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Initiative Measure Specifying a Two-Story Limit on Structures in Saratoga,
Standards for Height of Structures in the CH-1 and CH-2 Zoning Districts, and
the Definition of Building Height Applicable Citywide
The purpose of this measure is to amend the Saratoga City Code, General Plan, and
related policy documents to (1) limit structures throughout the City of Saratoga to
two stories, with certain exceptions, (2) readopt and amend standards for building
height in the CH-1 and CH-2 zoning districts, (3) readopt the existing definition of
building height, and (4) require voter approval of any changes to the measure
through 2039.
Specifically, the measure would adopt a new section of the City Code and a new
provision of the Housing Element of the General Plan that would:
• Specify a two-story limit for new buildings, structures, remodels and
additions within every zoning district in the City;
• Allow a third story on the rear of structures on the west side of Big Basin
Way if that story faces Saratoga Creek and is entirely below the grade of Big
Basin Way;
• Set standards for determining when a basement or below-grade story is
subject to the two-story limit;
• Provide that if the number of stories or the height of a project is ambiguous,
the ambiguity shall be resolved in favor of the most restrictive limit; and
• Exempt from the limitations of the initiative (1) the area known as the
Fellowship Plaza, (2) the triangular area bounded by Lawrence Expressway,
Saratoga Avenue, and Prospect Road, and (3) any project with a vested right.
The measure would readopt and amend provisions in the City Code, Village Design
Guidelines, and Village Plan concerning the CH-1 and CH-2 Districts to:
• Establish a two-story limit for all structures with an exception for below-
grade stories on Big Basin Way as described above;
• Maintain the existing 35 foot height limit in the CH-1 District and add an
exception limiting the height of mixed use structures/projects to 26 feet; and
• Maintain the existing 26 foot height limit in the CH-2 District.
The measure would make the provisions of section 15-06.340 of the City Code part
of the initiative. That section provides as follows:
"Height of building" means the vertical distance from the average of the
highest and lowest point of the lot at the building's edge, measured from
2
natural grade, of that portion of the lot covered by the building to the
topmost point of the roof excluding appurtenances, unless otherwise
specified in this Chapter. The Community Development Director, through the
use of the best available information, such as tract grading plans, vegetation,
and neighborhood topography or existing grades, shall determine natural
grade.
The measure would provide for its implementation. In addition, it would require,
through December 31, 2039, voter approval of any amendment or repeal of the
provisions adopted by the measure.