Item 4 - Staff Report with Attachments
PREPARED BY: JENNIFER ARMER, AICP
Senior Planner
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6832
www.losgatosca.gov
MEETING DATE: 1/7/2021
ITEM: 4
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
REPORT
REPORT
DATE: December 22, 2020
TO: General Plan Update Advisory Committee
FROM: Joel Paulson, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Review and Discussion of the Revised Initial Draft of the Land Use Element and
the Revised Initial Draft of the Community Design Element.
BACKGROUND:
The General Plan Update Advisory Committee (GPAC) began the review and discussion of the
initial drafts of the Land Use and Community Design Elements at their November 5, 2020
meeting, and continued the item for further discussion. The Town Council held an initial
discussion of the Land Use and Community Design Elements at their November 17, 2020
meeting, which was followed by a working session with the GPAC on November 19, 2020.
Based on the feedback received at these meetings, staff has worked with the consultants,
Mintier Harnish, to present updated versions of the initial drafts of the Land Use Element
(Attachment 12) and Community Design Element (Attachment 14). This revised Elements only
contain a few changes to the policies contained in the initial draft, and does not yet implement
most of the written comments received (as noted it the comment response summary tables), as
the GPAC has not yet had an opportunity to conduct th eir detailed review of the policies.
In addition to the formal meeting minutes for th e November meetings mentioned above, the
consultants have prepared two tables summarizing the comments received, how they have
been implemented, and which will be implemented after a full GPAC review of the goals,
policies, and implementation programs (Attachment 13 and 15).
Based on the preliminary discussions with the GPAC and Town Council, the consultants have
also prepared an updated potential housing production table (Attachment 16).
Additional comments, whether from committee members or the public, that are received by
11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, will be provided to the GPAC in an Addendum
Report that afternoon so that text changes can be considered by all committee members prior
PAGE 2 OF 2
SUBJECT: Revised Initial Drafts of the Land Use and Community Design Elements
December 22, 2020
N:\DEV\GPAC\GPAC Staff Reports\2021\01-07-21\Word Docs\Item 4 - Staff Report.docx
to the meeting. Any comments received after that time, but before 11:00 a.m. on the day of
the meeting will be provided in a Desk Item.
NEXT STEPS:
The next scheduled meeting of the GPAC is January 21, 2021. At that meeting the GPAC will
either continue review of the Land Use and Community Design Elements, or will review and
discuss the revised initial draft of the Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element, and the
initial draft of the General Plan Introduction.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachments previously received with the November 5, 2020 Staff Report:
1. June 11, 2020 Community Workshop and Online Survey Summary
2. Initial Draft of Land Use Element
3. Initial Draft of Community Design Element
4. Public Comment received by 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 30, 2020
Attachments previously received with November 5, 2020 Addendum:
5. Committee Member Comments
6. Public Comments received between 11:01 a.m., Friday, October 30, 2020 and 11:00 a.m.,
Wednesday, November 4, 2020
Attachment previously received with the November 5, 2020 Desk Item:
7. Committee Member Comments
Attachments previously received with the November 19, 2020 Staff Report:
8. November 17, 2020 Town Council Staff Report with Attachments 1-7
9. Committee Member Comments
Attachments previously received with the November 19, 2020 Desk Item Report:
10. Committee Member Comments
11. Public Comment
Attachments received with this Staff Report:
12. Revised Initial Draft of Land Use Element
13. Comment Response Summary Table – Land Use
14. Revised Initial Draft of Community Design Element
15. Comment Response Summary Table – Community Design
16. Updated Potential Housing Production Table
3
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
ATTACHMENT 12
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-2 Public Review Draft December 2020
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.
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-3
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-4 Public Review Draft December 2020
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
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-5
Figure 3-2Figure 3-4 Land Use Diagram
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-6 Public Review Draft December 2020
This page left intentionally blank (back side of Figure 3-41)
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-7
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-8 Public Review Draft December 2020
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)
3. Land Use Element
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.
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-10 Public Review Draft December 2020
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.
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-11
▪ 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]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-12 Public Review Draft December 2020
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
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-13
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-14 Public Review Draft December 2020
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
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-15
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-16 Public Review Draft December 2020
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]
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-17
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
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-49
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-50 Public Review Draft December 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
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
3. Land Use Element
December 2020 Public Review Draft 3-51
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
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
Administrative Draft Policy Document
3-52 Public Review Draft December 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A
Existing
GP Text
Note to Reviewer
or 2040 GP
Reference
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
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Land Use Element
The following are comments received by the GPAC and corresponding changes in the Revised Public
Review Draft Element.
Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Staff Comments
None at this time.
Submitted GPAC Comments prior to 11/5 Meeting
General
Figures should all be numbered and titled, not
just a randomly inserted graphic.
Figures on density and FAR have been numbered.
General Comments (not specific to a section):
◼Now that we know our next RHNA is nearly
2000 units by 2030, do we need to revisit the
Land Use Alternatives?
◼This reads like the 2020 plan where we are all
about protecting our Town and minimizing
growth when in fact, we have to grow A LOT
in housing.
◼Suggest re-writing the preamble/intro to
cover:
o State requirements for growth which we
now know are more than 3X current
RHNA for just the next 8-year cycle.
o Need to change housing mix to
accommodate a more diverse population
and include much more (smaller)
affordable units—this aligns with our
vision statement
o Acknowledging the challenges this
present for a Town that is very invested
in keeping things the way they have
been. Things are going to change and we
must do our best to turn this into an
opportunity to grow the best way we can
to preserve the reason we moved here.
o Recognizing that we have an opportunity
to grow sensibly as the addition of much
smaller units will serve our residents (e.g.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
ATTACHMENT 13
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
youth, seniors, lower income) and make
it possible for them to live here or remain
here if that is there desire.
o Focusing growth primarily on residential
with growth in commercial to be
neighborhood serving commercial.
o Focusing on growth in higher density
housing in opportunity areas.
o Stepping up and encouraging mixed use
as a vehicle to achieve growth and
neighborhood commercial.
◼ Wondering if we shouldn’t add a general
objective standard for minimum open space
in new development.
3-1
Page 3-1, Introductory Paragraph 1:
I disagree that the “priority of this General Plan”
is to “maintain overall quality of life.” To me, that
is “code” for maintaining the status quo. With
new housing numbers and state laws and
changing housing/work/school needs as
everything moves to a single location, the Plan
needs to emphasize dynamism and flexibility
going forward.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-1 Introduction
There is a lot of overlap between the Land Use
Element and the Land Use and Community
Design Element. So I wonder if they could be
combined into one Land Use and Community
Design Element.
No change. Town direction was to have two
elements.
Page 3-1, Introductory Paragraph 1:
The second sentence under paragraph one seems
unnecessary. We are “predominately built-out”
and yet it says “land use is dynamic” and
“changes …will occur as needs and demands
fluctuate over time.” It is pretty obvious and
probably doesn’t need to be said.
First sentence modified to provide transition.
Second sentence deleted.
3-3
Page 3-3: FAR
Shouldn’t the definition reference the Town
Codes governing the FAR calculation?
Reference added.
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
FAR:
● Why change from the definition in the 2020 GP
Glossary which uses net land area rather than
gross area to calculate FAR? Why not base one
buildable area (area after deductions for setbacks
and reductions for slope; In hillside areas
calculate FAR on contiguous areas below 30%
slope).
No change.
The definition provided here is consistent with
the definition in the Town Code.
● Clarify that a project needs to meet all
standards: For example: A project may have a
maximum FAR of 2.0 and the project design
choses to place all of the FAR in one building on
half of the site, but by doing this the project
exceeds the height standard or does not meet
setbacks or…
Added text to this effect on page 3-8.
● Clarify: “four feet above existing or proposed
grade” is it more than four feet above existing or
proposed grade, whichever results in a lower
profile?
No change.
Definition is as stated in the existing Town Code.
Intensity: Add definition. Added to page 3-3.
Lot Coverage:
● How does this differ from “lot coverage” used
to determine permeable area?
● Is this net or gross area?
Lot coverage here refers to area covered by
structures. Non-permeable areas are typically
larger as they would include paved areas.
General Plan uses gross area.
Multi-Family Residential:
● Delete and replace with: Multi-Family
Residential development is a development that is
more than two dwellings without respect to type
or ownership
The use of triplex, fourplex, microunits,
apartments, townhouses and condominiums
confuses the meaning of multi-family because it
mixes building types with ownership types. The
state defines multi-family as more than two units
on a parcel - without consideration of housing
type (detached or attached) or ownership type.
Definition updated.
Mixed Use Development:
Add maximum height and maximum site
coverage standards for Mixed Use Development
No change.
This definition provides an example to help
describe the use type. Standards are provided for
all uses on Table 3-2.
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
both here and in Table 3-2 General Plan Land Use
Designations and Standards.
Standards for Mixed Use are already included on
Table 3-2.
3-4
Planning Area: Shorten and simplify. No change.
Definition provides needed information.
Sphere of Influence: Add:…probable future
physical boundary…
The word “future” was added.
Urban Service Area: Add definition. Added to page 3-4.
Page 3-4: 3.1 General Plan Buildout:
● Modify title: General Plan Buildout Through
2040.
● Delete: Suggested language: The 2040 General
Plan development projections are shown in Table
3-1: General Plan Buildout through 2040.
Development projections for General Plan 2040
were based on the Town’s Regional Housing
Needs Allocation (RHNA), potential non-
residential market demand, development
potential within the General Plan’s Community
Place Districts (See Section 3.5 p.3-24 and Section
4.5 p. 4-27), as well as infill and redevelopment
potential throughout the community.
◼ Table 3-1 represents a potential buildout and
is not related to a specific year.
◼ Edits made to first paragraph in keeping with
this comment.
Page 3-4
Table 3-1 2n column: Probably should use
existing as 2020 instead of 2019.
No change.
The data is used is from 2019 and is the latest
data available.
3.1 General plan Buildout
We should repeat the message here about
significantly greater growth and the opportunity
to provide housing for diverse groups using
smaller units and new housing types including
multi-family and mixed use which means we will
have to add height and increase density in certain
parts of Town.
I think it is hard to evaluate this without having
Table 3-1 complete.
No change.
Note is out of context with information being
presented.
3-5
Page 3-5:
● Add: Label Figure 3.1 Land Use Diagram at the
top of the page
◼ No change. On 11x17 format, the location
used provides the best location.
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
● Increase the font size of the Legend.
● Increase the scale of the Diagram: Consider
doing a fold out dividing between two pages.
● Divide the legend into the sections paralleling
those used in Table 3.2 General Plan Land Use
Designations and Development Standards.
◼ No change. The font size is in keeping with
the fonts used throughout the document.
◼ No change. This map is already on an 11x17
sheet.
◼
Page 3-5
Figure 3-1: The yellow for the hillside residential
looks like the color for Low Density Residential.
We probably need to better delineate the colors.
No change.
The two yellows are notably different.
3-7
Page 3-7: 3.2 Land Use Diagram, Designations,
and Standards
Land Use Diagram
● Delete everything else on this page except the
heading 3.2 Land Use Diagram, Designations and
Standards and Land Use Diagram, the sub-
heading of Land Use Diagram, and the
information box.
● Suggested replacement language and
organization:
Land Use Diagram:
Figure 3-1, the General Plan Land Use Diagram,
shows the distribution of the land use
designations allowed within the Town’s Planning
Area. The Town’s Land Use Diagram is largely
implemented through the Town’s Zoning
Regulation.
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.
The underlined text was used as a replacement
with exception to information no zoning, which is
already provided on the following page. Other
components on the page were maintained to
provide explanation to readers, which would not
be clear otherwise.
3.2 Land Use Designations and Standards
Page 3-8 to 3-11
I think we really need to walk people through the
changes we are going to have to make in our land
use designations to accommodate this growth.
Maybe a side-by-side comparison of 2020 and
2040 or at least summarize the process we went
No change.
The General Plan provides guidance on a future
plan. A comparison can be developed as part of
staff reports or other supplemental information.
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
through doing the Land Use Alternatives to get to
that growth.
3-8
Page 3-8: Land Use Designations and Standards
● Delete the text under Land Use Designations
and Standards.
● Suggested language:
Table 3-2 divides the sixteen land use
designations identified on the Land Use Diagram
into six groups and provides guidance on the
types of uses appropriate for each land use
designation as well as the corresponding
standards for density and intensity.
The Land Use Diagram is largely implemented
through the Town’s zoning regulations…While
the Land Use Diagram guides zoning, it is not the
same as the Towns Zoning Map.
Changes made to content to reflect comments.
Middle portions of the paragraph were
maintained to better explain the General Plan and
Zoning relationship.
Multiple GPAC comments on content of this
section. Change reflects a balance to all
comments.
Second paragraph: Delete.
Suggested language:
The Land Use Element establishes land use
designations and their distribution within the Los
Gatos Planning Area as shown in Figure 3.1),
Table 3-2, General Plan Land Use Designations
and Development Standards includes
sixteen land use designations divided into six
groups. Table 3.2 describes the intent of the
allowed uses and sets density and intensity
standards for each land use designation.
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.
Multiple GPAC comments on content of this
section. Change reflects a balance to all
comments.
Last insert is about the element in general, and
was added to page 3-1.
Table 3-2 General Plan Land Use Designations
and Development Standards
◼ Change made
◼ Change made
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
● Move the group designation titles to the top of
each section of the table
● Provide a break in the table between each
group.
● For HR and LDR list all the zoning designations
that are compatible. For example:
HR:1, HR:2 ½ etc.: R-1:8, R-1:10, etc.
◼ Town staff directed the listing provided
Pages 3-8 – 3-11 (Table 3.2)
As I understand it, this Table is simply illustrative,
providing definitions of varieties of permitted
land uses – without mandating the use or
application of any particular type. If this
understanding is correct, I don’t object. If my
understanding is incorrect, and this Table is really
intended to mandate particular uses in particular
areas, then I think it merits further discussion, as
the Committee may wish to recommend Zoning
changes.
No change.
The table is illustrative. Zoning provides the
specific uses. Text before the table provides this
clarification.
Table 3-2, you say which designations allow
mixed-use format, include which do not include
mixed-use format.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-9
Page 3--9:
HR zoning:
● Shorten and modify description, for example:
The Hillside Residential (HR) designation allows
very low density single-family residential
development on large lots or as cluster
development that are compatible with the
generally mountainous terrain and rural
character of the area.
● Standards: Page 35 of the HDS&G states that
the maximum height for homes in hillside areas
shall be 25 feet (18 if visible above the ridgeline).
● Suggest: Change the maximum allowed height
in the HR designation to 25 feet.
◼ Changes made (with some minor edits for
style).
◼ Change made to height.
3-11
Why are OS and AG max height at 30? Is this a
barn or a house?
Height would apply to any allowed use.
30 feet was based on the height limit of 30 feet in
the Town’s Resource Conservation zoning district.
3-12
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Land Use Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Page 3-12: 3.3 Community Development
3.3 Community Development:
● Additional potential for what?
● Delete everything after…through the
redevelopment of….
● Suggest: The following goals and policies will
allow growth while protecting the Town’s
aesthetics and character.
◼ Added “development.”
3.3 Community Development
This section needs a new policy that talks about
minimizing new single family detached housing
and shifting growth to smaller units.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1:
● What does it mean to reflect the existing
character of infrastructure?
● Delete. Suggested language: Planned growth
will reflect the Town” existing character.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1—Seems really out of place for where we are
going in general. Maybe restate goal that we
must growth at a dramatically higher rate (which
is a fact) and say we have an opportunity to serve
a more diverse population and meet our legal
responsibility to provide more housing.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.1: Without a definition of “a healthy
balance” this policy could be interpreted so
broadly as to be meaningless.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.1: Delete healthy. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.1: What is a “healthy” balance?? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.1 I don’t know what the term “healthy
balance” means when it comes to the mix of land
use types.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.2, LU-2.1: add comma after e.g. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 1.2—We should delete this. Not appropriate
for the current housing laws.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.3: What type of a project would this be? Can
you be more specific?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.3: What are the “public costs?” Police, fire,
etc.?” Or “no traffic?” This needs to be defined,
and there should be no absolute prohibition on
approval of any project.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
LU 1.3—We should delete this. Not appropriate
for the current housing laws.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.4: Delete apostrophe in Project’s; and how
do you reduce impact on schools when they
aren’t in the Town’s jurisdiction? Not the same
category, although of course minimizing negative
impact is a good thing.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.4: Not sure schools can be included here, as
mitigation for school impacts is preempted by
state law.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.4 The first word -- Projects -- should not
have an apostrophe.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-1.4: Perhaps we could quantify the level of
acceptable impact, such as reduce projected
impacts by 75%.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2: Modify: Use infill sites to accommodate
new development.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2—Not sure what appropriate means here.
We need to grow dramatically and because the
Town is really built out we can only do infill or
redevelopment. Maybe talk more here about
how mixed use (with required residential as part
of it) and taller buildings strategically placed can
help us reach that goal.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2: Is too vague…what is “use land efficiently”
and “appropriate infill development.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.1 and LU-2.2: These are similar. Is it
possible to combine and condense?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.1: Meeting In-fill Development policies
should be sufficient. I continue to register my
objection to all
phrases/prohibitions/goals/requirements, etc.
that place limitations on land use based on
whether they will “protect” or “detract” from
“existing quality of life.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.1: Compatibility, meaning functional
compatibility I assume. I would add “functional”
because we use neighborhood compatibility as
an aesthetic criterion too in other places.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.1 Is it “infill” or “in-fill”? Be consistent. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU-2.1 “and do not detract from the existing
quality of life”…as if you could actually quantify
what is the existing quality of life. It is too vague.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 2.1—Not sure this makes sense anymore. Can
we realistically do this?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Remove hyphen from in-fill. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.2 – Seems redundant and duplicative of LU-
2.1
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-2.2: Same as above…too vague. Projects
should blend rather than compete with existing
development. What is an example of projects
that blend and those that compete?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page3-12
Introductory Paragraph 3.3:
I recognize that the GPAC disagreed over the
continued use of the phrase “small town”
feel/charm/character, and ultimately chose to
include it. I continue to register my opposition to
its use, and therefore object to the inclusion and
identification of a goal to “protect the small town
feel and aesthetic.” We should be planning for
the future.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-13
For the following land use designation sections,
don’t list all the sub-designations. We already
have this information in the table referenced,
and it’s silly to say the designation is the same as
the designation (mixed use).
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3: Need to adapt goal to say why. Meet the
needs of…Required growth, more diverse
population, etc.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3: Suggest “Maintain and enhance sense of
place…”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 3.2: This is a good policy. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU3.3: It is not clear what this means. Does the
Town have to increase the density on another
site to make up for the loss of units? Subject to
neighborhood compatibility and mitigation of
traffic impacts are subjective and therefore they
are big hurdles to pass.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.3: Isn’t this mandated by state law? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU 3.3: Not sure this is strong enough and not
sure it is in line with HAA.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.4: Suggest Deleting: Not sure what the
purpose of this Policy is or how it could be
implemented.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.4: Not sure how a “neighborhood
characteristic” includes a “sense of personal
safety” – that’s unique to the individual. Design
features could enhance safety…
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.4 Perhaps we could quantify a standard for
proximity of the necessary services and facilities
(such as grocery markets and pharmacies), such
as within one mile of all residences.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.5: Combine with LU3.4: Suggest: Delete here
and combine with LU2.2. But Is the standard of
one mile even feasible?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.5: Delete “about” one mile. Just say “within
one mile.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.5 I would substitute grocery stores for
convenience markets. Again we could specify a
one mile radius of all residents.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 3.5—Last sentence should say one mile, not
about one mile and add whenever possible. This
is absolutely not possible or desirable in the
hillsides. Maybe this should be added.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-13: Residential Designations:
● Add after the Residential Designations heading:
Hillside Residential, Low Density Residential,
Medium Density Residential and High Density
Residential
● Delete: The sentence after the Residential
Designations heading.
● Note: Do the above for all headings under 3.3
Community Development
● Define Underutilize site.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-14
LU-3.6: This makes no sense. If, in preceding
paragraphs, we are mandating a variety of
services, including “neighborhood shopping and
services [to] be available within about one mile of
all dwellings,” (LU-3.5) how are we then
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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supposed to “protect existing residential areas
from the impacts of non-residential
development?” No area should be insulated from
change.
LU 3.6: Not sure what we are trying to prevent
here.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.7 and 3.8: Use of residences for business,
work, school, etc., all needs to be re-thought as
businesses and schools move to remote
functioning.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 3.7 and 3.8: Possible to combine these?
Maybe we should encourage this?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.8: Delete “and” in front of daycare. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.8: The State of California mandates that
cities allow congregate care facilities up to a
maximum of so-many residents. Perhaps we
should reference “in accordance with State law.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.9: What exactly is a use that “may lead to
the deterioration of residential neighborhoods?”
This should be deleted.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.10: Neighborhoods are walkable if services
are proximate so perhaps we could include a
desired distance of all residences as mentioned in
3.4 above.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.12: I have noticed several modern style
homes approved in otherwise traditional
neighborhoods such as Alpine and Bella Vista.
Will this prohibit future mixing of styles?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.14: Insert space between are necessary. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.14, 3.15: Consider combining. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-14 - Page 3-15:
LU-3.8: Does the Town have established
standards for this? If so, what are they? Are they
objective or subjective?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.14: Does this apply to all flag lots? Or is it
intended to apply only to Hillside lots? Clarified
the difference between Lu-1.14 and LU-1.15. Can
these be combined using bullets?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.14 I think it is possible to allow flag lots in
cases where the lot size is inordinately large
relative to the surrounding lots (perhaps 3 to 4
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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times larger) and the frontage very limited. This
would allow such properties some sense of
fairness.
LU 3.14 and 3.15—Should we revisit this policy of
discouraging flag lots?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-15
LU-4 Mixed Use—Like this as new goal. Maybe be
more specific about why—to provide more dense
housing to meet goals for growth.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-4.2 Who are “community members.” I
presume it is the general public instead of only
project residents?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-16
LU-5 The term “appropriate” is meaningless as
used here.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5 Commercial
Not sure we can realistically preserve retail given
the projections for “death” of retail as we know
it. Maybe we should rewrite some of these
policies to talk about adapting to the transition of
retail which at the moment includes things like
exercise facilities. I know we would all like to
keep Downtown the way it is but that doesn’t
seem realistic.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.1: What does “strong” mean? Maybe use
viable, vibrant? Or maybe a percent occupied to
start…
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5-1: Commercial centers may change over
time. Why name any area, e.g. Los Gatos
Boulevard?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.1 Another vague term. What does “strong”
mean?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 5.2 and 5.5—Is it realistic to continue to
emphasize retail for the next 20 years? Can we
realistically stop retail sales tax leakage? Is there
a way to tax the newer types of facilities instead?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Do we still want to make it possible to get a
decent sized hotel here?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.3: Has this changed with the council’s
decision to welcome formula retail? Or will that
experiment be expiring?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU-5.3: Continuing objection to “consistent with
Los Gatos’ small-town character and scale.
Businesses should have the opportunity to locate
in Los Gatos if they meet all Town policies and
criteria, period.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.3 Where, what and how is the Town going
to do this? I think it is possible to ask a national
chain to appear small but not to discriminate
against a business based on who owns it.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.5: What does “comparative” mean in this
context?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-5.6 We should quantify what is considered an
adequate buffer. Perhaps 15 feet with a
minimum 8 foot wall?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-16
LU-5.6: Buffers for Non-residential uses: It is not
clear whether “buffers” are intended for visual
separation or to reduce noise impacts to adjacent
residential or other sensitive uses.
Note: It requires at least 100 feet of dense
landscaping to perceive a reduction of sound
level.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-17
LU-6: How is this section consistent with the
newly-adopted Land Use Alternatives, which
include increased mixed-use and housing
opportunities in downtown?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 17:
LU-6.1: Suggest: Create a bullet for the service
commercial activities along University.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-6.2 What are clearly defined boundaries? Do
alleys count?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-6.3 and 7.2: Consider combining. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-6.3 Another vague phrase “taking into
consideration potential impacts to loss of
commercial opportunities.” Are substituting the
Town’s judgment for the free hand of the
marketplace?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-7 Another use of a vague term “appropriate.” Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU-7.1: Why wouldn’t we encourage replacement
of any vacated business anywhere in Town?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-7.1: Why do we only care about vacated
businesses in the named areas? What about
vacated businesses downtown?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-7.1 This is listed as an existing policy. What
does the Town do to “encourage” and how has it
worked?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU -7.1—Why not encourage replacement of all
vacated businesses vs. specific neighborhoods
and maybe replace with mixed use?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-18
Page 3-18:
● Increase the font size for street names.
● Change the color of the CBD to correspond
with the color used on Fig. 3-1 Land Use Diagram
(p. 3-5).
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-19
LU-7.3: This should be deleted. Auto dealerships
are largely obsolete, and many in Los Gatos are
now standing empty. More importantly, the now
defunct auto dealerships along Los Gatos
Boulevard provide a perfect opportunity for
mixed use development and housing.
Maintaining this paragraph erects an unnecessary
hurdle to reuse.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU 7.3: Not sure we can or should retain and
enhance auto dealerships.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-7.3: What do we do to “retain and enhance”
auto dealerships?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-19: Define: flex/incubator spaces and
research and development.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-8.2: I am concerned that maintaining this
section as written could prevent conversion of
industrial spaces to live/work areas that can
provide needed housing opportunities.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-8.2 Why discourage conversion. What
benefit do we get from office Professional etc? If
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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we allow residential over retail then why not over
office?
LU-8.4: Revise: “Enhance the working
environment and reduce traffic impact by
promoting small retail and restaurant areas to
serve employees in Office Professional…”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
SPECIFIC PLANS: Delete (at end of paragraph)
“that they implement.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Specific Plans
Do we need to mention Albright? Isn’t it
complete?
North 40—need to consider updating the plan for
a different type of Phase 2.
Why not update the LG Blvd Plan and the Hillside
Specific Plan as well? Why is LG Boulevard in a
separate section—shouldn’t we combine all the
specific plans?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-20
Page 3-20: Figure 3-2: Increase font size of street
names.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-21
Page 3-21:
● Add a description of allowed land uses in the
North 40.
● Is Figure 3-3 necessary? Can the text just refer
to the Land Use Diagram?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-9.1: Fix the sequence: “prepared,
implemented, amended and updated”
Delete the word “if.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-10 (Goal) revise: “Ensure governmental,
utility…and services are located and designed to
complement Los Gatos’ neighborhoods and
nearby sensitive land uses.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-10—Why not have a policy encouraging or
requiring minimum open space for all new
development?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-10.2 Why are we concerned about the civic
center. It is pretty well buffered now?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-22
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GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Overlay Zones: Why are the Town’s Affordable
Housing Overlay Zones not included here?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-22: Los Gatos Blvd. Plan:
● Is the Los Gatos Blvd Plan actually a Specific
Plan?
● Isn’t this Plan largely obsolete? For example:
○ The Plan called for the North 40 to be
destination retail and limited neighborhood
commercial - no residential)
○Hasn’t the Town’s policy changed to not
only complement the town as a whole but
to not compete with the downtown?
○The area along the Boulevard already has a
mixed-use designation.
● Any concepts, objectives or policies that have
not already been incorporated might be included
in the Los Gatos Boulevard District.
● Suggest: Review the Plan to ensure all
remaining relevant policies and goals have been
incorporated into General Plan 2040, and then
retire the Plan, as was done with the Downtown
Development Plan in the past.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-11.2 Do we need to say the obvious? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-23
LU-11.3: Why not say 1 acre? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-11.3 Again, why do we need to state the
obvious?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LGB Plan:
(Intro) Complements but does not compete with
Downtown versus (goal and LU12.3)
complements the whole town.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-23
Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
The Plan is now over 20 years old and needs to be
rescinded or completely overhauled to match the
goals and policies of this 2040 General Plan.
Mixed use and housing needs to be encouraged,
alternative transportation modes need to be
planned for and included, height limits and
setbacks need to be rethought. Los Gatos
Boulevard provides one of the best opportunities
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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in Town for new housing, and maintaining the
current Plan is in potential conflict with
redevelopment and in-fill changes. See, e.g, “Los
Gatos Boulevard District (“Community Place
District” p. 3-27).
Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
What complements the Downtown but does not
compete?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-12.1 and LU12.3
Vague terms: “…encourage…where appropriate.”
Commercial “shall complement”. What
complements and what doesn’t?
The Downtown is mentioned in the introduction
but not mentioned in the polices. Why?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-24
Page 3-24 to Page 3-29: 3.5 Community Place
Districts
● Suggest: Change the name, it is easily confused
with the Community Commercial Land Use
Designation.
● Downtown District: I am having second
thoughts on including the area along Santa Cruz
between the plaza and Highway 9, and the
historic districts in an area identified for
redevelopment or intensification beyond that is
already possible. I think it would be counter to
maintaining the existing character of the Town’s
core. Even allowing additional development in
this area up to 45’ in height would affect its
existing character.
● Suggest: Identify a limited area on the east,
west, and south sides of the Town Plaza.
● Figure 3-4: Include the underlying street system
and names of major streets.
● Replace the pictures with a small map of the
various districts as was included for the
Downtown District.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Hillside Specific Plan:
Intro: second line, should say in the “southern”
portion of town.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Last sentence, insert “generally” in front of
prohibited and delete last phrase “unless it is
compliant…”
Hillside Specific Plan
Should we add a goal to discourage new
residential in the hillsides? How can we do this?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
GOAL LU-13: Do we really want to encourage
hillside housing? If we keep this goal, suggest
revising to: “Ensure housing in the hillside area
does not adversely affect the mountain
environment or endanger public health and
safety.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-13: Really how do we provide housing for
various income levels within the hillsides? Are
we going to allow high density in the hillsides?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-25
For the districts (pages 3-25 through 3-18) use
maps for all rather than photographs.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-27
Page 3-27
The districts are identified as “auto-oriented.”
We need to change the auto orientation over
time if we want to be a friendly, safe small town.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-28
Page 3-28: LU-14.1: Integrated Approach:
Simplify the language of this policy.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-14.2: Delete the word “provide” and begin
each bullet with a verb.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-3.14 You need a space between the words
“are necessary.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-29
Do we have HPC’s input on the Historic
Preservation Goal/Policies?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3.6: Delete the word “small” and in each of the
bullets, give acreage for all or none.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3.6 Preserving our History
Has the HPC reviewed this?
Did not have time to write comments on the rest
of this Element including implementation
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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programs before the desk item deadline but have
verbal comments for the meeting.
3-30
Page 3-30:
● Figure 3-3: Increase font size of street names.
● Modify: Delete the three parcels north of Lark
Ave. The Albright Specific Plan does not include
these parcels.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-30
The extent of the historic district in the
Downtown seems small. Don’t we have other
“historic” properties on Santa Cruz Avenue?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-31
Pages 3-31 to 3-37: Sections 3.7, Section 3.8,
Section 3.9, Section 3.10), and Section 3.11 do
not comfortably fit in the Land Use Element.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Top of page 3-31:
Revise: Los Gatos’ historic districts are defined
by…” And because there are important historic
structures outside of the historic districts, suggest
inserting the following sentence “There are also
many protected structures of historic significance
outside the historic districts.” In front of the
sentence that begins “In addition.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-15.1: “Maintain maps and an inventory of the
Town’s Landmark and Historic Preservation (LHP)
overlay zones.” Delete the remainder of the
policy or integrate it into the intro.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-15.3: Maybe just preserve and use, delete
“rehabilitate and continue” and change policy
heading too.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-16. This a run-on sentence. Also, you use
“land use” too many times. Perhaps “Ensure that
land uses as appropriate and compatible with
each other, and guide development in a pattern
that will minimize land use conflicts between
adjacent parcels and promote the high quality of
life enjoyed in Los Gatos.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-16: Replace “pattern” with “way.” Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-16.1 (and in LU-18): Order should be
Implement before maintain.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU-16.1: I don’t know why this needs to be a
policy?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-32
LU-16.2: Move first sentence to intro on p. 3-31. Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-17.3: Replace “if needed to assure” with “to
ensure.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Page 3-32
LU-16.3: Consistent with my comments regarding
Table 3.2, I wonder where it is appropriate to
advocate for Zoning changes. For example, if I
wished to advocate for a change in Single Family
Residential Zoning, I would object to a section,
like this one, that requires consistency with the
designations in Figure 3-1.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-33
LU-18.3: Replace the words “that will be” with
“who are.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-19: the goal has little connection to the
policies (or vice versa). Suggest revising the goal
to:
“Promote meaningful transparency, dialogue and
collaboration among members of the town and
decision-makers.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
If you keep the original goal, change it to focus on
social and economic equality (although that’s a
huge undertaking…) and develop policies that
support. And move it to the racial and social
justice element.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-18 Take out the word “to” at the end of this
goal (“... community and remain consistent…”).
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-18.1: Who conducts the review and how
often? PC every two years?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Lu-18.3 What is the “EJ” in the box? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-19.1 and LU-19.2: We don’t need to say
“continue.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-34
Lu-19.7 What is the “SUS” in the box? Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-19.7 I know decision makers like this but you
run the risk of appearing to endorse a project
with little or no public input.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
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LU-19.10: Story poles are expensive and don’t
really tell neighbors any more than a good 3D
drawing will. I would rather post the site with a
drawing and site plan and distribute site plans
and elevations to immediate neighbors.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-35
LU-20.3: Is this the Town’s responsibility or the
schools’? I would think a different focus is
needed (unless the Town is offering the grants).
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-20: How do we enhance the educational
support system?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
Pages 3-35 – 3-36
Do “Lifelong Learning” and “Healthy Community”
belong in the Land Use Element, or elsewhere,
e.g., Environment????
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-36
LU-21, LU-21.1, LU-21.6): need to define “healthy
foods” or “healthier foods.” Organic? Locally
sourced?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-21.6 and LU-21.7: Do these policies need to
be elevated to the level of the GP? Remember
the GP is supposed to be high-level.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-37
3.11: Rewrite to tighten it up:
Many local, regional, state and federal agencies
have land use planning, permitting or
development review authority in the Los Gatos
Planning Area and surrounding region.
Coordination among agencies ensures regulatory
compliance, increases efficiency for development
projects and eliminates redundancies among
agencies.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-22.2: We should mention that incorporating
islands promotes logical boundaries and “good
government” by limited the number of agencies
providing basic services.
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
LU-22.3: eliminate the excess words “in order to
understand and” and substitute with the word
“to.”
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-38
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3.12 Implementation Programs: only covers
policies up to LU-13.2 leaving out policies on
pages 3-27 through 3-37. Why?
Change pending review of comment by GPAC.
3-39
Page 3-39: H Zoning Code Update: Concurrent
changes (or immediately following approval of
the General Plan 2040) to zoning districts to be
consistent with the Land Use Diagram, Followed
in priority of update to the zoning code for
consistency with the direction of the General Plan
and establishing objective standards to
implement the GP.
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4.Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-1
Los Gatos has maintained the small-town charm that dates to its origins as an old railroad Town. Tree-lined
streets and sidewalks give the Los Gatos Downtown a strong pedestrian character, and picturesque views of the
Santa Cruz Mountains offer potent but subtle reminders of the Town’s unique setting. [Source: 2040 Background
Report]
A key factor in the charm of Los Gatos is its physical environment. The Community Design Element looks at the
key components of this environment and describes the features that, together, create Los Gatos’ distinct
community character. This Element provides a local context and anticipated urban design enhancements for the
next 20 years relating to the urban form, architectural styles, landscape, lighting, and pedestrian-oriented
environment. In addition, this Element highlights a series of Community Place Districts which have specific
community design policies designed to create unique, one-of-a-kind districts in Town. Lastly, the Element covers
the overall preservation of historic areas and the surrounding hillsides to ensure these areas are respected over
time, even as development proceeds. [Source: New Text]
The Community Design Element is divided into the following sections:
Contents
Section Title Page
Key Terms .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Urban Design Fundamentals ................................................................................................................. 4
4.1 Neighborhood Compatibility ................................................................................................... 6
4.2 Community Form ................................................................................................................... 7
4.3 Historic Preservation ............................................................................................................ 24
4.4 Hillside Development ........................................................................................................... 26
4.5 Community Place Districts ................................................................................................... 27
4.6 Implementation Programs .................................................................................................... 63
ATTACHMENT 14
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Key Terms
360 Architecture. The intentional incorporation of architectural design style and elements around the entirety of
a building regardless if portions of the building are not facing public view.
Articulation. The division of a building facade into distinct sections; including the materials, patterns, textures,
and colors that add visual interest to a building or facade.
Colonnade. A range of columns that supports a string of continuous arches.
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 develo pment. These
locations have the potential to facilitate mixed-use development and redevelopment at a variety of densities and
intensities. See Sections 3.5 in the Land Use Element and 4.5 in this Element for more information.
Corbel. A decorative use of a bracket or architectural dentil at the top of a building beneath the cornice or eave.
Cornice. The decorated projection at the top of a wall provided to protect or to ornament and finish the wall face.
Corridor. Transportation pathway allowing movement between activity centers. A corridor may encompass
single or multiple transportation routes and facilities, adjacent land uses, and the connecting street network.
Eave. The edge of the roof that overhangs the exterior walls, sometimes with exposed rafters .
Facade. An exterior wall, or face, of a building.
Fenestration. The design, construction, and presence of any openings in a building, including windows, doors,
vents, wall panels, skylights, curtain walls, or louvers.
Gable. The wall that encloses the end of a roof or the triangular end below a roof overhang.
Gateway. A defining element, type of development, or signage that creates the clear distinction of entering a
community or place. Primary gateways are located at main entry points into the community such as freeway off-
ramps and major arterials from adjacent communities. Secondary gateways are those located internally within
the community leading to neighborhoods and points of interest.
Human-Scale. Is the effort to create an appropriate relationship between human beings and the size/function of
surrounding buildings. Human-scale emphasizes building features and characteristics which can be observed in
close proximity, at the speed a pedestrian would travel.
Massing. The general shape, or shapes of a building, as well as its form and size .
Median. A raised barrier used to separate opposing traffic flow and control access and vehicle turning
movements. A median can also provide a pedestrian crossing refuge and streetscape enhancement.
Mixed-Use. Parcels of land on which 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 development project with a coherent physical
design.
Molding. A decorative raised surface along the edge of an architectural feature such as a window, colu mn, door,
or wall.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-3
Ornamentation. Additional architectural elements meant to adorn or embellish the exterior of a building.
Parklet. A small seating area or green space created as a public amenity on or alongside a sidewalk, especially
in a former roadside parking space.
Pedestrian-Oriented. An approach to architectural design intended to facilitate movement on foot in an area, as
opposed to design that primarily serves automobile movement. Examples of pedestrian-oriented design include
pathways following the most direct route from sidewalk to front door, continuous building street-walls with shop
windows, outdoor cafes, street trees and benches, and architectural enhancement in the first two floors that are at
human-scale.
Projection. A side wing, tower, or window bay that protrudes from a building.
Scale. Refers to how the sizes of different architectural elements relate to one another.
Screening. Elements used to visually screen or separate detrimental elements of a site. Screening is commonly
used to obscure parking areas, utilities, dumpsters, etc.
Setback. The distance between a building and the property line or other buildings .
Step Back. A step-like recession in the profile of a multi-story building. A step back requires the building to take
a step back from the street for every increase in height of the structure. Step backs can also be a design
technique to reduce the visual impact of tall buildings.
Stoop. The uncovered wide step leading into the front or main door of a unit or building.
Streetscape. The elements within and along the street right-of-way that define its appearance, identity, and
functionality. These can include, but are not limited to, adjacent buildings and land uses, street furniture,
landscaping, trees, sidewalks, and pavement treatments.
Street Furniture. Fixtures installed along the roadway, at or above grade level, including lamp posts, pedestrian
lighting, street signs, benches, trash cans, bike racks, news racks, water fountains, and planters.
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Urban Design Fundamentals
Throughout this Element, certain urban design terms and concepts will be used to describe a desired effect for
what fits in with Los Gatos. These fundamentals, in various combinations will be applied to project designs
through the policies in this Element, either to all projects or to projects within designated Community Place
Districts, as described in Section 4.5. The Community Design Element will focus on the following categories that
will ultimately drive community form over the next 20 years: Massing and Articulation; Architectural Style and
Elements; Site Development; Streetscape and Street Activation; and Community Identity. [Source: New Text]
Massing and Articulation
The massing of a building is its overall three-dimensional shape. Massing is a combination of three-dimensional
forms, the simplest of which are cubes, pyramids, spheres, and cones. Large masses are used to emphasize
elements while small masses are used to subdue elements. A way to influence overall massing is to design a
project that is focused on human-scale, which means that overall design is relatable in height to the average
human. For example, limiting entrance and floor-to-floor heights to avoid building forms that feel monumental and
grand.
Another technique to reduce the overall massing of a project is to include articulation. Articulation can be in the
form of step backs on multi-story structures which are meant to provide relatable scale to the street and not a
towering monolithic facade; which can create a “canyon” like effect on large arterials. Step backs also allow
greater opportunity for daylight exposure and reduce shadowing on smaller adjacent structures. This further
reduces the incompatibility with adjacent structures. [Source: New Text]
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-5
Architectural Style and Elements
In the development of a shopping center, mixed-use project, residential area, or extension of the Downtown, an
overall “theme” and consistent use of architectural style and elements can be implemented to ensure cohesive
design. Varying styles used within an integrated architectural framework for a development or area can help in
establishing a strong community identity, as well as consistent pattern of image and character. Design elements
are diverse and can range from roof style and form, use of eaves, dormers, supportive columns, glazing, color
palettes, as well as incorporation of stoops, porches, and balconies. [Source: New Text]
In Los Gatos, and the Bay Area at large, the early twentieth century Victorian and Arts and Crafts Movements
made a lasting impression on architectural style and design that has become synonymous with the area. As
design practices have shifted over the last century, additional styles, such as Mediterranean and California
Modern, have become prevalent as well. Well defined community design guidance allows the community to
embrace its past and also acknowledge the future, by determining appropriate places for new design styles to be
located and relate to traditional styles. [Source: New Text]
Site Development
Site development is a crucial component to community design and the application of urban design techniques.
So much of site development hinges on the characteristics and natural features of the site itself. The terrain of
the site will dictate the type of development, placement of the structure, placement of supportive utilities, overall
site access, and environmental considerations related to solar exposure and prevailing winds for cooling
purposes. In Los Gatos it is also imperative to ensure the site development takes into account unique aspects of
the subject property in the form of tree preservation and topography, compatibility and connectivity with
surrounding and adjacent parcels, and recognition of open space and viewsheds. A cohesive approach to site
development will allow developments either new or through a remodel to become fully integrated into the existing
community fabric. Other approaches to cohesive site development include the incor poration of Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design (CPTED) techniques, such as use of private and common open space,
landscaping, and lighting. Specifically, CPTED focuses on overall site design techniques to increase public safety
and minimize and reduce the potential for crime. [Source: New Text]
Streetscape and Street Activation
The overall design of a structure and the integration of structures into a site is not the only design consideration.
How that structure engages with the streetscape and adjacent pedestrian areas is equally as important.
Streetscapes and street activation draw the energy and vibrancy of a building and blend that environment with the
bustling activity at the street level. One way to incorporate street activation is to ensure that the building has
primary access to and from the sidewalk or that portions of the sidewalk become an extension of the building and
its use. This can be achieved through the formation of parklets and outdoor dining spaces. Creating lively
streetscapes through the incorporation of upgraded landscaped areas, and cohesive street furniture and
furnishings, will enhance the pedestrian environment. The marrying of the built environment with the street can
create a sense of compatibility. [Source: New Text]
Community Identity
Community identity can be difficult to design and address holistically. It is critical that a community defines its
boundaries and creates a unique environment that is recognizable and memorable. Los Gatos shares common
borders with other communities including San Jose, Campbell, and Saratoga, where the defining line between
communities is blurred. To create a clear transition into Los Gatos, identification methods such as gateway signs,
landscape styles, use of public art and imagery, consistent lighting, street furnishings, and even unique freeway
exit designs could be implemented. The intent of community identity is for instant recognition upon arrival into the
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Town, and cohesive design principles focusing on entrances can further establish the unique qualities of the
community. [Source: New Text]
4.1 Neighborhood Compatibility
Neighborhood compatibility is essential to maintaining and pres erving neighborhoods. In order to ensure that the
continuity of neighborhoods is not disrupted, all new or remodeled development must be able to adapt and co-
exist with established areas. Los Gatos is home to vibrant areas with a rich history and this section aims to
maintain that vibrancy, respecting existing development, while providing direction for how new development can
fully integrate into these areas. [Source: New Text]
The following goal and policies will ensure that neighborhoods remain consistent and new uses and styles remain
compatible.
Maintain a Town of diverse, distinct, and well-structured neighborhoods that meet
the community’s needs for interconnected and high-quality living environments.
[Source: New Goal]
Neighborhood Connectivity
Neighborhoods shall have a visual and physical multi-modal connection between surrounding
development. [Source: New Policy]
Building Element Proportion
Require building elements to be in proportion with existing development in the neighborhood.
[Source: Existing Policy CD-1.1, modified]
Avoid Gated Communities
Discourage the creation of gated communities in an effort to promote social cohesiveness and
maintain street network efficiency, adequate emergency response times, and convenient travel
routes for all street users. [Source: New Policy]
Protect Neighborhood Character
Preserve, protect, and enhance established neighborhoods by requiring new development to
respect and respond to those existing physical characteristics of buildings, streetscapes, open
spaces, and urban form that contribute to the overall character and livability of the
neighborhood. [Source: New Policy]
Memorable Places Through Infill Development
Promote infill development projects that create memorable places throughout the Town through
high-quality architecture, pedestrian oriented streetscapes, and thoughtfully designed public
spaces. [Source: New Policy]
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-7
4.2 Community Form
Community form includes the visual, contextual, and architectural design that creates a cohesive community. Los
Gatos includes a rich and diverse array of architectural styles, historical landmarks, and bustling corridors which
lend to each distinct and unique urban fabric. [Source: New Text]
The following goal and policies will drive the future community form and urban design characteristics that shape
Los Gatos over the next 20 years. While all policies in this section are under a single goal, they are divided into
sub-categories for added clarity.
Encourage all development in Town to be designed holistically, complementing
the existing urban fabric, and incorporating sustainable design principles. [Source:
New Goal]
Massing and Articulation
Building Setbacks Increases
Require building setbacks to increase in a 1:1 ratio as mass and height increases above 20
feet. [Source: Existing Policy CD-2.1, modified]
Architectural Style
Promote well defined architectural styles through the use of building massing, setbacks, facade
articulation, fenestration, varied parapets, and other human-scaled architectural features.
[Source: New Policy]
Blank Walls
Require structures to have no more than 20 percent use of continuous blank walls (i.e., walls
without decoration, articulation, or fenestration) along a primary street frontage and no more
than 50 percent along secondary street frontages. [Source: New Policy]
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Multi-Story Step Backs
Require multi-story buildings to incorporate step backs on upper floors to create a more human-
scale and comfortable pedestrian environment. [Source: New Policy]
Human-Scale
Promote community design which is human-scaled, comfortable, safe, and conducive to
pedestrian use. [Source: New Policy]
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-9
Architecture Style and Elements
360 Architecture
Require that all new and remodeled structures emphasize 360 Architecture by continuing
consistent architectural design and application of the structure on all sides and viewing angles
while acknowledging the different programmatic and design considerations for private sides.
[Source: New Policy]
Architectural Design Elements
Encourage all new and remodeled structures use at a minimum one of the following
architectural design elements to enhance the uniqueness of the structure : molding;
ornamentation; corbels; cornices; or colonnades. [Source: New Policy]
Molding
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Ornamentation
Corbels
Cornices
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-11
Colonnades
Roof Forms
Require roof forms to include materials, elevations, and finishes that are consistent with the
architectural style and design of the structure. [Source: New Policy]
Roof Design
Encourage horizontal eaves longer than 40 to 50 feet in length be broken up by gables, building
projections, or other forms of articulation. [Source: New Policy]
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Parking Structure Design
Require all parking structures to include screening methods either in the form of vertical
vegetation, decorative panels, or glazing to minimize the visual impact on surrounding
neighborhoods. [Source: New Policy]
Multi-Story Structures
Require that multi-story structures incorporate a change in materials (i.e., brick, stucco, tile,
concrete, wood siding, shingles) on the third story and higher to provide distinction in
architectural features. [Source: New Policy]
Cellars
Encourage cellars for residential structures to provide “hidden” square footage in lieu of visible
mass. [Source: Existing Policy CD-6.3, modified]
Streetscape
Pedestrian Oriented Streetscapes
Require new development to create walkable, pedestrian-oriented blocks and sidewalks which
are appropriately scaled for the anticipated pedestrian use. [Source: New Policy]
Well-Defined Street Fronts
Require new buildings to maintain a consistent setback from the public right-of-way in order to
create a well-defined streetscape. [Source: New Policy]
Enhanced Walking and Biking
Pursue opportunities to promote walking and biking in new and existing neighborhoods through
traffic-calming measures, bike route signage, designated bike lanes, the narrowing of streets,
and street improvements (i.e., street trees, planting strips). [Source: New Policy]
Street Trees
Maintain street trees, plant additional street trees, and encourage preservation and planting of
trees on public and private property. [Source: Existing Policy CD-4.2]
Street Trees in New Development
Require street trees to be installed for all new developments. [Source: Existing Policy CD-4.4,
modified]
Example Parking Structure Screening
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-13
Tree Lined Streets
Encourage the strategic selection of street tree species to enha nce neighborhood character
and identity and to maximize shade coverage when mature. [Source: New Policy]
Tree Preservation
Preserve and protect trees designated under the Town’s Tree Preservation Ordinance, as well
as existing native, heritage, and specimen trees as a part of any development proposal.
[Source: Existing Policy CD-4.3, modified]
Tree and Plant Approval
Require street trees and plants to be approved by the Superintendent of Parks and Forestry for
the purpose of meeting criteria, including climatic conditions, maintenance, year-round versus
seasonal color change (i.e. blossoms, summer foliage, autumn color), special branching
effects, and other considerations. [Source: Existing Policy CD-11.5, modified]
Protecting Hillside Views
Encourage the layout of streets, blocks, and pedestrian corridors in new development to
provide views of hillsides. [Source: New Policy]
SR 17 On-Ramps and Overpasses
Coordinate with Caltrans to maintain and beautify overpasses, and create and maintain distinct
entrances into Los Gatos from SR 17 offramps, especially at Lark Avenue and SR 9, including
themed landscaped areas, use of natural terrain and elements, and public art. [Source: New
Policy]
Did you
know?
Landscaping of freeway off-ramps and on-ramps is a way to create a unique
urban design feel for a community. Freeways typically are monolithic concrete
and asphalt canyons and have limited landscaping and natural features. Unlike
many urban communities, Los Gatos is situated on a section of SR 17 that
includes dense natural vegetation that emulates the hillsides and forest land
that surrounds the community. One way to enhance this unique experience
along the freeway is to coordinate with Caltrans to landscape off-ramps which
lead into Town. Caltrans has an extensive history of working with communities
to create a unique sense of place through landscaping. Below are some
examples of the successful implementation of freeway landscaping.
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Street Activation
Structure Entrances
Require that building facades and entrances directly face an adjoining street frontage. [Source:
New Policy]
Outdoor Dining
Require that outdoor dining furniture and other outdoor elements in the public right of way be
moveable and not permanent. [Source: New Policy]
Buildings that Engage the Street
Require new development to be oriented to the public realm. New development shall
complement and actively engage the public realm through such features as building orientation,
setbacks, facade articulations, window glazing, and location of parking. [Source: New Policy]
Adjacent Compatibility
Compatibility and Consistency
Require new structures, remodels, landscapes, and hardscapes be designed to be
architecturally consistent and similar in mass and scale with adjacent development to minimize
compatibility issues. [Source: Existing Policy CD-1.2]
Transition in Scale
Require that the scale and massing of new developments provide transitions in building height
and massing to the physical and visual character of adjoining neighborhoods.
[Source: New Policy]
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-15
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
Eyes on the Street
New development with a street frontage shall incorporate a street oriented front entrance.
Units not facing the street shall be oriented to provide visual access to entryways, pedestrian
pathways, recreation areas, and public spaces. [Source: New Policy]
Reducing Vegetation Overgrowth
Vegetation (i.e., bushes, shrubs, flowers) shall be maintained at a height of no more than three
feet when located adjacent to pedestrian pathways and building facades and placed in a such a
manner that does not obstruct lighting. [Source: New Policy]
Adequate Pedestrian Lighting
Pedestrian-oriented lighting shall be provided in active pedestrian areas and common areas for
safety and security. [Source: New Policy]
Accessible Structural Elements
Drainpipes, parapets, ledges, and other easily climbable and accessible architectural features
should not be located near windows, corridors, and balconies. If such placement is not
avoidable, these features shall face parking lots, public spaces, and streets and be placed in
such a manner in which the public view of the feature is unobstructed. [Source: New Policy]
Glazing Visibility
Require that commercial, mixed-use, and industrial developments do not exceed a maximum of
25 percent of glazing obstructions of street facing windows in the form of signage,
advertisements, and interior furnishings that obstruct the view into the structure. [Source: New
Policy]
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Common Open Space
Community Gathering Spaces
Encourage new developments to include common open space areas in the form of public
gathering spaces (i.e., plazas, squares, pocket parks ) that are designed to stimulate pedestrian
activity and complement the appearance and form of adjoining buildings. [Source: New Policy]
Public Realm Improvements
Encourage improvements to the public realm, including street trees, street furniture, paving,
landscaping, and lighting. [Source: New Policy]
Private Open Space
Incorporation of Balconies
Encourage the placement of usable balconies on upper story residential units. [Source: New
Policy]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-17
Ground Floor Private Open Space
Encourage that all multi-family developments include a minimum of 40 square feet of private
open space in the form of a covered or uncovered patio to allow for light, air, and a private
space. [Source: New Policy]
Site Development
Climate Considerations in Site Design
Encourage applicants to consider the Mediterranean climate in Los Gatos and plan for
sustainable site design to address adequate solar access, water conservation and retention,
and wind conditions. [Source: New Policy]
New Home Siting
Require new homes to be sited to maximize privacy, livability, protection of natural plant and
wildlife habitats and migration corridors. Siting should take advantage of scenic views, but
should not create significant ecological or visual impacts affecting open spaces, public places,
or other properties. [Source: Existing Policy CD-6.4, modified]
Linking with Existing Developments
Encourage linking new developments to existing developments through the creation of internal
street systems that allow travel by foot, bicycles, and vehicles. [Source: New Policy]
Park and Trail Connections
New developments shall create connections to existing trails, paths, and parks. [Source: New
Policy]
Natural Contours
Require that buildings, landscapes, and hardscapes follow the natural contours of the subject
property. [Source: Existing Policy CD-1.3, modified]
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Loading and Service Areas
Require all mixed-use, commercial, and industrial developments to include loading and service
areas that are integrated into the overall building composition. [Source: New Policy]
Equipment Screening
Require that all development screen mechanical
equipment, trash and recycling enclosures,
venting, heating and a/c ducts, water meters, and
electrical boxes from public view. [Source: New
Policy]
Solid Fencing
Require solid fencing over three feet high to be
designed so that it does not isolate the structures
from the street, or it shall be set back and
landscaped. [Source: Existing Policy CD-3.8,
modified]
Signage
Maintain and enforce the Los Gatos Sign Regulations in the Zoning Code to ensure appropriate
placement, size, and scale of signs is consistent with the structure, as well as to minimize the
potential for traffic hazards and glare. [Source: New Policy]
Lighting
Street and Structural Lighting
Require street and structural lighting to minimize its visual impacts by preventing glare, limiting
the amount of light that falls on neighboring properties, and avoiding light pollution of the night
sky. [Source: Existing Policy CD-3.2, modified]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-19
Specialty Lighting
Encourage specialty lighting for mixed-use and commercial developments such as string
lighting, pole mounted lighting, tree-hanging lighting, to further illuminate the site during
nighttime hours. [Source: New Policy]
Landscaping
Landscape Buffering
Encourage the use of landscaping such as trees, shrubs, and trellised vines to mitigate the
effects of building mass, lower noise, and reduce heat generation. [Source: Existing Policy CD-
3.4]
Visual Continuity through Landscaping
Require new development to provide visual continuity through tree planting, consistent use of
low shrubs, and ground cover. [Source: Existing Policy CD-4.5, modified]
Landscaped Medians
Provide landscaped medians incorporating native and drought tolerant landscaping where there
is sufficient right-of-way. [Source: New Policy]
Sustainable Landscape Design
Encourage landscaping plans to maximize the use of trees for energy efficiency, climate
control, screening, shading (especially of parking lots), and aesthetics. [Source: Existing Policy
CD-4.7]
Plant Selection
Require landscaping plans to use a minimum of 60 percent local native plants and/or drought
resistant plants. [Source: Existing Policy CD-4.8, modified]
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Public Art
Highlight Existing Public Art
Promote existing public art in the Town. [Source: New Policy]
Accessible and Functional Public Art
Encourage functional and easily accessible art pieces. [Source: New Policy]
Require Public Art
Support new commercial and mixed-use development to install public art or provide an in-lieu
contribution where the installation of public art is not feasible. [Source: New Policy]
Placement of Public Art
Public art shall be placed in highly visible and high traffic areas, such as along major
thoroughfares or in public gathering spaces. [Source: New Policy]
Murals
Encourage the incorporation of murals or similar public art in new developments. [Source: New
Policy]
Community Identity and Gateways
Town Identification
Support the incorporation of the Town logo or other historical and symbolic identifiers on
community signage, streetlamp banners, Town gateways, and street furniture and furnishings .
[Source: New Policy]
Wayfinding Program
Encourage the incorporation of a Townwide wayfinding program that highlights important
cultural centers and landmarks, municipal buildings, parks and recreation facilities, tourist
attractions, and commercial centers. [Source: New Policy]
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October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-21
Gateway Sign Program
Support a gateway sign program for primary gateway and secondary gateway signs along
major corridors. See Figure 4-1 for location of primary and secondary gateways. [Source: New
Policy]
Enhanced Town Gateways
Ensure that public improvements and private development work together to enhance the sense
of entry at outer gateways to the Town. [Source: New Policy]
Freeway Identification
Coordinate with Caltrans on permitting public art, Town identification signage, and street names
on overpasses on SR 17 to delineate Los Gatos from adjacent communities. [Source: New
Policy]
Landscaped Gateways
Provide landscaped Town gateways that create visual connection between the importance of
the natural hillsides and open space areas to the community of Los Gatos.
[Source: New Policy]
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Figure 4-1 Gateways
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-23
Community identification is key to distinguishing one community from
another. This perhaps is most difficult along expressway and freeway
corridors where there is minimal distinction between adjacent
jurisdictions. Los Gatos has a unique opportunity to use SR 17 to
emphasize Town boundaries, community history, and capture the
attention of travelers and motorists. The ability to enhance
community identity beyond the traditional Town limits is becoming
more common. Over the last few decades several Bay Area
communities have partnered with Caltrans to improve and enhance
sound attenuation walls, provide the opportunity for murals and public
art, as well as provide identification and signage along overpasses.
Below are some examples of how other communities in California and
around the country have enhanced identification of their community
through signage, public art, and landscaping.
Did you
know?
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4.3 Historic Preservation
The Town of Los Gatos prides itself on a commitment to preserve and maintain historic structures in the
community. Through the adoption of designated sites and Historic Districts by the Town Council, historic
preservation has become a dedicated service revered by the community, which has led to the preservation and
rehabilitation of historic landmarks and structures. The five Historic Districts regulated by the adopted Historic
Preservation Ordinance, include: Downtown Commercial; Almond Grove; Broadway; Fairview Plaza; and
University-Edelen. The overall intent of the Historic Preservation Ordinance is to preserve historic and
architectural resources in Los Gatos. The Ordinance established a Historic Preservation Committee and a
Historic Preservation Program that includes a comprehensive series of standards and guidelines concerning the
preservation and demolition of historic structures, design guidelines for rehabilitation and new construction, and
guidance in the application of historic preservation standards. The Town continues to recognize historic
resources as follows: any structure/site that is located within an historic district; any structure/site that is
historically designated; or any primary structure constructed prior to 1941, unless the Town has determined that
the structure has no historic significance or architectural merit. [Source: Existing General Plan, modified]
The following goals and policies support the preservation of historical structures and landmarks in Los Gatos for
the enjoyment of future generations.
Preserve significant historic and architectural features within the Town. [Source:
Existing General Plan, Goal: CD-12, modified]
Avoid Demolition of Historic Buildings
Avoid demolishing historic buildings, unless the Historic Preservation Committee finds, based
on substantial evidence, that there is no feasible means to ensure the preservation of the
structure. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.1, modified]
Reuse of Existing Buildings
Encourage the preservation, maintenance, and adaptive reuse of existing residential,
commercial, or public buildings. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.2]
Historic Structure Preservation
Preserve and protect historic structures, including those that have been designated or are
contributors to existing historic districts. Use special care in reviewing new buildings or
remodels in the vicinity of historic structures to addres s compatibility issues and potential
impacts. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.3]
Historic Preservation Programs
Continue the Town’s careful and proactive historic preservation programs, tempered with
compassion and understanding of property owners’ needs, desires, and financial capabilities.
[Source: Existing Policy CD-12.4]
Historic Preservation Committee Review
Require the referral of zone changes, planned development applications, and zoning approvals
that may result in the demolition of historic structures to the Historic Preservation Committee for
review and recommendation. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.5, modified]
New Structures within Historic Districts
Require new structures within historic districts to be designed to blend within the existing
neighborhood. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.6, modified]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-25
Potential Impacts to Historic Landmarks and Features
Require all projects to consider any adverse effect to historic landmarks and features on or in
the vicinity of the proposed project. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.7, modified]
Historic Site Impact Mitigation
Require any development having potential adverse impacts on historical sites and/or features
on or in the vicinity of historical sites to:
a) Accommodate the historical structure or feature;
b) Mitigate potential adverse impacts to a level acceptable to the Town; or
c) Relocate the historical feature to an appropriate site. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.8]
Historic Structure Use or Donation
Encourage property owners to use historic structures or, if not feasible, encourage their
donation to the Town. [Source: Existing Policy CD-12.9]
Support and encourage thoughtful rehabilitation or reuse of historic structures.
[Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: CD-13, modified]
Historic Structure Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation of damaged historic structures shall be consistent with the policies of the Safety
Element and the State Historic Building Code. [Source: Existing Policy CD-13.1]
Historic Structure Renovations
Require renovations or remodels of historic structures to be architecturally consistent with the
original structure. [Source: Existing Policy CD-13.2, modified]
Restoration Project Assistance
Provide applicants and developers with information and staff time to assist in restoration
projects. [Source: Existing Policy CD-13.3]
Financial Benefit Information
Provide information about financial benefits including tax law benefits for rehabilitation of
historic structures and the vibrant historic downtown. [Source: Existing Policy CD-13.4]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-26 Public Review Draft October 2020
4.4 Hillside Development
The Hillsides comprise most of the southern portion of Los Gatos. Rural in character, hillside areas boast larger,
wooded lots and private access roads. In January 2004, the Town adopted the Hillside Development Standards
and Guidelines, which apply to all new hillside development and major hillside additions and renovations. The
intent of the Hillside Development Standards and Guidelines and Hillside Specific Plan is to regulate development
in order to preserve the hillsides. [Source: New Text]
The following goals and policies support the preservation of hillside areas.
Preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Santa Cruz Mountains
and surrounding hillsides by regulating new homes. [Source: Existing General Plan,
Goal: CD-14, modified]
Rural Atmosphere Preservation
Minimize development and preserve and enhance the rural atmosphere and natural plant and
wildlife habitats in the hillsides. [Source: Existing Policy CD-14.1]
Hillside Development Limitation
Limit hillside development to that which can be safely accommodated by the Town’s rural, two -
lane roads. [Source: Existing Policy CD-14.2]
Effective Visible Mass
Reduce effective visible mass through such means as stepping structures up and down the
hillside, following topographical contours, and limiting the height and mass of wall planes. A
maximum of two stories shall be visible from every elevation. [Source: Existing Policy CD-14.3,
modified]
Hillside Area Environmental Analysis Requirement
Require adequate environmental analysis for projects in hillside areas to ensure appropriate
consideration of potential environmental impacts associated with projects. [Source: Existing
Policy CD-14.5, modified]
Mountain and Hillside Viewshed Preservation
Preserve and protect the natural state of the Santa Cruz Mountains and surrounding hillsides
by discouraging inappropriate development on and near the hillsides that significantly impacts
viewsheds. [Source: Existing Policy CD-14.6]
Hillside Development Standards Update
Continue to coordinate with the County in updating the County’s Hillside Development
Standards and encourage annexations within the Urban Service Boundary. [Source: Existing
Policy CD-14.7, modified]
Preserve the natural topography and ecosystems within the hillside area by
regulating grading, landscaping, and lighting. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal:
CD-15]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-27
Natural Ridge Line Protection
Protect the natural ridge lines as defined in the Hillside Specific Plan and Hillside Development
Standards and Guidelines. [Source: Existing Policy CD-15.1]
Ridge Line Grading Prohibition
Prohibit any grading that would alter the natural ridge line. [Source: Existing Policy CD-15.2]
Natural Land Contours
New construction shall be designed to follow natural land contours and avoid mass grading.
When possible, flat pads should be avoided and houses should be designed to conform to or
step down the contours rather than be designed for flat pads. Grading large, flat yard areas
should be avoided. [Source: Existing Policy CD-15.3]
Hillside Landscaping Design
Hillside landscaping shall be designed with the following goals in mind:
a) Minimizing formal landscaping and hardscape;
b) Siting formal landscaping and hardscape close to the house ;
c) Following the natural topography; and
d) Preserving native trees, native plant and wildlife habitats, and migration corridors. [Source:
Existing Policy CD-15.4]
Fences in Hillside Areas
Fences shall be of open design unless required for privacy. [Source: Existing Policy CD-15.6,
modified]
Lighting Design in Hillside Areas
Review all new development proposals to ensure that:
a) Outdoor lighting shall be limited;
b) Outdoor lighting shall be shielded to not be viewed from the Town in non-hillside areas;
c) Permitted lighting shall be of low intensity and for safety purposes; and
d) Lighted sports courts shall be prohibited.
The effects of indoor lights should be studied and reduced if found to be excessive. [Source:
Existing Policy CD-15.7, modified]
4.5 Community Place District s
Within the Town, eight Community Place Districts were identified as areas that have unique characteristics that
warrant specific community design policies specific to the area because of the potential for change (Figure 4-2).
These Community Place Districts are focused on major corridors in Los Gatos that anticipate the most change as
a result of the 2040 General Plan. Each Community Place District includes an overview of exiting uses on the
ground today (2020) and well as an aspirational 2040 Vision for what the Community Place is intended to become
over the next 20 years. [Source: New Text]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-28 Public Review Draft October 2020
Figure 4-2 Community Place Districts
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-29
Applicable to All Community Place Districts
Enhance specific districts and areas to guide redevelopment of unique places in
the community. [Source: New Goal]
District Signage
Encourage the incorporation of signage that announces the entrance to the individual
community place districts. [Source: New Policy]
Neighborhood-Friendly Design
Encourage buildings and sites within all Community Place Districts to integrate design features
that create a pedestrian and neighborhood-friendly environment, including siting buildings close
to the sidewalks, providing space for small plazas, and including public art. [Source: New
Policy]
Outdoor Seating
Encourage outdoor seating for restaurants/coffee shops and other hospitality -oriented
businesses, when the quality of adjacent neighborhoods can be maintained. [Source: Existing
Policy CD-10.2, modified]
Wider Sidewalks
Encourage wider sidewalks up to a width of at least six feet to enhance the pedestrian
environment. [Source: New Policy]
Encourage Aesthetic Improvements to Shopping Centers
Encourage shopping centers to undertake aesthetic improvements. [Source: New Policy]
Encourage Active Residential Fronts
Encourage residential development to include a front porch, stoop, courtyard, or similar style
gathering space to foster community amongst neighbors and other community members.
[Source: New Policy]
Enhanced Landscaping
Support the incorporation of planters, park strips, and landscaped buffers between the sidewalk
and street to create a pedestrian oriented atmosphere. [Source: New Policy]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-30 Public Review Draft October 2020
Downtown District
The Downtown is the historic heart of Los Gatos. It encompasses the southwest section of Town and is generally
bounded by Blossom Hill Road and Pine Avenue to the north; Glen Ridge Avenue to the west; Wood Road,
College Avenue, and Cleland Avenue to the south; and Los Gatos Boulevard to the east. To man y, the
Downtown in generalities is larger, but for the purpose of the General Plan this area has been provided with
specific boundaries. The Downtown District encompasses parcels designated as the Central Business District
General Plan land use designation, shown on the General Plan land use map. [Source: New Text]
The Downtown District is composed of many 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. Spanning from the era of Queen Anne
and Richardson Romanesque to Art Deco, the Downtown District has a rich history of architectural excellence.
The Downtown District is home to many outdoor public spaces including the Town Plaza Park -Los Gatos’s civic
green space, which hosts several popular community events that draw visitors regionally. Located within and
adjacent to the Downtown District are the Town's Historic Districts which are meant to honor and preserve Los
Gatos's roots as a rural foothill community built along the rail line. For a discussion on the Historic Districts and
their boundaries as it relates to land use, see Goal LU-14 in the Land Use Element. For goals and policies
relating to Historic Preservation reference Section 4.3 of this Element. [Source: New Text]
Figure 4-3 Downtown District
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-31
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-32 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Downtown District
The 2040 General Plan envisions a bright future for the Downtown District. The fundamentals and successful
implementation of over a century worth of planning and design has made this district the gem of the Town. The
Downtown District will preserve its unique architectural character and will prohibit conflicting styles from erasing
what is Downtown. Downtown District buildings will continue to remain, and new structures will be constructed at
a human-scale to not disrupt the continuity of the historic development pattern. [Source: New Text]
Where consistent with the General Plan, the Downtown District will encourage multi -story buildings to include
office and residential uses on floors above the first floor. The Downtown District will provide a truly walkable
environment, where sidewalks will be widened where feasible, creating a more pedestrian friendly environment.
The expanded sidewalks will include additional space for outdoor dining, public art, and street furniture and
furnishings. To enhance the visitor experience of the Downtown District, digital display informational kiosks with
establishment directories will provide the perfect 21st Century amenity. Updated building signage, a Downtown
wayfinding system, and gateway entrance signs to the Downtown District will mark the Downtown as the core of
the community. The Downtown District will continue to thrive as one of the most beloved areas of the Town and
one that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so. [Source: New Text]
Preserve the character of Downtown Los Gatos and the quality of life for its citizens
through high-quality building design. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal: CD-9,
modified]
Reinforce Downtown Identity
Differentiate Downtown Los Gatos as the cultural and social hub for the Town by enhancing
architecture, landscaping, public spaces, and the streetscape. [Source: New Policy]
Exterior Building Materials
Exterior building materials in the Downtown District should be consistent with those used on
surrounding buildings. [Source: Existing Policy CD-9.1, modified]
Compatible Scale
Maintain existing compatibility and consistency amongst existing historic development and new
development by ensuring adjacent structures are compatible in scale and massing. [Source:
New Policy]
Decorative Bollards – Downtown District
Encourage the use of decorative bollards at all pedestrian crossings at street intersections to
improve vehicle and pedestrian safety in the Downtown District. [Source: New Policy]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-33
Parklets – Downtown District
Encourage the use of parklets and other forms of public open space and gathering areas in
street parking spaces in the Downtown District. [Source: New Policy]
Historic Architectural Core
Reinforce the historic architectural core of Los Gatos by prohibiting the inclusion of modern,
contemporary, mid-century modern, and industrial modern architecture Downtown. [Source:
New Policy]
Maintain Existing Downtown Buildings
Encourage the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, reuse, and maintenance of existing
buildings Downtown. [Source: Existing Policy CD-10.1]
Signs in the Downtown
Public signs, directional signs, informational signs, and other signs within Downtown District
should be designed so as to be distinctive enough in their form and color that the observer will
identify them within Downtown. [Source: Existing Policy CD-11.3, modified]
Signs and Graphics and Commercial Design Guidelines
Encourage Downtown signs and graphics to maintain the Town's small-scale appearance and
be consistent with the Commercial Design Guidelines. [Source: Existing Policy CD-11.2,
modified]
Street Furniture Design
Street furniture and equipment, such as lamp standards, traffic signals, street signs, refuse
receptacles, bus shelters, drinking fountains, planters, kiosks, flag poles, and other elements of
the street environment, shall be designed to be cohesive and represent the overall design and
reinforce the architectural history in Downtown. [Source: Existing Policy CD-11.4, modified]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-34 Public Review Draft October 2020
Harwood Road District
The Harwood Road District is focused on the intersection of Harwood Road and Blossom Hill Road in Los Gatos,
abutting the City of San Jose. This district also includes the Blossom Hill Square Shopping Center which anchors
the intersection of Harwood and Blossom Hill Roads. The commercial center on the corner of Harwood and
Blossom Hill Road is home to national anchor chains such as Walgreens and Starbucks . The layout of the
center, like most in Los Gatos, is auto-oriented with a street fronting surface parking lot with access points on
either side of the intersection. Unlike several other areas in Town this commercial center serves not only the
residents of Los Gatos, but also the residents of San Jose. The district is surrounded by low-density residential,
with a few medium-density residential designated parcels intermixed that use the center primarily for daily needs.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-35
Figure 4-4 Harwood Road District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-36 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Harwood Road District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions a revamp of the shopping center in the Harwood District. This
district will become a primary commercial hub for the east end of the community and serve as a gathering place
for community members to mingle and enjoy local amenities. The Harwood District is envisioned to include
upgrades to the commercial center focusing on updated contemporary design through changes in paint,
materials, and structure placement. To reduce visual incompatibility, dense landscape buffers will obscure the
commercial structures from the residential and all lighting will be shielded to prevent glare in residential areas.
Building placement will become a key component to creating a walkable environment. In lieu of surface lots
fronting the street, structure and future retail pads will be shifted to abut the sidewalk creating a more pedestrian
friendly environment. Parking will be focused inward with the remaining development wrapping it, shielding the
parking from public view. Office space will be intermingled with commercial uses to create a more mixed -use
focused district. [Source: New Text]
To limit the blending of communities between Los Gatos and San Jose, the Harwood District will include gateway
signage and increased landscaped areas welcoming people to Los Gatos and creating a clear and unique
defining line for the community.
NOTE: For the Goal and Policies that apply to the Harwood Road District, refer to Goal CD-7 and
associated policies which apply to all districts.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-37
Lark Avenue District
The Lark District includes a portion of Winchester Boulevard, Lark Avenue from Winchester Boulevard to
University Avenue, and a segment of University Avenue including a portion of the Los Gatos Creek Trail. The
area most of the Town’s industrial uses and office complexes, as well as primary frontage on Los Gatos Creek .
The industrial and office buildings in the Lark District along University Avenue are antiquated in design and layout.
These office parks are reminiscent of the technology boom in the early 1980’s, which included the development of
vast single-story office parks and campuses, with an abundance of parking. This style of office and industrial
development is of time’s past. Contemporary office park design includes a mix of uses and amenities, multi -story
structures in lieu of single-story structures, integrated public gathering spaces, and a variety of onsite amenities
for employees. The district currently is surrounded by a mix of low- and medium-density residential.
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-38 Public Review Draft October 2020
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-39
Figure 4-5 Lark Avenue District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-40 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Lark Avenue District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions a Lark District that encapsulates modern office park planning and
development and that integrates the Lark District natural features and recreation opportunities. This District will
include integrated office style developments that support multi-story development and subterranean parking.
Removing surface lots will allow increased space for private open space areas for employees to recreate. The
developments will include entrances not only along University Avenue, but along t he Los Gatos Creek Trail
allowing a viable option for cyclist commuters to get to work without relying on heavily used streets and corridors.
Opening the development to the natural terrain of Los Gatos Creek and the trail will also allow a seamless
transition between the natural and built environments. [Source: New Text]
Encourage the development of a diverse Lark Avenue District that supports
updated office and industrial complexes and buildings, and creates a connection
to the Los Gatos Creek Trail. [Source: New Goal]
Multi-Story Office Development
Encourage all new or remodeled office developments in the Lark Avenue District to have a
minimum of two stories for massing and articulation consistency along University Avenue.
[Source: New Policy]
Subterranean Parking
Encourage developments in the Lark Avenue District to provide subterranean parking or
parking structures in lieu of surface parking to provide additional space for the development of
common open space. [Source: New Policy]
Connection to Los Gatos Creek Trail
Encourage development that is adjacent to the Los Gatos Creek Trail to provide secondary
access to the trail. [Source: New Policy]
Linkage
Require all new or remodeled developments to include connections and linkages in the form of
walkways or paseos between adjacent developments. [Source: New Policy]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-41
Los Gatos Boulevard District
The Los Gatos Boulevard District extends along Los Gatos Boulevard from Louis Van Meter Elementary School
north to the Town boundary. Currently, this area is primarily an auto-oriented corridor with a with a mixture of
stand-alone retail and offices as well commercial centers and car dealerships, such as Blossom Hill Pavilion,
King’s Court, Cornerstone, El Gato Village, and Los Gatos Village Square. Many of the commercial shopping
centers are setback far from the street with large expansive surface parking lots fronting the Boulevard. This has
led to a reduced pedestrian-oriented environment, where the pedestrian and cyclists are wedged between a busy
thoroughfare and bustling parking lots. The design of most shopping centers on Los Gatos Boulevard are dated
and reflect post-war commercial development which was heavily implemented during the building booms in the
later half of the 20th Century in the Bay Area. This type of development focused on single-use centers with limited
ability to incorporate other uses such as office and residential. Residential neighborhoods backing the commercial
corridor are primarily low-density residential but include some medium- and high-density parcels.
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-42 Public Review Draft October 2020
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-43
Figure 4-6 Los Gatos Boulevard District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-44 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Los Gatos Boulevard District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions a comprehensive transformation of Los Gatos Boulevard from a
1950’s auto-oriented corridor to multi-modal District with 21st Century amenities. The Los Gatos Boulevard
District in 2040 and beyond will become more pedestrian-oriented with more clearly identified bike lanes and
wider sidewalks, providing a safer environment for all residents. This Community Place District will include safety
improvements including an increased amount of mid-block pedestrian crossings and bollards at primary
intersections to reduce the potential for vehicle and pedestrian collisions. The Los Gatos Boulevard District will
focus on increased landscaping, by implementing landscaped medians using regional drought tolerant plants and
trees that will reduce the monolithic concrete and asphalt appearance of the area. The introduction of increased
landscaping and vegetation will also provide visual consistency between the Boulevard and the scenic backdrop
of the Santa Cruz Mountains, which the Town is known for. [Source: New Text]
The numerous shopping centers along the Boulevard will be enhanced through aesthetic upgrades to the
developments including enhancement of structures through paint, materials, and structure placement. In an effort
to create a walkable environment, all commercial areas will be linked throughout a series of walkways and
paseos, connecting to the wider sidewalks along the Boulevard, reducing the need to rely on vehicles to travel
between centers. A vibrant mix of housing styles will be implemented into the c ommercial centers creating a
mixed-use environment for families and individuals of all ages. Housing in the form of lofts, live/work units,
apartments, condominiums, and townhomes will be incorporated adjacent to and above commercial development.
The integration of office space and hospitality uses such as restaurants and hotels will breathe even more life into
the area, creating a place that residents desire to live, work, and play. [Source: New Text]
Development will focus on increased street activation. This will be achieved by having development front the
Boulevard placing an emphasis on the pedestrian and not the automobile. Parking will be placed in the rear of
developments either in the form of surface lots, parking structures, or subterranean par king. This will free up
valuable land for increased outdoor amenities in the form of parks, plazas, and other common open space areas.
The Los Gatos Boulevard District will not only become a destination for the community of Los Gatos to
congregate, but also attract visitors from across the Bay Area to experience the uniqueness of the community.
[Source: New Text]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-45
Encourage Los Gatos Boulevard to become an integrated district that includes a
diverse range of uses and urban design methods. [Source: New Goal]
Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
Encourage the creation of a Los Gatos Boulevard Plan that incorporates the unique aspects of
the Boulevard and provides guidance for future development, community amenities, and design
considerations. [Source: New Policy]
Setbacks and Step Backs of Massing
Require medium density, high density, and mixed-use parcels in the Los Gatos Boulevard
District adjacent to Single-Family parcels to include increased site setbacks and multi-story
step backs to minimize the impact and increase compatibility with s maller adjacent structures.
[Source: New Policy]
Street Fronting Balconies
Require that mixed-use and multi-family developments include balconies for at least 50 percent
of the residential units which front Los Gatos Boulevard. [Source: New Policy]
Ground Floor Height
Require a minimum of 40 percent of the ground floor of all new mixed-use structures on Los
Gatos Boulevard to have a minimum height of 12 feet. [Source: New Policy]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-46 Public Review Draft October 2020
Corner Fronting Entrances
Support corner fronting entrances on Los Gatos Boulevard with additional architectural
elements (i.e., tower, spire, clock, turret) that are allowed to exceed the allowable height by no
more than 12 feet. [Source: New Policy]
Wider Sidewalks
Encourage wider sidewalks along Los Gatos Boulevard to enhance the pedestrian
environment. [Source: New Policy]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-47
Ground Floor Parking Structure Activation
Encourage parking structures adjacent to Los Gatos Boulevard to include an active ground
floor facing the street which provides a commercial or office component. A limited number of
parking and vehicle entrance bays should be allowed on the ground floor. [Source: New Policy]
Limitation on Surface Parking
Limit onsite surface parking by reducing the allowed coverage amount for paved non -structure
areas. [Source: New Policy]
Buffering Parking Lots
Require that surface parking lots include a vegetative and/or landscape buffer to create
separation between uses and minimize compatibility issues. [Source: New Policy]
Mid-Block Crossings
Encourage the installment of mid-block crossings to reduce vehicle speed and transform Los
Gatos Boulevard from an auto-centric environment to a multi-modal environment. [Source: New
Policy]
Decorative Bollards – Los Gatos Boulevard District
Encourage the use of decorative bollards at all pedestrian crossings at street intersections in
the Los Gatos Boulevard District to improve vehicle and pedestrian safety. [Source: New
Policy]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-48 Public Review Draft October 2020
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, adjacent to, but not including Downtown Los Gatos. 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. The North Santa Cruz Avenue District is currently a mixture of a variety of building types and
styles with little to no continuity. This lends itself to a unique feel different from its adjacent district, Downtown.
This area also includes a mix of medium- and high-density housing, as well as a strip of commercial uses along
North Santa Cruz Avenue.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-49
Figure 4-7 North Santa Cruz Avenue District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-50 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: North Santa Cruz Avenue District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions the Santa Cruz Avenue District as an extension of Downtown
with an eclectic mix of businesses and restaurants. The overall building massing and form will remain consistent
with the Downtown so as to not create a juxtaposition between areas. Unlike Downtown, the North Santa Cruz
Avenue District will maintain architectural diversity and will provide varying styles that evoke different periods in
the Town’s rich history. A continual emphasis on a pedestrian-oriented environment will include expansion of
sidewalks and increased street activated amenities such as outdoor dining and street retail. The North Santa
Cruz Avenue District will also encourage the incorporation of second and third story lofts an d apartments above
existing businesses to provide additional housing types for community members to create a truly mixed -use
corridor. Expansion of both private and common open space areas in the form of rooftop decks and parklets will
provide vibrancy to the area that is currently lacking. Continual use of tree planting and varied landscaping will
bolster this District and provide visual connection and link to Vasona County Park located at the northern end of
North Santa Cruz Avenue District. [Source: New Text]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-51
Encourage the establishment of the North Santa Cruz Avenue District as an
extension of the Downtown providing for additional architectural styles and
streetscape enhancements to create a unique space. [Source: New Goal]
Live-Work Spaces
Encourage the integration of live-work spaces for commercial parcels fronting North Santa Cruz
Avenue in order to create a vibrant working district. [Source: New Policy]
Design Influences
Encourage new development in the North Santa Cruz Avenue District to inclu de design
elements and principles rooted in the Craftsman and Spanish Architectural movements.
[Source: New Policy]
Parklets
Encourage the use of parklets and other forms of public open space and gathering areas in
underutilized street parking spaces in the North Santa Cruz Avenue District. [Source: New
Policy]
Further Outdoor Dining
Continue to promote the use of outdoor dining to emphasize street activation, community, and
comradery in the North Santa Cruz Avenue District. [Source: New Policy]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-52 Public Review Draft October 2020
Pollard Road District
The Pollard Road District is around the intersection of Pollard Road and More Avenue, abutting the City of
Campbell. This district is anchored by the Rinconada Shopping Center at the intersection of Pollard Road and
More Avenue. Rinconada Shopping Center is anchored by a grocery store and other retail and hospitality
businesses. The layout of the center, like most commercial centers in Los Gatos, is auto-oriented with a street
fronting surface parking with access points on either side of the intersection. The one major difference compared
to other commercial centers is that the Rinconada Shopping Center is truly neighborhood serving. The district is
surrounded by residential areas that use the center primarily for daily needs. Pollard Road is also not as heavily
traveled as other arterials in the community making this a unique opportunity for an enhanced neighborhood
focused center.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-53
Figure 4-8 Pollard Road District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-54 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Pollard Road District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions a revamp of the Rinconada Shopping Center in the Pollard Road
District. This district will become the primary neighborhood gathering space and commercial center for the
surrounding residential areas. The Pollard Road District is envisioned to include upgrades to the commercial
center focusing on updated design through changes in paint, materials, and structure placement. In an effort to
activate the street front, future commercial development will be re-situated to front the street, re-locating all
surface parking lots to the rear of the property, shielding the parking from public view. Like the Harwood District,
a dense landscape buffer will be incorporated at the rear of the center to obscure the commercial structures from
the residential. In addition, all lighting will be shielded to prevent glare in residential areas. [Source: New Text]
To create a more inviting and pedestrian friendly neighborhood environment, the Pollard Road District will include
wider sidewalks, the installation of additional street trees, and landscaped park strips. Office and residential uses
are encouraged on the second floor of commercial spaces to create a holistic mixed-use environment that has a
similar density to that of the surrounding neighborhoods, thus reducing compatibility issues with adjacent
properties. The Pollard Road District will encourage increased use of the sidewalk space for outdoor dining and
seating areas, creating a vibrant and unique street front. [Source: New Text]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-55
Encourage the creation of a neighborhood focused Pollard Road District with local
amenities for surrounding residences. [Source: New Goal]
Limit Building Height
Prohibit the development of commercial buildings over two-stories in height within the Pollard
Road District. [Source: New Policy]
Parking Lot Landscape Buffer
Require parking lots to include a landscape buffer of dense plantings with a minimum depth of
10 feet within the Pollard Road District. [Source: New Policy]
Public Realm Enhancements
Encourage the placement of landscaped enhancements such as flower baskets, urns, and
large pots at the corners of Pollard Road and More Avenue. [Source: New Policy]
Parking Lot Placement
Discourage parking lot placement along Pollard Road by encouraging onsite parking to be
located in the rear of the property shielded from public view. [Source: New Policy]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-56 Public Review Draft October 2020
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. The layout of the center like most in Los Gatos is
auto-oriented with a street fronting surface parking with access points on either side of the intersecti on. Unlike
several other areas in Town this commercial center serves not only the residents of Los Gatos, but also the
residents of San Jose. This area primarily includes low -density and medium-density residential.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-57
Figure 4-9 Union Avenue District
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-58 Public Review Draft October 2020
Vision 2040: Union Avenue District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions a revamp of the shopping center in the Union Avenue District.
The District will become a primary commercial hub for this portion of the community and serve as a gathering
place for community members to mingle and enjoy local amenities. This district is envisioned to include upgrades
to the commercial center focusing on updated contemporary design through changes in paint, materials, and
structure placement. To reduce visual incompatibility, dense landscape buffers will obscure the commercial
structures from the residential and all lighting will be shielded to prevent glare in residential areas. Building
placement will become a key component to creating a walkable environment. In lieu of surface lots fronting the
street, structure and future retail pads will be shifted to abut the sidewalk creating a more pedestrian friendly
environment. Parking will be focused inward with the remaining development wrapping it, shielding the parkin g
from public view. Office space will be intermingled with commercial uses to create a more mixed -use focused
district. [Source: New Text]
To limit the blending of communities between Los Gatos and San Jose, the Union Avenue District will include
gateway signage and increased landscaped areas welcoming people to Los Gatos and creating a clear and
unique defining line for the community. [Source: New Text]
NOTE: For Goals and Policies related to the Union Avenue District, refer to Goal CD-7 and
associated policies.
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-59
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 office and medical uses
adjacent to Netflix and El Camino Hospital. The area currently is home to a complex mix of architectural styles
and development types with no cohesive form. Existing commercial, office, medical, and residential
developments are compartmentalized with a lack of cohesion and connectedness to adjacent properties.
Winchester Boulevard, the primary arterial in the District, is a wide thoroughfare with moderate traffic speeds
creating a reduced pedestrian-oriented environment. The commercial shopping centers in the Winchester
Boulevard District are not as dated as others in the community but could be enhanced to reflect consistent design
in the area. This area also primarily includes medium-density and high-density residential.
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-60 Public Review Draft October 2020
Figure 4-10 Winchester Boulevard District
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-61
Vision 2040: Winchester Boulevard District
The 2040 General Plan for Los Gatos envisions the Winchester Boulevard District as a community hub for
innovation, technology, and modern design. This District is perfectly situated for easy access to the adjacent
communities, as well as a direct link to Highway 85. Unlike all the other Districts in Los Gatos, the Winchester
Boulevard District will include modern amenities, a variety of entertainment venues, and hospitality -oriented
businesses geared toward the younger generation calling Los Gatos home. Wider sidewalks with the ability to
expand outdoor dining and retail will create a unique atmosphere unlike any other are in Town. An emphasis on
dense urban style housing in the form of live/work units, lofts, flats, apartments, micro-units, and condominiums
will provide ample housing opportunities for new families and working professionals. One distinction between
other Districts is to encourage housing that serves employees of the businesses located in the Winchester
Boulevard District, including those employed in the medical and technology fields. This will reduce the
dependence on the automobile and create a vibrant area where you can live, work, and dine. The area will also
be bolstered and designed as an urban center in anticipation of a potential future Vasona Light Rail Station.
[Source: New Text]
The Winchester Boulevard District will also include cohesive architectural styles focused on modern design. This
will include, but is not limited to, extensive use of glazing, exposed metals, natural woods, geometric building
forms, bold colors, simple building forms, and shed and flat style roofs. Designating the Winchester Boulevard
District specifically for modern design will preserve other areas in Town for historical development patterns and
styles, while still providing design flexibility for a changing region. The varying architectural diversity compared to
other places in Town will designate the Winchester District as a regional attraction. In order to provide a cohesive
connection to the rest of the community and to incentivize alternative modes of transportation, including for bikes
and pedestrians, the Winchester District will capitalize on its connection to the Los Gatos Creek Trail and
Downtown. As with the Lark District, developments will be encouraged to provide secondary entrances, paseos,
walkways and other linkages to connect to the Los Gatos Creek Trail. [Source: New Text]
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-62 Public Review Draft October 2020
Support the development of an architecturally modern Winchester Boulevard
District centered around multi-family housing, innovation centers, medical centers,
and technology-oriented businesses. [Source: New Goal]
Linking Employment and Housing
Provide clear linkages between residential developments and commercial and employment
centers, in the form of walkways, paseos, and paved trails. [Source: New Policy]
Connection to Los Gatos Creek Trail
Encourage development that is adjacent to the Los Gatos Creek Trail to provide secondary
access to the trail. [Source: New Policy]
Winchester Identity
Support the design of street furniture specific to the Winchester Boulevard District. [Source:
New Policy]
Zero Setbacks
Eliminate development setbacks to foster a more urban environment focused on corporate
centers, commercial shopping areas, medical services, and hospitality uses. [Source: New
Policy]
Modern Influences
Encourage the use of modern styles of architecture to distinguish the Winchester Boulevard
District as a unique and vibrant urban center in Town. [Source: New Policy]
Contemporary Design
Support extensive glazing, streamlined architectural lines and features, and shed style roof
lines to evoke a 21st Century Los Gatos in the Winchester Boulevard District. [Source: New
Policy]
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-63
4.6 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing A Mitigate the Effects of Past
Developments
Design and implement programs and
procedures to mitigate the effects of past
developments, and to review and prevent or
mitigate the impacts of future development
on community sustainability. [Source:
Existing Action CD-14.1]
Goal CD-1 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
◼
B Multi-Family Objective Design Standards
Amend the Town Code to include a
comprehensive set of Objective Design
Standards for incorporation into the Zoning
Ordinance. The Objective Design
Standards at a minimum shall be consistent
with the Community Design Element in the
General Plan and Senate Bill 35 (SB 35),
include quantifiable design standards, and
apply to all multi-family and mixed-use
zones. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
Goal CD-2 Community
Development
◼
C Study Expanding Setback Regulations
Conduct a study to research increasing yard
setback regulations to include
considerations for building height and
update the Town Code as necessary.
[Source: Existing Action CD-7.1]
CD-2.1
CD-2.2
CD-2.17
CD-2.31
CD-8.2
CD-10.4
Community
Development
◼
D Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design Parameters
Adopt a Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design (CPTED) Ordinance
that establishes design parameters for
buildings, streetscapes, and lighting which
help prevent crime. [Source: New
Implementation Program]
CD-2.34
CD-2.35
CD-2.36
CD-2.37
CD-2.38
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
Los Gatos –
Monte Sereno
Police
◼
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-64 Public Review Draft October 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing E Freeway Beautification
Study the feasibility of partnering with
Caltrans on including public art and themed
landscaping along freeway off- and on-
ramps, and along overpasses on SR 17.
[Source: New Implementation Program]
CD-2.59
CD-2.70
Town Manager
Parks and
Public Works
◼
F Public Art Ordinance
Study the feasibility of creating a Public Art
Ordinance that provides direction for
placement of public art and when public art
is required. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
CD-2.60
CD-2.61
CD-2.62
CD-2.63
CD-2.64
Town Manager
◼
G Gateway Sign Program
Create a gateway sign program that
addresses primary and secondary gateways
into the community and provides a clear
distinction of being in Los Gatos. [Source:
New Implementation Program]
CD-2.67
Town Manager
Parks and
Public Works
Community
Development
◼
H Review Historic Landmark Preservation
Legislation
Periodically review historic landmark and
preservation legislation and update the
Town Code as necessary. [Source: Existing
Action CD-12.2]
Goal CD-3 Community
Development
◼
I Conduct a Historic Resources Survey
Review the historic resources survey every
five years to identify valuable and historical
architectural styles and features within the
Central Business District, and residential
historic districts, as well as the potential to
add additional resources to the list. [Source:
Existing Action CD-10.1, modified]
CD-3.3
CD-3.4
Community
Development
◼ ◼
J Establish Public Information Programs
Establish public information programs
designed to make owners of historic
structures and the general public aware of
the value of historic buildings and to
encourage their maintenance. [Source:
Existing Action CD-12.1]
CD-3.4 Community
Development
Town Manager
◼
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-65
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing K Revise Buildable Slope Standards
Determine maximum buildable slope and
revise the Town Code accordingly. [Source:
Existing Action CD-15.1]
CD-5.1
CD-5.3
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
◼
L Study Scenic Easements Program
Study the feasibility of establishing a
program to acquire scenic easements
through dedication. [Source: Existing Action
CD-16.1]
CD-5.1
CD-5.4
CD-6.1
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
◼
M Update Hillside Development Plans
Update the Hillside Development Standards
and Guidelines. [Source: Existing Action
CD-14.3]
CD-5.7
CD-6.4
Community
Development
◼
N Revise the Grading Policy
Revise the Town’s grading policy to be
consistent with the General Plan, Hillside
Specific Plan, and Hillside Development
Standards and Guidelines. [Source: Existing
Action CD-15.2]
CD-6.2
CD-6.3
Parks and
Public Works
Community
Development
◼
O Adopt Guidelines to Protect the
Environment
Adopt guidelines for development review
that protect:
a) Rare plants and wildlife and their
habitats;
b) Natural watersheds;
c) Historic sites; and
d) Aesthetically significant sites. [Source:
Existing Action CD-17.6]
CD-6.5 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
◼
P Develop a Downtown Landscaping Plan
Develop and adopt a landscaping plan that
heightens user understanding of the
Downtown District. [Source: Existing Action
CD-11.3, modified]
CD-8.1
Community
Development
◼
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-66 Public Review Draft October 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing Q Commercial Design Guidelines Update
Update the Commercial Design Guidelines
to reflect the updated General Plan and to
ensure that new and remodeled buildings
strengthen the form and image of the Town
and Community Place Districts. [Source:
Existing Action CD-9.1, modified]
CD-8.1
CD-8.9
CD-8.10
Community
Development
◼
R Maintain Signage Design Controls
Maintain sign design standards and
guidelines to enhance the Town and
Downtown District. [Source: Existing Action
CD-11.2, modified]
CD-8.9
CD-8.10
Community
Development
◼
S Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
Update the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan so
itis consistent with the design policies
outlined for the Los Gatos Boulevard
District. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
CD-10.1
Community
Development
◼
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-67
Please see the next page.
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-68 Public Review Draft October 2020
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 Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD G CD-1 Preserve and enhance Los Gatos’s character through
exceptional community design.
Deleted
CD P CD-1.1 Building elements shall be in proportion with those
traditionally in the neighborhood.
CD-1.2
CD P CD-1.2 New structures, remodels, landscapes, and hardscapes shall
be designed to harmonize and blend with the scale and
rhythm of the neighborhood and natural features in the
area.
CD-2.26
CD P CD-1.3 Buildings, landscapes, and hardscapes shall follow the
natural contours of the property.
CD-2.41
CD P CD-1.4 Development on all elevations shall be of high quality
design and construction, a positive addition to and
compatible with the Town’s ambiance. Development
shall enhance the character and unique identity of existing
commercial and/or residential neighborhoods.
Deleted
CD P CD-1.5 Town staff shall evaluate projects to assess how built
characteristics, including scale, materials, hardscape, lights,
and landscape, blend into the surrounding neighborhood.
Deleted
CD P CD-1.6 Town staff shall review properties next to community
entry points when they are developed or redeveloped to
reflect the gateway concept.
Deleted
CD G CD-2 To limit the intensity of new development to a level
that is consistent with surrounding development
and with the Town at large.
Deleted
CD P CD-2.1 Building setbacks shall increase as mass and height
increase.
CD-2.1
CD P CD-2.2 Limit the amount of increase in the floor area of a project
when the number of units is reduced as part of the
development review process.
Deleted
CD P CD-2.3 A maximum total floor area for new subdivisions and
planned developments shall be set as part of the approval
process.
Deleted
CD A CD-2.1 Conduct a study to consider amending the Below Market
Price (BMP) program to set the required number of below
market-rate units based on the total square footage of a
project, in addition to setting the requirement based on a
percentage of the number of market-rate units.
Deleted
CD G CD-3 To require utilities, landscaping and streetscapes to
contribute to Los Gatos’s high-quality character.
Deleted
CD P CD-3.1 Encourage the undergrounding of utilities on substantial
remodels.
Deleted
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-69
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-3.2 Street and structural lighting shall be required to minimize
its visual impacts by preventing glare, limiting the amount
of light that falls on neighboring properties, and avoiding
light pollution of the night sky.
CD-2.46
CD P CD-3.3 Consider new street lighting only when required for
safety.
Deleted
CD P CD-3.4 Encourage the use of landscaping such as trees, large
shrubs, and trellised vines to mitigate the effects of
building mass, lower noise, and reduce heat generation.
CD-2.48
CD P CD-3.5 All landscaping shall be carefully reviewed to ensure that it
is aesthetically pleasing, compatible with its neighborhood
and natural environment, and water conserving.
Deleted
CD P CD-3.6 Utility connections and meters shall be visually
unobtrusive from the street.
Deleted
CD P CD-3.7 Roof mounted mechanical equipment shall be screened
and such screening shall be considered as part of the
structure for height limitations.
Deleted
CD P CD-3.8 Solid fencing over 3 feet high shall be designed such that it
does not isolate the structures from the street, or shall be
set back and landscaped.
CD-2.44
CD P CD-3.9 Parking structures and facilities shall have a low profile, be
screened from view, and be aesthetically pleasing.
Deleted
CD A CD-3.1 Prepare and adopt environmentally sensitive landscape
design standards using the Bay-Friendly Landscape
Guidelines. Encourage well-planned planting schemes that
include appropriately-sized plant material, avoid the use of
invasive and non-native plants, and require landscaping of
a sufficient density to add to the beauty of the Town.
Deleted
CD P CD-4.1 Preserve the Town’s distinctive and unique environment
by preserving and maintaining the natural topography,
wildlife, and native vegetation, and by mitigating and
reversing the harmful effects of traffic congestion,
pollution, and environmental degradation on the Town’s
urban landscape.
Deleted
CD P CD-4.2 Maintain street trees, plant additional street trees, and
encourage preservation and planting of trees on public and
private property.
CD-2.16
CD P CD-4.3 Trees that are protected under the Town’s Tree
Preservation Ordinance, as well as existing native,
heritage, and specimen trees should be preserved and
protected as a part of any development proposal.
CD-2.19
CD P CD-4.4 Street trees shall be required in new developments. CD-2.17
CD P CD-4.5 New development shall promote visual continuity
through tree planting, consistent use of low shrubs, and
ground cover.
CD-2.49
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-70 Public Review Draft October 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-4.6 Encourage mixtures of tree species, both deciduous and
evergreen, to screen projects, add variety, create a more
natural environment, and avoid future problems of insect
infestation or other blights that might destroy the desired
tree cover.
Deleted
CD P CD-4.7 Landscaping plans should maximize the use of trees for
energy efficiency, climate control, screening, shading
(especially of parking lots), and aesthetics.
CD-2.51
CD P CD-4.8 Landscaping plans shall maximize the use of local native
plants and/or drought resistant plants.
CD-2.52
CD A CD-4.1 Review and enforce any ordinances necessary to preserve
trees on public and private property.
Deleted
CD G CD-5 To design a built environment that keeps Los Gatos
safe.
Deleted
CD P CD-5.1 Street standards shall recognize the existing character of
the neighborhood, safety, and maintenance.
Deleted
CD A CD-5.1 Adopt an ordinance that establishes design parameters for
buildings, streetscapes, and lighting which help prevent
crime.
Deleted
CD G CD-6 To promote and protect the physical and other
distinctive qualities of residential neighborhoods.
Deleted
CD P CD-6.1 Reduce the visual impact of new construction and/or
remodels on the Town and its neighborhoods.
Deleted
CD P CD-6.2 Balance the size and number of units to achieve
appropriate intensity.
Deleted
CD P CD-6.3 Encourage basements and cellars to provide “hidden”
square footage in lieu of visible mass.
CD-2.12
CD P CD-6.4 New homes shall be sited to maximize privacy, livability,
protection of natural plant and wildlife habitats and
migration corridors, and adequate solar access and wind
conditions. Siting should take advantage of scenic views
but should not create significant ecological or visual
impacts affecting open spaces, public places, or other
properties.
CD-2.38
CD G CD-7 To preserve the quality of the private open space
throughout Los Gatos.
Deleted
CD P CD-7.1 Maximize quality usable open space in all new
developments.
Deleted
CD P CD-7.2 Multi-family residential developments shall include
common open space suitable for group gathering.
Deleted
CD P CD-7.3 All residential developments shall include private open
space in proportion to the building size.
Deleted
CD A CD-7.1 Conduct a study to research increasing yard setback
regulations to include considerations for building height,
and update the Town Code as necessary.
CD-C
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-71
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD G CD-8 Promote, enhance and protect the appearance of the
Los Gatos’s commercial areas.
Deleted
CD P CD-8.1 Encourage the preservation of the appearance and function
of the industrial areas and the visible labor and products of
labor that are evident there.
Deleted
CD A CD-8.1 Periodically inspect all commercial landscaping to ensure
that approved landscaping is maintained.
Removed, now LU-D
CD G CD-9 To preserve the character of Downtown Los Gatos
and the quality of life for its citizens through high quality
building design.
CD-8
CD P CD-9.1 Exterior building materials in the Central Business District
should be consistent with those used in existing, tastefully
executed surrounding buildings.
CD-8.2
CD A CD-9.1 Adopt controls to ensure that new buildings built on
existing vacant parcels strengthen the form and image of
the Central Business District.
CD-T
CD A CD-9.2 Adopt architectural design controls related to the
rehabilitation of buildings within the Central Business
District through consistency and compatibility of scale,
massing, materials, color, texture, reflectivity, openings,
and other details.
Deleted
CD G CD-10 To maintain the historic character of the Downtown. Deleted
CD P CD-10.1 Encourage the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation,
reuse, and maintenance of existing buildings Downtown.
CD-8.7
CD P CD-10.2 Encourage outdoor seating for restaurants/coffee shops
when the historic character and quality of the Downtown
and adjacent neighborhoods can be maintained.
CD-7.3
CD A CD-10.1 Conduct an historic resources survey to identify valuable
and historical architectural styles and features within the
Central Business District.
CD-J
CD A CD-10.2 Adopt strengthened architectural design controls related to
the rehabilitation of buildings within the Central Business
District.
Deleted
CD G CD-11 Preserve and enhance the appearance of the Central
Business District through design improvements to
streetscapes and landscapes.
Deleted
CD P CD-11.1 Street, walkway, and building lighting should be designed
to strengthen and reinforce Downtown’s character.
Deleted
CD P CD-11.2 Downtown signs and graphics should maintain the
Town's small-scale appearance and be consistent with the
Commercial Design Guidelines.
CD-8.9
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4-72 Public Review Draft October 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-11.3 Public signs, directional signs, informational signs, and
other signs within the Central Business District should be
designed so as to easily communicate their message, and
be distinctive enough in their form and color that the
observer will identify them with the Central Business
District.
CD-8.8
CD P CD-11.4 Street furniture and equipment, such as lamp standards,
traffic signals, fire hydrants, street signs, telephones, mail
boxes, refuse receptacles, bus shelters, drinking fountains,
planters, kiosks, flag poles, and other elements of the street
environment, should be designed and selected so as to
strengthen and reinforce the Downtown character.
CD-8.10
CD P CD-11.5 Trees and plants shall be approved by the Superintendent
of Parks and Forestry for the purpose of meeting criteria,
including climatic conditions, maintenance, year-round
versus seasonal color change (i.e. blossoms, summer
foliage, autumn color), special branching effects, and other
considerations.
CD-2.20
CD P CD-11.6 The area along Santa Cruz and University Avenues
between Saratoga Avenue and West Main Street should
receive special treatment to accent it as the Town's
commercial core or Central Business District and to
enhance user familiarity and enjoyment.
Deleted
CD A CD-11.1 Install treatments, including:
▪ Continuation of the Town's Downtown paving
and tree planting system within the Central
Business District.
▪ Specialized lighting and sign systems to
distinguish this area, including orientation signs
to guide those seeking access to the Town’s
parking areas and other destinations.
▪ Modifications and improvements to the Town
Plaza to heighten its role as the southern visual
anchor and gateway to the Downtown area.
Deleted
CD A CD-11.2 Maintain design controls on private signage to enhance the
commercial core area.
Deleted
CD A CD-11.3 Maintain design controls on private signage to enhance the
commercial core area.
CD-S
CD G CD-12 To preserve significant historic and architectural
features within the Town.
CD-3
CD P CD-12-1 Avoid demolishing historic buildings, unless the Planning
Commission finds, based on substantial evidence, that
there is no feasible means to ensure the preservation of the
structure.
CD-3.1
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-73
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-12-2 Encourage the preservation, maintenance, and adaptive
reuse of existing residential, commercial, or public
buildings.
CD-3.2
CD P CD-12-3 Preserve and protect historic structures, including those
that have been designated or are contributors to existing
historic districts. Use special care in reviewing new
buildings or remodels in the vicinity of historic structures
to address compatibility issues and potential impacts.
CD-3.3
CD P CD-12-4 Continue the Town’s careful and proactive historic
preservation programs, tempered with compassion and
understanding of property owners’ needs, desires, and
financial capabilities.
CD-3.4
CD P CD-12-5 Zone changes, planned development applications and
zoning approvals that may result in the demolition of
historic structures shall be referred to the Historic
Preservation Committee for review and recommendation.
CD-3.5
CD P CD-12-6 New structures within historic districts shall be designed
to blend and harmonize with the neighborhood.
CD-3.6
CD P CD-12-7 New structures within historic districts shall be designed
to blend and harmonize with the neighborhood.
CD-3.7
CD P CD-12-8 Require any development having potential adverse impacts
on historical sites and/or features on or in the vicinity of
historical sites:
▪ Accommodate the historical structure or
feature;
▪ Mitigate potential adverse impacts to a level
acceptable to the Town; or
▪ Relocate the historical feature to an
appropriate site.
CD-3.8
CD p CD-12-9 Encourage developers to use historic structures or, if not
feasible, encourage their donation to the Town.
CD-3.9
CD A CD-12-1 Establish public information programs designed to make
owners of historic structures and the general public aware
of the value of historic buildings and to encourage their
maintenance.
CD-L
CD A CD-12-2 Periodically review historic landmark and preservation
legislation and update the Town Code as necessary.
CD-I
CD A CD-12-3 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.
Removed, now LU-E
CD G CD-13 To support and encourage thoughtful rehabilitation
or reuse of historic structures.
CD-4
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4-74 Public Review Draft October 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-13-1 Rehabilitation of damaged historic structures shall be
consistent with the policies of the Safety Element and the
State Historic Building Code.
CD-4.1
CD P CD-13-2 Renovations or remodels of historic structures shall be
architecturally consistent with the original structure.
CD-4.2
CD P CD-13-3 Provide applicants and developers with information and
staff time to assist in restoration projects.
CD-4.3
CD P CD-13-4 Provide information about tax law benefits for
rehabilitation of historic structures.
CD-4.4
CD G CD-14 To preserve the natural beauty and ecological
integrity of the Santa Cruz Mountains and
surrounding hillsides by regulating new homes.
CD-5
CD P CD-14.1 Minimize development and preserve and enhance the rural
atmosphere and natural plant and wildlife habitats in the
hillsides.
CD-5.1
CD P CD-14.2 Limit hillside development to that which can be safely
accommodated by the Town’s rural, two-lane roads.
CD-5.2
CD P CD-14.3 Effective visible mass shall be reduced through such means
as stepping structures up and down the hillside, following
topographical contours, and limiting the height and mass
of wall planes. A maximum of two stories shall be visible
from every elevation.
CD-5.3
CD P CD-14.4 Projection above the ridge view protection line is
prohibited. All building plans shall indicate height in
relationship to the ridge view protection line when viewed
from specific vantage points and the valley floor.
Combined with CD-
6.1
CD P CD-14.5 Staff shall require adequate environmental analysis for
projects in the hillside area to ensure appropriate
consideration of potential environmental impacts
associated with projects.
CD-5.4
CD P CD-14.6 Preserve and protect the natural state of the Santa Cruz
Mountains and surrounding hillsides by discouraging
inappropriate development on and near the hillsides that
significantly impacts viewsheds.
CD-5.5
CD P CD-14.7 The Town shall continue to work with the County in
updating the County’s Hillside Development Standards,
and shall encourage annexations within the Urban Service
Boundary.
CD-5.6
CD A CD-14-1 Design and implement programs and procedures to
mitigate the effects of past developments, and to review
and prevent or mitigate the impacts of future development
on community sustainability.
CD-A
CD A CD-14-2 Conduct a study to determine whether hillside properties
should be downzoned to lower densities.
Removed, now LU-F
CD A CD-14-3 Update the Hillside Development Standards and
Guidelines.
CD-P
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-75
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD G CD-15 To preserve the natural topography and ecosystems
within the hillside area by regulating grading,
landscaping, and lighting.
CD-6
CD P CD-15.1 Protect the natural ridge lines as defined in the Hillside
Specific Plan and Hillside Development Standards and
Guidelines.
CD-6.1
CD P CD-15.2 Prohibit any grading that would alter the natural ridge
line.
CD-6.2
CD P CD-15.3 New construction shall be designed to follow natural land
contours and avoid mass grading. When possible, flat pads
should be avoided and houses should be designed to
conform to or step down the contours rather than be
designed for flat pads. Grading large, flat yard areas
should be avoided.
CD-6.3
CD P CD-15.4 Hillside landscaping shall be designed with the following
goals in mind:
▪ Minimizing formal landscaping and hardscape.
▪ Siting formal landscaping and hardscape close
to the house.
▪ Following the natural topography.
▪ Preserving native trees, native plant and
wildlife habitats, and migration corridors.
CD-6.4
CD P CD-15.5 Review all development proposals to ensure appropriate
grading and landscaping and minimal disruption of
existing native plants and wildlife habitat.
Combined with CD-
6.4
CD P CD-15.6 Fences shall be of open design unless required for privacy.
A minimal amount of land shall be enclosed by fences over
five feet high.
CD-6.5
CD P CD-15.7 Review all new development proposals to ensure that:
▪ Outdoor lighting shall be limited.
▪ Permitted lighting shall be of low intensity and
for safety purposes.
▪ Lighted sports courts shall be prohibited.
▪ The effects of indoor lights should be studied
and reduced if found to be excessive.
CD-6.6
CD A CD-15-1 Determine maximum buildable slope and revise the Town
Code accordingly.
CD-M
CD A CD-15-2 Revise the Town’s grading policy to be consistent with the
General Plan, Hillside Specific Plan, and Hillside
Development Standards and Guidelines.
CD-Q
CD G CD-16 Promote and protect viewsheds and scenic
resources.
Deleted
CD P CD-16-1 Prevent development that significantly depletes, damages
or alters existing landscape vistas.
Deleted
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-76 Public Review Draft October 2020
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-16-2 Encourage the use of scenic easements to preserve
viewsheds.
Deleted
CD P CD-16-3 New structures or remodels shall be designed to respect
views from surrounding properties while allowing all
affected properties reasonable access to views.
Deleted
CD A CD-16-1 Study the feasibility of establishing a program to acquire
scenic easements through dedication or purchase.
CD-N
CD G CD-17 To conduct careful review of new projects and
provide clear direction to property owners,
neighbors, and potential developers.
Deleted
CD P CD-17-1 Achieve compliance with Town ordinances and
regulations through education, incentives, and other
proactive measures in addition to issuing citations,
collecting fines, or other punitive measures.
Deleted
CD P CD-17-2 Maintain the Town’s permit streamlining program. Deleted
CD P CD-17-3 Design standards shall be considered for every project.
Staff reports shall include a design review section that
analyzes the following:
▪ Building architecture (in keeping with the
surrounding neighborhood)
▪ Mass and scale
▪ Utilities
▪ Landscaping
▪ Streets and sidewalks
▪ Signage
▪ Lighting
▪ Historical significance
▪ Accessibility to the disabled
▪ Siting/Orientation
▪ Materials and color
▪ Functionality
▪ Energy efficiency
▪ Ridgeline preservation
▪ Tree preservation
▪ Open space preservation
Deleted
CD P CD-17-4 Development proposals on parcels greater than 40,000
square feet may be processed as a planned development.
Removed, now LU-
11.3
CD P CD-17-5 Applicants for projects with policy implications or large
scale projects may submit applications to the Conceptual
Development Advisory Committee prior to a formal
development application submittal.
Deleted
CD P CD-17-6 Encourage developers to engage as early as possible in
discussions regarding the nature and scope of the project
and possible impacts and mitigation requirements.
Removed, now LU-
19.7
4. Community Design Element
October 2020 Public Review Draft 4-77
Elm.
G/P
/A Code Text
Note to Reviewer
(if applicable)
CD P CD-17-7 Require full public review for new commercial
development to ensure compatibility with adjacent
neighborhoods and the Town.
Removed, now LU-
19.9
CD P CD-17-8 Require the erection of story poles prior to the approval of
new development.
Removed, now LU-
19.10
CD P CD-17-9 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.
Removed, now LU-
19.11
CD A CD-17-1 Establish community design guidelines that promote and
protect the natural amenities in the Town.
Deleted
CD A CD-17-2 Periodically review architectural standards and design
guidelines and update as necessary for completeness,
clarity, and effectiveness.
Deleted
CD A CD-17-3 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.
Removed, now LU-J
CD A CD-17-4 Prepare and distribute information describing guidelines
for conducting neighborhood meetings and criteria for
reporting the results of neighborhood meetings with
project applications.
Removed, now LU-K
CD A CD-17-5 Review and more clearly define the role of the Conceptual
Development Advisory Committee.
Deleted, Complete
CD A CD-17-6 Adopt guidelines for development review that protect:
▪ Rare plants and wildlife and their habitats.
▪ Natural watersheds.
▪ Historic sites.
▪ Aesthetically significant sites.
CD-R
CD G CD-18 To update the Town Code to reflect current
conditions in the Town.
Deleted
CD A CD-18-1 Amend the Town Code to include a definition of
“Community Benefit” that clearly differentiates it from
exactions.
Deleted
CD A CD-18-2 Perform an audit of the Town Code to eliminate outdated
sections and ensure that all regulations are consistent with
this General Plan.
Deleted
CD A CD-18-3 Update the Conditional Use Permit Table to revise the list
of uses. Considerations should include factors such as size
of building and/or floor space occupied, traffic generation
and whether the use would dictate a “trademark” style of
building.
Deleted
Public Review Draft Policy Document
4-78 Public Review Draft October 2020
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Community Design Element
The following are comments received by the GPAC and corresponding changes in the Revised Public
Review Draft Element.
*NO REVISIONS MADE PER PENDING REVIEW FROM GPAC. BASED ON GPAC DIRECTION ON THE LAND
USE ELEMENT, ALL POLICIES THAT INCLUDE THE LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN AND REFERENCES TO
AUTP DEALERSHIPS HAVE BEEN REMOVED.*
Community Design Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Submitted GPAC Comments prior to 11/5 Meeting
Pg 4-4: Insert comma after “combinations.”
Delete the list of categories at the end of first
paragraph and insert at the end of the previous
sentence: “…over the next 20 years, as illustrated
in Figure 1. The label and title the figure.
Pg 4-5: Second paragraph, hyphenate well-
defined.
Fourth paragraph, after “draw” insert “from”.
4.1 Neighborhood Compatibility: Change “a rich
history” to “rich history” (there are many and
variations).
Goal CD-1: Do we need the word “distinct”? It
isn’t supported by the policies?
CD-1.5: Memorable?
4.2 Community Form: First paragraph: replace
“lend to each” with “contribute to a”.
CD-2.2: Hyphenate well-defined.
CD-2.7: Is quite prescriptive and doesn’t work on
all architectural styles in town (modern,
contemporary).
CD-2.12: This could have a quantifiable standard.
CD-2.18 and 2.10: Combine. And eliminate
“strategic”.
The “did you know box” refers to examples, but
they were not in my packet.
ATTACHMENT 15
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CD-2.23: What does “adjoining street frontage”
mean?? Can you simply say they will face the
frontage street?
CD-2.25: Delete “realm” two places, also CD-2.34.
CD-2.28: Maybe combine with 2.23, under a
policy title: Street-Oriented Front Entrance.
CD-2.31: This is odd. Starts as though it’s a safety
concern, but then you’re moving them to a dark
alley…?
CD-2.38: Delete “significant” or quantify the
maximum percent impact in a XX-degree view.
CD-2.43: Does screen include hiding, as on
rooftop installations?
CD-2-47: Make sure this is consistent with the
newly revised lighting policy.
Figure 4.1: I understand the desire to include
Gateway signage at various access points, but
where would you place them at the
Harwood/Blossom Hill intersection, the Union
Ave/Los Gatos Almaden intersection, etc, where
one side of the street is a different city?
4.3 Intro has a lot of duplication with 3.6. If re-
stating the districts, use a map.
CD-3: Delete “significant”.
Move LU-3.2 to next goal (CD-4).
CD-3.3: Delete the clause “including those…” it
isn’t needed and could be mis-leading as con-
contributors are also protected.
CD-3.5: Sounds as though HPC is the final
authority.
CD-4.2: This should only apply to exterior
renovations. We don’t govern interiors.
CD-4.4: Replace “boast” with “have”.
CD-5.3 Doesn’t seem to belong—all the others
are non-structural or more general. Suggest
deleting.
CD-5.6: Hillside Development Standards and
Guidelines
Goal CD-6: This is entirely in the HDS&G. No
need to repeat here. If you keep some of it,
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GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
include “building” as in: “regulating grading,
building, landscaping and lighting”.
Do we really want as much signage as CD-7.1
recommends for the Community Place areas? I
would think they could be more discretely
integrated into existing development.
CD-7.2: Hyphen after pedestrian.
CD-7.6: Change “amongst” to “among”.
Downtown District (p. 4-30) is called the Central
Business District on the maps, but Downtown
District everywhere else. Suggest changing Maps
to Downtown District.
Map p. 4-31 is missing Medium density words in
key.
In all of the vision statements, these should be
written as present tense. A vision statement is
what we see, not what we will see.
Here’s a re-write suggestion for Downtown (I’m
using DTD as a shortcut, but it should be spelled
out):
Vision 2040: Downtown District
The Downtown District is the gem of the Los
Gatos, due more than a century of successful
planning and design. The DTD preserves its
unique architectural character and prohibits
conflicting styles from erasing what is
quintessentially Downtown. New structures in
the DTD are constructed at a human-scale to
maintain the continuity of the historic
development pattern.
Where consistent with the General Plan, the DTD
encourages multi-story buildings to include office
and residential uses on floors above the first
floor. The DTD provides a truly walkable
environment, where sidewalks are wide and
pedestrian-friendly. The expanded sidewalks
include additional space for outdoor dining,
public art and street furniture. Enhancing the
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visitor experience in the DTD, digital display
informational kiosks with establishment
directories provide a 21st century amenity.
Updated building signage, A Downtown
wayfinding system, and gateway entrance signs
to the DTD mark the Downtown as the core of
the community. The DTD thrives as one of the
most beloved areas of the Town, one that has
stood the test of time and continues to do so.
CD-8: Insert the Downtown District, delete Los
Gatos.
Throughout this section, be sure to say
Downtown District, not just Downtown.
CD-8.3: Among.
Random figure.
CD-8.8: Replace Los Gatos with the Downtown
District and delete Downtown at end of sentence.
CD-8.8: Delete “so as” “enough” replace “color
that” with “color so, replace “within” with “with”.
CD-8.9: Is this needed when we have a robust
sign ordinance?
Harwood (all other boxed intros, replace
“abutting” or “abuts” with “bordering” or
“borders”.
Last sentence in Box. Delete “Unlike several
others in Town,” delete “not only”, replace “but
also” with “and”.
Revise the Harwood vision with a vision
statement. As-written it’s a list of to-dos. As this
section has no goal or policies, suggest moving
the bulk of the intro to goal and policies.
Goal might be: Update the Harwood District
focusing on a contemporary design.
This is a blended community (the schools for
instance), so this last sentence is off-putting. If
you can figure out how to put up a gateway sign
that doesn’t come off as exclusive (“this side of
the street only…”), be sure to get community
input.
Lark District: Revise as a present tense
statement, like Downtown District revision.
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LGB District: Revise as a present tense statement,
like Downtown District revision, starting with:
The LGB District reflects a comprehensive
transformation from…And move last two
sentences, first paragraph, to goals/policies.
End of second paragraph: We don’t know if the
N40 SP is to be revised to allow for housing in the
second phase. Hotel may not come . . . so, delete
“such as restaurants and hotels will breathe even
more life into” with “gives vibrancy to . . .”
Move last paragraph to goals and policies.
Pg 4-45: Random figures throughout this section.
CD-10.4: Ground floors are required to have 12-
foot height?
CD-10.7: Should this be street-activation rather
that structure activation?
Missing goals/policies on all the landscaping,
parks and plazas mentioned in the vision
statement.
North Santa Cruz:
Revise vision statement to present tense.
How do you “not create a juxtaposition
between”?? And don’t we want a compatible
juxtaposition?
Move sentence “A continual emphasis . . .” to
policies and re-word.
CD-11.1: Define live-work space. Is this also a
form of mixed use?
Do we want a policy that promotes mixed use
and street retail?
Pollard Road District:
Reads like Harwood. Need a vision statement
and be sure the items in these paragraph (p. 4-
54) are reflected in policies.
Pollard goal/policies could be similar for Harwood
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Union Ave same comments as Harwood.
Winchester Blvd Element
Reads more like a proper vision, but needs to be
present tense.
Delete “Unlike all other Districts in LG”, Now start
that sentence with The Winchester
Delete sentence about wider sidewalks. This is
not unlike other areas in town.
Last two sentences of second paragraph should
be moved and re-worded into policies.
Strikes me that as with other lists of policies,
some order other than random would be helpful.
Suggest the order as written is: 5, 6, 4, 3, 1, 2.
Where 1 should be the first policy, etc.
CD-2.7: Is this a backhanded way of saying that
modern, clean-lined projects are discouraged?
CD-2.59: Why?
CD-7.1: Why?
CD-8: This sentence is confusing. Perhaps
“Preserve the character of Downtown Los Gatos
and the quality of life for Town citizens through
high-quality building design.”
CD-8.5: I am all in favor of the parklets and
outdoor dining, but unless you limit the ability of
stinky motorcycles and gross-polluting 50s cars to
cruise N. Santa Cruz all Saturday night, eating
outside isn’t very pleasant. (Perhaps more stop
signs to discourage cruising?)
Los Gatos Boulevard District. Love it!
Winchester Boulevard District. Fourth sentence
beginning “Wider sidewalks”: the end of the
sentence is intended to say “... unlike any other
area in town.” (Replace “are” with “area”.)
4.6 Implementation Programs. Letter O has an
alignment problem with item “d)”
4.6 Implementation Programs. Letter S needs to
separate “itis” to “it is”
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GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
●General Plan needs to reflect the reality of
recent legislation, with the caveat that the
Land Use Categories need to be more specific and
the Zoning Code (and Town Code)
needs to be amended concurrently with, or
immediately after, to reflect the different
standards to reflect the differences in allowed
development.
●Statements referring to “small town character”
or “maintaining small town character”
should be removed for many reasons. One being
that the terms are ambiguous and
misleading. The reality of “small town character”
forty years ago, when I move here, is
very different from the “town character” that I
see today.
●Part of the discussion of the Community Design
Element with respect to the Community Place
District is repetitive of information in the Land
Use Element, and is information more
appropriate in guidelines.
I prefer “Opportunity Areas” or “Opportunity
Districts” to “Community Place Districts”
because those titles come closer to conveying
that these are the areas in Town are likely to
change over the next twenty years and have the
greatest opportunity for accommodating
redevelopment (re: intensification) with less
impact to the Town as a whole than other areas
within the Town. I would prefer each of the
“Community Place Areas” to either have
individual General Plan Designations be identified
as individual overlay areas with more detailed
descriptions of how each will be unique from the
others and how each will create the “missing
middle housing” mentioned in the Land Use
Element.
Lastly, going back to the Land Use Element and
missing middle housing. The Land Use Element
needs to incorporate a better definition of what
missing middle housing means and how it can be
integrated into Los Gatos.
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General Comments
Decrease size of illustrations and photos and
number and label them and make sure the colors
in the legends match the colors in the maps.
CD-1: Too many ideas combined in this Goal
CD-1.3: Discourage Prohibit gated communities.
Gated communities are the opposite of
“interconnected communities”.
CD 1.4: If this is required for all “neighborhoods”
there will be no change, as projected by the Land
Use Diagram and Land Use Element.
CD 1.5: Memorable Places.
CD-2.1: Require building setbacks from the
property line to increase in a 1:1 ratio as mass
and height increases above 20 feet.
Comment: Not clear what this means. For height I
assume it means that for each foot in height
above 20’ the building setback line is increased
by one foot. How does the 1:1 ratio work for
mass. This policy appears to set objective
standards but its meaning needs clarification.
CD-2.3: and CD-2.4: Both these individual policies
are clear given the illustrations provided.
However they are not consistent with each other.
CD-2.4: Intent is good but needs to have
objective standards.
Page 4-9
Require all new and remodeled structures
emphasize 360 Architecture by continuing
consistent architectural design and application of
the structure on all sides of the viewing angles
while acknowledging that different programmatic
and design considerations for private sides.
Comment: It is not clear what “and application of
the structure” means. The exception for
programmatic design is too broad - every design
can be claimed to be programmatic. I assume
“private sides” private use areas that are not
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visible, but a break in the architectural style may
be visible from a street or adjacent back yard.
CD-2.9: Roof Design: Again the diagram
illustrates the policy well, but appears to be
inconsistent with CD-2.4.
Page 4-14
The illustration does not achieve CD-2.6 Nor does
the figure meet CD-2-27 transitions.
Page 4-17
40 sq feet? Is 40 sq feet even big enough for a
small table and a bar-b-que?
Is this in conflict with the zoning code?
CD-2.48: Landscape Buffering: delete lower
noise. Landscaping does not provide a noticeable
reduction in noise if there is less than 100 feet of
dense vegetation.
CD-2.50: Who provides median landscaping?
CD-2.52: Should there be a minimum percent for
native plants vs drought tolerant plants? Define,
local native plants. There are a relatively limited
number of native plants native to Santa Clara
County. Suggest: ...local native plants and/or
drought resistant plants. Drought resistant
California native plants and other drought
resistant plants.
Comment: This could also be changed to require
a specific percent of California native drought
resistant plants, with the rest being either
California natives or other drought resistant
plants.
General Comments
A lot of the material in this element seems
appropriate for design Guidelines and not the
General Plan. Perhaps we could identify the
“high points” and combine this with the Land Use
Element and move the remainder into design
guidelines.
CD-1.2: should add (including building massing
and height) after the word proportion.
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Page 4-7: Add words about the importance of
the ground floor being visible and activated along
public streets.
CD-2.49: Shrubs and trees don’t lower noise.
CD-2.52: Native planting should probably be a
higher percentage such as 75% instead of 60%.
Page 4-22
Designate the north and south approaches on
Highway 17 as gateways. The gateway signage
could be mounted on overpasses or adjacent to
the freeway right of way as shown in some of the
photos.
CD-4.3: Do we need to say that we are going to
provide information?
CD-5: The goal should not only mention
regulating new homes since the policies mention
rural atmosphere and view sheds.
Page 4-30
The Downtown District boundary description
doesn’t correspond with the map on page 31.
Page 4-32
The second sentence of the intro seems self
promoting and doesn’t add anything to the
document.
CD-8.4: The picture of different bollard types
here and on page 4-47 is a good example of a
detail more appropriate for design guidelines.
Page 4-44
Policy Overview
Some where in this section we should add a
policy to study the feasibility of reducing the
number of lanes on Los Gatos Boulevard to four
lanes and devote the recovered space to safe
pedestrian and bicycle circulation and
landscaping.
We should also add a policy requiring the
interconnection of adjacent commercial parking
lots to better integrate commercial development
and reduce the need to re-enter the public right
of way when you simply want to go to the
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adjoining center. This can be achieved by
requiring developers to agree to provide
reciprocal ingress/egress easements at such time
in the future when the Town can require the
same of adjacent commercial development.
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Land Use DesignationExisting General PlanProposed General PlanExisting General PlanProposed General PlanNew Housing (Vacant)New Housing (Redevelop)New Housing (Vacant)New Housing (Redevelop)LDR Low Density Residential 0 to 5 1 to 12 4 12 5%7513 28384MDR Medium Density Residential 5 to 12 14 to 24 10 20 10%107133 224 343HDR High Density Residential 12 to 20 30 - 40 18 36 15%53 111110 268NC Neighborhood Commercial 10 to 20 10 to 20 16 18 10%11392691CC Community Commercial n/a 20 to 30 0 26 15%---156MU Mixed Use10 to 20 30 - 40 16 36 20%55 242126 605CBD Central Business District 10 to 20 20 to 30 16 26 15%124621 113OPOffice Professional0 30 to 40 0 36 15%--4 255SCService Commercial0 20 to 30 0 26 15%--1044Subtotal313 584 8041,915Housing Units, New and Redeveloped8972,719Housing Units, ADUs500500Housing Units, Existing Projects475475TOTAL NEW1,8723,694Revised: 12/17/2020Potential Housing ProductionDensity Range(du/ac)Typical Density(du/ac)Assumed Redevelop-mentCurrent General Plan Proposed General PlanATTACHMENT 16
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