RESOLUTION 2025-0407
A RESOLUTION OF THE DESIGN REVIEW BOARD OF THE CITY OF
LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA APPROVING DESIGN REVIEW 2025-
0407 AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2025-0408 LOCATED AT 31565 EAGLE ROCK WAY AND APPROVING CATEGORICAL
EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT.
WHEREAS on March 7, 2024, an application was filed by the owner of property located at 31565 Eagle Rock Way (“Applicant”), requesting Design Review 2025-0407 to construct a new two-story, singlefamily residence, attached two-car garage, elevated deck, grading, pool, spa, landscaping, hardscape, new vehicular access, demolishing an existing 330 square foot storage building, and Coastal Development Permit 2025-0408 for a new detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) (the “Project”); WHEREAS, the Design Review Board conducted a duly noticed public hearing on October 23, 2025, pursuant to Title 25, Zoning, of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code. The Design Review Board has considered all public testimony on the proposed Project and all relevant public comments, and all documents and evidence submitted, including but not limited to the staff report, attachments, and materials submitted by the Applicant, and continued the project to the March 26, 2026 public hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Design Review Board conducted a duly noticed public hearing on March 26, 2026, pursuant to Title 25, Zoning, of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code. The Design Review Board has considered all public testimony on the proposed Project and all relevant public comments, and all documents and evidence submitted, including but not limited to the staff report, attachments, and materials submitted by the Applicant; and
WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Design Review Board of the City of Laguna Beach does hereby find, determine, and resolve as follows:
SECTION 1. The recitals set forth above are true and correct and are incorporated into this Resolution by this reference.
SECTION 2. The Design Review Board hereby finds that the Project is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303 - New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, in that the project consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small structures. There is no evidence of any unusual or special conditions that would result in a significant effect on the environment. Here the project is limited to the construction of a new two-story single-family dwelling and a detached ADU in a developed neighborhood.
Further, none of the exceptions outlined in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply. The project site does not contain any environmentally sensitive areas because it contains ornamental landscaping and paving in a developed neighborhood The City’s environmentally sensitive area maps do not identify any such areas Attachment 4
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on-site and there are no mapped watercourses on the subject site. There will be no cumulative impact resulting from successive projects of the same type in the same place over time because the Project proposes a single-family dwelling and an accessory dwelling unit where no more than one junior accessory dwelling unit could be permitted on the subject site in the future. There are no unusual circumstances resulting in a significant impact on the environment in that construction of a new single-family residence and ADU within a developed neighborhood is anticipated on the site. There will be no damage to scenic resources, including trees, historic buildings, rock outcroppings or similar resources, within a highway officially designated as a state scenic highway in that there are no such resources on the site. The project is not located on a hazardous waste site or any other site included on a list compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5. The project will not result in significant adverse impacts to historical resources as defined by CEQA in that there are no historic structures on the site. Consequently, additional environmental analysis is not necessary to meet the requirements of the CEQA.
SECTION 3. The Design Review Board hereby makes the following findings with respect to Design Review 2025-0407:
Finding No. 1: Physical improvements and site developments related to the Project are designed and located in a manner in overall consistency with the design review criteria specified in Section 25.05.040(H), as set forth below:
1. Access. Conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians and other modes of transportation should be minimized by specifically providing for each applicable mode of transportation. Handicapped access shall be provided as required by applicable statutes.
The project proposes new vehicular access with a code compliant driveway from Eagle Rock Way to a two-car garage. The driveway will have a 2.8% slope and will intersect Eagle Rock Way at a 90-degree angle. No obstructions will be located within the required corner cutback areas, thereby minimizing interference with the use of adjacent properties and with pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Road improvements will be required, including curb and gutter, pavement, and utility extensions.
Eagle Rock Way is classified as a local street, so an onsite turnaround is not required. The existing lot is less than 50 feet wide; therefore, the project is not required to provide a public parking space.
All improvements in the right-of-way will be reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Works prior to permit issuance. Therefore, the project will not result in conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians, and other modes of transportation.
2. Design Articulation: Within the allowable building envelope, the appearance of building and retaining wall mass should be minimized. Articulation techniques including, but not limited to, separation, offsets, terracing and reducing the size of any one element in the structure may be used to reduce the appearance of mass.
As viewed from the street, the upper-level of the front elevation is stepped back 5 feet from the ground-level garage with a sloping roof, a flat roof is proposed over the rear area of the upper and lower levels to maintain a lower profile, thereby reducing the perceived mass of the structure. On the south side, the upper-level extends beyond the lower-level to provide articulation. To create visual interest and further minimize perceived mass, the exterior materials will differ between the upper- and lower-levels (Figure 2). The upper level of the residence is located toward the front of the structure.
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Since the previous hearing, the upper-level living area has been reduced in size by about 262 square feet by relocating the western wall 11 feet, 6 inches to the east. A 220-square foot elevated deck with glass railings will be accessed from the main bedroom at the rear of the upper level. This deck has been reduced by about 245 square feet from the previous design. To enhance the articulation of the design and reduce the appearance of massing, the project incorporates darker-colored roofing and varied exterior finishes between levels.
3. Design Integrity: Consistency with the applicant’s chosen style of architecture should be achieved by the use of appropriate materials and details. Remodels should be harmonious with the remaining existing architecture.
The project’s soft contemporary design is a composition of various compatible materials and details and they are utilized creatively to provide a unique design. The architectural design incorporates light colored stucco, horizontal wood siding accents, vertical batten siding accents, a sloping dark gray standing seam metal roof toward the front of the residence, dark gray decorative metal louvered accents, dark metal cladded eaves, windows with dark metal frames, and glass guardrails. The proposed residence is designed with the upper-level and sloped roof toward the front (east) of the site and with a flat roof on the one-story portion toward the rear (west) of the site.
Since the previous hearing, the upper-level has been redesigned to reduce the size by about 262 square feet by relocating the western wall 11 feet, 6 inches to the east and replacing 135 square feet of formerly pitched roof with a flat roof to reduce the appearance of mass and potential view impacts for neighboring properties to the east of the site.
4. Environmental Context: Development should preserve and, where possible, enhance the city’s scenic natural setting. Natural features, such as existing heritage trees, rock out-cropping, ridgelines and significant watercourses should be protected. Existing terrain should be utilized in the design and grading should be minimized.
The proposed project is located within a developed residential neighborhood. The existing site is relatively flat with no existing rock outcroppings, ridgelines, or significant water courses. The proposed grading includes 15 cubic yards of cut and 50 cubic yards of fill outside the building footprint to level the site. This is a nominal amount of grading that will not significantly alter the existing terrain. A soils report was submitted by the applicant and was approved by the City’s geotechnical consultant (Attachment 6).
5. General Plan Compliance: The development shall comply with all applicable policies of the General Plan, including all of its elements, applicable specific plans, and the certified local coastal program.
The project complies with the General Plan including, but not limited to, the following policies:
General Plan Policies
Land Use (LU) Policy 2.8 Require building design and siting to be compatible and integrated with natural topographic features, minimize significant alteration of natural topography and/or other 60 Resolution 2025-0407
significant onsite resources, and protect public views as specified in the Design Guidelines and the Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document.
The existing site is relatively flat. The project proposes up to 2 feet, 4 inches of graded fill on west side of the site and no more than one foot of cut on the east side which will level the site for the construction of a two-story single-family dwelling and associated improvements. No fill will occur within the required side or rear setback areas. The project will not substantially alter any natural or existing landforms, in that the site is in a developed neighborhood, and no natural landforms exist on the site.
LU Policy 2.10 Maximize the preservation of coastal and canyon views (consistent with the principle of view equity) from existing properties and minimize blockage of existing public and private views. Best efforts should be made to site new development in locations that minimize adverse impacts on views from public locations (e.g., roads, bluff top trails, visitor-serving facilities, etc.).
The design of the proposed two-story dwelling places the upper-level living area to a limited area toward the front of the house to reduce upper-level massing. Since the previous hearing, the living area on the upper level was reduced by relocating the western wall 11 feet, 6 inches to the east and 135 square feet of pitched roof was converted to a flat roof. This additional reduction of upper-level massing and the flat roof on the one-story areas toward the rear of the site are intended to provide improved view equity for the adjacent neighbor to the north. There are no public coastal or canyon views across the project site. The nearby public park, “South Laguna Village Green,” contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would obscure the view of the proposed project from public view. As such, the project will not result in adverse impacts on views from public locations.
LU Policy 3.10 Require building design and siting to be compatible and integrated with natural topographic features, minimize significant alteration of natural topography or other significant onsite resources, and protect public views as specified in the Design Guidelines and Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document by maintaining the low-profile character of structures.
Require use of appropriate landscaping, special architectural treatments, and siting considerations for projects visible from major highways and arterial streets. Best efforts should be made to site new development in locations that minimize adverse impacts on views from public locations (e.g., roads, bluff-top trails, visitor-serving facilities, etc.).
The existing site is relatively flat and there are no natural topographic features, or other significant resources on or near the project site. The project proposes up to 2 feet, 4 inches of graded fill on south side of the site and no more than one foot of cut on the north side to which will level the site for the construction of a two-story single-family dwelling and associated improvements. No fill will occur within the required side or rear setback areas. The project is designed to be compatible with the surrounding development in the neighborhood. The site is not visible from major highways and arterial streets. The nearby public park, “South Laguna Village Green” at the intersection of Catalina St. and Monterey St., contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would provide an adequate visual buffer between the park and the subject site. As such, the project will not result in adverse impacts on views from public locations. 61 Resolution 2025-0407
LU Policy 7.3 Design and site new development to protect natural and environmentally sensitive resources, such as areas of unique scenic quality, public views, and visual compatibility with surrounding uses and to minimize natural landform alterations. (Same as Policy 10.2.) GOAL:
Protect, preserve, and enhance the community’s natural resources.
The existing site is relatively flat and does not contain any natural or environmentally sensitive resources. The project proposes up to 2 feet, 4 inches of graded fill on south side of the site and no more than one foot of cut on the north side to which will level the site for the construction of a twostory single-family dwelling and associated improvements. No fill will occur within the required side or rear setback areas. The design of the proposed dwelling will be visually compatible with the surrounding residential uses. There are no public views across the project site. The nearby public park, “South Laguna Village Green”, contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would obscure the view of the proposed project site from the public location.
LU Policy 7.10 Require new construction and grading to be located in close proximity to preexisting development to minimize environmental impacts and growth-inducing potential.
The project is located in a fully developed residential neighborhood where all necessary infrastructure to support residential development (i.e., roads, water, sewer, gas, and electric) are present. The existing topography is relatively flat. The project proposes up to 2 feet, 4 inches of graded fill on south side of the site and no more than one foot of cut on the north side to which will level the site for the construction of a two-story single-family dwelling and associated improvements. No fill will occur within the required side or rear setback areas.. The project proposes a single-family dwelling and an accessory dwelling unit where no more than one junior accessory dwelling unit could be permitted on the subject site in the future. The project simply proposes a home and detached ADU within this neighborhood and will laterally connect the project site to the existing infrastructure. As such the project will not result in environmental impacts or have the potential to induce growth.
LU Policy 10.2 Design and site new development to protect natural and environmentally sensitive resources such as areas of unique scenic quality, public views, and visual compatibility with surrounding uses and to minimize landform alterations. (Same as Policy 7.3) GOAL: Ensure that proposals for new development, subdivisions, and major remodels are sufficiently evaluated to protect public health and safety and natural resources.
The existing site is relatively flat and does not contain any natural or environmentally sensitive resources. The project proposes up to 2 feet, 4 inches of graded fill on south side of the site and no more than one foot of cut on the north side to which will level the site for the construction of a twostory single-family dwelling and associated improvements. No fill will occur within the required side or rear setback areas. The design of the proposed dwelling will be visually compatible with the surrounding residential uses. There are no public views across the project site. The nearby public park, “South Laguna Village Green”, contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would obscure the view of the proposed project site from the public location. 62 Resolution 2025-0407
6. Historic Preservation: Destruction or alteration to historic resources should be avoided whenever possible. See Chapter 25.45 for more information.
The project site contains an existing 330 square foot storage building which will be demolished.
Although there are permits on file for the structure, it is not a historic resource; nor is the subject property is not listed on the City’s Historic Register
7. Landscaping: Landscaping shall be incorporated as an integrated part of the structure’s design and relate harmoniously to neighborhood and community landscaping themes. View equity shall be an important consideration in the landscape design. The relevant landscaping guidelines contained in the City’s “Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document” should be incorporated, as appropriate, in the design and planned maintenance of proposed landscaping.
The landscaping plan has been reviewed and approved by the City’s landscape consultant for compliance with the City’s landscaping requirements and the Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document. The proposed planting plans, provided as sheets C.101, C.102 and P.101, include a mix of groundcover, shrubs, vines, and trees. Three trees are proposed on the site, including two Redbud trees, one on each side of the driveway, and one Strawberry tree in the planter near the pool. All trees have a mature height of 15 feet. A large pine tree in the public right-of-way will be removed to accommodate the proposed driveway. The landscaping shall be continuously maintained (including replanting, as necessary) in compliance with the approved landscaping plans, as conditioned. In addition, a stacked pebble stone fountain, with a submersible pump, and a vertical garden will be installed on the rear perimeter wall.
8. Lighting and Glare: Adequate lighting for individual and public safety shall be provided in a manner which does not significantly impact neighboring properties. Reflective materials and appurtenances that cause glare or a negative visual impact (e.g., skylights, white rock roofs, highgloss ceramic tile roofs, reflective glass, etc.) should be avoided or mitigated to a level of insignificance in those locations where those surfaces are visible from neighboring properties.
The proposed project building lighting (Sheet A.003) and landscape lighting (Sheet C.101) specify the fixture types and locations. All lighting will be low wattage LED, shielded, and directed downward, consistent with the City’s Good Neighbor Lighting Ordinance to avoid impacts to neighboring properties. The project proposes a dark gray standing seam metal roof which will be a non-reflective (matte) finish. Therefore, the proposal will not cause glare or have negative visual impacts to surrounding properties.
9. Neighborhood Compatibility: Development shall be compatible with the existing development in the neighborhood and respect neighborhood character. Neighborhood character is the sum of the qualities that distinguish areas within the City, including historical patterns of development (e.g., structural heights, mass, scale or size), village atmosphere, landscaping themes and architectural styles.
The surrounding area consists largely of one and two-story cottages and ranch-style homes with a few contemporary residences in the vicinity. The residences immediately adjacent to the north and south are one story in height. Two story residences are located to the north and east of the site. The 63 Resolution 2025-0407
applicant has designed the upper level of the proposed structure to be located toward the front (east) portion of the structure. Since the previous hearing, glazing on the south elevation of the upper level was reduced from 8 windows to 3 windows, glazing on the north elevation was reduced from 5 windows to 3 windows, the upper-level living area was reduced by about 262 square feet and the western wall was relocated 11 feet, 6 inches to the east. In addition, the elevated deck at the rear of the upper level was reduced by nearly 245 square feet by relocating the deck railing approximately 21 feet to the east and a portion of the upper-level pitched roof was revised to a flat roof. With these revisions, the proposed soft contemporary, two-story design will be compatible with the existing development in the neighborhood in that the height, scale and size is in keeping with the patterns of development in the area.
10. Pedestrian Orientation: Commercial development design shall enhance and encourage pedestrian uses. Incorporation of articulated building masses, compact open spaces and courtyards, mixed use developments, use of landscaping as part of design, and orientation to pedestrian access should be maximized.
Design Review Criteria for Pedestrian Orientation is related to commercial development and this residential project is not subject to those criteria.
11. Privacy: The placement of activity areas (e.g., decks, picture windows and ceremonial or entertainment rooms) in locations that would result in a substantial invasion of privacy of neighboring properties should be minimized.
The design of the proposed residence provides ceremonial or major entertainment areas at ground level. The upper level consists of bedrooms and will be constructed toward the front of the site. Since the previous hearing, glazing on the south elevation of the upper level was reduced from 8 windows to 3 windows, glazing on the north elevation was reduced from 5 windows to 3 small windows which are not aligned with the windows on the structure to the north. The upper-level living area was reduced by about 262 square feet and the western wall was relocated 11 feet, 6 inches to the east. In addition, the elevated deck at the rear of the upper level was reduced by nearly 245 square feet by relocating the deck railing approximately 21 feet to the east. The proposed ground level outdoor area will include a covered patio and pool with six-foot-high fencing. As such, the project will not result in a substantial invasion of privacy of neighboring properties.
12. Public Art: Public art is encouraged and shall be displayed where feasible or required by the Art in Public Places ordinance.
Design Review Criteria for Public Art is related to commercial development and this residential project is not subject to those criteria.
13. Sign Quality: Signs shall be incorporated into the architecture of the structure and shall be made of high quality materials, be simple in design and be visually compatible with the surrounding physical environment in terms of color, scale and size. Use of natural materials in the construction of signs is encouraged.
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Design Review criteria for Pedestrian Orientation is related to commercial development and this residential project is not subject to those criteria.
14. Sustainability: New development should consider architecture and building practices which minimize environmental impacts and enhance energy efficiency by: (a) reducing energy needs of buildings by proper site and structural design; (b) increasing the building’s ability to capture or generate energy; (c) using low-impact, sustainable and recycled building materials; (d) using the latest Best Management Practices regarding waste and water management; and (e) reducing site emissions.
The project will meet Title 24 Energy and Building Code requirements, which includes insulated windows and energy-efficient lighting. The applicant will be required to provide proof of compliance. The roof plan includes 508 square feet of solar ready, flat roof area. Further, the applicant will be required to reuse, recycle, or divert at least 65 percent of the project’s construction and demolition debris.
15. Swimming Pools, Spas, and Water Features: Swimming pools, spas and water features shall be located, designed and constructed where: (a) geology conditions allow; (b) noise produced by circulatory mechanical pumps and equipment is mitigated; and (c) any associated fencing or other site improvements are compatible with neighboring properties.
The proposed project includes a 293 square foot in-ground swimming pool and spa at the rear of the property where impacts to adjacent properties will be minimal. The pool equipment will be outside of the required setbacks and located in a planter adjacent to the rear wall of the detached ADU. The equipment specifications will be reviewed prior to building permit issuance for conformance to the maximum allowed noise levels for single-family residential properties. The project is conditioned to allow pool equipment to be operated between the hours of 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM only and to require installation of a timer to ensure compliance. The required wood pool enclosure fencing and selflatching gates will be installed, as required by the Building Code. The wood fencing and gate material will be compatible with the architectural style of the proposed residence.
16. View Equity: The development, including its landscaping, shall be designed to protect existing views from neighboring properties without denying the subject property the reasonable opportunity to develop as described and illustrated in the City’s “Design Guidelines.” The “Design Guidelines” are intended to balance preservation of views with the right to develop property.
As designed, the proposed two-story structure purposely reduces the upper-level massing at the rear exposure of the property with the upper-level being limited toward the front of the property closest to the street. Since the previous hearing, the living area on the upper level was reduced by relocating the western wall 11 feet, 6 inches to the east and 135 square feet of pitched roof was converted to a flat roof. This additional reduction of upper-level massing and the flat roof on the one-story areas toward the rear of the site are intended to provide preservation of views for the adjacent neighbors to the north. The proposed trees would reach a mature height of 15 feet which would be below the maximum roof height of the structure.
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Finding No. 2. The physical improvements and site developments related to the Project are designed and located in a manner in overall consistency with all other applicable design guidelines.
The project is consistent with the Residential Design Review Guidelines and the Landscape and Scenic Highways Resource Document, as explained above.
Finding No. 3. The physical improvements and site developments related to the Project are characterized by appropriately scaled development, diverse and unique architectural designs, pedestrian orientation, and sensitivity to the natural conditions of the site.
The existing site is relatively flat. As described under Finding 1 in response to various Design Review criteria, the proposed two-story dwelling is appropriately scaled in relation development in the surrounding neighborhood. The architectural design incorporates light colored stucco, horizontal wood siding accents, vertical batten siding accents, a sloping dark gray standing seam metal roof toward the front of the residence, dark gray decorative metal louvered accents, dark metal cladded eaves, and glass guardrails which are consistent with the soft contemporary design of the proposed residence. The proposed residence is designed with the upper-level and sloped roof toward the front of the site and with a flat roof on the one-story portion toward the rear of the site to reduce potential view impacts for neighboring properties to the east of the site.
Finding No. 4. The project is consistent with any specific plan or any other specific zoning design review criteria.
This project is not subject to any other specific plan or additional design review criteria.
SECTION 4. The Design Review Board hereby makes the following findings with respect to Coastal Development Permit 2025-0408:
Finding No. 1: The project is in conformity with all the applicable provisions of the certified local coastal program, including the following review criteria:
1. The proposed development will not encroach upon any existing physical accessway legally utilized by the public or any proposed public accessway identified in the adopted local coastal program land use plan.
The subject property does not contain, nor is it adjacent to, any existing or proposed public accessways identified in the adopted Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan. The proposed ADU development will not alter or encroach upon any legally utilized public accessway, as none exist on or near the site.
2. The proposed development will not adversely affect marine resources, environmentally sensitive areas, or archaeological or paleontological resources.
The site is not an oceanfront lot and will not adversely affect marine resources. There are no environmentally sensitive areas or known archaeological or paleontological resources on the site. 66 Resolution 2025-0407
3. The proposed development will not adversely affect recreational or visitor-serving facilities or coastal scenic resources.
The proposed development will not adversely affect recreational or visitor-serving facilities or coastal scenic resources. The project is located within an established residential neighborhood. The northwest (rear) property corner is slightly offset from the eastern property corner of the “South Laguna Village Green” at the intersection of Catalina St. and Monterey St. The park site contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would obscure the view of the proposed project from the park. The proposed detached ADU will be limited to one story with a maximum height of 10 feet, 8 inches above the finished grade and will be set back 29 feet, 6 inches from the rear property line. The ADU will not be visible from surrounding properties and, as such, will not adversely affect recreational or visitor-serving facilities and will not obstruct or degrade views of the coast or other scenic resources.
4. The proposed development will be sited and designed to prevent adverse impacts to environmentally sensitive habitats and scenic resources located in adjacent parks and recreation areas, and will provide adequate buffer areas to protect such resources.
The proposed ADU development will not have adverse impacts to environmentally sensitive habitats as no environmentally sensitive habitats exist on or near the project site. The proposed ADU will not have adverse impacts to scenic resources located in adjacent parks and recreation areas because the proposed one-story ADU will be set back 29 feet, 6 inches from the rear property line and will not be visible from the surrounding properties. The nearby public park, “South Laguna Village Green” at the intersection of Catalina St. and Monterey St., contains mature trees along the southern and eastern perimeter which would provide an adequate visual buffer between the park and the subject site.
5. The proposed development will minimize the alterations of natural landforms and will not result in undue risks from geological and erosional forces and/or flood and fire hazards.
The existing site is relatively flat. The project proposes a nominal amount of graded fill to level the site for the construction of a two-story single-family dwelling. The proposed detached ADU will be located at the rear of the site. The project will not substantially alter any natural or existing landforms, in that the site is in a developed neighborhood, and no natural landforms exist on the site.
The development will not pose undue risks related to geological, erosional, flood, or fire hazards, as it will be required to comply with all applicable Building Code standards.
6. The proposed development will be visually compatible with the character of surrounding areas, and where feasible, will restore and enhance visual quality in visually degraded areas.
The proposed one-story ADU will be located toward the rear of the property behind a proposed twostory single-family residence. As such, it will not be visible from the surrounding areas. Further, the property is not located in a visually degraded area.
7. The proposed development will not have any adverse impacts on any known archaeological or paleontological resource.
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There are no known existing archeological or paleontological resources in the project area.
8. The proposed development will be provided with adequate utilities, access roads, drainage and other necessary facilities.
The project site is a buildable lot in a developed neighborhood with adequate utilities, access roads, drainage, and other necessary facilities to serve the proposed ADU.
9. Other public services, including, but not limited to, solid waste and public roadway capacity have been considered and are adequate to serve the proposed development.
Other public services, including solid waste collection and roadway capacity, are adequate to serve the proposed development.
The project is consistent with all applicable policies of the Certified LCP.
LCP DOCUMENTS
The project conforms with all the following applicable documents of the Certified LCP.
Land Use and Open Space/Conservation General Plan Elements Zoning Map
Title 25 (Zoning Code)
Finding No. 2. Any development located between the sea and the first public road paralleling the sea is in conformity with the certified local coastal program and with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the Coastal Act.
The project site is not located between the sea and the first public road paralleling the sea. As detailed above in the facts supporting Finding Number 1, the proposed development is in conformity with the certified local coastal program.
Finding No. 3. The proposed development will not have any significant adverse impacts on the environment within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act.
As described further herein, the project does not have any significant adverse environmental impacts.
The Project qualifies for a categorical exemption pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, as discussed further herein.
SECTION 5. The Design Review Board hereby approves Design Review 2025-0407 and Coastal Development Permit 2025-0408, subject to conditions of approval in Exhibit A, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 6. 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. 68 Resolution 2025-0407
SECTION 7. 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.
Adopted on March 26, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: Bauta, Coveny, Weil, Gannon, Gibbs
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSE:
ATTEST: ________________________________________
Thomas Gibbs, Chair
Bill Rodrigues, AICP, Planning Manager
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EXHIBIT ‘A’
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Standard Conditions
1. Design Review 2025-0407 and Coastal Development Permit 2025-0408 are granted for a new twostory 2,976.7 square foot, single-family dwelling, attached 441 square foot, two-car garage, 464 square feet of elevated deck, grading, pool, spa, landscaping, hardscape, new vehicular access, and demolition of an existing 330 square foot storage building. The project also includes a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) which requires approval of a coastal development permit but does not require design review. Approval is granted based on the development plans and landscape plans submitted by Stan Andrade, Andrade Architects, Inc. on August 12, 2025 and received by City on August 19, 2025. Said plans are approved as submitted and conditioned herein and shall not be altered unless reviewed and approved in accordance with Title 25 of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code.
2. That the conditions of approval contained herein, shall be made part of the construction drawings for the proposed development. Construction drawings shall not be accepted for Plan Check without the conditions of approval incorporated into the construction drawings.
3. In the event that exhibits and written conditions are inconsistent, the written conditions shall prevail.
If there are any disparities between these conditions and the plans or final revised plans that are approved for any subsequent phase, the conditions and/or plans as stipulated in the later approval shall prevail.
4. All plans, specifications, studies, reports, calculations, maps, notes, legal documents, and designs shall be prepared, signed, and stamped (when required) only by those individuals legally authorized to do so.
5. Approval of this application does not relieve the applicant from complying with other applicable Federal, State, County or City regulations or requirements.
6. The Applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Laguna Beach and its officers, employees, and agents from and against any claim, action, or proceeding against the City of Laguna Beach, its officers, employees, or agents to attack, set aside, void, or annul any approval or condition of approval of the City of Laguna Beach concerning this Project, including but not limited to any approval or condition of approval of the City Council, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Community Development Director, or City Planner. The City shall promptly notify the Applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding concerning the Project and the City shall cooperate fully in the defense of the matter. The City reserves the right, at its own option, to choose its own attorney to represent the City, its officers, employees, and agents in the defense of the matter.
7. The Applicant shall be responsible for informing all subcontractors, consultants, engineers, or other business entities providing services related to the project of their responsibilities to comply with these conditions of approval and all pertinent requirements in the Laguna Beach Municipal Code, including the requirement that a business license be obtained by all entities doing business in the 70 Resolution 2025-0407
City.
8. The Applicant shall pay all fees at the time fees are determined payable and comply with all requirements of the applicable federal, state, and local agencies. The duty of inquiry as to such requirements shall be upon the applicant.
9. Failure to comply with any of these conditions of approval is grounds for revocation of the entitlement(s) and is subject to any other available remedies to the City.
10. The Certificate of Occupancy shall not be issued until City staff has verified compliance with all conditions of approval.
11. The effective date of the entitlements granted herein do not commence until all appeals, including those to the California Coastal Commission, have been exhausted, statutes of limitation have expired, and any lawsuits, filed within the statutes of limitation, have concluded.
12. In the event any of the conditions of approval are infeasible, the decision-making body hereby authorizes the Community Development Director to modify those conditions in the most conservative manner possible, in accordance with the limitations of the City’s Municipal Code, to allow for the completion of the project.
Standard Conditions of Approval for Design Review – Community Development Department
13. The approval granted by this Resolution shall lapse and automatically become void two years following the effective date if the privileges authorized by design review are not executed or utilized or, if construction work is involved, such work is not commenced within such two-year period and diligently pursued to completion, unless an extension of time is granted pursuant to the provisions of the Laguna Beach Municipal Code. Extensions of time shall be requested in writing by the applicant or authorized agent prior to the expiration of the entitlements.
Project Specific Conditions for Design Review – Community Development Department
14. Landscaping Conditions. The landscaping shall be installed in accordance with the approved landscape plans. Thereafter, the landscaping shall be continuously maintained (including replanting, as necessary) in compliance with the approved landscaping plans, unless such plans are subsequently revised pursuant to a subsequent Design Review approval. Minor landscaping changes which does not have the potential to impact views at mature growth height may be exempt from Design Review.
15. Light trespass that results in glare is prohibited.
16. Outdoor lighting must be hooded, fully shielded, and aimed downward.
17. The associated pool equipment shall only be operated between the hours of 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM. A timer shall be installed on the equipment to ensure compliance. 71 Resolution 2025-0407
18. Prior to issuance of a building permit, a record of survey shall be submitted to verify the location of all property lines. If the record of survey reflects property lines that are different than the site plan approved by the Design Review Board, submittal of a new Zoning Plan Check will be required to verify consistency with the Board’s approval and the Zoning Code. Additionally, any project modifications may be subject to Design Review approval.
19. For development subject to Categorical Exclusion Order E-93-1, this approval shall be conditioned on the requirement that the public agency permit shall not be effective for twenty working days following Coastal Commission receipt of notification.
Project Specific Conditions of Approval – Public Works
20. Prior to the commencement of any construction within the public right-of-way, the property owner shall obtain approval of a final street improvement plan by the Department of Public Works.
21. Prior to removal of any trees within the public right-of-way, the property owner shall obtain approval of any required permits from the Department of Public Works.
Standard Conditions of Approval – Building Division
22. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the contractor of record shall have a pre-construction meeting with the Building Official. The purpose of the meeting shall be to review the requirements for parking, construction hours, fencing, dust control, monitoring, any documentation from engineers and geologists, etc.
23. The project shall be required to comply with the City’s Construction hours, which are: 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. weekdays only; Hauling Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Construction activity shall not be permitted on weekends or any Federal Holiday. Construction hours for the Diamond Crestview Specific Plan area may vary.
24. The project must comply with the California Green Building Code (Title 24: Part 11) and include Best Management Practices (BMPs) throughout the construction phase, including but not limited to dust and sediment control, erosion control, and other measures as required by the Building Official.
25. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, a construction staging plan shall be submitted to the Building Official for review and approval. The plan shall include a site plan that identifies construction material storage areas, construction parking, site access, etc. Refer to the informational guide for Construction Staging:
https://www.lagunabeachcity.net/home/showpublisheddocument/8878/637515890430300000.
Any recommendations made by the Board regarding staging plans or construction management will be forwarded to the Building Official for review and consideration.
26. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall submit a drainage plan prepared by a licensed civil engineer to the Building Official for review and approval. 72 Resolution 2025-0407
27. Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, a grading plan must be submitted to the Building Official for review and approval. Elevations or height must be certified by a licensed surveyor.
The compaction of grade must be certified by a licensed Engineer. The Building Official may also require a shoring plan when necessary. A Geotechnical Engineer shall be required to conduct onsite monitoring of the site during excavation and grading activities; and shall document any ground movement and notify the Building Official of any such movement.
28. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the project plans shall be revised to remove a total of at least 33.09 square feet from the proposed development program in order to bring the project’s floor area ratio into compliance with applicable Laguna Beach Municipal Code (LBMC) and not exceed a total area of 3,419.67 square feet.
Project Specific Conditions of Approval – Design Review Board
29. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the applicant shall cause a Boundary Survey of the property to be prepared by a California-licensed land surveyor and recorded in the official records of the County of Orange.
30. The two Arbutus Marina (Strawberry Tree) in the front yard shall be replaced with Eucalyptus (Corymbia) ficifolia (Red Flowering Gum) and this change shall be reflected in the landscape plan approved by the City prior to permit issuance.
31. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, a planter box shall be added along the full length of the south side of the upper-level deck. The planter box shall be 18 inches high and 18 inches deep. Plants planted in this planter box shall not exceed the height of the deck railing.
32. The proposed gate across driveway shall be removed from the plan set prior to the issuance of building permits.
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