Monterey County planners continue Salinas hillside house proposal after questions about slope impact and tree removal

The Monterey County Planning Commission on Feb. 12, 2025 continued consideration of a proposal to build a two‑story, single‑family dwelling at 103A San Benancio Road in Salinas after commissioners raised questions about the amount of development on slopes exceeding 25% and the removal of protected oak trees.

Staff presented a combined development permit request (PLN230131) seeking design approval for a 3,633‑square‑foot residence with an attached garage and deck, a use permit to remove 10 protected oak trees (including two landmark trees identified at 24 inches or greater), and a use permit to allow development on slopes exceeding 25%. Staff recommended the commission find the project categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15303 and approve the permit package, subject to standard conditions.

Commissioners said they were not comfortable approving the project without clearer, quantified findings about how much development would occur on slopes greater than 25% and additional details about grading, erosion control and fire/fuel‑management measures. Several commissioners pressed staff and the applicant for a construction management plan, more precise footprint and grading figures in the staff report, and clarity about how fire clearance and fuel‑management requirements would interact with tree retention and revegetation commitments.

Project details presented by staff and the applicant included: - Proposed building: 3,633 square feet (two stories). The applicant described the garage and…