19.21.050 - Driveway and access standards.

A.

General. All lots shall have adequate vehicular access from a dedicated and improved street or service road to permit unimpeded movement of goods and people. Visibility on streets and intersections shall not be blocked by signs, trees, hedges, fences, walls, or structures. Directional signs and graphics may be used to promote public safety and convenience.

B.

Driveways.

1.

Driveways shall not be located where they would impede traffic on streets or through intersections.

2.

Driveways and aisles shall be maintained unobstructed at all times.

3.

The minimum driveway width shall be twelve feet per lane for a one-way driveway and twenty-four feet for a two-way driveway.

C.

Aprons. Each garage shall have an adequate paved area in front of the garage (apron) for maneuvering. The minimum paved apron width shall be twenty-four feet.

D.

Emergency Access.

1.

Dedicated fire lanes to serve as access for fire vehicles and emergency apparatus from a public street shall be provided as set forth below and shall be posted as a fire lane:

a.

If any structure is fifty feet from a right-of-way and more than thirty feet high; or

b.

If any structure is one hundred fifty feet from a right-of-way and 30 feet high or less; or

c.

If the structure or use is commonly associated with a fire or explosion hazard; or

d.

If the structure or use attracts a large congregation of people, as determined by the fire department.

2.

Fire lanes must be at least twenty-six feet wide. An alley can serve as a fire lane if it meets the requirements. Likewise, an appropriately designed buffer strip unobstructed by landscaping or structures, can serve as a fire lane.

3.

Projects with other characteristics, such as distance from the nearest fire hydrant, site design, etc., which inhibit fire control may require provision of a fire lane at the discretion of the community development director.

4.

Alternative means of fire control may be provided, subject to the approval of the Fire Prevention Bureau of Los Angeles County Fire Department.

(Ord. 544 § 1(part), 2000).