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Commission backs zoning change to allow temporary interim storage on entitled vacant sites
Summary
The commission voted to recommend the City Council adopt a zoning code amendment (Resolution No. 314‑2026) establishing a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) pathway (Section 155.725) for regulated interim storage of trucks, trailers and shipping containers on entitled but undeveloped sites, limited to two years with possible one‑year extensions.
The Santa Fe Springs Planning Commission voted March 9 to recommend a zoning code amendment that would create a conditional‑use pathway to allow regulated, temporary interim storage uses on entitled but undeveloped properties.
Community Development Director Kwan Nugent presented the amendment, saying it would add Section 155.725 to the municipal code and allow owners of sites that already hold entitlements (for example, an approved development plan) to apply for a CUP to host controlled interim uses such as truck/trailer parking and shipping‑container storage. Nugent said the use would be limited to properties that are otherwise undeveloped or awaiting additional approvals, and that the initial term would be up to two years with potential limited extensions of up to an additional year subject to commission review.
Nugent emphasized operational restrictions: washing, repair or habitation of trucks or containers would be prohibited; operators would need measures for security and visibility (fencing or controlled access); uses must comply with base‑zone regulations and be reviewed case‑by‑case through the CUP process so that conditions can protect public health, safety and welfare. Staff recommended finding the amendment exempt from CEQA under Guideline section 15061(b)(3) and adopting Resolution No. 314‑2026 to forward the ordinance language to the City Council.
No members of the public submitted written comments or requested to speak. Vice Chair Ayala moved and Commissioner Cervantes seconded the motion to adopt Resolution No. 314‑2026 and forward the proposed ordinance to the City Council. A roll‑call vote recorded four 'Aye' votes (Cervantes, Flores, Vice Chair Ayala, Chair Jimenez) and the motion passed. A 14‑day appeal period was announced.
The amendment would require applicants to secure a CUP and adhere to the operating standards described; staff said the change is intended to activate otherwise vacant entitled parcels in a way that offsets maintenance costs and can provide revenue to assist property remediation while preserving long‑term site goals.
