Description

This parcel offers the visual appeal of a hillside site without being subject to hillside regulation. Under the City of San Diego Development Regulations, the existing grade change on this ±3,698 square foot lot does not meet the threshold for steep hillside or environmentally sensitive designation. As a result, Lot 449-102-19 can be developed using standard grading and building permits, without triggering additional environmental review or slope development restrictions. The elevation drop from the street naturally separates potential parking or vehicular access areas at grade from future residential or mixed-use structures below. A retaining wall will be required as part of the building design, but because the slope is classified as non-sensitive and grading is minimal, construction remains cost-efficient and proceeds through standard permitting procedures. With the City’s recent parking reforms, developments on this parcel can take advantage of reduced parking ratios or waivers, allowing projects to prioritize usable square footage and design flexibility over excessive parking requirements. In short, what presents as a hillside lot from the street is, in fact, a straightforward and cost-effective infill opportunity—no hillside restrictions, no grading penalties, and full flexibility to build efficiently.