18.31.315 About the transparency standards.
All block-frontage designations contain distinct minimum facade transparency standards. The purpose of these standards is to help maintain visibility for public safety, create welcoming pedestrian-oriented streets, and facilitate a viable and attractive business environment. Table 18.31.315 below includes details in how transparency standards are measured.
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Transparency Zones by Building and Frontage Type |
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Storefront 
The transparency zone is on the ground floor between 30 inches and 10 feet above sidewalk grade. |
Ground Floor Nonresidential and Nonstorefront 
The transparency zone is between 30 inches and 8 feet above grade. |
Residential Buildings and Residential Portions of Mixed-Use Buildings 
All vertical surfaces of the facade are used in the calculations. |
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Other Transparency Provisions |
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Windows shall be transparent Ground level window area for storefronts and other nonresidential uses that is mirrored, reflectively, darkly tinted, covered, frosted, or perforated in any manner that obscures visibility into the building shall not count as transparent window area. Exception: Window signs conforming with CMC 18.55.260 may be counted as transparent window area provided the areas generally around the sign are transparent. |
Unacceptable: Frosted glass obscuring view into storefront. |
Unacceptable: Window sign covering transparency zone. |
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Display windows Display windows may be used for up to 50 percent of nonresidential transparency requirements provided they are at least 30 inches deep and allow changeable displays. Tack-on display cases as in the right example do not qualify as transparent window area. |
Acceptable: Integrated display windows. |
Unacceptable: Tack-on display cases. |
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Structured parking facilities Where structured parking facilities occupy a portion of the facade, any openings simulating windows may be used to help comply with transparency requirements. |
Parking garage with windows. |
Parking garage without windows. |
(Ord. 08-21 § 3 (Exh. B))