Laguna Beach planning staff urged to consider historical setbacks in development review

Concerns over community safety and historical preservation took center stage at the recent Joint City Council/Planning Commission/Design Review Board meeting in Laguna Beach. Officials highlighted the pressing need to address outdated building setbacks in older neighborhoods, particularly in South Laguna and Canyon areas.

A key discussion point revolved around properties that do not comply with current setback regulations, leading to dangerously close structures. One council member emphasized the risks, stating, “We’ll get properties that are sitting, like, 3, 4 feet apart... that’s not good for fire safety.” This concern underscores the potential hazards posed by inadequate spacing between buildings, especially when eaves are just a foot apart.

The meeting also raised questions about the knowledge gap within the current planning staff compared to previous years. With many past staff members having deep ties to the community, there is a call for a more nuanced understanding of local history and safety needs in future planning efforts. “We need to find those balances as it goes forward,” one member noted, stressing the importance of integrating community insights into development decisions.

As Laguna Beach continues to evolve, the city leaders are tasked with ensuring that new developments respect both safety standards and the unique character of its historic neighborhoods. The discussions from this meeting will likely influence future planning policies aimed at safeguarding community integrity while accommodating growth.