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Planning commission approves Sierra Vista setback amendment to allow 10-foot front-yard building setbacks
Summary
The Washoe County Planning Commission approved an amendment to the tentative subdivision map for Sierra Vista (WTM 18-0001), reducing the front-yard setback from 20 feet to 10 feet for homes while maintaining a 20-foot garage setback; staff recommended approval and the motion passed unanimously.
The Washoe County Planning Commission unanimously approved an amendment of conditions for the Sierra Vista tentative subdivision map to reduce the front-yard setback for homes from 20 feet to 10 feet while retaining a 20-foot setback to garages.
Senior Planner Chris Bronsick explained that the amendment (WAC25-0006 amending WTM18-0001) would allow house-forward designs that diversify the streetscape and increase buildable area on remaining lots. "All they're doing with this amendment of conditions is they're changing that front yard setback and keeping a garage setback," Bronsick said, describing current setbacks as 20 feet front, 20 feet rear and 5 feet side yards for the approved subdivision.
Why it matters: The change is limited to the front-yard building setback for houses; the garage setback remains 20 feet so vehicles can continue to park in driveways. Staff said the amendment would permit varied front setbacks to avoid a uniform garage-forward streetscape and provide greater flexibility for builders and buyers.
Project details and outreach Bronsick said 67 lots have been recorded in the subdivision so far and that the county mailed notice to 215 property owners within 500 feet; staff received one public comment raising traffic and safety concerns. Applicant representative Chris Baker of Midhar Consulting said the 10-foot setback aligns with the Washoe County underlying code for 5,000-square-foot lots and would allow a broader range of home designs.
Commission action and vote Commissioner Linda Kennedy moved to approve the amendment of conditions for WAC25-0006 (JCC Sierra Vista LLC) with amended conditions as presented in Exhibit A, citing the findings required by Washoe County Code section 110.608.25; Commissioner Michael Flick seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Limitations and record The approval applies to remaining unbuilt lots within the tentative map; lots already recorded or constructed remain subject to previously approved setbacks. Staff recommended approval after making the required findings in the staff report.
Votes at a glance Motion: Approve Amendment of Conditions case WAC25-0006 to reduce front-yard setback from 20 feet to 10 feet for houses while maintaining a 20-foot garage setback. Mover: Commissioner Linda Kennedy. Second: Commissioner Michael Flick. Outcome: Passed unanimously (7-0).
