Memorandum
Date: November 17, 2025
To: Lake County Planning Commission
From: Mireya G. Turner, Director, Community Development
Max Stockton, Associate Planner
Subject: Consideration of Proposed Major Use Permit and Categorical Exemption (PL-25-15), for The Derna Group to change the use of an existing 55-foot-tall tower for use as telecommunications tower. Project location: 1135 Watertrough Road, Clearlake Oaks (APN: 628-120-04).
Executive Summary: Consideration of proposed Major Use Permit and Categorical Exemption (PL-25-15), for The Derna Group, for an existing 35-foot-tall lattice style wireless communication tower with existing equipment as tall as 55 feet. The proposed equipment is being requested to be installed below the 35-foot height of the lattice tower within the leased area containing a 35-foot by 40-foot support equipment building. The project site is enclosed by an approximately 8-foot-tall chain-link fence. Construction is expected to last up to three months, occurring Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The proposed project involves co-locating wireless communication equipment and includes necessary site work to establish equipment as outlined in the provided plans, re-establish PG&E power, and improve the building to support operations. This project minimizes environmental impacts by utilizing an existing structure, thereby avoiding the need for a new tower in a previously undisturbed location. Approval of this Major Use Permit will allow the facility to operate as a wireless communication hub, improving cellular service to address coverage gaps between Clearlake Oaks and Williams.
Recommended Action:
A. Adopt Categorical Exemption (PL-25-15) with the following findings:
1. This project will not result in significant environmental impacts as the proposed use involves existing buildings that have historically been used for communications, and no new development is proposed.
2. Any changes to the project will require e...
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