"U" Definitions

Santa Clara City Code § 18.160.210

in effect

Use. The purpose (type and extent) for which land or a structure is arranged, designed, or intended, or for which either land or a structure is occupied or maintained. Use by Right. Shall mean that the City’s review of an owner-occupied or multifamily residential use may not require a Conditional Use Permit, Planned Development Rezoning, or other discretionary review or approval that would constitute a “project” for purposes of Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code. Any subdivision of the sites shall be subject to all laws, including, but not limited to, the City’s ordinance implementing the Subdivision Map Act. “Use by Right” does not exempt the use from design review. However, that design review shall not constitute a “project” for purposes of Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code. Use by Right for all rental multifamily residential housing shall be provided in accordance with subdivision (f) of Government Code Section 65589.5. Utility Facilities and Infrastructure. All equipment, fixtures, and personal property operated or maintained on private property in connection with the production or provision of water, sewer, power, natural gas, telecommunications, or other services, with the exception of Electric Power Plants.

Source: City of Santa Clara Zoning Code (santaclaraca.gov PDF)URL: https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/departments-a-f/community-development/planning-division/zoningFetched: 10/24/2026