On January 17, the planning commission is scheduled to review the Neighborhood Compatibility Ordinance that they passed in January 2009. Dubbed as the "Anti-Mansionization" law, the ordinance established guidelines to restrict the size and height of a home, and in the case of the equestrian community of Old Agoura, prohibit rendering the property untenable for horse-keeping.
The ordinance provided for the planning commission to review whether the ordinance is effective, hence the Jan. 17 meeting agenda item. The public will be able to submit comments.
The ordinance as it stands, makes it impossible for some homeowners to expand their homes, and severely restricts construction on any lot with a steep average slope. For properties zoned residential or open space, a minimum percentage of a parcel of land shall remain in open space. The minimum percentage shall be determined based upon the following table (unless a variance is obtained):
Percent Slope Minimum Percentof Parcel to Remain in Open Space 1. 10—15 32.5 2. 16—20 47.5 3. 21—25 62.5 4. 26—30 77.5 5. 31—35 92.5
6. > 35
97.5Another provision of the ordinance established a maximum Floor Area Ratio, whereby a maximum square footage is allowed relative to the gross lot size. For example, on a lot that is between 20,000 and 40,000 square feet, the maximum allowed square footage is 4000 + .06 multiplied by the lot area over 20001 square feet.
The planning commission agenda item, as well as a copy of the changes to the Building Codes that were implemented in 2009, are attached here.
Make your opininions heard at the Planning Commission meeting or at least by responding to this blog post!
