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Laguna Beach study session weighs objective design standards to respond to SB 9
Summary
Consultants and staff presented neighborhood analysis and proposed 'style groupings' to help draft phase 2 objective design standards; commissioners and the design review board pressed for measurable protections for view equity, privacy, massing and landscape and for clearer appeal pathways. Staff said an expedited 'box‑within‑a‑box' ministerial option (phase 1) is being pursued as an urgency ordinance.
Laguna Beach officials and their consultants presented early findings on Nov. 19 as they work to develop objective design standards for single‑ and two‑family homes that comply with recent state housing laws while protecting neighborhood character. The joint study session of the Planning Commission and the Design Review Board focused on how to translate subjective design guidelines into measurable “shall” standards that can be applied to projects subject to state streamlining laws such as Senate Bill 9.
Wendy Jeong, the city’s principal planner, told commissioners the comprehensive zoning code update — contracted to De Novo Planning Group in October 2024 and expanded in July 2025 — has an anticipated 26‑month timeline, with a standalone objective design standards document expected in 2026–2027. Jeong said tonight’s work corresponds to phase 2 (architectural style and neighborhood character) while phase 1 will establish objective form and massing parameters for an expedited ministerial path.
Consultant John Kalisky of JKA said the team found Laguna Beach to be…
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