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Commission approves variance to enable 8‑unit infill project in downtown Tulare
Summary
The Tulare Planning Commission approved Variance No. 470, allowing a lot‑line adjustment and reduced lot‑depth standards so Sequoia Consulting can pursue an eight‑unit multifamily infill project on three parcels near Cherry Street and Tulare Avenue.
The Tulare Planning Commission voted March 10 to adopt a resolution approving Variance No. 470, which allows a lot‑line adjustment to three parcels and waives minimum lot‑depth requirements for two parcels in the RM zone to enable an eight‑unit infill multifamily development.
Staff explained the parcels are constrained by frontage on SR‑137 (Larry Avenue), which is under Caltrans jurisdiction and does not permit new drive approaches, leaving access possible only from Cherry Street. Because of parcel configuration and access constraints, staff said it is not practical to keep three separate parcels and meet RM zone development standards without an adjustment. The applicant (Sequoia Consulting) proposes four buildings totaling eight two‑bedroom, 2.5‑bath units as an infill opportunity near downtown and across from a school.
Staff recommended approval based on findings in the municipal code (chapter 10.84.050) and noted the application may be categorically exempt under CEQA sections 15315 (minor land divisions) and 15332 (infill development). Steven Msas of Sequoia Consulting told commissioners the project has been in preparation for years and aims to attract young professionals to live near downtown and nearby services such as Adventist Health.
No speakers opposed the variance during the public hearing. A commissioner moved to adopt the resolution approving Variance No. 470; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote (Commissioner Ku: yes; Vice Chair Limas: yes; Chair Miller: yes). The resolution authorizes the applicant to pursue the lot‑line adjustment and the project will proceed through required permit and building‑permit reviews if the adjustments and final plans meet development standards.
The commission’s approval addresses the variance for lot depth only; staff reiterated that an additional line‑adjustment application is required to complete the parcel reconfiguration and that all development standards and permits remain subject to review.
