HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC 2004-16PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-16
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2004-03, TREE
PERMIT NO. 2004-02 AND CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION, A REQUEST TO
CONSTRUCT A FOUR LEVEL (SPLIT-LEVEL DESIGN) SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENCE TOTALING TO APPROXIMATELY 11,300 SQUARE FEET
INCLUDING A FOUR CAR GARAGE WITH ONE SPACE IN TANDEM,
BALCONIES, VERANDA AND DECK. THE REQUEST ALSO INCLUDES
RETAINING WALLS OF VARYING HEIGHTS NOT TO EXCEED AN
EXPOSED HEIGHT OF 8 FEET AND SENT THE REMOVAL/ REPLACE-
MENT/PROTECTION OF OAK AND WALNUT TREES. THE PROJECT SITE
IS LOCATED AT 2557 BLAZE TRAIL (LOT 138, TRACT NO. 30578),
DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA.
A. RECITALS.
The property owner, Mr. Nasser Ahmadi and the applicant, Mr. Mark Sebeti
have filed an application for Development Review No. 2004-03, Tree Permit
No. 2004-02 and categorical exemption for a property located at 2557 Blaze
Trail, Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County, California. Hereinafter in this
Resolution, the subject Development Review, Tree Permit and categorical
exemption shall be referred to as the "Application."
2. On April 23, 2004, public hearing notices were mailed to approximately 40
property owners within a 500 -foot radius of the project site and the project
site was posted with a display board and the public notice was posted in
three public places. On April 29, 2004, notification of the public hearing for
this project was provided in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland Valle
Daily Bulletin newspapers.
3. On May 11, 2004, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar
conducted and concluded 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:
This 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 finds that the project identified above in
this Resolution is categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15303 (a) of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. Furthermore, the categorical exemption reflects the independent
judgment of the City of Diamond Bar.
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 on the findings and conclusions set forth herein, this Planning
Commission hereby finds as follows:
(a) The project site is located at 2557 Blaze Trail (Lot 138, Tract
No. 30578) within a gated community identified as "The Country
Estates". The project site is a long rectangle shape sloping downward
to the rear property line. According to the Tract map, the project site
is approximately 1.22 gross acres (53,143 gross square feet). The
Tract Map does not indicate any easements, flood hazard areas or
restricted use areas.
(b) The project site has a General Plan land use designation of Rural
Residential (RR) Maximum 1 DU/AC.
(c) The project site is within the Single Family Residence -Minimum Lot
Size 20,000 Square Feet (R-1-20,000) Zone interpreted as Rural
Residential (RR) Zone.
(d) Generally, the following zones and use surround the project site: to
the north, south, east and west is the R-1-20,000 Zone.
(e) The Application request is to construct a four level (split-level design)
single-family residence of approximately 11,300 square feet including
a four car garage with one space in tandem, balconies, veranda, and
deck. The request also includes retaining walls of varying height not
to exceed an exposed 8 foot height; and removaVreplacement/
protection of oak and walnut trees.
Development Review
(f) The design and layout of the proposed development is consistent with
the applicable elements of the City's General Plan, City Design
Guidelines, and development standards of the applicable district,
design guidelines, and architectural criteria for special areas
(e.g., theme areas, specific plans, community plans, boulevards or
planned developments).
On July 25, 1995, the City adopted its General Plan. Although Tract
No. 30091, Lot 60 (project site) was established prior to the General
Plan's adoption. It complies with the General Plan land use
designation of RR -Maximum 1 DU/AC in that the project site is 1.22
gross acres.
The project site is a vacant infill lot cite for the development of a
single-family residence. The proposed project as conditioned is
consistent with the General Plan in that it will maintain the integrity
and not degrade this residential area. The proposed project, as
conditioned within this resolution, will maintain the required setbacks
and height and maintain a lot coverage of 11 percent which is less the
maximum allowed 30 percent. The proposed project is not unusual for
'The Country Estates "and is consistent with other development within
this community. As a result, the proposed project complies with the
General Plan objectives and strategies and the City's Design
Guidelines related to maintaining the integrity of residential
neighborhoods and open space. Furthermore, the proposed project
will maintain its existing architectural style (Contemporary) and
construction materials which are compatible with the eclectic
architectural style, colors and material of other homes within "The
Country Estates':
(g) 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.
As referenced above in finding (f), the proposed project can be
accommodated at the project site. Additionally, the architectural style,
color and materials proposed will match the existing residence. As
such, the proposed project is not expected to interfere with the use
and enjoyment of neighboring existing or future development.
Additionally, Blaze Trail adequately serves the project site and was
established to handle minimum traffic created by this type of
development. Furthermore, this street and all other streets within
"The Country Estates" are private streets managed and maintained by
the homeowners association within this gated community.
(h) The architectural design of the proposed development is compatible
with the character of the surrounding neighborhood and will maintain
the harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by
3
Chapter 22.48.20. Development Review Standards, City Design
Guidelines, the City's General Plan, or any applicable specific plan.
The architectural style of the proposed single-family residence is
Contemporary and compatible with other residences within `The
Country Estates" due to the eclectic architectural style that is existing
in this area. Furthermore, most interesting elements of the proposed
residence's architectural design are the multi-level floor plan, the
varying planes at each elevation and the design follows the
topography of the project site. The compatibility of the proposed
project with the existing residence is consistent with the City's
Development Review Standards, City Design Guidelines and City's
General Plan. As a result, the proposed project will maintain the
harmonious, orderly and attractive development contemplated by
Chapter 22.48.20, Development Review Standards, City Design
Guidelines, the City's General Plan. There is no applicable specific
plan for this area.
(i) 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 and will retain a reasonably
adequate level of maintenance.
As referenced in the above findings (f), (g), and (h), the proposed
project 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
while offering variety in color and texture and a low level of
maintenance
{j) The proposed development will not be detrimental to 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; and
Before the issuance of any City permits, the proposed project is
required to comply with all conditions within the approved resolution
and the Building and Safety Division, Public Works Division, and Fire
Department requirements. The referenced agencies through the
permit and inspection process will ensure that the proposed project is
not detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare or materially
injurious to the properties or improvements in the vicinity.
(k) The proposed project has been reviewed in compliance with the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
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Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental QualityAct
(CEQA), Section 15303(a), the City has determined that the project
identified above in this Resolution is categorically exempt.
Furthermore, the categorical exemption reflects the independent
judgement of the City of Diamond Bar.
Tree Permit
(It shall be necessary that one or more of the following findings is made,
otherwise the application shall be denied.)
(1) The tree is so poorly formed due to stunted growth that its
preservation would not result in any substantial benefits to the
community;
(m) The tree interferes with utility services, or streets and highways, either
within or outside of the subject property, and no reasonable
alternative exists other than removal or pruning of the tree(s);
(n) The tree is a potential public health and safety hazard due to the risk
of it falling and its structural instability cannot be remediated;
(o) The tree is a public nuisance by causing damage to improvements,
(e.g., building foundation, retaining walls, roadways/driveways, patios,
and decks);
(p) The tree is host to an organism, which is parasitic to another species
of tree that is in danger of being exterminated by the parasite;
(q) The tree belongs to a species which is known to be a pyrophitic or
highly flammable and has been identified as a public safety hazard;
and
(r) Preservation of the tree is not feasible and would compromise the
property owner's reasonable use and enjoyment of property or
surrounding land and appropriate mitigation measures will be
implemented in compliance with Section 22.38.130 (Tree
Replace ment/Reiocation Standards.
The applicant is requesting to remove four oak trees and two walnut
trees which are located in the proposed development pad area. The.
oak trees have a DBH varying from approximately 24 inches to
48 inches with the larger DBH on multi -trunk oak trees. The walnut
trees have a DBH varying from approximately 15 to 15.5 inches with
the larger DBH on a multi -trunk walnut tree. According to the arborist
report prepared by Crown Oaks Arborists, the health of the trees
varies and is rated from good to poor. There are several other walnut
5
trees and one oak tree located outside of the development area and
will be required to be protected according to Development Code
Section 22.38.140 during construction. It will be required that
protective fencing be installed and inspected prior to the issuance of
any City permits and remain until final inspection or issuance of
Certificate of Occupancy. Additionally, the Code also allows the
removal and replacement of said trees as referenced above under
certain circumstances. As a result, it will be required that the oak and
walnut trees cited for removal be replaced at a 3:1 ratio, minimum
24 inch box size
The removal of the four oak trees and two walnut trees is appropriate
due to their location within the proposed development pad. The
development pad is located in the most logical place on the project
site. Furthermore, the applicant has designed the proposed
residence to respect the topography of the site which is required by
the City's Hillside Management Standards.
It will be required that the four oak trees and two walnut trees cited for
removal be replaced at a 3:1 ratio, minimum 24 inch box size.
Additionally and prior to the issuance of any City permits, the
applicant will be required to submit a landscaperrrigation plan
delineating the location and size of the replacement trees and a
grading plan delineating the protection barrier for the remaining oak
and walnut trees for the City's review and approval. It will be required
that protective fencing be installed and inspected prior to the issuance
of any City permits and remain until final inspection or issuance of
Certificate of Occupancy.
5. Based on the findings and conclusions set forth above, the Planning
Commission hereby approves the Application subject to the following
conditions:
(a) The project shall substantially conform to site plan, grading plan, floor
plan, elevations, sections and final landscape/irrigation plan
collectively labeled as Exhibit "A" dated May 11, 2004, as submitted
and approved by the Planning Commission, and as amended herein.
(b) The site shall be maintained in a condition, which 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 a 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) Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit a
final landscape/irrigation plan for the City's review and approval. Said
plan shall delineate location, size and quantity of the twelve oak trees
and six walnut trees which shall be at a 24 inch box size. The
landscape plan should also include the size, quantity and species of
all plant materials. The landscape plan shall also delineate plant
material to be utilized for screening the rear wall. Prior to final
inspection or Certificate of Occupancy, all landscaping/irrigation shall
be installed.
(d) Prior to construction, the applicant shall install temporary construction
fencing pursuant to the building and Safety Division's requirements
along the project perimeter.
(e) The front yard setback shall be a minimum of 30 feet. Prior to
construction and concrete placement of footing, the front setback
shall be certified by an engineer approved by the City and at the
applicant's expense.
(f) The height of the proposed residence shall not exceed 35 feet from
the natural or finished grade. Prior to the rough framing inspection,
the height of the proposed addition shall be certified by an engineer
approved by the City and at the applicant's expense.
(g) Exterior balcony located at the main level and adjacent to the office
shall be deleted. The applicant shall submit a revised site plan
indicating this deletion for the Planning Division's review and approval
prior to Plan Check submittal.
(h) Depth of the garage section that accommodated two parking spaces
not in tandem shall be a minimum of 20 feet. Prior to Plan Check
submittal, the applicant shall submit a revised garage floor plan to the
Planning Division for review and approval reflecting this adjustment.
(i) Maximum exposed height of retaining walls within the rear and rear
side yards shall not exceed eight feet. Retaining walls or any other
structures within the 30 foot front yard setback shall not exceed an
exposed height of 42 inches.
(j) If exterior construction occurs between October 1 and April 15, the
Applicant shall submit an erosion control plan for the City's review and
approval.
7
(k) The applicant shall submit a precise grading plan for 50 cubic yards or
more of earth work prior to the issuance of any City permits. The
grading plan shall be prepared by a civil engineer, licensed by the
state of California, in accordance with the City's grading requirements
for the City's review and approval. The precise grading plan shall
delineate the following:
(1) Cut and fill quantities with calculations;
(2) Existing and proposed topography;
(3) Flow lines and drainage/drainage outlets and hydrology
calculations showing the capacity of proposed drainage
devices as well as exiting drainage devices on site.; and
(4) Finish surface and finished grade of all walls/retaining walls
and retaining wall calculations.
(1) Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit a
geotechnical report for the City's review and approval referencing the
proposed addition and deck.
(m) If applicable, the Applicant shall obtain a Rough Grade and Fine
Grade Certification prior to the project's final inspection.
(n) Before the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit an
erosion control plan for the City's review and approval. The erosion
control plan shall conform to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) standards and incorporate the appropriate Best
Management Practices (BMP's) during and after construction.
Additionally, the applicant shall obtain the necessary NPDES permits.
Additionally, an erosion control plan is required for grading permits
issued between October 1 and April 15.
(o) All drainage/runoff from the development shall be conveyed from the
site to the natural drainage course or to the adjacent private street.
With the exception of the adjacent private street, no on-site drainage
shall be conveyed to adjacent parcels. If required by the Public
Works Director, the applicant shall provide a hydrology study for the
City's review and approval, prior to the issuance of any City permits.
(p) The applicant shall make an application for sewer connection with the
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works and the Sanitation
District.
(q) If applicable, the applicant shall comply with Standard Urban Storm
Water Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) requirements to the satisfaction of the
City engineer. Best Management Practices (BMP's) shall to be
incorporated into the project plans for both construction and post -
construction activities.
P
(r) The proposed residence shall comply with the State Energy
Conservation Standards.
(s) Surface water shall drain away from the proposed structures at a two -
percent minimum slope.
(t) The proposed single-family residence is located within "high fire zone"
and shall meet all requirements of said zone.
(1) All roof covering shall be "Fire Retardant." Tile roof shall be
fire stopped at the eaves to preclude entry of the flame or
members under the fire.
(2) All unenclosed 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 1/4 inch or more than 1/2 inch in dimension except where
such openings are equipped with sash or door.
(4) Chimneys shall have spark arrests of maximum 1/2 inch
screen.
(u) Plans shall conform to State and Local Building Code (i.e., 2001
Uniform Building Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical
Code, and the 2001 National Electrical Code) requirements.
(v) Construction plans shall be engineered to meet wind loads of
80 M.P.H. with a "C exposure.
(w) Building setback from top of slope at the rear of the property shall
meet Section 18 of the 2001 California Building Code.
(x) Prior to the issuance of any construction permits, the applicant shall
submit construction plans to the Los Angeles County Fire Department
for review and approval.
(y) Height of the accessory structure shall be certified by a licensed
engineer.
(z) The single-family residence shall not be utilized in a manner that
creates adverse effects (i.e., significant levels of dust, glare/light,
noise, odor, traffic, or other disturbances) upon the neighborhood and
environmental setting. Additionally, the single-family residence shall
not result in significantly adverse effects on public services or
resources. No portion of the residence shall be rented, used for
commercial/institutional purposes, or otherwise utilized as a separate
dwelling. The property shall not be used for regular gatherings that
result in a nuisance or create traffic and parking problems in the
neighborhood.
9
(aa) Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the Applicant shall complete
and record a "Covenant and Agreement" to maintain a single-family
residence only and no portion of this structure shall be rented, leased
or sold separate and apart form the remaining portions of the property
or structure. The covenant shall be completed and recorded with the
Los Angeles County Recorders Office.
(bb) This grant is valid for two years and shall be exercised
(i.e., construction started) within that period or this grant shall expire.
A one-year extension of time 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.
(cc) 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 of 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, school fees and
fees for the review of submitted reports.
(dd) 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.
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: Mr. Nasser Ahmadi, 127 S. Brand Avenue, Glendale, CA 91204.
and Mr. Mark Sebeti, 147 Islington Drive, Irvine, CA 92620.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 11Th OF MAY 2004, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
BY:—Z)1'!i/
Dan plan, Chairman
I, James DeStefano, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted by the Planning Commission of the
City of Diamond Bar, at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 11th
day of May 2004, by the following vote:
AYES:
Commissioners:
NOES:
Commissioners:
ABSTAIN:
Commissioners:
ABSENT:
Commissioners:
Nolan, Tanaka, Low, McManus, Tye
None.
None.
None.
ATTEST: ta �
Ja DeStefa o, Secretary
11
PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DIAMOND BAR APPROVING DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2004-03,
TREE PERMIT NO. 2004-02 AND CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION, A
REQUEST TO CONSTRUCT A FOUR LEVEL (SPLIT-LEVEL DESIGN)
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE TOTALING TO APPROXIMATELY 11,300
SQUARE FEET INCLUDING A FOUR CAR GARAGE WITH ONE SPACE
IN TANDEM, BALCONIES, VERANDA AND DECK. THE REQUEST ALSO
INCLUDES RETAINING WALLS OF VARYING HEIGHTS NOT TO
EXCEED AN EXPOSED HEIGHT OF 8 FEET AND SENT THE REMOVAL/
REPLACEMENT/PROTECTION OF OAK AND WALNUT TREES. THE
PROJECT SITE IS LOCATED AT 2557 BLAZE TRAIL (LOT 138, TRACT
NO. 30578), DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA.
A. RECITALS.
1. The property owner, Mr. Nasser Ahmadi and the applicant, Mr. Mark Sebeti have
filed an application for Development Review No. 2004-03, Tree Permit No. 2004-
02 and categorical exemption for a property located at 2557 Blaze Trail, Diamond
Bar, Los Angeles County, California. Hereinafter in this Resolution, the subject
Development Review, Tree Permit and categorical exemption shall be referred to
as the "Application."
2. On April 23, 2004, public hearing notices were mailed to approximately 40 property
owners within a 500 -foot radius of the project site and the project site was posted
with a display board and the public notice was posted in three public places.
On April 29, 2004, notification of the public hearing for this project was provided
in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin newspapers.
3. On May 11, 2004, the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar conducted and
concluded 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. This 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 finds that the project identified above in this
Resolution is categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15303 (a) of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and guidelines promulgated
thereunder. Furthermore, the categorical exemption reflects the independent
judgment of the City of Diamond Bar.
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 on the findings and conclusions set forth herein, this Planning
Commission hereby finds as follows:
(a) The project site is located at 2557 Blaze Trail (Lot 138, Tract No. 30578)
within a gated community identified as 'The Country Estates". The
project site is a long rectangle shape sloping downward to the rear
property line. According to the Tract map, the project site is
approximately 1.22 gross acres (53,143 gross square feet). The Tract Map
does not indicate any easements, flood hazard areas or restricted use
areas.
(b) The project site has a General Plan land use designation of Rural
Residential (RR) Maximum 1 DU/AC.
(c) The project site is within the Single Family Residence -Minimum Lot Size
20,000 Square Feet (R-1-20,000) Zone interpreted as Rural Residential
(RR) Zone.
(d) Generally, the following zones and use surround the project site: to the
north, south, east and west is the R-1-20,000 Zone.
(e The Application request is to constrict a four level (split-level design)
single-family residence of approximately 11,300 square feet including
a four car garage with one space in tandem, balconies, veranda, and
deck. The request also includes retaining walls of varying height not to
exceed an exposed 8 foot height; and removal/replacement/ protection of
oak and walnut trees.
Development Review
(f) The design and layout of the proposed development is consistent with the
applicable elements of the City's General Plan, City Design
Guidelines, and development standards of the applicable district,
design guidelines, and architectural criteria for special areas (e.g.,
theme areas, specific plans, community plans, boulevards or planned
developments).
On July 25, 1995, the City adopted its General Plan. Although
Tract No. 30091, Lot 60 (project site) was established prior to the
General Plan's adoption. It complies with the General Plan land
use designation of RR -Maximum 1 DU/AC in that the project site
is 1.22 gross acres.
The project site is a vacant infill lot cite for the development of
a single-family residence. The proposed project as conditioned
is consistent with the General Plan in that it will maintain the
integrity and not degrade this residential area. The proposed
project, as conditioned within this resolution, will maintain the
required setbacks and height and maintain a lot coverage of 11
percent which is less the maximum allowed 30 percent. The
proposed project is not unusual for 'The Country Estates"and is
consistent with other development within this community. As a
result, the proposed project complies with the General Plan
objectives and strategies and the City's Design Guidelines
related to maintaining the integrity of residential neighborhoods
and open space. Furthermore, the proposed project will maintain
its existing architectural style (Contemporary) and
construction materials which are compatible with the eclectic
architectural style, colors and material of other homes within
(g) 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.
As referenced above in finding (f), the proposed project can be
accommodated at the project site. Additionally, the architectural
style, color and materials proposed will match the existing
residence. As such, the proposed project is not expected to
interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or
future development. Additionally, Blaze Trail adequately serves
the project site and was established to handle minimum traffic
created by this type of development. Furthermore, this street
and all other streets within "The Country Estates" are private
streets managed and maintained by the homeowners association
within this gated community.
(h) The architectural design of the proposed development is compatible with the
character of the surrounding neighborhood and will maintain the
Chapter 22.48.20. Development Review Standards, City Design
Guidelines, the City's General Plan, or any applicable specific
plan. The architectural style of the proposed single-family residence
is Contemporary and compatible with other residences within "The
Country Estates" due to the eclectic architectural style that is
existing in this area. Furthermore, most interesting elements of
the proposed residence's architectural design are the multi-level
floor plan, the varying planes at each elevation and the design
follows the topography of the project site. The compatibility of the
proposed project with the existing residence is consistent with
the City's Development Review Standards, City Design Guidelines
and City's General Plan. As a result, the proposed project will
maintain the harmonious, orderly and attractive development
contemplated by Chapter 22.48.20. Development Review
Standards, City Design Guidelines, the City's General Plan. There
is no applicable specific plan for this area.
(I 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 and will retain a reasonably
adequate level of maintenance.
As referenced in the above findings (f), (g), and (h), the proposed
project 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 while offering variety in color and texture
and a low level of maintenance
The proposed development will not be detrimental to 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; and
Before the issuance of any City permits, the proposed project is
required to comply with all conditions within the approved
resolution and the Building and Safety Division, Public Works
Division, and Fire Department requirements. The referenced
agencies through the permit and inspection process will
ensure that the proposed project is not detrimental to the public
health, safety or welfare or materially injurious to the properties or
(k) The proposed project has been reviewed in compliance with the provisions
of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental
QualityAct (CEQA), Section 15303(a), the City has determined
that the project identified above in this Resolution is
categorically exempt Furthermore, the categorical exemption
reflects the independent judgement of the City of Diamond Bar.
Tree
(It shall be necessary that one or more of the following findings is made,
otherwise the application shall be denied.)
(I The tree is so poorly formed due to stunted growth that its preservation
would not result in any substantial benefits to the community;
im The tree interferes with utility services, or streets and highways, either
within or outside of the subject property, and no reasonable alternative
exists other than removal or pruning of the tree(s);
(n) The tree is a potential public health and safety hazard due to the risk of it
falling and its structural instability cannot be remediated;
(o) The tree is a public nuisance by causing damage to improvements, (e.g.,
building foundation, retaining walls, roadways/driveways, patios, and
decks);
The tree is host to an organism, which is parasitic to another species
of tree that is in danger of being exterminated by the parasite;
( The tree belongs to a species which is known to be a pyrophitic or
highly flammable and has been identified as a public safety hazard;
and
(r) Preservation of the tree is not feasible and would compromise the
property owner's reasonable use and enjoyment of property or
surrounding land and appropriate mitigation measures will be
implemented in compliance with Section 22.38.130 (Tree
Replacement/Relocation Standards.
The applicant is requesting to remove four oak trees and two
walnut trees which are located in the proposed development
pad area. The. oak trees have a DBH varying from
approximately 24 inches to 48 inches with the larger DBH on
multi -trunk oak trees. The walnut trees have a DBH varying
from approximately 15 to 15.5 inches with the larger DBH on a
multi -trunk walnut tree. According to the arborist report
prepared by Crown Oaks Arborists, the health of the trees
trees and one oak tree located outside of the development
area and will be required to be protected according to
Development Code Section 22.38.140 during construction. It
will be required that protective fencing be installed and
inspected prior to the issuance of any City permits and remain
until final inspection or issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.
Additionally, the Code also allows the removal and replacement of
said trees as referenced above under certain circumstances.
As a result, it will be required that the oak and walnut trees
cited for removal be replaced at a 3:1 ratio, minimum 24 inch
box size
The removal of the four oak trees and two walnut trees is
appropriate due to their location within the proposed
development pad. The development pad is located in the most
logical place on the project site. Furthermore, the applicant has
designed the proposed residence to respect the topography of the
It will be required that the four oak trees and two walnut trees
cited for removal be replaced at a 3:1 ratio, minimum 24 inch
box size. Additionally and prior to the issuance of any City
permits, the applicant will be required to submit a
landscaperrrigation plan delineating the location and size of
the replacement trees and a grading plan delineating the
protection barrier for the remaining oak and walnut trees for the
City's review and approval. It will be required that protective
fencing be installed and inspected prior to the issuance of any
City permits and remain until final inspection or issuance of
5. Based on the findings and conclusions set forth above, the Planning Commission
hereby approves the Application subject to the following conditions:
(a) The project shall substantially conform to site plan, grading plan, floor plan,
elevations, sections and final landscape/irrigation plan collectively
labeled as Exhibit "A" dated May 11, 2004, as submitted and approved
by the Planning Commission, and as amended herein.
(b) The site shall be maintained in a condition, which 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 a duly permitted waste
contractor, who has been authorized by the City to provide collection,
transportation, and disposal of solid waste from residential, commercial,
constriction, 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) Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit a
final landscape/irrigation plan for the City's review and approval.
Said plan shall delineate location, size and quantity of the twelve oak
trees and six walnut trees which shall be at a 24 inch box size. The
landscape plan should also include the size, quantity and species of all
plant materials. The landscape plan shall also delineate plant material
to be utilized for screening the rear wall. Prior to final inspection or
Certificate of Occupancy, all landscaping/irrigation shall be installed.
(d) Prior to construction, the applicant shall install temporary construction
fencing pursuant to the building and Safety Division's requirements
along the project perimeter.
(e) The front yard setback shall be a minimum of 30 feet. Prior to construction
and concrete placement of footing, the front setback shall be certified by
an engineer approved by the City and at the applicant's expense.
(f The height of the proposed residence shall not exceed 35 feet from the
natural or finished grade. Prior to the rough framing inspection, the
height of the proposed addition shall be certified by an engineer
approved by the City and at the applicant's expense.
Exterior balcony located at the main level and adjacent to the office
shall be deleted. The applicant shall submit a revised site plan
indicating this deletion for the Planning Division's review and
approval prior to Plan Check submittal.
(h) Depth of the garage section that accommodated two parking spaces not
in tandem shall be a minimum of 20 feet. Prior to Plan Check
submittal, the applicant shall submit a revised garage floor plan to the
Planning Division for review and approval reflecting this adjustment.
(i) Maximum exposed height of retaining walls within the rear and rear side
yards shall not exceed eight feet. Retaining walls or any other
structures within the 30 foot front yard setback shall not exceed an
exposed height of 42 inches.
If exterior construction occurs between October 1 and April 15, the
Applicant shall submit an erosion control plan for the City's review and
approval.
(k) The applicant shall submit a precise grading plan for 50 cubic yards or
more of earth work prior to the issuance of any City permits. The
grading plan shall be prepared by a civil engineer, licensed by the
state of California, in accordance with the City's grading requirements
for the City's review and approval. The precise grading plan shall
delineate the following:
(1) Cut and fill quantities with calculations;
(2) Existing and proposed topography;
(3) Flow lines and drainage/drainage outlets and hydrology
calculations showing the capacity of proposed drainage devices
as well as exiting drainage devices on site.; and
(4) Finish surface and finished grade of all walls/retaining walls and
retaining wall calculations.
Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit a
geotechnical report for the City's review and approval referencing the
proposed addition and deck.
(m) If applicable, the Applicant shall obtain a Rough Grade and Fine Grade
Certification prior to the project's final inspection.
(n) Before the issuance of any City permits, the applicant shall submit an
erosion control plan for the City's review and approval. The erosion
control plan shall conform to National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) standards and incorporate the
appropriate Best Management Practices (BMP's) during and after
construction. Additionally, the applicant shall obtain the necessary
NPDES permits. Additionally, an erosion control plan is required for
grading permits issued between October 1 and April 15.
(o) All drainage/runoff from the development shall be conveyed from the site to
the natural drainage course or to the adjacent private street. With the
exception of the adjacent private street, no on-site drainage shall be
conveyed to adjacent parcels. If required by the Public Works
Director, the applicant shall provide a hydrology study for the City's
review and approval, prior to the issuance of any City permits.
(p) The applicant shall make an application for sewer connection with the
Los Angeles County Department of Public Works and the Sanitation
District.
If applicable, the applicant shall comply with Standard Urban Storm
Water Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) requirements to the satisfaction of
the City engineer. Best Management Practices (BMP's) shall to be
incorporated into the project plans for both constriction and
postconstruction activities.
(r) The proposed residence shall comply with the State Energy
Conservation Standards.
Surface water shall drain away from the proposed structures at a
twopercent minimum slope.
(t) The proposed single-family residence is located within "high fire zone" and
shall meet all requirements of said zone.
(1) All roof covering shall be "Fire Retardant." Tile roof shall be fire
stopped at the eaves to preclude entry of the flame or members
under the fire.
(2) All unenclosed 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 1/4 inch or more than 1/2 inch in
dimension except where such openings are equipped
with sash or door.
(4) Chimneys shall have spark arrests of maximum 1/2 inch screen.
(u) Plans shall conform to State and Local Building Code (i.e., 2001 Uniform
Building Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code,
and the 2001 National Electrical Code) requirements.
(v) Construction plans shall be engineered to meet wind loads of 80
M.P.H. with a "C" exposure.
(w) Building setback from top of slope at the rear of the property shall meet
Section18 of the 2001 California Building Code.
(x) Prior to the issuance of any construction permits, the applicant shall
submit construction plans to the Los Angeles County Fire
Department for review and approval.
Height of the accessory structure shall be certified by a licensed
engineer.
(z) The single-family residence shall not be utilized in a manner that creates
adverse effects (i.e., significant levels of dust, glare/light, noise, odor,
traffic, or other disturbances) upon the neighborhood and
environmental setting. Additionally, the single-family residence shall
not result in significantly adverse effects on public services or
resources. No portion of the residence shall be rented, used for
commercial/institutional purposes, or otherwise utilized as a separate
dwelling. The property shall not be used for regular gatherings that
result in a nuisance or create traffic and parking problems in the
neighborhood.
(aa) Prior to the issuance of any City permits, the Applicant shall complete and
record a "Covenant and Agreement" to maintain a single-family residence
only and no portion of this structure shall be rented, leased or sold
separate and apart form the remaining portions of the property or
stricture. The covenant shall be completed and recorded with the Los
Angeles County Recorders Office.
(bb) This grant is valid for two years and shall be exercised (i.e., constriction
started) within that period or this grant shall expire. A one-year extension
of time 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.
(cc) 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 of 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, school fees and fees for the review
of submitted reports.
(dd) 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.
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: Mr.
Nasser Ahmadi, 127 S. Brand Avenue, Glendale, CA 91204, and Mr. Marls
Sebeti, 147 Islington Drive, Irvine, CA 92620.
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APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 11Th OF MAY 2004, BY THE
PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
BY:-Z)(24A Yv ' '—' Dan olan, Chairman
I, James DeStefano, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of
Diamond Bar, at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 11th day of May 2004,
by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners: Nolan, Tanaka, Low, McManus, Tye
NOES: Commissioners: None.
ABSTAIN: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ATTEST
Secretary
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