HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC 2002-01A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
NO. 2001-21, MINOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2001-12,
AND CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION 15301(e)(2)(A), A REQUEST TO
REMODEL AND ADD APPROXIMATELY 2,847 SQUARE FEET TO
AN EXISTING 2,647 SQUARE FEET SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE
WITH DECK AND THREE CAR GARAGE. THE PROJECT SITE IS
LOCATED AT 22205 STEEPLECHASE LANE (LOT 175 OF TRACT
NO. 30578), DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA.
A. RECITALS.
1. The property owner, John Chang, and applicant, Arthur Tseng have filed an
application to approve Development Review No. 2001-21, Minor Conditional Use
Permit No. 2001-12, for a property located at 22205 Steeplechase Lane, Diamond
Bar, Los Angeles County, California, and pant of the gated development identified
as "The Country Estates," as described in the title of this Resolution. Hereinafter
in this Resolution, the subject Development Review and Categorical Exemption
shall be referred to as the "Application."
2. On December 20, 2001, 210 property owners within a 500 -foot radius of the
project site were notified by mail. On December 28, 2001, notification of the public
hearing for this project was made in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland
Valley Daily Bulleti newspapers; and a notice of public hearing on a display board
was posted at the bite and displayed for at least 10 days before the public hearing;
as well as three other posted within the vicinity of the application.
3. On January 8, 2002, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar
conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the Application.
B. RESOLUTION.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission of
the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in
the Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. The Planning Commission hereby determines that the project identified above in
this Resolution is categorically exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. This is pursuant to Section 15301(e)(2)(A) of Article 19 of Chapter 3,
Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-01
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
NO. 2001-21, MINOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2001-12,
AND CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION 15301(e)(2)(A), A REQUEST TO
REMODEL AND ADD APPROXIMATELY 2,847 SQUARE FEET TO
AN EXISTING 2,647 SQUARE FEET SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE
WITH DECK AND THREE CAR GARAGE. THE PROJECT SITE IS
LOCATED AT 22205 STEEPLECHASE LANE (LOT 175 OF TRACT
NO. 30578), DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA.
A. RECITALS.
1. The property owner, John Chang, and applicant, Arthur Tseng have filed an
application to approve Development Review No. 2001-21, Minor Conditional Use
Permit No. 2001-12, for a property located at 22205 Steeplechase Lane, Diamond
Bar, Los Angeles County, California, and pant of the gated development identified
as "The Country Estates," as described in the title of this Resolution. Hereinafter
in this Resolution, the subject Development Review and Categorical Exemption
shall be referred to as the "Application."
2. On December 20, 2001, 210 property owners within a 500 -foot radius of the
project site were notified by mail. On December 28, 2001, notification of the public
hearing for this project was made in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland
Valley Daily Bulleti newspapers; and a notice of public hearing on a display board
was posted at the bite and displayed for at least 10 days before the public hearing;
as well as three other posted within the vicinity of the application.
3. On January 8, 2002, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar
conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the Application.
B. RESOLUTION.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission of
the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in
the Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. The Planning Commission hereby determines that the project identified above in
this Resolution is categorically exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. This is pursuant to Section 15301(e)(2)(A) of Article 19 of Chapter 3,
Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
I The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds and determines that, having
considered the record as a whole including the findings set forth below, and
changes and alterations which have been incorporated into and conditioned upon
the proposed project set forth in the application, there is no evidence before this
Planning Commission that the project proposed herein will have the potential of an
adverse effect on wild life resources or the habitat upon which the wildlife
depends. Based upon substantial evidence, this Planning commission hereby
rebuts the presumption of adverse effects contained in Section 753.5 (d) of
Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
4. Based upon the findings and conclusions set forth herein, this Planning
Commission, hereby finds as, follows:
(a) The project relates to a parcel at 22205 Steeplechase Lane (Lot 175 of
Tract No. 30578), Diamond Bar, CA, within the gated community identified
as "The Country Estates." The project site is approximately 1.31 gross. A
Restricted Use Area is at the rear of the property, however, the proposed
project is not within this area. The lot is shaped irregularly, narrower at the
front and sloping downward from Steeplechase Lane to the rear of the
property.
(b) The General Plan Land Use designation is Rural Residential (RR),
1 du/acre. The project site is zoned Single -Family Residence, R-1-20,000.
(c) Generally, the following zones surround the subject site: to the north is the
R-1-40,000 Zone and to south, east and west is the R-1-20,000 Zone.
(d) The application is a request to remodel and add approximately. 2,847
square feet to an existing 2,647 square feet single-family residence with
deck and three -car garage.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
(e) The design and layout of the proposed development are consistent with the
General Plan, development standards of the applicable district, design
guidelines, and architectural criteria for specialized area (e.g., theme areas,
specific plans, community plans, boulevards, or planned developments.
The project site, currently developed with a one-story, single-family
residence, was established before the adoption of the City's General Plan
and current Development Code. The adopted General Plan of July 25,
1995, has a land use designation of Rural Residential (1 du/acre). The
current application complies with the City's General Plan objectives and
strategies related to maintaining the integrity of residential neighborhoods
and open space, the current Diamond Bar Development Code, and the
City's Design Guidelines. There is no specific plan.
2
The existing structure was built using the Development Standards of the
Los Angeles County Code prior to the City's incorporation and is
considered a legal nonconforming structure. Per the current Development
Code, the Planning Director or his designee may approve proposed
projects providing that the additions or improvements are less than 50% of
the existing square footage, the site coverage is no more than 40 percent,
that the project conforms to applicable provisions of the Development
Code, and the exterior limits of new construction do not exceed the
applicable height limit or encroach further into the setbacks than the
comparable portions of the existing structure where the nonconformity
exists. In this case, the nonconformity is in the front.
The proposed project conforms to applicable provisions of the Development
Code, the site coverage is less than 40 percent and is comparable with the
existing neighborhood, and it meets the required height limitations and does
not encroach further into the setbacks than the existing structure in the
front Though the proposed project is more than 50 percent of the existing
square footage, a concurrent application has been made with findings
below for the approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit.
The terrain in the vicinity of Steeplechase Lane is hilly. The proposed two-
story application is not considered an impact to the view corridor of
surrounding properties.
(f) The design and layout of the proposed development will not interfere with
the use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or future development, and
will not create traffic or pedestrian hazards.
Shadow Canyon Drive and Steeplechase Lane adequately serve the
project site. These streets are designed to handle minimum traffic created .
by residential development.
The project site is currently developed with a one-story single-family
residence. The proposed reconstruction/remodeling does not change the
existing use of a single-family residence. Although the proposed addition
enlarges the existing residence, and is a two-story structure, it meets the 35
feet height limitation per the Development Code. The structure is not
expected to unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of
neighboring existing or future development with regard to view or traffic.
(g) The architectural design of the proposed development is compatible with
the characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood and will maintain and
enhance the harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated
by Chapter 22.48, the General Plan, City Design Guidelines, or any
applicable specific plan.
3
The proposed project's European design is compatible with the eclectic
architectural style of other homes within "The Country Estates, " and is
consistent with the City's Design Guidelines and Development Code. The
project uses architectural styling with the use of two-story entry, trimmed
stucco details, fascia and window treatments, deck with wrought iron; and
layering of materials and finishes via multi-levels of roof lines using
Charcoal Grey flat roof the and stucco of Eggshell white to add texture and
contrast.
Additionally, the colors and materials utilized are compatible with the homes
within the surrounding area. The applicant has obtained the approval of the
architectural committee of 'The Country Estates."
(h) The design of the proposed development will provide a desirable
environment for its occupants and visiting public, as well as its neighbors,
through good aesthetic use of materials, texture, and color that will remain
aesthetically appealing.
A project colors/materials board is provided as Exhibit "A." The colors,
materials, and textures proposed are complimentary to the existing homes
within the area while offering variety and low levels ofmaintenance.
(i) The proposed project will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare or materially injurious (e.g., negative affect on property values or
resale(s) of property) to the properties or improvements in the vicinity.
City permits, inspections and soils reports are required for construction and
will ensure that the finished project will not be detrimental to the public
health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to the properties or
improvements in the vicinity.
The addition of square footage to the main structure follows the line of the
existing one-story structure in the front and maintains a 35 feet height;
therefore, the proposed application has no negative affect or impact to the
view corridor of surrounding properties.
(j) The proposed project has been reviewed in compliance with the provisions
of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The environmental evaluation. shows that the proposed project is
categorically exempt pursuant to the guidelines of the, California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA), Sections 1530 1 (e)(2)(A).
4
NONCONFROMING STRUCTURES
(k) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or
structural alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the
structure becoming incompatible with other structures in the neighborhood.
As stated in Item (g), the proposed project is compatible with other
structures in the vicinity. Many one-story structures in the vicinity have
remodeled adding the second -story and increased square footage.
(1) The addition, enlargement, - extension, reconstruction, relocation or
structural alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the
structure becoming inconsistent with the General Plan or any applicable
specific plan.
As stated in Items (e) and (g), the proposed project is consistent with the
City's General Plan objectives and strategies, Chapter 22.48 of the
Development Code, and City Design Guidelines.
(m) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or
structural alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the
structure becoming a restriction to the eventual/future compliance with the
applicable regulations of this Development Code.
On April 23, 1969, the existing parcel was approved by Tract Map
No. 30578, Lot 175, as 1.31 acres. The existing structure was completed
under the Los Angeles County Code in 1977 and met the required setbacks
of that Code prior to the City's incorporation. The current Diamond Bar
Development Code requires minimum lot size as 1 du/acre in Rural
Residential Zone (RR). The front setback for this zone has changed from
the Los Angeles County Code of 20 feet to 30 feet. The application is
considered a nonconforming parcel and structure. These are defined as
any parcel or structure that was legally created or constructed prior to the
adoption of the current Diamond Bar Development Code adopted
November 3, 1998, and which does not conform to current Code
provisions/standards prescribed for the zoning district in which the use is
located. The proposed project conforms to the applicable provisions of this
Development Code and the exterior limits of the new construction do not
exceed the applicable height limitorencroach furtherinto the setbacks than
the comparable portions of the existing structure in the front where the
nonconformity exists. No further nonconforming status of this parcel is
anticipated.
(n) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or
structural alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the
5
structure becoming detrimental to the health, safety, and general welfare of
persons residing in the neighborhood.
City permits, inspections and soils reports are required for construction and
will ensure that the finished project will not be detrimental to the health,
safety, or general welfare of persons residing in the neighborhood.
(o) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or
structural alteration of the nonconforming structure -would not result in the
structure becoming detrimental and/or injurious to property and
improvements in the neighborhood.
As stated in items (e), (f), (g) and (h), the architectural design of the
proposed development is compatible with the characteristics of the
surrounding neighborhood and will maintain the harmonious, orderly and
attractive development contemplated by Chapter22.48, the General Plan,
City Design Guidelines, or any applicable specific plan.
Also, as stated in Item (i), City permits, inspections and soils reports are
required for construction and will ensure that the finished project will not be
detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to
the properties or improvements in the vicinity.
5. Based upon the findings and conclusion set forth above, the Planning Commission
hereby approves this Application subject to the following conditions:
(a) The project shall substantially conform to site plan, floor plans, elevations,
and materials/colors board collectively labeled as Exhibit "A" dated
January 8, 2002, as submitted to and approved by the Planning
Commission.
(b) The subject site shall be maintained in a condition that is free of debris both
during and after the construction, addition, or implementation of the
entitlement granted herein. The removal of all trash, debris, and refuse,
whether during or subsequent to construction, shall be done only by the
property owner, applicant or by duly permitted waste contractor, who has
been authorized by the City to provide collection, transportation, and
disposal of solid waste from residential, commercial, construction, and
industrial areas within the City. It shall be the applicant's obligation to
insure that the waste contractor utilized has obtained permits from the City
of Diamond Bar to provide such services.
(c) Before construction begins, the applicant shall install temporary
construction fencing pursuant to the Building and Safety Division's
requirements along the project site's perimeter. This fencing shall remain
until the Building Official approves its removal.
C.1
(d) The Applicant shall provide temporary sanitation facilities while under
construction.
(e) The landscaping/irrigation shall be installed prior to the Planning Division's
final inspection or Certificate of Occupancy issuance. Any walls, gates,
fountains, etc., that may be proposed within the front setback shall not
encroach into street's dedicated easement or exceed a maximum 42 inches
in height.
(f) Applicant shall submit an application to the Walnut Valley Water District as
necessary, and submit their approval to the Planning Division prior to the
issuance of building permits.
(g) A permit for demolition shall be obtained from the South Coast Air Quality
Management District.
(h) Drainage pattern shall be reviewed and approved by the Public Works
Division; surface water shall drain away from the building at a 2% minimum
slope.
(i) A one-hour wall shall be required between the new garage and existing
home.
Q) Site, driveway grade, and house design shall be approved by the Fire
Department. The maximum slope is 15% per the Public Works Division.
(k) The single-family structure shall meet the 1998 California Building Code,
California Plumbing Code, California Mechanical Code, and California
Electrical Code requirements.
(1) The minimum design wind pressure shall be 80 miles per hour and "C"
exposure.
(m) The single-family structure requires Fire Department approval and is
located in "Fire Zone 4" and shall meet the following requirements of that
fire zone:
(1) All roof covering shall be "Fire Retardant, Class A"; the roofs shall be
fire stopped at the eaves to preclude entry of the flame or members
under the fire;
(2) All enclosed under -floor areas shall be constructed as exterior walls;
(3) All openings into the attic, floor, and/or other enclosed areas shall be
covered with corrosion -resistant wire mesh not less than 1/a inch nor
Y more than 1/2 inch in any dimension except where such openings are
equipped with sash or door;
(4) Chimneys shall have spark arresters of maximum 1/2 inch screen.
7
(n) This single-family structure shall meet the State Energy Conservation
Standards.
(o) Due to the site's topography, applicant shall comply with special design
requirements as specified in the California Building Code, Section 18.4.3,
building setback, top and toe of slopes.
(p) The single-family residence shall not be utilized in a manner that creates
adverse effects upon the neighborhood and environmental setting of the
residential site to levels of dust, glare/light, noise, odor, traffic, or other
disturbances to the existing residential neighborhood and shall not result in
significantly adverse effects on public services and resources. The single-
family residence shall not be used for commercial/institutional purposes, or
otherwise used as a separate dwelling. The property shall not be used for
regular gatherings which result in a nuisance or which create traffic and
parking problems in the neighborhood.
(q) The Applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Fire Department
and City Planning, Building and Safety, and Public Works Divisions.
(r) This grant is valid for two (2) years and shall be exercised (i.e.,
construction) within that period or this grant shall expire. A one -(1) year
extension may be approved when submitted to the City in writing at least 60
days prior to the expiration date. The Planning Commission will consider
the extension request at a duly noticed public hearing in accordance with
Chapter 22.72 of the City of Diamond Bar Development Code.
(s) This grant shall not be effective for any purpose until the permittee and
owner of the property involved (if other than the permittee) have filed, within
fifteen (15) days of approval of this grant, at the City of Diamond Bar
Community and Development Services Department,'their affidavit stating
that they are aware and agree to accept all the conditions of this grant.
Further, this grant shall not be effective until the permittee pays remaining
City processing fees.
(t) If the Department of Fish and Game determines that Fish and Game Code
Section 711.4 applies to the approval of this project, then the applicant shall
remit to the City, within five days of this grant's approval, a cashier's check
of $25.00 for a documentary handling fee in connection with Fish and
Game Code requirements. Furthermore, if this project is not exempt from a
filing fee imposed because the project has more than a deminimis impact
on fish and wildlife, the applicant shall also pay to the Department of Fish
and Game any such fee and any fine, which the Department determines to
be owed.
A
The Planning Commission shall:
(a) Certify to the adoption of this Resolution; and
(b) Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution, by certified mail to
John Chang, 20430 Yellowbrick Road, Diamond Bar, CA 91789, and Arthur
Tseng, P. O. Box 5245, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 8TH DAY OF JANUARY 2002, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
By:
Steve Nelson, Chairman
I, James DeStefano, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular meeting of the Planning
Commission held on the 8th day of January 2002, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Nolan, Kuo, WC Ruzicka, Chair Nelson
NOES:
ABSENT: Commissioner Tye
ABSTAIN:
By:
Ja es DeSte no, Secretary
D
0
PLANNING COMMISSION
- A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2001-
21, MINOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2001-12, AND
CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION 15301(e)(2)(A), A REQUEST TO
REMODEL AND ADD APPROXIMATELY 2,847 SQUARE FEET TO
AN EXISTING 2,647 SQUARE FEET SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENCE WITH DECK AND THREE CAR GARAGE. THE
PROJECT SITE IS LOCATED AT 22205 STEEPLECHASE LANE
A. RECITALS.
1. The property owner, John Chang, and applicant, Arthur Tseng have filed an
application to approve Development Review No. 2001-21, Minor Conditional Use
Permit No. 2001-12, for a property located at 22205 Steeplechase Lane,
Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County, California, and part of the gated development
identified as "The Country Estates," as described in the title of this Resolution.
Hereinafter in this Resolution, the subject Development Review and Categorical
shall be referred to as the "Application."
2. On December 20, 2001, 210 property owners within a 500 -foot radius of the project
site were notified by mail. On December 28, 2001, notification of the public
hearing for this project was made in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland
Valley Daily Bulletin newspapers; and a notice of public hearing on a display
board was posted at the site and displayed for at least 10 days before the public
hearing; as well as three other posted within the vicinity of the application.
3. On January 8, 2002, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar conducted
a duly noticed public hearing on the Application.
B. RESOLUTION.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission
of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that ail of the facts set forth in the
Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. The Planning Commission hereby determines that the project identified above in this
Resolution is categorically exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. This is pursuant to Section 15301(e)(2)(A) of Article 19 of Chapter 3,
Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-01
- A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2001-
21, MINOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2001-12, AND
CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION 15301(e)(2)(A), A REQUEST TO
REMODEL AND ADD APPROXIMATELY 2,847 SQUARE FEET TO
AN EXISTING 2,647 SQUARE FEET SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENCE WITH DECK AND THREE CAR GARAGE. THE
PROJECT SITE IS LOCATED AT 22205 STEEPLECHASE LANE
A. RECITALS.
1. The property owner, John Chang, and applicant, Arthur Tseng have filed an
application to approve Development Review No. 2001-21, Minor Conditional Use
Permit No. 2001-12, for a property located at 22205 Steeplechase Lane,
Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County, California, and part of the gated development
identified as "The Country Estates," as described in the title of this Resolution.
Hereinafter in this Resolution, the subject Development Review and Categorical
shall be referred to as the "Application."
2. On December 20, 2001, 210 property owners within a 500 -foot radius of the project
site were notified by mail. On December 28, 2001, notification of the public
hearing for this project was made in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland
Valley Daily Bulletin newspapers; and a notice of public hearing on a display
board was posted at the site and displayed for at least 10 days before the public
hearing; as well as three other posted within the vicinity of the application.
3. On January 8, 2002, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar conducted
a duly noticed public hearing on the Application.
B. RESOLUTION.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission
of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that ail of the facts set forth in the
Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. The Planning Commission hereby determines that the project identified above in this
Resolution is categorically exempt from the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. This is pursuant to Section 15301(e)(2)(A) of Article 19 of Chapter 3,
Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
3. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds and determines that, having
considered the record as a whole including the findings set forth below, and
changes and alterations which have been incorporated into and conditioned
upon the proposed project set forth in the application, there is no evidence
before this Planning Commission that the project proposed herein will have the
potential of an adverse effect on wild life resources or the habitat upon which
the wildlife depends. Based upon substantial evidence, this Planning
commission hereby rebuts the presumption of adverse effects contained in
Section 753.5 (d) of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
4. Based upon the findings and conclusions set forth herein, this Planning Commission, hereby
finds as follows:
(a) The project relates to a parcel at 22205 Steeplechase Lane (Lot 175 of
Tract No. 30578), Diamond Bar, CA, within the gated community
identified as "The Country Estates." The project site is approximately
1.31 gross. A Restricted Use Area is at the rear of the property, however,
the proposed project is not within this area. The lot is shaped irregularly,
narrower at the front and sloping downward from Steeplechase Lane to
the rear of the property.
(b) The General Plan Land Use designation is Rural Residential (RR), 1 du/acre.
The project site is zoned Single -Family Residence, R-1-20,000.
(c) Generally, the following zones surround the subject site: to the north is the R-
1-40,000 Zone and to south, east and west is the R-1-20,000 Zone.
(d) The application is a request to remodel and add approximately 2,847 square
feet to an existing 2,647 square feet single-family residence with deck
and three -car garage.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
(e) The design and layout of the proposed development are consistent with the
General Plan, development standards of the applicable district, design
guidelines, and architectural criteria for specialized area (e.g., theme areas,
specific plans, community plans, boulevards, or planned developments.
The project site, currently developed with a one-story, single-family
residence, was established before the adoption of the City's General
Plan and current Development Code. The adopted General Plan of July
25, 1995, has a land use designation of Rural Residential (1 du/acre).
The current application complies with the City's General Plan objectives
and strategies related to maintaining the integrity of residential
neighborhoods and open space, the current Diamond Bar Development
Code, and the City's Design Guidelines. There is no specific plan.
2
The existing structure was built using the Development Standards of the
Los Angeles County Code prior to the City's incorporation and is
considered a legal nonconforming structure. Per the current Development
Code, the Planning Director or his designee may approve proposed
projects providing that the additions or improvements are less than 50%
of the existing square footage, the site coverage is no more than 40
percent, that the project conforms to applicable provisions of the
Development Code; and the exterior limits of new construction do not
exceed the applicable height limit or encroach further into the setbacks
than the comparable portions of the existing structure where the
nonconformity exists. In this case, the nonconformity is in the front.
The proposed project conforms to applicable provisions of the
Development Code, the site coverage is less than 40 percent and is
comparable with the existing neighborhood, and it meets the required
height limitations and does not encroach further into the setbacks than the
existing structure in the front. Though the proposed project is; more than
50 percent of the existing square footage, a concurrent application has
been made with findings below for the approval of a Minor Conditional
The terrain in the vicinity of Steeplechase Lane is hilly. The proposed
twostory application is not considered an impact to the view corridor of
surrounding properties.
(f) The design and layout of the proposed development will not interfere with the
use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or future development, and will
not create traffic or pedestrian hazards.
Shadow Canyon Drive and Steeplechase Lane adequately serve the
project site. These streets are designed to handle minimum traffic created
by residential development.
The project site is currently developed with a one-story single-family
residence. The proposed reconstruction/remodeling does not change the
existing use of a single-family residence. Although the proposed addition
enlarges the existing residence, and is a two-story structure, it meets the
35 feet height limitation per the Development Code. The structure is not
expected to unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of
neighboring existing or future development with regard to view or traffic.
(g) The architectural design of the proposed development is compatible with the
characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood and will maintain and
enhance the harmonious, orderly and attractive development
contemplated by Chapter 22.48, the General Plan, City Design Guidelines,
or any applicable specific plan.
The proposed project's European design is compatible with the eclectic
architectural style of other homes within "The Country Estates, " and is
consistent with the City's Design Guidelines and Development Code. The
project uses architectural styling with the use of two-story entry; trimmed
stucco details, fascia and window treatments, deck with wrought iron, and
layering of materials and finishes via multi-levels of roof lines using
Charcoal Grey flat roof tile and stucco of Eggshell white to add texture
and contrast.
Additionally, the colors and materials utilized are compatible with the
homes within the surrounding area: The applicant has obtained the
approval of the architectural committee of 'The Country Estates."
(h) The design of the proposed development will provide a desirable environment
for its occupants and visiting public, as well as its neighbors, through good
aesthetic use of materials, texture, and color that will remain aesthetically
appealing.
A project colors/materials board is provided as Exhibit "A." The colors,
materials, and textures proposed are complimentary to the existing homes
within the area while offering variety and low levels of maintenance.
(i) The proposed project will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare or materially injurious (e.g., negative affect on property values or
resale(s) of property) to the properties or improvements in the vicinity.
City permits, inspections and soils reports are required for construction and
will ensure that the finished project will not be detrimental to the public
health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to the properties or
improvements in the vicinity.
The addition of square footage to the main structure follows the line of the
existing one-story structure in the front and maintains a 35 feet height;
therefore, the proposed application has no negative affect or impact to the
view corridor of surrounding properties.
(j) The proposed project has been reviewed in compliance with the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The environmental evaluation shows that the proposed project is
categorically exempt pursuant to the guidelines of the California
Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA), Sections 1530 1 (e) (2) (A).
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NONCONFROMING STRUCTURES
(k) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or structural
alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the structure
becoming incompatible with other structures in the neighborhood.
As stated in item (g), the proposed project is compatible with other
structures in the vicinity. Many one-story structures in the vicinity have
remodeled adding the second -story and increased square footage.
(1) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or structural
alteration of the nonconforming structure would not result in the structure
becoming inconsistent with the General Plan or any applicable specific
plan.
As stated in Items (e) and (g), the proposed project is consistent with the
City's General Plan objectives anal strategies, Chapter 22.48 of the
Development Code, and City Design Guidelines.
(m) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or structural alteration of the
nonconforming structure would not result in the
structure becoming a restriction to the eventual/future compliance with the applicable regulations of
this Development Code.
On April 23, 1969, the existing parcel was approved by Tract Map No.
30578, Lot 175, as 1.31 acres. The existing structure was completed
under the Los Angeles County Code in 1977and met the required
setbacks of that Code prior to the City's incorporation. The current
Diamond Bar Development Code requires minimum lot size as 1 du/acre
in Rural Residential Zone (RR). The front setback for this zone has
changed from the Los Angeles County Code of 20 feet to 30 feet. The
application is considered a nonconforming parcel and structure. These are
defined as any parcel or structure that was legally created or constructed
prior to the adoption of the current Diamond Bar Development Code
adopted November 3, 1998, and which does not conform to current Code
provisions/standards prescribed for the zoning district in which the use is
located. The proposed project conforms to the applicable provisions of
this Development Code and the exterior limits of the new construction do
not exceed the applicable height limit orencroach furtherinto the setbacks
than the comparable portions of the existing structure in the front where
the nonconformity exists. No further nonconforming status of this parcel is
anticipated.
n) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or structural alteration of the
ionconforming structure would not result in the
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structure becoming detrimental to the health, safety, and general welfare of
persons residing in the neighborhood.
City permits, inspections and soils reports are required for construction and
will ensure that the finished project will not be detrimental to the health,
safety, or general welfare of persons residing in the neighborhood.
(o) The addition, enlargement, extension, reconstruction, relocation or structural
alteration of the nonconforming structure -would not result in the structure
becoming detrimental and/or injurious to property and improvements in the
neighborhood.
As stated in Items (e), (f), (g) and (h), the architectural design of the propose(
development is compatible with the characteristics of the surroundinc
neighborhood and will maintain the harmonious, orderly and attractive developmen
contemplated by Chapter 22.48, the General Plan, City Design Guidelines, or ani
applicable specific plan.
Also, as stated in Item (i), City permits, inspections and soils reports are
required for construction and will ensure that the finished project will not be
detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to
the properties or improvements in the vicinity.
5. Based upon the findings and conclusion set forth above, the Planning Commission hereby
approves this Application subject to the following conditions:
(a) The project shall substantially conform to site plan, floor plans, elevations, and
materials/colors board collectively labeled as Exhibit "A" dated January 8,
2002, as submitted to and approved by the Planning Commission.
(b) The subject site shall be maintained in a condition that is free of debris both
during and after the construction, addition, or implementation of the
entitlement granted herein. The removal of all trash, debris, and refuse,
whether during or subsequent to construction, shall be done only by the
property owner, applicant or by duly permitted waste contractor, who has
been authorized by the City to provide collection, transportation, and
disposal of solid waste from residential, commercial, construction, and
industrial areas within the City. It shall be the applicant's obligation to
insure that the waste contractor utilized has obtained permits from the
City of Diamond Bar to provide such services.
(c) Before construction begins, the applicant shall install temporary construction fencirn
pursuant to the Building and Safety Division's requirements along the project site'
perimeter. This fencing shall remain until the Building Official approves its removal.
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(d) The Applicant shall provide temporary sanitation facilities while under
construction. (e) The landscaping/irrigation shall be installed prior to the Planning Division's
final inspection or Certificate of Occupancy issuance. Any walls, gates,
fountains, etc., that may be proposed within the front setback shall not
encroach into street's dedicated easement or exceed a maximum 42
inches in height.
(f) Applicant shall submit an application to the Walnut Valley Water District as
necessary, and submit their approval to the Planning Division prior to the
issuance of building permits.
(g) A permit for demolition shall be obtained from the South Coast Air Quality
Management District.
(h) Drainage pattern shall be reviewed and approved by the Public Works
Division; surface water shall drain away from the building at a 2%
minimum slope.
(i) A one-hour wall shall be required between the new garage and existing home.
(j) Site, driveway grade, and house design shall be approved by the Fire Department. The maximum
slope is 15% per the Public Works Division.
(k) The single-family structure shall meet the 1998 California Building Code,
California Plumbing Code, California Mechanical Code, and California
Electrical Code requirements.
(1) The minimum design wind pressure shall be 80 miles per hour and "C"
exposure.
(m) The single-family structure requires Fire Department approval and is located
in "Fire Zone 4" and shall meet the following requirements of that fire zone:
(1) All roof covering shall be "Fire Retardant, Class A"; the roofs shall be
fire stopped at the eaves to preclude entry of the flame or
members under the fire;
(2) All enclosed under -floor areas shall be constructed as exterior walls; (3) All
openings into the attic, floor, and/or other enclosed areas shall be
covered with corrosion -resistant wire mesh not less than 1/inch nor
Y more than 1 h inch in any dimension except where such openings are equipped with
sash or door;
(4) Chimneys shall have spark arresters of maximum 1/2 inch screen.
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(n) This single-family structure shall meet the State Energy Conservation Standards.
(o) Due to the site's topography, applicant shall comply with special design
requirements as specified in the California Building Code, Section 18.4.3,
building setback, top and toe of slopes.
(p) The single-family residence shall not be utilized in a manner that creates
adverse effects upon the neighborhood and environmental setting of the
residential site to levels of dust, glare/light, noise, odor, traffic, or other
disturbances to the existing residential neighborhood and shall not result in
significantly adverse effects on public services and resources. The
singlefamily residence shall not be used for commercial/institutional
purposes, or otherwise used as a separate dwelling. The property shall not
be used for regular gatherings which result in a nuisance or which create
traffic and parking problems in the neighborhood.
(q) The Applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Fire Department and
City Planning, Building and Safety, and Public Works Divisions.
(r) This grant is valid for two (2) years and shall be exercised (i.e., construction)
within that period or this grant shall expire. A one -(1) year extension may
be approved when submitted to the City in writing at least 60 days prior to
the expiration date. The Planning Commission will consider the extension
request at a duly noticed public hearing in accordance with Chapter
22.72 of the City of Diamond Bar Development Code.
(s) This grant shall not be effective for any purpose until the permittee and
owner of the property involved (if other than the permittee) have filed,
within fifteen (15) days of approval of this grant, at the City of Diamond
Bar Community and Development Services Department, -their affidavit
stating that they are aware and agree to accept all the conditions of this
grant. Further, this grant shall not be effective until the permittee pays
remaining City processing fees.
(t) If the Department of Fish and Game determines that Fish and Game Code
Section 711.4 applies to the approval of this project, then the applicant
shall remit to the City, within five days of this grant's approval, a cashier's
check of $25.00 for a documentary handling fee in connection with Fish
and Game Code requirements. Furthermore, if this project is not exempt
from a filing fee imposed because the project has more than a deminimis
impact on fish and wildlife, the applicant shall also pay to the Department
of Fish and Game any such fee and any fine, which the Department
determines to be owed.
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The Planning Commission shall:
(a) Certify to the adoption of this Resolution; and
(b) Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution, by certified mail to John
Chang, 20430 Yellowbrick Road, Diamond Bar, CA 91789, and Arthur
Tseng, P. O. Box 5245, Hacienda Heights, CA 91745.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 8TH DAY OF JANUARY 2002, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
By. _ Steve Nelson, Chairman
I, James DeStefano, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular meeting of the Planning
Commission held on the 8th day of January 2002, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Nolan, Kuo, WC Ruzicka, Chair Nelson
NOES: ABSENT: Commissioner Tye
ABSTAIN:
'y. --
Ja es DeSte no, Secretary
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