Each topic contains a discussion of issues and goals, and describes how the City and its partners will go about accomplishing these goals.

Development Guide

Development Guide

Rural: Low Intensity (RL)

Rural – Low Intensity applies to areas where large-lot neighborhoods and residential acreages/estates may remain with no expectation of urbanization or provision of urban infrastructure such as water or sewer. RL areas are predominantly composed of residential and agricultural uses but may support commercial and light industrial uses provided they do not negatively impact the rural residential character.

Density Range

Gross Density
0.2 du/acre minimum
Lot Sizes
5 acres or larger
Non-Residential Floor to Area Ratio (FAR) Range n/a

Development Policies

1.0 Site Design, Building Form, and Location

1.1 Site Design
  • Avoid development within or modification of 100 year floodplains or floodways.
  • Design buildings and sites to complement the character of surrounding areas and not detract from the open character of the landscape.
  • Utilize Best Management Practices (BMP) for stormwater.
1.2 Location
  • Support limited amounts of commercial in rural areas appropriate to the needs of rural residents and passersby. Commercial uses in rural areas should be located in small clusters either on uninterrupted arterials or at freeway interchanges.

2.0 Automobile and Pedestrian Connectivity

2.2 Pedestrian Connectivity
  • Provide connectivity in the form of sidewalks or trails to existing public trails and parks that are adjacent to proposed development.

Rural: Low Intensity Character
RL areas include a variety of low-density, large-lot housing and services, ranging from small, large-lot subdivisions to large estate and ranch properties.
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