Council seeks guidance to simplify special-event permits, create small-event category and align code

The San Fernando City Council directed staff to return with options to streamline the city's special-event permitting process after a lengthy presentation and council discussion.

Recreation staff said the current special-event application is 28 pages and recommended creating a new "small special event" category for gatherings expected to have fewer than 50 participants that do not require street closures, traffic control or security. Staff recommended aligning the zoning code with the application, clarifying exemptions for city-sponsored and councilmember-sponsored events, translating application materials into Spanish, and exploring a quicker, shorter review path for low-impact events.

Councilmembers raised concerns about fairness and processing time, with several members urging that council members follow the same rules as residents. Councilmember Patty Lopez recounted a past experience where a small holiday giveaway at a business drew enforcement action; she and others pressed staff to ensure any revised process protects small businesses and community groups. City manager and staff noted a COVID-era short form existed as an inquiry but was not a substitute for a full permit; staff said they can reintroduce a short inquiry form and work to consolidate secondary permits into a single application to reduce administrative burden.

Staff estimated the zoning-code alignment and outreach could cost between $20,000 and $50,000 depending on scope and outreach; they proposed returning before the budget cycle with phased options. Staff will prepare a revised application in-house and provide council with cost and timeline options; the council gave direction to proceed with internal updates and to return with options for code revision and outreach.