Mill Valley planning commission approves West Blythedale house, allows two redwoods to be removed for 16‑foot emergency access

The Mill Valley Planning Commission on Jan. 14 approved a design review, variance and tree‑removal permit for a replacement single‑family home at 503 West Blythedale Avenue, finding that steep slopes and site constraints create hardship and that conditions can reduce environmental and visual impacts.

Associate Planner Michelle Johnson presented the application and staff recommendation, saying the project replaces an existing two‑story home with a new three‑story residence and requires variances for reduced on‑site parking (from two spaces to one), reductions to exterior setbacks for an elevated deck and mechanical hillside lift, a creek setback reduction for retaining walls, and a tree removal permit for two heritage coast redwoods located in the public right‑of‑way. Johnson said staff found the project meets required findings and added conditions addressing erosion control and nesting‑season restrictions after consultations with state and county agencies.

Southern Marin Fire District representatives told the commission that the retaining‑wall and…