2018 04 24 PCPLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA 1 APRIL 24, 2018
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
REGULAR MEETING on TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2018 AT 6:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Bettencourt, Caldwell, Currie, McCune, Proctor, Wright and
Chairperson Quill.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the Planning Commission on any
matter not listed on the agenda. Please complete a "Request to Speak" form and limit
your comments to three minutes. The Planning Commission values your comments;
however in accordance with State law, no action shall be taken on any item not
appearing on the agenda unless it is an emergency item authorized by GC 54954.2(b).
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVE MINUTES OF APRIL 10, 2018
BUSINESS SESSION - None
STUDY SESSION - None
Planning Commission agendas and
staff reports are now available on the
City’s web page: www.laquintaca.org
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA 2 APRIL 24, 2018
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. CONTINUED FROM APRIL 10, 2018 - VARIANCE 2018-0001 SUBMITTED BY LA
QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES PROPOSING A VARIANCE TO
ALLOW FOR A NINE FOOT FRONT YARD SETBACK FOR THE EXISTING BUILDING,
ALLOW EXISTING MONUMENT SIGN TO ENCROACH INTO THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF
WAY. CEQA: EXEMPT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301 IN THAT THE PROPOSED
PROJECT CAN BE CHARACTERIZED AS AN EXISTING FACILITY. LOCATION: 46300
DUNE PALMS ROAD. [RESOLUTION NO. 2018-004]
2. CONTINUED FROM APRIL 10, 2018 - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2018-
0003 SUBMITTED BY THE CITY OF LA QUINTA PROPOSING A ZONING TEXT
AMENDMENT TO AMEND TITLE 9 BY ADDITION OF SECTION 9.50.100 AND AN
AMENDMENT TO SECTION 9.60.100 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR MODIFICATION OF EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY
DWELLINGS THAT RESULT IN ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS. CEQA: EXEMPT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 15061(B)(3), REVIEW FOR EXEMPTIONS – GENERAL
RULE. [RESOLUTION NO. 2018-005]
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS - None
COMMISSIONERS’ ITEMS
1. SILVERROCK EVENT SITE AD HOC COMMITTEE UPDATE
STAFF ITEMS - None
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission will be held on May 8, 2018,
commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La
Quinta, CA 92253.
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Wanda Wise-Latta, Commission Secretary of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare
that the foregoing Agenda for the La Quinta Planning Commission meeting was
posted on the outside entry to the Council Chamber at 78-495 Calle Tampico, and the
bulletin boards at 78-630 Highway 111, and the La Quinta Cove Post Office at 51-321
Avenida Bermudas, on April 20, 2018.
DATED: April 19, 2018
WANDA WISE-LATTA, Commission Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA 3 APRIL 24, 2018
Public Notices
The La Quinta City Council Chamber is handicapped accessible. If special equipment is needed for the
hearing impaired, please call the Planning Division of the Design and Development Department at 777-
7118, twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the meeting and accommodations will be made.
If special electronic equipment is needed to make presentations to the Commission, arrangements
should be made in advance by contacting the Planning Division of the Design and Development
Department at 777-7118. A one (1) week notice is required.
If background material is to be presented to the Commission during a Planning Commission meeting,
please be advised that eight (8) copies of all documents, exhibits, etc., must be supplied to the
Executive Assistant for distribution. It is requested that this take place prior to the beginning of the
meeting.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Commission regarding any item(s) on this
agenda will be made available for public inspection at the Design and Development Department’s
counter at City Hall located at 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California, 92253, during normal
business hours.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 1 APRIL 10, 2018
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 2018
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the La Quinta Planning Commission was called to order at 6:00
p.m. by Vice Chairperson McCune.
PRESENT: Commissioners Bettencourt, Caldwell, Proctor, Wright and Vice
Chairperson McCune.
ABSENT: Chairperson Quill and Commissioner Currie
STAFF PRESENT: Assistant City Attorney Morgan Gallagher, Planning Manager
Gabriel Perez, Consulting Planner Nicole Sauviat Criste,
Commission Secretary Wanda Wise-Latta and Office Assistant
Mirta Lerma
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Wright led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA – None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA - Confirmed
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 27, 2018
2. APPROVE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2018-0001 REQUESTING A TWO-YEAR
TIME EXTENSION OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2013-152 TO ALLOW THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A SINGLE-FAMILY HOME AT 77-210 LOMA VISTA WITHIN
THE ENCLAVE MOUNTAIN ESTATES [RESOLUTION NO. 2018-003]
Commissioner Bettencourt asked if there was any new discretionary action expected
of the Commission regarding Consent Calendar No. 2. Consulting Planner Nicole Criste
explained that because there was no change to the Conditions of Approval and the
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 2 APRIL 10, 2018
matter is out of the applicant’s control, staff felt that the request for an extention of
time could go before the Commission as a consent item.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Commissioners Caldwell/Wright to
approve the Consent Calendar as recommended, with Item No. 2 adopting Resolution
No. 2018-003. AYES: Commissioners Bettencourt, Caldwell, Proctor, Wright and Vice
Chairperson McCune. NOES: None. ABSENT: Chairperson Quill and Commissioner
Currie. ABSTAIN: None. Motion passed.
BUSINESS SESSION - None
STUDY SESSION - None
PUBLIC HEARING
1. CONTINUED FROM MARCH 27, 2018 - VARIANCE 2018-0001 SUBMITTED BY LA
QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES PROPOSING A VARIANCE
TO ALLOW FOR A NINE-FOOT FRONT YARD SETBACK FOR THE EXISTING
BUILDING, ALLOW EXISTING MONUMENT SIGN TO ENCROACH INTO THE
PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY. CEQA: EXEMPT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301 IN
THAT THE PROPOSED PROJECT CAN BE CHARACTERIZED AS AN EXISTING
FACILITY. LOCATION: 46300 DUNE PALMS ROAD.
Prior to the meeting, an email was received and distributed to the Commission by
Planning Manager Perez. The email from the applicant’s legal representative asked to
continue the item in order to allow the Kingdom Hall congregation time to issue an
endorsement of the variance request.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: None
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Commissioners Wright/Caldwell to
continue Variance 2018-0001 submitted by the La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s
Witnesses to the April 24, 2018 Planning Commission meeting in order to allow the
Kingdom Hall congregation time to issue an endorsement of the variance request.
AYES: Commissioners Bettencourt, Caldwell, Proctor, Wright and Vice Chairperson
McCune. NOES: None. ABSENT: Chairperson Quill and Commissioner Currie. ABSTAIN:
None. Motion passed.
2. ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2018-0003 SUBMITTED BY THE CITY OF LA
QUINTA PROPOSING A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO AMEND TITLE 9 BY
ADDITION OF SECTION 9.50.100 AND AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 9.60.100
OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR
MODIFICATION OF EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGS THAT RESULT IN
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 3 APRIL 10, 2018
ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS. CEQA: EXEMPT PURSUANT TO SECTION
15061(B)(3), REVIEW FOR EXEMPTIONS – GENERAL RULE.
It was noted by Planning Manager Perez that a handout entitled, “Representative
Single-Family Dwelling Space Analysis”, had been distributed to the Commission prior
to the meeting.
Planning Manager Perez presented the staff report, which is on file in the Design and
Development Department and reviewed the single-family dwelling space analysis that
was provided to the Commission.
Commission discussion followed regarding setting a maximum bedroom count,
jurisdiction regarding airspace condominiums; and clarification that new standards for
non-bedroom conversion applied to existing homes and not new home construction.
Planning Manager Perez advised the Commission that the City’s Short Term Vacation
Rental Team is preparing amendments to Title 3 of the Municipal Code.
A Commissioner asked if there were any applications before the City from aggrieved
families whose ability to live in their home had been constrained by existing codes and
Planning Manager Perez responded that there were not.
Commission discussion continued regarding homes over 3,500 square feet and likely
to be found in gated communities with homeowners associations that have their own
rules and regulations; the impact of short term vacation rentals on neighborhoods;
parking; and rental of guest homes or casitas.
Vice Chairperson McCune declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 6:47 p.m.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: None.
Commission discussed additional amendments to be considered including lifting the
deed restriction on guesthomes as a rental unit; setting a maximum limit of eight
bedrooms for homes greater than 3,500 square feet in living area; additional parking
requirement based on additional bedrooms added resulting in four or more bedrooms;
additional garage space would not require additional curb cuts from the street; and
modifying the maximum bedroom coverage to 35% consistent with the maximum
bedroom coverage observed in approved La Quinta single-family residential plans.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Commissioners McCune/Bettencourt
to continue Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2018-0003 submitted by the City of La
Quinta to the April 24, 2018 Planning Commission meeting. AYES: Commissioners
Bettencourt, Caldwell, Proctor, Wright and Vice Chairperson McCune. NOES: None.
ABSENT: Chairperson Quill and Commissioner Currie. ABSTAIN: None. Motion passed.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 4 APRIL 10, 2018
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS - None
COMMISSIONERS’ ITEMS
1. Commissioner Caldwell presented a report on the League of California Cities
Planning Commissioners Academy held in Monterey April 4-6, 2018.
2. Vice Chairperson McCune presented a report on the April 9, 2018 meeting of the
SilverRock Event Site Ad Hoc Committee
STAFF ITEMS
Planning Manager Perez advised the Commission of futre items coming before them
for consideration.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners
Wright/Bettencourt to adjourn this meeting at 7:14 p.m. AYES: Commissioners
Bettencourt, Caldwel, Proctor, Wright and Vice Chairperson McCune. NOES: None.
ABSENT: Chairperson Quill and Commissioner Currie. ABSTAIN: None. Motion passed.
Respectfully submitted,
WANDA WISE-LATTA, Commission Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
STAFF REPORT
PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE: APRIL 24, 2018
CASE NO: VARIANCE 2018-0001
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
PROPERTY OWNER: ENGLISH CONGREGATION OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
REQUEST: VARIANCE TO ALLOW FOR A NINE-FOOT FRONT YARD
SETBACK FOR THE EXISTING BUILDING, ALLOW EXISTING
MONUMENT SIGN TO ENCROACH INTO THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF
WAY AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
CEQA: THE LA QUINTA DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
HAS DETERMINED THAT THIS PROPOSAL IS CATEGORICALLY
EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PURSUANT TO
PROVISIONS OF SECTION 15301, CLASS 1 (EXISTING
FACILITY).
LOCATION: 46300 DUNE PALMS ROAD
LEGAL: APN: 600-030-019
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Determine that the proposed variance is exempt from the California Quality Act, and
further recommend approval of Variance 2018-0001.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• This proposal was considered at the April 10, 2018 Planning Commission
hearing, but was continued because additional time was required to allow the
Kingdom Hall congregation to issue an endorsement of the variance request.
• The City is pursuing property acquisition from the La Quinta Kingdom Hall of
Jehovah’s Witnesses (Kingdom Hall) to accommodate the Dune Palms Road
widening project planned between Highway 111 and Westward Ho Drive.
• The existing Kingdom Hall building and monument sign will conflict with
setback standards after completion of the road widening project.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1
• The applicant requests variance approval to allow the structures to be placed
within the required building and sign setbacks (Attachment 1) BACKGROUND
The City of La Quinta proposes to widen Dune Palms Road to its ultimate General Plan
width as a Secondary Arterial roadway (Attachment 3) between Blackhawk
Way/Westward Ho Drive and approximately 330 feet north of Coachella Valley Storm
Water Channel (CVSC). The road along the western edge is at the ultimate street
width. The final widened street section will consist of a 72-foot curb-to-curb street
section, which includes two 11-foot travel lanes in the north and southbound
directions, 12-foot wide raised curb median and 8-foot bicycle/cart lanes. The existing
sidewalk along the west side will remain and a new 6-foot wide sidewalk will be
placed along the eastern curb line.
Due to the required street section, it has been determined that right-of-way will be
required from all of the parcels along the eastern edge within the project limits, which
included the Authority-owned parcels, the Kingdom Hall site (Attachment 2) and the
mobile home park. Acquisition along the Kingdom Hall site will not impact the
building structure, but will require relocation of the existing monument sign. The
widening project will cause the monument sign and the existing building to be
nonconforming structures. The Kingdom Hall congregation provided their consent for
the variance proposal through approval of a resolution on April 11, 2018.
PROPOSAL AND ANALYSIS
The Kingdom Hall site is 1.82 acres and is improved with two buildings, landscaping,
and parking area. The City is attempting to acquire 9 feet of additional street right-of-
way along the property’s western street frontage to accommodate the road widening
project (Attachment 4).
The General Plan land use designation for the subject site is Medium Density
Residential. The Zoning designation for the subject site is Medium Density Residential
(RM) and the required minimum front building setback is 20 feet measured from a
building structure to the street right-of-way as identified in the La Quinta Municipal
Code (LQMC) Section 9.50.030, Table of Development Standards (Attachment 5). The
existing building is currently 20 feet from the existing street right-of-way and in
compliance with existing setbacks. The existing building will be 11 feet from the
future right-of-way line and therefore cause the building to be a nonconforming
structure upon road widening completion.
The existing monument sign serves as an identification sign for Kingdom Hall and is
setback approximately 3 feet from the existing street right-of-way. The City’s general
sign standards, Section 9.160.030, do not permit signs within 5 feet of a street right-
of-way (Attachment 6). The existing sign will be in the planned path of the future
sidewalk along Dune Palms Road. Currently, there is no sidewalk along the street
frontage of the subject site (Attachment 7). The applicant proposes to relocate the
sign three feet from the future sidewalk and within the future right-of-way due to the
planned reduction in landscape setback area. The existing Imperial Irrigation District
transformer located within the landscape setback limits sign visibility in locations
beyond the future right-of-way.
The LQMC allows the Planning Commission to consider requests for deviations from
the development standards as a Variance if the required findings can be made
pursuant to Section 9.120.030, Variances. The applicant requests variance approval to
permit relocation of the existing monument sign by encroaching 5 feet into the street
right-of-way and allow a 9-foot building front setback for the existing building. Staff is
in support of the request, and believes that it is justified due to proposed property
acquisition along the street frontage of Kingdom Hall for the road widening project.
Staff has prepared variance findings in the attached resolution for consideration by
the Planning Commission.
AGENCY AND PUBLIC REVIEW
Public Agency Review:
This request was sent to all applicable City departments and affected public agencies
on March 12, 2018. All written comments received are on file and available for review
with the Design and Development Department. All applicable comments have been
incorporated in the recommended Conditions of Approval.
Public Notice:
The public hearing notice was advertised in The Desert Sun newspaper on March 16,
2018, and mailed to all property owners within 500 feet of the site. To date, no
comments have been received. Any written comments received will be handed out at
the Planning Commission hearing.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Design and Development Department has determined that this project is exempt
from provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section
15301, Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and the Dune Palms Widening Project was reviewed
under Environmental Assessment 2016-0009. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was
adopted for the road widening project by the City Council on July 19, 2016.
Report prepared/approved by: Gabriel Perez, Planning Manager
Attachments: 1. Project Information
2. Project Area Site Map
3. General Plan 2035 Circulation Diagram
4. Site Plan- Variance Exhibit
5. Table of Development Standards- Building Setbacks, Section 9.50.030
6. Sign Placement, Section 9.160.030.G
7. Site Photos
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2018 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING VARIANCE
2018-0001 TO ALLOW FOR A NINE FOOT FRONT YARD
SETBACK FOR THE EXISTING BUILDING AND ALLOW
EXISTING MONUMENT SIGN TO ENCROACH INTO THE
PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
CASE NUMBERS: VARIANCE 2018-0001
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California did, on
the 24th day of April, 2018, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider a request by
La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses for approval of variance from
development standards of the Medium Density Residential district, 46300 Dune Palms
Road, more particularly described as:
APN: 600-030-019
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public hearing
notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on March 16, 2018 as prescribed by the Municipal
Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to all property owners within 500 feet
of the site; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning
Commission did make the following mandatory findings pursuant to Section 9.210.030
of the La Quinta Municipal Code to justify approval of said Variance:
1. Consistency with General Plan
The proposed Variance is consistent with the goals and policies of the La
Quinta General Plan in that the variance will ensure the applicant is able to
protect its approved entitlements for existing buildings and structures
determined to be consistent with the General Plan under Conditional Use
Permit 2011-058, while also accommodating the 102 foot wide road right-
of-way for Dune Palms Road in the General Plan 2035 Circulation Diagram
Exhibit II-2.
2. Consistency with Zoning Code
The variance, as conditioned, is consistent with the provisions of this zoning
code as the proposed variance is not eligible for consideration of a minor
Planning Commission Resolution 2018 -
Variance 2018-0001 La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
Adopted: April 24 2018
Page 2 of 4
adjustment and allows the planning commission at a public hearing to
consider proposals not consistent with applicable development standards.
Furthermore, the existing building and sign structures were constructed
pursuant to the La Quinta Municipal Code. The widening of the Dune Palms
Road requires acquisition of additional street right-of-way, which will cause
the subject Kingdom Hall building and monument sign to be inconsistent
with setback standards. Therefore, the applicant requests variance approval
to deviate from the 20-foot front building setback requirement of Section
9.50.030 Table of Development Standards for the Medium Density
Residential District by allowing a 9 foot front building setback for the
Kingdom Hall building. In addition, the applicant requests that the existing
monument sign be permitted to deviate from the sign placement standards
of Section 9.160.030.G, Sign Placement, that prohibits freestanding signs
within 5 feet of a street right-of-way and allow encroachment within the
street right-of-way.
3. Compliance with CEQA
The Design and Development Department has determined that this project
is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301 (Class 1) of
the Guidelines implementing CEQA California Environmental Quality Act in
that the proposed project can be characterized as an existing facility. The
subject property is less than five acres in size substantially surrounded by
urban uses, has no value as habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened
species, would not result in any significant effects relating to traffic, noise,
air/water quality, and can be adequately served by all required utilities and
public services. Furthermore, Environmental Assessment 2016-0009 was
prepared for the Dune Palms Widening Project and a Mitigated Negative
Declaration was approved by the City Council on July 19, 2016 and all
impacts related to the road widening project can be mitigated to less than
significant with the adopted mitigation measures.
4. Surrounding Uses
Approval of the proposed variance will not create conditions materially
detrimental to public health, safety and general welfare or injurious to or
incompatible with other properties or land uses in the vicinity. The existing
structures subject of the proposed variance are consistent with an existing
land use for a place of worship approved by Conditional Use Permit 2001-
058 and is compatible with zoning on adjacent properties.
Planning Commission Resolution 2018 -
Variance 2018-0001 La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
Adopted: April 24 2018
Page 3 of 4
5. Special Circumstances
There are special circumstances applicable to the subject property such as
location or surroundings, which, when the zoning regulations are strictly
applied, deprive the property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the
vicinity subject to the same zoning regulations. More specifically, the Dune
Palms Widening Project will reduce the size of the Kingdom Hall property
and cause the existing building and monument sign in their existing location
to be nonconforming structures pursuant to the development standards of
Section 9.50.030 Table of Development Standards and Section 9.160.030.G
General Sign Standards.
6. Preservation of Property Rights
The granting of the variance is necessary for the preservation of a
substantial property right possessed by other property in the same vicinity
and zoning district and otherwise denied to the subject property. The
request for a variance is caused by road widening activities that were not
considered when entitlements for the Kingdom Hall facilities were approved.
7. No Special Privileges
The variance’s required conditions of approval assure that the adjustment
authorized will not constitute a grant of special privileges which are
inconsistent with the limitations placed upon other properties in the vicinity
subject to the same zoning regulations.
8. No Land Use Variance
The approval does not authorize a land use or activity which is not permitted
in the applicable zoning district. Land use approvals were previously
granted for the Kingdom Hall facility through Conditional Use Permit 2001-
058.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
La Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings of the
Planning Commission in this case.
SECTION 2. That the above project be determined by the City Council to be exempt
from CEQA pursuant to Section 15301 (Class 1) of the CEQA Guidelines and consistent
with Environmental Assessment 2016-0009 for the Dune Palms Road Widening
Project.
Planning Commission Resolution 2018 -
Variance 2018-0001 La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
Adopted: April 24 2018
Page 4 of 4
SECTION 3. That it does hereby approve Variance 2018-0001, for the reasons set forth
in this Resolution and subject to the attached Conditions of Approval.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City of La
Quinta Planning Commission, held on this the 24th day of April, 2018, by the following
vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_______________________________
PAUL QUILL, Chairperson
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
_______________________________
GABRIEL PEREZ, Planning Manager
City of La Quinta, California
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2018-
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
VARIANCE 2018-0001
LA QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
APRIL 24, 2018
Page 1 of 1
GENERAL
1. The applicant agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of La Quinta
(“City”), its agents, officers and employees from any claim, action or proceeding to
attack, set aside, void, or annul the approval of this Variance recorded thereunder.
The City shall have sole discretion in selecting its defense counsel.
The City shall promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action or proceeding and
shall cooperate fully in the defense.
2. The future monument sign location shall be submitted for approval by the Design
and Development Director to determine consistency with Variance 2018-0001
prior to relocation.
3. Any replacement or modification of the existing monument sign copy will require
approval of a separate sign permit.
Project Information
CASE NUMBER: VARIANCE 2018-0001
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
PROPERTY OWNER: ENGLISH CONGREGATION OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
REQUEST: VARIANCE TO ALLOW FOR A NINE FOOT FRONT YARD
SETBACK FOR THE EXISTING BUILDING, ALLOW EXISTING
MONUMENT SIGN TO ENCROACH INTO THE PUBLIC RIGHT OF
WAY AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
LOCATION: 46300 DUNE PALMS ROAD
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION: MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
ZONING
DESIGNATION: MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
SURROUNDING
ZONING/LAND USES: NORTH: MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
VACANT PROPERTY
SOUTH: MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
MOBILE HOME PARK
EAST: MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION
WEST: MAJOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES
LA QUINTA HIGH SCHOOL
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 3
ATTACHMENT 4
La Quinta Municipal Code
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Title 9 ZONING
Chapter 9.50 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
9.50.030 Table of development standards.*
*CodeAlert:This topic has been affected by Ordinance No. 562. To view amendments and newly added provisions, please refer to the CodeAlert
Amendment List.
A. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280.
B. Table of Standards. Table 9-2 and the illustrations in Section 9.50.040, following, set forth standards for the development of property within
residential districts. However, standards different from those in Table 9-2 shall apply if special zoning symbols described in Section 9.20.030 are
designated on the official zoning map.
Table 9-2 Residential Development Standards
Development
Standard District
RVL RL RC RM RMH RH
Minimum lot size
for single-family
dwellings (sq. ft.)20,000 7200***7200 5000 3600 2000
Minimum project
size for
multifamily
projects (sq. ft.)n/a n/a n/a n/a 20,000 20,000
Minimum lot
frontage for
single-family
dwellings (ft.)1 100 60 60 50 40 n/a
Minimum
frontage for
multifamily
projects (ft.)n/a n/a n/a n/a 100 100
Maximum
structure height
(ft.)2 28 28 17 28 28 40
Maximum number
of stories 2212 2 3
Minimum front
yard setback (ft.)3 30 20 20 20 20 20
Minimum garage
setback4 (ft.)n/a 25 25 25 25 25
Minimum
interior/exterior
side yard setback
(ft.)5, 7 10/20 5/10 5/10 5/10 5/10 10/15
Minimum rear
yard setback (ft.)7 30
20 for
new lots
and 10
for
existing
recorded
lots8 10 15 15 20
Maximum lot
coverage (% of
net lot area)40 50 60 60 60 60
Page 1 of 29.50.030 Table of development standards.
3/22/2018http://qcode.us/codes/laquinta/view.php?topic=9-9_50-9_50_030&frames=on
ATTACHMENT 5
Minimum livable
area excluding
garage (sq. ft.)2500 1400 1200 1400
1400
(multifamily:
750)
750 for
multifamily
Minimum
common open
area6 n/a n/a n/a 30% 30% 30%
Minimum/average
perimeter
landscape
setbacks (ft.)6 10/20 10/20 n/a 10/20 10/20 10/20
Symbol Description of Special Zoning Symbols Used as per Section 9.20.030
60-RM-10,000
17/1
60-foot minimum lot frontage, medium density residential zoning, 10,000 square foot minimum lot size, 17-foot maximum
building height at one story
RL 10,000
17/1 Low density residential zoning, 10,000 square foot minimum lot size, 17-foot maximum building height at one story
RM
17/1 Medium density residential zoning, 17-foot maximum building height at one story
RL
17/1 Low density residential zoning, 17-foot maximum building height at one story
* As shown on the approved specific plan for the project.
** As provided in the underlying base district.
*** A minimum lot size of 20,000 sq. ft. shall be required of new lots created within subdivisions of 10 acres or less in size located south of Avenue 52 and west of Monroe Street.
1 Minimum lot frontage on cul-de-sacs and knuckles shall be 35 feet. Minimum lot frontage for flag lots shall be 15 feet.
2 Not including basements. Also, notwithstanding above table, the maximum structure height equals 22 feet for all buildings within 150 feet of any general plan-designated image corridor,
except in the RC zone, which is 17 feet.
3 For non-garage portions of dwelling only. Also, projects with five or more adjacent single family dwelling units facing the same street shall incorporate front setbacks varying between 20 feet
and 25 feet or more in order to avoid streetscape monotony.
4 For all but RVL district, minimum garage setback shall be 20 feet if “roll-up” type garage door is used. Also, for side-entry type garages, the garage setback may be reduced to 20 feet in the
RVL district and 15 feet in all other residential districts.
5 The following are exceptions to the minimum side setbacks shown: For interior side yards in the RL, RM and RMH districts, if the building is over 17 feet in height, the setback is five feet
plus one foot for every foot over 17 feet in height or fraction thereof, to a maximum setback of ten feet. The additional setback may be provided entirely at grade level or a combination of at
grade and airspace above the 17-foot building. For RH, five feet minimum plus one foot additional setback for every foot of building height above 28 feet, or fraction thereof, up to a
maximum setback of 15 feet when said height above 17 feet is located between five and ten feet from said side yard property line. For interior setbacks, if the building is over 28 feet in height
the setback is ten feet plus one foot for every foot over 28 feet in height or fraction thereof, to a maximum setback of 15 feet. The additional setback may be provided entirely at grade level or
may be a combination of at grade and airspace above the 28-foot building height.
6 Common open area and perimeter landscape requirements do not apply to single-family detached projects unless a specific plan is required. Common open area equals percent of net project
area. Perimeter landscape setbacks are adjacent to perimeter streets: first number equals minimum at any point; second number equals minimum average over entire frontage (thus, 10/20).
See Section 9.60.240 and additional landscape/open area standards.
7 Rear and side yard setbacks for residential units abutting the image corridor shall be a minimum of 25 feet with the exception of RVL zone district where it only applies to the side yard.
(Ord. 550 § 1, 2016)
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La Quinta Municipal Code
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Title 9 ZONING
Chapter 9.160 SIGNS
9.160.030 General sign standards.
A. Applicability. Signs in the city of La Quinta, including exempt, permanent, semipermanent and
temporary signs, are subject to the general standards of this section.
B. Planned Sign Programs. Planned sign program review is required, per the provisions of Section
9.160.090D, for submissions which: (1) include three or more permanent signs; (2) are in conjunction
with review of a site development permit by the planning commission; or (3) include a request for a sign
adjustment to a sign previously approved under a planned sign program.
C. Interpretation of Provisions. Where a matter of interpretation arises regarding the provisions of this
chapter, the more specific definition or more rigorous standard shall prevail. Whenever the director
determines that the application of any provision of this chapter is uncertain, the issue shall be referred to
the planning commission for determination.
D. Application of Standards. If the director determines that a staff-reviewed sign does not conform to
one or more of the general standards set forth in this section, the applicant shall be given the option of
modifying the sign or applying for a minor adjustment.
E. Measurement of Sign Area. Sign area shall be measured as follows:
1. Basic Rule. Sign size or area shall be defined as the entire area of the sign face, including
nonstructural perimeter trim but excluding structures or uprights on which the sign is supported.
2. Window Signs. Window sign area shall be considered to be the entire area of any sign placed
on or inside a window and not painted directly on the glass. For signs painted directly on the glass,
area measurement shall be the same as that for wall signs, following.
3. Individual Letters. The area of wall or window signs composed of individual letters painted on
or otherwise affixed to the wall or window shall be considered to be the area within the single
continuous perimeter encompassed by a straight-line geometric figure which encloses the extreme
limits of the letters or other characters.
4. Double-Faced Signs. If a sign is double-faced with only one face visible from any ground
position at one time, its sign area shall be considered to be the area of either face taken separately.
Thus, if the maximum permitted sign area is twenty square feet, a double-faced sign may have an
area of twenty square feet per face.
5. Three-Dimensional Signs. If a sign has three or more faces, its sign area shall be considered to
be the sum of the areas of each individual face. Thus, if a sign has four faces and the maximum
permitted sign area is twenty square feet, the maximum allowable area for each face is only five
square feet.
6. Separated-Panel Signs. The sign area of open or separated panel signs, i.e., those signs having
empty spaces between copy panels, shall be considered to be the entire area encompassed by the
sign face, including the empty spaces between panels.
F. Measurement of Sign Height. Sign height shall be measured as follows:
1. Building-Mounted Signs. The height of building-mounted signs shall be measured from the
average finish grade directly beneath the sign.
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ATTACHMENT 6
2. Freestanding Signs. The height of a freestanding sign shall be measured from the top of curb of
the nearest street (or the edge of pavement of such street where there is no curb) to the top of the
sign or any vertical projection thereof, including supporting columns and/or design elements.
However, in cases where the director determines that a freestanding sign is not oriented to any
particular street or is too far from such a street to reasonably apply the foregoing standard, sign
height shall be measured from the average finish grade at the base of the sign.
G. Sign Placement.
1. Setback From Street. Freestanding signs shall not be located within five feet of a street right-of-
way nor within a corner cutoff area identified in Section 9.100.030D.
2. No Off-Premises Signs. All signs shall be located on the same premises as the land use,
business and/or activity identified by the sign, unless specifically permitted to be off-premises
under the provisions of this chapter, or incorporated and approved as part of a temporary use permit
application.
3. Utility Lines. No sign shall be located closer to overhead utility lines than the distance
prescribed by California law or by the rules duly promulgated by agencies of the state or by the
applicable public utility.
4. Traffic Safety. No sign shall be located in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of
pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
5. Public Right-of-Way. No sign shall be located within, over or across a public right-of-way
unless specifically permitted in this chapter.
H. Illumination. Illumination from or upon any sign shall be shaded, shielded, directed or reduced so as
to avoid undue brightness, glare or reflection of light on private or public property in the surrounding
area so as to avoid unreasonably distracting pedestrians or motorists. “Undue brightness” is illumination
in excess of that which is reasonably necessary to make the sign reasonably visible to the average person
on an adjacent street. Illuminated signs which face or are adjacent to residentially zoned property shall
be restricted to minimize the illumination, glare or reflection of light which is visible from the
residentially zoned property.
I. Maintenance. Any sign displayed within the city, together with supports, braces, guys, anchors, and
electrical components, shall be maintained in good physical condition, including the replacement of
defective parts. Exposed surfaces shall be kept clean, in good repair and painted where paint is required.
The director may request the director of building and safety to order the repair or removal of any sign
determined by the director to be unsafe, defective, damaged or substantially deteriorated.
J. Landscaping of Freestanding Signs. All freestanding signs shall include, as part of their design,
landscaping and/or hardscaping about their base so as to prevent vehicles from hitting the sign, to
improve the overall appearance of the installation, and to screen light fixtures and other appurtenances.
The applicant shall maintain all landscape areas in a healthy and viable condition.
K. Inspection. All sign owners and users shall permit the periodic inspection of their signs by the city
upon ten days’ notice.
L. Specific Plan Standards to Apply. Signs to be located within the boundaries of a specific plan or
other special design approval area shall comply with the criteria established by such plan or area. (Ord.
550 § 1, 2016)
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Site Photos- La Quinta Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
ATTACHMENT 7
Page 1 of 4
STAFF REPORT
PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE: APRIL24, 2018
CASE NUMBER: ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2018-0003
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
REQUEST: ADOPT A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL APPROVE A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT TO AMEND
TITLE 9 BY THE ADDITION OF SECTION 9.50.100 AND
AMENDMENT TO SECTION 9.60.100 OF THE LA QUINTA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR
MODIFICATION OF EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGS
THAT RESULT IN ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS AND FIND THE
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA).
LOCATION: CITY-WIDE
CEQA: EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER CEQA,
PURSUANT TO SECTION 15061(B)(3), REVIEW FOR
EXEMPTIONS – GENERAL RULE
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt a resolution recommending to the City Council approval of Zoning Ordinance
Amendment 2018-0003 to amend Title 9 by the addition of Section 9.50.100 and
amendment to Section 9.60.100 of the La Quinta Municipal Code and finding of an
exemption from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act
pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3), Review for Exemptions – General Rule.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•The Council adopted a moratorium on January 16, 2018 pertaining to issuance
of building permits for common living space conversions to bedrooms in order
to develop standards that limit conversions that may impact the health, safety,
and welfare of neighboring residents.
•The La Quinta Municipal Code (Code) does not specifically address converting
single-family residential common living areas into bedroom space.
•The Planning Commission considered the staff prepared code amendments
that establish limits on additional bedrooms when proposed with
additions/modifications to an existing single-family dwelling on April 10, 2018
and voted to continue the item to allow staff time to incorporate recommended
code revisions.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 2
Page 2 of 4
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
In North La Quinta, owners of single-family residences, permitted as short-term
vacation rentals, have requested building permits to add additional bedrooms beyond
the number of bedrooms originally intended for the home. The Code standards do not
directly limit conversion of existing kitchens, living rooms, dining room spaces, and
other “non-bedroom” spaces into additional bedrooms. Staff is concerned that a
proliferation of non-bedroom conversions within Short term vacation rentals (STVRs)
may increase residential occupancies and land use densities beyond those intended
for single-family zoned neighborhoods, resulting in excessive noise and excessive use
of on-street parking, among other impacts to health, safety and welfare identified in
the ordinance.
A forty-five (45) day moratorium on issuance of building permits for common living
space was adopted by Council January 16, 2018 to develop standards that limit
common living area-to-bedroom conversions that may impact the health, safety, and
welfare of neighboring residents. Council adopted an extension of the moratorium for
120 days on February 20, 2018. Council and Commission held a Joint Study Session on
February 27, 2018 and the Commission was directed to study the issue. At a Planning
Commission Study Session on March 13, 2018, Commissioners expressed support for
limits on bedroom space coverage within existing dwelling units, limits on number of
bedrooms by dwelling unit size, and additional parking requirements.
Staff prepared code amendments that limit non-bedroom conversions and the
following represent proposed changed to Title 9 of the Code:
Add Chapter 9.50.100 Additional Bedrooms
This proposed section established minimum development standards applicable to
additions to an existing single-family dwelling or modifications to the floor plan
configuration of an existing single-family dwelling that results in additional bedrooms
as follows:
•Maximum Number of Bedrooms. Staff reviewed the maximum bedrooms
approved in representative La Quinta single-family residential developments
and recommends establishment of a maximum number of bedrooms based on
thresholds of livable area square footage within single-family dwellings
(Attachment 1). Homeowners pursuing additions or modifications to existing
single-family dwellings would be prohibited from exceeding the maximum
number of bedrooms.
LIVABLE ARE IN SQUARE FEET BEDROOM MAXIMUM NUMBER
2,000 OR LESS 4
2,001-3,500 6
GREATER THAN 3,500 NO MAXIMUM
Page 3 of 4
The Planning Commission recommended establishing limit of 8 bedrooms for
homes greater than 3,500 square feet in living area at the April 10, 2018
meeting.
•Maximum Bedroom Coverage. The Planning Commission recommended
establishing a standard for maximum bedroom coverage similar to non-
bedroom conversion limitations in the City of Riverside. The City of Riverside
standard prohibits bedroom coverage from exceeding 50% of the total dwelling
area, excluding garage space. The remaining 50% of the dwelling is required as
common living area. Staff evaluated the percentage of bedroom space
coverage for approved representative single-family residential developments
and found that the bedroom coverage was as low as 19% and as high as 35%.
Staff recommended establishing maximum bedroom coverage of 40% within
existing single-family dwellings, stricter than the Riverside standard, but still
providing enough flexibility for residents to add bedrooms. The Planning
Commission recommended modifying the maximum bedroom coverage to 35%
consistent with the maximum bedroom coverage observed in approved La
Quinta single-family residential plans at the April 10, 2018 meeting.
•Additional Parking Requirement. Staff recommended a requirement of
additional garage space for modifications to single-family dwelling that equal
or five or more bedrooms. The additional parking requirement would prevent
excessive use of on-street parking caused by increased occupancies that
accompany construction of additional bedrooms. A similar requirement was
observed in the cities of Indio and Riverside. The City of Riverside does not
require the additional on-site parking space to be covered within a garage. An
uncovered on-site parking space is not recommended as an option to fulfill the
parking requirement, as it may result in front yard driveway expansions that
maximize visibility of parked on-site vehicles and removal of front yard
landscaping. The Planning Commission recommended a requirement of
additional garage space for when four or more bedrooms are added at the April
10, 2018. The Planning Commission also recommended that the additional
garage space not result in any new street curb cuts.
Amend Section 9.60.100 Guesthouses
Guesthouses are permitted on any single-family lot as an accessory use as attached
or detached structures. Guesthouses are prohibited as a rental unit. There are
currently no limits on the number of bedrooms within guest homes, but a limit of 2
bedrooms has been applied to accessory dwelling units. Staff recommends adopting
a limit of 2 bedrooms for guest homes consistent with accessory dwelling units. Such
a standard would limit occupancy in single-family dwellings registered as STVRs
consistent with occupancies originally intended for the neighborhood. The Planning
Commission recommended eliminating the deed restriction requirement that prohibits
rental of guesthouses.
Staff revised the code amendments (Exhibit A) to reflect modifications recommended
Page 4 of 4
by the Planning Commission at the April 10, 2018 regular meeting. The proposed code
amendments maintain the ability of homeowners to add additional bedrooms in a
manner that preserves neighborhood character and maintains land use densities
consistent with those intended for single-family zoned neighborhoods.
AGENCY AND PUBLIC REVIEW
Public Notice:
This project was advertised in The Desert Sun newspaper on March 30, 2018. To date,
no comments have been received from the public or other City Departments.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Design and Development Department has determined that the proposed zone
text amendment is exempt from environmental review under CEQA, pursuant to
Section 15061(b)(3), Review for Exemptions – General Rule, in that it can be seen with
certainty that there is no possibility for this action to have a significant effect on the
environment, and individual development plans will be reviewed under CEQA as they
are proposed.
Prepared by: Gabriel Perez, Planning Manager
Attachment: 1. Single-family Dwelling Representative Space Analysis
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2018 - ___
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT
THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ZONING ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT 2018-0003 TO AMEND TITLE 9 BY THE
ADDITION OF SECTION 9.50.100 AND AMENDMENT TO
SECTION 9.60.100 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO STANDARDS FOR MODIFICATION OF
EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGS THAT RESULT IN
ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS AND FIND THE ZONING
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
CASE NUMBER:
ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2018-0003
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California, did on
the 24th day of April, 2018, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing for review of a Zoning
Ordinance Amendment to amend Title 9 with the addition of Section 9.50.100 and
amendment to Section 9.60.100 of the La Quinta Municipal Code, as identified by Title
of this Resolution; and
WHEREAS, said Zoning Ordinance Amendment has complied with the
requirements of "The Rules to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act of
1970" (CEQA) as amended (Resolution 83-63). The Design and Development
Department has determined that the proposed amendment is exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3), Review for Exemptions –
General Rule, in that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility for this
action to have a significant effect on the environment, and individual development
plans will be reviewed under CEQA as they are proposed; and
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public hearing
notice for this request in The Desert Sun newspaper on March 30, 2018, as prescribed
by the Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are the result of the code amendments
requested by the City Council at their regular meeting on January 16, 2018 to develop
standards that address non-bedroom conversions for single-family dwellings within
residential districts; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning
Commission did make the following mandatory findings to recommend approval of
said Zoning Ordinance Amendment to the City Council:
Planning Commission Resolution 2018 - ___
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2018-0003
Applicant: City of La Quinta
Adopted: April 24, 2018
Page 2 of 3
1.Consistency with General Plan
The zoning ordinance amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives and
policies of the General Plan. The proposed amendments are supported by
Program LU-1.1.b, that the Zoning Ordinance will include design standards in all
zoning districts that assure high quality development and Policy LU-3.1, to
encourage the preservation of neighborhood character and assure a consistent
and compatible land use pattern.
2.Public Welfare
Approval of the zoning ordinance amendment will not create conditions
materially detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare. The
amendments assist in implementation of the General Plan 2035 to maintain
neighborhood character by ensuring residential occupancies and land uses
densities are not increased beyond those intended for residential districts.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
La Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the findings of the
Planning Commission in this case.
SECTION 2. That the Planning Commission does hereby recommend approval of
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2018-0003, as set forth in attached Exhibit A, to the
City Council for the reasons set forth in this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La Quinta
Planning Commission held this 24th day of April, 2018, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Planning Commission Resolution 2018 - ___
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2018-0003
Applicant: City of La Quinta
Adopted: April 24, 2018
Page 3 of 3
________________________________
KEVIN MCCUNE, Vice Chairperson
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
____________________________________________
GABRIEL PEREZ, Planning Manager
City of La Quinta, California
EXHIBIT A
9.50.100 Additional Bedrooms
This section provides the following minimum developmental standards applicable to
the addition to an existing single-family dwelling or modification to the floor plan
configuration of an existing single-family dwelling that results in additional bedrooms.
A. Existing single-family dwelling units may not exceed maximum bedrooms as
follows:
SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGS
LIVABLE AREA IN SQ. FT. BEDROOMS MAX. No
2,000 or less 4
2,001-3,500 6
greater than 3,500 8
B. The total area of all bedrooms shall not exceed 35% of the total livable area of
the dwelling. The calculation of bedroom area shall not include closets or bathrooms.
C. When as a result of new construction or modification of a single-family
dwelling the number of bedrooms is proposed to equal or exceed four (4), an
additional garage space of ten by 20 feet shall be provided. Access to the additional
garage space shall be from existing driveways and not result in new street curb cuts.
D. Bedrooms added as a result of new construction or modification of a single-
family dwelling shall be used only by the occupants of the main residence, their non-
paying guests, or domestic employees. No additional bedrooms may be rented or used
as a short term vacation rental (“STVR”) except upon application and issuance of a
STVR permit pursuant to Chapter 3.25 of this code.
9.60.100 Guesthouses.
A. Purpose. This section provides standards and criteria for the establishment of
guesthouses where such units are permitted in accordance with Section 9.40.040
and are not detached accessory dwelling units subject to Section 9.60.090(D).
B. Definitions. See Chapter 9.280
C. Limitations. One guesthouse may be established on any single-family
residential lot as a permitted accessory use. In the cove residential, medium density
residential, medium-high density residential and high density residential zones, only
one guesthouse may be permitted on a lot, unless otherwise approved through a
specific plan. In the very low density residential and low density residential zones,
more than one guesthouse may be permitted with director approval.
D. Standards for Guesthouses. Guesthouses shall not be permitted when duplexes,
triplexes, or apartments occur on the lot. All guesthouses shall conform to the
following standards:
1.Detached guesthouses shall conform to all applicable building code
standards and all development and design standards of the zoning district in
which they are located. In addition, the height of the guesthouse shall not
exceed seventeen feet and shall not be more than one story.
2.Guesthouses shall be architecturally compatible with the main unit.
3.The floor area of the guesthouse shall not exceed thirty percent of the
existing living area of the principal residence.
4.The placement of a guesthouse on a lot shall not result in violation of the
lot coverage maximums set forth in Section 9.50.030.
5.A guesthouse shall be used only by the occupants of the main residence,
their non-paying guests, or domestic employees. The guesthouse shall not be
rented or otherwise occupied separately from the main residence.
6.A deed restriction shall be required for recordation against the property
to prohibit the use or conversion of the guesthouse to a rental unit or to a unit
for sale.
6. 7. If a private sewage disposal system is used, approval of the local health
officer shall be required.
7. 8. When constructed with tract homes or prototypical residential units,
guesthouse location and design shall be reviewed and approved as a part of the
site development permit process. On an individual single-family lot of record,
guesthouses shall be reviewed and approved for conformance with these
provisions during the building permit plan check process. (Ord. 550 § 1, 2016 )
8.Guesthouses shall have no more than two bedrooms.
Representative Single-Family Dwelling Space Analysis
(Prepared for ZOA 2018-0003)
Project Total S.F. (w/o
garage)
Bed room
S.F.*
# of
Bedrooms
Common Area
S.F.**
Bedroom % Common Area %
Darby Estates Plan
1
2,698 832 5 773 31% 29%
Darby Estates Plan
2
2,709 956 6 716 35% 26%
Coral Mountain
Plan 1
2,756 641 3 1,023 23% 37%
Coral Mountain
Plan 2
2,906 974 4 936 34% 32%
Watermark Plan 1 3,009 1,020 5 453 34% 15%
52010 Avenida
Cortez
1,529 451 3 718 29% 47%
54505 Avenida
Rubio
1,918 564 4 799 29% 42%
53385 Avenida
Mendoza
1,941 492 3 781 25% 40%
Monticello Plan 2 1,800 440 3 825 24% 46%
Monticello Plan 5 3,015 802 4 1,281 27% 42%
Del Oro Plan 1 2,400 451 4 847 19% 35%
Del Oro Plan 2 2,759 786 4 815 29% 30%
Del Oro Plan 3 3,200 825 5 1,037 26% 32%
Griffin Ranch Plan
1
2,587 687 3 930 26% 36%
Griffin Ranch Plan
2
2,824 602 3 1,184 21% 42%
Griffin Ranch Plan
3
3,148 803 4 1,089 25% 34%
Codorniz Plan 4-2 1,350 382 3 687 28% 51%
Codorniz Plan 4-4 1,660 456 3 705 27% 42%
The Orchards Plan
1
3,557 1,062 6 1,011 30% 28%
The Orchards Plan
2
3,530 1,118 5 1,216 32% 34%
*Note: Calculation of square footage for bedrooms excludes closets, bathrooms, etc.
**Calculation of common area square footage includes kitchen, dining room, common living rooms, but
excludes entry ways, closets, bathrooms.
ATTACHMENT 1
HANDOUTS
PLANNING
COMMISSION
MEETING
APRIL 24, 2018
HANDOUT:
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
APRIL 24, 2018
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 2 - ZOA2018-0003
HANDOUT:
PLANNING COMMISISON MEETING
APRIL 24, 2018
STAFF ITEM UPDATE