The Cal Planning and Zoning Commission on Nov. 17 unanimously approved a variance to reduce the rear-yard setback from 20 feet to 13 feet for a proposed four-unit townhome on a vacant lot at 711–717 Woodbridge Court. The decision came after the applicant, Luis Poblete, and planning staff described the lot as unusually shallow — about 80 feet deep compared with the 88-foot depth used to set the original 20-foot standard — and said strict application of the rule would eliminate roughly 700 square feet of buildable area and require substantial redesign.

Poblete told the commission the request is not about convenience but about making the lot usable in a way that matches the scale and character of neighboring units. He said he met with adjacent neighbor Carolyn Swafford and that the applicant agreed to conditions aimed at protecting privacy and neighborhood appearance: no rear decks; paved patios/landings limited to 3 feet by 3 feet constructed to code; planting a line of 10 screening trees (minimum 6 feet tall) along the north lot line; and removal and replacement of an existing dead tree with a new deciduous tree of at least 2.5-inch caliper.

Planning staff summarized the subdivision’s 2002 ordinance that established the 20-foot setback for 88-foot lots, noted that this parcel is shallower than the typical lot, reviewed supporting photos and the revised plan, and reported having received written support from multiple neighbors conditioned on added screening. Staff recommended approval, saying the lot’s depth creates a practical hardship and the proposed conditions mitigate impacts.

Neighbor Carolyn Swafford, who lives nearest the proposed units, said she appreciated the concessions but voiced concern that the reduced setback could depress long-term marketability for her unit and nearby homes. Commissioners questioned whether the plans included second-story sliding doors or decks (staff and the applicant confirmed no rear decks and that main-level access would be to a small landing), and discussed variation in other lot depths across the subdivision.

A motion to approve the variance, incorporating the three conditions discussed at the hearing, was moved, seconded and carried on a unanimous roll call. The approval applies only to this lot; staff stated any variance for other vacant lots would require separate public notice and hearings.

The commission’s action is final for the body and will be reflected in the building-permit review process and HOA enforcement where applicable.