Zoning administrator approves Bugatti activation in Spyglass Woods for one year with tightened conditions

Acting Zoning Administrator Mike Noble approved a coastal development permit allowing assemblages at 1062 Spyglass Woods Drive during Monterey Car Week, but limited the approval to a one-year term and added tightened operational conditions intended to address problems neighbors reported from last year.

Marlene Garcia, the project planner, told the hearing the application sought permission for an invitation-only activation at a 5,500-square-foot private dwelling for up to 150 guests, with 50 parking spaces reserved at the Equestrian Center and a requirement that amplified sound end at 9 p.m. Garcia recommended a categorical CEQA exemption and initially described a multi-year permit option. Neighbors said last year’s activation produced street congestion that blocked driveways and emergency access. Resident Ross Shapiro testified: "I was jammed bumper to bumper, and I was scared for my life because if there was a fire there, there would be absolutely no chance for us to get out of there." (Ross Shapiro, resident).

Applicant Sarah Tupi of Bugatti described the proposed activation as a low-attendance, appointment-only program and said deliveries and vehicle movements would be staged to avoid on-street parking. "I have seen the correspondence, and they're they're absolutely fully valid. I understand the concerns, and I've taken this into account with the planning," she said. Pebble Beach Company security director Peter Brown told the hearing the company had worked with the applicant and would add roping, tow signs and a security presence to enforce no-parking areas.

In explaining his decision, Zoning Administrator Mike Noble said he was persuaded by the applicants’ operational controls but remained concerned about the neighborhood impact if a larger operator used the permit in later years. He said: "I'm gonna approve it but only for 1 year because I think a 150 that's being asked here is too big for this property and this neighborhood." The approval includes changes to condition language to cover all amplified sound (not just "music"), a requirement that site plans show all temporary uses and displays, a strengthened special-events development plan (condition 6), a fire-department approval for evacuation plans, and a requirement that the applicant amend the operations plan prior to commencement. Neighbors retain the right to appeal the decision to the Board of Supervisors.

Why it matters: the decision balances commercial Car Week activations with neighborhood safety and livability by limiting permit duration and clarifying enforcement and safety conditions.