Agenda Item 9A — Torrance City Council, September 9, 2025

9A
Date: September 9, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Michelle Ramirez, Community Development Director
By: Natalie Niemeyer, Planning Associate | [email protected] Subject: Planning Commission and Community Development – Conduct Public Hearing and Consider Adoption of RESOLUTION for Approval of Variance (VAR24-00001) on Property Located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the Limited Multiple Family Residential District (R-3) Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue (APN 7357-023-020) and Determine a Categorical Exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Expenditure: None.

RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation of the Planning Commission and the Community Development Director that City Council:

1. Conduct public hearing; and

2. Adopt a RESOLUTION approving a Variance (VAR24-00001) request to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R-3 Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue; and

3. Determine a Categorical Exemption for the project in accordance with Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Article 19, Section 15303 (Conversion of Small Structures).

FUNDING
None required.

DISCUSSION
Analysis
The project applicant, Robert Osborn (KBSS Management, LLC), requests approval of VAR24- 00001 to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R-3 Zone.

The development standards of the R-3 Zone, and the Torrance Municipal Code (TMC) are applicable to the project, and therefore require discretionary review and approval of the following entitlements:
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• Variance (VAR24-00001) to allow a reduction of the open space, parking, front yard setback, side yard setback and multiple family dwelling size requirements.

Staff has thoroughly reviewed the project and determined the project is consistent with the Downtown Mixed-Use (DMU) land use designation and with approval of VAR24-00001, complies with the objective development standards of the R-3 Zone, and does not require further environmental review. The balance of this report provides an overview of the project.

Project Site
The subject site is located on the east side of Cabrillo Avenue, south of 218th Street. The project is situated on a rectangular lot measuring 6,900 square feet, which is more than the minimum lot area (6,000 square feet) required in the R-3 Zone.  The site contains a one-story multi-family residence with a detached four-car garage, originally developed in 1952.  Buildings in the vicinity are one and two-story structures.  The subject building pad is relatively flat and there are no outstanding features at the site.

Background
In 1952, Building Permit 16739 allowed the construction of the four-unit residence with a detached garage. In 1970, Building Permit 57558-B allowed the addition of a swimming pool. In 1977, Building Permit 73672-B allowed the conversion of the four units into two units. In 2022, Building Permit BLD22-01902 allowed for the abandonment of the pool with no construction allowed over the abandoned pool area or within five feet of the abandoned pool.

Criteria for Granting a Variance
In accordance with Article 1, Chapter 4, Division 9, of the TMC, the City Council shall approve or deny an application for a Variance based on the following criteria:
a. There are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships resulting from the strict enforcement of this Division.
b. If it will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or to the property of other persons located in the vicinity thereof.
c. If it will not substantially interfere with the orderly development of the City as provided for in the Official Land Use Plan.

The existing legal nonconforming two-unit residence does not meet several current development standards of the TMC and therefore necessitates a Variance to allow a reduction of the development standards to convert back to its previous state as a four-unit residence. The applicant was required to provide facts to substantiate criteria by which the City Council may grant VAR24-00001 which is included in the Planning Commission Staff Report (Attachment 4).

Open Space Requirements
Staff notes that the usable open space requirements are not met for this site. The TMC requires

0.5 square feet of open space per square foot of dwelling unit area with no less than fifty percent of the required open space provided as private usable open space. While the project provides more than the required total open space, there is no private open space provided for the dwelling units. Staff notes that the project was originally developed without private open space and met the requirements for open space at the time of construction. 2 City Council
September 9, 2025

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Parking Requirements
Parking is not compliant for this site. A four-car garage is provided on site that does not meet current TMC requirements for the minimum interior dimensions. Additionally, the development standards require two parking spaces per dwelling unit for this project. A total of eight parking spaces for the dwelling units and one guest parking space, resulting in a total of nine parking spaces are required for this site. Staff notes at the time the project was originally developed; it met the parking development standards for a multi-family residence. The site as it is currently developed would not be able to accommodate the additional five parking spaces required by the TMC without demolishing a large portion of the existing residence or reducing the total number of dwelling units. Additionally, current state laws, if utilized, would exempt this site from providing the TMC required parking. The applicant is aware of the opportunities to reduce the parking requirements for the site, which could result in no parking on site but has chosen to maintain the existing parking. Therefore, staff is supportive of the existing four legal nonconforming stalls for this site.

Setbacks Requirements
The four-unit dwelling was originally developed with a front yard setback of 7’-8”. The development standards now require a 20’ front yard average setback, allowing portions of the building to be as close as 10’ if an average of 20’ is provided. Staff notes that the existing front yard setback is legal nonconforming and as the project does not propose additional square feet, staff is supportive of the existing front yard setback to remain.

Staff notes that the project includes the addition of new tankless water heaters and new mini-split condensers along the north elevation of the building. The existing side yard setback along the north of the property is 5’-8 1/2“ and the proposed water heaters are allowed to encroach within the required side yard setback. However, the proposed new min-split condensers are not an allowed encroachment in the required setbacks. The TMC requires a 5’ side yard setback for this site and the proposed mini-split condenser would result in a new side yard setback of 4’-2”. Staff notes that the proposed mini-split condensers would create a nonconforming side yard setback and recommends the applicant continue to work with staff to determine an ideal location for the mini-split condensers. Staff notes that while this project includes several requests that do not align with the current development standards, all other requests within this Variance are due to existing conditions on site. The new mini-split condensers can be relocated to not cause an encroachment in the side yard setback and, as such, staff is not supportive of the proposed location.

Dwelling Size Requirements
Lastly, the applicant proposed to revert to the previously permitted dwelling sizes of 761 square feet for two of the units and 477 square feet for the other two units. The 761 square foot units would consist of two bedrooms and one bathroom while the 477 square foot units would be one bedroom and one bathroom. At the time of development, multiple family dwellings with three or more units were required to provide 350 square feet of living area per unit with individual bedrooms measuring a minimum of 100 square feet. Currently, the TMC requires multiple family dwellings with two bedrooms to measure 900 square feet or more and one-bedroom units to measure 700 square feet or more with individual bedrooms measuring a minimum of 100 square feet. Staff is supportive of the request as the resulting four-unit dwelling would produce additional housing within the City and was previously permitted as designed. Additionally, all existing and proposed bedrooms exceed the minimum bedroom size of 100 square feet. 3 City Council
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To meet the current TMC requirements for dwelling sizes, the applicant would need to do extensive additions that would create further issues with the open space requirements, setbacks, floor area ratio, and lot coverage. Additionally, the site previously had a pool that was abandoned through a building permit (BLD22-01902) resulting in a large area on the site that cannot be developed. As such, the applicant is restricted by the existing site to be able to produce the TMC required dwelling sizes and have the previously approved total of four units on the site.

Granting VAR24-00001 results in two additional units on site, helping to increase the available housing within the City while maintaining the existing building footprint. The project maintains the land use as a multi-family residence, which is consistent with the R-3 Zone and the DMU land use designation.

Prior Hearings and Publications
In accordance with the Torrance Municipal Code, a notice for a public hearing was made no less than 10 calendar days before the Planning Commission meeting. This notice was also posted at the project site and mailed on May 9, 2025, to all registered property owners located within a 500’ radius of the exterior boundaries of the project site. Additionally, a notice was published in the local newspaper (The Daily Breeze) and posted on the City of Torrance Planning Commission webpage. At the meeting, the Planning Commission considered a recommendation to the City Council for approval of VAR24-00001 and made a recommendation to the City Council for approval of the Variance request.

In accordance with the Torrance Municipal Code, a notice for a public hearing was made no less than 10 calendar days before the City Council meeting. This notice was also posted at the project site and mailed on August 29, 2025, to all registered property owners located within a 500’ radius of the exterior boundaries of the project site. Additionally, a notice was published in the local newspaper (The Daily Breeze) and posted on the City of Torrance Planning Commission webpage.

Conclusion
In the judgement of staff, the request for VAR24-00001 to allow the reduction of the open space, parking, front yard setback, and multiple family dwelling size requirements meets the criteria for approving a Variance. The subject property exhibits substantial physical hardships, such as the existing site layout, that create practical difficulties. The layout of the existing buildings on site, as well as the abandoned pool, limit the opportunity to build on the property in order to meet current development standards. The strict enforcement of development standards prohibits the existing structure from being utilized as it was initially built, as a four-unit dwelling.

Additionally, the project would not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or to the property of the persons located in the vicinity as the project proposes to revert to the previously permitted use of the site as a four-unit residence with no changes to the building footprint and the continued use of the site is compatible with the neighboring multi-family residences to the south, east and west.

Lastly, the project will not substantially interfere with the orderly development of the City as provided for in the Official Land Use Plan as the property is zoned R-3, which allows for a total of four dwelling units on the site based on a density of 1,600 square feet of land area per dwelling unit.
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ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS
Conversions of existing structures are Categorically Exempt by the Guidelines for implementation of the CEQA; Article 19, Section 15303 (Conversion of Small Structures).

ATTACHMENTS

1. Resolution for Approval

2. Location and Zoning Map

3. Proof of Publication and Notification

4. Planning Commission Minutes (May 21, 2025)

5. Planning Commission Staff Report (May 21, 2025)

6. Project Plans (Limited Distribution)
5 RESOLUTION NO. 25-0

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A VARIANCE AS
PROVIDED FOR IN DIVISION 9, CHAPTER 4, ARTICLE 2 OF THE

TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO CONVERT AN EXISTING

TWO-UNIT MULTIFAMILY RESIDENCE BACK TO ITS ORIGINAL

DEVELOPMENT AS A FOUR-UNIT MULTIFAMILY RESIDENCE,

ON PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE TORRANCE TRACT

OVERLAY AND HOUSING CORRIDOR OVERLAY IN THE

LIMITED MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT ZONE AT
1810 CABRILLO AVENUE (APN 7357-023-020).

VARIANCE (VAR24-00001): ROBERT OSBORN (KBSS MANAGEMENT, LLC) WHEREAS , the Planning Commission of the City of Torrance conducted a public hearing on May 21, 2025, to consider a recommendation to the City Council for an application filed by KBSS Management, LLC for Variance (VAR24-00001) to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the Limited Multiple Family Residential District (R-3) Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue; and WHEREAS , the Planning Commission after conducting the hearing and taking into consideration testimony from all interested parties and conducting their deliberations, the Planning Commission recommended approval of VAR24-00001 to the City Council by a vote of 6-1: and
WHEREAS , the City Council of the City of Torrance conducted a public hearing on September 9, 2025, to consider an application for VAR24-00001 filed by KBSS Management, LLC to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R-3 Zone ; and
WHEREAS , due and legal publication of notice was given to owners of property in the vicinity thereof and due and legal hearings have been held, all in accordance with the provisions of Division 9, Chapter 4, Article 2 of the Torrance Municipal Code (TMC); and

WHEREAS , THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE DOES HEREBY FIND AND DETERMINE AS FOLLOWS:
a) That the property is located at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue (APN 7357-023-020); b) That the property is described as TORRANCE TRACT Lot 21 BLK 36 as per map recorded in the Office of the Los Angeles County Recorder, State of California; c) That the approval of a Variance is Categorically Exempt by the Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Article 19, Section 15303 (Conversion of Small Structures);
d) That the project complies with the development standards of the R-3 Zone, with the exception of the open space, parking, front yard setback, side yard setback and multiple family dwelling size requirements, and is consistent with the Downtown Mixed-Use designation of the Land Use Element of the General Plan of the City of Torrance;
6 ATTACHMENT 1
e) That there are unreasonable difficulties resulting from the strict enforcement of the open space, parking, front yard setback, side yard setback and multiple family dwelling size requirements as the project is an existing longstanding structure that would require major demolition of the site to address development standards that were not applicable at the time the project was developed and would result in a significant financial cost. Additionally, the layout of the existing buildings on site, as well as the abandoned pool, limit opportunity to build on the property in order to meet current development standards.;
f) That a reduction of the open space, parking, front yard setback, side yard setback and multiple family dwelling size requirements will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or to the property of other persons located in the vicinity thereof because the project was previously developed as a four unit residence, requires no changes to the building footprint, and the project complies with the other development standards of the R-3 Zone. The subject request does not change the nature of the existing residence and the property will still be compatible with the character of the neighborhood; and
g) That a reduction of the open space, parking, front yard setback, side yard setback and multiple family dwelling size requirements, as conditioned, will not substantially interfere with the orderly development of the City because the property is zoned R-3 which allows for a total of four dwelling units on the site based on a density of 1,600 square feet of land area per dwelling unit. The strict enforcement of development standards prohibits the existing structure from being utilized as it was initially built, as a four-unit dwelling. The building is a nonconforming structure as identified in the Torrance Municipal Code which does not meet one or more of the development requirements of the land use district in which it is located, but that did meet all of the requirements at the time it was built. Additionally, restorations for nonconforming structures are defined as the process of adding or removing components of a building or structure so as to authentically recreate its appearance at an earlier time period, which the applicant is proposing to do by recreating the original four dwelling units on site.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that VAR24-00001 filed by KBSS Management, LLC for a Variance to convert an existing two-unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four-unit multifamily residence, on file in the Community Development Department of the City of Torrance, is hereby APPROVED subject to the following conditions:

1. That the use of the subject property as a four unit multiple family residence shall be subject to all conditions imposed in VAR24-00001; and any amendments thereto or modification thereof as may be approved from time to time pursuant to Section 92.28.1 et seq, of the TMC on file in the office of the Community Development Director of the City of Torrance; and further, that the said use shall be established or constructed and shall be maintained in conformance with such maps, plans, specifications, drawings, applications or other documents resented by the applicant to the Community Development Department and upon which the City Council relied in granting approval;
7 2. That if VAR24-00001 is not used within one year after granting of the permit, it shall expire and become null and void unless extended by the Community Development Director for an additional period as provided for in Section 92.27.1;

3. That the applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Torrance and its agents, officers, and employees from and against any claim, action, or proceeding against the City agency or its agents, officers, or employees to attack, set aside, void, or annul an approval by the City including, without limitation, an action by an advisory commission, appeal board, or legislative body concerning this discretionary approval. The defense and indemnification shall include the payment of all legal costs incurred on behalf of the City in connection with the application, and the defense of any claim, action, or proceeding challenging the approval of this Variance or the project. The City will promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding and agrees to cooperate to the extent required for an effective defense. In the event a legal challenge to the discretionary approval is successful, and an award of attorney fees is made to the challenger, the applicant shall be responsible to pay the full amount of such an award;

4. That the adopted Resolution, with all conditions of approval, shall be copied onto the Building set of plans when submitting for plan check; (Planning)

5. That the applicant shall provide electric roll up garage doors; (Planning)

6. That the applicant shall continue working with staff to determine an ideal location for the proposed mini-split condensers; (Planning)

7. That all mechanical equipment, air conditioners, fire risers and similar apparatus shall be screened with materials and colors which are an integral part of the building and compatible with the exterior design and finish of the building to the satisfaction of the Community Development Director; (Planning)

8. That the use of chain link fencing shall be prohibited on site; (Planning)

9. That all connections for water service shall be made to the stub outs provided (unless stub outs are undersized). If existing stub outs are not used, they shall be abandoned at the main; (Engineering)

10.That one hour firewall assembly with a minimum of 50 Sound Transmission Class between units shall be provided; and (Building and Safety)

11.That all conditions of all other City departments received prior to or during the consideration of this case by City Council shall be met.

INTRODUCED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Torrance held on the 9th day of September 2025.

_______________________________
Mayor George K. Chen
8 APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Patrick Q. Sullivan, City Attorney ATTEST:
________________________________ _______________________________ Tatia Y. Strader, Assistant City Attorney Rebecca Poirier, MMC, City Clerk 9 220TH
218TH

BORDERANDREO

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BORDERANDREO

VAR24-00001
1810 Cabrillo Avenue
LEGEND
Notification Area
1810 Cabrillo Avenue

LOCATION AND ZONING MAP
0 80 16040
Feet
10 ATTACHMENT 2
V AR24-00001 Robert Osborn (CCM 09.09.25) - Page 1 of 2 Daily Breeze
2615 Pacific Coast Highway #329
Hermosa Beach, California 90254
(310) 543-6635
0011752833
City of Torrance
3031 Torrance Blvd
Torrance, California 90503

PROOF OF PUBLICATION
(2015.5 C.C.P.)

STATE OF CALIFORNIA
County of Los Angeles
I am a citizen of the United States and
a resident of the County aforesaid; I
am over the age of eighteen years, and
not party to or interested in the above-
entitled matter. I am the principal clerk
of the printer of Daily Breeze, a
newspaper of general circulation,
printed and published in the City of
Torrance*, County of Los Angeles, and
which newspaper has been adjudged a
newspaper of general circulation by the
Superior Court of County of Los
Angeles, State of California, under the
date of June 15, 1945, Decree No.

Pomo C-606. The notice, of which the
annexed is a printed copy (set in type
not smaller than nonpareil), has been
published in each regular and entire
issue of said newspaper and not in any
supplement thereof on the following
dates, to wit:
08/29/2025
I certify (or declare) under the penalty
of perjury that the foregoing is true and
correct.

Dated at Hermosa Beach, California
On this 29th day of August, 2025.
______________________________
Signature
*Daily Breeze circulation includes the following
cities: Carson, Compton, Culver City, El
Segundo, Gardena, Harbor City, Hawthorne,
Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale,
Lomita, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Manhattan
Beach, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Palos Verdes,
Rancho Palos Verdes, Rancho Palos Verdes
Estates, Redondo Beach, San Pedro, Santa
Monica, Torrance and Wilmington
11 ATTACHMENT 3
V AR24-00001 Robert Osborn (CCM 09.09.25) - Page 2 of 2 12 Brittney Jenkins 0 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
INDEX
TORRANCE PLANNING COMMISSION – MAY 21, 2025

SUBJECT PAGE

OPENING CEREMONIES

1. Call to Order / Roll Call 1

2. Flag Salute 1

3. Posting of the Agenda 1

4. Withdrawn, Postponed, and / or Supplemental Items 1

5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 1

6. CONSENT CALENDAR 1
6A. Approval of Minutes: April 2, 2025 1-2

7. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS 2

8. HEARINGS 2
8A. MOD23- 00010: JWG CONSULTING ( SAUNDERS PROPERTY COMPANY) Res. No. 23-07 2-4
8B. VAR24- 00001: ROBERT OSBORN ( KBSS MANAGEMENT, LLC) 4-5 8C. PRE25- 00001: LANE DESIGN ( KEVIN AND KELLI REA) Res. No. 25- 037 5-6

9. RESOLUTIONS 6

10. COMMISSION ORAL COMMUNICATIONS 6

11. ADJOURNMENT 6
At 9:02 p.m., Commissioner Obejas moved to adjourn the meeting to Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chambers. 13 ATTACHMENT 4
Brittney Jenkins 1 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
May 21, 2025

MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE

TORRANCE PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
The Torrance Planning Commission convened in a regular session at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in the LeRoy J. Jackson Council Chambers 3031 Torrance Boulevard Torrance, CA 90503

ROLL CALL

Present: Commissioners Anunson, Borgialli, Obejas, Riggs, Turner, Yeh, and Chair Kartsonis.

Absent: None.

Also Present: Planning Manager Robert Garcia, Senior Planner Leo Oorts, Planning Assistant Dominique Allen, Planning Associate Natalie Niemeyer, Building Official Uykheang Keo, Engineering Services Manager Anthony Maatubang, Associate Engineer Ghassan
Chehab, Supervising Plans Examiner Rigoberto Torres, Senior Fire Prevention Specialist Chris Rhodes, Assistant City Attorney Tatia Strader, and Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez.

2. FLAG SALUTE
Chair Anunson led the Pledge of Allegiance.

3. REPORT OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF ON THE POSTING OF THE AGENDA
Planning Manager Garcia stated that the agenda was posted on the Public Notice Board at 3031 Torrance Boulevard and on the City’s Website on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

4. ANNOUNCEMENT OF WITHDRAWN, DEFERRED, AND/ OR SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS Planning Manager Garcia reported a Supplemental Item for Item 8A with a request to have the Item moved to the end of the Agenda, a Supplemental Item for Item 8C, and a request for the Commission to adjourn to Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as there are no Items scheduled for the Wednesday, June 4, 2025 meeting.

MOTION: Commissioner Obejas moved to take Item 8A out of order and placed at the end of the Agenda. Commissioner Turner seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
None.

6. CONSENT CALENDAR
6A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: APRIL 2, 2025
MOTION: Commissioner Borgialli moved to approve the April 2, 2025 minutes as presented. Commissioner Obejas seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval. 14 Brittney Jenkins 2 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025

7. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS - None.

8. HEARINGS
8A. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MOD23- 00010: JWG CONSULTING ( SAUNDERS PROPERTY

COMPANY)
Recommendation of the Community Development Director that Planning Commission conduct a public hearing for consideration of a Modification to a previously approved Division of Lot ( DIV14- 00006) to amend an open space easement ( Note A) for purposes related to solar panels and associated equipment and perimeter fencing, on property located within the Hillside Overlay in the Open Area – Planting – Parking District ( P-1) Zone at 2550 Pacific Coast Highway. If approved, the project is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) per Guidelines Section 15332 – In-Fill Development Projects. If denied, the project is Statutorily Exempt from CEQA per Guidelines Section 15270 – Projects Which Are Disapproved. ( Res. No. 23- 079) Item 8A was discussed after Item 8B and Item 8C.

Planning Manager Oorts presented Item 8A, referencing the staff report that provided an application background explaining why the project description was revised and no longer considered in the provisions of the Hillside Overlay. Staff’s recommendation has not changed and continues to recommend denial of the project.

Chair Kartsonis disclosed he visited the site and that decisions will be based on evidence presented and personal observations.

Chair Kartsonis disclosed that a meeting was made with the applicant for him approximately a year ago to speak on the project regarding any questions or concerns, but at that time there were no questions or concerns discussed. Chair Kartsonis stated that his decisions will be based on evidence presented and personal observations.

Commissioner Riggs disclosed that he met the architect, walked around the site, and spoke on where the solar panels were going to be. Commissioner Riggs stated that his decisions will be based on evidence presented.

Commissioner Yeh disclosed that he visited the site and will base decisions on evidence presented.

Commissioner Borgialli disclosed that he visited the site, looked at different vantage points, and will base decisions on criteria presented.

Commissioner Turner disclosed that she spoke with the applicant approximately a year ago and had a conversation on the solar panel development, visited the site, and stated that she will base decisions on evidence presented.

Mike Misera, representative for Skyline Mobile Home Park, spoke on the project stating that the project benefits the City as it will relieve stress on the electrical grid. He stated that the proposed system would get the entire mobile home park to a net zero and that excess power could be distributed throughout the City.

Greg Powers, Chief Operating Officer of Jackson Tidus, referenced the City of Torrance’s General Plan, staff report, and Solar Ordinance to support the project. Mr. Powers noted that he disagrees with staff’s opinion of general understandings. 15 Brittney Jenkins 3 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
Mr. Powers requested that the Commission honor the process and intent of the City’s Solar Ordinance as the project is a green, renewable, carbon- free energy source, and is permitted in every zone in the City as expressed in the General Plan Use designated for this site.

John Paulson stated that he disagrees with comments by the applicant’s counsel and that the solar panels the applicant is trying to install does not qualify as a public utility. Mr. Paulson suggested to place the solar panels on top of the units and not behind the residence.

BJ Patel stated that he bought his property for the unobstructed, open space view, and that he agreed with Mr. Paulson and City staff. He stated that the solar panel farm will not be beneficial to the neighborhood.

Ed Stovall stated that the project should not be considered and referenced an Environmental Impact Report ( EIR) from 2007, stating that the topological features should be reserved for passive open space. Mr. Stovall expressed his grievances with Saunders Property Management.

Assistant City Attorney Strader noted that the City did not agree with the applicant’s attorney’s position that the solar panels are a public utility, that the applicant and his team were aware of the City’s position and clarified that an open easement does not allow for construction.

Commissioner Obejas inquired why solar panels were going into an easement space and not existing units. Mr. Misera replied that Skyline did not own the units, that the units are private property, and that legally, Skyline could not just place solar panels on the roofs.

Planning Manager Oorts stated that the project description had been revised to no longer include the consideration of a Minor Hillside Exemption Permit as part of the approval process and that any concerns related to view, light, air, and privacy would not be considered.

Commissioner Riggs inquired on the height of the solar panels. Mr. Misera stated that the solar panels will be 2’-6” off the ground.

Planning Manager Oorts noted that the easement would trump any developments.

Mr. Powers stated that the Solar Ordinance was adopted by City Council and that the usage of solar panels is permitted in all zoning districts if it complies with the objective development standards, height, and setback limitations. He stated that the project will be a public utility as the solar panels would be a utility serving the public.

Mr. Powers stated that the ground- mounted solar collector project will serve the public and will generate enough power to serve 264 homes and provide excess power that could potentially take strain off of the City’s structure.

In response to Commissioner Borgialli, Mr. Misera stated that Southern California Edison would allow the operation with an Interconnection Agreement. Commissioner Borgialli commented that due to Mr. Misera’s response, the project would not be a public utility.

Assistant City Attorney Strader reiterated that the City does not consider the applicant to be a public utility under California Law.

MOTION: Commissioner Turner moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Obejas seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

Commissioner Borgialli referenced the staff report stating that the open easement was to preserve and protect private property and that the easement should continue to be acknowledged.

Commissioner Obejas stated that the public space separation is clear and should be left alone.
16 Brittney Jenkins 4 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
Commissioner Riggs stated that the project is beneficial for the City and stated that he is in support of the project.

Commissioner Turner stated that private property with an easement is still an easement, and that an easement is meant to trump private property.

Chair Kartsonis stated that subjective opinions heard would not be taken into account.

Chair Kartsonis stated that the easement was to preserve the historical, natural, and scenic character of the undeveloped land, and that the value of the land had not changed since the easement was put in place causing him to lean away from supporting the project.

Commissioner Yeh stated that the world is changing and that the project should be considered and adopted.

MOTION: Commissioner Turner moved to concur with staff and deny the request for modification, MOD23- 00010. Commissioner Obejas seconded the no).

RESOLUTION: Planning Assistant Allen read the title of Resolution Number 23- 079, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Torrance, California, as provided for in Division 9, Chapter 2, Article 28 and Division 9, Chapter 2, Article 29 Of The Torrance Municipal Code, for the denial of a Modification ( MOD23- 00010) of a previously approved Division Of Lot DIV14- 00006), on property located within the Hillside Overlay in the open area – planting – Parking District ( P-1) Zone at 2550 Pacific Coast Highway.

MOTION: Commissioner Obejas moved to adopt Resolution Number 23- 079.

Commissioner Turner seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 5-2 approval ( Commissioners Riggs and Yeh voting no).
8B. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF VAR24- 00001: ROBERT OSBORN ( KBSS MANAGEMENT, LLC) Recommendation of the Community Development Director that Planning Commission conduct a public hearing for consideration of a Variance ( VAR24- 00001) to convert an existing two- unit multifamily residence back to its original development as a four- unit multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the Limited Multiple Family Residential District ( R-3) Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue. This project is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) per Guidelines Section 15303 – Conversion of Small Structures.

Planning Associate Niemeyer presented Item 8B.

Mr. Robert Osborn spoke on the project, requesting a Variance to convert the property back into the 4-unit building it once was.

No members of the public spoke.

Mr. Osborn stated that the building is currently uninhabitable and rather than having 2 larger units, that the space would be converted back to the 4-unit layout. He noted that there would be no changes to the exterior, although the exterior would be remodeled.

Commissioner Obejas requested clarifications on parking. Planning Associate Niemeyer replied that staff is in favor of existing parking and recommends approval based on all evidence provided in the staff report.

Mr. Osborn provided a final comment stating that adding 2 additional units to the City’s housing would be beneficial for all involved.
17 Brittney Jenkins 5 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
MOTION: Commissioner Turner moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Riggs seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

Chair Kartsonis stated that he did not see a reason to deny the project.

MOTION: Commissioner Turner moved to support staff’s recommendation of approval and made a recommendation to move VAR24- 00001 to City Council. Commissioner Borgialli seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 6-1 approval ( Commissioner Obejas voting against the motion).
8C. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPROVAL OF PRE25- 00001: LANE DESIGN ( KEVIN AND KELLI REA) Recommendation of the Community Development Director that Planning Commission conduct a public hearing for approval of a Precise Plan of Development ( PRE25- 00001) to allow the construction of a new two- story single- family residence, on property located within the Hillside Overlay in the Single- Family Residential District ( R-1) Zone at 5430 Linda Drive. This project is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) per Guidelines Section 15303 – New Construction. ( Res. No. 25- 037)
Planning Manager Garcia presented Item 8C, noting that staff has reviewed the project and determined that it is consistent with the low- density land use designations and complies with objective development standards of the R-1 Zone and planning design provisions of the Hillside Overlay.

Planning Manager Garcia noted that the proposed residence does not produce significant adverse impacts, that staff is in support of the project, and recommended approval.

Commissioner Obejas disclosed that his property is greater than 500’ from the project, that he’s gone by the property numerous times as he lives in the area, and will base decisions on facts, evidence, and testimony presented.

Chair Kartsonis disclosed that he viewed the property and that decisions will be based on evidence and personal observations.

Commissioner Turner disclosed that she viewed the property and will base decisions on facts presented.

Commissioner Anunson disclosed that he visited the site and will base decisions on staff’s recommendation and personal observations.

Kelli Rea spoke on the project, requesting additions to the home for her growing family.

Kevin Rea requested additions to the property, stating that because he’s on a slope, additions would consist of adding a second floor to their forever home.

No members of the public spoke.

MOTION: Commissioner Yeh moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Borgialli seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

MOTION: Commissioner Yeh moved to approve PRE25- 00001. Commissioner Obejas seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval. 18 Brittney Jenkins 6 Planning Commission
Recording Secretary May 21, 2025
RESOLUTION: Planning Assistant Allen read the title of Resolution Number 25- 037, a Resolution of the Planning Commission of The City Of Torrance, California, as provided for in Division 9, Chapter 1, Article 41 of the Torrance Municipal Code approving A Precise Plan Of Development ( PRE25- 00001) to allow the construction of a new two- story single- family residence, on property located within the Hillside Overlay in the Single- Family Residential District ( R-1) Zone at 5430 Linda Drive.

MOTION: Commissioner Obejas moved to adopt Resolution Number 25- 037.

Commissioner Yeh seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

9. RESOLUTIONS - None.

10. COMMISSION ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Commissioner Turner requested an excused absence for Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

Commissioner Yeh requested an excused absence for Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

11. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: At 9:02 p.m., Commissioner Obejas moved to adjourn the meeting to Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Commissioner Yeh seconded the motion; a roll call vote reflected 7-0 approval.

Approved as amended
July 2, 2025
s/Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk
ty)
19 AGENDA ITEM NO.
8 B

DATE:

May

21 , 202
5 TO:

Planning Commission

FROM:

Natalie Niemeyer
, Planning Ass
ociate

SUBJECT:

1810 Cabrillo

Avenue

(
APN 73
57 -
0 23
-
0 20
)

Variance

(V
AR
24 -
0000
1 )

Consideration of a
Variance

(VAR24
-
00001)

to
convert

an existing
two
-
unit

multifamily residence
back

to i
t
s original development as a
four
-
unit

multifamily residence
, on property located
within
the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the

Limited Multiple Family
Residential District

(
R
-
3 )

Zone at
1810 Cabrillo Avenue.

RECOMMENDATION

Recommendation of the Community Development Director that Planning Commission conduct a
public
hearing

and consider a recommendation

to the City

Council for approval of
VAR24
-
00001

to convert an existing
two
-
unit

multifamily residence back to its original development as a four
-
unit

multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R
-
3 Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue
, and determine a Categorical
Exemption for the project in accordance with Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Article 19,
Section 1530
3 (
Conversion of Small Structures
)
.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The project applicant,
Robert Osborn

(
KBSS Management, LLC
), requests
approval of a Variance
to convert an existing
two
-
unit

multifamily residence back to its original development as a four
-
unit

multifamily residence, on property located within the Torrance Tract Overlay and Housing Corridor Overlay in the R
-
3 Zone at 1810 Cabrillo Avenue
.

The development standards of the R
-
3 Zone
,

and the Torrance Municipal Code (TMC) are
applicable to the project, and therefore require discretionary review and approval of the following entitlements:

•

Variance

(
VAR24
-
00001
) to allow a
reduction of the
open space,
parking,
front yard
setback,

side yard setback

and
multi
ple family dwelling

size

requirement
s
.

Staff has thoroughly reviewed the project and determined the project is consistent with the Downtown Mixed
-
Use

(
DMU
) land use designation and with approval of
VAR24
-
00001
, complies
with the objective development standards of the R
-
3 Zone, and does not require further
environmental review. The balance of this report provides an overview of the project.

DISCUSSION

Environmental Determination

Conversions of
existing
structures

are Categorically Exempt by the Guidelines for implementation of the
CEQA
; Article 19
, Section 15303 (Conversion of Small Structures).

General Plan Land Use Designation

The project site has a General Plan land use designation of DMU
, which allows up to
44 dwelling
units per acre. Development in the
DMU

land use designation is characterized
by a mix of
1 20
ATTACHMENT 5
commercial and residential land uses with housing
, dining, retail, entertainment, and other
complementary activities as the prominent use.

The existing
multi
-
family residential use on this
property is consistent with the
DMU

designation
.

Zoning Designation and Adjacent Land Uses

The project site is designated as R
-
3 Zone
and

within the

Torrance Tract
Overlay

and Housing
Corridor Overlay

and
bounded

by parcels
with different

zoning designation
s

but
developed with
similar land uses to the

south, east
,
and west
.

NORTH:

C
-
1 /H
CO
Vacant Commercial Building

SOUTH:

R
-
3 /
T
-

TRCT/HCO
Multi
-
Family Residence

EAST:

M
-
1/

IRP/HCO
Multi
-
Family Residence

WEST:

C
-
1 and
R
-
3/T
-
TRCT
Commercial Building and
Multi
-
Family Residence

Project Site

The subject site is located
on the
east
side
of
Cabrillo Avenue
,

south

of
218th
Street
. The project
is situated on a

rectangular lot
measuring
6 ,
9 0
0 square feet, which is more than the minimum lot
area (6,000 square feet) required in the R
-
3 Zone.

The

site
contains a one
-
story
multi
-
family
residence with
a
detached

four
-
car
garage
,

ori
ginally developed in
195
2 .

Buildings

in the vicinity
are one and two
-
story structures.

The
subject building pad
is
relatively flat

and there are no
outstanding features at

the site
.

Background

In 195
2 , Building Permit
1 6739

allowed the construction of the
four
-
unit
residence
with a detached

garage.

In 1970, Building Permit

57558
-
B allowed the addition of a swimming pool.

In 1977,
Building Permit 73672
-
B allowed the conversion of
the four units into two units.

In
2022, Building
Permit BLD22
-
01902 allowed for the abandonment of the
pool with no construction allowed over
the abandoned pool area or within five feet of the
abandoned
pool.

Criteria for Granting a
Variance

In accordance with Article1, Chapter 4, Division 9, of the TMC
, the City Council shall approve or
deny an application for a Variance based on the following criteria:

a)
There are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships resulting from the strict
enforcement of this Division.
b)
If it will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or to the property of other persons located in the vicinity thereof.
c)
If it will not substantially interfere with the orderly development of the City as provided for in the Official Land Use Plan.

The

existing
legal nonconforming
two
-
unit

residence
does not meet several current development
standards of the
TMC

and therefore
necessitates a
Variance

to allow a reduction of the
development standard
s

to convert back to
its

previous state as a
four
-
unit

residence
.

The
applicant was required to provide facts to substantiate criteria by which the City Council

may grant
VAR24
-
00001

(Attachment
2 )
.

Open Space

Requirements

Staff notes that the usable open space requirements are not met for this site. The TMC

requires
0 .5 square feet of open space per square foot of dwelling unit area with no less than fifty percent of the required open space provided as private usable open space . While the project provides
more than the required total open space, there is no private open space provided for the dwelling 2 21

units.

Staff notes that the project was originally developed without private open space and met the
requirements for open space at the time of construction.

Parking Requirements

Parking is not compliant for this site. A four
-
car garage is provided on site
that does not meet
current
TMC

requirements for the minimum

interior dimensions. Additionally, the
development
standards

require
two parkin
g spaces per dwelling unit for this project. A total of eight parking
spaces for the dwelling units
and one guest parking space,
resulting in a total of nine parking
spaces are required for this site. Sta
ff notes a
t

the time the project was originally developed
;

it
met the
parking
development standards

for a multi
-
family residence.

The
site as it is currently
developed would not be able to accommodate the additional five parking

spaces required by the
TMC

without demolishing
a large portion of the existing residence

or reducing the total number of
dwelling units
.

Additionally, current state laws, if utilized
, would exempt this site from providing the
T
MC

required parking
.

The applicant is aware of the opportunities
to reduce the parking
requirements for the site
, which could result in no parking on site
but has chosen to maintain the
existing parking
.

Therefore,

staff is supportive of the existing four legal nonconforming stalls for this site.

Setbacks Requirements

The
four
-
unit

dwelling was originally developed with a
front yard setback
of

7’
-
8”. The
development
standards

now require a
20’ front yard
average setback, allowing portions of the building to be as close as 10’ if an average of 20’ is provided.

Staff notes that
the existing front yard setback is legal
nonconforming and as the project does not propose additional square feet, staff is supportive of the existing
front yard
setback to remain.

Staff notes that the project includes the ad
dition of new tankless water heaters and new mini
-
split
condensers along the
north
elevation of the building.

T
he existing side yard setback along the
north of the property is
5’
-
8 1/2“ and the proposed water heaters are allowed to encroach within the required side

yard setback. However, the proposed new min
-
split condensers are not an
allowed encroachment
in the required setbacks
. The
TMC

requires a 5’ side yard setback for this
site and the proposed mini
-
split condenser would result in a new side yard setback of 4’
-
2”. Staff
notes that the proposed mini
-
split condensers would create a nonconforming side yard setba ck
and
recommends the applicant continue to work with staff to determine an ideal

location for the
mini
-
split con
densers.

Staff notes that while this project includes several requests that do not align with the current
development standards
, all other requests within this Variance are due to existing conditions

on site. The

new

mini
-
split condensers can be relocated
to

not cause an encroachment
in the side yard setback and as such, staff is not supportive of the proposed location.

Dwelling Size Requirements

Lastly, the applicant proposed to revert to the previously permitted dwelling sizes of 761 square
feet for two of the units and 477 square feet for the other two units.

The 761 square foot units
would consist of two bedrooms and one bathroom
while the 477 square foot units would be one
bedroom and one bathroom.

At the time of development, multiple family dwellings with three or more units were required to provide 350 square feet of living area per unit with individual bedrooms measuring a minimum of 100 squ
are feet.

Currently, t
he
TMC

re
quires multiple family
dwellings with two bedrooms to measure 900 square feet or more and one
-
bedroom

units to
measure 700 square feet or more

with
individual bedrooms measuring a minimum of 100 square
feet
.

Staff is supportive of the request as
the resulting
four
-
unit

dwelling would produce additional
housing within the City and was previously permitted
as designed.

Additionally, all existing and
proposed bedrooms
exceed the minimum bedroom size of 100 square feet.

3 22

To meet the current
TMC

requirements for dwelling sizes, the applicant would need to do extensive additions that would
create
further

issues with the open space requirements, setbacks,
floor area ratio, and lot coverage. Additionally,
the site previously had a pool that was abandoned
through a building permit (BLD22
-
01902
) resulting in a large area on the site that cannot
be
developed. As such, the applicant is restricted by the existing site to be able to produce the TMC

required dwelling sizes and
have the previously approved total of four units on the site.

Granting

VAR24
-
00001

results in two additional units on site, helping to increase the available housing within the City while maintaining the
ex
isting building footprint.

The project maintains the
land use as a
multi
-
family residence, which is consistent with the R
-
3 Zone and the
D
DMU

land
use designation.

As of the preparation of this report, no communication has been received from neighboring properties.

CONCLUSION

In the judgement of staff, the request for
VAR24
-
00001

to allow the reduction of the open space,
parking, front yard setback, and multiple family dwelling size requirements meets the criteria for approving a Variance. The subject property exhibits substantial physical hardships, such as the existing site layo
ut, that create practical difficulties.

The layout of the existing buildings on site, as
well as the abandoned pool, limit opportunity to build on the property in order to meet current development standards. The strict enforcement of development standards prohibits

the existing
structure from being utilized as it was initially built, as a four
-
unit

dwelling.

Additionally, the project would not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or to the property of the persons located in the vicinity as the project proposes to revert to the previously permitted use of the site as a four unit residence with no cha
nges to the building footprint and the continued
use of the site is compatible with the neighboring multi -
family residences to the south, east and
west.

Lastly, the project will not substantially interfere with the orderly development of the City as provided for in the Official Land Use Plan as the property is zoned R -
3 which allows for a total of
four dwelling units on the site based on a density of 1,600

square feet of land area per dwelling
unit. Additionally, the site is within the Torrance Tract Overlay and is listed as a noncontributor, therefore the proposed changes are not subject to the Torrance Tract Overlay and do not require Planning Commission
review.

Variances are brought to the City Council for decision
s

and may be granted by the City Council.

The Planning Commission can only make a recommendation for approval or denial, and not a final determination. As such, a Planning Commission Resolution has not been prepared. Should the Planning Commission recommend

approval for the City Council’s consideration of the
Variance, staff will include conditions of approval to ensure a quality project.

A list of
recommended
conditions of approval and a partial list of

TMC

requirements have been included (Attachments
3 and
4 )

Staff recommends
the Planning Commission make a recommendation for approval to the City Council
.

4 23

PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with the
TMC
, notices of the public hearing were made no less than 10 calendar days before the Planning Commission meeting. Notices were also posted at the project site and were mailed on
May

9 , 202
5 , to the registered owner of properties located within a 5 00’
radius of
the exterior boundaries of the project site. Notices were also published in the local newspaper (The Daily Breeze) and posted on the City of Torrance webpage.

PROJECT PLANS

The project plans and all related documents are readily available for public review at the Permit Center (Planning Counter) located at City Hall, 3031 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance CA 90503, during normal business hours open 8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through

Thursday, open alternate
Fridays. Appointments are available by contacting the Planning Division at (310) 618 -
5990.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Location and Zoning Map

2. Variance Subst
antiation

3. Recommended Conditions of Approval

4. Partial List of Code Requirements

5. Site Plan and Massing Diagram

6. Project Plans (Limited
Distribution)

STAFF CONTACT

Natalie Niemeyer
,
Planning Ass
ociate

[email protected]

5 24
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 1

LOCATION AND ZONING MAP
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 1
6 25
220TH
218TH

BORDERANDREO

CABRILLO

1805
M2

1819
M2
M2
1748
M2
1719
M2
1915
M2
1907
M2
1724
C1
1820
M1/M2
1800
M2
1905
M2
1907
M1
1811
C1
R3
1725
M1
R3
M1
M1
R3
M1
1870
M1
R2
R2
1754
C1
1801
M1
1923
M1
1806
C1
1924
R3
1751
C1
1753
C1
1829
M1
1823
M1
1813
M1
1809
M1
1917
M1
1913
M1
1904
R3
1830
R3
1824
R3
1908
R3
1820
R3
1810
R3
1814
R3

2006
R3
1905
R3
1913
R3
1917
R3
1903
R3
1723
C1
1729
C1
1731
C1
1733
C1
1743
C1
1823
R3
1813
R3
1819
R3
1719
C1
1745
M1
1741
M1
1737
M1
1731
M1
1750
C1
1746
C1
1734
C1
1742
C1
1732
C1
2005
R3
1804
R2
1754
R2
R2
1924
R2
1920
R2
1808
R2
1916
R2
1816
R2
1820
R2
1824
R2
1828
R2
1752
R2
1736
R2
1728
R2
1748
R2
1740
R2
1724
R2
1732
R2
1912
R2
1904
R2
1908
R2
1720
R2
1870
DT
1751
R2
1753
R2
1925
R2
2003
R2
1801
R2
1923
R2
1919
R2
1915
R2
1911
R2
1907
R2
1903
R2
1827
R2
1823
R2
1819
R2
1815
R2
1807
R2
1747
R2
1743
R2
1739
R2
1735
R2
1731
R2
1727
R2
1723
R2
1719
R2
1918
R2
1928
R2
1917
R2
2004
R2
1917
R2
1720
M2
1728
M2
1736
M2
1740
M2
1724
M2
1732
M2
R3
1746
R2
1811
R2
1744
R2
1814
R2
1918
R3
1835
R3
1918
R3
1918
R3
1833
R3
1812
R2
1831
R3
1911
R31913
R3 1909
R3
1916
R3
1915
R3
1910
R3
1912
R3
1914
R3
220TH
218TH

BORDERANDREO

CABRILLO

1805
M2

VAR24-00001
1810 Cabrillo Avenue
LEGEND
Notification Area
1810 Cabrillo Avenue

LOCATION AND ZONING MAP
0 80 16040
Feet
7 26
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 2

VARIANCE SUBSTANTIATION
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 2
8 27
9 28
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 3

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 3
10 29

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS IF APPROVED

•

That the use of the subject property
as a
four

unit multi
ple
family

residence shall be subject
to all conditions imposed in VAR24
-
00001; and any amendments thereto or modification
thereof as may be approved from time to time

pursuant to Section 92.28.1 et seq, of the
TMC

on file in the office of the Community Development Director of the City

of Torrance
;
and further, that the said use shall be established or constructed and shall be maintained in conformance
with such maps, plans, specifications, drawings, applications or other documents resented by the applicant to the Community
Development

Department and
upon which the
City Council relied in granting approval;

•

That if

VAR24
-
00001

is not used within
one

year

after granting of the permit, it shall expire
and become null and void unless extended by the Community Development Director for an additional period as provided for in Section 92.27.1;

•

That the applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Torrance and its agents, officers, and employees from and against any claim, action, or proceeding against the City agency or its agents, officers, or employees to attack, set aside,

void, or annul an
approval by the City including, without limitation, an action by an advisory commission, appeal board, or legislative body concerning this discretionary approval. The defense and indemnification shall include the payment of all legal cos ts incurred on behalf of the City
in connection with the application, and the defense of any claim, action, or proceeding challenging the approval of this Conditional Use Permit or the project. The City will promptly notify the applicant of any claim, acti
on, or proceeding and agrees to cooperate
to the extent required for an effective defense. In the event a legal challenge to the discretionary approval is successful, and an award of attorney fees is made to the challenger, the applicant shall be responsib
le to pay the full amount of such an award;

•

That the adopted Resolution, with all conditions of approval, shall be copied onto the Building set of plans when submitting for plan check; (Planning)

•

That the
applicant shall provide electric roll up garage doors; (Planning)

•

That the applicant shall continue working with staff to determine

an ideal location for the
proposed mini
-
split condensers; (Planning)

•

That all mechanical
equipment, air conditioners, fire risers and similar apparatus shall be screened with materials and colors which are an integral part of the building and compatible with the exterior design and finish of the building to the satisfaction of the Community De
velopment Director; (Planning)

•

That the use of chain link fencing shall be prohibited on site; (Planning)

•

That all connections for water service shall be made to the stub outs provided (unless stub outs are underutilized). If existing stub outs are not used, they shall be abandoned at the main; (Engineering)

•

That one hour
firewall

assembly
with
a
minimum
of
50 Sound Transmission Class

between
units shall be provided;
and
(Building and Safety)

•

That all conditions of all other City departments received prior to or during the consideration of this case by
City Council shall be met.

11 30
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 4

PARTIAL LIST OF CODE REQUIREMENTS
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 4
12 31

CODE REQUIREMENTS

The following is a partial list of code requirements applicable to the proposed project.

Not a
ll
C
ode
requirements are provided
,

and the applicant is strongly advised to contact each individual D
epartment
/Division

for further clarification. The Planning Commission may not waive or alter the C
ode requirements. They are provided for information purposes only.

Building & Safety

•

Comply with 2022 California Building Codes.

Engineering

•

A Construction and Excavation Permit (C&E Permit) is required from the Community Development Department, Engineering Permits and Records Division, for any work in the public right
-
of
-
way on
Cabrillo Avenue and public alley
. (City Code Sec. 74.6.2).

•

Install a
24” box size
single trunk Olea Europaea ‘Wilsonii’ Wilson tree

in the City parkway
every 50' for the width of this lot on
Cabrillo Avenue.

(City Code sec. 74.3.2). Contact the
Streetscape Division of the Torrance Public Works Department at 310 -
781
-
6900 for
additional information
.

•

A separate water service with radio read meter system is required for each individual dwelling unit.

•

Replace grinded sidewalk on
Cabrillo Avenue

per City of Torrance standards.

•

That
on
-
site drainage shall be collected within the lot and drained through the curb to the public street on Cabrillo Avenue
. (City Code Sec. 81.2.52).

Environmental

•

No person shall pave or cause to be paved more than fifty (50) percent of the front yard of any residentially zoned property (TMC

92.5.14).

Fire

•

Fire sprinklers required per Fire Code.

Planning

•

No person shall pave or cause to be paved more than fifty (50) percent of the front yard of any
residential

zoned property (TMC 92.5.14).

13 32
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 5

SITE PLAN AND MASSING DIAGRAM
ITEM 8B
ATTACHMENT 5
14 33
15 34
16 35
36 ATTACHMENT 6
37 38
39 40
41 42
43 44

Torrance City CouncilSeptember 9, 2025

Torrance City Council
September 9, 2025