Purpose.
San José Municipal Code § 20.90.010
in effectThe purpose of this chapter is to: A. Promote effective vehicle circulation, reduce congestion, increase safety and aesthetics within the off-street parking and off-street loading areas. B. Promote proper siting of the off-street vehicle parking or off-street loading areas to minimize potential adverse effects on adjacent land uses. C. Encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation and reduce trips by establishing standards for on-site shower and changing rooms. D. Ensure access and maneuverability for emergency vehicles. E. Encourage bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation by providing adequate, convenient, and secure bicycle parking facilities to meet the needs generated by specific uses. F. Ensure that new development is designed to support sustainable transportation choices for residents, employees, and visitors. The provisions contained herein implement Envision San José 2040, and Climate Smart San José, state legislation including Senate Bill (SB) 743, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008 (SB 375), the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), the California Complete Streets Act of 2008, and Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Regulation 14. G. Reduce dependence on drive-alone trips and increase sustainable mode share to comply with the directives of SB 743, including the development of multimodal transportation system and a diversity of land uses, and applicable requirements under Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Regulation 14. H. In compliance with SB 743, mitigate the transportation impacts resulting from new development by providing sustainable, accessible, and affordable transportation options that support the journeys of people of all income levels and modal choices. I. Support the strong link between land use and transportation through promotion of infill development and mixed land uses that bring common destinations closer to people and make efficient use of infrastructure. J. Improve air quality and public health outcomes, and reduce San José's contribution towards climate change-through encouragement of sustainable mobility options and reduction of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and associated greenhouse gas emissions generated by driving. K. Advance equity, particularly in disadvantaged communities whose transportation access has been historically underserved, through the provision of safe, affordable, and accessible travel options that: connect people to jobs, services, and opportunities; improve health outcomes; and increase the resilience of environmentally impacted communities. L. Improve street safety and reduce transportation-related collision risks through the provision of bicycle, pedestrian, and transit infrastructure and services. Support the goal of Vision Zero to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries, particularly in areas of the City with the highest incidences, which disproportionately includes disadvantaged communities. M. Implement a balanced transportation network by embracing Complete Streets principles of safety, comfort, and convenience for all users of the public right-of-way. (Ords. 26248, 28836, 28858, 30857.)
Source: San José Municipal Code (Municode library)URL: https://library.municode.com/ca/san_jose/codes/code_of_ordinancesFetched: 7/25/2026