Fullerton’s proposed Lower Golden Hill Preservation Zone would prohibit SB 9 lot splits, reduce allowable floor area and require construction design review, while keeping accessory dwelling units allowed. The city’s record does not yet show what the Council did.
What the city is deciding
The Council was asked on October 6 to introduce an ordinance creating a historic preservation area. This first reading would be the first of two required Council votes. The Planning Commission recommended approval on June 10 by a vote of 4 to 1.
Where and who it affects
The proposal covers 83 homes on 80 properties in Lower Golden Hill, bounded by Richman Avenue, Malvern Avenue and the west side of Drake Avenue.
Owners of 48 of the 80 properties supported the petition, 13 opposed and 19 did not respond.
What it could mean for your property
The zone would prohibit SB 9 projects that split a lot or create two housing units. Additions and accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, would remain allowed, with construction matching the area’s traditional character. Owners would not have to restore original construction.
On a 7,000 square foot lot, the report’s floor area example drops from 3,500 to 2,800 square feet when the existing home is preserved. Less would be allowed without preserving it.
All construction would face design review. Staff would review minor work and qualifying small additions. Added units and larger or street visible additions would require site plan review. Removing more than half a residence or any street facing elevation would require Landmarks Commission review, as would altering a designated Significant Property or Historical Landmark.
A 20 foot front setback would be encouraged. Building closer to the street than the predominant setback would require Landmarks Commission review. Half the required covered parking could be uncovered, outside the front setback. New driveways for open parking would be discouraged and need Director approval.
Properties would qualify for Mills Act contracts, exchanging restoration, rehabilitation or maintenance commitments for property tax savings. The documents do not say how much owners might save.
Questions to ask before you buy or build
- Is the property inside the proposed zone?
- Would the planned addition preserve the existing home, and what floor area limit would apply?
- Which design review would the project require?
What happens next
As of October 9, the documents do not show a Council vote yet. The ordinance would also need a second reading. The documents do not give a date for it.