The La Habra City Council convened on July 21, 2025, to discuss significant updates impacting local housing and fire safety regulations. Among the key topics was the first reading of an ordinance to amend the city’s regulations on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), a move mandated by state requirements.

City staff presented the draft ordinance, which aims to update definitions and standards for ADUs and junior accessory dwelling units in La Habra. Council members expressed their concerns about the lack of local control over these changes, with Councilmember Gomez highlighting that the state’s requirements leave the city with limited options. Despite the necessity of compliance, some council members voiced discomfort with the implications for the community's quality of life, referencing a planning commission member's remarks about the ordinance not aligning with the city’s general plan goals.

The council ultimately voted unanimously to approve the first reading of the ordinance, acknowledging the necessity of the changes while expressing reservations about their impact on local governance.

In addition to the housing updates, the council also addressed fire safety by considering an ordinance to designate fire hazard severity zones in La Habra. This initiative follows the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's release of updated fire hazard maps, which identify areas at risk for wildfires. The council noted that two areas in La Habra—North Hills and a section along the southern border—were classified as moderate to high risk.

The city has engaged the community through a public review process, which included a dedicated webpage and social media outreach, although no public comments were received during the review period. The council is expected to adopt the updated fire hazard maps in the coming meetings, reinforcing the city’s commitment to enhancing safety and preparedness in the face of wildfire risks.

These discussions reflect La Habra's ongoing efforts to balance state mandates with local needs, as the city navigates housing development and fire safety in a changing environment. The council's actions will have lasting implications for residents, shaping the community's landscape and safety protocols in the years to come.