Goddard Trabuco Canyon (Planning Application RSM 25-005)

The Goddard Trabuco Canyon project, identified by planning application RSM 25-005, involves a Conditional Use Permit to establish a child day care center in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. Located at 31911-31931 Dove Canyon Drive, the facility will occupy two vacant buildings totaling 12,938 square feet. The development plan includes the construction of a 12,299 square foot outdoor playground, which necessitates the removal of 18 existing parking spaces. Additionally, the project requires the demolition of an existing trash enclosure and the removal and replacement of current parking lot landscaping. The facility is designed for a maximum occupancy of 214 individuals, consisting of 184 students and 30 staff members. Because the project site is situated within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, it must adhere to strict fire safety and hazard mitigation standards. Compliance with the California Building Code, Fire Code, and Wildland-Urban Interface Code is required, including the installation of fire sprinklers, fire alarms, and fire-resistive construction featuring a Class A roof assembly. Defensible space requirements must also be maintained as enforced by the Orange County Fire Authority. Furthermore, the applicant must secure a child day care center license in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 1596.76 and meet the licensing definitions set by the California Department of Social Services. The City of Rancho Santa Margarita serves as the lead agency for this project.