Building Restrictions
I recently purchased two adjoining lots in Beachwood Canyon, in the shadow of the Hollywood sign. They are steep up-slope lots--the only type available. Before I purchased them, I checked the requirements for building a single-family residence.
After six months I came up with a design I can afford and that meets the hillside requirements.
Last week I learned that the City Council is attempting to pass the Hollywoodland Interim Ordinance, which would greatly restrict building in Tract 6540 only. The ordinance sets a 10-foot setback (hillside lots can now be built on with no setback), a 30-foot height limit for up-slope (existing law allows 45 feet, with an extra 12 feet for steep slopes).
There is also a complicated massing requirement on how your house has to look. The proposed ordinance is like a hillside property owners worst nightmare (legally the property owners do not have to be notified).
Myself and others affected by this ordinance are attempting to notify property owners in Tract 6540 so they can fight this as it comes up.
GARY DAVIDSON
Santa Monica
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