Title
Proposed Text Amendments to the City of Alameda Zoning Ordinance (AMC Chapter 30) regarding permit streamlining for residential property improvements and other miscellaneous administrative, technical, and clarifying amendments. Public hearing to consider zoning text amendments that would streamline permitting for residential property improvements and other minor administrative, technical and clarifying amendments to improve usability of the zoning regulations. The proposed amendments are categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15305, Minor Alterations to Land Use Limitations.
Body
BACKGROUND
On July 27, 2015, the Planning Board approved staff-recommended zoning text amendments to streamline regulations and permitting for existing Alameda homes. The amendments are intended to simplify regulations and memorialize existing interpretations and practices. The approved amendments include:
1. Design Review exemption for rooftop chimney safety work.
2. Clarifying the definition of Floor Area used to determine required parking.
3. Allowing extension of driveways and parking with nonconforming landscaping.
4. Clarifying the vesting process for Design Review approvals.
5. Administrative corrections to the Table of Zoning Designations.
This report presents a second series of text amendments. The proposed amendments follow the same objective to streamline Planning review in order to save time and money for homeowners on routine or small improvements. Staff is requesting Planning Board consideration of these amendments, after which they will be presented as a single package to the City Council for approval. The Planning Board's responsibility is to hold a public hearing and make a recommendation on the draft ordinance to the City Council. After taking public comment, the Planning Board may recommend approval of all, some, or none of the proposed amendments to the City Council.
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