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Planning commission approves concealed 75‑ft wireless 'tree' at 509 Selmar Avenue with landscaping and noise conditions
Summary
The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit to install a 75‑foot disguised wireless pole at 509 Selmar Avenue, requiring three 36‑inch‑box evergreen trees (cap $7,500) for screening; staff noted a noise study on file showing generator noise measured about 33.22 dB at the closest receiver.
The City of Campbell Planning Commission on Aug. 12 approved a conditional use permit with site and architectural review for a concealed wireless telecommunications facility — a 75‑foot tall pole designed to resemble a eucalyptus tree — at 509 Selmar Avenue.
Senior Planner Steven Rose reviewed the application and said staff recommends approval under the city’s wireless‑facility standards, noting surrounding trees and streetscape informed the choice of a tree pole rather than a freestanding tower. The staff presentation also summarized screening measures: the applicant agreed to plant three 36‑inch‑box evergreen trees along the Selmar Avenue frontage and the condition includes a $7,500 cap on the landscaping and installation cost.
Commissioners questioned the number and spacing of trees and whether three trees would provide adequate screening. One commissioner, who had walked the site, said three trees felt “like the bare minimum” and advocated four or five trees; staff and the applicant explained site constraints (emergency access doors, existing planting locations) and the $7,500 cap as a practical limit tied to installation costs.
On noise and equipment, staff and the applicant said a noise study submitted with the permit is on file; the study measured generator noise at the nearest sound receiver at approximately 33.22 decibels, and staff said non‑generator equipment would be quieter. The applicant’s representative, Aaron Dela Au of Centerline Communications (on behalf of AT&T), said ground equipment and cabinets will be located in a leased base area and that generators run only during power outages.
After discussion of design, screening, collocation possibilities and future redevelopment considerations, the commission moved and seconded a resolution approving the concealed facility; the motion passed unanimously on roll call.
The commission noted the planning commission’s action is final unless an appeal is filed in writing with the city clerk within 10 calendar days.
