Planning Commission approves variance and conditional use permit for accessory structure at 121 North F Street

On Feb. 26, 2025, the City of Imperial Planning Commission voted 5-0 to approve a variance (24TAX03) and a conditional use permit (24TAX09) allowing an accessory structure at 121 North F Street to deviate from the city’s rear-yard setback and height limits, provided the applicant completes specified modifications and coordinates with the Imperial Irrigation District.

The approvals matter because staff said the structure previously exceeded height and setback standards and encroached on an easement and power-line clearance overseen by the Imperial Irrigation District (IID). Planning staff read a written confirmation from IID counsel Rick Schneider stating that if the commission approves the variance and the applicant completes the work called for in the variance, IID’s concerns “will have satisfactorily been addressed,” but that the violation remains until the work is inspected and accepted.

Yvonne, a city planning staff member, told the commission that applicant Mark Gaddis has shortened the structure and altered posts so it will no longer obstruct IID clearances. “He doesn’t have any setbacks in the back,” Yvonne said, describing why the variance was needed, and later read IID’s statement into the record saying the work must be completed for IID’s open violation to be resolved. Mark Gaddis, the property owner and applicant, described the construction steps and timeline, saying, “I would say a couple of weeks” to relocate posts, dig footings, and cut an overhang to clear the IID pole.

Commissioners discussed timing and enforcement. Staff advised that a building permit can be issued after the 10-day appeal period ends and that IID requested a relatively short completion window. Commissioners and staff agreed on a 30‑day target for completion after the permit becomes final; the commission noted the 10‑day appeal period before the permit becomes final. Planning staff said the building plans and structural plans submitted conform to the conditional use permit and variance as approved.

The commission voted to approve the variance by voice vote; the motion carried 5-0. The commission then voted to approve the conditional use permit; that motion also carried 5-0. The transcript does not identify who made and seconded the final motions.

The item was filed as categorically exempt from CEQA under Section 15303 (construction or conversion of small structures), as noted in the staff report. Next steps are: (1) a 10‑day appeal period during which the approvals could be challenged; (2) issuance of the building permit after the appeal period and after required fees and permit conditions are satisfied; and (3) completion of the on-site modifications within the agreed timeline so IID can confirm the violation is resolved. The commission closed the hearing and moved on with the meeting; the commission’s next scheduled meeting is March 12, 2025.