Topanga : House Size Limits Sought

In a move to eliminate construction of oversized homes on tiny lots in Topanga Canyon, the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday directed county planners to develop a Community Standards District for the area.

The goal of the district, if approved by the Regional Planning Commission and the supervisors, would be to ensure that future building on hundreds of vacant lots fits the rural environment and does not worsen existing traffic, landslide and sewage disposal problems.

A recent planning study found such problems with subdivisions built on small lots along a 4-mile stretch of Topanga Canyon Boulevard that includes the communities of Glenview, Sylvia Park, Fernwood and Topanga.

“We will meet with the community to discuss these problems and develop procedures to make sure what (is built) is compatible with these areas and is environmentally sensitive,” said regional planner Ron Hoffman.

“There are some instances where virtually the whole lot except for our setbacks is covered with the structure,” he said.

Overflow parking often obstructs roads, which are usually only two lanes wide and narrower than recommended, he said.

After planners meet with the community, a hearing should be held before the Regional Planning Commission within four months, supervisors directed.