Council approves exception and tentative parcel map for 3813 Sierra Street flag-lot subdivision

The Riverbank City Council unanimously approved a tentative parcel map and associated exception request that would split a roughly 20,000-square-foot lot at 3813 Sierra Street into a parcel and a remainder using a flag-lot configuration.

Joshua Mann, community development director, described the Schaefer parcel map and said the property’s general-plan designation is medium-density residential with R-1 zoning and the site is an unusual shape with Sierra Street frontage at the existing house and a narrow 20-foot access frontage onto Front Street. Mann said the municipal code’s lot-width-to-depth rule requires an exception because the proposed remainder parcel would have a narrow 20-foot frontage and an approximate 80-foot depth.

Mann told the council the project is consistent with the general plan, referenced Conservation Policy 8.6 encouraging compact development, and that the item qualified for a CEQA infill exemption. He reported the Planning Commission held a public hearing on Jan. 20, received one supportive speaker, no opposition, and voted 5-0 to recommend approval. The City Council voted 5-0 to adopt the resolution approving Tentative Parcel Map 01-2023 and the exception request.

During public comment, neighbors raised concerns about access for emergency vehicles and older water and sewer lines in the area; Mann said the project had been referred to the fire district and the district raised no concerns and that any new home would be required to include fire sprinklers. Mann also said required improvements would extend water and sewer lines on Front Street and the city engineer would review improvement plans.

Roll call for the council vote recorded unanimous approval.