San Rafael zoning administrator conditionally approves neighborhood fitness studio

Renee Nickenig, an associate planner serving as acting zoning administrator, conditionally approved a conditional use permit Tuesday allowing Athletes at Play to operate a small fitness and recreational studio in an existing commercial strip in San Rafael.

Staff described the proposal as a 730-square-foot fitness facility in a neighborhood commercial district and said it included a request for a parking modification because the site currently has nine spaces while the code requires 13. The planner said the application met the findings required by the municipal code and recommended approval with standard conditions addressing noise and parking.

The applicant told the hearing the business serves mostly neighborhood clients and that “90% of them walk in,” describing programs that include small, structured classes and one-on-one training. She said she generally plans to run classes limited to about eight people and noted a preference for session-based instruction rather than an open-gym model.

Several neighbors spoke in support. Johnston, who identified himself as the owner of North Bay Computer Systems next door, said the gym has not affected his parking and called it “a worthwhile venture.” Jennifer Dutra, who said she has lived on Forbes Avenue for more than 20 years, said her sons have trained with the applicant and called the studio “a great addition to the neighborhood.”

At the hearing the zoning administrator and applicant discussed hours and operations. The staff report referenced hours of 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.; during the hearing the applicant mentioned opening at 6:00 a.m. and a closing time she stated as 7:15 a.m. Nickenig said staff would reassess if hours change and that the permit is revocable if conditions — such as noise standards — are violated.

Nickenig stated she would conditionally approve the use permit and described the appeal process. According to the record, there is a five-day appeal period; the planning record as read at the hearing included both “October 13” and “October 15” when reciting the deadline and directed interested parties to contact the planning division for the precise deadline and submission instructions. The record also cites a $350 fee from a resident or neighbor filing an appeal and a $5,119 deposit from an applicant or non-resident as part of the appeal filing as recited at the hearing.

The conditional approval allows the applicant to apply for a business license once the appeal period closes and the permit becomes effective. Nickenig closed the hearing by inviting anyone with questions to contact the planning division by email.