Laguna Beach City Council
April 14, 2026

STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date:

January 27, 2026

BUSINESS

15.5 SUBJECT: DISCUSSION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 18 (BEACH AND PARKS)

TO ESTABLISH A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT PROCESS AND MODIFYING

REGULATIONS ON SURFING AT ALISO BEACH AND USE OF SHADE

COVERINGS AT BEACHES AND PARKS AND A CORRESPONDING

RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING LOCATIONS WHERE SPECIAL EVENTS MAY

OCCUR AND RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council receive a staff report, take public comments, discuss and provide further direction to staff regarding:

1. A Draft Ordinance titled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH, AMENDING TITLE 18 OF THE LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE;

AND FINDING SUCH ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT UNDER CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304”; and

2. A Draft Resolution titled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING LOCATIONS WHERE SPECIAL

EVENTS ARE ALLOWED AND RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING SPECIAL EVENTS; AND FINDING THE ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM THE

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304”.

SUMMARY OF THE MATTER
The City of Laguna Beach hosts a wide variety of special events each year, including parades, community events, art shows, athletic competitions, and other community activities. Currently, the City relies on a combination of municipal code provisions, departmental procedures, and informal practices to manage these events. The lack of a consistent policy has led to challenges in enforcement, inconsistent requirements for event organizers, and a more complex approval process. The increase in event requests in recent years highlights the need for a standardized, transparent permitting framework. In response, staff developed an ordinance amending Title 18 (Beach and Parks) and a corresponding proposed resolution establishing locations where special events are allowed and the rules and regulations governing special events through a Special Event Permit Policy to streamline the review and approval of events held at City parks, beaches, and facilities. Developed by the Transit and Community Services Department in collaboration with multiple departments, the Special Event Permit Policy establishes consistent criteria, timelines, and responsibilities.

Additionally, in light of beach attendance increasing annually, Marine Safety staff have faced challenges when monitoring the ocean from the lifeguard tower due to shade coverings and facilitating mixed uses at Aliso Beach. In response, staff addressed modifications to the municipal code through the same ordinance amending Title 18 to further address shade coverings and to designate surfing and skimboarding locations at Aliso Beach.
12 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

The purpose of this agenda item is not to consider adoption tonight but to gain feedback from the public and City Council for further development of the ordinance and resolution.

Actions on the ordinance amending Title 18 and resolution establishing locations where special events are allowed and rules and regulations governing special events through the Special Event Permit Policy will be exempt from the requirements of the California Environment Quality Act pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land, Class 4).

DISCUSSION
On May 16, 2023, the City Council directed staff to develop a special event permit process to authorize private events at Aliso Beach and other South Laguna Beaches as needed. Since that time, City staff has identified community interest in using additional City parks, beaches, and facilities for special events.

Accordingly, City staff has prepared a draft ordinance that amends Title 18 (Beach and Parks) to better organize the rules (Attachment 1), an index of the changes to Title 18 (Beach and Parks) (Attachment 2), and a draft resolution establishing locations where special events are allowed and rules and regulations governing special event through the Special Event Permit Policy (Attachment 3). The draft ordinance changes and Special Event Permit Policy are discussed in more detail below.

A. Title 18 (Beaches and Parks)
As a summary, the ordinance repealing and replacing Title 18 (Parks and Beaches) makes the following changes: (1) reorganizes Title 18 to remove duplications and out-of-date provisions and regroup related provisions; (2) creates a comprehensive special event permit process; (3) modifies the regulations on tents on beaches and parks and surfing in South Laguna.
(1) Reorganizes Title 18 to remove duplications and out-of-date provisions City staff reorganized and reformatted the provisions in Title 18, as reflected in the index of proposed changes to Title 18. (Attachment 2.) As reflected in the index, most changes reorganized provisions and left the content of the provisions the same. The new, revised, or repealed provisions are notated in the index. (2) Creates a comprehensive special event permit process While the current version of Title 18 references a beach and park use reservation permit system and various activities that require a reservation, such as certain activities at Main Beach Park cobblestone area and outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows, and exhibits, and outdoor athletic contests, it also references other activities that require a permit from the City, such as commercial dog training, organized play, and informal weddings. In practice, City staff has been issuing permits for such activities but without a formal adopted policy.

To better guide City staff and the public, City staff is proposing to amend Title 18 to specifically define a “special event” and to more clearly regulate when a special event permit is required, the process for obtaining a special event permit, and the operable rules for activities authorized by special event permits.

More specifically, the ordinance proposes to define “special event” as follows:
13 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

a) Organized public or private gatherings or activities, whether for profit or not for profit, that exceed the capacity of designated areas specified by resolution of the city council. Private or public gatherings within the capacity of the designated areas set by resolution are not considered special events for purposes of this chapter.
b) The following organized public or private gatherings or activities, whether for profit or not for profit:

1. Informal weddings;

2. Outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows, and exhibits;

3. Commercial stand-up paddling activity;

4. Commercial dog training;

5. Outdoor athletic contests;

6. Organized play;

7. Special organized recreational boating events; and

8. Other similar activities at the determination of the City Manager or designee.

The draft resolution (Attachment 3) establishes where special events are allowed and the capacity of persons at an event which trigger the need for a special event permit.

The draft ordinance largely maintains the existing provisions relating to the beach and park use reservation permit system and renames it throughout Title 18 as the special event permit process. It maintains that the City Council will set the application fees for special event permit applications. This is established in the resolution. (Attachment 3.) It further maintains that the City Manager or designee shall be responsible for the administration of the special event permit process and shall develop application forms and any further internal city rules, regulations, and requirements deemed necessary to administer the process.

The draft ordinance requires that a special event permit application be submitted in writing at least 30 calendar days before the date of the proposed activity and requires a decision on the application within 15 calendar days after it is received. The draft ordinance sets forth specific grounds upon which a special event permit can be denied and provides an appeal procedure to the City Council.

Certain conduct subject to a special event permit have special time, place, and manner rules. Below is an overview of those special rules, most of which already exist in the City’s municipal code, and how this draft ordinance modifies those special rules, if at all:

Conduct Special Rules in Draft
Ordinance
How It Would Change
Constitutionally protected
expressive activities with
use of structure at Main
Beach Park.

Hard surface cobblestone
area is available not more
than 5 days per month.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

Other Special Events
Involving the Use of
Hard surface cobblestone is
available not more than two
Change to authorize individuals and
organizations (including for-profit
14 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

Structures at Main Beach
Park
days per month and may
involve sales related to the
event provided the vendor
has a Laguna Beach business
license.
organizations) and authorize activities other
than art and craft shows and sales.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

Informal Weddings No additional tables or
chairs or other facilities may
be erected for such
ceremonies.

No alcoholic beverages shall
be served and no amplified
sound shall be permitted.

The maximum number of the
wedding party and guests
shall not exceed fifty people
in the Gazebo at Heisler Park
or at Crescent Bay Park.

Up to ninety-five people are
allowed per wedding in other
locations in Heisler Park.

No more than two weddings
per day shall be permitted at
Crescent Bay Park.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

Outdoor gatherings,
concerts, festivals, art
shows, and exhibitions;
Any outdoor gathering,
concert, festival, art show, or
exhibitions involving the use
of structures and not
otherwise provided for in
this chapter or elsewhere in
this code shall be held at
Irvine Bowl Park. The use of
the amphitheater and festival
grounds at Irvine Bowl shall
be on a first-come, firstserved basis by reservation
through the special event
permit process and is subject
to the requirements of any
existing or subsequently
approved lease of those
facilities. Nothing in this
section shall be construed to
supersede the provisions of
Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

New provision that allows for outdoor
gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows,
and exhibits outside of the Irvine Bowl if
the Irvine Bowl is unavailable. City staff
added this provision in case a member of
the public wants to have a block party, for
example, so that the City has a mechanism
to recoup its fees and costs. Such event
must be approved or denied by the City
Manager.
15 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

any such lease. Outdoor
gatherings to be attended by
more than two thousand five
hundred persons require a
license pursuant to
Chapter 5.68 of this code.

If the Irvine Bowl Park is
unavailable for an outdoor
gathering, concert, festival,
art show, or exhibition
involving the use of
structures, the sponsor of a
special event can propose the
event at an alternative
location. The City Manager
shall either approve or deny
such special event permit
application.

Commercial stand-up
paddling activity;
All commercial stand-up
paddling activity business
must obtain a special event
permit and must meet basic
safety and operating rules,
including that instructors
must be trained in First Aid
and CPR and attend a yearly
safety orientation; each
instructor may supervise no
more than four students; no
more than ten people from
one business may be in the
water at one time; instructors
must be clearly identifiable,
such as by wearing matching
hats; business must maintain
certain liability insurance;
business must comply with
law. Marine Safety Chief
may add additional permit
requirements in the interest
of public health, safety, and
general welfare.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.
16 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

Commercial dog training Commercial dog training is
prohibited in city dog parks,
unless specifically permitted
by the city through the
special event permit process.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

Outdoor athletic contests Parks and beaches may be
reserved through the special
event permit process for
athletic contests, events, or
activities, including practice
or training sessions, in areas
designated for such use.

Special structures to be used
in conjunction with these
activities shall be subject to
the discretionary review and
approval by the city through
the special event permit
process and may require
other entitlements based on
the proposed structures.

Change to allow outdoor athletic contests
and parks and beaches and to identify the
special event permit process rather than
unnamed permit process.

Organized play Need a special event permit
to hold organized games or
practices on city parks,
fields, courts, pools, or other
recreational facilities. City
will consider whether the
location is a good fit for the
activity, impacts to
surrounding neighborhoods,
interference with other
public use, and whether
group is made of up city
residents (for preference).

City can set reasonable rules
to protect public welfare.

City may suspend or revoke
special event permit if
conditions of permit are
violated.

Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.

Special organized
recreational boating events
While overnight storage on
public beaches of vessels is
usually prohibited, it can be
Change to identify the special event permit
process rather than unnamed permit
process.
17 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

accommodated through a
special event permit in
connection with a special
organized recreational
boating event.
(3) modifies the regulations on shade coverings on beaches and parks and surfing in South Laguna.
i. Shade Coverings and Structures:

Recently, beach attendance has increased, creating challenges for Marine Safety staff when monitoring the ocean from the lifeguard tower. The lifeguard's view of the ocean and nearshore environment is paramount to public safety and Marine Safety operations. The most common obstruction is large shade coverings with multiple posts. In response, staff is requesting that the City Council consider modifying the current ordinance to prohibit multi-post shade coverings seaward (in front) of lifeguard towers. Shade coverings with multiple points of contact with the sand would be allowed behind lifeguard towers with a size restriction of six feet in height and width. The modification in the draft ordinance is written below:
§ 18.04.020. Shade Coverings1 and Structures2. (a) No person shall install, erect, or maintain any shade covering or structure over six feet in height or wider than six feet on or in any public beach, park, street, alley, or passageway.
(b) Any shade covering or structure installed, erected, or maintained on or in any public beach, park, street, alley, or passageway shall:

1. Not have more than one side closed to public view; and

2. Not interfere with a lifeguard’s ability to see the water or adjacent lifeguard towers; and

3. Not have more than one contact point with the sand, when located seaward of lifeguard towers; and

4. Not be located within twenty feet of any emergency or public access; and

5. Not obstruct any emergency or public access; and

6. Not be located within five feet from another shade covering or structure. (c) Any shade covering or structure shall be relocated at the request of the Marine Safety Department staff, Police Department staff, or other authorized City personnel.
ii. Surfing and Skimboarding
1 Chapter 18.01 includes the following new definition: “Shade covering” means a canopy, awning, umbrella, tent, cabana, easyup, or cover. 2 Chapter 18.01 includes the following new definition: “Structure” means tables, signs, coolers, sports equipment, a volleyball court, or other temporary items.
18 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

In March 2023, the City began providing lifeguard services in South Laguna. Aliso Beach has been identified as a high-impact area due to amenities such as a parking lot, a playground, bathrooms, firepits, and beachside dining. In addition, Aliso Beach is a very popular spot for skimboarding, surfing, and swimming. Due to Aliso Beach's popularity and frequent overlap of these activities, the staff is proposing a modification to the municipal code to reduce the possibility of accidents and injuries. The modification in the ordinance is written below:
§ 18.20.025. Surfing5—Time and place permitted.
a) Between June fifteenth and September fifteenth, both dates inclusive, of each calendar year, the following described areas of the Pacific Ocean are hereby designated as surfing areas, and surfing within said areas only during the daylight hours enumerated below shall be permitted:
. . . 5. Area No. 5: Surfing is allowed in Area No. 5. Exception: In Aliso Beach, specifically, a zone for surfing shall be set up from 12 pm to 6 pm daily through the posting of signs and flags by Marine Safety Department staff or for increased durations as conditions warrant at the determination by Marine Safety Department staff. If a zone for surfing is not set through the posting of signs and flags by Marine Safety Department staff, the surfing area is hereby established at the South end of Aliso Beach between June fifteenth and September fifteenth.

B. Special Event Permit Policy
City staff has prepared a Special Event Permit Policy (Attachment 3, Exhibit B) to guide applicants and members of the public on the process to obtain a special event permit. In short, it defines certain City parks and beaches that are available for special events and further identifies that an event, which will exceed 50 people, will require a Tier I special event permit, and an event, which will exceed 500 people, will require a Tier II special event permit. The Tier I special event permit requires lesser application fees and application requirements than the Tier II special event permit. The proposed event locations include:

Aliso Beach and Aliso Beach Park
Alta Laguna Park
Bluebird Park
Cobblestones at Main Beach
Community and Recreation Center
Heisler Park Picnic Area
Irvine Bowl (subject to existing lease obligations)
Lang Park
Main Beach Park
5 Chapter 18.01 includes the following new definition: “Surfing” means the use in the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the shoreline within the boundaries of the city of any surfboard, paddleboard, skimboarding, or other similar object made entirely or partially of wood, metal, glass, hard plastic, or any other hard substance. 19 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

Moulton Meadows Park
Parking Lot 10
Picnic Beach
Promenade on Forest Ave.

Key areas of the proposed policy include:

Event Definition and Classification: Establishes two event categories based on size.

Application Requirements: Creates a checklist of the required documentation for each type of application.

Permit Fees and Cost Recovery: Establishes a tiered fee structure and requires reimbursement for City services.

Event Limitation: Establishes rules and regulations for special events. Prohibits special events during peak summer months from Memorial Day to Labor Day unless considered and approved by the City Manager.

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
The fiscal impact would be recouping revenue that is currently absorbed by the general fund.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
The action on the ordinance amending Title 18 and resolution establishing locations where special events are allowed and rules and regulations governing special event through the Special Event Permit Policy is exempt from the requirements of the California Environment Quality Act pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land, Class 4) which 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. Examples include but are not limited to minor temporary use of land having negligible or no permanent effects on the environment, including carnivals, sales of Christmas trees, etc. (14 CCR Section 15304(e).) Here, this action will allow people to use portions of the City’s parks and beaches for special events for a temporary period of time subject to rules and regulations of the City. This action does not authorize permanent infrastructure and merely creates an administrative system to allow persons to coordinate use of the beach, parks, and other City facilities. Therefore, this action falls within the minor alterations to land exemption.

None of the exceptions to the use of the categorical exemptions identified in State CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2 apply. The Project will not result in a cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type in the same place, over time. Moreover, there are no unusual circumstances surrounding the Project that would result in a reasonably possibility of a significant effect on the environment. Additionally, the Project will not damage scenic resources, including trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar resources. The Project will not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource.

Finally, the Project does not include any hazardous waste sites. Thus, Class 4 exemption applies, and no further environmental review is required.
20 DISCUSSION OF TITLE 18 AMENDMENT AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT POLICY January 27, 2026

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Ordinance Amending Title 18 (Pgs. 11-38)

2. Index of proposed changes to Title 18 (Pgs. 39-45)

3. Draft City Council Resolution Establishing Locations for Special Events and Rules and Regulations (Pgs. 46-59)
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
Kai Bond, Marine Safety Chief
Andrea Tirnauer, Senior Services Coordinator
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney
21 ORDINANCE NO. XXXX

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 18 OF THE
LAGUNA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE; AND FINDING SUCH

ACTION EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT UNDER CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304
WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach, California (“City”) is a municipal corporation, duly organized under the California Constitution and laws of the State of California; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the police powers delegated to it by the California Constitution, the City has the authority to enact laws which promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, on May 16, 2023, the City Council directed staff to develop a special event permit process to authorize private events at Aliso Beach and other South Laguna Beaches as needed; and
WHEREAS, since then, City staff has identified other areas of City property that members of the public and private organizations would like to use for special events and other areas of Title 18 that require modification for internal consistency within Title 18; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend Title 18 (Beaches and Parks) to create a special event permit process to authorize private events at Aliso Beach and other South Laguna Beaches, as needed, as well as at other City property and to make changes to streamline and add consistency to the application of Title 18 as a whole; and WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES ORDAIN, AS FOLLOWS:
1122
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SECTION 1. Recitals. The recitals set forth above are true and correct and are hereby adopted as findings in support of this Ordinance as if fully set forth herein.

SECTION 2. Code Amendment. Laguna Beach Municipal Code Title 18 is hereby repealed and replaced with Title 18, which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference.

SECTION 3. CEQA. This Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land, Class 4) which 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. Examples include but are not limited to minor temporary use of land having negligible or no permanent effects on the environment, including carnivals, sales of Christmas trees, etc. (14 CCR Section 15304(e).) Here, this action will allow people to use portions of the City’s parks and beaches and other City property for special events for a temporary period of time subject to rules and regulations of the City and makes other changes to streamline and add consistency to the application of Title 18. This action does not authorize permanent infrastructure and merely creates an administrative system to allow persons to coordinate use of the beach and other City property. Therefore, this action falls within the minor alterations to land exemption.

None of the exceptions to the use of the categorical exemptions identified in State CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2 apply. The Project will not result in a cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type in the same place, over time. Moreover, there are no unusual circumstances surrounding the Project that would result in a reasonably possibility of a significant effect on the environment. Additionally, the Project will not damage scenic resources, including 1223
-3- Ord. XXXX
trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar resources. The Project will not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Finally, the Project does not include any hazardous waste sites. Thus, Class 4 exemption applies, and no further environmental review is required. The City Council directs staff to cause a Notice of Exemption to be filed with the County of Orange County and State Clearing house within five (5) days of adoption of this Ordinance.

SECTION 4. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days following its adoption by the City Council.

SECTION 5. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance.

Not later than fifteen (15) days following the passage of this Ordinance, the Ordinance, or a summary thereof, along with the names of the City Council members voting for and against the Ordinance, shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City.

ADOPTED this _____ day of ____________, 2026.

Mark Orgill, Mayor
Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________ Megan Garibaldi, City Attorney
1324
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I, Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk of the City of Laguna Beach, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. XXXX was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on _______________, 2026, and was finally adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held on _______________, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBER(S):

NOES: COUNCILMEMBER(S):

ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBER(S):

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER(S):

City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, CA
1425
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EXHIBIT A
Title 18. Beach and Parks
Chapter 18.01 DEFINITIONS
For purposes of Title 18, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
"Business" means and includes "business," "profession," "trade," "calling," "occupation," "show," "exhibition" or "game," and all and every kind of calling carried on for profit or livelihood whether or not a profit or livelihood is actually earned thereby and whether or not said business has a fixed place of business in the city.
"Charcoal" means a carbon substance obtained as a residue when wood or other organic matter is heated in the absence of air.
“Commercial dog training” means any training activity where a person is receiving compensation, donations, or anything of value for training a dog.
"Commercial stand-up paddling" means the use, in the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the shoreline within the city boundaries, of any stand-up paddleboard and paddle. Commercial stand-up paddling activity refers to any business, activity or act for financial compensation in connection with conducting classes, tours, instruction, lessons or group activities in stand-up paddling. "Constitutionally protected expressive activities involving the use of structures" means and refers to conduct and activities that encompasses, entails or includes the erection and use of stages, tables, barricades, utility poles, booths, tents or other temporary structures in addition to the tables, benches, permanent structures, equipment and facilities provided by the city, and the sole or principal purpose of which is the expression, dissemination, or communication by verbal, visual, literary or auditory means of opinion, views or ideas.
"Fire log" means any manufactured log constructed of sawdust; sawdust and paraffin; or waste fiber from the oil palm.
"Garbage" is all animal and vegetable refuse, all vegetable and fruit trimmings, all other refuse that shall have been prepared for, or intended to be used as food, or shall have resulted from the preparation of food, and shall also include coffee grounds, eggshells, and all other food refuse. “Motorboat" includes any vessel propelled by machinery, whether or not such machinery is the principal source of propulsion.
"Natural wood" means the hard fibrous substance consisting basically of xylem that makes up the greater part of the stems, branches, and roots of trees and shall not include any material that has 1526
-6- Ord. XXXX
been processed or treated including, but not limited to, wooden pallets, books, newspapers, furniture, or construction materials.
"Organized play" means six persons or more engaging as a member of a league, sports association, or commercial enterprise in a team sport athletic contest, such as, but not limited to, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, softball, football, basketball, tennis, pickleball, sand volleyball, running, swimming, or training.
"Scuba diving" means the use, in the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the shoreline within the city boundaries, of any face mask, diving fins, snorkel, knife, abalone iron, spear or spear gun, in any combination or combinations, together with any self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. “Shade covering” means a canopy, awning, umbrella, tent, cabana, easy-up, or cover. "Skin diving" means the use, in the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the shoreline within the city boundaries, of any or all of the articles of equipment described in the definition of “scuba diving” except the use of self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. “Special event” means both:
a) Organized public or private gatherings or activities, whether for profit or not for profit, that exceed the capacity of designated areas specified by resolution of the city council. Private or public gatherings within the capacity of the designated areas set by resolution are not considered special events for purposes of this chapter. b) The following organized public or private gatherings or activities, whether for profit or not for profit:

1. Informal weddings;

2. Outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows, and exhibits;

3. Commercial stand-up paddling activity;

4. Commercial dog training;

5. Outdoor athletic contests;

6. Organized play;

7. Special organized recreational boating events; and

8. Other similar activities at the determination of the City Manager or designee. "Store" means to put aside or accumulate for use when needed, to put for safekeeping, to place or to leave in a location.
“Structure” means tables, signs, coolers, sports equipment, a volleyball court, or other temporary items.
1627
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“Surfing" means the use in the Pacific Ocean adjacent to the shoreline within the boundaries of the city of any surfboard, paddleboard, skimboarding, or other similar object made entirely or partially of wood, metal, glass, hard plastic, or any other hard substance. "Trash" means and includes rubbish, newspapers, magazines, all discarded paper and wrappings, tin cans, glass containers, broken glass, boxes, discarded clothing, dead animals or fish, ashes, waste wood, or any other waste material.
"Vegetation" means any and all types of trees, plants, bushes, hedges and shrubs, but not including grass.
"Vessel" means every description of watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.
"Wet sand" means that portion of the beach that is wet as a result of the wash of the waves or tidal action.

Chapter 18.02 USE OF CITY BEACHES AND PARKS
§ 18.02.005. Intent and purpose.
a) The police power to promote the public peace, morals, health, safety and general welfare authorizes the city of Laguna Beach to regulate the use of public property, including beaches and parks, and to impose reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of the use of public property, including beach and park use. b) In accordance with this authority, the city intends to impose reasonable requirements on the use of public property, including beaches and parks to maintain and maximize: (1) the natural beauty and aesthetic attractiveness of public property, including beach and park areas; (2) the guarantees of freedom of speech and association contained in the Constitutions of the United States and the state of California; (3) the availability of limited beach and park areas for diverse uses; and (4) public safety, including, without limitation, the free flow of pedestrian and vehicle traffic in and around public property, including beach and park areas.
§ 18.02.010. General use. a) Unless otherwise reserved pursuant to this chapter, city parks and beaches are available to the public for general active and passive recreational use and constitutionally protected expressive activities in accordance with the design and character of the area being used.

No reservations shall be taken for general use of parks or beaches. b) Except as expressly authorized otherwise in this chapter, parks and beaches are to be used only with the structures, equipment, and other facilities provided by the city. c) Except as expressly authorized otherwise in this chapter, no additional tables, booths, tents or structures may be erected or installed for general use activities. 1728
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§ 18.02.015. Closing times.
a) Except as otherwise provided in this Title, all city beaches and coastal-adjacent parks shall be closed to public use during the times set by city council resolution. b) Except as otherwise provided in this Title, all noncoastal-adjacent parks shall be closed to public use at ten p.m. and shall remain closed until five a.m. § 18.02.020. Entering, remaining or staying during closing times.

Except as otherwise provided in this Title, no person shall enter, remain, or stay on any city beach or in any city park at any time when such beach or park is closed to public use. § 18.02.025. Park curfew hours.

It is unlawful for any person to be within the area known as Crescent Bay Point Park between the hours of twelve midnight and five a.m. of the following day. § 18.02.030. Posting of Hours.

The city manager, or designee, shall post or cause to be posted appropriate signs in conspicuous locations giving notice of closing times and, as applicable, the exceptions provided in this Title

18. § 18.02.035. Exceptions.
a) The provisions of Sections 18.02.015, 18.02.020, and 18.02.025 of this code shall not apply to the following activities, including the most direct safe route available at any given location to conduct such activities as determined by city council resolution, when conducted on wet sand or within twenty feet inland of the wet sand of all beaches:

1. Walking;

2. Jogging;

3. Fishing (by members of the public having on their possession a valid California fishing license);

4. Grunion hunting;

5. Scuba diving;

6. Surfing;

7. Swimming in the ocean.
b) The provisions of Sections 18.02.015, 18.02.020, and 18.02.025 of this code shall not apply to the following activities:

1. Activities as may be expressly permitted by preemption of state law or as may be allowed pursuant to a resolution of the city council.

2. Performance of official business by any city officer or employee or any other person authorized by the city.

3. Any city-sponsored activity, program or special event.

4. Any activity, program or special event for which a city special event permit has been issued.
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§ 18.02.040. Special Event: Permit Required
a) In accordance with its legal authority and intent to protect the public peace, morals, health, safety, and general welfare and public property, the city requires special event permits for certain activities and uses on city parks and beaches.
b) No person shall cause a “Special Event” to occur in any city park, beach, or property without first obtaining a city special event permit.
c) The city requires special event permits for the purposes of:

1. Accommodating and coordinating activities planned by different individuals and groups so that as many people as possible can use and enjoy the natural and existing beach and park environment at the same time;

2. Learning about the proposed activity to minimize or prevent inconvenience or harm to the public and public property or visual blight and degradation of beach and park areas;

3. Requiring appropriate insurance or other measures to relieve the city of liability and reduce unnecessary exposure of the city to personal injury or property damage claims or suits from harm that can occur from the use of, including the use of private structures on, public property; and

4. Ensuring that facilities most suited for the proposed activity are used without unnecessarily restricting the rights of free expression or assembly guaranteed by the Constitutions of the United States and the state of California. d) This section is not intended to in any way discriminate against, regulate, or interfere with the rights or content of constitutionally protected freedom of expression or association. § 18.02.045 Special Event Permit.
a) The city council will establish, by resolution, locations where special events are allowed and the rules and regulations governing special events. b) The city manager or designee shall be responsible for the administration of the special event permit process and shall develop application forms and any further internal city rules, regulations, and requirements deemed necessary to administer it. c) No special event permit will be issued on City beaches or parks beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day unless the special event permit is ultimately approved in advance of the event by the City Manager.
d) Special event permit applications must be submitted in writing at least thirty calendar days before the date of the proposed activity on a form approved by the city manager or his/her designee.
e) Special event permit applications will be processed in the order in which they are received and a permit will be issued or denied within fifteen calendar days after it is received. f) Special event permits issued under this chapter may also require a Coastal Development Permit, or may be exempt or excluded from a Coastal Development Permit requirement, as provided in sections 25.07.007 and 25.07.008(A)(6).
g) Special event permit applications will be denied only if:

1. The special event permit application is not fully completed and executed or contains a material falsehood or misrepresentation, or the applicant has on prior occasions 1930
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made material misrepresentations regarding the nature or scope of activity previously permitted or has violated the terms of a previous permit;

2. The applicant has not tendered any required application fee, indemnification agreement, or insurance certificate;

3. A fully executed prior application for a special event permit for the same time and place has been received and has been or will be granted to a prior applicant or the use or activity intended by the applicant would conflict with previously planned activities organized and conducted by the city and previously scheduled for the same time and place;

4. The proposed use or activity intended by the applicant would present an unreasonable imminent danger to the health or safety of the applicant, other users of the park, city employees, or the public, or cause damage to any public or private property, or will create an unreasonable demand upon the city's emergency services personnel and equipment so as to cause potential imminent deficiencies in such services and endanger the public health and welfare;

5. The proposed use or activity is prohibited by law; or

6. Other grounds set forth in this Title or as established by the city manager. h) If a special event permit application is denied, the city manager or designee will notify the applicant in a writing that clearly sets forth the grounds for such denial, and, where feasible, will suggest alternative times or places to conduct the proposed use or activity or propose any measures by which the applicant may cure any defects in the special event permit application.
i) The permittee of activities conducted pursuant to a special event permit under this section shall:

1. Be responsible to monitor the area in which the activity is being conducted, to collect and dispose of all litter generated by the permittee in connection with the activity, to remove all structures used in connection with the activity upon its conclusion, and to otherwise restore the area used to its pre-existing condition if any alteration of the area has resulted from the conduct of the permittee or any person who was or reasonably should have been within the permittee’s control.

2. Be required to:
i. To obtain a standard policy of liability insurance naming the city as an additional insured with respect to any liability, loss, damage, or injury incurred by the city, or by any other person and claimed against the city, which is proximately caused by the permittee or its officers, agents, or employees, or any person who was or reasonably should have been within the permittee’s control;
ii. To agree to reimburse the city for any costs incurred by it in restoring damage to or cleaning public property after the activity as is necessary due to damage or degradation which is proximately caused by the permittee or its officers, agents, or employees or any person who was or reasonably should have been within the permittee’s control; and
iii. To agree to defend, protect, indemnify, and hold the city free and harmless from and against any and all liability, loss, damage, or injury incurred by 2031
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the city, or by any other person and claimed against the city, which is proximately caused by the permittee or its officers, agents, or employees, or any person who was or reasonably should have been within the permittee’s control.
§ 18.02.050 Special Event Fees
a) Application and use fees established from time to time by the city council in accordance with this section for constitutionally protected expressive activities shall be reasonably related to the city's actual costs incident to the administration of this chapter or the provision of city services.
b) When establishing or requiring payment of application or use fees or the amount of liability insurance coverage, providing a waiver of fees or insurance requirements, establishing or accepting in lieu contributions as an alternative to fees, issuing or denying a special event permit, or otherwise acting in enforcement of this title as applied to constitutionally protected expressive activities, no consideration shall be given as to the identity or associational relationships of the special event permit applicant, the content, subject matter, or viewpoint of any expression or message communicated by or during a proposed activity, or to any assumptions or predictions of the amount of hostility that may be aroused in the public by the content, subject matter or viewpoint of the expression or message conveyed by the applicant or proposed activity.
c) No applicant for or recipient of a special event permit for constitutionally protected activities involving the use of structures shall be required to provide or pay the cost of public safety personnel necessary to provide for the protection of the applicant and its attendees from hostile members of the public, traffic control or general law enforcement in the vicinity of the proposed activity.
d) Except as expressly provided otherwise in this section, in establishing or imposing application and use fees, the amount of liability insurance coverage or premiums, a waiver of fees or insurance requirements, or the acceptance of in-lieu contributions consideration shall be given only to physical attributes of the proposed activity consisting of the type, size and number of any proposed temporary structure(s), the estimated attendees, excluding hostile members of the public or counter-demonstrators, at and duration of the activity, and the reasonably estimated extra city personnel hours anticipated to be used for such activity. e) No individual or organization applying for a special event permit for the purpose of conducting a constitutionally protected expressive activity for which a special event permit is required shall be required to pay an application or use fee or procure insurance, if the special event permit application includes reasonably satisfactory documentation or other evidence demonstrating the applicant's indigence and financial status, or that payment of fees or procurement of insurance is impossible or so financially burdensome that it would preclude the applicant from using beach or park property. If the city manager or his or her designee determines, after consultation with the city's risk manager, that a particular use, event or activity does not present a substantial or significant public liability or property damage exposure for the city, the city manager or designee may give a written waiver of the insurance requirements of this section.
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§ 18.02.055 Appeals
Any determination by the city manager or designee regarding a special event permit may be appealed to the city council pursuant to Chapter 2.02 of this code. § 18.02.060 Main Beach Park.
a) Constitutionally Protected Expressive Activities Involving the Use of Structures:

1. The hard surface cobblestone area located in the southerly portion of Main Beach Park shall be available not more than five days per month on a first-come, firstserved basis by reservation through the special event permit process for the conduct of constitutionally protected expressive activities involving the use of structures.

2. Such activities, which shall be sponsored by an individual or organization, may be conducted by the same individual or organization on not more than two days in any consecutive six-month period if conducting such activities more frequently would result in the exclusion of any other individual or organizations from using the cobblestone area to conduct constitutionally protected expressive activities involving the use of structures.
b) Other Special Events Involving the Use of Structures:

1. The hard surface cobblestone area located in the southerly portion of Main Beach Park shall be available not more than two days per month on a first-come, firstserved basis by reservation through the special event permit process for the conduct of other special events.

2. Such activities, which shall be sponsored by an individual or organization, may be conducted by the same individual or organization on not more than fourteen days in any calendar year.

3. Sales relating to the special event are authorized at the hard surface cobblestone area. Each vendor must have a Laguna Beach business license and shall display the license number.
c) The planning of such activities and location of such structures as are authorized in this section shall:

1. Comply with all applicable public health and safety requirements and shall be coordinated with the city so that the activity is carried on in a manner which will minimize to the greatest practical extent the prevention of or substantial interference with the ordinary and normal public usage of Main Beach Park for active and passive recreational and aesthetic enjoyment and constitutionally protected expressive activities.

2. Not utilize a single structure in excess of six hundred square feet in area or in excess of eight feet in height.
§ 18.02.065 Informal weddings. a) Certain areas designated for informal weddings may be reserved through the special event permit process on a first-come-first-served basis, upon payment of a nonrefundable fee to be established by resolution.
b) No additional tables or chairs or other facilities may be erected for such ceremonies. 2233
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c) No alcoholic beverages shall be served and no amplified sound shall be permitted. d) The maximum number of the wedding party and guests shall not exceed fifty people in the Gazebo at Heisler Park or at Crescent Bay Park.
e) Up to ninety-five people are allowed per wedding in other locations in Heisler Park. f) No more than two weddings per day shall be permitted at Crescent Bay Park. § 18.02.070 Outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows and exhibitions. a. Any outdoor gathering, concert, festival, art show, or exhibitions involving the use of structures and not otherwise provided for in this chapter or elsewhere in this code shall be held at Irvine Bowl Park.
b. The use of the amphitheater and festival grounds at Irvine Bowl shall be on a first-come, first-served basis by reservation through the special event permit process and is subject to the requirements of any existing or subsequently approved lease of those facilities. Nothing in this section shall be construed to supersede the provisions of any such lease. Outdoor gatherings to be attended by more than two thousand five hundred persons require a license pursuant to Chapter 5.68 of this code.
c. If the Irvine Bowl Park is unavailable for an outdoor gathering, concert, festival, art show, or exhibition involving the use of structures, the sponsor of a special event can propose the event at an alternative location. The City Manager shall either approve or deny such special event permit application.
§ 18.02.075. Outdoor athletic contests.
a) The intent of this section is to provide for the integrity of various community sports leagues and sports events by facilitating the harmonious scheduling of their activities. b) Beach and Parks may be reserved through the special event permit process for athletic contests, events, or activities, including practice or training sessions, in areas designated for such use.
c) Special structures to be used in conjunction with these activities shall be subject to the discretionary review and approval by the city through the special event permit process and may require other entitlements based on the proposed structures. § 18.02.080 Independence Day celebration.

The city council finds and declares that, in consideration of the city-wide ban on the use of fireworks, it is in the interest of public health, safety and general welfare to permit and conduct a public fireworks display at Main Beach on or about July 4th of each year to celebrate Independence Day.
§ 18.02.085 Penalty.
a) A violation of this Chapter may be prosecuted as an infraction in accordance with the provisions of Section 1.04.025 of this code, or alternatively, an administrative citation may be issued pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 1.15 of this code. 2334
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b) In addition, or as a further alternative, the city may pursue any form of administrative remedy, civil action or other judicial relief against a person, business or enterprise violating the provisions of this chapter.
§ 18.02.090 Severability.

If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this chapter, or the application thereof to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby; and, to this end, the provisions of this chapter are declared to be severable.

Chapter 18.04 CONDUCT
§ 18.04.010. Garbage and trash.
a) No person shall leave, scatter, throw, or discard any trash or garbage upon any beach, park, public street, alley, or passageway within the city, except as hereinafter provided. b) It shall be the duty of every person having in his possession, charge or control, any garbage or trash upon any beach, park, public street, alley, or passageway, either to place said garbage and trash in public garbage and trash containers located on or in said beaches, parks, public streets, alleys or passageways, if such containers are available, or to take said garbage and trash with him or her when he or she leaves said beach, park, public street, alley or passageway within the city.
c) The prohibitions, regulations, and restrictions in this chapter contained, relative to the disposal of garbage and trash, shall not apply to the disposal of garbage and trash as defined, regulated, and provided by Chapter 7.16 (Solid Waste Disposal and Organic Waste Diversion) of this code.
d) It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to place, dump, deposit, or otherwise cause to be deposited, any foreign substance or material, including, but not limited to, dirt, wood, trees, roots, shrubs, plants, sand, brick, rock, gravel, masonry, or plaster, in or on public beaches or tidelands within the city limits, or to place, dump, deposit, or otherwise cause to be deposited, any such foreign substance or material anywhere within the city limits in such a way that it is reasonable to expect that the normal action of the elements or tides or winds will cause such materials to become deposited in or on said tidelands. § 18.04.015. Display or sale of merchandise prohibited. a) Except as expressly provided by this code, no person shall sell, offer to sell, or display for sale, or rent, offer to rent, or display for rent, goods, wares, merchandise, foodstuffs, refreshments, or other kinds of property or services in any beach or park. b) The provisions of this section shall not apply to the sale, display for sale, or offer in exchange for a donation, conducted without the use of stands or other temporary or permanent structures, of:

1. Newspapers, periodicals, pamphlets, or other written materials; or

2. Constitutionally protected expressive merchandise bearing political, religious, philosophical, social, or ideological messages and seeking support for particular causes 2435
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or support for particular views on economic, political, religious, philosophical, social or ideological issues, without regard to the viewpoint, subject matter, or content contained on or expressed by such newspapers, periodicals, pamphlets, other written materials, or expressive merchandise, or the identity or associational affiliation of any individual or organization offering such materials or merchandise. § 18.04.018. Business on city property. a) No person shall in any manner while on city property, including beaches and parks, sell any product or service or engage in any other business or commercial activity without obtaining a business license and the prior written approval of the city manager, or duly authorized representative.
b) This section does not apply to any concession operated under authority granted by the city council, nor to any other activity specifically authorized, regulated, or exempted by order or resolution of the city council.
§ 18.04.020. Shade Coverings and Structures.
(a) No person shall install, erect, or maintain any shade covering or structure over six feet in height or wider than six feet on or in any public beach, park, street, alley, or passageway. (b) Any shade covering or structure installed, erected, or maintained on or in any public beach, park, street, alley, or passageway shall:

1. Not have more than one side closed to public view; and

2. Not interfere with a lifeguard’s ability to see the water or adjacent lifeguard towers; and

3. Not have more than one contact point with the sand, when located seaward of lifeguard towers; and

4. Not be located within twenty feet of any emergency or public access; and

5. Not obstruct any emergency or public access; and

6. Not be located within five feet from another shade covering or structure. (c) Any shade covering or structure shall be relocated at the request of the Marine Safety Department staff, Police Department staff, or other authorized City personnel. § 18.04.035. Public buildings, structures and improvements. a) No person shall affix or attach any ropes, wires, cords, stakes, poles, hooks, or similar objects to any public buildings or structures in any public parks or beaches, including, but not limited to, lifeguard towers, restrooms, administrative offices, boardwalks, flag poles, public artwork, drinking fountains, barbeques, picnic stoves, fences, walls, railings, benches, tables, and trash receptacles, without the advance written consent of the city manager or designee.
b) No person shall store personal property in or on any public parks and beaches as follows:

1. on or upon any stairs, designated trails, sidewalks, or marked pathways or boardwalks;

2. within twenty feet of any restroom;

3. within fifteen feet of any lifeguard towers or administrative offices; 2536
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4. within fifteen feet of the oceanward side of the Main Beach boardwalk, beneath or under such boardwalk, or any place where such boardwalk abuts the sand; or

5. during the period from one-half hour after sunset to six a.m. of the following day. No person shall be cited under this section unless he or she has first been notified by a police officer or public officer that he or she is in violation of the prohibition in this section and thereafter continues the violation.
c) No person shall place or store any of the following items of personal property in or on any public parks and beaches:

1. hammocks,

2. cots,

3. beds,

4. sleeping bags,

5. mattresses,

6. luggage or

7. portable cooking devices.
d) For purposes of this section, no person shall be cited under this section unless he or she has first been notified by a police officer or public officer that he or she is in violation of the prohibition in this section and thereafter continues the violation. § 18.04.045. Public restrooms.
a) No person shall delay, linger, or idle about in the restroom of any city parks and beaches or in the approaches or walks adjacent to any restroom without lawful purpose for being present related to the use of such restroom, and for the purpose or having the effect of preventing, inhibiting, or impairing the intended use of the restroom. b) No person shall be cited under this section unless he or she has first been notified by a police officer or public officer that he or she is in violation of the prohibition in this section and thereafter continues the violation.
§ 18.04.055. Disturbing the peace.

Any person who willfully delays or obstructs any city employee in the performance of his or her duties in any city parks and beaches, or who by his or her conduct, or by threatening language, unreasonably annoys or unreasonably interferes with the use of any city parks and beaches by any other person, shall leave the park or beach upon request made by any police officer or other public officer authorized by the city, after a warning has not resulted in cessation of the conduct prohibited by this section.
§ 18.04.065. Use of beach fire barbeques and fire pits. a) Barbeques and Picnic Stoves. No person shall build, set, kindle, make, or maintain a fire (using solid fuel) in any public park or beach that is used or intended to be used for cooking or heating-related food purposes except in city-designated barbeques and picnic stoves provided for such purposes.
b) Fire Pits.
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1. Fire pits within the city's local coastal program jurisdiction are prohibited unless used as permitted herein.
i. No person shall burn, ignite, or otherwise set on fire any material in a fire pit unless the person is burning natural wood, fire log(s), or charcoal (collectively, "fuel") in a fire pit that has been specifically designated and operated in a manner that has been authorized by resolution of the city council. Except as expressly authorized in this section, open beach fires that burn, ignite, or otherwise set on fire any fuel outside of city-designated fire pits are prohibited at all beaches within the city's local coastal program jurisdiction.
c) Portable solid fuel burning fire pits are strictly prohibited on public property including parks and beaches. Portable propane fire pits are only allowed as specifically authorized in Paragraph 10 of Subsection 307.2 of Section 15.01.030 of this code.

1. Use of city-designated fire must comply with the following requirements:
i. A responsible person, at least eighteen years of age, must remain within twenty-five feet of the city-designated fire pit while the fire is burning. ii. Fire may not exceed a height of more than twelve inches above the upper edge of the city-designated fire pit.
iii. Only fuel may be burned in a fire pit. No fuel may be buried in the sand after burning such fuel in a fire pit.
iv. All used natural wood, fire log(s), and charcoal shall remain in the fire pit; only designated city officials shall remove any natural wood, fire log(s), or charcoal and shall deposit them in hot coal receptacles on the beach or transport them off the beach to be deposited in hot coal receptacles. v. No person shall burn trash or debris in a fire pit.
vi. City-designated fire pits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. vii. Location and use of fire pits must comply with South Coast Air Quality Management District Rules 444 and 445.
viii. Access to fire pits must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. ix. No fire shall be built, set, kindled, made, or maintained during the period of one hour before the closing time of the beach to six a.m. of the following day. Fires must be extinguished with water. Covering the fire with sand is prohibited.
x. Outdoor fires are not allowed on public property during hazardous conditions as set forth in Subsection 305.6 of Section 15.01.030 of this code.
§ 18.04.110. Bicycle storage prohibited.

No person shall place or store any bicycles, whether motorized or not, on any portion of Main Beach, the Main Beach Boardwalk, or Heisler Park, except in city-designated storage locations. § 18.04.120. Golf prohibited.
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No person shall play or practice the game of golf, including chipping, putting, driving, or any other type of play or practice, which includes the hitting of a golf ball or similar type ball with a golf or similar type club in any city park, beach, or city-owned open space area. § 18.04.130. Operation of ultralight vehicles or balloons.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, no person shall land, release, take off in, or launch any ultralight vehicle or balloon, as defined by 14 CFR Sections 101.1 and 103.1, including ultralight vehicles commonly known as a hang glider, paragliding device, or parasail, from any city-owned land.

Chapter 18.10 BEACHES
§ 18.10.002. Bluffs and vegetation.
a) Purpose and Intent.

1. The public bluffs and vegetation constitute aesthetically pleasing and sensitive features and resources, provide stability to land formations, and mitigate erosion, among other public benefits.

2. The public bluffs and vegetation are not intended or designed to be traversed by the public, used for the disposal of refuse, used for the storage of personal property, or used for other activities that can result in damage to or destruction of such areas, with associated adverse visual and/or functional impacts as well as substantial public expense to maintain, repair, or replace.

3. Stairs, designated trails, sidewalks, and marked pathways exist to allow the public to move through public areas.
b) Protection of Bluffs and Vegetation in Public Areas.

1. No person shall remove, destroy, damage, traverse over or through, lie on or within, or affix or attach any ropes, wires, cords, stakes, poles, hooks, or similar objects to, or store, place, or discard personal property or refuse on or within any public bluff or any vegetation planted in any public parks or beaches, including, but not limited to, open space areas and planters.

2. For purposes of this section, no person shall be cited under this section unless he or she has first been notified by a police officer or public officer that he or she is in violation of the prohibition in this section and thereafter continues the violation. § 18.10.003. Prohibition of the use or possession of glass articles on city beaches.

No person shall have, possess, or use any article made of glass as a container upon any city beach. § 18.10.005. Digging holes.

No person shall dig or cause the digging of any hole in the sand exceeding a depth of two feet.

Any person who digs, or causes to be dug, any hole upon the beach shall fill the hole before leaving the hole unattended.
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§ 18.10.010. Removal of sand.

No person shall remove or cause to be removed from any beach any sand without written permission from the marine safety chief.
§ 18.10.015. Beach activities, sports, and games.

No person shall engage in any activities or conduct or participate in any sports or games that constitute a hazard to any person, including, but not limited to, sand throwing, or the use of a hard ball, softball, bat, football, paddleball, Frisbee, boomerang, or other athletic apparatus or game equipment or object.
§ 18.10.020. Fishing from beach.
a) Each person fishing from the public beach shall at all times have due regard for the safety of persons on the beach or in the water by refraining from overhead casting or fishing too close to swimmers or beach patrons.
b) The supervising lifeguard on duty has the authority to prohibit, restrict, or otherwise regulate fishing in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare. § 18.10.025. Diving/jumping.

No person shall dive or jump into any body of water in park, beach, or any recreational area from any rock or precipice other than at those places designated and posted for diving or jumping by the city manager, marine safety chief, or police chief or their authorized designees, or any other officer or employee designated by the city council.
§ 18.10.030. Lifesaving apparatus and lifeguard tower limitations. a) No person shall handle, use, or molest in any manner or destroy any lifesaving apparatus or lifesaving equipment which is placed upon or near any beach within the city. b) No person shall climb, hang, or sit or cause someone to climb, hang, or sit on any lifeguard tower.
c) The provisions of this section shall not apply to any authorized lifeguard, or any person acting under the direction of an authorized lifeguard, or any person who shall use such equipment and apparatus for the purpose of saving life or making a rescue in emergency. § 18.10.035. Disobeying a lifeguard.

No person shall willfully resist, delay, interfere or disobey any lifeguard in the discharge or attempt to discharge any duty of his or her position.

Chapter 18.12. RIDING
§ 18.12.010. Horses, vehicles and electric personal assistive mobility devices prohibited— Exceptions.
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a) No person, except authorized law enforcement, shall ride, lead, or drive any horse or horses, or ride, drive, or operate any motor vehicle, electric personal assistive mobility device (as defined by the California Vehicle Code) including bicycles or any motorized riding equipment, upon any portion of the beach within the limits of this city. b) The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:

1. any person, firm, or corporation using, riding or driving horses or motor vehicles, including bicycles, upon said beach when employed by this city to clean said beach;

2. any person, firm, or corporation using, riding or driving horses or motor vehicles, including bicycles, upon said beach when issued a special event permit pursuant to this Title to ride, lead, or drive horses or to ride, operate, or drive motor vehicles, including bicycles, upon said beach; or

3. any person with disabilities operating an electric personal assistive mobility device (as defined by the California Vehicle Code) upon said beach.

Chapter 18.20. SURFING AND SWIMMING
§ 18.20.015. Swimming and surfing area.
a) All waters within two hundred yards from the shoreline are designated as swimming and surfing areas.
b) No persons shall operate any vessel within said area except that vessels, other than motorboats which have been launched from the beach may proceed directly to and from the beach through said designated areas.
c) The launching of any vessels may be prohibited by any police officer or lifeguard at any time it appears to such police officer or lifeguard that such activity would constitute a hazard to persons swimming in said designated area or to the operators or passengers of said vessels.
§ 18.20.020. Swimming—Hazardous conditions.

At any time when conditions become hazardous as a result of storm, congestion of persons, or other conditions which cause a present danger to persons swimming or using the beach, the city manager, marine safety chief, or police chief or their authorized designees, or any other officer or employee designated by the city council, may prohibit swimming during the period of such hazardous conditions.
§ 18.20.025. Surfing—Time and place permitted.
a) Between June fifteenth and September fifteenth, both dates inclusive, of each calendar year, the following described areas of the Pacific Ocean are hereby designated as surfing areas, and surfing within said areas only during the daylight hours enumerated below shall be permitted:
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1. Area No. 1: That area lying between a point one hundred fifty feet south of the southerly extension of Brooks Street and a point one hundred fifty feet north of the northerly extension of Brooks Street only during the hours from sunup to sundown;

2. Area No. 2: That area lying between a point ninety feet south of the southerly extension of St. Ann's Drive and a point two hundred feet south of the southern extension of Thalia Street only during the hours from sunup to sundown;

3. Area No. 3: That area lying between Victor Hugo's Point and the stairway entrance below Jasmine Street only during the hours from sunup to sundown;

4. Area No. 4: That area lying between a point one hundred twenty-five feet south of the southerly extension of Agate Street and a point one hundred feet north of the northerly extension. The hours of surfing to be from sunup until twelve noon and then five p.m. until sunset;

5. Area No. 5: Surfing is allowed in Area No. 5. Exception: In Aliso Beach, specifically, a zone for surfing shall be set up from 12 pm to 6 pm daily through the posting of signs and flags by Marine Safety Department staff or for increased durations as conditions warrant at the determination by Marine Safety Department staff. If a zone for surfing is not set through the posting of signs and flags by Marine Safety Department staff, the surfing area is hereby established at the South end of Aliso Beach between June fifteenth and September fifteenth. b) No person shall wade, bathe, or swim between in any surfing area at any times when surfing is permitted in such area unless such person has in his or her possession and is actually using a surfboard, paddleboard, or other similar device. c) Whenever surfing conditions become hazardous as the result of storm, congestion, or participants or other conditions which cause a present danger to the persons participating in surfing or to others, the city manager, marine safety chief, police chief, or other employees of the city designated by the city manager to enforce surfing regulations and control surfing activities, may prohibit surfing with a surfboard, paddleboard, or similar device. No person shall fail, refuse, or neglect to stop surfing activities or to leave the water when ordered to do so by any such employee of the city. d) The city manager, marine safety chief, police chief, or other employees of the city designated by the city manager to enforce surfing regulations and control surfing activities, may, upon careful evaluation, permit surfing in certain swimming areas as follows through the posting of signs and flags:
a. Whenever surfing or weather conditions make swimming or bathing hazardous in the beach area from a point one hundred fifty feet south of the southerly extension of Brooks Street to a point ninety feet south of the southerly extension of St. Ann's Drive, or
b. When relatively few swimmers or bathers are present. e) No person shall engage in the activity of surfing from June fifteenth to September fifteenth except within an area where surfing is permitted by the provisions of this section. 3142
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§ 18.20.030. Signals.

At any time when surfing is prohibited within a particular area by virtue of the provisions of this chapter, a yellow flag displaying a black ball shall be raised at or near the subject area so as to be readily visible to all persons within said area.
§ 18.20.035. Hazard to others.

No person shall use any surfboard, paddleboard, skim-board, ski, canoe, or other similar object made entirely or partially of wood, metal, glass, hard plastic, or any other hard substance, at any time in the Pacific Ocean within the city limits in a manner that constitutes a hazard to any other person.
§ 18.20.040. Penalty for violations.

The violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is punishable as a misdemeanor and the revocation of the license, if any, issued to such violator.

Chapter 18.21. SKIN AND SCUBA DIVING
§ 18.21.010. Hazardous skin diving and scuba diving—Discontinuance orders authorized. a) Hazard to Others or Self. No person shall participate in any skin diving or scuba diving activity at any time in the Pacific Ocean within the city in a manner that constitutes a hazard to any other person or to themselves.
b) Authorized Order to Discontinue Skin Diving or Scuba Diving. The city manager, marine safety chief, police chief or their authorized designees, or any officer or employee designated by the city manager to enforce surfing regulations and control skin diving and scuba diving activities, may prohibit skin diving and scuba diving at any time diving conditions become hazardous as a result of storm, congestion of persons, lack of proper equipment (such equipment to include mask, fins, snorkel, buoyancy compensator, and diving partner) or other conditions which cause a present danger to the persons skin diving or scuba diving or to others.
c) No person shall fail, refuse or neglect to stop skin diving or scuba diving activities or to leave the water when ordered to do so by any such employee of the city. § 18.21.015. Equipment precautions.

No person shall enter the public beach or the ocean for the purpose of participating in scuba diving at any time in the Pacific Ocean within the city if that person is carrying a spearhead of a fixed spear which is not covered in such a way as to render it incapable of harming any individual or a spearhead of a detachable spear which is not detached and not in a firing position. 3243
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§ 18.21.020. Scuba and skin diving classes restricted to certain hours. No person shall conduct any class of instruction in scuba diving or skin diving on public beaches within the City during the following time periods: (a) from June fifteenth to September fifteenth of any year; before seven a.m. or after ten a.m. on any day. § 18.21.025. Penalty for violations.

The violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is punishable as a misdemeanor.

Chapter 18.22. COMMERCIAL STAND-UP PADDLING REGULATION
§ 18.22.010. Commercial Stand-Up Paddling Activity—Special Event Permit required. a) A special event permit is required for any business or person proposing to conduct commercial stand-up paddling activities.
b) All permits will contain, at minimum, the following requirements:

1. all instructors shall maintain basic First Aid and CPR certifications in addition to participation in a mandatory orientation with marine safety on an annual basis;

2. a student-to-instructor ratio of not more than 4:1 shall be maintained;

3. no more than ten persons from any business (including students and instructors) shall be in the water at one time;

4. each business shall utilize a system to allow for identification of permitted instructors through uniformly colored hats associated with the business;

5. a one-time application fee and an annual renewal fee shall be paid in the amounts established by resolution of the city council;

6. all businesses shall maintain liability insurance in the amount of one million dollars per incident, two million dollars in the aggregate;

7. all businesses shall comply with other applicable federal, state and local statutes and regulations.
c) The chief of marine safety may require additional permit requirements or modify permit requirements in the interest of public health, safety and general welfare. § 18.22.015. Hazardous commercial stand-up paddling activity—Discontinuance orders authorized.
a) Hazard to Others or Self. No person will conduct commercial stand-up paddling activities at any time in the Pacific Ocean within the city in a manner that constitutes a hazard to any other person or to themselves.
b) Authorized Order to Discontinue Commercial Stand-Up Paddling Activity. The city manager, marine safety chief, police chief or their authorized designees, or any officer or employee designated by the city manager to enforce ocean activity regulations and commercial stand-up paddling activities, may prohibit commercial stand-up paddling activities at any time if surf conditions become hazardous as a result of storm, congestion of persons, lack of proper equipment or other conditions that cause a present danger to the persons engaged in stand-up paddling or to others. No business or person shall fail, refuse 3344
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or neglect to stop commercial stand-up paddling activities or to leave the water when ordered to do so by any such employee of the city.
§ 18.22.020. Penalty for violations.

The violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is punishable as a misdemeanor. The violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute grounds for revocation of a special event permit issued pursuant to this chapter.

Chapter 18.25. SEAL ROCK
§ 18.25.010. Statement of intent.
a) The city council finds and determines that Seal Rock is a unique natural resource which is used as a habitat by the California sea lion and the brown pelican. b) The council further finds that the presence of people on Seal Rock is disturbing to these rare species of wildlife.
§ 18.25.015. Trespassing on Seal Rock prohibited.

No person shall trespass on that exposed reef, commonly known as Seal Rock, located in the Pacific Ocean along a prolongation of the oceanward terminus of McKnight Drive on a bearing south four degrees zero minutes west at a distance of approximately six hundred feet southerly of the radius point of the cul-de-sac of McKnight Drive.
§ 18.25.020. Signs.

The chief of marine safety shall post appropriate signs regarding Seal Rock to inform the public that trespassing is prohibited and that the wildlife should not be disturbed. § 18.25.025. Penalty.

Any person convicted of violation of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a penalty fine of not more than five hundred dollars or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period not exceeding six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

Chapter 18.26. STORAGE AND LAUNCHING OF VESSELS
§ 18.26.010. Prohibition against overnight storage of vessels on beaches.

Except as provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to leave, beach, or otherwise store a vessel on any public beach overnight.
§ 18.26.015. Exception—Nonmotorized boats of twenty feet or less.

Vessels other than motorboats which measure twenty feet or less in overall length, may be left, beached, or stored overnight on any public beach other than Main Beach Park and Heisler Park. 3445
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§ 18.26.020. Exception—Permit for special event.

The City Manager or designee is authorized to and shall establish rules and regulations for the issuance of special event permits for the overnight storage on public beaches of vessels in connection with special organized recreational boating events. § 18.26.025. Prohibition against launching of motorboats from beaches.

It is unlawful for any person to launch any motorboat from any public beach except at areas designated as launching areas by the city.
§ 18.26.030. Exception—City owned or operated vessels.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to vessels owned, maintained, or operated by the city.

Chapter 18.27. HAZARDOUS OR ENDANGERED AREAS
§ 18.27.010. Climbing or trespassing in hazardous or endangered areas prohibited.

It is unlawful for any person to climb or trespass within designated hazardous or endangered areas within the corporate limits of the city.
§ 18.27.015. Designation of hazardous or endangered areas. a) The hazardous or endangered areas referred to in Section 18.27.010, in which no person shall climb or trespass, are those areas designated as hazardous or endangered by the city police department, with the approval of the city manager. b) Once so designated, such hazardous or endangered areas shall be clearly posted as hazardous or endangered areas within which climbing or trespassing by any person is prohibited.

Chapter 18.28. PARKS
§ 18.28.016. Use of dog parks.

The following regulations shall apply to all city dog parks:
a) Owners and/or handlers are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries to people or other dogs and/or damage caused by them.
b) All dogs must have current licenses and required vaccinations, and be wearing a collar or harness with a visible registration dog tag.
c) Dogs in heat, pregnant, or lactating are not permitted inside the dog park. d) Digging is not permitted anywhere in the park. Owners and/or handlers are responsible to fill any holes dug by their dog.
e) Owners and/or handlers may not bring more than three dogs at any one time to the dog park.
3546
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f) Owners and/or handlers must keep close visual contact with their dogs and be aware of their actions at all times. Dog owners and handlers must remain in a "hands free" condition and capable at all times to use both hands to control their dog. g) Commercial dog training is prohibited in city dog parks, unless specifically permitted by the city through the special event permit process.
§ 18.28.018. Baseball at Riddle Field.
a) Riddle Field is intended for youth baseball play.
b) No hitting of baseballs by persons over the age of fourteen is permitted unless for a youth baseball activity permitted through the special event permits process in accordance with Section 18.28.025 and Title 18 of this code.
c) Riddle Baseball Field closes at dusk unless a special event permit for lights has been issued. § 18.28.025. Organized play—Special Event Permit required. a) No person shall participate in any organized play on any park, soccer field, baseball field, tennis/pickleball courts, sand volleyball court, pool or other recreational facility owned, operated, or controlled by the city without first receiving a special event permit issued by the city which authorizes the organized play at the particular site. b) In determining whether or not to issue a special event permit, the city manager, or designee, shall consider the following and any other factors he or she deems relevant:

1. The suitability of the particular facility for the proposed play.

2. The effect of the activity on the neighborhood.

3. The limitation on the availability of the facility for spontaneous recreational use by the public caused by the permitted use of the facility.

4. Priority shall be given to groups composed of residents of the city. c) The city manager, or designee, may place reasonable conditions on the issuance of a special event permit as he or she deems necessary and proper to protect the public welfare, including, but not limited to:

1. Restrictions on the number, age and other designations of persons who may participate in such permitted play.

2. Restrictions on the season, days of the week and time of day that the particular facility may be used by the permittee.

3. Provisions for the maintenance by the permittee of the sanitation, cleanliness, and appearance of the facility. At times, portable restrooms may be required for special events.

4. Provisions for security and the maintenance of law and order, including compliance with noise, parking, safety, and other appropriate regulations. It is at the city's discretion to require security on the premises to enforce the policies of field use. If security is deemed necessary, it is the responsibility of the user group or individual to obtain security personnel at the user's expense. A letter of confirmation from the security agency must be submitted prior to field approval. 3647
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5. Restrictions on the installation of apparatus or modification in any manner, either temporary or permanent, by the permittee to the sports field or adjacent structures.

6. Provisions for the posting liability insurance by the permittee. d) In the event that any of the conditions of the special event permit are violated by the permittee or for other good cause shown, the city may suspend or revoke the special event permit after notice to the permittee.
e) When a special event permit is issued for organized play at a park, soccer field, baseball field, tennis/pickleball court, sand volleyball, pool, or other recreational facility pursuant to this section for use of said facility at a particular time, and that facility is being used by one or more persons who do not hold a special event permit to use the facility at that particular time, the non-permit holders shall immediately vacate the facility upon arrival of the permit holders.

Chapter 18.29. MARINE PROTECTED AREAS
§ 18.29.010. Establishment of marine protected areas.
a) California laws provide for the protection of the marine habitat and biological diversity found in California's ocean waters, including intertidal zones. b) The state of California has established marine protected areas to protect habitat and ecosystems, conserve biological diversity, provide a sanctuary for marine life, enhance recreational and educational opportunities, and provide scientific reference points to assist resource management decisions.
c) Marine protected areas include state marine reserves, state marine parks, and state marine conservation areas.
d) The following areas in the city of Laguna Beach have been designated as marine protected areas in accordance with applicable state laws:
a. Laguna Beach State Marine Reserve,
b. Laguna Beach State Marine Conservation Area, and
c. Dana Point State Marine Conservation Area.
§ 18.29.015. Responsibility of marine protection office.

The city's marine safety department shall have and discharge the responsibilities of area manager for all of the marine protected areas located within the city limits. § 18.29.020. Unlawful acts.

No person shall take, possess or disturb specimens of live or dead intertidal marine animal or plant life, or willfully injure, destroy or alter marine intertidal zone habitats. 3748
-28- Ord. XXXX
§ 18.29.025. Removal of certain materials permitted.
a) The city manager or designee may require a special event permit for scientific research and/or collecting of specific organisms or objects in specific quantities within marine protected areas.
b) Failure to notify the area manager or appropriate city authority of impending research may result in a citation or revocation of research and/or collection privileges. 3849
Proposed Amendments to City of Laguna Beach Municipal Code Title 18 (Beach and Parks) Page 1 of 7 Former Section Now No Change to Terms Unless Noted Chapter 18.01 DEFINITIONS New Chapter and some new definitions (Special Event, Shade Covering, and Structures) Chapter 18.02 USE OF CITY BEACHES AND PARKS 18.02.005 18.04.005(a) Intent and Purpose Intent and Purpose 18.02.010 18.28.010 General use General Use 18.02.015 18.05.010 Closing times Closing Times 18.02.020 18.05.020 Entering, remaining or staying during closing times Entering, remaining or staying during closing times 18.02.025 18.28.090 Park curfew hours Park curfew hours 18.02.030 18.05.030 Posting of hours Posting of hours 18.02.035 18.05.040 Exceptions Exceptions 18.02.040 18.04.005(b) Intent and Purpose Special Event: Permit Required Revised name for special event permit process 18.02.045 18.28.080(a) and (c) Administration Special Event Permit Revised name for special event permit process and revised to require City Council establishment of locations for special events via resolution. 18.02.050 18.28.080(b) and (d) Administration Special Event Fees 18.02.055 18.28.080(e) Administration Appeals 18.02.060 18.28.015 Main Beach Park Main Beach Park Revised name for special event permit process. 3950

RESOLUTION NO 26.XXX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY

OF LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING

LOCATIONS WHERE SPECIAL EVENTS ARE

ALLOWED AND RULES AND REGULATIONS
GOVERNING SPECIAL EVENTS; AND FINDING THE

ACTION CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT FROM THE

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT

PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION
15304
WHEREAS, the City of Laguna Beach, California (“City”) is a municipal corporation, duly organized under the California Constitution and laws of the State of California; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the police powers delegated to it by the California Constitution, the City has the authority to enact laws and regulations which promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, on May 16, 2023, the City Council directed staff to develop a special event permit process to authorize private events at Aliso Beach and other South Laguna Beaches as needed; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish where special events are allowed and the rules and regulations governing special events; and WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH DOES RESOLVE:

SECTION 1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by this reference.

SECTION 2. The City Council hereby approves special events at the locations identified in Exhibit A, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

SECTION 3. The City Council hereby establishes rules and regulations governing special 4657
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events as set forth in Exhibit B, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

SECTION 4. The City Council hereby makes the following findings with respect to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”). This action is exempt from the requirements of the CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land, Class 4) which 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.

Examples include but are not limited to minor temporary use of land having negligible or no permanent effects on the environment, including carnivals, sales of Christmas trees, etc. (14 CCR Section 15304(e).) Here, this action will allow people to use portions of the City’s parks and beaches for special events for a temporary period of time subject to rules and regulations of the City. This action does not authorize permanent infrastructure and merely creates an administrative system to allow persons to coordinate use of the beach and parks. Therefore, this action falls within the minor alterations to land exemption.

None of the exceptions to the use of the categorical exemptions identified in State CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2 apply. The Project will not result in a cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type in the same place, over time. Moreover, there are no unusual circumstances surrounding the Project that would result in a reasonably possibility of a significant effect on the environment. Additionally, the Project will not damage scenic resources, including trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings, or similar resources. The Project will not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Finally, the Project does not include any hazardous waste sites. Thus, Class 4 exemption applies, and no further environmental review is required. The City Council directs staff to cause a Notice of Exemption to be filed with the County of Orange County and State Clearing house within five (5) days of adoption of this Resolution. 4758
-3- Reso. #26.XXX
SECTION 5. The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which this Resolution has been based are located at City Hall, 505 Forest Avenue Laguna Beach, CA 92651. The custodian of the record of proceedings is the Director of Community Development.

SECTION 6. If any provision of this Resolution is held invalid, the remainder of this Resolution shall not be affected by such invalidity, and the provisions of the Resolution are severable.

SECTION 7. This Resolution shall become effective on the 24th day of February, 2026.

ADOPTED this ______ day of __________, 2026.

Mark Orgill, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ann Marie McKay, City Clerk
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 ________________, 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:

City Clerk, City of Laguna Beach, CA
4859
-4- Reso. #26.XXX
EXHIBIT “A”
Mapped Areas and Capacity Limits
Tier I: 50 people or more; Tier II: 500 people or more; *Irvine Bowl subject to existing lease
4960
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EXHIBIT “B”
Rules and Regulations
Special Event Permit Policy
5061
City of Laguna Beach
Special Event Permit Policy
The purpose of the Special Event Permit Policy is to provide a process for permitting organized gatherings or activities, whether for nonprofit or for profit, specifically at designated City Parks, Beaches, or Facilities. Special Event Organizers (“Applicants”) and Vendors should review this policy in detail before submitting a special event permit application.

This policy identifies capacity limits at designated City Parks, Beaches, or Facilities that trigger the need for a Special Event permit, Special Event guidelines, and Special Event application requirements.

A Special Event may require:

Council - depending on the nature of the request.

Orange County Health Department - Food and Beverage Permits State of California ABC Licensing -
Transit & Community Services – Recreation Division
Mailing Address: 505 Forest Ave. Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Email: [email protected]
Phone: (949) 497-0716
5162
Irvine Bowl* - All events are booked through and also require a special event permit pursuant to Select Location for
Detailed Map
Tier
Group
Electrical
Access
Alcohol
Allowed
Alcohol
Sales
Food
Booths
Food
Trucks
Vendor
Booths
Parking
Nearby
Aliso Beach I/II • • • • Aliso Beach Park I/II • • • • • • Alta Laguna Park I • • • • Limited Bluebird Park I • • • Limited
Cobblestone Area I • • • • • Community & Rec Center I • • • • • • Heisler Park Picnic Area I • • • • Limited Irvine Bowl N/A • •
Lang Park I/II • • • • • Limited
Main Beach Park I/II • • Limited
Moulton Meadows Park I • • • • Limited
Parking Lot 10 I/II • • • • • • Picnic Beach I Carts Only On Street Limited Promenade on Forest Ave I/II • • • • Carts Only • • 5263 3 “Special Event” means both: (a) organized public or private gatherings or activities, whether for profit or not for profit, that exceed the capacity of designated areas specified by resolution of the City Council (as a private or public gathering within the capacity of the designated areas is not a special event); and (b) the following organized filming; (3) outdoor gatherings, concerts, festivals, art shows, and exhibits; (4) commercial stand-up paddling recreational boating events; and (9) other similar activities at the determination of the City Manager or designee.

Special Event Tiers
Tier I – Simple: A low-impact, small-scale event that requires minimal City resources and oversight.

Attendance – more than people
Duration - Same-day even
No street closures or traffic control
No major amplified sound (very limited, low-volume sound accepted) No sales by vendors or alcohol or other products (limited food sales by trucks/carts accepted) No large structures (e.g., stages, tents over No security or medical services required Site is not impacted to other general use of the same area Minimal setup and breakdown Tier II – Complex: Large-scale, high-impact events requiring extensive planning, approvals, significant City resources.

Attendance - Duration - Full-day or multi-day event
Street closures or lane closures
Significant amplified sound
Large temporary infrastructure: stages, large tents, fencing and barricades, generators and lighting towers Alcohol service or sales (beer, wine, or spirits)
Multiple vendors (food, merchandise, sponsors)
Ticketed or heavily promoted events
Guidelines Vendors (Including Alcohol, Food Trucks, Concessions & Booths) Special Events requested during the peak summer season, beginning the weekend of Memorial Day to Labor Day, are subject to ultimate review and approval by the City Manager due to summer impacts and capacity.

The proposed site must be suitable for the event, with consideration given to adequate space, traffic flow, parking, electricity, health and safety requirements, and impact on the site.

If approved, a pre-event meeting with Applicant and City staff is required.

Applicant must pay for all City services as required by this Policy.

Any vendors utilized by Applicant must have a current City of Laguna Beach Business License to operate at the event.

Applicant and vendors utilized by Applicant must abide by all City of Laguna Beach Municipal Codes. Applicant and vendors utilized by Applicant must abide by No person shall sell or distribute balloons of any kind, whether filled or unfilled.

No person shall intentionally release any balloon into the air.

No person shall use balloons on any public street, park, beach, sidewalk, recreational area, or other City property.

Applicant will ensure Neighborhood and Environmental Protection Plan ("NEPP"), mitigating visitor impact to residents and the environment.

Applicant Path the Plastic-Free Laguna Beach.

Posting and/or distribution (before and during the event) of stickers, coupons, or flyers anywhere within the City of Laguna Beach is prohibited.

Single-use, plastic, bioplastic, and polystyrene disposable food serviceware items, including utensils and utensil sleeves, straws, stirrers, and takeout bags, are strictly prohibited within the City of Laguna Beach. 5364
4 Vendors (Including Alcohol, Food Trucks, Concessions & Booths) Applicants must submit a vendor plan with the application which details all the vendors to be utilized by the Applicant during the event, including vendors of alcohol, food trucks, concessions, and booths. Vendors must have a City of Laguna Beach Business License and any and all required permits to conduct the vending activity. Proof of business license and any all-required permits must be submitted with the application. The vendor plan is subject to approval by the Transit and Community Services Department.

Vending activity is limited to the area within the approved event site area.

Vending equipment must easily be moveable and self-supporting.

Vendors shall not affix equipment or signs to any hydrant, light pole, street fixture, or other permanent structure.

Each vendor must clean its area of operation and remove all goods and equipment at the close of the event.

The Laguna Beach Fire Department and/or Police Department may suspend or terminate vendor activity at any time for noncompliance with permit requirements or public health or safety concerns.

Alcohol: Events serving and or selling alcohol must comply with state regulations and the following are required:

Detailed security management plan on how to ensure safe distribution and consumption of alcohol at the event. Age verification, age identifier after admittance, containment area, type of alcohol to be served, serving size, etc.

Acquire ABC Daily Permit - from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Obtain authorization from the Laguna Beach Police Department. Event Alcohol Approvals - LBPD Food: Allowed with final staff approval on number of, location of, and time allowed to be on site for the event.

Vendors are required to furnish a current Health Inspection Pass from the Orange County Health Department. Vendors must comply with Health, Fire, and Building & Safety Department regulations.

Food vendors must separate edible food for recovery.

Food Trucks & Carts operating in Orange County must have an Orange County Mobile Food Permit.

Janitorial, Portable Toilets, Waste Management & Recycling Applicants are required to provide a janitorial and waste management plan that details event janitorial services and waste management/recycling services. The janitorial and waste management plan is subject to approval by ment and must be to the City of Laguna Beach Public Works & if onevent size.

All events must implement
drains and local waterways.

Events will not be to use or impact City-owned solid waste and recycling dumpsters or public receptacles.

All events must provide separate containers for solid waste, recycling, and organics in accordance with SB . All events are required - or LagunaBeach- LagunaBeach- . Inadequate event cleanup may result in forfeiture of the deposit or Tier II events are subject to to determine if separate building and/or electrical permits are needed for stages,
5465
Insurance Requirements
Applicant shall provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and applicable endorsements no fewer than ten days prior to the scheduled event. Coverage must be in effect for all event-related activities, including setup and dismantling. Special event permits will be revoked, and events will be canceled if proper insurance is not obtained, and all associated fees with the special event permit shall be nonrefundable.

Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Commercial General Liability:

Insurance is primary insurance with respect to the City, its officials, employees, agents, and contractors.

Any other insurance the City may have shall be considered excess insurance only.

Coverage shall state apply separately to each insured against whom claim The Organizer shall include all subcontractors as insured under its policies or shall obtain separate Certificates of Insurance and Endorsements for each subcontractor.

Coverage must reflect your event activities (e.g., drones, alcohol service, valet, shuttle, athletics).

Automobile Liability: Combined single limit per accident for bodily injury and property damage.

Commercial Business Entities:

Transportation Entities: and general aggregate of million Individuals: Minimum accident).

Workers’ Compensation and Employers’ Liability: to cover all employees and volunteers.

Bodily Injury by Accident - Each Accident -
Bodily Injury by Disease - Each Employee -
Bodily Injury by Disease - Policy Limit -
Liquor Liability:

Required Endorsements - Endorsements are separate documents in addition to the COI Additional Insured: City of Laguna Beach must be named as additional insured.

Primary and Non-Contributory for General Liability.

Waiver of Subrogation: Must be provided when coverage is required.

Statements in the main COI description box are not sufficient.

Policy numbers must match applicable lines on COI and not contain limiting language.

Special Risks or Circumstances
City reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances.

Public Safety & Medical Plan
Events may be required by the Laguna Beach Police Department to provide a security management plan which is subject to approval by the Laguna Beach Police Department and must be to the Laguna Beach Police r to the event. All contracted security services shall be subject to prior approval by the Laguna Beach Police Department.

Events may be required by the Laguna Beach Police Department to provide onservices. Such services must meet all applicable accessibility standards. 5566
permit which is subject to approval by the Laguna Beach Police Department.

Any requested street closures with the
and is subject to approval by the Laguna Beach Police Department. Please note that street closures require a Temporary Use Permit and may also require a Coastal Development Permit. Special Events measures to minimize impacts.
“No must be
removed immediately Special Event Parking may be required Applicants must
Transit and Community Services Department and must be
measures to minimize impacts Applicant and vendors by Applicant must comply with any required decibel limits and
5667
Event Fee Schedule – Fees Are Nonrefundable
Applications fees and refundable security deposit are required at the time the application is submitted.

Other fees for additional City services deemed necessary for the event are due at least days before the special event. At the pre-event meeting, City staff will determine which City services are required and will provide Applicant with an estimate for the City services. Applicant shall pay the estimate at least days before the special event. If any funds are not expended to cover the City services associated with the special event, the funds shall be refunded to Applicant before thirty calendar days following the special event.

If City staff finds it necessary to change the event plan or Applicant requests changes after the pre-event meeting, such changes may result in cost increases or decreases.

Tier I Tier II
Application Fee Nonprofit - Nonprofit -
Security Deposit
Daily Permit Fee Nonprofit - Nonprofit -
Parking Lots & Meters Special Event Parking & City Lots Meter Bag Info Electrical (Cobblestones, Promenade) N/A
Street Sweeping
Power Washing
Temporary Animal Permit - PD - Temporary Animal Permit Info - PD
Event Vendor Operator License – FN ___
Trolley Charters Trolley Charter Information
Special Event & Tent Application - FD LBFD Special Event & Tent Application Event Standards Temporary Use Permit - CD Planning Application
City Personnel
Community Development - our Building & Safety Inspector - TBD Firefighter - Fire Marshal -
MS Officer - -
- Police Officer -
Public Works Maintenance Worker - Equip. Operator -
Transit & Community Services - our CS Coordinator -
Other Fees Assigned by City of Laguna Beach
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
Other
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Application – Special Event Permit
Applicant Name: Date:

Mailing Address: Apt/Suite:

City: State: Zip:

Email Address: Cell Phone: Other Phone:

Business or Organization Name: Website:

Non-Profit: Yes No Laguna Beach Business License #: N/A EIN:

Event Information
Athletic or Sporting: Festival: Concert: Neighborhood: Car Show: Fundraising:

Other Type or Additional Information:

Alternate Location:

Event Name: Purpose Of Event:

On-Site Contact: Cell Phone:
# Of Personnel Staff: # Of Volunteers: Total # Of Vendors:

Day 1 Date: Day 2 Date: Day 3 Date:

Set-Up Time: Set-Up Time: Set-Up Time:

Start Time: Start Time: Start Time:

End Time: End Time: End Time:

Breakdown Time: Breakdown Time: Breakdown Time:

Estimated Attendance: Estimated Attendance: Estimated Attendance:

Open to Public: Open to Public: Open to Public:

Yes Will the event require the following? Please provide details.

Admission Fee:

Alcohol Served or Sold (Beer, Wine, Spirits) :

Amplified Sound:

Food Served or Sold or Catering:

Goods for Sale:

Outside Security:

Oversized Vehicles or Equipment:

Parking Lots or Meters:

Power Source or Generator:

Tables & Chairs, Qty:

Tents, Canopies or Stage:

Traffic Plan:

Other:

Other:

Other:

Other:

Other:

Other:
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9 Event Details
Checklist
An application will be considered complete once all the following provisions have been addressed and the required documents submitted (where applicable):

Yes N/A Application Fees
Yes N/A Vendor Plan (a list of any and all proposed vendors) Yes N/A
Parking and Traffic Control Plan (anticipated parking needs and a parking plan for the special event, including Special Event Parking Application; provision and use of traffic cones or barricades for pedestrian and vehicle traffic)
Yes N/A A proposed seating plan for the special event, if applicable.

Yes N/A Sound and Lighting Plan (detailing the use of amplified sound (for speakers, instruments, or other noise), including location, timing, and duration and detailing location of lights, if any) Yes N/A A detailed site plan of the premises including parking spaces, seating arrangements, fire exits, dimensions of each area, any other attraction offered, and the overall layout of the special event.

If required by the appropriate City Department, at least 10 calendar days before an approved event, the following items must be submitted for the event to proceed:

Yes N/A
Security Management Plan (the provision and/or operation of first aid or emergency medical aid stations; security measures or other arrangements that will be implemented to properly direct attendees/participants and to prevent unlawful conduct)
Yes N/A Janitorial and Waste Management Plan (the provision and/or operation of sanitary facilities, including ADAaccessible facilities; a trash/ -site disposal plan) Yes N/A Certificates of Insurance (COI and additional endorsements that meet all requirements of the City of Laguna Beach Special Event Policy.

Yes N/A City service fee deposit (based on coordination meeting between City staff and Applicant) ___________________________________ __________________________________ Signature of Applicant Date ___________________________________ __________________________________ XXXX Approval Date

BY DEFEND, INDEMNIFY, AND

AND AGENTS AND AGAINST ANY

EMPLOYEES, AND AGENTS
THIS
5970