Why Story Poles in Burbank, CA?
Story poles are three-dimensional, full-scale, silhouette structures that best represent the location, bulk and mass of a proposed structure(s) on a site for view assessment, allowing property owner(s), neighbor(s), and city staff to consider the visual impact of a structure(s) from various vantage points (also known
as a view study). Story poles are required in order to document the impacts of a proposed structure(s) on views from adjacent properties prior to a final decision on an HDP by the Community Development Director, or their designee. The view impacts may not be limited to only those parcels that are abutting or adjacent to the project site. In some cases, a house may impact the views from homes further up (or down) the hillside, depending upon
the surrounding terrain. In unique cases, the story pole requirements may be waived where it is determined
through on site investigation, evaluation of topographic maps, photographic evidence, or by other means that
there is no possibility the proposed development will create or contribute to adverse impacts upon views.
Story Pole Process
1. Consultation. We review your plans and provide a written proposal
2. Design and drafting. We prepare your story pole plan for submittal to the City Planning Department.
3. Site measurements. We work with our team of surveyors to stake the pole locations on vacant sites or on sites with existing buildings.
4. Installation. Our crew installs the story poles on site.
5. Photographs. Photographs of the completed installation are sent as conformation of the completion of the installation.
6. Certification. The installation is reviewed and a written verification that the height and position of the poles and netting accurately represents the height and location of
the proposed structure(s) or addition is provided for submission.
7. Removal. We will remove our materials upon completion of your review period.
What You Get Out of It
Accurate story pole installation gives your project a cleaner path through the review process. Planners can make faster decisions when the story poles are professional and complete.
Neighbors can see exactly what's being built, which reduces the chance of appeals.