HomeMy WebLinkAboutReso - PC - 2024-09.09-9BRESOLUTION APPROVING CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION
AND SPECIAL PERMIT
RESOLVED, by the Planning Commission of the City of Burlingame that:
WHEREAS, a Categorical Exemption has been prepared and application has been made for Special
Permit for a second story balcony addition to an existing single -unit dwelling at 1476 Drake Avenue.
WHEREAS, said matters were heard by the Planning Commission of the City of Burlingame on
September 9. 2024, at which time it reviewed and considered the staff report and all other written
materials and testimony presented at said hearing;
NOW, THEREFORE, it is RESOLVED and DETERMINED by this Planning Commission that:
On the basis of the Initial Study and the documents submitted and reviewed, and comments
received and addressed by this Commission, it is hereby found that there is no substantial
evidence that the project set forth above will have a significant effect on the environment, and
categorical exemption, per Section 15301 (e)(1) of the CEQA Guidelines, which states that
additions to existing structures are exempt from environmental review, provided the addition will
not result in an increase of more than 50% of the floor area of the structures before the addition,
is hereby approved.
Said Special Permit is approved subject to the conditions set forth in Exhibit "A" attached hereto.
Findings for such Special Permit are set forth in the staff report, minutes, and recording of said
meeting.
3. It is further directed that a certified copy of this resolution be recorded in the official records of the
County of San Mateo. ,f
(' e t ry unairperson S e
Secretary of the nning Commission of the City of Burlingame, do
hereby certify that the foregoing resolution wa inand adopted at a regular meeting of the
Planning Commission held on the 9th day of September, 2024 by the following vote:
1476 DRAKE AVENUE - RESO 2024-09 O"B
AYES: COMAROTO, HORAN, LOWENTHAL,
PFAFF, SHORES, TSE
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: SCHMID
RECUSED:NONE
EXHIBIT "A"
Conditions of Approval for Categorical Exemption and Special Permit
1476 Drake Avenue
Effective September 19, 2024
Page 1
that the project shall be built as shown on the plans submitted to the Planning Division date
stamped August 28, 2024, sheets A0.1 through A7.1 and site survey;
2. that any changes to the size or envelope of the basement, first or second floors, or garage,
which would include adding or enlarging a dormer(s), shall require an amendment to this
permit;
3. that any recycling containers, debris boxes or dumpsters for the construction project shall be
placed upon the private property, if feasible, as determined by the Community Development
Director;
4. that demolition for removal of the existing structures and any grading or earth moving on the
site shall not occur until a building permit has been issued and such site work shall be required
to comply with all the regulations of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District;
5. that all air ducts, plumbing vents, and flues shall be combined, where possible, to a single
termination and installed on the portions of the roof not visible from the street; and that these
venting details shall be included and approved in the construction plans before a Building
permit is issued;
6. that the project shall comply with the Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Ordinance
which requires affected demolition, new construction, and alteration projects to submit a Waste
Reduction plan and meet recycling requirements; any partial or full demolition of a structure,
interior or exterior, shall require a demolition permit; and
7. that the project shall meet all the requirements of the California Building and Uniform Fire
Codes, in effect at time of building permit submittal, as amended by the City of Burlingame.
Construction Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Construction projects are required to implement the stormwater best management practices (BMP) on this page, as
they apply to your project, all year long.
Non-Hazardous Materials
Berm and cover stockpiles of sand, dirt or other construction material
with tarps when rain is forecast or if not actively being used within
14 days.
Use (but don’t overuse) reclaimed water for dust control.
Hazardous Materials
Label all hazardous materials and hazardous wastes (such as
pesticides, paints, thinners, solvents, fuel, oil, and antifreeze) in
accordance with city, county, state and federal regulations.
Store hazardous materials and wastes in water tight containers, store
in appropriate secondary containment, and cover them at the end of
every work day or during wet weather or when rain is forecast.
Follow manufacturer’s application instructions for hazardous
materials and be careful not to use more than necessary. Do not
apply chemicals outdoors when rain is forecast within 24 hours.
Arrange for appropriate disposal of all hazardous wastes.
Waste Management
Cover waste disposal containers securely with tarps at the end of
every work day and during wet weather.
Check waste disposal containers frequently for leaks and to make
sure they are not overfi lled. Never hose down a dumpster on the
construction site.
Clean or replace portable toilets, and inspect them frequently for
leaks and spills.
Dispose of all wastes and debris properly. Recycle materials and
wastes that can be recycled (such as asphalt, concrete, aggregate base
materials, wood, gyp board, pipe, etc.)
Dispose of liquid residues from paints, thinners, solvents, glues, and
cleaning fl uids as hazardous waste.
Construction Entrances and Perimeter
Establish and maintain effective perimeter controls and stabilize all
construction entrances and exits to suffi ciently control erosion and
sediment discharges from site and tracking off site.
Sweep or vacuum any street tracking immediately and secure
sediment source to prevent further tracking. Never hose down streets
to clean up tracking.
Materials & Waste Management Equipment Management &
Spill Control
Maintenance and Parking
Designate an area, fi tted with appropriate BMPs, for
vehicle and equipment parking and storage.
Perform major maintenance, repair jobs, and vehicle
and equipment washing off site.
If refueling or vehicle maintenance must be done
onsite, work in a bermed area away from storm drains
and over a drip pan or drop cloths big enough to collect
fl uids. Recycle or dispose of fl uids as hazardous waste.
If vehicle or equipment cleaning must be done onsite,
clean with water only in a bermed area that will not
allow rinse water to run into gutters, streets, storm
drains, or surface waters.
Do not clean vehicle or equipment onsite using soaps,
solvents, degreasers, or steam cleaning equipment.
Spill Prevention and Control
Keep spill cleanup materials (e.g., rags, absorbents and
cat litter) available at the construction site at all times.
Inspect vehicles and equipment frequently for and
repair leaks promptly. Use drip pans to catch leaks
until repairs are made.
Clean up spills or leaks immediately and dispose of
cleanup materials properly.
Do not hose down surfaces where fl uids have spilled.
Use dry cleanup methods (absorbent materials, cat
litter, and/or rags).
Sweep up spilled dry materials immediately. Do not
try to wash them away with water, or bury them.
Clean up spills on dirt areas by digging up and
properly disposing of contaminated soil.
Report signifi cant spills immediately. You are required
by law to report all signifi cant releases of hazardous
materials, including oil. To report a spill: 1) Dial 911
or your local emergency response number, 2) Call the
Governor’s Offi ce of Emergency Services Warning
Center, (800) 852-7550 (24 hours).
Earthmoving
Schedule grading and excavation work
during dry weather.
Stabilize all denuded areas, install and
maintain temporary erosion controls (such
as erosion control fabric or bonded fi ber
matrix) until vegetation is established.
Remove existing vegetation only when
absolutely necessary, and seed or plant
vegetation for erosion control on slopes
or where construction is not immediately
planned.
Prevent sediment from migrating offsite
and protect storm drain inlets, gutters,
ditches, and drainage courses by installing
and maintaining appropriate BMPs, such
as fi ber rolls, silt fences, sediment basins,
gravel bags, berms, etc.
Keep excavated soil on site and transfer it
to dump trucks on site, not in the streets.
Contaminated Soils
If any of the following conditions are
observed, test for contamination and
contact the Regional Water Quality
Control Board:
Unusual soil conditions, discoloration, -
or odor.
Abandoned underground tanks.-
Abandoned wells-
Buried barrels, debris, or trash.-
Discharges of groundwater or captured
runoff from dewatering operations must
be properly managed and disposed. When
possible send dewatering discharge to
landscaped area or sanitary sewer. If
discharging to the sanitary sewer call your
local wastewater treatment plant.
Divert run-on water from offsite away
from all disturbed areas.
When dewatering, notify and obtain
approval from the local municipality
before discharging water to a street gutter
or storm drain. Filtration or diversion
through a basin, tank, or sediment trap
may be required.
In areas of known or suspected
contamination, call your local agency to
determine whether the ground water must
be tested. Pumped groundwater may need
to be collected and hauled off-site for
treatment and proper disposal.
Dewatering
Avoid paving and seal coating in wet
weather or when rain is forecast, to
prevent materials that have not cured
from contacting stormwater runoff.
Cover storm drain inlets and manholes
when applying seal coat, tack coat, slurry
seal, fog seal, etc.
Collect and recycle or appropriately
dispose of excess abrasive gravel or sand.
Do NOT sweep or wash it into gutters.
Do not use water to wash down fresh
asphalt concrete pavement.
Sawcutting & Asphalt/Concrete Removal
Protect nearby storm drain inlets when
saw cutting. Use fi lter fabric, catch basin
inlet fi lters, or gravel bags to keep slurry
out of the storm drain system.
Shovel, abosorb, or vacuum saw-cut
slurry and dispose of all waste as soon
as you are fi nished in one location or at
the end of each work day (whichever is
sooner!).
If sawcut slurry enters a catch basin, clean
it up immediately.
Store concrete, grout, and mortar away
from storm drains or waterways, and on
pallets under cover to protect them from
rain, runoff, and wind.
Wash out concrete equipment/trucks
offsite or in a designated washout
area, where the water will fl ow into a
temporary waste pit, and in a manner
that will prevent leaching into the
underlying soil or onto surrounding areas.
Let concrete harden and dispose of as
garbage.
When washing exposed aggregate,
prevent washwater from entering storm
drains. Block any inlets and vacuum
gutters, hose washwater onto dirt areas, or
drain onto a bermed surface to be pumped
and disposed of properly.
Painting Cleanup and Removal
Never clean brushes or rinse paint
containers into a street, gutter, storm
drain, or stream.
For water-based paints, paint out brushes
to the extent possible, and rinse into a
drain that goes to the sanitary sewer.
Never pour paint down a storm drain.
For oil-based paints, paint out brushes to
the extent possible and clean with thinner
or solvent in a proper container. Filter and
reuse thinners and solvents. Dispose of
excess liquids as hazardous waste.
Paint chips and dust from non-hazardous
dry stripping and sand blasting may be
swept up or collected in plastic drop
cloths and disposed of as trash.
Chemical paint stripping residue and chips
and dust from marine paints or paints
containing lead, mercury, or tributyltin
must be disposed of as hazardous waste.
Lead based paint removal requires a state-
certifi ed contractor.
Painting & Paint Removal
Concrete, Grout & Mortar
Application
Protect stockpiled landscaping materials
from wind and rain by storing them under
tarps all year-round.
Stack bagged material on pallets and
under cover.
Discontinue application of any erodible
landscape material within 2 days before a
forecast rain event or during wet weather.
Landscaping
Paving/Asphalt Work
Storm drain polluters may be liable for fi nes of up to $10,000 per day!
Best Management Practices and Erosion Control Details Sheet 1County of Santa Clara BMP-1Project Information Stabilized Construction Entrance/Exit
CASQA Detail TC-1
3
Velocity Dissipation Devices
CASQA Detail EC-10
4
STANDARD BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE NOTES
1. Solid and Demolition Waste Management: Provide designated waste collection areas and containers on site away from streets, gutters, storm drains, and waterways, and arrange for regular disposal. Waste containers must be watertight and covered at all times except when waste is deposited. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (page C3) or latest.
2. Hazardous Waste Management: Provide proper handling and disposal of hazardous wastes by a licensed hazardous waste material hauler. Hazardous wastes shall be stored and properly labeled in sealed containers constructed of suitable materials. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-5 to C-6) or latest.
3. Spill Prevention and Control: Provide proper storage areas for liquid and solid materials, including chemicals and hazardous substances, away from streets, gutters, storm drains, and waterways. Spill control materials must be kept on site where readily accessible. Spills must be cleaned up immediately and contaminated soil disposed properly. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-7 to C-8, C-13 to C-14) or latest.
4. Vehicle and Construction Equipment Service and Storage: An area shall be designated for the maintenance, where on-site maintenance is required, and storage of equipment that is protected from stormwater run-on and runoff. Measures shall be provided to capture any waste oils, lubricants, or other potential pollutants and these wastes shall be properly disposed of off site. Fueling and major maintenance/repair, and washing shall be conducted off-site whenever feasible. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (page C9) or latest.
5. Material Delivery, Handling and Storage: In general, materials should not be stockpiled on site. Where temporary stockpiles are necessary and approved by the County, they shall be covered with secured plastic sheeting or tarp and located in designated areas near construction entrances and away from drainage paths and waterways. Barriers shall be provided around storage areas where materials are potentially in contact with runoff. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-11 to C-12) or latest.
6. Handling and Disposal of Concrete and Cement: When concrete trucks and equipment are washed on-site, concrete wastewater shall be contained in designated containers or in a temporary lined and watertight pit where wasted concrete can harden for later removal. If possible have concrete contractor remove concrete wash water from site. In no case shall fresh concrete be washed into the road right-of-way. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-15 to C-16) or latest.
7. Pavement Construction Management: Prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants from paving operations, using measures to prevent run-on and runoff pollution and properly disposing of wastes. Avoid paving in the wet season and reschedule paving when rain is in the forecast. Residue from saw-cutting shall be vacuumed for proper disposal. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-17 to C-18) or latest.
8. Contaminated Soil and Water Management: Inspections to identify contaminated soils should occur prior to construction and at regular intervals during construction. Remediating contaminated soil should occur promptly after identification and be specific to the contaminant identified, which may include hazardous waste removal. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (pages C-19 to C-20) or latest.
9. Sanitary/Septic Water Management: Temporary sanitary facilities should be located away from drainage paths, waterways, and traffic areas. Only licensed sanitary and septic waste haulers should be used. Secondary containment should be provided for all sanitary facilities. Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition (page C-21) or latest.
10. Inspection & Maintenance: Areas of material and equipment storage sites and temporary sanitary facilities must be inspected weekly. Problem areas shall be identified and appropriate additional and/or alternative control measures implemented immediately, within 24 hours of the problem being identified.
STANDARD EROSION CONTROL NOTES
1. Sediment Control Management:
Tracking Prevention & Clean Up: Activities
shall be organized and measures taken as needed
to prevent or minimize tracking of soil onto the
public street system. A gravel or proprietary
device construction entrance/exit is required for
all sites. Clean up of tracked material shall be
provided by means of a street sweeper prior to an
approaching rain event, or at least once at the end
of each workday that material is tracked, or, more
frequently as determined by the County Inspector.
Refer to Erosion & Sediment Control Field Manual,
4th Edition (pages B-31 to B-33) or latest.
Storm Drain Inlet and Catch Basin Inlet Protection:
All inlets within the vicinity of the project and
within the project limits shall be protected with
gravel bags placed around inlets or other inlet
protection. At locations where exposed soils are
present, staked fiber roles or staked silt fences
can be used. Inlet filters are not allowed due to
clogging and subsequent flooding. Refer to Erosion
& Sediment Control Field Manual, 4th Edition
(pages B-49 to B-51) or latest.
Storm Water Runoff: No storm water runoff shall be
allowed to drain in to the existing and/or proposed
underground storm drain system or other above
ground watercourses until appropriate erosion
control measures are fully installed.
Dust Control: The contractor shall provide dust
control in graded areas as required by providing wet
suppression or chemical stabilization of exposed
soils, providing for rapid clean up of sediments
deposited on paved roads, furnishing construction
road entrances and vehicle wash down areas, and
limiting the amount of areas disturbed by clearing
and earth moving operations by scheduling these
activities in phases.
Stockpiling: Excavated soils shall not be placed in
streets or on paved areas. Borrow and temporary
stockpiles shall be protected with appropriate
erosion control measures(tarps, straw bales, silt
fences, ect.) to ensure silt does not leave the site
or enter the storm drain system or neighboring
watercourse.
2. Erosion Control: During the rainy season,
all disturbed areas must include an effective
combination of erosion and sediment control. It is
required that temporary erosion control measures
are applied to all disturbed soil areas prior to a rain
event. During the non-rainy season, erosion control
measures must be applied sufficient to control wind
erosion at the site.
3. Inspection & Maintenance: Disturbed areas of the
Project’s site, locations where vehicles enter or
exit the site, and all erosion and sediment controls
that are identified as part of the Erosion Control
Plans must be inspected by the Contractor before,
during, and after storm events, and at least weekly
during seasonal wet periods. Problem areas shall
be identified and appropriate additional and/
or alternative control measures implemented
immediately, within 24 hours of the problem being
identified.
4. Project Completion: Prior to project completion and
signoff by the County Inspector, all disturbed areas
shall be reseeded, planted, or landscaped to minimize
the potential for erosion on the subject site.
5. It shall be the Owner’s/Contractor’s responsibility to
maintain control of the entire construction operation
and to keep the entire site in compliance with the
erosion control plan.
6. Erosion and sediment control best management
practices shall be operable year round or until
vegetation is fully established on landscaped
surfaces.
* Length per ABAG Design Standards
Source for Graphics: California Stormwater BMP Handbook, California
Stormwater Quality Association, January 2003.
Available from www.cabmphandbooks.com.
L*
Silt Fence
CASQA Detail SE-1
1
Silt Fence
CASQA Detail SE-1
2
Best Management Practices and Erosion Control Details Sheet 2County of Santa Clara BMP-2Project InformationStorm Drain Inlet Protection
CASQA Detail SE-108 Storm Drain Inlet Protection
CASQA Detail SE-10
6 Storm Drain Inlet Protection
CASQA Detail SE-10
4 Concrete Waste Management
CASQA Detail WM-8
2
Geotextiles and Mats
CASQA Detail EC-77 Geotextiles and Mats
CASQA Detail EC-7
5 Fiber Rolls
CASQA Detail SE-5 1 Entrance/Outlet Tire Wash
CASQA Detail TC-3 3
Source for Graphics: California Stormwater BMP Handbook, California
Stormwater Quality Association, January 2003.
Available from www.cabmphandbooks.com.
DRAKE AVENUE(50' WIDE)ADELINE DRIVE(50' WIDE)THIS SURVEY PLAT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS REFLECTS THE SITE CONDITIONS AT THE TIMEWHEN THE FIELD SURVEY WAS PERFORMED.THIS SURVEY PLAT MUST BE USED AS A STAND-ALONE DOCUMENT. IT CAN NOT BESCANNED, ALTERED, CROPPED OUT OR MODIFIED WITH ZHEN'S LAND SURVEYING CORP.'STITLE BLOCK AND SURVEYOR'S STAMP AND SIGNATURE.THIS SURVEY PLAT CAN BE ONLY ATTACHED AS A SEPARATE DOCUMENT BY ITSELF TO THEDEVELOPMENT PROJECT OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY AND CAN NOT BE USED ON OTHERDEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WITHOUT WRITTEN APPROVAL OF ZHEN'S LAND SURVEYING CORP.
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If this area is
inaccessible, then
this segment of
fencing is not
needed
Tree trunks, to scale.
Locations approximate where
not matched to survey. Note
that tree trunks may not be
round in cross section.
Critical root zones (minimal
disturbance recommended)
Tree protection zones (ideal;
may differ significantly from
canopy size and from
recommended tree protection
measures)
Minimum distances for tree
protection fencing. Fencing
may be placed farther away
from trees if desired.
Compaction mitigation -
3/4"" plywood or similar over
a 6"" layer of wood chips,
secured to ground with rebar,
long bolts, or similar
Excavate edge nearest tree
carefully, by hand, to a depth
of three feet or the full depth
of the feature, whichever is
shallower.
0 10 20 ft
2024-08-20
1476 Drake Tree Table Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 1Tree # (8 total)Common NameSpeciesDBH (in.)Vitality RatingStructure RatingProtected Tree - 2Street Tree - 3Off-Site Tree - 1Suitability for preservationProtected Removals - 0Species ConstructionTolerance(1 = poor, 3 = good)CRZ radius(ft. from center of trunk)TPZ radius(ideal; ft. from center oftrunk)Expected Impacts (withrecommended protection)Notes1 Callery pear 13.5 80%50%65%2 3.9 10.1 Minimal -
2 Privet 12.0 50%30%40%----DBH estimated
visually
3 London plane 13.0 50%20%35%3 3.8 9.8 Minimal -
4 Privet 4.0 30%30%30%-----
5 London plane 17.6 65%20%43%3 5.1 13.2 Minimal -
6 Bay laurel 4.0 95%40%68%-----
7 Citrus 6.0 30%60%45%-----
8 Southern
magnolia 15 20%10%15%1 4.5 23.0
Moderate from
basement if
excavation remains
outside CRZ
DBH estimated
visually
Pyrus calleryana
Ligustrum lucidum
Platanus x
acerifolia
Ligustrum lucidum
Platanus x
acerifolia
Laurus nobilis
Citrus sp.
Magnolia
grandiflora
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 1
Image 1: Callery pear #1
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 6
Image 6: Bay laurel #6
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 2
Image 2: Privet #2
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 7
Image 7: Citrus #7
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 3
Image 3: London plane #3
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 8
Image 8: Southern magnolia #8
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 4
Image 4: Privet #4
1476 Drake Tree Photographs Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting
8/20/2024 5
Image 5: London plane #5
8/20/2024
Xiaoxin Yin
1476 Drake Ave
Burlingame, California 94010
(425) 780-8514
xiaoxin@gmail.com
Re: Tree protection for proposed addition and ADU with basement at 1476 Drake Ave,
Burlingame, California 94010
Dear Xiaoxin,
At your request, we have visited the property referenced above to evaluate the trees
present with respect to the proposed project. This report contains our analysis.
Summary
Eight trees are present on and adjacent to this property, four of which are protected. None
are recommended for removal. All should be retained and protected as detailed in the
Recommendations, below. With proper protection, all are expected to survive and thrive
during and after construction, according to each tree’s existing condition.
Note that neighboring tree #8 is in very poor condition and may decline or die irrespective
of construction activity.
Prepared for Xiaoxin Yin by Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting on 8/20/2024 1 of 11
Neighbor Tree #8 - note that this tree is partly dead, with very poor structure.
Current Site Conditions
A single-family home is currently present on the property. The driveway and other
hardscape appear typical, as do the utilities and property line fences. The grade is
reasonably flat. Landscaping appears typical, with minimal if any irrigation.
Project Features
A house addition and attached ADU with a basement are proposed at the inner rear
(northeast) corner of the existing house. Remodeling and upgrades are proposed in some
other parts of the existing house. Some hardscape will be removed to accommodate the
addition and ADU. Two privet trees are proposed in order to satisfy city requirements.
No other changes are shown to the house footprint, existing garage, hardscape, or
landscaping. No shoring, grading, drainage, utility trenching, or fencing work are shown on
the plans provided to us.
Potential Conflicts
Trees # 1 and 2-5 - all proposed project features and logical access routes thereto are
outside these trees’ TPZs. 3
Trees #2, 6, and 7 - since these trees are not protected, they have not been evaluated for
potential conflicts.
Tree #8 - the proposed house addition lies partly within this tree’s TPZ.
Testing and Analysis
Tree DBHs 4 were taken using a diameter tape measure if trunks were accessible.
Multistemmed trees were measured below the point where the leaders diverge, if possible.
The DBHs of trees with non-accessible trunks were estimated visually. All trees over four
inches in DBH were inventoried, as well as street trees of all sizes. Vigor ratings are based
on tree appearance and our experiential knowledge of each species’ healthy appearance.
4 diameter at breast height (4.5 feet above grade), a standard arboricultural measurement
3 Tree protection zones. See Discussion, Tree Map, and Tree Table for more detail.
Prepared for Xiaoxin Yin by Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting on 8/20/2024 5 of 11
2. Compaction mitigation - install as shown in the Tree Map:
a. Spread wood chips to a depth of 4-6”.
b. Top with ¾”-thick plywood or other durable material secured to the ground
with long bolts, capped rebar, or another appropriate fastener to prevent
shifting. 9
Construction Phase
1. Maintain tree protection measures as detailed above.
2. Alert the project arborist if utility or other work becomes necessary within any tree
TPZs.
3. When excavating within TPZs for the basement, and if live roots over 1” in diameter
are encountered when excavating in any location:
a. Hand-excavate edge nearest trunk to the full depth of the feature being
installed or to a depth of three feet, whichever is shallower.
b. Retain as many roots as practical. Route conduit and other features around
and between roots insofar as practical.
c. If roots 1-2” in diameter must be cut, sever them cleanly with a sharp saw or
bypass pruners.
d. If roots over 2” must be cut, stop work in that area and contact the project
arborist for guidance.
e. If excavation will be left open for more than 3 days:
i. Cover excavation wall nearest trunk with several layers of burlap or
other absorbent fabric.
ii. Install a timer and soaker hoses to irrigate with potable water twice
per day, enough to wet fabric thoroughly.
4. Notify Project Arborist when excavation is complete. Project arborist shall inspect
work to make sure all roots have been cut cleanly.
a. The Project Arborist shall provide a follow-up letter documenting that the
excavation was performed to specification.
9 One effective method we have observed for securing plywood is to place rebar just outside the
edges and top with square caps.
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Assignment and Limits of Report
We have been asked to write a report detailing impacts to trees from the proposed
addition and ADU with basement on this property. This report may be used by our client
and others involved in the project as needed to inform all stages of the project.
All observations were made from the ground with basic hand tools. No root collar
excavations or aerial inspections were performed. No project features had been staked at
the time of our site visit.
Tree Regulations
In the City of Burlingame, a tree protection report is required for development projects if
protected trees and/or street trees are present. The following excerpt is taken from the
document titled “Trees: A Big Deal!.” 1
1 Publicly available on the City of Burlingame website at:
https://cms6.revize.com/revize/burlingameparksandrecs/document_center/Trees/Important%20Info
rmation%20About%20City%20Trees.pdf
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Tree location data were collected using a GPS smartphone application and processed in
Quantum GIS (QGIS) to create the maps included in this report. Due to the error inherent in
GPS data collection, and due also to differences between GPS data and CAD drawings, tree
locations and all dimensions shown on the Tree Map are approximate. The percentages of
TPZs impacted by project features were calculated in QGIS but should be considered
approximate due to potential error in tree locations or feature locations.
Data were collected by . with Vanessa Ruiz-Fielding, ISA Certified Arborist WE-15299A
basic hand tools (such as, but not limited to: hand hoe; hatchet; rubber mallet; measuring
tape; etc.) at one site visit on 8/14/2024. All observations and photographs in this report
were taken at that site visit.
The tree protection analysis in this report is based on the following document(s), provided
to us electronically by the project team:
● Proposed site plan: TWO-STORY SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE ADDITION & ADU,
7/10/2024
Discussion
Tree Protection Zones (TPZs)
Tree roots grow where conditions are favorable, and their spatial arrangement is,
therefore, unpredictable. Favorable conditions vary among species, but generally include
the presence of moisture, and soft soil texture with low compaction.
Contrary to popular belief, roots of all tree species grow primarily in the top two to three
feet or less of soil in the clay soils typical for this geographic region, with roots occasionally
occurring at greater depths when soil conditions allow. Some species have taproots when
young, but these almost universally disappear with age. At maturity, a tree’s root system
may extend out from the trunk farther than the tree is tall, and the tree maintains its
upright position in much the same manner as a wine glass.
The optimal area around a tree that should be protected from disturbance depends on the
tree’s trunk diameter, species, and vigor, as shown in the following table (adapted from
Trees & Construction , Matheny and Clark, 1998):
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Requirements for tree protection reports are given in section 11.06.050b of the City of
Burlingame Municipal Code, excerpted here from the Urban Forest Management Plan: 2
Further guidance on tree protection during construction is given in the Urban Forest
Management Plan as follows:
2 Publicly available on the City of Burlingame website at:
https://cms6.revize.com/revize/burlingamecity/burlingameparksandrecs/document_center/Trees/Ur
ban%20Forest%20Management%20Plan.pdf
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Species
tolerance Tree vitality 5
Distance from trunk (feet
per inch trunk diameter)
Good High 0.5
Moderate 0.75
Low 1
Moderate High 0.75
Moderate 1
Low 1.25
Poor High 1
Moderate 1.25
Low 1.5
It is important to note that some roots will almost certainly be present outside the TPZ;
however, root loss outside the TPZ is unlikely to cause tree decline.
Critical Root Zones (CRZs)
Although root loss inside the tree protection zone (TPZ) may cause a short-term decline in
tree condition, trees can often recover adequately from limited disturbance in this area.
Tree stability is impacted at a shorter distance from the tree trunk. For linear cuts on one
side of the tree, the minimum distance typically recommended is three times the DBH,
measured from the edge of the trunk ( Best Management Practices: Root Management ,
Costello, Watson, and Smiley, 2017). This is called the critical root zone, as substantial root
loss closer than this increases a tree’s likelihood of failure.
Note that trees sometimes have asymmetrical root systems, and if no substantial roots are
present in a given area, impacts on the tree will be minimal to minor regardless of distance
from the trunk.
Conclusions 6
Trees #1 and 2-5 - minimal impacts to these trees are likely from the project as proposed.
6 All conclusions assume the tree protection measures recommended in this report. Without proper
tree protection measures, any tree could be damaged.
5 Matheny & Clark uses tree age, but we feel a tree’s vitality more accurately reflects its ability to
handle stress.
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Observations
Trees
There are eight trees on and adjacent to this property (Images 1-8). Two are London planes
( Platanus acerifolia ), two are privets ( Ligustrum lucidum ), and the remaining four are of
various individual species.
Protected statuses - trees #4 and 5 are Trees. Trees #1 and 3 are street trees. Protected
Tree #8 overhangs the property from an adjacent property. Trees #2, 6, and 7 are not
protected.
Health - most trees present are in moderate to good health. Only trees #4, 7, and 8 are in
poor health.
Structure - most trees present exhibit poor branching architecture. Only trees #1 and 7
exhibit moderate structure.
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Trees #2, 6, and 7 - since these trees are not protected, they have not been evaluated for
construction impacts.
Tree #8 - moderate impacts to this tree are likely from the project as proposed. Because
this tree is already in such poor health, it may decline or die irrespective of construction
activity. Its poor health already makes it a good candidate for removal.
Recommendations 7 8
Design Phase
1. Shoring - explore options to minimize excavation for the parts of the basement
within the TPZ of tree #8.
a. If excavation must extend into the CRZ of tree #8, contact the tree owner to
obtain a tree removal permit.
Preconstruction Phase
1. Tree protection fencing - install as shown in the Tree Map.
a. Minimum fencing distances are shown on the Tree Map. Fencing must be
installed at or beyond these distances. Note that the TPZs of some offsite
trees may extend onto this property and require fencing.
b. Where existing barriers which will be retained impede access comparably to
tree protection fencing, these barriers are an acceptable substitute for tree
protection fencing.
a. Please be aware that tree protection fencing may differ from ideal tree
protection zones, and from canopy sizes.
c. Tree protection fencing can be made out of wood, plastic, wire or a
combination.
d. The area inside the barrier must be kept clear and not used for storage of
materials, parking, waste accumulation, or travel of trucks and heavy
equipment.
e. Place a 6” layer of wood chips inside tree protection fencing.
8 Bolded items are emphasized only because in my experience they are tend to be overlooked.
7 All recommendations are driven by the requirements of the jurisdiction in which the property is
located, and by industry best practices.
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Post-Construction Phase
1. Protected trees that have been damaged or destroyed by construction shall be
replaced or the city shall be reimbursed, as provided in Section 11.06.090 of the City
of Burlingame Municipal Code.
2. Remove tree protection measures, upon approval from the City Arborist.
Additional materials submitted as separate documents
1. 1476 Drake Tree Map
2. 1476 Drake Tree Photographs
3. 1476 Drake Tree Table
Respectfully submitted,
Katherine Naegele | Consulting Arborist | She/Her
Master of Forestry, UC Berkeley
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist #WE-9658A
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification Credentialed
katherine@aacarbor.com | (408) 201-9607
Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting | (408) 675-1729
aacarbor.com
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Terms of Assignment
The following terms and conditions apply to all oral and written reports and correspondence pertaining to the
consultations, inspections, and activities of Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting:
1. All property lines and ownership of property, trees, and landscape plants and fixtures are assumed to be
accurate and reliable as presented and described to the consultant, either orally or in writing. The
consultant assumes no responsibility for verification of ownership or locations of property lines, or for
results of any actions or recommendations based on inaccurate information.
2. It is assumed that any property referred to in any report or in conjunction with any services performed by
Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting is in accordance with any applicable codes, ordinances, statutes, or
other governmental regulations, and that any titles and ownership to any property are assumed to be good
and marketable. The existence of liens or encumbrances has not been determined, and any and all
property is appraised and/or assessed as though free and clear, under responsible ownership and
competent management.
3. All reports and other correspondence are confidential and are the property of Aesculus Arboricultural
Consulting and its named clients and their assigns or agents. Possession of this report or a copy thereof
does not imply any right of publication or use for any purpose, without the express permission of the
consultant and the client to whom the report was issued. Loss, removal, or alteration of any part of a
report invalidates the entire appraisal/evaluation.
4. The scope of any report or other correspondence is limited to the trees and conditions specifically
mentioned in those reports and correspondence. Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting assumes no liability
for the failure of trees or parts of trees, inspected or otherwise. The consultant assumes no responsibility
to report on the condition of any tree or landscape feature not specifically requested by the named client.
5. All inspections are limited to visual examination of accessible parts, without dissection, excavation, probing,
boring or other invasive procedures, unless otherwise noted in the report, and reflect the condition of
those items and features at the time of inspection. No warranty or guarantee is made, expressed or
implied, that problems or deficiencies of the plants or the property will not occur in the future, from any
cause. The consultant shall not be responsible for damages caused by any tree defects, and assumes no
responsibility for the correction of defects or tree related problems.
6. The consultant shall not be required to provide further documentation, give testimony, be deposed, or to
attend court by reason of this appraisal/report unless subsequent contractual arrangements are made,
including payment of additional fees for such services as set forth by the consultant or in the fee schedule
or contract.
7. Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting makes no warranty, either expressed or implied, as to the suitability of
the information contained in any reports or correspondence, either oral or written, for any purpose. It
remains the responsibility of the client to determine applicability to his/her particular case.
8. Any report and the values, observations, and recommendations expressed therein represent the
professional opinion of the consultant, and the fee for services is in no manner contingent upon the
reporting of a specified value nor upon any particular finding.
9. Any photographs, diagrams, charts, sketches, or other graphic material included in any report are intended
solely as visual aids, are not necessarily to scale, and should not be construed as engineering reports or
surveys unless otherwise noted in the report. Any reproduction of graphic material or the work product of
any other persons is intended solely for clarification and ease of reference. Inclusion of said information
does not constitute a representation by Aesculus Arboricultural Consulting as to the sufficiency or accuracy
of that information.
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