SWAP
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A Special Note on Implementing the Vision
The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve
The Temecula Valley Vineyards, Wineries, and Citrus Groves
Glen Oaks Hills/Valle de los Caballos
The Pauba/Wolf Valley and Pechanga Indian Reservation
Keller Road South Side Policy Area
Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area
French Valley Airport Influence Area
Mount Palomar Nighttime Lighting Requirements
Third and Fifth Supervisorial District Design Standards and Guidelines
Community and Environmental Transportation Acceptability Process (CETAP) Corridors
Watersheds, Floodplains, and Watercourses
Proposed Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
LIST OF FIGURES
5: French Valley Airport Influence Policy Area
6: Mt. Palomar Nighttime Lighting Policy
LIST OF TABLES
1: Land Use Designations Summary
2: Statistical Summary of the Southwest Area Plan
3: Adopted Specific Plans in the Southwest Area Plan
| The County of Riverside General Plan and Area Plans have been shaped by the RCIP Vision. Following is a summary of the Vision Statement that includes many of the salient points brought forth by the residents of Eastvale as well as the rest of the County of Riverside. The RCIP Vision reflects the County of Riverside in the year 2020. So, "fast forward" yourself to 2020 and here is what it will be like. |
"Riverside County is a family of special communities in a remarkable environmental setting."
It is now the year 2020. This year (incidentally, also a common reference to clear vision), is an appropriate time to check our community vision. Twenty years have passed since we took an entirely new look at how the County of Riverside was evolving. Based on what we saw, we set bold new directions for the future. As we now look around and move through the County, the results are notable. They could happen only in response to universal values strongly held by the people. Some of those values are:
• Real dedication to a sense of community;
• Appreciation for the diversity of our people and places within this expansive landscape;
• Belief in the value of participation by our people in shaping their communities;
• Confidence in the future and faith that our long term commitments will pay off;
• Willingness to innovate and learn from our experience;
• Dedication to the preservation of the environmental features that frame our communities;
• Respect for our differences and willingness to work toward their resolution;
• Commitment to quality development in partnership with those who help build our communities;
• The value of collaboration by our elected officials in conducting public business.
Those values and the plans they inspired have brought us a long way. True, much remains to be done. But our energies and resources are being invested in a unified direction, based on the common ground we have affirmed many times during the last 20 years. Perhaps our achievements will help you understand why we believe we are on the right path.
Population Growth
The almost doubling of our population in only 20 years has been a challenge, but we have met it by focusing that growth in areas that are well served by public facilities and services or where they can readily be provided. Major transportation corridors serve our communities and nearby open space preserves help define them. Our growth focus is on quality, not quantity. That allows the numbers to work for us and not against us. We enjoy an unprecedented clarity regarding what areas must not be developed and which ones should be developed. The resulting pattern of growth concentrates development in key areas rather than spreading it uniformly throughout the County. Land is used more efficiently, communities operate at more of a human scale, and transit systems to supplement the automobile are more feasible. In fact, the customized "Oasis" transit system now operates quite successfully in several cities and communities.
Our Communities and Neighborhoods
Our choices in the kind of community and neighborhood we prefer is almost unlimited here. From sophisticated urban villages to quality suburban neighborhoods to spacious rural enclaves, we have them all. If you are like most of us, you appreciate the quality schools and their programs that are the centerpiece of many of our neighborhoods. Not only have our older communities matured gracefully, but we boast several new communities as well. They prove that quality of life comes in many different forms.
Housing
We challenge you to seek a form of housing or a range in price that does not exist here. Our housing choices, from rural retreat to suburban neighborhood to exclusive custom estate are as broad as the demand for housing requires. Choices include entry level housing for first time buyers, apartments serving those not now in the buying market, seniors' housing, and world class golf communities. You will also find "smart" housing with the latest in built-in technology as well as refurbished historic units. The County of Riverside continues to draw people who are looking for a blend of quality and value.
Transportation
It is no secret that the distances in this vast County can be a bit daunting. Yet, our transportation system has kept pace amazingly well with the growth in population, employment and tourism and their demands for mobility. We are perhaps proudest of the new and expanded transportation corridors that connect growth centers throughout the County. They do more than provide a way for people and goods to get where they need to be. Several major corridors have built-in expansion capability to accommodate varied forms of transit. These same corridors are designed with a high regard for the environment in mind, including providing for critical wildlife crossings so that our open spaces can sustain their habitat value.
Conservation and Open Space Resources
The often-impassioned conflicts regarding what lands to permanently preserve as open space are virtually resolved. The effort to consider our environmental resources, recreation needs, habitat systems, and visual heritage as one comprehensive, multi-purpose open space system has resulted in an unprecedented commitment to their preservation. In addition, these spaces help to form distinctive edges to many of our communities or clusters of communities. What is equally satisfying is that they were acquired in a variety of creative and equitable ways.
Air Quality
It may be hard to believe, but our air quality has actually improved slightly despite the phenomenal growth that has occurred in the region. Most of that growth, of course, has been in adjacent counties and we continue to import their pollutants. We are on the verge of a breakthrough in technical advances to reduce smog from cars and trucks. Not only that, but our expanded supply of jobs reduces the need for people here to commute as far as in the past.
Jobs and Economy
In proportion to population, our job growth is spectacular. Not only is our supply of jobs beyond any previously projected level, it has become quite diversified. Clusters of new industries have brought with them an array of jobs that attract skilled labor and executives alike. We are particularly enthusiastic about the linkages between our diversified business community and our educational system. Extensive vocational training programs, coordinated with businesses, are a constant source of opportunities for youth and those in our labor force who seek further improvement.
Agricultural Lands
Long a major foundation of our economy and our culture, agriculture remains a thriving part of the County of Riverside. While we have lost some agriculture to other forms of development, other lands have been brought into agricultural production. We are still a major agricultural force in California and compete successfully in the global agricultural market.
Educational System
Quality education, from pre-school through graduate programs, marks the County of Riverside as a place where educational priorities are firmly established. A myriad of partnerships involving private enterprise and cooperative programs between local governments and school districts are in place, making the educational system an integral part of our communities.
Plan Integration
The coordinated planning for multi-purpose open space systems, community based land use patterns, and a diversified transportation system has paid off handsomely. Integration of these major components of community building has resulted in a degree of certainty and clarity of direction not commonly achieved in the face of such dynamic change.
Financial Realities
From the very beginning, our vision included the practical consideration of how we would pay for the qualities our expectations demanded. Creative, yet practical financing programs provide the necessary leverage to achieve a high percentage of our aspirations expressed in the updated RCIP.
Intergovernmental Cooperation
As a result of the necessary coordination between the County, the cities and other governmental agencies brought about through the RCIP, a high degree of intergovernmental cooperation and even partnership is now commonplace. This way of doing public business has become a tradition and the County of Riverside is renowned for its many model intergovernmental programs.
What first grabs the attention of travelers as they approach the Southwest planning area from almost any direction is the sense of being in a broad and varied valley where nature and development have found a way to live together. Yes, there is a lot of development. And there is also an extensive system of hills, slopes, streams, lakes, vineyards, groves, and habitats that accent the view in every direction. This space reflects tradition, caring, and commitment.
The Southwest Area Plan guides the evolving character of the unincorporated land surrounding the Cities of Murrieta and Temecula. The Southwest Area Plan is not a stand-alone document, but rather an extension of the County of Riverside General Plan and Vision. The County of Riverside Vision details the physical, environmental, and economic qualities that the County aspires to achieve by the year 2020. Using that Vision as the primary foundation, the County of Riverside General Plan establishes policies for development and conservation within the entire unincorporated County territory. The Southwest Area Plan, on the other hand, provides customized direction specifically for the Southwest planning area.
The Southwest Area Plan doesn't just provide a description of the location, physical characteristics, and special features here. It contains a Land Use Plan, statistical summaries, policies, and accompanying exhibits that allow anyone interested in the continued prosperity of this unique area to understand the physical, environmental, and regulatory characteristics that make this such a unique area. Background information also provides insights that help in understanding the issues that require special focus here and the reasons for the more localized policy direction found in this document.
Each section of this plan addresses critical issues facing the Southwest planning area. Perhaps a description of these sections will help in understanding the organization of the plan as well as appreciating the comprehensive nature of the planning process that led to it. The Location section explains where the planning area fits with what surrounds it and how it relates to the cities that are part of it. Physical features are described in a section that highlights the Southwest planning area's communities, surrounding environment, and natural resources. This leads naturally to the Land Use Plan section, which describes the land use system guiding development at both the countywide and area plan levels.
While a number of these designations reflect unique features found only in the Southwest planning area, a number of special policies are still necessary to address unique portions of the Southwest planning area. The Policy Areas section presents these policies. Land use related issues are addressed in the Land Use section. Land use isn't the only key factor in developing and conserving land here. The Area Plan also describes relevant transportation issues in the Circulation section. A variety of routes and modes of travel are envisioned to serve this area. The key to understanding the area's valued open space network is described in the Multipurpose Open Space section. There are natural and man made hazards to consider, and they are spelled out in the Hazards section.
Returning again to the physical character of the Southwest planning area, the rugged mountains, rock strewn hills, and sharp slopes that define the valley system in which most development occurs provide a striking backdrop for the cities and communities here. Some development stretches along the streams, but most of the hills and slopes are devoted to more rural and agricultural uses. Perhaps one of the most striking characteristics of the area is its unique micro-climate derived from the influence of coastal breezes that moderate the inland temperatures and dryness. This, in turn, makes possible one of the Southwest planning area's most unique features: a robust vineyard and wine industry. This is an attraction for not only residents and businesses, but a thriving tourism industry as well.
The Southwest planning area is in a gateway position between Riverside and San Diego counties. Consequently, it plays a pivotal role in the access, connections and impressions for Riverside County. The Southwest Area Plan seeks to capture and capitalize upon not only the special qualities of the land, but also its strategic location.
It is important to understand that the incorporated Cities of Murrieta and Temecula, located within the Southwest planning area, are not covered by this plan. They are governed by their own plans. Nevertheless, city/county coordination is a critical component of this plan. A key location factor is how this area relates to other planning areas within the vastness of Riverside County.
A Special Note on Implementing the Vision
The preface to this area plan is a summary version of the Riverside County Vision. That summary is, in turn, simply an overview of a much more extensive and detailed Vision of Riverside County two decades or more into the future. This area plan, as part of the Riverside County General Plan, is one of the major devices for making the Vision a reality.
No two area plans are the same. Each represents a unique portion of the incredibly diverse place known as Riverside County. While many share certain common features, each of the plans reflects the special characteristics that define its area's unique identity. These features include not only physical qualities, but also the particular boundaries used to define them, the stage of development they have reached, the dynamics of change expected to affect them, and the numerous decisions that shape development and conservation in each locale. That is why
Unincorporated land is all land within the County that is not within an incorporated city or an Indian Nation. Generally, it is subject to policy direction and under the land use authority of the Board of Supervisors. However, it may also contain state and federal properties that lie outside of Board authority.
the Vision cannot and should not be reflected uniformly.
Policies at the General Plan and Area Plan levels implement the Riverside County Vision in a range of subject areas as diverse as the scope of the Vision itself. The land use pattern contained in this area plan is a further expression of the Vision as it is shaped to fit the terrain and the conditions in the Southwest planning area.
To illustrate how the Vision has shaped this area plan, the following highlights reflect certain strategies that link the Vision to the land. This is not a comprehensive enumeration; rather, it emphasizes a few of the most powerful and physically tangible examples.
Environmental Character.From the vineyards to the ecological preserve, there are an abundance of activities based on the environmental setting unique to the Southwest planning area. Not only are these attractions visually appealing, they are also a major economic draw for the Southwest planning area. The tourism and products generated by these natural resources carry out the Vision within the Southwest planning area by preserving, maintaining, and actively using such destinations as the Santa Rosa Plateau, the Citrus/Vineyard areas, and the surrounding hillsides, while promoting the individuality of the communities within and around these attractions.
Data in this area plan is current as of October 7, 2003. Any General Plan amendments approved subsequent to that date are not reflected in this area plan and must be supported by their own environmental documentation. A process for incorporating any applicable portion of these amendments into this area plan is part of the General Plan Implementation Program.
The strategic location of this area is clearly evident in Figure 1, Location. The Southwest planning area is bounded by San Diego County to the south, Orange and San Diego Counties to the west, Lake Elsinore to the northwest, and the vast mountain and desert area known as REMAP -the Riverside Extended Mountain Area Plan to the east. The Southwest Area Plan borders the Sun City/Menifee Valley and Harvest Valley/Winchester Area Plans. Figure 1, Location, not only identifies the Cities of Temecula and Murrieta, but also reflects a number of the unincorporated areas that have strong local identities, such as the Santa Rosa Plateau and French Valley. As a framework for these locales, some of the more prominent physical features are also shown on Figure 1.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological ReserveThe Riverside County Vision builds heavily on the value of its remarkable environmental setting. That is certainly the case here. Bold mountains and hills frame the valleys that accommodate most of the development. Their height and shape also influence the climate, leading to some of the unique habitats found in the Southwest planning area. The ring of mountains and hills also contrasts with the valleys and watercourses that define the natural landmarks for many of the communities. These defining features are shown on Figure 2, Physical Features.
The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is home to the oldest building still standing in Riverside County, the Machado Adobe, built in the late 1840's.
The Southwest planning area is framed by the Santa Ana Mountains to the west, the Santa Margarita Mountains and Agua Tibia range to the south, and the Black Hills to the east. Murrieta Creek runs along the floor of the Murrieta Valley, which generally divides the Southwest planning area in a western/eastern configuration. The Cities of Temecula and Murrieta span both sides of Murrieta Creek, further accentuating this pattern. A series of valleys separated by rolling hills connect with the Murrieta Valley. French Valley runs in a north-south manner and includes Warm Springs, Tucalota, and Santa Gertrudis Creeks. Temecula Creek forms the Pauba Valley, which runs east-west along the southern boundary of the area. Pechanga Creek forms Wolf Valley, located just south of the City of Temecula. All of these creeks eventually flow to the Santa Margarita River, one of the most diverse environments in southern California. The Santa Rosa Plateau forms a "high valley" along the west side of the Southwest planning area and provides still another unique environment devoted to rural estates, groves, and natural habitat.
The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve
Located in the Santa Rosa Plateau, vernal pools are ephemeral water bodies, usually formed in shallow depressions during the late fall, winter, or early spring. They contain many wetland plants that flourish during the pool cycle. They may also be home to the endangered fairy shrimp.
The 8,200-acre Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is located on the east side of the Santa Ana Mountains, immediately west of the Cities of Murrieta and Temecula. This unusually rich habitat serves as both a habitat reserve and active regional park. The Reserve is also unique in that it is a cooperative management project of the Nature Conservancy, the Riverside County Regional Park and Open Space District, the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California. The Nature Conservancy purchased the original 3,100-acre portion of the reserve in 1984. In April of 1991, 3,825 additional acres were purchased by the County of Riverside, the California Conservation Board, the Metropolitan Water District (MWD), and the California Nature Conservancy. It is an outstanding example of collaborative methods preserving valuable habitat lands.
The Santa Rosa Plateau's rolling topography ranges over 2,000 feet in elevation and contains a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Engelmann oaks, pinyon pines, and coastal sage scrub. The reserve includes some of southern California's last vernal pools, wintering water-fowl, spring wildflowers, and several species of endangered plants. It is, without doubt, a special place.
A further indication of uniqueness is found in the creekbeds throughout the reserve. They contain deep holes called tenajas, which hold water throughout the rainless summer months and provide important water sources for wildlife. These riparian zones support such species as sycamore and willow trees, California treefrogs, and Southwestern pond turtles.
A tenaja found in the Santa Rosa ReserveVail Lake is nestled in the Black Hills about 15 miles east of Temecula, just north of State Route 79. Vail Lake was formed in 1948 when Walter Vail dammed Temecula Creek. A haven for fishing and water activities as well as camping, hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails, Vail Lake and the surrounding areas are recognized for significant biological and natural habitat resources. The considerable unspoiled landscape varies in topography and is accented by oak woodlands and riparian corridors.
Along the southeastern boundary of the Southwest planning area is a portion of the Cleveland National Forest. The pristine environment contains thousands of species of plants and animals native to southern California. The rolling topography and hillsides lead to unspoiled views of natural habitats and tree stands. The forest is also home to treasured oak woodlands. This forest offers ample public access and recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, bicycling, and equestrian facilities.
An aerial view of Lake Skinner and the water filtration facilityLocated in the northeastern corner of the Southwest planning area is Lake Skinner. Surrounding the lake is the Lake Skinner Regional Park and a water filtration facility. This area is characterized by rolling hills and agricultural uses extending westward, with largely vacant lands to the east. This man-made lake is operated by the Metropolitan Water District (MWD), and it affords activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and other outdoor activities that draw tourists and visitors to the area.
The Temecula Valley Vineyards, Wineries, and Citrus Groves
The wine producing area of Temecula Valley is located east of the City of Temecula, extending westward along Rancho California Road. This area features beautiful vineyards and gracious wineries scattered among rolling hills and spreading oaks. The wineries, which offer tours and wine tasting, are an attraction for tourists as well as an economic powerhouse for western Riverside County. This rural area also includes citrus groves and a scattering of residential and equestrian estates.
French Valley Airport is a 261-acre general aviation airport located in the French Valley, adjacent to Winchester Road (State Route 79 North). Owned and operated by the County of Riverside, the airport's single runway is oriented roughly in a north/south direction and is expected to be a valuable asset to the businesses and residents that settle in the area.
Figure 4, Policy Areas, depicts a policy area surrounding the airport. This is essential to protect the airport by recognizing and supplementing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Riverside County restrictions on the uses, concentrations of population, and height of proposed development in the airport's vicinity. More information on the French Valley Airport and its policies can be found in the Policy Area section of this area plan and the French Valley Airport Land Use Plan.
The entrance to Galway DownsGlen Oaks Hills/Valle de los Caballos
Located in the foothills of the Agua Tibia Range and Black Hills, Glen Oaks Hills is a rural community with an equestrian focus set among gently rolling hills and ample oak woodlands. A focal point of the equestrian community of Valle de los Caballos is the Galway Downs Racetrack, surrounded by an enclave of large ranch estates. As one might expect, this peaceful setting is also home to a rich variety of natural habitats including oak woodlands, tree stands, and chaparral.
The Pauba/Wolf Valley and Pechanga Indian Reservation
Characterized as a mountainous and rural area east of Interstate 15, the rolling hills, accented by Temecula and Pechanga Creeks, help to form the distinct character of this area. The very special habitat of the Emerson Oaks Preserve is located here, offering beautiful oak woodlands and chaparral habitats. This is also an area of the Southwest planning area that has experienced the expansion of suburban development near the City of Temecula. A relatively narrow strip of industrial uses adjacent to Interstate 15 and an expanse of rural development round out this valley system.
Located along the San Diego County line and south of the City of Temecula on State Route 79 South is the Pechanga Indian Reservation. The Pechanga Tribe operates a large gaming casino and hotel.
The community character of the Santa Rosa Plateau is determined by the area's mountainous and rural environment, described earlier in connection with its setting. Privately owned portions of the Plateau are characterized by large lots–five acres or more in size. This character is enhanced by its physical separation from surrounding lands, especially the more urban development in the lower part of the Temecula Valley. Homes here are typified by ranch style estates, many of which have an equestrian focus. Extensive citrus groves and avocado orchards complete the sense of quiet and remoteness so predominant here.
A "sphere of influence" is the area outside of and adjacent to a city's border that the city has identified as a future logical extension of its jurisdiction. While the County of Riverside has land use authority over city sphere areas, development in these areas directly affects circulation, service provision, and community character within the cities.
Temecula
Incorporated in 1989 and located in the southwestern corner of the Southwest planning area, Temecula traces its roots to Old Town Temecula, a historic western town dating from the 1890s. More recent development is characterized by planned residential developments, largely designed by the use of specific plans. As of 1999, the City encompassed 16,385 acres with an estimated population of 45,162 and 13,631 households. At that time the City's Sphere of Influence encompassed 15,889 acres, located mainly in the Antelope/French Valley.
Temecula's Sphere of Influence extends north along State Route 79 almost to the boundary of the Southwest planning area. Most of the sphere is characterized by suburban specific plans adopted in the early 1990s, allowing mainly residential uses and airport related business parks.
Incorporated in 1991and located at the northern edge of the Southwest planning area, the City of Murrieta is a mixture of rural residential and equestrian estates interspersed with an array of planned residential developments. As of 2003, the City encompassed 18,579 acres with an estimated population of 38,978 and 12,513 households. As of 2003, Murrieta's Sphere of Influence encompassed 10,065 acres, primarily in the Antelope/French Valley. The City subsequently annexed the community of Murrieta Hot Springs westerly of Winchester Road.
As with Temecula, Murrieta's Sphere of Influence extends north between State Route 79 and the city limits all the way to the northerly boundary of the Southwest planning area. The remaining portion of Murrieta's Sphere of Influence is predominantly rural in character with the potential for predominantly suburban and estate residential development.
"Each of our rural areas and communities has a special character that distinguishes them from urban areas and from each other. They benefit from some conveniences such as small-scale local commercial services and all-weather access roads, yet maintain an unhurried, uncrowded lifestyle."
-RCIP Vision
The Land Use Plan focuses on preserving the unique features found only in the Southwest planning area and, at the same time, accommodating future growth. To accomplish this, more detailed land use designations are applied than for the countywide General Plan.
The Southwest Area Plan Land Use Plan, Figure 3, depicts the geographic distribution of land uses within this planning area. The Area Plan is organized around 30 Area Plan land use designations and five overlays. These area plan land uses derive from, and provide more detailed direction than, the five General Plan Foundation Component land uses: Open Space, Agriculture, Rural, Rural Community, and Community Development. Table 1, Land Use Designations Summary, outlines the development intensity, density, typical allowable land uses, and general characteristics for each of the area plan land use designations within each Foundation Component. The General Plan Land Use Element contains more detailed descriptions and policies for the Foundation Components and each of the area plan land use designations.
Many factors led to the designation of land use patterns. Among the most influential were the Riverside County Vision and Planning Principles; both of which focused, in part, on preferred patterns of development within the County; the Community and Environmental Transportation Acceptability Process (CETAP) that focused on major transportation corridors; the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) that focused on opportunities and strategies for significant open space and habitat preservation; established patterns of existing uses and parcel configurations; current zoning; and the oral and written testimony of County residents, property owners, and representatives of cities, Indian tribes, and organizations at the many Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors hearings. A constant theme through which all of these factors were viewed was the desire to reinforce the Riverside County Vision and its related planning principles wherever possible. The result of these considerations is shown in Figure 3, Land Use Plan, which portrays the location and extent of proposed land uses. Table 2, Statistical Summary of the Southwest Area Plan, provides a summary of the projected development capacity of the plan if all uses are built as proposed. This table includes dwelling unit, population, and employment capacities.
"The extensive heritage of rural living continues to be accommodated in areas committed to that lifestyle, and its sustainability is reinforced by strong open space and urban development commitment provided for in the RCIP Vision."
-RCIP Vision
Land Use Concept
The Southwest Area Plan Land Use Plan generally reflects the predominantly rural character of the area. In fact, approximately 89% of the Southwest planning area is devoted to Open Space, Agricultural, and Rural designations. The remaining 11% of the land is devoted to a variety of urban uses. Most of this urban development is focused near the Cities of Temecula and Murrieta and in French Valley, where commitments to urban uses have been made through adoption of specific plans. By concentrating development patterns in this manner, future growth will be accommodated and the unique rural and agricultural lifestyle found elsewhere in the Southwest planning area will be maintained.
For the most part, the Open Space and Rural designations are applied in the mountains and foothills surrounding the Cities of Murrieta and Temecula. The Agricultural designation is largely applied to the existing vineyards and wineries east of Temecula. The Santa Rosa Ecological Reserve and the Cleveland National Forest are designated for open space uses to reflect the rich and significant habitat these areas provide. Glen Oaks Hills, Valle de los Caballos, and the Santa Rosa Plateau are designated for rural uses to maintain the existing rural residential character of these areas. Vail Lake and environs are designated Open Space-Rural, reflecting the natural values of the land, and its ownership status as private land.
These Open Space, Agricultural, and Rural general plan land use designations reflect the existing and intended long term land use patterns for these areas and help maintain the historic identity and character of the Southwest planning area. Such designations also provide an edge to urban development and a separation between the adjoining area plans and San Diego County. This edge strengthens the identity of the Southwest planning area and helps to distinguish it from other communities. Future growth is largely accommodated northeast of the existing Cities of Temecula and Murrieta in the French Valley. Proposed land uses reflect, or are influenced by, the adopted specific plans described in the Policy Area section of this area plan. These specific plans depict a largely residential community with local-serving commercial and employment uses located along the major roadways. The residential community is focused around State Route 79 North (Winchester Road). Within that residential pattern the French Valley Airport acts as a hub for surrounding business and industrial park development, which contributes significantly to an employment and economic focus for the Southwest planning area. State Route 79 North is the chief circulation route in the valley other than the Interstate 15 and Interstate 215 freeways. The adjacent areas accommodate regional uses and a large segment of potential commercial development. Despite this rather focused development, significant watercourses in the valley are maintained in adopted and proposed specific plans through open space designations. This stream system is depicted on the Southwest Area Plan Land Use Plan Watercourse Overlay designation.
For more information on Community Center types, please refer to the Land Use Policies within this area plan and the Land Use Designations section of the General Plan Land Use Element.
A Community Center Overlay is proposed along the south side of Scott Road, westerly of Winchester Road.
Future multi-modal transportation options are accommodated along the freeways and State Route 79 North. A distinctive component of the Riverside County General Plan is the Transit Oasis concept. This is a highly flexible transit system tailored to the particular conditions found in Riverside County. It depends in part on a careful integration with land use patterns and development design to appeal to users who would otherwise drive cars. This is a substantial commitment to reducing the pressure on single occupancy automobiles by providing a cost effective, convenient, flexible, and responsive option that could also save families a significant amount from their budgets. The area plan envisions this Transit Oasis concept being a major feature of activity centers such as the French Valley Airport and the mixed use area along Murrieta Hot Springs Road, easterly of Winchester Road.
Mobility within the open space system is not ignored either. Multi-use trails are conceptually located throughout the Southwest planning area, providing the framework for future trail improvements and connections. Thus, there is a strong relationship in the area plan between land uses and associated transportation and mobility systems, no matter what the intensity of uses may be.
| Table 2 Statistical Summary of the Southwest Area Plan | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Land Use Designationsa,b | ||||
| Land Use Designation | Acreage | Dwelling Units | Population | Employment |
| Agriculture Foundation Component | ||||
| Agriculture (AG) | 475 | 24 | 71 | 24 |
| Agriculture Total | 475 | 24 | 71 | 24 |
| Rural Foundation Component | ||||
| Rural Residential (RR) | 57,180 | 8,577 | 25,817 | NA |
| Rural Mountainous (RM) | 18,915 | 946 | 2,847 | NA |
| Rural Desert (RD) | 0 | 0 | 0 | NA |
| Rural Total | 76,095 | 9,523 | 28,664 | 0 |
| Rural Community Foundation Component | ||||
| Estate Density Residential (RC-EDR) | 3,693 | 1,292 | 3,890 | NA |
| Very Low Density Residential (RC-VLDR) | 203 | 102 | 306 | NA |
| Low Density Residential (RC-LDR) | 234 | 281 | 844 | NA |
| Rural Community Total | 4,130 | 1,675 | 5,040 | 0 |
| Open Space Foundation Component | ||||
| Open Space-Conservation (OS-C) | 3,812 | NA | NA | NA |
| Open Space-Conservation Habitat (OS-CH) | 32,688 | NA | NA | NA |
| Open Space-Water (OS-W) | 1,367 | NA | NA | NA |
| Open Space-Recreation (OS-R) | 1,488 | NA | NA | 223 |
| Open Space-Rural (OS-RUR) | 7,610 | 190 | 573 | NA |
| Open Space-Mineral Resources (OS-MIN) | 0 | NA | NA | 0 |
| Open Space Total | 46,965 | 190 | 573 | 223 |
| Community Development Foundation Component | ||||
| Estate Density Residential (EDR) | 993 | 347 | 1,046 | NA |
| Very Low Density Residential (VLDR) | 93 | 46 | 139 | NA |
| Low Density Residential (LDR) | 562 | 675 | 2,030 | NA |
| Medium Density Residential (MDR) | 8,127 | 28,444 | 85,616 | NA |
| Medium High Density Residential (MHDR) | 1,771 | 11,514 | 34,657 | NA |
| High Density Residential (HDR) | 200 | 2,196 | 6,609 | NA |
| Very High Density Residential (VHDR) | 171 | 2,905 | 8,745 | NA |
| Highest Density Residential (HHDR) | 6 | 177 | 533 | NA |
| Commercial Retail (CR)c | 781 | 1,640 | 4,937 | 4,695 |
| Commercial Tourist (CT) | 260 | NA | NA | 4,245 |
| Commercial Office (CO) | 185 | NA | NA | 7,051 |
| Light Industrial (LI) | 592 | NA | NA | 7,606 |
| Heavy Industrial (HI) | 0 | NA | NA | 0 |
| Business Park (BP) | 515 | NA | NA | 8,413 |
| Public Facilities (PF) | 1,468 | NA | NA | 396 |
| Community Center (CC) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Community Development Total | 15,724 | 47,944 | 144,312 | 32,406 |
| Other Land Uses, Overlays and Policy Areasd | ||||
| Rural Community-Estate Density Residential 2 | 162 | 57 | 171 | NA |
| Glen Eden Policy Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | NA |
| Medium Density Residential (2-4 du/ac) | 0 | 0 | 0 | NA |
| Vista Santa Rosa Policy Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | NA |
| Rural Village Overlay | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Rural Village Overlay Study Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Community Center Overlay | 51 | 299 | 900 | 400 |
| Community Retail Overlay | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Other, Overlays and Policy Areas Total | 213 | 356 | 1,071 | 400 |
| BUILDOUT PROJECTIONS TOTAL | 143,602 | 59,712 | 179,731 | 33,053 |
| Other | ||||
| City | 34,964 | |||
| Indian Lands | 4,146 | |||
| Freeways | 153 | |||
| Other Total | 39,263 | |||
| AREA PLAN TOTAL ACRES | 182,865 | |||
| Overlays and Policy Areas The following provides the acreages for each Overlay and/or Policy Area within the Area Plan. Overlays and Policy Areas are districts that contain unique standards tailored to a local geographic area. In some instances, these Overlays and Policy Areas alter the allowable uses and maximum densities/intensities within the particular district. In these cases, the buildout potential resulting from the application of the Overlays and Policy Areas has been accounted for in the Base Land Use Designations above. Please see the Area Plan for a description of the unique features contained within each Overlay or Policy Area. | ||||
| Acreage | ||||
| Overlays | ||||
| Mixed Use Planning Area | 119 | |||
| Community Development Overlay | 120 | |||
| Specific Community Development Designation Overlays and Policy Areas | ||||
| Santa Rosa Plateau | 36,312 | |||
| Valle De Los Caballos | 2,913 | |||
| Vail Lake | 8,069 | |||
| Walker Basin | 571 | |||
| Sections 25 and 36 | 964 | |||
| Juniper Flats | 406 | |||
| Citrus Vineyard Rural | 7,577 | |||
| Leon Keller | 162 | |||
| Keller Road South Side | 20 | |||
| North Skinner | 2,386 | |||
| MWD | 0 | |||
| Highway 79 | 15,121 | |||
| Diamond Valley Lake | 4,820 | |||
| Total | 79,560 | |||
| NOTES: a. Statistics reflect the midpoint for the theoretical range of build-out projections. Reference Appendix E of the General Plan for assumptions and methodology. b. Overlay figures reflect the additional dwelling units, population and employment permissible under this category. c. It is assumed that Commercial Retail designation will buildout at 40% Commercial Retail and 60% Medium Density Residential. d. The acreage for the Overlays and Policy Areas have not been included in the acreage totals to avoid double counting. | ||||
A policy area is a portion of an area plan that contains special or unique characteristics that merit detailed attention and focused policies. The location and boundaries for the Policy Areas in the Southwest planning area are shown on Figure 4, Policy Areas, and are described in detail below.
A view of one of the Temecula VineyardsTwelve policy areas are designated within the Southwest Area Plan. They are important locales that have special significance to the residents of this part of the County. Many of these policies derive from citizen involvement over a period of decades in planning for the future of this area. In some ways, these policies are even more critical to the sustained character of the Southwest planning area than some of the basic land use policies because they reflect deeply held beliefs about the kind of place this is and should remain. The boundaries of these policy areas shown on the Policy Area Map are approximate and may be interpreted more precisely as decisions are called for in these areas. This flexibility, then, calls for considerable sensitivity in determining where conditions related to the policies actually exist, once a focused analysis is undertaken on a proposed project.
SWAP = Southwest Area Plan Policy
The Citrus/Vineyard Policy Area, which applies to lands located easterly of the City of Temecula northerly and southerly of Rancho California Road, has been established as a distinct area to ensure the continuation of the rural lifestyle and wine production in southwestern Riverside County. This policy area encompasses one of the most important agricultural lands in the County. The many wineries here provide a significant tourist attraction to the region, which in turn provides a continual economic benefit to the surrounding businesses. Not only that, the Citrus/Vineyard area also is an important part of the character of the Southwest planning area and has become ingrained in the "culture" of the surrounding communities. The Citrus/Vineyard policies also protect against the location of uses that are incompatible with agricultural uses and which could lead to conflicts with adjacent uses. The following policies are reflected in the provisions of the Citrus/Vineyard (C/V) Zone, which was established to preserve the distinctive character of this area.
Policies:
SWAP 1.1 Maintain a rural and agricultural character in the Citrus/ Vineyard area through continued implementation of the C/V zone and judicious use of the C-C/V zone. These zones help achieve the desired character by requiring that commercial buildings, wineries, citrus processing operations, and bed and breakfast inns be designed in a "rural" or "wine-country" theme and by discouraging curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and street lights.
SWAP 1.2 Require a minimum lot size of five (5) acres for new residential tract maps and parcel maps.
SWAP 1.3 Continue to provide for incidental commercial uses, such as retail wine sales/sampling rooms, incidental gift sales, restaurants excluding drive-through facilities, delicatessens, and bed and breakfast inns as incidental commercial uses in conjunction with wineries that maintain established on-site vineyards of 10 acres or more.
This policy area is located easterly of the City of Temecula, and is very generally bounded by Monte Verde Drive and Highway 79 South on the south, Pauba Road and the Vail Lake area on the east, Linda Rosea Road on the north, and Anza Road on the west. This is an area characterized by gently rolling hills and equestrian, rural residential, and agricultural activities. Most of the land in the area is in parcels of 10 acres or larger, which fosters a very low intensity, rural lifestyle. In order to preserve opportunities to enjoy the type of rural lifestyle offered in this area, it is appropriate to retain the area in 10-acre minimum parcel sizes.
Policies:
SWAP 2.1 Require a 10-acre minimum lot size for residential development within the Valle de los Caballos Policy Area, regardless of the underlying land use designation.
This policy area in the northeast portion of the Southwest planning area encompasses an expanse of rolling hills, mountainous terrain, agricultural uses, and rural residences. Development in this area is characterized by large lot residential uses on at least ten acres. In this policy area, the Rural Residential land use designation allow a five-acre minimum lot size, which does not preserve this rural character. A larger minimum lot size of ten acres is more consistent with the existing uses.
Policies:
SWAP 3.1 Require a minimum lot size of 10-acres for residential development within the North Skinner Policy Area, regardless of the underlying land use designation.
A distant view of the Vail Lake areaThe Vail Lake Policy Area is located three miles east of the city limits of the City of Temecula and approximately five miles east of Interstate 15, a major transportation corridor. The Vail Lake Policy Area recognizes: 1) the biological and aesthetic uniqueness of the property, including the steep slopes adjacent to much of the lake shore; 2) both the existing and the potential recreation uses of the lake and the land around the lake; and 3) the constraints imposed by limited availability of public facilities. The importance of accommodating the unique characteristics of the Vail Lake area is recognized by property owners, recreation enthusiasts and environmental advocates.
In order to maximize the preservation and protection of on-site biological resources, any future development within the Vail Lake Policy Area should be focused in the portions of the site that have been developed or can appropriately be developed.
Policies:
SWAP 4.1 Balance the development and recreation value with protection of the biological and aesthetic resources of the Vail Lake Policy Area by enforcing the following:
• Any future development shall be focused into the least biologically sensitive areas of the site. Development beyond what is currently allowed shall only occur in accordance with the provisions of an adopted Specific Plan.
• Provide for adequate long-term protection to threatened and endangered plant and animal species.
• Provide for recreation access to Vail Lake and other recreational opportunities including a network of equestrian and foot trails available for public use, as described in the Open Space, Parks and Recreation section of the General Plan Multipurpose Open Space Element.
• If the lake is retained in private ownership, prepare a lake management plan to protect water quality, adjacent riparian plant and animal life and recreation opportunities.
• Protect outstanding scenic vistas as described in the Hillside Development and Slope section and the Scenic Corridors section of the General Plan Land Use Element and the Scenic Resources section and Scenic Corridors section of the General Plan Multipurpose Open Space Element.
• Provide adequate access as described in the System Access section of the General Plan Circulation Element.
• Control the design of future development by minimizing grading cuts and fill, clustering development in the least biologically sensitive areas, and minimizing light and glare impacts.
• Provide natural and cultural resource education opportunities.
The rolling topography of the Santa Rosa PlateauThe Santa Rosa Plateau/De Luz area is set in the Santa Ana Mountains west of the Cities of Temecula and Murrieta among rolling hills, steep slopes, and valleys, which are dotted with avocado and citrus farms. As mentioned, the unique Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is located here, and because of its size (8,200 acres) plays a significant role in setting the character for the area. Scattered among these abundant natural features are residential equestrian estates and ranches. Access to the area is limited not only by the terrain, but by the fact that there are only two major roads into the area: Clinton Keith and De Luz Roads.
The Santa Rosa Plateau/De Luz Policy Area is intended to help maintain the rural and natural character of the area, account for its varied topography, and address the long term stability of the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve. On the flatter lands in certain locations, rural residential development or agricultural uses are appropriate. However, in order to maintain the Plateau's attributes, future development must be designed in accordance with the area's rural character; limit the amount of grading to maintain the natural terrain to the greatest extent possible; and limit impacts to the ecological reserve.
"Conserved multipurpose open space is viewed as a critical part of the County's system of public facilities and services required to improve the existing quality of life and accommodate new development."
- RCIP Vision
Policies:
SWAP 5.1 Notwithstanding the Rural Mountainous designation of this area, residential parcels as small as five acres in area may be established through the tract map or parcel map process provided that:
a. The proposed building sites and access areas from the roadway to the building sites are not located in areas subject to potential slope instability.
b. The proposed lots provide sufficient area for septic tank filter fields on lands that are not subject to "severe" limitations for such use due to either (1) shallow depth to bedrock or (2) slopes of 25% or greater.
Within this Policy Area, tract maps and parcel maps may maintain an average density of one dwelling unit per five acres.
SWAP 5.2 Preserve the land within the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, excluding any privately owned parcels, for habitat and open space uses.
The Walker Basin Policy Area is located within the Santa Rosa Plateau/De Luz Policy Area and is subject to the policies for that area, as specified above. This area was previously included in a specific plan approved in the 1980s for a residential development with a golf course. While the golf course was developed, the residential development did not occur. On July 15, 2003, to ensure that future development of the property would be consistent with the character of the surrounding area, would not require extensions of major roads and urban infrastructure, including sewer service, and would be protective of the important natural features of the site, the property's specific plan designation was repealed, and the site's general plan designation was amended to 5-acre minimum for the 385-acre residential portion of the site, and to Open Space-Recreation for the golf course area. Within this policy area, the County may consider allowing lots smaller than 5 acres on the residential portion of the site in conjunction with a specific plan application, and may consider an increase in density of up to 25% above the maximum density allowed by the site's existing general plan designation, provided that the criteria specified below are met.
Policies:
SWAP 6.1 The proposed development shall be of a scale that would not require the introduction of sewer infrastructure, major road improvements, or other urban services or infrastructure into the hilly De Luz area, or the establishment of assessment districts to finance such infrastructure.
SWAP 6.2 The proposed development shall be compatible with the surrounding rural residential area. Any lots smaller than five acres shall be clustered around the interior of the site, and the properties surrounding the Walker Basin Policy Area shall be buffered from the clustered smaller lots by lots larger than five acres within the perimeter of the project. Any larger lots needed to maintain the required buffering shall be protected against further subdivision by legally enforceable conditions or restrictions prior to or concurrently with the creation of any lots smaller than five acres.
SWAP 6.3 The proposed development shall provide for the protection of stream courses, oak trees, wildlife corridors, and other important natural features of the site.
SWAP 6.4 The proposed development shall provide for traffic and fire safety improvements that will contribute to the public good.
SWAP 6.5 The proposed development shall be designed to further the objectives of the Western Riverside County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan, if adopted.
The Sections 25/36 Policy Area has been created to recognize the special challenges and opportunities associated with planning for development, transportation, preservation, and recreation needs within an approximately 1.5 square mile area located northerly of Clinton Keith Road, southerly of Keller Road, and westerly of Briggs Road and comprised of four large, contiguous parcels. Following are the policies for this area:
Policies:
SWAP 7.1 In order to provide for balancing of the transportation corridor, development, and recreational values of this area with protection of the biological and aesthetic resources associated with Warm Springs Creek, the County shall require that future development proposals:
• Provide for adequate long-term protection of Warm Springs Creek and its associated wetland and riparian habitats;
• Cluster development areas to provide efficient use of infrastructure and allow for the use of on-site amenities such as open spaces, enhanced landscaping, and recreational opportunities;
• Provide for recreational opportunities including a network of multipurpose trails available for public use, as described in the Open Space, Parks, and Recreation section of the General Plan Multipurpose Open Space Element;
• Provide adequate access as described in the System Access section of the General Plan Circulation Element;
• Respect the natural landforms of the Policy Area;
• Provide that plans for development be consistent with the City of Murrieta General Plan Sphere of Influence designations for the property and for the surrounding area; and
• Provide that all plans for development shall comply with Highway 79 Policy Area requirements to provide improvements and funding for Circulation Element roadways consistent with Level of Service Policies of the General Plan.
Keller Road South Side Policy Area
The Keller Road South Side Policy Area consists of two ten-acre parcels located southerly of Keller Road and westerly of Leon Road (together comprising the north half of the northeast quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 30, Township 6 South, Range 2 West), directly easterly of the French Valley Specific Plan (Specific Plan No. 312). These properties are designated Community Development - Low Density Residential. While this designation provides for a density of two dwelling units per acre, which generally corresponds to a one-half acre lot size, the Community Development foundation component would normally allow for use of clustering to establish smaller lots. However, at this location, it is necessary to provide for a minimum lot size along Keller Road in order to maintain compatibility with the rural lifestyle enjoyed by residents of areas to the east (designated Rural Residential) and north (designated Rural Community - Estate Density Residential with a dwelling unit density of one dwelling unit per 2½ acres by policy). This approach would also be consistent with the special buffering provisions included in the final version of the French Valley Specific Plan.
Policies:
SWAP 8.1 Notwithstanding the Community Development foundation component designation of this Policy Area, lots fronting onto the south side of Keller Road (or, if no lots front on Keller Road, the most northerly row of lots) shall maintain a minimum lot area of one-half acre. In the event that this Policy Area is the subject of a land division proposing to establish any lots smaller than one-half acre, the first two rows of lots southerly of Keller Road shall maintain a minimum net lot size of 30,000 square feet.
Notwithstanding the Estate Density Residential designation of this area on the Southwest Area Plan map, the Leon/Keller Road Policy Area may only be developed at a maximum residential intensity of one (1) dwelling unit per 2½ acres. The Leon/Keller Road Policy Area also extends into the Sun City/Menifee Area Plan.
The purpose of the Highway 79 Policy Area is to address transportation infrastructure capacity within the policy area. Applicable policies are also located in the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
Policies:
SWAP 9.1 Accelerate the construction of transportation infrastructure in the Highway 79 Policy Area. The County shall require that all new development projects demonstrate adequate transportation infrastructure capacity to accommodate the added traffic growth. The County shall coordinate with cities adjacent to the policy area to accelerate the usable revenue flow of existing funding programs, thus assuring that transportation infrastructure is in place when needed.
SWAP 9.2 Establish a program in the Highway 79 Policy Area to ensure that overall trip generation does not exceed system capacity and that the system operation continues to meet Level of Service standards. In general, the program would establish guidelines to be incorporated into individual Traffic Impact Analysis that would monitor overall trip generation from residential development to ensure that overall within the Highway 79 Policy Area development projects produce traffic generation at a level that is 9% less than the trips projected from the General Plan traffic model residential land use designations. Individually, projects could exceed the General Plan traffic model trip generation level, provided it can be demonstrated that sufficient reductions have occurred on other projects in order to meet Level of Service standards.
Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area
Diamond Valley Lake (DVL) is a recently built, approximately 800,000 acre foot capacity reservoir owned and operated by the Metropolitan Water District (MWD), which provides domestic water supplies to much of Southern California. Diamond Valley Lake is strategically located, with ample adjacent land, to also provide for a wide variety of recreational opportunities for the residents of Riverside County and Southern California, and beyond. Potential recreational opportunities include, but are not limited to, fishing, boating, camping, golfing, picnicking, bicycling, horseback riding, and hiking. In support of recreational facilities, other tourist-oriented facilities including hotels, restaurants, and commercial services are anticipated to be developed in the future. The County of Riverside will continue to cooperate with MWD and Diamond Valley Lake's other neighboring jurisdiction, the City of Hemet, to encourage development of the lake's recreational opportunities and supporting commercial services.
It is envisioned that Diamond Valley Lake's recreational and tourist-oriented facilities will be developed pursuant to one or more specific plans contained within the policy area. The Harvest Valley/Winchester, Southwest, and San Jacinto Valley Area Plans illustrate MWD's concept, at the time of the adoption of the Riverside County General Plan, for the potential future development of the DVL lands. Following are the policies for development in the Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area (DVLPA):
Policies:
SWAP 10.1 Continue cooperating with the Metropolitan Water District and the City of Hemet to encourage the development of a comprehensive program for recreational and support commercial facilities at Diamond Valley Lake.
SWAP 10.2 All development shall occur through specific plans. Any specific plans adopted in the Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area shall be classified as Community Development Specific Plans.
SWAP 10.3 The Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area, in its entirety, is included in the Highway 79 Policy Area (Circulation Element Policy C 2.6).
SWAP 10.4 Provided that total development intensity for the entire Diamond Valley Lake Policy Area is not increased beyond the level of development intensity established for this area at the time of the adoption of the General Plan, no general plan amendments shall be required to be filed and approved in order to authorize changes in mapped general plan designations, provided that any such changes are approved through specific plan applications (specific plans, specific plan amendments, substantial conformances, as appropriate). The approved specific plan applications will constitute the General Plan Element mapped land use designations for the areas so affected. In the event that total development intensity for the entire DVLPA would be exceeded due to any development proposal within the area, the application must be accompanied by, and approved through, a general plan amendment (GPA) application. No such GPA shall be subject to the General Plan Certainty System's five-year amendment cycle.
French Valley Airport Influence Area
The French Valley Airport is an active airport located approximately 2 miles west of the City of Murrieta and 2 miles north of the City of Temecula. The boundary of the French Valley Airport Influence Area is shown in Figure 4, Policy Areas. There are a number of safety zones associated with the Airport Influence Area. These safety zones are shown in Figure 5, French Valley Airport Influence Policy Area. Properties within these zones are subject to regulations governing such issues as development intensity, density, height of structures, and noise. These land use restrictions are fully set forth in Appendix L, and are summarized in Table 4, Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Airport Safety Zones for French Valley, Desert Center, Blythe, Corona, Chiriaco Summit, Banning, Desert Resorts Regional, and Riverside Airports. For more information on these zones and additional airport policies, refer to Appendix L and the Land Use, Circulation, Safety and Noise Elements of the Riverside County General Plan.
Policies:
SWAP 11.1 To provide for the orderly development of French Valley Airport and the surrounding area, comply with the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan for French Valley Airport as fully set forth in Appendix L and as summarized in Table 4, as well as any applicable policies related to airports in the Land Use, Circulation, Safety and Noise Elements of the Riverside County General Plan.
The Harvest Valley/Winchester Area Plan and the Southwest Area Plan reference a "Specific Plan Required" area that reflects the general land uses contained in Specific Plan No. 310. The County's approval of Specific Plan No. 310 and its certification of the related environmental impact report have been set aside consistent with the Riverside County Superior Court's ruling in Case Nos. RIC369801 and 369989, pending certification of a subsequent or supplemental environmental impact report. No development will be allowed to proceed within the "Specific Plan Required" area until a subsequent or supplemental environmental impact report is prepared and certified and a specific plan is finally approved for that area. Final approval of a specific plan within the "Specific Plan Required" area will not require an amendment to the Land Use Element of the General Plan.
The authority for preparation of Specific Plans is found in the California Government Code, Sections 65450 through 65457.
Specific plans are identified in this section as Policy Areas because detailed study and development direction is provided in each plan. Please refer to Table 3, Adopted Specific Plans in the Southwest Area Plan, for specific plan names and numbers that are located in the Southwest planning area. Policies related to any listed specific plan can be reviewed at the Riverside County Planning Department.
Specific plans are highly customized policy or regulatory tools that provide a bridge between the General Plan and individual development projects in a more area-specific manner than is possible with community-wide zoning ordinances. The specific plan is a tool that provides land use and development standards that are tailored to respond to special conditions and aspirations unique to the area being proposed for development. These tools are a means of addressing detailed concerns that conventional zoning cannot do.
The twelve specific plans located in the Southwest planning area are listed in Table 3, Adopted Specific Plans in the Southwest Area Plan. Each of these specific plans is determined to be a Community Development Specific Plan, with the exception of Johnson Ranch, which was initially approved as a Community Development Specific Plan but has subsequently been purchased for habitat conservation. The approval of the Johnson Ranch Specific Plan will be considered for rescission during the initial round of Specific Plan reviews.
| Table 3 Adopted Specific Plans in the Southwest Area Plan1 | |
|---|---|
| Specific Plan | Specific Plan # |
| Dutch Village | 106 |
| Rancho Bella Vista | 184 |
| Winchester Properties | 213 |
| Red Hawk | 217 |
| Vail Ranch | 223 |
| Crown Valley Village | 238 |
| Borel Air Park | 265 |
| Quinta Do Lago | 284 |
| Winchester 1800 | 286 |
| Johnson Ranch | 307 |
| French Valley | 312 |
| Morgan Hill | 313 |
| 1 Source: Riverside County Planning Department. | |
| Table 4 Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Airport Safety Zones for French Valley, Desert Center, Blythe, Corona, Chiriaco Summit, Banning, Desert Resorts Regional, and Riverside Airports | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Zone | Maximum Population Density | Maximum Coverage by Structures | Land Use |
| ETZ - Emergency Touchdown Zone | 01 | 01 | No significant obstructions2 |
| ISZ - Inner Safety Zone | 01 | 01 | No petroleum or explosive No above-grade powerlines |
| OSZ - Outer Safety Zone | Uses in structures3: 25 persons/ac. (see text in the source document for the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for explanation) Uses not in structures: 50 persons/ac. |
25% of net area | No residential No hotels, motels No restaurants, bars No schools, hospitals, government services No concert halls, auditoriums No stadiums, arenas No public utility stations, plants No public communications facilities No uses involving, as the primary activity, manufacture, storage, or distribution of explosives or flammable materials. |
| ERC - Extended Runway Centerline Zone | 3 du/net acre Uses in structures3: 100 persons/ac.(see text in the source document for the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for explanation) |
50% of gross area or 65% of net area whichever is greater |
No uses involving, as the primary activity, manufacture, storage, or distribution of explosives or flammable materials.4 |
| TPC - Traffic Pattern Zone | Not Applicable | 50% of gross area or 65% of net area whichever is greater |
Discourage schools, auditoriums, amphitheaters, stadiums5 Discourage uses involving, as the primary activity, manufacture, storage, or distribution of explosives or flammable materials.4,5 |
| NOTES: A.The following uses shall be prohibited in all airport safety zones: (1) Any use which would direct a steady light or flashing light or red, white, green, or amber colors associated with airport operations toward an aircraft engaged in an initial straight climb following takeoff or toward an aircraft engaged in a straight final approach toward a landing at an airport, other than an FAA approved navigational signal light or visual approach slope indicator. (2) Any use which would cause sunlight to be reflected toward an aircraft engaged in an initial straight climb following takeoff or toward an aircraft engaged in a straight final approach toward a landing at an airport. (3) Any use which would generate smoke or water vapor or which would attract large concentrations or birds, or which may otherwise affect safe air navigation within the area. (4) Any use which would generate electrical interference that may be detrimental to the operation of aircraft and/or aircraft instrumentation. B.Avigation easements shall be secured through dedication for all land uses permitted in any safety zone. 1. No structures permitted in ETZ or ISZ. 2. Significant obstructions include, but are not limited to, large trees, heavy fences and walls, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street light and sign standards, billboards. 3. A "structure" includes fully enclosed buildings and other facilities involving fixed seating and enclosures limiting the mobility of people, such as sports stadiums, outdoor arenas, and amphitheaters. 4. This does not apply to service stations involving retail sale of motor vehicle fuel if fuel storage tanks are installed underground. 5. Within the TPZ safety zone, a variety of land uses are to be discouraged from being developed. When development of these uses is proposed, the Airport Land Use Commission shall require the applicant to show that alternative locations have been considered and are not feasible. The applicant shall then be directed to consider a development plan that will minimize the exposure to hazard as much as possible. This might involve reducing structure heights, reducing lot coverage, or reducing there overall scale of the project, considering satellite locations for some of the proposed functions of the facility. Land uses described as "uses to be discouraged" which were lawfully established prior to the adoption of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan shall be permitted to be modified or enlarged provided that avigation easements are granted to Riverside County. Source: Extracted from Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission Comprehensive Land Use Plan | |||
Figure 5: French Valley Airport Influence Policy Area
Community Center Guidelines have been prepared to aid in the physical development of vibrant community centers in Riverside County. These guidelines are intended to be illustrative in nature, establishing a general framework for design while allowing great flexibility and innovation in their application. Their purpose is to ensure that community centers develop into the diverse and dynamic urban places they are intended to be. These guidelines will serve as the basis for the creation of specified community center implementation tools such as zoning classifications and specific plan design guidelines.
The Community Center Guidelines are located in Appendix J of the General Plan.
While the General Plan Land Use Element and Area Plan Land Use Map guide future development patterns in the Southwest Area Plan, additional policy guidance is necessary to address local land use issues that are unique to the area or that require special policies that go above and beyond those identified in the General Plan. The Local Land Use Section provides a host of policies to address these issues. These policies may reinforce County regulatory provisions, preserve special lands or historic structures, require or encourage particular design features or guidelines, or restrict certain activities. The intent is to enhance and/or preserve the identity and character of this unique area.
The Southwest Area Plan Land Use Plan identifies one community center overlay within the planning area southerly of Scott Road and westerly of Winchester Road. The Community Center land use overlay allows the property to be developed pursuant to a specific plan proposing an unique mix of employment, commercial, public, and residential uses. In order to promote a compact mixture of these uses and to help bring about an ambiance tailored to the pedestrian, voluntary incentives may be necessary to promote this more efficient form of land development.
Policies:
SWAP 12.1 Require that the area designated as Community Center Overlay be designed and developed as one specific plan of land use, or as part of a larger specific plan.
SWAP 12.2 Provide incentives, such as density bonuses and regulatory concessions to property owners and developers, to facilitate the development of community centers as designated on the Southwest Area Plan Land Use Plan, Figure 3.
The Mount Palomar ObservatorySWAP 12.3 Ensure that community centers development adheres to those policies listed in the Community Centers Area Plan land use designation section of the General Plan Land Use Element.
Mount Palomar Nighttime Lighting Requirements
The Mount Palomar Observatory, located just outside of the Southwest planning area in San Diego County, requires unique nighttime lighting standards in order to allow the night sky to be viewed clearly. The following policies are intended to limit light leakage and spillage that may obstruct or hinder the observatory's view. Please see Figure 6, Mt. Palomar Nighttime Lighting Policy for areas that may be impacted by these standards.
Policies:
Light pollution occurs when too much artificial illumination enters the night sky and reflects off of airborne water droplets and dust particles causing a condition known as skyglow. It occurs when glare from improperly aimed and unshielded light fixtures cause uninvited illumination to cross property lines.
SWAP 13.1 Adhere to the lighting requirements of county ordinances for standards that are intended to limit light leakage and spillage that may interfere with the operations of the Palomar Observatory.
Third and Fifth Supervisorial District Design Standards and Guidelines
In July 2001, the County adopted a set of design guidelines applicable to new development within the Third and Fifth Supervisorial Districts. The Development Design Standards and Guidelines for the Third and Fifth Supervisorial Districts are for use by property owners and design professionals submitting development applications to the Riverside County Planning Department. The guidelines have been adopted to advance several specific development goals of the Third and Fifth Districts. These goals include: ensuring that the building of new homes is interesting and varied in appearance; utilizing building materials that promote a look of quality development now and in the future; encouraging efficient land use while promoting high quality communities; incorporating conveniently located parks, trails, and open space into designs; and encouraging commercial and industrial developers to utilize designs and materials that evoke a sense of quality and permanence.
Policies:
SWAP 14.1 Adhere to development standards established in the Development Design Standards and Guidelines for the Third and Fifth Supervisorial Districts.
"A major thrust of the multipurpose open space system is the preservation of components of the ecosystem and landscape that embody the historic character and habitat of the County, even though some areas have been impacted by man-made changes."
- RCIP Vision
Agriculture continues to be an important component for many communities within the Southwest planning area. In addition to offering valuable agricultural production, the wineries and vineyards are a strong tourist attraction and economic asset for the Southwest planning area. The citrus and avocado groves also provide a viable agricultural product, while cattle can be found grazing on the rangeland. Not only do each of these agricultural uses provide an economic benefit, but they also help to preserve the historic character of the Southwest planning area.
Policies:
SWAP 15.1 Protect farmland and agricultural resources in the Southwest planning area through adherence to the Agricultural Resources section of the General Plan Multipurpose Open Space Element and the Agriculture section of the General Plan Land Use Element, as well as the provisions of the Citrus/Vineyard Policy Area.
The ridgeline westerly of Interstate 15 is an outstanding visual feature that merits conservation in accordance with the Scenic Resources section of the Multipurpose Open Space Element. In order to maintain the natural appearance of this ridgeline, developments located within one-half mile of the ridgeline are reviewed in an effort to ensure that buildings and roof tops do not project above the ridgeline as viewed from the Temecula Basin.
Policies:
SWAP 16.1 Building sites shall not be permitted on the Western Ridgeline as identified on the Area Plan Land Use map. Projects proposed within the area of the Western Ridgeline shall be evaluated on a case by case basis to ensure that building pad sites are located so that buildings and roof tops do not project above the Ridgeline as viewed from the Temecula Basin. All projects within one-half mile of the Western Ridgeline shall also be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if the building site will have an adverse impact to the ridgeline as viewed from the basin.
Figure 6: Mt. Palomar Nighttime Lighting Policy
The circulation system is vital to the prosperity of a community. It provides for the movement of goods and people within and outside of the community and includes motorized and non-motorized travel modes such as bicycles, trains, aircraft, automobiles, and trucks. In Riverside County, the circulation system is also intended to accommodate a pattern of concentrated growth, providing both a regional and local linkage system between unique communities. The circulation system is multi-modal, which means that it provides numerous alternatives to the automobile, such as transit, pedestrian systems, and bicycle facilities so that Riverside County citizens and visitors can access the region by a number of transportation options.
As stated in the Vision and the Land Use Element, the County is moving away from a growth pattern of random sprawl toward a pattern of concentrated growth and increased job creation. The intent of the new growth patterns and the new mobility systems is to accommodate the transportation demands created by future growth and to provide mobility options that help reduce the need to utilize the automobile. The circulation system is designed to fit into the fabric of the land use patterns and accommodate the open space systems.
"Investment in and expansion of the existing freeway and arterial street networks continue to be a critical part of our comprehensive transportation system development."
- RCIP Vision
While the following section describes the circulation system as it relates to the Southwest Area Plan, it is important to note that the programs and policies are supplemental to, and coordinated with, the policies of the General Plan Circulation Element. In other words, the circulation system of the Southwest Area Plan is tied to the countywide system and its long range direction. As such, successful implementation of the policies in the Southwest Area Plan will help to create an interconnected and efficient circulation system for the entire County.
The vehicular circulation system that supports the Land Use Plan for the Southwest Area Plan is shown on Figure 7, Circulation. The vehicular circulation system in the Southwest Area Plan is anchored by Interstate 15 and Interstate 215, which merge in the City of Temecula and run north toward the Cities of Corona and Moreno Valley, respectively. Another significant roadway within the planning area is State Route 79, which runs north-south through the French Valley and then continues east-west through the Pauba Valley. De Luz and Tenaja/Clinton Keith Roads are classified as Mountain Arterials southwest of Murrieta, and run east-west to connect Orange County with Interstate 15. Rancho California and De Portola Roads generally run southwest to northeast through the planning area serving the rural land east of Temecula. Washington Street is also classified as an arterial extending north/south.
Major and secondary arterials and collector roads branch off from these major roadways and provide access to local uses. The street system is more complex in urban areas than in areas that are rural or have rugged terrain.
Policies:
SWAP 17.1 Design and develop the vehicular roadway system per Figure 7, Circulation, and in accordance with the functional classifications and standards specified in the General Plan Circulation Element.
SWAP 17.2 Maintain the County's roadway Level of Service standards as described in the Level of Service section of the General Plan Circulation Element.
SWAP 17.3 Support the implementation of a new interchange on Interstate 15, southerly of the State Highway 79 South interchange.
The County of Riverside contains multi-purpose trails that accommodate hikers, bicyclists, and equestrian users as an integral part of the County's circulation system. They serve both as a means of connecting the unique communities and activity centers throughout the County and as an effective alternate mode of transportation. In addition to transportation, the trail system also serves as a community amenity by providing recreation and leisure opportunities as well as separations between communities.
A trail running through the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological ReserveA network of trails has been planned for the Southwest planning area to make mobility for pedestrians, equestrians, and bicyclists more feasible and to provide an attractive means of recreation. The trails shown on Figure 8, Trails and Bikeway System, are conceptual representations of the proposed system. The intent is to describe the desired routes and connections, leaving detailed right-of-way studies and precise alignments for determination at a later date or when proposed development projects are required to accommodate portions of the system. The following Southwest Area Plan policy supplements general trails policies throughout the County.
Policies:
SWAP 18.1 Implement the Trails and Bikeway System, Figure 8, as discussed in the Non-Motorized Transportation section of the General Plan Circulation Element.
Scenic Highways are a unique component of the circulation system as they traverse areas of unusual scenic or aesthetic value that are not typical of other areas in the County. The intent of these policies is to conserve significant scenic resources along scenic highways for future generations and to manage development along scenic highways and corridors so that it will not detract from the area's natural characteristics.
The purpose of the California Scenic Highways program, which was established in 1963, is to "Preserve and protect scenic highway corridors from change which would diminish the aesthetic value of lands adjacent to highways."
As shown on Figure 9, Scenic Highways, three highways within the Southwest planning area have been nominated for Scenic Highway status. The portions of Interstate 215 and State Route 79 South that pass through the Southwest planning area are Eligible Scenic Highways. Interstate 215 provides the traveler with panoramic views of agricultural lands and mountain backdrops. State Route 79 South offers views as diverse as adjacent rural horse ranches in Rancho California and distant views of Palomar Mountain. Interstate 15 is designated as an Eligible State Scenic Highway as well because of distinct rural scenes in Murrieta, nearby and distant mountain views, and linkage to San Diego County's system of scenic routes.
Policies:
SWAP 19.1 Protect the scenic highways in the Southwest planning area from change that would diminish the aesthetic value of adjacent properties in accordance with the Scenic Corridors sections of the General Plan Land Use, Multipurpose Open Space, and Circulation Elements.
Community and Environmental Transportation Acceptability Process (CETAP) Corridors
The population and employment of Riverside County are expected to significantly increase over the next twenty years. The Community and Environmental Transportation Acceptability Process (CETAP) was established to evaluate the need and the opportunities for the development of new or expanded transportation corridors in western Riverside County to accommodate the increased growth and preserve quality of life. These corridors include a range of transportation options such as highways or transit, and are developed with careful consideration for potential impacts to habitat requirements, land use plans, and public infrastructure. CETAP has identified three priority corridors for the movement of people and goods: Banning/Beaumont to Temecula, Hemet to Corona/Lake Elsinore, and Moreno Valley to San Bernardino County.
The Banning/Beaumont to Temecula CETAP Corridor passes through the Southwest planning area. This corridor could accommodate a number of transportation options, including vehicular traffic and high occupancy vehicle lanes.
Policies:
SWAP 20.1 Accommodate the Banning/Beaumont to Temecula CETAP Corridor in accordance with the Community and Environmental Transportation Acceptability Process section of the General Plan Circulation Element.
Figure 8: Trails and Bikeway System
Murrieta Creek"The open space system and the methods for its acquisition, maintenance, and operation are calibrated to its many functions: visual relief, natural resources protection, habitat preservation, passive and active recreation, protection from natural hazards, and various combinations of these purposes. This is what is meant by a multipurpose open space system."
- RCIP Vision
The Southwest planning area contains a variety of open spaces that serve a multitude of functions, hence the open space label of "multi-purpose." The point is that open space is really a part of the public infrastructure and should have the capability of serving a variety of needs and diversity of users. The Southwest planning area open space system is highly rich and varied, including such features as the Agua Tibia and the Santa Margarita Mountain ranges; Murrieta, Warm Springs, and Santa Gertrudis Creeks; the richly diverse Santa Margarita River; and numerous mountains, hills, and slopes that provide open space, habitat, and recreation spaces. These quality spaces encompass a variety of habitats including riparian corridors, vernal pools, oak woodlands, chaparral habitats, groves, vineyards, and agricultural fields, as well as a number of parks and recreation areas.
This Multipurpose Open Space section is a critical component of the character of the County of Riverside and the Southwest planning area. The scenic background and the natural resources of the Southwest planning area give meaning to the "remarkable environmental setting" portion of the overall Riverside County Vision. Not only that, these open spaces also help define the edges of and separation between communities, which is another important aspect of the Vision.
The topography of the Southwest planning area is a major factor in shaping the distinct character of the region. The slopes and ridgelines defining the valleys where most development is located not only provide a scenic vista; they also account for much of the irreplaceable habitat.
A watershed is the entire region drained by a waterway that flows into a lake or reservoir–or the ocean. It is the total area above a given point on a stream that contributes water to the flow at that point, and the topographic dividing line from which surface streams flow in two different directions. Clearly, watersheds are not just water. A single watershed may include a wide variety of resources and environments.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain a balance between growth and natural resource preservation if the overall character cherished by residents of the Southwest planning area is to be sustained.
Watersheds, Floodplains, and Watercourses
The Southwest planning area contains a major portion of the Santa Margarita River watershed, which includes the Murrieta, Temecula, Warm Springs, Santa Gertrudis, and Pechanga Creeks. This watershed, and its included watercourses, provide a truly unique habitat for flora and fauna. The watercourses provide corridors through developed land as well as linking open spaces outside of development areas. This allows wildlife the ability to move from one locale to another without crossing developed land. The following policies preserve and protect these important watershed functions.
Policies:
SWAP 21.1 Protect the Santa Margarita watershed and habitat, and provide recreational opportunities and flood protection through adherence to the Watershed Management section of the General Plan Multipurpose Open Space Element, as well as use of Best Management Practice policies.
The Southwest planning area contains significant oak woodland areas that provide habitat and help maintain the area's distinct character. These oak woodlands can be found in many of the mountainous areas, such as the Santa Rosa Plateau, the Cleveland National Forest, Lake Skinner, and the Glen Oaks community. It is necessary to protect this natural resource as a major component of the Southwest planning area's "remarkable environmental setting."
Policies:
SWAP 22.1 Protect viable oak woodlands through adherence to the Oak Tree Management Guidelines adopted by Riverside County.
For further information on the MSHCP please see the Multipurpose Open Space Element of the General Plan.
Proposed Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
The Wildlife Agencies include The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG).
Regional resource planning to protect individual species such as the Stephens Kangaroo Rat has occurred in Riverside County for many years. Privately owned reserves and publicly owned land have served as habitat for many different species. This method of land and wildlife preservation proved to be piecemeal and disjointed, resulting in islands of reserve land without corridors for species migration and access. To address these issues of wildlife health and habitat sustainability, the proposed Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) has been developed by the County. This Plan has been adopted by the County and, as of October 7, 2003, awaits approval by other jurisdictions and the Wildlife Agencies. The MSHCP comprises a reserve system that encompasses core habitats, habitat linkages, and wildlife corridors outside of existing reserve areas and existing private and public reserve lands into a single comprehensive plan that can accommodate the needs of species and habitat in the present and future.
The following sensitive, threatened and endangered species may be found within this area plan:
• Quino checkerspot butterfly
• Arroyo toad
• slender-horned spineflower
• Munz's onion
• many-stemmed dudleya
• thread-leaved brodiaea
• bobcat
• Vail Lake ceanothus
• Nevin's barberry
• orange-throated whiptail
• California gnatcatcher
• Bell's sage sparrow
• smooth tarplant
The Endangered Species Act prohibits the "taking" of endangered species. Taking is defined as "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect" listed species. The Wildlife Agencies have authority to regulate "take of threatened or endangered species." The intent of the MSHCP is for the Wildlife Agencies to grant a "take authorization" for otherwise lawful actions that may incidentally "take" or "harm" species outside of reserve areas, in exchange for supporting assembly of a coordinated reserve system. Therefore, the proposed Western Riverside County MSHCP will allow the County to "take" plant and animal species within identified areas through the local land use planning process. In addition to the conservation and management duties assigned to the County, a property-owner-initiated habitat evaluation and acquisition negotiation process has also been developed. This process is intended to apply to property that may be needed for inclusion in the MSHCP Reserve or subjected to other MSHCP criteria.
The habitat requirements of the sensitive and listed species, combined with sound habitat management practices, have shaped the following policies. These policies provide general conservation direction.
Policies:
SWAP 23.1 Provide stepping-stone habitat linkages for the California gnatcatcher as well as other species through the preservation of land from the Santa Rosa Plateau to the Santa Margarita Reserve in San Diego County.
SWAP 23.2 Conserve the Tenaja corridor, which promotes large mammal movement between the Cleveland National Forest and the Santa Rosa Plateau.
SWAP 23.3 Maintain habitat connectivity within Murrieta Creek, Temecula Creek, Lower Tucalota Creek, Lower Warm Springs Creek, and Pechanga Creek to facilitate wildlife movement and dispersal, (especially for the California gnatcatcher and Quino checkerspot butterfly) and conservation of wetland species.
SWAP 23.4 Conserve habitat connections to the Agua Tibia Wilderness, Arroyo Seco, and Wilson Valley.
SWAP 23.5 Conserve the large block of habitat containing clay soils east of Interstate 215 and south of Scott Road for the Quino checkerspot butterfly and other narrow endemic species such as Munz's onion, California Orcutt grass and spreading navarretia.
SWAP 23.6 Incorporate a watershed management program into the preservation of wildlife movement and dispersal of wetland species within Pechanga Creek.
SWAP 23.7 Consider the movement of larger mammals such as the mountain lion, bobcat, and mule deer between the Santa Ana and Mount Palomar Mountains.
Hazards are natural and man made conditions that must be respected if life and property are to be protected as growth and development occur. As the ravages of wildland fires, floods, dam failures, earthquakes and other disasters become clearer through the news, public awareness and sound public policy combine to require serious attention to these conditions.
Portions of the Southwest planning area may be subject to hazards such as flooding, dam inundation, seismic occurrences, and wildland fire. These hazards are depicted on the hazards maps, Figure 10 to Figure 14. These hazards are located throughout the Southwest planning area at varying degrees of risk and danger. Some hazards must be avoided entirely while the potential impacts of others can be mitigated by special building techniques. The following policies provide additional direction for relevant issues specific to the Southwest planning area.
Since 1965, eleven Gubernatorial and Presidential flood disaster declarations have been declared for Riverside County. State law generally makes local government agencies responsible for flood control in California.
As shown on Figure 10, Flood Hazards, three dams pose a flood hazard in the Southwest planning area. Failure of the 51,000-acre-foot Vail Lake facility could cause flooding in the Pauba and Murrieta Valleys as well as a three-mile area adjacent to Interstate 15. Failure of the 43,000-acre-foot Lake Skinner Facility could result in flooding along Tucalota and Warm Springs Creeks, and eventually Murrieta Creek. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), failure of the 800,000-acre-foot Diamond Valley Lake, which is located immediately north in the Harvest Valley/Winchester Area Plan, could result in flooding in the French Valley and eventually the Santa Margarita River.
In addition to hazards posed by dam failures, hazards to life and property could result from a significant flood event on the Santa Margarita River, as well as Murrieta, Temecula, Warm Springs, Santa Gertrudis, and Pechanga Creeks. The areas within the 100 and 500 year flood events can be found on Figure 10, Flood Hazards. Floodplains follow existing creeks and mostly affect lowland areas. The flood plains may also contain rare and significant ecosystems such as riparian habitats or vernal pools.
Many techniques may be used to address the danger of flooding, such as avoiding development in floodplains, altering water channels, applying specialized building techniques, elevating structures that are in flood plains, and enforcing setbacks. The following policies address the hazards associated with flooding and dam inundation.
Policies:
SWAP 24.1 Protect life and property from the hazards of potential dam failures and flood events through adherence to the Flood and Inundation Hazards section of the General Plan Safety Element.
SWAP 24.2 Reduce flooding damage through adherence to design and density standards contained in the Master Drainage Plan for Murrieta Creek Area and the Murrieta Creek Drainage Plan.
SWAP 24.3 Adhere to the flood proofing, flood protection requirements, and flood management review requirements of Riverside County Ordinance No. 458 regulating flood hazards.
SWAP 24.4 Require proposed development projects that are subject to flood hazards, surface ponding, high erosion potential or sheet flow to be submitted to the Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District for review.
Fire Fact:
Santa Ana winds create a special hazard. Named by the early settlers at the Santa Ana River valley, these hot, dry winds enhance fire danger throughout southern California.
Due to the rural and mountainous nature and some of the flora, such as the oak woodlands and chaparral habitat, much of the Southwest planning area is subject to a high risk of fire hazards. These risks are greatest in rural areas and along urban edges. Methods to address this hazard include techniques such as avoidance of building in high-risk areas, creating setbacks that buffer development from hazard areas, maintaining brush clearance to reduce potential fuel, establishing low fuel landscaping, and applying special building techniques. In still other cases, safety-oriented organizations such as Fire Safe can provide assistance in educating the public and promoting practices that contribute to improved public safety. Refer to Figure 11, Wildfire Susceptibility, for the locations of the wildfire zones within the Southwest planning area.
Policies:
Liquefaction occurs primarily in saturated, loose, fine to medium-grained soils in areas where the groundwater table is within about 50 feet of the surface. Shaking causes the soils to lose strength and behave as liquid. Excess water pressure is vented upward through fissures and soil cracks and a water-soil slurry bubbles onto the ground surface. The resulting features are known as "sand boils", "sand blows" or "sand volcanoes." Liquefaction-related effects include loss of bearing strength, ground oscillations, lateral spreading, and flow failures or slumping.
SWAP 25.1 Protect life and property from wildfire hazards through adherence to the Fire Hazards section of the Safety Element of the General Plan.
A number of seismic and related hazards are present in the Southwest planning area. The most significant seismic hazard is the Elsinore fault, which runs north-south through the center of the Southwest planning area. Threats from seismic events include ground shaking, fault rupture, liquefaction, and landslides. The use of specialized building techniques, the enforcement of setbacks from faults, and practical avoidance measures will help to mitigate the potentially dangerous circumstances. Refer to Figure 12, Seismic Hazards, for the location of faults and liquefaction areas within the Southwest planning area.
Policies:
SWAP 26.1 Protect life and property from seismic-related incidents through adherence to the Seismic Hazards section of the General Plan Safety Element.
The Southwest planning area is ringed by the Santa Ana, Santa Margarita, Agua Tibia, and Black Hills mountain ranges. This rugged terrain is an integral part of the character and atmosphere of the Southwest planning area. Not only do these mountains provide a visual backdrop, but they contain important habitat and recreational opportunities. Adherence to County development standards is necessary to ensure safety, maintain proper drainage, and limit visual impacts. The purpose is to prevent erosion and landslides, preserve significant views, and minimize grading and scarring. The following policies are intended to protect life and property while preserving the area's character. Figure 13, Steep Slope, reveals the areas of steep slope for the Southwest planning area. Also refer to Figure 14, Slope Instability, for areas of possible landslides.
Policies:
SWAP 27.1 Identify and preserve the ridgelines that provide a significant visual resource for the Southwest planning area through adherence to the Hillside Development and Slope section of the General Plan Land Use Element.
SWAP 27.2 Protect life and property and maintain the character of the Southwest planning area through adherence to the Hillside Development and Slope section of the General Plan Land Use Element, the Rural Mountainous land use designation, and policies in the Slope and Soil Instability Hazards section of the General Plan Safety Element.
Figure 11: Wildfire Susceptibility
