Council approves two residential site‑plan variances, signals review of Williamsburg height rules

The Rolling Hills Estates City Council unanimously approved two zoning items: a site‑plan review and variances for 3 Maverick Lane and a second application for 2 Williamsburg Lane, both of which staff recommended for receipt and filing.

Assistant planner Emma Montes described the Maverick Lane project as a new single‑story residence with a two‑car garage, grading, retaining walls (not to exceed 5 feet) and a variance for side‑yard setback encroachment. Neighbors were notified and the planning commission had previously approved the project; the applicant’s architect said the existing small pool will be removed.

Contract senior planner Raina presented zoning case 25‑115 for 2 Williamsburg Lane: roughly a 900 sq. ft. addition, a new three‑car garage intruding into the front‑yard setback, a basement and a request to exceed the 40% disturbed‑area threshold. Staff said the three lots involved will be merged and that most other code standards are met. The applicant and neighbors discussed roof‑peak height and architectural character; one council member said the city’s 21‑foot height limit had been set without adequately distinguishing Williamsburg’s different architectural character and asked staff to place a future agenda item to reexamine height limits for that neighborhood.

Council recorded no opposition at the planning commission meetings and noted a few staff‑report typographical errors (one committee member said staff incorrectly recorded whether members of the public attended a site visit). Both items were approved by voice vote (recorded as unanimous). Staff said the projects will proceed subject to standard permit conditions and any required lot‑merger paperwork.

What’s next: staff will file the approvals, the applicant will pursue building permits and the council requested a future agenda item to review potential special height considerations for the Williamsburg neighborhood.