Open Space Element Table of Contents

LIST OF FIGURES

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PURPOSE

State law recognizes that open space land is a limited and valuable resource which must be conserved wherever possible. The element must address open space for the preservation of natural resources, for the managed production of resources, for outdoor recreation, and for public health and safety.

The purpose of the Open Space Element is to preserve the natural and scenic resources which contribute to the general welfare and quality of life for the residents of the county and to the maintenance of its tourism industry. This element provides the guidelines for making necessary consistency findings and includes an implementation program, as required by law.

1.2 RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER ELEMENTS

The Open Space Element is coordinated with the Public Safety, Public Facilities, Agricultural Resources and Resource Conservation Elements. Figure OS-1 on page 107 illustrates the relationship between these elements. The Land Use element reinforces the policies of this element and is consistent with the preservation of open space lands.

1.3 SCOPE AND ORGANIZATION

The Open Space Element has three major components, a policy framework for the preservation of open space lands, an open space map for each planning area identifying lands subject to the various policies, and an implementation program.

There are four classifications of open space - scenic resources, biotic resources, outdoor recreation, and rchaeological/historical resources.

2.0 SCENIC RESOURCES

The unique quality of Sonoma County results from the attractiveness and diversity of its landscape. The scenic resources component includes three open space categories, community separators, scenic landscape units, and scenic highway corridors. Figure OS-2 on page 169 shows these scenic resource areas.

2.1 POLICY FOR COMMUNITY SEPARATORS

A characteristic which distinguishes Sonoma County from many parts of the San Francisco Bay Area is the continued existence of separate, identifiable cities and communities. Some land areas need to remain open or retain a rural character in order to avoid corridor-style urbanization. These lands may not necessarily be highly scenic in their own right, but provide visual relief from continuous urbanization and are a special type of scenic border -- a community separator. They are frequently subject to pressure for development because they are close to developed areas and major roads. Many property owners are concerned that open space policies may affect their property values.

The following eight areas have been identified as community separators:

Past County policy for these separator lands has varied. In some areas, development rights on a portion of some sites were given in return for open space easements on the remainder. Elsewhere, development has been approved on individual parcels. Uniform standards for each community separator would define the types and intensity of uses which are desired to retain these lands in an open manner with very low intensity of development.

Goal OS-1 Preserve the visual identities of communities by maintaining open space areas between cities and communities.

Objective OS-1.1: Preserve important open space areas in the community separators shown on Figures OS-5a through OS-5i of the Open Space Element.

Objective OS-1.2: Retain a rural character and promote low intensities of development in community separators. Avoid their annexation or inclusion in spheres of influence for sewer and water service providers.

Objective OS-1.3: Provide opportunities for consideration of additional development in community separators in exchange for permanent open space preservation and other overriding public benefits.

Objective OS-1.4: Preserve existing specimen trees and tree stands within community separator areas.

Figure OS-2

View full size Figure OS-2

The County shall use the following policies in addition to those in the Land Use Element to accomplish the above objectives:

OS-1a: Avoid amendments to increase residential density in community separators, since these densities were established based upon the policies set forth in other elements of this plan as well as the open space, separation and visual considerations identified in this section. The integrity of community separators cannot be maintained at densities in excess of one unit per ten acres. However, under no circumstances shall this policy be used to justify an increase in density from that designated on the land use map.

OS-1b: Avoid commercial or industrial uses in community separators other than those which are permitted by the agricultural or resource land use categories, except as may be authorized by policy OS-1c below. Consider amendments for outdoor recreational or other uses with a low intensity of structures only in those community separators along the Highway 101 Corridor.

OS-1c: Notwithstanding policies OS-1a, OS-1b, LU-5c, the policies of the Agricultural Resources and Public Facilities Elements, and the densities set forth on the land use map, the Board of Supervisors may, through a development agreement or other appropriate mechanism, allow additional or varied development within community separators on a case by case basis if, at a minimum, the following criteria are met:
1) permanent open space preservation is provided through open space grants to the County and/or third party land trust.
2) development is clustered, concentrated or located to maintain the visual quality of the separator.
3) in addition to providing permanent open space preservation, the development includes other public benefits which equal or outweigh the impacts of placing such development within the separator.
4) the development is accompanied by a visual analysis which demonstrates that the development either is not detrimental to or, in fact, enhances the visual quality of the separator as a whole.
5) adequate additional public services and infrastructure are available to serve the development.
6) the development is compatible with surrounding properties, especially those used for agricultural pursuits.
7) where open space grants are offered by way of easement as opposed to fee title, the development proposal includes a landscaping and maintenance plan which retains or enhances the visual integrity of the permanent open space.

In addition to the mandatory criteria set forth above, special consideration will be given to projects which incorporate one or more of the following:
1) aggregation of parcels within the separator to achieve a project design which enhances the separator as a whole.
2) creative developer/city/county financing mechanisms to maintain and preserve open space or parkland which may be dedicated in fee as part of the proposed development.
3) project design features which provide for pedestrian or bicycle links between the communities on either side of the separator and to any parkland which may be dedicated in fee as part of the proposed development.

Nothing set forth in this policy shall require the Board of Supervisors to allow this additional development in community separators. Development, if any, proposed pursuant to this policy may be allowed after public hearing if the Board, in its sole discretion, determines that the proposed development is desirable for the community as a whole and is otherwise consistent with the General Plan and the criteria set forth above.

OS-1d: Apply the Scenic Resources combining district consistent with this element to all lands located within a community separator.

OS-1e: Require that new structures meet the following criteria:
1) they are sited below exposed ridgelines.
2) they use natural landforms and existing vegetation to screen them from view from public roads. On exposed sites, screening with native, fire retardant plants may be required.
3) cuts and fills are discouraged and where practical, driveways are screened from public view .
4) utilities are undergrounded where economically practical.

Exempt agricultural accessory structures from this policy if their use does not require a use permit in the zoning ordinance. If compliance with these standards would make a parcel unbuildable, site structures where minimum visual impacts would result.

Exempt telecommunication facilities if they meet the siting and design criteria of the Scenic Resources (SR) Zoning District.

OS-1f: Use the following standards in addition to those of Policy OS-1e for subdivisions in community separators:
1) establish building envelopes for structures. Consider use of height limitations if necessary to further mitigate visual impacts.
2) use clustering to reduce visual impact where consistent with the land use element.
3) locate building sites and roadways to preserve significant existing tree stands and significant oak trees.
4) to the extent allowed by law, require dedication of a permanent scenic or agricultural easement at the time of subdivision.

OS-1g: Initiate an implementation program for community separator areas.

OS-1h: Consider placing on the ballot a measure which would establish an Open Space District for the purpose of acquiring and administering open space lands, including an appropriate method of financing.

OS-1i: Consider voluntary transfer of development rights (TDR) and purchase of development rights (PDR) programs and make community separators eligible with owner consent.

OS-1j: Until the expiration of Ordinance No. 5111R, the general plan land use regulations for the lands within the Petaluma/Novato Community Separator shall not be changed so as to increase either the allowed intensity or density of development by changing the land use designations in Figure LU-5h of the Land Use Element without the prior approval of the voters of Sonoma County. This provision shall also apply to any general plan that succeeds the 1989 Sonoma County General Plan.

2.2 POLICY FOR SCENIC LANDSCAPE UNITS

Coastal bluffs, vineyards, San Pablo Bay, the Laguna de Santa Rosa and other landscapes are of special importance to Sonoma County. Preservation of these scenic resources is important to the quality of life of County residents and the tourists and agricultural economy. Other features such as the Mayacamas and Sonoma Mountains provide scenic backdrops to communities. As the county urbanizes, maintenance of the openness of these areas provides important visual relief from urban densities. These landscapes have little capacity to absorb very much development without significant visual impact.

Major scenic landscape units have been identified as follows:

Goal OS-2: Retain the largely open, scenic character of important scenic landscape units.

Objective OS-2.1: Retain a rural, scenic character in scenic landscape units with very low intensities of development. Avoid their inclusion within spheres of influence for public service providers.

Objective OS-2.2: Provide opportunities for consideration of additional development in scenic landscape units in exchange for permanent open space preservation.

The following policies in addition to those of the Land Use Element shall be used to accomplish the above objectives:

OS-2a: Avoid amendments to increase residential density in scenic landscape units in excess of one unit per ten acres. The land use plan may designate a lower density or larger minimum lot size.

OS-2b: Avoid commercial or industrial uses in scenic landscape units other than those which are permitted by the agricultural or resource land use categories.

OS-2c: Notwithstanding policies OS-2a and LU-8a and the densities set forth on the land use map, the Board of Supervisors may, through a development agreement or other appropriate mechanism, allow additional residential development within scenic landscape units on a case by case basis if, at a minimum, the following criteria are met:

1)	Permanent open space preservation is provided through open space grants to the County and/or third party land trust.
2)	Development is clustered, concentrated or located to maintain the visual quality of the area.
3)	In addition to providing permanent open space preservation, the development includes other public benefits which equal or outweigh the impacts of placing such development within the scenic landscape unit.
4)	The development is accompanied by a visual analysis which demonstrates that the development either is not detrimental to or, in fact, enhances the visual quality of the area.
5)	Adequate additional public services and infrastructure are available to serve the development.
6)	The development is compatible with surrounding properties, especially those used for agricultural pursuits.
7)	The development does not require urban level services.
8)	To the extent possible, the development is consistent with the policies set forth in the Agricultural Resources Element.

In addition to the mandatory criteria stated above, special consideration will be given to projects which incorporate one or more of the following:

1)	aggregation of parcels within the scenic landscape unit to achieve a project design which visually enhances the area.
2)	creative developer/city/county financing mechanisms to maintain and preserve open space or parkland which may be dedicated in fee as part of the proposed development.
3)	project design features which provide for pedestrian or bicycle links to any parkland which may be dedicated in fee as part of the proposed development.

Nothing set forth in this policy shall require the Board of Supervisors to allow this additional development in scenic landscape units. Development, if any, proposed pursuant to this policy may be allowed after public hearing if the Board, in its sole discretion, determines that the proposed development is desirable for the community as a whole and is otherwise consistent with the General Plan and the criteria set forth above.

OS-2d: Apply the Scenic Resources combining district consistent with this element to all lands located within scenic landscape units.

OS-2e: Require that new structures meet the following criteria:

1)	they are sited below exposed ridgelines
2)	they use natural landforms and existing vegetation to screen them from view from public roads. On exposed sites, screening with native, fire retardant plants may be required.
3)	cuts and fills are discouraged and where practical, driveways are screened from public view.
4)	utilities are undergrounded where economically practical.

Exempt agricultural accessory structures from this policy if their use does not require a use permit in the zoning ordinance. If compliance with these standards would make a parcel unbuildable, site structures where minimum visual impacts would result.

Exempt telecommunication facilities if they meet the siting and design criteria of the Scenic Resources (SR) Zoning District.

OS-2f: Use the following standards in addition to those of Policy OS-2e for subdivisions in scenic landscape units:

1)	establish building envelopes for structures. Consider use of height limitations if necessary to further mitigate visual impacts.
2)	use clustering to reduce visual impact where consistent with the land use element.
3)	locate building sites and roadways to preserve significant existing tree stands and significant oak trees.

OS-2g: Identify critical scenic areas within designated scenic landscape units. To the extent allowed by law, consider requiring dedication of a permanent scenic or agricultural easement at the time of subdivision for properties within these critical scenic areas.

OS-2h: Consider voluntary transfer of development rights (TDR) and purchase of development rights (PDR) programs and make scenic landscape units eligible with owner consent.

OS-2i: For development on parcels located both within scenic landscape units and adjacent to scenic corridors, apply the more restrictive siting and setback policies to preserve visual quality.

2.3 POLICY FOR SCENIC CORRIDORS

Many residents of Sonoma County value highly the variety and beauty of the County's many landscapes as viewed from rural roadways. Motorists can travel from urban centers into orchard and forest covered hills, rolling dairy lands, and scenic valleys planted in vineyards. Preserving these landscapes is important to the character of the county.

Goal OS-3: Identify and preserve roadside landscapes which have a high visual quality as they contribute to the living environment of local residents and to the county's tourism economy.

Objective OS-3.1: Designate the scenic corridors on Figures OS-5a through OS-5i along roadways which cross highly scenic areas, provide visual links to major recreation areas, give access to historic areas, or serve as scenic entranceways to cities.

Objective OS-3.2: Provide guidelines so future land uses, development and roadway construction are compatible with the preservation of scenic values along designated scenic highway corridors.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve these objectives:

OS-3a: Apply the Scenic Resources combining district to those portions of properties within scenic corridor setbacks.

OS-3b: For development on parcels located both within scenic landscape units and adjacent to scenic corridors, apply the more restrictive siting and setback policies to preserve visual quality.

OS-3c: Establish a rural scenic corridor setback of 30 percent of the depth of the lot to a maximum of 200 feet from the centerline of the road unless a different setback is provided in the planning area policies of the Land Use Element. Prohibit development within the setback with the following exceptions:

1)	New barns and similar agricultural support structures added to existing farm complexes provided that such structures proposed within a State Scenic Highway or where local design review exists by community choice in an adopted specific or area plan are subject to administrative design review.
2)	New barns and similar agricultural support structures which do not require a use permit in the zoning ordinance provided that such structures proposed within a State Scenic Highway or where local design review exists by community choice in an adopted specific or area plan are subject to administrative design review.
3)	Maintenance, restoration, reconstruction, or minor expansion of existing structures.
4)	Telecommunication facilities that meet the applicable criteria established in the zoning ordinances
5)	Other new structures if they are subject to design review and
	a)	they are associated with existing structures,
	b)	there is no other reasonable location for the structure,
	c)	the location within the setback is necessary for the use, or
	d)	existing vegetation and topography screen the use.
6)	Compliance with the setback would render the parcel unbuildable.
7)	Satellite dishes which are not visible from the roadway.

OS-3d: Establish a building setback of 20 feet along the Highway 101 Scenic Corridor in urban service areas to be reserved for landscaping. Where a sound barrier must be located along a scenic corridor, ensure that the landscaped area is visible from the highway. Cooperate with state agencies to achieve compatible goals with regard to visual quality along scenic corridors.

OS-3e: Incorporate design criteria for scenic corridors in urban areas.

OS-3f: Refer building permits within the setback along historic Bohemian Highway between Occidental and Freestone and Bodega Highway between Bodega and Freestone to the Sonoma County Landmarks Commission for review and recommendations.

OS-3g: Avoid freeway oriented billboards along designated scenic corridors. Establish design criteria for consideration of new freestanding outdoor advertising structures or signs along designated scenic corridors to retain visual quality. Consider amortization of existing signs subject to the limitations of state law as a condition of approval for discretionary permits.

OS-3h: Design public works projects to minimize tree damage and removal along scenic corridors. Where trees must be removed, design replanting programs so as to accommodate ultimate planned highway improvements. Require revegetation following grading and road cuts.

OS-3i: Recognize Highway 116 from Highway 1 to the southern edge of Sebastopol as an official state scenic highway. Consider requesting official state scenic highway designations for Highways 1 and 37. Upon the request of local residents, the County may pursue similar state status for other scenic corridors.

OS-3j: Consider the Bodega Bay Bypass as a scenic corridor upon completion of construction.

3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES

Sonoma County is rich in plant and animal habitats which warrant protection. Primary components mapped on the open space plan maps are critical habitat areas and riparian corridors. Figure OS-3 on page 185 shows these areas.

3.1 POLICY FOR CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS

Certain biotic resource communities provide wildlife habitat and contribute to the quality of life in Sonoma County. These critical habitat areas are designated on Figure OS-3 on page --- and require special protection because they are highly sensitive to change and could be adversely affected by development.

Important critical habitat areas include:

Goal OS-4: Identify critical habitat areas and assure that the quality of these natural resources is maintained and not adversely affected by development activities.

Objective OS-4.1: Designate important wetlands, marshes and other critical habitats and maintain low intensity land uses in these areas.

Objective OS-4.2: Establish development guidelines to protect designated critical habitat areas.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve these objectives:

OS-4a: Add a Biotic Resources combining district to the zoning ordinance.

OS-4b: Rezone to the Biotic Resources combining district any lands designated as a critical habitat area.

OS-4c: Require the preparation of a biotic resource assessment to develop mitigation measures if the Planning Director determines that a discretionary project could adversely impact a designated critical habitat area.

OS-4d: Establish building envelopes to avoid designated critical habitat areas on tentative maps.

OS-4e: Require on building permits a minimum setback of 50 feet from the edge of any wetlands which are within a critical habitat area. Exempt existing farm buildings and allow them to be expanded or modified.

OS-4f: Consider waiver of the setback if, after preparation of a biotic resource assessment, it is determined that applying the setback makes the parcel unbuildable or the structure is a noncommercial agricultural building and must be located adjacent to an existing farm complex for efficient farm operation.

OS-4g: Consider voluntary transfer of development rights (TDR) and purchase of development rights (PDR) programs and make critical habitat areas eligible with owner consent.

3.2 POLICY FOR RIPARIAN CORRIDORS

Areas along streams with native vegetation are referred to as riparian corridors. Diverse vegetation and the streamside environment offer insect and plant food, shelter, and nesting sites and provide a water source for birds, fish, and mammals. The plant cover regulates water, temperature and provides a nursery habitat for trout, salmon, steelhead, and other fish.

Riparian vegetation contributes to both water quantity and quality. Plants and trees serve as filters for sediment, pesticides, and fertilizers. They stabilize banks and keep soils loose and permeable, allowing aquifers along streams to be recharged. Elimination of natural plant communities along streams can increase surface run-off and siltation, which, in turn, can create a stream environment detrimental to fisheries. Riparian corridors are therefore an important part of open space.

Riparian areas can create conflicts with agricultural and urban uses. Overgrazing can remove vegetative cover. Lands along streams often contain prime cropland soils. Riparian areas can harbor insect pests and plant diseases which may infect adjacent vineyards and orchards.

Goal OS-5: Provide protective measures for riparian corridors along selected streams which balance the need for agricultural production, urban development, timber and mining operations, and flood control with preservation of riparian values.

Objective OS-5.1: Classify important streams with native vegetation as "riparian corridors". Develop guidelines to protect and manage these areas as valuable resources.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve the above objective:

OS-5a: Classify riparian corridors designated in the open space element as follows:

1)	"Urban Riparian Corridors" include those portions of designated corridors within urban residential, commercial, industrial, or public/quasi-public land use categories.
2)	"Russian River Riparian Corridor" includes the corridor adjacent to any part of the Russian River which is neither located within the above urban riparian corridor nor within the jurisdiction of a city.
3)	"Flatland Riparian Corridors" include the corridors adjacent to any streams which flow through predominantly flat or very gently sloping land, generally with alluvial soil. This classification excludes areas covered by 1) and 2) above.
4)	"Upland Riparian Corridors" include the corridors adjacent to streams not included in the above three categories.

OS-5b: Rezone to the Biotic Resources combining district any lands designated as riparian corridors.

OS-5c: Establish streamside conservation areas, measured from the top of the higher bank as determined by the SCWA, for designated riparian corridors as follows:

1) Urban Riparian Corridors: 50'

2) Russian River Riparian Corridor: 200'

3) Flatland Riparian Corridors: 100'

4) Upland Riparian Corridors: 50'

OS-5d: Designate additional riparian corridors in specific plans, area plans, or local area development guidelines which will be subject to policies included therein.

OS-5e: Allow or consider allowing the following uses within any streamside conservation area:

1)	Timber operations conducted in accordance with an approved timber harvest plan.
2)	Streamside maintenance.
3)	Road crossings and street crossings, utility line crossings.
4)	Mining operations conducted in accordance with the County Surface Mining and Reclamation Ordinance.
5)	Permitted summer dams.
6)	Grazing and similar agricultural production activities not involving structures or cultivation, except as defined by 7) below.
7)	Agricultural cultivation:
	a)	located no closer than 100' from the top of the bank in the "Russian River Riparian Corridor".
	b)	located no closer than 50' from the top of the bank in "flatland riparian corridors".
	c)	located no closer than 25' from the top of the bank in "upland riparian corridors".
	d)	The setbacks of 7 a), b), and c) above may be reduced through the discretionary approval process or through a plan approved by the Planning Director provided the owner includes appropriate mitigations for potential erosion, bank stabilization and biotic impacts.
8)	Vegetation removal as part of an integrated pest management program administered by the Agricultural Commissioner.
9)	Creekside bikeways, trails and parks within urban riparian corridors.
10)	Development authorized by waiver under OS-5f.

OS-5f: Prohibit, except as allowed by OS-5e, structures, roads and utility lines and parking lots within any streamside conservation area. Consider waiver of this prohibition if:

1) it makes a lot unbuildable and vegetation removal is minimized,
2) no significant disturbance of riparian habitat would occur, or
3) the use involves only the maintenance, restoration or minor expansion of an existing structure.

A biotic resource assessment may be required prior to issuance of a waiver.

OS-5g: Review timber harvest plans adjacent to designated riparian corridors and request that clear cutting not occur within streamside conservation areas. Where clear cutting is approved by the applicable state or federal agency along designated riparian corridors, ensure that at least 50 percent of the overstory canopy and at least 50 percent of the understory vegetation be retained.

OS-5h: Use the following criteria to determine whether or not public projects are consistent with this element:

1)	Non-emergency Water Agency projects which include significant streambank modification are not consistent. Refer plans for vegetation removal for maintenance purposes to the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) for review.
2)	Roadway and utility construction should seek to minimize and mitigate, where feasible, damage to riparian areas. Minimize vegetation removal for necessary stream crossings.
3)	All criteria established in policy OS-5f.
4)	Grading, filling or construction shall not substantially diminish or divert any stream flow or result in any substantial increase in bank instability or erosion.

In the event that the above criteria cannot be met, a public project may be found consistent with this element if there is an overriding net public benefit.

OS-5i: Refer discretionary permits along undesignated streams to the SCWA and the DFG as part of the environmental review process.

4.0 OUTDOOR RECREATION

Open space for outdoor recreation, including parks, equestrian and hiking trails, and bicycle routes, provides pleasure and enjoyment for County residents. The Public Facilities and Services Element contains a detailed analysis of parkland needs and implementation measures. Figures OS-4a and 4b on pages 187 and 189 show designated outdoor recreation areas.

4.1 POLICY FOR PARKS AND EQUESTRIAN AND HIKING TRAILS

As of 1986, hiking and riding trails were primarily confined to parklands and to Coastal access trails within the Sea Ranch Subdivision. A trail system plan developed by the Sonoma County Regional Parks Department links various parks and expands hiking and riding opportunities. The trail plan is not a trail users guide but a plan for securing lands for a countywide trail system. Many property owners, especially those engaged in agriculture, are concerned about trespassing, liability, and damage if hikers release farm animals or bring unleashed dogs. Funding the acquisition and maintenance of trails is also an issue.

Goal OS-7 Establish a countywide park and trail system which meets future recreational needs of the county's residents while protecting agricultural uses. The emphasis of the trail system should be near urban areas and on public lands.

Objective OS-7.1: Provide for adequate parklands and trails primarily in locations that are convenient to urban areas to meet the outdoor recreation needs of the population, while not affecting agricultural uses.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve this objective:

OS-7a: Apply the "Public-Quasi Public/Park" designation to all existing local, county, and state parklands.

OS-7b: Apply the "Park" designation to indicate general areas where a need exists for parks.

OS-7c: Consider requiring dedication of public access by fee or easement from a public roadway to a navigable stream (Subdivision Map Act), the ocean, public lakes, and major reservoirs as a condition of approval for major subdivisions if 1) the project blocks an existing public access point or it results in the need for additional access, and 2) other reasonable access is not available.

OS-7d: The trails on Figure OS-4a on page 185 make up the County's designated plan for trails. Trail locations are approximate and are described below. Roadways may be used where access cannot be obtained through private property.

1.	Gualala River Waterway Trail. The Gualala River is a navigable waterway and as such, public access is protected by Article XV, Section 2 of the California Constitution. The trail follows the river from the Sonoma/Mendocino county line to Stewart's Point Road.
2.	Sonoma Coast Trail. The proposed trail extends from Black Point southward to the Estero Americana, is consistent with California State Coastal Plan policy 145 which calls for establishment of a coastal trail system statewide.
3.	Russian River Waterway Trail. The Russian River is a navigable waterway from Cloverdale to the coast and as such, public access is protected by Article XV, Section 2 of the California Constitution. This proposed waterway trail extends from the coast to Preston Bridge immediately north of Cloverdale.
4.	Santa Rosa Creek Trail. The proposed Santa Rosa Creek Trail is located between Guerneville Road and Highway 101 and is owned in fee by the SCWA.
5.	Santa Rosa - Forestville Trail. The proposed trail primarily follows the abandoned right-of-way of the Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railroad from Highway 101 to Forestville at Highway 116.
6.	Gossage and Hinebaugh Creek Trail. The proposed trail follows a SCWA channel between Llano Road and Petaluma Hill Road. The trail further extends southward to the intersection of Stony Point Road and Highway 116. It is owned in fee by the Agency.
7.	Copeland Creek Trail. The proposed trail follows Copeland Creek and links Rohnert Park near Sonoma State University to Crane Creek Regional Park.
8.	Taylor Mountain Trail. The proposed trail connects the proposed Taylor Mountain County Park with Annadel State Park.
9.	Stevenson Trail. The proposed trail was proposed by the California State Department of Parks and Recreation in 1958 to connect Robert Louis Stevenson Park and the Napa Valley.
10.	Hood Mountain Trail North. The proposed trail links Hood Mountain County Park to a 240-acre Bureau of Land Management holding to the east at the Sonoma/Napa county line.
11.	Hood Mountain - Annadel Trail. The proposed trail links Hood Mountain County Park to Annadel State Park, however a crossing at Highway 12 will be necessary to obtain.
12.	Valley of the Moon Trail. The proposed trail traverses the Valley of the Moon between Jack London State Park and the Sonoma/Napa county line and links Sonoma Valley Regional Park to the Glen Ellen community.
13.	Sonoma Trail. The proposed trail follows the right-of-way of the Northwestern Railroad from the City of Sonoma to Highway 121/12.
14.	Petaluma River Waterway Trail. The Petaluma River is a navigable waterway and as such, public access is protected by Article XV, Section 2 of the California Constitution. The proposed trail extends from Shollenberger River Park to San Pablo Bay.

Classify potential trails as follows:

1)	Recreational Waterways: Recognize boating and canoeing activities on designated waterways. Limit hiking trails to connections between urban areas, parks and the waterway.
2)	Hiking and Equestrian Trails: Locate a trail system along the Sonoma County/Napa County boundary. Link existing and proposed state and county parks adjacent to urban areas.
3)	Multiple Use Trails: Use railroad rights-of-way and water agency channels as multiple use trails for hiking, equestrian and bike use. Use existing roadways as alternative routes if access cannot be obtained.

OS-7e: Encourage private organizations to assist in the construction and maintenance of trails.

OS-7f: Consider requiring a dedication in fee or by easement for trails as a condition of approval of subdivisions. There must be a need identified on Figures OS-4a or OS-4b on pages 185 and 187 and the project must either block an existing access or result in the need for additional recreational opportunities. Locate and fence trails to minimize impacts on agricultural uses.

OS-7g: Use the following guidelines to determine consistency of projects involving lands with abandoned railroad rights of way where reasonably related to the impacts of the project:

1)	The project does not or will not preclude the use of the right-of-way for trails.
2)	A width of 60 feet generally is reserved for trail purposes, unless the Regional Parks Department determines that a different width would be adequate.
3)	An irrevocable offer of dedication for the right-of-way has been made to the County of Sonoma.

OS-7h: Identify and evaluate alternative sites in the Boyes Hot Springs area to meet the projected need for a regional park facility in Sonoma Valley.

4.2 POLICY FOR BIKEWAYS

Bicycles are used both for daily transportation and for recreation. At present, however, the bicycle must compete with the automobile for roadway space. The lack of an adequate bikeways system discourages their use. There are three types of bikeways:

State bicycle touring routes in Sonoma County include Highway 1, Highway 116, Highway 128, and a north/south route including "D" Street in Petaluma, Petaluma Hill Road, Old Redwood Highway, Dry Creek Road, and Dutcher Creek.

Goal OS-8: Establish a Bikeways Network that provides a safe and supportive environment for bicyclists in Sonoma County, recognizing that bicycling is a viable mode of transportation and popular form of recreation.

Objective OS-8.1: Design, construct and maintain a comprehensive Bikeways Network that links the County's cities, unincorporated communities, and other major activity centers including schools, recreational areas and employment centers.

Objective OS-8.2: Encourage large businesses and all governmental agencies to facilitate commuting by bicycle and ensure that future development in unincorporated areas facilitates the use of bicycles for transportation.

Objective OS-8.3: Increase public awareness of the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and the benefits of bicycling as a mode of transportation and form of recreation.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve these objectives:

OS-8a: Use the adopted Sonoma County Bikeways Plan as the detailed planning document for existing and proposed bikeways.

OS-8b: Secure funding for the design and construction of the Bikeways Network from federal, state, and local resources, and any other available public or private funding sources.

OS-8c: Designate the Regional Parks Department as the agency responsible for establishing and maintaining Class I bikeways along public rights-of-way in unincorporated areas, and the Transportation and Public Works Department as the agency responsible for establishing and maintaining Class II and III bikeways along public rights-of-way in unincorporated areas.

OS-8d: In designing bicycle facilities in the unincorporated areas, the Transportation and Public Works Department and the Regional Parks Department shall adhere to the design provisions outlined in the "Bikeways Planning and Design" chapter of the Caltrans Highway Design Manual.

OS-8e: On roads designated as Class III bikeways with "future shoulders," shoulders less than four feet wide should be provided as long as significant grading, removal of tress, or adverse effects on existing structures, driveways or drainage would not result.

OS-8f: Ensure the provision of adequate bikeways while preserving visual quality along scenic corridors.

OS-8g: Make every effort to provide minimum 4-foot wide bicycle lanes on all roads designated as Class II bikeways in the Bikeways Network. When traffic markings on roads are modified, existing minimum 4-foot wide lanes should be maintained wherever feasible. Where it is infeasible for minimum 4-foot wide lanes, use striped edgelines or other techniques to provide the widest possible lane for bicyclists.

OS-8h: Where feasible, avoid parking on designated Class II bikeways unless the removal of parking adversely affects adjacent property owners.

OS-8i: Wherever possible, upgrade existing traffic signals on County roadways so the most sensitive spot on signal detector loops identifies and is adjusted to detect bicycles. Design and adjust all new traffic signal detector loops installed on County roads to detect bicycles.

OS-8j: To the extent feasible, minimize the number of road intersections on Class I bikeways to provide safe crossings for bicyclists at access points.

OS-8k: Whenever opportunities for acquisition arise, review the status of abandoned railroad rights-of-way, natural waterways, flood control rights-of-way and public lands for potential designation as new Class I bikeways. Review railroad rights-of-way proposed for transit use for potential multiple use as Class I bikeways.

OS-8l: Review the design of all new road widening projects in order to minimize, to the extent feasible, hazards and barriers to bicycle travel on all County roads.

OS-8m: To the extent permitted by maintenance funding, provide for the routine maintenance of designated Bikeways, including patching and/or sweeping of paved shoulders where gravel, glass or other debris has accumulated, and trimming of foliage where it encroaches into the paved shoulder.

OS-8n: Consider centerline striping and signs, indicating the separation of opposing directions of travel in the design of Class I Bikeways to ensure the safety of bicyclists and other users of Class I Bikeways and multiuse trails.

OS-8o: Encourage the dedication of Class I bikeways as part of open space requirements for development, when a nexus can be established between the proposed development and the need for bikeways in the affected area.

OS-8p: To the extent feasible, where different classes of bikeways share the same route, Class 1 bikeways should not be constructed in a manner that reduces or eliminates designated bikeways without consultation with the Bicycle Advisory Committee.

Figure OS-3

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Figure OS-4a

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Figure OS-4b

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OS-8q: Use the following criteria to determine consistency of public and private projects with this element:

1)	Development of lands traversed or adjoined by a designated Class I bikeway accommodates, and does not conflict, with development of the bikeway.
2)	Construction or widening of roads designated for Class II bikeways meets the criteria for Class II bikeways specified in the Bikeways Plan.
3)	Construction or widening of roads designated for Class III bikeways meets the criteria for Class III bikeways specified in the Bikeways Plan.

In the event that a project proposed without inclusion of a bikeway has a significant, overriding public benefit, or no funds are available for bikeway construction, the project may be found consistent with this Element and the Bikeways Plan if it does not preclude future construction of a bikeway and makes the best feasible pfovision for interim bicycle travel.

OS-8r: Continue to promote flex-time work schedules for all County employees to encourage non-rush hour bicycle commuting and dispersal of rush hour motor vehicle traffic.

OS-8s: Consider amending County regulations to provide for more flexible parking, circulation and other design standards for:

1)	Projects that incorporate higher density mixed land uses which allow the bicycle to be an effective alternative mode of transportation to the automobile.
2)	New industrial, office, institutional and commercial projects which provide employee showers and locker rooms.

OS-8t: To the extent feasible, provide male and female shower and locker facilities and adequate bicycle parking at the County Administration Center and other County facilities.

OS-8u: To the extent that agency budgets allow, the County Bicycle Advisory Committee shall take advantage of every opportunity to:

1)	Work with the Transportation and Public Works Department, the Regional Parks Department and other appropriate agencies to ensure that the Bikeways Network is constructed. When road segments are proposed for overlay or rehabilitation, the Department of Transportation and Public Works shall work with the Committee to encourage inclusion of bikeway improvements, to the maximum extent feasible given the design and width of the road and the status of agency budgets.
2)	Work with appropriate agencies to implement a public awareness program aimed at motorists and bicyclists which educates each on the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists. This program shall include preparation of materials that educate bicyclists on safe riding habits.
3)	Educate the general public and the officials of state, county, and local law enforcement agencies on common Vehicle Code infractions involving bicyclists.
4)	Coordinate Bicycle Safety Education Programs among schools, law enforcement agencies and other appropriate groups. The program shall stress bicycle handling skills, traffic rules, the importance of good helmets, lights and reflectors, reflective bicycling clothing, and bicycle maintenance courses in cooperation with local bicycle shops and organizations.

OS-8v: Department of Transportation and Public Works shall continue to review accidents involving bicycles in unincorporated areas. The Department of Transportation and Public Works and the Bicycle Advisory Committee shall review this data annually to identify problem areas which require immediate attention.

5.0 ARCHAEOLOGICAL/HISTORICAL RESOURCES

Historic preservation is intended to maintain reminders of the County's heritage and development. Historic building surveys for the Coastal, Sebastopol, Healdsburg, and Sonoma Valley areas provide an inventory of the county's historic resources, some of which may be threatened by development or by a lack of maintenance. Archaeological sites provide information on the history and culture of Sonoma County's earliest residents and can be disturbed by development activities. Heritage and landmark trees enhance the quality of the environment and have historical significance.

Goal OS-9 Preserve significant archaeological and historical sites which represent the ethnic, cultural, and economic groups that have lived and worked in Sonoma County. Preserve unique or historically significant heritage or landmark trees.

Objective OS-9.1: Encourage the preservation and conservation of historic structures by promoting their rehabilitation or adaptation to new uses.

Objective OS-9.2: Encourage preservation of historic building or cemeteries by maintaining a Landmarks Commission to review projects which may affect historic structures or other cultural resources.

Objective OS-9.3: Encourage preservation of archaeological resources by reviewing all development projects in archaeologically sensitive areas.

Objective OS-9.4: Identify and preserve heritage and landmark trees.

The County shall use the following policies to achieve these objectives:

OS-9a: Designate the County Landmarks Commission to review projects within designated historic districts.

OS-9b: Refer proposals for County Landmark status and rezonings to the Historic Combining District to the County Landmarks Commission.

OS-9c: The County Landmarks Commission shall review Historic Building Surveys and make recommendations for designation of structures or cemeteries as county landmarks.

OS-9d: Include a list of historic structures proposed for designation as county landmarks in specific or area plans or local area development guidelines and refer the list to the Landmarks Commission for their recommendations.

OS-9e: Refer applications which involve the removal, destruction or alteration of a structure or cemetery identified in a historic building survey to the Landmarks Commission for mitigation. Measures may include reuse, relocation, or photo-documentation.

OS-9f: Refer applications for discretionary permits to the Northwest Information Center to determine if the project site might contain archaeological or historical resources. If a site is likely to have these resources, require a field survey and include mitigation measures if needed. Discourage paving over resources.

OS-9g: Use the Heritage or Landmark Tree Ordinance and the design review process to protect trees.

OS-9h: Pursue grant funding for the preparation and updating of historic resource inventories.

OS-9i: Designate the County Landmarks Commission to administer a preservation program for stabilization, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic structures.

6.0 OPEN SPACE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM:

Open Space Program 1: Open Space Zoning Ordinance Amendments

Program Description: Prepare a Scenic Resources combining district, a Biotic Resources combining district, an amendment to the sign regulations to prohibit off-site advertising signs in designated scenic corridors, an amendment to regulate the placement of satellite dishes along scenic corridors, and a revision of parking regulations to provide bicycle parking spaces.

Open Space Program 2: Subdivision Ordinance Amendment to Establish Open

Space Siting Requirements

Program Description: Prepare an ordinance amendment which would require building envelopes in community separators and scenic landscape units and building setbacks for scenic corridors, riparian areas and critical habitat areas.

Open Space Program 3: Request State Scenic Highway Designations for Highway

1 and Highway 37

Program Description: Adopt a resolution requesting a state study and appointment of citizens committee which includes representation from property owners along the corridor. The final scenic highway report will be sent to the Board and the State for approval.

Open Space Program 4: Establishment of an Open Space District

Program Description: Consider a ballot measure to establish an Open Space District to acquire and administer open space lands. Include an appropriate funding source, such as a special tax, to finance acquisition of partial or in-fee interests in lands, including purchase of development rights on a voluntary basis, in designated open space areas.

Open Space Program 5: Acquisition of Lands for Trails

Program Description: The Regional Parks Department shall continue to include in its five-year capital improvement program any proposed county acquisition or development of lands for trails.

Open Space Program 6: Community Separator Implementation Plan

Program Description: Prepare a plan which evaluates each of the eight community separators and establishes guidelines and implementation tools such as 1) transfer or purchase of development rights programs, 2) establishment of incentives to encourage agricultural uses, 3) wastewater spray irrigation programs, 4) purchase for parks or agriculture and 5) sign and landscaping standards. The plan should be coordinated with cities to achieve uniform city/county policies and to provide funding mechanisms.

Open Space Program 7: Scenic Landscape Unit Visual Study

Program Description: Prepare a visual study of designated scenic landscape units to identify critical scenic areas within these areas. Include mechanisms for long term management and preservation of scenic values, such as easements, within critical scenic areas.

Open Space Program 8: Boyes Hot Springs Regional Park Study

Program Description: The Regional Parks Department shall prepare a study of alternative sites in the Boyes Hot Springs area of Sonoma Valley to identify an appropriate location for an approximate 38-acre regional park.