HomeMy WebLinkAboutPLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2025-04 09/23/2025
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2025-04
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF PETALUMA PLANNING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF SITE PLAN AND
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW FOR THE PETALUMA PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY
WITH MAJOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY FOR EMERGENCY
RESPONSE COMMUNICATIONS ON A 3.5-ACRE PORTION OF THE CITY
FAIRGROUNDS PROPERTY AT THE CORNER OF JOHNSON STREET AND
KENILWORTH DRIVE LOCATED AT 866 E WASHINGTON STREET; APN 007-031-
004; CITY RECORD NO.: PLPJ-2025-0041 (PLUP-2025-0006, PLSR-2025-0008)
WHEREAS, on January 1, 2024, upon expiration of the 4th District Agricultural
Association (DAA) lease, the City of Petaluma assumed site control of the Fairgrounds property;
and
WHEREAS, the City of Petaluma is responsible for all operations on-site, including
facility and grounds maintenance, sub-user interactions, event bookings, programming, and all
other related responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, on February 28, 2022, the City Council approved a City Community
Outreach and Engagement Plan to inform future decisions about the Fairgrounds property , and the
Outreach and Engagement Plan included a robust public engagement process with a range of
methods for collecting input from residents, stakeholders , and the broader community; and
WHEREAS, based on community input received during the public engagement process,
on October 24, 2022, the City Council, through Resolution 2022-167 N.C.S., adopted eight (8)
Guiding Principles to guide all future efforts of Petaluma City staff to act on and implem ent
feedback from the Petaluma community and the City Council regarding future uses of the
Fairgrounds property; and
WHEREAS, one of the adopted eight (8) Guiding Principles includes preserving and
enhancing the capacity of the fairgrounds property to provide critical emergency response
resources for Petaluma and the region; and
WHEREAS, on January 8, 2024, the City Council approved Ordinance No. 2877 N.C.S.
amending Chapter 5 of the Petaluma Implementing Zoning Ordinance (IZO) to add Section 5.080
establishing a Fairgrounds Overlay Zone and authorizing a Zoning Map Amendment to zone a
portion of two existing parcels located at 866 E Washington Street and 0 E Washington Street,
APNs: 007-031-004 and 007-031-005; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to IZO Section 5.080.D.5, the Fairgrounds Overlay Zone allows for
the establishment of new uses, subject to Planning Commission recommendation and City Council
approval, provided that the new use is in alignment with the Guiding Principles set forth in City
Council Resolution 2022-167 N.C.S., and that the new use provides a public benefit; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to IZO Section 5.080.D.6, the Fairgrounds Overlay Zone allows for
major site improvements, subject to Planning Commission recommendation and City Council
approval, through Site Plan and Architectural Review pursuant to the findings set forth in IZO
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Section 24.050.E; and
WHEREAS, on June 30, 2025 the City of Petaluma applied for Conditional Use Permits
AND Site Plan and Architectural Review for the development of the proposed Public Safety
Facility Project, a ±43,585-square-foot facility to house the Petaluma Police Department, Fire
Department Headquarters, and Emergency Operations Center, with an emergency response
communications monopole, on a ±3.5-acre vacant parcel located at 866 E. Washington Street
(APN: 007-031-004) at the corner of Johnson Street and Kenilworth Drive (herein “Project”); and
WHEREAS, the Project would consist of a two-story, ±34-foot-tall building covering
±25,571 square feet of land, which would also include a centrally located Fire station with four
fire apparatus bays and 13 firefighter dorms, secured parking for Police and Fire operations, a ±76-
foot monopole for emergency response communications, an accessory structure, and solar array
structures; and
WHEREAS, telecommunications systems for police and fire stations are established
under California Government Code §§ 53100–53120 and regulated by the FCC under 47 C.F.R.
Part 90, which reserves spectrum exclusively for public safety use, and together these
frameworks confirm that police and fire communications are mission-critical infrastructure that
must be located in dedicated, secure, and agency-controlled facilities rather than relying on
commercial consumer towers; and
WHEREAS, California Government Code § 65964.1 treats the regulations for
telecommunications on fire stations differently, “Due to the unique duties and infrastructure
requirements for the swift and effective deployment of firefighters,… [when] a collocation or
siting application for wireless telecommunications facility where the project is proposed for
placement on fire department facilities”; and
WHEREAS, the Public Safety Facility proposes an emergency response communications
facility to replace existing emergency response communications facilities currently located at the
Petaluma Police Department, 969 Petaluma Blvd. N., and Fire Station 1, 198 D Street ; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to IZO Section 7.090.C.4, major telecommunications facilities as
defined in Petaluma Municipal Code Chapter 14.44 require Major CUP and Major SPAR
approvals pursuant to the findings set forth in IZO Sections 24.060.E and 24.050.E; and
WHEREAS, the Project is statutorily exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources
Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183 in that the project is consistent with
the development density established by the City’s existing IZO and is consistent with the City of
Petaluma General Plan 2025 for which an EIR has been certified; and
WHEREAS, public notice of the August 4, 2025, Planning Commission and City Council
study session public meeting was published in the Petaluma Argus-Courier, mailed to residents
and occupants within 1000 feet of the Project site, and two 32-square foot signs were posted on
the site in compliance with state and local law; and
WHEREAS, on August 4, 2025, the Planning Commission and City Council held a joint
study session public meeting to provide feedback on the Project; and
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WHEREAS, the project plans published with the September 23, 2025, Planning
Commission staff report include revisions that respond to the joint study session feedback; and
WHEREAS, public notice of the September 23, 2025, Planning Commission hearing was
published in the Petaluma Argus-Courier, mailed to residents and occupants within 1000 feet of
the Project site and to all known operators of telecommunication facilities within one mile of the
Project, and two 32-square-foot signs were posted on the site in compliance with state and local
law; and
WHEREAS, at its September 23, 2025, meeting, the Planning Commission held a duly
noticed public hearing to consider the Project, at which time all interested parties had the
opportunity to be heard and the Planning Commission considered the Staff Report dated September
23, 2025, and all public testimony provided prior to and at the public hearing;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF PETALUMA AS FOLLOWS:
1. Finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
2. Based on its review of the entire record herein, the Planning Commission finds as follows:
California Environmental Quality Act
a. The Project is statutorily exempt from further environmental review under CEQA
pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section
15183 in that the project is consistent with the development density established by the
City’s existing IZO and is consistent with the City of Petaluma General Plan 2025 for
which an EIR has been certified. A detailed analysis of the Project’s eligibility for use
of the exemption is provided in Attachment 9 of the September 23, 2025, staff report
(Environmental Checklist for Streamlined Review).
General Plan
b. The Project is consistent with the Mixed Use and Public/Semi-Public (FAR 2.5) land
use designation of the City of Petaluma General Plan 2025 applicable to the site in that
public safety facility and major telecommunication facility uses are principally
permitted or conditionally allowed uses on the Project site, and the proposed FAR is
0.3.
c. The Project, for reasons discussed in the September 23, 2025, Planning Commission
staff report, is consistent with the following General Plan principles and policies:
Chapter 1. Land Use, Growth Management, and the Built Environment
Policy 1-P-1 Promote a range of land uses at densities and intensities to serve the
community needs within the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB).
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Policy 1-P-2 Use land efficiently by promoting infill development, at equal or higher
density and intensity than surrounding uses.
Policy 1-P-9 Support continued development and intensification of employment
centers.
Chapter 2. Community Design, Character, and Green Building
Policy 2-P-79 Extend traditional street grids as opportunities arise.
Policy 2-P-82 Work with the Sonoma-Marin Fair to explore more optimal use or
relocation of the Fair’s site. Optimal use could include redesign and
intensification of the existing acreage; reduction and intensification of
the existing site; or master planning of the Fairground and adjacent
property(ies) to create an improved layout of the fairground; improve
compatibility with existing neighborhoods, and enhance adjacent
development potential.
Chapter 4. The Natural Environment
Policy 4-P-11 Promote ride-sharing and car-sharing programs.
Policy 4-P-14 Develop and integrate Intelligent Transportation Technologies, as
applicable, into Petaluma’s transportation system.
Policy 4-P-19 Encourage use and development of renewable or nontraditional sources
of energy.
Chapter 5. Mobility
Policy 5-P-13 Encourage existing major employers to develop and implement
Transportation Demand Management programs to reduce peak period
trip generation.
Consider establishing a TDM program for City of Petaluma employees.
Policy 5-P-15 Implement the bikeway system as outlined in the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Plan, and expand and improve the bikeway system wherever the
opportunity arises.
Policy 5-P-20 Ensure that new development provides connections to and does not
interfere with existing and proposed bicycle facilities.
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Chapter 7. Community Facilities, Services, and Education
Policy 7-P-5 Upgrade and expand public facilities such as the Fire and Police
stations, the satellite corporation yards and Animal Shelter to effectively
and efficiently meet future needs of the community residents and the
animals.
Policy 7-P-18 Ensure facilities, equipment and personnel are adequate to maintain
quality of service demands of the community, including but not limited
to: fire suppression, Advanced Life Support (ALS), rescue, fire
prevention, education, CUPA, and disaster preparednes s and
management.
Expand Fire staffing to provide a Training Officer to insure maintaining
compliance to Federal and State safety mandates.
Continue education and training programs to maintain technical
proficiency.
Maintain and modernize emergency response facilities, including fire
stations, as needed to accommodate population growth
Expand, as needed, staffing in the Fire Prevention Bureau to keep pace
with increasing development and fire safety inspection impacts.
Maintain safety department responsiveness to changes in community
demographics (i.e. age, ethnicity).
Policy 7-P-19 Maintain a four minute travel time for a total of 6-minute response time
for emergencies within the City.
Policy 7-P-23 Continue to utilize the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to provide
early warning of and response to all life-threatening hazards, such as
earthquakes, floods, landslides, severe storms, and hazardous materials
incidents.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the EOC facility and consider relocation
to other city facilities to improve emergency operations and
coordination.
Policy 7-P-34 Plan for expanding or replacing the police station with a facility (either
on-site or elsewhere) of sufficient size to accommodate police
operations, community requirements and anticipated population
growth. Funding of expanded facilities should be address ed through the
implementation of adequate Public Facilities fees as identified in the
Implementation Plan.
d. The Project is consistent with the Fairgrounds Guiding Principles, City Council
Resolution 2022-167 N.C.S in the following ways:
1. Acknowledge and build upon community input regarding the fairgrounds property
while continuing to engage with the community going forward.
The Public Safety Facility acknowledges and builds upon community input
regarding the Fairgrounds property in that public review of required
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discretionary Planning entitlements, including Conditional Use Permits and Site
Plan and Architectural Review authorization, is being provided through a public
hearing before the Planning Commission on September 23, 2025. During this time,
the Commission will receive and consider public comment about the proposed
project before deciding on a recommendation to the City Council. On September
12, 2025, public notice of this public hearing was published in the Argus-Courier
and mailed to property owners, businesses, and residents within 1000 feet of the
proposed project’s location, and onsite signage was posted. Additionally, in
compliance with PMC Section 14.44.320, notice was mailed to all known
operators of telecommunication facilities within one mile of the Project. All public
noticing provides the opportunity for community members to submit their
comments before the public hearing, and they inform the community about the
scheduled public hearing to encourage participation.
The proposed use of a public safety facility will continue to engage the community
by responding to resident concerns and service requests while serving as a hub
for open houses, neighborhood meetings, CERT trainings, youth outreach, and
accessible feedback channels throughout design, construction, and operations.
Additionally, on August 4, 2025, a joint City Council-Planning Commission study
session was held to solicit feedback from these review authorities and the
community on the proposed design of the Public Safety Facility. As demonstrated
in this staff report, review authority and community input have been addressed
through project revisions.
The new proposed use and major site development complies with the Fairgrounds
Overlay Zone, IZO Section 5.080, the purpose and intent of which is to allow
operation of existing uses on the City-owned Fairgrounds property, provide
specifications for establishment of new, beneficial uses of the Fairgrounds,
including temporary uses, permanent uses and structures, and site improvements,
consistent with the Guiding Principles adopted in City Council Resolution 2022 -
167 N.C.S., and to ensure ongoing operation of the site and its uses is in the best
interest of the public health, safety, and welfare while a master plan and
associated land use policies and zoning are prepared and adopted for the
Fairgrounds property. The public safety facility building is an allowa ble/permitted
by right use at the Fairgrounds site under the General Plan and Zoning Code.
Future master planning for the Fairgrounds property will continue to engage the
community.
2. Create, maintain, and enhance authentic partnerships across stakeholders and
community groups with an interest in the fairgrounds property.
The Planning review process, which includes public review at a study session and
public hearings builds upon and continues to maintain authentic partnerships
across stakeholder and community groups interested in the fairgrounds property
and in this new addition to civic facilities in the area, including the Swim Center,
Skate Park, and Regional Library. City staff have met individually with interested
stakeholders, such as the Speedway, to discuss the proposed project.
PPD and PFD are longstanding partners with City departments and community
organizations, collaborating on public education and community-building efforts
at the Fairgrounds and throughout Petaluma. Their ongoing outreach —open
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houses, safety demonstrations, and participation in neighborhood and school
events—helps maintain trust and provides constructive avenues for feedback as
the project advances.
3. Provide civic and institutional stability during the transition period and beyond so
that the fair event and other key uses continue.
The project proposal and this public review process demonstrate that use of the
Fairgrounds can continue and new development can be introduced in a manner
that is compatible with the Guiding Principles and the Fairgrounds Overlay Zone
regulations intended to support them. All existing uses on the City Fairgrounds
would be maintained as a result of this project, and the civic building would
provide institutional stability to facilitate the continuation of the fair event.
4. Affirm a renewed, generational commitment of the City to the Petaluma
community's agricultural past and present for which the fairgrounds property
continues to be a focal point, to the people who have utilized and want to utilize
the fairgrounds property, and to the fairgrounds property itself and its unique
challenges and potential as an asset for the whole community through near -,
medium-, and long-term actions and milestones for the property and related
programs.
The Public Safety Facility is consistent with this guideline in that all existing
fairground uses will be maintained. The proposed building and site designs,
including materials anticipated to be used, such as the primary building’s board -
form concrete facade, which is reminiscent of historic barns and evokes
Petaluma’s agricultural past, while providing a durable material, will serve as a
long-lasting institutional anchor within the Fairgrounds. A civic facility is
permitted by right under the General Plan and Implementing Zoning Ordinance.
Given the Fairgrounds’ central location, relocating PPD and constructing a new
fire station at this site supports coordinated public safety operations and efficient
citywide response times.
5. Preserve and enhance key elements, resources, and activities at the fairgrounds
property that the community is connected to and that make the place unique.
The Public Safety Facility will preserve and enhance key elements, resources, and
activities at the Fairgrounds property in that the project will maintain all existing
Fairgrounds uses, provide institutional stability so fair uses can continue, and
provide access roads that will serve as future infrastructure resources to the
benefit of future uses planned as a result of the Fairgrounds master plan. The
project will add a new community plaza and a 10-foot-wide multi-use path along
Kenilworth Drive and Johnson Street so people can better access the site.
Additionally, the project will construct new public art, plant trees, and install
landscaping to beautify the site.
6. Honor the legacy of history, place, and community while fostering safety, health,
inclusivity, cultural connectedness, accessibility, and useability of the fairgrounds
property for the benefit of all.
The Public Safety Facility honors the legacy of history in that the proposed
building’s primary material is a board-form concrete facade, which is reminiscent
of historic barns and evokes Petaluma’s agricultural past. In addition, the Public
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Safety Facility fosters safety and health by providing critical emergency response
services for Petaluma and the region. The project also provides a community
plaza, public art, and a 10-foot-wide multipurpose trail along the Kenilworth Dr.
and Johnson St. frontages, which fosters inclusivity, cultural connectedness,
accessibility, and usability of the fairgrounds property for the benefit of all.
7. Preserve and enhance the capacity of the fairgrounds property to provide critical
emergency response resources for Petaluma and the region.
The Public Safety Facility preserves and enhances the capacity of the fairgrounds
property to provide critical emergency response resources for Petaluma and the
region in that proposing a 43,585-square-foot facility to house the Petaluma
Police Department, Fire Department Headquarters, and Emergency Operations
Center in a central location on the Fairgrounds is anticipated by the Fairgrounds
Guiding Principles.
8. While preserving the essential and unique feel and presence of the fairgrounds
property and its core features, ensure that future fairgrounds property uses,
including fair event uses, are maximized to effectively and compatibly accomplish
as many of the community's needs and wants for the fairgrounds property as
possible.
The Public Safety Facility preserves the essential, unique feel and presence of the
Fairgrounds property and its core features, ensuring that all existing uses are
maintained. The 43,585-square-foot facility is sited on a vacant ±3.5-acre portion
of the ±48.09-acre City-owned fairgrounds property situated at the south corner
of Johnson Street and Kenilworth Drive. The project proposes a two -story building
to minimize the footprint.
Implementing Zoning Ordinance
e. The Project is consistent with all applicable development standards of the MU1B
(Mixed Use 1) and CF (Civic Facilities) zoning districts as conditioned, except for the
requested relief from the required parking lot landscape divider strips as detailed in the
September 23, 2025, staff report.
f. The project is consistent with the allowable land uses and planning permit requirements
of the MU1B and CF zoning districts as referenced in IZO Tables 4.3 and 4.5 in that
“Public Safety Facility” use is permitted by right within the MU1B and CF zones.
g. The project is consistent with IZO Section 7.090, Telecommunications Facilities,
which requires findings for Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan and Architectural
Review pursuant to IZO Sections 24.050.E and 24.060.E, respectively, for major
telecommunication facilities as defined in PMC Chapter 14.44.
h. The project is consistent with all applicable provisions of the Fairgrounds Overlay Zone
pursuant to IZO Section 5.080, including Purpose and Intent (IZO Section 5.080.A),
New Uses Allowed by City Council (IZO Section 5.080D.5), and Major Site
Improvements (IZO Section 5.080.D.6), including the additional affirmative findings
for new uses allowed by City Council under IZO Section 5.080.D.5;
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i. The project is consistent with IZO Section 24.050 – Site Plan and Architectural Review,
including the standards in Section 24.050.E, in that the Planning Commission finds the
Project meets the standards for Site Plan and Architectural Review as follows:
1. The project uses quality materials and the overall design is harmonious and in
proportion in itself and in relation to adjacent development, based on the
following:
The Public Safety Facility uses quality materials, and the overall design is
harmonious and in proportion both within the project itself and in relation to
adjacent development in that the project incorporates board-formed concrete walls
with maple wood and aluminum accents, which provide durability and
architectural detail. The project demonstrates internal harmony and proportion in
that the ground floor is differentiated by full-length maple wood slats, the upper
story is accented by aluminum curtain walls, and the Police Department and Fire
Department portions of the facility are distinguished by color to ensure a balanced
and proportional composition. The project is also harmonious and in proportion
with adjacent development in that the board-formed concrete finish, referencing
the form and character of historic barns, reflects the agrarian heritage of the
Petaluma Fairgrounds, while the uniform material palette and functional massing
establish an appropriate civic presence consistent with the surrounding context.
a. The architectural style is appropriate for the project, and compatible with
the character of the neighborhood.
The architectural style is appropriate for the project and compatible with the
character of the neighborhood in that the design incorporates civic, agrarian,
and industrial architectural elements, including board-formed concrete walls
with natural wood grain texture, warm natural maple wood slats, and metal
window screens. These design features are appropriate in that they reference
the agrarian heritage of the Petaluma Fairgrounds, while the uniform material
palette and functional massing establish a strong civic presence consistent with
the surrounding context.
The emergency response communications facility will be in an area of the city
that has already been developed. The facility is expected to blend into the built
environment, considering the built environment includes the East Washington
Place shopping center, the Petaluma Swim Center, the Petaluma Speedway and
Fairgrounds, and the future Public Safety Facility. The Public Safety Facility
site will include the emergency response communications faci lity that will
provide emergency response services for the Pol ice and Fire Departments.
Furthermore, no other location is feasible for the facility based on the
Alternatives and Co-location Analysis (Attachment 10). Additionally,
camouflaging or stealthing the facility is not feasible due to signal type, typical
maintenance needs, and project operational requirements.
b. The siting of the structures on the property is appropriate for the site and
as compared to the siting of other structures in the neighborhood.
The siting of the structure on the property is appropriate for the site and as
compared to the siting of other structures in the neighborhood, in that the public
services provided by the facility are consistent with the other on -site or nearby
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community-oriented services offered by the Fairgrounds facility, the Petaluma
Regional Library, and the Petaluma Swim Center. The service-oriented nature
of the Police and Fire uses is consistent with the commercial retail and service -
oriented uses in the adjacent East Washington Place shopping center. The
43,585-square-foot facility is sited on a ±3.5-acre portion of the ±48.09-acre
City-owned fairgrounds property at the south corner of Johnson Street and
Kenilworth Drive. Like the other Library and Swim Center uses, the facility is
highly visible from all public rights of way, and it is easily accessible by foot,
bike, transit, and vehicle. The project proposes a two-story building to minimize
the footprint, and all existing uses on the City Fairground property would be
maintained. In addition, the facility is set back from both Johnson Street and
Kenilworth Drive, providing a community plaza and robust landscaping, which
integrate the Facility into the existing development pattern, streetscapes, and
adjacent East Washington Place shopping center.
The emergency response communications facility will comply with all
applicable setbacks of the Mixed Use 1B, Civic Facilities, and Fairgrounds
Overlay Zones, with setbacks of ±83 feet from Kenilworth Drive and ±72 feet
from the rear elevation of the primary building. These setbacks will place the
emergency response communications facility in the middle of the site and well
away from nearby public areas.
c. The size, location, design, color, number, lighting, and materials of all signs
and outdoor advertising structures is in accordance with all applicable
requirements of this Zoning Ordinance and appropriate for the site and
compatible with the character of the neighborhood.
The size, location, design, color, number, lighting, and materials of all signs
and outdoor advertising structures are appropriate for the site and compatible
with the character of the neighborhood in that the Public Safety Facility would
propose a wall sign and a monument sign to identify the Police and Fire
Departments for the community. The project is conditioned to ob tain sign
permits to ensure all signs will comply with IZO Chapter 20.
This finding is not applicable to the emergency response communications
facility, which does not propose signage or outdoor advertising structures.
d. The bulk, height, and color of any proposed structure is appropriate for
the site and as compared to the bulk, height, and color of other structures
in the neighborhood.
The bulk, height, and color of the proposed structures are appropriate for the
site and, in comparison, to the bulk, height, and color of other structures in the
neighborhood in that the project complies with applicable development
standards for maximum height and minimum setbacks, and incorporates a
combination of colors, materials, and architectural features that reduce the
appearance of bulk. The primary structure, consisting of the Police and
Emergency Operations Center building and the Fire apparatus bay, is
differentiated by color along the front façade to reduce the appearance of
massing. The ground floor is further articulated with full-length natural maple
wood slats, which soften the concrete massing and break the vertical plane of
the façade. Board-formed concrete finishes throughout the building introduce
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natural texture and visual interest, complemented by metal decorative elements
that provide additional refinement and soften the concrete surfaces. The
accessory structure utilizes textured concrete block with vertical design
elements that reduce the appearance of bulk and maintain visual compatibility
with the surrounding context.
The emergency response communications facility has been designed to function
as a dispatch system for the future locations of the Police and Fire Departments
at the project site. Additionally, camouflaging or stealthing the facility is not
feasible due to the signal type, typical maintenance need s, and project
operational requirements. Also, as conditioned, the facility will be designed to
comply with building and fire codes, as well as requirements for natural
disaster survivability.
2. Landscaping in accordance with applicable City standards and that is
appropriate for the site and compatible with the character of the
neighborhood will be provided on the site. Existing trees shall be preserved
wherever possible, and shall not be removed unless approved by the Planning
Commission.
Landscaping is proposed in accordance with applicable City standards and would
be appropriate for the site and compatible with the character or design of the
neighborhood, except where alternatives may be considered by the Planning
Commission and as conditioned, in that proposed landscaping consists of 10 new
on-site trees and a mix of shrubs, groundcover, and site amenities. The landscaping
complies with applicable City standards, except the project requests an alternative
interior parking lot landscape design within the secured parking area to enhance
emergency response time pursuant to SPAR Appendix A. There are 29 existing
street trees within the public rights-of-way adjacent to the site, 14 of which will be
retained, and 15 of which will be removed to accommodate the proposed
development. The project is conditioned to obtain a tree removal permit from
Public Works for the removal of the 15 street trees along Johnson Street and within
the center median and along Kenilworth Drive. Due to operational constraints, the
project cannot meet its individual tree requirement of 51 on -site trees per City
standards. However, it is conditioned to provide 41 additional trees within the
Fairgrounds property to comply with City standards. The proposed landscaping is
appropriate for the site and compatible with the character of the neighborhood in
that a robust palette of shrubs proposed in a curvilinear pattern would
counterbalance the rectangular form of the structures and soften the massing of the
structures as viewed off-site.
The emergency response communications facility is appropriately landscaped in
that the facility will be integrated into the Public Safety Facility and sited within
the secure outdoor area, for which a landscape plan is proposed.
3. Ingress, egress, internal circulation for bicycles and automobiles, off -street
automobile and bicycle parking facilities and pedestrian ways are designed so
as to promote safety and convenience and conform to applicable City
standards. Any plans pertaining to pedestrian, bicycle, or automobile
circulation have been routed to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory
Committee for review and approval or recommendation.
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Ingress, egress, internal circulation for bicycles and automobiles, off-street
automobiles, bicycle parking facilities, and pedestrian ways are designed to
promote safety and convenience and shall conform to approved City standards in
that public site access would be proposed via a 26 -foot-wide, two-way driveway
from Johnson Street, and a 78-foot driveway would provide fire apparatus access
to the apparatus bay. In addition, the project provides two gated, secured two -way
driveways for the secured lot at the rear of the facility. The project would provide
13 public parking spaces, 111 secured parking stalls, and 10 bike parking spaces.
Colored concrete and site amenities within the public parking area would create
safe and convenient access to the main entrance. In addition, the project would
provide a 10-foot-wide multipurpose pathway along the Johnson Street and
Kenilworth Drive street frontages.
The central location of the emergency response communications facility on the site
will not affect ingress, egress, internal circulation for bicycles and automobiles,
off-street automobiles, bicycle parking facilities, or pedestrian ways.
4. The design is of good character and has been prepared by a professional
designer, such as an architect, landscape architect or other practicing urban
designer or person with equivalent skill and qualifications.
The project was professionally designed by a licensed architect and is of good
character and quality, incorporating input from a joint Planning Commission-City
Council study session. Licensed professionals will design construction drawings
for the emergency response communications facility, and the project is extensively
conditioned to comply with the Uniform Building Code, National Electrical Code,
Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and Uniform Fire Code,
where applicable, and other requirements of PMC Chapter 14.44.
5. The application and the project for which it seeks approval are exempt from
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), or the environmental
impacts of the project including impacts to or of biological resources,
greenhouse gas emissions, vehicle miles travelled, land use, population and
housing, agriculture and forestry resources, cultural resources, hazards and
hazardous materials, mineral resources, public services, utilities and service
systems, air quality, geology and soils, hydrology and water quality, noise, and
recreation are avoided, or are mitigated by conditions imposed by the
reviewing authority so as to be less than significant, or are approved based on
overriding considerations in accordance with all applicable CEQA
requirements.
The Project is statutorily exempt from further environmental review under CEQA
pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section
15183 in that the project is consistent with the development density established by
the City’s existing Implementing Zoning Ordinance and is consistent with the City
of Petaluma General Plan 2025 for which an EIR has been certified. A detailed
analysis of the Project’s eligibility for use of the exemption is provided in
Attachment 9 (Environmental Checklist for Streamlined Review).
6. The proposed structure and use, subject to any conditions which may apply,
conforms with the applicable requirements of this Zoning Ordinance and
applicable policies and programs of the City’s General Plan and any
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applicable specific plan, and the proposed use will not, under the
circumstances of the conditional use application, constitute a nuisance or be
detrimental to the public welfare of the community.
The proposed structure and use, subject to any conditions which may apply,
conforms with the applicable requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, except for
requested relief from interior parking lot landscaping as allowed by Planning
Commission, and applicable policies and programs of the City’s General Plan and
any applicable specific plan, and the proposed use will not, under the
circumstances of the Conditional Use Permit application, constitute a nuisance or
be detrimental to the public welfare of the community. The proposed structures and
use will not constitute a nuisance or be detrimental to the public welfare of the
community, as the development conforms with the applicable requirements of the
Implementing Zoning Ordinance and is consistent with applicable policies and
programs of the Petaluma General Plan.
The proposed Public Safety Facility structures and use are consistent with the
Fairgrounds Overlay Zone, the purpose and intent of which is to allow operation
of existing uses on the City-owned Fairgrounds property, provide specifications for
establishment of new, beneficial uses of the Fairgrounds, including temporary uses,
permanent uses and structures, and site improvements, consistent with the
Fairgrounds Guiding Principles adopted in City Council Resolution 2022 -167
N.C.S., and to ensure ongoing operation of the site and its uses is in the best interest
of the public health, safety, and welfare while a master plan and associated land
use policies and zoning are prepared and adopted for the Fairgrounds property.
The proposed Public Safety Facility implements the adopted guidelines for the
Fairgrounds, including preserving and enhancing the capacity of the Fairgrounds
property to provide critical emergency response resources for Petaluma and the
region.
Based on its review of the entire record herein, including the September 23, 2025, Planning
Commission Staff Report, all supporting referenced and incorporated documents , and all
comments received and foregoing findings, the Planning Commission hereby recommends for City
Council approval Site Plan and Architectural Review for the Public Safety Facility and associated
telecommunications facility, subject to the conditions of approval attached hereto as Exhibit 1, and
with the following recommendations:
1. Provide input to the project on wall and monument signage copy;
2. Receive board-form concrete samples from the project team showing a range of
wood grain patterns and textures, and provide direction to the project team and
Planning staff on preferred alternative(s) for implementation; and
3. Receive design revisions to front public areas for improved seating, shade, and
enhanced placemaking to support use of outdoor plaza and provide direction to the
project team and Planning staff on preferred alternative(s) for implementation.
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Planning Commission Resolution No. 2025-04 Page 14 of 27
ADOPTED this 23nd day of September 2025, by following vote:
Commission Member Aye No Absent Abstain
Ebner X
Goldman X
Mozes X
Newell X
Racusen X
Schildt X
Barnacle X
Jessica Mozes, Chair
ATTEST:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Andrew Trippel, Planning Manager Dylan Brady, Assistant City Attorney
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10/2/2025
EXHIBIT 1
SPAR CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Petaluma Public Safety Facility
and
Telecommunications Facility for Emergency Responses
Located at 866 E. Washington St (APN 007-031-004)
File No.: PLPJ-2025-0041 (PLSR-2025-0008, PLUP-2025-0006)
Planning Division
Standard Conditions of Approval
1. Plans submitted for any building permit submitted to the City pursuant to this approval shall
be in substantial conformance with the architectural, civil, and landscaping plans approved by
the Planning Commission on September 23, 2025, except as modified by these conditions of
approval. The Planning Manager shall make a determination of substantial conformance in
writing during the plan check review process. Nothing shall preclude the Planning Manager
from referring a substantial conformance determination to the Planning Commission for review
at a publicly noticed meeting.
2. The colors, materials, and landscaping shall be in substantial conformance with those noted on
the plan set approved by Planning Commission on September 23, 2025.
3. The day following approval, the applicant shall provide to the Planning Manager a check made
payable to the Sonoma County Clerk, in the amount required and published by the Sonoma
County Clerk to file the CEQA Notice of Exemption (“NOE”). For details on th is filing, please
visit: https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/CRA/Clerk-Recorder/CEQA-%E2%80%93-Fish-and-
Wildlife-Filings/. Per Fish and Game Code Section 711.4(d)(1), payment of the State
Department of Fish and Wildlife environmental filing fee is not required).
4. All conditions of this permit shall be printed on the second sheet of each plan set submitted for
any building permit submitted to the City pursuant to this approval, under the title ‘SPAR
Conditions of Approval.’ Additional sheets may also be used if the second sheet is not of
sufficient size to list all conditions. The sheet(s) containing the conditions shall be of the same
size as those sheets containing the construction drawings; 8-1/2” by 11” sheets are not
acceptable. A copy of the approved plans shall be maintained on -site when construction
activities are occurring.
5. At Building Permit issuance, the applicant shall provide the City with an electronic copy of
final/approved plans in PDF format on either a CD or USB drive.
6. This approval is granted for and contingent upon construction of the project as a whole, in a
single phase, with the construction and/or installation of all features approved and required
herein. Phasing of one block ahead of the other may be authorized by staff subject to a
Construction Agreement. Modifications to the project, including but not limited to a change in
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construction phasing, shall require Site Plan and Architectural Review in accordance with IZO
§24.050.
7. This approval is, as provided for at IZO §24.050(I), effective for a twelve (12) month period
unless the permit has been exercised or unless an extension of time is approved in compliance
with IZO §24.050(K).
8. If applicable, all development impact fees associated with the project shall be paid prior to
final inspection or certificate of occupancy.
9. All rooftop equipment shall be fully screened from view by equipment-specific screening
structures or parapets, subject to the review and approval of the Planning Manager.
10. All standpipes, check valves, and other utilities shall be placed underground or fully screened
from view by decorative screening structures or landscaping, subject to the review and
approval of the Planning Manager.
11. The 14 street trees within the Kenilworth Drive right-of-way are to be retained during
construction activities as shown diagrammatically on the approved off-site civil demolition
plan. The applicant shall provide at the time of construction drawing submittal tree protection
notes for each of the street trees located along the Kenilworth Drive frontage subject to review
and approval by the City Engineer. Tree protection notes shall be consistent with IZO Section
17.080.
12. The applicant is required to obtain Tree Removal Permits from Public Works pursuant to IZO
Chapter 17, subject to review and approval by the City Engineer for all trees to be removed
within the Kenilworth Drive and Johnson Street rights-of-way. The project plans approved by
the Planning Commission on September 23, 2025 show 15 trees to be removed within the
adjacent public rights-of-way.
13. The applicant shall provide 41 additional tree plantings on the City Fairgrounds property as
part of future development and/or improvements on the property, including but not limited to
the implementation of the Fairgrounds Master Plan and on both sides of Johnson Street within
the public right-of-way to provide shade, to fulfill the balance of on-site tree requirements of
SPAR as described in the September 23, 2025, Planning Commission staff report.
14. All plantings shall be maintained in good growing condition. Such maintenance shall include,
where appropriate, pruning, mowing, weeding, cleaning of debris and trash, fertilizing and
regular watering. Whenever necessary, planting shall be replaced with other plants (to provide
an equivalent appearance and be of the same water usage, and if to replace a native or
mitigation planting, of the same species) to ensure continued compliance with applicable
landscaping requirements. Required irrigation systems shall be fully maintained in sound
operating condition with heads periodically cleaned and replaced when missing to ensure
continued regular watering of landscape areas, and health and vitality of landscap e materials.
15. Herbicides/pesticides shall not be applied in areas used by pedestrians/bicyclists within the
project without first providing appropriate signs warning of the use of chemicals. The project
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shall utilize Best Management Practices (BMPs) regarding pesticide/herbicide use and as well
as Integrated Pest Management techniques for the protection of bicyclists and pedestrians.
16. All tree stakes and ties shall be removed within one year following the installation or as soon
as trees are able to stand erect without support.
17. Separate sign permits in compliance with Chapter 20 of the Implementing Zoning Ordinance
shall be obtained prior to the installation of signage.
18. The proposed monument sign along the Johnson Street frontage shall not be placed within the
vision triangle per IZO Figure 13.1.
19. Based upon info received during SPAR review, development of the future expansion area with
a one-story commercial building, similar in design to the approved project would be subject to
minor SPAR by the Director pursuant to IZO Section 24.050.B. The Director has the authority
to refer to high review authority.
20. The applicant is encouraged to work with the existing Fairgrounds Speedway to provide a
shared parking agreement that would replace the existing parking provided by the undeveloped
Public Safety Facility site.
21. Pursuant to IZO Chapter 18, the Public Safety Facility is required to provide public art equal
to at least one percent of the total construction cost or contribute an equivalent in-lieu fee to
the City’s Public Art Fund. All proposals will be reviewed and approved by the Petaluma
Public Art Committee (PPAC) for compliance with IZO Section 18.120.
Major Telecommunications Facility Conditions of Approval
The emergency response communications facility must comply with the following conditions of
approval, subject to review by the Planning Division and substantial conformance determination,
as required, by the Community Development Director:
22. Design and operation of the facility must comply with all applicable regulations contained in
the Uniform Building Code, National Electrical Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform
Mechanical Code, and Uniform Fire Code. (PMC 14.44.030.C)
23. All commercial telecommunication facilities and minor antennas shall comply at all times
with all FCC rules, regulations, and standards. (PMC 14.44.030.H)
24. The facility shall maintain in place a security program, when determined necessary by and
subject to the review and approval of the police chief , that will prevent unauthorized access
and vandalism. (PMC 14.44.030.I)
25. Any satellite dish and parabolic antennas included in the emergency response
communications facility shall be situated as close to the ground as possible to reduce visual
impact without compromising their function. (PMC 14.44.030.J)
26. The Conditional Use Permit issued pursuant to PMC Chapter 14.44 or a site plan approval
issued pursuant to PMC Chapter 14.44 authorizing establishment of the emergency response
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communications facility shall be reviewed every ten years as required and in accordance with
PMC Chapter 14.44.150.
27. The facility is proposed at a distance of less than one hundred ten percent of its height from a
habitable structure; therefore, it shall be designed and maintained as required by PMC
Chapter 14.44.160, Structural Requirements.
28. Satellite dishes other than microwave dishes shall be of mesh construction, except where
technical evidence acceptable to the Community Development Director is submitted showing
that this is infeasible. (PMC Ch. 14.44.170.C)
29. All buildings, poles, towers, antenna supports, antennas, and other components of the facility
shall be initially painted and thereafter repainted as necessary with a "flat" paint that
complements the color palette of the facility. The color selected shall be one that, in the
opinion of the Community Development Director, will minimize their visibility to the
greatest extent feasible. (PMC Ch. 14.44.170.G)
30. The facility shall not exceed a maximum gross area site of 100 square feet, subject to
substantial conformance determination by the Community Development Director. (PMC Ch.
14.44.170.H)
31. The facility shall ensure that sufficient anti-climbing measures have been incorporated into
the facility, as needed, to reduce potential for injury. (PMC Ch. 14.44.170.J)
32. The facility shall be designed and maintained in compliance with regulations contained in
PMC Chapter 14.44.180 intended to ensure that operation of the facility will survive, without
interruption, a natural disaster.
33. Lighting of the facility shall comply with all regulations contained in PMC Chapter
14.44.220, directing that the facility shall be unlit except for specific reasons as identified.
34. The facility shall comply with regulations contained in PMC Chapter 14.44.250, Fire
prevention, subsection A only. The facility is not required to demonstrate compliance with
requirements of subsections A.1. through A.5. by a certificate signed by the fire chief on the
building plans submitted as described in subsection B.
35. The facility and its operations shall comply with all requirements of PMC Ch. 14.44.270,
Noise and traffic, except during times of a declared emergency.
36. Prior to the issuance of any building permit for construction of the facility, the applicant shall
submit to the Community Development Director a Nonionizing Electromagnetic Radiation
(NIER) analysis report prepared by a qualified electrical engineer licensed in the State of
California. The report shall demonstrate that the proposed telecommunications facility, either
individually or in combination with other facilities, will not produce power densities in any
inhabited area exceeding the standards established in Section 14.44.290 of the Implementing
Zoning Ordinance, including the ANSI C95.1-1992 standard or any more restrictive standard
subsequently adopted by the City, County, State of California, or Federal Government.
If calculated NIER levels exceed eighty (80) percent of the applicable standard, the applicant
shall, prior to commencement of normal facility operations, submit to the Community
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Development Director a certification of compliance prepared by the licensed engineer who
completed the original report, based on post-installation measurements of actual NIER levels
at the location where such levels are projected to be highest. The City may, at the applicant’s
expense, require independent verification of the report findings.
Ongoing compliance with Section 14.44.290 shall be demonstrated through submission of a
NIER compliance report to the Community Development Director every five (5) years
following facility approval, and within ninety (90) days of any change to the adopted NIER
standard. Each report shall identify all transmitters and antennas present at the facility,
effective radiated power, updated NIER calculations, and post-installation measurements if
required under Section 14.44.290.
Failure to submit required reports or to maintain compliance with the applicable NIER
standard shall constitute grounds for revocation of the use permit or other applicable
entitlement.
Environmental Conditions of Approval
37. Prior to issuance of a building permit, exterior lighting fixtures shall be fully detailed and
subject to staff review and approval. All light fixtures shall be hooded and downward cast and
shall comply with the performance standards set forth in Implementing Zoning Ordinance
Section 21.040(D).+
38. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 4-P-15(C), the following latest BAAQMD Best
Management Practices (BMPs) and other BMPs shall be incorporated into all construction
plans and implemented for all construction activities:
• All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and
unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day.
• All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered.
• All visible mud/dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power
vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited.
• All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 miles per hour (mph).
• All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as
practicable. Building pads shall be laid as soon as practicable after grading unless seeding
or soil binders are used.
• All excavation, grading, and/or demolition activities shall be suspended when average wind
speeds exceed 20 mph.
• All trucks and equipment, including their tires, shall be washed off prior to leaving the site.
• Unpaved roads providing access to site located 100 feet of further from a paved road shall
be treated with a 6- to 12-inch layer of compacted layer of wood chips, mulch, or gravel.
• Publicly visible signs shall be posted with the telephone number and name of the person to
contact at the lead agency regarding dust complaints. This person shall respond and take
corrective action within 48 hours. The Air District’s General Air Pollution Complaints
number shall be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
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39. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 4-P-15, the following requirements or
measures shown to be equally effective shall be implemented by the construction contractor to
reduce combustion emissions during construction and demolition phases:
• Maintain construction equipment engines in good condition and in proper tune per
manufacturer’s specification for the duration of construction;
• Minimize idling time of construction related equipment, including heavy -duty equipment,
motor vehicles, and portable equipment;
• Use alternative fuel construction equipment (i.e., compressed natural gas, liquid petroleum
gas, and unleaded gasoline);
• Use add-on control devices such as diesel oxidation catalysts or particulate filters;
• Use diesel equipment that meets the ARB’s 2000 or newer certification standard for offroad
heavy-duty diesel engines;
• Phase construction of the project;
• Limit the hours of operation of heavy duty equipment.
40. The Project shall comply with the recommendations contained in the Biological Resources
Assessment and Wetland Delineation prepared by Sol Ecology on September 2, 2025 including
the following:
• Conduct additional investigation during the rainy season to determine whether
hydrological indicators are present in either potentially jurisdictional seasonal wetland
feature (refer to Attachment A, Figure 2 of the Biological Resources Assessment and
Wetland Delineation).
• If the features onsite meet the criteria to be considered isolated wetlands of the state, the
Project shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the Regional Water Quality Control Board
(RWQCB).
• If required, a Notice of Intent requesting coverage under State Water Resources Control
Water Quality Order for Dredged or Fill Discharges to Waters Deemed by the USACE to
be Outside of Federal Jurisdiction shall be submitted and the Project shall comply w ith all
conditions set forth in the RWQCB permit.
• If required, the Project shall obtain requisite compensatory mitigation through purchase of
wetland credits at an approved wetland mitigation bank, consistent with mitigating General
Plan Policy 4-P-2 and RWQCB regulations.
41. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 3 -P-1, the Project shall protect historic,
archaeological, and tribal cultural resources through implementation of the recommendations
contained in the Cultural Resources Study prepared by Evans & De Shazo on July 29, 2025 as
follows:
• Prior to the commencement of Project-related, ground-disturbing activities, the Project
applicant and/or construction contractor shall conduct a Cultural Resources Awareness
Training, provided by a Secretary of the Interior-qualified Archaeologist and a
representative from the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR). The training shall
be provided for the equipment operators and other members of the construction team
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overseeing or conducting ground disturbing activities, shall include relevant information
regarding the archaeological sensitivity of the Project Area, the types of archaeological
resources that could be encountered, the procedures to follow if archaeologi cal deposits
and/or artifacts are encountered during construction, appropriate avoidance and impact
minimization measures, applicable regulations, and consequences of violating state
cultural resource laws. The training shall emphasize confidentiality and culturally
appropriate treatment of any discovery of significance to Native Americans and shall
address appropriate behaviors and responsive actions, consistent with Native American
tribal values.
• If an archaeological deposit, feature, or concentration of artifacts is encountered during
Project-related, ground-disturbing activities, all work within 50 feet of the discovery shall
be redirected until a Secretary of the Interior-qualified Archaeologist inspects the material,
assesses its potential historical significance, and provides recommendations for the
treatment of the discovery. If the discovery is a precontact period resource, further
treatment should be determined in consultation with the Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria (FIGR). Potentially significant precontact period resources include
concentrations of humanly-modified stone, shell, or bone; obsidian, chert, basalt, quartz,
and cryptocrystalline silicate (CCS) lithic debitage and flaked-stone tools (e.g., projectile
points, knives, choppers); midden deposits (culturally darkened soil containing heat -
affected rock, animal bone, and/or shellfish remains, and other artifacts); stone milling
equipment, such as mortars and pestles; and features such as hearths, firepits, deliberately
interred burials, cremations, house pits/depressions; and sacred places, cultural landscapes,
and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe. Potentially
significant historic-era resources include all byproducts of human use greater than 50 years
of age, including backfilled privies, wells, and refuse pits; concrete, stone, or wood
structural elements or foundations; and concentrations of metal, glass, and ceramic refuse.
• In accordance with PRC Section 5097.98 and Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, if
human remains are encountered within the Project Area, all work must stop within 100 -
feet of the discovery area, the area shall be secured to prevent further disturbance, and the
Sonoma County Coroner shall be notified. The coroner will determine if the remains are
precontact period Native American remains or of modern origin and if there any further
investigation by the coroner is warranted. If the remains are suspected to be those of a
precontact period Native American, the coroner shall contact the NAHC within 24 -hours.
The NAHC will immediately notify the person it believes to be the most likely descendant
(MLD) of the remains. The MLD has 48-hours to make recommendations to the landowner
for the treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the MLD does not make
recommendations within 48-hours, the landowner is required by law to rebury the remains
within an area of property that will not be subject to future disturbances. A Secretary of the
Interior-qualified archaeologist shall also be retained to evaluate the historical significance
of the discovery, the potential for additional remains to be present, and provide further
recommendations for treatment of the resourc e in coordination with the MLD.
42. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 10-P-1, the Project shall minimize risks of
property damage and personal injury posed by natural hazards by incorporating all
recommendations provided in the Geotechnical Exploration Report prepared by Engeo on
August 20, 2025, unless otherwise modified by the City of Petaluma.
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43. In the event that paleontological resources, including individual fossils or assemblages of
fossils, are encountered during construction activities all ground disturbing activities shall halt
and a qualified paleontologist shall evaluate the discovery and make treatment
recommendations.
44. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 10-P-4, operation of the Project shall minimize
the risk to life and property from the production, use, storage, and transportation of hazardous
materials and waste by complying with all applicable State and local regulations, including the
Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan (CoIWMP) and the Consolidated Unified
Protection Agency (CUPA) program elements.
45. Consistent with mitigating General Plan Policy 8-P-38, all development activities shall be
constructed and maintained in accordance with Phase 2 National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements.
46. The Project shall be required to comply with uniformly applied development standards
contained in Chapters 15.80 (Stormwater Management and Pollution Control) and 17.31
(Grading and Erosion Control) of the City’s Municipal Code.
47. Consistent with General Plan EIR Mitigation Measure 3.9(a), the Project developer shall
require by contract specifications that the following construction best management practices
(BMPs) be implemented by contractors to reduce construction noise levels:
• Two weeks prior to the commencement of construction, notification must be provided to
surrounding land uses disclosing the construction schedule, including the various types of
activities that would be occurring throughout the duration of the construction period;
• Ensure that construction equipment is properly muffled according to industry standards;
• Place noise-generating construction equipment and locate construction staging areas away
from residences, where feasible;
• Schedule high noise-producing activities between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to
minimize disruption on sensitive uses; and
• Implement noise attenuation measures to the extent feasible, which may include, but are
not limited to, noise barriers or noise blankets.
48. Consistent with recommendations contained in the Noise and Vibration Assessment, prepared
by Illingworth & Rodkin, dated July 17, 2025, the following additional construction BMPs
shall be implemented:
• Equip all internal combustion engine-driven equipment with intake and exhaust mufflers
that are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment.
• Prohibit unnecessary idling of internal combustion engines.
• Locate stationary noise-generating equipment, such as air compressors or portable power
generators, as far as possible from sensitive receptors. Construct temporary noise barriers
to screen stationary noise-generating equipment when located near adjoining sensitive land
uses.
• Control noise from construction workers’ radios to a point where they are not audible at
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existing residences bordering the project site.
• Notify all adjacent businesses, residences, and other noise-sensitive land uses of the
construction schedule, in writing, and provide a written schedule of “noisy” construction
activities to the adjacent land uses and nearby residences.
• Designate a “disturbance coordinator” who shall be responsible for responding to any
complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator shall determine the cause
of the noise complaint (e.g., bad muffler, etc.) and shall require that reasonab le measures
be implemented to correct the problem. Conspicuously post a telephone number for the
disturbance coordinator at the construction site and include it in the notice sent to neighbors
regarding the construction schedule.
49. Consistent with Section 21.040(A) of the Implementing Zoning Ordinance, construction
activities shall be limited to between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and
between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and State, Federal or Local Holidays.
Building Division
50. The plans provided for this process appear to be conceptual in nature; additional drainage
related detail will be needed for the formal civil/drainage plan submittal.
51. The proposed project will require building permit application(s) and construction document
approval in compliance with current and effective California Building Standards Code in CCR
Title 24 as adopted and amended by the City of Petaluma. The current and effective code at
time of building permit application will govern requirements.
52. Advisory: It is important to consider that this conceptual design package was developed under
the 2022 edition of the California Building Code, however California's building codes are
updated every three years on a triennial cycle. The next update, effective January 1, 2026, will
require that the basis for design will be based on the 2025 Building Code Series to include
local amendments.
53. Provide site plan and construction documents in accordance with CBC 107. Full plan submittal
is required as applicable to project scope. Architectural, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical,
and plumbing system drawings are to are to be prepared and signed by the state licensed
professional responsible for their preparation. See City file preparations standards: Electronic
File Preparation Standards - Petaluma (cityofpetaluma.org).
54. Building permit construction documents are to include occupancy classifications, mixed use
provisions, general building area and height limitations, type of construction, fire sprinkler
provisions, design occupant load, and exiting compliance data for each building on the subject
parcels. Ensure that all general and special requirements related to Essential Service buildings
are also incorporated into the design.
55. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied
by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures
on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades and the proposed finished
grades and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and it
shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition,
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the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing
structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot.
56. Construction plans comply with CalGreen provisions and shall indicate how the site grading
or drainage system will manage all surface water flows to keep water from entering buildings.
Examples of methods to manage surface water include, but are not limite d to, the following:
1. Swales, 2. Water collection and disposal systems, 3. French drains, 4. Water retention
gardens, 5. Other water measures which keep surface water away from buildings and aid in
groundwater recharge.
57. A5.106.2 Storm water design. Design storm water runoff rate, quantity and quality in
conformance with Section A5.106.3 Low Impact Development (LID) or by local requirements,
whichever are stricter. In addition to the site design and stormwater controls el ements noted
in the effective building codes, please review the Engineering Department’s requirements in
tandem with local BMP standards.
58. For the 2022 Building Standards Code cycle the City of Petaluma has adopted CalGreen at the
Tier 1 level, with the exception Energy Efficiency, which is adopted at the mandatory level. A
CALGreen special inspector is required to confirm the design and inst allation of compliance
measures on this form: CALGreen Building Design and Construction Verification - Petaluma
. In mixed occupancy buildings, each portion of a building shall comply with the specific green
building measures applicable to each specific occupancy.
59. It is recommended to make preliminary design of significant measures to avoid unforeseen
delays or costs for the project. For example:
60. A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2
Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1, or comply with
Section A5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—Power allocation method
and associated Table A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1.
61. A4.106.8 Electric vehicle (EV) charging for new construction. New construction shall comply
with Section A4.106.8.1 or A4.106.8.2, to facilitate the installation and use of EV ready spaces.
Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shall comply with the California Electrical Code.
62. Include preliminary design for sections A4.106 and A5.106 for soil protection, 20% water
permeable surfaces, cool roofing, and EV charging design.
63. Include preliminary design for commissioning requirements. Prior to permit issuance a
commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned.
The commissioning plan shall include the following: (See Cx plan elements checklis t.)
CalGreen 5.410.2.
64. Provide a clear statement of applicability for CBC Chapter 11B for this project on construction
documents submitted for permit. Where facility is a Place of Public Accommodation (See CBC
Chapter 202), compliance with CBC Chapter 11B is applicable and compliance must be
demonstrated on construction documents.
65. Each separate building, structure, pool, and separate parcels must have a separate permit for
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construction.
66. Permit application is to be made to the Building Division of the Community Development
Department. Permit applications will require plans, review and approval. See:
https://cityofpetaluma.org/permit-process/
67. Identify requests for deferred submittals on the cover sheet of construction documents. Typical
approved deferrals include fire protection drawings or manufactured product shop drawing
specifications.
68. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections in accordance with 107.1 Chapter
1, Division II, as a condition for permit issuance. This statement shall be in accordance with
Section 1704.3. Identify special inspections required for structur al and code compliance.
Please specify special inspector(s) including CALGreen inspector on this form:
https://cityofpetaluma.org/documents/special-inspection-and-testing-procedure/
Fire Department
69. The Fire Apparatus Access: Fire access roads shall be a minimum of 20 feet wide, all-weather,
and capable of supporting 75,000 lbs. Access must be provided to within 150 feet of all portions
of the building.
70. Fire Hydrants: On-site fire hydrant locations and spacing shall be reviewed and approved
during the building permit phase. Hydrants must be operational prior to combustible
construction.
71. Water Supply: Fire flow and water supply shall meet minimum requirements of CFC Appendix
B & C and must be verified through a fire flow test prior to building permit issuance.
72. Fire Department Connections (FDC): FDCs must be located on the street-facing side of the
building within 100 feet of a fire hydrant and approved by the Fire Marshal. Fire Lane
Markings: Any fire apparatus access roads required to be posted shall be marked “Fire Lane –
No Parking” in accordance with CFC and City of Petaluma standards.
73. Deferred Fire Permits: Fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and any other fire protection system designs
shall be submitted under separate permits for Fire Department review and approval.
74. Addressing: Final building addressing shall be clearly visible from the street and approved by
the Fire Department prior to occupancy.
75. Emergency Access Gates (if proposed): Any gates impeding fire access must be equipped with
a Knox key switch or other approved method for Fire Department entry.
76. Hazardous Materials (if any): Any proposed use or storage of hazardous materials shall be
disclosed and approved in accordance with the CFC and CUPA requirements. Fire Safety
During Construction: Construction site fire safety shall comply with Chapter 33 o f the
California Fire Code, including maintaining access and water supply for fire protection
throughout construction.
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Public Works and Utilities
77. Per Section 10(b)(ii) of the SPAR Design Narrative, "Wash water from exterior vehicle
washdown area will be directed to the onsite sanitary system." Environmental Services will
require a hydromechanical oil-water separator for treatment of wastewater from vehicle wash
bays. The device will be required to either be covered or installed with a diversion valve to
prevent inflow and infiltration of stormwater to the City sewer collection system. Device to be
reviewed and approved by Environmental Services at time of Building plan submission.
78. Per Petaluma Municipal Code 19.32, a Wastewater Capacity fee may be assessed for the new
facility calculated by the square footage of the building. An assessment of the potential fee will
be reviewed at the time of Building plan submissions.
79. Frontage improvements shall be installed along Kenilworth and Johnson. Public
Improvement Plan shall be approved and an agreement entered into for all work on the
frontages and in public easements, and right of way.
80. The runoff to Kenilworth (Lakeville Channel drainage) shall provide for zero net storm water
runoff for the 24 hour, 2,5,10, 25, and 100-year event per City of Petaluma and Sonoma County
Water Agency (Sonoma Water) standards.
81. The runoff to the west entering the drainage area for the Wilson Pump Station shall be designed
for the 25-year event and the starting hydraulic grade line shall be the normal depth of the pipe
receiving the new runoff.
82. Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) shall review and approval is required prior to
the approval of the Building Permit.
83. All work shall conform to the latest City Standards.
84. Joint trench plans are required with the building permit/public improvement plan submittal.
Joint trench work shall be constructed with an Encroachment Permit.
85. All site development work shall be ADA accessible.
86. Prior to issuance of a building permit, an operations and maintenance manual is required for
the proposed storm water detention and treatment system and shall be submitted with the
building permit application for review and approval by the City Engineer. Stormwater
Treatment shall be per the latest BASMAA requirements. The manual shall include annual
inspection, by a Civil Engineer registered in the State of California, to ensure the detention and
treatment systems are operating as designed and constructed as well as provisions to make any
necessary repairs to the system. A signed and sealed copy of the report shall be provided
annually to the Office of the City Engineer.
87. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the developer shall comply with the City’s Phase II
storm water management plan and State of California NPDES requirements. Provide E10
submittal for City review and approval. A SWPPP is required for disturbance over 1 acre. A
WDID shall be shown on the Public Improvement Plans and the Building Permit.
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88. All the public improvements shall be designed in accordance with the City of Petaluma Public
Works and Utilities Department Standards & Specifications, latest edition of the Manual of
Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and Caltrans standards.
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