HomeMy WebLinkAbout20201022_Resolution_PC2020-036Community Development Department
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
100 Civic Center Drive
Newport Beach, California 92660
949 644-3200
newportbeachca.gov/communitydevelopment
VIA EMAIL
October 23, 2020
Chihuahua Brewing Company, LLC.
660 Newport Center Drive #200
Newpot Beach, CA 92660
kcrowley@mobilitie.com
Subject: Conditional Use Permit No. UP2019-035
Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-001
Operator License No. OL2020-001
(PA2019-160)
3107 Newport Boulevard
Dear Ms. Crowley,
It was a pleasure working with you on the above referenced application. Please be
advised that the subject application was approved by the Planning Commission on
October 22, 2020 and is now within the required City appeal period until November
5, 2020. If no appeals are filed with the City, a Notice of Final Action will be mailed to
the California Coastal Commission. Upon receipt of the notice by the Coastal
Commission, the action will be subject to an additional 10-working-day appeal period.
You may track status of the Coastal Commission appeal period via the following link:
Statewide Appealable Projects PDF
At the conclusion of both appeal periods, a building permit may be issued for the
project.
A copy of the approved resolution with findings and conditions is attached. If you
have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly. Thank you and I
look forward to working with you again in the future.
Sincerely,
David Lee, Associate Planner
MKN/dl
RESOLUTION NO. PC2020-036
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. UP2019-035 AND COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT CD2020-001 TO ALLOW A TYPE 47
(ON SALE GENERAL – EATING PLACE) ABC LICENSE WITH
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FOR AN EXISTING RESTAURANT AND
WAIVE A PORTION OF THE OFF-STREET PARKING
REQUIREMENT AT THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 3107 AND
3109 NEWPORT BOULEVARD (PA2019-160)
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. STATEMENT OF FACTS.
1. An application was filed by Chihuahua Brewing Company LLC (“Applicant”), with respect
to property located at 3107 and 3109 Newport Boulevard, and legally described as Parcel
1 of Parcel Map No. 2009-135, as per map filed in Book 371, Pages 4 through 6 of Parcel
Maps, in the office of the County Recorder in the County of Orange, California (“Property”)
requesting approval of a conditional use permit and coastal development permit.
2. The Applicant seeks a conditional use permit to allow a Type 47 (On Sale General – Eating
Place) license with the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (“ABC”) for the
expansion of a 1,878-square-foot restaurant with an existing 259-square-foot patio into the
adjacent commercial suite to include live entertainment. With the expansion, the restaurant
is proposed to be 1,446 square feet of net public area and 2,616 square feet of gross floor
area with a 626-square-foot patio (“Project”). This expansion requests the parking
reduction of 25 parking spaces within the existing shopping center. The proposed hours
of operation are from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 6:30 a.m.
to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday for the interior. The hours of operation for the exterior
patio are 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., daily. Live entertainment is proposed on Tuesdays
and Saturdays, between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m, and Sundays between 11:00 a.m. and
2:00 p.m. No late hours or dancing are proposed as part of this application.
3. The Property is designated CN (Neighborhood Commercial) by the City of Newport Beach
General Plan (“General Plan”) Land Use Element and is located within the CN
(Commercial Neighborhood) Zoning District.
4. The Property is located within the coastal zone. The Local Coastal Program Coastal Land
Use Plan category is CN (Neighborhood Commercial - 0.0 to 3.0 FAR) and it is located
within the CN (Commercial Neighborhood) Coastal Zoning District.
5. A telephonic public hearing was held on October 22, 2020 in the City Council Chambers
located at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, due to the Declaration of a State
Emergency and Proclamation of Local Emergency related to COVID-19. A notice of time,
place and purpose of the hearing was given in accordance with Government Code
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Section 54950 et seq. (“Ralph M. Brown Act”) and Chapters 20.62 and 21.62 (Public
Hearings) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code (“NBMC”). Evidence, both written and
oral, was presented to, and considered by, the Planning Commission at this hearing.
SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT DETERMINATION.
1. This Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to
Section 15301 under Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15303 under Class 3 (New
Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code
of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a
significant effect on the environment.
2. The Class 1 (Existing Facilities) exemption includes the operation, repair, maintenance,
permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private structures,
facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or no
expansion of use. The Project involves minor alterations to existing structures involving
negligible or no expansion of use.
3. The Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) exemption includes
the construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures;
installation of small new equipment and facilities in small structures; and the conversion
of existing small structures from one use to another where only minor modifications are
made in the exterior of the structure, including restaurants under 2,500 square feet in
floor area. The Project involves an expansion to an existing restaurant (1,878 gross
square feet) into an existing adjacent commercial space (738 gross square feet) to
create a 2,616-square-foot restaurant. There are no known exceptions listed in CEQA
Guidelines Section 15300.2 that would invalidate the use of these exemptions.
SECTION 3. REQUIRED FINDINGS.
Alcohol Sales
In accordance with Section 20.48.030(C)(3) (Alcohol Sales-Required Findings) of the NBMC,
the following findings and facts in support of such findings are set forth:
Finding:
A. The use is consistent with the purpose and intent of NBMC Section 20.48.030 (Alcohol
Sales).
Facts in Support of Finding:
i. The crime rate in the reporting district and adjacent reporting districts as compared to
other areas in the City.
1. The Property is located in Reporting District 15 (RD 15). RD 15 exceeds the City
average, and is considered a high crime area as compared to other reporting
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districts. The RD’s Crime Count is 614, 357 percent over the Citywide crime count
average of 140. Since this area has 20 percent greater reported crimes than the
average number of reported crimes as determined from all crime reporting districts
within the City, the area is found to have undue concentration. However, RD 15
contains a large number of visitor and tourist-serving nonresidential uses. Lido
Marina Village, Cannery Village, the Newport Boulevard business corridor, and
McFadden Square consist of many eating and drinking establishments that serve
residents and visitors to the area. The intent of the zoning designations in this beach
area, as well as the two (2) adjacent reporting districts, is to provide various
commercial and retail uses to support the surrounding residential area and
surrounding visitor-serving and tourist destinations. Beach areas have a higher
concentration of land uses and therefore tend to have a higher crime rate than other
areas in the City.
2. The Newport Beach Police Department (“NBPD”) has reviewed the proposed use
and based on the location, operational characteristics, and closing hour of 11:00
p.m., and has no objection to the addition of the Type 47 alcoholic beverage license
subject to appropriate conditions of approval.
ii. The numbers of alcohol-related calls for service, crimes, or arrests in the reporting district
and in adjacent reporting districts.
1. Due to the high concentration of commercial land uses, the resulting calls for service
and number of arrests in RD 15 and adjacent reporting districts are greater than
other areas of the City. The highest volume crime in this area is drunkenness and
the highest volume arrest in the area is Public Intoxication. Driving under the
influence, public intoxication, and liquor law violations make up 32 percent of arrests
in this reporting district. However, the area is considered one of the more attractive
tourist areas in the City, which results in a higher number of alcohol-related calls for
service, crimes and arrests.
iii. The proximity of the establishment to residential zoning districts, day care centers,
hospitals, park and recreation facilities, places of worship, schools, other similar uses, and
any uses that attract minors.
1. Although the Project is located near a residential district, the Property is situated in
a commercial zoning district within an existing commercial plaza with other
nonresidential uses. Residential neighborhoods are located adjacent to the plaza to
the north, east, and south. To the west of the plaza, there are existing commercial
uses.
2. The Project is not in proximity to a religious facility, daycare center, park, recreational
facility, school, or similar uses that attract minors.
3. The proposed alcohol sales are not detrimental to the community as a result of the
proximity to any sensitive land uses.
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iv. The proximity to other establishments selling alcoholic beverages for either off-site or on-
site consumption.
1. Several other establishments along Newport Boulevard currently have active ABC
Licenses, most of which are bona fide eating and drinking establishments and are
not defined as bars, lounges or nightclubs by the Zoning Code. Within the same
shopping center, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Gina’s Pizza provide alcohol service to
patrons. Other nearby establishments such as Woody’s Diner, Bear Flag Fish
Company, Fable and Spirits, Malarky’s, and Session’s West Coast Deli also provide
alcohol service to patrons.
2. The Project’s proximity to other establishments selling alcohol does not raise a
concern due to characteristics of the use, which is limited to 1,446 square feet of
interior net public area and an outdoor patio space of 626 square feet. The proposed
hours of operation are from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and
6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday for the interior. The hours of operation
for the exterior patio are 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., daily. Service of alcohol would
begin at 9:00 a.m., daily. Conditions of approval will further prevent the establishment
from operating as a bar or lounge.
v. Whether or not the proposed amendment will resolve any current objectionable
conditions.
1. No objectionable conditions are presently occurring at the Property. The subject
shopping center has historically been used by commercial businesses. On May 29,
2020, Chihuahua Cerveza obtained an Emergency Temporary Use Permit to provide
outdoor dining for patrons during the COVID-19 pandemic. On one occasion, the
restaurant was found to be in violation in social distancing requirements. However,
the restaurant amended their permit to relocate their dining area and cooperated with
the City to ensure proper distancing would be observed. There is no evidence that
suggests the Project will create objectionable conditions with the proposed
expansion.
2. The Project has been reviewed and conditioned to ensure that the purpose and intent
of Section 20.48.030 (Alcohol Sales) of the NBMC is maintained and that a healthy
environment for residents and businesses is preserved. The service of alcohol is
intended for the convenience of customers dining at the establishment. Operational
conditions of approval recommended relative to the sale of alcoholic beverages will
ensure compatibility with the surrounding uses and minimize any alcohol related
impacts.
3. As conditioned, the owners, managers, and employees selling alcohol are required
to undergo and successfully complete a certified training program in responsible
methods and skills for selling alcohol.
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Conditional Use Permit
In accordance with Section 20.52.020(F) (Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use Permits –
Findings and Decision) of the NBMC, the following findings and facts in support of such findings
are set forth:
Finding:
B. The use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable Specific Plan.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The General Plan land use designation for this site is CN (Neighborhood
Commercial), which is intended to provide for a limited range of retail and service
uses developed in one or more distinct centers oriented to primarily serve the needs
of and maintain compatibility with residential uses in the immediate area. The Project
is an expansion of an existing restaurant into an existing adjacent commercial space.
2. The expansion of the existing restaurant is consistent with this designation because
it will continue to provide a service to the surrounding neighborhood that will help to
maintain a vibrant commercial corridor. As conditioned, the outdoor dining area must
close by 10:00 p.m. and the indoor dining area must close by 10:00 p.m. on Sunday
through Thursday, and 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. All patrons must vacate
the premises by these designated times. The closing hours will help to ensure the
use remains compatible with adjacent residential units and the surrounding
neighborhood.
3. The existing adjacent tenant space was previously utilized as a Take-Out Limited
food service use. The expansion of Chihuahua Cerveza into the adjacent space
would be consistent with the previous use.
4. The Property is not a part of a specific plan area.
Finding:
C. The use is allowed within the applicable zoning district and complies with all other applicable
provisions in the Zoning Code and Municipal Code.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is located in the CN (Commercial Neighborhood) Zoning District, which
is intended to provide for areas appropriate for a limited range of retail and service
uses developed in one or more distinct centers oriented to serve primarily the needs
of and maintain compatibility with residential uses in the immediate area. Eating and
drinking establishments (including alcohol) are allowed uses, subject to the approval
of a use permit.
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2. The expansion of the existing restaurant is consistent with this designation because
it will continue to provide a service to the surrounding neighborhood that will help to
maintain a vibrant commercial corridor. As conditioned, the outdoor dining area must
close by 10:00 p.m. and the indoor dining area must close by 10:00 p.m. on Sunday
through Thursday, and 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. All patrons must vacate
the premises by these designated times. The closing hours will help to ensure the
use remains compatible with adjacent residential units and the surrounding
neighborhood.
3. Under NBMC Section 20.40.050 (Parking Requirements for Shopping Centers), the
existing shopping center is parked at a rate of one (1) parking space per 200 square
feet of gross floor area. This parking rate may be applied when the gross floor area
of the shopping center does not exceed 100,000 square feet, and when the gross
floor area of all eating and drinking establishments does not exceed fifteen (15)
percent of the gross floor area of the shopping center. There is an existing 6,659
square feet of eating and drinking establishments within the shopping center, while
the total gross floor area of the shopping center is 47,812 square feet (13.9 percent).
Using this parking requirement, the existing shopping center requires 240 parking
spaces (47,812 / 200 = 239.06). However, Conditional Use Permit No. UP2010-002
(PA2009-153), which was approved on February 4, 2010, waived five (5) parking
spaces with the provision of a parking management plan. Therefore, the existing
shopping center requires 235 parking spaces. There are 236 parking spaces that
exist on-site, resulting in a surplus of one (1) space.
4. The Project causes the overall gross floor area of eating and drinking establishments
to exceed fifteen (15) percent of the overall gross floor area of the shopping center.
Per NBMC Section 20.40.050, shopping centers occupying more than fifteen (15)
percent of the gross floor area of the center shall use a parking requirement equal to
the sum of the requirements prescribed for each use in the shopping center. Under
existing conditions, Chihuahua Cerveza and the adjacent take-out limited food
service use requires 14 parking spaces, at a rate of one (1) space per 200 gross
square feet (2,616 / 200 = 13.08). With the proposed expansion, Chihuahua Cerveza
requires 37 parking spaces, at a parking rate of one (1) space per 40 square feet of
net public area (1,446 / 40 = 36.15). There are a variety of existing uses within the
shopping center, which include eating and drinking establishments, take-out dining,
retail stores, a grocery store, a nail salon, and a bank. Parking requirements
calculated for each individual use results in a parking requirement of 261 parking
spaces, resulting in a deficit of 25 parking spaces (261 – 236 = 25).
5. A parking study from October 5, 2020 has been provided by RK Engineering Group,
Inc (the “Parking Study”). The Parking Study establishes a parking demand for the
expansion of Chihuahua Cerveza by providing parking counts during typical off-
season operations and weather conditions on a Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The
observed peak parking demand occurred on Friday, May 17, 2019, where
approximately 135 parking spaces out of 236 were occupied (57 percent utilization).
With the expansion of the restaurant, the parking study concludes that the peak
parking demand would be approximately 156 spaces out of 236 provided (66 percent
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utilization). During the summer, parking on the Balboa Peninsula is heavily impacted
with beach visitors. However, the shopping center actively enforces a “no beach
parking” policy and regularly tows violators from the parking lot, which mitigates the
impacts during peak seasons. The Project is located close to the beach, which
typically generates higher volumes of patrons who travel to the shopping center by
means of rideshare, walking or bicycling. The Parking Study concludes that even
with the Project’s increase of parking demand, the existing parking lot is able to
accommodate the proposed expansion of the restaurant.
6. The Parking Study concludes that on-site parking provided in the shopping center is
adequate to accommodate the proposed project. However, in compliance with
NBMC Subsection 20.40.110(C), a parking management plan has been prepared in
case the site’s parking supply needs to be better utilized. The plan includes future
considerations for providing a dedicated rideshare pick up and drop off area, setting
parking duration limits and enforcement through a parking patrol service, providing
secure bicycle parking, and encouraging employees to park away from entrances to
restaurants and shops. If necessary, the shopping center will provide a valet service
during days and hours of high parking demand.
Finding:
D. The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the use are compatible with the
allowed uses in the vicinity.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. Commercial uses such as restaurants are common in the vicinity of Newport
Boulevard and serve visitors and residents. As conditioned, the Project will be
compatible with the land uses permitted within the surrounding neighborhood.
2. The Project is an existing restaurant located within an existing shopping center and
will complement the existing mix of retail, service, and restaurant uses in the
immediate area. The adjacent commercial space that the restaurant will expand into
was previously a take-out service, limited, food service establishment.
3. The Project includes conditions of approval to ensure that potential conflicts are
minimized to the greatest extent possible. Although the restaurant is nearby
residential units, the building is oriented toward 32nd Street. There are residential
units located north of 32nd Street, but the outdoor dining area will be buffered by the
shopping center parking lot and the street.
4. A noise study was prepared by RK Engineering Group, Inc. on September 27, 2019
(the “Noise Study”), during a trial period of live entertainment. The Noise Study
monitored noise levels from the live music that was performed at the Property. The
Noise Study concluded that the live entertainment did not result in significant
changes to the ambient noise environment at the Project or surrounding residential
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uses, as there was no perceptible change in the ambient noise environment and did
not cause a noise violation per the standards set in the NBMC.
5. As conditioned, the outdoor dining area will close by 10:00 p.m., daily, and the interior
of the restaurant will close by 10:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 11:00
p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The closing hours will help to ensure there is no
detriment to the adjacent residential neighborhood.
6. The NBPD has reviewed the Project and has no objections. The operational
conditions of approval recommended by the NBPD relative to the sale of alcoholic
beverages will help ensure compatibility with the surrounding uses and minimize
alcohol-related impacts. The Project has been conditioned to ensure the welfare of the
surrounding community.
Finding:
E. The site is physically suitable in terms of design, location, shape, size, operating
characteristics, and the provision of public and emergency vehicle (e.g., fire and medical)
access and public services and utilities.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Project is located within an existing shopping center. The adjacent commercial
space, which was previously a take-out service, limited, food use, will be utilized for
additional seating area, office space, and storage. The design, size, location, and
operating characteristics of the use are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
2. The existing kitchen, food prep area, restrooms, and storage areas will remain in the
existing restaurant and will be unaffected by the expansion. However, the Applicant is
required to obtain Orange County Health Department approval prior to opening for
business, and comply with the California Building Code to ensure the safety and
welfare of customers and employees within the establishment.
3. Adequate public and emergency vehicle access, public services, and utilities are
provided to the subject property. Any additional utilities upgrades required for the
change in occupancy will be required at plan check for the building permit.
4. The tenant improvements to the Property will comply with all Building, Public Works,
and Fire Codes. All City ordinances and all conditions of approval will be complied
with.
Finding:
F. Operation of the use at the location proposed would not be detrimental to the harmonious
and orderly growth of the City, or endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to
the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or
working in the neighborhood of the proposed use.
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Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Project includes conditions of approval to ensure that potential conflicts are
minimized to the greatest extent possible. Although the restaurant is nearby to
residential units, the building is oriented toward 32nd Street. There are residential
units located north of 32nd Street, but the outdoor dining area will be buffered by the
shopping center parking lot and the street.
2. The Noise Study monitored noise levels from the live music that was performed at
the Property. The Noise Study concluded that the live entertainment did not result in
significant changes to the ambient noise environment at the Project or surrounding
residential uses, as there was no perceptible change in the ambient noise
environment and did not cause a noise violation per the standards set in the NBMC.
3. As conditioned, the outdoor dining area will close by 10:00 p.m., daily, and the interior
of the restaurant will close by 10:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 11:00
p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The closing hours will help to ensure there is no
detriment to the adjacent residential neighborhood.
4. The NBPD has reviewed the Project and has no objections. The operational
conditions of approval recommended by the NBPD relative to the sale of alcoholic
beverages will help ensure compatibility with the surrounding uses and minimize
alcohol-related impacts. The Project has been conditioned to ensure the welfare of the
surrounding community.
5. The Project has been reviewed and includes conditions of approval to help ensure
that potential conflicts with the surrounding land uses are minimized to the greatest
extent possible. The operator is required to take reasonable steps to discourage and
correct objectionable conditions that constitute a nuisance in parking areas,
sidewalks and areas surrounding the subject property and adjacent properties during
business hours, if directly related to the patrons of the establishment.
6. The Type 47 (On Sale General – Eating Place) ABC License will provide dining
services as a public convenience to the surrounding residential neighborhood as well
as to visitors. The service of alcohol will complement the principal use of the facility
as a restaurant and provide an economic opportunity for the property owner to
maintain a successful business in a way that best serves the community.
7. As conditioned, the owners, managers, and employees selling alcohol are required
to undergo and successfully complete a certified training program in responsible
methods and skills for selling alcohol.
Off-Street Parking Reduction
In accordance with Section 20.40.110 (Adjustments to Off-Street Parking Requirements) of the
NBMC, off-street parking requirements may be reduced with the approval of a conditional use
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permit in compliance with NBMC Section 20.52.020 (Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use
Permits) as follows:
Finding:
G. The applicant has provided sufficient data, including a parking study if required by the
Director, to indicate that parking demand will be less than the required number of spaces
or that other parking is available (e.g., City parking lot located nearby, on-street parking
available, greater than normal walk in trade, mixed-use development);
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Project causes the overall gross floor area of eating and drinking establishments
to exceed fifteen (15) percent of the overall gross floor area of the shopping center.
Per NBMC Section 20.40.050, shopping centers occupying more than fifteen (15)
percent of the gross floor area of the center shall use a parking requirement equal to
the sum of the requirements prescribed for each use in the shopping center. Under
existing conditions, Chihuahua Cerveza and the adjacent Take-Out Limited Food
Service use requires 14 parking spaces, at a rate of one (1) space per 200 gross
square feet (2,616 / 200 = 13.08). With the proposed expansion, Chihuahua Cerveza
requires 37 parking spaces, at a parking rate of one (1) space per 40 square feet of
net public area (1,446 / 40 = 36.15). There are a variety of existing uses within the
shopping center, which include eating and drinking establishments, take-out dining,
retail stores, a grocery store, a nail salon, and a bank. Parking requirements
calculated for each individual use results in a parking requirement of 261 parking
spaces, resulting in a deficit of 25 parking spaces (261 – 236 = 25).
2. The Parking Study establishes a parking demand for the expansion of Chihuahua
Cerveza by providing parking counts during typical off-season operations and
weather conditions on a Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The observed peak parking
demand occurred on Friday, May 17, 2019, where approximately 135 parking spaces
out of 236 were occupied (57 percent occupancy). With the expansion of the
restaurant, the parking study concludes that the peak parking demand would be
approximately 156 spaces out of 236 provided (66 percent utilization). During the
summer, parking on the Balboa Peninsula is heavily impacted with beach visitors.
However, the shopping center actively enforces a “no beach parking” policy and
regularly tows violators from the parking lot, which mitigates the impacts during peak
seasons. The Project is located close to the beach, which typically generates higher
volumes of patrons who travel to the shopping center by means of rideshare, walking
or bicycling. The Parking Study concludes that even with the Project’s increase of
parking demand, the existing parking lot is able to accommodate the proposed
expansion of the restaurant.
Finding:
H. A parking management plan shall be prepared in compliance with subsection (C) of this
section (Parking Management Plan).
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Fact in Support of Finding:
1. The Parking Study concludes that on-site parking provided in the shopping center is
adequate to accommodate the proposed project. However, in compliance with
NBMC Subsection 20.40.110(C), a parking management plan has been prepared in
case the site’s parking supply needs to be better utilized. The plan includes future
considerations for providing a dedicated rideshare pick up and drop off area, setting
parking duration limits and enforcement through a parking patrol service, providing
secure bicycle parking, and encouraging employees to park away from entrances to
restaurants and shops. If necessary, the shopping center will provide a valet service
during days and hours of high parking demand.
Coastal Development Permit
The Conditional Use Permit is consistent with the legislative intent of Title 21 (Local Coastal
Program Implementation Plan) of the NBMC and the Planning Commission approves the
Coastal Development Permit based on the following findings per Section 21.52.015.F (Coastal
Development Permits – Findings and Decision) of the NBMC:
Finding:
I. That the proposed use conforms to all applicable sections of the certified Local Coastal
Program.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Conditional Use Permit is for the expansion of an existing restaurant into an
existing adjacent commercial suite.
2. Pursuant to Section 21.20.020 (Commercial Coastal Zoning Districts Land Uses,
Table 21.20-1) of the Implementation Plan, eating and drinking establishments
located in the CV Coastal Zoning District that are classified as Food Service, No Late
Hours, are allowed uses, subject to the approval of a use permit.
3. The Project causes the overall gross floor area of eating and drinking establishments
to exceed fifteen (15) percent of the overall gross floor area of the shopping center.
Per NBMC Section 20.40.050, shopping centers occupying more than fifteen (15)
percent of the gross floor area of the center shall use a parking requirement equal to
the sum of the requirements prescribed for each use in the shopping center. Under
existing conditions, Chihuahua Cerveza and the adjacent Take-Out Limited Food
Service use requires 14 parking spaces, at a rate of one (1) space per 200 gross
square feet (2,616 / 200 = 13.08). With the proposed expansion, Chihuahua Cerveza
requires 36 parking spaces, at a parking rate of one (1) space per 40 square feet of
net public area (1,432 / 40 = 35.8). There are a variety of existing uses within the
shopping center, which include eating and drinking establishments, take-out dining,
retail stores, a grocery store, a nail salon, and a bank. Parking requirements
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calculated for each individual use results in a parking requirement of 261 parking
spaces, resulting in a deficit of 25 parking spaces (261 – 236 = 25).
4. The Parking Study establishes a parking demand for the expansion of Chihuahua
Cerveza by providing parking counts during typical off-season operations and
weather conditions on a Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The observed peak parking
demand occurred on Friday, May 17, 2019, where approximately 135 parking spaces
out of 236 were occupied (57 percent occupancy). During the summer, parking on
the Balboa Peninsula is heavily impacted with beach visitors. However, the shopping
center actively enforces a “no beach parking” policy and regularly tows violators from
the parking lot, which mitigates the impacts during peak seasons. The Project is
located close to the beach, which typically generates higher volumes of patrons who
travel to the shopping center by means of rideshare, walking or bicycling. The
Parking Study concludes that even with the Project’s increase of parking demand,
the existing parking lot is able to accommodate the proposed expansion of the
restaurant.
5. The Project is an expansion of an existing restaurant into a small adjacent
commercial suite that was previously occupied by a take-out limited food service use.
The restaurant, along with the entire shopping center, provides visitor-serving uses
that serve beach visitors along the area. Since the existing parking lot is sufficient
for the observed parking demand, the restaurant expansion is not expected to impact
public parking for beach visitors.
6. The Conditional Use Permit is for a property within a developed shopping center that
is approximately 475 feet from the harbor and is not near any natural landforms or
environmentally sensitive areas.
7. The Property is located approximately 150 feet south from a public beach access
location identified by the Coastal Land Use Plan. However, the Project is located
within an existing shopping center and is to expand into an existing commercial suite.
There are no impacts to public access to the beach.
Finding:
J. Conforms with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the Coastal
Act if the project is between the nearest public road and the sea or shoreline of any body of
water located within the coastal zone.
Fact in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is not located between the nearest public road and the sea or shoreline
of any body of water located within the coastal zone. The Property is located
approximately 475 feet from a public beach or harbor (approximately 1,000 feet) and
is not located near a public viewpoint designated by the Coastal Land Use Plan.
SECTION 4 . DECISION .
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 13 of 18
1. The Planning Commission of the City of Newport Beach hereby finds this Project is
categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section
15301 under Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15303 under Class 3 (New
Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code
of Regulations , Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a
significant effect on the environment.
2 . The Planning Commission of the City of Newport Beach hereby approves Conditional Use
Permit No . UP2019-035 and Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-001, subject to the
conditions set forth in Exhibit "A," which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference.
3 . This action shall become final and effective fourteen (14) days following the date this
Resolution was adopted unless within such time an appeal is filed with the City Clerk in
accordance with the provisions of NBMC Title 20 (Planning and Zoning) and NBMC Title
21 (Local Coastal Program).
4 . This resolution supersedes City Council Resolution No. 2011-27, which upon vesting of
the rights authorized by this Conditional Use Permit, shall become null and void.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 22ND DAY OF OCTOBER, 2020.
AYES :
NOES :
Klaustermeier, Kleiman, Lowrey, Rosene, and Weigand
Ellmore and Koetting
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
BY: ft~;Jl
Erik Weigand, Chairman
Lauren Kleiman, Secretary
01-25-19
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 14 of 18
01-25-19
EXHIBIT “A”
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
(Project-specific conditions are in italics)
Planning Division
1. The development shall be in substantial conformance with the approved site plan, floor
plans and building elevations stamped and dated with the date of this approval (except as
modified by applicable conditions of approval).
2. The Project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards, unless
specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval.
3. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Material violation of
any of those laws in connection with the use may be cause for revocation of this
approval.
4. Conditional Use Permit No. UP2019-035 and Coastal Development Permit No. 2020-001
shall expire unless exercised within 24 months from the date of approval as specified in
Section 20.54 of the Newport Beach Municipal Code, unless an extension is otherwise
granted.
5. This Use Permit and Coastal Development Permit may be modified or revoked by the
Planning Commission should they determine that the proposed uses or conditions under
which it is being operated or maintained is detrimental to the public health, welfare or
materially injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is
operated or maintained so as to constitute a public nuisance.
6. Any change in operational characteristics, expansion in area, or other modification to
the approved plans, shall require an amendment to this Use Permit or the processing of
a new Use Permit.
7. A copy of the resolution, including conditions of approval Exhibit “A” shall be
incorporated into the Building Division and field sets of plans prior to issuance of the
building permits.
8. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the Applicant shall pay any unpaid
administrative costs associated with the processing of this application to the Planning
Division.
9. The interior net public area shall be limited to 1,446 square feet.
10. The exterior patio shall be limited to 626 square feet.
11. The bar counter shall have a maximum of 15 seats.
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 15 of 18
01-25-19
12. The restaurant, including but not limited to all dining areas, bar area, and outdoor patio,
shall have a maximum of 114 seats.
13. The hours of operation shall be 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and
6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday for the interior. The hours of operation for
the exterior patio shall be 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., daily.
14. Alcohol shall not be served before 9:00 a.m.
15. All noise generated by the proposed use shall comply with the provisions of Chapter
10.26 and other applicable noise control requirements of the Newport Beach Municipal
Code. The maximum noise shall be limited to no more than depicted below for the
specified time periods unless the ambient noise level is higher:
Between the hours of 7:00AM
and 10:00PM
Between the hours of
10:00PM and 7:00AM
Location Interior Exterior Interior Exterior
Residential Property 45dBA 55dBA 40dBA 50dBA
Residential Property located within
100 feet of a commercial property 45dBA 60dBA 45dBA 50dBA
Mixed Use Property 45dBA 60dBA 45dBA 50dBA
Commercial Property N/A 65dBA N/A 60dBA
16. Live entertainment shall be limited to the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesdays
and Saturdays, and 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sundays. Additional live entertainment
may be permitted during holidays, including Cinco de Mayo, with the approval of the
Community Development Director.
17. There shall be a maximum of two (2) performers at any given time.
18. All live entertainment performances shall be acoustic only and shall not be amplified in
any form. There shall be no DJ present at any time.
19. There shall be no dancing.
20. There shall be no stage constructed. Performances shall not block exits or exit paths of
travel.
21. Live entertainment shall be limited to the interior of the restaurant only. No performances
shall occur outside of the restaurant, including the outdoor dining area.
22. All windows and doors shall remain closed during performances.
23. Should the property be sold or otherwise come under different ownership, any future
owners or assignees shall be notified of the conditions of this approval by either the
current business owner, property owner or the leasing agent.
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 16 of 18
01-25-19
24. Construction activities shall comply with Section 10.28.040 of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code, which restricts hours of noise-generating construction activities that
produce noise to between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Noise-generating construction activities are not allowed on Saturdays, Sundays or
Holidays.
25. No outside paging system shall be utilized in conjunction with this establishment.
26. All trash shall be stored within the building or within dumpsters stored in the trash
enclosure (three walls and a self-latching gate) or otherwise screened from view of
neighboring properties, except when placed for pick-up by refuse collection agencies.
The trash enclosure shall have a decorative solid roof for aesthetic and screening
purposes.
27. Trash receptacles for patrons shall be conveniently located both inside and outside of
the establishment, however, not located on or within any public property or right-of-way.
28. The exterior of the business shall be maintained free of litter and graffiti at all times. The
owner or operator shall provide for daily removal of trash, litter debris and graffiti from the
premises and on all abutting sidewalks within 20 feet of the premises.
29. The Applicant shall ensure that the trash dumpsters and/or receptacles are maintained
to control odors. This may include the provision of either fully self-contained dumpsters
or periodic steam cleaning of the dumpsters, if deemed necessary by the Planning
Division. Cleaning and maintenance of trash dumpsters shall be done in compliance
with the provisions of Title 14, including all future amendments (including Water Quality
related requirements).
30. Deliveries and refuse collection for the facility shall be prohibited between the hours of
10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays and between the hours of 10:00
p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Sundays and Federal holidays, unless otherwise approved by the
Director of Community Development, and may require an amendment to this Use
Permit.
31. Storage outside of the building in the front or at the rear of the property shall be
prohibited, with the exception of the required trash container enclosure.
32. A Special Events Permit is required for any event or promotional activity outside the
normal operational characteristics of the approved use, as conditioned, or that would
attract large crowds, involve the sale of alcoholic beverages, include any form of on-site
media broadcast, or any other activities as specified in the Newport Beach Municipal
Code to require such permits.
33. The compliance with this Conditional Use Permit and Coastal Development Permit shall
be reviewed by the Planning Commission one year from the date the final certificate of
occupancy is issued for the eating and drinking establishment.
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 17 of 18
01-25-19
34. To the fullest extent permitted by law, applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless
City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers, employees, and agents
from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations, damages, actions, causes of
action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities, costs and expenses (including
without limitation, attorney’s fees, disbursements and court costs) of every kind and nature
whatsoever which may arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City’s
approval of Chihuahua Cerveza Expansion including, but not limited to, Coastal
Development Permit No. CD2020-001 and Conditional Use Permit No. UP2019-035
(PA2019-160). This indemnification shall include, but not be limited to, damages awarded
against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorneys' fees, and other expenses incurred in
connection with such claim, action, causes of action, suit or proceeding whether incurred
by applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating or bringing such proceeding. The applicant
shall indemnify the City for all of City's costs, attorneys' fees, and damages which City
incurs in enforcing the indemnification provisions set forth in this condition. The applicant
shall pay to the City upon demand any amount owed to the City pursuant to the
indemnification requirements prescribed in this condition.
Building Division
35. The Applicant is required to obtain all applicable permits from the City’s Building Division
and Fire Department. The construction plans must comply with the most recent, City-
adopted version of the California Building Code. The construction plans must meet all
applicable State Disabilities Access requirements. Approval from the Orange County
Health Department is required prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Police Department
36. The Project approval is for an eating and drinking establishment with on-sale alcoholic
beverage service. The type of alcoholic beverage license issued by the California Board
of Alcoholic Beverage Control shall be Type 47 (On-Sale General – Eating Place).
37. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws, and all conditions of the
Alcoholic Beverage License. Material violation of any of those laws or conditions in
connection with the use is a violation and may be cause for revocation of the Use permit.
38. All owners, managers, and employees selling alcoholic beverages shall undergo and
successfully complete a certified training program in responsible methods and skills for
selling alcoholic beverages every 60 days of hire. This training must be updated every
three years regardless of certificate expiration date. The certified program must meet the
standards of the certifying/licensing body designated by the State of California. The
establishment shall comply with the requirements of this section within 60 days of approval.
Records of each owner’s manager’s and employee’s successful completion of the required
certified training program shall be maintained on the premises and shall be presented upon
request by a representative of the City of Newport Beach.
39. The quarterly gross sales of on-sale alcoholic beverages shall not exceed the gross sales
of food during the same period. The licensee shall at all times maintain records, which
Planning Commission Resolution No. PC2020-036
Page 18 of 18
01-25-19
reflect separately the gross sales of food and the gross sales of alcoholic beverages of the
licensed business. These records shall be kept no less frequently than on a quarterly basis
and shall be made available to the NBPD on demand.
40. No alcoholic beverages shall be consumed on any property adjacent to the licensed
premises under the control of the licensee.
41. The full menu food service shall be available for ordering at all times that the restaurant
establishment is open for business.
42. There shall be no exterior advertising or signs of any kind or type, including advertising
directed to the exterior from within, promoting or indicating the availability of alcoholic
beverages. Interior displays of alcoholic beverages or signs that are clearly visible to the
exterior shall constitute a violation of this condition.
43. There shall be no reduced-price alcoholic beverage promotions after 9:00 p.m.
44. No games or contest requiring or involving the consumption of alcoholic beverages shall
be allowed.
45. Strict adherence to maximum occupancy limits is required.
46. “VIP” passes or other passes to enter the establishment, as well as door charges, cover
charges, or any other form of admission charge, including minimum drink order of the sale
of drinks is prohibited (excluding charges for prix fixe meals).
47. The Applicant shall maintain a security recording system with a 30-day retention and make
those recordings available to police upon request.
48. An Operator License is required pursuant to Chapter 5.25 of the Municipal Code, and may
be subject to additional and/or more restrictive conditions such as a security plan to
regulate and control potential late hour nuisances associated with the operation of the
establishment.