REPORT TO THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
SUBJECT
Title
Proposed Project:
VARIANCE: to allow 62% front yard impervious surface and uncovered parking, where a maximum of 50% is permitted.
Location: 1688 Samedra Street (APN: 320-17-038)
File #: PLNG-2025-0028
Zoning: R-1 (Low Density Residential)
Applicant / Owner: Larry Yu (applicant and owner)
Environmental Review: Class 1 Categorical Exemption relieves this project from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) provisions.
Project Planner: Momo Ishijima, 408-730-7532, mishijima@sunnyvale.ca.gov
Report
BACKGROUND
Description of Proposed Project
The applicant seeks a Variance approval for a deviation from Sunnyvale Municipal Code (SMC) Section 19.32.060 to allow 62% impervious surface to be located within a front yard, where the requirement is maximum 50% permitted, and SMC Section 19.46.040(a) which limits up to 50% of the front yard to be used for vehicle uncovered parking.
See Attachment 1 for a map of the vicinity and mailing area for notices.
Previous Actions on the Site
Design Review application (#2019-7038) for a 1,467-square foot addition in the rear was approved by staff on March 11, 2019. Short-Term Rental application (#2022-7365) was approved by staff on June 15, 2022. On November 5, 2024, a Neighborhood Preservation complaint (#NP-2024-1899) was opened for the subject site for paving more than 50 percent. The subject Variance application was filed in response to the NP case.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
A Class 1 Categorical Exemption relieves this project from CEQA provisions. Class 1 consists of minor alterations to existing structures including paving of driveways.
DISCUSSION
Site Layout
The project site is located on the east side of Samedra Street between Helena Drive and Homestead Road. The property is located 100 feet north of the intersection of Samedra Street and Homestead Road, and 300 feet from Homestead High School which is located on Homestead Road. The project site is surrounded by si...
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