Scurlock owns a steep hillside lot in the City at 2026 Seaview Avenue on which
sits a two-story house that was built several decades ago. Seaview Avenue runs along the
eastern side of the property. The house sits on a level building pad near the southeastern
corner of the property. To the west of the building pad, the elevation of the lot slopes
approximately 50 feet down the hill, at a grade that exceeds 25 percent in some places.
The lot is in an area zoned R1-10, which allows for single-family residences and
requires that the front of the house be set back 20 feet from the street. (Del Mar Mun.
2
Code, § 30.12.070(C).)1 The existing house does not comply with the front yard setback
requirement because it is situated only nine to 11 feet from the street.2
Scurlock proposes to tear down the existing house and build a new house on the
footprint of the old house. The new house would consist of a 1,664-square-foot upper
level, a 1,974-square-foot lower level (inclusive of garage), and a 2,152-square-foot
basement. The building plans also include a deck and a swimming pool to the west of the
house. As it would be constructed on the footprint of the old house, the new house would
also be nine to 11 feet from the street and, like the old house, would encroach into the 20-
foot front yard setback.3
Under the applicable City procedures, Scurlock first filed an application with the
City's Design Review Board for its approval of the project. (See Mun. Code, § 23.08
[setting forth design review requirements].) After Scurlock revised the project to address
certain concerns, the Design Review Board found that the project was consistent with the
goals and policies of the City's municipal code and approved Scurlock's development
application in June 2010. As part of the Design Review Board's approval, it considered
1 All further municipal code references are to the Del Mar Municipal Code.
2 The parties all appear to assume for the purposes of discussion that when the house was originally built, it complied with the front yard setback existing at the time, although no document in the record establishes the year the house was built or the applicable zoning requirements at the time.
3 As we will explain below (see part II.B, post), the parties disagree about whether certain differences between the footprint of the existing house and the proposed new house will cause the new house to expand the encroachment into the front yard setback.
3
whether alternative designs were available that could eliminate the need to encroach into
the front yard setback. The Design Review Board concluded that placing the new house
on the existing building pad instead of moving it farther to the west would minimize
adverse impacts to steep slopes, minimize land disturbance from grading the site, and
minimize the bulk and mass of the retaining walls. The Design Review Board
determined that with respect to the design issues on which it was focused, the best
alternative was to locate the new house on the footprint of the old house. Therefore, it
recommended that the Planning Commission approve a variance to the front yard
setback. The Design Review Board's approval was appealed to the City Council, which
upheld the Design Review Board's decision.
Scurlock then filed an application with the City's Planning Commission for a
variance from the front yard setback requirements, which is the application at issue in this
appeal.
Each member of the City's Planning Commission personally visited the site, which
was followed by a hearing on September 14, 2010. After considering the documents and
testimony presented at the hearing, the Planning Commission adopted a resolution
conditionally approving the variance from the 20-foot front yard setback. The resolution
contains numerous findings in support of the Planning Commission's decision. Principal
among those findings was that "[t]here are special circumstances relative to the lot's
shape, topography, location, and surroundings, such that strict application of the front
yard setback deprives the property owner of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the
vicinity." The Planning Commission also stated that "[a]lternative development plans
4
were studied and are limited because of the lot's topography, shape, location, public and
private views, vehicular access, and surroundings."
The Eskelands, along with residents of three other homes in the neighborhood,
appealed the Planning Commission's approval of the variance to the City Council.
Among other things, the appeal argued that "[t]here is no legitimate reason that the
project cannot comply with the setback requirements[,]" and that there are "design
alternatives that do not require the use of a setback variance."
After each City Council member visited the site, the City Council considered the
appeal on October 18, 2010. The City Council declined to set the appeal for a de novo
public hearing, and thus the decision of the Planning Commission conditionally
approving the variance became the final decision of the City.
The Eskelands filed a petition for writ of administrative mandamus against the
City and related entities4 to obtain an order requiring the City to set aside its approval of
the variance. The petition named Scurlock, as an individual and as trustee of his family
trust, as the real party in interest.5 The trial court denied the petition, ruling that
substantial evidence supported the City's findings approving a variance to the front yard
setback requirements.
4 Specifically, the Eskelands named as respondents the following related entities: the City, the City Council, and the City's Planning Commission. Of those respondents, only the City filed an answer.
5 The petition also identified Lorie A. Scurlock as an individual and trustee of the family trust as a real party in interest, but the parties subsequently stipulated to her dismissal.
5
The Eskelands appeal from the judgment.
II
DISCUSSION
A. Standard of Review
The Eskelands filed this action under Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.5,
which authorizes petitions for administrative mandamus to "inquir[e] into the validity of
any final administrative order or decision made as the result of a proceeding in which by
law a hearing is required to be given, evidence is required to be taken, and discretion in
the determination of facts is vested in the inferior tribunal, corporation, board, or officer."
(Id., subd. (a).) "When evaluating the validity of an administrative decision, both the trial
court and appellate court perform the same function . . . ." (Committee to Save the
Hollywoodland Specific Plan v. City of Los Angeles (2008) 161 Cal.App.4th 1168, 1182
(Committee to Save Hollywoodland).) "Thus, the conclusions of the superior court, and
its disposition of the issues in this case, are not conclusive on appeal." (Stolman v. City
of Los Angeles (2003) 114 Cal.App.4th 916, 922 (Stolman).)
We review the administrative decision to determine whether it was "without, or in
excess of, jurisdiction; whether there was a fair trial; and whether there was any
prejudicial abuse of discretion." (Code Civ. Proc., § 1094.5, subd. (b).) An abuse of
discretion is established "if the respondent has not proceeded in the manner required by
6
law, the order or decision is not supported by the findings, or the findings are not
supported by the evidence."6 (Code Civ. Proc., § 1094.5, subd. (b).)
With respect to the City's findings, a court reviewing the grant of a zoning
variance "must determine whether substantial evidence supports the findings and whether
the findings support the conclusion that all applicable legislative requirements for a
variance have been satisfied." (Topanga, supra, 11 Cal.3d 506 at p. 511, italics omitted.)
" 'In determining whether the findings are supported, "[w]e may not isolate only the
evidence which supports the administrative finding and disregard other relevant evidence
in the record. [Citations.] On the other hand, neither we nor the trial court may disregard
or overturn the . . . finding ' "for the reason that it is considered that a contrary finding
would have been equally or more reasonable." ' " ' " ' " (West Chandler Boulevard
Neighborhood Assn. v. City of Los Angeles (2011) 198 Cal.App.4th 1506, 1518.) We
"must afford a strong presumption of correctness" to administrative findings. (Fukuda v.
City of Angels (1999) 20 Cal.4th 805, 817.) "Under the substantial evidence test, the
agency's findings are presumed to be supported by the administrative record and the
appellant challenging them has the burden to show they are not." (SP Star Enterprises,
Inc. v. City of Los Angeles (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 459, 469.)
6 The parties agree that, as fundamental vested rights are not at issue here, this is not the type of administrative mandamus proceeding in which the court must exercise its independent judgment on the evidence. (See Topanga Assn. for a Scenic Community v. County of Los Angeles (1974) 11 Cal.3d 506, 510 & fn. 1 (Topanga) [a dispute over a zoning variance does not touch upon any fundamental vested right]; PMI Mortgage Ins. Co. v. City of Pacific Grove (1981) 128 Cal.App.3d 724, 729 ["Usually, no vested right is affected by either the denial or granting of a variance . . . ."].)
7
With respect to questions of law, "we are not bound by any legal interpretation
made by the [City] or the trial court. Instead, we make an independent review of any
questions of law necessary to the resolution of this matter on appeal." (Breslin v. City
and County of San Francisco (2007) 146 Cal.App.4th 1064, 1077.) "The rules applying
to the construction of statutes apply equally to ordinances . . ." and other laws passed by
local governments. (Baldwin v. City of Los Angeles (1999) 70 Cal.App.4th 819, 838.)
B. The City Did Not Violate the Municipal Code Provisions Making It Unlawful to Expand a Nonconforming Structure
We first address a series of related arguments that depend on a single premise.
Specifically, the Eskelands contend that the municipal code prohibits the City from
approving an application to expand a nonconforming structure if the expansion would
increase the degree of the nonconformity. Relying on this premise, the Eskelands
contend, among other things, that (1) the City violated its own laws by approving the
variance; and (2) the City improperly granted a special privilege to Scurlock by allowing
him to expand the degree of nonconformity of a nonconforming structure because that
approval was not legally authorized.7 As we will explain, the premise of the Eskelands'
argument is flawed. As long as the requirements for a variance are met, the municipal
7 This argument is based on the municipal code provision, which we will discuss more fully in a later discussion, that a variance should be granted only if it "will not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone in which such property is situated." (Mun. Code, § 30.78.030, subd. (B).)
8
code does not preclude the City from approving a variance that will expand the degree of
nonconformity of a nonconforming structure.
We begin our analysis by focusing on the pertinent provisions of the municipal
code. Two separate chapters are relevant: chapter 30.76, titled "Nonconformities"; and
chapter 30.78, titled "Variances."
The chapter on nonconformities identifies the concept of a structural
nonconformity, which is defined as "a physical aspect of a building, structure or
improvement that: [¶] A. Does not conform to the development standards announced in
this Chapter to include, without limitations, height, setbacks, lot area, parking, type of
building, or coverage of lot by structure; [¶] B. Did comply with the development
standards contained in the Zoning Ordinance in effect at the time the building, structure
or improvement was constructed or structurally altered and was lawfully
constructed; and [¶] C. Has not been terminated in accordance with the provisions of
this Chapter." (Mun. Code, § 30.76.030.) It is undisputed that the current house on
Scurlock's property includes a structural nonconformity because it does not comply with
the current front yard setback requirements but apparently did comply with the applicable
requirements at the time it was built.
As the Eskelands emphasize, the municipal code expressly makes it unlawful for a
person to expand a structural nonconformity. Specifically, "It is unlawful for any person
to enlarge, extend, expand or in any other manner change a . . . structural nonconformity
9
so as to increase its inconsistency with the zoning restrictions of this Chapter."8 (Mun.
Code, § 30.76.050.) The code sets forth the consequences for attempting to expand a
nonconformity: "If a . . . structural nonconformity is enlarged, extended, expanded or in
any other manner changed to increase its inconsistency with the regulations of this
Chapter, then, in additional to any other consequences imposed by this Code, any
entitlement to thereafter maintain the nonconformity is terminated." (Mun. Code,
§ 30.76.090, subd. (D).)
The municipal code establishes the conditions under which a person may remodel
a building containing a structural nonconformity and still maintain the nonconformity. If
the remodeling costs less than 50 percent of the building's value, the project may be
approved "so long as the nonconformities are not enlarged, extended or expanded."
(Mun. Code, § 30.76.070, subd. (C).) In contrast, if the remodeling costs more than
50 percent of the value of the building, the owner will not be entitled to maintain the
nonconformity and the project will be approved only if it "complies with all of the
regulations of this [municipal code]." (Mun. Code, § 30.76.070, subd. (B).)
Here, because Scurlock intends to completely rebuild the house, the provision for
remodels that cost more than 50 percent of the value of the building is applicable.
Therefore, even were Scurlock to propose to follow the exact footprint of the current
8 As it is not dispositive to our analysis, we need not, and do not, resolve the parties' debate about whether, in referring to "the zoning restrictions of this Chapter," Municipal Code section 30.76.050 intends to refer only to the chapter entitled "Nonconformities" or to refer to the entire title of the municipal code dealing with zoning.
10
house and not expand the structural nonconformity in the least, he would not be entitled
to maintain the structural nonconformity. Instead, because Scurlock is planning a
complete remodel, he must comply with all provisions of the current municipal code.
Under the current municipal code, the only way for Scurlock to gain approval of
his plan to build a house that is set back less than 20 feet from the road is to satisfy the
conditions in the municipal code for obtaining a variance. As set forth in Municipal Code
section 30.78.030, the following standards must be met to obtain a variance:
"A. A variance from the terms of the Zoning Ordinance shall be granted only when, because of the special circumstances applicable to the property, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning classification.
"B. Any variance granted shall be subject to such conditions as will assure that the adjustment thereby authorized will not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone in which such property is situated.
"C. A variance will not be granted for a parcel of property which authorizes a use or activity which is not otherwise expressly authorized by the zoning regulation governing the parcel of property. . . .
"D. No variance shall be granted if the inability to enjoy the privilege enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning classification:
"1. Could be avoided by an alternative development plan;
"2. Is self-induced as a result of an action taken by the property owner or the owner's predecessor;
"3. Would allow such a degree of variation as to constitute a rezoning or other amendment to the zoning code; or
11
"4. Would authorize or legalize the maintenance of any private or public nuisance."9
Despite the municipal code provisions allowing a person to obtain a variance from
the zoning requirements, the Eskelands contend that those provisions are not available to
Scurlock because he proposes to expand a structural nonconformity. In support of this
argument, the Eskelands rely on Municipal Code section 30.76.050, which as we have
noted, states that "[i]t is unlawful for any person to enlarge, extend, expand or in any
other manner change a . . . structural nonconformity so as to increase its inconsistency
with the zoning restrictions of this Chapter." (Mun. Code, § 30.76.050.)
Before turning to the legal merits of the Eskelands' argument, we observe that the
parties do not agree on whether Scurlock proposes to expand a structural nonconformity
or merely maintain the existing degree of a structural nonconformity. As the Eskelands
interpret the architectural drawings, the footprint of Scurlock's new house will extend
approximately 15 feet further to the north along Seaview Avenue, and therefore the
length, but not the depth, of the encroachment into the front yard setback will expand.
Scurlock disagrees, contending that the footprint of the new house would not increase the
encroachment into the front yard setback in any direction and that the evidence cited by
the Eskelands does not support their position. The Planning Commission apparently
viewed the facts as Scurlock does, finding that the variance would allow an encroachment
9 Municipal Code section 30.78.030, subdivisions (A) through (C) are based on nearly identical language in Government Code section 65906. However, no portion of the Government Code contains language equivalent to Municipal Code section 30.78.030, subdivision (D).
12
into the front yard setback "in the same alignment and the same distance as the setback of
the existing residence" and that "[t]here will be no increase in the degree of non-
conformity." Our review of the architectural drawings in the record does not
conclusively resolve the issue. However, as will become clear from our discussion, it is
unnecessary for us to resolve the factual dispute. Even assuming for the sake of
discussion that Scurlock proposes to expand a structural nonconformity rather than
simply maintain it, the Eskelands have not established that the City acted contrary to the
municipal code in approving the variance.
The Eskelands' central contention is that when someone seeks to expand a
structural nonconformity, Municipal Code section 30.76.050 takes precedence over the
provision of the municipal code allowing someone to obtain a variance from zoning
requirements. They argue that "[t]here is an absolute prohibition on the expansion of
nonconformities in any manner." In opposition, both the City and Scurlock contend that
the Eskelands misapprehend the law and ignore the difference between the right to
continue a nonconformity and the right to apply for a variance from the applicable zoning
law. "We defer to [the City's] construction of its own [municipal code]" (Craik v. County
of Santa Cruz (2000) 81 Cal.App.4th 880, 891), which " ' "will be accorded great respect
by the courts and will be followed if not clearly erroneous." ' " (Stolman, supra, 114
Cal.App.4th at p. 928.) As we will explain, the City's construction of its municipal code
is reasonable, and the Eskelands' view leads to absurd results.
We begin with the fundamental observation that the legal right to continue a
structural nonconformity and the legal right to apply for a variance are two completely
13
separate concepts. "[W]hen an owner claims that he has a vested right to an existing
nonconforming use[,] he is not required to apply for a variance or use permit . . . ."
(O'Mara v. Council of City of Newark (1965) 238 Cal.App.2d 836, 841.)10 Consistent
with this distinction, the portions of the municipal code describing an entitlement to
continue a structural nonconformity and the right to obtain a variance are set forth in
separate titles. Although Municipal Code section 30.76.050 states that "[i]t is unlawful
for any person to enlarge, extend, expand or in any other manner change a . . . structural
nonconformity so as to increase its inconsistency with the zoning restrictions . . . ," the
provision says nothing about prohibiting an application for a variance that would increase
a structural nonconformity. As the procedure and standards for obtaining a variance are
completely separate from the provisions describing the right to continue a structural
nonconformity, the most reasonable interpretation of Municipal Code section 30.76.050
is that it does not limit the rights that a person may have under the separate municipal
code title pertaining to variances.
10 As our Supreme Court has observed, zoning ordinances customarily allow structural nonconformities or nonconforming uses to continue in order to avoid any intrusion on the rights of property owners. "Zoning ordinances and other land-use regulations customarily exempt existing uses to avoid questions as to the constitutionality of their application to those uses. 'The rights of users of property as those rights existed at the time of the adoption of a zoning ordinance are well recognized and have always been protected.' [Citation.] [¶] Accordingly, a provision which exempts existing nonconforming uses 'is ordinarily included in zoning ordinances because of the hardship and doubtful constitutionality of compelling the immediate discontinuance of nonconforming uses.' " (Hansen Brothers Enterprises, Inc. v. Board of Supervisors (1996) 12 Cal.4th 533, 552.) In light of this reason for allowing the continuance of structural nonconformities, it makes sense that the City's municipal code entitles a person to continue, but not expand, a structural nonconformity.
14
Further, the portion of the municipal code dealing with structural nonconformities
makes clear that once a person decides to undertake a complete remodel exceeding
50 percent of the value of the building, the portions of the municipal code entitling a
person to continue an existing structural nonconformity are not applicable. Instead, as
Municipal Code section 30.76.070, subdivision (B) states, a person undertaking a
complete remodel is required to comply with "all of the regulations of this Code," which
includes the ability to obtain a variance when the applicable requirements are met. (Id.,
italics added.) Here, as Scurlock proposes to tear down the existing house, Scurlock's
project is governed by the provisions of the municipal code as a whole, including its
procedures for obtaining a variance.11
As the City points out, absurd results would occur if the municipal code were
interpreted as the Eskelands suggest. (California Mfrs. Assn. v. Public Utilities Com.
(1979) 24 Cal.3d 836, 844 ["Interpretive constructions which . . . lead to . . . absurdity . . .
are to be avoided"]; People v. Coronado (1995) 12 Cal.4th 145, 151 [statutory
11 In arguing that the prohibition on expanding a structural nonconformity precludes Scurlock from obtaining a variance that expands the degree of nonconformity, the Eskelands cite Ideal Boat & Camper Storage v. County of Alameda (2012) 208 Cal.App.4th 301. However, that case is inapposite. Ideal Boat concluded that a property owner was properly denied permission by the county for a variance from the applicable zoning ordinance to expand an already nonconforming use of the property. In that case, a specific voter initiative had been passed stating that " 'no . . . development plan, use permit, variance or any other discretionary administrative or quasi-administrative action which is inconsistent with [the restrictive zoning] ordinance may be granted, approved or taken.' " (Id. at p. 308, italics added.) No such law exists in this case that expressly precludes the approval of a variance from the City's zoning laws. Here, the City could have, but did not, include language in its municipal code prohibiting the issuance of a variance to expand a structural nonconformity.
15
interpretation must "avoid an interpretation that would lead to absurd consequences."].)
Under the Eskelands' interpretation, someone who planned to build a new house on a
vacant lot or on a lot containing a structure that was in compliance with existing setback
requirements would be able to apply for and obtain a variance from the zoning code to
any degree shown to be necessary under the applicable standards. In contrast, someone
like Scurlock, who bought a lot containing a house with an existing structural
nonconformity, would be severely limited in the degree of the variance he could obtain
even if he otherwise met all the prerequisites for obtaining a variance and showed that it
was necessary. That interpretation would, without any reasonable basis, apply different
treatment to similarly situated persons with respect to their right to take advantage of the
variance procedure, even when a showing of necessity was made, and would accordingly
lead to absurd results.
The Eskelands also argue that Municipal Code section 30.76.130 supports their
position. Municipal Code section 30.76.130 states in relevant part that, except in certain
circumstances not pertinent here, "if a property owner proposes a project that will replace
or develop all or a portion of an existing structure which contains several
nonconformities, the City may allow the owner to continue certain nonconformities if:
[¶] A. The Planning Commission concludes based on specific findings of fact that: [¶]
1. The proposed project will not expand an existing nonconformity; and [¶] 2. There is a
public benefit in obtaining Code compliance to be derived from the elimination of one or
more of the existing nonconformities that is not outweighed by the public detriment of
allowing other, existing nonconformities to continue . . . ."
16
This provision does not apply for several reasons. First, Scurlock's existing house
contains only a single structural nonconformity. In contrast, Municipal Code section
30.76.130 applies to structures containing several nonconformities, allowing the City to
retain some nonconformities and abate others. Second, Scurlock did not seek relief under
Municipal Code section 30.76.130 to continue a structural nonconformity, and thus it is
irrelevant whether Scurlock can claim its benefits. Finally, like the other municipal code
provisions on which the Eskelands rely, Municipal Code section 30.76.130 provides no
indication of an intention to preclude a person from applying for a variance under a
completely separate portion of the municipal code.
In sum, we conclude that the provisions of the municipal code dealing with a
person's right to maintain a structural nonconformity have no bearing on whether
Scurlock is entitled to apply for and obtain a variance from the City's zoning
requirements.12
12 Based on their contention that the municipal code prohibits a variance to expand a structural nonconformity, the Eskelands contend that Scurlock was granted a special privilege to expand a structural nonconformity, and therefore the City was required to establish that other property owners had also been granted such a privilege. Specifically, the Eskelands contend that "[t]he City's failure to demonstrate that any property owner in the City, let alone in the vicinity, had ever been granted a variance to expand a nonconformity with zoning, demonstrates that such a grant was a special privilege." However, this argument is premised on the assumption that the municipal code prohibits a variance to expand a nonconformity. As we reject that interpretation of the municipal code, we perceive no reason to require the City to make an affirmative showing that other property owners gained approval of variances to expand a structural nonconformity. As we will discuss below, it is sufficient that the City established it granted setback variances to additional property owners in the neighborhood based on the unique topography of their lots, so that Scurlock did not receive the special privilege of a setback variance. 17
C. The City's Grant of Variance a Is Supported by Substantial Evidence
We next consider the Eskelands' contention that insufficient evidence supports the
findings that the Planning Commission made in approving the variance. We proceed by
separately focusing on each of the particular standards for obtaining a variance under
Municipal Code section 30.78.030 that the Eskelands contend are not supported by
substantial evidence.
1. Special Circumstances Applicable to the Property
To support a variance, the record must contain substantial evidence that "because
of the special circumstances applicable to the property, including size, shape, topography,
location or surroundings, the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance deprives such
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning
classification." (Mun. Code, § 30.78.030, subd. (A).) The Eskelands contend that the
evidence does not support such a finding.
In its resolution approving the variance for Scurlock's property, the Planning
Commission made extensive findings with reference to the standards set forth in
Municipal Code section 30.78.030, subdivision (A):
"There are special circumstances related to the lot's shape, topography, location and surroundings, such that strict application of the front yard setback deprives the property owner of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity.
"The topography of the site drops significantly, approximately 50-feet from Seaview Avenue to Christy Lane. There is a small building pad toward the upper portion of the site on which an existing two-story residence is situated. The remainder of the slope below the building pad contains slopes in excess of 25%. The property is located such that development would be visible from Camino del Mar and other public and private properties to the
18
west. The proposed residence is located on the southeastern portion of the lot, which preserves a wide scenic view corridor over the remaining northern portion of the lot for the public along Seaview Avenue and other private properties to the east. The Planning Commission also determined that the existing alignment and curvature of Seaview Avenue causes an unusual alignment (a 'bend in') of the front yard setback thereby further restricting the development potential of this lot. The front property line and curvature associated with the right-of-way produces an irregular shape of the lot (and required setbacks) which also support the approval of a front yard setback variance.
"As determined with the Design Review Board at their May and June 2010 meetings, and as confirmed by the Planning Commission at their September 2010 meeting, siting structure or extending the proposed home any farther to the north would result in unreasonable private and public view blockage to the properties to the east as well as privacy concerns for the northerly neighbor. The Planning Commission determined that granting the Variance for the project would achieve the goals and objectives of the Community Plan in protection of public and private scenic views for residential development . . . . Siting the structure farther to the west would result in adverse impacts to steep slopes, loss of open space, additional bulk/mass due to taller retaining walls and more disturbance of existing landform. If the home were to be moved more to the west, the grade change would make the new driveway very steep and dangerous. The Planning Commission also determined that granting the Variance for the project would achieve the goals and objectives of the Community Plan in encouraging development to be sited to preserve steep slopes whenever possible. . . . As a result of the lot's topography shape, location and surroundings, the Planning Commission concludes that the most appropriate area to built a new home is the southeastern portion of the lot generally where the proposed home would be sited.
"Granting the Variance allows a nine (9) to eleven (11) foot encroachment within the required 20-foot front[]yard setback in the same alignment and the same distance as the setback of the existing residence. It allows the property to be developed with a single-family residence with associated amenities that would be similar to other developments within the area and located within the R1-10 Zone, while minimizing adverse view blocking impacts to neighboring properties, the surrounding public rights-of-way, and the site. Additionally, evidence was presented to the Planning Commission that there are many neighboring properties in the R1-10 zone that either have reduced front yard setbacks, or have been granted a front yard setback Variance. To treat this property differently would deprive this
19
property owner of privileges enjoyed by some of the neighbors. As such, are there special circumstances applicable to the property, including size, shape, topography, location and surroundings, whereby the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance will deprive the property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity under identical zoning classification."
The Eskelands' first argument concerning these findings is that insufficient
evidence establishes that Scurlock's lot is different from the surrounding lots. The
Eskelands argue that the lot is situated in a hilly area where many properties are faced
with the same limitations.
In assessing this argument we follow the rule that "[a] zoning variance . . . must be
'grounded in conditions peculiar to the particular lot as distinguished from other property'
in the specific plan area. . . . Unnecessary hardship therefore occurs where the natural
condition or topography of the land places the landowner at a disadvantage vis-à-vis
other landowners in the area, such as peculiarities of the size, shape or grade of the
parcel." (Committee to Save Hollywoodland, supra, 161 Cal.App.4th at p. 1183, citations
omitted.) The emphasis is on "disparities between properties, not treatment of the subject
property's characteristics in the abstract." (Topanga, supra, 11 Cal.3d at p. 520.)
Here, substantial evidence supports a finding that the lot contains unique
characteristics. As the Planning Commission described (1) the topography of the site
drops approximately 50 feet from east to west, (2) the existing building pad is situated at
the upper portion of the site, beyond which the property contains slopes in excess of
25 percent; and (3) Seaview Avenue has a westward curvature in front of the property,
producing an irregularly shaped area fronting the street. The evidence in the record
20
supports a finding that all of these characteristics of Scurlock's property in fact exist, and
furthermore that they are not typical of all of the properties in the City that are subject to
the 20-foot setback requirement. The record contains several maps showing that the
R1-10 zoning area extends over a large part of the City and contains a variety of different
lot configurations. Clearly, only a fraction of the lots are perched on the edge of a steep
hillside. Scurlock's architect confirmed this fact, stating that "[h]aving a site that slopes
50 feet from front to back is far from typical."
Further, the relatively small area of level building pad on Scurlock's property is
not typical, even of the adjacent properties. A letter in the record from Scurlock's
architect stated that the lot immediately to the south had a flat building pad that extended
a total of 80 to 85 feet from the front property line, while, in contrast, the flat pad on
Scurlock's property extends only a total of 35 feet from the front property line. Further,
the maps show that the shape of the street in front of Scurlock's lot is unlike most other
properties subject to R1-10 zoning because the street curves toward the west and then
back toward the east in front of the lot, creating a "C"-shaped street frontage instead of
following a straight line.
The Eskelands next contend that even if Scurlock's lot contains certain unique
characteristics, substantial evidence does not support a finding that, because of those
unique characteristics, "the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance deprives such
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning
Although the Planning Commission could have been more clear about the nature
of the privileges that Scurlock is unable to enjoy, a close examination of the Planning
Commission's discussion reveals several relevant privileges. As we understand the
Planning Commission's comments, it concluded that (1) the "development potential of
this lot" was "restrict[ed]" by its unique characteristics; (2) that without a variance the
property could not be developed "with a single-family residence with associated
amenities that would be similar to other developments within the area"; (3) that without a
variance, Scurlock would unreasonably be restricted to building a house that would create
"adverse impacts to steep slopes, loss of open space, additional bulk/mass due to taller
retaining walls and more disturbance of existing landform"; and (4) without a variance,
the driveway would be "very steep and dangerous."
The Eskelands' principal challenge to the these findings is that Scurlock's proposed
building design "nullifies the very principals used to justify the variance." Specifically,
the Eskelands argue that Scurlock should not have been granted a variance for the
purpose of allowing him to unreasonably avoid building on steep slopes, disturbing the
existing landform and building bulky retaining walls because the project design does not
avoid those problems. As the Eskelands interpret the evidence, the proposed project
already undertakes grading of the existing flat building pad to allow for a basement, and
the swimming pool will be built on some of the 25 percent slope. The Eskelands argue
that "[n]o objectively reasonable person could find that a small building pad constituted
special circumstances when the proposed project excavates the existing building pad. No
objectively reasonable person could find that the slope precludes building absent the
22
variance when the project, as proposed, will be constructed on the 25% slope." They also
argue more generally that "[i]t is neither technically infeasible, nor unduly burdensome to
move the project 10-11 feet westward and further down the slope."13
We reject the Eskelands' argument because substantial evidence supports the
Planning Commission's finding that if the house were moved further to the west, there
would be increased impact to steep slopes, more loss of open space, additional bulk/mass
due to taller retaining walls and more disturbance of existing landform. The evidence
also supports a finding that building the project would be more difficult and more costly.
We begin with the obvious fact that if the house were moved to the west, it would
move down the hill and consume more of the steep slope. An architect retained by the
Eskelands, Lynn Johnson, submitted written comments to the Planning Commission and
the City Council, which attached a drawing of how the house would be situated on the lot
if it were moved back to comply with the 20-foot front yard setback. As that drawing
shows, if the house were moved back it would cover more of the steep hillside and would
leave less open space.
Johnson opined that "the slope of the lot does not preclude building on it and
observing all the required building setbacks," and that "[a] variance for the encroachment
of 10' into the required 20' front yard setback should not be necessary in order to develop
this property in a manner similar to other properties in the area . . . ." However, Scurlock
13 The Eskelands also contend, based on lines appearing on the architectural drawings, that "95 percent of the slope will be graded and remanufactured."
23
presented evidence to the contrary. Scurlock's architect stated that "[i]t is surely possible
to build on the steep slopes but it is far from the best solution." He stated that "[b]y
sliding it further down the hill we're going to have to build . . . more retaining walls and
more grading so that does make [the expense] prohibitive." Upon specific questioning,
Scurlock's architect confirmed for the Planning Commission that if the house was moved
10 feet to the west, it would be on a very steep part of the slope and more retaining wall
would be needed. The City was entitled to credit this evidence, and it is not our role to
second guess the City's choice to do so.
The Eskelands also dispute the Planning Commission's finding that the driveway
would be steep and dangerous if the house was moved farther to the west. The Eskelands
point out that their architect opined that "the driveway can be lengthened in order to
minimize the slope" and "can be built in a manner that would not cause it to be
excessively steep." However, in contrast to this opinion, a certified planner who
submitted a letter to the Planning Board in support of the variance stated that "[s]iting the
house further downslope would cause the driveway gradient to exceed the 20%
recommended slope." Based on that statement and evidence that the lot becomes steeper
toward the west, substantial evidence supports the Planning Commission's finding that
moving the house to the west would make the driveway steep and dangerous.14
14 The Eskelands contend that it is evident from the architectural drawings in the record, from the maps showing the lot's topography, and from basic geometrical principles that moving the house to the west would not create a steep driveway. Respondents disagree. From the parties' argument, it is evident that the issue of whether it is possible to build a safe driveway while moving the house to the west is a factually 24
In addition to their specific challenges to the sufficiency of the evidence, we also
understand the Eskelands to be advancing the position that because it was physically
possible for Scurlock to build a house that complied with the front yard setback
requirement, Scurlock should have been required to do so, despite the degree of difficulty
or expense involved and despite any other negative consequences of such a design. That
is not the law. For one thing, the increased expense involved in developing a lot that
poses topographical challenges is properly considered when deciding whether a variance
is warranted. (Zakessian v. City of Sausalito (1972) 28 Cal.App.3d 794, 802 ["It is true
that financial hardship alone, at least ordinarily, will not constitute unnecessary hardship.
But where the unique condition of one's property causes the financial hardship the rule is
otherwise."].) "It would be a rare case of topographical uniqueness of land that could not
be alleviated by some amount of financial expenditure[,]" and thus there is no rule
requiring a property owner to incur the expense to address the topographical uniqueness
rather than obtaining a variance. (Ibid.) Further, in determining whether Scurlock should
be granted a variance because of the unique features of his property, the City may
consider — among other things — whether there would be an adverse impact on aesthetic
goals such as preserving open spaces and reducing bulk and mass if Scurlock was
required to comply with the setback requirement. (See Miller v. Board of Supervisors
(1981) 122 Cal.App.3d 539, 545, 548 [approving variance, when local agency found,
among other things, that requiring adherence to zoning requirements "would destroy the
disputed issue on which expert opinion is relevant, and the Planning Commission properly considered such evidence in reaching its findings. 25
aesthetic, architectural, and historic character and integrity" of the existing structure and
would "destroy the property's scenic beauty"].)
In sum, we conclude that substantial evidence supports a finding that because of
special characteristics applicable to Scurlock's property, Scurlock would be at a
disadvantage to other property owners in the R1-10 zone if he was required to strictly
comply with the 20-foot front yard setback.
2. Scurlock Was Not Granted a Special Privilege
Next, the Eskelands focus on the requirement that "[a]ny variance granted shall be
subject to such conditions as will assure that the adjustment thereby authorized will not
constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other
properties in the vicinity and zone in which such property is situated." (Mun. Code,
§ 30.78.030, subd. (B).)
The Planning Commission made the following findings on this issue:
"Granting the proposed Variance would not constitute a special privilege. The lot's steeply sloping topography, shape, location, and surroundings significantly limit the lot's buildable area. These conditions are the cause for, and justification for the Variance. The proposal is to encroach into a portion of the required front yard setback (the same setback of the existing single-family home to be removed.) There will be no increase in the degree of non-conformity.
"The existing residence, along with other properties along both the west and east side of Seaview Avenue with similar lot topography characteristics and located in the R1-10 Zone, currently encroach into the setbacks, or have been granted Variances for various setback encroachments. Evidence was presented to the Planning Commission of many homes within the immediate vicinity in the R1-10 Zone that have Variances (including front yard, side yard and rear yard encroachments). There are three (3) properties within six-hundred (600) feet that have other yard setback Variances. As such, no special privileges are being granted by the approval
26
of this Variance. The Variance would allow the applicant to rebuild a single-family residence, as other property owners in the same vicinity and zone have been able to rebuild and/or remodel their properties."
Addressing this issue, the Eskelands advance an argument premised on their
interpretation of the municipal code, which we have discussed at length above.
Specifically, the Eskelands contend that the municipal code does not permit a property
owner to build a structure that would expand an existing nonconformity, and thus
Scurlock is being granted a special privilege to violate the provisions of the municipal
code that no other property owner has been granted. As we have explained, we reject the
Eskelands' interpretation of the municipal code and thus also reject their argument that
Scurlock has been granted a special privilege.
3. The Variance Does Not Constitute a Rezoning
A variance may not be granted if it "[w]ould allow such a degree of variation as to
constitute a rezoning or other amendment to the zoning code[.]" (Mun. Code,
§ 30.78.030, subd. (D)(3).) Addressing this requirement, the Planning Commission
found, "The proposed Variance would not allow a variation which would constitute a
re-zoning of the property since the proposed residential use is an allowed use in the
R1-10 Zone."
The Eskelands contend that substantial evidence does not support this finding.
Although their argument is difficult to follow, it appears to be summed up by their
statement that "[t]he 'privilege' to obtain a front yard setback variance for an entirely new
house because others have received some measure of flexibility in the setback, creates the
presumption that an owner is entitled to encroach into the setback." (Italics added.)
27
We reject the Eskelands' position and conclude that substantial evidence supports
a finding that the City did not de facto rezone the area or amend the zoning code by
approving a variance for Scurlock's property. First, as the Planning Commission
indicated, the fundamental characteristic of R1-10 zoning is that it allows residential uses,
and Scurlock's variance does not alter that basic zoning designation. Second, the
applicable standard focuses on the "degree of variation" to determine if a rezoning has
occurred. (Mun. Code, § 30.78.030, subd. (D)(3).) Here, the encroachment permitted by
Scurlock's variance is relatively insignificant. Scurlock has obtained relief from only a
single zoning rule — the front yard setback requirement — and has obtained permission
to encroach only into a portion of the setback, i.e., approximately 10 feet into the 20-foot
setback. Third, because the evidence shows that only a small fraction of the homes in the
R1-10 zoning area have been granted variances from the front yard setback requirement,
the City did not effectively rezone the area by allowing Scurlock and other similarly
situated property owners to encroach on the setback.
4. Substantial Evidence Supports a Finding That an Alternate Development Plan Would Not Have Avoided the Problems Created by Complying with the Front Yard Setback Rule
The Eskelands' final challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence relates to the
municipal code provision that a variance should not be granted "if the inability to enjoy
the privilege enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning
classification: 1. Could be avoided by an alternate development plan[.]" (Mun. Code,
§ 30.78.030, subd. (D)(1).) Regarding this requirement, the Planning Commission found:
28
"Alternative development plans were studied and are limited because of the lot's topography, shape, location, public and private views, vehicular access, and surroundings. The Design Review Board and Planning Commission reviewed the project and found that the proposed residence has been appropriately sited to minimize adverse impacts to neighboring properties, public-rights-of-way, public and private views, steep slopes and open space on the subject lot. Looking at the various alternatives, the siting of the home with the front yard Variance was found to be the best alternative to achieve development that would preserve public and private scenic views, maintain open space, allow safe vehicular access, and minimize impacts to the steep slopes.
"As a result of the lot's topography, shape, location and surroundings, the most appropriate building area was identified to be the southeastern portion of the lot closer to the street along Seaview Avenue, generally where the existing home is located. As was determined by the Design Review Board, the Planning Commission also concludes that siting the structure farther to the north would result in unreasonable private and public scenic view blockage to the east[,] a walling-off of the street and result in privacy concerns for the northerly neighbors. Siting the structure farther to the west would result in adverse impact to steep slopes with additional bulk/mass of retaining walls, disturbance of existing landform and loss of open space, create a dangerous driveway, and result in privacy concerns for the southerly neighbor. As such, the Planning Commission determined that alternate development plans were studied but were found not to be appropriate given the constraints referenced above. The alternatives would result in more adverse impacts to the subject site, neighboring properties and community. The Planning Commission also determined the alternative plans to be inconsistent with the goals and policies of the Community Plan, specifically, the Environmental Element to preserve steep slopes and the Community Development Element to preserve public and private views. As such, development privileges enjoyed by others could not be avoided by an alternate development plan and the alternatives were determined to be more adversely impactful on the subject site and surrounding neighborhood."
The Eskelands argue that "because this is a complete[] replacement of an existing
house, it strains credibility to claim that no other designs could have avoided the use of a
variance." We reject this argument because it misconstrues the standard set forth in
Municipal Code section 30.78.030, subdivision (D)(1). Under the plain language of that
29
provision, the inquiry is whether an alternate design could have avoided the
disadvantages that stem from complying with the setback requirement. The inquiry is
not — as the Eskelands appear to assume — whether Scurlock could have designed a
house that complied with the setback requirement regardless of the disadvantages.
Applying the proper standard, substantial evidence amply supports the required
finding that Scurlock could not have avoided the disadvantages if the house were
designed differently. As we have discussed, there is substantial evidence that if the house
was moved to the west as the Eskelands propose, Scurlock would be disadvantaged by
the difficulty and expense involved with building on the steep slope; the dangerous and
steep condition of the driveway; the unwanted impact to open spaces; and the unwanted
appearance of bulk and mass. Therefore, the Planning Commission properly found that
an alternate design would not avoid Scurlock's "inability to enjoy the privilege enjoyed
by other property in the vicinity and under identical zoning classification." (Mun. Code,
§ 30.78.030.)
The Eskelands also repeat an argument we have already rejected, contending that
the Planning Commission's findings are not supported by substantial evidence because
"the project could easily be pushed back" to the west so that the house complied with the
20-foot setback requirement. Along the same lines, the Eskelands claim that the Planning
Commission failed to consider any "truly alternative plans." We reject those contentions.
As we have explained at length above and as shown by the Planning Commission's
detailed findings, although the Planning Commission expressly considered the feasibility
of moving the house to the west or to another part of the property to avoid the need for a
30
variance, the evidence supports a finding that it would be substantially more difficult and
impractical to build a house on a different part of the property.
DISPOSITION
The judgment is affirmed.
IRION, J.
WE CONCUR:
BENKE, Acting P. J.
HUFFMAN, J.
31
Filed 3/14/14 COURT OF APPEAL, FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT
DIVISION ONE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
STEPHEN ESKELAND et al., D061370
Plaintiffs and Appellants,
v. (Super. Ct. No. 37-2011-00083840- CU-WM-CTL) CITY OF DEL MAR et al., ORDER CERTIFYING OPINION Defendants and Respondents; FOR PUBLICATION
JON SCURLOCK, Individually, and as Trustee etc.,
Real Party in Interest and Respondent.
THE COURT:
The opinion filed February 19, 2014, is ordered certified for publication.
BENKE, Acting P. J.
Copies to: All parties
32
AI Brief
AI-generated · verify before citing
Holding. The court held that the City of Del Mar did not violate its municipal code by granting a variance to allow the construction of a new house that encroached into a front yard setback, even if that construction expanded a pre-existing structural nonconformity. The court concluded that the municipal code's variance procedures are distinct from its nonconformity regulations and that the City's interpretation of its own code was reasonable.
Issues
Whether the City of Del Mar violated its municipal code by approving a variance for a project that allegedly expanded a structural nonconformity.
Whether the municipal code's prohibition on expanding structural nonconformities precludes the granting of a variance under the code's separate variance provisions.
Disposition. Affirmed
Quotations verified verbatim against the opinion
“We defer to [the City's] construction of its own [municipal code]”