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Home My WebLink AboutStaff Report 2602-6010CITY OF PALO ALTO CITY COUNCIL Special Meeting Monday, June 01, 2026 Council Chambers & Hybrid 5:30 PM Agenda Item 16. Outdoor Activation Standards, Pre-Approved Parklet Plans and Public Space Design Concept for the Car-Free Portion of California Avenue; and FIRST READ: Adopt an Ordinance Amending the Sign Code to Streamline Permitting of Signs in Conjunction with a Parklet; CEQA Status - Exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303. 9 4 3 8 City Council Staff Report From: City Manager Report Type: ACTION ITEMS Lead Department: City Manager Meeting Date: June 1, 2026 Report #:2602-6010 TITLE Outdoor Activation Standards, Pre-Approved Parklet Plans and Public Space Design Concept for the Car-Free Portion of California Avenue; and FIRST READ: Adopt an Ordinance Amending the Sign Code to Streamline Permitting of Signs in Conjunction with a Parklet; CEQA Status - Exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council: 1. Approve the Outdoor Activation Standards and encroachment permit requirements for the car-free portion of California Avenue as documented in Attachment A. 2. Approve the Pre-approved Parklet Plans with standardized parklet designs for California Avenue summarized in Attachment B. 3. FIRST READ: An ordinance amending the Sign Code (PAMC section 16.20.160) to allow parklet permittees to post certain types of parklet signs in compliance with the Outdoor Activation permit standards in lieu of the Sign Code’s default review process; see Attachment C. 4. Approve the proposed public space design concept outlined in Attachment D. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This Staff Report presents for City Council consideration the Proposed Outdoor Activation Standards, Pre-Approved Parklet Plans, a Sign Code amendment to streamline parklet signage permits, and a pedestrian-priority public space design concept for the car-free portion of California Avenue. On April 16, 2026, the ARB recommended the approval of the Outdoor Activation Standards and Pre-approved Parklet Plans by a 5-0 vote and expressed strong support for the public space design concept. 9 4 3 8 The proposed Outdoor Activation Standards, Attachment A, enhance the commercial district’s vibrancy and economic vitality by enabling outdoor dining, retail display and related activation while ensuring spaces remain accessible, safe, equitable, and well-designed. Compared to the City’s existing parklet program, the proposed program expands beyond parklets to include a broader range of outdoor activation types, including parklets, café seating, and retail displays, and establishes California Avenue specific design standards and pre-approved parklet plan set (Attachment B) to reduce design costs, expedite permitting, and support year-round use. BACKGROUND Develop revised standards for outdoor activation, specifically permitting parklet structures for California Avenue. 9 4 3 8 • Utilize the ARB for design recommendations and review process for standard and custom designs (to support year-round outdoor dining). ANALYSIS 9 4 3 8 5. Provides design guidance on the aesthetics of improvements to support the commercial district as an outdoor dining destination. 6. Prohibits large-format tents, residential fencing, and temporary improvements. 7. Enables equal or greater outdoor dining area (subject to permit requirements and obtaining letters of consent to extend beyond the establishment’s street frontage). Improvements to the On-going Parklet Program The proposed Outdoor Activation Standards adapt the City’s Ongoing Parklet Program and update pre-approved parklet plans to encourage commercial activation of car-free California Avenue in the following ways: 1. Supports a wider range of activities with standards and guidance for the layout of parklets, café seating, and retail displays. 2. Activates both roadway and sidewalk. 3. Enables transparent and weather adaptable parklets, rather than requirements for traffic safety, which can obstruct views to storefronts from the roadway. ARB Ad Hoc Committee Between October 2025 and March 2026 staff met frequently with an ARB ad hoc committee, consisting of Mousam Adcock and Marton Jojarth, to refine design standards and pre-approved parklet designs. ARB Ad Hoc input focused on: 1. Limiting ARB Review to special cases - rely on staff discretion and reserve full ARB review for special cases. 2. Designing light, airy, and transparent parklets. 3. Reducing the size and appearance of roofs. 4. Enabling three-season weather comfort, that maintains visual openness. 5. Restricting planter heights that maintain visibility. 6. Ensuring high quality, commercial grade materials and finishes. Pre-Approved Parklet Plans Proposed pre-approved parklet plans offer businesses a ready-to-use option to reduce design costs, shorten review time, and improve predictability. The plan set includes three base models, with options for enclosure and weather protection: (1) Cabana, with a sloped roof and overhangs (2) Pergola, with flat roof, no overhangs and use of steel brackets (3) A roofless parklet, with no area limits Design adaptations for a car-free environment include lighter, more transparent structures, options for year-round weather, and structural solutions to avoid pavement and sidewalk attachments. The plan set reflects lessons learned from the implementation of the on-going parklet program. For narrow parklets, which are only five feet wide due to the setback for the 9 4 3 8 gas main, the roof can overhang the sidewalk by three feet, effectively creating an eight-foot deep parklet. 9 4 3 8 Outdoor Dining / Proposed Activation Sidewalks (SF) Roadway (SF) Total Area (SF) # of Dining Establishments Outdoor Dining Area in 2024 5,106 7,514 12,620 20 Outdoor Dining Area in 2025 5,168 5,482 10,650 19 Activation Standards 4,801 6,946 11,746 22 Activation Standards with Encroachments 5,741 7,958 13,699 22 2026 Vacant Space (California Hotel & 414 California Avenue) 1,945 2,812 4,757 NA Potential Outdoor Activation All Areas and Uses 12,839 17,940 30,779 NA Permits The Outdoor Activation Standards establish that applicants must obtain an Encroachment Permit prior to construction, which is issued by Public Works. The installation must be inspected prior to operation. The City retains discretion to approve, conditionally approve, modify, deny, revoke, or modify permits as needed for public health, safety, welfare, and utility access. The fee structure mirrors the existing parklet program, with an application fee, deposit, renewal fee, and annual license fee charged per square foot. Public Space Concept for Bikes on California Avenue At the March 18, 2026, Economic Development Committee meeting, the Committee directed staff to redesign the car-free portion of California Avenue as a pedestrian prioritized public space, where bikes are allowed, rather than a two-way slow bike lane. In response, staff developed the updated concept shown as Attachment D. The revised concept maintains the shared central accessway for pedestrians, bicyclists, emergency access and service vehicles, while prioritizing the experience of California Avenue as a pedestrian oriented space and outdoor dining destination. The concept relies on changes in direction, surface color and texture to naturally encourage slow bike speeds. Colored thermoplastic bands create a bicycle ‘traffic calming’ texture to the roadway, extending from sidewalk to sidewalk to define the pedestrian zone. The opening between the bands is a smooth paved area that will naturally attract cyclists to ride to avoid the texture bumps. A center line of white dots divides this area for east and west bound cyclists. The center line takes a meandering route to encourage slow cycling speeds. This updated concept represents a significant departure from the earlier, two-way bicycle lane concept down the center of the street. Feeback from the ARB, merchants and community members has been well supported, particularly in response to concerns that the previous bike 9 4 3 8 lane concept would encourage speeding. This alternative is viewed as a placemaking solution aligned with California Avenue’s role as a pedestrian-oriented commercial destination. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT 9 4 3 8 merchant desires and concerns. Staff has incorporated merchant feedback along the following themes: Request to permit a range of investment options. Interest to invest in permanent solutions when the City Council approves the permanent parklet program. There is interest in pre-approved parklets. Desire for additional parklet options where the sidewalk and roadway are level to maximize all weather outdoor dining and minimize impact of gas lines. Intention for best possible customer experience if paying for use of street.  Strong concerns regarding speeding bikes impacting pedestrian safety. 9 4 3 8 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW 1. ATTACHMENTS APPROVED BY: 1 Previous Adopted Addendum: https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/city-manager/car- free-streets/car-free-ca-and-ramona-eir-addendum-02-2025.pdf OUTDOOR ACTIVATION STANDARDS City of Palo Alto June 1, 2026 CAR FREE CALIFORNIA AVENUE 2 Table of Contents CHAPTER 1 — PROGRAM OVERVIEW ...................................................................................... 3 1.1 Introduc-on ......................................................................................................................... 3 1.2 Vision .................................................................................................................................... 3 1.3 Purpose ................................................................................................................................ 3 1.4 Objec-ves ............................................................................................................................. 3 1.5 Outdoor Ac-va-on Types ..................................................................................................... 4 1.6 Deﬁni-ons ............................................................................................................................ 4 CHAPTER 2 — LOCATION, SIZE, SETBACK, USE & OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS .......................... 5 2.1 Loca-on ................................................................................................................................ 5 2.2 Size ....................................................................................................................................... 6 2.3 Setbacks and Clearances ...................................................................................................... 6 2.4 PermiIed Ac-vi-es .............................................................................................................. 7 2.5 Opera-ons and Maintenance Responsibili-es ..................................................................... 8 CHAPTER 3 — DESIGN STANDARDS ........................................................................................ 10 3.1 Accessibility ....................................................................................................................... 10 3.2 Parklets .............................................................................................................................. 11 3.3 Café Sea-ng Areas .............................................................................................................. 19 3.4 Retail Displays .................................................................................................................... 22 3.5 Planters .............................................................................................................................. 23 3.6 Umbrellas ........................................................................................................................... 23 3.7 Branding and Signage ......................................................................................................... 25 3.8 Waste Management ........................................................................................................... 26 3.9 Electrical ............................................................................................................................. 26 3.10 Ligh-ng ............................................................................................................................. 27 3.11 Hea-ng ............................................................................................................................. 28 CHAPTER 4 — ENCROACHMENT PERMITS .............................................................................. 30 4.1 Permit Process .................................................................................................................... 30 4.2 SubmiIal Requirements ..................................................................................................... 30 4.3 Failure to Maintain ............................................................................................................. 32 4.4 U-lity Maintenance and Public Safety ............................................................................... 32 4.5 Removing an Outdoor Ac-va-on Area ............................................................................... 33 4.6 Extension Beyond Establishment ....................................................................................... 33 4.7 Outdoor Ac-va-on Area Fees ............................................................................................ 34 4.8 Sharing Parklets .................................................................................................................. 34 3 CHAPTER 1 — PROGRAM OVERVIEW 1.1 Introduction The California Avenue Outdoor Activation Standards (Standards) set forth design, operational and submittal requirements for commercial use of the public right-of-way within the car-free portion of California Avenue extending from El Camino Real to Birch Street. The Standards apply to applications seeking an encroachment permit for outdoor activation areas and provide the basis for City review and approval of proposed improvements, furnishing and operations. 1.2 Vision Car Free California Avenue is a community-oriented main street that is a visually open, walkable and vibrant community destination for outdoor dining, shopping and events. Commercial activation of the street strengthens economic vitality, supports social connection, and enhances placemaking for residents, merchants and visitors. 1.3 Purpose The purpose of the Standards is to allow local businesses to extend commercial activity onto the public sidewalk and roadway for outdoor dining, retail, entertainment and related uses, while ensuring spaces remain accessible, safe, equitable, and well-designed. 1.4 Objectives Outdoor Activation advances the following objectives: • Boost economic vitality by enabling year-round outdoor dining, retail, entertainment, and services that improve customer experience and support business investment. • Ensure accessibility and safety with universally accessible, ADA-compliant, well-designed outdoor spaces. • Enhance the street environment by improving the function, appearance, and overall experience of a car-free community destination. • Provide a clear, consistent and efficient process that supports local businesses with a flexible and streamlined permitting process. 4 1.5 Outdoor Activation Types Outdoor Activation consists of two types of space: • Parklets: Constructed outdoor areas with improvements for year-round outdoor dining, retail, entertainment, or services. • Café Seating/Retail Display Areas: Outdoor areas on the existing sidewalk or roadway that primarily use removable furnishings such as tables, chairs, umbrellas, heaters and retail displays. 1.6 Definitions Outdoor Activation Zones on California Avenue are as shown in Figure 1. Figure 1. Cross Sec-on of California Avenue with Street Space Zones Frontage Zone — The por-on of the sidewalk adjacent to buildings, including entryways, recessed doors, windows, awnings, and overhangs, that func-ons as an extension of the building frontage. Pedestrian Zone — The clear sidewalk path used for pedestrian movement, ADA access, and emergency access to buildings. Street Furniture Zone — The por-on of the sidewalk containing public ameni-es such as street trees, landscaping, ligh-ng, benches, bike parking, and other streetscape elements. AcOvity Zone — The roadway space designated for outdoor dining, retail merchandising, public sea-ng, Farmers’ Market opera-ons, events, and other community uses that ac-vate the street. Accessway — The roadway area for pedestrian and bicycle circula-on, as well as emergency and authorized service vehicle access. Outdoor AcOvaOon Area – The permiIed area of the public right-of-way within the car-free por-on of California Avenue that is authorized for commercial use by an adjacent business subject to these Standards. Frontage Pedestrian Furniture Ac1vity Accessway Ac1vity Furniture Pedestrian Frontage 5 CHAPTER 2 — LOCATION, SIZE, SETBACK, USE & OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS This section describes requirements for the location, size, setback, permitted activities, operator requirements for parklets and café seating/retail display areas. 2.1 Location Businesses are allowed to locate outdoor activation space directly in front of the operator’s storefront. Commercial outdoor activation is permitted within the setbacks on Figure 2. and Figure 3. which contain the following street space zones in Figure 1: • Frontage Zone • Street Furniture Zone • Activity Zone Figure 2. Setback Map – El Camino to Ash Street Figure 3. Setback Map – Mimosa Lane to Birch Street 1 23456789 10111213 202122232524 26 27 T T T T TTT T T T T 81' MH-043-2-21 H-043-2-13 DEPTH 3.86' 12"SD 10+00 10+50 11+00 11+50 10+00 10+50 11+00 B-48CV B-16 B-9 B-16 M B-16M B-9 B-16M M SCALE: 1" = 20' Story (4) 0’20’40’60’80’100’ 1”=20’ Legend Pedestrian Crossing Pedestrian Pavement Markings Cafe Seating Parklet Setback Gas Main Retail Restaurant Commercial Service/Office VacantBike Racks Farmers Market Tent Tactile Directional Indicator Car Free California Avenue - Activation Setback Plan Commercial Use Setbacks and Illustrative Build-out of Pre-Approved Parklets & Cafe Seating City of Palo Alto 5/14/26 El C a m i n o R e a l Bi r c h S t r e e t Ash Street Mi m o s a L a n e 12 ’ 17 ’ 8’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 30 ’ 27 . 5 ’ 12 ’ 12 ’ 123456789 10111213 202122232524 26 27 T T T T TTT T T T T 81' MH-043-2-21 H-043-2-13 DEPTH 3.86' 12"SD 10+00 10+50 11+00 11+50 10+00 10+50 11+00 B-48CV B-16 B-9 B-16 M B-16M B-9 B-16M M SCALE: 1" = 20' Story (4) 0’20’40’60’80’100’ 1”=20’ Legend Pedestrian Crossing Pedestrian Pavement Markings Cafe Seating Parklet Setback Gas Main Retail Restaurant Commercial Service/Office VacantBike Racks Farmers Market Tent Tactile Directional Indicator Car Free California Avenue - Activation Setback Plan Commercial Use Setbacks and Illustrative Build-out of Pre-Approved Parklets & Cafe Seating City of Palo Alto 5/14/26 El C a m i n o R e a l Bi r c h S t r e e t Ash Street Mi m o s a L a n e 12 ’ 17 ’ 8’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 30 ’ 27 . 5 ’ 12 ’ 12 ’ 6 2.2 Size The maximum size of a covered parklet is 350 square feet. A single business may have no more than two covered parklets, for a maximum covered area of 700 square feet, provided the covered area does not exceed area limits as permitted by these standards. 2.3 Setbacks and Clearances Setbacks apply to all design elements including platforms, railings, screens, planters, cantilevered awnings, and umbrellas. Outdoor activation areas shall not obstruct or encroach upon: • A required 8-foot pedestrian path of travel on sidewalks • 20-foot emergency vehicle access (where applicable) • Designated pedestrian zones • Emergency egress • Designated bike lanes Fire Safety • Two means of emergency access to and from buildings to the street right-of-way are required. • Minimum 4 feet from each property line, creating an 8-foot emergency accessway between adjacent properties. • Minimum 4 feet between structures to allow for emergency access. • For multi-tenant buildings, enclosures may adjoin, provided building setback requirements are met. Utilities Improvements within an outdoor activation area must not obstruct: • Public utilities (e.g., water, gas, wastewater, electricity, fiber, streetlight, telecommunication vaults) • Gas mains or services. o Parklets and outdoor dining improvements must maintain a 2-foot setback from gas mains. o Any improvement within 2 feet of a gas lateral (service line) is required to install a gas shut-off valve and maintain access to the valve from the street. Installation of the valve is at the sole expense of the applicant. o Installation is required to be completed by the city or a qualified contractor, per the current Utility Standards and approved by the city prior to final parklet approval or issuance of occupancy permit. o Each parklet shall have a remote methane gas detector installed. The device must have an audible alarm to alert when methane gas is detected. The device should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation and 7 with consideration of where methane gas is likely to accumulate. In certain conditions, it may require the installation of multiple devices to provide adequate coverage. o See Section 4.4 Utility Maintenance and Public Safety for additional requirements • Fire hydrants: minimum 15-foot clearance • Manhole cover: maintain a 5-foot radius for access • Storm drain catch basin: minimum 5-foot clearance; designs must allow maintenance access • Streetlight poles and luminaires will require maintenance or replacement. Parklets and outdoor dining improvements cannot block access. Access and replacement typically require a utility boom truck. • Streetlight underground boxes: minimum 5-foot radius for access. • Electric – Existing primary electric (12,470V) circuits cross Cal Ave along Birch Street. Minimum horizontal clearance is 12-48” and vertical clearance is 12”. • CPA inspectors must be present when potholing. No repairs can be made without CPA Engineering approval nor without the inspector present. Street Trees • Maintain a 3-foot clearance from tree trunks or major branches. • Closer encroachment requires urban forestry approval. • To protect tree roots, enclosures may be installed adjacent to tree wells to direct foot traffic away from roots. If proposed improvements conflict with public infrastructure (e.g., signage, benches), applicants must consult Public Works for potential relocation. If relocation is not feasible, design must accommodate existing infrastructure. 2.4 Permitted Activities Parklets and café seating/retail areas are permitted in conjunction with a legally existing and permitted eating, drinking establishment and retail uses. All activities must be contained within the applicant’s permitted outdoor activation space. Non-commercial activities, such as a community or special event, may require a Special Event permit, please contact the City of Palo Alto for requirements. 8 2.5 Operations and Maintenance Responsibilities 1. Private Control a. Parklets are deemed to be under the control of the permit holder. The permit holder is responsible for securing the parklet and any ﬁxtures and furnishings contained within it at all -mes, including during hours when the associated business is not in opera-on. b. Businesses owners must abide by the guidelines set forth in this document and the terms of their permit. c. If a business does not comply with these guidelines, the city reserves the right to enforce, modify or revoke a permit based on public safety, accessibility, opera-onal conﬂicts, or other concerns. d. Business owners are responsible for staying up to date with permit fees, renewing their license and complying with stands/guidelines that may be implemented in the future. 2. Alcohol Service a. All parklets and café sea-ng areas in which alcoholic beverages are served shall comply with standards of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, including having clearly discernable boundaries and signage, including adjacent and non-con-guous areas to the ABC licensed establishment, as required. b. All physical requirements of ABC should be reﬂected in the design submiIed for review. c. Businesses are to have an exis-ng CUP to serve alcohol at their main place of business in order to serve alcohol at an outdoor parklet or cafe sea-ng. d. Boundaries shall not be temporary construc-on such as rope and stanchion systems, plas-c stanchions and chains, belts or weighted fabric systems, or residen-al fencing. e. If boundaries are provided, they are to be constructed of commercial grade materials, ﬁnished natural materials, ﬁnished metal railings or planters i. Boundary elements are to be securely weighted or aIached per requirements sec-on 3.2.4(1)a, iii ii. Provide clarity of separa-on between licensed and unlicensed areas iii. Comply with ADA Accessibility and emergency egress and access codes and standards iv. Maintain openness and transparency, such as use of modular railings spaced 2-3 feet apart v. Shall not exceed 36 inches in height, vi. Businesses are responsible for maintaining barriers and compliance with ABC condi-ons. 3. Maintenance a. Businesses owners must maintain and upkeep outdoor ac-va-on space. This includes cleaning furnishings daily, removing trash and recycling, replacing damaged ligh-ng or heaters if applicable, and maintaining landscaping. 9 b. Businesses must comply with the city requests to temporarily remove furnishings for city maintenance or special events. c. Maintaining furniture/enclosures in good condi-on, required accessibility and clearances and removing/storing movable elements when not in use, if required 4. Hours of Opera-on a. Hours of opera-on are the same as approved hours for the establishment. 5. Dining a. For outdoor dining, businesses are required to provide all furnishings. 6. Retail a. For retail, sales businesses are required to maintain a minimum of 8’ of unobstructed walkway space for pedestrians. b. All displays must be removed daily. Nothing is permiIed overnight. c. Electrical equipment, including light ﬁxtures or generators is not allowed. 7. Entertainment a. For live entertainment, business ac-vity is not to spill outside of permiIed ac-va-on space. b. Businesses must comply with the Palo Alto Municipal Code for noise limits. 10 CHAPTER 3 — DESIGN STANDARDS 3.1 Accessibility All outdoor ac-va-on areas are required to be accessible and useable by people with disabili-es. All accessibility features shall be designed and constructed to conform to ADA accessibility guidelines and standards. 1. Path of Travel a. The sidewalk, parklet and cafe sea-ng area path of travel must comply with the appropriate Americans with Disabili-es Act (ADA), Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines and California Building Code (CBC) chapter 11B accessibility provisions. b. The parklet path of travel must comply with CBC chapter 10 egress requirements. 2. Grade Changes a. The surface of the parklet plalorm must be ﬂush with the adjacent sidewalk with a maximum gap of 0.25 inches and 0.25 inches ver-cal tolerance. b. Any abrupt changes in eleva-on exceeding 4 inches along an accessible path of travel shall be iden-ﬁed by 6-inch-tall warning curbs. c. Parklets shall u-lize outdoor grade reﬂec-ve tape to mark changes in grade. 3. Ramps a. If a ramp is required for access to the outdoor ac-va-on area or a por-on thereof, it shall comply with all path of travel requirements above. 4. Outdoor Sea-ng a. At least 5 percent of the sea-ng spaces and 5 percent of the standing spaces shall be accessible. Accessible space shall meet the following requirements: i. Interna-onal Symbol of Accessibility displayed at the table. ii. Table surface between 28 to 34 inches. iii. Minimum 27 inches of space from the ﬂoor to the boIom of the table. iv. Knee clearance extends at least 19 inches under the table. v. Total clear ﬂoor area of 30 inches by 48 inches per seat vi. Maintain a minimum 4-foot-wide accessible path of travel to the accessible tables, and a 5-foot-diameter (60 inches) turnaround space on the accessible path of travel. vii. ADA accessible sea-ng shall be of the same size and appearance as the establishment’s other outdoor sea-ng. 11 3.2 Parklets Parklets are constructed outdoor ac-va-on areas in the public-right-of-way that support social and commercial vitality of the street. Design Guidance The following design guidance establishes the intended design character for parklets on Car Free California Avenue and shall be used together with the speciﬁc requirements in Sec-on 3.2. 1. Maintain visibility: Preserve views to storefronts, building façades, and across the street. 2. Light and transparent structure: Use slender support posts and wide spacing to maximize visual transparency. 3. Minimal enclosure: Use open railings, low planters and walls, and limited sidewalls to balance comfort and safety while maintaining sightlines and the open character of the street. 4. Minimize massing: Use ﬂat or low-pitch roof forms that do not block views. 5. Open to the sidewalk: Enable easy access between the sidewalk, parklet, and storefronts (e.g., modular railings with spaced openings). 6. Operable weather protec-on: Support year-round dining while preserving an open-air character during fair weather using transparent, easily retractable systems that are integrated into the parklet design. See Figure 4. For an example of setbacks and ac-va-on zones, and Figure 5. For an illustra-ve example parklet and sea-ng plan. 12 Figure 4. Example Parklet and Cafe Sea-ng Setbacks Figure 5. Illustra-ve Parklet and Cafe Sea-ng Plan 13 3.2.1 Parklet Types & Locations The following four parklet types are permiIed: • Narrow Parklet on roadway (former parallel parking spaces) • Wide Parklet on roadway (former angled parking spaces) • Combined roadway and sidewalk Parklet: permitted on sidewalks 22 feet or wider, maybe up to 10-foot wide, with no more than 5 feet located on the sidewalk. • Sidewalk Parklet: permitted on sidewalks 30 feet wide; maybe up to 12-foot wide on the sidewalk, provided a minimum of 8 feet clear sky is maintained from any building awning or projection. Any parklet located on a sidewalk requires additional Public Works review for utilities, sidewalk structural integrity, path of travel and other applicable requirements. 3.2.2 Platforms Platforms are a level, horizontal surface extending from the sidewalk into the roadway, providing a stable, accessible floor surface and protecting patrons from street runoff. 1. Structural a. Parklets shall be constructed with quality materials and shall be of natural durable wood (such as redwood, cedar, etc.), preserva-ve treated wood, light-gauge steel, or other engineered material suitable for exterior condi-ons. b. The parklet plalorm must support 100 pounds per square foot of live load. c. All fastening hardware and fasteners adjacent to and into preserva-ve treated wood must be made of one of the following: hot-dipped zinc coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze, or copper. 2. Drainage & Ventilation a. The underside of the plalorm shall be constructed to allow for drainage. b. Adequate cross ven-la-on shall be installed to allow for the surface to dry within 24 hours. c. Parklets shall not impede the ﬂow of curbside drainage. The parklet design shall include a minimum 6.5-inch-wide clearance from sidewalk curb along the en-re length of the parklet. An ADA -compliant con-nuous gra-ng ﬂushed with the sidewalk and decking shall cover the clearance between the sidewalk curb and the parklet ﬂoor. See Figure 6. for preferred plalorm aIachment at curb detail and Figure 7. for alterna-ve plalorm aIachment. d. Openings at either end of the parklet shall be screened with the permanent aIachment of corrosion-resistant material (e.g. galvanized welded wire mesh) having a maximum 0.25-inch mesh to prevent debris buildup beneath the parklet and in the guIer. Any other gaps or openings in the plalorm or between the plalorm and the substrate larger than .25 inch shall be screened with the permanent aIachment of corrosion-resistant material (e.g., galvanized welded 14 wire mesh) having a maximum 0.25-inch mesh. e. If the parklet is uncovered, the parklet ﬂoor shall be sloped a minimum 1/8 inch / linear foot and a maximum ¼ inch / linear foot towards the sidewalk. The closure decking shall be removable for easy access for under plalorm inspec-on as needed. Figure 6. Preferred Plalorm AIachment at Curb Figure 7. Alterna-ve Plalorm AIachment to Curb 3. Plalorm Attachment a. The parklet is to be level with the sidewalk where there is a curb. b. The City of Palo Alto strongly prefers free-standing plalorms that are not anchored or aIached to the roadway or sidewalk. Anchored plalorms may be considered through the encroachment permit review process where a free-standing design is not feasible or would not meet safety, stability or code requirements. Example circumstances would be a hybrid parklet that is located on both the sidewalk and roadway where the transi-ons in surfaces are uneven, or the crown of the road, cross slope or other pavement irregularity requires minor anchoring for stability, or other site-speciﬁc 15 condi-ons. Staﬀ will review as part of the encroachment permit process. Anchoring cannot exceed a maximum depth of 6 inches. Any anchoring proposed into the public street will require Underground Service Alert (USA) markings and addi-onal staﬀ review. c. The preferred grate support along the curb face shall be installed perpendicular to the curb (per the detail provided in Figure 6). d. Figure 7 is an acceptable alterna-ve where Figure 6 cannot be implemented. The manner of anchoring shall employ concrete anchor bolts inserted into pre- drilled holes in the curb. Anchor embedment into the curb shall be between 3” and 4” in depth. e. Parklet ﬂoor shall be made of exterior-rated material. They shall not be made of metal, glass, or interior materials. The ﬂoor shall have slip resistance ra-ng greater than R11 or a coeﬃcient of fric-on greater than .5. Parklet ﬂoor shall be designed for removal to allow immediate access to below grade u-li-es in the event of maintenance, emergency (gas leak) or other circumstances. Removable ﬂoor sec-ons shall be sized such that the weight of a removable ﬂoor panel shall not exceed 30 pound to accommodate removal by one person. 3.2.3 Roofs 1. Structural a. Complete roof framing plan, which includes horizontal and ver-cal bracing and support posts, is required to be submiIed with structural calcula-ons that meet the standards in the currently adopted California Building Code as amended by PAMC 16.04, and current version of the American Society of Civil Engineer's ASCE 7 Chapter 15: Seismic design requirements for non-building structures. A licensed civil and/or structural engineer who is registered in the State of California shall stamp and sign the plan and associated calcula-ons, as well as conduct an onsite structural observa-on to ensure the roof structural system and its suppor-ng elements were built according to the plans prior to occupancy. b. All connector hardware and fasteners shall be resistant to corrosion and listed as compa-ble with the framing material. c. Roofs may be a solid uniform material or open construc-on (i.e., trellis, pergola, etc.). d. Roofs shall not be aIached or connected to a building. e. Roofs can be ﬂat or sloped no greater than 1:12, and shall slope toward the street to ensure rainwater drains into the street, with a minimum slope of ¼” drop / linear t. f. The roof’s outer edge along the accessway and sidewalk may extend no greater than 12 inches into a gas main setback above 8 feet. Roofs may can-lever up to four feet over the sidewalk area where sidewalks are 22 feet and wider to ensure that at least one third of the sidewalk width is open to the sky. g. The roof shall not extend more than 12 inches over the sides of the parklet into the setbacks for emergency access at adjacent parklets. 16 2. Height/loca-on a. The roof shall have a minimum head clearance of 8 feet. b. A parklet roof shall measure no taller than 11 feet, as measured from the plalorm grade. 3. Materials a. Rootops may be open or solid. PermiIed open trellis roofs are ﬂame-retardant fabric, pressure-treated wood, exterior grade wood (redwood, cedar or similar) or light gauge steel. b. PermiIed roof coverings are treated, exterior grade plywood, asphalt -les (on sheathing and underlayment such as bituthene), transparent panels (UV resistant), steel (sheets or standing seam) or corrugated metal panels or sheets. Metal roof coverings to have durable commercial grade pre-ﬁnished metal panels; corrosion resistant and low glare. Prohibited roof coverings are OSB, unﬁnished lumber or wood surfaces, corrugated acrylic or plas-c panels, heavy materials, such as clay or stone -les, vinyl, sot plas-cs, tarps or non-ﬂame-retardant fabrics c. All wood and metal must be sealed and ﬁnished, including all exposed surfaces of plywood sheathing. Wood ﬁnishes can be stained, painted or sealed with exterior grade products for weather protec-on. d. If fabric shade sails or similar tension fabric coverings are proposed, the fabric cover shall be limited to the top por-on of the parklet and not extend to addi-onal sides perpendicular to the street or sidewalk. All fabrics and all interior decora-ve fabrics or materials shall be ﬂame-retardant in accordance with the provisions set forth in CCR, Title 19, Division 1, chapter 8. The applicant shall provide cer-ﬁca-on that the fabric covering is ﬂame resistant with any of the following: i. NFPA 701 cer-ﬁca-on ii. ASTM E84 or UL 723 3.2.4 Enclosures 1. Railings Railings shall be provided where a parklet includes a raised plalorm edge adjacent to the sidewalk or roadway. In limited cases, a parklet without a plalorm may be considered through permit review, subject to approval of edge treatment, ADA access and other applicable safety requirements. Railings are also permiIed on sidewalks subject to staﬀ review. a. Requirements i. Height: up to 36 inches, measured from the surface of the plalorm. ii. Stability: railings shall resist a 200-pound load at top and side of railing iii. Anchoring: fasten railings to framing or structural elements. Railings can be anchored to the sidewalk and roadway subject to staﬀ review, provided that the anchoring does not exceed a maximum depth of 3 inches. 17 iv. Clearance: must not encroach on the 8-foot pedestrian path or ADA accessible routes; must not obstruct hydrants, vaults, or emergency zones. v. Gripping surface: con-nuous and smooth. vi. Cables: must be taut and spaced to prevent 4" sphere passing through vii. Materials: commercial grade, powder-coated metal, treated hardwood, composite/engineered wood, painted steel cable systems. viii. Avoid: corrugated plas-c, fabric barriers, chain link, unpainted raw wood. Residen-al fencing is prohibited. ix. Finish: maIe or sa-n; neutral/coordinated colors (branded colors allowed if aligned with Cal Ave design paleIe). x. Openness: Architectural screens or laser cut metal panels more than 50% open are acceptable. xi. Excep-ons to the standard 36" railing height are permiIed up to 48" in height for street facing bar sea-ng 2. Low Walls a. Low walls may be used where wind protec-on is desired and to support windows and operable panels above. b. Requirements i. Maximum height: 36 inches. ii. Substan-ally solid from plalorm to top of wall. iii. Constructed of durable materials capable of suppor-ng operable panels above (e.g., sealed/stained wood, composite/ﬁber-cement, metal panel systems, or planter-walls). iv. All wood must be stained, painted or sealed with exterior grade products. v. No opaque extensions above 36 inches. vi. Excep-ons to the standard 36" wall height are permiIed up to 48" in height for (1) street facing bar sea-ng and (2) ABC required boundaries constructed of high-quality, commercial-grade materials in ac-ve use prior to June 2026. 3. Sidewalls a. A parklet sidewall is a ver-cal enclosure installed along the edges of a parklet plalorm that provides privacy and/or weather protec-on to parklet occupants. b. Requirements i. Maximum height of six feet measured from the top of plalorm. ii. Sidewalls may be provided using either of the following approaches: 1. Visually permeable sidewalls (e.g., louvers or architectural screens). 2. Transparent panels which are encouraged to be operable (e.g., sliding, folding, or lit-up panels) to be open during fair weather. iii. Total enclosure and ven-la-on: 1. Where located adjacent to a gas main, and to provide adequate natural cross ven-la-on the combined open area of the four sides 18 of the parklet must achieve a minimum 50% net open area to allow for natural ven-la-on to prevent entrapment of gas vapors. 2. The side facing the sidewalk shall remain 100% open and unobstructed with a minimum ver-cal clearance of 8 feet. iv. Storefront visibility: sidewalls are to preserve openness and transparency between the street and storefronts. v. Materials: commercial grade, durable composite systems, powder-coated metal, treated hardwood, composite/engineered wood, tempered glass or plexi-glass. All wood must be stained, painted or sealed with exterior grade products. vi. Visual transparency: areas above 36 inches must be visually transparent and not -nted glass. vii. Anchoring: secured to framing and structure, wind-rated for outdoor use. c. Not Allowed i. Fully opaque walls or panels over 36 inches that block air ﬂow and visual transparency ii. Temporary fencing/crowd-control barricades iii. Plas-c shee-ng/tarps iv. DIY structures from mixed salvage materials 4. Operable Weather Protec-on a. An operable weather screen is a movable weather protec-on system integrated into a parklet that can be deployed when needed for comfort and retracted to an open-air condi-on. Operable weather screens are to improve customer comfort during wind, sun, glare, or light rain. b. Requirements i. Retractable or operable systems shall remain fully retracted and open during fair weather to maximize ven-la-on, visual openness and sight lines to storefronts. ii. Preferred operable types: 1. Retractable roll-down screens 2. sliding/folding/hinged panels 3. adjustable-height wind screens 4. retractable awnings/canopies designed to be fully stowed when not in use. iii. Operable weather screens are required to meet the 50% total net open air for fully deployed weather protec-on on three sides and a completely open side facing the sidewalk. 1. Op-ons for how retractable roll-down screens can meet this performance requirement are: a. A minimum screen openness factor of 40% when deployed; or b. A permanent open gap at the top with minimum 12-18 inches clear height measured from the top of the opening 19 (can include openings in roof blocking) combined with shades with a minimum 10% openness factor; c. Permeable ﬁxed elements (louvers or architectural screens) with at least 50% open area; or d. Other designs provided manufacturer’s speciﬁca-ons, openness data and calcula-ons can demonstrate performance. iv. Applicants must provide manufacturer speciﬁca-ons for ﬂame retardancy (NFPA 701 or equivalent). v. Materials and appearance: Use commercial-grade, outdoor-rated materials; priori-ze transparent or visually permeable systems and coordinated ﬁnishes. vi. Securing and stowage: Use built tracks/guides and fastening when deployed to prevent ﬂapping and maintain alignment; provide a clean, integrated stowed condi-on. vii. AIachment: Integrate aIachment points into the parklet framing/plalorm where feasible. Any aIachment to the ground plane/sidewalk/roadway should be minimized, durable, and subject to staﬀ review. 3.3 Café Seating Areas Café Sea-ng Areas are ﬂexible, open-air spaces in the public right-of-way that extend dining ac-vity from the establishment onto the sidewalk or roadway. Types Café seating may be located in one or both of the following areas, subject to Chapter 2 location and setback requirements: • Sidewalk Seating/ Display Areas: on sidewalk adjacent to the operating business. • Roadway Seating/Display Areas: within designated roadway activity zone in front of operating business. Applicants proposing both sidewalk and roadway café seating shall demonstrate how the two areas function together as a single ADA accessible outdoor environment. Design Guidance The following design guidance establishes the intended design character for café sea-ng areas on Car Free California Avenue and shall be used together with the speciﬁc requirements of Sec-on 3.3. 1. Layout café sea-ng to feel like an extension of the business and contribute to the vitality of the street. 20 2. Design for comfort and lingering with a mix of sea-ng op-ons that support diﬀerent group sizes and lengths of stay, such as: a. Standard table sea-ng (two- and four-top) b. Communal tables and benches c. Lounge sea-ng with low-proﬁle tables d. Bar-height counters with stools e. Include shade where feasible to improve comfort and usability. 3. Design for seasonal varia-on and year-round use by incorpora-ng elements such as: a. Varied shade strategies (umbrellas, canopies, etc., as allowed) b. Fes-ve/ambient ligh-ng c. Warmth through radiant hea-ng (where permiIed) 4. Support social interac-on and street engagement: orient sea-ng to encourage people- watching, casual conversa-on, and connec-on to street ac-vity, while maintaining required clear paths of travel. 5. Strengthen connec-ons to storefronts: keep the area visually open so that storefronts, entrances, and sidewalk ac-vity remain visible from the street, suppor-ng both safety and a cohesive main-street experience. 6. Connect to nature: use planters, trellises, and plan-ngs (annuals and perennials) to create a garden-like outdoor environment that enhances placemaking and comfort. 7. Support aIrac-ve and comfortable nighyme dining: provide ligh-ng appropriate for dusk and evening use and consider comfort measures such as radiant hea-ng. 8. Allow ﬂexibility for small-scale, occasional pop-up ac-vi-es (e.g., live music) without compromising accessibility, safety, or circula-on. Requirements 1. Accessibility a. All café sea-ng and retail display areas shall comply with ADA accessibility requirements. Applicants shall provide: i. A con-nuous accessible route from business entrance, sidewalk and café sea-ng area ii. Accessible sea-ng integrated into the layout iii. Required clearances around tables, chairs, and circula-on paths iv. Accessibility informa-on shown on the furniture plan and maintained at all -mes 2. Furniture a. All applica-ons shall include a furniture layout plan iden-fying type, quan-ty, and conﬁgura-on. b. PermiIed furniture may include: i. Movable tables and chairs ii. Counters and sea-ng elements iii. Benches iv. Umbrellas or shade devices 21 c. Furniture shall: i. Be commercial-grade and designed for outdoor use ii. Be safe, sturdy, and durable iii. Not include inexpensive, monoblock or injec-on-molded plas-c chairs, tables, or similar light weight residen-al furniture iv. Maintain required clearances for circula-on and accessibility v. Fixed furniture may require addi-onal staﬀ review and approval 3. Enclosure a. Where provided, enclosure elements shall be consistent with Sec-on 2.5 for alcohol service. Enclosures are otherwise op-onal and may be used to spa-ally deﬁne a café sea-ng area. b. PermiIed enclosure types include: i. Railings ii. Planters iii. Stanchions with rope or chain iv. Low walls v. Removable wind screens c. Enclosures shall not exceed 36 inches in height except: i. low wall height is permiIed up to 48" for street facing bar sea-ng; and ii. Removable wind screens are permiIed up to 6 feet in height, provided they are: 1. Primarily transparent above 36" 2. Not permanently aIached to the sidewalk or roadway 3. Readily and easily removable 4. Maintaining an open air outdoor cafe environment with no roof 5. Constructed of commercial-grade, outdoor-rated materials, such as powder-coated metal, treated hardwood, composite or engineered wood, tempered glass or plexi-glass. No -nted, mirrored or shaded glass. All wood must be stained, painted or sealed with exterior grade products. 6. Not obstruc-ng pedestrian or ADA accessibility in and out of the sea-ng area d. Planters and plan-ngs shall not exceed 36 inches in height e. Include at least one clear point of entry f. Exis-ng enclosure elements permiIed and installed prior to June 1, 2026, may be permiIed to remain subject to City approval, provided these elements are constructed of durable, commercial-grade materials, maintained in good condi-on, and substan-ally comply with the design intent of these standards. g. All enclosure elements must be shown on the site plan and are subject to City approval. 22 3.4 Retail Displays Retail Display Areas are outdoor ac-va-on areas—small, curated extensions of retail shopping into the public right-of-way that support browsing and retail sales. The following design guidance establishes the design character for retail display areas on Car Free California Avenue and shall be used together with the speciﬁc requirements of Sec-on 3.4. Design Guidance 1. Merchandise as placemaking: a. Retail displays contribute to street vitality and are to create storefront areas that aIract customers, are easy to navigate, and well maintained. b. Use selected items to create visual interest without appearing cluIered. Requirements 1. Storefront rela-onship: Displays shall be arranged as an extension of the business frontage so it is clear which business they belong to and can be easily supervised and maintained. 2. Maintain a visually open environment: Use low-proﬁle, visually permeable display ﬁxtures (e.g., tables, racks, stands) and avoid tall, opaque walls of merchandise that block views to storefronts, building façades, or pedestrian ac-vity. 3. Create an orderly edge and predictable circula-on: Set displays in a consistent line and alignment so pedestrians can easily understand where to walk and where to browse. Avoid protruding into the 8-foot pedestrian zone. 4. Design for everyday setup, removal, and maintenance: Use sturdy, removable ﬁxtures that can be placed and removed eﬃciently each day. Displays should be stable, wind- resistant, and maintained in a clean, commercial quality condi-on. 5. Priori-ze safety and accessibility: Keep walking surfaces clear of tripping hazards (cords, loose mats, protruding supports). Ensure displays do not create obstruc-ons for people using mobility devices or for people with low vision. 6. Use weather protec-on that supports the street: If umbrellas, canopies, or awnings are used, size and place to support browsing comfort while remaining visually light and compa-ble with the open character of the street. 7. Avoid spillover impacts: Display ac-vity should animate the frontage while avoiding noise, glare, or opera-onal impacts that conﬂict with adjacent businesses, or the overall pedestrian experience. 23 3.5 Planters Planters are op-onal and not required. Planters and plan-ngs can serve as buﬀers between pedestrian and bicycle accessways. Planters are encouraged; they introduce nature and color, enhancing customer experience and the street environment. Design Guidance 1. Deﬁne ac-va-on edges without blocking pedestrian access, emergency access, or visibility between storefronts. 2. Dining areas: deﬁne a clear, con-nuous border; Use one planter shape and vary sizes. 3. Merchandising: allow more ﬂexible, clustered groupings; cluster sizes and layer plan-ngs. 4. Coordinate plant paleIes along a frontage; use seasonal color to enliven areas. Requirements When provided, planters shall meet the following: 1. Plan-ng: Contain live plants; support seasonal plan-ng or drought-tolerant species. 2. Plant maintenance: Be maintained in good condi-on; be promptly replanted or removed if plants fail. 3. Planter materials: planters shall be made of durable, aIrac-ve materials such as powder-coated metal, ﬁberglass, reinforced concrete, ﬁnished wood with weatherproof seal. 4. Height: Planters shall not exceed 30 inches when used to create the boundary of an outdoor dining area. Combined height of planters and plants shall exceed 36 inches and not obstruct visibility into/out of the sea-ng area. 5. Avoid: bright plas-c, untreated wood, mismatched DIY containers. 3.6 Umbrellas Umbrellas may be used to provide eﬀec-ve weather protec-on from sun, rain, and moderate wind. Requirements 1. PermiIed Types a. Can-lever umbrellas b. Center-pole (market-style) umbrellas c. Mul--canopy umbrella systems 2. Material Speciﬁca-ons a. Canopy Fabric: i. High-grade, solu-on-dyed acrylic ii. UV-resistant, waterproof, mildew-resistant b. Frame Material: i. Corrosion-resistant frames (marine-grade aluminum, stainless steel, or ﬁberglass). 24 3. Wind and Stability a. All umbrellas placed in the public right-of-way must be commercial grade, intended for outdoor public and commercial use. b. Umbrellas are not allowed to be anchored on the roadway or sidewalk. c. Wind Performance i. Umbrellas must be secured in a free standing, weighted base per manufacturer recommenda-ons. ii. Umbrellas must be rated by the manufacturer to remain stable in wind condi-ons while open when installed according to the manufacturer’s instruc-ons iii. Umbrellas must be closed and secured during wind condi-ons per manufacturer’s recommenda-ons. d. Applicants must submit product speciﬁca-ons and describe base and weight. 4. Size and Coverage a. Clearance Height: minimum 7 clear feet from ground to canopy edge when fully opened. 5. Wind and Stability a. Wind Vents and Reinforced Seams: double-vented designs encouraged. 6. Weather and UV Protec-on a. Waterproof coa-ngs and reinforced seams. b. UPF 50+ ra-ng for UV protec-on. c. Light or reﬂec-ve canopy colors are recommended for heat reduc-on. 7. Func-onality and Flexibility a. Tilt and Rota-on Adjustments: i. For can-lever umbrellas: 360-degree rota-on and adjustable -lt preferred. b. Retractability: i. Retractable awnings are encouraged for year-round ﬂexibility. c. Ligh-ng Integra-on: i. Ambient or task ligh-ng within umbrellas/awnings (compliant with ligh-ng requirements). 8. Maintenance and Compliance a. Condi-on: Canopies must be kept clean and replaced if they become faded, ripped, or moldy. b. Storage: Umbrellas must be stored in a closed posi-on or moved indoors during non-opera-ng hours to prevent thet or wind damage. 9. Pop-up tents for events only, no permanent use of pop-up tents. 25 3.7 Branding and Signage Branding and signage on Cal Ave activation areas help define district identity, support business visibility, and contribute to a cohesive and welcoming public realm. Design Guidance Businesses are encouraged to: • Use high-quality materials such as metal, wood, or weatherproof composite panels. • Use signage to reflect the unique identity of the establishment while contributing to an overall cohesive streetscape. • Integrate signage into planters, railings, or low screening to reduce visual clutter. Requirements The following standards apply to all signage in outdoor activation areas: 1. Parklet Sign Size: Parklet signage is limited to 6 square feet and shall be limited to the name of the business. LeIers can be no taller than 15 inches. 2. Sign Type: Parklet signs are wall signs and shall be non-illuminated and non-reﬂec-ve. 3. Number of Signs: Businesses are permiIed one business sign on their parklet, and one temporary sandwich board sign in their ac-va-on area. 4. Height: Any signage shall be aﬃxed to the outermost por-on of the parklet enclosure no higher than 36 inches from the street grade. 5. No Adver-sing: No form of adver-sing is permiIed to be painted or mounted on any surface or area of the parklet or ac-va-on area. 6. Post Reloca-on: If a signage post is in conﬂict with the proposed parklet, the applicant shall contact Public Works to evaluate reloca-ng the post. If reloca-on is not possible, the applicant must redesign the parklet to ﬁt with the exis-ng post. 7. Parking Signs: Any exis-ng parking signs installed adjacent to the parklet shall be removed by the applicant and returned to the Public Works Department. 8. Construc-on: Signs shall be constructed wholly of metal, incombus-ble plas-c or other approved ﬁre-resistant material. 9. Accessibility: All signs are to meet ADA accessibility standards for sec-on 307.2 Protrusion Limits hIps://www.access-board.gov/ada/#ada-307_2 and sec-on 307.3 Post-Mounted Objects hIps://www.access-board.gov/ada/#ada-307_3. 10. Sandwich Boards a. Size: Sandwich board signs are limited to no larger than 2 feet wide by 3 feet wide. b. Loca-on: Sandwich board signs are not permiIed to obstruct the 8-foot wide pedestrian path on sidewalks or ADA access. c. Opera-ng Hours: Sandwich board signs must be removed when business is closed and on display only during regular business hours. d. Appearance: Sandwich board signs are to be professional in appearance, no hand-painted signs. (Reference: City of Palo Alto Sign Code) 26 3.8 Waste Management Clean and well-managed outdoor spaces are essential to public health, sustainability, and street character. All businesses are responsible for proper waste management in compliance with Palo Alto’s Zero Waste Ordinance and local sorting requirements. Requirements 1. Keep parklets, cafe seating areas and adjacent sidewalks free of litter, food waste, and stains 2. Clean surfaces daily and power-wash at least once per month 3. Prevent debris and liquids from entering storm drains or accumulating near planters 4. Maintain clear access to drainage grates and public infrastructure 5. Provide clearly labeled, color-coded containers for: o Recycling (blue-tinted liners) o Compost (green compostable liners) o Landfill (clear liners) 6. Containers must be accessible, routinely emptied/cleaned, and located so they do not obstruct pedestrian paths 3.9 Electrical Requirements All outdoor hea-ng and ligh-ng systems must be powered safely and in compliance with the California Electrical Code and City of Palo Alto requirements. Electrical infrastructure must be reviewed as part of the permit process when installing ﬁxed ligh-ng, overhead hea-ng, or building-mounted outlets. 1. Power Source a. A weatherproof GFCI electrical outlet may be installed (with applicable permits) on the exterior of the building at a minimum of 10 feet above the walking surface. i. Electrical power supply to the parklet, including the outlet(s), shall comply with permanent wiring methods as outlined by the adopted California Electrical code. b. Electrical power supply cables between the building and the parklet shall be secured to one (1) single overhead guide wire between the building and the parklet structure. i. No extension cords shall be permiIed for ﬁxed ligh-ng or heaters. c. No electrical power supply cables or conduits are allowed on or under the sidewalk. d. Parklet power sources shall not be pulled from the city sidewalk ligh-ng or supported by trees. e. Generators are not allowed in associa-on with parklets. 27 2. All equipment must be: a. UL or ETL cer-ﬁed b. Rated for outdoor commercial use 3. Not allowed a. Televisions are not permiIed in parklets b. Ampliﬁed sound is not permiIed on parklets. Any ambient sound may only originate from the interior of the business’s occupied building. c. Extension cords or power strips 3.10 Lighting Design Guidance Thoughtful, human-scale lighting improves comfort, safety, and appearance and contributes significantly to street attractiveness. Businesses are encouraged to: • Use ambient ligh-ng for general glow, task ligh-ng for tables, and accent ligh-ng for architectural features or planters • Select ﬁxtures that complement storefront architecture and minimize visual cluIer • Maintain consistent spacing of ligh-ng to reduce dark spots Requirements Businesses shall comply with the following standards, consistent with the City of Palo Alto Lighting Ordinance at Lighting Ordinance Update – City of Palo Alto, CA and the California Electrical Code: 1. Requirements a. Rated for wet loca-on exterior use, listed and carry a product cer-ﬁcate for its intended use by a recognized electrical tes-ng laboratory. b. Ligh-ng shall be the lowest intensity and energy use adequate for its purpose and be designed to focus illumina-on downward to avoid excessive illumina-on above the light ﬁxture with a maximum of 100 waIs or 1600 lumens, whichever is greater, per ﬁxture. c. Aim downward and be fully shielded to reduce glare and light spill (except string lights). d. Use warm-colored lights (2,700 Kelvin or less). e. Turn oﬀ or use mo-on controls by 11 p.m., two hours ater business closing, or one hour ater when exterior areas are no longer in use, whichever is later. f. String lights, lanterns and other suspended decora-ve features spanning between a building and a parklet are not permiIed. 2. Allowed Fixture Types: a. LED-only ligh-ng 28 b. String lights, wall-mounted downlights, solar or rechargeable table lamps or other shielded, glare reducing ﬁxtures 3. Electrical Power & Installa-on: a. Power supply can come from a weatherproof GFCI outlet mounted on the building (minimum 10 feet above ground) or solar powered illumina-on b. Wiring must follow permanent wiring methods per the California Electrical Code and run via a single overhead guide wire c. No extension cords, power strips, or generator use d. If installing permanent ligh-ng on the parklet or adding the exterior GFCI receptacle at the building per Sec-on 3.8 Electrical, an electrical permit shall be obtained and shall comply with permanent wiring methods per adopted California Electrical Code. e. Electrical equipment must be UL or ETL cer-ﬁed for outdoor commercial use 4. Permits: a. An electrical permit is required for all wiring and associated outlets. 3.11 Heating Requirements Outdoor heating may be used to enhance comfort in colder weather. Electric and propane (LPG) heaters that meet City safety and permitting requirements are permitted. All heaters must be weather rated, certified for outdoor commercial use, and installed per manufacturer instructions and applicable fire/electrical codes. Electric Radiant or Infrared Heaters 1. Suitable for wet locations and labeled for outdoor commercial use. 2. Any electrical equipment must be listed and carry a product cer-ﬁcate for its intended use by a recognized electrical tes-ng laboratory. 3. Located and installed per manufacturer requirements. 4. Meet City installation requirements, including: a. Comply with power supply requirements in Section Electrical b. Placed a minimum of 3 feet from combustibles or as required by Manufacturer’s installa-on instruc-on, whichever is more restric-ve. The backside of radiant heaters can be closer than three feet as long as installed per manufacturer ’s speciﬁca-ons. c. Mounted securely d. Ensure adequate airﬂow, and avoid installa-on in exposed, high-wind areas e. Electrical cords must be rated for outdoor use, protected, and must not pose a trip hazard f. Do not place heaters on pedestrian paths of travel, including on sidewalks or in any required accessible clearance zones 29 5. A ﬁre ex-nguisher is required to be mounted within sight and have appropriate signage per the Fire Code. Propane Heaters 1. PermiIed with an approved HAZMAT permit and CERS submiIal. 2. HAZMAT permit is required for storage and use of liquid propane gas. A site plan with the desired loca-on of each heater is required at -me of the hazmat permit applica-on. All storage loca-ons and use areas must be noted in the HAZMAT permit applica-on and approved during ﬁre inspec-on. A ﬁnal onsite hazmat inspec-on will be conducted to ensure the proper spacing of heaters from combus-bles and emergency access/egress and storage of LPG. a. Proposed outdoor storage of 20-pound containers requires plan review and inspec-on. b. On-site storage of 20-pound propane containers (5 gal) is prohibited indoors. c. Propane storage is not allowed in the public right-of-way. d. If businesses do not have an approved private outdoor storage area, all propane containers must be removed from the premises at the close of business every day. e. LPG Heaters are not permiIed on the sidewalk in the pedestrian path of travel f. LPG heaters cannot be placed underneath overhead canopies, awnings, inside buildings or tents and they must have 5-feet clearance from any ﬂammable materials g. Any use of a portable heater, portable generator, candles, open ﬂame, or any ac-vity regulated by the Fire code must be approved and permiIed by the Palo Alto Fire Department separately from the outdoor ac-va-on encroachment permit. 3. A ﬁre ex-nguisher is required to be mounted within sight and have appropriate signage per the Fire Code. A minimum 2-A:10-B:C rated ﬁre ex-nguisher is required, to be mounted 5 feet above the ﬂoor. Must be located in conspicuous loca-ons along normal paths of travel and must not be obstructed or obscured from view with appropriate signage. CFC 906 30 CHAPTER 4 — ENCROACHMENT PERMITS 4.1 Permit Process The Outdoor Activation permit process is as follows: 1. Any applicant seeking to install an Outdoor Ac-va-on space in the public right-of-way in the City of Palo Alto must apply for and receive a valid Encroachment Permit before beginning construc-on of the Outdoor Ac-va-on space. The permit applica-on will be reviewed by the Department of Public Works and other relevant City departments, prior to approval. Businesses are encouraged to reach out to Public Works in advance to discuss parklet sizing and design. 2. The Department of Public Works shall be an applicant’s primary point of contact. 3. Construc-on of an Outdoor Ac-va-on space cannot begin un-l a permit applica-on has been approved, and the permit issued to the applicant. If work begins prior to approved applica-on, the Outdoor Ac-va-on space materials will be removed, and the applicant will be ﬁned. 4. Prior to serving patrons and otherwise opera-ng the Outdoor Ac-va-on space, the Outdoor Ac-va-on space must be inspected by the Department of Public Works and approved for use. 5. An eligible establishment with a valid Encroachment Permit may construct and operate an Outdoor Ac-va-on space subject to the standards and requirements contained in this document, applicable sec-ons of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC), other documents associated by reference, and other documents declared relevant by the Director of Public Works and his or her designee. 6. The city reserves the right to approve, condi-onally approve, modify or deny any parklet applica-on as its sole discre-on, including based on input from u-li-es staﬀ and public safety considera-ons. Submission of an applica-on does not guarantee approval, and the city may revoke or modify a permit at any -me if deemed necessary for public health, safety, welfare or u-lity access. 4.2 Submittal Requirements 1. Drawing Set a. Site Plan i. Site plan shall be drawn to scale on 11 x17 tabloid paper, including all per-nent dimensions and the following informa-on: ii. Loca-on of the business frontage iii. Dimensions of the outdoor ac-va-on area iv. ADA accessibility measurements v. Setbacks from adjacent property lines and the accessway 31 vi. Loca-on of public u-li-es including any manhole covers, guIer drains, ﬁre hydrants, and FDCs, light poles, etc. and their distances to the outdoor ac-va-on area and proposed improvements vii. Any adjacent installa-ons on the sidewalk including u-lity boxes, street signs, bike racks, street furniture, street trees, tree wells, etc. and their distances to the outdoor ac-va-on area and proposed improvements viii. Crosswalks, bus stops, driveways and their distances to the outdoor ac-va-on area and proposed improvements ix. Width of sidewalk x. Planters xi. Loca-ons and extent of aﬀected neighbors and their adjacent businesses xii. Storm water drainage b. Floor Plan i. Floor Plan for the proposed outdoor ac-va-on area showing the following informa-on: ii. Total number and loca-on of tables and seats and/or benches iii. Dimensions of tables, seats, and benches and other furniture c. Eleva-ons i. Eleva-on drawing showing the following information: ii. Height and design of plalorm railings/enclosure iii. Height and design of roof (if applicable) iv. Hea-ng, ligh-ng, other electrical equipment v. Electric power supply connec-on (show distance from ground to overhead wire) vi. Signage (if applicable) vii. Storm water drainage viii. Cross-sec-on drawing of parklet d. Architect/Engineer/Construc-on ﬁrm contact (if applicable) e. Construc-on Drawings showing the following informa-on: i. Structural drawings ii. Structural calcula-ons for the enclosure iii. Complete roof framing plan (for parklets with roofs), including the following: 1. Horizontal and ver-cal bracing, 2. Structural calcula-ons that meet the standards in the current 2025 California Building Code. 3. Stamp and signature from a licensed civil and/or structural engineer who is registered in the State of California i. Hea-ng, ligh-ng, other electrical equipment ii. Electrical power connec-on/source 2. Pictures of Exis-ng Condi-ons a. The applica-on should include at least three photos showing exis-ng public right- of-way for the proposed outdoor ac-va-on area, including the proposed 32 sidewalk and roadway area to be converted into an outdoor ac-va-on area, adjacent sidewalk and store frontage of the proposed business and adjacent store frontages 3. List of Materials and Equipment a. Materials paleIe showing the following informa-on: b. Proposed materials for plalorm c. Proposed materials for railings/enclosures d. Roof material (if applicable) e. Equipment sheet including image of equipment and any manufacturer instruc-ons 4. Outdoor Ac-va-on Informa-on a. Proposed use b. Business hours of opera-on c. Use of Parallel or angled parking spaces 5. Business Informa-on a. Address 6. Business Owner Informa-on 7. Property Owner Informa-on (if diﬀerent from applicant) 8. Insurance Documents 9. LeIer(s) of Consent – A parklet applicant must get a leIer of consent from the neighboring ground-ﬂoor tenant(s) if the applicant’s parklet extends beyond their own storefront (see Appendix A). If the neighboring ground-ﬂoor property is vacant, then a leIer of consent is not required for the dura-on of the permit. a. Parklet sponsor must obtain an up-to-date leIer of consent for any future license renewals as requested by Public Works during future permit renewal processes. i. If a parklet sponsor cannot obtain an up-to-date leIer of consent, or if parklet occupancy is not in accordance with the terms of any applicable law, these regula-ons, and/or any permit requirement, the parklet sponsor is responsible for the removal of any structure of the parklet permit extending into a neighboring frontage within 90-days. 10. Indemnity Acknowledgement 4.3 Failure to Maintain Failure to Maintain an Outdoor Ac-va-on: Sponsor who fails to properly and suﬃciently maintain the cleanliness, safety, and accessibility of their space may be subject to viola-ons and ﬁnes. If maintenance issues are not resolved, the City may revoke the encroachment permit, and the sponsor may be required by the City to remove the Outdoor Ac-va-on space at their own expense. 4.4 Utility Maintenance and Public Safety Because an Outdoor Ac-va-on space may sit atop buried u-li-es, there may be instances where it will need to be removed to access, clean, maintain, repair or other ac-on to the 33 u-li-es beneath it. In the event of necessary u-lity maintenance or the unlikely event of a u-lity failure such as a gas leak or water main break that threatens public safety, the City may request the sponsor to move a plalorm or other improvement, or the City or u-lity owner may remove improvements with liIle or no no-ce. The sponsors are responsible for the cost of reinstalling and restoring any damage to the Outdoor Ac-va-on space. In instances of advanced no-ce (such as street repaving, planned maintenance, etc.), the sponsor may need to remove and reinstall the Outdoor Ac-va-on space at their sole expense. If the sponsor cannot remove the space, the City will remove it at the sponsor’s expense. Sponsor accepts street repairs may occur at any -me and may involve heavy construc-on work, noise, dust, vibra-on, traﬃc disrup-ons and temporary or extended loss of use of the outdoor ac-va-on space, without compensa-on from the city, and for which the City or u-lity owner is not responsible for any impact of inconvenience. Fire hydrants are rou-nely ﬂushed for removing sediments and tes-ng the hydraulic capacity of the drinking water system. The sponsor will be responsible for removing any items within the drainage path of a hydrant being ﬂushed. 6.5" of guIer space is insuﬃcient for adequate drainage for any ﬂushing of ﬁre hydrants. Sponsors accept ﬁre hydrants may be ﬂushed at any -me. The sponsors will allow hosing and bypasses to be installed across plalorms and through the ac-va-on space. Sponsors accept that plalorms may cause ﬂooding. The sponsors are responsible for the cost of reinstalling and restoring any damage to the outdoor ac-va-on space, caused during any ac-vity to ﬂow a ﬁre hydrant ﬂow. 4.5 Removing an Outdoor Activation Area If the Outdoor Ac-va-on sponsor decides they no longer want to maintain an Outdoor Ac-va-on space, the sponsor is responsible for no-fying the City and removing it at the sponsors’ own expense. Immediately upon removal the Outdoor Ac-va-on area shall be cleaned and restored to its previous condi-on to the sa-sfac-on of the City. 4.6 Extension Beyond Establishment Outdoor Ac-va-on areas may extend beyond the applicant’s store front with a leIer of consent from neighboring ground-ﬂoor tenants. If an outdoor ac-va-on area extends in front of neighboring storefront(s) or proposes to extend in front of neighboring storefront(s), wriIen no-ce will be sent to the aﬀected neighbor(s) at the -me of permit applica-on and annual renewal. The business adjacent to the aﬀected neighbor(s) will also receive no-ces. • If the neighboring ground-ﬂoor property is vacant, then the leIer of consent is not required for the dura-on of the permit. Outdoor ac-va-on sponsors must obtain an up-to-date leIer of consent for any future license renewals as requested by Public Works during future permit renewal processes. • If Outdoor ac-va-on sponsor cannot obtain an up-to-date leIer of consent, or if the outdoor ac-va-on space occupancy in not in accordance with the terms of any applicable law, these regula-ons, and/or any permit requirement, the outdoor ac-va-on sponsor is 34 responsible for the removal of any structure on the outdoor ac-va-on permit extending into a neighboring frontage within 90-days. • If the aﬀected neighbor(s) or adjacent business wish to claim the same space for their own outdoor ac-va-on area, they must no-fy the city in wri-ng within 30 days of the no-ce. • If a compe-ng claim for the space from the adjacent business is conﬁrmed, the aﬀected neighbor has priority over the space. However, an outdoor ac-va-on area permit applica-on must be submiIed by the aﬀected neighbor within 60 days of the ﬁrst no-ce to claim the space. • If a compe-ng claim for the space from the adjacent business is conﬁrmed, and the aﬀected business does not claim the space, the adjacent business and original outdoor ac-va-on area permiIee shall split the space. • The space shall be split from the centerline. • If applicable, an outdoor ac-va-on area sponsor must remove and/or alter their outdoor ac-va-on area (applying for applicable permits) within 90 days of receiving no-ce of a compe-ng claim for the space(s). • related disrup-ons, for which the City or u-lity owner is not responsible for any impact of inconvenience. 4.7 Outdoor Activation Area Fees Outdoor Ac-va-on spaces are subject to the following fees outlined in the City’s Fee Schedule. 1. Permit Applica-on Fee 2. Deposit Fee (refundable). This deposit will be used to cover the cost of restoring the right-of-way to its original condi-on if not done so by the permiIee. This includes, but is not limited to, the following: a. Removing the Outdoor Ac-va-on space structure b. Removing bolts in the curb and the right-of-way and ﬁlling in holes c. Removing exposed wiring d. Repairing damage to the sidewalk e. Removing construc-on debris and/or garbage f. Parking or traﬃc control striping g. Wheel stop removal or reinstalla-on 3. Permit Renewal Fee 4. Annual License Fee a. This fee will be charged per square foot based on the total Outdoor Ac-va-on space plalorm area 4.8 Sharing Parklets Businesses are allowed to share a parklet under these rules: 1. The parklet must be owned and operated by a single business and the City will issue a permit only to a single business. If an applicant desires to allow other businesses to share the parklet, the permiIee of record will remain the responsible party for all requirements, 35 including fees, insurance, and compliance with all laws, regula-ons, and permits. The permiIee will also be responsible for all penal-es. Businesses must agree amongst themselves how to share these responsibili-es and risks. 2. Applicants must comply with the LeIer of Consent requirements if they desire to use adjacent space, even if they intend to share the parklet with that neighboring business. 3. The City is not a party to any contract between the businesses sharing the parklet and will not mediate such issues between businesses. “ CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S1.0 GENERAL STRUCTURAL NOTES CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S2.0 FLOOR & ROOF FRAMING PLANS (CABANA) 3/4" THICK PLYWOOD SHEATHING w/ 10d NAIL @ 6" OC AT PERIMETER EDGE NAILING @12" OC AT INTERIOR NAILING. PROVIDE 2x BLKG AT ALL PERIMETER AND EDGES, TYP CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S2.1 FLOOR & ROOF FRAMING PLANS (PERGOLA) 3/4" THICK PLYWOOD SHEATHING w/ 10d NAIL @ 6" OC AT PERIMETER EDGE NAILING @12" OC AT INTERIOR NAILING. PROVIDE 2x BLKG AT ALL PERIMETER AND EDGES, TYP CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S2.2 CABANA ELEVATIONS NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S2.3 CABANA ELEVATIONS NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER NOTE: ELEVATION ONLY SHOWS NO FLOOR JOIST OPTION. REFER TO PERGOLA ELEVATION FOR FLOOR JOIST OPTION, SMILAR. S.A.D. WHERE CURB OCCUER CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S2.4 PERGOLA ELEVATIONS CONTACT: SCALE: 05-18-2026 DATE SET ISSUE phone: 415.637.2460 email: info@REIBuildup.com 231 Cross Rd, Oakland, CA 94618 REI Build Up Design structural engineer: City Stamps ALI A RASIA FORPDERETSIGE R EENIGNELANOISS R STRUCTURAL E STAT OEF LAC FIOR AIN Exp. I F B AS NOTED PERMIT SET S3.0 STRUCTURAL DETAILS NOT YET APPROVED 1 Ordinance No. ____ The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows: SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows: A. The City authorizes parklets for outdoor dining and other uses in PAMC Chapter 12.11. B. The City Council now desires to allow duly permitted parklet permittees to post certain kinds of signs in conjunction with a parklet without certain design reviews or toward counting toward maximum sign area or number limits. SECTION 2. Subsection (c) is hereby added to section 16.20.160 (Special Purpose Signs) of Chapter 16.20 (Signs) of Title 16 (Building Regulations) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to read as follows: (c) Parklet Permit Required for Certain Parklet Signs. Signs for the special purposes set forth in this subsection (c) are permitted as provided herein without design review or permit issued under this Chapter as long as: (1) the applicable regulations for the parklet allow for one or more types of the signs below; (2) the sign(s) meet all requirements under PAMC Chapter 12.11 and its applicable regulations; and (3) the sign(s) (including design, placement, size, and any other requirements) are approved by valid parklet permit issued under PAMC Chapter 12.11. (1) One wall sign affixed to or painted on the parklet. A sign in compliance with this subsection shall not be in violation of PAMC section 16.20.130 and shall not count toward any limits on number or area of signs in section 16.20.130 (Wall signs) or 16.20.170 (Combinations of signs). (2) One freestanding sign. A sign in compliance with this subsection shall not be in violation of PAMC section 16.20.100(a) and shall not count toward any limits on number or area of signs in section 16.20.120 (Freestanding signs) or 16.20.170 (Combinations of signs). SECTION 3. Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this ordinance, or the application to any person or circumstances, shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby declared to be severable. SECTION 4. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be effective on the 31st day after adoption. SECTION 5. CEQA. The City Council finds and determines that this categorically exempt under CEQA regulation 15303 (new construction or conversion of small structures). 2 INTRODUCED: 1 23456789 10111213 20 21222325 24 26 27 T T T T TTT T T T 81' MH-043-2-21 -043-2-13 DEPTH 3.86' 12"SD 10+00 10+50 11+00 11+50 10+00 10+50 11+00 B-48 CV B-16 B-9 B-16 M B-16M B-9 B-16M M SCALE: 1" = 20' Story (4) 0’20’40’60’80’100’ 1”=20’ Legend Pedestrian Crossing Pedestrian Pavement Markings Cafe Seating Parklet Setback Gas Main Retail Restaurant Commercial Service/Office VacantBike Racks Farmers Market Tent Tactile Directional Indicator Car Free California Avenue - Illustrative Plan Pedestrian Priority Public Space, Commercial Setbacks and Build-out of Pre-Approved Parklets & Cafe Seating City of Palo Alto 5/14/26 El C a m i n o R e a l Bi r c h S t r e e t Ash Street Mi m o s a L a n e Joanie’s CafeLa BohemeSekoyaUmeLotusMediterranean Wrap Kowa Ramen NamasteKali Greek Bistro La Bodeguita del MedioIzzy Eye Works Christian Science Reading Room Hairshaper’s Club Leaf & Petal Vin Vino Wine Mini Cat Town Casual Chic Salon Square Pie Guys Zareen’sCalifornia Hotel Italico Croissant California Cafe Anatolian Kitchen Zombie Runner Coee Palo Alto Sol Sun of WolfCountry Sun Natural FoodsTerun PizzaJin Sho The Cobblery414 California Avenue Summit Bikes California Paint Company Spoke & Weal Performance GainesTerun Omomi Lash & PMU Abbey Neuro- psychology Clinic Massage Therapy CenterTechCU Citibank California Avenue Optometry Lee Aldinger Insurance La Jolie Nails Salon 1 23456789 10111213 20 21222325 24 26 27 T T T T TTT T T T 81' MH-043-2-21 -043-2-13 DEPTH 3.86' 12"SD 10+00 10+50 11+00 11+50 10+00 10+50 11+00 B-48 CV B-16 B-9 B-16 M B-16M B-9 B-16M M SCALE: 1" = 20' Story (4) 0’20’40’60’80’100’ 1”=20’ Legend Pedestrian Crossing Pedestrian Pavement Markings Cafe Seating Parklet Setback Gas Main Retail Restaurant Commercial Service/Office VacantBike Racks Farmers Market Tent Tactile Directional Indicator Car Free California Avenue - Activation Setback Plan Commercial Use Setbacks and Illustrative Build-out of Pre-Approved Parklets & Cafe Seating City of Palo Alto 5/14/26 El C a m i n o R e a l Bi r c h S t r e e t Ash Street Mi m o s a L a n e 12 ’ 17 ’ 8’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 34 ’ 34 ’ 22 ’ 30 ’ 27 . 5 ’ 12 ’ 12 ’ Joanie’s CafeLa BohemeSekoyaUmeLotusMediterranean Wrap Kowa Ramen NamasteKali Greek Bistro La Bodeguita del MedioIzzy Eye Works Christian Science Reading Room Hairshaper’s Club Leaf & Petal Vin Vino Wine Mini Cat Town Casual Chic Salon Square Pie Guys Zareen’sCalifornia Hotel Italico Croissant California Cafe Anatolian Kitchen Zombie Runner Coee Palo Alto Sol Sun of WolfCountry Sun Natural FoodsTerun PizzaJin Sho The Cobblery414 California Avenue Summit Bikes California Paint Company Spoke & Weal Performance GainesTerun Omomi Lash & PMU Abbey Neuro- psychology Clinic Massage Therapy CenterTechCU Citibank California Avenue Optometry Lee Aldinger Insurance La Jolie Nails Salon HOW TO PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION 3 PRE-APPROVED PLAN SET The Pre-approved parklet plans for Cal Ave are available for download on the City's website here. After reviewing this guide, confirming your eligibility and beginning to plan your parklet design, work with your contractor to finalize your parklet design and prepare your plan set. You or or contractor will indicate your parklet information, site plan, and design selections directly on the pre-approvced plan set in the marked areas. Please fill out ALL applicable marked areas on the plan set to streamline your permit review process. DOWNLOAD THE PRE-APPROVED PLAN SET Go to the City's website to download the plan set. www.CityofPaloAlto.org/Parklets '�P��- ...-u, '"""'' �-,<1•11, ... '\CII...... _,.4..,'\.'\. , ..... ,..,m OrgoingParldee Progam ____ .. ___ �_ ..... _. __ _,., ... ..,.,,_ .. ________ _ ----------��===�::�;;:;-.:.=::.� ----------:.::::---.... ...., .... _ f·}f h 5 1 Rtgistcr with AccelaCitiiea Acces.s ., _ _..._ -·· _ ... , ..... _.,_ --....... Confirm Your tma.1l 3 Cr<Nte Pre-AppUc;atioo ,.,. __ _ ·-·------,_, _ _,.,,,,,_ .. _ ........ _________ __ -- WORK WITH YOUR CONTRACTOR TO PREPARE THE PLAN SET The green shaded areas of the plan set indicate the areas that you and your contractor must fill out, including: •Selecting your design features and parkelt type. •Filling in the required parklet information. •Indicating your materials choices •Planning your site and parklet configuration.CITY OF PALO ALTO PREAPPROVED PARKLETSFORCALAVE-2026 HOW TO PREPARE YOU APPLICATION 4 APPLICATION PROCESS & CHECKLIST The pre-approved parklet process is outlined below, including the Application Checklist. Ensure you submit ALL the required checklist items for review. PREPARE •Review the Checklist below•Plan your parklet•Determine if you need a letter of consent (see Appendix A)•Consult your contractor and finalize parklet design APPLICATION CHECKLIST D Permit Application (See appendix for application)D Certificate of Insurance (See appendix for guidelines)D Letter(s) of Consent (if applicable) (See appendix for sample letter of consent)D Electric Permit (if applicable)□ HAZMAT Permit (if applicable) D Completed Pre-Approved Plan SetD All product specification sheets MINISTERIAL REVIEW PLAN APPROVAL, PERMIT PAYMENT & PERMIT ISSUANCE ( CONSTRUCTION & INSTALLATION INSPECTIONS ( ONGOING MAINTEN ANCE ( PARKLET PERMIT RENEWAL (every year) PARKLET REMOVAL (as needed)CITY OF PALO ALTO PREAPPROVED PARKLETSFORCALAVE-2026 ) ) ) ‐‐‐PW STAFF USE ONLY‐‐‐ SPECIAL PROVISIONS 1.Permittee shall provide the City evidence of Personal Injury and Property Damage insurance in a form acceptable to the City’s Risk Manager, in the minimum amounts of $2,000,000 each for personal injury and property damage or else as indicated below. Said insurance shall name the City of Palo Alto, its officers and employees as an additional insured and shall be primary insurance with any City insurance being excess only. Said insurance shall be maintained so long as this permit remains in force, and evidence of said current insurance and subsequent renewals shall be submitted to the City of Palo Alto, Public Works Engineering Division. 2.Encroachment, construction or use shall not extend beyond the area identified and specified as part of this permit. 3.Encroachment shall not restrict visibility to any traffic control devices or signs. 4.No encroachment is permitted in exclusive bike lanes (where parking is not permitted); bus stops, or "no parking zones" unless specifically authorized within this permit. 5.Encroachment shall not block or cover access to any utility pole, manhole, vault, cleanout, valve, junction or meter box. 6.Permittee shall maintain encroaching or constructed facility and/or the property in a good and safe condition. Construction shall be in conformance with plans approved by the City. 7.Parklet requires Public Works Inspection prior to the start of construction. 8.Whenever construction, reconstruction or maintenance work to City facilities requires relocation or modification of the encroachment, construction or use, such relocation or modification work shall be done by Permittee at Permittee's sole expense. 9.Permittee shall assure adequate visibility of encroachment, construction or use during daytime and nighttime hours. 10.Permittee shall conform to all requirements of the Palo Alto Traffic Control Manual, as applicable. 11.Any public and/or private improvements damaged by the encroaching activities must be repaired or replaced in‐kind to the satisfaction of the improvement owner and at Permittee expense. 12.Permittee shall comply with all applicable law including the Palo Alto Municipal Code, State and County Health Orders in effect, and City ordinances, resolutions and regulations/guidelines (including the Parklet Standards, Requirements for parklets and Weatherization Standards). 13.Permittee shall maintain the site in accordance with the parklet cleanliness standards. 14.See Attachment(s) A B C D E F for additional permit conditions. 15.OTHER:X (A) This permit does not authorize the use of electric and propane devices. Such uses require the approval of a separate electrical and hazmat permit. (B) Expiration provisions: Applicant shall renew this permit within 4 weeks of expiration. Expiration date is 1 year from date of permit issuance. (C) Insurance Provisions: See Item 1 above. Applicant shall maintain valid insurance for the life of the permit. S:\PWD\ENG\FORMS\Insurance\Insurance Certificate Submission Requirements.docx Rev 3/9/15 To obtain a permit for working or placing a private facility in the public right-of-way or public property, it is necessary to file with the Public Works Engineering Services Division an approved insurance certificate prior to permit issuance. See reverse page for sample certificate. COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS Coverage Type Requirement Minimum Limits* EACH OCCURRENCE AGGREGATE Comprehensive General Liability: INCLUDING: Occurrence-based Coverage Personal Injury Broad Form Property Damage Blanket Contractual Bodily Injury Property Damage Bodily Injury & Property Damage Combined $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 Comprehensive Automobile Liability**: INCLUDING: Owned Hired Non-Hired Bodily Injury (Each Person) Bodily Injury (Each Occurrence) Property Damage Bodily Injury & Property Damage Combined $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 * These minimums may be raised for some permits based on the evaluation by the City Risk Manager. ** Automobile liability insurance is required for a Street Work Permit only. (A)BEST’S KEY RATING GUIDE Required insurance coverage shall be provided through carriers with a Best’s Key Rating of A:VII or higher and are admitted to do business in the State of California. The certificate of insurance must be completed and executed by an authorized representative of the company providing insurance. This required insurance must be maintained for the life of the permit. (B)ADDITIONAL INSURED For the Comprehensive General Liability policy, provide an endorsement that explicitly names the city as additional insured with the following statement: “The City of Palo Alto, its Officers, Officials, Employees, Agents and Volunteers are named additional insured ”. This statement must be placed on a CG 20 12 (Additional Insured - State or Political Subdivision - Permits). The form must state the policy number(s) to which it applies and be certified by an authorized insurance agent. Reference to this attachment must be provided on the face of the certificate. (C)PRIMARY COVERAGE An included endorsement and statement on the certificate specifying the following: “This insurance is primary coverage and that any city insurance is excess coverage only ”. (D)CERTIFICATE HOLDER The City of Palo Alto, Public Works Engineering Services Division, 285 Hamilton Avenue Palo Alto CA 94301, must be named as Certificate Holder. (E)CRANE WORK Where work involves a crane, riggers coverage shall be provided in the amounts above. (F)POLICY NUMBERS Relevant policy numbers must be shown on the face of the certificate and all attachments. (G)INSURED NAME The insured shall be the same party as the applicant. If the application is made for a "d.b.a." name, that name must also appear on the certificate as an insured. (H)CANCELLATION The provision for 30 day notice to the City of Palo Alto for cancellation or change of coverage. (I)EFFECTIVE PERIOD There must be a definite period of applicability. "Open" or "continuous" are not acceptable expiration dates. (J)INDEMNIFICATION The liability insurance policy shall include a contractual liability endorsement providing insurance coverage for the Permittee’s agreement to indemnify the City. -- Please see reverse for sample certificate – Insurance Certificate Submission Guide PUBLIC WORKS Engineering Services Division pwecips@cityofpaloalto.org – 650.329.2151 From:Maico Campilongo To:Council, City; City Mgr; Franco Campilongo; ITalico Subject:YES to California Avenue proposal listed as Item 16 on the agenda. Date:Monday, June 1, 2026 10:58:40 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Thanks staff for your work, Outdoor Activation Standards: Appreciation for the pre-approved parklet guidelines. Thank you for listening to our needs for year round outdoor dining. The current plan addresses our needs. California Ave can become a great place for year round dining for guests, retailers and residents We appreciate the pre planned guidelines for us to follow. Maico Campilongo Founder Owner Terún Pizzeria Ristorante 448 California Ave Palo Alto CA 94306 Tel. 650 6008310 info@terunpizza.com www.terunpizza.com iTalico Ristorante Pizzeria 341 California Ave Palo Alto CA 94306 Tel. 650 4739616 info@italicorestaurant.com www.italicorestaurant.com This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report From:Sahlik Khan To:Clerk, City; Council, City; Charlie Weidanz Cc:maico.campilongo@gmail.com Subject:City Council Decision 6/1 Outdoor Date:Monday, June 1, 2026 10:57:42 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Dear City Council Members and Staff, I would like to express my support for maintaining California Avenue as a pedestrian-oriented street and for continuing to move forward with the proposed outdoor guidelines. California Avenue has become one of the most vibrant and welcoming public spaces in Palo Alto. The closure has transformed what was once primarily a roadway into a true community gathering place where residents can walk, dine, shop, meet friends, attend events, and enjoy the neighborhood in a way that simply was not possible before. Most residents anyone speaks to genuinely love the current atmosphere and would be disappointed to see a return to through traffic. The street feels safer, more family-friendly, and more inviting for people of all ages. On weekends and evenings especially, the area is full of activity, demonstrating the strong demand for high-quality pedestrian spaces. Foot traffic has increased tremendously since the closure. More people are spending time on California Avenue, lingering longer, and enjoying the district as a destination rather than simply passing through. While every business has unique circumstances, increased pedestrian activity creates opportunities for restaurants, retailers, and service businesses that benefit from a lively and attractive streetscape. I also support the City’s efforts to create a long-term vision for California Avenue. The proposed outdoor improvements and public space enhancements appear thoughtful and represent an investment in the future of the district. Great commercial districts are increasingly defined by their public spaces, outdoor dining, walkability, and overall experience—not by vehicle access. Reopening the street to regular traffic would be difficult to reverse and would sacrifice many of the qualities that have made California Avenue unique over the past several years. Rather than returning to the status quo, I encourage the City to continue refining and improving the current model while addressing concerns related to accessibility, deliveries, parking, and business support. All of our 3 sit down restaurants are on a closed street and we continue to look for those This message needs your attention This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast opportunities as many others would. We would’ve never taken over Starbucks and would honestly will consider different locations if the street is open to cars again. California Ave needs to fill these vacancies and it would be a step back to open the street in that regard as well. I encourage the Council to continue building upon that success and vote in favor of keeping the street pedestrian-focused while advancing a permanent vision for the outdoor guidelines for its future. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Saalic Khan Co Owner - Zareen’s Group of Restaurants From:Michael Ekwall To:Council, City Subject:Monday, June 1, 2026 Agenda Item 16 Date:Sunday, May 31, 2026 11:44:41 PM Attachments:image.png ACFrOgAk8x4-fR4MIpoj0uqDs81pICtQhwes85goYcdbOvozTgE84Q6qoJNT- TyKyZxPTkb0voZpHWxGQHbo7OFC7OS7NDa879pjNRnTC8vTA2BIpFke2OuvwfUPoRRZqZgTcTGxtaJjbxYJ9MPeEeODLQe6Nx5unBIJHnfkqQ==.pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of openingattachments and clicking on links. ! Hello Mayor and City Council Members. I would appreciate you reading the attached letter before tonight's meeting. Thank you for your consideration. Michael Ekwall La Bodeguita del Medio 463 S California Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94306 T 650.326.7762 x 11 F 650.323.2822 www.labodeguita.com This message could be suspicious The sender's email address couldn't be verified. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report California Avenue Street Configuration Review and Proposal Public Safety, Accessibility, and Economic Sustainability _____________________________________________________ ____ Introduction After six years of street closure, the City must re-evaluate the California Avenue experiment based on measurable outcomes rather than original intentions. The original vision for California Avenue was compelling: a vibrant pedestrian-oriented district that balanced outdoor dining, accessibility, walkability, neighborhood commerce, and community gathering space. Many residents, merchants, and property owners supported that vision in good faith. However, after six years, the current configuration has failed to deliver a balanced, functional, and economically sustainable district for the broader community. Significant concerns remain regarding public safety access, business visibility, accessibility, circulation, fiscal responsibility, and long-term viability. It is not too late to change course. We respectfully urge the City Council to reopen California Avenue to limited one-way vehicle access between El Camino Real and Birch Street while preserving successful pedestrian-oriented improvements, outdoor dining, and parklets. The existing two-way configuration between Birch Street and the Caltrain station could remain unchanged. Reopening California Avenue should not be viewed as a failure. Responsible governance requires the willingness to reassess policies when results do not align with expectations. After six years, the City owes residents, businesses, and taxpayers a transparent evaluation grounded in practical realities and measurable performance. Summary As it stands, there does not appear to be a comprehensive plan beyond the proposed parklet designs and a busy, colorfully striped diversionary bike lane. After the considerable time, public attention, taxpayer dollars, and labor resources expended over the last four years, it is fair to question whether color-striping California Avenue and disrupting local businesses will ultimately have been worth the effort. My proposal highlights significant unresolved issues that should have been addressed and resolved prior to any decision to permanently close the street. This proposal recommends reopening California Avenue to limited vehicle access between El Camino Real and Birch Street while preserving the strongest pedestrian-oriented improvements and outdoor dining elements. The proposal seeks to: • improve emergency and public safety access, • restore accessibility and convenience for customers and residents, • improve business visibility and economic sustainability, • preserve outdoor dining and pedestrian activity, • reduce circulation conflicts between pedestrians, bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, and deliveries, • improve district circulation and functionality, and • establish clearer fiscal accountability and measurable performance standards for the district’s long- term future. The existing two-way configuration between Birch Street and the Caltrain station could remain unchanged. Good intentions alone cannot justify maintaining a configuration that no longer aligns with measurable public safety, accessibility, economic, and fiscal outcomes. Public Safety and Emergency Access Public safety must remain the City’s highest priority. The current closure has fundamentally altered emergency access patterns for fire, police, and medical personnel serving the district. Even modest delays in emergency response times can carry life-threatening consequences during fires, medical emergencies, or other critical incidents. To date, the City has not publicly provided clear and measurable data addressing several fundamental questions: • What measurable impacts on emergency response times have occurred since the closure? • Have average fire, police, or EMS response times within the district changed since implementation? • Were formal emergency access studies conducted before or after implementation? • How have response routes from Hanover Fire Station 2 changed? • How has emergency access to the Caltrain station and surrounding facilities been affected? • What operational challenges remain associated with removable bollards and restricted vehicle access? If emergency response metrics have remained unchanged, the City should publicly provide that data. If measurable delays or operational complications have occurred, those impacts deserve transparent public evaluation before permanent infrastructure decisions are finalized. These are not political questions. They are basic public safety questions that deserve transparent, data-driven answers. During peak hours, the district now experiences: • increasing bicycle, e-bike and e-scooter traffic, • delivery vehicle conflicts, • limited maneuvering space for emergency personnel. Together, these conditions create a more complicated and less predictable operating environment for first responders. Accessibility concerns have also become increasingly significant for: • elderly visitors, • individuals with mobility limitations, • customers arriving by vehicle, and • service providers requiring direct business access. California Avenue is objectively less accessible and less convenient today than it was prior to the permanent street closure. Departure From the Original Vision The district that exists today differs from the vision originally proposed and presented to the community. What began as a pedestrian-oriented streetscape improvement has increasingly evolved into a high- volume, dangerous, bicycle, e-bike and e-scooter through-corridor. The growing mix of bicycles, e- bikes, scooters, pedestrians, delivery traffic, and outdoor dining activity has, at times, created congested, confusing, and unsafe conditions that undermine the relaxed pedestrian environment originally envisioned. Recent discussions surrounding expanded bicycle circulation infrastructure further reinforce this concern. At the same time, the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan already identifies Cambridge Avenue as a significant bicycle corridor. Given this, it is reasonable to question why California Avenue should simultaneously function as both a pedestrian-oriented commercial district and a regional bicycle through-route. Higher-volume regional bicycle circulation may be more safely accommodated on corridors specifically designed for continuous through-travel, while California Avenue can prioritize a slower- paced commercial pedestrian environment, outdoor dining and reduced speed, vehicular circulation. Cyclists visiting California Avenue businesses should continue to have safe and convenient access. However, the current configuration unnecessarily concentrates competing modes of transport within a compact commercial district that was never designed to function as a primary regional transportation corridor. After six years, it is increasingly clear that the present configuration no longer reflects the balanced and pedestrian-focused district originally promised to the community. Transparency, Fiscal Responsibility, and Long-Term Planning After six years of studies, temporary installations, and consultant activity, the City still has not provided the public with a clear and fully realized vision for California Avenue’s permanent future. Critical questions remain unanswered: • What is the final, long-term vision for California Avenue? • Is there a finalized conceptual plan or visual rendering of the completed district? • If construction began tomorrow, what would the total project cost be? • What specific infrastructure improvements have received final approval and funding? • How much public funding has been spent on consultants versus direct district improvements? • Which improvements are realistically expected to be completed by the end of 2026? • What measurable performance benchmarks is the City using to evaluate success or failure? • Has the City established objective targets related to sales tax performance, vacancy reduction, public safety metrics, or business retention? Businesses, residents, and taxpayers deserve far greater transparency regarding project scope, cost, priorities, measurable outcomes, and long-term accountability. This issue is particularly important given the City’s ongoing fiscal constraints and competing infrastructure obligations. At a time when the City faces difficult budget decisions, long-term expenditures on an unresolved and continuously evolving streetscape experiment deserve serious scrutiny. Businesses have also consistently requested a comprehensive and professionally designed wayfinding program. Entrances from El Camino Real continue to lack clear directional signage and visibility improvements that support customer access and district connectivity. At the same time, California Avenue is entering a period of significant growth and increased density with nearby redevelopment projects, including 490 California Avenue, 414 California Avenue, and the Mollie Stone’s redevelopment site. These projects will reshape traffic patterns, parking demand, pedestrian activity, and customer circulation throughout the district. Given these upcoming changes, permanently locking the district into its current configuration before broader redevelopment impacts are fully understood would be premature and imprudent. Parklets and Infrastructure Concerns Outdoor dining has long been an important and successful component of California Avenue. Importantly, outdoor dining existed successfully prior to the full street closure and can continue to exist alongside limited vehicle circulation. However, significant operational and infrastructure questions regarding permanent parklets remain unresolved, including: • How many businesses will actually commit to the proposed parklet program? • How will the existing gas main along the south side of California Avenue affect parklet placement? • Is there a finalized construction cost estimate for approved parklet designs? • Will utility connections be permitted within parklets? • What ADA compliance requirements will apply? • What long-term maintenance obligations will businesses assume? Some businesses may simply lack the financial capacity to construct and maintain permanent parklets at the level necessary to preserve a cohesive and attractive district appearance. Restaurant operators continue to express concerns regarding permit costs, annual fees, construction expenses, utility requirements, and long-term maintenance liabilities. Additional district-wide infrastructure concerns — including alley lighting, cleanliness, pedestrian access, landscaping and public safety conditions — also remain insufficiently addressed. Economic Sustainability and Business Impacts Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, California Avenue functioned as a universally accessible and economically active neighborhood business district. Businesses chose California Avenue because of its visibility, accessibility, parking convenience, and consistent customer activity. Today, merchants report ongoing concerns related to: • declining visibility, • reduced customer accessibility, • operational challenges, • declining convenience for customers, and • increasing financial pressure. The City should also provide transparent economic performance data evaluating the long-term impacts of the current configuration, including: • district sales tax trends before and after the closure, • commercial vacancy rates, • business turnover rates, • pedestrian activity trends, • retail occupancy patterns, and • comparative economic performance relative to other Palo Alto business districts. If the current configuration has produced measurable economic benefits, the City should publicly demonstrate those outcomes using objective performance metrics. If economic performance has stagnated or declined relative to comparable districts, those realities should also be acknowledged as part of an honest public evaluation. Some of the businesses on California Avenue now effectively operate at the end of a disconnected corridor with reduced exposure to surrounding traffic flow. At the same time, businesses continue to face rising operating costs, labor pressures, and long-term lease obligations. The City should not underestimate the cumulative burden these conditions place on small businesses already operating within an increasingly unfavorable economic environment. California Avenue businesses remain an important source of local employment, neighborhood services, economic activity, and sales tax revenue. Supporting a healthier and more accessible commercial environment is therefore not simply a business concern — it is a broader economic sustainability issue for the City itself. A More Balanced Approach A growing number of merchants support reopening California Avenue to limited vehicle access while preserving the strongest aspects of the pedestrian improvements and outdoor dining program. The goal should be balance: • maintaining vibrancy, • supporting pedestrian activity, • improving public safety, • preserving outdoor dining, • restoring accessibility and visibility, • improving circulation, and • reducing conflicts between pedestrians and regional bicycle through-traffic. The district must function successfully for the entire community — not only for a narrow subset of users or business types. The current configuration increasingly asks businesses, residents, and visitors to absorb significant operational and accessibility burdens without clear evidence that the broader public benefits justify those costs. Alternative Circulation Proposal A practical and lower-cost alternative to permanent full closure would be restoring California Avenue to limited one-way, single-lane vehicle access between El Camino Real and Birch Street while preserving outdoor dining and pedestrian-oriented improvements. The existing two-way configuration between Birch Street and the Caltrain station could remain unchanged. Vehicle circulation could operate as a low-speed shared street environment with clearly designated pedestrian priority areas, ADA parking, loading zones, and restricted delivery access where appropriate. An alternative option would be restoring the pre-2020 two-way circulation pattern while continuing to allow outdoor dining parklets consistent with other commercial districts throughout Palo Alto. A revised circulation plan could include: • California Avenue operating as a limited one-way corridor between El Camino Real and Birch Street; • Sherman Avenue functioning as a one-way entrance toward Park Boulevard; • Cambridge Avenue functioning as a one-way exit toward El Camino Real; and • higher-volume regional bicycle through-traffic redirected toward the Cambridge Avenue bicycle corridor. This approach would: • improve emergency access, • restore business accessibility, • improve circulation, • reduce pedestrian conflicts, • maintain bicycle connectivity, • preserve outdoor dining, and • create a safer, more balanced, and more functional district for all users. Conclusion California Avenue remains one of Palo Alto’s most important neighborhood commercial districts and continues to hold substantial long-term potential. However, after six years, the City must acknowledge that the current closure model has not delivered the balanced, accessible, and economically sustainable district that was originally envisioned and promised. This proposal does not seek to eliminate outdoor dining or pedestrian-friendly improvements. It seeks a more practical and accountable approach grounded in public safety, accessibility, fiscal responsibility, and long-term economic sustainability. At some point, good intentions must be measured against actual results. After six years, it is both reasonable and responsible to reevaluate the current configuration based on measurable public safety, accessibility, economic, and fiscal realities. Reopening California Avenue to limited vehicle access while preserving the most successful pedestrian-oriented elements represents a practical, balanced, and achievable path forward for the district and the broader Palo Alto community. We appreciate you keeping and open mind. Michael & Lara Ekwall La Bodeguita del Medio #Since1997 OUTDOOR ACTIVATION PRE -APPROVED PARKLET PLANS PUBLIC SPACE WITH BICYCLES Car Free California Avenue Bruce Fukuji, AIA AICP Project Manager June 1, 2026 www.paloalto.gov Agenda •Outreach •Outdoor Activation •Pre-Approved Parklets •Public Space with Bicycles •Next Steps •Recommendation 2 Key Steps Q3 ’25 Q4 ’25 Q1 ’26 Q2 ’26 Requirements & guidance Street layout & areas Parklet standards & options ARB ad hoc meetings June ARB & Outreach Process ARB, Econ Development, City Council Action & opportunities for public comment 3 Merchant Engagement Outreach 4 Stakeholder Engagement August 2025 – May 2026 14 Merchant Meetings •Monthly & Individual •Permit Requirements •Outdoor Dining Standards •Parklets •On-Site 12 Committee and Board Meetings •Economic Development Committee •Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee •Architectural Review Board •ARB Ad Hoc subcommittee 6 Community Conversations •Thursday Live •Farmers Market (70 + residents) •Earth Day (30 + residents) •Evergreen Park •Neighborhood Residents 5 Stakeholder Meetings •Stanford Research Park •Urban Village Farmers Market •Vista Center for Blind & Visually Impaired Outdoor Activation – Precedents & Adaptations Evvia Estiatorio Meyhouse The Barrel Bistro & Wine Bar Sun Wind & Rain ARB Recommendations •Maintain storefront visibility •Light & transparent •Minimal enclosure/massing •Open to sidewalk •Operable weather protection retracted when not in use 5 Outdoor Seating Analysis 6 5,106 5,168 4,656 5,596 7,514 5,482 6,759 7,771 - 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 2024 2025 2026 Activation 2026 Activation with Encroachments Sidewalks Roadway 12,620 SF 10,650 SF 11,415 SF 13,367 SF Key Findings •Activation enables equivalent or greater than current outdoor seating area •19 of 20 restaurants can locate a pre -approved parklet in front of their storefront •400 SF tent area will decrease with 350 SF max parklet sizes (max 2 per business) and setbacks Pre-Approved Parklets Adapted for Cal Ave 7 Cabana Pergola Public Space Concept - West 8 Outdoor Dining Setback Gas line Café Seating Pre-approved Parklet Bike parking Design Features •Use of thermoplastic texture for pedestrian areas to deter bikes and speeding •No standard bicycle markings; curves to reduce speeds •Universal design – tactile directional indicators in roadway Public Space Concept with Bikes- East 9 Outdoor Dining Setback Gas line Café Seating Pre-approved Parklet Bike parking Ash Street Next Steps June 1, 2026 : Council consideration and action on Outdoor Activation August 2026 :Second reading Council on Sign Ordinance Q3-Q4 2026 : Expedite repaving procurement if feasible, finalize construction schedule, coordinate with merchants, complete repaving, and advance parklet improvements (depending on the weather) FY 2027: Refine public space design, specifications, bidding & installation; removal of sidewalk barriers 10 Recommendation Staff recommends that the City Council: 1. Approve the Outdoor Activation Standards and encroachment permit requirements for the car-free portion of California Avenue as documented in Attachment A. 2. Approve the Pre -approved Parklet Plans with standardized parklet designs for California Avenue summarized in Attachment B. 3. FIRST READING : An ordinance amending the Sign Code (PAMC section 16.20.160) to allow parklet permittees to post certain types of parklet signs in compliance with the Outdoor Activation permit standards in lieu of the Sign Code’s default review process; Attachment C. 4. Approve the proposed public space design concept outlined in Attachment D. 11