HomeMy WebLinkAboutPacket_2024_08_05CITY OF SEAL BEACH
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
05 August 2024 — 7:00 PM
City Council Chambers
211 Eighth Street
Seal Beach, CA 90740
District 1 — Calvin Mingione
District 2 — Ben Wong
District 3 — Richard Coles – Chair
District 4 — Patty Campbell
District 5 — Margo Wheeler – Vice Chair
Department of Community Development
Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
Shaun Temple, Planning Manager
Patricia Garcia, Associate Planner
Samuel Funes, Assistant Planner
Amy Greyson, Senior Assistant City Attorney
•City Hall office hours are 8:00 a. m. to 5:00 p. m. Monday through Friday. Closed from
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for lunch.
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assistance to attend this meeting please telephone the City Clerk's Office at least 48
hours in advance of the meeting at (562) 431-2527.
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•Copies of staff reports and/or written materials on each agenda item are available on the
City’s website at: https://www.sealbeachca.gov/Government/Agendas-Notices-Meeting-Videos/Council-
Commission-Meetings.
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
At this time members of the public may address the Planning Commission regarding
any items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. Pursuant to the
Brown Act, the Commission cannot discuss or take action on any items not on the
agenda unless authorized by law. Those members of the public wishing to speak are
asked to come forward to the microphone and state their name for the record. All
speakers will be limited to a period of 5 minutes. Speaker cards will be available at the
Clerk’s desk for those wishing to sign up to address the Commission, although
submission of a speaker card is not required in order to address the Commission.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Motion of the Planning Commission this is the time to notify the public of any
changes to the agenda, re- arrange the order of the agenda, and provide an opportunity
for any member of the Planning Commission or staff to request an item be removed
from the Consent Calendar for separate action.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A.Approval of the July 15, 2024 Planning Commission Minutes.
CONTINUED ITEMS
SCHEDULED MATTERS
NEW BUSINESS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Conditional Use Permit 24-01
13932 Seal Beach Boulevard
Applicant: Elmira Shojaei
Request: For a Conditional Use Permit (CUP 24-01) to allow the expansion of a
Medical Services Clinic in the Service Commercial (SC) zoning area.
Recommendation: After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-09, APPROVING Conditional Use
Permit 24-01 with Conditions and finding the project EXEMPT from the California
Enviornmental Quality Act.
Minor Use Permit 24-04 and Minor Use Permit 24-05
136 6th Street (MUP 24-04); 138 6th Street (MUP 24-05)
Applicant: Jeffrey Dahl, architect, on behalf of the property owner, Thuy Nguyen
Request: For Minor Use Permit (MUP) 24-04 and MUP 24-05 to allow a porch to
exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade for a proposed single-family
residence while extending into the front setback, for a property located at 136 6th
Street (MUP 24-04) and a property at 138 6th Street (MUP 24-05), both located in the
Residential High Density 20 (RHD-20) zone.
Recommendation: After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommens that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-10, APPROVING Minor Use Permit 24-
04 with Conditions, and adopt Resolution No. 24-11, APPROVING Minor Use Permit
24-05 with Conditions, finding both projects exempt from CEQA.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
COMMISSION CONCERNS
ADJOURNMENT
Adjourn the Planning Commission to Monday, August 19, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
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PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE:August 5, 2024
TO:Planning Commission
THRU:Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
FROM:Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
SUBJECT:Approval of the July 15, 2024 Planning Commission Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission meeting
held on July 15, 2024
Prepared by: Approved by:
Gloria D. Harper Alexa Smittle
Gloria D. Harper Alexa Smittle
City Clerk Community Development Director
Attachments:
1. July 15, 2024 Planning Commission Minutes
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City of Seal Beach – Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
July 15, 2024
Chair Coles called the Planning Commission meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Mingione led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners: Mingione, Campbell, Wong, Wheeler, Coles
Absent: None
Staff Present: Amy Greyson, Senior Assistant City Attorney
Shaun Temple, Planning Manager
Samuel Funes, Assistant Planner
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
Brandon DeCriscio, Deputy City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Chair Coles opened public communications. Speakers: Ken Seiff, John Janecek. Chair
Coles closed public communications.
Deputy City Clerk DeCriscio announced that no emailed comments were received after
posting the agenda.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Motion of the Planning Commission this is the time to notify the public of any changes
to the agenda, re-arrange the order of the agenda, and provide an opportunity for any
member of the Planning Commission or staff to request an item be removed from the
Consent Calendar for separate action.
Motion by Commissioner Campbell, second by Chair Coles to approve the agenda.
AYES: Mingione, Wong, Campbell, Wheeler, Coles
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Approval of the July 1, 2024, Planning Commission Minutes
Motion by Vice Chair Wheeler second by Commissioner Wong to approve the consent
calendar.
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AYES: Mingione, Wong, Campbell, Wheeler, Coles
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried.
CONTINUED ITEM(S) - None
SCHEDULED MATTERS - None
NEW BUSINESS – None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Minor Use Permit 24-02
456 Pacific Coast Highway
Applicant: Steve Holguin
Request: For a Minor Use Permit (MUP 24-02) to authorize a Take-Out Restaurant at 456
Pacific Coast Highway which is in the General Commercial (GC) zoning area.
Recommendation: After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-08, APPROVING Minor Use Permit 24-02
with Conditions and find the project exempt from CEQA.
Assistant Planner Funes provided a comprehensive staff report. Commissioners’ questions
were addressed.
Chair Coles opened the public hearing. Speakers: Applicant, Sulema Holguin. Chair Coles
closed the public hearing.
A dialogue ensued between Commissioner Wong and the applicant, Sulema Holguin,
regarding potential seating at the restaurant.
Commissioner Campbell moved, second by Commissioner Wong, to adopt Resolution No.
24-08, APPROVING Minor Use Permit 24-02 with Conditions and find the project exempt
from CEQA.
AYES: Mingione, Wong, Campbell, Wheeler, Coles
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried
Senior Assistant City Attorney Greyson noted that there is a ten-day appeal period that
starts July 16, 2024.
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Planning Manager Temple reported that the Zone Text Amendment item, which was
approved by the Planning Commission on July 1, 2024, will be on the City Council agenda
on July 22, 2024.
COMMISSION CONCERNS
Commissioner Wong inquired on whether there will be additional public comment periods
regarding the Haynes Generating Station Recycled Water Pipeline Project (Project).
Planning Manager Temple confirmed that the Environmental Quality Control Board (EQCB)
and Seal Beach Public Works Department will be making further comments on the Draft
Environmental Impact Report (DEIR).
Senior Assistant Attorney Greyson clarified that any further action regarding the Project
would be put before the City Council, not the Planning Commission. Chair Coles noted that
a DEIR is the first step in the engineering process and believed there will be several more
opportunities to submit comments to Long Beach regarding the Project. Vice Chair Wheeler
suggested adding the members of the Planning Commission to an email distribution list for
comments regarding the Project.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Coles adjourned the Planning Commission meeting at 7:27 p.m. to Monday,
August 5, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
___________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
Approved: _______________________
Richard Coles, Chair
Attest: ____________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
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PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE:August 5, 2024
TO:Planning Commission
THRU:Alexa Smittle, Director of Community Development
FROM:Samuel Funes, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT:Request for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 24-01 to allow the
expansion of a Medical Services Clinic in the Service Commercial
(SC) zone.
LOCATION:13932 Seal Beach Boulevard
APPLICANT:Elmira Shojaei
RECOMMENDATION:After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-09, APPROVING
Conditional Use Permit 24-01 with Conditions and finding the project
EXEMPT from the California Environmental Quality Act.
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION:
COMMERCIAL - SERVICE
ZONE:SC (SERVICE COMMERCIAL)
SITE DESCRIPTION:ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: 095-641-55
LOT AREA: 149,533 SQ. FT.
BUILDING/SUITE FLOOR AREA: 1,300 SQ. FT.
SURROUNDING PROPERTIES:
NORTH: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY-PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT (RHD-PD)
SOUTH: GENERAL COMMERCIAL (GC)
EAST: MILITARY (MIL)
WEST: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY-PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT (RHD-PD)
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ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
This project is determined to be a Class 1 (Existing Facility) Categorical Exemption pursuant to
Section 15301 of the Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources
Code Section 21000 et seq.) for the operation of a medical services clinic use in an existing
commercial building where only minor modifications are required for the renovation and branding
of the business.
LEGAL NOTIFICATION
The legal notice of this hearing was published in the Seal Beach Sun Newspaper on July 25,
2024, and mailed to property owners and occupants within a 500’ radius of the subject property
on July 22, 2024, with affidavits of publishing and mailing on file.
ANALYSIS
Elmira Shojaei, (“the applicant”) is requesting approval for the expansion of an existing 4,400
square foot medical services clinic, located at 13930 Seal Beach Boulevard to include the
neighboring 1,300 square foot commercial suite at 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard. The subject site
is located north of Westminster Avenue and is developed with one single-story commercial
building that is part of a multi-parcel commercial center known as Seal Beach Village. The subject
site is adjacent to residential uses to the north and west at Leisure World, by the Naval Weapons
Station to the east across Seal Beach Boulevard, and by commercial uses to the south.
The vacant suite located at 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard was previously occupied by H&R Block
Inc. for more than a decade. The applicant will perform minor interior tenant improvements
consisting of new partition walls, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing construction to create 5
additional examination rooms, a flow station, and an additional restroom for patients. No structural
alterations will occur to the exterior of the commercial structure. Additionally, no branding or
exterior commercial activity sign alterations have been proposed for this project.
According to the Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Table 11.2.10.010 (Use Regulations –
Commercial and Mixed-Use Districts), clinics are allowed with approval of a conditional use permit.
In the Code, a clinic is classified as a facility other than a hospital where medical, dental, mental
health, surgical and other personal health care services are provided on an outpatient basis, and
that accommodates multiple licensed primary medical practitioners (i.e., doctors) and specialties,
or 4 or more primary practitioners in a single specialty. Counseling services by other than medical
doctors or psychiatrists are instead included under “Offices.” The medical clinic use distinguishes
itself from the medical office use based on the number of primary practitioners. Since the clinic
will have up to 5 medical providers working out of this facility, and as there is a proposed
expansion of the existing use, a conditional use permit is required. The medical services clinic will
offer out-patient treatment services only. The proposed hours of operation are Monday through
Friday from 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. and closed Saturday and Sunday.
All new and expansion of commercial uses are required to meet the minimum vehicle off-street
parking spaces standards established by the SBMC Table 11.4.20.015.A.1 (Required Parking).
Clinics are required to provide one space for every 250 square feet of gross floor area. The
proposed expansion suite measures 1,300 square feet and requires an additional 5 parking
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spaces. When accounting for existing, proposed, and vacant commercial suites, the SBMC
requires 332 off-street parking spaces for the Seal Beach Village shopping center, which contains
374 parking spaces, which is 42 spaces in surplus.
The General Plan Land Use Element encourages revitalization and reuse within the project area
in a logical, systematic manner, compatible with existing commercial uses. The proposed
expansion of a medical services clinic provides additional services that are consistent with the
existing land uses. Seal Beach residents will reap the benefits of a medical services clinic with
the ability to see more patients and operate with greater efficiency. Additionally, a greater
percentage of the businesses at Seal Beach Village target and provide services routinely sought
out by Seal Beach residents living immediately adjacent in the Leisure World community. As
conditioned, the proposed use will allow for expanded services of an existing facility, which has
proven to be compatible with the surrounding uses, while providing sufficient parking for all uses.
CONCLUSION
After conducting the public hearing and receiving testimony, staff recommends that the Planning
Commission adopt attached Resolution No. 24-09 approving CUP 24-01 to allow the expansion
of a medical services clinic into an adjacent vacant 1,300 square-foot suite located in the SC zone
at 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard, and to find the project exempt from CEQA as a Class 1
exemption.
Samuel Funes Alexa Smittle
Samuel Funes Alexa Smittle
Assistant Planner Director of Community Development
Prepared by: Samuel Funes
Attachments:
1. Vicinity Map
2. Aerial Map
3. Resolution No. 24-09
4. Project plans
5. Photos
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RESOLUTION NO. 24-09
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT 24-01 TO ALLOW THE EXPANSION OF A
MEDICAL SERVICES CLINIC INTO A 1,300 SQUARE
FOOT SUITE LOCATED AT 13932 SEAL BEACH
BOULEVARD IN THE SERVICE COMMERCIAL (SC)
ZONE AREA.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY
FIND AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Elmira Shojaei submitted an application to the City of Seal Beach
Department of Community Development for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 24-01 for
the permitting of an expansion to a medical services clinic into a 1,300-square-foot vacant
suite. The medical clinic currently operates at 13930 Seal Beach Boulevard and will
expand into 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard. 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard (the “subject
property”) is located in the Service Commercial (SC) Zone.
Section 2. This project is determined to be a Class 1 (Existing Facility)
Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301 of the Guidelines for the California
Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) for the
permitting of the medical services clinic use within an existing commercial building where
only minor modifications are required for the renovation of the business.
Section 3. A duly noticed public hearing was held before the Planning
Commission on August 5, 2024, to consider the application for CUP 24-01. At the public
hearing, the Planning Commission received and considered all evidence presented, both
written and oral, regarding the subject application. The record of the public hearing
indicates the following:
A. The subject site is within an existing commercial center located on
the west side of Seal Beach Boulevard and north of the intersection at Westminster
Avenue. The parcel is developed with one single-story commercial building that is part of
a multi-parcel commercial center known as Seal Beach Village. The subject property has
a 1,300 square foot vacant tenant space. The subject property is located in the Service
Commercial (SC) zone and is adjacent to residential uses to the north and west at Leisure
World, by the Naval Weapons Station to the east across Seal Beach Boulevard, and by
commercial uses to the south.
B. The proposed use requires the approval of a Conditional Use Permit
to allow the operation of a medical services clinic use within Service Commercial (SC)
zone.
Section 4. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated
in the preceding Section of this Resolution and pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20.020 of the
Seal Beach Municipal Code, the Planning Commission makes the following findings:
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A. The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan because the
General Plan Land Use Element encourages revitalization and reuse within the project
area in a logical, systematic manner, compatible with existing commercial uses. The
proposed expansion of a medical services clinic provides additional resources to the
community and remains consistent with the existing land uses. As conditioned, the
proposed use will allow for expanded services of an existing facility, which has proven to
be compatible with the surrounding uses, while providing sufficient parking for all uses.
B. The proposed use is allowed within the Service Commercial (SC)
zone subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit and complies with all other
applicable provisions of the Municipal Code. The General Plan Land Use Map designates
the subject property as Commercial – Service and the Zoning Map designates the area
as Service Commercial (SC).
C. The site is physically adequate for the type, density, and intensity of
the use being proposed. The site contains adequate parking and circulation for the
proposed medical services clinic and interior alterations.
D. The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the
proposed use will continue to be compatible with the surrounding uses and will not
adversely affect those uses or properties in the surrounding areas. The proposed medical
services clinic expansion complements the existing commercial uses and complies with
the height, setback, and parking requirements of the Service Commercial zoning area.
Furthermore, the expansion will not disrupt the existing character of the shopping center.
The hours of operation shall not change and will remain Monday through Friday, 8:00
A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
E. The establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed
interior alterations and use would not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of
persons residing or working in the vicinity. The proposed interior alterations will require a
minimal period of construction to construct the interior offices and examination rooms and
sufficient conditions have been imposed to ensure that the use will comply with the
Performance Standards outlined in Section 11.4.10.020 of the Zoning Code and will not
create adverse impacts upon adjacent uses. The property will be consistent with the
surrounding uses in the area.
Section 5. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby
approves CUP 24-01 for the operation of a medical services clinic at an existing
commercial suite within an existing commercial shopping center, located at 13932 Seal
Beach Boulevard, subject to the following conditions.
1. Conditional Use Permit 24-01 is approved for the operation of a medical services
clinic at an existing commercial suite within an existing commercial shopping
center, at 13932 Seal Beach Boulevard.
2. The hours of operation shall be, Monday through Friday 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.
3. Deliveries to the premises are prohibited between 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M.
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4. There shall be no disposal of glass bottles or other trash outside the establishment
between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M.; and all trash shall be disposed of
in closed waste disposal bins.
5. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this CUP in the
event of any violation of the approved conditions, any violation of any provision of
the Code of the City of Seal Beach, or if there is a substantial change in the mode
and character of the use.
6. The applicant will prominently display these Conditions of Approval in a location
within the businesses’ customer area that is acceptable to the Community
Development Director.
7. This CUP shall not become effective for any purpose unless/until a City
“Acceptance of Conditions” form has been signed and notarized by the applicant
before being returned to the Planning Department; and until the ten (10) calendar
day appeal period has elapsed.
8. The applicant is required to obtain all required Building and Safety permits prior to
tenant improvements, construction or demolition.
9. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with all sections of the
Municipal Code, or all other applicable City Ordinances in effect at the time of
building permit issuance.
10. This CUP shall become null and void unless exercised within one year of the date
of final approval, or such extension of time as may be granted by the Planning
Commission pursuant to a written request for extension submitted to the
Community Development Department at least ninety days prior to such expiration
date.
11. The applicant must indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its agents, and
employees (collectively “the City” hereinafter in this paragraph) from any and all
claims and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms,
or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in
connection with the performance of the use permitted hereby or the exercise of the
rights granted herein, and any and all claims, lawsuits or actions arising from the
granting of or the exercise of the rights permitted by this Conditional Use Permit,
and from any and all claims and losses occurring or resulting to any person, firm,
corporation or property for damage, injury or death arising out of or connected with
the performance of the use permitted hereby. Applicant’s obligation to indemnify,
defend, and hold harmless the City as stated herein shall include, but not be limited
to, paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the City’s choice in
representing the City in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits or
actions, expert witness fees, and any award of damages, judgments, verdicts,
court costs or attorneys’ fees in any such lawsuit or action.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach Planning Commission at a
meeting thereof held on August 05, 2024, by the following vote:
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AYES: Commissioners
NOES: Commissioners
ABSENT: Commissioners
ABSTAIN: Commissioners
_____________________________________
Richard Coles
Chairperson
ATTEST:
__________________________
Alexa Smittle
Planning Commission Secretary
Legal Notification
The legal notice of this hearing was published in the Seal Beach Sun Newspaper on Thursday
July 25, 2024 and mailed to property owners and occupants within a 300-foot radius of the
subject property on July 25, 2024, with affidavits of publishing and mailing on file.
VICINITY MAP:
AERIAL MAP:
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PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE:August 5, 2024
TO:Planning Commission
THRU:Alexa Smittle, Director of Community Development
FROM:Shaun Temple, AICP, Planning Manager
SUBJECT:Request for Minor Use Permit (MUP) 24-04 and MUP 24-05 to allow
a porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade for a
proposed single-family residence while extending into the front
setback, for a property located at 136 6th Street (MUP 24-04) and a
property at 138 6th Street (MUP 24-05), both located in the Residential
High Density 20 (RHD-20) zone.
LOCATION:136 6th Street (MUP 24-04); 138 6th Street (MUP 24-05)
APPLICANT:Jeffrey Dahl, architect, on behalf of the property owner, Thuy
Nguyen.
RECOMMENDATION:After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 24-10, APPROVING
Minor Use Permit 24-04 with Conditions, and adopt Resolution No.
24-11, APPROVING Minor Use Permit 24-05 with Conditions, finding
both projects exempt from CEQA
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION:
RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY
ZONE:RHD-20 (RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY-20)
SITE DESCRIPTION:136 6th Steet (MUP 24-04)
ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: 199-032-36
LOT AREA (SF): 2,937.5 SQ. FT.
GROSS FLOOR AREA: 2,813 SQ. FT.
138 6th Steet (MUP 24-05)
ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: 199-032-37
LOT AREA (SF): 2,937.5 SQ. FT.
GROSS FLOOR AREA: 2,813 SQ. FT.
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SURROUNDING PROPERTIES:
NORTH: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20)
SOUTH: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20)
EAST: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20)
WEST: RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20)
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Both projects are determined to be a Class 3 (New Construction of Small Structures) Categorical
Exemption pursuant to Section 15303 of the Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality
Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) as each proposal is part of a project to
construct a new single-family residence.
LEGAL NOTIFICATION
The legal notice of this hearing was published in the Seal Beach Sun Newspaper on July 25,
2024, and mailed to property owners and occupants within a 300’ radius of the subject property
on July 22, 2024, with affidavits of publishing and mailing on file.
ANALYSIS
The project site is located in Old Town at 138 6th Street and was originally a 5,875 square foot
property (50 foot wide by 117.5 foot deep), made up of two lots (lot 36 and 38), developed with a
single-family residence constructed in 1948. The applicant is proposing the demolition of the
single-family residence, and to revert the property back to its two original lots, each lot being a
separate property at 25 feet wide by 117.5 foot deep, which is a standard residential property size
within Old Town. A new single-family residence is proposed on each new property.
The reversion of the larger property back to its two original lots is an administrative action that is
reviewed and approved by the City Engineer, and does not require approval by the Planning
Commission. Similarly, the proposed single-family residences, one on each property, are
reviewed and approved administratively by the Community Development Department, and do not
require approval by the Planning Commission. However, the applicant is requesting approval for
a porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade while extending into the front setback
on each of the proposed single-family residences. Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section
11.2.05.015.K (Residential District Development Standards – Porches) allows porches to extend
into the front setback up to 6 feet if all of the following standards are met:
1. The porch is open on 2 or more sides;
2. The porch enclosure, including roof, parapets, and railings, does not exceed 14 feet in
height;
3. The porch does not exceed 50% of the front building width measured at the front façade.
Greater width may be approved pursuant to a minor use permit; and
4. Stairs leading up to a porch, which are less than 2 feet above grade, may project an
additional 4 feet into the required front yard setback.
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Per standard 3 above, a minor use permit is required as the porch is proposed to exceed 50% of
the front building width, being the equivalent width (100%) of the front façade at 17’6”. The
remaining standards have been met - the porch is open on two sides (front and south); the porch
enclosure (roof), at 13’3”, does not exceed 14 feet in height; and there are no stairs extending in
front of the porch.
The subject sites are surrounded by other residential uses. On this block of 6th Street, there is a
wide variety of residential uses in terms of a mix of single-family and multi-family, architectural
styles, and age of the structures. One of the older homes on this block has a porch of equal width
to the front façade at 143 6th Street, while one block over on 5th Street, four houses have a front
porches of equal width to the front façade that also extend into the front setback at 204, 206, 208,
and 210 5th Street. Additionally, the width of the lots are the minimum width within lots in Old
Town, at 25 feet, and the total size of the porch is limited to 17.5 feet. Considering the small width
of the lots, the existence of other full-size porches in the neighborhood, and the mix of residential
uses and architectural styles, it is not expected that the approval of a full-size porch extending
into the front setback for these proposed houses would have a negative impact in the
neighborhood.
All other development standards of the RHD-20 zone have been reviewed and confirmed to meet
requirements. The height of each residence is 25 feet, the side yard setbacks are 3 feet, and the
rear of each property maintains a distance from the garage to the opposite side of the alley of 24
feet. Two covered parking spaces are being provided in each garage.
These two projects are being presented together due to their relation and similarity; however,
each project needs to be approved through a separate resolution.
CONCLUSION
After conducting the public hearing and receiving testimony, staff recommends that the Planning
Commission take the following actions:
1. Adopt attached Resolution No. 24-10 approving the request to allow a porch to exceed 50
percent of the width of the front façade of a proposed single-family residence while
extending into the front setback in the RHD-20 Zone at 136 6th Street, finding the project
exempt from CEQA pursuant to a Class 3 (New Construction of Small Structures)
Exemption; and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 24-11 approving the request to allow a porch to exceed 50 percent
of the width of the front façade of a proposed single-family residence while extending into
the front setback in the RHD-20 Zone at 138 6th Street, finding the project exempt from
CEQA pursuant to a Class 3 (New Construction of Small Structures) Exemption.
Shaun Temple Alexa Smittle
Shaun Temple, AICP Alexa Smittle
Planning Manager Director of Community Development
Prepared by: Shaun Temple
Attachments:
9
3
4
1
1. Vicinity Map
2. Aerial Map
3. Photos
4. Resolution No. 24-10
5. Resolution No. 24-11
6. 136 6th Street Project Plans
7. 138 6th Street Project Plans
VICINITY MAP:
AERIAL MAP:
PHOTOS
Subject Property, 138 6th Street – Existing Conditions
143 6th Street – Across the Street house with a full porch
Full Porch Examples at 204, 206, 208, and 210 5th Street
1 of 4
RESOLUTION NO. 24-10
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING MINOR USE PERMIT
24-04 TO ALLOW A PORCH TO EXCEED 50
PERCENT OF THE WIDTH OF THE FRONT FAÇADE
OF PROPOSED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE
WHILE EXTENDING INTO THE FRONT SETBACK,
ON A PROPERTY LOCATED AT 136 6TH STREET IN
THE RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20) ZONE.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY
FIND AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Jeffrey Dahl submitted an application to the City of Seal Beach
Department of Community Development for Minor Use Permit (MUP) 24-04 on behalf of
the property owner, to allow a porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade
of a proposed single-family residence while extending into the front setback on property
located at 136 6th Street (the “subject property”), which is located in Residential High
Density (RHD-20) Zone.
Section 2. This project is determined to be a Class 3 (New Construction of
Structures) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15303 of the Guidelines for the
California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) as
the proposal is part of a project to construct a new single-family residence.
Section 3. A duly noticed public hearing was held before the Planning
Commission on August 5, 2024, to consider the application for MUP 24-04. At the public
hearing, the Planning Commission received and considered all evidence presented, both
written and oral, regarding the subject application. The record of the public hearing
indicates the following:
A. The applicant submitted an application to the Community
Development Department for Minor Use Permit 24-04 for a proposed project at 136 6th
Street.
B. The subject property is a rectangular shaped lot with an area of
approximately 2,937.5 square feet located on the east side of 6th Street between Ocean
Avenue and Central Avenue in the Old Town area. The property is 25 feet wide by 117.5
feet in depth. The site is surrounded by residential uses on all sides.
C. The subject site is developed with an existing single-family
residence, which is proposed for demolition as part of this project.
Resolution 24-10
136 6th Street
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2
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D. The applicant is proposing a porch, as part of a proposed single-
family residence, which will exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade while
extending into the front setback
E. The Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section 11.2.05.015.K
(Residential District Development Standards - Porches) allows porches to exceed 50
percent of the front building width measured at the front façade through approval of a
Minor Use Permit.
F. The proposed single-family residence meets all other required
development standards required by SBMC Section 11.2.05.015 (Residential District
Development Standards).
Section 4. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated
in the preceding Section of this Resolution and pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20.020
(Required Findings) of the Seal Beach Municipal Code, the Planning Commission makes
the following findings:
A. The proposed porch is consistent with the General Plan. The General
Plan identifies the Old Town Area as Planning Area 1. It encourages architectural diversity
among the area while ensuring the compatibility between residential and commercial
uses. On this block of 6th Street, there is a wide variety of residential uses in terms of a
mix of single-family and multi-family, architectural styles, and age of the structures. Two
of the older homes on this block have a porch of equal width to the front façade at 128 6th
Street and 143 6th Street, while on the next block over on 5th Street, four houses in a row
have a front porch of equal width to the front façade that also extend into the front setback
at 204, 206, 208, and 210 5th Street. Accordingly, this project will provide architectural
diversity while being compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
B. The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zoning district with
Minor Use Permit approval and will comply with all other applicable provisions of the
Municipal Code. The subject site is located within the RHD-20 zone, which is intended
for residential use, and the proposal is part of a project for a new single-family residence.
All development standards required by SBMC Section 11.2.05.015 (Residential District
Development Standards) have been met.
C. The proposed use, as conditioned below, will be located on a site
that is physically adequate for the type, density, and intensity of use being proposed,
including provision of services, and the absence of physical constraints. The subject site
is 25 feet wide by 117.5 feet deep, which is a standard size residential lot in the Old Town
area. The proposal has been reviewed and the proposed residence will meet all standards
related to setback, height, and parking.
D. The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the
proposed use, as conditioned below, will be compatible with and will not adversely affect
uses and properties in the surrounding neighborhood. The subject site is located within
the RHD-20 zone, which consists of properties developed as single family and multi-
Resolution 24-10
136 6th Street
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2
3
6
D. family residences. The proposal is part of a project for a new single-family
residence, which will be consistent with the surrounding development.
A. The establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed use
will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of persons residing or working in
the vicinity. The improvements will not intensify use of the property. The subject site will
continue to operate as a residential property, which is consistent with the uses in the
surrounding neighborhood.
Section 5. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby
approves MUP 24-04 allowing the porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front
façade of a proposed single-family residence while extending into the front setback at 136
6th Street, subject to the following conditions.
1. Minor Use Permit 24-04 is approved for the porch to extend 6 feet into the front
setback at a width equal of the front façade of the single-family residence, at 136
6h Street.
2. All plan checks and future construction shall be in substantial compliance with the
plans approved through Minor Use Permit 24-04. All new construction shall comply
with all applicable state and local codes.
3. The applicant is required to obtain all Building and Safety permits prior to
construction or demolition.
4. This MUP shall not become effective for any purpose unless/until a City
“Acceptance of Conditions” form has been signed and notarized by the applicant
before being returned to the Planning Department; and until the ten (10) calendar
day appeal period has elapsed.
5. All materials, color, and finishes of the porch will be consistent with exterior finishes
of the residential dwelling.
6. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with all sections of the
Municipal Code, or all other applicable City Ordinances in effect at the time of
building permit issuance.
7. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this MUP in the
event of any violation of the approved conditions or any violation of any provision
of the Code of the City of Seal Beach.
8. This MUP shall become null and void unless exercised within one year of the date
of final approval, or such extension of time as may be granted by the Planning
Commission pursuant to a written request for extension submitted to the
Community Development Department at least ninety days prior to such expiration
date.
9. The applicant must indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its agents, and
employees (collectively “the City” hereinafter in this paragraph) from any and all
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6
claims and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms,
or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in
connection with the performance of the use permitted hereby or the exercise of the
rights granted herein, and any and all claims, lawsuits or actions arising from the
granting of or the exercise of the rights permitted by this Conditional Use Permit,
and from any and all claims and losses occurring or resulting to any person, firm,
corporation or property for damage, injury or death arising out of or connected with
the performance of the use permitted hereby. Applicant’s obligation to indemnify,
defend, and hold harmless the City as stated herein shall include, but not be limited
to, paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the City’s choice in
representing the City in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits or
actions, expert witness fees, and any award of damages, judgments, verdicts,
court costs or attorneys’ fees in any such lawsuit or action.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach Planning Commission at a
meeting thereof held on August 5, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners
NOES: Commissioners
ABSENT: Commissioners
ABSTAIN: Commissioners
_____________________________________
Richard Coles
Chairperson
ATTEST:
__________________________
Alexa Smittle
Planning Commission Secretary
1 of 4
RESOLUTION NO. 24-11
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING MINOR USE PERMIT
24-05 TO ALLOW A PORCH TO EXCEED 50
PERCENT OF THE WIDTH OF THE FRONT FAÇADE
OF PROPOSED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE
WHILE EXTENDING INTO THE FRONT SETBACK,
ON A PROPERTY LOCATED AT 138 6TH STREET IN
THE RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY (RHD-20) ZONE.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY
FIND AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Jeffrey Dahl submitted an application to the City of Seal Beach
Department of Community Development for Minor Use Permit (MUP) 24-05 on behalf of
the property owner, to allow a porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade
of a proposed single-family residence while extending into the front setback on property
located at 138 6th Street (the “subject property”), which is located in Residential High
Density (RHD-20) Zone.
Section 2. This project is determined to be a Class 3 (New Construction of
Structures) Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15303 of the Guidelines for the
California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) as
the proposal is part of a project to construct a new single-family residence.
Section 3. A duly noticed public hearing was held before the Planning
Commission on August 5, 2024, to consider the application for MUP 24-05. At the public
hearing, the Planning Commission received and considered all evidence presented, both
written and oral, regarding the subject application. The record of the public hearing
indicates the following:
A. The applicant submitted an application to the Community
Development Department for Minor Use Permit 24-05 for a proposed project at 138 6th
Street.
B. The subject property is a rectangular shaped lot with an area of
approximately 2,937.5 square feet located on the east side of 6th Street between Ocean
Avenue and Central Avenue in the Old Town area. The property is 25 feet wide by 117.5
feet in depth. The site is surrounded by residential uses on all sides.
C. The subject site is developed with an existing single-family
residence, which is proposed for demolition as part of this project.
Resolution 24-11
138 6th Street
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2
3
6
D. The applicant is proposing a porch, as part of a proposed single-
family residence, which will exceed 50 percent of the width of the front façade while
extending into the front setback
E. The Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section 11.2.05.015.K
(Residential District Development Standards - Porches) allows porches to exceed 50
percent of the front building width measured at the front façade through approval of a
Minor Use Permit.
F. The proposed single-family residence meets all other required
development standards required by SBMC Section 11.2.05.015 (Residential District
Development Standards).
Section 4. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated
in the preceding Section of this Resolution and pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20.020
(Required Findings) of the Seal Beach Municipal Code, the Planning Commission makes
the following findings:
A. The proposed porch is consistent with the General Plan. The General
Plan identifies the Old Town Area as Planning Area 1. It encourages architectural diversity
among the area while ensuring the compatibility between residential and commercial
uses. On this block of 6th Street, there is a wide variety of residential uses in terms of a
mix of single-family and multi-family, architectural styles, and age of the structures. Two
of the older homes on this block have a porch of equal width to the front façade at 128 6th
Street and 143 6th Street, while on the next block over on 5th Street, four houses in a row
have a front porch of equal width to the front façade that also extend into the front setback
at 204, 206, 208, and 210 5th Street. Accordingly, this project will provide architectural
diversity while being compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
B. The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zoning district with
Minor Use Permit approval and will comply with all other applicable provisions of the
Municipal Code. The subject site is located within the RHD-20 zone, which is intended
for residential use, and the proposal is part of a project for a new single-family residence.
All development standards required by SBMC Section 11.2.05.015 (Residential District
Development Standards) have been met.
C. The proposed use, as conditioned below, will be located on a site
that is physically adequate for the type, density, and intensity of use being proposed,
including provision of services, and the absence of physical constraints. The subject site
is 25 feet wide by 117.5 feet deep, which is a standard size residential lot in the Old Town
area. The proposal has been reviewed and the proposed residence will meet all standards
related to setback, height, and parking.
D. The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the
proposed use, as conditioned below, will be compatible with and will not adversely affect
uses and properties in the surrounding neighborhood. The subject site is located within
the RHD-20 zone, which consists of properties developed as single family and multi-
Resolution 24-11
138 6th Street
3 of 49
2
3
6
D. family residences. The proposal is part of a project for a new single-family
residence, which will be consistent with the surrounding development.
A. The establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed use
will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of persons residing or working in
the vicinity. The improvements will not intensify use of the property. The subject site will
continue to operate as a residential property, which is consistent with the uses in the
surrounding neighborhood.
Section 5. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby
approves MUP 24-05 allowing the porch to exceed 50 percent of the width of the front
façade of a proposed single-family residence while extending into the front setback at 138
6th Street, subject to the following conditions.
1. Minor Use Permit 24-05 is approved for the porch to extend 6 feet into the front
setback at a width equal of the front façade of the single-family residence, at 138
6h Street.
2. All plan checks and future construction shall be in substantial compliance with the
plans approved through Minor Use Permit 24-05. All new construction shall comply
with all applicable state and local codes.
3. The applicant is required to obtain all Building and Safety permits prior to
construction or demolition.
4. This MUP shall not become effective for any purpose unless/until a City
“Acceptance of Conditions” form has been signed and notarized by the applicant
before being returned to the Planning Department; and until the ten (10) calendar
day appeal period has elapsed.
5. All materials, color, and finishes of the porch will be consistent with exterior finishes
of the residential dwelling.
6. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with all sections of the
Municipal Code, or all other applicable City Ordinances in effect at the time of
building permit issuance.
7. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this MUP in the
event of any violation of the approved conditions or any violation of any provision
of the Code of the City of Seal Beach.
8. This MUP shall become null and void unless exercised within one year of the date
of final approval, or such extension of time as may be granted by the Planning
Commission pursuant to a written request for extension submitted to the
Community Development Department at least ninety days prior to such expiration
date.
9. The applicant must indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its agents, and
employees (collectively “the City” hereinafter in this paragraph) from any and all
Resolution 24-11
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2
3
6
claims and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms,
or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in
connection with the performance of the use permitted hereby or the exercise of the
rights granted herein, and any and all claims, lawsuits or actions arising from the
granting of or the exercise of the rights permitted by this Conditional Use Permit,
and from any and all claims and losses occurring or resulting to any person, firm,
corporation or property for damage, injury or death arising out of or connected with
the performance of the use permitted hereby. Applicant’s obligation to indemnify,
defend, and hold harmless the City as stated herein shall include, but not be limited
to, paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the City’s choice in
representing the City in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits or
actions, expert witness fees, and any award of damages, judgments, verdicts,
court costs or attorneys’ fees in any such lawsuit or action.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach Planning Commission at a
meeting thereof held on August 5, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners
NOES: Commissioners
ABSENT: Commissioners
ABSTAIN: Commissioners
_____________________________________
Richard Coles
Chairperson
ATTEST:
__________________________
Alexa Smittle
Planning Commission Secretary