Residential Lot Coverage Zoning Amendments

The proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments will modify lot coverage standards for the R-1 Medium Density Single Family Residential Zone. After reviewing several variance applications to exceed the maximum allowable lot coverage in the R-1 zoning district, the Corte Madera Planning Commission requested that Staff explore the appropriateness of the Town’s existing residential lot coverage standards. As discussed at Planning Commission hearings on March 28, 2017, April 25, 2017 and May 9, 2017, there are several potential benefits of implementing less restrictive lot coverage standards. These include increased flexibility for property owners who wish to pursue single story additions and reduction or elimination of variance applications for exceeding allowable lot coverage. At a public hearing on May 9, 2017 the Planning Commission approved a resolution recommending that the Town Council adopt changes to the Zoning Ordinance including an increase of maximum lot coverage to 40% for R-1 zoned parcels over 4,500 square feet and elimination of lot coverage for lots 4,500 square feet or below. The proposal would not change the allowable size of a house or floor area permitted by existing regulations.

Staff Reports:

Public Notice: