PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING DATE:
JUNE 16, 2025
SUBJECT:
Title
IHM RESIDENCE VARIANCE - A VARIANCE FROM HEIGHT, SIZE, AND LOCATION REQUIREMENTS TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF A 1,964 SQUARE FOOT TWO-STORY DETACHED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT WITH A GROUND FLOOR THREE CAR GARAGE, CLOSER TO THE RIGHT-OF-WAY THAN A PRIMARY DWELLING UNIT, ON A FOUR ACRE PARCEL WITHIN THE ESTATE (R-1-20) ZONE
LOCATION/APN:
245 W. LA CIENEGA ROAD / APN: 182-210-23-00
CASE NUMBER:
VARIANCE (V) 24-0001 AND CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION (EX) 25-032
Body
Recommendation
1. ADOPT A Categorical Exemption (Class 3: New Construction) (EX 25-032); and
2. APPROVE Resolution PC 25-5163 for a Variance (V24-0001) from height, size, and location requirements to allow the construction of a 1,964 square foot two-story detached accessory dwelling unit with a ground floor three-car garage, closer to the right-of-way than a primary dwelling unit, on a 4-acre parcel located at 245 W. La Cienega Road of the Estate (R-1-20) Zone
Body
Introduction
The four-acre project site is developed with an existing single-family residence, three accessory structures, and agricultural uses. The homeowner/applicant is proposing to construct a two-story structure, within the front yard area of the property, to include a 964 square-foot 3-car garage on the ground floor and a 1,000 square foot Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) above. Certain provisions of the San Marcos Municipal Code (SMMC) restricts size, height, and location of such structures, rendering the proposal otherwise prohibited. However, due to unique characteristics of the property, the applicant is requesting a variance to allow the proposed development.
Discussion
The project site is zoned Estate (R-1-20) and is currently developed with a single-family residence, a 934 square foot pool house, and two sheds. The front half of the project site is relatively flat, with a gentle slope of approximately 20 feet in height from a low point in the northeast co...
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