San Clemente City Council engages Planning Commission on short term rental zoning amendment

The San Clemente City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, focused primarily on the ongoing discussions regarding short-term rentals and their zoning regulations. City officials clarified that no decisions were made in the previous meeting, which had directed staff to consult with the planning commission about potential zoning amendments related to short-term rentals and hotel properties. The council aims to have a recommendation ready for consideration by September, allowing ample time for public input.

During the meeting, resident Matthew Fletcher voiced strong opposition to further discussions on the zoning amendment for short-term lodging units. He urged the council to maintain the existing regulations, which he described as the result of a long and hard-fought process. Fletcher emphasized the emotional toll that recent discussions have had on the community, highlighting the importance of stability in local zoning laws.

Fletcher expressed gratitude to specific council members for their responsiveness to his concerns and reiterated the need for the council to respect the efforts of previous administrations in establishing the current regulations. He called for the council to conclude the debate on this issue, asserting that it has already been adequately addressed.

The meeting also included a series of public comments, indicating a high level of community engagement on the topic. The council acknowledged the volume of emails received regarding short-term rentals, suggesting that public sentiment is a significant factor in their decision-making process.

As the council prepares for further discussions, the outcome of the planning commission's recommendations will be crucial in shaping the future of short-term rentals in San Clemente. The council's commitment to a thorough review process reflects their intention to balance community concerns with the evolving landscape of local tourism and housing.