HomeMy WebLinkAbout05132020 Planning Commission packetSaratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 1 of 3
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
MAY 13, 2020
7:00 P.M. - PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
Teleconference/Public Participation Information to Mitigate the Spread of COVID‐19
This meeting will be entirely by teleconference. All Commission members and staff will only participate
via the Zoom platform using the process described below. The meeting is being conducted in compliance
with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain teleconference rules required by the
Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide the safest environment for the public,
elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued operation of the government and public
participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Members of the public view and participate in the meeting by:
1. Using the Zoom website https://us04web.zoom.us/j/77354719936 or App (Webinar ID 733-5471-
9936) and using the tool to raise their hand in the Zoom platform when directed by the Chair to
speak on an agenda item; OR
2. Calling 1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968 and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on an
agenda item when directed by the Chair; OR
3. Viewing the meeting on Saratoga Community Access Television Channel 15 (Comcast Channel
15, AT&T UVerse Channel 99) and calling 1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968 and pressing *9 to
raise their hand to speak on an agenda item when directed by the Chair; OR
4. Viewing online at http://saratoga.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=2 and calling
1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968 and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on an agenda item
when directed by the Chair.
The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person.
As always, members of the public can send written comments to the Commission prior to the meeting by
commenting online at www.saratoga.ca.us/pc prior to the start of the meeting. These emails will be provided
to the members of the Commission and will become part of the official record of the meeting.
During the meeting the Chair will explain the process for members of the public to be recognized to offer
public comment.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you need
assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk at
debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The City will use
its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as possible while
also maintaining public safety.
Saratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 2 of 3
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Action Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission Meeting of February 12, 2020 and the Special
Planning Commission Meeting of April 7, 2020.
Recommended Action:
Approve Minutes of February 12, 2020 and the Special Planning Commission Meeting of April 7, 2020.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Any member of the public will be allowed to address the Planning Commission for up to three (3) minutes
on matters not on this agenda. This law generally prohibits the Planning Commission from discussing or
taking action on such items. However, the Planning Commission may instruct staff accordingly regarding
Oral Communications.
REPORT ON APPEAL RIGHTS
If you wish to appeal any decision on this Agenda, you may file an Appeal Application with the City Clerk
within fifteen (15) calendar days of the date of the decision.
1. NEW BUSINESS
1.1 General Plan Conformity FY 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-005 finding the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects proposed
for Fiscal Year 20-21 conform to the Saratoga General Plan.
2. PUBLIC HEARING
Applicants and/or their representatives have a total of ten (10) minutes maximum for opening
statements. All interested persons may appear and be heard during this meeting regarding the items
on this agenda. If items on this agenda are challenged in court, members of the public may be
limited to raising only issues raised at the Public Hearing or in written correspondence delivered to
the Planning Commission at, or prior to the close of the Public Hearing. Members of the public may
comment on any item for up to three (3) minutes. Applicants and/or their representatives have a total
of five (5) minutes maximum for closing statements.
2.1 Application PDR19-0008/GEO19-0011/ARB19-0030/GRE19-0002; 20078 Goetting Road
(503-10-074); Etcheverry Lance T Trustee & ET AL. Applicant requests Design Review approval
to construct a new 7,222 square foot two story residence with a 3,004 square foot basement (maximum
height 26’) and a 556 square foot detached accessory dwelling unit. In addition, a grading exception
is requested of combined cut and fill in excess of 1,000 cubic yards. Six (6) protected trees are
proposed for removal. The site is zoned Hillside Residential (HR) with a General Plan Designation of
OS-H (Hillside Open Space). Staff Contact: Nicole Johnson (408) 868-1209 or
njohnson@saratoga.ca.us
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-003 approving the proposed residence, detached ADU, and Grading
Exception subject to conditions of approval included in Attachment 1.
2.2 Application PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033; Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044);
Anthem Reality Ventures, LLC. Applicant requests Design Review approval to construct a new
4,210 square foot two story residence, including an attached accessory dwelling unit, with a 1,197
square foot basement (maximum height 25’). Five (5) protected trees are proposed for removal. The
site is zoned R-1-12,500 with a General Plan Designation of M-12.5 (Medium Density Residential).
Staff Contact: Nicole Johnson (408) 868-1209 or njohnson@saratoga.ca.us.
Recommended Action:
Saratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 3 of 3
Adopt Resolution No. 20-002 approving the proposed residence subject to conditions of approval
included in Attachment 1.
2.3 Application ZOA20-0004; Amendment to Tree Regulations - Amendments to Section 15-
50.080(a), Tree Regulations (Zoning) of the Saratoga City Code to allow the removal of trees that
would contribute to the increased risk and spread of wildfire. Staff contact: Kate Bear, City Arborist
(408) 868-1276 or kbear@saratoga.ca.us.
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-004 recommending that the City Council approve the proposed change to
Section 15-50.080, Tree Regulations (Zoning) of the Saratoga City Code to allow the removal of trees
that would contribute to the increased risk and spread of wildfire.
DIRECTOR ITEMS
COMMISSION ITEMS
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF THE AGENDA
PACKET, COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Frances Reed, Administrative Assistant for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for
the meeting of the Planning Commission was posted and available for review on May 8, 2020 at the City
of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the City's website at
www.saratoga.ca.us.
Signed this 8th day of May 2020 at Saratoga, California.
Frances Reed, Administrative Assistant
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials provided to the
Planning Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of materials distributed to the
Planning Commission concurrently with the posting of the agenda, and materials distributed to the
Planning Commission by staff after the posting of the agenda are available on the City Website at
www.saratoga.ca.us. Following removal of State and local shelter in place orders these materials will be
available for review in the office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California.
In Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this
meeting, please contact the City Clerk at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as
possible before the meeting. The City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to
provide as much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety.
[28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 1 of 2
DRAFT MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2020
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
Chair Ahuja called the Planning Commission Regular Meeting to order in the Civic Theater,
Council Chambers at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue in Saratoga at 7:00 p.m. and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Chair Sunil Ahuja, Vice Chair Razi Mohiuddin, Commissioners Leonard
Almalech, Kookie Fitzsimmons, Anjali Kausar, Lucas Pastuszka, Tina
Walia.
ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Christopher Riordan, Senior Planner
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Action Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission Meeting of January 22, 2020.
Recommended Action:
Approve Minutes of January 22, 2020 meeting.
WALIA/ FITZSIMMONS MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE JANUARY
22, 2020 MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, ALMALECH, FITZSIMMONS,
KAUSAR, PASTUSZKA, WALIA. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN:
MOHIUDDIN.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
1. NEW BUSINESS: None
2. PUBLIC HEARING
2.1 Application ANX20-0001, ENV19-0003, ZOA20-0001, GPA20-001; 14831 Pierce
Road (503-46-006 and 530-46-007); Chateau Masson, LLC.
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-002 recommending that the City Council approve the General
Plan and City Code amendments, the Precise Plan, and Development Agreement relating to
the Mountain Winery and further recommending certification of the EIR selecting EIR
Alternative #3 for the Mountain Winery Annexation project and adoption of the Mitigation
Monitoring Reporting Plan.
WALIA/KAUSAR MOVED TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL NOT
MOVE FORWARD WITH THE MOUNTAN WINERY ANNEXATION PROJECT.
Commissioner Pastuszka made an alternate motion.
4
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 2 of 2
PASTUSZKA MOVED TO CONTINUE THE MOUNTAIN WINERY ANNEXATION
PROJECT AND CONDUCT MORE PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSIONS.
MOTION FAILED DUTO LACK OF SECOND.
Planning Commission voted on the original motion.
MOTION TO RECOMMEND THAT THE CITY COUNCIL NOT MOVE
FORWARD WITH THE MOUNTAN WINERY ANNEXATION PROJECT.
MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, ALMALECH, FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR,
MOHIUDDIN, PASTUSZKA, WALIA. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN:
NONE.
DIRECTOR ITEMS: Director Pedro informed the Commission that the Fence Exception
Application at 12452 Miller Ave., which was denied by the Commission January 22, 2020, was
appealed to the City Council.
COMMISSION ITEMS:
Commissioner Walia stated that the processes of project notifications, study sessions and how
information is provided to the Commission should be reviewed.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons stated that the Commission should receive information in a timely
manner.
Commissioner Pastuszka stated that the Commissioners opinions should be allowed to be heard.
ADJOURNMENT
CHAIR AHUJA ADJOURNED THE MEETING AT 10:06 PM.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Frances Reed, Administrative Assistant
City of Saratoga
5
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 1 of 2
DRAFT MINUTES
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING
APRIL 7, 2020
This meeting was held entirely by teleconference. All Commission members and staff
participated via the Zoom platform. The meeting was conducted in compliance with the
Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain teleconference rules required by the
Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide the safest environment for the
public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued operation of the government and
public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Members of the public were provided instructions to access the teleconference meeting in
accordance with Saratoga’s public posting requirements on-site AT 13777 Fruitvale Ave. and at
www.saratoga.ca.us.
Chair Ahuja called the Planning Commission Special Meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Chair Sunil Ahuja, Vice Chair Razi Mohiuddin, Commissioners Kookie
Fitzsimmons, Anjali Kausar, Lucas Pastuszka, Tina Walia, Herman
Zheng.
ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Christopher Riordan, Senior Planner
Nicole Johnson, Planner II
Victoria Banfield, Planner I
ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
AHUJA/KAUSAR MOVED TO NOMINATE COMMISSIONER MOHIUDDIN AS
PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIR. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, FITZSIMMONS,
KAUSAR, MOHIUDDIN, PASTUSZKA, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
ABSTAIN: NONE.
WALIA/FITZSIMMONS MOVED TO NOMINATE COMMISSIONER PASTUSZKA AS
PLANNING COMMISSION VICE CHAIR. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA,
FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR, MOHIUDDIN, PASTUSZKA, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE.
ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
Commissioner Walia noted that due to this being an unusual time, the Commission is taking a
vote during a special meeting which normally occurs at a regularly scheduled Planning
Commission meeting.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
6
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 2 of 2
AGENDA ITEMS
1. General Plan Update
Commission received the report.
2. CEQA Primer
Commission received the report.
3. Planning Commission Site Visits under Shelter In Place Order
In lieu of site visits, staff will provide the commission with photos of the story poles, a
photo of the site and vicinity using google earth, and photos from neighbors (if any).
ADJOURNMENT
FITZSIMMONS/KAUSAR MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 6:46 PM. MOTION
PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR, MOHIUDDIN, PASTUSZKA,
WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Frances Reed, Administrative Assistant
City of Saratoga
7
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meeting Date:May 13, 2020
Application:Finding of General Plan Conformity
FY 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program
Location / APN:Citywide
Owner / Applicant:City of Saratoga
From:John Cherbone, Public Works Director
Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution 20-005 finding the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects proposed
for Fiscal Year 20-21 conform to the Saratoga General Plan.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Eight (8) new capital projects are proposed in the upcoming Fiscal Year 20-21. The
proposed projects have been reviewed by the City Council as part of the annual budget
process. California Government Code Section 65401 states that the local planning agency
should report on the conformity of the CIP with the agency’s General Plan. However,
not all projects have a relationship to a policy in the General Plan such as maintenance
work and building remodels. For FY 20-21 the proposed projects are generally dedicated to
upgrading existing infrastructure (maintenance), ADA upgrades, safety projects, and park
improvements.
Attached to this memo are project descriptions for each proposed capital project. Staff
reviewed the proposed projects and found that, where applicable, they follow the City’s
General Plan policies therefore a conformity finding can be supported. The
environmental determination will be addressed project by project.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution
2. Project Summaries
8
RESOLUTION NO. 20-005
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
DETERMINING THAT THE NEW FY 20-21 CIP PROJECTS
CONFORM TO THE GENERAL PLAN
WHEREAS,California Government Section 65401 requires the local planning
agency to report on the conformity of proposed public works with the adopted general plan;
and
WHEREAS,the Planning Commission reviewed and considered the materials
submitted by the Public Works Director which include a description of each capital project.
NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga does
hereby find that the new Capital Improvement Program projects conform to the Goals and
Policies of the City of Saratoga General Plan in that the various improvement projects
implement the programs and objectives outlined in the various General Plan Elements.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 13th
day of May 2020 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
9
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
1
NARRATIVES FOR
APPROVEDNEWCIP PROJECTS
Attachment 2
10
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
2
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Project Name Safe Routes to School Needs Assessment -
Design
Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager Mainini Cabute
Description This project will fund a traffic engineering plan which would include several elements aimed to
promote bicycling and walking as the preferred travel modes to school.
Location This is a Citywide project.
Project
Background
Project elements for this design plan include:
Conceptual plan drawings of traffic safety improvements near schools, prioritized based
on safety, to promote pedestrian and bike travel
School maps, developed for each school, to show the distribution of students around the
community, identifying corridors that should be improved
An enforcement evaluation that reviews and improves signage and/or markings to allow
for effective enforcement
The anticipated cost for the project is $60,000.
Funding would come from the General Fund and possible grant funding.
If funded, the design could be completed by June 2021. Construction would be based on project
priority.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $60,000
11
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
3
MCFARLAND AVENUE CURB &GUTTER REPLACEMENT
Project Name McFarland Avenue Curb & Gutter
Replacement
Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager Rick Torres
Description This project would remove and replace approximately 2,400 LF of curb and gutter.
Location The project is located on McFarland Avenue.
Project
Background
The Quito area is one of the few remaining areas in the City that uses rolled curb and gutter. Over
time, age and tree root damage have deteriorated the condition of the existing rolled curb and
gutter, impeding storm water flow. Replacement of the rolled curb and gutter with vertical curb
and gutter allows for better flow of storm water which also helps to minimize stormwater damage
to the roadway.
In 2015, Phase 1 of the McFarland Avenue Curb and Gutter Rehabilitation Project was completed.
In Phase 1, approximately half the rolled curbs and gutter along McFarland between Paseo Presada
and Devon were replaced. This second phase will replace the remaining rolled curb and gutter
section on McFarland Avenue with new vertical curb and gutter.
This Project will include removal of approx. 2400 linear feet of rolled curb and replacement with
vertical curb & gutter. Project will also include approx. 3600 sq. ft.of driveway which will
conform to the new gutters.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $350,000
12
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
4
SUNNYVALE-SARATOGA ROAD PATHWAY REHAB (COX TO RAILROAD XING)
Project Name Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road Pathway Rehab Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager Rick Torres
Description This project would repair uplifted section of pathway from Cox Avenue to the railroad crossing.
Location The project is located on Cox Avenue.
Project
Background
Over time,the condition of the pathway along Saratoga Sunnyvale Road has deteriorated. Age and
tree-root damage have broken up the pathway. This project will remove and replace uplifted
sections of pathway on Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road from Cox Avenue to the Railroad Crossing. It
also includes repair and adjustment to PG&E gas valves located along the pathway being replaced.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $225,000 (Council approved $125,000)
13
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
5
TRAFFIC SIGNAL BATTERY BACKUP
Project Name Traffic Signal Battery Backup-Citywide Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager Macedonio Nunez
Description This project would fund emergency traffic signal power battery backup in case of power outage.
Location The project is citywide.
Project
Background
Most of the existing battery backup systems are not operational. The upgraded systems will be
able to direct connect to backup generators.
The project, if funded, would begin in August 2020, and would be completed by the end of
October, 2020.
This project would be funded by the General Fund.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $150,000
14
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
6
KEVIN MORAN PARK ACCESSIBLE PARKING
Project Name Kevin Moran Park Accessible Parking Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager Macedonio Nunez
Description This project would add accessible parking spaces along the frontage of Kevin Moran Park.
Location The project is located at Kevin Moran Park, 12415 Scully Avenue.
Project
Background
Kevin Moran Park is just over 10 acres in size and features tennis courts, par course, bocce ball
courts, a basketball court, picnic areas, play equipment for children, and more. The park is a
popular destination for residents and visitors alike. This project would add two accessible parking
spaces along the frontage of the park. Currently, the park does not have a parking lot and has no
accessible parking spaces.
Funding for this project would total $95,000 which includes $10,000 for the design and $85,000
for the construction of the two spaces.
If funded, construction would be scheduled to begin in the Summer of 2020 and be completed in
the Fall of 2020.
This project was nominated by Mayor Miller with the support of Councilmember Cappello.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $95,000
15
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
7
RECONSTRUCTION OF HAKONE KOI POND –PHASE 1
Project Name Hakone Koi Pond Renovation Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager John Cherbone/Poh Yee
Description This project would fund renovation of the Hakone Gardens Koi Pond.
Location The project is located at Hakone Gardens, 21000 Big Basin Way.
Project
Background
Hakone Gardens, a city-owned eighteen-acre park nestled in the foothills just outside of Saratoga
Village, is maintained and operated by the Hakone Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks
to promote a deeper understanding of Japanese and general Asian culture through the preservation
of the oldest Japanese-style residential garden in the Western Hemisphere.
The project would include site clearing and demolition, excavating and grading, shotcrete
preparation work, shotcrete with fibers, sealing, boulder work, accent stone materials, ADA
accessibility, plumbing, drainage, irrigation, planting, wood structures, survey staking, and
geotechnical inspections.
The total cost for the Koi Pond is estimated to be $4.2 million. Phase 1 is estimated to cost $2.1
million.
This project was nominated by Councilmember Zhao with the support of Mayor Miller.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $2,100,000 for Phase I
$4,200,000 total project cost
Council approved $300,000 in FY 2020/21
16
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
8
SENIOR CENTER/COMMUNITY CENTER GENERATOR AND EV CHARGING STATIONS
Project Name Senior Center/Community Center
Generator and Electric Vehicle (EV)
Charging Stations
Project Number
Department Community Development/Facilities Project Manager Thomas Scott
Description This project would fund a generator for the Joan Pisani Community Center building and two dual-
head standard EV charging stations.
Location The project would be located outside the Joan Pisani Community Center building.
Project
Background
The Saratoga Senior Center serves community members that rely on power for medical purposes,
such as powered wheelchairs and medication that must be kept refrigerated. The entire Joan Pisani
Community Center also serves as a cooling and heating location during extreme weather events.
During recent PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff events the Community Center also served as a
charging location for residents. Currently, the building cannot be connected to a backup generator
and are without power during outages, which impacts services to the community.
This project would add a backup generator that would automatically power the Senior Center,
Adult Care Center and Recreation Center during an outage. This would enable the Community
Center to continue operations and allow the Senior Center to provide services to vulnerable
community members. Additionally, the project would include two dual-head standard EV charging
stations that would be powered by the generator during outages.
The Recreation and Senior portable building units obtain power from other buildings and will not
be serviced by this project.
Grant funding may be available to offset project costs.
This project was nominated by Councilmember Cappello with the support of Mayor Miller.
Operating
Budget Impacts Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $500,000
17
CITY OF SARATOGA
CAPITAL PROGRAM -NOMINATED PROJECTS
9
VILLAGE CLOCK
Project Name Village Clock Project Number
Department Public Works Department Project Manager John Cherbone
Description This project would add a clock in Saratoga Village.
Location The project is located in Saratoga Village.
Project
Background
The Village, Saratoga’s historic downtown, is located on Big Basin Way off Saratoga-Los Gatos
Road. The Village is a destination for those looking for unique shops, fine dining, wine tasting, spa
experiences and more. The lovely downtown atmosphere with hanging flower baskets, floral
displays meticulously maintained by volunteers, and the iconic Memorial Arch helped make
Saratoga a top contender in the 2015, 2016, and 2017 America in Bloom competitions.
This project would add a clock in the Village near its entry at Saratoga-Los Gatos Road and Big
Basin Way. The clock would serve to further enhance the aesthetics of Saratoga’s Village.
The style of the clock would resemble a monument style clock instead of the clock tower style.
Funding for the project would incorporate the installation, materials, power, and labor.
If funded, staff estimates that construction will begin July 2020 and be completed around
November 2020.
The total project cost is estimated to be $27,500, with $12,000 anticipated from local fundraising
efforts and $15,500 from the City.
This project was nominated by Mayor Miller with the support of Councilmember Kumar. The
project was added to the City’s unfunded CIP in FY 2017/18 and removed in FY 2019/20.
Operating
Budget Impacts
Staff time associated with oversight of this project will be incorporated into the operating budget.
Estimated Cost $27,500 ($15,500 to the City)
18
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meeting Date: May 13, 2020
Application: PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/
GRE19- 0002
Address/APN: 20078 Goetting Court/503-10-074
Property Owner: Lance and Daphne Etcheverry
From: Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Report Prepared By: Nicole Johnson, Senior Planner
19
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The applicant is requesting Design Review approval to construct a 7,277 square foot two story
residence with a 3,0004 square foot basement and a 556 square foot detached accessory dwelling
unit (ADU). The height of the residence will not exceed 26’. Six protected trees are requested for
removal.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. 20-003 approving the proposed residence, detached ADU, and Grading
Exception subject to conditions of approval included in Attachment 1.
Pursuant to City Code Sections 15-45.060(a)(1) & (6), Design Review Approval by the Planning
Commission is required because the project is construction of a two-story residence exceeding
6,000 square feet in floor area. In addition, Section 15-13.50 (f) of the City Code requires Planning
Commission approval for a cut and fill combination in excess of 1,000 cubic yards.
PROJECT DATA
Gross/Net Site Area: 182,749 sq. ft. gross / 116,959 sq. ft. net after slope deduction
Average Site Slope: 22%
General Plan Designation: OS-H (Hillside Open Space)
Zoning: HR (Hillside Residential)
Proposed Allowed/Required
Site Coverage
Residence/Garage/ADU
Impervious pool/solar panels/water feature
Permeable Driveway/Walkways/Patios
Total Proposed Site Coverage
5,159 sq. ft.
2,945 sq. ft.
6,417 sq. ft.
14,521 sq. ft.
15,000 sq. ft. or 25%
whichever is less per
Section 15-13.080*
Floor Area
First Floor
Second Floor
Area over 15 ft. ceiling height
Basement/Garage (Exempt)
Detached ADU
Total Proposed Floor Area
4,159 sq. ft.
2,696 sq. ft.
422 sq. ft.
(4,018 sq. ft.)
556 sq. ft.
7,833 sq. ft.
7,887* sq. ft.
Height 26’ 26’
Setbacks
Front:
Left Side:
Right Side:
Rear:
1st Floor 2nd Floor
136.25’ 136.25’
94.33’ 109.50’
186.50’ 188.50’
239.50’ 257.33’
1st Floor 2nd Floor
90.20’’ 90.20’
39.2’ 39.2’
39.2’ 39.2’
112.70’ 112.70’
Grading Cut
1,650
CY
Fill
1,437
CY
Export
0
CY
1,000 Cubic Yard limit per
Section 15-13.50 (f)
*includes one-time 10% deed restricted density bonus per section 15-56.030 (a)(3)
20
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 3
SITE CHARACTERISTICS AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Site Description
The subject property is accessed via an access easement from Mt. Eden Road, in the Hillside
Residential zoning district. This site was part of a three-lot subdivision approved in 2015 (SUB13-
0006) and is vacant. The surrounding uses consist of single-family residences on the north and west,
south, and east. Fifty-two trees protected by the Saratoga City Code, were inventoried on the site by
the project arborist.
Project Description
The proposed project includes a 4,159 square foot main level that would consist of a foyer,
office, parlor, living room, kitchen, nook, family room, dining room and 2 bedroom suites.
The second floor would be 3,118 square feet and include a master suite and two bedrooms.
There is a 3,004 square foot basement that includes 1,014 square foot four car garage, game
room, cardio/yoga room, game room, lounge, crafts room, mud room, wet bar, powder room, full
bathroom, and a golf simulator room.
There is also a 556 square foot deed restricted detached accessory unit that consists of a living room,
kitchen, bathroom and a bedroom.
Architecture/Design
The project would have a contemporary architectural style. Exterior materials and colors would
consist of wood siding with stone veneer and a bronze metal roof. The variety of exterior materials
and varying roof heights provides architectural articulation to break up the mass of the home.
The applicant has provided a color and materials board (Attachment 4). Below is a list of the
proposed exterior materials.
Detail Colors and Materials
Exterior Wood siding (red cedar)
Stone veneer (‘Eldorado’ rustic ridge)
Windows Anodized aluminum (bronze)
Doors Wrought iron and glass (blackened steel)
Roof Standing seam metal (aged bronze)
Trees
The project arborist inventoried fifty-two protected trees on the site. Six protected trees are
requested for removal. All remaining trees within the vicinity of the construction site will be
protected prior to building permit issuance and throughout the duration of the project. The applicant
is required to place a tree security deposit of $235,430 and install tree protection fencing on the site.
Details of the arborist report findings and descriptions of the trees to be preserved are included in
the Arborist Report (Attachment 2).
21
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 4
Landscaping
The majority of the existing landscaping is proposed to remain on the site. The applicant will be
required to demonstrate compliance with the Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance when the
application is submitted to the Building Department.
Geotechnical Review
The City’s Geotechnical Consultant, Cotton, Shires and Associates has reviewed the proposed
residence and Geotechnical Investigation provided by the applicant. Cotton, Shires and
Associates have indicated that the Project Geotechnical Consultant has adequately characterized
site conditions and recommended approval.
Grading Exception
City Code section 15-13.050(f) states that the combined cut and fill of any grading for a project in
the Hillside Residential zone district shall not exceed one thousand (1,000) cubic yards, including
any excavation for a swimming pool, unless a larger quantity is approved by the Planning
Commission based upon making all findings.
The applicant is requesting a grading exception to allow for a cut and fill combination of 3,087
cubic yards. In order to comply with the Santa Clara County Fire Department turnaround
requirements for slope and dimensions, much of the grading is for the required fire truck turnaround
at the front of the residence. In addition, grading will be done to create a functional yard area and a
pool at the rear of the property. There will not be any off haul from the site, the fill will be dispersed
on the property.
GRADING EXCEPTION FINDINGS
The findings required for exceeding a combined cut and fill of any grading for a project in the
Hillside Residential Zone District of 1,000 cubic yards pursuant to City Code Section Article 15-
13.050 (f) are set forth below and the Applicant has met the burden of proof to support making
all of those required findings:
1. The additional grading is necessary in order to allow reasonable development of the
property or to achieve a reasonable means of access to the building site.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because the fire department turnaround in the
front of the residence is necessary to satisfy the Santa Clara County Fire Department
Specifications. The fire department specifies that the maximum slope in any direction for an
approved turnaround is 5%, which required grading at the front of the property. The fire
department turnaround was placed on the property where it could be accomplished with
minimal cut and fill and with very little impact on existing vegetation.
The driveway to the basement garage is also designed to minimize impact on the grove of
oak trees in the vicinity, as well as to keep to a minimum any cut and fill in that portion of the
property.
22
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 5
2. The natural landforms and vegetation are being preserved and protected.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that of the fifty-two protected trees
inventoried, six are proposed for removal. When completed the area of fill will be re-
vegetated to both stabilize the soil and to integrate the new graded area into the topography of
the site.
3. The increased grading is necessary to promote the compatibility of the construction with
the natural terrain.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that most of the grading on the property will be
for the required fire department turnaround comply with Santa Clara County Fire Department
Specifications (slope). In addition, the rear yard was designed to provide a functional pool
and yard area while maintaining the natural slope of the topography of the site.
4. The increased grading is necessary to integrate an architectural design into the natural
topography.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because originally the project consisted of an
architectural design that would have required a large amount of grading in order to comply
with the city requirements. Since then, the project was redesigned to comply with the City’s
zoning requirements while maintaining the desired architectural style that require less
grading.
5. The increased grading is necessary to reduce the prominence of the construction as viewed
from surrounding views or from distant community views.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because the grading will reduce the prominence
of the home and retaining walls by reducing the height and number of walls as viewed from
off site and by integrating the graded contours with the natural site natural contours and
topography.
6. No building site shall be graded so as to create a flat visible pad surrounding the main
residential structure.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the grading will allow for the required fire
truck turnaround and yard area and does not include grading for a building pad.
23
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 6
DESIGN REVIEW FINDINGS
The findings required for issuance of a Design Review Approval pursuant to City Code Section
Article 15-45.080 are set forth below and the Applicant has met the burden of proof to support
making all of those required findings:
a. Site development follows the natural contours of the site, minimizes grading, and is
appropriate given the property’s natural constraints.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the findings from Section 15-13.050(f)
can be made.
b. All protected trees shall be preserved, as provided in Article 15-50 (Tree Regulations). If
constraints exist on the property, the number of protected trees, heritage trees, and native
trees approved for removal shall be reduced to an absolute minimum. Removal of any
smaller oak trees deemed to be in good health by the City Arborist shall be minimized
using the criteria set forth in Section 15-50.080.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the City Arborist has reviewed and
recommends approval for the proposed removal of six protected trees. The number of trees
to be removed is being kept to a minimum and limited to trees that are in poor condition and
in conflict with the location of the project. A total of forty-six protected trees will remain on
the site.
c. The height of the structure, its location on the site, and its architectural elements are
designed to avoid unreasonable impacts to the privacy of adjoining properties and to
community viewsheds.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the home has a proposed height does not
exceed the maximum allowable height for a single-family residence and proposed setbacks
that are greater than the minimum required by the zoning district. No community viewsheds
are located in the vicinity of the project.
d. The overall mass and height of the structure, and its architectural elements are in scale
with the structure itself and with the neighborhood.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the project will create a two-story
residence in a neighborhood with both one and two-story structures. The project includes
architectural elements consistent with the contemporary architectural style which are in
scale with the structure and the neighborhood.
e. The landscape design minimizes hardscape in the front setback area and contains
elements that are complementary to the neighborhood streetscape.
24
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 7
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the hardscape will be less than 50% of
the front setback area and limited to a driveway and required firetruck turnaround.
f. Development of the site does not unreasonably impair the ability of adjoining properties
to utilize solar energy.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the development will not unreasonably
impair the ability of adjoining properties to utilize solar energy as the project exceeds
required setbacks and has a proposed height that does not exceed the maximum allowable
height for a single-family residence.
g. The design of the structure and the site development plan is consistent with the
Residential Design Handbook, pursuant to Section 15-45.055.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because the proposed project incorporates
applicable design policies and techniques from the Residential Design Handbook. The
overall mass and height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is
set back in proportion to the size and shape of the lot. In addition, the proposed materials,
colors, and details enhance the architecture in a well-composed manner which is
complementary to the architectural style of the home.
h. On hillside lots, the location and the design of the structure avoid unreasonable impacts
to ridgelines, significant hillside features, community viewsheds, and is in compliance
with Section 15-13.100.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because although the site is considered a hillside
lot by definition, the project is not located on a ridgeline, and will not affect any significant
hillside features or community viewsheds.
Neighbor Notification and Correspondence
A public notice was sent to property owners within 500 feet of the site. In addition, the public
hearing notice and description of the project was published in the Saratoga News. One letter was
received from a neighbor at 20088 Goetting Court in support of the project. In addition, a neighbor
at 22390 Eden Valley Court has asked for landscape mitigation to help screen the view of the new
residence from their home. (Attachment 3). The applicant is responding to the neighbor’s request
by proposing to add 24” box evergreen trees for additional screening.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant Section
15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class 3 (a) of the Public Resources
Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of three single-family residences in a
residential area, including small structures. The project, as proposed, is for the construction of a new
home in a suburban, residential area.
ATTACHMENTS
25
Report to the Planning Commission
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19- 0002
May 13, 2020
Page | 8
1. Resolution No. 20-003
2. Arborist Report
3. Neighbor Comments
4. Material Board
5. Story Pole Certification
6. Project Plans
26
At
RESOLUTION NO: 20-003
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
APPROVING DESIGN REVIEW PDR19-0008, ARBORIST REPORT ARB19-0030,
GEOTECHNICAL REVIEW GEO19-0011 AND GRADING EXCEPTION GRE19-002
20078 GOETTING COURT (APN 503-10-074)
WHEREAS, on May 21, 2019 an application was submitted by Lance and Daphne
Etcheverry requesting Design Review approval to construct a 7,277 square foot two story residence
with a basement and detached accessory dwelling unit located at 20078 Goetting Court (APN 503-
10-074). Six protected trees are proposed for removal. The site is located within the Hillside
Residential zoning district.
WHEREAS, the Community Development Department completed an environmental
assessment for the project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
and recommends that the Planning Commission determine this project Categorically Exempt.
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2020 the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing
on the subject application, and considered evidence presented by City Staff, the applicant, and other
interested parties.
NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga hereby finds,
determines and resolves as follows:
Section 1: The recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated herein by
reference.
Section 2: The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) pursuant Section 15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class
3(a) of the Public Resources Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of a single-
family residence and small structures in a residential area.
Section 3: The proposed residence is consistent with the following Saratoga General Plan
Policies: Land Use Goal 13 which provides that the City shall use the Design Review process to
assure that the new construction and major additions thereto are compatible with the site and the
adjacent surroundings; Safety Element Site and Drainage Policy 3 which provides that the City shall
require that landscaping and site drainage plans be submitted and approved during Design Review
for a residence prior to issuance of permits; and Conservation Element Policy 6.0 which provides
that the City shall protect the existing rural atmosphere of Saratoga by carefully considering the
visual impact of new development.
Section 4: The proposed residence is consistent with the Saratoga City Code in that the
design and improvements are consistent with the design review findings. The overall mass and
height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is set back in proportion to
the size and shape of the lot; site development follows contours and is appropriate given the
property’s natural constraints; the porch and entry are in scale with other structures in the
Attachment 1
27
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 2
neighborhood. In addition, the proposed materials, colors, and details enhance the architecture in a
well-composed, understated manner.
Section 5: The City of Saratoga Planning Commission hereby approves PDR19-0008,
ARB19-0030, GEO19-0011 and GRE19-0002 located at 20078 Goetting Court (APN 503-10-074),
subject to the Findings, and Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit 1.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 13th day of
May 2020 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
28
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 3
Exhibit 1
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
20078 GOETTING COURT (APN 503-10-074)
GENERAL
1. All conditions below which are identified as permanent or for which an alternative period of
time for applicability is specified shall run with the land and apply to the landowner’s
successors in interest for such time period. No zoning clearance, or demolition, grading for this
project shall be issued until proof is filed with the city that a certificate of approval documenting
all applicable permanent or other term-specified conditions has been recorded by the applicant
with the Santa Clara County Recorder’s office in form and content to the Community
Development Director. If a condition is not “Permanent” or does not have a term specified, it
shall remain in effect until the issuance by the City of Saratoga of a Certificate of Occupancy or
its equivalent.
2. The Owner and Applicant will be mailed a statement after the time the Resolution granting this
approval is duly executed, containing a statement of all amounts due to the City in connection
with this application, including all consultant fees (collectively “processing fees”). This
approval or permit shall expire sixty (60) days after the date said notice is mailed if all
processing fees contained in the notice have not been paid in full. No Zoning Clearance or
Demolition, Grading, or Building Permit may be issued until the City certifies that all
processing fees have been paid in full (and, for deposit accounts, a surplus balance of $500 is
maintained).
3. The Project shall maintain compliance with all applicable regulations of the State, County, City
and/or other governmental agencies having jurisdiction including, without limitation, the
requirements of the Saratoga City Code incorporated herein by this reference.
4. As a condition of this Approval, Owner and Applicant hereby agree to defend, indemnify and
hold the City and its officers, officials, boards, commissions, employees, agents and volunteers
harmless from and against:
a. any and all claims, actions or proceedings to attack, set aside, void or annul any action
on the subject application, or any of the proceedings, acts or determinations taken, done
or made prior to said action; and
b. any and all claims, demands, actions, expenses or liabilities arising from or in any
manner relating to the performance of such construction, installation, alteration or
grading work by the Owner and/or Applicant, their successors, or by any person acting
on their behalf.
29
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 4
In addition, prior to any Zoning Clearance, Owner and Applicant shall execute a separate
agreement containing the details of this required Agreement to Indemnify, Hold Harmless and
Defend, which shall be subject to prior approval as to form and content by the City Attorney.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
5. PERMANENT CONDITION-The owner shall restrict the rental of the accessory dwelling unit
to only households that qualify as low, very-low, or extremely-low income households as those
terms are defined in the most recent Santa Clara County Housing and Urban Development
Program Income Limits or, in the event that the most recent such report is more than five years
old, in accordance with the definitions set forth in Health and Safety Code section 50079.5,
50105, and 50106 as those sections exist as of the effective date of this restriction. “Rental”
means any agreement whereby the occupant(s) of the accessory dwelling unit make any
payment in consideration of said occupancy. The Deed Restriction document shall be notarized
and recorded with the County of Santa Clara Clerks Office, prior to issuance of building permit.
6. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the city approved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
7. The development shall be located and constructed to include those features, and only those
features, as shown on the Approved Plans. All proposed changes to the approved plans must be
submitted in writing with plans showing the changes, including a clouded set of plans
highlighting the changes. Such changes shall be subject to approval in accordance with City
Code.
8. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall submit for staff approval, a Lighting
Plan for the home’s exterior and landscaped areas. Proposed exterior lighting shall be limited to
full-cut off & shielded fixtures with downward directed illumination so as not to shine on
adjacent properties or public right-of-way. All proposed exterior lighting shall be designed to
limit illumination to the site and avoid creating glare impacts to surrounding properties.
9. In order to comply with standards that minimize impacts to the neighborhood during site
preparation and construction, the applicant shall comply with City Code Sections 7-30.060 and
16-75.050, with respect to noise, construction hours, maintenance of the construction site and
other requirements stated in these sections.
10. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall prepare for review and approval by
City staff a Construction Management Plan for the project which includes but is not limited to
the following:
a. Proposed construction worker parking area.
b. Proposed construction hours that are consistent with City Code. 30
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 5
c. Proposed construction/delivery vehicle staging or parking areas.
d. Proposed traffic control plan with traffic control measures, any street closure, hours for
delivery/earth moving or hauling, etc. To the extent possible, any deliveries, earth
moving or hauling activities will be scheduled to avoid peak commute hours.
e. Proposed construction material staging/storage areas.
f. Location of project construction sign outlining permitted construction work hours, name
of project contractor and the contact information for both homeowner and contractor.
11. All fences, walls and hedges shall conform to height requirements provided in City Code
Section 15-29.
12. The final landscaping and irrigation plan submitted for Building Permit approval shall
demonstrate how the project complies with the State Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and
shall take into account the following:
a. To the extent feasible, landscaping shall be designed and operated to treat storm water
runoff by incorporating elements that collect, detain and infiltrate runoff. In areas that
provide detention of water, plants that are tolerant of saturated soil conditions and
prolong exposure to water shall be specified.
b. To the extent feasible, pest resistant landscaping plants shall be used throughout the
landscaped area, especially along any hardscape area.
c. Plant materials selected shall be appropriate to site specific characteristics such as soil
type, topography, climate, amount and timing of sunlight, prevailing winds, rainfall, air
movement, patterns of land use, ecological consistency and plant interactions to ensure
successful establishment.
d. Pest resistant landscaping plants shall be considered for use throughout the landscaped
area, especially along any hardscape area.
e. Any proposed or required under grounding of utilities shall take into account potential
damage to roots of protected trees
13. Front yard landscaping shall be installed prior to final inspection or a bond satisfactory to the
Community Development Department valued at 150% of the estimated cost of the installation
of such landscaping shall be provided to the City.
14. A locking mailbox approved for use by the U.S. Postal service shall be installed and in
compliance with Saratoga Municipal Code section 6-25.030. The mailbox shall be installed
prior to final inspection.
15. A Building Permit must be issued, and construction commenced within 36 months from the date
of adoption of this Resolution or the Design Review Approval will expire unless extended in
accordance with the City Code.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
16. The owner/applicant shall comply with all Fire Department requirements.
31
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 6
ARBORIST
17. All requirements in the City Arborist report dated February 26, 2020 are hereby adopted as
conditions of approval and shall be implemented as part of the approved plans.
ENGINEERING/PUBLIC WORKS
18. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the city approved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
19. Applicant / Owner shall obtain an encroachment permit for any and all improvements in any City
right-of-way or City easement including all new utilities prior to commencement of the work to
implement this Design Review.
20. Per Design Review PDR19-0008, no improvements in the public right-of-way are required.
21. All new/upgraded utilities shall be installed underground.
22. Applicant / Owner shall maintain the streets, sidewalks and other right of way as well as adjacent
properties, both public and private, in a clean, safe and usable condition. All spills of soil, rock or
construction debris shall be removed immediately.
23. The Owner/Applicant shall incorporate adequate source control measures to limit pollutant
generation, discharge, and runoff (e.g. landscaping that minimizes irrigation and runoff, promotes
surface infiltration where possible, minimizes the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and
incorporates appropriate sustainable landscaping practices and programs, such as Bay-Friendly
Landscaping).
24. All building and construction related activities shall adhere to New Development and
Construction – Best Management Practices as adopted by the City for the purpose of preventing
storm water pollution:
• Owner shall implement construction site inspection and control to prevent construction site
discharges of pollutants into the storm drains per approved Erosion Control Plan.
• The City requires the construction sites to maintain year-round effective erosion control, run-
on and run-off control, sediment control, good site management, and non-storm water
management through all phases of construction (including, but not limited to, site grading,
building, and finishing of lots) until the site is fully stabilized by landscaping or the
installation of permanent erosion control measures.
• City will conduct inspections to determine compliance and determine the effectiveness of the
32
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 7
BMPs in preventing the discharge of construction pollutants into the storm drain. Owner
shall be required to timely correct all actual and potential discharges observed.
25. Prior to the commencement of any earthwork/grading activities, the permittee shall arrange a pre-
construction meeting. The meeting shall include the City of Saratoga Grading Inspector (408-
868-1201), the grading contractor, and the project Soils Engineer. The permittee or representative
shall arrange the pre-construction meeting at least 48 hours prior to the start of any earthwork
activities.
26. Prior to foundation inspection by the City, the LLS of record shall provide a written certification
that all building setbacks are per the approved plans.
27. Upon the completion of this project the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be
certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor and verified by the City's building
inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the
City’s Floodplain Administrator.
28. Upon completion of the rough grading work and at the final completion of the project the final
grading reports are to be submitted to the City per section 16-17.150 of the City Municipal Code.
29. The property is subject to existing Covenant and Agreement for Stormwater Treatment Measures
Construction, Inspection and Maintenance by and between the City of Saratoga, California,
Sholeh Diba Goetting and The Etcheverry Family 2014 Living Trust, for Property Located at
22700 Mount Eden Road, Saratoga, CA, Saratoga, CA.
30. Prior to beginning of construction, the applicant shall file a Notice of Intent (NOI) with Regional
Water Quality Control Board, if required, to obtain coverage under the State General
Construction Activity NPDES Permit. Satisfactory evidence of the filing of the NOI shall be
furnished to the City. The applicant shall comply with all provisions and conditions of the State
Permit, including preparation and implementation of a Strom Water Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP). Copies of the SWPPP shall be submitted to the City prior to beginning of construction
and maintained on site at all times construction.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT SUBMITTAL
31. Four (4) sets of complete construction plans shall be submitted to the Building Division. These
plans shall be subject to review and approval by the City prior to issuance of Zoning Clearance.
The construction plans shall, at a minimum include the following:
a. Architectural drawings and other plan sheets consistent with those identified as Exhibit
“A” on file with the Community Development Department.
b. Arborist Report dated February 26, 2020 printed onto a separate plan page; and
c. All additional drawings, plans, maps, reports, notes, and/or materials required by the
Building Division.
d. This signed and dated Resolution printed onto separate construction plan pages.
e. The site plan shall contain a note with the following language: “Prior to foundation
inspection by the City, the Licensed Land Surveyor of record shall provide a written
33
20078 Goetting Court
Application # PDR19-0008/ARB19-0030/GEO19-0011/GRE19-0002
Resolution #20-003
Page | 8
certification that all building setbacks comply with the Approved Plans,” which note
shall represent a condition which must be satisfied to remain in compliance with this
Design Review Approval.
34
Community Development Department
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
www.saratoga.ca.us/171/trees
408.868.1276
CITY OF SARATOGA ARBORIST APPROVAL
Conditions of Approval and Tree Protection Plan
Prepared by Kate Bear, City Arborist Application No.
Phone: (408) 868-1276 Address:
Email: kbear@saratoga.ca.us Owner:
ARB19-0030
20078 Goetting Court
Lance Etcheverry
APN: 503-10-074
Date: February 26, 2020
PROJECT SCOPE:
The applicant has submitted plans to build a two story house with a basement, a basement level four car
garage, a guest house and a swimming pool on a vacant lot. Six trees (32, 33, 36, 43, 223 and 235)
protected by City Code are requested for removal to construct the project.
PROJECT DATA IN BRIEF:
Tree security deposit – Required - $235,430
Tree protection – Required – See Conditions of Approval and attached map.
Tree removals – Trees 32, 33, 36, 43, 223 and 235 are approved for removal
once building permits have been issued.
Replacement trees – Required = $38,020
ATTACHMENTS:
1 – Findings and Tree Information
2 – Tree Removal Criteria
3 – Conditions of Approval
4 – Map Showing Tree Protection
1
Attachment 2
35
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 1
FINDINGS:
Tree Removals
According to Section 15-50.080 of the City Code, whenever a tree is requested for removal
as part of a project, certain findings must be made and specific tree removal criteria met.
Trees 32, 33, 36, 43, 223 and 235 meet the City’s criteria allowing them to be removed
and replaced as part of the project, once building division permits have been obtained.
Attachment 2 contains the tree removal criteria for reference.
Table 1: Summary of Tree Removal Criteria that are met
Tree No. Species Criteria met Comments
32, 36, 43 Valley oak 1, 4, 7, 9 In conflict with house and fire truck turn-around
33, 223 Coast live oak 1, 4, 7, 9 In conflict with driveway
235 Coast live oak 1, 4, 7, 9 In conflict with house
New Construction
Based on the information provided, and as conditioned, this project complies with the
requirements for the setback of new construction from existing trees under Section 15 -
50.120 of the City Code.
Tree Preservation Plan
Section 15-50.140 of the City Code requires a Tree Preservation Plan for this project. To
satisfy this requirement the following shall be copied onto a plan sheet and included in the
final sets of plans:
1)The tree information and recommendations from the submitted arborist report
dated March 6, 2019; revised November 26, 2019 and January 30, 2020;
2)The Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing tree
protection from this report dated February 26, 2020.
TREE INFORMATION:
Project Arborist: Richard Gessner, Monarch Consulting Arborists LLC
Date of Report: March 6, 2019, revised November 26, 2019 and January 30, 2020
Number of protected trees inventoried: 52
Number of protected trees requested for removal: 6
Tables summarizing information about each tree follow.
2
36
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 1
TREE INFORMATION:
Table 2: Tree information from revised arborist report dated January 30, 2020.
3
37
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 1
Table 2 continued: Tree information from revised arborist report dated January 30, 2020.
4
38
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 1
Table 2 continued: Tree information from revised arborist report dated January 30, 2020.
5
39
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 1
Table 2 continued: Tree information from revised arborist report dated January 30, 2020.
6
40
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 2
TREE REMOVAL CRITERIA
Criteria that permit the removal of a protected tree are listed below. This information is from
Article 15-50.080 of the City Code and is applied to any tree requested for removal as part of the
project. If findings are made that meet the criteria listed below, the tree(s) may be approved for
removal and replacement during construction.
(1)The condition of the tree with respect to disease, imminent danger of falling, proximity to existing or
proposed structures and interference with utility services, and whether the tree is a Dead tree or a
Fallen tree.
(2)The necessity to remove the tree because of physical damage or threatened damage to
improvements or impervious surfaces on the property.
(3)The topography of the land and the effect of the tree remo val upon erosion, soil retention and the
diversion or increased flow of surface waters, particularly on steep slopes.
(4)The number, species, size and location of existing trees in the area and the effect the removal would
have upon shade, privacy impact, scenic beauty, property values, erosion control, and the general
welfare of residents in the area.
(5)The age and number of healthy trees the property is able to support according to good forestry
practices.
(6)Whether or not there are any alternatives that would allow for retaining or not encroaching on the
protected tree.
(7)Whether the approval of the request would be contrary to or in conflict with the general purpose
and intent of this Article.
(8)Any other information relevant to the public health, safety, or general welfare and the purposes of
this ordinance as set forth in Section 15-50.010
(9)The necessity to remove the tree for economic or other enjoyment of the property when there is no
other feasible alternative to the removal.
(10)The necessity to remove the tree for installation and efficient operation of solar panels, subject to
the requirements that the tree(s) to be removed, shall not be removed until solar panels have been
installed and replacement trees planted in conformance with the City Arborist's recommendation.
7
41
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 3
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1.Owner, Architect, Contractor: It is the responsibility of the owner, architect and contractor
to be familiar with the information in this report and implement the required conditions.
2.Permit:
a.Receipt of a Planning or Building permit does not relieve applicant of his responsibilities
for protecting trees per City Code Article 15-50 on all construction work.
b.No protected tree authorized for removal or encroachment pursuant to this project may
be removed or encroached upon until the issuance of the applicable permit from the
building division for the approved project.
3.Final Plan Sets:
a.Shall include the tree information and protection recommendations from the arborist
report by Richard Gessner dated January 30, 2020 copied onto a plan sheet.
b.Shall include the Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing
tree protection sections of the City Arborist report dated February 26, 2020.
4.Tree Protection Security Deposit:
a.Is required per City Ordinance 15-50.080.
b.Shall be $235,430 for tree(s) 34, 35, 37 – 42, 44, 211 – 222, 224 – 240, and 243 – 250.
c.Shall be obtained by the owner and filed with the Community Development Department
before obtaining Building Division permits.
d.May be in the form of cash, check, credit card payment or a bond.
e.Shall remain in place for the duration of construction of the project.
f.May be released once the project has been completed, inspected and approved by the
City Arborist.
5.Tree Protection Fencing:
a.Shall be installed as shown on the attached map and shall be shown on the Site Plan.
b.Shall be established prior to the arrival of construction equipment or materials on site.
c.Shall be comprised of six-foot high chain link fencing mounted on 2-inch diameter
galvanized posts, driven into the ground and spaced no more than 10 feet apart.
d.Shall be posted with signs saying “TREE PROTECTION FENCE - DO NOT MOVE OR
REMOVE WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM CITY ARBORIST, KATE BEAR (408) 868-1276”.
e.Call City Arborist, Kate Bear at (408) 868-1276 for an inspection of tree protection
fencing once it has been installed. This is required prior to obtaining building division
permits.
f.Tree protection fencing shall remain undisturbed throughout the construction until final
inspection.
6.Construction: All construction activities shall be conducted outside tree protection fencing
unless permitted as conditioned below. These activities include, but are not necessarily
limited to, the following: demolition, grading, trenching for utility installation, equipment
8
42
20078 Goetting Court Attachment 3
cleaning, stockpiling and dumping materials (including soil fill), and equipment/vehicle
operation and parking.
7.Work inside fenced areas:
a.Requires a field meeting and approval from City Arborist before performing work.
b.Requires Project Arborist on site to monitor work.
8.Project Arborist: shall be Richard Gessner unless otherwise approved by the City Arborist.
a.Shall visit the site every two weeks during grading, trenching or digging activities and
every six weeks thereafter.
b.Shall monitor all demolition, trenching, and construction that may damage trees even if
it is outside of tree protection fencing.
c.Shall supervise any permitted pruning or root pruning of trees on site. Roots of
protected trees measuring two inches in diameter or more shall not be cut without prior
approval of the Project Arborist.
d.Shall provide a letter/email to the City after each inspection which documents the work
performed around trees, includes photos of the work in progress, and provides
information on tree condition during construction.
9.Tree removal: Trees 32, 33, 36, 43, 223 and 235 meet the criteria for removal and may be
removed once building division permits have been obtained.
10.New trees: New trees equal to $38,020 shall be planted as part of the project before final
inspection and occupancy of the new home. New trees may be of any species and planted
anywhere on the property as long as they do not encroach on retained trees. Replacement
values for new trees are listed below.
15 gallon = $350 24 inch box = $500 36 inch box = $1,500
48 inch box = $5,000 60 inch box = 7,000 72 inch box = $15,000
11.Damage to protected trees that will be retained:
a.Should any protected tree be damaged beyond repair, new trees shall be required to
replace the tree. If there is insufficient room to plant the necessary number of new
trees, some of the value for trees may be paid into the City’s Tree Fund. Replacement
values for new trees are listed above under New Trees.
b.Water loving plants and lawns are not permitted under oak tree canopies.
c.Only drought tolerant plants that are compatible with oaks are permitted under the outer
half of the canopy of oak trees on site.
12.Final inspection:
At the end of the project, when the contractor wants to remove tree protection fencing and
have the tree protection security deposit released by the City, call City Arborist for a final
inspection. Before scheduling a final inspection from the City Arborist, have the project
arborist do an inspection, prepare a letter with their findings and provide that letter to the
City for the project file.
9
43
Attachment 4
Legend
Tree Protection Fencing 20078 Goetting Court
10
44
45
From:hank Chang
To:Nicole Johnson
Cc:Yunghwa Chang; hank Chang
Subject:Story Pole Photo 1 Taken From APN 503-80-007
Date:Tuesday, May 5, 2020 11:58:17 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when
opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.
Hi Nicole:
It's very nice talking to you. Please find below the first photo taken from out back yard.
We wish there will be more trees planted around the new construction to reduce the visual
impact.
My second photo will follow this one.
Best Regards,
Hank Chang
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: hankchangfw
To:
Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2020, 11:48:54 AM PDT
Subject:
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S8, an AT&T 5G Evolution capable smartphone
46
47
48
From:Lance Etcheverry
To:hank Chang
Cc:Nicole Johnson; Yunghwa Chang
Subject:Re: Proposed Development - 20078 Goetting Ct.
Date:Wednesday, May 6, 2020 1:28:57 PM
Attachments:IMG 0499.PNG
CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening
attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.
Thank you for your note, Hank. I appreciate your well-wishes for the building process. We’re
very excited to join the neighborhood.
I’ve attached a copy of our landscaping plan for you to see. I have marked the plan in red for three
additional large 24” box trees that I would propose to plant to try to obstruct the view of our home
- without disturbing the adjacent oak trees that are protected and also serve as a screen. This is the
size of tree that we are using elsewhere on the property to form screens. Since our lot slopes
steeply down from the building site to the property line, and your property is significantly elevated
from ours, I have put the trees as close to the house as I can to try to form a partial screen. Please
let me know if this would help to address your concern.
- Lance
49
On May 6, 2020, at 11:15 AM, hank Chang wrote:
Hi Lance:
Welcome to this neighborhood.
We appreciate your effort in build a beautiful new home. Wish you nothing but
success.
Since there is no visual obstructions between our lots, to protect our privacy, could
you please plant trees to creat some visual blocks so that both of us can enjoy the
privacy in our yards?
Hope your family safe and sound in this pandemic.
Best Regards,
Hank Chang
On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, 02:24:43 PM PDT, Lance Etcheverry
Good afternoon, Hank -
My wife, Daphne, and I are the owners of the property located at 20078 Goetting Ct., which we
are in the process of securing city approval to develop for our family home. I received your
email address from Nicole Johnson in the Saratoga Planning Department. First of all, as your
neighbor (albeit a distant one), I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully once the shelter-in-
place orders are lifted I’ll have an opportunity to meet you in person.
Nicole passed along your message and your photos to me. If my aerial maps are correct, I
believe that you live in the lovely home that is up on the hill across the vineyard from our
property. If so, I would be happy to chat with you about what we might be able to do with our
landscaping plan to help address any concerns that you might have. My cell phone number is
, so please call me when convenient and we can chat. I look forward to speaking
with you.
Thanks.
- Lance
50
Attachment 4
51
2278 Carol Ann Drive Tracy, CA 95377 (925) 457-1734
March 9, 2020
20078 Goetting Court
Saratoga, CA
The story poles locations and heights were staked by me on March 6, 2020 and the constructed story
poles were verified on March 8, 2020. The locations and heights depict the set-backs, footprints, and
roof lines shown on the plans Titled “new residence for Lance and Daphne Etcheverry 20078 Goetting
Court, Saratoga, California” Prepared by Al Salzano Architect sheets T1, A1 and A1.1 dated 2-03-20 and
sheets A2 through A10 dated 9-23-19.
Kevin Nickolas PLS
Attachment 5
52
Attachment 653
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meeting Date: May 13, 2020
Application: PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Address/APN: Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road / 503-82-044
Property Owner: Anthem Realty Ventures, LLC
From: Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Report Prepared By: Nicole Johnson, Senior Planner
65
Report to the Planning Commission
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road/503-82-044
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
May 13, 2020
Page | 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The applicant is requesting Design Review approval to construct a 4,210 square foot two story
residence, (including a 383 square foot attached accessory dwelling unit) with a 1,197 square
foot basement. The height of the residence will not exceed 26’. Five protected trees are requested
for removal.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. 20-002 approving the proposed residence subject to conditions of approval
included in Attachment 1.
Pursuant to City Code Section 15-45.060(a)(1), Design Review Approval by the Planning
Commission is required because the project is a new two-story residence.
PROJECT DATA
Gross/Net Site Area: 15,717 sq. ft. gross / 13,156 sq. ft. net after ingress/egress deduction
Average Site Slope: <10%
General Plan Designation: M-12.5 (Medium Density Residential)
Zoning: R-1-12,500
Proposed Allowed/Required
Site Coverage
Residence/Garage
Impervious Walkways/Patios/lightwell/pool
Permeable Driveway/Walkways/Patios
Total Proposed Site Coverage
2,645 sq. ft.
1,639 sq. ft.
938 sq. ft.
5,222 sq. ft. (33%)
7,958* sq. ft.
(55%)
Floor Area
First Floor
Second Floor
Garage
Area over 15 ft. ceiling height
Total Proposed Floor Area
2,151 sq. ft.
1,445 sq. ft.
494 sq. ft.
120 sq. ft.
4,210 sq. ft.
4,268* sq. ft.
Height 25’ 26’
Setbacks
Front:
Interior Side:
Exterior Side:
Rear:
1st Floor 2nd Floor
25’ 44’2”
14’11” 21’3”
25’2” 36’9”
26’7” 48’1”
1st Floor 2nd Floor
25’ 25’
10’ 15’
25’ 30’
10’ 10’
Grading Cut
789
CY
Fill
78
CY
Export
711
CY
No grading limit in the
R-1-12,500 zoning district
*includes one-time 10% deed restricted density bonus per section 15-56.030 (a)(3)
66
Report to the Planning Commission
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road/503-82-044
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
May 13, 2020
Page | 3
SITE CHARACTERISTICS AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Site Description
The subject property is located on the corner of Saratoga Sunnyvale Road and Oakwood Court, in
the R-1-12,500 zoning district. This site was part of a two-lot subdivision approved in 2017
(SUB17-0002) and is vacant. The surrounding uses consist of single-family residences on the north
and west, across Oakwood Court to the south, and across Saratoga Sunnyvale Road to the east.
Thirteen trees protected by the Saratoga City Code, were inventoried on the site by the project
arborist.
Project Description
The 2,151 square foot main level would consist of a foyer, living, dining and family rooms. A
kitchen, office laundry room and a two-car garage. There is also a 383 square foot attached deed
restricted accessory dwelling unit on this level of the home.
The second floor would be 1,445 square feet and include a master suite, two bedrooms with
bathrooms and a pooja room.
The proposed project would include a 1,197 square foot basement that includes a great room,
bedroom suite, workout room, and wine storage.
Architecture/Design
The project would have a contemporary architectural style. Exterior materials and colors would
consist of Navajo white stucco walls with stone veneer and a gray shingle roof. The variety of
exterior materials and varying roof heights provides architectural articulation to break up the mass
of the home.
The applicant has provided a color and materials board (Attachment 4). Below is a list of the
proposed exterior materials.
Detail Colors and Materials
Exterior Stucco (Navajo white)
Trim (expresso)
Windows Anodized aluminum (espresso)
Doors Wood (two tone)
Roof Presidential Shingle (charcoal gray)
Trees
The project arborist inventoried thirteen trees protected on the site. Five protected trees are
requested for removal. All protected trees to remain in the vicinity of the project will be protected
prior to building permit issuance and throughout the duration of the project. The applicant is
required to place a tree security deposit of $21,690 and install tree protection fencing on the site.
Details of the arborist report findings and descriptions of the trees to be preserved are included in
the Arborist Report (Attachment 2).
67
Report to the Planning Commission
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road/503-82-044
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
May 13, 2020
Page | 4
Landscaping
The majority of the existing landscaping is proposed to remain on the site. The shrubs at the corner
of Saratoga Sunnyvale Road and Oakwood Court would be removed/cleaned up to allow for
additional line of sight. The applicant will be required to demonstrate compliance with the Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance when the application is submitted to the Building Department.
Geotechnical Review
The proposed location of the residence is not located in a geo hazard zone therefore Geotechnical
review was not required.
FINDINGS
The findings required for issuance of a Design Review Approval pursuant to City Code Section
Article 15-45.080 are set forth below and the Applicant has met the burden of proof to support
making all of those required findings:
a. Site development follows the natural contours of the site, minimizes grading, and is
appropriate given the property’s natural constraints.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the project minimizes changes to the
contours of the site. Grading will be limited to the location of the new home, driveway,
walkways and swimming pool.
b. All protected trees shall be preserved, as provided in Article 15-50 (Tree Regulations). If
constraints exist on the property, the number of protected trees, heritage trees, and native
trees approved for removal shall be reduced to an absolute minimum. Removal of any
smaller oak trees deemed to be in good health by the City Arborist shall be minimized
using the criteria set forth in Section 15-50.080.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the City Arborist has reviewed and
recommends approval for the proposed removal of five protected trees. The number of trees
to be removed is being kept to a minimum and limited to trees that are in poor condition and
in conflict with the location of the project. A total of eight protected trees will remain on the
site.
c. The height of the structure, its location on the site, and its architectural elements are
designed to avoid unreasonable impacts to the privacy of adjoining properties and to
community viewsheds.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the home has a proposed height does not
exceed the maximum allowable height for a single-family residence and proposed setbacks
that are greater than the minimum required by the zoning district. No community viewsheds
are located in the vicinity of the project.
68
Report to the Planning Commission
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road/503-82-044
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
May 13, 2020
Page | 5
d. The overall mass and height of the structure, and its architectural elements are in scale
with the structure itself and with the neighborhood.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the project will create a two-story
residence in a neighborhood with both one and two-story structures. The project includes
architectural elements consistent with the contemporary architectural style which are in
scale with the structure and the neighborhood.
e. The landscape design minimizes hardscape in the front setback area and contains
elements that are complementary to the neighborhood streetscape.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the hardscape will be less than 50% of
the front setback area and limited to a driveway and walkway.
f. Development of the site does not unreasonably impair the ability of adjoining properties
to utilize solar energy.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the development will not unreasonably
impair the ability of adjoining properties to utilize solar energy as the project exceeds
required setbacks and has a proposed height that does not exceed the maximum allowable
height for a single-family residence.
g. The design of the structure and the site development plan is consistent with the
Residential Design Handbook, pursuant to Section 15-45.055.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because the proposed project incorporates
applicable design policies and techniques from the Residential Design Handbook. The
overall mass and height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is
set back in proportion to the size and shape of the lot. In addition, the proposed materials,
colors, and details enhance the architecture in a well-composed manner which is
complementary to the architectural style of the home.
h. On hillside lots, the location and the design of the structure avoid unreasonable impacts
to ridgelines, significant hillside features, community viewsheds, and is in compliance
with Section 15-13.100.
This finding can be made in the affirmative because the property is not a hillside lot.
Neighbor Notification and Correspondence
A public notice was sent to property owners within 500 feet of the site. In addition, the public
hearing notice and description of the project was published in the Saratoga News. The applicant
submitted four completed neighborhood notification forms, one of which had no negative project
related comments and three which expressed concerns with the project (Attachment 3). The
comments expressed concerns with the proposed location of the driveway and that the existing
shrubs obscure the line of sight from Oakwood Court onto Saratoga Sunnyvale Road.
69
Report to the Planning Commission
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road/503-82-044
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
May 13, 2020
Page | 6
Per the Public Works Department and Engineering Staff, the proposed driveway entrance near the
corner of Oakwood Court and Saratoga Sunnyvale Road is compliant with driveway design
standards. In addition, the applicant is proposing to remove the shrubs at the corner of Oakwood
Court and Saratoga Sunnyvale Road which will help with the line of sight issues raised by the
neighbors.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant Section
15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class 3 (a) of the Public Resources
Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of three single-family residences in a
residential area, including small structures. The project, as proposed, is for the construction of a new
home in a suburban, residential area.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution No. 20-002
2. Arborist Report
3. Neighbor Notification Forms
4. Materials Board
5. Story Pole Certification
6. Project Plans
70
At
RESOLUTION NO: 20-002
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
APPROVING DESIGN REVIEW PDR19-0010 AND ARBORIST REPORT ARB19-0033
SARATOGA SUNNYVALE ROAD (APN 503-82-044)
WHEREAS, on May 22, 2019 an application was submitted by Anthem Realty Ventures,
LLC requesting Design Review approval to construct a 4,210 square foot two story residence
located at the corner of Saratoga Sunnyvale Road and Oakwood Court (APN 503-82-044). Five
protected trees are proposed for removal. The site is located within the R-1-12,500 zoning district.
WHEREAS, the Community Development Department completed an environmental
assessment for the project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
and recommends that the Planning Commission determine this project Categorically Exempt.
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2020 the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing
on the subject application, and considered evidence presented by City Staff, the applicant, and other
interested parties.
NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga hereby finds,
determines and resolves as follows:
Section 1: The recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated herein by
reference.
Section 2: The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) pursuant Section 15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class
3(a) of the Public Resources Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of a single-
family residence and small structures in a residential area.
Section 3: The proposed residence is consistent with the following Saratoga General Plan
Policies: Land Use Goal 13 which provides that the City shall use the Design Review process to
assure that the new construction and major additions thereto are compatible with the site and the
adjacent surroundings; Safety Element Site and Drainage Policy 3 which provides that the City shall
require that landscaping and site drainage plans be submitted and approved during Design Review
for a residence prior to issuance of permits; and Conservation Element Policy 6.0 which provides
that the City shall protect the existing rural atmosphere of Saratoga by carefully considering the
visual impact of new development.
Section 4: The proposed residence is consistent with the Saratoga City Code in that the
design and improvements are consistent with the design review findings. The overall mass and
height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is set back in proportion to
the size and shape of the lot; site development follows contours and is appropriate given the
property’s natural constraints; the porch and entry are in scale with other structures in the
neighborhood. In addition, the proposed materials, colors, and details enhance the architecture in a
well-composed, understated manner.
Attachment 1
71
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 2
Section 5: The City of Saratoga Planning Commission hereby approves PDR19-0010 and
ARB19-0033 located at the corner of Saratoga Sunnyvale Road and Oakwood Court (APN 503-82-
044), subject to the Findings, and Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit 1.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 13th day of
May 2020 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
72
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 3
Exhibit 1
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PDR19-0010 & ARB19-0033
SARATOGA SUNNYVALE ROAD (APN 503-82-044)
GENERAL
1. All conditions below which are identified as permanent or for which an alternative period of
time for applicability is specified shall run with the land and apply to the landowner’s
successors in interest for such time period. No zoning clearance, or demolition, grading for this
project shall be issued until proof is filed with the city that a certificate of approval documenting
all applicable permanent or other term-specified conditions has been recorded by the applicant
with the Santa Clara County Recorder’s office in form and content to the Community
Development Director. If a condition is not “Permanent” or does not have a term specified, it
shall remain in effect until the issuance by the City of Saratoga of a Certificate of Occupancy or
its equivalent.
2. The Owner and Applicant will be mailed a statement after the time the Resolution granting this
approval is duly executed, containing a statement of all amounts due to the City in connection
with this application, including all consultant fees (collectively “processing fees”). This
approval or permit shall expire sixty (60) days after the date said notice is mailed if all
processing fees contained in the notice have not been paid in full. No Zoning Clearance or
Demolition, Grading, or Building Permit may be issued until the City certifies that all
processing fees have been paid in full (and, for deposit accounts, a surplus balance of $500 is
maintained).
3. The Project shall maintain compliance with all applicable regulations of the State, County, City
and/or other governmental agencies having jurisdiction including, without limitation, the
requirements of the Saratoga City Code incorporated herein by this reference.
4. As a condition of this Approval, Owner and Applicant hereby agree to defend, indemnify and
hold the City and its officers, officials, boards, commissions, employees, agents and volunteers
harmless from and against:
a. any and all claims, actions or proceedings to attack, set aside, void or annul any action
on the subject application, or any of the proceedings, acts or determinations taken, done
or made prior to said action; and
b. any and all claims, demands, actions, expenses or liabilities arising from or in any
manner relating to the performance of such construction, installation, alteration or
grading work by the Owner and/or Applicant, their successors, or by any person acting
on their behalf.
In addition, prior to any Zoning Clearance, Owner and Applicant shall execute a separate
agreement containing the details of this required Agreement to Indemnify, Hold Harmless and
Defend, which shall be subject to prior approval as to form and content by the City Attorney.
73
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 4
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
5. PERMANENT CONDITION-The owner shall restrict the rental of the accessory dwelling unit
to only households that qualify as low, very-low, or extremely-low income households as those
terms are defined in the most recent Santa Clara County Housing and Urban Development
Program Income Limits or, in the event that the most recent such report is more than five years
old, in accordance with the definitions set forth in Health and Safety Code section 50079.5,
50105, and 50106 as those sections exist as of the effective date of this restriction. “Rental”
means any agreement whereby the occupant(s) of the accessory dwelling unit make any
payment in consideration of said occupancy. The Deed Restriction document shall be notarized
and recorded with the County of Santa Clara Clerks Office, prior to issuance of building permit.
6. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the city approved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
7. The development shall be located and constructed to include those features, and only those
features, as shown on the Approved Plans. All proposed changes to the approved plans must be
submitted in writing with plans showing the changes, including a clouded set of plans
highlighting the changes. Such changes shall be subject to approval in accordance with City
Code.
8. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall submit for staff approval, a Lighting
Plan for the home’s exterior and landscaped areas. Proposed exterior lighting shall be limited to
full-cut off & shielded fixtures with downward directed illumination so as not to shine on
adjacent properties or public right-of-way. All proposed exterior lighting shall be designed to
limit illumination to the site and avoid creating glare impacts to surrounding properties.
9. In order to comply with standards that minimize impacts to the neighborhood during site
preparation and construction, the applicant shall comply with City Code Sections 7-30.060 and
16-75.050, with respect to noise, construction hours, maintenance of the construction site and
other requirements stated in these sections.
10. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall prepare for review and approval by
City staff a Construction Management Plan for the project which includes but is not limited to
the following:
a. Proposed construction worker parking area.
b. Proposed construction hours that are consistent with City Code.
c. Proposed construction/delivery vehicle staging or parking areas.
d. Proposed traffic control plan with traffic control measures, any street closure, hours for
delivery/earth moving or hauling, etc. To the extent possible, any deliveries, earth
moving or hauling activities will be scheduled to avoid peak commute hours. 74
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 5
e. Proposed construction material staging/storage areas.
f. Location of project construction sign outlining permitted construction work hours, name
of project contractor and the contact information for both homeowner and contractor.
11. All fences, walls and hedges shall conform to height requirements provided in City Code
Section 15-29.
12. The final landscaping and irrigation plan submitted for Building Permit approval shall
demonstrate how the project complies with the State Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and
shall take into account the following:
a. To the extent feasible, landscaping shall be designed and operated to treat storm water
runoff by incorporating elements that collect, detain and infiltrate runoff. In areas that
provide detention of water, plants that are tolerant of saturated soil conditions and
prolong exposure to water shall be specified.
b. To the extent feasible, pest resistant landscaping plants shall be used throughout the
landscaped area, especially along any hardscape area.
c. Plant materials selected shall be appropriate to site specific characteristics such as soil
type, topography, climate, amount and timing of sunlight, prevailing winds, rainfall, air
movement, patterns of land use, ecological consistency and plant interactions to ensure
successful establishment.
d. Pest resistant landscaping plants shall be considered for use throughout the landscaped
area, especially along any hardscape area.
e. Any proposed or required under grounding of utilities shall take into account potential
damage to roots of protected trees
13. Front and exterior side yard landscaping shall be installed prior to final inspection or a bond
satisfactory to the Community Development Department valued at 150% of the estimated cost
of the installation of such landscaping shall be provided to the City.
14. A locking mailbox approved for use by the U.S. Postal service shall be installed and in
compliance with Saratoga Municipal Code section 6-25.030. The mailbox shall be installed
prior to final inspection.
15. A Building Permit must be issued, and construction commenced within 36 months from the date
of adoption of this Resolution or the Design Review Approval will expire unless extended in
accordance with the City Code.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
16. The owner/applicant shall comply with all Fire Department requirements.
ARBORIST
17. All requirements in the City Arborist report dated February 28, 2020 are hereby adopted as
conditions of approval and shall be implemented as part of the approved plans.
75
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 6
ENGINEERING/PUBLIC WORKS
18. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the city approved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
19. Applicant / Owner shall obtain an encroachment permit for any and all improvements in any City
right-of-way or City easement including all new utilities prior to commencement of the work to
implement this Design Review.
20. Applicant / Owner shall make the following improvements in the City right-of-way:
a. Repair and resurface the AC sidewalk on the project frontage.
See City of Saratoga Standard Details for removal and new installation. New flow line shall
conform to existing flow lines and grade.
21. Damages to driveway approach, curb and gutter, public streets, or other public improvements
during construction shall be repaired prior to final inspection.
22. All new/upgraded utilities shall be installed underground.
23. Applicant / Owner shall maintain the streets, sidewalks and other right of way as well as adjacent
properties, both public and private, in a clean, safe and usable condition. All spills of soil, rock or
construction debris shall be removed immediately.
24. The Owner/Applicant shall incorporate adequate source control measures to limit pollutant
generation, discharge, and runoff (e.g. landscaping that minimizes irrigation and runoff, promotes
surface infiltration where possible, minimizes the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and
incorporates appropriate sustainable landscaping practices and programs, such as Bay-Friendly
Landscaping).
25. All building and construction related activities shall adhere to New Development and
Construction – Best Management Practices as adopted by the City for the purpose of preventing
storm water pollution:
• Owner shall implement construction site inspection and control to prevent
construction site discharges of pollutants into the storm drains per approved Erosion
Control Plan.
• The City requires the construction sites to maintain year-round effective erosion
control, run-on and run-off control, sediment control, good site management, and
non-storm water management through all phases of construction (including, but not
limited to, site grading, building, and finishing of lots) until the site is fully stabilized
by landscaping or the installation of permanent erosion control measures.
76
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road (503-82-044)
Application # PDR19-0010/ARB19-0033
Resolution #20-002
Page | 7
• City will conduct inspections to determine compliance and determine the
effectiveness of the BMPs in preventing the discharge of construction pollutants into
the storm drain. Owner shall be required to timely correct all actual and potential
discharges observed.
26. Prior to the commencement of any earthwork/grading activities, the permittee shall arrange a pre-
construction meeting. The meeting shall include the City of Saratoga Grading Inspector (408-
868-1201), the grading contractor, and the project Soils Engineer. The permittee or representative
shall arrange the pre-construction meeting at least 48 hours prior to the start of any earthwork
activities.
27. Prior to foundation inspection by the City, the LLS of record shall provide a written certification
that all building setbacks are per the approved plans.
28. Prior to the Building final, all Public Works conditions shall be completed per approved plans.
29. Upon the completion of this project the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be
certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor and verified by the City's building
inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the
City’s Floodplain Administrator.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT SUBMITTAL
30. Four (4) sets of complete construction plans shall be submitted to the Building Division. These
plans shall be subject to review and approval by the City prior to issuance of Zoning Clearance.
The construction plans shall, at a minimum include the following:
a. Architectural drawings and other plan sheets consistent with those identified as Exhibit
“A” on file with the Community Development Department.
b. Arborist Report dated February 28, 2020 printed onto a separate plan page; and
c. All additional drawings, plans, maps, reports, notes, and/or materials required by the
Building Division.
d. This signed and dated Resolution printed onto separate construction plan pages.
e. The site plan shall contain a note with the following language: “Prior to foundation
inspection by the City, the Licensed Land Surveyor of record shall provide a written
certification that all building setbacks comply with the Approved Plans,” which note
shall represent a condition which must be satisfied to remain in compliance with this
Design Review Approval.
77
Community Development Department
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
www.saratoga.ca.us/171/trees
408.868.1276
CITY OF SARATOGA ARBORIST APPROVAL
Conditions of Approval and Tree Protection Plan
Prepared by Kate Bear, City Arborist Application No. ARB19-0033
Phone: (408) 868-1276 Address: Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
Email: kbear@saratoga.ca.us Owner: Anthem Realty Venture LLC
APN: 503-82-042 (Parcel A)
Date: February 28, 2020
PROJECT SCOPE:
The applicant has submitted plans to build a new two story house with a basement, attached two car
garage, carport, and swimming pool on a vacant lot. Five trees protected by City Code (21, 23, 25, 26
and 34) are requested for removal to construct the project.
PROJECT DATA IN BRIEF:
Tree security deposit – Required - $21,690
Tree protection – Required – See Conditions of Approval and attached map.
Tree removals – Trees 21, 23, 25, 26 and 34 are approved for removal once
building permits have been issued.
Replacement trees – Required = $23,880
ATTACHMENTS:
1 – Findings and Tree Information
2 – Tree Removal Criteria
3 – Conditions of Approval
4 – Map Showing Tree Protection
Attachment 2
78
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 1
FINDINGS:
Tree Removals
According to Section 15-50.080 of the City Code, whenever a tree is requested for removal
as part of a project, certain findings must be made and specific tree removal criteria met.
Five trees protected by City Code (21, 23, 25, 26 and 34) are requested for removal to
construct the project. They meet the City’s criteria allowing them to be removed and
replaced as part of the project, once building division permits have been obtained.
Trees 21, 23, 25 and 26 are requested for removal to install solar panels. There are
requirements that solar panels and new trees are to be installed prior to the removal of
the existing trees. This is not practical for a new house project. Therefore, the security
deposit will be increased to include all trees removed for the solar panels.
Table 1: Summary of Tree Removal Criteria that are met
Tree No. Species Criteria met Comments
21, 25, 26 Coast redwood 1, 7, 9 In conflict with driveway and solar panels
23 Aleppo pine 1, 7, 9 In conflict with driveway and solar panels
34 Coast live oak 1, 7, 9 In conflict with pool
Attachment 2 contains the tree removal criteria for reference.
New Construction
Based on the information provided, and as conditioned, this project complies with the
requirements for the setback of new construction from existing trees under Section 15 -
50.120 of the City Code.
Tree Preservation Plan
Section 15-50.140 of the City Code requires a Tree Preservation Plan for this project. To
satisfy this requirement the following shall be copied onto a plan sheet and included in the
final sets of plans:
1) The tree information and recommendations from the submitted arborist report
dated August 8, 2020;
2) The Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing tree
protection from this report dated February 28, 2020.
79
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 1
TREE INFORMATION:
Project Arborist: Richard Gessner, Monarch Consulting Arborists, LLC
Date of Report: August 8, 2019
Number of protected trees inventoried: 13
Number of protected trees requested for removal: 5
A table summarizing information about each tree is below.
Table 2: Tree information from arborist report dated August 8, 2019.
80
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 1
Table 3: Tree values from arborist report dated August 8, 2019.
81
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 2
TREE REMOVAL CRITERIA
Criteria that permit the removal of a protected tree are listed below. This information is from
Article 15-50.080 of the City Code and is applied to any tree requested for removal as part of the
project. If findings are made that meet the criteria listed below, the tree(s) may be approved for
removal and replacement during construction.
(1) The condition of the tree with respect to disease, imminent danger of falling, proximity to existing or
proposed structures and interference with utility services, and whether the tree is a Dead tree or a
Fallen tree.
(2) The necessity to remove the tree because of physical damage or threatened damage to
improvements or impervious surfaces on the property.
(3) The topography of the land and the effect of the tree remo val upon erosion, soil retention and the
diversion or increased flow of surface waters, particularly on steep slopes.
(4) The number, species, size and location of existing trees in the area and the effect the removal would
have upon shade, privacy impact, scenic beauty, property values, erosion control, and the general
welfare of residents in the area.
(5) The age and number of healthy trees the property is able to support according to good forestry
practices.
(6) Whether or not there are any alternatives that would allow for retaining or not encroaching on the
protected tree.
(7) Whether the approval of the request would be contrary to or in conflict with the general purpose
and intent of this Article.
(8) Any other information relevant to the public health, safety, or general welfare and the purposes of
this ordinance as set forth in Section 15-50.010
(9) The necessity to remove the tree for economic or other enjoyment of the property when there is no
other feasible alternative to the removal.
(10) The necessity to remove the tree for installation and efficient operation of solar panels, subject to
the requirements that the tree(s) to be removed, shall not be removed until solar panels have been
installed and replacement trees planted in conformance with the City Arborist's recommendation.
82
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 3
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1. Owner, Architect, Contractor: It is the responsibility of the owner, architect and contractor
to be familiar with the information in this report and implement the required conditions.
2. Permit:
a. Receipt of a Planning or Building permit does not relieve applicant of his responsibilities
for protecting trees per City Code Article 15-50 on all construction work.
b. No protected tree authorized for removal or encroachment pursuant to this project may
be removed or encroached upon until the issuance of the applicable permit from the
building division for the approved project.
3. Final Plan Sets:
a. Shall include the tree information and protection recommendations from the arborist
report by Richard Gessner dated August 8, 2019 copied onto a plan sheet.
b. Shall include the Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing
tree protection sections of the City Arborist report dated February 28, 2020.
4. Tree Protection Security Deposit:
a. Is required per City Ordinance 15-50.080.
b. Shall be $21,690 for tree(s) 16, 17, 27, 28, 29, 31, 32 and 35.
c. Shall be obtained by the owner and filed with the Community Development Department
before obtaining Building Division permits.
d. May be in the form of cash, check, credit card payment or a bond.
e. Shall remain in place for the duration of construction of the project.
f. May be released once the project has been completed, inspected and approved by the
City Arborist.
5. Tree Protection Fencing:
a. Shall be installed as shown on the attached map and shall be shown on the Site Plan.
b. Shall be established prior to the arrival of construction equipment or materials on site.
c. Shall be comprised of six-foot high chain link fencing mounted on 2-inch diameter
galvanized posts, driven into the ground and spaced no more than 10 feet apart.
d. Shall be posted with signs saying “TREE PROTECTION FENCE - DO NOT MOVE OR
REMOVE WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM CITY ARBORIST, KATE BEAR (408) 868-1276”.
e. Wherever protection is needed outside of fences, unprocessed wood chips, or approved
equivalent, shall be placed to the edge of the tree’s canopy and to a depth of 6 inches.
f. Call City Arborist, Kate Bear at (408) 868-1276 for an inspection of tree protection
fencing once it has been installed. This is required prior to obtaining building division
permits.
g. Tree protection fencing shall remain undisturbed throughout the constru ction until final
inspection.
6. Construction: All construction activities shall be conducted outside tree protection fencing
unless permitted as conditioned below. These activities include, but are not necessarily 83
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042 Attachment 3
limited to, the following: demolition, grading, trenching for utility installation, equipment
cleaning, stockpiling and dumping materials (including soil fill), and equipment/vehicle
operation and parking.
7. Work inside fenced areas:
a. Requires a field meeting and approval from City Arborist before performing work.
b. Requires Project Arborist on site to monitor work.
8. Project Arborist:
a. Shall be Richard Gessner unless otherwise approved by the City Arborist.
b. Shall visit the site every two weeks during grading, trenching or digging activities and
every six weeks thereafter.
c. A letter/email shall be provided to the City after each inspection which documents the
work performed around trees, includes photos of the work in progress, and provides
information on tree condition during construction.
d. The Project Arborist shall be on site to monitor all work within:
1. 25 feet of tree 35.
2. 12 feet of trees 27, 31 and 32.
e. Shall supervise any permitted pruning or root pruning of trees on site. Roots of
protected trees measuring two inches in diameter or more shall not be cut without prior
approval of the Project Arborist.
9. Tree removal: Trees 21, 23, 25, 26 and 34 meet the criteria for removal and may be
removed once building division permits have been obtained.
10. New trees: New trees equal to $23,880 shall be planted as part of the project before final
inspection and occupancy of the new home. New trees may be of any species and planted
anywhere on the property as long as they do not encroach on retained trees. Replacement
values for new trees are listed below.
15 gallon = $350 24 inch box = $500 36 inch box = $1,500
48 inch box = $5,000 60 inch box = 7,000 72 inch box = $15,000
11. Damage to protected trees that will be retained: Should any protected tree be damaged
beyond repair, new trees shall be required to replace the tree. If there is insufficient room
to plant the necessary number of new trees, some of the value for trees may be paid into
the City’s Tree Fund. Replacement values for new trees are listed under New Trees above.
12. Final inspection:
At the end of the project, when the contractor wants to remove tree protection fencing and
have the tree protection security deposit released by the City, call City Arborist for a final
inspection. Before scheduling a final inspection from the City Arborist, have the project
arborist do an inspection, prepare a letter with their findings and provide that letter to the
City for the project file.
84
Attachment 4
Legend
Tree Protection Fencing
Saratoga Sunnyvale Road
APN 503-82-042
35
21
23
25
26
28
29 31
32
27
34
16 17
85
Attachment 3
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
Attachment 4
93
Attachment 5
94
A11. PROVIDE "EARLY WARNING FIRE ALARM SYSTEM" THROUGHOUT ALL PORTIONS OFSTRUCTURE, INSTALLED PER CITY OF SARATOGA STANDARDS. PRIOR TO INSTALLATION,A LICENSED C-10 CONTRACTOR SHALL SUBMIT TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, PLANS ANDSPECIFICATIONS & LISTINGS, A COMPLETED PERMIT APPLICATION WITH APPLICABLEFEES FOR REVIEW AND APPROVAL.2. POTABLE WATER SUPPLIES SHALL BE PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION CAUSED BYFIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE APPLICANT ANDANY CONTRACTORS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS TO CONTACT THE WATER PURVEYORSUPPLYING THE SITE OF SUCH PROJECT, AND TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OFTHAT PURVEYOR. SUCH REQUIREMENTS SHALL BE INCORPORATED INTO THE DESIGN OFANY WATER-BASED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. FINAL APPROVAL OF THE SYSTEMUNDER CONSIDERATION WILL NOT BE GRANTED BY "FIRE DEPARTMENT" UNTILCOMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE WATER PURVEYOR OF RECORD AREDOCUMENTED BY THAT PURVEYOR AS HAVING BEEN MET BY THE APPLICANTS. (PER2016 CFC SECTION 903.3.5 AND HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE 13114.7).PRIOR TO FINAL INSPECTION FOR ANY BUILDING OR STRUCTURE, THEGEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER OR CIVIL ENGINEER WHO PREPARED THESOIL INVESTIGATION SHALL ISSUE A FINAL REPORT STATING THECOMPLETED PAD, FOUNDATION, FINISH GRADING, AND ASSOCIATEDSITE WORK SUBSTANTIALLY CONFORM TO THE APPROVED PLANS,SPECIFICATIONS, AND INVESTIGATION.a. CONSTRUCTION SITE SHALL BE ENCLOSED BY 6' OPAQUE FENCE AT ALL TIMES DURING CONSTRUCTION.b. NO CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL, EQUIPMENT, PORTABLE TOILETS, TRASH CONTAINERS, OR DEBRIS SHALL BEPLACED IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY.c. A TRASH CONTAINER SHALL BE MAINTAINED ON SITE AT ALL TIMES AND DEBRIS ON SITE WHICH COULDOTHERWISE BLOW AWAY, SHALL BE REGULARLY COLLECTED AND PLACED IN CONTAINER.d. ALL CONSTRUCTION DEBRIS (WOOD SCRAPS AND OTHER DEBRIS, WHICH CANNOT BLOW AWAY) SHALL BEPILED WITHIN THE PROPERTY LINES OF THE PROJECT IN A NEAT AND SAFE MANNER.e. THE PROJECT SHALL HAVE A SIGNAGE VIEWABLE FROM THE PUBLIC STREET THAT INDICATES THE HOURS OFCONSTRUCTION AS: MON-FRI FROM 07:30AM TO 06:00PM, SATURDAYS FROM 09:00AM TO 05:00PM3. NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS SHALL HAVE APPROVED ADDRESS NUMBER. BUILDINGNUMBER OR APPROVED BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SHALL BE PLACED IN A POSITIONTHAT IS VISIBLE FROM THE STREET OR ROAD FRONTING THE PROPERTY. THESENUMBERS SHALL CONTRAST WITH THEIR BACKGROUND. THESE NUMBERS SHALL ALSOBE PROVIDED IN ADDITIONAL LOCATION, AS REQUIRED BY FIRE DEPARTMENT, TOFACILITATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE. ADDRESS NUMBERS SHALL BE ARABIC NUMBERSOR ALPHABETICAL LETTERS. NUMBERS SHALL BE MINIMUM OF 4 INCHES HIGH WITH AMINIMUM STROKE WIDTH OF 0.5 INCH.4. AN AUTOMATIC RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM SHALL BE INSTALLED. A STATEOF CALIFORNIA LICENSED (C-16) FIRE PROTECTION CONTRACTOR SHALL SUBMIT PLANS,CALCULATIONS, A COMPLETED PERMIT APPLICATION AND APPROPRIATE FEES TO FIREDEPARTMENT FOR REVIEW AND APPROVAL PRIOR TO BEGINNING OF THIS WORK. CRCSECTION 313.2 AS ADOPTED AND AMENDED BY SMC.5. ALL CONSTRUCTION SITES MUST COMPLY WITH APPLICABLE PROVISIONS OF THE CFCCHAPTER 33 AND FIRE DEPARTMENT STANDARD DETAIL AND SPECIFICATIONS SI-7. PERCFC CHAPTER 33.LOWEST ELEVATION POINT AT THE BUILDING'S EDGEFROMT NATURAL GRADEHIGHEST ELEVATION POINT AT THE BUILDING'S EDGEFROM NATURAL GRADEAVERAGE ELEVATION POINT (BASED ON HIGHESTAND LOWEST POINTS ABOVE)TOP MOST ELEVATION POINT-MEASURED FROMAVERAGE POINT (ABOVE) TO THE TOP MOST POINTOF THE ROOF107.41107.01107.21132.21ARCHITECTURAL:A-1.0 TITLE PAGE & ABBREVIATIONSA-1.1 GENERAL NOTESA-1.2 GENERAL NOTESA-2.0 SITE PLANA-3.0 FIRST FLOOR PLANA-3.1 SECOND FLOOR PLANA-3.2 BASEMENT FLOOR PLANA-4.0 ROOF PLANA-5.0 ELEVATIONSA-5.1 ELEVATIONSA-6.0 SECTION ELEVATIONA-7.0 ARCHITECTURAL DETAILSCIVIL:C0 GENERAL NOTESC1 TREE PROTECTION PLANC2 GRADING, DRAINAGE & TREE REMOVAL PLANC3 EROSION CONTROL PLAN & DETAILSC4 DETAILSC5 BMP REQUIREMENTSTOPOGRAPHIC SURVEY:T-1 TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEYTITLE SHEETVICINITY MAPA1.0ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INC0 OAKWOOD COURTSARATOGA,CA-95070PROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYSITEAttachment 695
” ” “” ” ” ” “” C. ‘’ ‘’ ൈಫಬರರರರರರರ“”” ””” GENERAL NOTESA1.1ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INC0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA,CA-95070PROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY96
”” ’ ͒ ”’ ͒ ͒ ͒ ͒ ” ” ” ” ” ” ” “”“”“”“”GENERAL NOTESA1.2ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INC0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA,CA-95070PROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY97
20' AE & PUE5' SDEPARCEL A15,717 SF GROSS13,156 SF NET25' BSBL25' BSBLSARATOGA -SUNNYVALE ROAD ROW (WIDTH VARIES)10' SSEPARCEL C359 M 21APN: 503-82-013LOT 357 M 15-16APN: 503-82-010LOT 157 M 15-16APN: 503-82-00810' BSBLN02°17'15"W 128.50'BASIS OF BEARINGSS02°20'08"E 125.05'10' BSBL15' BSBL30' BSBLS87°03'15"W 58.87'S87°42'45"W 30.23'S02°17'15"E9.55'S66°04'
1
3"
W
29.59'N66°21'47"W13.19'22.65'N36°05'54"WPARCEL B918 M 31-32APN: 503-82-042OAKWOOD COURT (20')106104104106108110112112110108FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)N87°42'45"E 141.11'TR35
TR28
TR16
TR21
TR23
TR26
TR26
TR27
TR32
TR29
TR31
TR34
TR17
TR25 A2.0SITE PLANANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYNOTE:TREES 21, 23, 25, 26 IN FRONT OF THE HOUSE,34 IN REAR ARE RECOMMENDED FOR REMOVALBY SOLAR COMPANY FOR INSTALLATION OFSOLAR FOR NEW HOUSE, SEE LETTER FROMSOLAR COMPANY & SOLAR PANEL LAYOUTINFORMATION ON THIS SHEET0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-9507098
ProjectSaratoga, CA 95070Saratoga, CA 9507013001 Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadVOICE: 408.391.8297; 925.594.2302Managed By0 Oakwood Courte-mail: indychadha@yahoo.comAnthem Green Devp. Inc.IncorporatedAnthem GreenDevelopmentNORTHESWNPROPOSEDFIRST FLOORPLANA-3.099
ProjectSaratoga, CA 95070Saratoga, CA 9507013001 Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadVOICE: 408.391.8297; 925.594.2302Managed By0 Oakwood Courte-mail: indychadha@yahoo.comAnthem Green Devp. Inc.IncorporatedAnthem GreenDevelopmentPROPOSEDSECOND FLOORPLANA-3.1100
ProjectSaratoga, CA 95070Saratoga, CA 9507013001 Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadVOICE: 408.391.8297; 925.594.2302Managed By0 Oakwood Courte-mail: indychadha@yahoo.comAnthem Green Devp. Inc.IncorporatedAnthem GreenDevelopmentSPROPOSEDBASEMENT FLOORPLANA-3.2101
A4.0ROOF PLANANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYNOTE:THIS HOUSE WILL BE EQUIPPED WITH SOLARPANELS INSTALLED ON ROOF. SEE SHEET A2.1FOR SOLAR PANEL LAYOUT0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070102
AVERAGE GRADEFINISH FLOOR GRADETOP of PLATE2nd FLOOR LEVELPLATE LEVELFINISH FLOOR GRADETOP of ROOFAVERAGE GRADEFINISH FLOOR GRADETOP of PLATE2nd FLOOR LEVEL 119.71PLATE LEVEL 118.71FINISH FLOOR GRADEROOF LEVEL128.71119.71118.71108.71132.21107.21108.71107.21108.71128.71108.71132.21A5.0ELEVATIONSANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070103
AVERAGE GRADE107.21FINISH FLOOR GRADE108.71TOP of PLATE128.712nd FLOOR LEVEL119.71PLATE LEVEL118.71FINISH FLOOR GRADE108.71ROOF LEVEL132.21AVERAGE GRADEFINISH FLOOR GRADETOP of PLATE2nd FLOOR LEVELPLATE LEVELFINISH FLOOR GRADEROOF LEVELPLATE LEVEL AT PORCH121.21107.21108.71128.71119.71118.71108.71132.21A5.1ELEVATIONSANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070104
117' - 9"ROOF LEVEL132.21'FG=107.41'FINISH GRADE=98.71'TOP of PLATE128.712nd FLOOR LEVEL119.71PLATE LEVEL118.71FINISH FLOOR GRADE108.71HIGH POINT AT SECOND FLOOR 129.71TOP of PLATE2nd FLOOR LEVELPLATE LEVELFINISH FLOOR GRADEROOF LEVEL132.21'FG=107.41'128.71119.71118.71108.71FINISH GRADE=98.71'A6.0SECTIONELEVATIONANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070105
ProjectSaratoga, CA 95070Saratoga, CA 9507013001 Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadVOICE: 408.391.8297; 925.594.2302Managed By0 Oakwood Courte-mail: indychadha@yahoo.comAnthem Green Devp. Inc.IncorporatedAnthem GreenDevelopmentARCHITECTURALDETAILSA-7.0106
GRADING &EROSION CONTROLNOTESC0ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070107
20' AE & PUE5' SDEPARCEL A15,717 SF GROSS13,156 SF NET25' BSBL25' BSBLSARATOGA -SUNNYVALE ROAD ROW (WIDTH VARIES)10' SSEPARCEL C359 M 21APN: 503-82-013LOT 357 M 15-16APN: 503-82-01057 M 15-16APN: 503-82-00810' BSBLN02°17'15"W 128.50'BASIS OF BEARINGSS02°20'08"E 125.05'10' BSBL15' BSBL30' BSBLS87°03'15"W 58.87'S87°42'45"W 30.23'S02°17'15"E9.55'S66°04'13"W29.59'N66°21'47"W13.19'22.65'N36°05'54"WPARCEL B918 M 31-32APN: 503-82-042OAKWOOD COURT (20')106104104106108110112112110108FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)N87°42'45"E 141.11'TR16TR17TR21TR23TR25TR27TR28TR32TR29TR31TR24TR34TR35TREE PROTECTION FENCEDO NOT MOVE OR REMOVEWITHOUT APPROVAL FROMCITY ARBORISTKATE BEAR408 868-1276TREE PROTECTION FENCING DETAIL1. ALL TREE DIMENSIONS ARE THE DIAMETER AT 46" ABOVE GRADE.2. TREE FENCING SHALL INCLUDE:·SIX-FOOT HIGH CHAIN LINK FENCING MOUNTED ON EIGHT-FOOT TALL, 2-INCH DIAMETER GALVANIZED POSTS, DRIVEN 24INCHES INTO THE GROUND AND SPACED NO MORE THAN 10 FEET APART.· POSTED WITH SIGNS SAYING "TREE PROTECTION FENCE - DO NOT MOVE OR REMOVE WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM CITYARBORIST - KATE BEAR 408 868-1276".· THE CITY REQUIRES THAT TREE PROTECTION FENCING BE INSTALLED BEFORE ANY EQUIPMENT COMES ON SITE AND INSPECTEDBY THE CITY ARBORIST BEFORE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS.· TREE PROTECTION FENCING IS REQUIRED TO REMAIN IN PLACE THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION.3. TREE PROTECTION FENCING MUST BE INSTALLED AT A MINIMUM RADIUS OF THE TREE PROTECTION ZONE (TPZ) OF TREES.(TPZ DEFINED AS 5' (FT) BEYOND CANOPY OF TREE, SEE TREE PROTECTION FENCE LAYOUT DETAIL)4. THE TREE PROTECTION FENCING MUST NOT BE VIOLATED FOR THE ENTIRE DURATION OF THE PROJECT WITHOUT APPROVALFROM URBAN FORESTRY STAFF.5. THERE WILL BE ZERO TOLERANCE FOR STORING OR PARKING VEHICLES, SUPPLIES, OR EQUIPMENT UNDER PROTECTEDTREES.6. IMPACT PROTECTION DEVICES MUST BE REMOVED AFTER CONSTRUCTION.7. WARNING SIGNS TO BE MADE OF DURABLE, WEATHERPROOF MATERIAL. LETTERS TO BE 3" HIGH MINIMUM, CLEARLY LEGIBLEAND SPACED AS SHOWN.8. SIGNS SHALL BE PLACED AT 50' MAXIMUM INTERVALS. PLACE A SIGN AT EACH END OF LINEAR TREE PROTECTION AND 50' ONCENTER THEREAFTER. FOR TREE PROTECTION AREAS LESS THAN 200' IN PERIMETER, PROVIDE NO LESS THAN ONE SIGN PERPROTECTION AREA.9. ATTACH SIGNS SECURELY TO FENCE POSTS AND FABRIC. MAINTAIN TREE PROTECTION FENCE THROUGHOUT DURATION OFPROJECT10. TREE PROTECTION FENCING SHALL BE INSPECTED BY CITY ARBORIST PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF BUILDING PERMITS.11. THE OWNER/APPLICANT WILL BE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN, AND FILE WITH THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, A TREEPROTECTION SECURITY DEPOSIT PRIOR TO OBTAINING BUILDING DIVISION PERMITS.12. THE TREE PROTECTION SECURITY DEPOSIT IS TO REMAIN IN PLACE FOR THE DURATION OF CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROJECTTO ENSURE THE PROTECTION OF THE TREES.13. ONCE THE PROJECT HAS BEEN COMPLETED, INSPECTED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY ARBORIST (A BUILDING INSPECTORCANNOT RELEASE THE TREE SECURITY DEPOSIT), THE BOND WILL BE RELEASED.NOTES:TREE PROTECTION ZONETHE TREE PROTECTION ZONE IS THE DISTANCE FROM THE TRUNK TO A POINT THAT IS FIVE FEET BEYOND THECANOPY OF A TREE PROTECTED BY CITY CODE. TREE PROTECTION FENCING SHALL BE LOCATED AS CLOSETO THIS LOCATION AS POSSIBLE WHILE ALLOWING ROOM FOR CONSTRUCTION TO OCCUR.TREE PROTECTIONPLANC1ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC13605 SURREY LANE,SARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYLEGENDTREE PROTECTION ZONETREE PROTECTION FENCE0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070108
20' AE & PUE5' SDEPARCEL A15,717 SF GROSS13,156 SF NET25' BSBL25' BSBLSARATOGA -SUNNYVALE ROAD ROW (WIDTH VARIES)10' SSEPARCEL C359 M 21APN: 503-82-013LOT 357 M 15-16APN: 503-82-010LOT 157 M 15-16APN: 503-82-00810' BSBLN02°17'15"W 128.50'BASIS OF BEARINGSS02°20'08"E 125.05'10' BSBL15' BSBL30' BSBLS87°03'15"W 58.87'S87°42'45"W 30.23'S02°17'15"E9.55'S66°04'13"W29.59'N66°21'47"W13.19'22.65'N36°05'54"WPARCEL B918 M 31-32APN: 503-82-042OAKWOOD COURT (20')106104104106108110112112110108FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)N87°42'45"E 141.11'TR16TR17TR21TR23TR25TR27TR28TR32TR29TR31TR34TR35TR24C2GRADING &DRAINAGE PLANANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYEXCAVATIONLENGTHWIDTH DEPTHQUANTITY30' 8' 11' 30'x8'x11'=2,640 CF, = 97.8, say 98 CY42' 5' 11'52' 18' 11'46' 12' 11'42'x5'x11'=2,310 CF, = 85.6, say 86 CY52'x18'x11'=10,296 CF, 381.3, say 382 CY46'x12'x11'=6,072 CF, 224.89, say 225 CYGRADING QUANTITIESTOTAL = 789 CYBACKFILL CONSIST OF SOIL FILLED IN OVER-EXCAVATED AREA BEHINDRETAINING WALL. AND IS CALCULATED BASED ON A WIDTH OF 12" BEHINDR.W. (BEYOND THE 12" DRAIN MATERIAL). PERIMETER OF WALL LENGTH IS190', THUS THE BACKFILL QUANTITY WILL BE:(190'x1'x11')= 2,090 CF, 77.4, say 78 CYBACKFILLNET QUANTITY = [(789-78) = 711 CY OF OFFHAUL FROM SITE1"=10'-0"GRADING NOTES:1. PRIOR TO GRADING, THE PROPOSED STRUCTURES PAD AREAS, WITHMINIMUM 3 FEET OFFSET, IF APPLICABLE, SHOULD BE CLEARED OF ALLOBSTRUCTIONS AND DELETERIOUS MATERIALS. EXISTING CONCRETEFOUNDATION, ASPHALT AND PIPES SHOULD BE REMOVED.2. AFTER CLEARING AND REMOVING, THE PROPOSED STRUCTURE PAD AREASSHOULD BE STRIPPED (4"-6" AS NECESSARY) OF ALL ORGANIC TOPSOIL.FINAL DEPTH OF STRIPPING SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY TNE IN FIELD. THEPREDOMINANTLY ORGANIC MATERIAL FROM THE STRIPPING SHOULD BEREMOVED FROM THE SITE.3. THE EXPOSED NATIVE SOIL SHOULD BE SCARIFIED AND BE WATERED ORAERATED AS NECESSARY TO BRING THE SOILS TO A MOISTURE CONTENT2.0% ABOVE OPTIMUM MOISTURE CONTENT. THE SUB-GRADE SHOULD BEUNIFORMLY RE-COMPACTED TO 90% RC.4. FOR BASEMENT EXCAVATION, THE EXCAVATION SHALL BE EITHER BENCHEDAROUND THE AREAS OF EXCAVATION OR INSTALL SHORING. IF SHORINGOPTION IS USED, THE SHORING SHALL BE DESIGNED BY A CIVIL ENGINEERLICENSED IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA. FOR BENCHING OPTION, SOILWITHIN 6' OF PERIMETER FOOTING SHALL STAY UNDISTURBED.0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070109
20' AE & PUE5' SDEPARCEL A15,717 SF GROSS13,156 SF NET25' BSBL25' BSBLSARATOGA -SUNNYVALE ROAD ROW (WIDTH VARIES)10' SSEPARCEL C359 M 21APN: 503-82-013LOT 357 M 15-16APN: 503-82-01010' BSBLN02°17'15"W 128.50'BASIS OF BEARINGSS02°20'08"E 125.05'10' BSBL15' BSBL30' BSBLS87°03'15"W 58.87'S87°42'45"W 30.23'S02°17'15"E9.55'S66°04'13"W29.59'N66°21'47"W13.19'22.65'N36°05'54"WPARCEL B918 M 31-32APN: 503-82-042OAKWOOD COURT (20')106101046112110108FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)N87°42'45"E 141.11'C3ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INC0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070PROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY1"=10'-0"EROSION PREVENTION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL NOTES:EROSION CONTROLPLAN, NOTES &DETAILS110
DETAILSC4ANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INCPROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BY0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA, CA-95070111
C5CITY OF SARATOGABMP REQUIREMENTSANTHEM GREENDEVELOPERS INC12988B Saratoga Sunnyvale RoadSARATOGA, CA-95070.deepakanthem@gmail.comPhone: (408)391-8267ANTHEM GREEN DEVP INC0 OAKWOOD CT.SARATOGA,CA-95070PROJECT:DESIGN & MANAGED BYN.T.S.112
20' AE & PUE5' SDEPARCEL A15,717 SF GROSS13,156 SF NET25' BSBL25' BSBLSARATOGA -SUNNYVALE ROAD ROW (WIDTH VARIES)10' SSELOT 157 M 15-16APN: 503-82-00810' BSBLN02°17'15"W 128.50'BASIS OF BEARINGSS02°20'08"E 125.05'10' BSBL15' BSBL30' BSBLS87°03'15"W 58.87'S87°42'45"W 30.23'S02°17'15"E9.55'S66°04'
1
3"
W
29.59'N66°21'47"W13.19'22.65'N36°05'54"WPARCEL B918 M 31-32APN: 503-82-042OAKWOOD COURT (20')106104104106108110112108FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)FND PK NAIL(918 M 31)N87°42'45"E 141.11'REFERENCES:BASIS OF BEARINGS:THE MONUMENT LINE IN OAKWOOD COURT AS SHOWN HEREON AND ON THAT CERTAIN PARCEL MAP (918 MAPS 31-32)TAKEN AS NORTH 87°42'45" EAST WAS USED AS THE BASIS OFBEARINGS FOR THIS SURVEY.SHEET 1 OF 1BEING A SURVEY OF PARCEL AAS DELINEATED ON THAT CERTAIN PARCEL MAPFILED FOR RECORD ON OCTOBER 22, 2018IN BOOK 918 OF MAPS, PAGES 31 & 32SARATOGA, COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA, CAAPN: 503-82-043 NOVEMBER 12, 2019CONSISTING OF ONE SHEET1736 Ravizza Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95051408/394-9281, americanbaseline.comAmerican Baseline CompanyTOPOGRAPHICALLAND SURVEYSURVEY CONTROL:SSMHELEVATION=105.10'(ASSUMED DATUM)SITE BENCHMARKLEGEND113
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. 20-004 recommending that the City Council approvethe proposed change to
Section 15-50.080,Tree Regulations (Zoning) of the Saratoga City Code to allowthe removal of
trees that would contribute to the increased risk and spread of wildfire.
BACKGROUND
ThepurposeofthisordinanceamendmentistoreducetheriskofwildfireforresidentsintheWildland
UrbanInterface(WUI)areaoftheCity.AccordingtodatafromtheCaliforniaDepartmentofForestry
and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) eight ofthetoptwentymost destructive fires in thestate haveoccurred
since 2017. Cal Fire found that the number and severity of wildfires in northern California has
significantly increased and they have affected urban areas in addition to wildlands. In addition, the
Santa Clara County Fire Department recommends the removal of specific types of trees, including
Montereypines and certain species of Eucalyptus, in veryhigh fire hazard locations to lower the risk
of wildfire.
ThePlanningCommission2019workplanidentifiedasacorepriority,amendmentstotheCity’stree
removal regulations to address fire danger. In February 2019, in an effort to better protect Saratoga
residents from therisk ofwildfire, theCity Council created a Wildfire Public SafetyTask Force, and
directedthem to researchfire protection guidelinesand providerecommendationstothetree removal
criteriain the CityCode.
DISCUSSION
This risk of wildfire is significant in Saratoga and surrounding communities. Several neighboring
communities have made it easier to remove certain species that contribute to the spread of a wildfire.
Inthesecities,speciesthatarefastgrowingandmaybeinvasivenon-nativesaremoreeasilypermitted
Meeting Date:May 13,2020
Application:Amendment to Tree Regulations/ZOA20-0004
Address/APN:Citywide
Owner/Applicant:City of Saratoga
From:Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Report Prepared by:Kate Bear, City Arborist
114
Report tothePlanningCommission
Amendment to TreeRegulations/ ZOA20-0004
May13, 2020
Page | 2forremoval.In LosAltosHillsandPortolaValley,fast-growingnon-nativespeciesarenotprotected,
and only specific natives over a certain size (oaks, big leaf maple, madrone, Douglas fir, redwoods
and California bay) are protected. Los Gatos and Monte Sereno call out specific undesirable species
which are protected only after theyreach a relatively large trunk diameter (24 inches in Los Gatos).
Nearly half of Saratoga is located in a Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) with a very high risk of
wildfire, and the Wildfire Public Safety Task Force is making recommendations to address this
concern.Theyarerecommendingthat propertiesintheWUIcreateadefensiblespacewithin100feet
of structures ontheproperty, consistent with Cal Fire recommendations. A defensible space includes
the removal of dead brush, bushes or tree branches, creating space between bushes and lower limbs
on trees, pruning tree limbs away from structures, ensuring that landscaping is healthy and wonʟt
easilycatchfire,andremovingfuelladders.Ifadefensiblespacecannotbeadequatelycreatedwithout
removing a tree, theTask Force would like theCity Codeʟs tree removal criteria to provide an option
to remove a tree once a permit has been obtained, based on a new criterion proposed specifically to
reduce theriskofwildfire. TheTask Force emphasizedtheimportance of creating a defensible space
to the extent possible before applying for a permit to remove a tree.
Therefore, theTask Forceis recommendingthat a new tree removalcriterion beadded toSection15-
50.080that addresses trees located in theWUI, and reads as follows:
(11) The necessity to remove a tree following the creation of a defensible space within
100 feet of a structure located within the Wildland Urban Interface, in accordance
with defensible space standards established by CAL FIRE or as determined by
Santa Clara County Fire Department, and that risk of increased wildfire cannot
reasonably be addressed through maintenance or without tree removal.
The process for obtaining a tree removal permit would remain the same as for all other requests for
tree removal. An application for tree removal wouldrequireCityArborist inspectionand notification
of neighbors who live within 150 feet of the property prior to approving a permit. If a large number
of trees is requested for removal, CityCode Sections 15-50.080(b) and (d),15-50.130 and 15-50.140
providetheDirectorwiththeabilitytorequireanarboristreport,atreepreservationplanandasecurity
deposit, the cost of which would be at the expense of the applicant.
The Task Force has also recommended for Council to consider a moratorium on tree replacement
requirements through December 31,2020 for trees removed to reduce theriskof wildfire and usethe
City’s Tree Fund for fuel reduction purposes to mitigate wildfire risks. Minutes from theFebruary3,
2020 Task Force meeting can be foundin Attachment 2.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution No. 20-004
2. WildfirePublic SafetyTask Force Meeting Minutes dated February3, 2020
3. Cal Fire Guidelines for Maintaining a Defensible Space
115
RESOLUTION NO:20-004
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 15-50.080, TREE
REGULATIONS, OF THE CITY CODE; ZOA20-0004
WHEREAS, in February 2019 the City Council formed a Wildfire Public Safety
Task Force, and directed them to make recommendations to reduce the risk of wildfire in
the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas of Saratoga; and
WHEREAS,ThePlanningCommission 2019 work plan identified asa corepriority,
amendments to the City’s tree permit regulations to address an increased risk of fire danger
and make it possible to remove a tree that increases the risk of wildfire for properties in the
WUI; and
WHEREAS,on May13, 2020, thePlanning Commission held a duly noticedPublic
Hearing on the proposed amendment to the City Code and considered evidence presented by
CityStaff and all interested parties.
NOW THEREFORE,the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga hereby
finds, determines and resolves as follows:
Section 1: The recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated herein
byreference.
Section 2:The proposed amendment to the City Code is categorically exempt from
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guideline Sections
15304(b) and 15304(i), Minor Alterations to Land. The Code change constitutes minor
alterations to landscapingand an activity for management of fuel.
Section 3: After careful consideration ofthestaffreport and other materials,exhibits
and evidence submitted to the City in connection with this matter, the Planning Commission
of the City of Saratoga does hereby recommend that the City Council amend the City Code
as shown in Exhibit A.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 13
th
day of May, 2020 by the following vote:
116
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
Attachment:
Exhibit A - Proposed amendment to Section 15-50.080 [Tree Regulations] of the Saratoga
CityCode.
117
Exhibit A
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDED AMENDMENT TO
SECTION 15-50.080 OF THE SARATOGA CITY CODE
The Planning Commission recommends that the Saratoga City Code be amended as set
forth below. Text to be added is indicated in bold double-underlined font (e.g.,bold
double-underlined) and text to be deleted is indicated in strikeout font (e.g., strikeout).
Text in standard font remains unchanged bythis ordinance.
Section 15-50.080 of the Tree Regulations of the Saratoga City Code is amended as
follows:
15-50.080 - Determination on permit.
(a) Criteria.Each application for a tree removal pruning or encroachment permit shall be
reviewed and determined on the basis of the following criteria:
(1) The condition of the tree with respect to disease, imminent danger of falling,
proximity to existing or proposed structures and interference with utility
services, and whether the tree is a Dead tree or a Fallen tree.
(2) The necessity to remove the tree because of physical damage or threatened
damage to improvements or impervious surfaces on the property.
(3) The topography of the land and the effect of the tree removal upon erosion, soil
retention and the diversion or increased flow of surface waters, particularly on
steep slopes.
(4) The number, species, size and location of existing trees in the area and the effect
the removal would have upon shade, privacy impact, scenic beauty, property
values, erosion control, and the general welfare of residents.
(5) The age and number of healthy trees the property is able to support according to
good forestry practices.
(6) Whether or not there are any alternatives that would allow for retaining or not
encroaching on the protected tree.
(7) Whether the approval of the request would be contrary to or in conflict with the
general purpose and intent of this Article.
118
(8) Any other information relevant to the public health, safety, or general welfare
and the purposes of this ordinance as set forth in Section 15-50.010.
(9) The necessity to remove the tree for economic or other enjoyment of the
property when there is no other feasible alternative to the removal.
(10) The necessity to remove the tree for installation and efficient operation of solar
panels, subject to the requirements that the tree(s) to be removed, shall not be
removed until solar panels have been installed and replacement trees planted in
conformance with the City Arborist's recommendation.
(11) The necessity to remove a tree following the creation of defensible space
within 100 feet of a structure located within the Wildland Urban Interface,
in accordance with defensible space standards established by CAL FIRE or
as determined by Santa Clara County Fire Department, and that risk of
increased wildfire cannot reasonably be addressed through maintenance or
without tree removal.
(b) Additional recommendations.The Community Development Director may refer
the application to another department, commission or person for a report and
recommendation. The Director may also require the applicant to furnish a written
report from an ISA Certified Arborist acceptable to the Director, such report to be
obtained at the sole expense of the applicant. At the discretion of the Community
Development Director, City Arborist review may be required before any tree
removal, pruning or encroachment permit is issued or before approval of a project
involving the removal of, pruning of or encroachment upon one or more protected
trees is granted. City Arborist review shall also be at the sole expense of the
applicant.
(c) Decision by Director.The Community Development Director shall render his or her
decision within thirty days after the filing of the application for a permit. The Director
may grant or deny the application or grant the same with conditions, including, but
not limited to, (1) the condition that one or more replacement trees be planted of a
species and size and at locations as designated by the Director, (2) relocation of
existing tree desired to be removed, and/or (3) payment of a fee or the posting of a
bond or security deposit in favor of the City to the Tree Fund. Any such tree
replacement, relocation, fee payment, or bonding or security deposit shall be at the
sole expense of the applicant.
(d) Security deposits and maintenance bonds.In the case of an application for, or a
project involving encroachment on one or more protected trees, the applicant shall
post a security deposit with the City in an amount equal to twenty-five percent to one
119
hundred percent of the ISA valuation of the trees involved at the discretion of the
approving authority; provided, however, that any project involving multiple structures
or a multi-family structure shall post a security deposit with the City in an amount
equal to one hundred percent of the ISA valuation of the trees involved. The City may
also require posting of a maintenance bond or security deposit of at least five years
designed to ensure long term maintenance of the affected or replacement trees.
Security deposits or maintenance bonds required for protected trees or replacement
trees in public or private development may, in the reasonable discretion of the
Community Development Director, be refunded upon a determination that the project
is in compliance with the City Arborist's requirements and/or Tree Preservation Plan.
In the case of violations of this Article or where replacement, restitution, or other
remedy required pursuant to Section 15-50.170 cannot be made on the project site,
then such payments shall be made from the deposit or bond being held before any
refund is made.
End of Amendment
120
Saratoga Public Safety Task Force Minutes - Page 1 of 3
MINUTES
FEBRUARY 3, 2020
WILDFIRE PUBLIC SAFETY TASK FORCE
REGULAR MEETING
Chair Chuck Page called the Wildfire Public Safety Task Force Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.
in the Linda Callon Conference Room at Saratoga City Hall at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Chair Chuck Page, Vice Chair Paul Hansen, Members Bill
Cooper, May Lu, Michael Zhang
ABSENT: Members Arun Venkatachar (excused)
ALSO PRESENT: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Chief Jason Falarski, Santa Clara County Fire
Lauren Pettipiece, Public Information Officer
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
AGENDA ITEMS:
1.Public Safety Task Force Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the draft minutes from the December 2, 2019 meeting.
HANSEN/ZHANG MOVED TO APPROVE THE DRAFT MINUTES FROM THE DECEMBER 2,
2019 MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: HANSEN, PAGE, COOPER LU, ZHANG. NOES:
NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: VENKATACHAR.
2.Public Outreach & Increasing Wildfire Public Awareness (Work Plan Item)
Recommended Action:
Discuss the Wildfire Task Force’s public outreach goals and objectives with the City of
Saratoga Public Information Officer, so that the City can support the Wildfire Public Safety
Task Force’s work plan goal to increase public awareness of wildfire.
Lauren Pettipiece, Public Information Officer, discussed City communications and
opportunities for increasing wildfire public awareness.
Chair Page noted a need for communications directed to property owners and residents
in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Vice Chair Hansen agreed.
Attachment 2
121
Saratoga Public Safety Task Force Minutes - Page 2 of 3
Vice Chair Hansen suggested that the Mayor promote and share more about the efforts
of the Task Force.
Task Force Member Zhang recommended that the City create an actionable
communication piece, such as a checklist. Chair Page added that an actionable piece
could be a magnet with wildfire prevention tips and regulations.
Task Force Member Cooper noted that sharing real life stories may help influence
behavior and motivate people to take action.
The Task Force collectively supported an outreach piece featuring actionable items, such
as a checklist, and sharing real life stories about wildfire preparedness and prevention.
3. Wildfire Risk Reduction in the City Code (Work Plan Item)
Recommended Action:
Finalize recommended City Code changes for the Planning Commission and City Council
to consider that will help reduce wildfire risk in the City of Saratoga.
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager, introduced the item.
The Task Force discussed recommended changes.
Daryl Miller commented on the agenda item.
COOPER/HANSEN MOVED TO RECOMMEND THE CITY COUNCIL: 1) ADOPT AN
ORDINANCE THAT WOULD ADD AN 11TH CRITERIA FOR REMOVAL OF A TREE IN CITY
CODE SECTION 15-50.080 THAT READS: THE NECESSITY TO REMOVE A TREE
FOLLOWING THE CREATION OF DEFENSIBLE SPACE WITHIN 100 FEET OF STRUCTURES
ON THE PROPERTY, BECAUSE THE TREE IS LOCATED IN THE WILDLAND URBAN
INTERFACE, IS WITHIN 100 FEET OF A STRUCTURE, AND CREATES AN INCREASED
WILDFIRE RISK ACCORDING TO THE DEFENSIBLE SPACE STANDARDS ESTABLISHED BY
CAL FIRE, OR AS DETERMINED BY SANTA CLARA COUNTY FIRE, AND THAT RISK
CANNOT REASONABLY BE ADDRESSED THROUGH MAINTENANCE; 2) IF THE 11 TH
CRITERIA IS ADOPTED, DIRECT STAFF TO PLACE A MORATORIUM ON ANY TREE
REPLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING PAYMENT INTO THE TREE FUND, FOR
TREES REMOVED UNDER THIS NEW CRITERIA THROUGH THE END OF 2020; AND, 3)
ALLOW THE CITY’S TREE FUND TO BE USED FOR FUEL REDUCTION PURPOSES.
MOTION PASSED. AYES: HANSEN, PAGE, COOPER LU, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN:
NONE. ABSENT: VENKATACHAR.
122
Saratoga Public Safety Task Force Minutes - Page 3 of 3
4. Review Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Review the adopted Task Force work plan.
Chair Page summarized progress on the Task Force’s work plan and commented on
prioritizing future work efforts.
5. Future Agenda Items
Recommended Action:
Consider agenda items for upcoming meetings. The next regular Task Force meeting is
scheduled for April 6, 2020.
The Task Force requested that the following agenda items for the April meeting:
- Status update on recommended change to the tree removal criteria in the City Code
- Discussion of a wildfire reduction fund and other budget-related work plan items,
including:
o Mobile LRAD for emergency communications
o Exploring and possibly expanding Saratoga Fire Protection District Dead Tree
Program
o Expanding opportunities to work with FireSafe Council and expand the
chipping program, including curbside chipping/cleanup days
o Increasing funding for Santa Clara County FireSafe Council
o Partnering with West Valley cities to fund a fuel reduction crew
ADJOURNMENT
COOPER/ZHANG MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:18 P.M. MOTION PASSED.
AYES: HANSEN, PAGE, COOPER LU, ZHANG. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT:
VENKATACHAR.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
City of Saratoga
123
MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
1
Keep your property lean and green to help protect your family and
home.
Creating defensible space is essential to improve your home’s chance of surviving
a wildfire. It’s the buffer you create between a building on your property and the
grass, trees, shrubs, or any wildland area that surround it. This space is needed
to slow or stop the spread of wildfire and it protects your home from catching
fire —either from direct flame contact or radiant heat. Defensible space is also
important for the protection of the firefighters defending your home.
Defensible Space Zones
Two zones make up the required 100 feet of defensible space.
Zone 1
Zone 1 extends 30 feet* out from buildings, structures, decks, etc.
Remove all dead plants, grass and weeds (vegetation).
Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof and rain
gutters.
Attachment 3
124
MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
2
Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet from other
trees.
Remove branches that hang over your roof and keep dead branches 10 feet
away from your chimney.
Relocate wood piles into Zone 2.
Remove or prune flammable plants and shrubs near windows.
Remove vegetation and items that could catch fire from around and under
decks.
Create a separation between trees, shrubs and items that could catch fire,
such as patio furniture, wood piles, swing sets, etc.
Zone 2
Zone 2 extends 100 feet out from buildings, structures, decks, etc.
Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of 4 inches.
Create horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees. (See diagram)
Create vertical spacing between grass, shrubs and trees. (See diagram)
Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small branches.
However, they may be permitted to a depth of 3 inches.
* San Diego County requires 50 feet of clearance in Zone 1. Check with
your local fire department for any additional defensible space or weed
abatement ordinances.
Plant and Tree Spacing
The spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees is crucial to reduce the spread of
wildfires. The spacing needed is determined by the type and size of brush and
trees, as well as the slope of the land. For example, a property on a steep slope
with larger vegetation requires greater spacing between trees and shrubs than a
level property that has small, sparse vegetation.
Vertical Spacing
Remove all tree branches at least 6 feet from the ground.
Allow extra vertical space between shrubs and trees. Lack of vertical space can
allow a fire to move from the ground to the brush to the tree tops like a ladder.
To determine the proper vertical spa cing between shrubs and the lowest branches
of trees, use the formula below.
125
MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
3
Example: A five foot shrub is growing near a tree. 3×5 = 15 feet of clearance
needed between the top of the shrub and the lowest tree branch.
Horizontal Spacing
Horizontal spacing depends on the slope of the land and the height of the shrubs
or trees. Check the chart below to determine spacing distance.
126
MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
4
127
MAINTAIN DEFENSIBLE SPACE
5
Fire -Resistant Landscaping
Fire -resistant landscaping isn’t necessarily the same thing as a well -maintained
yard. This ty pe of landscaping uses fire -resistant plants that are strategically
planted to resist the spread of fire to your home.
The good news is that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to make your
landscape fire -resistant. And fire -resistant landscaping can increase your property
value and conserve water while beautifying your home.
128