City Planning Commission discusses rebuilding rules post Eaton fire damages

The Sierra Madre Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 6, 2025, focusing on new guidelines for rebuilding homes affected by the Eaton fire and subsequent debris flows. A significant discussion centered on the proposed ministerial review process for rebuilding, which aims to streamline approvals and reduce costs for homeowners.

Under the new guidelines, homeowners who choose to rebuild within established parameters will benefit from a simplified review process. This could save residents in residential zones an estimated $8,136 for design review permits and $11,986 for hillside management permits. The discussion highlighted that while applicants will still incur some costs, the overall financial burden will be significantly less than the discretionary review process, which can take between six months to two years.

The commission clarified that the new rules allow for a "like for like" rebuilding approach, permitting homeowners to construct homes up to 110% of their previous size, based on an average of similar homes in the area. This flexibility aims to accommodate those whose homes were destroyed while ensuring compliance with existing zoning laws.

Commission members expressed concerns about maintaining zoning integrity, particularly regarding nonconforming structures. They discussed the importance of not exacerbating existing zoning violations during the rebuilding process. The commission is considering guidelines to ensure that any new construction adheres to current setback requirements and does not create new nonconforming conditions.

Additionally, the commission addressed the broader applicability of these guidelines, confirming that they extend beyond the 14 homes directly impacted by the fire to include any properties affected by the debris flow. This includes homes that are yellow-tagged, indicating partial damage.

The meeting also introduced a proposal to allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) before their primary residences, providing temporary housing solutions during the rebuilding phase. This change aims to alleviate housing shortages and offer flexibility for homeowners facing financial constraints.

Lastly, the commission discussed the potential amendment of local codes to permit the use of trailers as temporary living spaces in affected zones, aligning with state executive orders to support residents during the recovery process.

The commission plans to gather further public input before finalizing these guidelines, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that facilitates rebuilding while preserving community standards. The proposed changes are set to be reviewed by the city council, with an automatic expiration date of three years to ensure they serve their intended purpose effectively.