2026-12_PC_Resolution_87Eastfield_ZC26-75_F_E
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-12
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A VARIANCE TO WAIVE THE
STABLE AND CORRAL SET-ASIDE REQUIREMENT FOR AN ADDITION TO
AN EXISTING RESIDENCE, AND FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM
CEQA FOR 87 EASTFIELD DRIVE (APN 7567-005-025) (BROCKWAY)
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DOES HEREBY FIND,
RESOLVE, AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. On June 2, 2026, an application was filed by the Applicant, Domingo Ottolia,
on behalf of the property owner, Robert Brockway, to request approval of an interior remodel
and 112-square-feet addition under the existing roof of a single-family residence (the “Project”).
The scope of the Project does not require discretionary review; however, the submitted plan for
the Project does not designate a stable and corral set aside area as required by Rolling Hills
Municipal Code Section 17.16.170. As a result, the Project requires a Variance to waive the
stable and corral set-aside requirement for the property.
Section 2. The property is zoned RA-S-1 and has a gross lot area is 28,480 square
feet (SF) and, for development purposes, a net lot area is 15,406 SF. The irregularly-shaped
property is located on the east side of Eastfield Drive, has a curved frontage along the roadway
and is bordered by residential development on all sides. The lot has an overall elevation change
of more than 35 feet from Eastfield Drive to the rear of the property. The property has a 30 -foot-
wide roadway easement along Eastfield Drive. The lot is developed with a single-family
residence and attached garage that was originally constructed in 1953. The existing lot is legal
non-conforming with 90% disturbed area and the existing residence is a legal non-conforming
structure that encroaches into the front and rear setbacks.
Section 3. The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearings to
consider the application at its field trip meeting and regular meeting on July 21, 2026. Neighbors
within a 1,000-foot radius were notified of the public hearings and a notice was published in three
public places on July 9, 2026. The applicants and their agent were notified of the public hearings
in writing by first class mail and the agent was in attendance at the hearings. Evidence was
heard and presented from all persons interested in affecting said proposal.
Section 4. CEQA Findings. The Planning Commission finds that the Project is
categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to Section 15303 of Title 14 of
the California Code of Regulations (“State CEQA Guidelines”), Class 3 "New Construction or
Conversion of Small Structures." Class 3 exempts the construction and location of a limited
number of new, small facilities or structures, including single family residence and accessory
structures. Here, the Project involves an addition to an existing single-family residence under
the existing roofline. Accordingly, the Project qualifies for the exemption pursuant to Section
15303. Further, no exceptions to the exemptions in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2
apply.
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Section 5. Variance Findings. A Variance procedure is provided to grant relief from
zoning provisions when, due to special circumstances applicable to a property, including size,
shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the zoning code deprives
such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning
classification. Variances are required for this project due to the following proposed project
components:
1. Stable and Corral Site Required (RHMC §17.16.170).
Given the foregoing, in accordance with RHMC Section 17.38.050, the Planning Commission
makes 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.
This finding can be made because the lot has not feasible location for a stable and corral
set aside area due to its size, shape and topography. The irregularly-shaped lot is 28,480-
square-feet, which is smaller than the one-acre minimum lot size for the RA-S-1 zone and has
a steeply-sloped, curved front yard at its widest point along Eastfield Drive. There is no feasible
location for a stable and corral set aside area that would be sufficiently distanced from the
primary residence and outside roadway easements. By granting this variance, the current or
future property owners are not precluded from applying for approval to construct a stable and
corral at a future date if a suitable location or construction plan is later identified. The property
owner is merely relieved from the obligation to identify and set aside an area for a stable and
corral.
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.
This finding can be made because the size, shape and topography of the lot provides
no feasible location for a stable and corral set aside area and relieving the applicant of this
requirement would allow them to construct a minor residential addition underneath the
existing roofline, which is a substantial property right enjoyed by others properties in the
vicinity and RA-S-1 zone.
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.
This finding can be made because the Applicant is required to obtain all necessary
geotechnical approvals and permits from Los Angeles County and other agencies, as
applicable, to construct the project. The requested variance will avoid potential impacts of
equestrian facilities in close proximity to the primary residence, neighboring residential
structures or the roadway.
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D. That in granting the variance, the spirit and intent of this title will be
observed.
This finding can be made because the requested Variance will allow the property owner
to construct an addition to the existing residence that is harmonious in scale and mass with the
site and with adjacent residential development. In granting the variance to waive the stable and
corral set aside requirement, the current or future property owners are not precluded from
applying for approval to construct a stable and corral at a future date if a suitable location or
construction plan is later identified. The property owner is merely relieved from the obligation to
identify and set aside an area for a stable and corral in the pursuit of residential improvements
to their property.
E. That the variance does not grant special privilege to the applicant.
This finding can be made because the size, shape and topography of the lot provides
no feasible location for a stable and corral set aside area and relieving the applicant of this
requirement would allow them to construct a minor residential addition underneath the
existing roofline. In granting the variance to waive the stable and corral set aside requirement,
the property owner is merely relieved from the obligation to identify and set aside an area for a
stable and corral in the pursuit of residential improvements to their property.
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.
This finding can be made because the Project is consistent with the applicable
portions of the Los Angeles County Hazardous Waste Management Plan related to siting
criteria for hazardous waste facilities. The Project site is not listed on the current State of
California Hazardous Waste and Substances Sites List, and the Project does not constitute
a hazardous waste facility.
G. That the variance request is consistent with the General Plan of the City of
Rolling Hills.
This finding can be made because the Project is consistent with the General Plan of
the City of Rolling Hills goals to maintain the City’s rural residential character, accommodate
development that is compatible with and complements existing land uses and is sensitive
to the natural environment and accounts for environmental hazards. The Project, together
with the Variance, aligns with the goals, objectives and policies specified in the General
Plan.
Section 6. Based upon the foregoing findings, and the evidence in the record, the
Planning Commission hereby approves Zoning Case No. 26-75 subject to the following
conditions:
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A. Approval for the Variance shall expire within two years from the effective date of
approval as defined in RHMC §17.38.070 of the Zoning Ordinance unless otherwise extended
pursuant to the requirements of this section.
B. If any condition of this resolution is violated, the entitlement granted by this
resolution shall be suspended and the privileges granted hereunder shall lapse and upon receipt
of written notice from the City, all construction work being performed on the subject property
shall immediately cease, other than work determined by the City Manager or his/her designee
required to cure the violation. The suspension and stop work order will be lifted once the
Applicant cures the violation to the satisfaction of the City Manager or his/her designee. In the
event that the Applicant disputes the City Manager or his/her designee’s determination that a
violation exists or disputes how the violation must be cured, the Applicant may request a hearing
before the City Council. The hearing shall be scheduled at the next regular meeting of the City
Council for which the agenda has not yet been posted; the Applicant shall be provided written
notice of the hearing. The stop work order shall remain in effect during the pendency of the
hearing. The City Council shall make a determination as to whether a violation of this Resolution
has occurred. If the Council determines that a violation has not occurred or has been cured by
the time of the hearing, the Council will lift the suspension and the stop work order. If the Council
determines that a violation has occurred and has not yet been cured, the Council shall provide
the Applicant with a deadline to cure the violation; no construction work shall be performed on
the property until and unless the violation is cured by the deadline, other than work designated
by the Council to accomplish the cure. If the violation is not cured by the deadline, the Council
may either extend the deadline at the Applicant’s request or schedule a hearing for the
revocation of the entitlements granted by this Resolution pursuant to Chapter
17.58 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code (RHMC).
C. The applicants shall execute an Affidavit of Acceptance of all conditions of the
Variance approval, or the approval shall not be effective.
D. All requirements of the Building and Construction Ordinance, the Zoning
ordinance, and of the zone in which the subject property is located must be complied with unless
otherwise a variance to such requirement has been approved.
E. The lot shall be developed and maintained in substantial conformance with the site
plan on file at City Hall and approved by the Planning Commission on July 21, 2026, except as
otherwise provided in these conditions. The working drawings submitted to the Department of
Building and Safety for plan check review shall conform to the approved development plan. All
conditions of the Variance approval shall be incorporated into the building permit working
drawings, and where applicable complied with prior to issuance of a grading or building permit
from the building department.
The conditions of approval of this Resolution shall be printed onto a separate sheet and
included in the building plans submitted to the Building Department for review and shall be kept
on site at all times.
Any proposed modifications and/or changes to the approved Project, including resulting
from field conditions, shall be discussed with staff so that staff can determine whether the
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modification is minor or major in nature. Minor modifications are subject to approval by the City
Manager or his or her designee. Major modifications are subject to approval by the Planning
Commission after a public hearing. Applicant shall not implement modifications or changes to
the approved Project without the appropriate approval from the City Manager or designee or the
Planning Commission, as required.
F. Prior to submittal of final working drawings to Building and Safety Department for
issuance of building and grading permits, the final plans for the Project shall be submitted to City
staff for verification of conformance to the Planning Commission-approved plans.
G. A licensed professional preparing construction plans for this Project for Building
Department review shall execute a Certificate affirming that the plans conform in all respects to
this Resolution approving this Project and all of the conditions set forth herein and the City’s
Building Code and Zoning Ordinance.
Further, the person obtaining a building and/or grading permit for this project shall execute
a Certificate of Construction stating that the Project will be constructed according to this
Resolution and any plans approved therewith.
H. The total structural coverage on the building pad shall not exceed 3,082 square
feet or 20%.
I. Total lot coverage of structures and paved areas shall not exceed 5,393 square
feet or 35%.
J. The disturbance of the lot shall not exceed 13,865 square feet of surface area or
90% of the lot area.
K. The Applicant shall secure all permits from the Department of Building and Safety
prior to commencing any work, and pay all applicable Building and Safety and Public Works
Department fees and Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District fees, if any. All conditions
of this Resolution, when applicable, must be complied with prior to the issuance of a grading or
building permit from the Building and Safety Department.
L. Hydrology, soils, geology and other reports, as required by the Building and Public
Works Departments, and as may be required by the Building Official, shall be prepared.
M. The Applicant shall submit a detailed drainage plan to the City’s drainage engineer.
This project shall meet the requirements of the City’s Low Impact Development portion of the
Storm Water Management and Pollution Control ordinance, if applicable. The applicant shall
comply with grading requirements relative to submittal of grading and construction reports as
required by the Building Official. In order to prevent sediments and water run-off from reaching
the canyon from the disturbed slopes and an erosion control plan shall be submitted to the
Building Department and implemented, even if grading permits have not been issued by that
time.
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N. Prior to issuance of a grading permit a detailed landscaping plan shall be submitted
to City staff for review. The landscaping shall be subject to all current and applicable City
standards, including the requirements of the City’s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance,
(Chapter 13.18 of the RHMC). The landscaping plan shall utilize to the maximum extent feasible,
plants that are native to the area, are water-wise and are consistent with the rural character of
the community. A Certificate of Completion shall be submitted by the Project designer or
contractor to the City prior to final landscape installation inspection. A final inspection shall not
be granted unless the slopes are vegetated.
O. The applicant shall comply with all requirements of the Low Impact Development
requirements for storm water management on site (RHMC Chapter 8.32).
M. The Applicant shall be required to conform to the City of Rolling Hills Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance, Chapter 13.18 of the Municipal Code. Prior to any further grading activity,
the Applicant shall inform the City and RHCA staff of the date and time of this activity. Workers
shall implement Best Management Practices to assure that streets and adjacent properties are
not impacted.
P. The graded areas shall be landscaped and continually maintained in good
condition. Any trees and shrubs used in the landscaping scheme for this project shall be planted
in a way that will not result in a hedge like screening and will not impair views from neighboring
properties. Pursuant to Chapter 8.30 of the RHMC, the property shall at all times be maintained
free of dead trees and vegetation.
Q. The City or the Building Department may require a construction fence for the
duration of the grading for this project. Such fence shall not be located in any easement or cross
over trails or natural drainage course and shall be removed immediately upon completion of the
grading work.
R. Any construction facility, such as a construction trailer/office or portable toilets, to
a maximum extent practicable, shall be located in a manner not visible from the street, and be
in a location satisfactory to City staff.
S. There shall be no discarding of any debris, trash, soil and construction spoils or
any other material into the canyon or deposited anywhere on the property, including easements.
No grading, planting, structures, drainage devices or hardscape, including driveways, or storage
of any objects including building materials shall take place in the easements, unless approved
by the RHCA.
T. The property owners shall be required to conform to the Regional Water Quality
Control Board and County Health Department requirements for the installation and maintenance
of the onsite wastewater treatment system/septic system..
U. The applicant shall pay all of the applicable Building and Safety and Public Works
Department fees and Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District fees, if any.
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V. Prior to construction, an on-site inspection and site walk-through, including through
all existing structures as needed, shall be scheduled with City Staff and the applicant.
W. During construction, the property owners shall be required to schedule and
regulate construction and related traffic noise throughout the day between the hours of 7 AM
and 6 PM, Monday through Saturday only, when construction and mechanical equipment noise
is permitted, so as not to interfere with the quiet residential environment of the City of Rolling
Hills.
X. Construction vehicles or equipment, employees’ vehicles, delivery trucks shall not
impede any traffic lanes to maximum extend practical; if traffic must be blocked in order to aid in
the construction, no more than a single lane may be blocked for a short period of time and
flagmen utilized on both sides of the impeded area to direct traffic.
Y. Prior to demolition of the existing structures, an investigation shall be conducted
for the presence of hazardous chemicals, lead-based paints or products, mercury and asbestos-
containing materials (ACMs). If hazardous chemicals, lead-based paints or products, mercury or
ACMs are identified, remediation shall be undertaken in compliance with California
environmental regulations and policies.
Z. During construction, to the extent feasible, all parking shall take place on the
project site, on the new driveway and, if necessary, any overflow parking may take place within
the unimproved roadway easements along adjacent streets, and shall not obstruct neighboring
driveways, visibility at intersections or pedestrian and equestrian passage. During construction,
to the maximum extent feasible, employees of the contractor shall car-pool into the City. To the
extent feasible, a minimum of 4’ wide path, from the edge of the roadway pavement, for
pedestrian and equestrian passage shall be available and be clear of vehicles,
construction materials and equipment at all times.
AA. During construction, the property owners shall be required to schedule and
regulate construction and relate traffic noise throughout the day between the hours of 7 AM and
6 PM, Monday through Saturday only, when construction and mechanical equipment noise is
permitted, so as not to interfere with the quiet residential environment of the City of Rolling Hills.
AB. During construction, dust control measures shall be used to stabilize the soil from
wind erosion and reduce dust and objectionable odors generated by construction activities in
accordance with South Coast Air Quality Management District, Los Angeles County and local
ordinances and engineering practices.
AC. During construction, an Erosion Control Plan containing the elements set forth in
Section 7010 of the 2025 County of Los Angeles Uniform Building Code shall be followed to
minimize erosion and to protect slopes and channels to control storm water pollution.
AD. During construction, the property owner and/or his/her contractor/applicant shall
be responsible for compliance with the no-smoking provisions in the Municipal Code. The
contractor shall not use tools that could produce a spark, including for clearing and grubbing,
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during red flag warning conditions. It is the sole responsibility of the property owner and/or his/her
contractor to monitor the red flag warning conditions.
AE. During construction, conformance with the air quality management district
requirements, storm water pollution prevention practices, county and local ordinances and
engineering practices so that people or property are not exposed to undue vehicle trips, noise,
dust, objectionable odors, landslides, mudflows, erosion, or land subsidence shall be required.
AF. Minimum of 65% of the construction material spoils shall be recycled and diverted
from landfills. The hauler shall obtain a Construction and Demolition permit from the City and
provide proof of recycling.
AG. Prior to final inspection of the project, “as graded” and “as constructed” plans and
certifications shall be provided to the Planning Department and the Building Department to
ascertain that the completed project is in compliance with the Planning Commission approved
plans. In addition, any modifications made to the project during construction, shall be depicted
on the “as built/as graded” plan.
AH. All conditions of this Resolution, when applicable, must be complied with prior to
the issuance of a grading or building permit from the Building and Safety Department.
AI. Any action challenging the final decision of the City made as a result of the public
hearing on this application must be filed within the time limits set forth in Section 17.54.070 of
the Rolling Hills Municipal Code and Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6.
AJ. To the extent permitted by law, Permittee shall defend, indemnify and hold
harmless the City of Rolling Hills, its City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the
“indemnified parties”) from and against any claim, action, or proceeding brought by a third party
against the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack, set aside, or void any permit or
approval for this project authorized by the City, including (without limitation) reimbursing the City
its actual attorney’s fees and costs in defense of the litigation. The City may, in its sole discretion,
elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its choice. The permittee shall reimburse the
City for any court and attorney's fees which the City may be required to pay as a result of any
claim or action brought against the City because of this permit. Although the permittee is the real
party in interest in an action, the City may, at its sole discretion, participate at its own expense
in the defense of the action, but such participation shall not relieve the permittee of any obligation
under this condition.
Section 7. Custodian of Records: The documents and materials associated with this
Resolution that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings are based are
located at Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California 90274. The
Planning Manager is the custodian of records for the record of proceedings.
Section 8. Protest of Fees, Dedications, Reservations or Other Exactions: Pursuant to
Government Code Section 66020, the applicant may protest the imposition of fees, dedications,
reservations, or other exactions imposed on this development project by taking the necessary