§ 17.30.6. Special design review—Very large homes.

A.

Intent. The general plan defines Orinda as a semi-rural community characterized by a predominance of houses which are small in relationship to the size of their lots. On larger lots, it is possible that special design features can be employed which allow for a very large home to outwardly appear as a smaller home in keeping with Orinda's semi-rural character. In addition, a lot's shape, topography, orientation or existing vegetation, or any combination of such factors, may also allow for the potential of a larger home by reducing its visibility.

B.

Special Design Review Requirement. A new home that is seven thousand (7,000) square feet or more, an addition to an existing home that is seven thousand (7,000) square feet or more, or an addition resulting in a home with a total floor area of seven thousand (7,000) square feet or more shall be subject to special design review under this section. The Planning Commission must make findings of fact in support of each of the following standards:

1.

The development projects the visual character of a home which appears smaller than its actual floor area, employing vegetation and architectural features and details which subdue, rather than accentuate, the prominence of the structure.

(Ord. 07-07 § 11; Ord. 02-03 § 26 (part): Ord. 99-5 § 2 Exh. A (part))