HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd. 1546-201740 City of South San Francisco
City Council
Ordinance: ORD 1546 -2017
File Number: 17 -1096
P.O. Box 711 (City Hall,
400 Grand Avenue)
South San Francisco, CA
Enactment Number: ORD 1546 -2017
ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 20.375 OF THE SOUTH SAN
FRANCISCO MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE
REGULATION OF SMALL CELL WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
FACILITIES.
WHEREAS, in July of 2010, the City Council for the City of South San Francisco ( "City ") adopted a
comprehensive update to the City's zoning ordinance, which repealed the then - existing Title 20 of the
South San Francisco Municipal Code ( "Zoning Ordinance "), and replaced it with an entirely new Title
20 that, among other actions, established new zoning districts, revised and reformatted many
then - existing zoning provisions, eliminated inconsistent and outdated provisions, and codified entirely
new zoning provisions, including new land use regulations and development standards ( "Zoning
Ordinance Update "); and
WHEREAS, as part of the 2010 Zoning Ordinance Update, the City adopted Chapter 20.370, which
regulates wireless facilities throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, since adoption of the Zoning Ordinance in July 2010, there have been legal developments,
including state law, that necessitate that the City refine, clarify, and/or correct certain provisions of the
City's Zoning Ordinance and other relevant portions of the South San Francisco Municipal Code
( "Municipal Code ") that require refinement, clarification, and/or correction, including revisions to the
City's Chapter regulating antennas and wireless communication facilities as well as a new chapter
regarding small cell wireless facilities, as further set forth in the Ordinance ( "Ordinance "); and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Ordinance was adopted after preparation, circulation, consideration, and
adoption of an Initial Study/Negative Declaration (IS/ND) in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code Sections 21000, et seq. ( "CEQA "), which IS/ND
analyzed the environmental impacts of adopting the Zoning Ordinance and concluded that adoption of
the Zoning Ordinance could not have a significant effect on the environment because none of the
impacts required to be analyzed under CEQA would exceed established thresholds of significance; and
WHEREAS, the additions set forth in this Ordinance, as they relate to small cell wireless communication
facilities, are minor in nature, the adoption of which would not result in any new significant
environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of any previously identified effects beyond
those disclosed and analyzed in the IS/ND prepared and circulated for the Zoning Ordinance, nor do the
additions constitute a potentially significant change in the project or change in circumstances that would
require additional environmental review; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Ordinance is not subject to the requirements of CEQA pursuant to the
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California Code of Regulations Title 14, Chapter 3 section 15303, class 3, `New Construction or
Conversion of Small Structures'. The Project is the construction and location of new small cell wireless
facilities including ancillary equipment and by definition is considered categorically exempt from
CEQA. The Project would permit the construction of small cell wireless facilities on existing and or
replaced City -owned light fixtures within the public - right -of -way and on privately owned property or in
any zone that allows a commercial or industrial use. The land use and operations of a small cell wireless
facility would include, by definition, radio and electromagnetic fields (radiation) which are subject to the
permitting and safety regulations promulgated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The
Small Cell Wireless Facility Ordinance requires Radio Frequency Emissions compliant with the
regulations set forth by the FCC, as part of the permitting process to protect the public health and safety.
Therefore, the Ordinance is self-mitigating. No further environmental review is required at this time;
and
WHEREAS, on September 21, 2017, the City's Planning Commission held lawfully noticed public
hearing to solicit public comment and consider the proposed Ordinance, take public testimony, and make
a recommendation to the City Council on the Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, on October 25, 2017, the City Council for the City of South San Francisco held a lawfully
noticed public hearing to solicit public comment and consider the proposed amendments.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED that based on the entirety of the record before it, as described
below, the City Council of the City of South San Francisco does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings
Based on the entirety of the record as described below, the City Council for the City of South San
Francisco hereby makes the following findings:
A. General Findings
1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and made a part of this Ordinance.
2. The Record for these proceedings, and upon which this Ordinance is based, includes without
limitation, federal and state law; the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§
21000 et seq. ( "CEQA ")) and the CEQA Guidelines (14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000 et
seq.); the South San Francisco General Plan and General Plan Environmental Impact Report, including
all amendments and updates thereto; the South San Francisco Municipal Code; the Initial Study and
Negative Declaration prepared for the Zoning Ordinance Update, including all written comments
received; all reports, minutes, and public testimony submitted as part of the Planning Commission's duly
noticed meetings on September 21, 2017; all reports, minutes, and public testimony submitted as part of
the City Council's duly noticed meeting on October 25, 2017; and any other evidence (within the
meaning of Public Resources Code section 21080, subdivision (e) and section 21082.2).
3. The refinements, clarifications, and/or corrections to the Zoning Ordinance as they relate to
installation of small cell wireless facilities is minor in nature and, the health and safety of the use of
small cell
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facilities is regulated by FCC. The FCC by legal mandate, oversees, regulates and limits environmental
exposure from radio frequency emissions within a specified level requisite to protect the public from
harmful, including cumulative, levels of exposure. Therefore, the adoption of the ordinance would not
result in any new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of any
previously identified effects beyond those disclosed and analyzed in the IS/ND prepared and circulated
for the Zoning Ordinance (2010), nor do the refinements, clarifications, and/or corrections constitute a
change in the project or change in circumstances that would require additional environmental review.
4. The documents and other material constituting the record for these proceedings are located at the
Planning Division for the City of South San Francisco, 315 Maple Avenue, South San Francisco, CA
94080, and in the custody of Chief Planner, Sailesh Mehra.
B. Zoning Amendment Findings
1. The proposed Amendments are consistent with the adopted General Plan because the rapid
increase and dependence upon the use of mobile wireless devices affects nearly every aspect of our life
including educational, medical, social and informational activities. Reliable wireless service allows
information access to people of all walks and phases of life; students, parents, friends, emergency
personnel, government, service institutions, and religious institutions. The proposed Ordinance related to
the regulation of small cell wireless facilities will remain consistent with the City's General Plan vision
for community and economic development, and social and environmental equity, and will not impede
achievement of any of the goals, policies, or land use designations established in the General Plan.
2. The proposed Ordinance related to small cell wireless facilities would generally be suitable in
terms of ensuring architectural compatibility, consistency with area character, legibility, readability,
finish and visibility, and other considerations deemed relevant by the Planning Commission and City
Council because of the design and placement requirements outlined in the Ordinance.
3. The proposed Ordinance related to small cell wireless facilities would not result in any change of
zoning districts and therefore, would not be detrimental to the use of land in any adjacent zone because
the Ordinance is self - mitigating in that radio frequency emission (RF) studies are required to conform to
FCC regulations, to ensure that RF are within the amounts allowed and deemed requisite to protect the
public health as identified and regulated by the Federal Commissions Commission.
SECTION 2. Amendments
Part II of Division IV of Title 20, "Zoning," of the South San Francisco Municipal Code is hereby
amended by adding Chapter 20.375, "Small Cell Wireless Communications Facilities," to read as
follows:
Chapter 20.375
SMALL CELL WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
Sections:
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20.375.001 Purpose
20.375.002 Definitions
20.375.003 Permitted Facilities and License Areas
20.375.004 Standard Requirements
20.375.005 Permit Requirements
20.375.006 Permit Application Submittal Requirements
20.375.007 Permit Review, Renewal and Revocation Procedures
20.375.008 Cessation of Operations
20.375.009 Appeals
20.375.010 Violations and Penalties
20.375.001 Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to establish comprehensive requirements and standards for the
development, siting, installation, and operation of small cell wireless communications facilities and
ancillary support infrastructure. These regulations are intended to protect and promote public safety,
community welfare, and the aesthetic quality of the City consistent with the goals, objectives, and
policies of the General Plan while providing for well- managed development of small cell wireless
telecommunications in accordance with the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, Section 263 of
Title 47 United States Code of Law, Section 6409 of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act
of 2012 and California law. The specific objectives of this chapter include, but are not limited to the
following:
A. Foster an aesthetically pleasing urban environment, prevent visual blight, protect and preserve public
safety and general welfare, and maintain the character of residential and nonresidential areas consistent
with the adopted General Plan and other City- adopted plans and in compliance with applicable State and
Federal legislation;
B. Minimize the number of small cell wireless facilities in the City by encouraging the location of small
cell facilities as a less intrusive alternative, including but not limited to co- location, where feasible;
C. Provide the opportunity for wireless quality of service to all persons and visitors in the City by
permitting well - designed small cell wireless facilities compliant with FCC health and safety regulations
located in the public rights -of -way in any zone or in any zone that includes a commercial or industrial
use;
D. Improve the ability of telecommunications providers to provide services quickly, safely, effectively,
and efficiently while ensuring compliance with all applicable requirements;
E. Ensure that public safety personnel have adequate cellular coverage;
F. Support the use of wireless services to enhance personal and public health and safety and
the general welfare of persons living, working, and visiting in the City; and
G Require wireless communications providers to use the best available design and
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technology to eliminate all adverse visual impacts of the small cell wireless facilities and
ancillary support infrastructure and provide opportunities for further reduction in potential aesthetic and
environmental impacts as changes in technology occur.
20.375.002 Definitions
Unless otherwise specifically provided, the terms used in this chapter shall have the following meanings.
For those terms related to wireless communication facilities not defined here, refer to Section
20.370.008.
A. Ancillary Equipment. Any wires, cables, meter boxes, cooling devices, cable, conduit and
connectors, and any other equipment required to operate and support the operation of Small Cell
Wireless Facilities.
B. Applicant. The Service Provider(s) of the Small Cell Wireless Facilities that are proposed to be
located within the City, or Service Provider(s)'s authorized representative.
C. Co- location. The location of two or more wireless communications facilities owned or used by more
than one public or private entity on a single support structure or otherwise sharing a common location.
Co- location shall also include the location of wireless communications facilities with other facilities
such as buildings, water tanks, light standards, and other utility facilities and structures.
D. Distributed Antenna System. Shall have the definition as stated in Section 20.370.008. A system
of Small Cell Facilities as defined and regulated by this Chapter does not include a Distributed Antenna
System.
E. Equipment Cabinet. A structure that contains, protects and conceals the Ancillary Equipment.
Equipment Cabinet may also include the equipment necessary to allow for the undergrounding of PG &E
meters and other Ancillary Equipment related to the functioning of Small Cell Wireless Facilities.
F. Readily Visible. An object that can be seen from street level by a person with normal vision, and
distinguished as an antenna or other component of a wireless communication facility, due to the fact that
it stands out as a prominent feature of the landscape, protrudes above or out from the structure ridgeline,
or is otherwise not sufficiently camouflaged or designed to be compatible with the appurtenant
architecture or building materials.
G Small Cell Wireless Facility. A Small Cell Wireless Facility means a wireless telecommunications
facility, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 65850.6 of the Government Code, as
amended, or a wireless facility that uses licensed or unlicensed spectrum and that meets the following
requirements:
1. The small cell antenna(s) on the structure, excluding certain Ancillary Equipment as specified
in this subsection, that totals no more than six (6) cubic feet in volume, whether an array or separate.
2. Any individual piece of any Ancillary Equipment, except those specified in this subsection, on
pole structures that does not exceed nine (9) cubic feet.
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3. The cumulative total of any Ancillary Equipment, except those specified in this subsection, on
pole structures does not exceed 21 cubic feet.
4. The cumulative total of any ground- mounted equipment along with all Ancillary Equipment,
except those specified in this subsection, on any pole or nonpole structure does not exceed 35 cubic feet.
5. A Micro wireless facility, which shall be defined as a small cell that is no larger than 24 inches
long, 15 inches in width, 12 inches in height, and that has an exterior antenna, if any, no longer than 11
inches.
6. For the purposes of this subsection, the following types of Ancillary Equipment are excluded
from the calculation of equipment volume:
a. Electric meters and any required pedestal;
b. Concealment elements such as a stealth facility;
c. Any telecommunications demarcation box;
d. Grounding equipment, power transfer switch;
e. Cutoff switch;
f. Vertical cable runs for the connection of power and other services; and
g. Equipment concealed within an existing building or structure.
7. For the purposes of this chapter, a Small Cell Wireless Facility does not include the following:
a. Wireline backhaul facility, which shall mean a facility used for the transport of communications
data by wire from wireless facilities to a network.
b. Coaxial or fiber optic cables that are not immediately adjacent to or directly associated with a
particular antenna or collocation.
c. Wireless facilities placed in any historic district listed in the National Park Service Certified State
or Local Historic Districts or in any historical district listed on the California Register of Historical
Resources or placed in coastal zones subject to the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission.
d. Underlying vertical infrastructure, which shall mean poles or similar facilities owned or controlled
by the City that are in the public rights -of -way or public utility easements and meant for, or used in
whole or in part for, communications service, electric service, lighting, traffic control, or similar
functions.
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H. Stealth Facility. Any commercial wireless communications facility that is designed to blend into the
surrounding environment by means of screening, concealment, or camouflage. The antenna and
supporting antenna equipment are either not readily visible beyond the property on which they are
located, or, if visible, appear to be part of the existing landscape or environment rather than identifiable
as a wireless communications facility. Stealth facilities may be installed, but such installation methods
are not limited to, undergrounding, partially undergrounding and landscaping.
I. License Area. Locations in City zones where Small Cell Wireless Facilities are permitted to be
installed and operated pursuant to the requirements of this chapter.
J. Public Right of Way. All public streets and utility easements, now and hereafter owned by the City
or other public entity, but only to the extent of the City or public entity's right, title, interest or authority
to grant a license to occupy and use such streets and easements for wireless communication facilities.
20.375.003 Permitted Facilities and License Areas
A. Permitted Facilities. Subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this chapter, Small Cell
Wireless Facilities shall, pursuant to a Small Cells Attachment Permit, be permitted in License Areas,
which are designated as follows:
1. On existing structures within the public right -of -way in all zoning districts.
2. On existing structures located outside of the public right -of -way in any zone that includes a
commercial or industrial use.
3. On new structures within the public right -of -way in all zoning districts, or outside of the public
right -of -way in any zone that includes a commercial or industrial use, subject to the requirements of this
Chapter.
B. Permitted Locations. Subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this chapter, the
Permitted Locations for Small Cell Wireless Facilities within License Areas are as follows:
1. Small Cell Wireless Facilities in the public right -of -way in all zoning districts shall be located in
accordance with the following Design and Location Preferences. The preferred approaches for design
and siting of new Small Cell Wireless Facilities are ranked as indicated in the following lists. When a
lower ranked alternative is proposed, the application must include documentation demonstrating that a
higher ranked option is not feasible in light of the provider's service objectives.
a. existing light poles
b. all other utility poles
c. utility cabinets
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d. any other existing pole, or an existing structure in the public right -of -way that Readily Visible.
For the purposes of this subsection, documentation provided by the Applicant that locating Small Cell
Wireless Facilities on a higher ranked option would result in all of the wireless telecommunications
facilities being limited to sites owned by one particular parry within the City is sufficient to demonstrate
that a higher ranked option is not feasible.
2. Small Cell Wireless Facilities located outside of the public right -of -way in any zone that includes
a commercial or industrial use shall be located in accordance with the following Design and Location
Preferences. The preferred approaches for design and siting of new Small Cell Wireless Facilities are
ranked as indicated in the following lists. When a lower ranked alternative is proposed, the application
must include documentation demonstrating that a higher ranked option is not feasible in light of the
provider's service objectives.
a. Design Preferences.
i. Building- or structure - mounted antennas that are not readily visible or are completely concealed from
view because of integration into design of nonresidential buildings or structures erected and approved for
use other than as wireless telecommunications support.
ii. Building- or structure - mounted antennas set back from roof edge and not visible from the public
right -of -way or from surrounding properties.
iii. On existing communication towers, existing signal, light or similar kinds of permanent poles not
supplying electric, telephone or similar service and not in the public right -of -way, or utility facilities not
subject to the City's franchise agreements.
iv. Nonbuilding- or structure - mounted alternative tower structures.
b. Location Preferences
i. In any Nonresidential district and co- located with existing conforming facilities.
ii. In any Nonresidential district and located more than 600 feet from a Residential district.
iii. On Nonresidential structures in Residential districts and located more than 600 feet from a
Residential Structure.
iv. In any Nonresidential district and located less than 600 feet from a Residential district.
C. Co- locating with Existing Wireless Communication Facilities. Co- location of Small Cell
Wireless Facilities with existing Wireless Communication Facilities within Permitted Locations is
permitted, subject to design and colocation standards as set forth in this chapter.
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D. Permits Required. Applicants shall obtain the following permits prior to installing, constructing,
maintaining, operating, removing or performing work related to a Small Cells Wireless Facility.
1. Small Cell Attachment Permit. All Small Cell Wireless Facilities must obtain a Small Cell
Attachment Permit for each Small Cell Wireless Facility by submitting an application and obtaining
approval pursuant to the requirements of this chapter.
2. Encroachment Permit. An Applicant seeking to install, construct, operate, or perform work
related to Small Cell Wireless Facilities in the public right -of -way shall obtain a revocable encroachment
permit prior to commencing work. Applications for a right -of -way encroachment permit shall be
submitted to the Engineering Division of the Department of Public Works, after compliance with the
application requirements identified in Section 20.375.006, below.
a. The obligations of an encroachment permit shall run until Applicant applies for a demolition
permit to quit and cease operation. The City retains the right to inspect said facilities to ensure all
conditions of the permit are met. The encroachment permit obtained pursuant to this subsection shall
continue unless otherwise revoked pursuant to Chapter 13.04.080 of the Municipal Code. A performance
review may be conducted annually consisting of annual inspections to assure the facility is properly
maintained and operated. Applicant must timely provide the City with updated information including but
not limited to changes in insurance and equipment to update the encroachment permit reflecting those
changes.
3. Building Permit. An Applicant seeking to install, construct, or perform work related to Small Cell
Wireless Facilities located outside of the public right -of -way in any zone that includes a commercial or
industrial use shall obtain a building permit after complying with the application and permitting
requirements stated in this chapter.
4. Minor Use Permit. An Applicant that seeks a waiver or modification from the requirements
for a Small Cell Attachment Permit as set forth in this Chapter, including but not limited to design
review and stealth facility standards, may request such a waiver or modification in writing to the Chief
Planner by applying for a Minor Use Permit. If, after review of the request submitted through a Minor
Use Permit application, the Chief Planner determines that the purposes of this Chapter can be satisfied
while granting the Applicant's request for waiver or modification, the Chief Planner shall approve the
request subject to issuance of a Minor Use Permit. Issuance of a Minor Use Permit under this subsection
may include reasonable conditions to ensure purposes of this Chapter are met. Issuance of a Minor Use
Permit under this subsection does not relieve the Applicant of the obligation to obtain an encroachment
permit or a building permit in accordance with the requirements of this section prior to commencing
work.
Exempt Facilities.
1. Small Cell Wireless Facilities owned and operated by a governmental agency and utilized for
governmental function are exempt from the permit requirements of this chapter, provided that they
conform to the operational standards of Section 20.375.004 of this chapter.
2. The installation, placement, maintenance, or replacement of micro wireless facilities that are
suspended, whether embedded or attached, on communication cables strung between utility poles in
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compliance with state safety codes are exempt from the permitting requirements of this Chapter.
20.375.004 Standard Requirements.
A. State or Federal Requirements. Small Cell Wireless Facilities, including ancillary equipment,
must meet or exceed current standards and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and any other agency of the State or Federal
government with the authority to regulate Small Cell Wireless Facilities. If such standards and
regulations are changed, then the operators of the Small Cell Wireless Facilities governed by this chapter
shall bring such facilities into compliance with such revised standards and regulations within six months
of the effective date of such standards and regulations, unless a different compliance schedule is
mandated by the controlling State or Federal agency. Failure to bring permitted facilities into compliance
with such revised standards and regulations shall constitute grounds for the revocation of City permit
and require removal of the small cell facility at the service provider's expense. This section shall not be
construed as a basis to deny eligible facilities request made pursuant to applicable provisions of the
Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012.
B. Building Codes and Safety Standards. The Applicant shall ensure the structural integrity of its
Small Cell Wireless Facilities installed within the City, and shall ensure that the facilities are maintained
in compliance with standards contained in applicable State or local building codes and the applicable
standards for small cell wireless facilities that are published by the Electronic Industries Association, as
amended from time to time. If, upon inspection, the City determines that a facility fails to comply with
such codes and standards and constitutes a danger to persons or property, then upon notice being
provided to the Applicant of the facility, the Applicant shall have 15 days to bring such facility into
compliance with such standards. Failure to bring such tower into compliance within the required time
shall constitute grounds for the revocation of City permit and required removal of the small cell facility
at the owner's expense.
C. Radio Frequency Emissions Standards. Applicants shall provide evidence that the projected
radio frequency emissions from any and all permitted Small Cell Wireless Facilities comply with FCC
Standards.
D. Operation and Maintenance Standards. All Small Cell Wireless Facilities shall at all times
comply with the following standards in addition to any other conditions required by permits issued
pursuant to this chapter.
1. Except as provided in subsection D -2 below, an Applicant shall not install signs, display logos, or
run advertisement on, alongside, or in connection with a permitted facility.
2. Every permitted facility shall contain a signage listing the name and contact information for an
emergency contact individual or service shall be erected for every permitted facility. The signage shall
comply with design, material, color and location requirements as stated in the applicable encroachment
permit. Contact information listed on the sign shall be kept current and promptly be provided to the City.
3. Each permitted facility and any ancillary equipment shall be in maintained in good working
condition and appearance, free from trash, debris, litter and graffiti and other forms of vandalism. Any
damage from any cause shall be repaired as soon as reasonably possible so as to minimize occurrences
of dangerous
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conditions or visual blight. Graffiti shall be removed from any facility or equipment as soon as
practicable, and in no instance more than 48 hours from the time of receipt of City notice.
4. Each facility shall be operated to minimize noise impacts to surrounding land uses in accordance
with Title 8, Chapter 8.32 entitled "Noise Regulations" of the Municipal Code, and Chapter 9 of the
General Plan entitled "Noise."
a. In residential areas, except for emergency repairs, testing and maintenance activities that will be
audible beyond the property line shall only occur between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on
Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
b. All air conditioning units and any other equipment that may emit noise that would be audible from
beyond the right -of -way shall be enclosed or equipped with noise attenuation devices to the extent
necessary to ensure compliance with applicable noise limitations in Chapter 8.32 ( "Noise Regulations ")
of the South San Francisco Municipal Code.
5. Each facility shall install the following security measures:
a. an on -site emergency "kill switch" to de- energize all radio frequency circuits and components
of each permitted facility in order to protect emergency response personnel. For co- locating facilities, a
single "kill switch" shall be installed that will de- energize all facilities located on the same pole at the
facility in the event of an emergency.
b. necessary safety measures to prevent unauthorized access, vandalism, and other safety
concerns. Installations must comply with design standards, described in Section 20.375.005, and
nuisance regulations, and must not interfere with City emergency services or transmission.
6. Any facility located within the right of way shall be relocated at Applicant's sole cost, upon
demand by City with reasonable notice, to allow for public projects, services or improvements.
7. Applicant shall, at its sole cost, be responsible for repairing to City standard specifications or
replacing in -kind any City facilities or improvements disturbed or damaged during the installation,
maintenance, operation, repair or removal of Applicant's Small Cell Wireless Facilities, ancillary
equipment, and any support infrastructure. City facilities or improvements covered by this subsection
includes, but are not limited to the following:
a. Curb, gutter, sidewalk, storm drains, and pavements;
b. landscaping; and
C. structures, buildings, light poles and fixtures.
E. Electrical Metering and Structural Standards. All Small Cell Wireless Facilities shall comply
with the following requirements:
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1. All electrical power required by Small Cell Wireless Facility installation shall be metered
independently from any anticipated or existing City projects or facilities.
All existing City -owned street light poles proposed for Small Cell Wireless Facility installations shall be
inspected prior to an installation in accordance with the most recent City structural standards for street
light poles, including but not limited to safety and load bearing capability for the SCWF to be installed,
as approved by the City Engineer.
a. Applicants requesting to install a SCWF on City -owned street light poles shall provide
documentation demonstrating that the pole proposed for installation meets or exceeds such City
standards, and that the proposed installation would not interfere or harm the structural integrity or
standards of the light poles, including but not limited to safety and load bearing capability for the SCWF
o bsu suanetd
to the pre - installation pole inspection as required in subsection (2) above, and in the event
that a pole fails to meet such City structural standards, and in the event that the Applicant wishes to
utilize that location, the applicant shall at its own cost replace the existing street light pole at the
proposed installation location with a pole that meets or exceeds the City's structural standards including
safety and load bearing capability so that the pole can safely support the proposed installation. Any
existing lighting fixture shall be reinstalled on the new pole at applicant's cost.
c. Pursuant to a pre - installation pole inspection as required in subsection (2) above, and in the event that
a pole fails to meet City structural standards, an Applicant may, as an alternative to replacing the existing
street light pole at its own cost, request to install a proprietary pole, such that all Small Cell Wireless
Facility equipment is located internally within the pole structure. Any proprietary pole installation shall
be inspected prior to construction in accordance with the most recent City structural standards for the
same or similar type of pole, including but not limited to safety and load bearing capability, and shall be
suitable for the location and maintain American Disability Access (ADA) access requirements. Applicant
will provide documentation satisfactory to the City that the pole to be installed meets all required
standards with regards to safety and load bearing capabilities for the Small Cell Wireless Facility
hardware to be installed. The existing lighting fixture shall be re- installed on the new pole at Applicant's
cost.
20.375.005 Permit Requirements
A. General Standards. Small Cell Wireless Facilities and any ancillary equipment shall comply with
the following permit requirements of this section, and shall be located and designed and whenever
possible screened to blend with the existing natural or built surroundings, as is required for similar
construction projects within the City. Improvements which will be primarily viewed against soils, trees
or grasslands shall be painted colors matching these landscapes while elements which rise above the
horizon shall be painted a blue gray that
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matches the typical sky color at that location.
B. Ancillary Equipment. To comply with important local aesthetics and expressive concerns, ancillary
equipment and any support facilities for Small Cell Wireless Facilities located in the public right -of -way shall
be located on the pole and concealed, stealthed or incorporated into the design of the pole. If location within
the stealth equipment is not feasible, the Ancillary Equipment shall be mounted on the pole in compliance
with applicable building code requirements and painted to match the pole color. If the prior two locations are
infeasible as determined by the City Engineer, the Ancillary Equipment shall be undergrounded. The City
Engineer shall determine feasibility based on any competing infrastructure near the Small Cell Wireless
Facility, or other safety, hydrological, geologic or other similar conditions that would impede undergrounding.
1. In the event that attachment on the pole or undergrounding is not feasible as determined by the City
Engineer, the ancillary equipment and any supporting infrastructure shall be concealed in a stealth facility,
which may include but are not limited to partial undergrounding, landscaping, or decorative treatment of the
cabinet. Stealth facility or other concealment measures shall comply with all applicable laws, including but
not limited to the American Disabilities Act.
C. Pole Designs. All Small Cell Wireless Facility pole installations shall be sufficiently designed and
engineered such that no additional supporting hardware is required beyond the pole itself. A Small Cell
Wireless Facility that is affixed to an existing light pole shall be painted and/or textured to match that
structure.
D. Non - Reflective Materials. Small Cell Wireless Facilities shall be constructed out of non - reflective
materials (visible exterior surfaces only), or materials and colors consistent with surrounding backdrop.
Anodized metal is an acceptable treatment.
E. Design Preservation. Applicants are responsible for maintaining and preserving design and aesthetic
features for each facility, ancillary equipment and any support infrastructure, including but not limited to
color, tint, shade, treatment, painting, surface treatment, replacement landscaping, stealth design, and
concealment.
F. Security Fencing. Under no circumstances shall security fencing be permitted.
20.375.006 Permit Application Submittal Requirements
A. Compliance Required. No applications for Small Cell Wireless Facilities shall be deemed complete
under this Chapter unless the Applicant has submitted all required application materials and applicable fees,
as provided by this section.
1. Batching Applications. Applicants submitting applications for more than two (2) Small Cell Attachment
Permits will be required to batch their applications in order to expedite review and action.
B. Application Materials. A complete application for Small Cell Attachment Permits shall include the
following information:
1. A completed and signed application and checklist provided by the Planning Department. The application
shall be signed by the Applicant or by the Applicant's authorized agent or representative.
2. A sworn statement entitled "Compliance Verification" by the Applicant or by the Applicant's authorized
agent or representative, stating that the application holds all applicable licenses or other approvals required by
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the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC), and any
other agency of the Federal or State government with authority to regulate telecommunications facilities that
are required in order for the applicant to construct the proposed facility.
3. Documentation of, or a sworn statement by the Applicant or by the Applicant's authorized agent or
representative, stating that applicant is in, compliance with all conditions imposed in conjunction with such
licenses or approvals, a description of the number, type, power rating, frequency range, and dimensions of
antennas, equipment cabinets, and related Small Cell Wireless communications facilities proposed to be
installed, and engineering calculations demonstrating that the proposed facility will comply with all
applicable FCC requirements and standards.
C. Proof of Legal Right to Use Property. Applications for Small Cell Wireless Facilities must be
accompanied by evidence satisfactory to the City demonstrating the property owner's consent or other form
of proof demonstrating Applicant's legal right to use the property upon which proposes to attach the Small
Cell Wireless Facility. Applicant must demonstrate evidence satisfactory to City for each and every proposed
Small Cell Wireless Facility. Failure to demonstrate a legal right to utilize the property upon which a Small
Cell Wireless Facility is attached is grounds for permit revocation.
1. Master License Agreements for City -owned structures. Applicants that have entered into a valid Master
License Agreement with the City for multiple Small Cell Wireless Facility attachments upon City -owned
structures shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of this Subsection (C) for each Small Cell Wireless
Facility subject to the Master License Agreement. Applications for all site locations subject to the Master
License Agreement shall be batched and processed together. Small Cell Wireless Facilities subject to the
terms of a Master License Agreement shall still obtain an encroachment permit, and are subject to staff -level
design review to ensure compliance with any provisions in the Master License Agreements as well as to
ensure the best possible design consistent therewith.
D. Site Plans and Layouts. Applicants shall submit the following information with the application
electronically or by hardcopy. Hardcopy submittals shall be provided in triplicate.
1. Map and Inventory of Proposed Sites. Applicant shall provide a map of the proposed site(s) including
photographs of the City -owned light pole(s) as appropriate, where the facility(ies) is /are proposed to be
located. Map shall show all land uses within 300 feet of the proposed Small Cell Wireless Facility sites(s),
shown on the map. Small Cell Wireless Facility sites proposed in residentially zoned and/or used areas shall
include a 500 -foot radius map.
2. Photo Simulations of Small Cell Facility and Ancillary Equipment. Applicant shall show the
placement of the proposed Small Cell Wireless Facility. The simulation shall show where the Small Cell
Wireless Facility is proposed to be placed, where the ancillary equipment (cables, power sources, electricity,
and any other items required to operate and support the facility) is proposed to be located and how they will
be finished to comply with the requirements of this chapter. The proposed location and treatment of the Small
Cell Wireless Facility and any ancillary equipment shall comply with the Aesthetic Requirements in this
chapter.
3. Drawings and Plans. Applicant shall furnish site plan, plans, and elevations drawn to scale that identify
the proposed Small Cell Wireless Facility and ancillary equipment placement. Elevations shall include all
structures on which facilities are proposed to be located. All proposed structures, including ancillary
equipment shall be drawn to scale on the elevations, see below. Emergency signage required as identified in
this chapter.
4. Camouflage and/or Matching Methods. Applicant shall provide both a description of methods proposed
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stealth the Small Cell Wireless Facility and all ancillary equipment, and colors and materials specifications.
5. Identify all Ancillary Equipment. Plans shall identify any and all ancillary equipment required to support
the Small Cell Wireless Facility, including but not limited to emergency generators, air conditioning
equipment, cables, and power sources.
E. Fee Requirements. An application for Small Cells Wireless Facilities shall be accompanied by the
following fee payments:
1. Right -of -Way Pole Usage Fee. Unless set forth in a Master License Agreement, and in that case, the
terms of the Master License Agreement shall govern, Pole usage fee amounts shall be set by the City's most
current Master Fee Schedule as established by City Council resolution.
2. City Processing Fees. City application and permit processing fees shall be charged pursuant to the City's
Master Fee Schedule in effect at the time the application is filed.
20.375.007. Permit Review, Renewal and Revocation Procedures.
A. Review and Notice. Applications submitted to the City will be promptly processed and reviewed.
Applicants will be promptly notified of incomplete applications, but no later than 30 days after the application
has been submitted. After an application has been deemed incomplete, in order to proceed further in the
application process, Applicants shall provide such supplemental information to address the incompleteness or
insufficiencies identified in the City's notice.
1. Following determination of a complete application, the Applicant shall mail "Notice of Proposed Action to
Approve a Small Cell Wireless Facility" to addresses within three- hundred (300) feet of the proposed site(s)
in all zoning districts except residential. Notices in residential districts shall include a five - hundred (500)
feet radius for notification. Applicant shall also schedule a neighborhood outreach meeting involving
residents and businesses within the radius area as described in this subsection within 2 weeks of submittal of
an application. Following the meeting, Applicant shall submit any transcripts, minutes and/or videos of the
outreach meeting to the City.
2. Applications shall be reviewed by the City Engineer, Chief Planner, and Chief Building Official for
sufficiency and compliance with this Chapter. The Chief Planner shall make a preliminary determination on
the Application and submit for concurrence by the City Manager or his /her designee. Following review by
City Manager or his/her designee, the Chief Planner shall approve or deny an application in accordance with
the requirements of this section.
B. Pre - Submittal Actions. To ensure complete submissions, Applicant(s) for Small Cell Wireless Facilities
are encouraged to complete the following tasks prior to City staff conducting its application review process:
1. Participate in an pre - submittal meeting with City staff.
2. Submit a completed and signed "Application Checklist ".
3. Pay fees in the applicable amount identified pursuant to this chapter and discussed at the pre - application
meeting.
4. Provide all required materials pursuant to 20.375.006 of this chapter.
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Enactment Number. ORD 1546 -2017
C. Financial Assurances. Prior to obtaining a permit to erect or install the proposed facility, the
applicant shall either secure a bond or provide financial assurances, in a form acceptable to the City Manager,
for the removal of the facility in the event that its use is abandoned or the approval is otherwise terminated.
D. Permit Approval and Issuance. All Small Cell Wireless Facilities not otherwise exempt from regulation
from this chapter shall be issued a Small Cell Attachment Permit, an encroachment permit and building
permit by City, provided that all applicable permit, application, location, construction, operation,
maintenance, repair, and design requirements as stated in this chapter have been met.
E. Modification of Requirements. The City Council may waive or modify requirements of this chapter
upon advice of the City Attorney that denial of the application would have the effect of prohibiting the
provision of telecommunications services, unreasonably discriminating among service providers, or
constituting any other violation of State or Federal law. The applicant shall have the burden of proving that
the denial would result in such a violation.
20.375.008 Cessation of Operations
A. Voluntary Cessation. Applicants intending to vacate a Small Cell Wireless Facility site shall notify
the Chief Planner of this intent to vacate at least 30 days prior to the vacation.
B. Abandonment. A permit for a Small Cell Wireless Facility that is not operated for a continuous period of
12 months shall be deemed lapsed and the site will be considered abandoned unless:
1. The Chief Planner has determined that the same operator resumed operation within six months of
the notice; or
2. The City has received an application to transfer the permit to another service provider.
B. Removal of Facilities and Restoration of Site. No later than 120 days from the date a Small Cell
Wireless Facility is has ceased operation, or from the date of receipt of the Applicant's notice of its intent to
vacate the site, the Applicant or its authorized agent of the abandoned Small Cell Wireless Facility shall
remove all equipment and improvements associated with the use, and shall restore the site to its original
condition as shown on the plans submitted with the original approved application or as required by the Chief
Planner.
1. The Applicant or its authorized agent may use any bond or other assurances provided pursuant to the
requirements of Section 20.375.007C ( "Financial Assurances ") to fulfill the requirements of this subsection.
2. The owner or agent shall provide written verification of the removal of the Small Cell Wireless Facility
within 30 days of the date the removal is completed.
C. Failure to Remove and Restore. A Small Cell Wireless Facility that is not removed and the site has not
been restored in accordance with the requirements stated above, the site shall be deemed to be a nuisance
pursuant to Section 20.580.003 of the Municipal Code. The Chief Planner may cause the facility to be
removed at the owners' expense or by calling any bond or other financial assurance to pay for removal.
1. For a single structure occupied by two or more users, this subsection shall not become effective until all
users cease on the structure.
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2. The requirement for removal of equipment in compliance with this section shall be
included as a provision in any lease of private property for Small Cell Wireless Facilities.
20.375.009 Appeals
Any appeals of a staff decision under this Chapter may be appealed to the City Manager, or his designee. An
appeal shall be submitted in writing to the City Clerk. The appeal shall be accompanied by the fee specified in
the City's master fee schedule. Any appeal under this section shall be considered in a manner consistent
with the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012, related Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) "shot clock" regulations, and applicable state law permit streamlining requirements.
20.375.010 Violations and Penalties
Failure to comply with these standards shall be considered a violation of conditions of approval subject to
enforcement pursuant to provisions of Title 20. All violations and penalties shall be enforced pursuant to the
procedure set forth in Chapter 20.580 of the Municipal Code.
SECTION 3. Severability
If any provision of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid or
unconstitutional, the remainder of this Ordinance, including the application of such part or provision to other
persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end,
provisions of this Ordinance are severable. The City Council of the City of South San Francisco hereby
declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase
hereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences,
clauses, or phrases be held unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable.
SECTION 4. Publication and Effective Date
Pursuant to the provisions of Government Code section 36933, a summary of this Ordinance shall be prepared
by the City Attorney. At least five (5) days prior to the Council meeting at which this Ordinance is scheduled
to be adopted, the City Clerk shall (1) publish the Summary, and (2) post in the City Clerk's Office a certified
copy of this Ordinance. Within fifteen (15) days after the adoption of this Ordinance, the City Clerk shall (1)
publish the summary, and (2) post in the City Clerk's Office a certified copy of the full text of this Ordinance
along with the names of those City Council members voting for and against this Ordinance or otherwise
voting. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after its adoption.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of South San Francisco, held the 25th day of
October, 2017.
At a meeting of the City Council on 11/8/2017, a motion was made by Liza Normandy, seconded by Richard
Garbarino, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion passed.
City of South San Francisco Page 17
File Number: 17 -1096
Enactment Number: ORD 1546 -2017
Yes: 5 Vice Mayor Normandy, Councilmember Garbarino, Councilmember Matsumoto,
Mayor Gupta, and Councilmember Addiego
Attest by
Lgn-�- e-
Pradeep Gupta, Mayor
City of South San Francisco Page 18