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HomeMy WebLinkAboutV 01-03; Tamarack Manor Variance; Variance (V)I - 1 The City of Carlsbad Planning Department A REPORT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION Item No. @ P.C. AGENDA OF: August 7,2002 Application complete date: October 5,2001 Project Planner: Michael Grim Project Engineer: David Rick SUBJECT: V 01-03 - TAMARACK MANOR VARIANCE - Request for a Variance to allow a reduction in the required side and rear yard setbacks and the required building separation to accommodate a habitable accessory structure on an existing single-family lot, located at the northeast corner of Tamarack Avenue and Margaret Way, in Local Facilities Management Zone 1. I. RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission ADOPT Planning Commission Resolution No. 5259, DENYING Variance V 01-03, based upon the findings contained therein. 11. INTRODUCTION The proposal is a request to allow a reduction in the required interior side yard setback from 7.8 feet to 3 feet, a reduction in the required rear yard setback from 15.6 feet to 1.6 feet, and a reduction in the required building separation from 10.0 feet to 3.0 feet, to accommodate a habitable accessory structure on an existing single-family lot, located at the northeast corner of Tamarack Avenue and Margaret Way. As elaborated below, Staff cannot make the findings required for the granting of a variance and, therefore, is recommending denial of the request. 111. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND Jeffrey and Anastasia Schmoll are requesting approval of a variance to allow reductions in the required side yard, rear yard and building separation to accommodate a habitable accessory structure on an existing single-family lot. The property is located at the northeast corner of Tamarack Avenue and Margaret Way. The 0.18 acre site is designated Residential Low Medium Density (RLM) in the City’s General Plan and is zoned One Family Residential (R-1), with a minimum lot size of 7,500 square feet. The flat and unencumbered project site contains no slopes or easements. Currently situated on the property are a one-story single-family home, mature landscaping, a street side yard deck, and a partially constructed habitable accessory structure in the rear yard. This accessory structure is the subject of the variance request. According to the applicant, the structure was an expansion of a pre-existing habitable accessory structure that was located less than two (2) feet from the rear property line and three (3) feet fiom the interior side property line. The applicant has provided letters from the previous property owner and neighbors attesting to the existence of the granny flat for the past 30 years. The expansion of the structure was conducted without benefit of a building permit and the City received a complaint about the construction on June 1, 2001. The case was referred to the Code Enforcement division for processing and, in response to n ,- V 01-03 - TAMARACK MANOR VARIANCE August 7,2002 Page 2 correspondence from Code Enforcement, the property owner submitted a request for a variance on July 19, 2001. The applicant has been attempting to address staffs issues since that application date. The proposed variance would condone the existing reduced setbacks and building separation for the expanded accessory structure. According to Section 21.10.040 of the Zoning Ordinance, single-family residential properties must have an interior side yard of no less than 10 percent of the lot width. Section 21.10.050(1)(B) states that the required rear yard setback is equal to twice the required interior side yard setback. Given the property’s lot width of 78 feet, the required interior side yard setback is 7.8 feet and the required rear yard setback is 15.6 feet. Section 21.10.050(1)(C) requires that buildings used for human habitation be separated by at least 10 feet. As stated above, the proposed interior side yard setback is 3 feet, the proposed rear yard setback is 1.6 feet, and the proposed building separation is 3 feet. Iv. ANALYSIS According to Section 21 S0.030 of the Zoning Ordinance, four findings must be made in order to grant a variance. These findings deal with the existence of extraordinary or exceptional circumstances on the subject property, the necessity of the variance to preserve a substantial property right enjoyed by others, the lack of material detriment to surrounding properties, and the affect of the action on the General Plan. If any one of these findings cannot be made, the variance cannot be approved. Listed below are the required findings as contained in Section 21 S0.030 along with staffs analysis of their applicability to the proposed variance: “That there are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property or to the intended use that do not apply generally to the other property or class of use in the same vicinity or zone.” The subject property is not unusual or extraordinary. The lot area of 7,693 square feet meets the underlying zoning requirement for a minimum lot size of 7,500 square feet. The rectangular shape of the lot and lot dimensions are typical for other single-family lots. There are no slopes or geotechnical concerns that would limit the buildable area of the property beyond the normal limits invoked by the standard residential setbacks. No easements or other encumbrances exist on the subject property. Given the above, there are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the subject property that does not commonly apply to other properties in the same vicinity or zone. Therefore this required finding cannot be made. “That such variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right possessed by other property in the same vicinity and zone but which is denied to the property in question.” The proposed variance would allow for the construction of a 630 square foot detached habitable structure. While the lot dimensions and current development on the property preclude the development of a detached habitable structure in the buildable area of the lot, there is enough room within the required setbacks to add more than 630 square feet of habitable space attached to the existing single-family home. Should the property owner desire to apply for a Second Dwelling Unit permit to allow for a second unit on the property, there is ample room to fit this feature within the property without requiring a variance. Section 21.10.015(B) of the Zoning h V 01-03 - TAMARACK MANOR VARIANCE August 7,2002 Page 3 Ordinance allows for Second Dwelling Units to be either detached or attached to the main dwelling unit. No other structures in the vicinity are located less than three (3) feet from the property line. Given the above, there is adequate opportunity for the property owner to develop an equal or greater amount of habitable space as well as a Second Dwelling Unit on the property without the need for a variance. Therefore, the granting of the requested variance is not necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right possesses by others but denied to the property in question. This required finding cannot be made. “That the granting of such variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and zone in which the property is located.” In addition to conforming to the required setbacks of the underlying zoning, all construction must conform to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code (UE3C). The accessory structure is built as a typical residential structure, classified as Type V non-rated construction in the UBC. The proposed variance would condone a rear yard setback of 1.6 feet and a building separation of 3 feet. The UBC requires that Type V non-rated construction be setback a minimum of 3 feet from all property lines. Where two buildings are located on the same lot, the minimum separation for Type V non-rated construction is 6 feet. These restrictions in the UBC are designed not only for living comfort but also for fire safety. If structures are proposed to be closer to the property line (or to each other) than the UBC requirements listed above, then the type of construction needs to be augmented to increase fire resistance and preclude openings in the exterior walls. The applicant’s architect submitted a letter stating how the structure could be modified to meet the UBC requirements (copy attached). Since the existing structure does not meet these UBC requirements, it could pose a safety hazard, thus creating material detriment to the property or improvements in the vicinity and, perhaps, to the public welfare. Therefore, this required finding cannot be made. “That the granting of such variance will not adversely affect the comprehensive general plan.” The City’s General Plan designates the subject property and the surroundings for residential development. The proposed variance would condone the placement of a residential structure in the rear portion of the property. Due to the non-specific nature of the General Plan, there are no goals, policies, or objectives that directly relate to the proposed variance. Therefore the granting of this variance request will not adversely affect the comprehensive general plan. Given the above analysis, staff cannot make the findings required for the granting of a variance and, therefore, recommends denial of V 01-03 - Tamarack Manor Variance. V. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The construction and/or conversions of small structures in residential areas belong to a class of projects that the State Secretary for Resources has found do not have a significant impact on the environment and, therefore, is exempt from the requirement for the preparation of environmental documents pursuant to Section 15303(a) and 15303(e) of the State CEQA Guidelines. In making this determination, the Planning Director has found that the exceptions listed in Section 15300.2 V 01-03 - TAMARACK MANOR VARIANCE August 7,2002 Page 4 of the state CEQA Guidelines do not apply to this project. A Notice of Exemption will be filed upon final project determination. ATTACHMENTS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Planning Commission Resolution No. 5259 (V) Location Map Disclosure Statement Applicant’s Justifications for Variance form Letters in favor of the variance from interested parties (provided by applicant) Letter from Bart M. Smith, architect, dated July 25,2002 Background Data Sheet Exhibits “A” - “B”, dated August 7,2002. MG:cs:mh _- SITE TAMARACK MANOR VARIANCE V 01-03 - - City of Carlsbad DISCLOSURE STATEMENT Applicant‘s statement or disclosure of certain ownership interests on all applications R hich N ill discretionary action on the part of the City Council or any appointed Board, Commission or Committee The following information MUST be disclosed at the time of application submittal. Your project cannot be reviewed until this information is completed. Please print. Kote: Person is defined as “Any individual, fm, co-partnership, joint venture, association. social club. fraternal organization, corporation, estate, trust, receiver, syndicate. in this and any other county, city and county. city municipality, district or other political subdivision or any other group or combination acting as a unit.” Agents may sign this document; however, the legal name and entity of the applicant and property onner must be provided below. 1. APPLICAKT (Not the applicant’s agent) Provide the COMPLETE, LEGAL names and addresses of ALL persons having a financial interest in the application. If the applicant includes a comoration or uartnershiu, include the names, title. addresses of all individuals owning more than 1090 of the shares IF NO APPLICABLE (N/A) IN THE SPACE BELOW If a publiclv-owned comoration, include the names. titles, and addresses of the corporate officers. (A separate page may be attached if necessary.) INDIVIDUALS OWN MORE THAX 10% OF THE SHARES, PLEASE INDICATE NON- Person Jeffrey Schmoll CorpPart Anastasia Schmoll Title Owner Title Owner ~dd~~~289O Margaret Way Address 3890 Margaret Way Carlsbad, CA 92008 Carlsbad, CA 92008 -. 3 OWNER (Not the owner’s agent) Provide the COMPLETE. LEGAL names and addresses of && persons having any ownership interest in the property involved. Also, provide the nature of the legal ownership (Le. partnership, tenants in common, non-profit, corporation, etc.). If the ownership includes a coruoration or uartnershiu, include the names, title, addresses of all individuals owning more than 10Y0 of the shares. IF NO INDIVIDUALS OWN MORE THAN 10% OF THE SHARES, PLEASE INDICATE NON-APPLICABLE (WA) IN THE SPACE BELOW. If a publiclv- owned cornoration, include the names, titles, and addresses of the corporate officers. (A separate page may be attached if necessary.) Person Same as above CorpiPart-e dabnv~ Title Title Address Address 1635 Faraday Avenue - Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 - (760) 602-4600 FAX (760) 602-8559 @ 3. SOX-PROFIT ORGi -\TZATION OR TRUST If any person identified pursuant to (1) or (2) above is a nonnrofit organization or a trust. list the names and addresses of k?JT person serving as an officer or director of the non-profit orsanization or as trustee or beneficiary of the. Non Profit’Trust N /A Non Profit’Trust N/A Title Title Address Address 4. Have you had more than $250 worth of business transacted with any member of Gin. staff. Boards, Commissions, Committees andior Council within the past twelve (12) months? 0 Yes No If yes, please indicate person(s): NOTE: Attach additional sheets if necessary. I certify that all the above information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. Anastasia Schmoll and Jeffrey Schmoll & Anastasia Schmoll Jeffrey Schmoll Print or type name of owner Print or type name of applicant ~ Signature of owner/applicant’s agent if applicable/date Print or type name of owneriapplicant’s agent H:ADMIN\COUNTER\DISCLOSURE STATEMENT 5/98 Page 2 of 2 JLBTIFICATION FOR 17ARI.4!!CE By law a Variance may be approved only if certain facts are found to exist. Please read these requirements carefully and explain how the proposed project meets each of these facts. Use additional sheets if necessary. 1. Explain why there are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property or to the intended use that do not apply generally to the other property or class of use in the same vicinity and zone: Please see attached pages ...I through 4 2. Explain why such variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right possessed by other property in the same vicinity and zone but which is denied to the property in question: 3. Explain why the granting of such variance will not be matierally detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and zone in which the property is located: 4. Explain why the grading of such variance will not adversely affect the comprehensive general plan: FR310004 5/96 Page 5 of 5 Justification for Variance h 1. Explain why there are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the property or to the intended use that do not apply generally to the other property or class of use in the same vicinity and zone: We purchased this property in 1994. Upon move in it was clear that the prior occupants (renters) had engaged in narcotics use and manufacturing based on the neighbor's statements, drug paraphernalia, burns and residue left behind. This property when purchased had a hlly enclosed and existing granny flat with a hll kitchen and bath as noted in Exhibits A and F. The prior owner, Mr. OJ Creel, was a realtor and purchased the property for rental use. The property was listed for sale in 1994 and, as in Exhibit A. stated that it had a granny flat. The granny flat was our key deciding factor in our purchase of the property as otherwise it was in total disrepair and alliliated with narcotics use and trafficking. (Derelict-looking individuals pounded on our door at all hours of day and night for several months after move-in.) The drastic improvement in the physical property and the beneficial effect of replacing narcotics abusers with a law enforcement family is an exceptional circumstance that does not apply to the general neighborhood. Our comer lot is more restricted in regards to the setbacks than other interior lots and our lot is the smallest comer lot in comparison to the surrounding properties. The space available to build is 7 x 50 and a habitable structure is required to be at least 20ft wide. This would make it very dficult to comply with setback regulations especially since the foundation, plumbing, electric and building layout are already established. This is another exceptional/ extraordinary circumstance that justifies a variance. See Exhibit C. The improvements in the granny flat were made to provide a living space for our 60-year old fathedin-law, Mr. Victor Nesterenko, who is 100% disabled. He is on SSI Disability and needs hll-time fdy attention. The granny flat provides a living space that is tailored to meet his disabled condition since he sometimes utilizes a walker. My father also suffers fiom memory loss and needs to be cared for on-site. There is no availability for low income disabled housing in this area immediate area and there is a very long waiting list at the Carlsbad Housing and Urban Development Department (approximately 2 yrs). This constitutes an extraordinary circumstance regarding the intended use of the property that justifies a variance. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requires businesses and local governments to make reasonable accommodations in their normal practices to assist people with disabilities. By granting this variance, the City of Carlsbad would be supporting and complying with Federal Law as mandated in ADA. Additionally, the granny flat was originally built in 1964, as shown by Exhibit F. It has been an inhabited structure since then. If there was any type of enforcement or valid complaint it has taken over 36 years to come to the attention of the authorities. This lengthy period of use, without problem or complaint, is an extraordinaxy circumstance that supports the granting of a variance. Justification for Variance Page 2 Four years ago, we visited the Carlsbad City building department and advised them of our situation. We sought help, guidance, and assistance to obtain permits in order to make the necessary repairs and were advised that our granny flat was not within setbacks and therefore we couldn’t obtain a permit, but we could make the necessary repairs to the existing dwelling and become a non conforming property, which would limit us to being able to add on only 60% of our existing square footage in the future. We were not advised nor warned that ifa complaint were to be filed while we were making. the reDairs we would be asked to tear the structure down. Exhibit E pages 1- 5. Our good faith efforts at clarifying the situation and the information provided to us at the time constitute an extraordinary circumstance that should be weighed in favor of granting the variance. 2. Explain why such a variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property possessed by other property in the same vicinity and zone but which is denied to property in question: There are numerous second dwellings throughout Carlsbad, many of which do not have aesthetic appeal or permits, yet they exist. Likewise, variances are granted for a variety of reasons, few as important as maintaining a viable living space for a disabled family member. At the time of rehab we also had Valia, a family fiiend who has since died from cancer, living with us. Two exits down there are numerous new homes, which offer the opportunity to live as an extended family. Time was of the essence for us due to the failing health of Victor and the rapid deterioration of Valia. Family and fiiends pulled together to finish the project as quickly as possible. The children are also at an age were they should not be sharing a room and third move within 2 years would not be in their best interest. We would like to have the right to care for Victor and live as an extended family and not be denied the same rights that have been afforded to so many around us. In the bordering City of Encinitas the rents are comparable to those in Carlsbad. Their city and building department has established provisions that allow for the granting of variances due to lack of adequate low-income housing. The City of Carlsbad doesn’t yet have that allowance but I am requesting similar consideration. With Victor being an SSI recipient, his income would render him homeless in this community since there is literally no low-income housing available. We could register him with Carlsbad City housing department and he could be placed on the emergency housing list. The government would then subsidize approx $800 towards his monthly rent. He would also need assistance through the social services system requiring food stamps, further medical assistance, and personal care, therefore creating a burden and liability upon the City of Carlsbad and the Social Services system. We are simply asking to provide him with a place to reside under the care of his family. Justification for Variance Page 3 3. Explain why the granting of such a variance will not be materially detrimental to the public weyare or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and zone in which the property is located: The granting of this variance would be detrimental because the structure has been in existence since 1964. There is a 4ft drop in elevation between the rear bordering property and the granny flat. Furthermore, the neighboring property that is mostly affected by the structure has an established driveway that borders and extends the entire length of our rear property line. There is zero probability of another structure being built anywhere within 12 ft of the second dwelling due to the driveway and the layout of their property and per Rev. McCall’s statement, they are pleased with the building and wish for it to remain (see Exhibit F, letter fiom St. Patrick’s Church.) There have been no changes in ocean views, drainage, lighting, noise level or other negative environmental factors. The aesthetic improvements have added to the value of the neighboring houses and community as a whole (see Exhibit F.) The removal and replacement of termite-infested woodwork, dilapidated roof and shabby exterior can only be seen as beneficial for the entire community. There would be no additional vehicular or pedestrian traffic since the granny flat will be utilized for our extended family only, as sleeping and living quarters. In keeping with the same architecture and interior of the main dwelling we have remodeled and upgraded the existing second dwelling to reflect the custom tile, exclusive sculpture relief art, matching stucco, windows, doors, eaves and a new roof which the main dwelling is slated to match. Therefore the value of the surrounding properties has been increased as a second dwelling prior to these improvements was deteriorated, lacked aesthetic appeal and was in dire need of all these visual and structural improvements. We understand that unlike Del Mar, Carlsbad’s city codes do not have a provision for aesthetic appeal but I believe that it’s the difference between a “redevelopmental” vs. a “non-redevelopmental” neighborhood. We are to this neighborhood what the Officer Next Door program is to HUD. The people of questionable character stopped coming around and there appeared to be a heightened sense of safety. Less then a mile away there is a redevelopmental neighborhood and the standards for making improvements there are much more lenient because of that status. We would like to be afforded that same leniency due to the extensive rehabilitation of this property and the proximity to that location. As previously mentioned, the public welfare benefits fiom providing a loving, caring, living space, for a disabled family member within the warm embrace of the extended fdy. Justification for Variance Page 4 Since we have exhausted our finances with the granny flat improvement and in caring for my disabled father, we would not be able to accommodate a satisfactory demolition, re- permitting and re-building of the granny flat. This would mean that the surrounding properties would be subject, once again to having an eyesore in their community and suffer the decrease of their property values. This would mostly affect Rev. McCall since the Granny Flat is 17” fi-om his property line. He has no problem with it and is willing to assist in any way possible since St. Patrick’s Church owns the rear bordering property. The community would be further burdened with providing housing and care for Victor and the Social Services System would be financially taxed. We have strived to achieve visual consistency and aesthetic appeal, so that our property would become an asset to the community. We have worked hard to be good neighbors and to take care of our own. We feel strongly that we have been a positive factor in the community and, if given a chance, will continue to be so. The current situation is a far cry fi-om the dilapidated drug house, rat and termite-infested granny flat that existed a few years ago. This was an extraordinary circumstance considering the neighborhood. Taking the history of the property into consideration, as well the compelling human need of Victor, our disabled fathedin law, we pray you give full consideration for our much- needed variance so that we can preserve the beauty of what has been created and enjoy living as an extended family just as many other local residents are able to do. Sincerely, The Schmoll Family: San Diego Sheriff Deputy, Jeff Schmoll- Ca.Dept.of Parks and Recreation Dispatcher, Anastasia Schmoll 7- Nastacia Schmoll (age 9) ’ ., . CP /.? Nicholas Schmoll (age 6) Grandpa, Victor Nesterenko I ‘> _. Attachments Exhibits A-G PS: We were informed that we did not have to address Question # 4. (Explain why the granting of such a variance will not adversely affect the comprehensive general plan) POST OFFICE BOX 249 3821 ADAMS STREET TEL: 729-2866 AREA CODE 760 CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA 92018 July 14,2001 To whom it may concern: The back yard of Mr. Jeff Schmoll’s property at 3890 Margaret Way, Carlsbad, CA 92008 abuts the driveway of the residence for the priests of St. Patrick Catholic Church at 1302 Tamarack Avenue; Mr. Schmoll recently rebuilt a structure that had been in ruins in his back yard for what I assume was many years. The new structure will, I understand, be a small residence for his father-in-law. I understand that the structure may not llfill the requirement for “setback”, but I wish to go on record that it does not present any problem to those of us who live in this residence. Our wide driveway separates us fkom his property line, and the new structure is of no concern to us. (In fact, from the second story of our house, it is an improvement over the previous view.) Mr. Schmoll has been an excellent neighbor. Any assistance you can extend to him in resolving this apparent problem with city building codes will be greatly appreciated. If I can be of any further assistance to you in this matter, please do not hesitate to call me. With every good wish, I am Sincerely yours, A Rev. Stepheap. McCall Pastor Fxhibit F 1 608 VISTA WAY OCEANSIDE CA 92054 MAYNES CLINIC TELEPHONE 619-722 0020 June 21, 2001 The Schmoll's 3890 Margaret Way Carlsbad, Ca. 92008 Dear Neighbors: I don't know if any of your other neighbors have complemented you of the fine job you did remodeling your "Granny Shack", so, I thought, since I am the longest living resident in this area, I would. Back in the early sixties I can remeliber the first owners of your present home. It was the Newman's. Mr. Newman asked my father and my uncle, Wallace Rossall, to help him make a place for his relatives to stay on their visits to California during the summer months. I remember this very well since myself and a friend had the task of digging the sewer line which was no easy job by hand. After Mr. Newman died many different people lived in the.house. Some took care of it most did not. The "Granny Sha,:k" was not of prime concern to anyone until you people bought the house. It was an eyesore, stood out and was falling apart. It was one of the first things people would mention when they entered this area, "What is that thing?" You did an excellent job matching the main dwelling. You have helped the appearance of the neighborhood and we all thank you. Sincerely, e-. - --_ - -. ,* - __ ._.-_ -- - Dr. W.T. Maynes 1250 Tamarack kve. Carlsbad, Ca. 92008 Exhibit F 07-10-01 To whom it may concern: Re: The Schmoll residence, located at 3890 Margaret Way in the City of Carlsbad. I lived at both 1204 and 1230 Tamarack in the City of Carlsbad, from 07-26-53 through 09-0-76. During that time, the house located on the comer of Margaret Way and Tamarack (3890 Margaret Way) was purchased by a Mr.+ Mrs Glenn Newman. They lived at that location from the time the house was built and lived there for approximately 18 years. During that time Glenn (Mr. Newman) built a small granny flat in the hack yard. The flat contained a bathroom, shower, kitchen area and a small room. There was also a small garage attached to the east side of the flat. This can also be confirmed by his son Greg Berry who still lives in the City of Cadshad at 1290 Las Flores Dr . If there is any questions that you need for me to answer please contact me at 760-439-35 12. Thank you for your time: Stevmsall Thank you for your time: Stevmsall - Exhibit F July 10.2001 Mr. & Mrs. Schmoll 3890 Margaret Way Carlsbad, Ca 92008 Dear Neighbors: My husband and I would like to take this opportunity to complement you on how nice you have fixed up your house. We walk by your house a lot and have been very impressed with the remodeling you have done. Redoing that Granny flat to match your house really made a big difference in the appearance of your property. You should be very proud of the improvements you have made, I know that the entire neighborhood has made a lot of changes to the appearances of our homes and is enjoying the increases of the real-estate value of our homes. I complement you on your beautifid remodel. Jennifer Schweibold 1150 Tamarack Ave. Carlsbad, Ca 92008 Exhibit F DZN PARTNERS ARCHITECTURE July 25,2002 Mr. Michael Grim Senior Planner City of Carlsbad 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, California 92008 SUBJECT: V 01-03 -Tamarack Manor Variance 3890 Margaret Way Carlsbad, Ca 92008 Dear Mr. Grim: The Schmoll's detached living unit has an occupancy dassification of R-3 per Section 310 of the Uniform Building Code. The unit is classified as a type V-N construction type per Section 606 of the Uniform Building Code. The main residence is also of the same occupancy dassification and construction type as the detached dwelling unit. Table 5A of the Uniform Building Code provides the regulations governing exterior wall and opening protection based on property location. It states that the walls of R-3, V-N structures can be built right to the property line as long as they are one-hour rated. Also, it states that no openings are permitted in walls doser than 3 feet to the property line. Table 3-B of the Uniform Building Code gives the requirements for separation of buildings by occupancy. This table shows that the UBC does not require a separation between buildings that are both R-3 occupancy. Se.ction 705 of the Uniform Building Code desctibes what projections are allowed in the area where openings are permitted. The Schmoll's detached living unit walls have a 7/8" cement plaster exterior finish and a 518" type x gypsum board interior finish. This is a one hour rated wall per table 7-8 of the Uniform Building Code using item numbers 17-1.3 and 18-1.3. The only openings in this wall are two very small windows on the east wall. These windows can easily be removed so that the unit complies with the Uniform Building Code regulations for exterior wall and opening protection based on property location. A distance of 3 feet separates the Schmoll's main residence and detached living unit. There is not a requirement for two buildings of R-3 occupancy to be separated in the Uniform Building Code in Table 3-B or Table 58. Even if we assume an imaginary property line between the two structures the detached living unit maintains a one hour rated wall at that location. This satisfies the Uniform Building Code regulations for exterior wall and opening protection based on property location. The existing eave projections, if they do not already meet the requirements of UBC Section 705, could easily be adapted to meet the necessary regulations. Rather than basing an entire finding on this issue it would seem that a simple condition of approval of the variance ~ could be that the detached living unit meet applicable UBC regulations. With some very minor modifications the Schmoll's detached living unit could easily meet the UBC requirements without being materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and zone in which the property is located. Bart M. Smith Architect A.I.A. CA C22557 C: Jeffery and Anastasia Schmoll EART MCRlTCHlE SMITH, ARCHITECT A.I.A. 682 SECOND STREET ENCINITAS. CALIFORNIA 92024 TELEPHONE (760) 753-2464 FACSIMILE (760) 753-0600 0 E-MAIL DZNBART@MINDSPRING.COM P + BACKGROUND DATA SHEET CASE NO: V 01-03 CASE NAME: Tamarack Manor Variance APPLICANT: Jeffiey and Anastasia Schmoll REQUEST AND LOCATION: Request for a Variance to allow a reduction in the required side yard from 7.8 feet to 3 feet, a reduction in the required rear yard fiom 15.6 feet to 1.6 feet, and a reduction in the required building separation fiom 10.0 feet to 3.0 feet to accommodate a habitable accessory structure on an existing single-family lot, located at the northeast comer of Tamarack Avenue and Margaret Way. LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Lot 1 of Tamarack Manor, according to Map No. 4832, filed in the Office of the County Recorder on August 3, 1961, in the City of Carlsbad. County of San Diego, State of California. A€": 205-430-37 Acres: 0.18 Proposed No. of LotsAJnits: n/a GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING Land Use Designation: Residential Low Medium Density (RLM) Density Allowed: 0.0 - 4.0 ddac Density Proposed: n/a Existing Zone: R- 1 Proposed Zone: n/a Surrounding Zoning, General Plan and Land Use: Zoning General Plan Current Land Use Site R- 1 RLM Single-family residence North R-1 RLM Single-family residence South R-1 RLM Single-family residence East R- 1 RLM Single-family residence West R-1 RLM Single-family residence PUBLIC FACILITIES School District: Carlsbad Unified Water District: Carlsbad Sewer District: Carlsbad Equivalent Dwelling Units (Sewer Capacity): one ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 0 Negative Declaration, issued Certified Environmental Impact Report, dated Other, Notice of Exemption pursuant to Section 15303 of the State CEOA Guidelines