Reso25-38_2745 W McFadden Ave VAR-25-01

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Resolution No. 2025-38 Page 2 of 14 F. On December 8, 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana held a duly-noticed public hearing on Variance No. 2025-01. G. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana has considered the information and determines that the following findings, which must be established in order to grant Variance No. 2025-01, for reduced front-yard landscaped area, have been established as required by SAMC Section 41- 638: 1. That because of special circumstances applicable to the subject property, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the zoning ordinance is found to deprive the subject property of privileges not otherwise at variance with the intent and purpose of the provisions of this Chapter. The subject properties at 1001 S. Fairview Street and 2745 W. McFadden Avenue have unique site constraints related to their configuration, shallow depth, and adjacency to residential uses along the north and east property lines. These conditions limit feasible building placement and circulation options while maintaining compliance with required setbacks, drive-aisle widths, and parking standards. Strict application of the required 15-foot front landscape setback and 5-foot buffer adjacent to residential uses would restrict safe and functional vehicle circulation, particularly for fuel delivery trucks and 90-degree parking maneuvers, and would significantly reduce developable area on-site. The requested reduced setbacks allow the Project to maintain adequate circulation and parking while providing landscape and design enhancements that improve site functionality and aesthetics. Without the requested variance, the Project would need to be substantially redesigned, resulting in a loss of parking, reduced building area, and impaired site feasibility. Therefore, the special circumstances of the site justify the reduced setbacks, which are consistent with the intent of the zoning code to promote safe, efficient, and visually compatible development. 2. That the granting of a variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of one (1) or more substantial property rights. Approval of the requested variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of substantial property rights compared to those of other properties in the same zoning district. The reduction of the side-yard (abutting residential uses) and front-yard landscaped setbacks enables the Project to be designed to ensure safe circulation for all types of vehicles and to meet the City’s off-street parking requirements and site circulation standards. Without the reduction, the Project would need to be substantially redesigned, resulting