Council approves six‑unit Cheney Street subdivision with one deed‑restricted unit

The Santa Clara City Council unanimously approved a vesting tentative map Dec. 16 to divide a single 18,651‑square‑foot parcel at 4503 Cheney Street into six single‑family lots with a common driveway. The project includes one deed‑restricted unit at the moderate‑income level as required by the applicable approvals.

Planning background: The application came in under SB 330 rules and, per staff, was evaluated against the city’s zoning rules in effect when the governing code applied. Planning staff and the commission found the subdivision consistent with the general plan and city standards for parcel area, frontage and parking. Architectural review approval preceded the map hearing and addressed massing, materials and garage configuration.

Neighborhood concerns: Staff and the project team said they held a community meeting that drew several neighbors who raised parking and design concerns. The applicant agreed to an architectural detail — a mid‑belt façade band — and a condition of approval requiring garages be used for parking (not solely for storage) to help address neighbor concerns about spillover street parking.

Key project details: Each proposed home is roughly 2,700 square feet with a two‑car covered garage. Staff found no unusual infrastructure or traffic burden tied to the subdivision and recommended categorical exemption from CEQA (Class 15332, infill development). Planning Commission recommended approval by a 7–0 vote.

Outcome and next steps: Council adopted the resolution approving the vesting tentative map and the applicant will proceed to final map and building‑permit stages subject to the conditions of approval. The architectural refinements agreed during review will be required in the final permit set.