HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-06-10 Agenda Packet - PC-HPCHistoric Preservation Commission and
Planning Commission Agenda
June 10, 2020
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
7:00 p.m.
PURSUANT TO GOVERNOR GAVIN NEWSOM'S EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20 THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD
AS A TELECONFERENCE MEETING
In response to the Governor's Executive Orders, the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health
requirements, and to ensure the health and safety of our residents by limiting contact that could spread the COVID-
19 virus, there will be no members of the public in attendance at the Planning Commission Meetings. Members of
the Planning Commission and staff will participate in this meeting via teleconference.
In place of in -person attendance, members of the public can observe and offer comment at this meeting via Zoom:
VIEW MEETING VIA ZOOM APP OR ZOOM.COM AT:
zoom.us/join
using Webinar ID: 813-5929-0472
.or -
YOU CAN DIAL -IN USING YOUR PHONE
UNITED STATES: + 1 (669) 900-6833
Access Code: 813-5929-0472
A. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance
B. Public Communications
This is the time and place for the general public to address the Commission on any item listed or not
listed on the agenda. The Commission may not discuss any issue not included on the Agenda but set
the matter for a subsequent meeting.
C. Consent Calendar
C1. Consideration to adopt Regular Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2020.
D. Public Hearings
D1. Consideration to Amend the Municipal Code for the Regulation of Short -Term Rentals. This
Item Will Be Forwarded to City Council for Final Action.
E. General Business
F. Director Announcements
G. Commission Announcements
H. Workshops -None
I. Adjournment
If you need special assistance or accommodations to participate in this meeting, please
contact the Planning Department at (909) 477-2750. Notification of 48 hours prior to the
meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.
Listening devices are available for the hearing impaired.
TO ADDRESS THE PLANNING COMMISSION
The Planning Commission encourages free expression of all points of view. To allow all persons to speak,
given the length of the agenda, please keep your remarks brief. If others have already expressed your
position, you may simply indicate that you agree with a previous speaker. If appropriate, a spokesperson
may present the views of your entire group. To encourage all views and promote courtesy to others, the
audience should refrain from clapping, booing or shouts of approval or disagreement from the audience.
The public may address the Planning Commission on any agenda item. To address the Planning
Commission, please raise hand using the option feature on the device you are using. Dial -in calls, will be
notified when they can speak. It is important to state your name, address (optional). Comments are
generally limited to 5 minutes per individual.
If you wish to speak concerning an item not on the agenda, you may do so under "Public Comments." There
is opportunity to speak under this section prior to the end of the agenda.
As an alternative to participating in the meeting you may submit comments in writing to
Elizabeth.Thornhill(a)-citvofrc.us by 12:OOpm on the date of the meeting. Written comments will be distributed
to the Commissioners and included in the record.
AVAILABILITY OF STAFF REPORTS
Copies of the staff reports or other documentation to each agenda item are available at www.CitvofRC.us.
APPEALS
Any interested party who disagrees with the City Planning Commission decision may appeal the
Commission's decision to the City Council within 10 calendar days. Any appeal filed must be directed to the
City Clerk's Office and must be accompanied by a fee of $3,114 for all decisions of the Commission. (Fees
are established and governed by the City Council).
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session.
I, Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, or my designee,
hereby certify that a true, accurate copy of the foregoing agenda was posted on Thursday, June
04, 2020, seventy-two (72) hours prior to the meeting per Government Code
54954.2 at 10500 Civic Center Drive.
HPC/PC Meeting Agenda — June 10, 2020
Page 2 of 2
PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 275 2020
A. Call to Order
The meeting of the Historic Presentation Commission and Planning Commission was held on May
27, 2020. The meeting was called to order my Chairman Guglielmo at 7:04pm.
Planning Commission present: Chairman Guglielmo, Vice Chair Oaxaca joined the meeting at
7:11 pm, Commissioner Dopp, Commissioner Morales, and Commissioner Williams.
Staff Present: Nick Ghirelli, Assistant City Attorney; Anne McIntosh, Planning Director; Mike
Smith, Principal Planner; Elizabeth Thornhill, Executive Assistant; Tabe van der Zwaag,
Associate Planner; Brian Sandona, Sr. Civil Engineer; Jason Welday, City Engineer, Assistant
Planner; Dat Tran, Assistant Planner; David Eoff, Sr. Planner.
B. Public Communications
Chairman Guglielmo opened the public communications and hearing no comment, closed public
communications.
C. Consent Calendar
C1. Consideration to adopt Regular Meeting Minutes of April 22, 2020
Motion by Commissioner Morales, second by Commissioner Williams to approve Item C1. Motion
carried 4-0-1 vote, Vice Chair Oaxaca Absent, to adopt the minutes as presented.
D. Public Hearings
D1. DESIGN REVIEW DRC2017-00193 AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT DRC2017-00194
— GEORGE BOTROS — A request for site plan and architectural review along with the
operation of a proposed 12,350 square foot church and 18,033 square foot social building
on a 3.28 acre (143,053 square foot) project site located at the southwest corner of East
and Wilson Avenues in the Very Low (VL) Residential District of the Etiwanda Specific Plan;
APN: 0225-123-05. This item is exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the City's CEQA guidelines under CEQA Section
15332 — Infill Development. (Continued from April 22, 2020 HPC/PC meeting.)
Tabe van der Zwaag, Associate Planner, presented Commissioners with a Staff Report and
oral presentation (copy on file).
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 1 of 7
Draft
003
ISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 275 2020
George Botros, Architect, expressed support to the neighbors assuring them soundproof walls, no
distraction during events. Very sensitive to the neighbors and hope they would appreciate all that
will be done in regard to landscaping being placed around church and social building, lowering the
roof to minimum, and placing sidewalk on the north side of lot. There will be no outside activities.
Security guard will be hired to secure premises during events.
Chairman Guglielmo opened public hearing:
For the record, comments received via email by the following individuals expressing in favor of the
project:
Mousa Diab, Aida Attiyah, John Wardeh, Lina Wardeh, Jima Awad, Samer Danial, Marta Diab,
Jizelle Dakhil, Salem Diab, Alan Dahi, Fadi Jarrah, Sylvia Diab, Veolate Hannon, Fairuz Habhab,
Samaher Dandouch, Tony Salhab, Wissam Dandouch, Salam Haddad, Odiet Trad, Juli Salhab, Fadi
Maidaa, Mary Hannon, Brenda Samaan, Seham Hanna, Selene Saif, Kristine Saif, Basel Salhab,
Bassem Diab, Christopher Salhab, Melanie Husry, Amal Salhab, Osama Kassih, Dima Kassih,
Diyala Chahla, Roula Darouj, Miranda Husry, Laila Massis, Heather Hawara, Mores Naem, Dima
Hannoun, Tony Kassih, Michael Salhab, Mera Salhab, Alaa Khalil, Madeline Farha, Mary Dahi,
Rania Askar, Angelina Awad, Rakan Awad, Hend Danyal, Dalal Dib, Zoey Habhab, Jay Attiyah,
Reem Mbarakah, Shifaa Salhab, Adib Attiyah, Elia Ghanem, Aida Ghanem, Marlien Samaan, Mark
Makhoul, Christina Salhab, Rasha Hawara, Darin Farrouh, Anthony Diab, Andrew Diab, Haifaa
Askar, Rouba Salhab, Aida Samaan, Jennifer Salhab, Meriel Elmalih, Malynda Wanis, Wafaa Wanis,
Renee Alberre, Ghassan Elmalih, Melad Elmalih, Bernard Hanna, Haifaa Alshekh, Jovana Mahho,
Aida Durghalli, Fatan Danial, Joleen Wardeh, Abdo Diab, Deena Kassab, Dr. Ziad Kassab, Silva
Khalel, Evonne Alsalamy, Alondra Alsalamy, Nazir Habhab, Susan Attiyah, Hussam Durghalli and
Family, Ekab Eldiab, Susan Hawara, Joun Seder, Ibraham Diab, Sherin Salhab, Clara Diab, Wafaa
Batech, Ibrahim Zakour, Christine Samaan, Danny Dandouch, Hana Dandouch, Stephanie Salhab.
Comments received during Public Communication
Lisa and Jeff Unger, residents, requesting uniform gates needs to be a barrier at Horse Thief Lane,
and Rolling Pasture. Weekend traffic is especially bad. Strongly believes light is needed.
Ziat Corsot, Vice President, Perish Council of St. Elias Church, expressed his favor for church
project.
Michael Tahan, part of applicant team, stated the church has compromised working with neighbors
to accommodate their needs. The concerns the church is having and cannot live with are the
conditions regarding no more than three events. Requests to work on the language for events.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 2of7
Draft
004
PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 273 2020
T. Hedger, resident, mentioned he appreciates the new notice that went out. Commented Mr. Botros
doing a good job with the project but expressed the one thing he is very happy to hear about are the
three -event limit per month. Regarding the time events lasting till 11:30 p.m., so starting at 10:00pm,
they will have to limit the noise. How do they report if event goes past that at night? Does it need
to be documented. How will it work?
Cathy Hedger, resident, agrees with Lisa Unger regarding concerns of the traffic around the area of
Philly Drive, asking for better traffic control in area.
Amira Dandou, Mrs. Dandou (mom), Jay Ahiyah, Fayek Salhab, Lucy N., Meriel Elmalih, Mary
Hannah, Wafaa Batech all are in favor of the project.
Fayah Salhab, church member requesting the three event limitations be removed.
Tony Salhab, church member, expressed his concerns on the event limitations. Believes they are
being treated unfairly. They're constitutional right is to practice their religion freely and openly, not
conditioned. Requesting city legal team investigate further because he feels they are being treated
differently due to their faith.
Chairman Guglielmo closed the public hearing.
Nick Ghirell, Assistant City Attorney responded to the comment that there was discriminatory intent
behind the condition limiting the number of events that would be held per month. It was the
applicant's written project description that indicated 3 events per month would be held. That is the
only reason this condition was included in the draft resolution. There was no discriminatory intent.
He reminded the Commission that there is another condition that allows a review of the CUP if there
are issues. This provides a safety valve if there are problems down the road. This would be an
alternative to limiting the number of events as a condition.
Tabe van der Zwaag, Associate Planner, agrees with Mr. Ghirelli's comments when staff asked the
applicant representative regarding limitations the church can live under. It could be interpreted two
ways when they mentioned three events. Staff never interpreted that Christmas or Easter or any of
those type of events are special events. We were thinking more Weddings, Anniversary parties,
events that individual church members invite their families and have a party not related to a regular
church event. We did not intend the limitation on these three events would capture all these church
related events.
Commissioner Morales asked about the Conditional Use Permit limiting the special events to three
times, if it can be removed tonight and then make a motion to approve with that change.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 3 of 7
Draft
005
PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 273 2020
Commissioner Williams agrees to have the limitations removed. Regarding gate at end of street,
she is asking staff to clarify that issue.
Tabe van der Zwaag, Associate Planner explained there is an existing street that currently dead
ends because Wilson does not pull through and it dead ends into an undeveloped area that will be
in the future landscaped, including a sidewalk and bike lane. Right now, there is roughly a 10 ft.
wide wood barrier that is in middle of street and people drive up and residents are asking if city can
install a more permanent gate until Wilson Avenue is completed and street is pulled through. It is
located approximately 1 block over from the project site.
Jason Welday, City Engineer added it appears that our standard temporary barricade located at the
end of the street sounds like it might need to be looked at to make sure it is in good working order.
He will pass it along to Public works for them to look at and he explained it is a standard barricade
for when a street is temporary closed until the extension is made to Wilson.
Vice Chair Oaxaca expressed his concerns, along with other commissioners, regarding the limitation
on the number of monthly events. He did read through the letter provided by the applicant that staff
received making an estimate of the number of events held at the social hall. Requests if it could be
explored or if there is a consensus among commissioners to drop that condition with the
understanding the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) can be brought back if there seems to be an issue
down the road and have an opportunity to be re-examined. It could be brought back by anyone in
the community, church members, etc. and be revisited by staff and commissioners.
Commissioner Dopp agrees with commissioners and stated it is unreasonable to expect any
organization religious or not to plan out 12 months in advance. He understands the concerns of
residents the impact to their community but at the same time, hearing we were discriminatory against
this specific group, that is not the case. It is ourjob as commissioners to consider impacts. He does
agree to strike out the limitations of the planning conditions. It is an unreasonable burden on any
organization.
Chairman Guglielmo stated one of the residents asked about the noise requirements and hours of
operation. Requested staff to explain more in depth regarding the noise standards.
Tabe van der Zwaag, Associate Planner, explained the development code does provide noise
standards for residential districts. It is broken down from 7am to 10pm and then 10pm till 7am. It
gives decibel limitations on each of those times. The church will be required to live within those
same noise standards as a single-family residence.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 4 of 7
Draft
006
PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 273 2020
Nick Ghirelli, Assistant City Attorney, explained how code revision is enforced. Violation of the
municipal code is a misdemeanor. Code enforcement is brought in to handle situations like that.
Violation of condition of approval is subject to an administrative citation in order to remedy the
violation.
Anne McIntosh, Planning Director stated situations work out best when the church can identify
somebody in the congregation or a responsible party the neighbors can call to try and solve the
problem between them before getting the city involved.
Chairman Guglielmo requested Jason Welday to speak on the traffic study on Philly Drive.
Jason Welday, City Engineer explained they can look if a signal is warrant once the development
on the east side comes through. Looking at the number of homes that currently come out on Philly
Drive and the traffic volumes measured in the past, the volumes currently would not meet the state
warrants for a traffic signal. Unfortunately, from a traffic signal standpoint, it does not meet the
warrant. Looking at the traffic collision history in the last 10 years, there has been one (1) traffic
collision reported in that intersection. Regarding the speed limit, they are in the process of reviewing/
updating speed limits and have added this location to the list to evaluate.
Commissioner Morales commented he likes the new gate design on Rolling Pasture Place. Also,
he heard a comment earlier regarding Horse Thief Place Street. The project does not extend to
Horse Thief Place street. Only on Rolling Pasture and entrance at East.
Nick Ghirelli, Assistant City Attorney, corrected a statement he made earlier regarding in the event
there were impacts created by the project after its operation later down the road, the CUP would be
brought back to the Planning Commission for consideration of potentially a new COA or a replication.
Looking at Condition of Approval #10, it looks like the item would be brought back to the Planning
Director. He suggestions to modify and amend condition to say, "if the operation of the facility causes
adverse effects upon the adjacent neighborhood, the CUP may be reviewed by the Planning Director
for consideration of additional or modified conditions of approval or termination of use. The Planning
Director may refer the matter to Planning Commission for further action". He also wanted to get the
consensus from the commission on how to draft the three time per month limit on events rather than
strike the entire condition.
All Commissioners agreed to the modification omitting the three times per month event limitation
rather than strike the entire condition.
Nick Ghirelli also reminded the commission the requirement for valet parking is still on the condition
for larger events to prevent on street parking.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 5 of 7
Draft
007
ISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 273 2020
Mr. Ghirelli recommends modifying the first sentence on #12 to read, "Special events in the social
building shall end by 11:30pm, with all guests off the church grounds by 12:00am".
Motion by Commissioner Dopp, second by Commissioner Morales to approve Item D1. Motion
carried unanimously, 5-0 vote, staff recommendation to approve Design Review DRC2017-00193
and Conditional Use Permit DRC2017-00194, with the recommended changes to the Condition of
Approval as stated.
E. General Business
E1. FY20/21 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) — Determination of conformance with the
General Plan.
Jason Welday, City Engineer, presented Commissioners with a Staff Report.
Chairman Guglielmo opened the public communications and hearing no comment,
closed public communications.
Motion by Commissioner Williams, second by Oaxaca to adopt Resolution No. 20-25.
Motion carried unanimously, 5-0 vote.
E2. General Plan Update
Anne McIntosh, Planning Director, presented Commissioners with a general plan update
and video presentation.
Commissioner Morales commented it was a great video and informative to show our arena
requirements on how many homes we have to build and help explain to people why we are
doing what we are doing. He also asked if we were caught up on our timeline or did we fall
back due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Ms. McIntosh answered we are on schedule and right where we should be.
Commissioner Williams mentioned she noticed on the video it talked about 92% of our
housing is single-family residence. She would think the next slide would be maybe a slide
showing the actual number of single-family residence and the number of apartments to
show that percentage situation. People do not realize the percentage of apartments. The
subject needs to be addressed upfront that yes, we do have a lot of apartments and here is
our percentage. It really is quite small compared to single-family houses.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 6 of 7
Draft
008
PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 273 2020
F. Director Announcements - None
G. Commission Announcements - None
H. Workshops — None
Adjournment
Motion by Vice Chair Oaxaca, second by Commissioner Williams, to adjourn the meeting; motion carried
unanimously, 5-0 vote. Meeting was adjourned at 8:48pm.
HPC/PC Meeting Minutes — May 27, 2020
Page 7 of 7
Draft
009
STAFF REPORT
DATE: June 10, 2020
TO: Chairman and Members of the Planning Commission
FROM: Anne McIntosh, AICP, Planning Director
INITIATED BY: Jana Cook, Community Improvement Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE TO PERMIT AND REGULATE
SHORT-TERM RENTAL AT RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Planning Commission consider providing a recommendation to City
Council to approve an amendment to the Municipal Code to permit and regulate short-term rental
of residential property in zones VL, L, LM, HR or single-family residence in other residential zones.
BACKGROUND:
Short-term rental of residential property has not been a traditional use in Rancho Cucamonga,
seen much more commonly in resort or coastal communities. Through the "sharing economy"
and amplified by internet services, such as Airbnb and VRBO, city staff have seen this use grow.
While the activity is fully prohibited in Rancho Cucamonga, hosting platforms have provided
generalized information indicating they hold listings for 270-320 properties in the city where
travelers are welcome for periods of less than 30 days.
The transient nature of short-term rentals makes it extremely difficult to enforce on the full
prohibition. Hosting platforms provide aggregate information and remit the required Transient
Occupancy Tax but are not cooperative on providing the exact location of the property or the
information about the responsible person. The necessary research to identify the property and
host is extremely labor intensive with little ability to obtain true compliance.
Community Improvement staff have seen an increase in problems associated with this type of
unpermitted land use. These issues have included large parties that have become disruptive,
neighborhood parking use, late or early arrivals and departures creating neighborhood noise, and
other concerns. One advertised unit was for a "Luxury Trailer" where the residents were allowing
guests to stay in the 5th wheel trailer next to the house, compounding the violation.
Most concerning is unpermitted construction that may create issues of life safety for residents and
guests. One recent case involved a four -bedroom, three -bathroom house which had rooms
subdivided and an additional five bathrooms installed to accommodate up to eight rental units.
This included the unpermitted conversion of a barn to a guest house.
This last property exemplifies another trend not originally seen in the sharing economy which is
the property is purchased with the intent for use only as short-term rental and the host does not
live on site. This has a negative effect on neighborhoods in several ways, including changing the
character of a neighborhood in that the host has little interest in developing connections to
010
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Resolution 20-28
June 10, 2020
Page 2 of 4
the community. Exclusive short-term rental use also has the effect of reducing available housing
stock for long-term residential use, increasing the housing crisis in the region.
ANALYSIS:
The proposed ordinance has been developed with the intent to:
• Establish a regulatory framework to legalize and regulate short-term rental at residential
property
• Restate the requirement on hosts and Hosting Platforms to collect and remit Transient
Occupancy Tax
• Explicitly prohibit short-term rental at a property not occupied by the host
• Prohibit any person from advertising of a short-term rental without a valid permit, and
• Require Hosting Platforms to disclose to the City on a regular basis the name of the host,
the address of each listing, length of stay for each listing, and the price paid for each stay.
Through the permitting process, the responsible party for the short-term rental will be identified
and acknowledging the operating requirements for short-term rental. The process will include an
inspection of the property for rent to ensure the areas are properly intended for human habitation,
including appropriate emergency egress.
In 2018, the City entered into an agreement with Airbnb to collect and remit Transient Occupancy
Tax. Indications from independent sources are that approximately 90% of listings in the City are
on Airbnb, with the remainder spread across several platforms. This ordinance will provide the
authority to hold the remaining hosting platforms accountable for transactions taking place on
those sites.
A large contributing factor to the perceived issues at properties reported is that there is not a full-
time occupant of the residence being utilized for short-term rental. There are very few reports
received about problems or nuisance activity at any property where the host is a full-time resident.
This is attributable to the resident having neighborhood connections and the desire to maintain
the character of the neighborhood in which the host lives. With the requirement for the host to be
a full-time resident, whether owner or renter, it is anticipated the resident will prevent nuisance
activity from developing.
The prohibition for advertising of any unit which is not properly permitted will be a strong incentive
for hosts to obtain the permit and renew in a timely manner. It will also allow the City to direct
hosting platforms to remove listings which are not compliant. This may cause a reduction in the
number of listings from hosts who are unable or unwilling to submit a permit application.
The requirement for a hosting platform to disclose to the City the location of properties and
identification of the host is similar to other cities, most closely to Santa Monica. This has been
challenged legally but has been upheld as part of the proper exercise of the police powers of the
city in regulating land use.
Very specific to land use and for consideration by the Commission is the zones in which short-
term rental will be permitted. The proposed ordinance allows permits in residential zones (Very
Low (VL), Low (L), Low Medium (LM), Medium (M), and Hillside Residential (HR) districts) and
any single-family residence otherwise not located in any industrial and commercial zones. The
proposed ordinance does not allow short term rentals in higher density residential zones such as
Medium High (MH) and High (H) that are developed with attached single-family and multi -family
residences. The purpose for these restrictions is to limit the anticipated impacts of short-term
rental on neighborhoods which are already high density. Many such developments already
U&
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Resolution 20-28
June 10, 2020
Page 3 of 4
experience reduced parking availability and other concerns which would be exacerbated by the
intensified use. The restriction on commercial and industrial zones are in place to prevent the
rental of any legal non -conforming property in areas that are likely to produce noise complaints
from guests who are not familiar with the areas.
Short-term rental of residential property is not specifically defined in Table 17.30.010-1: Allowed
Land Uses and Permit Requirements by Base Zoning District. However, the use is most
consistent with the definition of a bed and breakfast inn which is a residential structure with one
family in permanent residence and up to six bedrooms rented for overnight lodging. This use is
subject to a Conditional Use Permit and limited to zones VL, L, LM, CC and SC. The proposed
ordinance would allow a resident in almost any single-family residence to provide short-term
lodging subject to obtaining a permit and meeting the operating requirements. The permit process
and operating requirements will be administered under Title 8 - Health and Safety.
Accessory Dwelling Units are often used for short-term rental as there is increased privacy for the
host family and guest. The construction of such units has increased with recent changes to State
law permitting these additions. New units will continue to be covenant restricted to rental for 30
days or more and these units will not be permitted as short-term rental. Residents will be able to
obtain a permit for older units which were lawfully constructed and not subject to covenant
restriction.
Environmental Assessment: The Planning Department Staff has determined that the
project is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the City's CEQA Guidelines. The project qualifies under the general rule that
CEQA applies only to projects, which have the potential for causing significant effect on
the environment. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(13)(3), where it can
be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have
significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. The proposed
Municipal Code Amendment does not propose any physical change to the environment
itself. The amendment establishes the permitted zoning districts where an existing single-
family dwelling unit, designed for overnight occupancy, can be used as a short-term rental
with the approval of a short-term rental permit. The amendment is a procedural change
and does not eliminate the need for the future entitlements at a specific location that may
be subject to CEQA. Therefore, the amendment will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
To avoid significant impacts on staff time, staff intends to contract with an outside firm offering
enforcement tools for short-term rental. Using data analytics and their own staff, they identify
properties which may not be in compliance for staff to investigate further for potential enforcement
action.
There will be increased impact on Business Licensing to issue permits and Community
Improvement to provide inspections and any necessary enforcement. Along with the Ordinance,
a Resolution to authorize Administrative Fees will be submitted. The proposed fees are $150.00
for a new permit and $100.00 for a renewal. The fees do not fully cover the costs but will offset
the staff costs and data analytics contract while still remaining low enough that the cost alone is
not a deterrent to obtaining a permit.
012
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Resolution 20-28
June 10, 2020
Page 4 of 4
COUNCIL GOAL(S) ADDRESSED:
PROMOTING AND ENHANCING A SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITY FOR ALL.
CORRESPONDENCE:
This item was advertised as a public hearing with a regular or large 1/8th page legal advertisement
in the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin newspaper on May 26, 2020. As of June 2, there have been no
phone calls or written correspondence received in response.
EXHIBITS:
Exhibit A - Resolution 20-28
013
RESOLUTION NO. 20-28
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING APPROVAL
OF A MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT AMENDING REQUIREMENTS
AND STANDARDS FOR SHORT TERM RENTALS WITHIN THE CITY AND
MAKING FINDINGS IN SUPPORT THEREOF
A. Recitals.
1. The City of Rancho Cucamonga has prepared Municipal Code Amendment for the
regulation of short-term rentals as described in the title of this Resolution. Hereinafter in this
Resolution, the subject Municipal Code Amendment is referred to as "the application".
2. On June 10, 2020, the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga
conducted a noticed public hearing on the application and concluded said hearing on that date.
3. All legal prerequisites prior to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
B. Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby found, determined, and resolved by the Planning
Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga as follows:
1. This Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in the Recitals,
Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. Based upon the substantial evidence presented to the Planning Commission during
the above -referenced public hearing on June 10, 2020, including written and oral staff reports,
together with public testimony, this Commission hereby specifically finds as follows:
a. General Plan Land Use Policy LU-1.1 encourages the protection of
neighborhoods from the encroachment of incompatible activities or land uses that may have a
negative impact on the residential living environment. Regulating the operational standards for
short-term rental located in residential neighborhoods will reduce potential impacts created by the
intensified land use; and
b. General Plan Public Safety Goal PS-4, Provide a high level of public safety
services throughout Rancho Cucamonga, can continue to be achieved through partnerships
between rental hosts, Community Improvement, City Police and Fire services designed to
promote safety in short-term rental and reduce nuisance activity in residential neighborhoods.
3. The Planning Department Staff has determined that the project is exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the City's CEQA
Guidelines. The project qualifies under the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects, which
have the potential for causing significant effect on the environment. Pursuant to State CEQA
Guidelines Section 15061(B)(3), where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility
that the activity in question may have significant effect on the environment, the activity is not
subject to CEQA. The proposed Municipal Code Amendment does not propose any physical
change to the environment itself. The amendment establishes the permitted zoning districts where
Exhibit A 014
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 20-28
MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
June 10, 2020
Page 2
an existing single-family dwelling unit, designed for overnight occupancy, can be used as a short-
term rental with the approval of a short-term rental permit. The amendment is a procedural
change and does not eliminate the need for the future entitlements at a specific location that may
be subject to CEQA. Therefore, the amendment will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
4. Based upon the findings and conclusions set forth in paragraphs 1, 2, and 3 above,
this Commission hereby recommends that the City Council approve Municipal Code Amendment
as indicated in Attachment A incorporated herein by this reference.
5. The Secretary to this Commission shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 10TH DAY OF JUNE 2020.
PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA
ATTEST:
Tony Guglielmo, Chairman
Anne McIntosh, AICP, Secretary
I, Anne McIntosh, AICP, Secretary of the Planning Commission for the City of Rancho
Cucamonga, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly introduced,
passed, and adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Rancho Cucamonga, at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 10th day of June 2020, by the following vote -to -
wit:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
OR
Chapter 8.34 Short -Term Rentals
8.34.010 Definitions.
8.34.020 Permit Required for Authorized Short -Term Rental.
8.34.030 Permit Application.
8.34.040 Application Investigation and Criteria for Approval or Denial of Permit.
8.34.050 Permit Expiration and Renewal.
8.34.060 Permit Revocation.
8.34.070 Appeals.
8.34.080 Permits Nontransferable.
8.34.090 Operating Requirements.
8.34.100 Hosting Platform Requirements.
8.34.110 Enforcement and Penalties.
8.34.010 Definitions. The following words and phrases, whenever used in this Chapter, shall mean
as follows:
BOOKING TRANSACTION means any reservation or payment service provided by a person who
facilitates a short-term rental, home sharing, or similar transaction between a prospective guest
and a host.
DIRECTOR means the Finance Director of the City of Rancho Cucamonga.
DWELLING UNIT means a structure or portion thereof which is used for human habitation, as
more particularly described in Section 17.126.020.
GUEST means a person who rents a short-term rental for a period of less than 30 days.
GROUP means a single guest or any number of guests who are occupying a short-term rental on a
single rental agreement.
HOST means a person engaged in providing short-term rental at their primary residence.
HOSTED STAY means short-term rental activity whereby the host remains on the site of his or
her primary residence throughout the duration of the guest's stay, expect during daytime and/or
workhours.
HOSTING PLATFORM means a marketplace in whatever form or format which facilitates the
short-term rental activity, through advertising, match -making, or any other means, using any
medium of facilitation, and from which the operator of the hosting platform derives revenues,
including booking fees or advertising revenues, from providing or maintaining the marketplace.
PRIMARY RESIDENCE means the dwelling unit used as the permanent residence or usual place
of return for housing by the host. A person may have only one primary residence.
SHORT-TERM RENTAL means a dwelling unit, or any portion thereof, that is rented by the host
to another party for a period of not more than thirty (30) consecutive days in exchange for any
form of monetary or non -monetary consideration, including trade, fee, swap or any other
Attachment A 016
consideration in lieu of cash payment. Hosted stays, Un-hosted stays, and vacation rentals are
types of short-term rental.
TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX or "TOT" means the tax imposed on occupancies of thirty (30)
consecutive calendar days or less under Chapter 3.40.
UN -HOSTED STAY means a short-term rental activity whereby the host remains off the site of
his or her primary residence -site for some or all of the duration of the guest's stay.
VACATION RENTAL means a dwelling unit that is not a primary residence, and which is
available for temporary lodging, for compensation or any form of consideration. The term
"vacation rental" shall not include: single -room occupancy buildings, bed and breakfast inns,
hotels, a dwelling unit for which a tenant has a month -to -month rental agreement and the rental
payments are made on a monthly basis, or corporate housing.
8.34.020 Permit Required for Authorized Short -Term Rental. No person, either for themselves
or any other person, shall cause, allow, conduct, permit, maintain, or facilitate short-term rental at
any dwelling unit within the City without first obtaining a Short -Term Rental Permit pursuant to
this Chapter, and complying with all other applicable provisions of this Code. A Short -Term Rental
Permit shall only be issued to authorize hosted stays and un-hosted stays. Vacation rentals are
prohibited.
8.34.030 Permit Application. To apply for a Short -Term Rental Permit, a person seeking to
become a host must file an application with the Director, accompanied by a nonrefundable
processing fee in an amount established by resolution of the City Council. The application shall
be in a form prescribed by the Director and shall contain, at a minimum, the following:
A. The legal name, current address and telephone number of the applicant;
B. Address of the short-term rental property, and if applicable, location telephone number;
C. An index of all residents of the property with name and date of birth, juveniles may be
listed by title and age only;
D. A diagram of the property indicating areas intended for use as short-term rental;
E. Documentation indicating the number of bedrooms within the dwelling unit, such as a
record from the County Assessor's Office;
F. A parking plan indicating sufficient lawful parking on the property for all vehicles
belonging to residents and one additional space for each bedroom of the house to be used
for short-term rental;
G. A copy of a valid business license issued pursuant to Chapter 5.04 of the Rancho
Cucamonga Municipal Code;
H. A copy of a valid transit occupancy registration certificate pursuant to Chapter 3.4 of this
code;
-2- 017
L A Home Occupation Permit pursuant to Title 17 of this code is not required;
J. Emergency contact information for 24-hour response within 30 minutes;
K. Certification by the applicant that the information contained in the application is true to his
or her knowledge and belief;
L. Documentation establishing that the dwelling unit proposed to be used as a short-term
rental is the host's primary residence. Such documentation shall include at least two of the
following and be in the name of the host: Motor vehicle registration, driver's license, voter
registration, or tax documents showing the residential unit as the residence of the host.
M. The applicant shall provide two passport size photographs; and,
N. Any other information required by regulations promulgated pursuant to this Chapter or
deemed necessary by the Director.
8.34.040 Application Investigation and Criteria for Approval or Denial of Permit. Upon
receipt of a completed application, the Director, or his or her designee, shall cause an investigation
of the applicant and the application as submitted. The investigation shall be completed in a timely
manner as follows and the applicant shall be notified of the result in writing in a timely manner:
A. The applicant shall be required to pay the established fees for such service in addition to
the permit fee.
B. Inspection of the property by city staff shall be scheduled within thirty (30) days of
application.
C. If, as a result of this investigation, the applicant is found to satisfy all of the requirements
of Section 8.34.030 and no grounds for denial exist, the application shall be approved, and
a Short -Term Rental Permit shall be issued to the applicant. The permit shall contain the
name, address of the permittee, a description of the short-term rental to be offered, the date
of issuance and term of the permit, photograph of the permittee, and the signature of the
Director or his or her designee.
D. A Short -Term Rental Permit application may be denied for any of the following reasons:
1. Information contained in the application, or supplemental information requested
from the applicant, is false or misleading in any material detail;
2. The applicant failed to provide a complete application, after having been notified
of the requirement to produce additional information or documents;
3. The applicant is delinquent in payment of any city or county taxes, fines, or
penalties in relation to short-term rental.
4. The applicant has previously held a Short -Term Rental Permit which was revoked
by the City during the year prior to the application;
-3- 018
5. The applicant has failed to pay any previous administrative fines, remediate any
other violations, and/or complete any other alternative disposition associated with
a previous violation of this Chapter; or
6. The applicant has failed to demonstrate an ability to conform to the operating
standards set forth in Section 8.34.090.
If the permit application is denied, written notice of such denial and the reasons therefore shall be
provided to the applicant.
8.34.050 Permit Expiration and Renewal. A Short -Term Rental Permit shall be valid for twelve
(12) months from the date of issuance and shall expire and become null and void on the anniversary
date of its issuance. A person may apply for a permit renewal on a form provided by the City prior
to the expiration of his or her active Short -Term Rental Permit and upon successfully completing
an inspection by city staff. The applicant shall be required to pay the administrative fee for the
permit renewal in the amount established by City Council resolution at the time the renewal
application is filed. Failure of the applicant to submit a complete application prior to the expiration
date of the existing Short -Term Rental Permit shall be a basis for denial of the renewal.
8.34.060 Permit Revocation. The Director may revoke a Short -Term Rental Permit issued to a
short-term rental host for a third or subsequent violation of this Chapter within any period of time
or for any violation of Chapter 3.40 relating to transient occupancy tax. A short-term rental host
whose permit is revoked may apply for a new Short -Term Rental Permit one year after the
revocation of the permit.
8.34.070 Appeals. Any person whose Short -Term Rental Permit is denied or revoked may appeal
the decision in writing with the City Clerk within fifteen (15) days following the date of the
Director's decision stating the grounds for said appeal. The appellant shall pay a non-refundable
fee in an amount established by resolution of the City Council for such appeal. The City Clerk
shall schedule an appeal hearing with the City Manager or his or her designee within fifteen (15)
days of an appeal being filed. The decision of the City Manager or the designee shall be final.
8.34.080 Permits Nontransferable. A Short -Term Rental Permit granted pursuant to this Chapter
shall not be transferable to another person, parcel number, or to another property owner. Said
permit shall not run with the land or property to which it applies.
8.34.090 Operating Requirements. Short -Term rental hosts shall comply with the following:
A. The host shall be:
1. The property owner or the spouse, parent or adult child of the property owner.
2. A tenant of the property who has occupied the property as his or her primary
residence prior to making application for a Short -Term Rental Permit and who has
submitted written authorization from the property owner to operate short-term
rental at the residence.
B. The dwelling unit shall be the primary residence of the host.
-4- 019
C. The dwelling unit must be located within zones VL, L, LM, or is a single-family residence
in any other zone except zones I, HI, GC, or C. A short-term rental shall not be permitted
in zones 1, HI, GC, or C.
D. All advertising for the dwelling unit as a short-term rental that is displayed on a hosting
platform or other media shall display the number of the current and valid permit as issued
by the City, a street -view photo of the front of the house and the maximum number of
guests based on the occupancy limit set forth in Subsection E.
E. The dwelling unit's occupancy, including the host, other residents of the dwelling unit,
and guests, during a short-term rental shall not exceed two times the number of bedrooms
of the dwelling unit.
F. The Short -Term Rental Permit shall be conspicuously displayed in each area of the
dwelling unit available for occupancy.
G. Any accessory dwelling unit subject to a covenant that specifically prohibits rentals of
thirty (30) days or less may not be used as a short-term rental.
H. A single dwelling unit shall be limited to two (2) groups of any number concurrently or
two concurrent booking transactions.
I. The short-term rental shall comply with all applicable provisions of this Code and State
law.
I Conditions that cause a public nuisance, as defined by this Code or State law, are prohibited
at the dwelling unit during a short-term rental.
K. Un-hosted stays shall be limited to a total of 90 days within a calendar year at the same
dwelling unit. Hosted stays shall not be limited.
8.34.100 Hosting Platform Requirements.
A. Hosting platforms shall be responsible for collecting all applicable TOTS and remitting the
same to the City. The hosting platform shall be considered a managing agent of the host
for purpose of TOT collections and remittance responsibilities as set forth in Chapter 3.40
of this code.
B. Subject to applicable laws, hosting platforms shall disclose to the City on a regular basis
each short-term rental listing located in the City, the names of the persons responsible for
each such listing, the address of each such listing, the length of stay for each such listing
and the price paid for each stay.
C. Hosting platforms shall not complete any booking transaction for any residential property
or dwelling unit unless there is an approved, current and valid Short -Term Rental Permit
pursuant to section 8.34.040 for the subject dwelling unit at the time the hosting platform
receives a fee for the booking transaction.
-5- 020
D. Hosting platforms shall not collect or receive a fee, directly or indirectly through an agent
or intermediary, for facilitating or providing services ancillary to a vacation rental or
unregistered short-term rental, including but not limited to, insurance, concierge services,
catering, restaurant bookings, tours, guide services, entertainment, cleaning, property
management, or maintenance of the dwelling unit.
E. A hosting platform operating exclusively on the internet, which operates in compliance
with subsections A., B., C., and D. above, shall be presumed to be in compliance with this
Chapter.
F. The provisions of this Section shall be interpreted in accordance with otherwise applicable
State and Federal law(s) and will not apply if determined by the City to be in violation of,
or preempted by, any such law(s).
8.34.110 Enforcement and penalties.
A. Operating a short-term rental without a valid Short -Term Rental Permit, business license,
and valid transit occupancy registration certificate is prohibited. Advertising shall be
considered prima facie evidence of operation. Additional evidence of operation may
include, but shall not be limited to, guest testimony, online reviews, rental agreements,
receipts, or any other information deemed relevant by the City.
B. A violation of this Chapter shall constitute a public nuisance, which may be abated by any
means provided by law, including but not limited to injunctive relief, issuance of
administrative fines pursuant to Chapter 1.12, and shall also constitute a misdemeanor
punishable pursuant to Chapter 1.12.
C. Each and every day, or portion thereof, a violation of this Chapter exists shall constitute a
separate and distinct violation.
D. The remedies provided herein are intended to be cumulative and may be used in lieu of or
in addition to any other remedy provided by this Chapter or other law.
-6- 021