In this case, given that we have both a relatively new process (for eligibility) and an updated deferment loan program document, the City Manager believed it appropriate to be more flexible with this property owner’s initial hesitation and understandable questions about what the deferment documents obligated her do to. As such, the City Manager asked the staff, including counsel, to determine if another path was feasible that mirrored the deferment loan practices and policies – they determined that the one proposed here would do so.
Noting that the application and related materials meet the eligibility requirements of the City’s deferment loan program, City Council consideration and approval is required because the application was resubmitted for consideration after the established deadline. Should the Council approve this, it will be imperative that the City record and follow this deferment thoroughly, as it could be overlooked as it is outside of past practice.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The City funds the utility undergrounding deferment loan program from the Street Lighting Special Revenue Fund (134). If approved, $73,746.61 of the Street Lighting Fund’s available fund balance would be committed to make the bond principal and interest payments to the West Street Assessment District on behalf of the Property Owner. The amount owed is $43,062 (the original assessment) plus $30,684 in interest (unless prepaid earlier - then the interest amount is prorated).
Another 1% per year will be charged on top of that amount, due at the time of repayment (and also prorated - i.e. only reflective of the number of deferral years). The Street Lighting Fund will be replenished for the full loan amount, plus 1% interest per year should the property be sold or transferred.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Section 15378 (b)(4) & (5) exclude from the definition of “project” for CEQA purposes the creation of funding mechanisms or other government fiscal activities, which do not involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment and organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. Here, the approval of a loan deferment for an undergrounding district is a fiscal activity that does not involve to any specific project (as the undergrounding district was already approved and reviewed under CEQA) which may result in potentially significant physical impact on the environment.
Further, this administrative activity will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.
ATTACHMENT
1. Loan Agreement (Pgs. 3-35)
Submitted By: Michelle Bannigan Approved: .David A Kiff Michelle Bannigan, Finance
Director
Dave Kiff, City Manager
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APPROVE LOAN AGREEMENT WITH STEVE BRUCE LIUZZI AND CAREN MARY LIUZZI
REVOCABLE FAMILY TRUST FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE CITY'S UNDERGROUND
UTILITY ASSESSMENT DEFERMENT LOAN PROGRAM FOR THE WEST STREET
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
March 24, 2026
Report Prepared By:
Michelle Bannigan, Finance Director
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STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
CONSENT
15 SUBJECT: 2025 HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT AND 2025
HOMELESS SHELTER INSPECTION REPORT
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Receive and accept the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Homeless Shelter Inspection Report, and authorize staff to submit such reports to the California Department of Housing and Community Development; and
2. Find that the recommended action is not a project within the meaning of the State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b) or, alternatively, is exempt under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
Government Code section 65400 requires that each city, county, or city and county, including charter cities, prepare an Annual Progress Report (“APR”) on the status of the housing element of its general plan and progress in its implementation, using forms and definitions adopted by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (“HCD”). One primary function of the housing element APR data is for HCD to track each local government’s annual progress towards meeting its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (“RHNA”) and over the 8-year planning cycle.
The key benchmark for tracking RHNA progress is issued building permits. The APR must be submitted to HCD and the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (“LCI”) on or before April 1 of each year using the forms and tables specified by HCD. The APR provides information for the previous calendar year. (Gov. Code § 65400.) Community Development Department staff has prepared the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (“2025 APR”) for the City Council’s consideration for authorization to submit such report to HCD.
Assembly Bill 130 (“AB 130”) was signed into law and became effective on June 30, 2025. AB 130 amends Health and Safety Code (“HSC”) § 17974.1 to require that each city or county perform an annual inspection of every homeless shelter within its jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the law, regardless of the funding sources of the shelter.
As with the APR, each city or county is required to report its findings in an annual report submitted to HCD (and its Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency) by April 1 using forms specified by HCD. (See Attachment 2.) Reports are required to be submitted to HCD even if the city or county did not receive any homeless shelter complaints.
Laguna Beach has two homeless shelters within our jurisdiction – the Bridge Shelter on South Coast Highway and the Alternative Sleeping Location (ASL) in Laguna Canyon. Both are identified as having 30 beds apiece, and both are operated by the Friendship Shelter, Inc. City staff has gathered the information 1 of 484
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March 24, 2026
required for 2025 Homeless Shelter Inspection Report (“2025 HSIR”) for both facilities, as discussed further below, and is seeking City Council authorization to submit the 2025 HSIR to HCD.
DISCUSSION
A. 2025 Annual Progress Report
HCD requires the City to provide certain information in the City’s annual progress reports. Included as Attachment 1 is a PDF version of HCD’s excel template form for annual progress reports with the City’s required information populated by City staff. Below is an overview of the information required and page citations to where the City’s information can be found:
Table Content Attachment 1,
Page Number
A Housing Development Applications Submitted p. 5-6
A2 Annual Building Activity Report Summary – New Construction, Entitled, Permits, and Completed Units
p. 7-10
B Regional Housing Needs Allocation Program – Permitted Units Issued by Affordability
p. 11
C Sites Identified or Rezoned to Accommodate Shortfall Housing Need p. 12 D Program Implementation Status Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583
p. 13-27
E Commercial Development Bonus Approved Pursuant to Government Code Section 65915.7
p. 28
F Units Rehabilitated, Preserved, and Acquired for Alternative Adequate Sites Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583.1(c)
p. 29
F2 Units Converted Pursuant to Government Code Section 65400.2 p. 30 G Locally Owned Lands Included in the Housing Element Sites Inventory, that have been sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of Pursuant to Government Code Section 65400.1
p. 31
H Locally Owned or Controlled Lands Declared Surplus Pursuant to Government Code Section 54221, or Identified as Excess Pursuant to Government Code Section 50569
p. 32
J Student Housing1 Development with a Density Bonus Approved Pursuant to Government Code Section 65915(b)(1)(F).
p. 33
K Tenant Preference Policy Adopted Pursuant to Government Code Section 7061
p. 34
L A list of all historic designations listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historic Resources, or a local register of historic places by the city or county in the past year, and the status of any housing development projects proposed for the new historic designations p. 35
1 According to HCD, student housing is considered group quarters and does not count as progress toward RHNA. 2 of 484
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Below is a more detailed explanation of Table A2 (Annual Building Activity Report Summary – New Construction, Entitled, Permits, and Completed Units), Table B (Regional Housing Needs Allocation Program – Permitted Units Issued by Affordability), and Table D (Program Implementation Status Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583):
Table A2 (Annual Building Activity Report Summary – New Construction, Entitled, Permits, and Completed Units):
In 2025, the City issued entitlements for 62 new housing units. The City also issued building permits for 100 new housing units to proceed with construction. Lastly, the City completed final inspections (communicating the same outcome as issuing a certificate of occupancy) for 62 new housing units. Notably, accessory dwelling units comprise the majority of the City’s new housing units. (See Figure 1 below.) Indeed, in 2025, the City issued building permits for 85 ADUs (compared with 97 ADUs in 2024 and 112 ADUs in 2023). Additionally, the City completed final inspections (communicating the same outcome as issuing a certificate of occupancy) for 51 ADUs (compared with 71 ADUs in 2024 and 39 ADUs in 2023). “Finaled” means final inspections were completed and the units are now ready for occupancy. “Applied” means a planning application that was filed as complete during that calendar year.
Figure 1. Year-Over-Year ADU Activity
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Table B (Regional Housing Needs Allocation Program – Permitted Units Issued by Affordability):
State law requires that jurisdictions provide adequate and properly zoned sites to accommodate the production of its fair share of the RHNA. The City’s 394 housing unit RHNA allocation for 2025 is divided into four income categories. (See Figure 2, below.)
Household Income
Category
City’s RHNA Allocation 2025 Units Issued Permits Total Units to Date Very-Low 118 0 0
Low 80 0 0
Moderate 79 0 0
Above-Moderate 117 100 440
Total 394 100 440
Note: this data includes all permitted units, including those that have yet to complete construction and pass their final inspections.
Figure 2. Progress Towards RHNA
As shown in Figure 2, the City permitted 440 above-moderate units during the current planning period (2021-2029), exceeding the City’s above-moderate share by 323 units. Of the 440 permitted units, to date 246 of those building permits have been finaled (communicating the same outcome as a certificate of occupancy). The City continues to work towards facilitating 277 affordable units (very low- to moderateincome) by the end of 2029. While the City is not responsible for building or constructing these units, it is committed to working toward programs that will help generate the allocated RHNA for very low- to moderate units.
Table D (Program Implementation Status Pursuant to Government Code Section 65583):
The City began program implementation prior to and in anticipation of HCD’s February 7, 2023, certification of the Housing Element. The year 2025 is the fourth reporting year for the 6th Cycle Housing Element (2021-2029).
Several programs in the City’s certified Housing Element contain specific metrics. Notable achievements in 2025 include:
• Preservation/Legalization. The City has issued final occupancy and legalized 21 ADUs between the beginning of the 6th Cycle (October 15, 2021) and December 31, 2025, including three units in 2025. This achievement helps satisfy Programs 5.2-8 and 5.2-11 that target legalizing 20 unpermitted residential units. The City has now exceeded the Housing Element goal of legalizing 20 units during the 6th Cycle planning period.
• Preservation/Rehabilitation. Program 5.2-11 includes continuing to provide the Senior Home Repair Program with a goal of assisting 20 senior households over 8 years. Since the program was approved in 2020, the Senior Home Repair Program has assisted 21 senior households, including three senior households in 2025, exceeding the established goal in the Housing Element. The program requires applicants to meet 2020 incomes limits for low-income households – $71,750 for a one-person household, $82,000 for a two-person household. 4 of 484
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• Required Programs. The most important programs are those deemed “required” which represents 5 of the 85 Housing Element programs. HCD identifies required programs as especially important to show progress in implementing the Housing Element. The required programs and their status are shown below. (See Figure 3, below.)
Program
Number Action Time Frame and Objectives
5.2-1a Required: Monitor and update the sites
inventory to assess its adequacy for meeting
the RHNA.
Annually, as a part of Housing Element
Annual Progress Reports.
5.2-1b Required: Expeditiously complete the review
of in-process development permit applications
that include affordable housing projects.
On December 9, 2025 the Related
Companies of California submitted for
construction of a three-story, 30,690-squarefoot residential building to include 29 affordable housing units and 1 manager’s
unit on Neighborhood Congregational
Church site at 340 St. Ann’s Drive. The City
is expediting the review of this application as
much as possible.
5.2-1c Required: Provide streamlined permit
processing of residential projects that include
affordable units, including the development of
housing for lower-income households,
including extremely low-income households
and households with special needs, persons
experiencing homelessness; farmworkers;
persons with disabilities, including
developmental; and elderly.
The City has developed a Design Review
Efficiency Ordinance to improve efficiency
within the Community Development
Department process. Among other changes,
the ordinance reduces the level of design
review required for various project types,
including a new design review exemption for
new primary dwelling units that meet certain
objective development standards. The
Planning Commission recommended City
Council adoption of the ordinance on March
18, 2026 and will now be scheduled for the
City Council’s review and potential
adoption.
5.2-1d Required: See Program 5 regarding ADUs. In 2025, the City issued building permits for 85 ADUs (compared with 97 ADUs in 2024
and 112 ADUs in 2023). Additionally, the
City completed final inspections
(communicating the same outcome as
issuing a certificate of occupancy) for 51
ADUs (compared with 71 ADUs in 2024 and
39 ADUs in 2023).
5.2-1e Required: Provide incentives for the
development of 100% affordable projects on
On December 9, 2025 the Related
Companies of California submitted for
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Program
Number Action Time Frame and Objectives
sites with institutional uses such as religious
institutions, hospitals, and schools, and Cityowned sites. Pursue rezoning of residentially zoned institutional uses for affordable projects,
including 340 St. Ann’s Drive.
construction of a three-story, 30,690-squarefoot residential building to include 29 affordable housing units and 1 manager’s
unit on Neighborhood Congregational
Church site at 340 St. Ann’s Drive. The City
is expediting the review of this application as
much as possible. The applicant has not
requested – nor does the application require
– a rezone.
Figure 3. Required Housing Element Programs
City staff is seeking City Council authorization to submit Attachment 1, the 2025 APR, to HCD.
B. Homeless Shelter Inspection Report (“HSIR”)
AB 130 adds HSC § 17974.1.5 to require a homeless shelter to display at the shelter, and provide notice during intake, information about occupant rights and process for reporting a complaint alleging a homeless shelter is substandard. AB 130 also amends HSC § 17974.5 to require a city to submit a report annually to the department and HCD by April 1 of each year with the following information:
1. The number of complaints received by the city/county, pursuant to HSC § 17920.3, including if the city/county did not receive any complaints;
2. Any pending uncorrected violations determined by the city/county, pursuant to HSC § 17974.1;
3. Any determinations by the city/county that conditions exist or existed that make or made the homeless shelter dangerous, hazardous, imminently detrimental to life or health, or otherwise render the homeless shelter unfit for human habitation;
4. A list of any emergency orders issued pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of HSC § 17974.1;
5. A list of any owners or operators who received three or more violations within any six-month period; and
6. Any corrected violations from the prior year.
If a city or county applies for state funding to support operations of the homeless shelter, the city or county shall disclose to the State any unresolved violations and the name of the homeless shelty owner or operator.
The State may thereby deem the owner or operator ineligible for state funding for shelter operations. The State must withhold State funding from the city or county that fails to comply with the above-mentioned reporting requirements or fails to correct a substandard violation.
Included as Attachment 2 is HCD’s template Homeless Shelter Inspection Report form for reference. Below is the information that the City gathered for purposes of populating HCD’s template Homeless Shelter Inspection Report. (See Figure 4, below.)
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Reporting Requirement 2025 Report Data
Complaints received by the city/county. 18
Pending uncorrected violations determined by the city/county. 0 Determinations by the city/county that conditions exist or existed that make or made the homeless shelter dangerous, hazardous, imminently detrimental to life or health, or otherwise render the homeless shelter unfit for human habitation. 0 List of any emergency orders issued. 0
List of any owners or operators who received three or more violations within any six-month period. 0
Any corrected violations from the prior year. 0
Figure 4. Required Homeless Shelter Inspection Reporting City staff is seeking City Council authorization to populate Attachment 2 with the above information to create the 2025 HSIR and to submit the 2025 HSIR to HCD.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The recommended action has no financial impact to the budget.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The recommended action consists of organizational or administrative activities of the City that will not result in a direct or indirect physical change in the environment and therefore does not constitute a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act. (Public Resources Code Section 21065; 14 CCR Section 15378(b)(5).) Here, the recommended action of submitting the 2025 APR to HCD is an administrative action that does not make any physical change to the environment. Alternatively, the recommended action is exempt under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. Here, the recommended action of submitting the 2025 APR to HCD is an administrative action that does not make any physical change to the environment and it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity may have a significant effect on the environment. Upon taking the recommended action, City staff will cause to be filed within five calendar days a notice of exemption with the County and State Clearinghouse.
ATTACHMENTS
1. 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Pgs. 8-42)
2. 2025 Homeless Shelter Annual Report (Pgs. 43-44)
Submitted By: Matthew Schneider Approved: .David A Kiff Matthew Schneider, Director of
Community Development
Dave Kiff, City Manager
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Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Shaveta Sharma, Senior Planner Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney Anthony Viera, Deputy Director of Community
Development
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Jurisidiction Name
Reporting Calendar Year
First Name
Last Name
Title Click here to download APR Instructions
Email
Phone
Street Address
City
Zipcode
v_02_19_26
Click here to add rows to a table. If you add too many
rows, you may select a cell in the row you wish to
remove and type ctrl + d.
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach
92651
Shaveta
Sharma
Senior Planner
[email protected]
9497150958
Mailing Address
Please Start Here
General Information
2025
Laguna Beach
Contact Information
Optional: Click here to import last year's data. This is best used when the workbook is new and empty. You
will be prompted to pick an old workbook to import
from. Project and program data will be copied exactly
how it was entered in last year's form and must be
updated. If a project is no longer has any reportable
activity, you may delete the project by selecting a cell in the row and typing ctrl + d.
Annual Progress Report January 2020
Attachment 1
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Optional: This runs a macro which checks to ensure all required fields are filled out. The macro will create two files saved in the same directory this APR file is saved in. One file will be a copy of the APR with highlighted cells which require information. The other file will be list of the problematic cells, along with a description of the nature of the error.
with the table split across 4 tabs, each of which can fit onto a single page for easier printing.
Running this macro will remove the comments on the column headers, which contain the instructions. Do not save the APR file after running in order to preserve comments once it is reopened.
Optional: This macro identifies dates entered that occurred outside of the reporting year.
RHNA credit is only given for building permits issued during the reporting year.
Link to the online system: https://hcd.my.site.com/hcdconnect Toggles formatting that turns cells green/yellow/red based on data validation rules.
Submittal Instructions
Please save your file as Jurisdictionname2025 (no spaces). Example: the City of San Luis Obispo would save their file as SanLuisObispo2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Reports (APRs) forms and tables must be submitted to HCD and the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) on or before April 1 of each year for the prior calendar year; submit separate reports directly to both HCD and OPR pursuant to Government Code section 65400. There are two options for submitting APRs:
1. Online Annual Progress Reporting System - Please see the link to the online system to the left. This allows you to upload the completed APR form into directly into HCD’s database limiting the risk of errors. If you would like to use the online system, email [email protected] and HCD will send you the login information for your jurisdiction. Please note: Using the online system only provides the information to HCD. The APR must still be submitted to OPR. Their email address is [email protected].
2. Email - If you prefer to submit via email, you can complete the excel Annual Progress Report forms and submit to HCD at [email protected] and to OPR at [email protected]. Please send the Excel workbook, not a scanned or PDF copy of the tables.
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Jurisdiction Laguna Beach
Reporting Year 2025
Housing Element Planning Period 6th Cycle
Current Year
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
Deed
Restricted 0
Non-Deed
Restricted 0
100
100
Units by Structure Type Entitled Permitted Completed
Single-family Attached 0 0 0
Single-family Detached 20 15 11
2 to 4 units per structure 16 0 0
5+ units per structure 0 0 0
Accessory Dwelling Unit 65 85 51
Mobile/Manufactured Home 0 0 0
Total 101 100 62
Infill Housing Developments and Infill Units Permitted # of Projects Units 100 100
0 0
83 90
89 0
(Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
Total Housing Applications Submitted:
Number of Proposed Units in All Applications Received:
Total Housing Units Approved:
Total Housing Units Disapproved:
Total Units
Housing Applications Summary
Above Moderate
Indicated as Infill
Not Indicated as Infill
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
10 11 of 484
0 0
Income Rental Ownership Total
Acutely Low 0 0 0
Extremely Low 0 0 0
Very Low 0 0 0
Low 0 0 0
Moderate 0 0 0
Above Moderate 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0
Streamlining Provisions Used - Permitted Units # of Projects Units SB 9 (2021) - Duplex in SF Zone 0 0
SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split 0 0
AB 2011 (2022) 0 0
SB 6 (2022) 0 0
SMAP 0 0
Ministerial and Discretionary Applications # of Units
Ministerial 77 89
Discretionary 6 7
Density Bonus Applications and Units Permitted
Number of Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Units in Applications Submitted Requesting a Density Bonus 0 Number of Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 0
Number of Units in Projects Permitted with a Density Bonus 0 Housing Element Programs Implemented and Sites Rezoned Count 72 0
Programs Implemented
Sites Rezoned to Accommodate the RHNA
Units Constructed - SMAP (formerly SB 35 / 423) - Permits Number of SMAP Applications Approved
Use of Streamlined Ministerial Approval Process or SMAP (formerly SB 35 / 423) - Applications Number of SMAP Applications
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Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Note: "+" indicates an optional field Reporting Year 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation
Planning
Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Date
Application
Submitted
Total
Approved
Units by
Project
Total
Disapproved
Units by
Project
Streamlining Historic Sites
2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10
Prior APN+ Current APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID
Unit Category
(SFA,SFD,2 to
4,5+,ADU,MH)
Tenure
R=Renter
O=Owner
Date
Application
Submitted
(see
instructions)
Acutely LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Acutely LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Extremely LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Extremely LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
Low-Income
Deed
Restricted
Low-Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Total
PROPOSED
Units by
Project
Total
APPROVED
Units by
project
Total
DISAPPROVE
D Units by
Project
Please select
state
streamlining
provision/s the
application was
submitted
pursuant to.
Is this project
located on a site
with an
associated
historical
designation as
outlined in
Government
Code Section
65400(a)(2)(N)
and reported on
Table L?
Did the
housing
development
application
seek incentives
or concessions
pursuant to
Government
Code section
65915?
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 90 90 89 0 644-183-01 1005 Coast
View Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-0869
ADU O
4/24/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-087-12 1040 South
Coast Hy
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1044
2 to 4 R
5/14/2025
4 4 4 NONE No No
644-341-34 1190
Morningside
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
SB-2025-0214
2 to 4 O
1/31/2025
2 2 2 SB 9 (2021) -
Residential Lot
Split
No No
053-123-24 1315 Hillcrest
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1672
ADU R
8/13/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-141-19 1364 Dunning
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1611
ADU R
8/4/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
641-321-07 1365 Skyline
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0863
ADU R
4/23/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-141-04 1377 Dunning
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0807
ADU R
4/15/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-311-17 1425
Morningside
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1554
SFD O
7/28/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
641-333-05 1475 Pacific
Av
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1911
ADU R
9/18/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-134-04 1492 Temple
Hills Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-2123
ADU R
10/20/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
641-094-07 1495 Coral Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-0570
SFD O
3/14/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
053-152-14 167 Chiquita
St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1722
SFD O
8/19/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
053-103-10 1673 Louise
St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0036
ADU R
1/8/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-291-70 2058 Crestview
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-0431
ADU R
2/26/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
644-291-59 2120 Crestview
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1178
ADU R
6/2/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
629-041-26 21398 Stans
Ln
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1760
ADU R
8/25/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
053-143-13 217 Wave St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1762
ADU R
8/26/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
670-231-03 22 Vista Del
Sol
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1514
2 to 4 O
7/22/2025
2 2 2 NONE No No
056-092-07 22362 Eagle
Rock Wy
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1798
SFD O
9/2/2025
1 1 1 NONE No No
Table A
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
1 5
Project Identifier Unit Types Density Bo
Applica
11 Housing Development Applications Submitted
Proposed Units - Affordability by Household Incomes
12 13 of 484
496-092-02 229 Monterey
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1055
ADUR
5/19/2025
111 NONE No No
053-123-25 239 Viejo St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-0274
ADUO
2/9/2025
111 NONE No No
053-104-04 241 Ledroit St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-1852
ADUO
9/9/2025
111 NONE No No
656-126-20 2510 Glenneyre
St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651 SB-2025-0214
2 to 4
O
5/28/2025
111 SB 9 (2021) -
Residential Lot
Split
No No
644-035-03 260 St Anns
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0778
ADUR
4/10/2025
111 NONE No No
053-124-22 276 Chiquita
St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0982
ADUR
5/7/2025
111 NONE No No
656-212-13 30832 Marilyn
Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0511
ADUR
3/6/2025
111 NONE No No
056-041-55 31161 Holly Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0360
ADUR
2/20/2025
111 NONE No No
056-042-17 31321 Brooks
St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1809
ADUR
9/3/2025
111 NONE No No
056-130-03 31774 5 Av
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0714
ADUR
4/1/2025
111 NONE No No
056-144-02 32016 Sunset
Av
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-0484
ADUR
3/4/2025
111 NONE No No
644-032-01 371 El Camino
Del Mar
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1109
2 to 4R
5/22/2025
221 NONE No No
644-221-02 380 Bluebird
Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
CDP-2025-2125
ADUR
10/20/2025
111 NONE No No
644-284-15 390 Ruby St
Laguna Beach,
CA 92651
DR-2025-1577
ADUR
7/30/2025
111 NONE No No
13 14 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Table A2
Streamlining Historic Sites Infill
Housing without
Financial Assistance or
Deed Restrictions
Term of
Affordability or
Deed Restriction
Notes
23 56 89 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Prior APN+ Current APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID
Unit Category
(SFA,SFD,2 to
4,5+,ADU,MH
)
Tenure
R=Renter
O=Owner
Acutely LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Acutely LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Extremely
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Extremely
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Deed Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome
Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Entitlement
Date Approved
# of Units
issued
Entitlements
Acutely LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Acutely LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Extremely
LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Extremely
LowIncome Non Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
LowIncome Deed
Restricted
LowIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome
Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome Building Permits Date Issued # of Units Issued Building Permits Acutely LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Acutely LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Extremely
LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Extremely
LowIncome Non Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
LowIncome Deed
Restricted
LowIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome
Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Certificates of
Occupancy or other
forms of readiness
(see instructions)
Date Issued
# of Units
issued
Certificates of
Occupancy or
other forms of
readiness
Please select the
state
streamlining
provision the
project was
APPROVED
pursuant to.
(may select
multiple)
Is this project
located on a site
with an
associated
historical
designation as
outlined in
Government
Code Section
65400(a)(2)(N)
and reported on
Table L?
Infill Units?
Y/N+
Assistance
Programs for Each
Development
(may select multiple -
see instructions)
Deed Restriction
Type
(may select
multiple - see
instructions)
For units affordable
without financial
assistance or deed
restrictions, explain how
the locality determined the
units were affordable
(see instructions)
Term of Affordability
or Deed Restriction
(years) (if affordable
in perpetuity enter
1000)+
Number of
Demolished/Destroy
ed Units
Demolished
or Destroyed
Units
Demolished/
Destroyed
Units
Owner or
Renter
Total Density Bonus
Applied to the Project
(Percentage Increase in
Total Allowable Units or
Total Maximum Allowable
Residential Gross Floor
Area)
Number of Other
Incentives,
Concessions,
Waivers, or Other
Modifications Given
to the Project
(Excluding Parking
Waivers or Parking
Reductions)
List the
incentives,
concessions,
waivers, and
modifications
(Excluding
Parking Waivers
or Parking
Modifications)
Did the project
receive a reduction or
waiver of parking
standards? (Y/N)
Notes+
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 101 101 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 10000000 0 0 0 0 0 62 62 2 644-183-01
1005 Coast View
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0933 ADU O 1 7/24/2025
1 0 0 NONE Y
644-087-12
1040 South Coast
Hy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1044 2 to 4 R 4 8/6/2025
4 0 0 SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split Y
644-341-34
1190 Morningside
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
SB-2025-0214 2 to 4 O 2
3/18/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
053-123-24
1315 Hillcrest Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1672 ADU R 1
5/22/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-141-19
1364 Dunning Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1611 ADU R 1
4/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-321-07
1365 Skyline Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0863 ADU R 1
3/25/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-141-04
1377 Dunning Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0807 ADU R 1
3/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-311-17
1425 Morningside
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1554 SFD O 1
5/22/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-333-05
1475 Pacific Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1911 ADU R 1
4/10/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-134-04
1492 Temple Hills
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-2123 ADU R 1
5/7/2025 1
0 0 SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split Y
641-094-07
1495 Coral Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0570 SFD O 1
5/22/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-152-14
167 Chiquita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1722 SFD O 1
4/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-103-10
1673 Louise St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0036 ADU R 1
5/22/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-70
2058 Crestview
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0431 ADU R 1
5/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-59
2120 Crestview
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1178 ADU R 1
4/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
629-041-26
21398 Stans Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1760 ADU R 1
6/26/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-143-13
217 Wave St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1762 ADU R 1
3/31/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
670-231-03
22 Vista Del Sol
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1514 2 to 4 O 2
6/26/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
056-092-07
22362 Eagle Rock
Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1798 SFD O 1
7/8/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-092-02
229 Monterey Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1055 ADU R 1
7/10/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-123-25
239 Viejo St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0274 ADU O 1
7/10/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-104-04
241 Ledroit St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1852 ADU O 1
7/30/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
656-126-20
2510 Glenneyre
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1143 ADU R 1
6/24/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-035-03
260 St Anns Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0778 ADU R 1
7/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-124-22
276 Chiquita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0982 ADU R 1
7/22/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
656-212-13
30832 Marilyn Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0511 ADU R 1
7/23/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-041-55
31161 Holly Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0360 ADU R 1
8/14/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-042-17
31321 Brooks St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1809 ADU R 1
11/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-130-03
31774 5 Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0714 ADU R 1
11/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-144-02
32016 Sunset Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0484 ADU R 1
11/13/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-032-01
371 El Camino Del
Mar
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1109 ADU R 1
11/13/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-221-02
380 Bluebird Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-2125 ADU R 1
9/30/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-284-15
390 Ruby St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1577 ADU R 1
11/19/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-163-15
411 Holly St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0870 ADU R 1
10/9/2025 1
0 0 SB 9 (2021) - Residential Lot Split Y
496-162-20
425 Aster St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1544 ADU R 1
11/10/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-271-07
445 Hilledge Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1267 ADU O 1
11/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-155-23
446 Holly St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1290 ADU R 1
4/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-097-44
474 Oak St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0706 ADU R 1
9/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-191-38
540 Brooks St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0485 ADU R 1
10/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-042-09
556 Through St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0009 ADU R 1
9/30/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-143-13
567 Dunnegan Pl
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1762 ADU R 1
9/30/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-031-02
613 Catalina St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0496 ADU R 1
10/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-08
820 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1150 SFD O 1
10/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-371-05
930 Skyline Te
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1285 ADU R 1
10/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-425-07
935 Baja St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0842 ADU R 1
10/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-232-16
945 Rembrandt
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0614 ADU R 1
12/3/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-162-02
951 Cliff Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-1596 ADU R 1
12/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-173-37
959 Meadowlark
Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
VAR-2025-1727 ADU R 1
12/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-162-14
989 Cliff Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0263 ADU R 1 5/15/2025
1 0 0 NONE Y
644-162-43
1099 Dyer Pl
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2472 ADU R 1
3/27/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-352-07
1108 Keller Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2704 ADU R 1
9/10/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-184-19
1270 Temple Te
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2026 ADU R 1
1/2/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-201-10
130 Irvine Cove
Pl
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2025-0857 2 to 4 O 2
5/22/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
641-181-05
1540 Arroyo Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-1788 SFD O 1
1/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-321-36
1550 Bluebird
Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2024-2509 SFD O 1
1/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-321-36
1560 Bluebird
Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2024-2509 SFD O 1
1/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-302-08
1565 Via Majorca
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2578 ADU R 1
1/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-152-13
157 Chiquita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2459 ADU R 1
1/2/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-092-16
1639 Eleanor Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2306 SFD O 1
1/3/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-381-10
1640 Thurston Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1346 ADU O 1
1/23/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-103-10
1673 Louise St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0036 ADU R 1
9/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-161-29
1755 Park Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2475 ADU R 1
4/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
629-041-26
21398 Stans Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1760 ADU R 1
1/3/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
053-143-13
217 Wave St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1762 ADU R 1
10/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
656-122-05
2354 San Clemente
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2021-8819 SFD O 1
10/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-132-03
2800 Chateau Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2022-1313 SFD O 1
6/12/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-133-10
2840 Zell Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2429 SFD O 1
1/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-136-11
309 Hawthorne
Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-0435 2 to 4 O 2
6/12/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
056-051-12
31282 Ceanothus
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2382 ADU R 1
2/13/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-062-25
31526 Valido Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-0657 SFD O 1
3/13/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-091-03
31562 Mar Vista
Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2584 ADU R 1
9/25/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-087-28
31578 Jewel Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2451 ADU R 1
3/17/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
658-101-04
31731 Seacove
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-1152 ADU R 1
8/13/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
056-144-02
32016 Sunset AvLaguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-0484 ADU R 1
7/24/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-035-09
322 Cypress Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1364 SFD O 1
4/28/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-267-03
372 Center St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2557 ADU R 1
8/20/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-162-29
489 Aster St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2333 ADU R 1
9/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
496-161-04
514 Poplar St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2024-1847 2 to 4 O 2
1/3/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
644-191-10
515 Oak St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2477 ADU R 1
4/24/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-097-42
520 Oak St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-0971 ADU R 1
1/3/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-254-13
525 Bluebird Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-1381 ADU R 1
3/18/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-292-07
530 Ruby St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-0022 SFD O 1
3/31/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
Housing with Financial
Assistance and/or Deed
Restrictions
Project Identifier Demolished/Destroyed Units
Annual Building Activity Report Summary - New Construction, Entitled, Permits and Completed Units Density Bonus
1 Unit Types Affordability by Household Incomes - Completed Entitlement Affordability by Household Incomes - Building Permits Affordability by Household Incomes - Certificates of Occupancy 4 7 10
14 Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
656-143-25
547 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2023-1453 SFD O 1
1/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
656-131-16
598 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2024-2144 SFD O 1
1/23/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-094-24
604 Anita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2589 ADU R 1
1/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-044-02
607 Short St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-1688 ADU R 1
2/14/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-292-02
620 Mystic Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2458 ADU R 1
12/9/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
656-058-07
629 Balboa Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
DR-2024-1841 SFD O 1
3/11/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
641-294-08
677 Mystic Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-1803 SFD O 1
2/5/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-82
796 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2385 ADU R 1
8/6/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-06
806 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2024-2194 2 to 4 O 2
4/10/2025 2
0 0 NONE Y
644-291-08
820 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
CDP-2025-1151 SFD O 1
1/23/2025 1
0 0 NONE Y
644-076-01 1007 Gaviota Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0746
ADU R
0 1 9/10/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-076-01 1007 Gaviota Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0747
SFD O
0 1 4/28/2025 1 0 NONE Y
496-191-16 120 Irvine Cove
Ct
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0826
ADU R
0 1 4/28/2025 1 0 NONE Y
641-491-04 1340 Moorea Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0112
SFD O
0 1 5/8/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-141-14 1390 Dunning Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-2344
ADU R
0 1 1/9/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-322-07 1465 Bluebird
Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0648
SFD O
0 1 8/29/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-134-04 1492 Temple Hills
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0239
ADU R
0 1 8/28/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-134-04 1492 Temple Hills
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0240
ADU R
0 1 9/19/2025 1 0 NONE Y
641-181-05 1540 Arroyo Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1198
SFD R
0 1 1/22/2025 1 0 NONE Y
053-302-08 1565 Via Majorca
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0339
ADU R
0 1 2/26/2025 1 0 NONE Y
053-103-10 1673 Louise St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1370
ADU R
0 1 12/2/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-211-23 18 N Stonington
Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0531
ADU R
0 1 12/9/2025 1 0 NONE Y
641-393-02 1955 San Remo
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1035
ADU R
0 1 7/23/2025 1 0 NONE Y
641-393-06 2060 Temple Hills
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1262
ADU R
0 1 8/21/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-291-10 2390 Crestview
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0431
ADU R
0 1 12/24/2025 1 0 NONE Y
670-231-14 24 Vista Del Sol
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1623
ADU R
0 1 4/15/2025 1 0 NONE Y
053-144-18 247 Fairview St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1201
ADU R
0 1 2/6/2025 1 0 NONE Y
656-126-20 2510 Glenneyre
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1427
ADU R
0 1 2/6/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-035-03 260 St Anns Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0920
ADU R
0 1 8/12/2025 1 0 NONE Y
053-124-22 276 Chiquita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1442
ADU R
0 1 7/1/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-062-24 31538 West St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1786
ADU R
0 1 5/1/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-091-03 31562 Mar Vista
Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0570
ADU R
0 1 11/12/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-105-39 31785 5 Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0704
ADU R
0 1 11/13/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-160-09 32007 Coast Hy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1271
ADU R
0 1 2/25/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-201-08 390 Mountain Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0763
ADU R
0 1 1/14/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-091-08 470 Seaview St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1991
ADU R
0 1 12/18/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-097-44 474 Oak St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1339
ADU R
0 1 12/17/2025 1 0 NONE Y
496-162-29 489 Aster St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0076
ADU R
0 1 12/23/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-254-13 525 Bluebird
Canyon Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0872
ADU R
0 1 7/29/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-191-38 540 Brooks St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1102
ADU R
0 1 1/28/2025 1 0 NONE Y
053-111-28 567 Dunnegan Pl
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1748
ADU R
0 1 3/26/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-191-32 598 Brooks St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1466
ADU R
0 1 6/3/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-031-02 613 Catalina St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0794
ADU R
0 1 7/10/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-093-19 684 Seaview St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0528
ADU R
0 1 10/21/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-111-32 719 St Anns Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0295
ADU R
0 1 10/20/2025 1 0 NONE Y
056-204-28 8 Bay Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-2346
ADU R
0 1 5/6/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-291-06 806 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0537
SFD R
0 1 6/6/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-101-08 850 Bolsa Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1754
ADU R
0 1 12/15/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-425-07 935 Baja St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-1080
ADU R
0 1 11/25/2025 1 0 NONE Y
644-162-52
1033
Flamingo+B2:B53B
each, CA 92651
RBP-2019-3813 SFD O
0 1 10/3/2025 1 1
10/13/2025
1 NONE Y
644-386-14
1055 Summit Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0744 ADU R
0 1 4/25/2025 1 1
6/9/2025
1 NONE Y
644-372-05
1100 Balboa Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
RBP-2022-1965 ADU R
0 1 12/22/2025 1 1
7/24/2025
1 NONE Y
053-161-12
1101 Marine Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0556 ADU R
0 1 3/31/2025 1 1
9/17/2025
1 NONE Y
053-152-03
1105 North Coast
Hy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
C23-2121 ADU R
0 1 11/17/2025 1 1
7/14/2025
1 NONE Y
641-352-10
1105 Skyline Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-1948 ADU R
0 1 10/19/2025 1 1
8/13/2025
1 NONE Y
644-352-17
1111 Keller Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0979 ADU R
0 1 5/28/2025 1 1
4/3/2025
1 NONE Y
644-404-09
1201 Noria St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
RBP-2022-0492 SFD O
0 1 4/7/2025 1 1
4/30/2025
1 NONE Y
641-303-38
1210 Anacapa
Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0977 ADU R
0 1 5/28/2025 1 1
7/7/2025
1 NONE Y
644-084-09
1254 Glenneyre
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
C23-1123 ADU R
0 1 6/20/2025 1 1
10/20/2025
1 NONE Y
644-184-19
1270 Temple Te
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0042 ADU R
0 1 1/9/2025 1 1
9/17/2025
1 NONE Y
641-211-35
1280 Roosevelt
Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0541 ADU R
0 1 3/27/2025 1 1
6/10/2025
1 NONE Y
644-206-19
1482 Carmelita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-1075 ADU R
0 1 6/12/2025 1 1
3/11/2025
1 NONE Y
641-093-04
1515 Tahiti Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0665 ADU R
0 1 4/17/2025 1 1
1/13/2025
1 NONE Y
053-152-13
157 Chiquita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R25-0058 ADU R
0 1 1/14/2025 1 1
10/1/2025
1 NONE Y
644-271-02
1759 Glenneyre
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-1887 ADU R
0 1 10/14/2025 1 1
8/1/2025
1 NONE Y
656-104-05
200 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0831 ADU R
0 1 5/9/2025 1 1
9/12/2025
1 NONE Y
656-104-05
200 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0830 SFD O
0 1 5/9/2025 1 1
9/12/2025
1 NONE Y
641-393-09
2110 Temple Hills
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0782 ADU R
0 1 4/30/2025 1 1
5/6/2025
1 NONE Y
641-146-01
21522 Anns Ln
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0909 ADU R
0 1 5/22/2025 1 1
8/12/2025
1 NONE Y
053-122-13
224 Viejo St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0132 ADU R
0 1 1/24/2025 1 1
5/21/2025
1 NONE Y
641-201-10
237 Canyon Acres
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R24-0580 ADU R
0 1 4/2/2025 1 1
10/8/2025
1 NONE Y
053-123-16
238 Cajon St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-2264 ADU R
0 1 4/18/2025 1 1
1/9/2025
1 NONE Y
053-143-08
246 Beverly St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651
R23-0314 ADU R
0 1 2/27/2025 1 1
1/13/2025
1 NONE Y
053-316-01
2506 Altamar Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1413
ADU R
0 1 8/7/2025 1 1
12/10/2025
1 NONE Y
656-134-02
2525 Duarte Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-2007
ADU R
0 1 12/22/2025 1 1
12/23/2025
1 NONE Y
056-214-20
27 S Encino Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2020-5356
SFD O
0 1 9/10/2025 1 1
1/16/2025
1 NONE Y
496-162-02
271 High Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1275
ADU R
0 1 7/15/2025 1 1
9/17/2025
1 NONE Y
656-164-13
2851 Terry Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1146
ADU R
0 1 7/25/2025 1 1
9/12/2025
1 NONE Y 1 Demolished O
641-141-14
28892 Top Of The
World Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1244
ADU R
0 1 7/7/2025 1 1
6/17/2025
1 NONE Y
656-163-14
2979 Terry Rd
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1021
ADU R
0 1 6/5/2025 1 1
7/21/2025
1 NONE Y
053-112-41
300 Heather Pl
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1672
SFD O
0 1 10/27/2025 1 1
6/24/2025
1 NONE Y
056-061-35
31382 Monterey
St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1898
ADU R
0 1 12/9/2025 1 1
2/14/2025
1 NONE Y 1 Demolished O
056-087-05
31509 Eagle Rock
Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-0048
ADU R
0 1 1/10/2025 1 1
5/8/2025
1 NONE Y
056-088-65
31629 2 Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1801
ADU R
0 1 9/29/2025 1 1
3/5/2025
1 NONE Y
056-102-32
31641 3 Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-0130
ADU R
0 1 1/24/2025 1 1
7/1/2025
1 NONE Y
641-051-03
3182 Bern Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1128
SFD O
0 1 6/20/2025 1 1
11/6/2025
1 NONE Y
056-130-56
31863 8 Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-0430
ADU R
0 1 3/14/2025 1 1
6/3/2025
1 NONE Y
056-153-33
32091 Virginia Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1511
ADU R
0 1 8/15/2025 1 1
9/12/2025
1 NONE Y
644-284-02
325 Diamond St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1473
ADU R
0 1 8/11/2025 1 1
3/12/2025
1 NONE Y
15 Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
656-145-14
346 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2016-0956
SFD O
0 1 5/30/2015 1 1
5/21/2025
1 NONE Y
496-082-09
350, 351, 354 &
356 Cliff Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 C23-1686
ADU R
0 1 9/12/2025 1 1
5/22/2025
1 NONE Y
496-082-09
350, 351, 354 &
356 Cliff Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 C23-1685
ADU R
0 1 9/12/2025 1 1
5/22/2025
1 NONE Y
644-266-01
381 Agate St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-0540
ADU R
0 1 4/15/2025 1 1
9/24/2025
1 NONE Y
641-191-27
386 Canyon Acres
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1282
ADU R
0 1 7/16/2025 1 1
9/3/2025
1 NONE Y
496-163-09
434 Aster St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-1299
ADU R
0 1 7/18/2025 1 1
11/5/2025
1 NONE Y
644-286-09
450 Osgood Ct
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-0014
ADU R
0 1 1/3/2025 1 1
9/2/2025
1 NONE Y
641-192-18
477 Canyon Acres
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2019-2533
SFD O
0 1 3/13/2025 1 1
12/4/2025
1 NONE Y
644-064-17
496 Graceland Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-0979
ADU R
0 1 5/30/2025 1 1
9/29/2025
1 NONE Y
641-271-13
510 Blumont St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1427
ADU R
0 1 8/8/2025 1 1
7/1/2025
1 NONE Y
656-143-15
515 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1993
ADU R
0 1 12/22/2025 1 1
5/20/2025
1 NONE Y
656-143-15
515 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1992
ADU R
0 1 12/22/2025 1 1
5/22/2025
1 NONE Y
644-191-10
515 Oak St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-2092
ADU R
0 1 11/18/2025 1 1
12/16/2025
1 NONE Y
656-142-27
530 Alta Vista Wy
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-0879
SFD O
0 1 5/14/2025 1 1
9/12/2025
1 NONE Y
644-042-09
556 Through St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R25-0527
ADU R
0 1 3/26/2025 1 1
8/4/2025
1 NONE Y
644-094-24
604 Anita St
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R25-0379
ADU R
0 1 3/3/2025 1 1
8/19/2025
1 NONE Y
656-053-18
606 Loretta Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2021-7079
SFD O
0 1 5/27/2025 1 1
1/23/2025
1 NONE Y
641-362-21
816 Manzanita Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-1577
ADU R
0 1 8/27/2025 1 1
4/22/2025
1 NONE Y
644-291-94
840 Gainsborough
Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2021-7225
SFD O
0 1 6/16/2025 1 1
11/21/2025
1 NONE Y
641-363-15
850 Park Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R23-0853
ADU R
0 1 5/14/2025 1 1
12/16/2025
1 NONE Y
053-155-08
856 Cliff Dr
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 R24-0654
ADU R
0 1 4/11/2025 1 1
2/25/2025
1 NONE Y
644-474-01
897 Balboa Av
Laguna Beach, CA
92651 RBP-2022-1969
ADU R
0 1 12/22/2025 1 1
9/23/2025
1 NONE Y
0 0 00 0 0
16 Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
1 Projection
Period 3 4
RHNA Allocation
by Income Level
Projection
Period -
06/30/2021-
10/14/2021
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Total Units to
Date (all
years)
Total Remaining
RHNA by
Income Level
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - - -
Above Moderate 117 6 11 77 127 119 100 - - - - 440 -
394
6 11 77 127 119 100 - - - - 440 277
Income Level
Very Low
- -
This table is auto-populated once you enter your jurisdiction name and current year data. Past year information comes from previous APRs.
Please contact HCD if your data is different than the material supplied here 2 Table B
Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress
Permitted Units Issued by Affordability
118
- Moderate
118
80 79
-
-
Please note: The APR form can only display data for one planning period. To view progress for a different planning period, you may login to HCD's online APR system, or contact HCD staff at [email protected].
Acutely Low - -
*For years prior to 2025, data on deed-restricted vs. non-deed restricted Extremely Low-Income units is approximated from whether the projects reported any deed-restricted Very Low-Income Units. If you wish to edit this historical data for accuracy or have any questions about the data, you may login to HCD's online APR system, or contact HCD staff at [email protected].
Total Units
*For jurisdictions that received RHNA determinations for the current cycle prior to the passage of AB 3093 (September 19, 2024):
- You were not allocated Acutely Low-Income and Extremely Low-Income RHNA targets, therefore the allocations in Field 1 are listed as "0" - If you wish to set your own targets in these income categories for informational purposes, contact HCD staff at [email protected]. - All Acutely Low-Income and Extremely Low-Income units reported during the cycle are counted towards Very-Low Income RHNA progress 79 Total RHNA
-
80 Low
*For years prior to 2025, Acutely Low-Income units are reported within the Extremely Low-Income category Please Note: Table B does not currently contain data from Table F or Table F2 for prior years. You may login to the APR system to see Table B that contains this data.
Extremely Low -
17 18 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Date of
Rezone Rezone Type
2 4 5 6 7 9 10 11
APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID+
Date of
Rezone
Very LowIncome Low-Income ModerateIncome
Above
ModerateIncome
Rezone Type Parcel Size
(Acres)
General Plan
Designation Zoning
Minimum
Density
Allowed
Maximum
Density
Allowed
Realistic
Capacity Vacant/Nonvacant Description of Existing Uses
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
3 8
Project Identifier RHNA Shortfall by Household Income Category Sites Description 1 Sites Identified or Rezoned to Accommodate Shortfall Housing Need and No Net-Loss Law Table C
18 19 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach
Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Name of Program Objective
Projected Completion
Date in Housing
Element
Applicable Cycle Status of Program
Implementation Program Implementation Details Quantified Outcomes:
Category
Quantified Outcomes:
Count Supporting Documents
Program 5.2-1a
Required: Monitor and update the sites
inventory to assess its adequacy for
meeting the RHNA.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
No updates to the sites inventory were required in 2025. At a capacity of 446 housing units, including 140 very-low and 103 low units, the sites inventory maintains a greater capacity than the City's RHNA of 394, including 118 very-low and 80 low housing units.
Units 1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/show
publisheddocument/18984/63853889502803
0000
Program 5.2-1b
Required: Expeditiously complete the
review of in-process development permit
applications that include affordable
housing projects.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
All new and in-process development applications involving one or more new affordable housing units are flagged by the intake staff and are given shortened review deadlines to prioritize these reviews. All reviewers are made aware upon routing information for review.
Units 1
https://lagunabeachcaenergovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/h ome
Program 5.2-1c
Required: Provide streamlined permit
processing of residential projects that
include affordable units, including the
development of housing for lower-income
households, including extremely lowincome households and households with special needs, persons experiencing
homelessness; farmworkers; persons with
disabilities, including developmental; and
elderly.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
All new and in-process development applications involving one or more new affordable housing units are flagged by the intake staff and are given shortened review deadlines to prioritize these reviews. All reviewers are made aware upon routing information for review.
Units 1
https://lagunabeachcaenergovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/h ome
Program 5.2-1d Required: See Program 5 regarding ADUs. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous 62 ADUs were completed in 2024 and 51 ADUs were completed in 2025. Units 1 None Program 5.2-1e
Required: Provide incentives for the
development of 100% affordable projects
on sites with institutional uses such as
religious institutions, hospitals, and
schools, and City-owned sites. Pursue
rezoning of residentially zoned institutional
uses for affordable projects, including 340
St. Ann’s Drive.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025. This ordinance provides for certain incentives for qualifying affordable housing projects, in accordance with LBMC Chapter 25.96.
The Neighborhood Congregational Church has proposed an affordable housing project at 340 St. Ann's Drive. City staff has communicated to the Church that their planning application would be processed with a high priority pursuant to this program.
The Community Development Department and the City Manager's Office is diligently working with the Church, including meeting with the Church on several occasions in 2024 and 2025 to address questions related to the City's development process and applicable development regulations. The applicant has not requested - nor does the application require - a rezone.
Units 1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/current-projects/340-stanns-drive Program 5.2-1f
Continue the practice of allowing projects
that provide 100% affordable housing to
be developed with increased density on
non-residential sites where residential
development is permitted, and support a
target density of at least 45 dwelling
units/acre.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to encourage high-density affordable housing projects on sites zoned for non-residential uses based on the existing density allowances in the City's Land Use Element.
Units 1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/show
publisheddocument/22595/63885663815293
0000
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.
Table D
Program Implementation Status pursuant to GC Section 65583 19 20 of 484
Program 5.2-1g
Initiate environmental review related to
Phase 2 of the Downtown Specific Plan
update, which is intended to allow for and
facilitate additional residential development
over existing regulations. See also
Program 4.
12/31/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Execution of the MOUs and award of a contract for the environmental review was finalized in 2025. An EIR scoping meeting was held on February 4, 2026. The purpose of the scoping meeting was to solicit early public and agency input on the proposed project and to identify the range of environmental issues and impacts to be analyzed in the EIR, which will inform the scope and content of the document. A community workshop is anticipated around May 2026 and would be timed with the completion of project renderings illustrating potential changes to streetscape conditions. Public review of the Draft EIR is anticipated to occur between June and July 2026, with final adoption of the DSP Phase II updates and Program EIR targeted for December 2026.
Other 1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/currentprojects/housing-initiatives-1290 Program 5.2-1h
Initiate an update to the Laguna Canyon
Annexation Area Specific Plan to evaluate
suitability for expansion of sites, through
code amendments or rezoning, to where
live-work, residential, or mixed-use
development is permitted.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Not Yet Started
The City will prepare draft changes to the permissible land uses and consider modifications to development standards. If non-exempt from CEQA, the City would also prepare an Initial Study. This program is on hold to allow the Community Development Department to focus on processing the heavy workload of planning and building permits.
Units 1 None
Program 5.2-1i
Continue to evaluate potential for mixeduse and work/live spaces along the Coast Highway Corridor and on vacant or
underutilized commercial properties.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units 1
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Program 5.2-1j
Monitor and address any impacts of
potential voter initiatives on housing supply
including residential development for all
income groups, impacts to RHNA as well
as other housing sites, and obligations to
affirmatively further fair housing.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle In Progress
During the November, 2022 general municipal election, a voter-sponsored petition to create an overlay zone that covers all property in the City located within 750 feet of the centerline of either State Route 1 (Coast Highway) or State Route 133 (Laguna Canyon Road/Broadway) was submitted to the voters. The Initiative known as Measure Q would have established special requirements for any “Major Development Project” within the overlay district. However, the Initiative was rejected by the voters.
There were no voter initiatives affecting housing supply in 2025.
Other 1 None
Program 5.2-2a Amend the Zoning Code to refer to state
Density Bonus Law. 5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units 1
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Program 5.2-2b
Amend the Zoning Code to provide more
flexible development standards and the
built form for affordable housing and
facilitate development of densities at or
above 30 units per acre. Options to
explore could include, but are not limited to
modifications to: height, setbacks, groundto-sky open space, parking ratios, allowable additions above commercial, lot
coverage/FAR; allowances for lot mergers,
and possible creation of affordable
housing floating/overlay zones, formbased zoning components, and incentives to provide affordable housing as a part of
mixed-use developments.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Continuous
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units 1
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Program 5.2-2c
Amend the R-3 Zone to allow multi-family
housing restricted to extremely-low- to
moderate-income occupancy as a
permitted use, rather than a conditionally
permitted use.
12/13/2022 6th Cycle Completed
Complete. On December 13, 2022, the City Council adopted an ordinance amending the R-3, Residential High Density Zone in accordance with Government Code Section 65913.4, which requires that local governments establish a streamlined and ministerial approval process for affordable housing projects. Although this program only requires that the City allow deed-restricted affordable housing as a by-right use in the Zone, the City-adopted ordinance expanded the scope of this program to further the City's housing goals by also allowing market rate multi-family housing as a permissible use without requiring a Conditional Use Permit.
Units 1 https://ecode360.com/42899507#42899507
20 21 of 484
Program 5.2-2d
Amend the Zoning Code to incentivize lot
consolidations for sites that provide 100%
affordable housing developments.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units1
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Program 5.2-3a Comply with state law regarding the use of objective design standards. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle In Progress The City continues to apply objective design standards when required in accordance with State law. As a participating member of the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG), the City provided input on an objective design standards toolkit developed by OCCOG.
Other1 None
Program 5.2-3b
Provide streamlined permit processing
opportunities to qualified applicants
pursuant to state law.
1/1/2025 6th Cycle Continuous
All new and in-process development applications involving one or more new affordable housing units are flagged by the intake staff and are given shortened review deadlines to prioritize these reviews. All reviewers are made aware upon routing information for review.
The City's Housing Program Coordinator advises Community Development Department staff on procedural requirements pursuant to State housing laws, and monitors for changes as new State laws are enacted.
Units1
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Program 5.2-3c
Continue to reduce development
constraints in the Design Review process
and establish objective Design Guidelines
criteria to help implement community
design objectives while complying with
state law requiring permit streamlining and
housing accountability.
7/30/2026 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to apply objective design standards when required in accordance with State law. A draft zoning ordinance amendment addressing objective design standards is anticipated to be adopted by the City Council by summer 2026. This ordinance will also reduce the level of design review required for various types of residential projects, including a new exemption from design review for single-family projects meeting certain objective design standards. The ordinance will require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence.
The City is also developing additional single- and two-family residential objective design standards that will address various architectural styles. These standards are anticipated to be adopted by the City Council by summer 2026.
Othe
r1 None
Program 5.2-3d
Continue to implement Community
Development Action Plan strategies and
monitor effectiveness.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle In Progress
The City continues to implement the Community Development Action Plan to make the entitlement review process easier for applicants. During 2022, the City began its implementation of a streamlining ordinance to streamline the discretionary review process. Changes include: 1) reducing the types of projects that require full design review and allowing more items to be approved administratively (i.e., over-thecounter) and at Administrative Design Review; and 2) allowing Director approval of changes to plans previously approved through design review when they are in substantial conformance with those approved plans. In 2024, the City initiated a Comprehensive Code Update to further streamline and improve the development review process.
Other1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/current-projects/infillhousing-regulations-1364 Program 5.2-3e
Monitor Land Management System
effectiveness in efficiently managing,
tracking, and enforcing Planning and
Zoning applications and activities.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to pursue technology upgrades to streamline governmental processes. During 2023, the Community Development Department completed upgrades to its planning, permitting, and code enforcement software to create more efficient workflows, and integrated the system with the City's GIS. Applicants can now submit applications for ADUs via an online portal. Applicants will be able to submit all other planning and building applications via an online portal in 2025.
Other1
https://lagunabeachcaenergovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/h ome
Program 5.2-4a
Provide more permissive development
standards for affordable housing. With
adoption of Phase 2 of the DSP, include
incentives such as: increased densities,
increased height limits, higher lot
coverage, lower parking requirements,
allowances for off-site parking, allowances
for lot assemblage, and removal of upper
story residential use limitations to assist in
the development of housing for lowerincome households, including extremely low-income households and households
with special needs, persons experiencing
homelessness; farmworkers; persons with
disabilities, including developmental; and
elderly.
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Execution of the MOUs and award of a contract for the environmental review was finalized in 2025. An EIR scoping meeting was held on February 4, 2026. The purpose of the scoping meeting was to solicit early public and agency input on the proposed project and to identify the range of environmental issues and impacts to be analyzed in the EIR, which will inform the scope and content of the document. A community workshop is anticipated around May 2026 and would be timed with the completion of project renderings illustrating potential changes to streetscape conditions. Public review of the Draft EIR is anticipated to occur between June and July 2026, with final adoption of the DSP Phase II updates and Program EIR targeted for December 2026.
Units1
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Program 5.2-4b
With adoption of Phase 2 of the DSP,
designate additional locations for
residential/mixed use development.
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress See above. Units 1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/currentprojects/housing-initiatives-1290 Program 5.2-5a
Create a comprehensive ADU Handbook
that includes the following components:
-Needs assessment report
-Survey to prior ADU applicants
-Public workshops
-Regulatory Checklist and Process
-ADU opportunities and constraints report
-ADU monitoring report
-Set of ADU prototype plans
-Provide the Handbook in hard copy and
digital formats
-FAQ and fact sheets, summarizing the
ADU program
-ADU permit application
-Report on financing tools and resources
to assist in the construction and permanent
financing of affordable ADUs
-ADU cost estimator tool
-Report assessing nonconforming ADUs
and recommendations for legalization
-Public involvement plan
-Dedicated webpage on the City’s website
for ADUs
12/24/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Once the Coastal Commission approves the revised Accessory Dwelling Unit Oridnance, which was approved by City Council on December 10, 2024, City staff will update the ADU Handbook.
Other 1
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/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/currentprojects/accessory-dwelling-units Program 5.2-5b
Adopt a new Accessory Dwelling Unit
(ADU) Ordinance that conforms with state
law.
2/9/2023 6th Cycle Completed
The City Council adopted a Zoning Ordinance amendment on November 16, 2021 relating to the regulation of ADUs for consistency with state law. The associated Local Coastal Program amendment was subsequently submitted to the Coastal Commission in December of 2021 and was certified by the Coastal Commission on February 9, 2023.
Units 1 https://ecode360.com/LA4953/laws/LF23198
38.pdf
Program 5.2-5c
Develop a website that serves as a
comprehensive resource on ADUs. Include
information on the City’s new ADU
ordinance and from the ADU Handbook
described in Action 5.a.
3/11/2025 6th Cycle Completed
On March 11, 2025, to comply with state ADU law as further amended, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1713, amending the City's ADU regulations, and also adopted non-urgency Ordinance No. 1715 to mirror the ADU and JADU requirements reflected in Urgency Ordinance No. 1713. The City has submitted Ordinance No. 1715 to the Coastal Commission for certification. The Coastal Commission determined the City's application to be complete on September 9, 2025.
Other 1
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https://ecode360.com/LA4953/laws/LF23198
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Program 5.2-5d
Develop an annual monitoring, verification
and reporting program for Accessory
Dwelling Units (ADUs). If the City is not
meeting its ADU goals, implement
additional incentives to further facilitate
ADUs. In addition, consider alternative
actions, such as rezones, if needed to
meet ADU goals.
1/1/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The City's Building Division has developed a monitoring system to track ADU production, which is now used to complete the State Department of Finance Housing Unit Survey and other annual reports. The City also relies on this data to inform changes to local procedures and regulations to further facilitate ADUs. In 2022, the City saw an increase in both planning and building application activity for ADUs. Over the second half of 2022, the Building Division's ADU application and permit activity increased from 26 to 113. In 2023, 39 ADUs were completed in Laguna Beach. Also in 2023, the Annual Progress Report was approved by City Council on March 21, 2023. In 2024, 62 ADUs were completed and for 2025 51 ADUS were completed in Laguna Beach.
In August 2024, the City began requesting estimated rents for ADUs during the application process. Also in August 2024, the City posted the affordable ADU agreement / Deed Restriction online.
On December 10, 2024, the City Council approved an Urgency Ordinance and a revised Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance to comply with State Laws effective January 1, 2025. These ordinances include a provision to require ADU rent reporting.
Other 1
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Program 5.2-6a
Amend the Zoning Code to create a new
zone where emergency shelters all allowed
by right, then apply the zone to the
Friendship Shelter site.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Other1
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Program 5.2-6b
Amend the Zoning Code for conformance
with state law related to low barrier
navigation centers, emergency and
transitional housing and permanent
supportive housing (SB2, SB745 and
AB2162), single-room occupancy units and
reasonable accommodations.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units1
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Program 5.2-6c
Amend the Zoning Code to treat employee
housing for six or fewer employees as a
single-family structure for conformance
with the Employee Housing Act.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Persons1
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Program 5.2-6d Monitor shelter capacity needs and report findings in the Annual Progress Report. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The existing Alternative Sleeping Location (ASL) emergency shelter provides services to local individuals in need. The ASL was established in 2009 on a City-owned parcel and remains the only municipal emergency shelter in South Orange County. Shelter need capacity was reduced from 32 in 2024 to 25 in 2025. The City provided 30 congregate living spaces for 30 adults in 2025. In 2026, the City will be modifying its program from a congregate living shelter to a shelter with semi private sleeping area for 20 individuals.
Persons1 None
Program 5.2-6e
Review Zoning Code to accommodate
large group homes (7+ persons) as a
residential use to be conditionally
permitted in residetnial zones and to
establish conditions for approval that are
objective and provide certainty in
outcomes.
12/24/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
On June 11, 2024, the City Council adopted Zoning Code amendments to address large group homes. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is estimated for 2026.
Persons1
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85 Program 5.2-7a
Conduct outreach to religious institutions
to provide information and technical
assistance on state law regarding
developing housing units on religious-use
parking spaces.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
As part of the City's Housing Element update process for the 6th planning cycle, the City met with religious leaders within the community to discuss potential affordable housing opportunities on their properties and to gauge interest in having these sites identified in the Housing Element as housing opportunity sites. The revised 6th Cycle Housing Element was adopted by the City Council in January, 2023, and certified by HCD in February, 2023.
In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with Neighborhood Congregational Church, United Methodist Church, and the Laguna Beach Interfaith Council. In 2023 and 2024, the Community Development Department and the City Manager's Office diligently worked with the Neighborhood Congregational Church, including discussions regarding State laws regarding housing on parking spaces and land owned by religious institutions. In 2024, the City met with United Methodist Church.
Units1
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning/current-projects/340-stanns-drive Program 5.2-7b
Offer letters of support and where
possible, incentives for affordable housing -
related grant applications as appropriate.
As funding permits, provide City affordable
housing funds as local match for grant
applications.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The Housing Program Coordinator submitted an application for HCD's LHTF Program grant on September 11, 2024. The City received a letter from HCD making the determination that the City is ineligible; the City appealed the determination. An Award of $2.5 million was awarded to the City to fund affordable housing projects.
Other1
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Program 5.2-7c Promote senior mobility with transit
providers to facilitate aging in place. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City continues to operate its fare-free public trolley and participate in the region's transportation planning efforts. An on-demand microtransit pilot program that is free for residents was implemented in November of 2021, and expanded by the City Council on September 20, 2022 to serve additional residential areas. City-sponsored Sally's Fund provides free transportation to and from the Susi Q community and senior center and medical appointments, and help with other practical needs.
The Susi Q promotes the City's Laguna Beach Local, Age Well Senior Services, Sally's Fund, and OCTA transportation services. In January 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator participated in the OCTA Long Range Transportation Plan Telephone Town Hall to promote funding for senior mobility services.
The Laguna Local microtransit service will be expanded once more to provide access to residents along Laguna Canyon Road and El Toro Road.
Other1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/parking-and-transportation/trolleys Program 5.2-7d
Proactively outreach to affordable housing
developers with information on site
availability and development incentives to
assist in the development of housing for
lower-income households, including
extremely low-income households and
households with special needs, persons
experiencing homelessness; farmworkers;
persons with disabilities, including
developmental; and elderly. Development
incentives to be developed through
Program 5.2-9(h).
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator emailed to developers regarding the OCHFT NOFA and offering city support. Also in 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with National CORE, Jamboree Housing, National Church Residences, C & C Development, and Families Forward to discuss potential projects and offer city support. In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinated discussed housing site opportunities with developers interested in responding to the Local Housing Trust Fund NOFA.
Units1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-8a
Impose adequate conditions of approval
on projects that include extremely-low,
very-low, low-, and moderate-income
housing, to ensure that affordable units will
continue to be priced at intended levels
and that occupancy restrictions related to
income and age will continue to be
observed.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City will continue to monitor property owner obligations to price and rent/sell units in accordance with HCD requirements and the region's area median income. For all projects that create one or more deed-restricted affordable housing units, the City will continue to impose conditions of approval requiring the recordation of an affordable housing covenant approved by the City Attorney prior to certificate of occupancy, and requiring that the owner annually submit documentation to verify household income and the monthly rental rate. Planners verify deed restrictions are recorded on the property.
Units1 None
Program 5.2-8b Continue mobile home preservation. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City continues to promote grants for exterior mobile home improvements available through Orange County Community Services. See the City's Housing Assistance Informational Guide available online.
Units1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-8c
Monitor implementation of the Short-Term
Lodging Ordinance. Restrictions to shortterm lodging are intended to help preserve rental housing stock by limiting their use
for vacation rental purposes.
12/1/2020 6th Cycle Completed
On 6/4/19 the City Council approved a revision to the short-term lodging (STL) ordinance. The revisions prohibited STL in residential zones. On 10/7/2020 Coastal Commission certified the STL ordinance with modifications including consideration of a home-sharing program and protections for rental housing stock in mixed-use districts. The City Council approved the modifications on 12/1/20. Restrictions to shortterm lodging are intended to help preserve rental housing stock by limiting their use for vacation rental purposes.
Other1 https://ecode360.com/42900204
Program 5.2-8d
Continue to support aging in place through
amortization and abatement agreements
which allow residents to remain on the
property under specified conditions to
improve the property.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to work with households on a case-by-case basis to allow for continued occupancy when safety concerns can be adequately addressed. In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the first amendment to the agreeement with Habitat for Humanity Orange County to continue the Senior Home Repair Program to support aging in place; in 2024, Housing Program Coordinator completed the second amendment to the agreeement. The City will continue to implement the Amortization and Abatement Agreement program as recommended by the Senior Housing Task Force.
Persons1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-8e
Where safety concerns can be addressed,
allow residents to remain in unpermitted
spaces while they are adapted to meet
work/live code. If funding is available,
develop incentives and funding programs
to assist building owners and tenants to
make the building modifications necessary
to conform with work/live ordinances.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City will continue to work with households on a case-by-case basis to allow for continued occupancy when safety concerns can be adequately addressed. In 2023, the City Council considered the matter as it relates to Artist Work/Live housing and established an Artist Work/Live Subcommittee to research additional opportunities.
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Program 5.2-8f
Engage in dialogues with affordable
housing providers to learn if there are
actions the City can take to support their
continued operations.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
To administer the housing plan, the City has funded a full-time Housing Program Coordinator position. The Coordinator started in January 2023, and will continue to communicate with affordable housing providers currently operating in the City to understand needs and offer assistance with their mission. In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator emailed to developers regarding the OCHFT NOFA and offering city support. Also in 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with National CORE, Jamboree Housing, National Church Residences, C & C Development, and Families Forward to discuss potential projects and offer city support.
These efforts are ongoing and will continue to be expanded.
Meetings 15 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-8g Explore the development of an amnesty
program for unpermitted residential units. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City continues to offer assistance to property owners seeking to legalize unpermitted residential units. The City recommends that homeowners meet with Planning and Building Division staff for informal discussions that usually carry no risk of penalties or code enforcement, unless a potentially urgent life-safety matter is identified. The Building Division offers inspections for unpermitted units to preliminarily identify improvements needed to meet Building Code (GFCI outlets, etc.).
These inspections are intended to help the homeowner understand what may be required during the formal legalization process should they later determine to submit an application.
In 2022, through a grant from SCAG, the City published the Nonconforming/Unpermitted ADU Legalization Report
(https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/11598/6378802842 06800000). In 2023, the City Council considered matter of unpermitted work/live units. Also in 2023, the HHSC discussed an amnesty program and recommended that the HHSC Chair appoint an HHSC subcommittee to develop incentives.
Between the beginning of the 6th Cycle (October 15, 2021) and December 31, 2025, the City has issued final occupancy to legalize 21 accessory dwelling units.
Units 1 None
Program 5.2-9a Complete rollout of the Affordable Housing Loan and Grant Program. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle In Progress The Housing Program Coordinator submitted an application for HCD's LHTF Program grant on September 11, 2024. The City received a letter from HCD making the determination that the City is ineligible; the City appealed the determination. An Award of $2.5 million was awarded to the City to fund affordable housing projects.
Units 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-9b Continue implementation of City’s
Inclusionary Housing Policy HE-2-4. 5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
Units 1
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publisheddocument/22595/63885663815293
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Program 5.2-9c
Continue to maintain an In-Lieu Housing
Fund in accordance with policies HE 1 8,
HE 1.9, HE-1.10, HE 2-1, and HE-2.4.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City continues to maintain an in-lieu housing fund. Units 1 https://ecode360.com/46473867 Program 5.2-9d Consider establishing a local dedicated
funding source for affordable housing. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle In Progress The City is a member of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust which provides a regionally local source of funding for affordable housing in Laguna Beach. In 2024, the City Council established the Laguna Beach Local Housing Trust Fund. The Housing Program Coordinator submitted an application for HCD's Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF) program grant on September 11, 2024. The City received a letter from HCD making the determination that the City is ineligible; the City appealed the determination. Award announcements are anticipated in April 2025.
On May 24, 2022, the City Council approved Resolution 22-042 approving the budget and appropriating funds to a new Housing Fund. This fund is separate from the City’s Inclusionary Housing In-Lieu Fund. On July 11, 2023, the City Council approved Resolution 23-045 affirming funding and committing additional funding to the Housing Fund.
Units 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources 25 26 of 484
Program 5.2-9e
Monitor financial assistance programs
administered by the California Department
of Housing and Community Development
and apply for funding that the City is
eligible for and can competitively vie for.
Current program information is posted on
HCD’s website at:
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/grantsfunding/index.shtml.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The Housing Program Coordinator submitted an application for HCD's LHTF Program grant on September 11, 2024. The City received a letter from HCD making the determination that the City is ineligible; the City appealed the determination. An Award of $2.5 million was awarded to the City to fund affordable housing projects.
Units1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-9f
As a participating city, continue to provide
input to the County of Orange on use of
Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG), Home Investment Partnership
(HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant
(ESG) and other programs as available.
Seek funds for eligible projects to assist in
the development of housing for lowerincome households, including extremely low-income households and households
with special needs, persons experiencing
homelessness; farmworkers; persons with
disabilities, including developmental; and
elderly, as opportunities arise.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to provide input to the County on funding opportunities that can assist the City achieve its housing goals by participating in the Orange County Council of Governments Technical Advisory Committee, regular meetings of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, and by applying for funding opportunities when the City is eligible and can competitively vie for. The Housing Program Coordinator continues to particiate in the Cities Advisory Committee to support the County of Orange's efforts for affordable housing development and programs and provide input on the use of grant funding and other programs. In April 2023, the City promoted OCHA funding incentives in the City's Community Newsletter during Fair Housing Month. In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator is participating in the Regional Analysis of Impediments (AI) to Fair Housing in Orange County.
Meetings1 None
Program 5.2-9g
Refer affordable housing developers to the
Orange County Trust Fund for potential
gap financing for the acquisition,
development or construction of supportive
and affordable housing projects that
provide housing for lower-income
households, including extremely lowincome households and households with special needs, persons experiencing
homelessness; farmworkers; persons with
disabilities, including developmental; and
elderly.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The Housing Program Coordinator attends the Orange County Housing Finance Trust (OCHFT) meetings. In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator emailed to developers regarding the OCHFT NOFA and offering city support.
In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator marketed the OCHFT's Affordable ADU Loan Program on the City's website. As of December 2025, there were 27 Laguna Beach property owners interested in the OCHFT's Affordable ADU Loan Program.
Persons 27 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-9h
Develop a set of incentives to promote the
development of affordable housing
projects that provide housing for lowerincome households, including extremely low-income households and households
with special needs, persons experiencing
homelessness; farmworkers; persons with
disabilities, including developmental; and
elderly. The incentive package could
include components such as flexible
development standards, reduced parking
requirements, the waiving of fees and the
expediting of permits. See Program 2 for
additional potential code incentives,
Program 3 for permit streamlining, and
Program 5 for ADUs.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
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Program 5.2-10a
Update the City website periodically to
cover:
- Housing Rehabilitation Assistance
including information on low-interest loans
- Housing Choice Voucher rent subsidy
program administered by the County of
Orange
- SB 329 (2019) outreach that SB 329
redefines the term “source of income” in
regard to housing discrimination laws to
mean verifiable income paid directly to a
tenant, or paid to a housing owner or
landlord on behalf of a tenant, including
federal, state, or local public assistance
and housing subsidies
- Housing Assistance Guide on fair
housing
- ADU opportunities and programs
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
In February 2023, the City updated the existing Human Services page with correct link to the Orange County Affordable Rental Housing List. Also in February 2023, the City updated the Human Services webpage and links. In March 2023, the City created and published a Housing Resources webpage with all of the required information for Program 5.2-10.a. In September 2023, the City posted flyers/information regarding the OCHA HCV Waiting List application period (at City Hall, SusiQ Senior Center, City's Housing Resources webpage, City's community newsletter, City's social media). In May and June 2024, the City updated the webpage based on suggestions from the Housing and Human Services Committee.
Households 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-10b
Administer and market the Senior Housing
Aging in Place Program which includes:
- Senior Housing Rehabilitation Assistance
- Senior Housing Repair Program
information
- Annual aging-in-place workshop
- Senior Specialist Program “one stop”
shop
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The City continues to work with Laguna Beach Seniors to administer and market the Aging in Place Program. In March 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the first amendment to the agreement with Habitat for Humanity Orange County to continue the Senior Home Repair Program; in 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the second amendment. In October 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with LB Seniors to continue and expand funding for the Home Repair Program. As December 2025, 21 projects were completed, which exceeds the City's goal of 5-10 units during the 6th Cycle.
Households 21 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources Program 5.2-10c Provide information on historic
preservation incentives and programs. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City provides information on historic preservation incentives and programs online and through the Community Development Department's public counter. Households 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government
/departments/communitydevelopment/planning-zoning/historicpreservation Program 5.2-10d
Promote and market affordable housing
incentives/allowances and programs to
encourage their use.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
Incentives were drafted as part of a larger housing-related code amendment project.
Draft code amendments were reviewed by Planning Commission on August 2, November 15, and December 6, 2023. The code amendments were adopted by City Council on June 11, 2024. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is expected in 2026.
In August 2023, the City posted the Orange County Housing Finance Trust's affordable ADU program to market affordable ADU incentives on both the City's Housing Resources page and the ADU page. In April 2023, the City promoted Orange County Housing Authority funding incentives in the City's Community Newsletter during Fair Housing Month.
In 2024, the City continued to market the OCHFT's Affordable ADU Loan Program on the City's website. As of December 2024, there were 27 Laguna Beach property owners interested in the OCHFT's Affordable ADU Loan Program.
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Program 5.2-10e
Increase community awareness of and
support for affordable housing through
activities such as town halls, articles in
local newspapers, and website postings.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
In 2023, the City recognized Fair Housing Month with the publication of housing information in four community newsletters in March and April. In June 2023, a Fair Housing Workshop was presented to the Housing and Human Services Committee, available in-person and on-line, by the Fair Housing Council of Orange County.
In 2024, the Housing and Human Services Committee hosted an affordable housing bus tour to increase awareness of affordable housing.
Meetings 2 None
5.2-11a Fair Housing
Outreach and
Enforcement. AFFH:
Enforcement
1. Ensure that all laws, programs and
activities affirmatively further fair housing
in accordance with state law. As the
General Plan and Zoning Code are
updated or amended, review and revise
policies and code provisions to promote an
inclusive community.
2. When considering specific plan or
rezoning proposals, evaluate whether the
change in zoning will help achieve fair
housing goals.
3. Include fair housing information on the
City’s website, including up-to-date fair
housing laws, FHCOC services, and
information on filing discrimination
complaints. Proactive announcement of
fair housing resources on Community
Newsletter (weekly text messaging
system).
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
1. The City continues to update its regulations and procedures to comply with state law and achieve fair housing goals.
2. The City will continue to analyze the effects of specific plan updates and rezone applications on the achievement of fair housing goals.
3. In 2023, the City recognized Fair Housing Month by publishing housing information in four community newsletters in March and April. Also in 2023, the City published a landing page dedicated to Housing Resources and updated the information, including updates to fair housing information, laws, FHCOC services and a link to file a complaint.
Households 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources
5.2-11a Fair Housing
Outreach and
Enforcement. AFFH:
Outreach and Education
1. Continue to publish a Housing
Assistance Guide informing community
members of the Orange County Fair
Housing Council (FHCOC) and its
oversight of fair housing practices, for
availability on the City's website and at the
Planning counter.
2. Develop interest list for update on fair
housing and affordable housing projects.
3. Update the City website with affordable
housing projects.
4. Utilize non-traditional media (i.e., social
media, City website, Community
Newsletter) in outreach and education
efforts in addition to print media and
notices.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
1. The City's Housing Assistance Informational Guide includes information regarding the FHCOC and was added to the 2023 Housing Resources landing page.
2. In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator established three interest lists - Affordable Housing Projects, Fair Housing, and Housing-Related Announcements.
As of December 2025, there are 194 subscribers for Affordable Housing Projects, 184 for Fair Housing, and 190 for Housing-Related Announcements.
3. In February 2023, the City updated the existing Human Services page with correct link to the Orange County Affordable Rental Housing List. Also in February 2023, the City updated the Human Services webpage and links. In March 2023, the City created and published a Housing Resources webpage with all of the required information for Program 5.2-10.a. In May and June 2024, the City updated the webpage based on suggestions from the Housing and Human Services Committee.
4. In 2023, the City recognized Fair Housing Month by publishing housing information in four community newsletters in March and April. In September 2023, the City posted flyers/information regarding the OCHA HCV Waiting List application period (at City Hall, SusiQ Senior Center, City's Housing Resources webpage, City's community newsletter, City's social media).
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5.2-11a Fair Housing
Outreach and
Enforcement. AFFH:
Regional Coordination
1. As a participating City in the County of
Orange Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) program, continue to
support the annual contribution of CDBG
funds to the Orange County Fair Housing
Council (OCFHC).
2. Participate in regional efforts to address
fair housing issues and monitor emerging
trends/issues in the housing market.
Attend quarterly OCHA Housing Advisory
Committee meetings.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
1. The Housing Program Coordinator attends OCHA CIties Advisory Committee meetings and, in July 2023, requested that OCHA consider increased support to FHCOC and that the matter be placed on the next Cities Advisory Committee meeting agenda.
2. In 2023 and 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator attended the quarterly OCHA Cities Advisory Committee meetings. In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator participated in and/or attended more than 60 events related to fair housing and housing market issues.
In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator was appointed as Vice Chair for the OCHA Cities Advisory Committee. Also in 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator was appointed as Vice Chair for the OCCOG TAC. Attending meetings continued in 2025.
Meetings 10 None
5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
AFFH: Housing Program
Implementation
Establish a new Housing Program
Coordinator planner position to oversee
and expedite Housing Element program
implementation.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
To administer the housing plan, the City has funded a full-time Housing Program Coordinator position. The Coordinator started with the City in January 2023, but left in 2025. The City is currently recruiting to fill this position in 2026.
Other 1 None
5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
Program 5.2-5: Accessory
Dwelling Units
Create a comprehensive ADU Handbook
with tools to facilitate ADU production. 12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress The ADU Handbook project was completed in December 2022.
Once the Coastal Commission approves the revised Accessory Dwelling Unit Oridnance, which was approved by City Council on December 10, 2024, City staff will update the ADU Handbook.
Other 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources
5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
Policy HE-2.4
Require that 25% of the total number of
units or lots, whichever is greater, in new
subdivisions of two or more residential
units or lots and 25% of new development
of three or more units on existing building
sites be affordable to extremely-low-, verylow-, low- or moderate-income households or persons.
Update inclusionary housing policy to
enhance feasibility and production of
affordable housing.
5/7/2025 6th Cycle Completed
The California Coastal Commission conditionally approved the Local Coastal Program amendment application on February 5, 2025, subject to the City's acceptance of several modifications to the ordinance. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1712 as reflected in the Coastal Commission's conditional approval. Ordinance No. 1712 became effectively certified on May 7, 2025.
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5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
Program 5.2-2: Zoning
Toolbox
Amend the Zoning Code to provide more
flexible development standards and the
built form for affordable housing and
facilitate development of densities at or
above 30 units per acre
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Code amendments were adopted by City Council on June 11, 2024, to reduce development barriers and facilitate housing development. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is estimated to be completed in 2026.
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5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
Program 5.2-7: Affordable
Housing Partnership
Conduct outreach to religious institutions
to provide information and technical
assistance on state law regarding
developing housing units on religious-use
parking spaces.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
As part of the City's Housing Element update process for the 6th planning cycle, the City met with religious leaders within the community to discuss potential affordable housing opportunities on their properties and to gauge interest in having these sites identified in the Housing Element as housing opportunity sites. The revised 6th Cycle Housing Element was adopted by the City Council in January, 2023, and certified by HCD in February, 2023.
In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with Neighborhood Congregational Church, United Methodist Church, and the Laguna Beach Interfaith Council. In 2024 and 2025, the Community Development Department and the City Manager's Office diligently worked with the Neighborhood Congregational Church, including discussions regarding State laws regarding housing on parking spaces and land owned by religious institutions. NCC has since submitted an affordable housing project under the provsions of SB 4.
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5.2-11b New Opportunities
in High Resource Areas.
Program 5.2-9: Affordable
Housing Funding
Monitor financial assistance programs
administered by the California Department
of Housing and Community Development
and apply for funding that the City is
eligible for and can competitively vie for.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
The Housing Program Coordinator submitted an application for HCD's LHTF Program grant on September 11, 2024. The City received a letter from HCD making the determination that the City is ineligible; the City appealed the determination. An Award of $2.5 million was awarded to the City to fund affordable housing projects.
Units 1 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources
5.2-11c Housing Mobility.
Program 5.2-6: Special
Needs Housing
1. Amend the Zoning Code to create a
new zone where emergency shelters all
allowed by right, then apply the zone to the
Friendship Shelter site.
2. Amend Zoning Code to address Low
Barrier Navigation Center, transitional
housing, and supportive housing, SRO,
and reasonable accommodation.
3. Review Zoning Code to accommodate
large group homes (7+ persons) as a
residential use to be conditionally
permitted in residential zones and to
establish conditions for approval that are
objective and provide for certainty in
outcomes.
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
1. On December 13, 2022, the City Council adopted an ordinance to create an overlay zone at the site of the existing Alternative Sleeping Location/Friendship Shelter site to allow emergency shelters by right and subject to objective standards.
2. Code amendments were adopted by City Council on June 11, 2024, to address low barrier navigation centers, transitional housing, and supportive housing, SRO, and reasonable accommodation. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is estimated for late 2026.
3. On June 11, 2024, the City Council adopted Zoning Code amendments to address large group homes. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is estimated for late 2026.
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AFFH: Affirmative
Marketing
Establish an Affirmative Marketing Plan, to
include advertising and community
outreach designed to reach
underrepresented households to be
implemented when affordable units
become available.
12/24/2024 6th Cycle Completed
In 2023, the City developed an understanding of requirements Affirmative Marketing Plan, including components required by HOME funding, HUD's affirmative fair housing marketing plan and worksheets, and other cities requirements for projects to provide affirmative marketing plans.
In 2024, the City established an Affirmative Marketing Plan.
Other 1 None
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5.2-11c Housing Mobility.
AFFH: Outreach and
Education
Petition to Orange County, administrator of
the City’s CDBG program, for the fair
housing provider (FHCOC) to expand
landlord education on source of income
discrimination and voucher programs.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
In June 2023, the City invited FHCOC to provide public presentation at the HHSC meeting. FHCOC presented a Fair Housing Workshop made available in-person and on-line. Also in 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator attended the Orange County Housing Authority's (OCHA) Cities Advisory Committee meetings and requested that the matter of FHCOC expanding landlord education be placed on the next OCHA Cities Advisory Committee meeting agenda. At the October 2023 meeting, OCHA committed to expanding FHCOC education in November 2023. In September 2023, the City posted flyers/information regarding the OCHA HCV Waiting List application period (at City Hall, SusiQ Senior Center, City's Housing Resources webpage, City's community newsletter, City's social media).
In 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator petitioned Dylan Wright, Director, Orange County Community Services, Housing & Community Development Division. The County uses the administrative portion of the CDBG grants to cover FHCOC services and there are no additional funds to expand landlord education. However, the County suggested two alternatives: (1) provide feedback for the County's Fair Housing Plan/5- year Consolidated Plan; (2) ask OC Housing Authority to expand landlord education about incentives to rent to Housing Choice Voucher holders (the OCHA leasing group can provide a presentation to Laguna Beach landlords and property owners).
Meetings2 https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/livehere/housing-resources
5.2-11d Place-Based
Strategies for
Neighborhood
Improvements. Program
5.2-1: Adequate Sites
1. Initiate an update to the Laguna Canyon
Specific Plan to evaluate suitability for
expansion of sites, through code
amendments or rezoning, to where livework, residential, or mixed-use development is permitted.
2. Continue to evaluate potential for mixeduse and work/live spaces along the Coast Highway Corridor and on vacant or
underutilized commercial properties
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
1. The City will prepare draft changes to the permissible land uses and consider modifications to development standards. If non-exempt from CEQA, the City would also prepare an Initial Study. This program is on hold to allow the Community Development Department to focus on processing the heavy workload of planning and building permits.
2. On June 11, 2024, the City Council approved Zoning Code amendments to facilitate mixed-use spaces along Coast Highway and on vancant or underutilized commerical properties including provisions to allow residential uses by-right, and development standard exceptions for infill and mixed-use projects. The amendments require certification by the California Coastal Commission before implementation can commence. The City’s Local Coastal Program amendment application was filed as complete on July 31, 2024. Coastal Commission approved the application with modifications on February 4, 2025; City Council approved the modifications on February 25, 2025. A Coastal Commission Executive Director report to finalize the Zoning Code amendments is estimated for Spring 2026.
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Strategies for
Neighborhood
Improvements. Program
5.2-4: Downtown Specific
Plan Phase 2
With adoption of Phase 2 of the DSP,
include incentives such as: increased
densities, increased height limits, higher lot
coverage, lower parking requirements,
allowances for off-site parking, allowances
for lot assemblage and, and removal of
upper story residential use limitations to
assist in the development of housing
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Execution of the MOUs and award of a contract for the environmental review was finalized in 2025. An EIR scoping meeting was held on February 4, 2026. The purpose of the scoping meeting was to solicit early public and agency input on the proposed project and to identify the range of environmental issues and impacts to be analyzed in the EIR, which will inform the scope and content of the document. A community workshop is anticipated around May 2026 and would be timed with the completion of project renderings illustrating potential changes to streetscape conditions. Public review of the Draft EIR is anticipated to occur between June and July 2026, with final adoption of the DSP Phase II updates and Program EIR targeted for December 2026.
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5.2-11d Place-Based
Strategies for
Neighborhood
Improvements. Program
5.2-8: Housing
Preservation and
Rehabilitation
Pursue the development of an amnesty
program for unpermitted residential units. 10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous The City continues to offer assistance to property owners seeking to legalize unpermitted residential units. The City recommends that homeowners meet with Planning and Building Division staff for informal discussions that usually carry no risk of penalties or code enforcement, unless a potentially urgent life-safety matter is identified. The Building Division offers inspections for unpermitted units to preliminarily identify improvements needed to meet Building Code (GFCI outlets, etc.).
These inspections are intended to help the homeowner understand what may be required during the formal legalization process should they later determine to submit an application.
In 2022, through a grant from SCAG, the City published the Nonconforming/Unpermitted ADU Legalization Report. In 2023, the City Council considered matter of unpermitted work/live units. Also in 2023, the HHSC discussed an amnesty program and recommended that the HHSC Chair appoint an HHSC subcommittee to develop incentives.
Between the beginning of the 6th Cycle (October 15, 2021) and December 31, 2024, the City has issued final occupancy to legalize 21 accessory dwelling units.
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5.2-11d Place-Based
Strategies for
Neighborhood
Improvements. AFFH:
Capital Improvements
• Laguna Canyon Road (SR-133) Improvements: place overhead utilities underground; active transportation
improvements; reconstruct drainage
channel; add dam to control storm flows
(estimated schedule: 2023-2025) • Coast Highway ADA South Improvements (Moss Street to Fifth
Avenue): add new sidewalks; widen
existing sidewalk; reconstruct existing curb
ramps and driveways to meet current ADA
standards; add audible pedestrian crossing
systems; repair, resurface, and restripe
roadway (estimated schedule: 2022-2025) • Laguna Canyon Road Median Landscaping: Replant the landscaped
median along Laguna Canyon Road
between Forest Avenue and east of
Canyon Acres Drive (estimated schedule:
2023-2024)
12/30/2026 6th Cycle In Progress
Under construction and expected to conclude December 2025 -- Caltrans and the County of Orange are working with Southern California Edison (SCE) to place overhead utilities underground along Laguna Canyon Road between El Toro Road and State Route 73 (toll road). The project also includes the addition of bike lanes, reconstruction of the drainage channel, addition of a dam, and a continuous second outbound lane.
Coast Highway ADA South Improvements (Ruby Street to 7th Avenue): Underway and expected to continue through May 2026 (Caltrans project).
Laguna Canyon Road Median Landscaping: Complete.
Other1
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5.2-11e Tenant Protection
and Anti-Displacement.
AFFH: Outreach and
Education
1. Expand outreach and education on
recent state laws (SB 329 and SB 222)
supporting source of income protection for
publicly assisted low-income households
(HCVs).
2. Promote OCFHC tenant legal
counseling and make residents aware of
multi-lingual services available. OCFHC
currently offers tenant legal counseling in
English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
1. In March 2023, the City created and published a Housing Resources webpage with all of the required information for Program 5.2-10.a, including information regarding SB 329, SB 222, and source of income discrimination. In June 2023, the City invited FHCOC to provide public presentation at the Housing and Human Services Committee meeting, which included information on source of income protection.
2. In March 2023, the City created and published a Housing Resources webpage with all of the required information for Program 5.2-10.a, including information regarding OCFHC's services, languages, and contact information. In 2023, the City recognized Fair Housing Month by publishing housing information, including FHCOC, in four community newsletters in March and April. In June 2023, the City invited FHCOC to provide public presentation at the Housing and Human Services Committee meeting, which included information on OCFHC services. In 2024, City staff referred seven people to FHCOC.
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5.2-11e Tenant Protection
and Anti-Displacement.
Program 5.2-8: Housing
Preservation and
Rehabilitation
1. Continue to provide Senior Housing
Repair program
2. Monitor implementation of the ShortTerm Lodging Ordinance. Restrictions to short-term lodging are intended to help
preserve rental housing stock by limiting
their use for vacation rental purposes.
3. Continue to support aging in place
through amortization and abatement
agreements which allow residents to
remain on the property under specified
conditions to improve the property.
4. Where safety concerns can be
addressed, allow residents to remain in
unpermitted spaces while they are adapted
to meet work/live code If funding is
available, develop incentives and funding
programs to assist building owners and
tenants to make the building modifications
necessary to conform with work/live
ordinances
10/30/2029 6th Cycle Continuous
1. In March 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the first amendment to the agreement with Habitat for Humanity Orange County to continue the Senior Home Repair Program; in 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the second amendment. In October 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator met with LB Seniors to continue and expand funding for the Home Repair Program. As of February 2024, 21 projects were completed, which exceeds the City's goal of 5-10 units during the 6th Cycle.
2. On 6/4/19 the City Council approved a revision to the short-term lodging (STL) ordinance. The revisions prohibited STL in residential zones. On 10/7/2020 Coastal Commission certified the STL ordinance with modifications including consideration of a home-sharing program and protections for rental housing stock in mixed-use districts. The City Council approved the modifications on 12/1/20. Restrictions to shortterm lodging are intended to help preserve rental housing stock by limiting their use for vacation rental purposes.
3. The City continues to work with households on a case-by-case basis to allow for continued occupancy when safety concerns can be adequately addressed. In 2023, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the first amendment to the agreeement with Habitat for Humanity Orange County to continue the Senior Home Repair Program to support aging in place; in 2024, the Housing Program Coordinator completed the second amendment. The City will continue to implement the Amortization and Abatement Agreement program as recommended by the Senior Housing Task Force.
4. The City will continue to work with households on a case-by-case basis to allow for continued occupancy when safety concerns can be adequately addressed. In 2023, the City Council considered the matter as it relates to Artist Work/Live housing and established an Artist Work/Live Subcommittee to research additional opportunities.
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Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029 Description of
Commercial
Development Bonus
Commercial Development Bonus
Date Approved
3 4
APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID+
Very Low
Income
Low
Income
Moderate
Income
Above Moderate
Income
Description of
Commercial
Development Bonus
Commercial Development Bonus
Date Approved
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
Units Constructed as Part of Agreement
Commercial Development Bonus Approved pursuant to GC Section 65915.7 Table E
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
Project Identifier
1 2
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation
formulas
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
Annual Progress Report January 2020
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Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Note: "+" indicates an optional field Reporting Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
The description should adequately document
how each unit complies with subsection (c) of
Government Code Section 65583.1+.
For detailed reporting requirements, see the
chcklist here:
Extremely LowIncome+Very LowIncome+ Low-Income+ TOTAL UNITS+Extremely LowIncome+Very LowIncome+ Low-Income+TOTAL UNITS+
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/communitydevelopment/docs/adequate-sites-checklist.pdf Rehabilitation Activity
Preservation of Units At-Risk
Acquisition of Units
Mobilehome Park Preservation
Total Units by Income
Table F
Please note this table is optional: The jurisdiction can use this table to report units that have been substantially rehabilitated, converted from non-affordable to affordable by acquisition, and preserved, including mobilehome park preservation, consistent with the standards set forth in Government Code section 65583.1, subdivision (c). Please note, motel, hotel, hostel rooms or other structures that are converted from non-residential to residential units pursuant to Government Code section 65583.1(c)(1)(D) are considered net-new housing units and must be reported in Table A2 and not reported in Table F.
Activity Type
Units that Do Not Count Towards RHNA+
Listed for Informational Purposes Only
Units that Count Towards RHNA +
Note - Because the statutory requirements severely limit what can be counted, please contact HCD at [email protected] and we will unlock the form which enable you to populate these fields.
Units Rehabilitated, Preserved and Acquired for Alternative Adequate Sites pursuant to Government Code section 65583.1(c) Annual Progress Report January 2020
35 36 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Note: "+" indicates an
optional field
Reporting
Period 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas Planning
Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Notes
2 3 6
Prior APN+ Current APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID
Unit
Category
(2 to 4,5+)
Tenure
R=Renter
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
Low- Income Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Total Moderate Income
Units Converted from
Above Moderate
Date
Converted Notes
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Table F2
Above Moderate Income Units Converted to Moderate Income Pursuant to Government Code section 65400.2 For up to 25 percent of a jurisdiction’s moderate-income regional housing need allocation, the planning agency may include the number of units in an existing multifamily building that were converted to deed-restricted rental housing for moderate-income households by the imposition of affordability covenants and restrictions for the unit. Before adding information to this table, please ensure housing developments meet the requirements described in Government Code 65400.2(b). 5 Project Identifier Unit Types
1 4
Affordability by Household Incomes After Conversion Units credited toward Moderate Income RHNA
36 37 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach
Reporting
Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31)
Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029 ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Housing Element Implementation 2 3
4 APN Street Address Project Name
+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID
+
Realistic
Capacity
Identified in
the Housing
Element
Entity to whom the site
transferred Intended Use for Site
1 Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
Table G
Locally Owned Lands Included in the Housing Element Sites Inventory that have been sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of Project Identifier
y g
element sites inventory contains a site which is or was owned by the reporting jurisdiction, and has been sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of during the reporting
year.
37 38 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach Note: "+" indicates an optional field Reporting
Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31)
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation
formulas
Designation Size Notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
APN Street Address/Intersection Existing Use Number of
Units
Surplus
Designation
Parcel Size (in
acres) Notes
NOTE: This table must contain an inventory
of ALL surplus/excess lands the reporting
jurisdiction owns
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
Parcel Identifier
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Table H
Locally Owned Surplus Sites
38 39 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting
Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31) Housing Element Implementation
Planning
Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
Project Type Date
2 3
APN Street Address Project Name+
Local
Jurisdiction
Tracking ID+
Unit Category
(SH - Student Housing) Date
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
Note:
Cells in gre
Table J
Student housing development for lower income students for which was granted a density bonus pursuant to subparagraph (F) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Se Project Identifier Units (Beds/Student Capacity) Approved 1 4
NOTE: STUDENT HOUSING WITH DENSITY BONUS
ONLY. This table only needs to be completed if there
were student housing projects WITH a density bonus
approved pursuant to Government Code65915(b)(1)(F)
Annual Progress Report January 2020
39 40 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Period 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
Planning Period 6th Cycle 10/15/2021 - 10/15/2029
No
Table K
Tenant Preference Policy
Local governments are required to inform HCD about any local tenant preference ordinance the local government maintains when the jurisdiction submits their annual progress report on housing approvals and production, per Government Code 7061 (SB 649, 2022, Cortese). Effective January 1, 2023, local governments adopting a tenant preference are required to create a webpage on their internet website containing authorizing local ordinance and supporting materials, no more than 90 days after the ordinance becomes operational.
Does the Jurisdiction have a local tenant preference policy? If the jurisdiction has a local tenant preference policy, provide a link to the jurisdiction's webpage containing authorizing local ordinance and supporting materials.
Notes
40 41 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach Note: "+" indicates an optional field Reporting
Period 2025
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31)
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation
formulas
Size Notes
3 4
APN Street Address/Intersection Date of
Designation
Designation
Level
Historic Site
Period
Areas of
Significance
Parcel Size (in
acres) Notes
Summary Row:
656-152-38 2646 Victoria Drive 2/24/2025 Local 1900 to Present ArcheologyHistoric,
Architecture
0.11 496-155-20 426 Holly Drive 1/27/2025 Local 1900 to Present ArcheologyHistoric,
Architecture
0.14 496-136-02 385 Hawthorne Road 4/21/2025 Local 1900 to Present ArcheologyHistoric,
Architecture
0.14 496-032-16 330 Jasmine Street 7/21/2025 Local 1900 to Present ArcheologyHistoric,
Architecture
0.14 NOTE: This table needs to be completed with any sites within your jurisdiction that were newly added to a National, State, or Local register of historic places within the reporting year. If none, leave blank.
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
Table L
Historical Resources
Parcel Identifier
1 Designation
2 41
42 of 484
Jurisdiction Laguna Beach
Reporting Year 2025 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
Total Award Amount Total award amount is auto-populated based on amounts entered in rows 15-26.
Task $ Amount Awarded $ Cumulative Reimbursement Requested Other Funding Notes
Summary of entitlements, building permits, and certificates of occupancy (auto-populated from Table A2) Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
101
101
Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
100
100
Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
62 62
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Reporting
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
Please update the status of the proposed uses listed in the entity’s application for funding and the corresponding impact on housing within the region or jurisdiction, as applicable, categorized based on the eligible uses specified in Section 50515.02 or 50515.03, as applicable. $ -
Task Status
Total Units
Certificate of Occupancy Issued by Affordability Summary Income Level
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total Units
Completed Entitlement Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total Units
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Acutely Low
Extremely Low
42 43 of 484
TO: Department of Housing and Community Development
FROM:
:
The is submitting this annual homeless shelter inspection report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development, pursuant to Health and Safety Code (HSC), Section 17974.5. 1. Jurisdiction’s name and point of contact for this annual report:
2. Date range of this annual report:
3. Homeless shelters within the jurisdiction:
4. Complaints received by the jurisdiction during the reporting period:
5. Pending uncorrected violations for each homeless shelter within the jurisdiction:
Attachment 2
43 44 of 484
6. Determinations made by the jurisdiction of homeless shelter(s) that are rendered unfit for human habitation:
7. Emergency orders issued by the jurisdiction regarding homeless shelters:
8. Homeless shelter owners/operators that received three or more violations within a six-month period:
9. Homeless shelter corrected violations from the prior year, within the jurisdiction:
This template or a local report template may be used by the jurisdiction to meet the homeless shelter reporting requirements. Reports shall be submitted annually through HCD’s Local Ordinances, Amendments & Reports Portal.
44 45 of 484
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
CONSENT
16 SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO THE ORANGE COUNTY
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR LOCAL TRANSPORTATION FUNDS RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Adopt the Resolution titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF ALL APPLICATIONS
WITH THE ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR LOCAL TRANSPORTATION FUNDS,” authorizing the City Manager to file an application and claim with the Orange County Transportation Authority for $1,480,411.10 from the Local Transportation Fund, and to file amendments as necessary due to budget adjustments or any changes in the City’s apportionment of Local Transportation Funds; and
2. Find said action not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
Each year, the City must submit a claim to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) to access transit capital and operating dollars from the State’s Local Transportation Fund (LTF), which are passed through OCTA to the City. The City uses its LTF allocation to fund operating costs associated with trolley and on-demand transit services. In order to receive the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 LTF funding, the City Council must adopt the attached resolution (Attachment 1) authorizing the City Manager to submit an application and claim form for access to said funds.
The LTF was established by the Transportation Development Act of 1971 and is derived from a ¼-cent general sales tax collected statewide. The LTF funding available to the City in FY 2026-27, referred to as the City’s “apportionment,” is projected by OCTA to be $1,480,411.10, but is subject to adjustment depending on actual sales tax revenues collected. This represents a $15,483.68 decrease from last year’s apportionment.
Following City Council approval, the City Manager will finalize and submit the LTF application and claim form, which will be processed by OCTA. The City will file application adjustments as necessary in response to budget adjustments or changes in the City’s LTF apportionment.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The $1,480,411.10 in LTF funding, or as such amount may be subsequently amended, will be included as projected revenue in the Transit Fund as part of the City’s FY 2026-27 budget.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed actions do not constitute a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15060(c)(3). Section 15378 defines a project as an 1 of 489
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO THE ORANGE COUNTY
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR LOCAL TRANSPORTATION FUNDS March 24, 2026
activity that “has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15378(a).) Here, the proposed actions are administrative in nature and merely authorize the City Manager to submit an application and claim form to receive LTF funding for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year. These actions do not involve physical alterations. Nor will such actions result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. Section 15378 excludes from its definition of “project” organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15378(b)(5).) Here, the proposed actions are administrative in nature and will not result in a physical change in the environment, and it therefore is not subject to CEQA. (Ibid.) Accordingly, the recommended actions are not a “project” subject to CEQA. (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15060(c)(3).)
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution (Pgs. 3-5)
Submitted By: Alexis Braun Approved: .David A Kiff
Alexis Braun, Acting Director of
Transit and Community Services
Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Alexis Braun, Acting Director of Transit and
Community Services
Michelle Bannigan, Finance Director
2 of 489
RESOLUTION NO. 26.XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE
FILING OF ALL APPLICATIONS WITH THE ORANGE
COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY FOR LOCAL
TRANSPORTATION FUNDS
WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach (“City”) is eligible to apply for Local Transportation Funds (“LTF”) in coordination with the Orange County Transportation Authority (“OCTA”) to assist with financing capital and operating expenditures related to the City’s trolley and on-demand transit services; and
WHEREAS, the City Council must adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit the necessary application on behalf of the City of Laguna Beach to OCTA for said assistance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES RESOLVE:
SECTION 1. The recitals set forth above are true and correct and are incorporated into this Resolution by this reference.
SECTION 2. The proposed actions do not constitute a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15060(c)(3).
Section 15378 defines a project as an activity that “has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15378(a).) Here, the proposed actions are administrative in nature and merely authorize the City Manager to submit an application and claim form to receive LTF funding for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year. These actions do not involve physical alterations. Nor will such actions result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the Attachment 1
3 3 of 489
-2- Reso. #26.XXX
environment. Section 15378 excludes from its definition of “project” organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15378(b)(5).) Here, the proposed actions are administrative in nature and will not result in a physical change in the environment, and it therefore is not subject to CEQA. (Ibid.) Accordingly, the recommended actions are not a “project” subject to CEQA. (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15060(c)(3).)
SECTION 3. The City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute and file all applications, in the form prescribed by OCTA, on behalf of the City of Laguna Beach with OCTA for purposes of filing a claim for the City's FY 26/27 apportionment of LTF, in the amount of $1,480,411.10, as such amount may be adjusted depending upon a change in the City's apportionment of LTF or in response to budget adjustments to aid in the financing of the City's transit system and related services.
SECTION 4. The City Council further authorizes the City Manager to furnish any and all additional information, and to file application adjustments or amendments, as necessary, that OCTA might require in connection with the application referenced in Section 3.
SECTION 5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.
ADOPTED this 24th day of March, 2026.
Mark Orgill, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
4 4 of 489
-3- Reso. #26.XXX
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26.XXX was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held on March 24, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, California
5 5 of 489
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
CONSENT
17 SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AMENDING THE APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED EMPLOYEES
WITH FILING RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF
INTEREST CODE
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Adopt the Resolution titled “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA AMENDING THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED EMPLOYEES” to update designated employee titles and positions of City personnel; and
2. Find that the proposed action does not constitute a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(2) & (5) because the action involves administrative organizational activities that will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable physical change in the environment.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
This report recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution amending the Appendix of Designated Employees in the City’s Conflict of Interest Code to reflect current City staff titles and positions.
On January 6, 1981, the City Council adopted the standard model Conflict of Interest Code pursuant to the Political Reform Act. The Conflict of Interest Code identifies City officials and employees who are required to file Statements of Economic Interests to publicly disclose financial interests and ensure transparency and unbiased governmental decision-making.
State law requires local agencies to review their Conflict of Interest Codes biennially (every even-numbered year) to ensure the list of designated employees accurately reflects current positions and responsibilities.
Updates may also occur outside of the biennial review when organizational changes occur, such as the creation of new positions, restructuring of duties, or changes in decision-making authority The proposed resolution updates the City’s Appendix of Designated Employees to reflect current organizational titles, and to add several positions that participate in governmental decision-making and therefore require financial disclosure.
The recommended action has no fiscal impact and is not considered a project under CEQA because it involves administrative organizational updates.
DISCUSSION
As part of its ongoing commitment to transparency and ensuring sound governance, the City maintains a Conflict of Interest Code, which, among other things, lists those City officials and employees that must file financial disclosures. The City’s Conflict of Interest Code has two disclosure categories:
1 of 497
RESOLUTION AMENDING THE APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED EMPLOYEES WITH FILING
RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE March 24, 2026
Category 1 – Full Disclosure:
Applies to high-level employees (City Manager, City Attorney, Department Heads, etc.) and City Councilmembers and requires broad financial disclosure.
Category 2 – Limited Disclosure:
Applies to other employees (Deputy Directors, certain Managers, public safety leadership, etc.) and Commission, Board and Committee members and requires financial disclosures related to job/assignment.
The City regularly reviews its Conflict of Interest Code to ensure it is updated to reflect changes in job positions/titles, job duties, the creation of new roles and decision-making authority The proposed Resolution (Attachment 1) would amended the Appendix of Designated Employees (Attachment 2) to reflect changes in job titles/duties and to add new positions since the City’s last update.
Proposed Updates
Title Updates:
• Remove “/CFO” from “Assistant City Manager/CFO”
• Remove “Audit Review” from “Audit Review/Investment Committee Members” New Designated Positions (Category 2 Disclosure):
• Accounting Manager
• Civilian Enforcement Officer
• Civilian Fire Marshal
• Deputy Director of Community Development
• Fire Battalion Chief
• Fire Captain
• Procurement Officer
• Project Director
These updates ensure that City employees who make or participate in governmental decisions are appropriately designated and subject to the financial disclosure requirements of the Political Reform Act.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The recommended action has no financial impact to the budget. The proposed amendments update administrative designations within the City’s Conflict of Interest Code and do not require additional City resources or budget appropriations.
2 of 497
RESOLUTION AMENDING THE APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED EMPLOYEES WITH FILING
RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE March 24, 2026
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed action is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and the CEQA Guidelines because this is a continuing personnel-related action and, constitutes an organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. Accordingly, this action does not constitute a "project" that requires environmental review (CEQA Guidelines § 15378(b)(2)&(5)).
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution (Pgs. 4-5)
2. Appendix of Designated Employees (Pgs. 6-8)
Submitted By: Ann Marie McKay Approved: .David A Kiff
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk Megan Garibaldi, City Attorney Gavin Curran, Assistant City Manager
3 of 497
RESOLUTION NO. 26.XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE CONFLICT
OF INTEREST CODE APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED
EMPLOYEES
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Laguna Beach adopted Resolution No. 81.1 on January 6, 1981, thereby the provisions of California Code of Regulations, Title 2, section 18730, a regulation containing the terms of a standard model Conflict of Interest Code; and WHEREAS, the Conflict of Interest Code Appendix of Designated Employees must be periodically updated to reflect the current titles and positions of those employees designated as having filing responsibilities and their disclosure categories.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES RESOLVE:
That the Conflict of Interest Code Appendix of Designated Employees in which officials and employees are designated and disclosure categories are set forth is hereby amended and incorporated by reference as Exhibit A attached hereto.
ADOPTED this 24th day of March, 2026.
Mark Orgill, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
Attachment 1
4 4 of 497
-2- Reso. #26.XXX
I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26.XXX was duly adopted at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of said City held on March 24, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER(S)
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER(S)
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER(S)
City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, CA
5 5 of 497
EXHIBIT A
CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE
APPENDIX OF DESIGNATED EMPLOYEES
List of Designated Positions Assigned Disclosure Categories ** Accounting Manager 2
Arts Commission Members 2
Assistant City Attorney 2
Assistant City Engineer 2
** Assistant City Manager/CFO 1
Assistant Director of Community Development 2
Assistant Director of Public Works 2
Assistant to the City Manager 2
Associate Civil Engineer 2
** Audit Review/Investment Committee Members 2
Battalion Chief 2
Board of Adjustment/Design Review Board Members 2
Building Inspector 2
Building Official 2
Chief Building Inspector 2
Chief of Marine Safety 1
Chief of Police 1
*** City Attorney 1
City Clerk 1
*** City Council Members 1
City Engineer 2
*** City Manager 1
*** City Treasurer 1
** Civilian Enforcement Officer 2
** Civilian Fire Marshal 2
Civilian Services Administrator 2
Code Enforcement Officer 2
Code Enforcement Supervisor 2
Communications Manager 1
* Consultants
Cultural Arts Manager 2
Deputy Building Official 2
Deputy City Attorney 2
*** Deputy City Treasurer 1
** Deputy Director of Community Development 2
Deputy Director of Public Works 2
Deputy Fire Chief 1
Director of Community Development 1
Director of Financial and Technology Services 1
Director of Human Resources/Risk Management 2
Attachment 2
6 6 of 497
EXHIBIT A
Director of Public Works & Utilities 1
Director of Transit & Community Services 1
Executive Assistant to the City Manager 2
Finance Manager 2
** Fire Battalion Chief 2
** Fire Captain 2
Fire Chief 1
Heritage Committee Members 2
Information Technology Manager 2
Marine Safety Captain 2
Network Administrator 2
Planning Commission Members 2
Planning Manager 2
Police Captain 2
Police Lieutenant 2
Principal Human Resources Analyst 2
** Procurement Officer 2
** Project Director 2
Project Manager 2
Recreation Manager 2
Senior Building Inspector 2
Senior Building Inspector/Plan Checker 2
Senior Fleet Maintenance Supervisor 2
Senior Management Analyst 2
Senior Operations Supervisor 2
Senior Principal Planner 2
Supervisor of Support Services 2
View Restoration Committee Members 2
REPORTABLE INTERESTS DISCLOSURE CATEGORIES
Category 1: A designated employee in this category must report all investments, interests in real property, income, and business entities in which he orshe is a director, officer, partner, trustee, and employee or holds any position of management.
Category 2: A designated employee in this category must report all investments, interests in real property and income associated with their job.
*Consultants shall be included in the list of designated employees and shall disclose pursuant to the broadest disclosure category in the code subject to the following limitation: The (executive director or executive officer) may determine in writing that a particular consultant, although a "designated position" is hired to perform a range of duties that is limited in scope and thus is not required to fully comply with the disclosure requirement described in this section. Such written determination shall include a description of the consultant's duties and, 7 7 of 497
EXHIBIT A
based upon that description, a statement of the extent of disclosure requirements. The (executive director's or executive officer's) determination is a public record and shall be retained for public inspection in the same manner and location as this conflict of interest code. ** Changes to the designated positions.
*** Government Code Section 87200: This article is applicable to elected state officers, judges, and commissioners of courts of the judicial branch of government, members of the Public Utilities Commission, members of the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, members of the Fair Political Practices Commission, members of the California Coastal Commission, members of the High-Speed Rail Authority, members of planning commissions, members of the board of supervisors, district attorneys, county counsels, county treasurers, and chief administrative officers of counties, mayors, city managers, city attorneys, city treasurers, chief administrative officers and members of city councils of cities, and other public officials who manage public investments, and to candidates for any of these offices at any election.
8 8 of 497
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
BUSINESS
18 SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATION FOR PUBLIC TREE REMOVALS AND REPLACEMENT
TREE PLANTINGS
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Uphold removal of the Torrey pine tree located at the Festival of Arts property and authorize planting an in-kind Torrey pine replacement tree at an alternate location within the same site;
2. Uphold removal of the Carob tree located at 264 Legion Street and authorize planting a Redbud replacement tree within the landscaped area of the Catalina roundabout;
3. Uphold removal of two Ficus trees located along Short Street adjacent to 585 Legion Street and authorize planting of two Queen palm replacement trees at same location;
4. Determine that the recommended actions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) according to State CEQA Guidelines section 15304 (Class 4) categorical exemption; and
5. Direct staff to file and post a Notice of Exemption within five days of this approval.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
This report presents staff recommendations for the removal of four public trees and the planting of replacement trees at alternate or nearby locations within the city. The proposed removals include one Torrey Pine at the Festival of Arts property, one Carob tree at 264 Legion Street, and two Ficus trees along Short Street adjacent to 585 Legion Street. Each tree has been evaluated by the City Arborist and determined to pose structural risks, infrastructure conflicts, or irreversible health decline.
Consistent with the City’s Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, notices of the proposed removals and replacement plantings were issued on February 10, 2026, and public comments were received and addressed. On March 2, 2026, Mayor Pro Tem Jones requested that the proposed removals be agendized for City Council discussion and additional public awareness.
The Fiscal Year 2025-26 adopted budget contains sufficient funding to complete the recommended tree removals and replacement plantings. Staff recommends that the City Council approve the recommended removals and replacement plantings and determine the actions are categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land).
1 of 59
RECOMMENDATION FOR PUBLIC TREE REMOVALS AND REPLACEMENT TREE
PLANTINGS
March 24, 2026
DISCUSSION
Background:
On August 13, 2024, the City Council adopted updates to the Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees. This policy establishes a transparent process to notify the City Manager, City Council, and interested members of the public about proposed public tree removals or plantings, as well as providing a mechanism for any City Councilmember to request that a proposed removal or planting be agendized for public discussion (Attachment 1).
On February 10, 2026, the Public Works & Utilities Department issued several notices to recommend the removal of five public trees and planting of nine new trees, including recommendations for the removal and replacement planting of one Torrey Pine at the Festival of Arts property, one Carob tree at 264 Legion Street, and two Ficus trees located on Short Street adjacent to 585 Legion Street. During the week following the issuance of the notices, public comments were received regarding the proposed actions and on February 25, 2026, Department staff responded to all questions received and issued Final Recommendation notices (Attachment 2).
On March 2, 2026, Mayor Pro Tem Jones requested that the proposed actions affecting the four trees noted above be placed on the agenda for City Council discussion, in accordance with the Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees
Torrey Pine Located at Festival of Arts Near Tennis Courts A declining Torrey Pine on City property at the Festival of Arts site was evaluated after several years of observed canopy thinning, chlorosis, and increasing deadwood. Soil and foliar laboratory testing conducted in June 2025 confirmed the presence of Phytophthora root rot, a soil-borne pathogen that disrupts root function and causes progressive canopy decline. The tree also exhibits symptoms consistent with ghost canker, an emerging pine disease with no established treatment. Secondary and opportunistic pests have further exploited the tree’s weakened condition, accelerating its decline beyond the point of recovery.
Additionally, no curative treatment options exist to restore long-term health or structural viability of this tree. Based on these findings, the City Arborist recommends immediate removal to mitigate the risk to public safety associated with the potential of future tree failure.
If removed, an in-kind replacement Torrey Pine is recommended to be planted at an alternate location within the same site, as the existing tree’s location is not suitable for replanting.
Carob Tree Located at 264 Legion Street
Following discussions and mutual agreement with the owners of the adjacent property at 264 Legion Street, the City formally assumed ownership of this tree in July 2025 and accepted responsibility for its ongoing maintenance. Immediately after, the tree was pruned and inspected by the City Arborist, which revealed a previously obscured trunk cavity requiring advanced Level III diagnostic testing. Resistograph and sonic tomography results confirmed extensive internal decay extending to the outer sapwood, significantly reducing the tree’s structural strength. Because this off-center decay compromises the trunk’s load-bearing capacity and increases the likelihood of whole-tree failure, the risk to the public and other nearby targets, including adjacent private property, is elevated. Based on these findings, the City Arborist recommends 2 of 59
RECOMMENDATION FOR PUBLIC TREE REMOVALS AND REPLACEMENT TREE
PLANTINGS
March 24, 2026
immediate removal to mitigate the risk to public safety associated with the potential of future tree failure.
If removed, a replacement Redbud tree is recommended to be planted at an alternate location within the landscaped area of the Catalina roundabout, as the existing tree’s location is not suitable for replanting due to several conflicts with the pedestrian path of travel within the public right of way.
Ficus Trees Located Along Short Street Adjacent to 585 Legion Street Two mature Ficus trees are located within the narrow parkway strip between Short Street and the sidewalk adjacent to 585 Legion Street. The species profile of Ficus trees includes aggressive surface roots that are significantly disturbing adjacent public and private improvements, including the street pavement, public sidewalk, and various elements of the private residence at 585 Legion Street. Removal of these trees will facilitate the repair of the damaged public infrastructure and prevent future similar damage to both public and private improvements. Additionally, failure to remove these trees and continued damage to private improvements may lead to future liability claims of damage from adjacent private owners.
If removed, two replacement Queen palm trees are recommended to be planted at the same locations, which is the recommended street tree species for Short Street identified in the Laguna Beach Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The Fiscal Year 2025-26 adopted budget contains sufficient funding with the Public Works operating budget for tree maintenance and replacement. No additional appropriations are needed for the recommended actions.
ALIGNMENT WITH CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND PRIORITIES
The recommended actions support the City Council’s priorities related to infrastructure maintenance, environmental stewardship, and public safety. Proactively removing structurally compromised or declining trees reduces the risk of failure and associated public safety hazards, while the planting of replacement trees helps maintain the City’s urban forest canopy and long-term landscape sustainability.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Staff recommends that pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), the City Council find the proposed tree removals and tree plantings are discretionary actions under CEQA that are categorically exempt from further review pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15304 (Class 4 – Minor Alterations to Land). City staff proposes to remove four (4) public trees (and planting of four (4) replacement trees) in various public rights-of-way in the City as described above. CEQA Guidelines section 15304 exempts, “minor public or private alterations in the condition of land, water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees except for forestry and agricultural purposes.” Based on the arborists report, each one of the trees subject to removal either have health issues and pose a risk to the public safety or are actively damaging public infrastructure and private property and causing increased liability risk. thus, of these trees appears to meet all three criteria of “healthy, mature, scenic trees” and thus 3 of 59
RECOMMENDATION FOR PUBLIC TREE REMOVALS AND REPLACEMENT TREE
PLANTINGS
March 24, 2026
their removal is permitted. Further, none of the exceptions listed in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply.
Staff recommends that City Council direct staff to file and post a Notice of Exemption within five days of approval of the recommended actions.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, Revised 8/13/2024 (Pg. 4-7)
2. Response to Public Comments and Final Recommendations for 5 Public Tree Removals and 9 Public Tree Plantings (Pgs. 8-58)
Submitted By: Mark McAvoy Approved: .David A Kiff
Mark McAvoy, Director of Public
Works & Utilities
Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Reza Jafari, Deputy Director/ Public Services Matthew Barker, City Arborist 4 of 59
City of
Laguna Beach
Public Works & Utilities Dept.
TREE REMOVAL PROCESS FOR PUBLIC TREES
Public trees are an asset to the community of Laguna Beach. While it is recognized that in some instances public trees may need to be removed if they are dead, in decline, diseased, or pose an imminent risk to public safety or structures, they should be preserved whenever possible. If there is a perceived failure risk, prior to the removal of any tree located in a public “park” or within a “street” right-of-way as those terms are defined in Municipal Code Section 12.04.010, the following steps shall be followed:
Private Party Request for Tree Removal: If the removal is requested by a private party, the following steps must occur:
1. The private party must submit a letter to the attention of the Director of Public Works & Utilities identifying the tree and stating the reasons for the request. Acceptable reasons may include, but are not limited to: the tree constitutes a safety hazard, the tree is damaging public/private improvements, the tree is significantly diseased and should be removed to prevent the spread of disease or pests to other nearby trees, the tree is dead, in decline, or the tree represents a fire hazard.
2. The Director of Public Works & Utilities may require the private party to pay for a City-retained arborist who is an American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) Registered Consulting Arborist and/or an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist. The arborist shall prepare a report on the condition of the tree, including how the tree meets the threshold for removal outlined in Step 1, and provide their recommendations. In some cases, the City may require an ISA Level III Risk Assessment of the tree and/or peer review by a second City-retained arborist, including when the tree appears otherwise healthy, or is free from visually observable defects. The arborist(s) shall be requested to attend meetings of the City Council. The private party will be responsible for the cost of additional reports and for the arborist(s) to attend these meetings.
3. The Director of Public Works & Utilities, or their designee, shall review the request and all available arborist reports, inspect the tree, consult with an ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist, or the City Arborist. The Director of Public Works & Utilities will make a finding and recommendation whether the tree should be removed.
INFORMATIONAL GUIDE FOR THE:
Tree Removal and
Planting Policy for
Public Trees
Revised August 13, 2024
Attachment 1
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4. If a public tree is recommended for removal, the Director of Public Works & Utilities shall provide notification of the Recommendation for Public Tree Removal and, where applicable, the recommended replacement tree species to the City Manager and the City Council. If an arborist report or reports were required by the Director of Public Works & Utilities, a copy of the report(s) will be posted to the City website. Public notification of the recommendation will be made via the City’s website and to members of the public via an interested parties subscription list. The notice shall reference that the subject tree has been identified with a high-visibility ribbon tied around it.
5. The City will accept public comments regarding the recommended removal for seven (7) calendar days. All public questions and comments must be submitted, in writing, to the Director of Public Works & Utilities, or their designee. The City will respond to public input with a written memo and a final recommendation posted to the City website.
6. The City Manager, the City Council and the subscription list will be notified of the final recommendation of the Director of Public Works & Utilities. Within two (2) business days of the posted final recommendation, any City Council member shall have the opportunity to request of the City Manager that the matter be agendized for the next available City Council meeting. In the absence of such notification, the tree may be removed immediately and, where applicable, the recommended replacement tree may be planted immediately.
City Proposal for Tree Removal: If removal is proposed by the City, the following steps must occur:
1. The Director of Public Works & Utilities must make a finding that the tree represents a safety hazard, the tree is damaging public/private improvements, the tree is significantly diseased and should be removed to prevent the spread of disease or pests to other nearby trees, the tree is dead, in decline, or the tree represents a fire hazard. The Director of Public Works & Utilities has the discretion to require a report or reports prepared by the City Arborist or a City-retained arborist or arborists who are ASCA Registered Consulting Arborists and/or ISA Certified Arborists.
If the subject tree appears otherwise healthy or is free from visually observable defects, the Director of Public Works & Utilities may require an ISA Level III Risk Assessment be performed to verify the tree is a candidate for removal.
2. A site analysis will be performed, and the Director of Public Works & Utilities will determine if this planting site is a suitable location for replacement tree planting, should the subject tree ultimately be removed. If the existing location is suitable for replacement tree planting, the Director of Public Works & Utilities will recommend a replacement tree species and include this information in the Recommendation for Public Tree Removal.
3. Sections 4, 5, and 6 and of the Private Party Request will be followed.
Heritage Trees: The intent of the Heritage Tree ordinance is to preserve distinctive trees in the City. It is a misdemeanor for any person to remove, destroy or substantially alter or cause to be removed, destroyed or substantially altered, any heritage tree in the City without obtaining a permit to do so; provided that, in cases of emergency when a tree is hazardous or dangerous to life or property, it may be removed by order of the Police or Fire Departments. Permits for removal of any designated Heritage 5 6 of 59
Tree shall comply with the provisions of Municipal Code Chapter 12.08 (“Preservation of Heritage Trees”).
Exemptions from the Tree Removal Process:
If there is an imminent risk to public safety for which the timeframe identified in this policy would put the public and/or structures in immediate danger, the Director of Public Works & Utilities may remove a tree immediately. In such cases, the Director of Public Works & Utilities shall provide notification to the City Manager and the City Council within 2 business days. The interested parties subscription list will also be notified, and a notification will be posted to the City website. For the purposes of this exemption, examples of situations where a tree may be an imminent risk to public safety include, but are not limited to:
1. Trees significantly damaged by storm events, landslides, vehicle accidents, and/or when visible structural failure of the tree has already occurred.
2. Dead or diseased trees: Dead trees are a safety, fire, and vector hazard. Diseased trees are often a vector for serious pests and diseases. Failure to immediately remove dead or diseased trees presents an unacceptable level of risk to the public and to other public and private trees in the area.
3. Small trees (less than six inches in diameter): The Director of Public Works & Utilities may remove trees of this size that are damaged, in serious decline, or in need of replacement.
4. Trees which have a “High” rating of invasiveness as determined by the California Invasive Plant Council. Because their reproductive biology and other characteristics are conducive to moderate or high rates of dispersal, these types of trees cause severe ecological impacts for native plant and animal communities.
NEW PUBLIC TREE PLANTING PROCESS
The urban forest is a green infrastructure network that provides many environmental, societal, economic, and human health benefits to the Laguna Beach community. If a public tree must be removed, the City of Laguna Beach will strive to replace that tree in the same location, whenever possible.
Planting trees in new locations is crucial to expanding canopy coverage and maximizing the benefits that the urban forest provides. The replacement of public trees that have been removed cannot by itself adequately reverse the loss of tree canopy over time. If a tree is to be planted in a public “park” or within a “street” right-of-way (as those terms are defined in Municipal Code Section 12.04.010) the following steps shall be followed:
1a. If a private party wishes to request a public tree be planted, a letter must be submitted to the attention of the Director of Public Works & Utilities requesting a public tree planting and if there is a particular species that is being requested.
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1b. If the City is proposing a public tree planting, information will be left with the adjacent property owner to inform them of the new public tree planting opportunity and the recommended species.
2. The Director of Public Works & Utilities, or their designee, shall review the request, perform a site assessment, and will make a finding on whether this is a viable tree planting location. An Initial Recommendation for Public Tree Planting will be made, including which species is proposed for this location. The criteria for determining tree planting size or species include, but are not limited to: recommendations made by the Laguna Beach Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document, location of nearby utilities (above and below ground), size of the planting area, proximity to other public or privately owned trees, conflicts with public or private infrastructure including lighting elements, ADA compliance, site distance obstruction, fire safety considerations, significant view impairment to established Record of Views on file with the City, and neighborhood objections. When planting trees in new locations, the City will seek to minimize significant view impairmentsto properties with established Record of Views on file with the City. The Director of Public Works & Utilities may require the City Arborist to produce a report that outlines the site assessment and Recommendation for Public Tree Planting.
3. A wooden stake with a high-visibility ribbon will be placed at the location where the tree planting is being proposed. In the case of multiple tree plantings, the field marker will be labelled with the species to be planted in that location. Public notification of the Recommendation for Public Tree Planting will be posted to the City’s website, sent via email to the interested parties subscription list, and sent via First-Class mail to all property owners within 500 feet of the proposed tree planting location. In addition, properties outside of the 500-foot radius with an established Record of Views on file with the City, will be notified if there is the potential for significant view impairment.
4. The City will accept public comments regarding the proposed public tree planting for seven (7) calendar days. All public questions and comments must be submitted, in writing, to the Director of Public Works & Utilities, or their designee. The City will respond to public input with a written memo and a final recommendation posted to the City website.
5. The City Manager, the City Council, the subscription list, and all affected property owners described in Section 3 will be notified of the final recommendation of the Director of Public Works & Utilities. Within two (2) business days of the posted recommendation, any City Council member shall have the opportunity to request of the City Manager that the matter be agendized for the next available City Council meeting. In the absence of such notification, the tree may be planted immediately.
Exemptions from the Public Tree Planting Process:
1. In-kind species replacement planting of trees at locations with a previously approved Recommendation for Public Tree Planting.
2. Replacement planting of trees in conformance with a previously approved landscape plan. 7 8 of 59
COVER MEMORANDUM
Date: February 25, 2026
To: Laguna Beach City Council;
Dave Kiff, City Manager;
Urban Forestry Interested Parties List
From: Mark A. McAvoy, Director of Public Works & Utilities Subject: Response to Public Comments and Final Recommendations for (5) Public Tree Removals and (9) Public Tree Plantings
On February 10, 2026, the Public Works & Utilities Department issued several recommendations for the removal of five public trees and planting of nine public trees at various locations. • Recommendation for Tree Planting of (1) Torrey pine at the Festival of Arts property as an in-kind replacement for a previously failed tree at the same planting location. • Recommendation for Removal and Replacement of (1) Torrey pine tree at the Festival of Arts property. Existing tree is in severe irreversible decline. • Recommendation for Removal and Replacement of (1) structurally compromised Carob tree at 264 Legion St. This location is not suitable for replacement planting; therefore, a replacement tree planting is recommended at the nearby Catalina Roundabout. • Notice of Tree Removal for (1) dead Aleppo pine tree near 31788 Florence Avenue. • Recommendation for Removal of (2) Ficus trees along Short Street, adjacent to 585 Legion Street, and planting of (2) queen palm trees as replacements. • Recommendation for (4) new Tree Plantings within the landscaped median at Virgina Park Drive. These trees were selected in collaboration with several adjacent residents.
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Replacement Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works Department has accepted public comments for seven calendar days and is providing the attached responses to all questions received during this period.
Attachments: Response to Public Comments
Final Recommendations for Public Tree Removals and Plantings Attachment 2
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Responses to Public Comments for Recommended Tree Removals and Tree Plantings
1. Q: Is the carob tree at 264 Legion Street a public tree, or a tree that is privately owned and maintained?
A: The Carob tree in front of 264 Legion Street is a public tree. It was privately maintained by the adjacent property owner until July 2025. In July 2025, the adjacent property owner and the City mutually agreed to transfer ongoing maintenance responsibility to the City.
2. Q: Could pruning be performed on the canopy of the carob tree at 264 Legion Street to reduce weight on the leaning side of the tree?
A: Although additional pruning could be performed to reduce canopy weight on the leaning side of the carob tree, this would not sufficiently mitigate the risk of future tree failure and its potential threat to public safety. Peripheral sapwood fibers provide most of a tree’s load-bearing strength, and decay affecting these outer fibers results in a disproportionate loss of structural capacity. Because this tree has significant sapwood decay and compromised peripheral sapwood, adequate structural integrity cannot be restored through pruning, and removal is recommended to mitigate the risks associated with tree failure. Additional information can be found in the attached Arborist Report.
3. Q: Have advanced diagnostics been conducted on the root system of the carob tree at 264 Legion Street to determine whether it is structurally capable of supporting the tree? A: No, there is no evidence pointing to significant defects of this tree’s root system. City staff were concerned about the tree’s structural integrity along its trunk; therefore, advanced diagnostics were performed on the trunk, not the roots. Both resistograph testing and sonic tomographic imaging were conducted to evaluate internal wood condition within the trunk and determine the extent of decay in that area. The results of which are included in the attached Arborist Report.
4. Q: What diagnostic testing has been conducted on the Torrey Pine that is recommended for removal adjacent to the tennis court on the Festival of Arts property? What treatment is recommended to revive this tree?
A: Diagnostic testing included a Level 2 visual assessment and laboratory analysis of soil and foliage samples collected during an on-site inspection to identify underlying stressors and pathogens. Additionally, the tree shows symptoms consistent with ghost canker, a recently emerging pine disease. Although the pathogen was not detected in limb samples, symptom expression suggests possible early-stage involvement or susceptibility. There is currently no established treatment protocol for ghost canker. Recommended management is limited to stress reduction and sanitation practices for pruning tools.
Maintenance treatments such as crown cleaning, irrigation adjustments, mulching, and soil remediation were recommended only to prolong retention, not to cure the tree. As there are no feasible ways to protect targets during an inevitable failure, removal is the only feasible option to adequately mitigate the risks associated with future tree failure. 9 10 of 59
5. Q: Will the City consider planting larger-canopy species in the Virginia Park Drive median? Why can’t we plant oaks or sycamores?
A: City staff and neighboring residents worked together to identify 2 species of ornamental and medium shade trees for the Virgina Park Drive median. We believe these trees are species that represent the neighboring community’s desired tree palette and can be easily maintained by City staff.
6. Q: Why is there a dead stump in the Virginia Park Drive median? Please remove it.
A: This stump was intentionally left in place at the request of an adjacent resident following the removal of a dead public tree. Because no replacement planting was recommended for this location, the request was approved and the stump was retained as a desired landscape feature.
7. Q: Why are palm trees being planted to replace Ficus trees on Short Street? They provide little shade and are aesthetically unattractive.
A: Queen palms are the recommended street parkway tree for Short Street as identified in the Laguna Beach Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document.
8. Q: Can the City plant a replacement Carob tree nearby, potentially by expanding the curb or sidewalk to create adequate planting space in the current location? A: No, it is not feasible. The existing configuration within the public right of way is inadequate to replant a tree due to several conflicts with pedestrian path of travel within the public right of way. In order to properly plant a public tree within the sidewalk area would require significant reconstruction of the street and sidewalk, as well as elimination of existing on-street parking.
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Final Recommendation for Public Tree Planting
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department recommends the planting of a Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana) tree in front of 650 Laguna Canyon Road to replace a previously removed privatelymaintained public tree.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Planting
505 FOREST AVE. LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 TEL (949) 497-0711 FAX (949) 497-0771
Proposed
planting site
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Final Recommendation for Public Tree
Removal and Replacement Planting
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department recommends the removal and in-kind replacement of 1 Torrey pine (Pinus torreyana) tree at 650 Laguna Canyon Road. The tree to be removed is located adjacent to the tennis courts near the Festival of Arts property.
This location is not suitable for replanting a tree; therefore, the replacement tree will be planted in another location on this property.
This privately-maintained public tree is in a state of irreversible decline and the possibility of future tree failure poses a potential risk to public safety.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Removal
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Arborist Report
Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana)
Tree Inventory ID: N/A
Address: 650 Laguna Canyon Rd
Report Author: Matthew Barker - City Arborist
Report Date: February 6, 2026
INTRODUCTION AND OBSERVATIONS
From February 2022 through mid-2025, I repeatedly raised concerns to FOA Operations regarding the declining health of a Torrey Pine on City property managed by FOA, citing reduced vigor, crown thinning, chlorosis, and increasing deadwood. Over multiple communications, I consistently recommended engaging a consulting arborist and performing soil and/or foliar analysis to identify underlying stressors, but no diagnostic testing was undertaken. Despite continued observations showing gradual decline, management efforts focused primarily on prophylactic bark beetle treatments rather than root-cause evaluation. Following leadership changes within FOA Operations in late 2024, Mr. Graham agreed to obtain consulting arborist input and continue borer treatments already in place. A Level 2 visual tree assessment conducted in October 2024 found the tree in fair condition and recommended retention with monitoring and selective pruning but did not recommend soil analysis. In March 2025, a follow-up proposal emphasized pruning and micronutrient soil drenching without prior confirmation of soil deficiencies. After reviewing all arborist reports and treatment records during an on-site meeting in June 2025, I confirmed that no soil analysis had been recommended or performed at any stage despite long-standing indicators of decline.
In June 2025, after receiving approval from the FOA Operations team, I requested that West Coast Arborists perform soil and foliar sampling to diagnose the declining Torrey Pine and formally authorized the work on June 16, 2025. Laboratory results received on July 18, 2025, confirmed the presence of Phytophthora spp., a soil- and root-borne pathogen that causes root rot, vascular disruption, and progressive canopy dieback, and is considered the primary driver of the tree’s decline.
Phytophthora infections are strongly associated with prolonged or inconsistent soil moisture and poor root-zone aeration, conditions that compromise root function and accelerate decline. In addition to the confirmed pathogen, the tree exhibits symptoms consistent with ghost canker, a recently emerging pine disease caused by Neofusicoccum species. Although Neofusicoccum was not detected in the submitted limb samples, symptom expression suggests potential susceptibility or early-stage involvement. There is currently no established treatment protocol for ghost canker, and management is limited to stress reduction and sanitation practices. The combined presence of a confirmed Phytophthora infection and suspected ghost canker symptoms indicates a poor prognosis and a low likelihood of recovery.
The analysis does not document evidence of bark beetles or other boring insects, nor were insects identified in the soil or tissue samples. While the tree had previously received prophylactic treatments for pine bark beetles, those treatments appear to have been preventative rather than responsive to confirmed activity.
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RECCOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings of the certified arborist report and laboratory analysis, the Torrey Pine is unlikely to recover due to advanced decline associated with Phytophthora infection and chronic root-zone stress. The report recommends continued monitoring of the tree’s condition with the understanding that decline is expected to progress. Once the tree reaches a point of irreversible failure or mortality, full removal of the tree, including stump removal, is recommended. No curative treatment options were identified that would restore long-term health or structural viability. Removal is presented as the eventual and necessary outcome based on the tree’s prognosis. 14 15 of 59
FESTIVAL OF ARTS PROPERTY
Certified Arborist Report
SUBMITTED TO:
Mathew Barker
City of Laguna Beach
City Arborist
PREPARED BY:
Lissette A. Rios
Urban Biologist
ISA Certified Arborist WE-15480A
Certified Associate Ecologist, ESA-213290
July 18th, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BACKGROUND AND ASSIGNMENT .............................................................................. 2 GENERAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...................................................... 2 OBSERVATIONS.............................................................................................................. 2 SUMMARY DISCUSSION ................................................................................................ 3 MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................................................... 3 SITE MAP ......................................................................................................................... 5 APPENDIX A - SAMPLE PHOTOS................................................................................... 6 APPENDIX B - SPECIES PROFILE .................................................................................. 10 APPENDIX C – PATHOLOGY REPORT......................................................................... 11 APPENDIX D – HEALTH & CONDITION COMPONENTS ............................................. 15 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................. 16 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING CONDITIONS ............................................................. 16 CERTIFICATE OF PERFORMANCE ................................................................................ 17 16 17 of 59
BACKGROUND AND ASSIGNMENT
West Coast Arborists, Inc (WCA) was contacted by Matthew Barker, City Arborist for Laguna Beach, for arborists services to inspect one Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana) at the Festival of Arts property, which appears to be in decline. Following the approval of the proposal, my colleague, Kelly Parkins, and I visited the site on June 24th, 2025, to inspect the designated trees per the scope of work. The scope of work for the requested arborist services as provided in proposal # 96998:
Perform a general health assessment of one Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana) located at the Festival of Arts Property.
o General health assessment is a basic health evaluation: a 360-degree ground inspection of the tree flare, above-ground roots, trunk, and crown, as well as surrounding site conditions.
o The assessment includes foliage and soil samples for pathology testing. Produce one summary certified arborist report.
Provide maintenance recommendations. This report is not a risk assessment. Update all relevant information, including images, in Arbor Access.
GENERAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
The subject trees were each evaluated for general health. This level of assessment involves a ground-based, visual inspection of the trees including the surrounding site and a synthesis of the information collected. This report is not a risk assessment. The individual tree was visually assessed from ground-level, to identify obvious defects or specified conditions. This is a basic arborist report where the consultant will perform a visual observation from the ground. This report includes inspecting and determining the species, diameter at standard height (DSH), structural and vigor conditions, dripline environment, recommendations for maintenance pruning, plant health care recommendations and noting any further inspection that is required. Inspections were conducted via walking the listed locations and identifying trees via WCA Mobile, which updates Arbor Access.
OBSERVATIONS
At the request of the city, West Coast Arborists performed an inspection of a severely declining Torrey pine located at the Festival of Arts property adjacent to the tennis courts.
The primary objective was to evaluate tree health, identify contributing stressors, and provide treatment recommendations. As part of the inspection, soil and tissue samples were collected for pathology and nutrient analysis.
The pine tree is planted within a raised planting bed that is surrounded by a low decorative retaining wall made of stacked natural stone, approximately 8ft wide, and parallel to the fence of the tennis court. It presents with browning throughout the canopy, tip banding with needle and stem dieback and a dull brown appearance. There is a large streak of sap flow present on the upper portion of the trunk as well as a buried root collar. 17 18 of 59
SUMMARY DISCUSSION
Based on laboratory analysis of soil and foliage samples, the subject tree was found to be affected by a root and soil-borne pathogen. The identified pathogen contributing to the observed disease symptoms and overall decline is Phytophthora. This pathogen is known to cause root rot, vascular disruption, and foliar dieback. For a detailed description of the pathogen and the biological characteristics, please refer to Appendix B. The complete pathology laboratory report is provided in Appendix C.
In addition to the confirmed presence of Phytophthora, the following environmental and siterelated stressors may be exacerbating pine decline:
• Inconsistent or extreme soil moisture levels
• Possible soil compaction or anaerobic root conditions • Limited root soil volume
While the laboratory analysis identified only one pathogen, another potential concern is ghost canker, a newly emerging disease affecting pines, caused by Neofusicoccum species.
Although no pathogens were detected in the limb samples, the presence of symptoms consistent with ghost canker in this tree suggests a potential susceptibility to the disease.
Unfortunately, there is currently no established protocol for managing ghost cankers.
However, standard best practices should be followed, including minimizing wounding to the tree and thoroughly sanitizing pruning tools to reduce the risk of disease spreading.
MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the observations and laboratory analysis provided in this report, the following maintenance recommendations are offered:
The Torrey Pine will most likely not be able to regain health, we recommend reducing the canopy load by a crown cleaning the dead branches and twigs, then retaining and monitoring the tree until it succumbs. At that point, a full tree and stump removal will be required.
• GRID/ROUTINE TRIM
o Reduce the canopy size, retain the tree and monitor its health. A full tree and stump removal will most likely be required in the future. o To prevent the spread of any pathogens during pruning operations, all cutting tools should be disinfected between each palm using a 10% bleach solution or 70% isopropyl alcohol.
o Pruning that utilizes the following natural pruning systems can be implemented:
Pruning to clean: Cleaning is the selective removal of dead, diseased, infested, and/or broken branches. This type of pruning is done to reduce the risk of branches falling from the tree and to reduce the movement of decay, insects, and diseases for dead or dying branches into the rest of the tree.
Pruning for structure: The objective of structural pruning is to influence the orientation, spacing, growth rate, strength of attachments, and ultimate size of remaining and any new branches and stems. This 18 19 of 59
pruning type focuses on the removal of broken, dead, diseased, or damaged branches and the reduction of the largest and competing branches. Although this procedure is generally undertaken on young and medium-aged trees, it is also used with aging trees to reduce certain defects and encourage better spacing of main branches along the one dominant trunk. Structural pruning acts to reduce the number of larger branches, so they remain smaller than about half the trunk diameter, which helps prevent failures later.
For the adjacent pine trees, we recommend monitoring them for signs of decline and taking the following preventative measures to aid against phytophthora and potentially ghost canker.
• IRRIGATION TREATMENT
o Address the current soil moisture conditions and irrigation schedule to ensure that the tree is not being overwatered.
Drip irrigation is recommended to allow a slow, consistent percolation of water into the soil near the tree roots.
If the irrigation type and frequency cannot be amended, then grading the tree planting area or creating a planting island can be an option to control waterlogged soil.
o Allow the soil to dry out and then begin the new irrigation schedule. o A ring of mulch should be applied at the base of the tree. Distance from trunk: Keep mulch 2–4 inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and rot.
Depth: Apply mulch in a layer about 3–4 inches deep.
Coverage Area: Extend the mulch out to the drip line (the area under the outer edge of the tree canopy) if possible.
• AIR SPADING & MICROBIAL INOCULATION
o It is recommended to air spade 8-10ft circles around the root zone, followed by microbial inoculation.
o Air spade the surrounding soil and add Diehard Root Reviver mixed with compost to the treatment area. Add 5 pounds of slow-release fertilizer. Mix all the materials with soil using the air spade and level the material back over the root zone. Water thoroughly for the next week and then one month later, treat with Subdue and Mitagrow to further enhance root establishment.
The controlling authority will need to determine which recommended maintenance options to employ and is responsible for all scheduling of such work. All tree work shall comply with current industry standards and specifically the criteria provided in the ISA Best Management Practices, ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards.
The intent of this report is to provide as complete and unbiased an opinion as possible regarding the current health and condition of the specific tree discussed above. I anticipate that the information provided is sufficient to enable management staff to make necessary decisions regarding the maintenance of these trees. However, should you have 19 20 of 59
any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact me at (714) 783-5457.
Respectfully,
Lissette Rios
Lissette Rios
Urban Biologist/ISA Certified Arborist WE-15480A
Certified Associate Ecologist ESA-213290
West Coast Arborists, Inc.
SITE MAP
Map 1: The locations of the subject tree at the Festival of Arts grounds in Laguna Beach. 20 21 of 59
APPENDIX A - SAMPLE PHOTOS
Photo 1. The subject tree located in a narrow-raised planter bed, notice the thinned out canopy and excessive dieback.
21 22 of 59
Photo 2. The trunk of the subject tree, notice the buried root collar. 22 23 of 59
Photo 3. A cut branch from the subject tree, notice the dieback and low pine needle density.
23 24 of 59
Photo 4. A sample of the needles from the cut branch, notice the chlorotic banding and sooty mold spotting which can indicate a more serious issue like pest infestation. 24 25 of 59
APPENDIX B - SPECIES PROFILE
Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana) The Torrey pine is a rare, endangered species of pine tree native to California. Torrey pines are evergreen trees with a rounded, open and airey crown, with large branches and rough, flaky bark. They can grow to be 25–60 feet tall, but are usually around 40 ft. Their gray-green needles are 8–12 inches long and grow in groups of five. Their cones are 4–6 inches wide and long, and contain large, hard-shelled pine nuts that are edible. Native habitat is the coast of San Diego County and on Santa Rosa and San Miguel Islands. They can survive in semi-arid areas with low rainfall because of the coastal fog in the spring and summer. These are the rarest pine species in the United States and their numbers are limited by their harsh natural habitat and the small area they occupy. Torrey pines are threatened by fire, disease, climate change, and poaching. Medium branch strength rating a moderate root damage potential.
Phytophthora spp. Several species of soilborne pathogens in the genus Phytophthora cause root and crown rot (sometimes called collar rot) diseases of herbaceous and woody plants.
Almost all fruit and nut trees, as well as many ornamental trees and shrubs (including many California natives), can develop Phytophthora root or crown rot if the soil around the base of the plant remains wet for prolonged periods, or when planted too deeply. Different species of Phytophthora attack different plants, and sometimes a single plant can be infected by multiple Phytophthora species. Most Phytophthora species are soil-borne, and are active in warm, moist soils. However, some species prefer cool conditions, developing mostly in wintertime. These pathogens kill trees and shrubs by growing from the roots up through the root crown and into the lower trunk, where they kill the inner bark and cause browning of the outer layer of sapwood. Losses to Phytophthora are minimized by providing good soil drainage, appropriate irrigation, managing plant stress and soil salinity, and selecting resistant plants or varieties. The pathogen can be spread in splashing rain or irrigation water, in surface irrigation and runoff water, and by movement of contaminated soil, equipment, or plant parts. Flooded and saturated soil favors the spread of Phytophthora to healthy plants. The most important factor in reducing the development of Phytophthora root and crown rot diseases is appropriate water management. Avoid prolonged saturation of the soil or standing water around the base of trees or other susceptible plants. Without causing undue stress to the plant in question, allow the top few inches of soil to dry thoroughly between watering. If you irrigate trees with sprinklers, use low-angle sprinkler heads and splitters to avoid wetting the trunk and lower branches.Long periods of soaking rain or irrigation reduce the soil oxygen content, making healthy plants susceptible to Phytophthora diseases.
25 26 of 59
APPENDIX C – PATHOLOGY REPORT
26 27 of 59
27 28 of 59
28 29 of 59
29 30 of 59
APPENDIX D – HEALTH & CONDITION COMPONENTS
Health & Condition components
Rating
category Health Structure Form
Percent
rating
Excellent High vigor and nearly perfect
health with little or no twig
dieback, discoloration, or
defoliation.
Nearly ideal and free of defects. Nearly ideal for the species.
Generally symmetric. Consistent with
the intended use.
81%
to
100%
Good Vigor is normal for the species.
No significant damage due to
diseases or pests. Any twig
dieback, defoliation, or
discoloration is minor.
Well-developed structure.
Defects are minor and can be
corrected.
Minor asymmetries and/or
deviations from species norm.
Mostly consistent with the intended
use. Function and aesthetics are not
compromised.
61%
to
80%
Fair Reduced vigor. Damage due to
insects or diseases may be
significant and associated with
defoliation but is not likely to
be fatal. Twig dieback,
defoliation, discoloration,
and/or dead branches may
comprise up to 50% of the
crown.
A single defect of a significant
nature or multiple moderate
defects. Defects are not practical
to correct or require multiple
treatments over several years.
Major asymmetries and/or
deviations from species norm or
intended use. Function or aesthetics
are compromised.
41%
to
60%
Poor Unhealthy and declining in
appearance. Poor vigor. Low
foliage density and poor
foliage color are present.
Potentially fatal pest
infestation. Extensive twig
and/or branch dieback.
A single serious defect, or
multiple significant defects. Recent
change in tree orientation.
Observed structural problems
cannot be corrected. Failure may
occur at any time.
Largely asymmetric and/or
abnormal. Detracts from intended
use and/or aesthetics to a
significant degree.
21%
to
40%
Very Poor Poor vigor. Appears to be
dying and in the last stages of
life. Little live foliage.
Single or multiple severe defects.
Failure is probable or imminent.
Visually unappealing. Provides little
or no function in the landscape.
6% to
20%
Dead 0% to
5%
This table is taken from the Guide for Plant Appraisal, 10th Edition. 30 31 of 59
REFERENCES
Costello, Laurence R., Edward J. Perry, Nelda P. Matheny, J. Michael Henry and Pamela M. Geisel. Abiotic Disorders of Landscape Plants: A Diagnostic Guide. University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources Publication. 2003. Print Council of Tree & Landscape Appraisers, Guide for Plant Appraisal, 10th Edition, 2nd Printing. International Society of Arboriculture, 2019. Print Lilly, Sharon J., Edward F. Gilman, and E. Thomas Smiley. Best Management Practices:
Tree Pruning (Third Edition). Illinois: International Society of Arboriculture, 2019. Print
ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING CONDITIONS
1. Care has been taken to obtain all information from reliable sources. All data has been verified insofar as possible; however, the Consultant can neither guarantee nor be responsible for the accuracy of the information supplied by others. Standard of Care has been met with regards to this project within reasonable and normal conditions.
2. The Consultant will not be required to give testimony or to attend court by reason of this report unless subsequent contractual arrangements are made, including payment of an additional fee for such services as described in the fee schedule and contract of engagement.
3. Loss or alteration of any part of this report invalidates the entire report.
4. Possession of this report or a copy thereof does not imply a right to publication or use for any purpose by any other than the person to whom it is addressed without the prior written consent of the Consultant.
5. This report and any values expressed herein represent the opinion of the Consultant, and the Consultant's fee is in no way contingent upon the reporting of a stipulated result, a specified value, the occurrence of a subsequent event, nor upon any finding to be reported.
6. Unless expressed otherwise: 1) the information contained in this report covers only those items examined and reflects the condition of those items at the time of inspection; and 2) the inspection is limited to visual examination of accessible items without dissection, excavation, or coring unless otherwise stated. There is no warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, that problems or deficiencies of the tree(s) or property in question may not arise in the future.
7. Arborists are tree specialists who use their education, knowledge, training, and experience to examine trees, recommend measures to enhance the beauty and health of trees, and attempt to reduce the risk of living near trees. It is highly recommended that you follow the arborist's recommendations; however, you may choose to accept or disregard the recommendations and/or seek additional advice.
31 32 of 59
8. Arborists cannot detect every condition that could possibly lead to the structural failure of a tree. Trees are living organisms that fail in ways we do not fully understand. Conditions are often hidden within trees and below ground. Arborists cannot guarantee that a tree will be healthy or safe under all circumstances or for a specific period of time.
9. Any recommendations and/or performed treatments (including, but not limited to, pruning or removal) of trees may involve considerations beyond the scope of the arborist's services, such as property boundaries, property ownership, site lines, disputes between neighbors, and any other related issues. Arborists cannot take such considerations into account unless complete and accurate information is disclosed to the arborist. An arborist can then be expected to consider and reasonably rely on the completeness and accuracy of the information provided.
10. The author has no personal interest or bias with respect to the subject matter of this report, or the parties involved. He/she has inspected the subject tree(s), and to the best of their knowledge and belief, all statements and information presented in the report are true and correct.
CERTIFICATE OF PERFORMANCE
I, Lissette Rios, Certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief:
1. The statements of fact contained in this report are true and correct.
2. I have personally inspected the tree(s), and property referenced in this report and accurately stated my findings.
3. I have no current or prospective interest in the tree(s) or the property that is/are the subject of this report, and I have no personal interest or bias concerning the parties involved.
4. The analysis, opinions, and conclusions were developed, and this report has been prepared according to commonly accepted arboricultural practices and standards.
5. No one provided significant professional assistance to me, except where they may be noted within the report.
6. My compensation is not contingent upon the reporting of conclusions that favor the cause of my client or any other party or upon the assessment results, the attainment of stipulated outcomes, or the occurrence of any subsequent events.
I further certify that I am a member of good standing with the International Society of Arboriculture, an ISA Certified Arborist. I have been a Certified Arborist since 2024 and have been practicing municipal arboriculture for over 3 years.
Respectfully,
Lissette Rios
Urban Biologist / ISA Certified Arborist WE-15480A
West Coast Arborists, Inc. | 714-783-5457 | [email protected] 32 33 of 59
Final Recommendation for Public Tree
Removal and Replacement Planting
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department recommends the removal and replacement planting of one (1) Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) tree at 264 Legion St. This location is not a suitable planting location. A replacement redbud (Cercis occidentalis) tree is recommended in the Catalina roundabout.
The City Arborist has determined this public tree has significant structural defects and is a potential risk to public safety.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Removal Proposed Tree Planting
33 34 of 59
Arborist Report
Carob Tree (Ceratonia siliqua)
Tree Inventory ID: 16315481
264 Legion Street - Laguna Beach, CA
Matthew Barker – City Arborist
Report date: January 23, 2026
INTRODUCTION
This tree’s ownership and maintenance responsibility were officially transferred from the adjacent property owner to the City in July 2025. Following the ownership transfer, the City Arborist inspected the tree and directed a specific pruning treatment performed by the City’s tree care contractor, West Coast Arborists. This pruning aimed to correct defects that had been developing through many years of deferred maintenance. Upon completion of this work, a previously obscured cavity was identified. A Level II inspection was performed. It was determined a Level III inspection was required to examine the extent of the cavity. This report compiles the findings of both the Level II and Level III inspections. The findings are valid for 24 months after the report date.
OBSERVATIONS
My assessment took place on a clear day, with full visibility and no obstructions to any part of the tree. Beginning with the root system, I observed that approximately 75 percent of the root zone is covered by an asphalt road surface. The remaining 25 percent extends into a natural, pervious surface within the front yard of a typical residential property. Turf coverage is sparse and does not extend to the base of the tree, with minor ornamental plantings present nearby.
A thorough pruning of this tree was performed to reduce branch-end density across the entire crown, after the City took ownership of this tree. After removing some excess sucker growth from the trunk, a large cavity was spotted facilitating the advanced diagnostics. Two primary scaffold limbs have competed for apical dominance over time, while a third scaffold on the west side lost dominance earlier in the tree’s development.
The lead on the house side of the canopy has been stunted by utility pruning to accommodate the overhead wires. The lead on the street side of the canopy has been elevated over the roadway, to accommodate traffic resulting in a canopy ratio of approximately 1:1.
Crown vigor was assessed as moderate. As observed, the crown is showing signs of good vascular functions, with little difficulty pushing water and nutrients to the upper portion of the crown. The leaf size, shape, color, density, and turgidity were all normal. No general pattern of dieback or major dead wood in the upper crown was visible, indicating a functioning root-to-canopy relationship.
There is an existing cabling system in the canopy to support this triple lead crown architecture. This system is a hub and spoke setup with the central floating O-ring and J-lag anchors. Although the system no longer provides meaningful structural support due to improper placement, removal would likely result in a net negative impact to tree health; therefore, the system should remain in place.
The trunk showed several deformities or cavities that all appear to be connected within the interior of the individual. Multiple fruit bodies were observed in the upper branches, and in and around these cavities, indicating a connected decay column internally. As a result, resistograph and sonic topographical tests were ordered to understand the extent of this internal decay.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECCOMENDATIONS
34 35 of 59
Based on the resistograph and sonic topographical tests, the internal decay has spread to the periphery of the trunk, weakening the tree’s structural capacity beyond the loads that are placed upon it. Off-center decay results in significantly greater strength loss than centered decay because outer wood contributes disproportionately more to structural strength than internal heartwood. The tree’s response wood and compartmentalization processes have not adequately sequestered the decay.
After reviewing all available data, it is my position that the loss of structurally significant sapwood at the periphery of the trunk has elevated the risk of whole-tree failure to a probable level. The tree’s location at the edge of a moderately busy road between Coast Highway and Glenneyre Street increases the likelihood of impact to valuable targets, with consequences exceeding the threshold of acceptable risk. As there are no feasible ways to protect such targets in the event of a failure, the overall tree risk rating is Moderate, and removal is the only feasible option to adequately mitigate the risk posed to the City. 35 36 of 59
Reading a Resistograph
A Resistograph is a nondestructive diagnostic tool used in arboriculture and wood science to assess the internal condition of wood by measuring resistance as a very fine needle drills into the material. As the needle penetrates the wood, the instrument generates a graph, called a resistogram. This visually represents changes in wood density along the drilling path. High amplitudes on the graph indicate sound, dense wood, while low amplitudes reveal areas of decay, rot, cracking, or hollowing that may not be visible from the outside.
On a typical resistogram, the green line represents drilling resistance (torque at the drill tip), which directly correlates to wood density and structural integrity. The blue line represents the feed rate or pressure required to advance the needle through the wood. While each line provides useful information on its own, interpreting them together is critical: a significant, simultaneous drop in both the green and blue lines strongly indicate advanced decay or a hollow cavity, whereas isolated changes may reflect moisture variation, minor degradation, or changes in wood anatomy rather than true structural loss.
Reading a Sonic Tomogram
A sonic tomogram is a non-destructive imaging tool used in arboriculture to visualize the internal condition of a tree trunk using sound wave velocity, much like an “acoustic X-ray.” Multiple sensors are placed around a horizontal plane of the trunk and sound pulses are generated between them. Because sound travels fastest through dense, solid wood and slower through compromised or missing wood, the instrument calculates apparent sound velocities and displays them on a color-coded image of the cross section. This gives arborists a detailed map of decay, cavities, and structural integrity without drilling or cutting into the tree.
On a typical sonic tomogram, color coding helps interpret the internal wood condition:
• Brown/Black: Represents sound, high-density wood with the highest sound velocities, indicating a solid, healthy structure.
• Green: Indicates transition wood or early-stage decay, where the wood’s density and elasticity are beginning to change but major structural loss hasn’t yet occurred. • Purple/Blue: Represents significant decay, soft rot, or hollow cavities, where sound waves travel very slowly due to loss of material or integrity, signaling low structural strength. 36 37 of 59
37 38 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.ID numberDrilling depthDateTimeFeed speed ::::::
1264 LEGION CAROB - 115.803 "07.08.202513:45:5950 "/min Needle speedNeedle stateTiltOffsetAvg. curve
:::::
5000 r/min----14°109/527off
DiameterLevelDirectionSpeciesLocationName
::::::
Assessment
FromFromFromFromFromFrom
0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "
totototototo
0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "0.00 "
::::::
Comment
Wood InspectorOff
Measurement001
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
020406080100
38 Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
2 264 LEGION CAROB - 2
15.799 "
07.08.2025
13:47:23
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
-12°
100/406
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement002
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
39 40 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
3 264 LEGION CAROB - 3
15.803 "
07.08.2025
13:48:32
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
-14°
90/377
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement003
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
40 41 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
4 264 LEGION CAROB - 4
15.803 "
07.08.2025
13:49:30
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
-11°
91/377
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement004
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
41 42 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
5 264 LEGION CAROB - 5
15.803 "
07.08.2025
13:51:16
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
-14°
88/402
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement005
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
42 43 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
6 264 LEGION CAROB - 6
15.799 "
07.08.2025
13:53:06
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
+47°
104/389
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement006
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
43 44 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
7 264 LEGION CAROB - 7
15.787 "
07.08.2025
13:54:45
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
+49°
118/360
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement007
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
44 45 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
8 264 LEGION CAROB - 8
15.795 "
07.08.2025
13:58:04
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
+15°
101/385
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement008
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
45 46 of 59
Measuring / object data
Measurement no.
ID number
Drilling depth
Date
Time
Feed speed
:
:
:
:
:
:
9 264 LEGION CAROB - 9
15.799 "
07.08.2025
13:59:28
50 "/min
Needle speed
Needle state
Tilt
Offset
Avg. curve
:
:
:
:
:
5000 r/min
---
-19°
85/369
off
Diameter
Level
Direction
Species
Location
Name
:
:
:
:
:
:
Assessment
From
From
From
From
From
From
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
to
to
to
to
to
to
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
0.00 "
:
:
:
:
:
:
Comment
Wood Inspector
Off
Measurement009
Drilling depth [Inch]
Amplitude [%]
16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
0 20
40 60
80 100
46 47 of 59
Figure 1: Main Unions, showing branch/crown architecture 47 48 of 59
Figure 2: Trunk. Note the decay cavities on the periphery of the sapwood. 48 49 of 59
Figure 3: Main cavity
49 50 of 59
Figure 4: remnants of a fruiting body in another cavity on the trunk 50 51 of 59
Figure 5: Remnants of other fruiting bodies found along the trunk, and scaffolding branches 51 52 of 59
Figure 6: Overall view of the tree
52 53 of 59
Figure 7: Old cabling system still in place
53 54 of 59
Final Notice of Public Tree Removal
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department intends to schedule the removal of 1 Aleppo pine (Pinus halopensis) tree at 31788 Florence Avenue. This location is not a suitable planting location and will not be replanted.
The City Arborist has determined this public tree is dead and is a potential risk to public safety.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Removal
54 55 of 59
Arborist Report
Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis)
Tree Inventory ID: 14383057
Address: 31788 5th Avenue – Laguna Beach
Report Author: Matthew Barker - City Arborist
Report Date: 1/29/2026
INTRODUCTION
Several residents contacted the City regarding a tree they believed to be in distress due to abnormal crown discoloration and requested an inspection and care recommendations. I conducted an on-site inspection of the tree to assess its condition. The findings and conclusions in this report are valid for twelve months from the report date.
OBSERVATIONS
The assessment was conducted on a clear day with full visibility and no obstructions to the tree. The tree is located within a sloped landscape median between 5th Avenue and Florence Avenue. The majority of the tree’s critical root zone is covered by impervious roadway surface; however, there is adequate growing space for a tree of this size within the remaining landscaped area.
The base of the tree is obscured by ground cover and ornamental plantings, which prevented a full inspection of the root flare and basal trunk. The trunk exhibits a slightly contorted form resulting from a combination of natural lean, directional pruning to maintain clearance from utilities, and subsequent self-correction.
At the time of inspection, the foliage was entirely discolored and in rapid decline. The crown was completely brown, despite documentation indicating the tree was fully foliated and appeared healthy only several weeks prior.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECCOMMENDATIONS
Recent excavation and construction activity occurred on the adjacent property. At the onset of this work, the City Arborist was asked to inspect the site and provided guidance on appropriate root pruning practices intended to preserve tree health. Despite these efforts, root disturbance occurred within the tree’s root zone.
Based on the timing and presentation of symptoms, this disturbance is likely a significant contributing factor to the tree’s rapid decline and mortality. The tree is now dead, with no living tissue present within the crown.
Given the tree’s location along a residential street and its proximity to utilities, the likelihood of failure impacting valuable targets is elevated, and the potential consequences exceed acceptable risk thresholds. As there are no feasible mitigation measures to reduce this risk, removal of the tree is recommended as the only effective means to address the potential hazard and associated liability to the City.
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505 FOREST AVE. LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 TEL (949) 497-0711 FAX (949) 497-0771
Final Recommendation for Public Tree
Removal and Replacement Planting
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department recommends the removal of 2 Indian laurel fig (Ficus microcarpa 'Nitida') trees located along Short Street at 585 Legion Street. It is recommended that 2 queen palm (Syagrus romanzoffianum) trees be planted as replacement plantings.
The trees’ roots are causing damage to adjacent public and private improvements including the street pavement, sidewalk, and private improvements at 585 Legion Street.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Removal
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Final Recommendation for Public Tree Planting
February 25, 2026
In accordance with the City of Laguna Beach Tree Removal and Planting Policy for Public Trees, the Public Works & Utilities Department recommends the planting of four trees in the median adjacent to 626 Virgina Park Drive. These include two Catalina Ironwood (Lyonothamnus floribundus) trees, and two Western Redbud (Cercis canadensis) trees.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact City Arborist Matthew Barker at (949) 464-6674 or [email protected].
Proposed Tree Planting Locations
505 FOREST AVE. LAGUNA BEACH, CA 92651 TEL (949) 497-0711 FAX (949) 497-0771
Proposed
planting site
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STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
BUSINESS
19 SUBJECT: TREE APPROACH(ES) - 2026
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Receive a presentation from staff regarding various alternatives for trees; and
2. Provide further direction.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
Building from discussions in 2025, this staff report asks the Council to discuss and provide direction regarding our approach to tree planting, removal, and maintenance.
DISCUSSION
As the writer of this report (Dave K), I’ll start by saying that trees are part of Laguna Beach’s heritage, culture, and environment – they are valued by many, even treasured, and therefore any discussion of trees in our community can bring out a lot of appropriate emotion, care, and concern. At the same time, many folks reside in Laguna Beach precisely for the ocean views we’re also known for. And while trees can enhance and frame views, they can also block them. This community discussion centers around which perspective should dominate a decision – a view or a tree.
Secondly, this staff report is written by a tree layperson (the City Manager) who knows fairly little about arboriculture, our tree history, and the documents that explain what we do and why we do it (regarding trees, I mean). But I think I can frame issues and debate effectively – more effectively than I can explain tree policy. I apologize in advance for where I have glossed over an aspect of trees or tree maintenance – or view preservation – because of brevity or simple error.
This staff report covers these areas:
1. A reminder of our current pruning schedule.
2. A reminder of our current pruning approach, along with documents that guide it.
3. How we select trees for planting (including the LSHRD)
4. Trips and falls
5. What the Montage entitlement documents say
6. Privately Maintained Trees on Public Rights of Way
1. Current Pruning Schedule. As a reminder, the City’s Public Works & Utilities Department manages the City's roughly 3,100 public trees through an inspection and pruning cycle carried out by contractors working under the direction of the City Arborist.
The City Arborist integrates work planning, maintenance history, and analytics through a web-based GIS software program. Generally, all public trees are inspected and pruned either annually or on a biennial (once every 2 years) cycle. The pruning cycle starts each year in October and ends in June. 1 of 75
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Table 1
As summarized in Table 1, the city is divided into three maintenance sections: Downtown, North, and South pruning sections. The Downtown section trees are inspected and pruned annually. The North section consists of public trees located north of Broadway Street, and the South section consists of public trees located south of Park Avenue. The North and South sections are pruned in alternating years, along with all Downtown section trees. This structure ensures that every City-maintained tree receives inspection and at least one form of pruning maintenance every two years, with Downtown trees, palms, and a select group of other specific trees receiving annual attention due to species characteristics, location, or other considerations.
2. Current Pruning Approach. The City Arborist utilizes several pruning strategies conforming to International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) best management practices and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 pruning standards that are considered appropriate to an individual's species, maturity, condition, and site considerations.
Sometimes a resident or business owner will request a tree be pruned for the purpose of view enhancement, and they may specifically request that the City Arborist employ "topping" or "crown reduction" as the pruning method. Locations that receive these requests on a frequent basis are the Eucalyptus trees along Glenneyre St adjacent to the Glenneyre Parking Structure, and the Eucalyptus trees along Coast Highway adjacent to the Montage. Other requests for crown reduction and Eucalyptus removal come in from residents near the roundabout at Los Robles, El Camino del Mar, and Catalina St.
Crown reduction is a structured and deliberate pruning method used to reduce the height or spread of a tree by selectively cutting back to strong, viable lateral branches capable of assuming apical dominance. A proper reduction cut removes a branch or stem back to a lateral that is at least one-third of the diameter of the removed portion. Crown reduction is an appropriate treatment only in specific circumstances.
This is most commonly performed when the tree is experiencing physiological stress or is in a state of decline. Crown reduction can act as a preservation strategy to extend the functional lifespan of the tree while mitigating risk by removing dead, dying, diseased, and poorly attached tissue across the outer portions of the crown. This is often accompanied by other supportive maintenance practices and/or chemical treatments to support preservation of the tree.
Other instances where crown reductions are warranted are post-failure responses when part of the crown has failed and the remaining crown must be rebalanced or structurally stabilized and unavoidable conflicts North South Downtown Palms
# of Trees 956 1,240 370 562
Annual
or
Biennial?
Even
Years
Odd
Years Annual Annual
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with buildings or infrastructure when tree removal is not a viable option. It is not appropriate to use for aesthetic reshaping, view enhancement, or convenience-based requests because of the negative consequences to otherwise healthy trees stated above.
The City's approach to maintenance is grounded in proper arboriculture practices and guided by the City's Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document (LSHRD), introduced in 1995 and updated in 2018.
Aspects of the LSHRD are referred to in the City's Landscape and Scenic Highways Element (LSHE) which is part of the City's General Plan.
The LSHRD provides maintenance guidance as follows:
• Noting the importance of following ANSI A300 standards; • Pruning should not be done solely to reduce the overall height of a tree or to keep the tree at an arbitrary height or spread; and
• Topping disfigures the tree, severely depletes the tree's food making ability, and renders the tree vulnerable to pests and diseases.
The Landscape and Scenic Highways Element (to the General Plan) also notes:
• Policy 1.4 Ensure that the Laguna Beach landscape will continue to include large mature trees, including eucalyptus, cypress, pines, cedars, palms, and others. Foster preservation of existing large trees.
• Action 1.4.1 Update design guidelines to provide for large trees to remain and be planted at select locations pursuant to Land Use Element Policy 2.6. (Implementation: Short-term) • Action 1.4.2 Because large mature trees are important to community character, discourage the trade-off of approving new building development that blocks views. (Implementation: Short-term) • Policy 2.2 Promote improved long-term pruning techniques to enhance neighborhood views, promote tree health, and produce safe and natural tree form. • Action 2.2.1 Develop and disseminate a pruning guide for the public, utilities, and tree pruners. (Implementation: Mid-term)
• Action 2.2.2 Consider development guidelines and regulations that promote appropriate pruning and discourage severe pruning practices. See action 8.18.1. (Implementation: Mid-term) Readers who want to read more about this issue more should review the City’s presentation in July 2025 about tree pruning practices.
3. Selection of Tree Species. The LSHRD also speaks to tree species along both Coast Highway and Broadway/SR-133. Recommended Street Trees within the LSHRD include (the below is a selected list), but are not limited to:
• For the Downtown highway sections (Broadway, Coast Highway), Silver Dollar Gum, Desert Gum, NZ Christmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Red Flowering Gum, Coral Gum, and Lemon Scented Gum. • For Legion to Cress (PCH): Silver Dollar Gum, NZ Christmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Torrey Pine. • For Cress to Cardinal (PCH): Silver Dollar Gum, NZ Christmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Torrey Pine. • For Cardinal to Lang Park: Sugar Gum, Red-Flowering Gum, Torrey Pine. 3 of 75
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While Eucalyptus is frequently referenced in the LSHRD, as a species they tend to have flammable characteristics. But their relative fire risk, when maintained properly, is contested. While Eucalyptus are not native to the area, they are well-known landmarks, especially downtown. Advocates say they provide a significant and iconic theme for approaches like Broadway and Forest.
It has been a frequent conversation in town to discuss the species’ future here. Table 2 below attempts to summarize key issues for some of the trees identified in the LSHRD, but certainly not all of them.
Table 2
Species Typical Height Trunk Width
Silver Dollar Gum 20-60 ft 1-2 ft
Desert Gum 15-40 ft 0.5-1.5 ft
Red Flowering Gum 15-45 ft 1-2 ft
Sugar Gum 60-120 ft 2-4 ft
Coral Gum 15-30 ft 0.5-1 ft
Lemon-Scented Gum 80-160 ft 2-5 ft
Torrey Pine * 40-80 ft 2-4 ft
Brisbane Box 40-60 ft 1-2 ft
NZ Christmas Tree 20-50 ft 1-2 ft
* Some believe that Torrey Pines should not be planted as a street tree.
Noting the frequent reference to Eucalyptus in the LSHRD (the Gums) – but also noting that the LSHRD includes other non-Eucalyptus options, staff discussed various approaches:
• Adopt a replacement approach that minimizes or otherwise limits the planting of replacement Eucalyptus either citywide or in specific neighborhoods where views or safety should be prioritized.
One approach may be to replace and not replant species like the Silver Dollar Gum, the Sugar Gum, and the Lemon-Scented Gum (given their height and trunk width) – instead focusing on other, smaller Eucalyptus and/or non-Eucalyptus LSHRD options; or
• If the concern is about not having to replace older Eucalyptus trees all at once, consider planting new Eucalyptus amongst older ones, without removing the older ones until such time as removal is warranted and younger trees have grown up around them.
4. Trips and Falls -and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Laguna Beach is a city with infrastructure, especially sidewalks, of various ages. Some sidewalks are nearly 100 years old, others are new or have new sections. One focus of recent maintenance efforts has been to meet ADA requirements for slopes (along the sidewalks and across the sidewalks), as well as where sidewalks are lifted up, arguably by adjacent tree roots.
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It has also been a focus to reduce the number of claims associated with trips and falls, sometimes caused by sidewalks lifted by tree roots. The City has a vendor – Precision Concrete – that both analyzes sidewalk and curb lift (for ADA compliance, among other things) via precise technological measurements. They have to date focused on the downtown and South Coast Highway, and are headed (next week) for North Coast Highway. Precision also remediates issues as they’re found via concrete cutting or “slicing” where feasible.
Where not feasible, replacement is required and that is done through a combination of City maintenance staff (smaller segments) or construction contractors (larger segments).
The City has experienced a significant reduction in trips and falls since this work commenced, and in claims associated with them. For the past two fiscal years, the City averaged 9.5 trip and fall claims per year. For the current fiscal year (with a little more than 3 months to go), the City has received 4 such claims – and none in nearly seven months.
But that work may not be enough when tree roots uplift sidewalks – and sometimes the roots themselves are trip hazards. Tree selection is important here, as some of our older trees and tree species that may not be ideal street trees. A few cases in point are:
• The Eucalyptus along the roundabout at Catalina, Los Robles, and El Camino del Mar; • Ficus along the ocean side of S Coast Highway at the Penguin Café; and • Ficus along both sides of S Coast Highway between Oak Street and Brooks Street (note: in the LSHRD, Zone E [Legion to Cress], none of the four street trees identified as planting options are ficus).
That noted, the flip argument is this: given Ficus’ extensive root system, one could arguably root trim much of the roots that impair ADA access and lift the sidewalk and leave the tree(s) in place – though we would have to be careful not to destabilize the tree, which could cause another liability concern involving tree failure. A more significant canopy pruning would likely be required to reduce the mass of the canopy to avoid breakage or a tree fall during wind and storms (the same could arguably apply to Eucalyptus).
Staff would appreciate direction here. It could be to:
1. Replace trees in these areas with younger trees of the same species (not ideal, but this does address the problem until the trees get much older); or
2. Authorize removal and replanting with a less root-intrusive species that is still within the LSHRD; or
3. Keep the trees and, to the extent possible, do a combination of root reduction and canopy pruning.
5. The Eucalyptus Near the Montage. Residents who live inland from the Montage Resort will sometimes approach the City to encourage a more significant pruning of the Eucalyptus along South Coast Highway. These trees are the responsibility of the Montage Resort to maintain per a set of guidelines adopted in 2002 (and other documents), but it’s not uncommon that the City will review tree maintenance approaches with the resort’s landscape team.
As to what the relevant Montage documents say, one interpretation seems to say that the methods to maintain the Eucalyptus along South Coast Highway are only generally addressed within the key approval 5 of 75
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documents, and that the more direct requirements for certain trees refer to “Significant Trees” that are within the park site, and not the Eucalyptus by South Coast Highway.
Those documents include:
• The Treasure Island Specific Plan (outlines the types of landscaping required, sets forth the Landscape Maintenance requirements in the October 2002 Guidelines. See pages 23-24 among others); • The Treasure Island Local Coastal Program (identifies the existing Eucalyptus as parts of the overall landscaping plan (see page 221 among others); and
• The October 2002 Landscape Maintenance Guidelines associated with the Resort, Public Park, and Association Properties.
Specifically, in regards to the Guidelines and the Specific Plan (exhibit below), while all trees should be “allowed to grow in and to their natural genetic form and size,…” the Eucalyptus along S Coast Highway are not designated as Significant Trees and may not be subject to the pruning requirements of Section D(4).
Which again seems to leave us in an ambiguous place when it comes to whether anyone can reduce the crown of the Eucalyptus.
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Council may wish to provide direction here as to options for approaching the Montage with any guidance as to maintenance of the S Coast Highway Eucalyptus – this could include:
• Suggesting a more frequent trim cycle that more significantly reduces the crown; and • Meet with the Montage and discuss the Montage’s preferred long-term approach to maintaining the Eucalyptus, consistent with planning approvals.
6. Privately Maintained Trees in the Public Right of Way. One last point of awareness. The community has a significant number of trees (possibly about 3,000) that are located in the public right of way that are privately maintained, also known as Category III Trees, per LBMC 12.06. As the trees age, it’s not infrequent that adjacent property owners who have maintained the trees ask that they no longer be required to do so, or ask that they not be responsible for correcting other issues caused by the privately 7 of 75
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maintained trees such as pavement or sidewalk concerns. We raise this as an issue which needs a solution at some point, as this may happen more in the future. Solutions may include:
• More formal maintenance agreements that delineate obligations as well as the duration of the agreement;
• The City could, funds permitting, take on responsibility for maintenance on a case-by-case basis; • The City could, funds permitting, take on responsibility for all of the Category 3 trees unless the adjacent property owner specifically requests that they be able to do so.
All of that noted, we on City staff don’t see how we can fund this right now.
In Conclusion. Issues for the Council's discussion include the items presented in the matrix in Attachment
1. Should the Council wish to give additional direction at this meeting, staff would return with a recommended workplan, especially should that require any changes to existing documents.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The discussion of this item has no financial impact to the budget at this time.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The proposed actions are not considered projects at this time, as this is a discussion item only and any policy changes will return to Council at a future date. It is, therefore, not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act review.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Matrix (Pg. 9)
Submitted By: . Approved: .David A Kiff
Dave Kiff, City Manager Dave Kiff, City Manager
Report Prepared By: Coordinated With:
Dave Kiff, City Manager Mark McAvoy, Director of Public Works and Utilities Reza Jafari, Deputy Director/ Public Works and
Utilities
Megan Garibaldi, City Attorney
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Attachment 1
9 9 of 75
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View Preservation – Record of View
February 3, 2020
March 17, 2026
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Laguna Beach
Downtown
Specific Plan
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Discussion of Trees, Public Tree Maintenance Practices
July 22, 2025
• "Topping disfigures the tree, severely depletes the tree's food making ability, and renders the tree vulnerable to pests and diseases.
'.fhe LSHRD also speaks to tree species along both Coast Highway and Broadway/SR-133.Recommended Street Trees wit.run the LSHRD include (the below is a selected list), but are not limited to:
• For the Downtown highway sections ()3roadway, Coast Highway), Silver Dollar Gum, Desert Gum, NZ Christmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Red Flowering Gum, Coral Gum, and LemonScented Gum. • For Legion to Cress (PCH): Silver Dollar Gum, NZChristmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Torrey Pine • For Cress to Cardinal (PCH):Silver Dollar Gum, NZChristmas Tree, Brisbane Box, Torrey Pine. • For Cardinal to Lang Park: Sugar Gum, Red-Flowering Gum, Torrey Pine The Landscape andScenic Highways Element (to the General Plan) also suggests:
Policy 1.4 Ensure that the Laguna Beach landscape will continue to include large mature trees, including eucalyptus, cypress, pines, cedars, palms, and others. Foster preservation of existing large trees.
Action 1.4.1 Update design guidelines to provide forlarge trees to remain and be planted at select locations pursuant to Land Use Element Policy 2.6. (Implementation: Short-term) Action 1.4.2 Because large mature trees are important to community character, discourage the trade�off of approving new building development that block<; views. (Implementation: Short-term) Policy 2.2 Promote improved long-term pruning techniques to enhance neighborhood views, promote tree health, and produce safe and natural tree form.
Action 2.2.1 Develop and disseminate a pruning guide for the public, utilities, and tree pruners. (Implementation: Mid-term)
Action 2.2.2 Consider development guidelines and regulations that promote appropriate pruning and discourage severe pruningpractices. See action 8.18.1. (Implementation: Mid-term) The Public Works & Utilities Department prunes public trees for the purpose of encouraging healthy growth, tree preservation, and hazard/risk mitigation; runin ublic trees for the sole se of view enhancement is not recommend�Pruning performed O crea e or r ore views pica y causes S C and physiological harm to trees.\iblic complaints or requests for view-based pruning are evaluated by the City Arborist, and taken into consideration when providing pruning specifications to the City's tree maintenance contractor. However, pruning for the sole purpose of enhancing a·scenic view is not a justification for topping a shade tree or perfonning crown reduction, unless one of the outlinerl conditions applies. Combined with long-term consistent maintenance, view equity in these cases is often improved through normal maintenance operations, including crown thinning and crown raising.
Issuesfor the Council's discussion include, but are notlimited to:
I 1
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STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:
March 24, 2026
NOT APPEAL
20 SUBJECT: 2825 AND 2851 LAGUNA CANYON ROAD: PUBLIC HEARING FOR LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT 2026-0043 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2026-0477
TO MERGE TWO LOTS, AND FINDING NO SUBSEQUENT ENVIRONMENTAL
REVIEW FOR THE PROJECT IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT GUIDELINES SECTION 15162
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Conduct a Public Hearing, including receiving a staff report and taking public testimony and evidence related to the consideration of Lot Line Adjustment 2026-0043 and Coastal Development Permit 2026-0477; and
2. Adopt the Resolution titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT 2026-0043 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2026-0477 TO MERGE TWO LOTS LOCATED AT 2825 AND 2851 LAGUNA CANYON ROAD, AND FINDING NO SUBSEQUENT
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW FOR THE PROJECT IS REQUIRED PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT GUIDELINES SECTION 15162”, approving Lot Line Adjustment 2026-0043 and Coastal Development Permit 2026-0477 to merge two lots located at 2825 and 2851 Laguna Canyon Road, and finding no subsequent environmental review for the Project is required due to the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration adopted by the Planning Commission on September 20, 2023, pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162.
SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
Krista Scheib, Architect (“Applicant”)1, for 2825 and 2851 Laguna Canyon Road (the “Property”), applied for Lot Line Adjustment (“LLA”) 2026-0043 and Coastal Development Permit (“CDP”) 2026-0477 to merge two adjoining lots located at 2825 and 2851 Laguna Canyon Road (Parcel 1 and Parcel 2, respectively) by removing a common interior lot line to create one parcel consisting of 3.62 acres or 157,900 square feet in the M-1A (Light Industrial) zone (the “Project”). Refer to Figures 1 and 2, below, for the existing and proposed lot lines.
1 The Project’s owner is Laguna College of Art and Design (“LCAD”) and is represented by Lisa Dallendorfer, who is within the definition of Applicant.
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Figure 1 Figure 2
DISCUSSION
Background
The properties at 2825 and 2851 Laguna Canyon Road are developed with existing structures that act as facilities for LCAD as well as an ancillary surface parking lot. On September 20, 2023, the Planning Commission (“Commission”) adopted Resolution No. 23-0998 to approve Conditional Use Permit (“CUP”) 23-0998, Design Review (“DR”) 23-0999, and CDP 23-1000 to demolish an existing and currently unoccupied light industrial building at the rear of the site, construct a new student center building (the “Innovation Center”) that will extend across the shared property line between the existing Parcel 1 and Parcel 2, and construct site improvements including parking lot and landscaping modifications. There are two existing buildings that are used for LCAD’s animation, game art, and graphic design curriculum of the college, two multi-purpose galleries, and student union; in accordance with the 2023 approval, these two buildings are to remain. In conjunction with the Commission’s approval of CUP 23-0998, DR 23-0999, and CDP 23-1000, the Commission adopted an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (“IS/MND”) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines.3 Condition No. 27 of Commission Resolution No. 23-0998 requires that the lot line adjustment be effectuated prior to issuance of a building or grading permit.4 (Attachment 2). On October 4, 2023, the City received an appeal of the 3 The Final IS/MND with appendices is available for review on the City’s website:
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/government/departments/community-development/planning-zoning/public-notices 4 Resolution No. 23-0998, Condition No. 27: “The permittee shall submit an application for City approval for a Lot Line Adjustment to combine the two affected parcels at 2825 to 2851 Laguna Canyon Road. The Lot Line Adjustment shall be effectuated prior to issuance of a building or grading permit.” Existing Lot Lines Proposed Lot Lines
Parcel 1 Parcel 2
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Planning Commission’s decision. That appeal was subsequently requested to be withdrawn by the appellant on October 26, 2023, which the City Council approved on December 12, 2023.
Building and grading permits have not yet been issued for the new Innovation Center. As of the preparation of this agenda report, certain trees have been removed in accordance with the approved landscape plan and under the observation of an arborist and biologist.
Lot Line Adjustment 2026-0043
On November 19, 2025, the Applicant applied for a lot line adjustment to merge Parcel 1 and Parcel 2 for the Project. (The Application and Lot Line Adjustment Exhibits are attached as Attachments 3 and 4, respectively.) The purpose of the proposed lot line adjustment is to ensure that the demolition of the existing and currently unoccupied light industrial building at the rear of the site, construction of the new Innovation Center that will extend across the shared property line between the existing Parcel 1 and Parcel 2, and construction of the site improvements including parking lot and landscaping modifications comply with applicable Zoning and Building Codes
Pursuant to Laguna Beach Municipal Code (“LBMC”) Section 21.08.030 and in accordance with California Government Code Section 66412(d) and Government Code Section 66499.20.3, lot line adjustments and mergers are exempt from the requirements of the Subdivision Map Act and the City’s Subdivision Ordinance, provided that the adjustment is approved by the City Council and satisfies the following requirements:
(a) The project site described in the proposal consists of legal building sites as defined in Title 25 (Zoning) of this code.
The Project site consists of merging two legal building sites as defined in Title 25 (Zoning) of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code. Both building sites are developed; specifically, existing Parcel 1 is improved with three existing buildings and site improvements including a surface parking lot and existing Parcel 2 is improved with a parking lot, which extends across the existing center lot line and provides a majority of the Property’s off- parking supply. (b) The proposal does not create one or more building site(s).
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment does not create one or more building sites in that both existing parcels are building sites and the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment would merge two adjoining lots by removing a common lot line, resulting in one total parcel. (c) Any land taken from one site will be added to an adjacent site and no additional sites will result from the lot line adjustment.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment will reduce the total number of building sites from two parcels to one parcel with the removal of a common lot line between the two parcels; therefore, no additional sites will be created. Existing Parcel 1 and Parcel 2 together total approximately 3.62 acres (approximately 157,900 square feet), and the proposed Parcel 1 would retain the same overall land area. 3 of 55
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(d) The project complies with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act.
The Project complies with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. On September 20, 2023, the Commission adopted Resolution No. 23-0998 approving CUP 23-0998, DR 23-0999, and CDP 23-1000 to demolish an existing and currently unoccupied light industrial building at the rear of the site, to construct the Innovation Center that will extend across the shared property line between the existing Parcel 1 and Parcel 2, and to construct site improvements including parking lot and landscaping modifications. Condition No. 27 of Commission Resolution No. 23-0998 required that the lot line adjustment be effectuated prior to issuance of a building or grading permit. Therefore, the lot line adjustment was considered part of the “project” for purposes of CEQA. On September 20, 2023, the Commission also adopted an IS/MND for the project pursuant to CEQA. No subsequent environmental review for the project is required because, based on substantial evidence: (1) substantial changes are not proposed in the project; (2) substantial changes have not occurred with respect to the circumstances under which the project was undertaken; and (3) no new information of substantial importance (which was unknown and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the IS/MND was adopted, shows that additional environmental review is warranted. (See State CEQA Guidelines Section 15162(c).) Accordingly, the Project complies with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. (e) The proposal is consistent with the General Plan.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment is consistent with the General Plan, including the certified Local Coastal Program. Policy 10.10 of the Land Use Element states: “Prohibit lot line adjustments that are inconsistent with the Municipal Code, General Plan, and Subdivision Map Act.
Existing building sites which maintain a legal nonconforming lot or lots may adjust the lot lines provided that the adjustment does adversely increase the extent of nonconformities.” The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment involves a merger of two existing legal building sites, with the resulting singular lot in compliance with the Municipal Code and General Plan, including Land Use Element Policy 10.10. The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment also complies with the Subdivision Map Act because the lot line adjustment is for “four or fewer existing adjoining parcels” and the lot line adjustment will be effectuated with a recording of the merger with the County. (Gov.
Code Sections 66412(d) and 66499.20.3.)
(f) The parcels proposed to be adjusted by the lot line adjustment comply with all applicable zoning regulations or, in the case of existing, legal nonconforming lots, do not significantly or adversely increase the extent of such nonconformity.
The parcels proposed to be merged by the lot line adjustment comply with all applicable zoning regulations or, in the case of existing, legal nonconforming lots, do not significantly or adversely increase the extent of such nonconformity. The M-1A, Light Industrial Zone requires that each building site provide a minimum lot area of 5,700 square feet, with a minimum lot width of 50 feet. The proposed resulting singular building site would have an area of 157,900 square feet, and an approximate lot width of 450 feet. The resultant lot is therefore in conformance with all lot requirements for the M-1A Zone. 4 of 55
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(g) The lot line adjustment, in and of itself, will not result in the need for additional improvements and/or facilities.
The lot line adjustment, in and of itself, will not result in the need for additional improvements and/or facilities because it would not affect existing or planned vehicular access to either lot and no additional building sites would be created. Rather, the effectuation of the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment will satisfy Condition No. 27 of Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center and related site improvements comply with applicable Zoning and Building Codes.
(h) The proposal does not include any lots or parcels created illegally.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment does not include any lots or parcels created illegally in that the subject lots were legally created with Parcel Map No. 82-655, in the City of Laguna Beach, County of Orange, State of California, as shown on a map filed in Book 178, Pages 46 and 47 of Parcel Maps, in the office of the County Recorder of said County. (i) The project does not impair any existing access, create a need for new access, impair any existing easements or create a need for any new easements serving any adjacent lots or parcels.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment will not impair any existing access nor create a need for new access, as the access to the resulting singular lot will not change. Moreover, the adjustment would not impair any existing easements nor create a need for new easements serving adjacent lots. The access and easements needed were already evaluated based on the proposed Innovation Center and related site improvements, approved by Resolution No. 23-0998. The effectuation of the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment will satisfy Condition No. 27 of Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center and related site improvements comply with applicable Zoning and Building Codes.
Coastal Development Permit 26-0477
The proposed lot line adjustment constitutes development for which a coastal development permit is required. The City Council’s determination is not appealable to the California Coastal Commission. To ensure compliance with the City’s certified Local Coastal Program, the Project has been reviewed for conformity with the criteria set forth in LBMC Section 25.07.012(F). A coastal development permit application may be approved only after the approval authority has reviewed the Project and made all of the following findings (LBMC Section 25.07.012(G)):
(1) The project is in conformity with all the applicable provisions of the certified local coastal program, including the following review criteria:
a. The proposed development will not encroach upon any existing physical accessway legally utilized by the public or any proposed public accessway identified in the adopted local coastal program land use plan.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment will not modify any existing physical accessway utilized by the public or identified in the adopted Local Coastal Program land use plan in that the 5 of 55
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adjustment would merge two privately owned industrial lots with no existing physical accessways legally utilized by the public, and no such public accessways are identified as proposed in the adopted land use plan.
b. The proposed development will not adversely affect marine resources, environmentally sensitive areas, or archaeological or paleontological resources.
The proposed Project consisting of the lot line adjustment would not adversely affect marine resources, environmentally sensitive areas, or archaeological or paleontological resources because the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment is part of a broader development project that was evaluated in an IS/MND adopted by the Commission on September 20, 2023. The IS/MND was supported by technical studies, including an Archaeological and Tribal Cultural Resources Sensitivity Assessment and a Biological Technical Report, and concluded that with implementation of adopted mitigation measures, all potentially significant environmental impacts would be reduced to a level of insignificance.
Regarding archaeological (including tribal cultural) and paleontological resources, the IS/MND determined that the site has low sensitivity for historic-period (non-Native American) archaeological resources, but moderate to high sensitivity for prehistoric and historic Native American–affiliated archaeological resources. To ensure impacts remain less than significant, the IS/MND includes mitigation measures requiring monitoring of ground-disturbing activities in all intact, native (i.e., not previously disturbed) soils by a qualified archaeologist, along with appropriate procedures to be implemented if resources are encountered during construction.
With respect to environmentally sensitive areas and biological resources, the IS/MND found that the majority of the approximately 3.6-acre site is already disturbed/developed (parking areas, ornamental landscaping, and existing buildings), with planted and landscaped vegetation (including eucalyptus) occurring within the Laguna Canyon Road right-of-way. Biological resources of value occur in coast live oak woodland habitat along the southern boundary of the site and within the biological study area, primarily along the southern, southeastern, and northeastern boundaries. The IS/MND concluded that potential impacts to these resources would be less than significant with implementation of adopted mitigation measures, including biological monitoring during ground disturbance and vegetation removal activities.
With respect to marine resources, there is no potential for adverse effects because the Project site is located approximately 1.7 miles inland from the coast and the Project would not affect the marine environment.
c. The proposed development will not adversely affect recreational or visitor-serving facilities or coastal scenic resources.
The proposed Project will not adversely affect recreational or visitor-serving facilities or coastal scenic resources in that the Project is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation 6 of 55
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Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes. Although the site abuts a public hiking trail within the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park that climbs the canyon wall directly behind the Project area, the Project merely satisfies a procedural requirement for the approved development project and does not change the design, configuration, or intensity of the development, and there would be no adverse impact to the trail.
d. The proposed development will be sited and designed to prevent adverse impacts to environmentally sensitive habitats and scenic resources located in adjacent parks and recreation areas, and will provide adequate buffer areas to protect such resources.
The proposed Project will have no adverse impacts to environmentally sensitive habitats and scenic resources located in adjacent parks and recreation areas in that the Project is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes.
While the Project site abuts sensitive coast live oak woodland habitat and would be visible from a nearby trail in the Aliso and Woods Canyons Wilderness Park, the adopted IS/MND for the development of the Innovation Center found that environmental impacts will be less than significant with the implementation of the mitigation measures adopted by the Commission on September 20, 2023. Finally, because the Project is limited to a lot line adjustment associated with the previously approved development project, the Project does not introduce any unstudied impacts to environmentally sensitive habitats or scenic resources. e. The proposed development will minimize the alterations of natural landforms and will not result in undue risks from geological and erosional forces and/or flood and fire hazards.
The proposed Project will not cause or contribute to the alteration of natural landforms or create undue risks from geological and erosional forces and/or flood and fire hazards in that the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes. Therefore, while the Project site is located in FEMA-designated flood zones X (moderate hazard) and AE (1% annual chance of flooding) and is also located in the Fuel Modification Zone and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, the Project has no material effect on the risks of these hazards. f. The proposed development will be visually compatible with the character of surrounding areas, and where feasible, will restore and enhance visual quality in visually degraded areas.
The Project consisting of the lot line adjustment would have no effect on the existing site’s visual compatibility with the character of the surrounding neighborhood. The proposed Project is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes.
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g. The proposed development will not have any adverse impacts on any known archaeological or paleontological resource.
The proposed Project will not have any adverse impacts on any known archaeological or paleontological resource because the Project consisting of the lot line adjustment is part of a broader development project that was evaluated in an IS/MND adopted by the Commission on September 20, 2023. The IS/MND was supported by technical studies, including an Archaeological and Tribal Cultural Resources Sensitivity Assessment, and concluded that with implementation of adopted mitigation measures, all potentially significant environmental impacts would be reduced to a level of insignificance. Specifically, the IS/MND determined that the site has low sensitivity for historicperiod (non-Native American) archaeological resources, but moderate to high sensitivity for prehistoric and historic Native American–affiliated archaeological resources. To ensure impacts remain less than significant, the IS/MND includes mitigation measures requiring monitoring of ground-disturbing activities in all intact, native (i.e., not previously disturbed) soils by a qualified archaeologist, along with appropriate procedures to be implemented if resources are encountered during construction.
h. The proposed development will be provided with adequate utilities, access roads, drainage and other necessary facilities.
The proposed Project will be provided with adequate utilities, access roads, drainage and other necessary facilities because the Project is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes. The Project site is already developed and maintains existing access to and from Laguna Canyon Road. There are no new or increased needs for utilities, access, drainage or other facilities as a result of the Project. i. Other public services, including, but not limited to, solid waste and public roadway capacity have been considered and are adequate to serve the proposed development.
Other public services, including, but not limited to, solid waste and public roadway capacity have been considered and are adequate to serve the proposed development because the Project is limited to a lot line adjustment to satisfy Condition No. 27 of Commission-adopted Resolution No. 23-0998, which was imposed to ensure that the Innovation Center complies with applicable Zoning and Building Codes. The existing public services are adequate for the approved uses at the Property. (2) Any development located between the sea and the first public road paralleling the sea is in conformity with the certified local coastal program and with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the Coastal Act.
The proposed Project area is not located between the sea and the first public road paralleling the sea, and, therefore, will not conflict with the public access and recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the Coastal Act.
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