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573, Approval of an illegal previou, Staff Reports4 • • C1iy 0/Roiling J/dh INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com Agenda Item No.: 5.B. Mtg. Date: 6/22/98 DATE: DUNE 22, 1998 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL ATTN: CRAIG R. NEALIS, CITY MANAGER FROM: LOLA M. UNGAR, PLANNING DIRECTOR SUBJECT: RESOLUTION NO. 98-11: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING ail PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL TO AUTHORIZE PREVIOUSLY ILLEGALLY CONSTRUCTED AND LIMITED GRADING FOR AN ON-S1'1'b GUEST DRIVEWAY AND PARKING AREA AT A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 573. Mrs. Tamara Torino, 6 Middleridge Lane South (Lot 255-UR) BACKGROUND 1. The Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 98-11 on June 16, 1998 at their regular meeting granting a request for Site Plan Review approval to authorize previously illegally constructed and limited grading for an on -site guest driveway and parking area at a single family residence. The vote was 4- 0. Commissioner Witte was absent. 2. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. On November 5, 1997, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order" because grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit. Because of the winter rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue to work on the replacement of the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 1 .. t: Panted on Recycled Paper. • • provide engineering information about the City's requirement for a grading permit. Work was allowed to continue on the previously permitted minor residential addition which is not a part of this case. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to reorient and widen the driveway and determined that a grading permit was required for the grading work. 3. A grading permit is required for a cut that is more than three feet or a fill that is more than three feet or covers more than 2,000 square feet in accordance with Section 15.04 (Building Code) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code. Site Plan Review is also required for any grading that requires a grading permit in accordance with Section 17.46 (Site Plan Review) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). 4. During the hearing process, the amount of grading proposed was reduced. The applicant also submitted grading plans to the County that were stamped for "Plan Check Only" by the City on May 8, 1998, following discussion with County officials regarding the need for a grading permit. 5. The plan for the requested Site Plan Review shows the ground surface area (5,520 sq. feet) of grading required to repair the driveway parking area. Grading to repair the eastern driveway parking area will require 286 cubic yards of cut soil and 286 cubic yards of fill soil for the eastern leg of the driveway. The new motor court is 120 feet long and the old court was 200 feet long. According to the application, the owner wishes to enhance the property by relocating the guest entrance motor court and driveway to allow for increased landscaping and a gentle stairway to house. Two sets of retaining walls, 2.5 feet apart, that do not exceed 3 feet in height are proposed at the southeast or right side of the proposed driveway at each side of a proposed stairway. West of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 86 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 82 feet long. East of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 30 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 19 feet long. There will be a total of 217 lineal feet of retaining walls. Because these retaining walls have a "surcharge" or hillside behind them, engineering calculations and a building permit will be required. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 2 • • 6. The existing residence and a detached garage was constructed in 1953, a barn was constructed in 1957, a stable was built in 1969, and a garage was added to the existing residence in 1973. On August 21, 1979, Mr. Harold Heideman was granted a Variance to the side yard setback for the extension of the nonconforming building for a residential addition in Zoning Case No. 234. On December 18, 1979, Mr. Heideman was granted a Conditional Use Permit for a guest house remodel that was originally a barn and converted legally to an accessory building years before in Zoning Case No. 242. There was a residential remodel and construction of a room addition, a swimming pool and retaining walls in 1981. 7. The structural lot coverage is 6,052 square feet or 3.9% (20% maximum permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 13.517 square feet or 8.7% (35% maximum permitted). 8. The lot will be disturbed to construct and complete the proposed grading. The total disturbed area of the lot will be 21,852 square feet or 14.1% (40% maximum permitted). 9. Mrs. Geri Becker, 5 Middleridge Lane South, expressed concerns about the height of Pine trees and other trees planted and delivered to the site for the graded project that may affect her viewscape in the future. Mrs. Joan Foxx, 3 Lower Blackwater Canyon Road, expressed concerns about parking at the building site. 10. Section 15304 (b) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) permits Minor Alterations to Land as a Class 4 exemption. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes. Thus, staff has determined the project to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council receive and file Resolution No. 98-11. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 3 • • SITE PLAN REVIEW I EXISTING 1.1 PROPOSED RA-S-2 ZONE SETBACKS A portion of the existing residence Front: 50 ft. from front easement line encroaches into the side yard Side: 35 ft. from property line setback. Rear. 50 ft. from property line STRUCTURES (Site Plan Review required if size of structure increases by at least 1,000 sq.ft. and has the effect of increasing the size of the structure by more than 25% in a 36-month period). GRADING 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 (40% maximum; any graded building pad area, any remedial grading (temporary disturbance), any graded slopes and building pad areas, andany nongraded area where impervious surfaces exist) STRUCTURAL LOT COVERAGE (20% maximum) TOTAL LOT COVERAGE (35% maximum) RESIDENTIAL & TOTAL BUILDING PAD COVERAGE (Guideline maximum of 30%) STABLE (450 SQ.FT. & 550 SQ.FT. CORRAL) STABLE ACCESS, ROADWAY ACCESS, VIEWS PLANTS AND ANIMAL ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 4 Residence 3,878 sq.ft. Garage 474 sq.ft. Swim Pool 800 sq.ft. Guest House 450 sq.ft. Stable (Future) 450 sa.ft. TOTAL 6,052 sq.ft. N/A 8.7% 3.9% 8.7% 26.6% N/A N/A No change. No change. 286 cubic yards cut 286 cubic yards fill 14.1% No change. No change. No change. 450 sq.ft. future stable 550 sq.ft. future corral Access available from Middleridge Lane. . Existing access to site is at western No change. portion of lot at Middleridge Lane South N/A N/A Planning Commission review Planning Commission review • • RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL TO AUTHORIZE PREVIOUSLY ILLEGALLY CONDUCTED AND LIMITED GRADING FOR AN ON -SITE GUEST DRIVEWAY AND PARKING AREA AT A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 573. THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DOES HEREBY FIND, RESOLVE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. An application was duly filed by Mrs. Tamara Torino with respect to real property located at 6 Middleridge Lane South (Lot 255-UR), Rolling Hills, requesting a Site Plan Review to authorize the maintenance of previously conducted and illegal grading to reconfigure an on -site guest driveway and parking area along with retaining walls at an existing single family residence. During the hearing process, the amount of grading was reduced. Section 2. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. On November 5, 1997, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order" because grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit. Because of the winter rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue work on the residential addition, replace the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino provide engineering information about the City's requirement fora grading permit. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to reorient and widen the driveway and determined that a grading permit was required for the grading work. Section 3. The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the application on March 17, 1998, April 21, 1998, and May 19, 1998, and at a field trip visit on March 28, 1998. The applicant was notified of the public hearing in writing by first class mail and through the City's newsletter. RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 PAGE 1 OF 5 • • Evidence was heard and presented from all persons interested in the project, from all persons protesting the same, and from members of the City staff and the Planning Commission having reviewed, analyzed and studied the project. Concerns expressed by Commissioners, concerned residents and the applicants focused on the unauthorized grading, the possible obstruction of neighbors' views by recent planting of Pine and other trees, and parking at the building site. Section 4. The Planning Commission finds that the project qualifies as a Class 4 Exemption [State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land)] and is therefore categorically exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act. Section 5. Section 17.46.020 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code requires a development plan to be submitted for site plan review and approval before any grading that requires a grading permit or any new building or structure may be constructed. The applicant requests Site Plan Review to authorize the maintenance of previously conducted and illegal grading to reconfigure an on -site guest driveway and parking area along with retaining walls at an existing single family residence. With respect to the Site Plan Review application, the Planning Commission makes the following findings of fact: A. The illegal development is compatible with the General Plan, the Zoning Ordinance and surrounding uses because the proposed grading, as conditioned, complies with the General Plan requirement of low profile, low density residential development with sufficient open space between surrounding structures. The project conforms to Zoning Code setback and lot coverage requirements. The lot has a net square foot area of 154,899 square feet. The residence (3,878 sq.ft.), attached garage (474 sq.ft.), pool (800 sq.ft.), future stable (450 sq.ft.), and guest house (450 sq.ft.) will have 6,052 square feet which constitutes 3.9% of the lot which is within the maximum 20% structural lot coverage requirement. The total lot coverage including paved areas and driveway will be 13,517 square feet which equals 8.7% of the lot, which is within the 35% maximum overall lot coverage requirement. The proposed project is on a relatively large lot with the parking area area and proposed retaining wall structures located above and away from the road so as to reduce the visual impact of the development. B. The illegal development preserves and integrates into the site design, to the maximum extent feasible, existing natural topographic features of the lot including surrounding native vegetation, mature trees, drainage courses, and land forms (such as hillsides and knolls) because a minimum amount of grading is proposed and will only be done to provide approved drainage that will flow away from the graded area and proposed retaining walls, the existing residence, and neighboring residences. RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 PAGE 2 OF 5 • • C. The development plan follows the natural contours of the site to minimize grading and the natural drainage courses will continue to the canyons at the north and east sides of this lot. D. The development plan incorporates existing large trees and native vegetation to the maximum extent feasible. Specifically, the development plan preserves several mature trees and shrubs. E. The development plan substantially preserves the natural and undeveloped state of the lot by minimizing building coverage because the new structures will not cause the structural and total lot coverage to be exceeded. Further, the proposed project is designed to minimize grading. Significant portions of the lot will be left undeveloped so as to maintain scenic vistas across the northeasterly portions of the property. F. The illegal development, as conditioned, is harmonious in scale and mass with the site,, the natural terrain and surrounding residences. As indicated in Paragraph A, the lot coverage maximum will not be exceeded and the proposed project is consistent with the scale of the neighborhood when compared to this irregular -shaped lot. Grading shall be permitted only to restore the natural slope of the property. G. The illegal development is sensitive and not detrimental to the convenience and safety of circulation for pedestrians and vehicles because the proposed project will utilize the same driveway to Caballeros Road for access. H. The project conforms with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act and is categorically exempt from environmental review. Section 6. Based upon the foregoing findings, the Planning Commission hereby approves the Site Plan Review request to authorize the maintenance of previously conducted and illegal grading to reconfigure an on -site guest driveway and parking area along with retaining walls at an existing single family residence, as indicated on the Development Plan attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A dated April 9, 1998, that is subject to the following conditions: A. The Site Plan Review approval shall expire within one year from the effective date of approval as defined in Section 17.46.080. B. It is declared and made a condition of the Site Plan Review approval, that if any conditions thereof are violated, the Permit shall be suspended and the privileges granted thereunder shall lapse; provided that the applicant has been given written notice to cease such violation and has failed to do so for a period of thirty (30) days. RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 PAGE 3 OF 5 C. 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 approved by Variance. D. The lot shall be developed and maintained in substantial conformance with the site plan on file marked Exhibit A dated April 9, 1998, except as otherwise provided in these conditions. E. Any retaining walls shall not exceed 3 feet in height. F. The top upper edge of all retaining walls shall be a continuous smooth line and without jagged inclines or declines along the length of the wall. G. Structural lot coverage shall not exceed 3.9% and total lot coverage of structures and paved areas shall not exceed 8.7%. H. Disturbed area of the lot shall not exceed 14.1%. I. Grading to repair the eastern driveway parking area shall not exceed 286 cubic yards of cut soil and 286 cubic yards of fill soil. J. Grading of the eastern leg of the driveway shall not exceed 5,520 square feet of ground surface area. K. The existing topography, flora and natural features of the lot shall be retained to the greatest extent feasible. L. Additional landscape screening shall be planted to obscure the southern faces of the retaining walls and the residence but not block views in the northeastern and western corridors of the lot. M. Landscaping to obscure the retaining walls and residence shall be maintained so as not to exceed the ridge line of the residence. N. Review and approval of a site drainage plan by the City Engineer shall be obtained for the existing and proposed grading and the retaining walls. O. A plan that conforms to the development plan as approved by the Planning Commission must be submitted to the Rolling Hills Planning Department staff for their review prior to the submittal of an applicable site drainage plan to the County of Los Angeles for plan check. P. The project must be reviewed and approved by the Rolling Hills Community Association Architectural Review Committee prior to approval of the drainage plan. RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 PAGE 4 OF 5 • • Q. The working drawings submitted to the County Department of Building and Safety for site drainage plan review and building permits must conform to the development plan described at the beginning of this section (Section 11). R. The applicant shall execute an Affidavit of Acceptance of all conditions of these Variance and Conditional Use Permit approvals pursuant to Section 17.38.060, or the approval shall not be effective. S. All conditions of this Site Plan Review approvals must be complied with prior to approval of the site drainage plan by the County of Los Angeles. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON THE 16TH , 1998. ATTEST: MARILYN RN, DEPUTY CITY CLERK STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ) §§ ALLAV ROBERTS, CHAIRMAN I certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 98-11 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL TO AUTHORIZE PREVIOUSLY ILLEGALLY CONDUCTED AND LIMITED GRADING FOR AN ON - SITE GUEST DRIVEWAY AND PARIQNG AREA AT A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 573. was approved and adopted at an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission cn June 16, 1998 by the following roll call vote: AYES: Commissioners Hankins, Margeta, Sommer and Chairman Roberts. NOES: None . ABSENT: Commissioner Witte. ABSTAIN: None . and in compliance with the laws of California was posted at the following: Administrative Offices MARILYN RN, DEPUTY CITY CLERK RESOLUTION NO. 98-11 PAGE 5 OF 5 • Ci1y ai RO/A �ue� HEARING DATE: MAY 19, 1998 TO: FROM: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION LOLA M. UNGAR, PLANNING DIRECTOR APPLICATION NO. SITE LOCATION: ZONING AND SIZE: APPLICANT: REPRESENTATIVE: PUBLISHED: REOUEST ZONING CASE NO. 573 6 MIDDLERIDGE LANE SOUTH (LOT 255-UR) RAS-2, 3.556 ACRES MRS. TAMARA TORINO MR. RICHARD HUDDLESON MARCH 7, 1998 Request for Site Plan Review to permit an existing illegally graded reconfigured on -site guest driveway and parking area. BACKGROUND 1. The applicant submitted grading plans that were stamped for "Plan Check Only" by the City on May 8, 1998, following discussion with County officials regarding the need for a grading permit. The plan for the requested Site Plan Review shows the ground surface area (5,520 sq. feet) of grading required to repair the driveway parking area. Grading to repair the eastern driveway parking area will require 286 cubic yards of cut soil and 286 cubic yards of fill soil for the eastern leg of the driveway. The new motor court is 120 feet long and the old court was 200 feet long. According to the application, the owner wishes to enhance the property by relocating the guest entrance motor court and driveway to allow for increased landscaping and a gentle stairway to house. Two sets of retaining walls, 2.5 feet apart, that do not exceed 3 feet in height are proposed at the southeast or right side of the proposed driveway at each side of a proposed stairway. West of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 86 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 82 feet long. East of the ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 1 Printed on Recycled Paper. • • stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 30 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 19 feet long. There will be a total of 217 lineal feet of retaining walls. Because these retaining walls have a "surcharge" or hillside behind them, engineering calculations and a building permit will be required. 2. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. 3. On November 5, 1997, when it came to the attention of the City that grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order." Because of the rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue work on the residential addition, replace the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino provide engineering information about the City's requirement for a grading permit. 4. A grading permit is required for a cut that is more than three feet or a fill that is more than three feet or covers more than 2,000 square feet in accordance with Section 15.04 (Building Code) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code. Site Plan Review is also required for any grading that requires a grading permit in accordance with Section 17.46 (Site Plan Review) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). 5. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. 6. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to widen the driveway and determined that the grading work requires a grading permit. 7. The existing residence and a detached garage was constructed in 1953, a barn was constructed in 1957, a stable was built in 1969, and a garage was added to the existing residence in 1973. On August 21, 1979, Mr. Harold Heideman was granted a Variance to the side yard setback for the extension of the nonconforming building for a residential addition in Zoning Case No. 234. On December 18, 1979, Mr. Heideman was granted a Conditional Use Permit for a guest house remodel that was originally a barn and converted legally to an accessory building years before in Zoning Case No. 242. There was a ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 2 • • residential remodel and construction of a room addition, a swimming pool and retaining walls in 1981. 8. The structural lot coverage is 6,052 square feet or 3.9% (20% maximum permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 13.517 square feet or 8.7% (35% maximum permitted). 9. The lot will be disturbed to construct and complete the proposed grading. The total disturbed area of the lot will be 21,852 square feet or 14.1% (40% maximum permitted). 10. Mrs. Geri Becker, 5 Middleridge Lane South, expressed concerns about the height of Pine trees and other trees planted and delivered to the site for the graded project that may affect her viewscape in the future. Mrs. Joan Foxx, 3 Lower Blackwater Canyon Road, expressed her concerns about parking at the building site. 11. Section 15304 (b) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) permits Minor Alterations to Land as a Class 4 exemption. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes. Thus, staff has determined the project to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the proposed plans and take public testimony. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 3 • C1iy olRolling -AA HEARING DATE: APRIL 21, 1998 TO: FROM: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION LOLA M. UNGAR, PLANNING DIRECTOR APPLICATION NO. SITE LOCATION: ZONING AND SIZE: APPLICANT: REPRESENTATIVE: PUBLISHED: REOUEST ZONING CASE NO. 573 6 MIDDLERIDGE LANE SOUTH (LOT 255-UR) RAS-2, 3.556 ACRES MRS. TAMARA TORINO MR. RICHARD HUDDLESON MARCH 7, 1998 Request for Site Plan Review to permit an existing illegally graded reconfigured on -site guest driveway and parking area. BACKGROUND 1. The Planning Commission viewed the site on Saturday, March 28, 1998. Commissioners discussed the unauthorized grading and requested that the applicant provide a grading plan that shows the original driveways as well as the existing eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway and parking areas. A new plan for the requested Site Plan Review has been provided that shows a smaller area (5,520 sq. feet) of grading required to repair the driveway parking area. Grading to repair the eastern driveway parking area will require 286 cubic yards of cut soil and 286 cubic yards of fill soil as opposed to the previously requested 700 cubic yards of cut soil and 700 cubic yards of fill soil for the eastern leg of the driveway. The new motor court is 120 feet long and the old court was 200 feet long. According to the application, the owner wishes to enhance the property by relocating the guest entrance motor court and driveway to allow for increased landscaping and a gentle stairway to house. Two sets of retaining walls, 2.5 feet apart, that do not exceed 3 feet in height are proposed at the southeast or right side of the proposed driveway at each ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 1 Printed on Recycled Paper. • • side of a proposed stairway. West of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 86 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 82 feet long. East of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 30 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 19 feet long. There will be a total of 217 lineal feet of retaining walls. Because these retaining walls have a "surcharge" or hillside behind them, engineering calculations and a building permit will be required. 2. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. 3. On November 5, 1997, when it came to the attention of the City that grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order." Because of the rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue work on the residential addition, replace the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino provide engineering information about the City's requirement for a grading permit. 4. A grading permit is required for a cut that is more than three feet or a fill that is more than three feet or covers more than 2,000 square feet in accordance with Section 15.04 (Building Code) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code. Site Plan Review is also required for any grading that requires a grading permit in accordance with Section 17.46 (Site Plan Review) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). 5. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. 6. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to widen the driveway and determined that the grading work requires a grading permit. 7. The existing residence and a detached garage was constructed in 1953, a barn was constructed in 1957, a stable was built in 1969, and a garage was added to the existing residence in 1973. On August 21, 1979, Mr. Harold Heideman was granted a Variance to the side yard setback for the extension of the nonconforming building for a residential addition in Zoning Case No. 234. On December 18, 1979, Mr. Heideman was granted a Conditional Use Permit ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 2 • • for a guest house remodel that was originally a barn and converted legally to an accessory building years before in Zoning Case No. 242. There was a residential remodel and construction of a room addition, a swimming pool and retaining walls in 1981. 8. The structural lot coverage is 6,052 square feet or 3.9% (20% maximum permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 13.517 square feet or 8.7% (35% maximum permitted). 9. The lot will be disturbed to construct and complete the proposed grading. The total disturbed area of the lot will be 21,852 square feet or 14.1% (40% maximum permitted). 10. Mrs. Geri Becker, 5 Middleridge Lane South, expressed concerns about the height of Pine trees and other trees planted and delivered to the site for the graded project that may affect her viewscape in the future. Mrs. Joan Foxx, 3 Lower Blackwater Canyon Road, expressed her concerns about parking at the building site. 11. Section 15304 (b) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) permits Minor Alterations to Land as a Class 4 exemption. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes. Thus, staff has determined the project to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the proposed plans and take public testimony. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 3 •City ol leo/ling -AIL HEARING DATE: MARCH 28, 1998 TO: FROM: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION LOLA M. UNGAR, PLANNING DIRECTOR APPLICATION NO. SITE LOCATION: ZONING AND SIZE: APPLICANT: REPRESENTATIVE: PUBLISHED: REOUEST ZONING CASE NO. 573 6 MIDDLERIDGE LANE SOUTH (LOT 255-UR) RAS-2, 3.556 ACRES MRS. TAMARA TORINO MR. RICHARD HUDDLESON MARCH 7, 1998 Request for Site Plan Review to permit an existing illegally graded reconfigured on -site guest driveway and parking area. BACKGROUND 1. The Planning Commission will view the site on Saturday, March 28, 1998 at 7:30 AM. 2. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. 3. On November 5, 1997, when it came to the attention of the City that grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order." Because of the rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue work on the residential addition, replace the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino provide engineering information about the City's requirement for a grading permit. 4. A grading permit is required for a cut that is more than three feet or a fill that is more than three feet or covers more than 2,000 square feet in accordance ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 1 CP Printed on Recycled Paper. • • with Section 15.04 (Building Code) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code. Site Plan Review is also required for any grading that requires a grading permit in accordance with Section 17.46 (Site Plan Review) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). 5. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. 6. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to widen the driveway and determined that the grading work requires a grading permit. 7. The applicant is requesting Site Plan Review to permit grading of 700 cubic yards of cut soil and 700 cubic yards of fill soil for the on -site guest driveway and parking area. The new motor court is 120 feet long and the old court was 200 feet long. According to the application, the owner wishes to enhance the property by relocating the guest entrance motor court and driveway to allow for increased landscaping and a gentle stairway to house. Two sets of retaining walls, 2.5 feet apart, that do not exceed 3 feet in height are proposed at the southeast or right side of the proposed driveway at each side of a proposed stairway. West of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 86 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 82 feet long. East of the stairs, the upper retaining wall will be 30 feet long and the lower retaining wall will be 19 feet long. There will be a total of 217 lineal feet of retaining walls. Because these retaining walls have a "surcharge" or hillside behind them, engineering calculations and a building permit will be required. 8. The existing residence and a detached garage was constructed in 1953, a barn was constructed in 1957, a stable was built in 1969, and a garage was added to the existing residence in 1973. On August 21, 1979, Mr. Harold Heideman was granted a Variance to the side yard setback for the extension of the nonconforming building for a residential addition in Zoning Case No. 234. On December 18, 1979, Mr. Heideman was granted a Conditional Use Permit for a guest house remodel that was originally a barn and converted legally to an accessory building years before in Zoning Case No. 242. There was a residential remodel and construction of a room addition, a swimming pool and retaining walls in 1981. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 2 • • 9. The structural lot coverage is 6,052 square feet or 3.9% (20% maximum permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 13.517 square feet or 8.7% (35% maximum permitted). 10. The lot will be disturbed to construct and complete the proposed grading. The total disturbed area of the lot will be 21,852 square feet or 14.1% (40% maximum permitted). 11. Mrs. Geri Becker, 5 Middleridge Lane South, expressed concerns about the height of Pine trees and othertrees planted and delivered to the site for the graded project that may affect her viewscape in the future. Mrs. Joan Foxx, 3 Lower Blackwater Canyon Road, expressed her concerns about parking at the building site. 12. Section 15304 (b) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) permits Minor Alterations to Land as a Class 4 exemption. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes. Thus, staff has determined the project to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the proposed plans and take public testimony. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 3 • • SITE PLAN REVIEW II RA-S-2 ZONE SETBACKS Front: 50 ft. from front easement line Side: 35 ft. from property line Rear: 50 ft. from property line STRUCTURES (Site Plan Review required if size of structure increases by at least 1,000 sq.ft. and has the effect of increasing the size of the structure by more than 25% in a 36-month period). GRADING 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 (40% maximum; any graded building pad area, any remedial grading (temporary disturbance), any graded slopes and building pad areas, andany nongraded area where impervious surfaces exist) STRUCTURAL LOT COVERAGE (20% maximum) TOTAL LOT COVERAGE (35% maximum) RESIDENTIAL & TOTAL BUILDING PAD COVERAGE (Guideline maximum of 30%) STABLE (450 SQ.FT. & 550 SQ.FT. CORRAL) STABLE ACCESS ROADWAY ACCESS VIEWS PLANTS AND ANIMALS EXISTING II PROPOSED A portion of the existing residence encroaches into the side yard setback. Residence 3,878 sq.ft. Garage 474 sq.ft. Swim Pool 800 sq.ft. Guest House 450 sq.ft. Stable (Future) 450 sq.ft. TOTAL 6,052 sq.ft. N/A 8.7% 3.9% 8.7% 26.6% N/A N/A Existing access to site is at western portion of lot at Middleridge Lane South N/A N/A No change. A portion of the existing residence encroaches into the side yard setback. No change. Residence Garage Swim Pool Guest House Stable (Future) 3,878 sq.ft. 474 sq.ft. 800 sq.ft. 450 sq.ft. 450 sq.ft. TOTAL 6,052 sq.ft. 700 cubic yards cut 700 cubic yards fill 14.1% No change. 3.9% No change. 8.7% No change. 26.6% 450 sq.ft. future stable 550 sq.ft. future corral Access available from Middleridge Lane. No change. Existing access to site to remain at western portion of lot at Middleridge Lane South Planning Commission review Planning Commission review ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 4 4 • C 0/ Re/JnS HEARING DATE: MARCH 17, 1998 TO: FROM: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION LOLA M. UNGAR, PLANNING DIRECTOR APPLICATION NO. SITE LOCATION: ZONING AND SIZE: APPLICANT: REPRESENTATIVE: PUBLISHED: REOUEST ZONING CASE NO. 573 6 MIDDLERIDGE LANE SOUTH (LOT 255-UR) RAS-2, 3.556 ACRES MRS. TAMARA TORINO MR. RICHARD HUDDLESON MARCH 7, 1998 Request for Site Plan Review to permit an existing illegally graded reconfigured on -site guest driveway and parking area. BACKGROUND 1. On August 19, 1997, Mrs. Tamara Torino, applicant, was issued a building permit by the City and the County to construct a 277 square foot residential addition at the property at 6 Middleridge Lane South. Mrs. Torino was also replacing her existing driveway when the City was informed of grade changes taking place at the building site at the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway. 2. On November 5, 1997, when it came to the attention of the City that grading was taking place without benefit of a grading permit, Mr. Rafael Bernal, District Engineering Associate, issued a "Stop Work Order." Because of the rains, the City allowed Mrs. Torino to continue work on the residential addition, replace the existing southwestern leg of the Y-shaped driveway to access the residence and requested that Mrs. Torino provide engineering information about the City's requirement for a grading permit. 3. A grading permit is required for a cut that is more than three feet or a fill that is more than three feet or covers more than 2,000 square feet in accordance with Section 15.04 (Building Code) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code. Site Plan Review is also required for any grading that requires a grading permit in ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 1 • Printed on Recycled Paper. • • accordance with Section 17.46 (Site Plan Review) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). 4. On November 12, 1997, Inspector Bernal issued a second "Stop Work Order" notice when he discovered further grading work was being done. 5. On December 19, 1997, Mr. Keith W. Ehlert, Engineering Geologist, informed Mrs. Torino that the eastern leg of the Y-shaped driveway had been widened and filled with 288 cubic yards of soil. The City needed further information from Mrs. Torino. On January 14, 1998, Mr. Ehlert informed Mrs. Torino that 1,870 square feet was affected by the driveway modifications. From this information, staff calculated and verified with Mr. Ehlert by telephone that 4.16 feet of fill soil was used to widen the driveway and determined that the grading work requires a grading permit. 6. The applicant is requesting Site Plan Review to permit grading of 700 cubic yards of cut soil and 700 cubic yards of fill soil for the on -site guest driveway and parking area. The new motor court is 120 feet long and the old court was 200 feet long. According to the application, the owner wishes to enhance the property by relocating the guest entrance motor court and driveway to allow for incresed landscaping and a gentle stairway to house. 7. The existing residence and a detached garage was constructed in 1953, a barn was constructed in 1957, a stable was built in 1969, and a garage was added to the existing residence in 1973. On August 21, 1979, Mr. Harold Heideman was granted a Variance to the side yard setback for the extension of the nonconforming building for a residential addition in Zoning Case No. 234. On December 18, 1979, Mr. Heideman was granted a Conditional Use Permit for a guest house remodel that was originally a barn and converted legally to an accessory building years before in Zoning Case No. 242. There was a residential remodel and construction of a room addition, a swimming pool and retaining walls in 1981. 8. The structural lot coverage is 6,052 square feet or 3.9% (20% maximum permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 13.517 square feet or 8.7% (35% maximum permitted). 9. The lot will be disturbed to construct and complete the proposed grading. The total disturbed area of the lot will be 21,852 square feet or 14.1% (40% maximum permitted). 10. Mrs. Geri Becker, 5 Middleridge Lane South, has visited the City and called regarding the future height of Pine trees and other trees planted and delivered to the site for the graded project that may affect her viewscape in the future. ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 2 • • 11. Section 15304 (b) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) permits Minor Alterations to Land as a Class 4 exemption. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes. Thus, staff has determined the project to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Planning Commission revi and take public testimony. SITE PLAN REVIEW II EXISTING RA-S-2 ZONE SETBACKS Front: 50 ft. from front easement line Side: 35 ft. from property line Rear: 50 ft. from property line STRUCTURES (Site Plan Review required if size of structure increases by at least 1,000 sq.ft. and has the effect of increasing the size of the structure by more than 25% in a 36-month period). GRADING 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 (40% maximum; any graded building pad area, any remedial grading (temporary disturbance), any graded slopes and building pad areas, andany nongraded area where impervious surfaces exist) STRUCTURAL LOT COVERAGE (20% maximum) TOTAL LOT COVERAGE (35% maximum) A portion of the existing residence encroaches into the side yard setback. Residence 3,878 sq.ft. Garage 474 sq.ft. Swim Pool 800 sq.ft. Guest House 450 sq.ft. Stable (Future) 450 sq.ft. TOTAL 6,052 sq.ft. N/A 8.7% 3.9% 8.7% ew the proposed plans IIPROPOSED No change. A portion of the existing residence encroaches into the side yard setback. No change. Residence Garage Swim Pool Guest House Stable (Future) 3,878 sq.ft. 474 sq.ft. 800 sq.ft. 450 sq.ft. 450 sq.ft. TOTAL 6,052 sq.ft. 700 cubic yards cut 700 cubic yards fill 14.1% No change. 3.9% No change. 8.7% ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 3 RESIDENTIAL & TOTAL BUILDING PAD COVERAGE (Guideline maximum of 30%) 26.6% STABLE (450 SQ.FT. N/A & 550 SQ.FT. CORRAL) STABLE ACCESS ROADWAY ACCESS VIEWS N/A Existing access to site is at western portion of lot at Middleridge Lane South N/A PLANTS AND ANIMALS N/A No change. 26.6% 450 sq.ft. future stable 550 sq.ft. future corral Access available from Middleridge Lane. No change. Existing access to site to remain at western portion of lot at Middleridge Lane South Planning Commission review Planning Commission review ZONING CASE NO. 573 PAGE 4