Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting 04-19-2016n�
MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
APRIL 19, 2016
FIELD TRW
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Commissioners Kirkpatrick and Smith
Commissioners Cardenas and Gray were absent and excused
Raymond Cruz, City Manager
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director
Wendy Starks, Associate Planner
A. ZONING CASE NO. 900. Request for a Variance to encroach into the rear yard
setback for the construction of a swimming pool, pool equipment, and attached
trellis and exceed the maximum total coverage of the lot at 71 Crest Road East, (Lot
69 E-1 MS), Rolling Hills, CA (Brazy & Luchini).
Also present at this field trip were:
Criss Gunderson, Architect and representative
Andrea Brown, Resident
Mr. and Mrs. Jankovich, Residents
Jim Aichele, Resident
Commissioner Cardenas met Planning Department staff on -site before the Field Trip
to tour the project and discuss. Chairman Chelf recused himself due to proximity to
the proposed application.
Chairperson Smith called the meeting to order at 7:35 a.m. at 71 Crest Road East.
Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the applicant's request for Variances. Mr.
Gunderson explained that the 2 driveway easements create a large portion of the
disturbance, and the flag shape of the lot further constrains the development
opportunities. Neighbor, Ms. Brown expressed concern about construction vehicles
on the shared driveway. The group walked the proposed stable access. Director
Schwartz pointed to the future proposed stable and corral and Mr. Gunderson
stated that the property owners do not plan on building a stable or the access and it
is a set aside area. Director Schwartz confirmed that the proposed pool, trellis, and
equipment are not in the RHCA easement but the proposed project does encroach
into the setback. Ms. Brown, resident of the adjacent property expressed concerns
that the existing planting around the proposed pool will be removed, as it now
screens the property. Director Schwartz stated that a condition could be included in
1
the approval to require screening of the pool from Ms. Brown's house. Director
Schwartz indicated where the pool equipment is proposed to be located. Mr.
Gunderson advised that three sides will be screened for noise abatement with walls
and one side with a gate. Director Schwartz advised that as there is no quorum, no
decisions can be made on this project at this time.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 897 -REVISED. Request for a Site Plan Review,
Conditional Use Permit and Variances for grading for a new building pad, for walls
over 3 feet in height, and which will not average out to 2.5' in height, a pool, trellis,
construction of an 705 square foot recreation room and to locate the structures in the
front yard of the lot and to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot.
Also proposed is an 800 square foot addition to the residence and widening of the
driveway in Zoning Case No. 897 at 2 Hillside Lane, (Lot 60-RH), Rolling Hills, CA
(Elkin). The project has been determined to be exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
Also present at this field trip were:
Carole Hoffman, Resident
David and Diane Lesser, Residents
Jim Aichele, Resident
Sarah Elkin, Property Owner
Tavisha Nicholson, Engineer
Scott Martin, Landscape Designer
Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the applicant's proposed project and the
revisions to the project. Chairman Chelf asked the attending residents if they
had specific objections to the project. Ms. Hoffman said no, her only concern is
usability of the stable and the access to the stable/corral. Mr. and Mrs. Lesser
also said no, their only concern is that the widened driveway does not encroach
onto their property. Ms. Nicholson walked through the staked project and
described the proposals to the group. Mr. and Mrs. Lesser expressed concern
about construction vehicles and access to the site during construction and
discussion ensued about options during construction, and a recommendation
was made for the applicant to provide photographic evidence of existing
conditions of roads, and easements and restoring to existing conditions if
damage occurs. The group moved to the stable/corral area where Director
Schwartz and Ms. Nicholson described how the existing structure is proposed to
be converted into a stable that complies with the code. Ms. Hoffman stated she
feels it is impractical and unfeasible even though it complies with the code. Ms.
Nicholson described the stable access. Discussion ensued about truck access to
the stable.
There being no further discussion, the public hearing was continued to the
evening meeting of the Planning Commission at 6:30 PM.
2
Respectfully Submitted,
Y nta Schwartz
P ; ng Director
500
Date
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
PROOF OF SERVICE BY MAIL AND POSTING
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
I am a citizen of the United States. I am over the age of eighteen years and not a party to the
within proceeding; my business address is 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
On the 15' day of April, 2016, I serve the within
Planning Commission Meeting Agenda
Adjourned Regular Meeting - 04/19/2016
a copy of which is annexed hereto and made a part hereof, on the person, or persons, named
below by placing a true copy thereof enclosed in a sealed envelope with postage thereon fully
prepaid, in the United States mail at Rolling Hills, California addressed as follows:
Emailed MAILED DROPBOX DELIVERED
Assistant City Manager
RH ListSery NONE City Attorney Planning Commission
Also posted at City Hall and at www.Rolling-Hills.org
1 certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury, that the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed on the 15`" day of April, 2016 at Rolling Hills, California.
Ewa Nikodem
Administrative Assistant
ger9 el Reek, gieea INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
AGENDA
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
7:30 AM
TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016
MEET AT 71 CREST ROAD EAST
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
4. FIELD TRIPS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 900. Request for Variances for the construction of a
swimming pool, pool equipment area, and attached trellis which would encroach into the
rear yard setback and to exceed the maximum permitted total coverage of the lot in Zoning
Case No. 900 at 71 Crest Road East, (Lot 69 E-1 MS), Rolling Hills, CA (Brazy & Luchini). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 897 -REVISED. Request for a Site Plan Review,
Conditional Use Permit and Variances for grading for a new building pad, for walls over 3
feet in height, and which will not average out to 2.5' in height, a pool, trellis, construction of
an 800 square foot recreation room and to locate the structures in the front yard of the lot and
to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot. Also proposed is an 800 square foot
addition to the residence and widening of the driveway in Zoning Case No. 897 at 2 Hillside
Lane, (Lot 60-RH), Rolling Hills, CA (Elkin). The project has been determined to be exempt
from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
5. ADJOURNMENT
Documents pertaining to an agenda item received after the posting of the agenda are available for
review in the City Clerk's office or at the meeting at which the item will be considered.
-1-
MEMORANDUM TO RECUSE
TO: Honorable Chairman and Members of the Planning Commission
FROM: Heidi Luce, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Zoning Case No. 900, 71 Crest Road East
DATE: April 19, 2016
Due to the proximity of his property to the subject property, Chairman Chelf should
recuse himself from consideration of Zoning Case No. 900 at 71 Crest Road East. He may
however, take a seat in the audience and participate as a resident.
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
Agenda Item No.: 4A
Mtg. Date: 4-19-16FT
TO: HONORABLE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
FROM: YOLANTA SCHWARTZ, PLANNING DIRECTOR
WENDY STARKS, ASSOCIATE PLANNER
APPLICATION NO.
SITE LOCATION:
ZONING AND SIZE:
APPLICANT:
REPRESENTATIVE:
DATE PUBLISHED:
ZONING CASE NO. 900
71 CREST ROAD EAST (69E-1 MS)
RA -S-2, 2.37 ACRES (GROSS)
MR. BRAZY AND MS. LUCHINI
CRISS GUNDERSON, ARCHITECT
APRIL 7, 2016
REQUEST AND RECOMMENDATION
1. The applicants Mr. Brazy and Ms. Luchini request a variance to locate a 375
square foot pool with infinity edge walls and a 288 square foot attached trellis entirely
in the rear yard setback, and to exceed total lot coverage on the lot (maximum
permitted is 35%).
2. It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the staff report, view
the project in the field, open the public hearing, take public testimony and continue the
meeting to the evening Planning Commission meeting on April 19, 2016.
BACKGROUND
3. The property is zoned RAS-2 and the gross lot area is 2.37 acres. The net lot area
is 1.54 acres or 67,431 square feet. The lot is irregular in shape at it starts 450 feet south
of Crest Road East at a very narrow point that then flares out into a triangle. The
property line then bends to the east where the building pad is located. The property is
constrained by two easements. There is a 25 -foot wide RHCA easement along the entire
western property line of the lot and a 30 -foot wide driveway easement for access to 73
Z.C. No. 900
Crest Road East that runs through the lot. A separate driveway leads to the residence
for 71 Crest Road East.
4. The property is currently developed with a 2,075 square foot residence and a 455
square foot garage. In February, 2015 a 999 square foot addition to the residence was
approved administratively as less than 50% of the walls were proposed to be
demolished for the renovation, per Municipal Code 17.44.020C. That administrative
approval included: a 579 square foot addition to the residence, and a new 420 square
foot garage. The existing 455 square foot garage is proposed to be converted to living
space. Also approved administratively was a breezeway, trellises (229 square foot
attached trellis and 458 square foot detached), a 40 square foot outdoor kitchen, a 130
square foot water feature, and a 96 square foot service yard. A 450 square foot stable
and 550 square foot corral, and stable access set aside were shown on the property.
However, to ensure compliance with the code requirement in case more than 50% of the
exterior walls need to be demolished, the applicant staked the proposed
addition/renovation on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 and staff provided notice to all
residents within 1,000 foot radius of the project to inform them of the potential
demolition of more than 50% of the existing residence and addition of 999 square feet.
Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 17.44.020E should an otherwise over the counter
approvable addition include 50% or more demolition of the existing residence,
neighbors within 1,000 foot radius are notified and a silhouette of the project must be
constructed. The noticed residents are provided 14 days to comment on the project.
Should there be an objection from more that one noticed property, staff would not be
able to approve the addition administratively and the project would be referred to the
Planning Commission for a Site Plan Review. No neighbors came forward regarding the
addition, where more than 50% of the residence will be demolished, therefore the
applicant may proceed.
5. With the 999 square foot addition the property will be developed with a 3,109
square foot residence, 420 square foot garage, attached to the main house by a 70 square
foot breezeway, 375 square foot swimming pool, 20 square foot pool equipment area,
517 square foot attached trellis, 458 square feet detached trellis and other miscellaneous
structures.
MUNICIPAL CODE COMPLIANCE
6. The structural lot coverage on the lot, with the previously approved addition,
will be 5,685 square feet or 8.4%; and with the allowable deduction 7.5%. The proposed
total lot coverage will increase from 23,449 square feet or 34.8% (with the 999 square
foot addition) to 24,042 square feet or 35.7%, with the allowable deduction; where
maximum permitted is 35% (Municipal Code 17.16.070A2).
7. Coverage on the residential building pad of 13,924 square feet will be 29.4%.
Coverage on the future stable pad of 1,094 square feet will be 41.1 %.
Z.C. No. 900
8. The disturbance on the lot is currently at 69%, which is higher than the
maximum permitted of 40% and is legal non -conforming (Municipal Code 17.16.070B).
The pool, trellis, and future stable access will not increase disturbance as the areas have
been disturbed previously. The driveway easement for access to 73 Crest Road East
accounts for much of the disturbance. The grading will consist of 70 cubic yards of
cut/excavation for the pool and catchment basin, which will be exported. 25 cubic yards
cut and 25 cubic yards of fill will be needed for the future stable access, which is not
proposed at this time.
9. The proposed pool, catchment basin, pool equipment area and attached trellis
encroach into the rear yard setback. Rear yard setbacks are to be no less than 50 feet
from the rear property line and must remain free of structures, therefore a variance is
requested. (Municipal Code 17.16.130A.) The proposed pool catchment basin wall is 2'
in height and visible aboveground and the proposed pool wall is 3' in height above the
2' high proposed catchment basin wall.
10. Future access to the stable is proposed from the existing property's driveway and
will require 30" maximum walls. The future stable will require a Conditional Use
Permit when it is constructed and the stable access, walls, and associated grading will
be reviewed at that time.
11. The resident at 73 Crest Road East reviewed the plans and requested that the
pool equipment be relocated east of the existing residence and away from their
property. The applicant's representative stated that although the applicants agreed to
relocate the pool equipment, there isn't an area that is accessible and mostly flat to place
the pool equipment elsewhere and would therefore like to keep the pool equipment
where it was originally proposed.
12. In response to justification for the variance to locate the trellis and the swimming
pool in the rear setback, the applicant's agent states that due to the existing location of
the residence, very close to the rear setback line, and the configuration of the lot there is
no other reasonable area to construct other improvements. Regarding the variance to
exceed the total structural coverage he states that the lot is constrained with a
developed driveway that leads to another property and the area of the easement for this
driveway is deducted from the net lot area for the lot; therefore significantly reducing
the size of the subject property.
13. Rolling Hills Community Association will review this project at a later date.
14. When reviewing a development application the Planning Commission must
consider whether the proposed project meets the criteria for a Variance and must find
that the proposed uses are consistent with the General Plan and development standards
of the City, including provision for open space and maintaining rural environment and
that the uses will not adversely affect adjacent properties.
Z.C. No. 900
15. The project has been determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Class 3.
ZC. NO. 900
SITE PLAN REVIEW
EXISTING
PROPOSED
RA -S- 2 ZONE SETBACKS
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE
WITH GARAGE & TRELLISES
TRELLIS, POOL/SPA,
Front: 50 ft. from front easement line
Side: 35 ft. from property line
Rear: 50 ft. from rear property line
STRUCTURES
Residence
Garage
Pool
Pool equipment
Stable
Att. Trellis
Breezeway
Det. Trellis
Outdoor Kitchen
Water feature
Service yard
3109 sq.ft.
420 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft
0 sq.ft.
229 sq.ft.
70 sq.ft.
458 sq.ft
40 sq.ft
130 sq.ft
96 sq.ft.
Residence
Garage
Pool
Pool equipment
Stable (future)
Att. Trellis
Breezeway
Det. Trellis
Outdoor Kitchen
Water feature
Service yard
3109 sq.ft.
420 sq.ft.
375 sq.ft.
20 sq.ft.
450 sq.ft.
517 sq.ft.
70 sq.ft.
458 sq.ft
40 sq.ft
130 sq.ft
96 sq.ft
(Variance required for structures in
setback and disturance
TOTAL
4,552 sq.ft.
TOTAL
5,685 sq.ft
STRUCTURAL LOT COVERAGE
5.8%
5,067 sq.ft. w/allowances or 7.5°h
of 67,431 sq.ft. net lot area
(20% maximum)
TOTAL LOT COVERAGE
34.8%
24,042 sq.ft. w/allowances or
35.7% of 67,431.ft. net lot area
(35% maximum)
BUILDING PADS (30% guideline)
Pad 1 - Residence- 28.3%
Pad 2 - future stable
Pad 1 - 29.4% of 13,924 sf. pad
Pad 2 - 41.1% of 1,094 sf. pad
GRADING
N/A
70 cubic yards of cut/excavation
for the pool to be exported
25 cubic yards for future
proposed stable access
Site Plan Review required if
excavation and/or fill or combination
thereof that is more than 3 feet in
depth and covers more than 2,000
sq.ft.) must be balanced on site.
DISTURBED AREA
69.0% of the net lot area
69.0% of the net lot area
(40% maximum; any graded building
pad area, any remedial grading
(temporary disturbance), any graded
slopes and building pad areas, and
any nongraded area where
impervious surfaces exist.)
STABLE (min. 450 SQ.FT.
N/A
450 sq.ft. stable
550 sq.ft corral
& 550 SO.FT. CORRAL)
STABLE ACCESS
N/A
Future proposed from exst.
drwy
ROADWAY ACCESS
Existing driveway approach
Existing driveway approach
VIEWS
N/A
Planning Commission review
PLANTS AND ANIMALS
N/A
Planning Commission review
Z.C. No. 900
CRITERIA FOR VARIANCES
17.38.050 Required findings. In granting a variance, the Commission (and Council on appeal)
must make the following findings:
A. That there are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to
the property that do not apply generally to other properties in the same vicinity and zone;
B. That such variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substantial
property rights possessed by other properties in the same vicinity and zone but which is denied
the property in question;
C. That the granting of such variance will not be materially detrimental to the public
welfare or injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity;
D. That in granting the variance, the spirit and intent of this title will be observed;
E. That the variance does not grant special privilege to the applicant;
F. That the variance is consistent with the portions of the County of Los Angeles
Hazardous Waste Management Plan relating to siting and siting criteria for hazardous waste
facilities; and
G. That the variance request is consistent with the general plan of the City of Rolling
Hills.
Z.C. No. 900
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
TO:
FROM:
APPLICATION NO.
SITE LOCATION:
ZONING AND SIZE:
APPLICANT:
REPRESENTATIVE:
PUBLISHED:
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
Agenda Item No.:4B
Mtg. Date: 4-19-16 FT
HONORABLE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
YOLANTA SCHWARTZ, PLANNING DIRECTOR
WENDY STARKS, ASSOCIATE PLANNER
ZONING CASE NO. 897
2 HILLSIDE LANE (LOT 60-RH)
RA -S-1, 1.97 ACRES (EXCL. ROAD EASEMENT)
MS. SARAH ELKIN
THE (W)ORKSHOP & BOLTON ENGINEERING CORP.
FEBRUARY 4, 2016
APRIL 7, 2016
REQUEST AND RECOMMENDATION
1. The Planning Commission held public hearings in this case on February 16, and
March 15 and viewed the project in the field on March 15, 2016.
2. At the field trip and at the evening meeting, following discussion, the applicants
requested continuance of the case so that they could revise the project based on the
feedback they received from the Planning Commission and residents. Two letters were
received from residents. One resident expressed concern about the height and location of
the proposed recreation room; about the stable, access to the stable and how amenable the
current structure is to horse keeping.
3. The applicants submitted a revised plan showing a reduced size of the recreation
room by 95 square feet and revised the project's orientation. The project is proposed to be
tilted in a northeasterly direction and slightly further into the front yard area at the
northwestern corner but away from the driveway. The height of the recreation room will
be 2 inches less than previously proposed and by tilting the building pad, the recreation
room will be located closer to the slope with an 8' walkway around the structure, which
on the south side of the structure will be 5' higher than the finished surface of the
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
remaining walkway. A set of stairs is proposed to access the lower part of the area
surrounding the recreation room and the recreation room itself. A retaining wall that was
previously proposed along the northern limits of the pool -building pad is no longer
proposed.
The applicants have also revised the access to the stable. They show the horse access to the
stable and corral from Saddleback Road and the rubble curbs currently existing by the
corral will be cleared. The access path will range in slope from 10% to 25%. A vehicular
access to the stable will be taken via the existing paved driveway that leads to the tack
room of the stable. As a condition of approval all access areas to the stable including by
the tack room will be required to be decomposed granite or other pervious material.
4. The applicants request a Conditional Use Permit for an 705 square foot recreation
room, and Variances to locate all of the accessory structures, including various walls in the
front yard area of the lot, (pursuant to City's Zoning Ordinance, no structures are
permitted in front of the leading edge of the residence), where the walls would not
average out to 2.5' in height, and to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot,
from the existing 52.33% to 64.3%. A Site Plan Review is also required for the construction
of retaining walls, for grading consisting of 4,610 cubic yards of cut and fill for the new
building pad where the applicant proposes a 680 square foot pool, and a 72 square foot
spa along with the recreation room, a 30 square foot outdoor fire place, a 220 square foot
attachcd trellis, and 1,450 square feet of pool decking. The pool equipment will be tucked
under the stairs. All dirt will be balanced on site.
Also proposed is an 800 square foot addition to the existing 2,450 square foot single-family
residence, and 1,050 square feet of concrete for patios and stairs. 780 square feet of
concrete will be removed in the corral area and adjacent to the stable, and an existing 52
square foot shed is also being removed. These improvements could be approved
administratively and do not require Planning Commission action.
5. It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the staff report, view
the revised project in the field, take public testimony and continue deliberation to the
evening meeting on April 19, 2016.
BACKGROUND
6. The property is zoned RAS-1 and the gross lot area is 1.97 acres. The net lot area is
1.45 acres or 63,160 square feet. The existing property was developed primarily towards
the rear of the lot with most of the garage, and all of a small shed, and a two-story tack
house in the rear setback.
7. The property is currently developed with a 2,450 square foot residence, a 535
square foot garage, a 52 square foot shed, a 96 square foot service yard, and a previously
permitted 751 square foot two story stable/tack house, of which the second story has been
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
converted to a guest house (376 square foot stable on the first story, and a 375 square foot
guest house). The applicant proposes to convert the guesthouse portion to a stable tack
room/storage use. As part of this application process the Planning Commission visited the
stable/guest house structure to verify that it can be converted to a stable use and such
condition will be placed on the development, should this project be approved.
8. Records indicate that the residence was constructed in the late 1930's, early 1940's.
A permit for a tool house/tack house was approved in 1941, and a permit for a workshop
was approved in 1944. In 1969 a variance was approved to build a tennis court in the front
yard of the lot, which was not constructed. The reoriented pool, recreation room, and
associated pool decking and structures are now being proposed where the tennis court
was approved in 1969.
MUNICIPAL CODE COMPLIANCE
9. A variance is requested to exceed the disturbance of the lot from the current 52.3%
to 64.3%. The cut for the pool -building pad will be 805 cubic yards and overexcavation
will be 1,500 cubic yards; the fill will be 805 cubic yards and recompaction will be 1,500
cubic yards, and all dirt will be balanced on site.
10. The structural coverage on the lot will be 6,583 square feet or 10.42% and the total
coverage (structures and hardscape) will be 19,597 square feet or 31.03%, both in
compliance with the code, with allowable deductions.
11. The 800 square foot addition to the existing 2,450 square foot residence will result in
a 3,250 square foot house. The adjacent homes are 5,168 square feet (to the north), 4,473
square feet (to the south), and 5,534 square feet (to the east) and the proposed house will
be compatible in size. The residential addition will be at least 35 feet from the stable to
comply with the Municipal Code (17.18.040.5c). The coverage on the residential building
pad will increase by 800 square feet and will be 4,532 square feet or 28%; and with the
allowed deductions, 4,131 square feet or 26%.
12. The 680 square foot pool, 72 square foot spa, 705 square foot recreation room, 50
square feet of pool equipment, 220 square foot attached trellis, and 1,450 square foot
decking are proposed to be located in the front yard of the residence, not in a setback. As
the proposed pool/spa and structures are located in the front yard, a variance is needed
but otherwise all are compliant with the Municipal Code. The recreation room is
proposed to be 15'6" high. The pool pad improvements are located 136 feet away from
Saddleback Road and 56 feet from Hillside Lane roadway easements.
The new pool -building pad will be 4,300 square feet and will have coverage of 1,757 or
40.9% and with deductions 1,507 square feet or 35.04%
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
13. The existing 16' driveway is proposed to be widened to 20' to comply with Fire
Department requirements. 18 -inch maximum curb walls are proposed along the perimeter
of the driveway leading to the 32' radius Fire Department Turn -around area. The Traffic
Commission reviewed the driveway apron at their March 24, 2016 meeting and
recommended approval.
14. Proposed is approximately 14 -foot difference in elevation between the residential
building pad and the proposed accessory structures on the second pad. Stairs and various
walls will connect the building pads. A 2.5 -foot high maximum wall is proposed along the
south side of the pool decking along the pool building pad and up to 4' high retaining
walls along the recreation room pathway south of the recreation room. A 3 -foot high
retaining wall is proposed along the west side of the pool -building pad.
15. The 751 square foot two-story existing structure in the southeast portion of the site,
and in the rear and side yard setbacks was previously approved and is currently used as a
guest house on the second level and storage on the first level. It is proposed to be used as a
stable and a tack room on the second level and as a condition of approval will have to be
converted to such use. The applicants submitted a plan showing that they will remove one
of the interior walls in the lower part to accommodate a large stall and will install a door
suitable for a horse. Pursuant to Section 17.18.060(D) the first story of the stable must
conform with the requirements of an agricultural space including entry doors and access
to the stable. Pursuant to Section 17.18.060(C), the tack room space cannot be used for
sleeping.
The applicant has set aside a 1,100 square feet corral outside of the setbacks. A condition
of approval will be to remove the concrete from the proposed corral area and replace it
with decomposed granite and provide for an access to the stable.
A 6' wide access path to the stable and corral from Saddleback Road is proposed.
The existing stable pad (not in setback) is 660 square feet and has coverage of 57%.
16. A 52 square foot shed in the southeast portion of the site is located in the side
setback and will be demolished.
17. In response to justification for the project, the applicant's agents advise that the
proposed residential addition will be on a previously constructed pad where little to no
grading will be required. The pool pad will be located largely on a previously disturbed
area as well but will require some grading. Not to exceed 4 foot high retaining walls and
gentler than 2:1 slopes on the upper part of the new building pad will minimize the
development impact on the property. The remaining grading will have 2:1 slopes to blend
with existing contours. The agents also advise the property was previously developed
mostly at the rear of the lot, with the garage and stable being in the rear setback. The
existing house pad is proposed to be developed on the southeast side and due to the 35'
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
clearance required from stables, the only other area for a recreation room and pool is in
the front yard. The pool and associated pool pad improvements are proposed to be out of
all setbacks and as far away from Saddleback Road as possible.
18. Rolling Hills Community Association will review this project at a later date.
19. When reviewing a development application the Planning Commission must
consider whether the proposed project meets the criteria for a Site Plan Review,
Conditional Use Permit, and Variance and must find that the proposed uses are consistent
with the General Plan and development standards of the City, including provision for
open space and maintaining a rural environment and that the uses will not adversely
affect adjacent properties.
20. Fuel modification review and approval from the Fire Department is also required.
This project will be required to comply with all zoning requirements, including
undergrounding of utility lines and Health Department requirements for a septic system.
21. The project has been determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Class 3.
ZC 897 NEARBY PROPERTIES
For information onl
Address
House size in sq.ft.
(built/add or remodel)
Lot Area sq.ft. (excl.
roadway easements)
4 Hillside Lane
4,473 ((1999)*
92,350
49 Saddleback Road
5,534 (1998) *
75,790
48 Saddleback Road
5,168 (1972/1976)
38,770
46 Saddleback Road
7,832 (2013)*
105,420
3 Hillside Lane
2,634 (1938/1950)
98,710
93 Saddleback Road
4,441 (1949)
255,262
20 Portuguese Bend
Road
4,193 (1939/1947)
192,100
2 Hillside Lane
Proposed 3,250
85,760
NOTE: The above do not include garages, basements and other accessory
structures.
SOURCES: Assessors' records
* City Records
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
ZONING CASE NO. 897
SITE PLAN REVIEW/CUP/VR
EXISTING
PROPOSED
RA -S- 1 ZONE SETBACKS
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE,
GARAGE, GUEST
HOUSE/STABLE, SHED
ADDITION, SWIMMING
POOL/SPA, RECREATION
ROOM, LEGALIZE STABLE
Front: 50 ft. from front easement line
Side: 20 ft. from side property line
Rear: 50 ft. from rear property line
CUP required for recreation room in
Residence
Garage
Swimming Pool
Spa
Recreation Rm
Pool equip.
Stable/Guest h.
Shed
Service yard
Attch porches
Entryway
Attached trellis
Fireplace
2450 sq.ft.
535 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft
376 sq.ft.
52 sq.ft
96 sq.ft.
198 sq.ft.
250 sq.ft.
203 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft
Residence
Garage
Swimming Pool
Spa
Recreation Rm
Pool equip.
Stable
Shed
Service yard
Attch porches
Entryway
Attached Trellis
Fireplace
3250 sq.ft.
535 sq.ft.
680 sq.ft.
72 sq.ft.
705 sq.ft.
50 sq.ft.
376 sq.ft.
0 sq.ft
96 sq.ft.
198 sq.ft.
250 sq.ft.
423 sq.ft
30 sq.ft.
the front yard; SPR required for
grading, pool, spa, recreation room,
new decking and retaining walls.
Variance is required for locating the
structures in the front yard (pool, spa,
pool equipment, and rec rm), walls
over 2.5' average, and for exceeding
disturbed area.
TOTAL
4,160 sq.ft.
TOTAL
6,665 sq.ft
GRADING
N/A
805 c.y. cut & 805 c.y. fill
1,500 c.y. over -ex and 1,500 c.y.
recompaction
dirt balanced on site
Site Plan Review required if
excavation and/or fill or combination
thereof that is more than 3 feet in
depth and covers more than 2,000 sq.
ft.)
STRUCTURAL LOT COVERAGE
6.5%
10.4% of 63,160 s.f. net lot area
(6,583 s.f. excl/allowances)
(20% maximum)
TOTAL LOT COVERAGE
21.62 %
31.03% of 63,160 s.f. net lot area
(19,597 s.f. excl/allowances)
(35% maximum)
BUILDING PAD COVERAGE (30%
22.02% of 15,129 sq.ft. pad
n/a
64.85% of 660 sq.ft. pad
25.5% of 16,175 sq.ft. pad
35.04% of 4,300 sq.ft. pad
57% of 660 sq.ft. pad
maximum -guideline)
Residential
Pool pad
Stable pad
DISTURBED AREA
52.33% or 33,052 sq. ft.
(63,160 sq. ft. net lot area)
64.3% or 40,600 sq.ft.
(63,160 sq. ft. net lot area)
(40% maximum; any graded building
pad area, any remedial grading any
graded slopes and building pad areas,
and any nongraded area where
impervious surfaces exist.)
STABLE (min. 450 SQ.FT.
375 sq.ft. existing
0 sq ft. corral
751 sq.ft. proposed 2 -story
1,100 s.f. corral
& 550 SQ.FT. CORRAL)
STABLE ACCESS
Existing
Proposed off Saddleback Road.
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
ROADWAY ACCESS
Existing driveway approach
Existing driveway approach with
widened driveway to 20' from 16'
VIEWS
N/A
Planning Commission review
PLANTS AND ANIMALS
N/A
Planning Commission review
SITE PLAN REVIEW CRITERIA
17.46.010 Purpose.
The site plan review process is established to provide discretionary review of certain
development projects in the City for the purposes of ensuring that the proposed project is
consistent with the City's General Plan; incorporates environmentally and aesthetically
sensitive grading practices; preserves existing mature vegetation; is compatible and consistent
with the scale, massing and development pattern in the immediate project vicinity; and
otherwise preserves and protects the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Rolling Hills.
17.46.050 Required findings.
A. The Commission shall be required to make findings in acting to approve,
conditionally approve, or deny a site plan review application.
B. No project which requires site plan review approval shall be approved by the
Commission, or by the City Council on appeal, unless the following findings can be made:
1. The project complies with and is consistent with the goals and
policies of the general plan and all requirements of the zoning ordinance;
2. The project substantially preserves the natural and undeveloped
state of the lot by minimizing building coverage. Lot coverage requirements are regarded as
maximums, and the actual amount of lot coverage permitted depends upon the existing
buildable area of the lot;
3. The project is harmonious in scale and mass with the site, the
natural terrain and surrounding residences;
4. The project preserves and integrates into the site design, to the
greatest extent possible, existing topographic features of the site, including surrounding native
vegetation, mature trees, drainage courses and land forms (such as hillsides and knolls);
5. Grading has been designed to follow natural contours of the site
and to minimize the amount of grading required to create the building area;
6. Grading will not modify existing drainage channels nor redirect
drainage flow, unless such flow is redirected into an existing drainage course;
7. The project preserves surrounding native vegetation and mature
trees and supplements these elements with drought -tolerant landscaping which is compatible
with and enhances the rural character of the community, and landscaping provides a buffer or
transition area between private and public areas;
8. The project is sensitive and not detrimental to the convenient and
safe movement of pedestrians and vehicles; and
9. The project conforms to the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act.
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane
CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT:
17.42.050 Basis for approval or denial of conditional use permit.
The Commission (and Council on appeal), in acting to approve a conditional use permit
application, may impose conditions as are reasonably necessary to ensure the project is
consistent with the General Plan, compatible with surrounding land use, and meets the
provisions and intent of this title. In making such a determination, the hearing body shall find
that the proposed use is in general accord with the following principles and standards:
A. That the proposed conditional use is consistent with the General Plan;
B. That the nature, condition and development of adjacent uses, buildings and
structures have been considered, and that the use will not adversely affect or be materially
detrimental to these adjacent uses, building or structures;
C. That the site for the proposed conditional use is of adequate size and shape to
accommodate the use and buildings proposed;
D. That the proposed conditional use complies with all applicable development
standards of the zone district; '
E. That the proposed use is consistent with the portions of the Los Angeles County
Hazardous Waste Management Plan relating to siting and siting criteria for hazardous waste
facilities;
F. That the proposed conditional use observes the spirit and intent of this title.
SOURCE: City of Rolling Hills Zoning Ordinance
CRITERIA FOR VARIANCES
17.38.050 Required findings. In granting a variance, the Commission (and Council on appeal)
must make the following findings:
A. That there are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to
the property that do not apply generally to other properties in the same vicinity and zone;
B. That such variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substantial
property rights possessed by other properties in the same vicinity and zone but which is denied
the property in question;
C. That the granting of such variance will not be materially detrimental to the public
welfare or injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity;
D. That in granting the variance, the spirit and intent of this title will be observed;
E. That the variance does not grant special privilege to the applicant;
F. That the variance is consistent with the portions of the County of Los Angeles
Hazardous Waste Management Plan relating to siting and siting criteria for hazardous waste
facilities; and
G. That the variance request is consistent with the general plan of the City of Rolling
Hills..
ZC NO. 897
2 Hillside Lane