
and merchants to conduct occasional promotional sales
activities with a “festival” atmosphere with appropriate
restrictions to reduce traffic congestion and impacts on
neighboring commercial and residential uses.
Deleted. Controlled
by zoning.
LU A LU-13.1 Work with existing auto dealers and other commercial
property owners and merchants to develop an appropriate
commercial image specifically for Los Gatos Boulevard.
Deleted
LU A LU-13.2 Use the adopted Los Gatos Boulevard Plan and Commercial
Design Guidelines to review development proposals and
exterior improvements to existing buildings.
See policies in
CD Element