HomeMy WebLinkAboutTPM14-0004_IS-MND_FinalBUTTE COUNTY ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Butte County has
prepared an Initial Study and is considering the adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration for
the project listed below at a public hearing before the Butte County Zoning Administrator to be
held on September 24, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. in the Butte County Department of Development
Services, 7 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA.
Project Information
Project: TPM14-0004 – Gage Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map
Location: The project site is located at 1387 Vista La Mesa Drive, off Canyon Rim Place,
approximately 2 mile east on Skyway from the City of Chico; Township 21N, Range 2E, Section 3;
MDB&M.
APN: 017-270-015/017-270-016
Proposal: The applicant is requesting to subdivide two existing parcels totaling 11.32 acres into
three lots; 2.61 acres (Parcel 1), 6.28 acres (Parcel 2) and 2.43 acres (Parcel 3) in size. The General
Plan land use designations of the project site are VLDR (Very Low Density Residential); MDR
(Medium Density Residential). The project site is zoned VLDCR (Very Low Density Country
Residential) and MDR.
The Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) and reference documents for this
project are on file for public review and comment starting August 21, 2014 through September
19, 2014, at the Butte County Planning Division, 7 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA. The
IS/MND is also available for review on the County website at www.buttecounty.net/dds. All
persons are invited to review the documents. Comments may be submitted in writing to the
Planning Division at the above address at any time prior to the hearing or orally at the public
hearing listed above, or as may be continued to a later date. If you challenge the above
application in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised
at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the Zoning Administrator at, or
prior to, the public hearing.
The above mentioned application is on file and available for public viewing at the office of the, 7
County Center Drive, Oroville, CA. For information call or send an email to Rowland Hickel,
Senior Planner, Butte County Development Services Department, Planning Division at (530)
538-7150 or rhickel@buttecounty.net.
Tim Snellings, Director of Development Services
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TPM14-0004APN:017-240-015 & -016Chrysler, Gage1:24,000
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®VICINITY MAP
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
BUTTE COUNTY
INITIAL STUDY AND
PROPOSED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP TPM 14-0004 (Chrysler)
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 1 of 45 ■
COUNTY OF BUTTE
DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
FOR
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP TPM14-0004 (Chrysler)
1.0 PROJECT INFORMATION
A. Applicant/Owner: Gage Chrysler (Applicant) / Gage and Christine Chrysler (Owners)
B. Staff Contact: Rowland Hickel, Senior Planner; (530) 538-7150, rhickel@buttecounty.net
C. Project Name: TPM14-0004; Chrysler, Gage and Christine TPM
D. Project Location: The project site is located at 1387 Vista La Mesa Drive, off Canyon Rim Place,
approximately 2 mile east on Skyway from the City of Chico; Township 21N, Range 2E, Section 3; MDB&M.
E. Type of Application: Tentative Parcel Map
F. Assessor Parcel Number: 017-270-015 & 017-270-016
G. Project Site Size: 11.32± acres
H. Current Zoning: VLDCR (Very Low Density Country Residential); MDR (Medium Density Residential)
I. General Plan Designation: VLDR (Very Low Density Residential); MDR (Medium Density Residential)
J. Environmental Setting:
The project site includes two separate parcels encompassing 11.32 acres. Assessor Parcel Number 017-
270-015 is identified as a separate legal parcel that totals approximately 8.0 acres. Assessor Parcel Number
017-270-016 is identified as the second legal parcel, and totals approximately 3.32 acres. The project site
is situated on the southern ridge over Butte Creek Canyon, with an elevation that ranges between 280 feet
and 480 feet. The grade on the majority of the site is primarily level with a downhill gradient between 1 to
5 percent towards the northwest. However, the northern portion of the project site has slopes between 30 to
50+ percent where the elevation drops to the Butte Creek Canyon floor. The Skansen Subdivision is
located along the eastern boundary line of the project site. Skyway boarders the southern boundary line.
Canyon Rim Place boarders the southwest boundary line.
The project site is primarily vacant, except for an existing pole sign situated on the southwest corner of the
property, at the intersection of Skyway and Canyon Rim Place. The project site also has asphalt paving
along Vista La Mesa Drive, which enters the project site 500 feet from Canyon Rim Place. Another paved
area, encompassing approximately ½ acre, is located near the center of the project site. Two building
permits for single-family residences have been issued for the property, and are currently in the process of
being constructed. Water services to the proposed residences would be provided by the Gran Mutual Water
Company. Wastewater disposal services to the residences would be provided by the Skansen Sewage Pond
System (County Service Area 21, Zone 1). Access to the residences is provided by a shared driveway from
Rim Rock Road. The driveway is approximately 16 feet wide, paved, and has a hammerhead turnaround at the
terminus of the driveway.
Habitat areas on the project site are classified as Annual Grassland and Oak Woodland in the Butte County
General Plan. Approximately 5.64 acres is classified as Annual Grassland. Approximately 6.1 acres is
classified as Oak Woodland.
K. Surrounding Land Uses:
The area surrounding the project site primarily includes single-family residences on 2 to 3 acre lots to the
west, and single-family residences on ½ acre lots to the east. Rural ranchettes are situated to the north, on
the Butte Creek Canyon floor. Agricultural grazing lands are located to the south. Public rights-of-way in
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 2 of 45 ■
the vicinity of the project site include Skyway (County) to the south, Rim Rock Drive (Private) to the east,
and Canyon Rim Place (Private) to the west.
Direction General Plan Designation Zoning Existing Land Use(s)
North Foothill Residential FR-5 Residential/Agricultural
South Agriculture AG-40 Grazing
East Medium Density Residential MDR Residential
West Very Low Density Residential VLDCR Residential
L. Project Description:
The applicant is requesting to subdivide two existing parcels totaling 11.32 acres into three lots; 2.61 acres
(Parcel 1), 6.28 acres (Parcel 2) and 2.43 acres (Parcel 3) in size. The existing single-family residences
currently under construction would be situated on separate lots, with one residence located on Parcel 2, and one
residence located on Parcel 3. Approved access to Parcel 1 and Parcel 2 would be provided by direct
connections to Canyon Rim Place. Approved access to Parcel 3 would be provided by direct connection to Rim
Rock Drive. No on-site or off-site improvements are proposed.
Subdivision of the project site would create one additional developable lot situated in the VLDCR and MDR
zone districts. The Very Low Density Country Residential zoning designation allows for the development of
single-family homes, small residential care homes, second units, animal grazing, on-site agricultural product
sales, and private stables. The VLDCR zone also conditionally allows semi-private stables, animal keeping,
and major home occupations. The Medium Density Residential zoning designation allows single-family
residential homes, duplex homes, and second units. The MDR zone also conditionally allows public and quasi-
public uses, park and recreational facilities, personal services, medical offices and clinics, and general retail
uses.
Domestic water for future development on the resultant parcels would be provided by the Gran Mutual Water
Company. Waste water disposal for future development would be provided by the Skansen Community Sewer
System.
M. Public Agency Approvals:
Butte County Department of Development Services
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 3 of 45 ■
Figure 1 – Project Location Map
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 4 of 45 ■
Figure 2 – Proposed Tentative Parcel Map
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 6 of 45 ■
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts:
1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the
information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is
adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to
projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should
be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not
expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific screening analysis).
2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as
well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts.
3) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then, the checklist answers
must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than
significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be
significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an
EIR is required.
4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of
mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less Than Significant
Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect
to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-
referenced).
5) Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has
been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a
brief discussion should identify the following:
a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review.
b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of
and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether
such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis.
c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated,"
describe the mitigation measures, which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the
extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project.
6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential
impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document
should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated.
7) Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals
contacted should be cited in the discussion.
8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should
normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in
whatever format is selected.
9) The explanation of each issue should identify:
a) The significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and
b) The mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 7 of 45 ■
4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
4.1 Aesthetic/Visual Resources:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
b. Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but
not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic
buildings within a state scenic highway?
c. Substantially degrade the existing visual character or
quality of the site and its surroundings?
d. Create a new source of substantial light or glare
which would adversely affect day or nighttime views
in the area?
Setting:
The project site is characterized as large-lot, single-family residential parcels, situated in the foothill region of Butte
County, approximately 2 miles east from the city of Chico, along Skyway towards the town of Paradise.
The foothill region of County forms a transitional area between the valley floor on the west and the mountains on
the east, and consists of elevations from about 200 to 2,100 feet above mean sea level. Foothill oak and woodland,
intermixed with chaparral, forms a transitional region between the valley grasslands and the mountain forests. In
visual terms, the foothill form a distinct and highly attractive landscape with topography and vegetation that is more
varied than the valley.
The visual character of the foothills is also less open than the valley, although viewpoints within the foothill area
provide sweeping panoramas of the valley area and beyond. The rolling topography is frequently punctuated by
distinctive clusters of oaks or landforms such as Table Mountain. In the spring, a unique and spectacular wildflower
display occurs in this area after vernal pools have dried. The foothills also contain views of rivers, creeks, and
ravines (Butte County General Plan 2030 Draft EIR).
The project site is situated above and south of Butte Creek Canyon. Butte Creek Canyon is identified in the General
Plan as a land-based scenic resource that provides views for residents and the general public of topographic and
geologic features from along the Skyway corridor (Figure COS-7, Butte County General Plan 2030).
The Butte County General Plan includes Goal COS-17 that would “Maintain and enhance the quality of Butte
County’s Scenic and visual resources.” This Goal includes two policies: COS-P17.1 and COS-P17.2. COS-P17.1
establishes that “Views of Butte County’s scenic resources, including water features, unique geologic features and
wildlife habitat areas, shall be maintained.” Policy COS-P17.2 establishes that “Ridgeline development near scenic
resources be limited via the adoption of specific development guidelines in order to minimize visual impacts.” As
an implementation action to COS-P17.2, COS-A17.1 establishes that the County will “Adopt development
guidelines that mitigate the impacts of ridgeline development near scenic resources.” However, to date, guidelines
for ridgeline development has not been adopted by the County.
The Skyway is located in a Scenic Highway Overlay Zone. This Zone is applied to an area that extends 350 linear
feet out from the centerline of the roadway. The Scenic Highway Overlay Zone establishes standards to preserve the
natural aesthetic qualities of areas visible from roadways designated as scenic highways by the State of California or
the Butte County Board of Supervisors. Development within this overlay zone is intended to feature high quality
architectural design, preserve views from the highway, and maintain existing topographic features on the site. In
certain cases, development within this overlay zone requiring approval of a Building Permit would also require the
approval of a Minor Use permit (Butte County Zoning Ordinance).
Impact Discussion:
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 8 of 45 ■
a.) Less than significant impact. Future development of the resultant parcels may include permitted and
conditionally-permitted uses allowed within the VLDCR and MDR zoning designations. Future
development of the resultant parcels may be visible from various vantage points from the valley and
foothill regions, which could adversely affect scenic vistas. Any potential development on the resultant
parcels would be consistent with the established visual character and density of the surrounding area. Due
to the low-density of the project, placement of additional residences will not significantly interfere with the
views of scenic vistas from adjacent residences and public right-of-ways. Therefore, the project would not
significantly affect a scenic vista nor have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect.
b.) Less than significant impact. No improvements are proposed that could result in the damage or
degradation of existing features on or near the project site. Subsequent development of the resultant parcels
is anticipated to be consistent with the rural character of the project site and surrounding area.
The project site is located along a County-designated scenic highway overlay zone, placing portions of the
project site within the zone. As a result, future development of resultant parcels may be subject to
additional discretionary action, in addition to any applicable building permits. Additionally, future
improvements, including utilities, fences, walls and signs would be subject to development standards
outlined in the Butte County Zoning Ordinance.
c.) Less than significant impact. The residential uses and the proposed density of the resultant parcels would
be consistent with the residential character and quality of the project site and surrounding area.
d.) Less than significant impact. Outdoor lighting for safety and security could potentially be added to future
structures on the resultant parcels. The proposed large-lot development would help minimize ordinary
nighttime lighting impacts to adjacent areas. Additionally, Article 14 of Butte County Zoning Code
requires that all outdoor lighting in residential areas be located, adequately shielded, and directed such that
no direct light falls outside the property perimeter, or into the public right-of-way. As a result, the
proposed project would not create new sources of substantial lighting or glare that would generate a
significant impact.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.2 Agriculture Resources:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural
use?
b. Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or
a Williamson Act Contract?
c. Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning
of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code
section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public
Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by Government
Code section 51104(g))?
d. Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non-forest use?
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 9 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
e. Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or
conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
Setting:
The project site is vacant land situated in the VLDCR and MDR zone districts. The Land Use Element Map of the
Butte County General Plan designates the project site as Very Low Density Residential (VLDR) and Medium
Density Residential (MDR). These land use designations is primarily for single-family homes on lots sizes with a
minimum parcel size of 1 acre and 6,000 square feet, respectively. The VLDCR zone also allows for some limited
agricultural uses including crop cultivation, animal grazing, private stables, animal services, as well as roadside
stands for the sale of agricultural products grown on the property.
Important Farmland
To characterize the environmental baseline for agricultural resources, Important Farmland Maps produced by the
California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) were reviewed.
Important Farmland maps show categories of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique
Farmland, Farmland of Local Importance (if adopted by the county), Grazing Land, Urban and Built-up Land, Other
Land, and Water. Prime Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance map categories are based on qualifying
soil types, as determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS), as well as current land use. These map categories are defined by the Department of Conservation’s FMMP
as follows:
Prime Farmland: Land which has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for the
production of crops. It has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce
sustained high yields of crops when treated and managed, including water management, according to
current farming methods.
Farmland of Statewide Importance: Land that is similar to Prime Farmland but with minor
shortcomings, such as greater slopes or less ability to hold and store moisture.
Unique Farmland: Land of lesser quality soils used for the production of specific high economic value
crops. It has the special combination of soil quality, location, growing season, and moisture supply needed
to produce sustained high quality or high yields of a specific crop when treated and managed according to
current farming methods. It is usually irrigated, but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards as
found in some climatic zones in California. Examples of crops include oranges, olives, avocados, rice,
grapes, and cut flowers.
Farmland of Local Importance: Land of importance to the local agricultural economy, as determined by
each county’s board of supervisors and local advisory committees. Examples include dairies, dryland
farming, aquaculture, and uncultivated areas with soils qualifying for Prime Farmland and Farmland of
Statewide Importance. Butte County has not adopted a definition of Farmland of Local Importance.
Grazing Land: Land on which the existing vegetation, whether grown naturally or through management,
is suitable for grazing or browsing of livestock.
Urban and Built-up Land: Land used for residential, industrial, commercial, construction, institutional,
public administrative purpose, railroad yards, cemeteries, airports, golf courses, sanitary landfills, sewage
treatment plants, water control structures, and other development purposes. Highways, railroads, and other
transportation facilities are also included in this category.
Other Land: Land not included in any other mapping category. Common examples include low density
rural developments; brush, timber, wetland, and riparian areas not suitable for livestock grazing; confined
livestock, poultry or aquaculture facilities; strip mines, borrow pits; and water bodies smaller than forty
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 10 of 45 ■
acres. Vacant and nonagricultural land surrounded on all sides by urban development and greater than 40
acres is mapped as Other Land.
Water: Water areas with an extent of at least 40 acres.
The project site is identified as containing lands classified as Other Land. Areas surrounding the project site include
Grazing Land to the south and north, and Urban and Built-up Land to the east.
Williamson Act
The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, commonly known as the Williamson Act, was established based on
numerous State legislative findings regarding the importance of agricultural lands in an urbanizing society. Policies
emanating from those findings include those that discourage premature and unnecessary conversion of agricultural
land to urban uses and discourage discontinuous urban development patterns, which unnecessarily increase the costs
of community services to community residents. The Williamson Act authorizes each County to establish an
agricultural preserve. Land that is within the agricultural preserve is eligible to be placed under a contract between
the property owner and County that would restrict the use of the land to agriculture in exchange for a tax assessment
that is based on the yearly production yield. The contracts have a 9-year term that is automatically renewed each
year, unless the property owner or county requests a non-renewal or the contract is cancelled. The project site and
surrounding areas are not encumbered by a Williamson Act contract.
Agricultural Buffer Guidelines
The Butte County Zoning Ordinance (Section 24-81 et seq.) requires a 300-foot buffer between agricultural and non-
agricultural uses on agriculturally zoned lands. To implement this requirement, and to provide guidance regarding
requests for a determination of unusual circumstances, Butte County has prepared Agricultural/Residential Buffer
Implementation Guidelines. The buffer must physically separate agricultural and residential uses to help minimize
potential conflicts. The County may make a determination of unusual circumstances based on criteria outlined in
the Guidelines, in which case the buffer may take other forms or be of a lesser distance.
Impact Discussion:
a.) No Impact. The project site is not designated as Important Farmland in the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the conversion of Important
Farmland to a non-agricultural use.
b.) No impact. The project site is zoned primarily for residential uses. The VLDCR zone also allows for
agricultural uses including crop cultivation, animal grazing, private stables, and other, limited, agricultural-
type uses. The MDR zone does not allow any agricultural-type uses. The proposed project would not
result in a change to the current zoning designation of the property, and the portions of the project site
situated in the VLDCR zone would continue to allow for limited agricultural uses. The project site is not
restricted by a Williamson Act contract.
c.) No impact. The project site is not located in a timber resource zoning category such as Timber Mountain
(TM), Timber Production (TPZ), or Resource Conservation (RC). The project site is also not classified as
forest land, pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 12220(g), because the project site cannot
support 10 percent native tree cover. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with, or cause the
rezoning of, a timber resource zoning designation.
d.) No impact. The project site is not classified as forest land, and therefore, the proposed project would not
result in loss or conversion of forest land to a non-forest use.
e.) No impact. No State-designated Farmlands are located in the vicinity of the project site, which could result
in its conversion from activities associated with the proposed project. The proposed project could
ultimately facilitate the development of single-family homes on the resultant parcels. Future residential
development on the resultant parcels would be subject to the County’s Agricultural Buffer Guidelines to
ensure that residential uses are setback a sufficient distance from adjacent agricultural land to minimize
significant impacts to the area’s agricultural operations.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 11 of 45 ■
4.3 Air Quality:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
b. Violate any air quality standard or contribute
substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation?
c. Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any
criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-
attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient
air quality standard (including releasing emissions which
exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)?
d. Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations?
e. Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial
number of people?
Setting:
The proposed project is located in the Northern Sacramento Valley Air Basin (NSVAB). The NSVAB is bounded on
the north by the Cascade Range, on the south by the Greater Sacramento Air Region and San Joaquin Valley Air
Basin, on the east by the Sierra Nevada, and on the west by the Coast Range. High temperatures and low humidity,
with prevailing winds from the south, characterize summer conditions. Occasional rainstorms, interspersed with
stagnant and sometimes foggy weather, characterize winter conditions. Southern winds continue to predominate
during the winter. Two types of inversion occur in the NSVAB: 1) during the summer sinking air forms a lid over
the region contributing to photochemical smog and 2) air cools next to the ground while air aloft remains warm
causing poor dispersion of ground level pollutant emissions.
The region’s air pollution management is guided by the Basin’s 2003 Air Quality Attainment Plan and includes a
number of feasible control measures. Butte County, under the auspices of the Butte County Air Quality
Management District (BCAQMD), has adopted some, but not all, of these measures.
The NSVAB is subject to federal, state, and local regulations. The NSVAB is designated nonattainment for PM10,
(particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter), PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter)
and ozone (ROG and NOX), by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB).
The CARB prepares and submits to the EPA a State Implementation Plan explaining how the state will attain
compliance with Federal clean air standards. The NSVAB adopted an updated Air Quality Attainment Plan in 2004
as its component of the State Implementation Plan. Among other policies, the Air Quality Attainment Plan called
for the preparation and implementation of Indirect Source Review Guidelines (Guidelines). The intent of the
Guidelines is to facilitate incorporation of features and mitigations early in the planning process, rather than later
during the formal environmental review process when it may be too late or too expensive to incorporate the
District’s recommended mitigation measures.
The BCAQMD also released the CEQA Air Quality Handbook: Guidelines for Assessing Air Quality Impacts for
projects subject to CEQA Review (CEQA Handbook), which was approved January 24, 2008 (a revised version is
currently under preparation). The document establishes thresholds of significance for projects based on project size
and/or projected emissions. The thresholds were analyzed for conformance with CEQA Guidelines §15382. The
districts four categories of evaluation are:
1. Comparison of calculated project emissions to the Districts emission thresholds;
2. Consistency with the most recent Air Quality Attainment Plan (AQAP) for Butte County;
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 12 of 45 ■
3. Comparison of predicted ambient pollutant concentrations resulting from the project to State and Federal
health standards, where applicable; and
4. The evaluation of special conditions which apply to certain projects, such as public exposure to toxic air
contaminants.
Table 4.3-1, below, lists the thresholds of significant for critical pollutants of concern, and the environmental
document type, as determined by the CEQA Air Quality Handbook provided by the BCAQMD.
Table 4.3-1: Thresholds of Significance for Critical Pollutants of Concern
Pollutant Level A Level B Level C
NOx ≤25 lbs/day >25 lbs/day >137 lbs/day
ROG ≤25 lbs/day >25 lbs/day >137 lbs/day
PM10 ≤80 lbs/day >80 lbs/day >137 lbs/day
Level of Significance Potentially Significant
impacts
Potentially Significant
Impacts Significant Impacts
Environmental Document Mitigated Negative
Declaration (MND) or ND Mitigated ND or EIR EIR
Source: Table 2.1 of the BCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. A project is deemed inconsistent with air quality plans if it would result in
population and/or employment growth that exceeds growth estimates included in the applicable air quality
plan, which, in turn, would generate emission not accounted for in the applicable air quality plan emissions
budget. Therefore, proposed projects need to be evaluated to determine whether they would generate
population and employment growth and, if so, whether that growth would exceed the growth rates included
in the relevant air plans.
The proposed project could result in minor population growth the county. However, the proposed project is
consistent with the established zoning, and population growth to the area has already been anticipated for.
Additionally, Table 4.3-1 (Thresholds of Significance for Critical Pollutants of Concern) lists the
established thresholds based on land use, corresponding to the Level A, B, and C pollutant levels. The
threshold for a single family residential project is 120 units. This project has the potential for only a minor
amount of new residential units, resulting in a “Level A” threshold of significance. Standard mitigation
measures guidelines for “Level A” are in Section 5 of the CEQA Handbook. Due to the limited population
growth created by the proposed project, and the project’s consistency with established zoning, the project
will not conflict with or obstruct the air quality plan.
b.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. The proposed project has the potential to
impact air quality primarily in two ways: (1) the project would generate mobile source emissions associated
with future development on the resultant parcels, and (2) fugitive dust (particulate/PM10) and construction
exhaust emissions would be generated during construction activities associated with future development on
the resultant parcels.
Mobile source emissions are produced from motor vehicles, and include tailpipe and evaporative emissions.
No development is proposed with this project; however, future development of the resultant parcels has the
potential to generate additional motor vehicle trips. Emissions generated from potential on-road vehicles
are not expected to be substantial, and would not significantly violate existing air quality standards, because
only a limited amount development would occur over the project site.
Construction-related emissions are generally created throughout the course of project implementation and
parcel development, and would originate from construction equipment exhaust, employee vehicle exhaust,
dust from grading the land, exposed soil eroded by wind, and ROGs from architectural coating and asphalt
paving. Construction-related emissions would vary substantially depending on the level of activity, length
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of the construction period, specific construction operations, types of equipment, number of personnel, wind
and precipitation conditions, and soil moisture content. Despite this variability in project site conditions,
experience has shown that there are a number of feasible control measures that can be reasonably
implemented to significantly reduce fugitive dust emissions from construction activities to a less than
significant level.
No construction activities would be performed during project implementation. However, future
development of the resultant parcels would generate fugitive dust emission during construction activities.
To ensure effective and comprehensive control measures for fugitive dust emission are implemented during
future construction activities, Mitigation Measure #1, listed below, is recommended.
The primary construction exhaust emissions generated by diesel-powered heavy equipment during
construction activities include Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). When
these emissions interact with sunlight in the atmosphere, they tend to break-down forming ozone or
photochemical smog, and are known as ozone precursor emissions. The proposed project is expected to
generate additional NOx and VOCs during future construction activities. However, adherence to CARB
rules for off-road vehicle emission control would ensure that the emissions generated by construction
activities would be less than significant.
c.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Based on the information provided in section
b.), above, the proposed project would not result in the violation of any air quality standards or contribute
substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation, except for potential fugitive dust emission during
construction activities.
Fugitive dust emissions generated during construction has the potential to contribute cumulatively to the
region’s non-attainment of PM10 and PM2.5 emissions. Implementation of Mitigation Measure #1 would
reduce potential cumulative fugitive dust emission impacts to a less than significant level.
d.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Several homes are located within ¼ mile of
the project site. Construction activities would generate emissions of criteria pollutants, including
suspended and inhalable particulate matter and equipment exhaust emissions. These emissions could
expose nearby sensitive receptors to pollutants concentrations.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure #1 would reduce impacts of construction-related fugitive dust
emissions. Additionally, because impacts related to equipment exhaust emissions would not exceed the
significance thresholds recommended by BCAPMD, and because construction activities of future
development would likely be short in duration, impacts to sensitive receptors would be less than significant.
e.) Less than significant impact. Future residential uses on the resultant parcels would not create
objectionable odors. However, future construction activities on the resultant parcels could include
objectionable odors from tailpipe diesel emissions and from solvents in adhesives, paints, caulking
materials, and new asphalt. Since odor impacts would be temporary and limited to the area adjacent to the
construction operations, and because the project site is located in a rural area of the county, odors would
not impact a substantial number of people for an extended period of time.
Mitigation Measure #1
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map
sheet that states: “Dust generated by the development activities shall be kept to a minimum and retained on-site.
Follow the air quality control measures listed below:
Control Dust
a. During clearing, grading, earth moving, excavation, or transportation of cut or fill materials, water trucks or
sprinkler systems are to be used to prevent dust from leaving the site and to create a crust after each day’s
activities cease.
b. During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement
damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site. At a minimum, this would include wetting down such areas
in the later morning and after work is completed for the day and whenever wind exceeds 15 miles per hour.
c. Soil stockpiled for more than two days shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust
generation.
d. On-site construction vehicles shall be limited to a speed of 15 mph on unpaved roads.
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e. Haul vehicles transporting soil into or out of the property shall be covered.
f. Existing roads and streets adjacent to the project shall be cleaned at least once per day if dirt or mud from the
project site has been tracked onto these roadways, unless conditions warrant a greater frequency.
g. Other measures may be required as determined appropriate by the BCAQMD or Department of Public Works in
order to control dust.
Post Contact Information
h. Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and person to contact regarding dust complaints. This
person shall respond and take corrective action within 24 hours. The telephone number of the Butte County Air
Quality Management District ((530) 332-9400) shall be visible to ensure compliance with BCAQMD Rule 200
& 205 (Nuisance and Fugitive Dust Emissions).
Other Construction Practices
i. Maintain all construction equipment in proper tune according to manufacturer’s specification.
j. Where feasible, give preference to utilizing the following equipment:
Electric equipment
Substitute gasoline-powered for diesel-powered equipment
Alternatively fueled construction equipment on site such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquid natural
gas (LNG), propane, or biodiesel.
Equipment that has Caterpillar pre-chamber diesel engines, as practical.
Diesel construction equipment meeting the CARB’s 1996 or newer certification standard for off-road
heavy-duty diesel engines.
k. Construction workers shall park in designated parking area(s) to help reduce dust emissions.”
Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the
map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans.
Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods.
Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall
ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an
additional map sheet. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. Butte County Air
Pollution Control District inspectors shall respond to nuisance complaints.
4.4 Biological Resources:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or
through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status
species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies,
regulations or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally
protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 or the
Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh,
vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption, or other means)?
d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any
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Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
native resident or migratory fish and wildlife species
or with established native resident or migratory
wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife
nursery sites?
e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources such as a tree
preservation policy ordinance?
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation
Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
g. A reduction in the numbers, a restriction in the range,
or an impact to the critical habitat of any unique, rare,
threatened, or endangered species of animals?
h. A reduction in the diversity or numbers of animals
onsite (including mammals, birds, reptiles,
amphibians, fish or invertebrates)?
i. A deterioration of existing fish or wildlife habitat (for
foraging, breeding, roosting, nesting, etc.)?
j. Introduction of barriers to movement of any resident
or migratory fish or wildlife species?
k. Introduction of any factors (light, fencing, noise,
human presence and/or domestic animals) which could
hinder the normal activities of wildlife?
Setting:
The project site is located in the foothill region, situated between the City of Chico and the Town of Paradise, along
Skyway. The project site has a habitat type classified as Annual Grassland and Oak Woodland in the Butte County
General Plan. Approximately 5.64 acres is classified as Annual Grassland. Approximately 6.1 acres is classified as
Oak Woodland.
Annual Grassland
Annual grasslands are typically dominated by nonnative annual grasses with intermixed annual and perennial forbs,
including wild oat, ripgut brome, soft chess fescue, clover, wild mustard, and wild radish. This habitat is used by
many wildlife species for foraging. Some of these species may also breed in this habitat if special habitat features
such as cliffs, caves, ponds, or woody plants are available for breeding or resting or as escape cover. Reptiles that
breed in annual grassland habitats include western fence lizards, common garter snake, and western rattlesnakes.
Grasslands also provide foraging habitat for wide-ranging species such as red-tail hawk, turkey vulture, American
kestrel, and northern harrier. Mammals typically found in this habitat include California vole, western harvest
mouse, California ground squirrel, black-tailed jackrabbit, and coyote.
Oak Woodland
Oak woodlands provide important habitats because of their high value to wildlife in the form of nesting site, cover
and food. Birds associated with oak woodlands include acorn woodpeckers, Nuttall’s woodpeckers, western scrub
jay, yellow-billed magpie, and many warblers and flycatchers. Tree cavities provide important roosting habitat for
some species of bats. Oak woodlands provide nesting sites for raptors, such as red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered
hawks, and great horned owls. Mammals associated with woodlands include western gray squirrel, pallid bat,
bobcat, blacktail deer, and gray fox. Acorns are an important food source for species such as California quail, wild
turkey, western gray squirrel, and blacktail deer. This habitat type, including any rock cliffs in oak woodlands, may
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support special-status wildlife species such as the western spadefoot toad, golden eagle, Townsend’s big-eared bat,
and American peregrine falcon.
Jurisdictional Waters of the United States, including Wetlands
Waters of the United States (U.S.), including wetlands, are broadly defined to include navigable waterways, and
tributaries of navigable waterways, and adjacent wetlands. Although definitions vary to some degree, wetlands are
generally considered to be areas that are periodically or permanently inundated by surface water or groundwater,
supporting vegetation adapted to life in saturated soil. Jurisdictional wetlands are vegetated areas that meet specific
vegetation, soil, and hydrologic criteria defined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The USACE
holds sole authority to determine the jurisdictional status of waters of the U.S., including wetlands. Jurisdictional
wetlands and Waters of the U.S. include, but are not limited to, perennial and intermittent creeks and drainages,
lakes, seeps, and springs; emergent marshes; riparian wetlands; and seasonal wetlands. Wetland and waters of the
U.S. provide critical habitat components, such as nest sites and reliable source of water for a wide variety of wildlife
species.
Aquatic features on the project site include only ephemeral drainages. No formal delineation of jurisdictional waters
was performed for the project site; and the existing aquatic features of the project site are not expected to meet
USACE jurisdictional criteria due to the limited inputs of water, and the project’s site distance from area waterways
designated as Waters of the United States.
Special-Status Species
Many species of plants and animals within the State of California have low populations, limited distributions, or both.
Such species may be considered “rare” and are vulnerable to extirpation as the state’s human population grows and the
habitats these species occupy are converted to agricultural and urban uses. A sizable number of native species and
animals have been formally designated as threatened or endangered under State and Federal endangered species
legislation. Others have been designated as “Candidates” for such listing and the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife (CDFW) have designated others as “Species of Special Concern”. The California Native Plant Society (CNPS)
has developed its own lists of native plants considered rare, threatened or endangered. Collectively, these plants and
animals are referred to as “special status species.”
Various direct and indirect impacts to biological resources may result from the small amount of development enabled by
the project, including the loss and/or alteration of existing undeveloped open space that may serve as habitat. Increased
vehicle trips to and from the project site can result in wildlife mortality and disruption of movement patterns within and
through the project vicinity. Disturbances such as predation by pets (e.g., cats and dogs) and human residents may also
occur at the human/open space interface, while conversion of land from lower to higher density residential use can lead
to a predominance of various urban-adapted wildlife species (e.g., coyotes, raccoons, ravens and blackbirds) that have
been observed to displace more sensitive species.
California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15065 requires a mandatory finding of significance for
projects that have the potential to substantially degrade or reduce the habitat of a threatened or endangered species, and
to fully disclose and mitigate impacts to special status resources. For the purposes of this Initial Study, the California
Environmental Quality Act (Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code) defines mitigation as measure(s) that:
Avoids the impact altogether by not taking a certain action or parts of an action.
Minimizes impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the action and its implementation.
Rectifies the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the impacted environment.
Reduces or eliminates the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of
the project.
Compensates for the impact by replacing or providing substitute resources or environments.
The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) was reviewed to determine if any special-status species have
the potential to occur on the project site or in the vicinity. Table 4.4-2 lists the regulatory status and habitat
requirements for each special-status species identified within the Hamlin Canyon United States Geological Survey
Quadrangle, and the eight surrounding quadrangles.
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Table 4.4-2 Federal and State-Listed Species in the vicinity of the Project Site
Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status State Status CNPS List Habitat
Chamaesyce hooveri Hoover's spurge Threatened None 1B.2 Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Complexes,
Vernal Pool, Altered Vernal Pool
Fritillaria pluriflora adobe-lily None None 1B.2 Grassland, Oak Woodland & Savanna
Fritillaria eastwoodiae Butte County fritillary None None 3.2 Oak Woodland & Savanna
Limnanthes floccosa ssp. Californica Butte County meadowfoam Endangered Endangered 1B.1 Grassland, Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Swale
Complexes, Wetlands
Monardella douglasii ssp. venosa veiny monardella None None 1B.1 Grassland
Sidalcea robusta Butte County checkerbloom None None 1B.2 Grassland, Riparian, Oak Woodland &
Savanna
Tuctoria Greenei Greene's Tuctoria Endangered Rare 1B.1 Grassland, Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Swale
Complexes, Altered Vernal Pool
Desmocerus californicus dimorphus valley elderberry longhorn beetle Threatened None Grassland, Riparian
Lepidurus packardi vernal pool tadpole shrimp Endangered None Grassland w/ Vernal Pool Complexes,
Vernal Pool, Altered Vernal Pool
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha Central Valley Spring Chinook
Salmon
Threatened Threatened
Oncorhynchus Mykiss Central Valley Steelhead Threatened None
PLANTS
INVERTEBRATES
Source: California Natural Diversity Database Version 3.1.0 / Butte Regional Conservation Plan, December 2012 Draft
FISH
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. The project site contains habitats, such as annual grasslands and oak
woodlands that have the potential to support plant and invertebrates, considered as candidate, sensitive or
special status species by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and United States Fish and
Wildlife Service.
Historic use of the project site has resulted in habitat fragmentation, degradation of natural hydrology, and
the introduction of non-native species, which have diminished the overall habitat value of the vegetative
communities on the project site, and its ability to support special-status species. As a result, the limited
amount of development potential enabled by the proposed project would not significantly degrade or reduce
the existing habitat values on the project site that would cause significant impacts to sensitive species.
b.) No impact. The project site is not identified as containing riparian or other sensitive natural communities.
c.) No impact. A jurisdictional delineation of federal and state waters has not been made for this project. Though
the project site contains aquatic features such as ephemeral drainages, the limited inputs of water into these
areas would not create federally-recognized wetlands. Furthermore, future development on the resultant lots
would use site-specific erosion control and surface water protection practices to reduce sediment-laden runoff
into any area waterways. Application of these best management practices during construction activities would
ensure water quality impacts to area waterways are less than significant.
d.) No impact. No major migratory routes have been designated through the project site. The site may
facilitate home range and dispersal movement of resident wildlife species, but does not serve as a
designated wildlife movement corridor. Subsequent development of the resultant parcels would not restrict
regional wildlife movement or wildlife migration patterns primarily due to the large size of the parcels and
minimal development potential.
e.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. The project site contains oak woodland habitat.
Oak woodlands are a common habitat locally and regionally and is not considered by the Department of
Fish and Wildlife to be a sensitive natural community; however, native oak trees and woodland habitats are
declining statewide because of development and land management practices. For this reason, oak
woodlands should be considered sensitive because they provide importance for local resident wildlife and
are limited in extent compared with their historical distribution.
No tree removal is proposed with the project; however, future development on the resultant parcels may
necessitate removal of some trees. Due to the limited development potential of the parcel, any tree removal
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would be minor. To ensure that future building site development does not result in significant impacts to
existing oak trees located on the project site, Mitigation Measure #2 is recommended.
f.) No impact. The Butte Regional Conservation Plan (BRCP) is a joint Habitat Conservation Plan
(HCP)/National Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) that is currently being prepared for the western
half of the Butte County, and is scheduled to be completed in 2015. The project site is located within the
proposed plan area of the BRCP. However, as the plan has not been adopted, the proposed project will not
conflict, nor interfere with, the attainment of the goals of the proposed plan. Regardless, the small scale of
this project would not be expected to have significant impacts upon sensitive biological resources that
would require mitigation under the future habitat conservation plan.
g.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.4(a) – Biological Resources. Due to the limited
development potential of the proposed project, as well as the minor amount of disturbance associated with
the placement of a new development, less than significant impacts to critical habitats on the project site are
anticipated.
h.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.4(a) – Biological Resources.
i.) Less than significant impact. The project site does not contain native waterways containing substantial
fish and wildlife habitat. The potential development of the resultant parcels are not expected to result in a
significant deterioration of existing fish or wildlife habitat or introduce barriers to movement of any resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species because of its small scale.
j.) Less than significant impact. Introduction of new lighting, fencing, noise, human presence and/or
domestic animals is not expected to hinder the normal activities of wildlife living in and passing through
the project site due to the relative low density of the resulting project parcels and the proximate low-density
and undeveloped open space in the vicinity of the project.
k.) Less than significant impact. This project could result in the development of residential units that would
introduce additional factors such as lighting, noise, human presence and domestic animals. The project
site, and the surrounding area, already includes these factors in a low-density setting. The proposed project
is consistent with the land use and density established for this area, and the addition of new single-family
residences are not anticipated to significantly hinder normal activities of wildlife.
Mitigation Measure #2
Prior to any development activity or the issuance of any permit or approval removing or encroaching upon oak trees
on the project site (this generally includes the canopy drip-line of trees within the area of ground disturbance and
trees subject to changes in hydrologic regime) an Oak Tree Mitigation Plan, prepared by a certified arborist,
registered professional forester, botanist or landscape architect, shall be submitted for review and approval by the
Zoning Administrator that includes:
1) A survey showing the location of oak trees 5 inches or more in diameter at breast height, as defined by PRC
§21083.4(a);
2) The removal of all oak trees 5 inches or more in diameter at breast height shall be mitigated. It shall be
mitigated by one or more of the following: replanting and maintaining oak trees, establishing conservation
easements, contributing funds for off-site oak woodlands conservation, and/or other mitigation measures
developed by Butte County. Replanting oak trees cannot account for more than one-half of the mitigation.
Replanted oak trees shall be maintained for a period of seven years after they are planted. If any of the replanted
oak trees die or become diseased, they shall be replaced and maintained for seven years after the new oak trees
are planted;
3) A replanting schedule and diagram for trees removed or encroached upon by permit activities consistent with
PRC §21083.4(b)(2), applicable mitigation measures, and Butte County Ordinance, if any, shall be submitted to
and approved by the Zoning Administrator. Replanted trees shall be planted in areas deemed appropriate by the
Plan, considering future lot development, interference with foundations, fencing, roadways, driveways, and
utilities. Trees planted shall be protected from livestock and other animals;
4) Oak Tree protection measures for trees to be retained within the project site shall be included in construction
specifications. Each oak tree to be preserved shall be surrounded by a tree zone identified by the drip line of the
tree. An orange plastic fence or other suitable type of fence shall be used to identify the tree zone during
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construction activities. No vegetation removal, soil disturbance, or other development activities shall occur
within the tree zone in order to protect root systems and minimize compaction of the soil, unless authorized by
Oak Tree Mitigation Plan; and
5) Conservation easements or funds for off-site oak woodlands conservation shall be proposed to and approved by
the Zoning Administrator.
Plan Requirements: No vegetation removal, grading, road construction, or other earthwork shall be permitted until
the tree plan is submitted and approved.
Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be satisfied prior to any development activity or the issuance of any
grading, building, septic, or well permit, or the approval of any improvement plans on the parcels, which will result
in removing or encroaching upon oak trees on the project site.
Monitoring: At the time of septic, well, or building permit application, the Development Services Department will
reference this requirement on any grading, building, septic, or well permit site plans and verify that either Oak Trees
5 inches or more in diameter at breast height are avoided or an Oak Tree Mitigation Plan has been submitted to and
approved by the Zoning Administrator. Butte County building inspectors shall ensure compliance on-site.
4.5 Cultural Resources:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance
of a historical resource as defined in §15064.5?
b. Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of
an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5?
c. Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological
resource or site or unique geologic feature?
d. Disturb any human remains, including those interred
outside of formal cemeteries?
Setting:
Cultural resources include prehistoric and historic period archaeological sites; historical features, such as rock walls,
water ditches and flumes, and cemeteries; and architectural features. Cultural resources consist of any human-made
site, object (i.e., artifact), or feature that defines and illuminates our past. Often such sites are found in foothill
areas, areas with high bluffs, rock outcroppings, areas overlooking deer migratory corridors, or near bodies of water.
Although this area is not located within one of these areas, there is still the chance that cultural resources could be
located on site.
A record search for existing archeological sites and surveys on the project site, and within one mile, was conducted
through the Northeast Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System in March 2014.
The search did not reveal the existence of any prehistoric or historic resources on the project site. But, it was noted
that there are four prehistoric sites and three historic sites located within one-mile of the project site. Identified
prehistoric sites include rockshelters with midden, flaked stone scatters, and bedrock mortars that may have been
utilized by the Konkow Maidu populations, which were known to be located in the region. Identified historic sites
include a rock fence lines with wooden poles and barbed wire, a foundation to a stone fence, a utility line complex
with two poles and rock pit pole supports, and possibly a sheep shearing camp.
Records indicate that the project area has been previously surveyed by a professional archaeologist in 1980. The
previous survey indicated that a restaurant and parking lot were located on the project site, and did not identify any
cultural resources.
Impact Discussion:
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a-d.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Previous surveys of the project site did not
reveal the existence of any cultural resources. Further, it was noted that the project site was previous
developed with a restaurant and parking lot. The restaurant no longer exists at the project site; however,
the site is now currently developed with two single-family residences that are in the process of being
constructed. With the past and present disturbances of the project site, together with the existing residential
uses surrounding the project site, the ground-disturbing activities associated with these uses likely
destroyed any cultural resources that may have been located on the surface. Future grading and other soil
disturbance activities resulting from the development on the project site may have the potential to uncover
historic or prehistoric cultural resources located below the surface. To prevent impacts to the cultural
resources that may be uncovered during development activities on the project site, Mitigation Measure #3,
below, is recommended.
Mitigation Measure #3
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the Parcel Map or on an additional
map sheet that states: “Should grading activities reveal the presence of prehistoric or historic cultural resources (i.e.
artifact concentrations, including arrowheads and other stone tools or chipping debris, cans glass, etc.; structural
remains; human skeletal remains) work within 50 feet of the find shall immediately cease until a qualified
professional archaeologist can be consulted to evaluate the find and implement appropriate mitigation procedures.
Should human skeletal remains be encountered, State law requires immediate notification of the County Coroner
((530) 538-6579). Should the County Coroner determine that the remains are in an archaeological context, the
Native American Heritage Commission in Sacramento shall be notified immediately, pursuant to State Law, to
arrange for Native American participation in determining the disposition of such remains.” The provisions of this
note shall be followed during construction of all subdivision improvements, including land clearing, road
construction, utility installation, and building site development.
Plan Requirements: This note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with
the map or on an additional map sheet and shall be shown on all site development and building plans.
Timing: This measure shall be implemented during all site preparation and construction activities.
Monitoring: The Department of Development Services and/or Public Works Department shall ensure the note is
placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet.
Should cultural resources be discovered, the landowner shall notify the Planning Division and a professional
archaeologist. The Planning Division shall coordinate with the developer and appropriate authorities to avoid
damage to cultural resources and determine appropriate action. State law requires the reporting of any human
remains.
4.6 Geologic Processes:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Expose people or structures to potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or
death involving:
1. Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the
State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
2. Strong seismic ground shaking?
3. Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 21 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
4. Landslides?
b. Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
c. Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or
that would become unstable as a result of the project,
and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral
spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
d. Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-
B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating
substantial risks to life or property?
e. Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use
of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal
system where sewers are not available for the disposal
or waste water?
Settings
Geologic Hazards
Expansive Soils
Expansive soils possess a “shrink-swell” behavior. Shrink-swell is the cyclic change in volume (expansion and
contraction) that occurs in fine-grained clay sediments from the process of wetting and drying. Structural damage may
occur over a long period of time, usually the result of inadequate soil and foundation engineering or the placement of
structures directly on expansive soils. The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the
project site as having a “Low” and “Moderate” potential of expansive soils.
Soil Erosion
Erosion is the wearing away of soil and rock by processes such as wind and precipitation runoff. Soils containing high
amounts of silt or clay can be easily erodible, while sandy soils are less susceptible. Excessive soil erosion can
eventually lead to damage of building foundations and roadways. Typically, soil erosion potential is reduced once the
soil is graded and covered with gravel, concrete, structures, asphalt, or a vegetative cover. The Health and Safety
Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the project site as having a “Slight” and “Severe” potential for soil
erosion.
Landslides
A landslide is the sliding of a mass of loosened rock and/or soil down a hillside or slope. Some of the natural causes of
this instability are earthquakes, weak soils, erosion, heavy rainfall and fire. Human activities such as poor grading that
undercuts steep slopes or overloads them will fill; excessive irrigation and removal of vegetation can also contribute to
landslides. Most landslides in Butte County occur on slopes greater than 15 percent, and most new landslides occur in
areas that have experience previous landslides. The areas of highest landslide potential are in the mountainous central
area of the county where well-developed soils overlay impervious bedrock on steep slopes. The remaining areas of Butte
County has moderate to low landslide potential. The areas of lowest landslide potential are the flat lands of the
Sacramento Valley. The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies the project site as
having moderate landslide potential.
Seismic Hazards
Surface Fault Rupture
Seismically induced ground rupture is defined as the physical displacement of surface deposits in response to movement
on the fault place. The magnitude, sense, and nature of fault rupture can vary for different faults or event along different
strands of the same fault. Ground rupture is considered more likely along active faults. The Cleveland Hills fault is the
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 22 of 45 ■
only fault located within Butte County that has been identified as an active fault pursuant to the Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zones Act. This fault was responsible for the 1975 Oroville earthquake, which had a Richter
magnitude of 5.7 and produced surface displacement along approximately 2.2 miles of the fault. Other active and
potentially active faults are located in the region. However, because there are no known active faults underlying or
adjacent to the project site, the likelihood of surface fault rupture is very low and would not be a design consideration.
Ground Shaking
Ground shaking at the project site could occur due to earthquakes on the regions active faults. However, ground motions
attenuate with distance from the causative fault, as well as the local geologic and soil conditions. The Seismic Hazards
Mapping Program of the California Geological Survey categorizes all of Butte County as a “seismic hazard zone” since
the entire County is subject to earthquakes of Modified Mercalli Intensity scale VIII. The Oroville earthquake of 1975 is
the only earthquake of this intensity recorded in Butte County. This earthquake resulted in structural damage, partial
destruction of some buildings, fires and numerous injuries. Though, it is accepted that earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 or
6.5 are possible anywhere in Butte County, the county is generally considered to be an area of low seismic activity.
Liquefaction
Liquefaction is a phenomenon whereby unconsolidated and/or near saturated soils lose cohesion and are converted to a
fluid state as a result of sever vibratory motion. The relatively rapid loss of soil shear strength during strong earthquake
shaking results in the temporary fluid-like behavior of the soil. Soil liquefaction causes ground failure that can damage
roads, pipelines, underground cables, and building with shallow foundations. Liquefaction can occur in areas
characterized by water-saturated, cohesionless, granular materials at depths less than 50 feet. Due to the relatively low
potential for strong ground motions and a general lack of significant deposits of saturated loose soils, such as alluvium,
the liquefaction potential, if any, can be addressed in the design of future structures during the building permit review
process.
Seiches
A seiche is a periodic oscillation of a body of water such as a reservoir, river, lake, harbor, or bay resulting from seismic
shaking or other causes such as landslides into a body of water. The period of the oscillation varies depending on the
side of the body of water and may be several minutes to several hours. Depending on the magnitude of the oscillations,
seiches can cause considerable damage to dams, levees and shoreline facilities. Seiches have not been recorded in any of
the reservoirs in Butte County that are within the jurisdiction of the California Division of Dam Safety. However, the
potential for seiches does exist in Butte County, either from landslides or from stronger earthquakes that have been
experienced in historical times.
Impact Discussion:
a1.) Less than significant impact. There are no known active faults underlying, or adjacent to, the project site.
The Cleveland Hill fault is located approximately 20± miles southeast of the project site. Because the
nearest active fault is located a considerable distance from the project site, the likelihood of a surface
rupture at the project site is very low, and would not be a design consideration.
a2.) Less than significant impact. Ground shaking at the project site could occur due to the earthquake
potential of the regions active faults. However, active faults are relatively distant from the project site. As
a result, ground shaking due to seismic events is expected to have low to moderate intensities at the project
site. Future residential development on the resultant parcels would be subject to the California Building
Code (CBC). The CBC would provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and
public welfare by regulating the controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use and
occupancy, location, and maintenance of buildings and structures within Butte County. Among the
provisions of the CBC are building design criteria for earthquake conditions in Butte County. Adherence to
the CBC during building construction would ensure that potential impacts are less than significant.
a3.) Less than significant impact. The project site is identified as being located within an area considered
‘Generally Low’ and “Generally Moderate” in respect to liquefaction potential. The California Building
Code (CBC) regulates the construction of structures, which may be constructed with approval of the
proposed project. Adherence to CBC standards at the time of development of the resultant parcels would
ensure that any impacts from an unstable geologic unit or soil are less than significant.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 23 of 45 ■
a4.) Less than significant impact. Steep slopes with grades over fifty percent have been identified on the
project site. However, a field reconnaissance did not indicate the presence of landslides features
underlying, or adjacent to, the project site. Shallow slope failures can occur in virtually any sloping terrain.
Avoidance of potentially sensitive slopes and/or implementation of appropriate engineering and
construction measures at the time of development would avoid or reduce potential impacts of landslides to
a less than significant level.
b.) Less than significant impact. Surface soil erosion and loss of topsoil has the potential to occur from
disturbances associated with the construction-related activities. Construction activities could also result in
soil compaction and wind erosion effects that could adversely affect soils and reduce the revegetation
potential at the construction site and staging areas.
During construction-related activities, specific erosion control and surface water protection methods for
each construction activity would be implemented on the project site. The type and number of measures
implemented would be based upon location-specific attributes (i.e., slope, soil type, weather conditions).
These control and protection measures, or BMPs, are standard in the construction industry and are
commonly used to minimize soil erosion and water quality degradation.
Additionally, future construction activities may be subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) General Construction Activities Storm Water permit program if one acre or more of land
is disturbed. Construction activities that result in a land disturbance of less than one acre, but which are
part of a larger common plan of development, also require a permit. This program requires implementation
of erosion control measures during and immediately after construction that are designed to avoid significant
erosion during the construction period. In addition, the project operation would be subject to State Water
Resources Control Board requirements for the preparation and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to control pollution in stormwater runoff from the project site, including
excessive erosion and sedimentation. The SWPPP, if required, must be obtained prior to any soil
disturbance activities. Implementation of standard erosion control BMP’s during future construction-
related activities, together with adherence to State requirements regarding grading activities, would ensure
that potential erosion impacts are less than significant.
c.) Less than significant impact. Destabilization of natural or constructed slopes could occur as a result of
future construction activities. Excavations, grading, and fill operations associated with providing access to
the resultant parcels and during development could alter existing slope profiles making them unstable as a
result of over-excavation of slope material, steepening of the slope, or increased loading. Standard
engineering design features and construction procedures would be implemented to maintain stable slopes
and excavations during construction, reducing impacts of unstable slopes to a less than significant level.
d.) Less than significant impact. Expansive soils can cause structural damage particularly when concrete
structures are in direct contact with the soils. Appropriate design features to address expansive soils may
include excavation of potentially problematic soils during construction and replacement with engineered
backfill, ground-treatment processes, direction of surface water and drainage away from foundation soils,
and the use of deep foundations such as piers or piles. Implementation of these standard engineering
methods would ensure that impacts associated with expansive soils would remain less than significant.
e.) No impact. Wastewater disposal on the project site would be handled by the Skansen Sewage Pond System
(County Service Area 21, Zone 1), which operates under the Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements
for Sanitary Sewer Systems. Construction of an on-site septic system would not be required to provide
wastewater disposal at the project site.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.7 Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 24 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the
environment?
b. Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation
adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases?
Setting:
The earth’s atmosphere naturally contains a number of gases, including (but not limited to) carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), which are collectively referred to as greenhouse gases (GHGs). GHG
emissions are generally numerically depicted (when applicable) as carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e). CO2e represents
CO2 plus the additional warming potential from CH4 and N2O. The common unit of measurement for carbon dioxide
equivalents is in metric tons (MTCO2e).
These gases trap some amount of solar radiation and the earth’s own radiation, preventing it from passing through earth’s
atmosphere and into space. GHG are vital to life on earth; without them, earth would be an icy planet. For example,
CO2 is an element that is essential to the cycle of life. In general, CH4 and N2O have 21 and 310 times the warming
potential of CO2, respectively. Human-made emissions of GHG occur through the combustion of fuels, as well as a
variety of other sources.
Increasing GHG concentrations are believed to be warming the planet. As the average temperature of the earth increase,
weather may be affected, including changes in precipitation patterns, accumulation of snow pack, and intensity and
duration of spring snowmelt. Climate zones may change, affecting the ecology and biological resources of a region.
There may also be changes in fire hazards due to the changes in precipitation and climate zones.
While scientists have established a connection between increasing GHG concentrations and increasing average
temperatures, important scientific questions remain about how much warming would occur, how fast it would occur, and
how the warming would affect the rest of the climate system. At this point, scientific efforts are unable to quantify the
degree to which human activity impacts climate change. The phenomenon is worldwide, yet it is expected that there
would be substantial regional and local variability in climate changes. It is not possible with today’s science to
determine the effects of global climate change in a specific locale, or whether the effect of one aspect of climate change
may be counteracted by another aspect of climate change, or exacerbated by it.
Section 15183.5(b) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations states that a GHG Reduction Plan, or a Climate
Action Plan, may be used for tiering and streamlining the analysis of GHG emissions in subsequent CEQA project
evaluation provided that the CAP does the following:
A. Quantify greenhouse gas emissions, both existing and projected over a specified time period, resulting from
activities within a defined geographic area;
B. Establish a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution to greenhouse gas emissions
from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable;
C. Identify and analyze the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions
anticipated within the geographic area;
D. Specify measures or a group of measures, including performance standards, that substantial evidence
demonstrates, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, would collectively achieve the specified emissions
level;
E. Establish a mechanism to monitor the plan’s progress toward achieving the level and to require amendment
if the plan is not achieving specified levels; and
F. Be adopted in a public process following environmental review.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 25 of 45 ■
A 2006 baseline GHG emission inventory was prepared for unincorporated Butte County. The inventory identified the
sources and the amount of GHG emissions produced in the county. Within Butte County, the leading contributors of
GHG emissions are agriculture (43%), transportation (29%), and residential energy (17%).
A Climate Action Plan (CAP) was adopted by Butte County on February 25, 2014. The CAP provides a framework for
the County to reduce GHG emissions while simplifying the review process for new development. Measures and actions
identified in the CAP lay the groundwork to achieve the adopted General Plan goals related to climate change, including
reducing GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.
In an effort to implement the measures of the CAP, a development checklist was created to evaluate a new projects
consistency with the CAP, and to identify which GHG emission reduction measures would be implemented with project
approval. The CAP development checklist identified three reduction measures applicable to the proposed project. These
measures include expansion of renewable energy systems for new residential development by prewiring future
development for photovoltaic systems; reduction of construction equipment idling time; and, installation of electric
vehicle charging outlets in the garage or the exterior of the home (See Attachment A).
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. The proposed project is a minor subdivision
that would contribute to the existing greenhouse gas inventory for Butte County through the creation of
parcels for future residential development. Residential development would generate direct emissions
through the consumption of electricity, natural gas, and propane, as well as from fuel usage for landscaping
equipment. Development would also generate additional vehicle trips to and from the residence.
Additionally, construction activities of future development would also create greenhouse gas emissions,
primarily from the use of heavy equipment.
To reduce the anticipated increase in of GHG emissions that would ultimately be created by the proposed
project, GHG reduction measures from the Butte County Climate Action Plan are proposed to be
incorporated into the project design. Implementation of Mitigation Measure #4 would ensure the project’s
consistency with the CAP and that impacts from GHG emissions are less than significant:
b.) No Impact. The Butte County General Plan and Butte County Climate Action Plan establish numerous
policies relative to greenhouse gases. The proposed subdivision would not generate greenhouse gas
emissions; however, future development of the resultant parcels would increase GHG emissions, although
on a limited scale. Due to the limited development potential of the project site, the anticipated increase in
emissions would not conflict with the applicable with policies adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG
emissions.
Mitigation Measure #4:
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map
sheet that states: To the extent feasible, the developer shall implement the following measures at the time of
development to offset the anticipated contribution of greenhouse gas emissions from residential development:
Support expansion of renewable energy systems
o Prewire all new residential development to support photovoltaic system installation.
Support efficiency in vehicles and landscaping equipment
o Install electrical vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential
development.
Improve fuel efficiency of equipment during construction-related activities
o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the
time of idling to no more than 3 minute.
o Use clean or alternative fuel equipment
Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the
map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 26 of 45 ■
Timing: Shall be implemented prior to issuance of building permits for residential development. Construction-
related measures shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods.
Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall
ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an
additional map sheet. Planning Division will ensure that future residential development includes the applicable
measures during Building Permit review. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site.
4.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environmental through the routine transport use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
b. Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
c. Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely
hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-
quarter mile of an existing or proposed schools?
d. Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites complied pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment?
e. For a project located within an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the
project result in a safety hazard for people residing or
working in the project area?
f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project result in a safety hazard for people
residing or working in the project area?
g. Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an
adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
h. Expose people or structures to a significant risk or loss,
injury or death involving wildland fires, including
where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or
where residences are intermixed with wildlands?
Settings
Airports
Air transportation in Butte County is served by a number of private and public airfields and heliports serving general
aviation and agricultural users. There are four major aviation facilities in Butte County that serve the general public.
The Paradise Skypark Airport is the nearest general aviation airport to the project site. It is located approximately
6.5 miles east from the project site. The airport is privately owned and operated. Facilities include a 3,100 foot
runway and parking spaces for approximately 50 aircraft.
Wildland Fire Conditions
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 27 of 45 ■
The combination of highly flammable fuel, long dry summers and steep slopes creates a natural hazard of wildland fires
in many areas of Butte County. Wildland fires can result in death, injury, economic losses, and a large public investment
in firefighting efforts. Woodland and other natural vegetation can also be destroyed during wildfires, resulting in the loss
of timber, wildlife habitat, scenic quality, and recreation. Areas in the county that are particularly susceptible to wildland
fires largely contain dense vegetation and steep slopes, which aide in the spread of fire. These areas have been
designated as Fire Hazard Severity Zones by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), and
generally include the foothill and mountainous regions of Butte County.
Fire protection services for unincorporated Butte County are generally provided by the Butte County Fire Department
(BCFD) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire), with CalFire having fiscal
responsibility for preventing and suppressing wildfires. Due to the heightened risk of wildfires and the increased
potential for damage or loss in certain areas of the county, CalFire has designated these areas as State Responsibility
Areas (SRA). Development within SRAs must comply with special building requirements, and are also regulated by
Public Resources Code 4290 and 4291, which establish requirements for maintenance of defensible space and vegetation
management.
According to the Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan, the project site is located in the
‘Moderate’ and ‘High’ Fire Hazard Severity Zones. The project site is also located in the SRA area.
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. Limited quantities of miscellaneous hazardous substances, such as gasoline,
diesel fuel, hydraulic fluid, solvents, oils, etc. would be used to maintain vehicles and motorized equipment
during construction-related activities. Accidental spill of any of these substances could impact water and/or
groundwater quality. Depending on the relative hazard of the material, if a spill were to occur of
significant quantity, the accidental release could pose a hazard to construction workers, the public, as well
as the environment. Construction personal who are experienced in containing accidental releases of
hazardous materials will likely be present to contain and treat affected areas in the event a spill occurs. If a
larger spill were to occur, construction personal would generally be on-hand to contact the appropriate
agencies.
It is not anticipated that large quantities of hazardous materials would be permanently stored or used within
the project site. However, if large quantities are stored at the project site, the owner would be required to
obtain a Hazardous Materials Business Plan. It is more likely that only small quantities of publicly-
available hazardous materials (e.g., paint, maintenance supplies) may be routinely used within the project
site for residential or agricultural maintenance and cleaning. However, these materials would not be used
in sufficient strength or quantity to create a substantial risk of fire or explosion, or otherwise pose a
substantial risk to human or environmental health.
b.) Less than significant impact. It’s not anticipated that construction or operation of future residential or
agricultural development would create a significant hazard to the environment or to the public due to the
accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment. Accidental release of hazardous materials
routinely used during construction activities are addressed in section a.), above.
c.) No impact. No existing or proposed schools have been identified within one-quarter mile of the project
site.
d.) No impact. A review of regulatory agency databases, which included lists of hazardous materials sites
compiled pursuant to California Government Code Section 65962.5, did not identify contamination site as
being located within, or in the vicinity of, the project site.
e.) No impact. No public use airports have been identified to be located within the vicinity of the project site. The
proposed project is located outside the compatibility zones for the area airports, and therefore, would not result
in a safety hazard to people working and residing on the project site.
f.) No impact. No known private airstrips have been identified within two miles of the project site. As a
result, no safety hazards associated with airport operations are anticipated to affect people working or
residing within the project site.
g.) No impact. The proposed project does not include any actions that physically interfere with any emergency
response or emergency evacuation plans. Development of the resultant parcels would add a small amount
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 28 of 45 ■
of trips onto the area roadways; however, area roadways and intersections would continue to operate at an
acceptable level of service. In the event future construction activities require work to be performed in the
roadway, appropriate traffic control plans would be prepared in conjunction with a Butte County
Encroachment Permit.
h.) Less than significant impact. The project site is located in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone and a State
Responsibility Area. As a result, existing and subsequent development on the resultant parcels, as well as
their residents, would be exposed to a significant wildland fire risk. As a protection measure against
wildland fires, Butte County Fire Department/CalFire requires existing and new structures adhere to the
requirements of California Public Resources Code Section 4290 and 4291. These State regulations require
properties to meet defensible space and road access standards, which includes construction of an all-
weather access road at the time of development that will be at least 10 feet wide, with a vertical clearance
of 15 feet, to allow for ingress and egress of a 40,000-pound fire apparatus to within 150 feet of all
structures on the resultant parcels.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.9 Hydrology and Water Quality:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge
requirements?
b. Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere
substantially with groundwater recharge such that there
would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of
the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production
rate of preexisting nearby wells would drop to a level
which would not support existing land uses or planned
uses for which permits have been granted)?
c. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the
site or area, including through the alteration of the course
of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in
substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
d. Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the
site or area, including through the alteration of the course
of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or
amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result
in flooding on- or off-site?
e. Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed
the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage
systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff?
f. Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
g. Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as
mapped by Federal Flood Hazard Boundary, Flood
Insurance Rate Map, or other flood hazard delineation
map?
h. Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures
which would impede or redirect flood flows?
i. Expose people or structures to a significant risk or loss,
injury, or death involving flooding, including flooding as
a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 29 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
j. Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
Setting:
Flooding
Flooding events can result in damage to structures, injury or loss of human and animal life, exposure of waterborne
diseases, and damage to infrastructure. In addition, standing floodwater can destroy agricultural crops, undermine
infrastructure and structural foundations, and contaminate groundwater. The Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) is responsible for mapping areas subject to flooding during a 100-year flood event (i.e., 1 percent chance of
occurring in a given year). According to floodplain mapping of the project area, the project site is located within the X
zone. The X zone is defined by FEMA as areas of minimal flood hazard from the principal source of flood in the area
and determined to be outside of the 0.2 percent annual chance floodplain.
Inundation Zone
Dam failure is generally a result of structural instability caused by improper design or construction, instability resulting
from seismic shaking, or overtopping and erosion of the dam. Larger dams that are higher than 25 feet or with storage
capacities over 50 acre-feet of water are regulated by the California Dam Safety Act, which is implemented by the
California Department of Water Resources, Division of Safety of Dams (DSD).
The project site is not identified as being located in the inundation zone for any dams regulated by the California Dam
Safety Act.
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. Wastewater disposal for the proposed project would be handled by the Skansen
Sewage Pond System (County Service Area 21, Zone 1), which operates under the Statewide General Waste
Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems. The Butte County Environmental Health Division has
performed a preliminary review of the proposed project, and has indicated that future connection to this
system for development on the resultant parcel would be possible, and that no violations to water quality
standards or waste discharge requirements are anticipated.
Potential water pollutants may be generated during construction activities associated with build-out of the
resultant parcels, which may include sediment and petroleum based fuels and lubricants. Construction
activities have the potential to temporarily increase the sediment load of stormwater runoff from
construction areas (i.e., disturbing soil at work area, the staging area, access road, etc.). Excess sediment in
surface drainage pathways can alter and degrade the aquatic habitat in nearby surface water channels. In
addition, if construction equipment or workers inadvertently release pollutants such as hydraulic fluid or
petroleum to the surface water, these materials could be entrained by stormwater and discharged into
surface water features causing water quality degradation.
As discussed in Section 4.6 – Geologic Processes, the physical characteristics of the soil at the project site
indicate that susceptibility to erosion is moderate. During construction-related activities, specific erosion
control and surface water protection methods for each construction activity would be implemented on the
project site. The type and number of measures implemented would be based upon location-specific
attributes (i.e., slope, soil type, weather conditions). These control and protection measures, or BMPs, are
standard in the construction industry and are commonly used to minimize soil erosion and water quality
degradation. Additionally, future construction activities may be subject to the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction Activities Storm Water permit program if one acre or
more of land is disturbed. Construction activities that result in a land disturbance of less than one acre, but
which are part of a larger common plan of development, also require a permit. This program requires
implementation of erosion control measures during and immediately after construction that are designed to
avoid significant erosion during the construction period. Project operations that are under a NPDES permit
would also be subject to State Water Resources Control Board requirements for the preparation and
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 30 of 45 ■
implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to control pollution in stormwater
runoff from the project site.
b.) Less than significant impact. Domestic water services to future residences on the resultant parcels would
be provided by the Gran Mutual Water Company. Well production for the water system has been
determined to be sufficient for the anticipated uses of the project site by the Butte County Environmental
Health Division.
The proposed project has the potential to result in a net increase in impervious surfaces on the project site
from the development of new structures. Future structures would result in only a minor increase in
impervious surfaces from the construction of concrete foundations and access road surfacing. Thus, the
proposed project would not cause a measureable reduction in surface infiltration or a decrease in deep
percolation to the underlying aquifers.
c.) Less than significant impact. Ground disturbance during construction activities associated with the build-
out of the resultant parcels may alter existing drainage pathways, expose surface soils to become more
susceptible to erosive forces (i.e., overland flow) and/or generate enough increased runoff through
removal/clearing of existing vegetation to increase surface erosion. As discussed in section a.), above,
implementation of erosion control measures or BMPs during construction activities would minimize soil
erosion and water quality degradation.
d.) Less than significant impact. Construction activities associated with build-out of the resultant parcels
would not alter drainage patterns such that they would cause on- or off-site flooding. Some vegetation
removal and soil disturbance would occur during clearing of the building site and access road, resulting in
the potential for increased stormwater runoff. However, implementation of BMPs would minimize the
potential for surface runoff and reduce the potential for flooding.
The minor increase in impervious surface area from build-out of the resultant parcels is not anticipated to
be enough to alter existing drainage patterns or cause offsite flooding. While some increase in stormwater
runoff may be expected due to the reduced absorption rate created from new impervious surfaces on the
site, such as structures, driveways, and hardscape (walkways, patios), future development would be
reviewed by the Butte County Public Works Department to ensure any potential drainage concerns are
addressed, and to ensure no net increase in stormwater runoff leaves the project site.
e.) Less than significant impact. The proposed project is likely to generate a minor increase in runoff from
the future development of the resultant parcels, such as with the construction of new residences or access
roads. However, these improvements are relatively small and located in an area that does not have
managed stormwater drainage systems. Even so, the anticipated minor increase in runoff would likely be
negligible in terms of the capacity of any existing stormwater drainage systems.
f.) No impact. The proposed project would not result in potential surface water pollution beyond the issues
discussed in section a.), above. Therefore, the proposed project would not otherwise degrade water quality
beyond the issues previously addressed.
g.) No impact. The project site is located in the X zone. As a result, any future development on the resultant
parcels would be located outside the 100-year flood zone.
h.) No impact. See discussion 4.19(g) – Hydrology and Water Quality.
i.) No impact. The project site is neither located in a flood hazard zone or a dam inundation zone.
j.) No impact. Although located within a seismically-active region, the project site is not located in an area
that would be impacted by a seiche, tsunami, or mudflows.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 31 of 45 ■
4.10 Land Use:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Physically divide an established community?
b. Conflict with an applicable land use plan, policy, or
regulations of an agency with jurisdiction over the
project (including, but not limited to, the general
plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning
ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or
mitigating an environmental effect?
c. Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation
plan or natural community conservation plan?
Setting:
Butte County General Plan
The General Plan represents the basic community values, ideals and aspirations with respect to land use,
development, transportation, public services, and conservation policy that will govern Butte County through 2030.
The land use element of the general plan designates the land use of areas within the county, and includes a
description of the characteristics and intensity of each land use category. The land use designation for the project
site is Very Low Density Residential.
Butte County Zoning Ordinance
The Zoning Ordinance implements the goals and policies of the Butte County General Plan by regulating the uses of
the land and structures within the County. The zoning designation of the project site and their intended use are as
follows:
Very Low Density Country Residential (VLDCR)
The purpose of the VLDCR zone is to allow for large lot single-family homes and related uses in residential
neighborhoods that are adjacent to or surrounded by areas with uses of a different type or residential uses of a
different density. Standard for the VLDCR zone are intended to preserve and protect the character of existing
residential neighborhoods. Permitted residential uses in the VLDCR zones include single-family homes, small
residential care homes, second units, animal grazing, on-site agricultural product sales, and private stables. The
VLDCR zone conditionally permits uses compatible with a low-density residential setting including semi-private
stables, animal keeping, and major home occupations. The minimum permitted parcel size in the VLDCR zone is 1
acre.
Medium Density Residential (MDR)
The purpose of the MDR zone is to allow for a mixture of housing types in a medium density setting. Permitted
housing types in the MDR zones include single-family homes, duplex homes, and second units. Non-residential
uses conditionally permitted in the MDR zone include public and quasi-public uses, park and recreational facilities,
personal services, medical offices and clinic, and general retail. The maximum permitted residential density in the
MDR zone is six dwelling units per acre. The minimum permitted parcel size is 6,000 square feet.
Impact Discussion:
a.) No impact. The project site is located on vacant land and is not part of an established community. As a
result, the proposed project will not physically divide an established community.
b.) Less than significant impact. The proposed project does not include an amendment to the existing land
use designation, or a change to the existing land uses occurring on the project site. The proposed project
would subdivide the property into additional parcels, with each parcel meeting the minimum parcel size
requirement designated by zoning.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 32 of 45 ■
As discussed in Section 4.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources, above, COS-A17.1 directs the County to
“Adopt development guidelines that mitigate the impacts of ridgeline development near scenic resources”,
but those guidelines have not been adopted. The location of the proposed dwellings relationship in relation
to the density and locations of existing structures on other properties in close proximity to the subject
property will limit this to a less than significant impact.
c.) No impact. The Butte Regional Conservation Plan (BRCP) is a joint Habitat Conservation Plan
(HCP)/National Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) that is currently being prepared for the western
half of the Butte County, and is scheduled to be completed in 2015. The project site is located within the
proposed plan area of the BRCP. However, as the plan has not been adopted, the proposed project will not
conflict, nor interfere with, the attainment of the goals of the proposed plan.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.11 Mineral Resources:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral
resource that would be of value to the region and the
residents of the state?
b. Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important
mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local
general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan?
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. There are no known economically viable sources of rock materials in the
immediate vicinity of the project site. No mining operations have occurred on the project site or surrounding
area and the project would not preclude future extraction of available mineral resources. Mineral resource
extraction is not proposed with this project. However, future development on the resultant parcels would use
mineral resources in the construction of structures and access roads. The amount of resources used for the
anticipated development on the resultant parcels is minor and would not result in the loss of its availability.
b.) No impact. The project site is not located in an area currently used for, or known to have, locally-important
mineral resources.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.12 Noise:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in
excess of standards established in the local general plan
or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other
agencies?
b. Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive
ground borne vibration or ground borne noise levels?
c. A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise
levels in the project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
d. A substantial temporary or periodic increase in
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 33 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
e. For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
f. For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,
would the project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise levels?
Setting:
The Health and Safety Element of the Butte County General Plan identifies land use compatibility standards for
exterior community noise for a variety of sensitive land uses. For residential land uses, a maximum exterior noise
level of 60 Ldn/CNEL decibel level is generally identified as being an acceptable noise environment requiring no
special noise insulation or noise abatement features. For an interior noise level standard, the maximum decibel level
is 45 Ldn/CNEL.
The Butte County Noise Control Ordinance provides the county with a means of assessing complaints of alleged
noise violations and to address noise level violations. The ordinance sets forth exterior and interior noise level
standards that are applicable to sensitive areas within Butte County, including residential uses. Among the noise
generating activates subject to the noise ordinance are noise sources associated with construction. Though
construction-related noises are subject to the noise standards of the county, these activities would be exempt if
operations occur between 7:00 a.m. to sunset on any day except Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday, or between the
hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday; and, provided that machinery is fitted with
correctly functioning sound suppression equipment.
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. Noise levels contributed by the proposed project would include construction
noise during future build-out of the resultant parcels, occupancy of the single-family residence, and
agricultural-related activities. Construction noises associated with development of the resultant parcel would
primarily be from the use of heavy equipment, generators, and power tools. Typical noises contributed by a
single-family dwelling include landscaping equipment, automobiles, power tools, domestic animals, heating
and cooling systems and audio equipment. And, agricultural noises may include farm machinery, farm
animals, Construction, residential occupancy, and agricultural noises could be perceptible to surrounding
residences and other sensitive uses, but are not anticipated to result in generation of noises in excess of noise
standards established in the Butte County General Plan due to the projected density of the project site and the
surrounding area, and because construction noises are temporary and would occur during typical daytime
hours.
b.) Less than significant impact. The use of blasting and/or pile drivers during construction activities would not
be included as part of the proposed project. The proposed project would involve temporary sources of
groundborne vibration and groundborne noise during construction from the operation of heavy equipment.
Operation of heavy equipment would generate localized groundborne vibration and groundborne noise that
could be perceptible at residences or other sensitive uses in the immediate vicinity of the construction site.
However, since the duration of impact would be brief and would occur during less sensitive daytime hours
(i.e., between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.), the impact from construction-related groundborne vibration and
groundborne noise would be less than significant.
c.) Less than significant impact. The primary contributors to the existing noise environment surrounding the
project site include sounds emanating from residential uses, vehicle traffic along area roadways, and from
naturally occurring noise sources such as wind and rushing waters. The only permanent noise sources that
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 34 of 45 ■
would be introduced to the existing noise environment by the proposed project would be typical noise levels
contributed by single-family residential including landscaping equipment, automobiles, power tools, domestic
animals, heating and cooling systems, farm machinery, and audio equipment. It’s anticipated that these
introduced sources of noise would likely result in the ambient noise levels within the project site and
surrounding area to increase. However, due to the low ambient noises presently in the surrounding
environment, and the projected density of the proposed parcels and surrounding area, the anticipated increase
in ambient noise levels occur would not be substantial.
d.) Less than significant impact. The only temporary or periodic noise sources that would be introduced to the
existing noise environment by the proposed project would be noises associated with construction activities.
Construction activities would require a variety of equipment. During the construction period, noise levels
generated by project construction would vary depending on the particular type, number, and duration of use
of the various types of construction equipment. Though noises generated by heavy equipment would
periodically generate noise levels in excess of exterior noise standards identified in the General Plan, given
the small size of the proposed project, and that construction activities would occur during less sensitive
daytime hours, temporary noise impacts are not considered significant.
e.) No impact. No public use airports have been identified to be located within two miles of the project site. The
proposed project is located outside the compatibility zones for the area airports, and therefore, would not result in
noise impacts to people residing on the project site.
f.) No impact. No known private airstrips have been identified within the vicinity of the project site. As a
result, no noise impacts associated with the airport operations are anticipated to affect people working or
residing within the project site.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.13 Population and Housing:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Induce substantial population growth in an area, either
directly (for example, by proposing new homes and
businesses) or indirectly (for example, through
extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
b. Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere?
c. Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating
the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
Setting:
The population for Butte County was estimated to be 220,024 in 2010 and 203,446 in 2000, resulting in a total
population growth of 16,578 during this 10-year period (US Census). The annual average population growth rate in
the county during this period was 0.79 percent. Total housing units in Butte County was approximately 95,835 in
2010, with approximately 8.6 percent of these housing units considered vacant.
The proposed project would result in the creation of one additional parcel that could potentially be developed with a
single-family residence. According to the United States Census Bureau, the average household size of an owner-
occupied housing unit for Butte County is 2.43. Based on the average household size within the county, and the
potential number of housing units that could be constructed on the parcel, the proposed project could add 2 or 3 new
residents to the local population.
Impact Discussion:
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 35 of 45 ■
a.) Less than significant impact. Subdivision of the project site could facilitate the potential addition of
single-family residential units, which would directly result in growth in available housing and, if occupied,
to the local population. However, housing and population growth with this project are consistent with
planned future land uses and would be minor in scale. Construction activities associated with development
of the residential units would not result in any direct or indirect growth-inducing impacts to the county
because construction activities would be temporary, and construction workers would likely be drawn from
the local and regional work force. Growth in the project area resulting from the project is planned, and is
consistent with the applicable planning policies and zoning ordinance.
b.) No impact. See discussion 4.13(a) – Population and Housing. The project site is currently developed with
two single-family residential units. The proposed project would not require the existing unit to be removed
or relocated from the project site.
c.) No impact. See discussion 4.13(a) – Population and Housing. The proposed project would not cause the
displacement of the local population.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.14 Public Services:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Would the project result in substantial adverse
physical impacts associated with the provision of
or need for new or physically altered
governmental facilities, the construction of which
could cause significant environmental impacts, in
order to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times, or other performance objectives
for any of the public services:
1. Fire protection?
2. Police Protection?
3. Schools?
4. Parks?
5. Other public services?
Impact Discussion:
a1.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.8 – Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Butte County Code
requires the payment of fire protection impact fees to help offset the impacts that new residential
development has on the fire protection services. Fire protection impact fees would be paid at the time of
building permit issuance for a dwelling unit.
a2.) Less than significant impact. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement service to the
site. Implementation of the proposed project could increase service calls if additional residential structures
are built. Increased development in rural areas impacts the ability of the Sheriff's Department to adequately
provide services to outlying areas. Although police protection services may need to be increased as a result
of the project, it is anticipated that project implementation would not require any new law enforcement
facilities or the alteration of existing facilities to maintain acceptable performance objectives. The project’s
increase in demand for law enforcement services would be offset through project-related impact fees.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 36 of 45 ■
a3.) Less than significant impact. Residential development at the site would result in an incremental demand
for school facilities in the area. The project site is located in the Chico Unified School District. A
development impact fee for school facilities will be assessed at the time of residential development on the
resultant parcels to offset any potential impact to area school facilities. The fee amount will be determined
and calculated as of the date of application for the building permits. While some school districts maintain
that these fees do not fully mitigate the impacts of the project, the County is precluded from imposing
additional fees or mitigation by state legislation.
a4.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.15 – Recreation.
a5.) Less than significant impact. The project would result in added need for County services, such as law
enforcement, fire protection, general services, libraries, and roads. Butte County collects various types of
development impact fees to offset the cost and impacts associated with new residential units. These fees
vary depending on the dwelling type, and are collected at the time of development.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.15 Recreation:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Increase the use of existing neighborhood and
regional parks or other recreational facilities such
that substantial physical deterioration of the facility
would occur or be accelerated?
b. Include recreational facilities or require the
construction or expansion of recreational facilities
which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
Setting
The project site is located within the Chico Recreation and Park District (CARD). The district covers an area of
approximately 208 square miles, and includes the City of Chico, as well as the unincorporated community of Nord. The
district operates and maintains approximately 214 acres of developed parkland and facilities to serve a population of
approximately 104,367 residents. This translates into a level of service of 1.85 acres of parklands for every 1,000
residents. The total park facilities operated by the district do not include Bidwell Park and parks operated by State and
Federal agencies. No park facilities are located in the vicinity of the project site; however, it’s anticipated that future
residents of the project site would likely use facilities located in the City of Chico, as well as nearby State-operated
facilities, to meet their recreational needs.
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact. Increase in the demand for recreational facilities is typically associated with
substantial increases in population. As discussed in Section 4.13 - Population and Housing, the proposed
project may generate growth in the local population, if residential units are constructed on the resultant parcels.
Because housing and population growth in the project area would be minor, the project would not result in a
substantial increase in demand for recreational facilities or adversely affect Butte County park/population
standards.
b.) No impact. The proposed project does not include plans for additional recreational facilities nor would it
require expansion of existing recreational facilities. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in any
adverse physical effects on the environment from construction or expansion of recreational facilities.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 37 of 45 ■
4.16 Transportation/Traffic:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy
establishing measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system, taking into
account all modes of transportation including mass
transit and non-motorized travel and relevant
components of the circulation system, including but
not limited to intersections, streets, highways and
freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass
transit?
b. Conflict with an applicable congestion management
program, including, but not limited to level of
service standards and travel demand measures, or
other standards established by the county congestion
management agency for designated roads or
highways?
c. Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including
either an increase in traffic levels or a change in
location that results in substantial safety risks?
d. Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature
(e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or
incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
e. Result in inadequate emergency access?
f. Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs
regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian
facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or
safety of such facilities
Setting:
Roadway Network
Regional and local access to the project site is provided by Skyway (County), Canyon Rim Place (Private), Oakridge
Drive (County), and Rim Rock Road (County).
Airport
Air transportation in Butte County is served by a number of private and public airfields and heliports serving general
aviation and agricultural users. There are four major aviation facilities in Butte County that serve the general public.
The Paradise Skypark Airport is the nearest general aviation airport to the project site. It is located approximately
6.5 miles east from the project site. The airport is privately owned and operated. Facilities include a 3,100 foot
runway and parking spaces for approximately 50 aircraft.
Impact Discussion:
a) Less than significant impact. The proposed project has the potential to introduce (1) one new single-family
residential use, as well as accessory uses to the planned and existing residences, which would generate long-
term changes in traffic volumes. Vehicle traffic for a single-family residence is estimated to be
approximately 10 vehicle trips per day (Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1997). Because the scope of
the proposed project is relatively minor and would not result in construction of a substantial amount of
residential units, the increase in traffic levels would not create substantial impacts to operating conditions of
the area road network.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 38 of 45 ■
Construction activities associated the future development of the resultant parcels has the potential to generate
short-term changes to traffic volumes on the area road network. Daily vehicle trips would be generated with
the arrival and departure of construction workers. Heavy truck trips would be required for hauling equipment
and materials to and from the construction site. Any future construction activities would be small-scale and
of short-duration. As a result, the proposed project would not cause long-term degradation in, or create
substantial impacts to, the operating conditions or level of service on any of the roadways in the project area.
b) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.16(a) - Transportation/Traffic.
c.) No impact. No public use airports have been identified to be located within the vicinity of the project site. The
proposed project is located outside the compatibility zones for the area airports, and therefore, would not result in
a change in air traffic patterns, including increase air traffic levels or safety hazards.
d.) Less than significant impact. The proposed project would not change the configuration (alignment) of area
roadways, and would not introduce types of vehicles that are not already traveling on area roads. However,
construction of access roads or driveways to the resultant parcels may require encroachment improvements to the
frontage road. Future encroachments to a county roadway would be designed in accordance with a Butte County
Public Works Encroachment Permit, which would ensure that any potential safety and compatibility issues are
addressed.
e.) Less than significant impact. No road improvements are proposed with the project. However, subsequent
development of the resultant parcels may require road improvements that would need to meet County and State
minimum safety standards for access roads and driveways. Future road and encroachment improvements would
be reviewed by the Butte County Public Works Department and Butte County Fire Protection
Department/California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to ensure that any potential safety concerns are
addressed.
f.) Less than significant impact. Future development on the resultant parcels would have minor long-term
impacts on alternative transportation facilities due to the limited population growth to the project area.
Construction activities associated with future development may generate short-term disruption to area
roadways from an anticipated increase in traffic levels that may affect alternative transportation uses.
However, construction activities associated with the proposed project would be temporary, and in compliance
with a Butte County Encroachment Permit, which would require traffic control implementation, if needed.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.17 Utilities and Service Systems:
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the
applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board?
b. Require or result in the construction of new water or
wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which could
cause significant environmental effects?
c. Require or result in the construction of new storm
water drainage facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
d. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve
the project from existing entitlements and
resources, or are new or expanded entitlements
needed?
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 39 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
e. Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project’s projected demand in addition to the
provider’s existing commitments?
f. Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
capacity to accommodate the project’s solid waste
disposal needs?
g. Comply with federal, state, and local statutes, and
regulations related to solid waste?
Impact Discussion:
a.) No impact. Wastewater disposal for the proposed project would be handled by the Skansen Sewage Pond
System (County Service Area 21, Zone 1), which operates under the Statewide General Waste Discharge
Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems. The Butte County Environmental Health Division has performed
a preliminary review of the proposed project, and has indicated that future connection to this system for
development on the resultant parcel would be possible, and that no violations to water quality standards or
waste discharge requirements are anticipated.
b.) No impact. See discussion 4.17(a) – Utilities and Service Systems.
c.) Less than significant impact. No existing on-site storm water drainage facilities are located on the project
site. Prior to recording of the parcel map, a drainage analysis will be performed for the project site that will
detail existing drainage conditions and provide measures that will ensure that no net increase in peak flow
runoff is leaving the property. Runoff generated on the property may either be detained or retained on-site
and/or conveyed to the nearest natural drainage channel or publicly maintained facility. Any proposed
storm runoff facilities would be construction to the County’s improvement standards, which will ensure
that impacts created with the creation of new facilities, or expansion of existing facilities, would not cause
significant adverse effects to the environment.
d.) Less than significant impact. Domestic water services to the project site would be provided by the Gran
Mutual Water Company. The water system has sufficient water supplies to adequately meet existing and
future consumption demands.
e.) No impact. See discussion 4.17(a) – Utilities and Service Systems.
f.) Less than significant impact. Future development of the resultant parcels would result in a minor increase
in the stream of waste being deposited in the Neal Road Landfill. The California Integrated Waste
Management Board estimates that a typical residential household generate 10 to 12 pounds of waste per
day (1.8 to 2.2 tons per year). According to the Butte County Public Works Department, the Neal Road
Landfill is expected to reach maximum holding capacity by the year 2018, and is currently seeking a permit
to expand the landfill so that it can accommodate solid waste to the year 2034. Based on this information,
and because the proposed project would comply with all applicable federal, state, and local statutes and
regulations as they relate to solid waste, adequate permitted landfill capacity exists to accommodate the
proposed project.
g.) Less than significant impact. See discussion 4.17(f) – Utilities and Service Systems.
Mitigation Measure: None required.
4.18 Mandatory Findings of Significance:
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 40 of 45 ■
Would the proposal: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
Reviewed
Under
Previous
Document
a. Have the potential to substantially degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
community, reduce the number or restrict the range
of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate
important examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory?
b. Have impacts that are individually limited, but
cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively
considerable” means that the incremental effects of a
project are considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the effects of other
current projects and the effects of probable future
projects)?
c. Does the project have environmental effects which
will cause substantial adverse effects on human
beings, either directly or indirectly?
Impact Discussion:
a.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. With the implementation of mitigation measures
included in this Initial Study, the proposed project would not degrade the quality of the environment; result in
an adverse impact on fish, wildlife, or plant species including special status species, or prehistoric or historic
cultural resources. Prehistoric or historic cultural resources would not be adversely affected because no
archeological or historic resources are known to exist in the project area and project implementation includes
following appropriate procedures for avoiding or preserving artifacts or human remains should they be
uncovered during project excavation.
b.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. This project has the potential to contribute
impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable with respect to Air Quality, Biological,
and Cultural Resources. Cumulative impacts to these areas would be mitigated due to the inclusion of the
Mitigation Measures listed below, as itemized under Section 5 – Mitigation Measures and Monitoring
Requirements. Section 4.7 Green House Gasses of this study explains why the project’s contribution to
cumulative impacts is not cumulatively considerable, based on the limited scale of development.
Past, current, and probable future projects in the vicinity of the project site were reviewed to determine if any
additional cumulative impacts may occur with the approval of this project. A two mile radius was used in
determining cumulative impacts. No additional cumulative impacts were discovered.
c.) Less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. There have been no impacts discovered through
the review of this application demonstrating that there would be substantial adverse effects on human beings
either directly or indirectly. However, the proposed project has the potential to cause both temporary and
future impacts to the area by project-related impacts relating to air, biological, and cultural resources. With
implementation of mitigation measures included in this Initial Study, these impacts would be effectively
mitigated to a less than significant level.
5.0 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Requirements
Mitigation Measure #1:
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map
sheet that states: “Dust generated by the development activities shall be kept to a minimum and retained on-site.
Follow the air quality control measures listed below:
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 41 of 45 ■
Control Dust
a. During clearing, grading, earth moving, excavation, or transportation of cut or fill materials, water trucks or
sprinkler systems are to be used to prevent dust from leaving the site and to create a crust after each day’s
activities cease.
b. During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement
damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site. At a minimum, this would include wetting down such areas
in the later morning and after work is completed for the day and whenever wind exceeds 15 miles per hour.
c. Soil stockpiled for more than two days shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust
generation.
d. On-site construction vehicles shall be limited to a speed of 15 mph on unpaved roads.
e. Haul vehicles transporting soil into or out of the property shall be covered.
f. Existing roads and streets adjacent to the project shall be cleaned at least once per day if dirt or mud from the
project site has been tracked onto these roadways, unless conditions warrant a greater frequency.
g. Other measures may be required as determined appropriate by the BCAQMD or Department of Public Works in
order to control dust.
Post Contact Information
h. Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and person to contact regarding dust complaints. This
person shall respond and take corrective action within 24 hours. The telephone number of the Butte County Air
Quality Management District shall be visible to ensure compliance with BCAQMD Rule 200 & 205 (Nuisance
and Fugitive Dust Emissions).
Other Construction Practices
i. Maintain all construction equipment in proper tune according to manufacturer’s specification.
j. Where feasible, give preference to utilizing the following equipment:
Electric equipment
Substitute gasoline-powered for diesel-powered equipment
Alternatively fueled construction equipment on site such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquid natural
gas (LNG), propane, or biodiesel.
Equipment that has Caterpillar pre-chamber diesel engines, as practical.
Diesel construction equipment meeting the CARB’s 1996 or newer certification standard for off-road
heavy-duty diesel engines.
k. Construction workers shall park in designated parking area(s) to help reduce dust emissions.”
Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the
map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans.
Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods.
Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall
ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an
additional map sheet. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site. Butte County Air
Pollution Control District inspectors shall respond to nuisance complaints.
Mitigation Measure #2
Prior to any development activity or the issuance of any permit or approval removing or encroaching upon oak trees
on the project site (this generally includes the canopy drip-line of trees within the area of ground disturbance and
trees subject to changes in hydrologic regime) an Oak Tree Mitigation Plan, prepared by a certified arborist,
registered professional forester, botanist or landscape architect, shall be submitted for review and approval by the
Zoning Administrator that includes:
1) A survey showing the location of oak trees 5 inches or more in diameter at breast height, as defined by PRC
§21083.4(a);
2) The removal of all oak trees 5 inches or more in diameter at breast height shall be mitigated. It shall be
mitigated by one or more of the following: replanting and maintaining oak trees, establishing conservation
easements, contributing funds for off-site oak woodlands conservation, and/or other mitigation measures
developed by Butte County. Replanting oak trees cannot account for more than one-half of the mitigation.
Replanted oak trees shall be maintained for a period of seven years after they are planted. If any of the replanted
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 42 of 45 ■
oak trees die or become diseased, they shall be replaced and maintained for seven years after the new oak trees
are planted;
3) A replanting schedule and diagram for trees removed or encroached upon by permit activities consistent with
PRC §21083.4(b)(2), applicable mitigation measures, and Butte County Ordinance, if any, shall be submitted to
and approved by the Zoning Administrator. Replanted trees shall be planted in areas deemed appropriate by the
Plan, considering future lot development, interference with foundations, fencing, roadways, driveways, and
utilities. Trees planted shall be protected from livestock and other animals;
4) Oak Tree protection measures for trees to be retained within the project site shall be included in construction
specifications. Each oak tree to be preserved shall be surrounded by a tree zone identified by the drip line of the
tree. An orange plastic fence or other suitable type of fence shall be used to identify the tree zone during
construction activities. No vegetation removal, soil disturbance, or other development activities shall occur
within the tree zone in order to protect root systems and minimize compaction of the soil, unless authorized by
Oak Tree Mitigation Plan; and
5) Conservation easements or funds for off-site oak woodlands conservation shall be proposed to and approved by
the Zoning Administrator.
Plan Requirements: No vegetation removal, grading, road construction, or other earthwork shall be permitted until
the tree plan is submitted and approved.
Timing: Requirements of the condition shall be satisfied prior to any development activity or the issuance of any
grading, building, septic, or well permit, or the approval of any improvement plans on the parcels, which will result
in removing or encroaching upon oak trees on the project site.
Monitoring: At the time of septic, well, or building permit application, the Development Services Department will
reference this requirement on any grading, building, septic, or well permit site plans and verify that either Oak Trees
5 inches or more in diameter at breast height are avoided or an Oak Tree Mitigation Plan has been submitted to and
approved by the Zoning Administrator. Butte County building inspectors shall ensure compliance on-site.
Mitigation Measure #3:
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the Parcel Map or on an additional map
sheet stating: “Should grading activities reveal the presence of cultural resources (i.e., artifact concentrations,
including arrowheads and other stone tools or chipping debris, cans, glass, etc.; structural remains; human skeletal
remains), work within 50 feet of the find shall cease immediately until a qualified professional archaeologist can be
consulted to evaluate the resource and implement appropriate mitigation procedures. Should human skeletal remains
be encountered, State law requires immediate notification of the County Coroner. Should the County Coroner
determine that such resources are in an archaeological context, the Native American Heritage Commission in
Sacramento shall be notified immediately, pursuant to State law, to arrange for Native American participation in
determining the disposition of such remains.
Plan Requirements: This note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the
parcel map or on an additional map sheet and on all building and site development plans.
Timing: This measure shall be implemented during site preparation and construction.
Monitoring: The Department of Development Services shall ensure that the note is placed on a separate document
which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map sheet. The Department of Development
Services shall ensure that the note is placed on all building and site development plans. Should cultural resources be
discovered, the landowner/developer shall notify the Planning Division and a professional archaeologist. The
Planning Division shall coordinate with the landowner/developer and appropriate authorities to avoid damage to
cultural resources and determine appropriate action.
Mitigation Measure #4:
Place a note on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an additional map
sheet that states: To the extent feasible, the developer shall implement the following measures at the time of
development to offset the anticipated contribution of greenhouse gas emissions from residential development:
Support expansion of renewable energy systems
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 43 of 45 ■
o Prewire all new residential development to support photovoltaic system installation.
Support efficiency in vehicles and landscaping equipment
o Install electrical vehicle outlets on external walls or in garages in all new residential
development.
Improve fuel efficiency of equipment during construction-related activities
o Minimize idling time either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the
time of idling to no more than 3 minute.
o Use clean or alternative fuel equipment
Plan Requirements: The note shall be placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the
map or on an additional map sheet. This note shall also be placed on all building and site development plans.
Timing: Shall be implemented prior to issuance of building permits for residential development. Construction-
related measures shall be adhered to throughout all grading and construction periods.
Monitoring: The Butte County Department of Development Services and the Public Works Department shall
ensure that the note is placed on a separate document which is to be recorded concurrently with the map or on an
additional map sheet. Planning Division will ensure that future residential development includes the applicable
measures during Building Permit review. Building inspectors shall spot check and shall ensure compliance on-site.
6.0 Environmental Reference Material
1. Butte County Association of Governments. Butte Regional Conservation Plan, First Administrative Draft.
Accessed December 27, 2013. (available at http://www.buttehcp.com/BRCP-Documents/1st-Admin-Draft-
BRCP/index.html)
2. Butte County Association of Governments. Butte Regional Transit (B-Line). 2008. Bus Basics. Available at
www.blinetransit.com/. Accessed on December 31, 2013.
3. Butte County Climate Action Plan. Adopted February 25, 2014. (available at ButteCAP.net)
4. Butte County 2030 General Plan. Environmental Impact Report. Oroville, CA. April 8, 2010. (Available at
http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/2010-08-30_FEIR/default.asp.)
5. Butte County General Plan 2030. Oroville, CA. October 26, 2010. (available at
http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/2010-10-26_GP2030/Butte_County_General_Plan.pdf)
6. Butte County 2030 General Plan. Settings and Trends Report. Public Draft. Oroville, CA. August 2, 2007.
(Available at http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/products/SettingandTrends/default.asp.)
7. Butte County. Housing Element of the Butte County General Plan (2010-2030). 2010.
8. Butte County Noise Control Ordinance (Ordinance No. 4053). Adopted on March 26, 2013. (Available at
http://www.buttecounty.net/Development%20Services/PLANNING%20DIVISION/Noise%20Ordinance.aspx)
9. Butte County Zoning Ordinance. Adopted on November 6, 2012. (available at
http://www.buttegeneralplan.net/
10. Butte County. Resolution 10-150. Resolution of the board of supervisors of the County of Butte, state of
California, making findings of fact in support of Butte County General Plan 2030 and its associated
environmental impact report, rejecting alternatives, adopting a mitigation monitoring and reporting plan, and
adopting a statement of overriding considerations. Adopted October 26, 2010.
11. Butte County. Section III, Seismic and Geologic Hazards, Health and Safety Element of the Butte County
General Plan (2010-2030). 2010.
12. Butte County Planning Department. Butte County GIS Data. May 2013.
13. Butte County Public Works Department. 2011 Butte County Bicycle Plan. June 14, 2011.
Project Name: Gage and Christine Chrysler Tentative Parcel Map, File # TPM14-0004
■ Butte County Department of Development Services ■
■ Initial Study – TPM14-0004 (Chrysler) ■ Page 44 of 45 ■
14. Butte County Air Quality Management District. CEQA Air Quality Handbook – Guidelines for Assessing Air
Quality Impacts for Projects Subject to CEQA Review. January 2008.
15. Butte Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). Chico Recreation and Park District Municipal Service
Review. April 2, 2009.
16. California Air Resources Board. “ARB approves tripling of early action measures required under AB 32”.
News Release 07-46. http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr102507.htm. October 25, 2007.
17. California Air Resources Board. Climate Change Scoping Plan: a framework for change. December 2008.
18. California Air Resources Board. Expanded List of Early Action Measures to Reduce Greenhouse Gas
Emissions in California Recommended for Board Consideration. October 2007.
19. California Department of Conservation. Fault-Rupture Hazard Zones in California. Altquist-Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zoning Act with Index to Earthquake Fault Zone Maps. Special Publication 42. Interim Revision. 2007.
20. California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resource Protection. A Guide to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program. 2004.
21. Department of Toxic Substance Control. 2009. Envirostor Database. Accessed on December 31, 2013.
http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public.
22. Institute of Transportation Engineers. Trip Generation Manual, 6th Edition – Volume 1 of 3. 1997.
23. U.S. Census Bureau. Annual Estimates of the Resident Population – 2012 Population Estimates for Butte
County, California. March 5, 2013.
24. U.S. Census Bureau. Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics – 2010. Butte County,
California. March 5, 2013.
Climate Action Plan Implementation and Monitoring Tool
Development Checklist for Master‐Planned Development
Project Summary
1. What is the size of the project (in acres?)
2. What types of land uses are included in the project? Check all that apply:
Single‐family residences Multi‐family residences
Retail commercial Office commercial
Industrial Other (please describe)
3. If there is a residential component to the project, how many units are being proposed?
Single‐family residences
Multi‐family residences
4. Does the project require any amendments to the General Plan or Specific Plans? If so, please describe.
Note: If the project does not require General Plan or Specific Plan amendments, GHG emissions from the project
may be consistent with the CAP by demonstrating consistency with the CAP policies in the checkliston the
following pages. The project may be able to rely on the CAP’s environmental findings for the purposes of GHG
emissions and climate change, rather than identifying separate project‐level emissions. The information in this
checklist should be incorporated into the project’s initial study, negative declaration/mitigated negative
declaration, environmental impact report, and/or project conditions of approval.
Should the project require any General Plan or Specific Plan amendments, the project’s impact on the county may
exceed the assumptions in the CAP’s 2020 forecast, potentially triggering additional emissions not included in the
CAP’s GHG forecast. Projects that are inconsistent with the 2020 forecasts may still use the CAP for identification
of measures and standards for mitigations, but it is recommended that the project identify separate project‐level
emissions using California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod) or another tool.
11.32 acres
Proposed Tentative Parcel Map (TPM14‐0004) to subdivide two existing parcels into three parcels, creating one
additional developableparcel for single‐family residential development.
Up to 2
No.
Consistency with CAP Measures
The CAP provides measures that achieve a 15% reduction below 2006 emissions levels by 2020. Projects that wish
to demonstrate consistency with the CAP must demonstrate consistency with all applicable measures and action
items from the CAP. Consistency with all applicable measures should be cited as evidence to support
streamlining from the CAP.
CAP measures that regulate new master‐planned developments are provided below. These are minimum
standards that are necessary for CAP consistency. Using the table, identify the project's compliance with
applicable CAP measures. If a project demonstrates consistency with all applicable standards, the project is
eligible to claim consistency with CAP measures and is eligible for CAP streamlining. Additional
measures from the CAP may also be recommended.
Standards for CAP Consistency ‐ New Development
Yes Additional notes:
No
N/A
kW
Yes What type of system?
No
N/A
Additional notes:
Yes kWh
No
N/A
%
Additional notes:
Yes
No
N/A
Yes
No
N/A
Yes
No Additional notes:
N/A
Yes
No
N/A Additional notes:
Yes
No
N/A Additional notes:
F2: Construction of new development: Use clean
or alternative fuel equipment (e.g., electricity,
natural gas, hybrid, etc.); or imit the maximum
idling time for all construction equipment to
three minutes or less.
If yes, what type of measure
To be required at time of
building permit.
F1: Nonresidential developments: Provide public
electric vehicle prewiring or conduit.
If yes, how many spaces are
F1: Residential developments: Infrastructure
support the use of neighborhood electric
vehicles (NEVs). Examples: speed limits no
higher than 35 mph, NEV/bike‐only traffic lanes,
and signage alerting drivers to the presence of
NEVs.
If yes, what type of measure
does the project use?
Not applicable for this minor
land division.
EN9: New nonresidential development: prewire
for solar PV systems and maximize roof space to
accommodate future rooftop solar installations.
Is the project prewired for solar
PV systems?
Yes
No
Please explain other measures
Reduction Measure and Applicable Standard Compliance Notes and Comments
EN8: Multi‐family developments: Offset
electricity use by power purchase agreements or
with on‐site solar.
How much electricity will be
offset?
What percent of residential
electricity will be offset?
EN8: New discretionary projects: prewire for
solar PV systems.
Is the project prewired for solar
PV systems?
Yes
No
Additional notes:
To be required.
EN8: New discretionary developments consisting
of more than 500 residential units: achieve zero
net energy through a combination of energy
efficiency and renewable energy measures (i.e.,
on average, the project will generate more
electricity on‐site each year than it will use).
How much renewable energy
will be generated on‐site?
Solar photovoltaic
Solar water heater
Other
Reduction Measure and Applicable Standard Does the Project Comply? Notes and Comments
EN7: Nonresidential uses: Achieve CALGreen Tier
1 standards for energy efficiency, water
conservation, and passive design.
Yes
No units
N/A Additional notes:
Reduction Measure and Applicable Standard Applicability Notes
F3: Residential units: Contain electric vehicle
charging outlets on external walls or in garages.
If yes, how many units will have
chargers?
Up to 2
To be required at time of
building permit.
A Mitigation Measure will be
added to the proposed project.
The measure will include an
informational note on the
recorded map, and
implemented during
construction activities on the
resultant parcels.
A Mitigation Measure will be
added to the proposed project.
The measure will include an
informational note on the
recorded map, and
implemented during Building
Permit review for residential
development.
A Mitigation Measure will be
added to the proposed project.
The measure will include an
informational note on the
recorded map, and
implemented during Building
Permit review for residential
development.
EN8. Expand distributed generation, renewable
energy systems for new residential
development. Encourage all new discretionary
projects to include solar prewiring for PV.
Future single‐family residential
development on the resultant
parcels will be pre‐wired for
photovoltaic energy systems to
encourage expansion of
renewable energy systems.
F2. Corrdinate with the Butte County Air Quality
Management District to adopt construction
mitigation requirements for all construction
projects. Applicants for project subject to
discretionary review shall be encouraged to
choose one of the following: (1) Reduce
construction equipment idling to 3 minutes. (2)
As practical, use clean or alternative fuel
equipment.
Construction activities on the
resultant parcels will be
monitored by construction
personnel or the property
owner to ensure construction
equipment idling is limited to 3
minutes. If available,
construction equipment with
alternative fuel or clean fuel
would be used during
construction activities on the
resultant parcels.
F3. Implement programs and update standards
for new residential development to support
efficiency in auto and lawn and garden
equipment. Encourage electrical vehicle outlets
on external walls or in garages in all new
residential development, subject to discretionary
review.
Future single‐family residential
development on the resultant
parcels will include electric
vehicle outlets on external walls
or in garages to promote fuel
efficent vehicles and garden
equipment.
Additional Recommended CAP Measures
This list includes additional measures and actions identified in the CAP that are not directly applicable to master‐
planned developments but may be relevant to a project of this type. These measures should be included in the
project design as feasible.
2729 Prospect Park Drive
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
www.pmcworld.com