For the Economic Development Committee Meeting of March 26, 2026
TO: Honorable Economic Development Committee Members
FROM: Christina Taylor, Community Development Director
...Title
Discussion on In-Lieu Fee Program for Undergrounding Utilities.
...Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that the Committee hold discussion and provide direction to staff.
BACKGROUND
The City of Rialto Municipal Code Chapter 15.32 Underground Utilities establishes the requirements for new and existing development as it pertains to the installation or relocation of electrical, telephone, cable and other similar service lines. This code requires all electrical distribution lines of sixteen thousand volts or less, telephone, cable antenna television, and similar service wires or cables, which provide direct service to a property being developed, to be installed underground.
There are a few exceptions:
1. Utility service poles may be placed in the area within six feet of the rear lot line of the property to be developed, for the sole purpose of terminating underground facilities.
2. Temporary utilities along with the necessary service poles, wires and cables may be permitted for the period during which authorized construction is continuing for which valid building permits have been issued or for temporary uses which comply with requirements of the zoning ordinance, building code and other applicable regulations.
3. Risers on poles and buildings are permitted and shall be provided by the developer or owner on the pole which provides service to said property.
4. Appurtenances and associated equipment including, but not limited to, surface mounted transformers, pedestal mounted terminal boxes and meter cabinets, and concealed ducts in an underground system may be placed above ground.
5. The undergrounding of existing utility services as a requirement of a precise plan of design may be waived when determined by the community development director or planning commission, as ap...
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