Verizon Wireless Conditional Use Permit / N-DRC2023-00049 / ED25-0199
Summary
SCH Number
2025100923
Public Agency
San Luis Obispo County
Document Title
Verizon Wireless Conditional Use Permit / N-DRC2023-00049 / ED25-0199
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
10/21/2025
Document Description
A request by Robert Soto and Verizon Wireless for a Conditional Use Permit to allow the construction and operation of an unmanned wireless communications facility consisting of nine (9) panel antennas, six (6) remote radio units, four (4) surge suppressor units, and one (1) GPS antennae disguised within a 45-foot-tall faux water tank, and associated trenching, equipment, cabinets, and hardware. The ancillary hardware, including a 30-kW emergency diesel generator, is to be located within a 1,080-square-foot (18' x 60') lease area surrounded by a chain link fence enclosure. The proposed project is within the agriculture land use category and is located at 8610 Green Valley Road, approximately 12 miles east of the Community of Cambria. The subject property is within the Adelaida sub-area of the North County planning area.
Contact Information
Name
Blake Maule
Agency Name
County Of San Luis Obispo
Job Title
Planner II
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Email
Name
Justin Gronendyke
Agency Name
Applicant
Job Title
Authorized Agent
Contact Types
Project Applicant
Phone
Location
Cities
Cambria
Counties
San Luis Obispo
Regions
Southern California, Unincorporated
Zip
93428
Total Acres
298
Parcel #
014-191-059
Other Location Info
8610 Green Valley Road, Cambria, CA 93428
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Sec. 15303; Class: 3
Reasons for Exemption
The project qualifies for a Class 3 Categorical Exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303 (New Construction of Small Structures). Class 3 consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures, including, per subsection (d) “Water main, sewage, electrical, gas, and other utility extensions, including street improvements, of reasonable length to serve such construction.”.
The project involves the construction of an unmanned wireless telecommunications facility, including panel antennas and related equipment concealed within a 45-foot-tall faux water tank, along with ground-mounted equipment and an emergency diesel generator. All components will be located within an 18-by-60-foot lease area, enclosed by a chain-link fence, in the agriculture land use category. The site features rural terrain with slopes over 10% but is not suitable for agricultural use. It is approximately 570 feet from the nearest stream, and no impacts to sensitive resources, including cultural resources, are anticipated. A Phase I archaeological survey conducted by EBI Consulting in October 2023 found no cultural resources. Additionally, a biological resources assessment conducted by SWCA in July 2025 did not identify any sensitive species on the site. Given the scale, location, and design of the facility, including the faux water tank concealment, the project will not result in visual impacts or alter the rural character of the area. It is conditioned to comply with all applicable grading, drainage, lighting, and glare standards and is consistent with County Code.
Therefore, the proposed activity qualifies for a Categorical Exemption 15303 (Class 3, New Construction of Small Structures) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 and is further covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this project may have a significant effect on the environment.
Exempt Status
Other
Type, Section or Code
{Sec. 15061(b)(3)}
Reasons for Exemption
This project is also covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. It can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this project may have a significant effect on the environment; therefore, the activity is not subject to CEQA. [Reference: State CEQA Guidelines sec. 15061(b)(3), General Rule Exemption].
County Clerk
San Luis Obispo
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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