DRC approves Sky High HOA slope repair to stabilize landslide area

Lafayette 'The Design Review Commission voted Oct. 27 to approve a hillside development permit to repair a slope behind 665 Sky High Circle. Nicole, the project planner, told commissioners the failure occurred in 2023 in a steep open area on an approximately 31‑acre lot; the repair would not require removal of protected trees and would restore the slope to a natural condition.

Planner Nicole described the proposed stabilization method as repeated layers of geogrid reinforcement with engineered fill. The application estimates 1,800 cubic yards of earthwork (900 cubic yards cut, 900 cubic yards fill), with a small amount of topsoil designated separately; erosion control matting and native grass seeding were proposed for final surface treatment. Referral agencies (including fire and the city engineer) either reviewed with standard conditions or submitted no comments, staff said.

Staff recommended the Design Review Commission find the project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act and adopt a resolution approving the permit subject to conditions. The commission voted by voice vote to adopt the resolution (DRC resolution 2025‑17) approving the project.

The project is conditioned on standard construction, erosion control and monitoring measures and will return to staff for required inspections during work. No protected trees were identified for removal and the project is limited to the repair area described in the application.