27.27.020 RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES SPECIAL USE CRITERIA.

When the proposed use meets the requirements of this chapter and all the following criteria, residential care facilities serving 7 or more residents in addition to the caregiver may be permitted by approval of a special use permit and a site plan and architectural review by the Planning Commission in any zoning district that permits multiple family dwellings, but in no event in an R-1 or R-2 zoning district.

(1) There are no other residential care facilities of any size within 300 radial feet of the perimeter of the subject property.

(2) Residential occupancy of residential care facilities for the elderly, other than by the caregiver and his or her immediate family, shall be limited to persons over sixty (60) years old or to "qualified permanent residents", as defined in California Government Code Sections 51.2-51.4, or any successor legislation, who are provided varying levels and intensities of care and supervision and personal care, and who have voluntarily chosen to reside in this type of group housing arrangement.

(3) The proposed use shall be licensed by the State or County and shall be conducted in a manner and with facilities that comply with Title 23 for this kind of occupancy. If the State or County license is suspended or revoked, the special use permit shall automatically also be suspended or revoked.

(4) Facilities having persons in excess of 60 years of age or having physical handicaps shall be specifically designed and adapted to include safety bars and rails in bedrooms and bathrooms, ramps, and other provisions required for elderly or handicapped persons by State law or Federal regulations. In addition, such facilities shall include a common dining area as well as adequate common living areas and amenities to facilitate program activities.

(5) The use shall be specifically designed and/or maintained to have a residential appearance as determined by review of the Zoning Administrator and be compatible with the architectural character of the zoning district. In residential zoning districts, signs and ramps and any other "non-residential" feature visible from the public right-of-way shall not be permitted.