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Planning commission approves variances and design review for 97 Spring Grove Avenue addition
Summary
The San Anselmo Planning Commission approved variances, a minor exception and design review to expand a deck and roof at 97 Spring Grove Avenue, citing steep slopes and a public easement as supporting findings; approval is subject to staff conditions and a 10‑day appeal period.
San Anselmo — The Planning Commission voted to approve variances, a minor exception and design review for a second‑story addition and covered deck at 97 Spring Grove Avenue after staff said the site’s steep slope and a 10‑foot public easement create special circumstances that justify relief from strict setback rules.
Jackson Debroney, the town’s associate planner, told commissioners the project would encroach into the required 20‑foot front setback and into the side setback but that the requested relief “can be achieved due to the steep slope, as well as the 10 foot wide public easement along the north property line,” and that the proposal is otherwise consistent with the general plan and zoning. Staff recommended the project be found categorically exempt from CEQA for existing facilities and approved subject to the findings and conditions in the staff report.
Applicant architect Tristan Warren said the home is an existing, nonconforming dwelling with a tight driveway and limited space for trash storage, and described the project as a modest expansion aimed at creating a functional enclosed area for trash receptacles. “All we’re trying to do is create something that’s more functional to the use that’s already there,” Warren said.
No members of the public spoke in favor or against the project at the hearing. Commissioners asked staff to confirm the easement’s purpose (public drainage and access per county records) and the distance to the nearest neighboring dwelling; staff confirmed the proposed work would maintain about 75 feet to the nearest residence and would keep the project consistent with the surrounding development pattern.
A commissioner motion to approve staff recommendations carried by voice vote; the commission’s approval is subject to the findings and conditions in the staff report and a 10‑day appeal period. The approval allows the variances, minor exception for the deck between 3 and 5 feet above grade, and design review to proceed under the specified conditions.
The project materials and staff report are on file with the San Anselmo Community Development Department. The town’s appeal period remains open for 10 days from the date of the action.
