Lot splits eased in Redwood City

The former code required that all proposed lots must meet certain objective design standards, which included a limit on lot proportions. The depth of a new lot cannot be longer than 2 1/2 times the length of its width.

This standard meant Lehr could not split the property he purchased as he envisioned. He could only consider pursuing a flag lot — which means there’s a front house with road frontage and a back house connected by a driveway, typically. 

Lehr said this “would’ve ruined the character of the neighborhood” in which he lives. 

The new code approved by the City Council nixes the form design standard regarding lot proportions, as long as the width of both new lots remain at least 50 feet wide. Though this code change would apply to a very particular type of property — one that is at least 100 feet wide, able to be split in two — the flexibility could incentivize property owners becoming interested in development.

“The more flexibility we can give people on being able to build housing on their own land, the more granular, delightful, small, locally-owned craft housing we’re going to be able to get,” Councilmember Isabella Chu said. 

Redwood City resident Kim Hurst said during public comment that a home’s “curb appeal” is often a key decision for those interested in buying or renting a home. The update in code would help homes more likely be able to maintain both a front and back yard, she said. 

The update in code would “help this lot specifically,” Alex Lehr said, referring to the property AJ Lehr purchased. “And all those in the future not trying to do something outside the norm of the neighborhood or do something disruptive or destructive to the neighborhood.”

Councilmember Chris Sturken noted that lot splits could help the city meet its housing goals, even if it is a little at a time. 

The increase in housing in these areas with larger lots could “open up these neighborhoods that may have historically been closed to residents of different incomes and give them access to higher amenities in those areas,” Sturken said.