Commission approves Chenar LLC single-family home with condition to avoid steep-slope walkway

The Planning Commission approved PLN210139, a combined development permit for a single-family dwelling at 1905 San Juan Road, after commissioners pressed the applicant on sidewalk and leach-field work proposed on slopes exceeding 25%.

Staff described the project as a 3,230-square-foot single-family dwelling with an attached 1,045-square-foot garage and an accessory dwelling unit shown on the plans, and said most development sits within the building envelope. The project requires a use permit for 815 square feet of development on slopes >25% for hardscape elements (sidewalk, driveway apron) and septic leach field. Staff explained that shifting the residence would impact protected oak trees and steeper slopes and proposed a condition that construction plans be reviewed to minimize slope disturbance.

Commissioners asked whether the front walkway (shown at about 4 feet wide) could be reconfigured to avoid steep slopes and raised ADA/accessibility and furniture-move concerns. Applicant Daniel said he preferred the walkway as drawn for aesthetic and functional reasons but said he was willing to shift the walkway adjacent to the house or use different materials (pavers) if necessary to obtain approval. Commissioner Roberts moved to approve the project with an amended condition requiring staff review of construction plans to relocate or reconfigure the walkway outside of slopes in excess of 25% (or minimize slope disturbance); the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote.

The permit includes standard conditions and a staff review requirement to ensure the final construction drawings reflect the revised walkway alignment and protection of on-site heritage trees.