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Commission grants variance for 147 Andover after compromise on setback and ridgeline
Summary
Following extensive opposition testimony about unpermitted demolition, inaccurate plans and neighborhood impacts in Bernal Heights, the Planning Commission approved a rear‑yard variance for 147 Andover with conditions to reduce the second‑story encroachment (22‑inch setback), match the front ridge line, and minimize landing/stair projections.
After a lengthy public hearing in which neighbors raised plan inaccuracies, alleged demolition without appropriate permits, and potential impacts on light, privacy and neighborhood character, the Planning Commission granted a rear‑yard variance for 147 Andover Street subject to a negotiated compromise.
Opponents and the discretionary‑review requester argued the project exceeded the scope of prior over‑the‑counter permits, that drawings misrepresented grades and elevations, and that the proposed addition would intrude substantially into limited rear yards in Bernal Heights’ Special Use District. Petitioners presented photographic evidence and letters from architects who said submitted drawings are insufficient to evaluate impacts.
Project sponsors (Robin and Carly Vasson) described structural and foundation work that required excavation and said the intent was to infill under an existing non‑habitable sun porch to create livable space. Staff noted the project increases ceiling heights and roof ridgeline at the rear by about three feet and that a limited variance is required for rear yard encroachment.
Commissioners expressed frustration about inconsistent or old drawings but ultimately negotiated a compromise on the public record: allow the work to proceed with the already‑poured foundation but require the second floor rear wall to be pulled back by 22 inches at the upper level, limit deck and landing projections to minimum building‑code requirements and lower the rear ridge to match the front‑house ridgeline to reduce visual impacts.
The commission recorded a vote to take discretionary review and approve the project with those conditions. Commissioners also urged staff to tighten interagency coordination to avoid similar cases where work proceeds beyond permitted scopes and to ensure future plan sets are complete and legible.
