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Laguna Beach council adopts quiet‑paddle ordinance for Lang Park pickleball courts after contentious public comment
Summary
Council approved an ordinance requiring use of quiet pickleball paddles at Lang Park in a 5‑0 vote after extended public comment from nearby residents and players.
The Laguna Beach City Council on March 11 adopted an ordinance requiring use of quieter pickleball equipment at Lang Park's courts, drawing lengthy public comment from neighbors who said the impulse noise has harmed local seniors and from players who said the change and other concessions are already excessive.
Why it matters: The ordinance — approved on its second reading — aims to reduce high‑pitched pickleball noise that several residents said penetrates windows and harms quality of life for seniors living near the courts. Opponents of court relocation said shutting courts would remove a year‑round recreational gathering place for many residents.
What council heard: Dozens of residents and court users spoke during public comment. Several speakers from nearby senior housing described repeated sleep disruption, loss of use of outdoor spaces and health impacts. Susanna Cruciano, speaking for Vista Alisa senior residents, urged council to relocate the courts and said quiet paddles alone will not solve the problem. “Extending the hours to seven days a week is cruel,” she said in public comment. Others representing players and park users, including longtime players and organizers, said they already use quiet paddles or quieter balls and urged compromise rather than closure.
Staff and council response: The council limited the item to the second reading of an ordinance requiring quiet paddles and proceeded to a vote. Council members framed the decision as a targeted, enforceable step to reduce noise while balancing public recreation needs. The ordinance passed unanimously, 5‑0.
Council action: The second reading of the ordinance was approved on the consent calendar, 5‑0. The record shows extended public comment from both sides; council directed staff to implement and enforce the quiet‑paddle requirement.
Outlook: Council and staff will monitor noise complaints and enforcement effectiveness; residents urged additional measures including relocation or quiet balls and further mitigation if noise continues.
