HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD.26-1500 (ZONE TEXT AMENDMENT)CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH
ORDINANCE NO. ORD-26-1500
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, REPEALING, REPLACING, RENAMING, AND AMENDING
PORTIONS OF TITLE 17 OF THE HERMOSA BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES, ZONING REVIEW
AUTHORITIES, AND RELATED LAND USE ENTITLEMENT PROCEDURES AS PART
OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING CODE UPDATE; AND DETERMINE
THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the City of Hermosa Beach (“City”)
General Plan entitled “PLAN Hermosa” on August 22, 2017; and
WHEREAS, the City initiated the Comprehensive Zoning Code Update in
March 2020 to ensure consistency between Title 17 of the Hermosa Beach
Municipal Code (“Title 17”) and PLAN Hermosa; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted study session and discussion meetings with
the Planning Commission and Economic Development stakeholders (on March 4,
2020; May 19, 2020; February 17, 2021; March 1, 2021; March 3, 2021; February 2,
2022; April 6, 2022; June 7, 2022; August 8, 2022; September 22, 2022; October
3,2022; November 2, 2022; March 19, 2024; and April 16, 2024; and
WHEREAS, a portion of the recommended zoning changes identified in the
Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Assessment were included in Zoning Text
Amendment TA23-02, approved as a part of the Housing Element related zoning
changes in Ordinance 23-1471 dated November 14, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on
May 21, 2024, to consider amending Title 17, and recommended approval of the
amendments; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to modernize and consolidate
administrative procedures and land use entitlement provisions within Title 17.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DOES
HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The above recitals are true and
correct, and are incorporated herein by this reference.
SECTION 2. Repeal and Replace. The provisions of Title 17 identified in this
Ordinance are hereby repealed, replaced, renumbered, amended, and
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consolidated as set forth in the attached exhibits.
SECTION 3. Findings. The City Council finds that the amendments
adopted by this Ordinance are consistent with PLAN Hermosa, and necessary to
modernize administrative procedures and zoning implementation provisions.
SECTION 4. Repeal of Specific Chapters and Sections. The City Council
hereby repeals the following Chapters and Sections of Title 17:
a.Section 17.26.040 – Similar Use Permitted
b.Section 17.42.120 – Housing accessibility – Reasonable
accommodation for disability
c.Chapter 17.54 – Variances
d.Chapter 17.55 – Administrative Permits
e.Chapter 17.56 – Conditional Use Permits
f.Chapter 17.58 – Precise Development Plans
g.Chapter 17.64 – Development Agreements
SECTION 5. Adoption of Amendments. The City Council hereby amends
Title 17 and adopts the following exhibits, all of which are attached hereto and
incorporated herein by reference:
a. Exhibit A. Chapter 17.01 – Introductory Provisions
b. Exhibit B. Chapter 17.02 – Zoning Review Authorities
c. Exhibit C. Chapter 17.03 – Administrative Procedures
d. Exhibit D. Section 17.04.040 – Definitions
e. Exhibit E. Chapter 17.60 – Zoning Clearance
f. Exhibit F. Chapter 17.62 – Administrative Permit
g. Exhibit G. Chapter 17. 66 – Minor Exception
h. Exhibit H. Chapter 17. 68 – Minor Use Permit
i. Exhibit I. Chapter 17. 70 – Conditional Use Permit
j. Exhibit J. Chapter 17. 72 – Parking Plan
k. Exhibit K. Chapter 17. 74 – Precise Development Plan
l. Exhibit L. Chapter 17. 76 – Variances
m. Exhibit M. Chapter 17. 78 – Coastal Clearance
n. Exhibit N. Chapter 17. 80 – Development Agreements
o. Exhibit O. Chapter 17. 82 – Specific Plans
p. Exhibit P. Chapter 17. 84 – Zoning Amendments
q. Exhibit Q. Chapter 17. 86 – General Plan Amendments
SECTION 6. California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”). The City
Council finds that this Ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because the amendments relate to administrative
procedures and do not authorize additional development or intensification of
land use.
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SECTION 7. Severability. If any part of this Ordinance or its application is
deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that
such invalidity will not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provisions or
applications; and, to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable.
SECTION 8. Certification. The City Clerk is directed to certify the passage
and adoption of this Ordinance; cause it to be entered into the City’s book of
original ordinances; make a note of the passage and adoption in the records of
this meeting; and, within fifteen (15) days after the Ordinance’s passage and
adoption, cause it to be published or posted in accordance with California law.
SECTION 9. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30)
days following adoption by the City Council.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED on this 23rd day of June 2026.
Mayor Mike Detoy
PRESIDENT of the City Council and MAYOR of the City of Hermosa Beach, CA
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_____________________________ ________________________________
Martha Alvarez Jason Baltimore
City Clerk Interim City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
CHAPTER 17.01 – INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS
Chapter 17.01 (Introductory Provisions) is hereby added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the
Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.01 Introductory Provisions
17.01.010 Title
Title 17 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code shall be known and cited as the
“Hermosa Beach Zoning Ordinance”, “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Hermosa
Beach”, or “Zoning Ordinance.”
17.01.020 Purpose
The purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to implement the City’s General Plan and
to protect and promote the public health, safety, peace, comfort, convenience,
prosperity, and general welfare. More specifically, the Zoning Ordinance is
adopted to achieve the following objectives:
A.Provide standards for the orderly growth and development of the City, and
guide and control the use of land to provide a safe, harmonious, attractive,
and sustainable community.
B.Achieve the arrangement of land uses depicted in the Hermosa Beach
General Plan, consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan.
C.Enhance the appearance of the City and promote high-quality design.
D.Preserve and enhance the quality of life and character of residential
neighborhoods.
E.Promote economic growth and the creation of jobs.
F.Facilitate the appropriate location of community facilities, institutions,
transportation, and parks and recreational areas.
G.Allow for public participation in government decision-making regarding
land use and development in a manner consistent with State law.
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H.Define duties and powers of administrative bodies and officers responsible
for implementation of the Zoning Ordinance.
17.01.030 Authority
The Hermosa Beach Zoning Ordinance is adopted pursuant to the authority
contained in Section 65850 of the California Government Code.
17.01.040 Relationship to the General Plan
This Zoning Ordinance implements the goals and policies of PLAN Hermosa, the
city’s adopted Hermosa Beach General Plan, and Coastal Land Use Plan, by
regulating the use of land and structures within the City. Any permit, license, or
approval issued pursuant to this Zoning Ordinance must be consistent with the
General Plan and all applicable specific plans.
17.01.050 Applicability
A.Applicability to Property. This Zoning Ordinance shall apply, to the extent
permitted by law, to all property within the corporate limits of the City of
Hermosa Beach and to property for which applications for development
and/or subdivisions have been submitted to the City of Hermosa Beach,
including all uses, structures, and land owned by any private person, firm,
corporation or organization, or the City of Hermosa Beach or other local,
State, or Federal agencies. Any governmental agency shall be exempt
from the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance only to the extent that such
property may not be lawfully regulated by the City.
B.Minimum Requirements. The provisions of this Zoning Ordinance shall be
deemed the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health,
safety, and general welfare. Where this Zoning Ordinance provides for
more discretion on the part of a City official or body, that discretion may
be exercised to impose more stringent requirements than set forth in this
Zoning Ordinance as may be necessary to promote orderly land use
development and the purposes of this Zoning Ordinance. Nothing in this
section shall be construed to require or allow a City official or body to
exercise its discretion in a manner that would be contrary to state or Federal
law.
C.Compliance with Regulations. No land shall be used, and no structure shall
be constructed, occupied, enlarged, altered, demolished, or moved in any
zone, except in accordance with the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance,
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including the development and performance standards herein, and any
permit issued pursuant hereto. The temporary or transitory nature of a use
does not exempt it from this requirement.
D.Conflicting Regulations. The regulations of this Zoning Ordinance and
requirements or conditions imposed pursuant to this Zoning Ordinance shall
not supersede any other regulations or requirements adopted or imposed
by the Hermosa Beach City Council, the State of California, or any
Federal agency that has jurisdiction by law over uses and development
authorized by this Zoning Ordinance. All uses and development authorized
by this Zoning Ordinance shall comply with all other such regulations and
requirements.
E.Private Agreements. This Zoning Ordinance shall not interfere with or annul
any recorded easement, covenant, or other agreement now in effect,
provided that where any recorded easement, covenant, or other
agreement now in effect, is in conflict with state or federal law, or this
Zoning Ordinance imposes a greater restriction than imposed by an
easement, covenant, or agreement, this Zoning Ordinance shall control.
The City of Hermosa Beach shall not be responsible for monitoring or
enforcing private agreements.
F.Prior Ordinance. The provisions of this Zoning Ordinance supersede all prior
ordinances codified in Title 17 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code and
any amendments. No provisions of this Zoning Ordinance shall validate any
land use or structure established, constructed, or maintained in violation of
the prior Zoning Ordinance, unless such land use or structure is specifically
authorized by this Zoning Ordinance and is in conformance with all other
regulations.
G.Effect on Previously Approved Projects and Projects in Progress.
1.Building Permit. Any building or structure for which a Building Permit
has been issued may be completed and used in accordance with
the plans, specifications, and permits on which said Building Permit
was granted, provided construction is diligently pursued and
completed pursuant to the provisions of the California Building Code,
as adopted by the City of Hermosa Beach.
2.Previously Approved Land Use Authorization. This Zoning Ordinance
shall not interfere with, repeal, abrogate, or annul any previously
granted land use authorization, unless otherwise specified in this Title.
Any land use or structure, which was previously legally established,
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and has been deemed nonconforming as a result of adoption of this
Zoning Ordinance, shall be subject to Chapter 17.52 (Nonconforming
Buildings and Uses). All permits, entitlements, and conditions of
approval of previous land use authorizations shall apply until the
applicable review authority specifically repeals the allowance,
requirement of this Title, or condition.
3.Land Use Authorization in Process. An application for a discretionary
land use authorization that has been accepted by the Community
Development Department as complete for processing prior to the
adoption of this Zoning Ordinance or any applicable amendment
shall be processed according to the requirements of this Zoning
Ordinance or the prior Zoning Ordinance upon written request from
the project applicant. The written request shall be made no later than
30 days after the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance and at least
one action must be taken by the review authority within 210 days of
the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance.
H.Application During Local Emergency. The City Council may authorize a
deviation from a provision of this Zoning Ordinance during a local
emergency declared and ratified under the Hermosa Beach Municipal
Code. The City Council may authorize a deviation by resolution without
notice or public hearing.
17.01.060 Responsibility for Administration
The Zoning Ordinance shall be administered by the Hermosa Beach City Council,
Planning Commission, and Community Development Department as established
in Chapter 17.02, Zoning Review Authorities.
17.01.070 Permissive Ordinance
This title shall be considered a permissive ordinance, whereby only those uses,
structures, or facilities that are authorized hereby are allowed, except as provided
through an administrative determination, an administrative use permit, or other
discretionary action.
17.01.080 Severability
If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Zoning
Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision
of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity
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of the remaining portions of this Zoning Ordinance. The Hermosa Beach City
Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Zoning Ordinance, and
each section, subsection, sentence, clause, and phrase thereof, regardless of the
fact that any or one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases
be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
17.01.090 Fees
The City Council shall establish by resolution, and may amend and revise from
time to time, fees for processing the discretionary entitlement applications and
other permits authorized or required by this Zoning Ordinance, as well as the
necessary fees to mitigate impacts, as allowed by State law. All fees shall be paid
at the time an application is filed, and no processing shall commence until the
fees are paid in full.
17.01.100 Penalty
A.Violations of zoning regulations. Violations of the provisions of this title shall
be subject to the administrative penalty provisions of Chapter 1.10.
B.Each day a separate offense. Each person, firm or corporation found
guilty of a violation shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for every
day during any portion of which any violation of any provision of this title is
committed, continued or permitted by such person, firm or corporation,
and any use, occupation or building or structure maintained contrary to
the provisions hereof shall constitute a public nuisance.
C.Violation of conditions of conditional use permits and precise
development plans. No person shall violate any conditions of a
conditional use permit or precise development plan. Such violations shall
be subject to the administrative penalty provisions of Chapter 1.10 in
addition to the measures set out in Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of
Permits).
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EXHIBIT B
CHAPTER 17.02 – ZONING REVIEW AUTHORITES
Chapter 17.02 (Declaration of Purpose) of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code
shall be deleted in its entirety and new Chapter 17.02 (Zoning Review Authorities)
is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as
follows:
Chapter 17.02 Zoning Review Authorities
17.02.010 Purpose
This Chapter lays out the basic roles, responsibilities, and functions of all planning
authorities under this Title, including the City Council, Planning Commission, and
Community Development Director (Director).
17.02.020 City Council
The powers and responsibilities of the City Council include, but are not limited to
the following:
A.Consider and adopt, deny, or modify proposed General Plan
Amendments, Local Coastal Program, Specific Plans, and environmental
documents related to any of the foregoing, pursuant to Chapter 17.17
(General Plan Amendments).
B.Consider and adopt, deny or modify proposed amendments to the Zoning
Ordinance and Zoning Map and environmental documents related to any
of the foregoing, pursuant to Chapter 17.16 (Zoning Amendments).
C.Consider and adopt, deny, or modify Development Agreements, following
a public hearing and recommended action by the Planning Commission,
pursuant to Chapter 17.14 (Development Agreements).
D.Hear and decide appeals from decisions of the Planning Commission
pursuant to Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
E.Establish, by resolution, a Master Fee Schedule charges, and deposits for
various applications and services provided, pursuant to Chapter 2.64 (Fees
and Service Charges).
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17.02.030 Planning Commission
The powers and responsibilities of the Planning Commission include, but are not
limited to the following:
A.Annually review of progress towards implementation of the General Plan
and make recommendations to the City Council based on any new
legislation, development trends, or changing economic, social, and
environmental conditions.
B.Approve, modify, or deny Precise Development Plans, Conditional Use
Permits, Variances, Certificates of Appropriateness, and other entitlements
as outlined in Section 17.02.050 (Review Authorities for Decisions and
Appeals).
C.Make recommendations to the City Council on Development Agreements.
D.Make recommendations to City Council on proposed amendments to the
General Plan, Specific Plan(s), Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map and
environmental determinations related to any of the foregoing.
E.Hear and approve, modify, or deny appeals from decisions of the
Community Development Director.
F.Hear and approve, modify, or deny proposals to revoke permits, pursuant
to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of Permits).
G.Make environmental determinations on any powers and responsibilities
listed in this section and that are subject to environmental review under the
California Environmental Quality Act, except as excluded above.
H.Such other powers and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the City
Council.
17.02.040 Community Development Director
The powers and responsibilities of the Community Development Director or their
designee, include, but are not limited to the following:
A.Maintain, interpret, and administer the Zoning Ordinance, including the
processing of applications, abatements, interpretations, and other
enforcement actions.
B.Review applications for permits and licenses for conformance with this Title
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and issue a Zoning Clearance when the proposed use, activity or building
is allowed by right and conforms to all applicable development and use
standards.
C.Approve, modify, or deny Permits, as authorized pursuant to Section
17.02.050 (Review Authorities for Decisions and Appeals).
D.Initiate Specific Plans and related amendments; zoning code and zoning
maps Amendments; and General Plan Amendments, including
amendments to the General Plan Land Use Map.
E.Refer items to the Planning Commission where, in the Director’s
determination, the public interest would be better served by a Planning
Commission public hearing and action.
F.Make environmental determinations on any powers and responsibilities
listed in this section and that are subject to environmental review under the
California Environmental Quality Act, pursuant to State law.
G.Make recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council on
all applications, appeals, and other matters upon which they have the
authority and the responsibility to act under this Title.
H.Investigate and report to the Planning Commission on permit violations
when the City has initiated revocation procedures, pursuant to Section TBD,
Revocation of Permits.
I.Delegate administrative functions to members of the Community
Development Department.
J.Other duties and powers as may be assigned by the City Manager or may
be established through legislation.
17.02.050 Review Authorities for Decisions and Appeals
Summary of Review Authorities for Decisions and Appeals, summarizes the powers
and duties that each review authority has under this Title. Where a project requires
more than one type of application, all permit requests may be reviewed and
decided on by the highest review authority established for any of the
applications.
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REVIEW AUTHORITIES FOR DECISIONS AND APPEALS
Decision Type Advisory
Body
Review
Authority *
Appeal Body Public
Notification
Ministerial Action
Zoning Clearance - Staff Director No
Administrative Action
Administrative
Permit
Emergency
Shelters - Director Planning
Commission No
Entertainment,
Limited Live - Director Planning
Commission
No
Limited
Outdoor
Seating
-
Director Planning
Commission No
Low Barrier
Navigation
Centers
-
Director Planning
Commission1 No
Residential
Care Facility - Director Planning
Commission
No
Short Term
Vacation
Rental
-
Director Planning
Commission No
Supportive
Housing (up to
50 units)
-
Director Planning
Commission1 No
Temporary Use
and
Temporary
Events
-
Director Planning
Commission No
Convex Slope Determination - Director Planning
Commission Yes
Portable A-Frame
-
Director Planning
Commission No Temporary Sign
Permit
Alternative Grade
Determination - Director Planning
Commission No
Reasonable
Accommodation
Building
Official
Director Planning
Commission1 No
Minor Modification - Director N/A No
Zoning and Similar Use
Interpretation - Director Planning
Commission No
Entitlement Action
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REVIEW AUTHORITIES FOR DECISIONS AND APPEALS
Decision Type Advisory
Body
Review
Authority *
Appeal Body Public
Notification
Certificate of
Appropriaten
ess
Minor Director
Planning
Commission -
Yes Major Director
Planning
Commission
City Council
Conditional Use Permit - Planning
Commission
City Council Yes
Minor Use Permit - Director Planning
Commission Yes
Variance - Planning
Commission
City Council Yes
Minor Exception - Director Planning
Commission Yes
Parking Plan - Planning
Commission
City Council Yes
Amendment to Planning
Entitlement - Planning
Commission
City Council Yes
Precise
Development
Plan
Minor - Director Planning
Commission Yes
Major - Planning
Commission
City Council Yes
Determination of Legality of
Nonconforming Residential
Buildings
-
Planning
Commission
City Council
Yes
Legislative Action
General Plan Amendment Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
Specific Plan Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
Zoning
Amend
ments
Zone Text
Amendment
Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
Zone Change Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
Development Agreement Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
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REVIEW AUTHORITIES FOR DECISIONS AND APPEALS
Decision Type Advisory
Body
Review
Authority *
Appeal Body Public
Notification
Historic Landmark
Nomination
Planning
Commissio
n
City Council - Yes
(1)Subject to appeal only if denied by the Director.
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EXHIBIT C
CHAPTER 17.03 – ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Chapter 17.03 (Administrative Procedures) is hereby added to Title 17 (Zoning) of
the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.03 Administrative Procedures
17.03.010 Purpose
This Chapter establishes uniform procedures for the preparation, filing, and
processing of any land use permits and entitlement applications provided for in
this Title, unless superseded by a specific requirement of this Title or State law.
17.03.020 Application Forms and Fees
A.Applicant. The owner of property or their authorized agent may submit
applications for land use permits. If the application is made by someone
other than the owner or the owner’s agent, proof of the right to represent
the owner shall accompany the application. The Director shall prepare and
issue application forms and lists that specify the information required from
applicants.
B.Application Materials.
1.Application Forms and Fees. Applications for land use permits, which
are authorized by this Title, shall be filed on forms prepared by the
Director, which may be modified from time to time. Applications shall
be accompanied by all required fees as outlined in the Master Fee
Schedule.
2.Supporting Materials. The Director shall provide a list of supporting
materials that shall be submitted as part of the application. This may
include, but is not limited to: statements, photographs, plans,
drawings, renderings, models, material samples, technical studies,
and other items necessary to describe existing conditions and the
proposed project and determine the level of environmental review
pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
3.Availability of Materials. All submitted material becomes the property
of the City, may be distributed to the public, and shall be made
available for public inspection. At any time, upon reasonable
request, and during normal business hours, any person may examine
application materials at the Community Development Department.
Unless prohibited by law or superseded by specific permit
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confidentiality requirements, copies of application materials shall be
made available. The City shall charge fees for copies in accordance
with the fee resolution adopted by City Council.
C.Multiple Applications.
1.Concurrent Filing. An applicant for a project which requires more
than one land use permit by this Title (e.g., Conditional Use Permit,
Variance, Precise Development Plan, etc.), shall file all related
applications concurrently, with all applicable fees.
2.Concurrent Processing. Multiple land use permits for the same project
shall be processed concurrently and shall be reviewed and decided
on by the highest review authority designated for any of the
applications.
D.Application Fees.
Refund of Fees. Application fees are non-refundable regardless of the
review authority's decision. Filing fees cover the costs incurred by the City
for staff’s review of the application materials, preparation of required
finings, notices, and postings. In the case of an application withdrawal prior
to the public hearing notice, the Director, at the request of the applicant,
may authorize a partial refund in accordance with department policy.
17.03.030 Review of Applications
A.Initial Completeness Review. The Director shall determine whether an
application is complete within 30 days of the date the application is filed
and required fee received.
1.Incomplete Application. If an application is deemed incomplete, the
Director shall provide written notification to the applicant listing the
applications for permit(s), forms, information, and any additional fees
that are necessary to complete the application and specify a time
limit for submittal of the requested information. The time limit to submit
additional information shall be at least 30 days.
a.Zoning Ordinance Violations. An application shall not be
found complete if conditions exist on the site in violation of
this Title or any permit or other approval granted in
compliance with this Title, unless the proposed project
includes the correction of the violations or, in the sole
discretion of the Director, the application is deemed
complete notwithstanding the violation.
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b.Appeal of Determination. Determinations of
incompleteness are subject to the provisions of Section
17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review), except there shall
be a final written determination on the appeal no later than
60 days after receipt of the appeal. The fact that an appeal
is permitted to both the Planning Commission and the City
Council does not extend the 60-day period.
c.Expiration of Application. If an applicant fails to correct the
specified deficiencies within the specific time limit pursuant
to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension), the application shall expire and be deemed
withdrawn, unless an extension is granted by the Director.
After the expiration of an application, review shall require
the submittal of a new, complete application, along with
all required fees.
2.Complete Application. When an application is deemed complete,
the Director shall make a record of that date. If an application
requires a public hearing, the Director shall schedule it and notify the
applicant of the date and time, pursuant to Section 17.03.050 (Public
Notice).
B.Referral of Application. At the discretion of the Director, or where otherwise
required by this Title, State or Federal law, any application filed in
compliance with this Title may be referred to any City department, public
agency, or interest group that may be affected by or have an interest in
the proposed land use project.
C.Extensions. The Director may, upon written request and for good cause,
grant extensions of any time limit for review of applications imposed by this
Title.
17.03.040 Environmental Review
All discretionary projects shall be reviewed for compliance or exemption with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The designated planning authority
for the entitlement shall be responsible for taking action on the corresponding
exemption or environmental review. Environmental review will be conducted
pursuant to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (CEQA Guidelines). If
Title 14 of the California Code is amended, such amendments will govern City
procedures.
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17.03.050 Public Notice
Unless otherwise specified, whenever the provisions of this Title require public
notice, the City shall provide notice as required by this section and by the
California Government Code.
A.Notification Method. Public Notice shall be provided a minimum of 10 days,
but no more than 45 days, prior to the public hearing or to a Director’s
decision.
Permit Type
Notice
Type
Notification Method
Mailing
Radius
Websit
e
Site
Postin
g
Newspape
r
Minor Exception
Notice
of
Pending
Action
Adjacent
and
Abutting1
Properties
Yes No No
Minor Use Permit
Notice
of
Pending
Action
100’ Yes No No
Minor Precise
Development Plan
Notice
of
Pending
Action
100’ Yes Yes No
All
Other
Residential
Projects
Notice
of
Hearing
300’ Yes Yes Yes
Commerci
al Projects
Notice
of
Hearing
500’ Yes Yes Yes
General Plan or
Zoning Code Text
Amendment
Notice
of
Hearing
N/A Yes N/A
Yes
⅛ page
ad
minimum
size
General Plan or
Zoning Code Map
Amendment
Notice
of
Hearing
500’ Yes Yes Yes
(1). Shall include properties located across a street or alley.
B.Mailed Notice. At least ten (10) days before the date of the public hearing
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or the date of the Director’s decision notice shall be provided by First-Class
mail delivery to the following:
1.The applicant, the owner, and any occupant of the subject property;
2.The owner and occupants of all properties within the specific
notification radius; and
3.Any person or group who has filed a written request for notice
regarding the specific application;
4.School districts and any other local agency expected to provide
essential facilities or services to the property which is the subject of
the application, whose ability to provide those facilities and services
may be affected; and
5.Blind, Aged, and Disabled Communities. Whenever a hearing is held
regarding a permit for a drive-through facility, or modification of an
existing drive-through facility permit, notice procedures shall
incorporate the blind, aged, and disabled communities in order to
facilitate their participation.
C.Alternative Method for Large Mailings. If the number of persons to whom
notice would be mailed or delivered is greater than 1,000, instead of a
mailed notice, notice may be provided by providing notice by placing a
display advertisement of at least one-eighth page in at least one
newspaper of general circulation in the City and posted in three public
locations at least 10 days prior to the hearing or the date of action when a
public hearing is required.
D.Newspaper Notice. At least ten (10) days before the date of the public
hearing or the date of action when no public hearing is required, the City
shall publish a notice in at least one newspaper of general circulation in the
City.
E.Internet Notice. At least ten (10) days before the date of the public hearing
or the date of the Director’s decision the notice shall be published on the
City’s website.
F.Site Posting. At least ten (10) days before the date of the public hearing a
minimum of one public notice shall be posted on the project site in a
conspicuous place along the property frontage abutting the public-right-
of way.
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G.Amendments. Notwithstanding any other time limit set forth in this Chapter,
any amendment or ordinance that affects the permitted use of real
property, notice shall be published, posted, mailed, and delivered, or
advertised, as applicable, at least 20 days before the hearing.
H.Additional Notice. The Director may require additional notice in a manner
the Director deems appropriate.
I.Content of Public Notice. The notice, at a minimum, shall include the
following information:
1.The location of the real property that is the subject of the application;
2.Name of property owner(s), representative(s), and applicant.
3.A general description of the proposed project or action;
4.The City’s assigned file numbers to the application.
5.A statement indicating if the project is located within the Coastal
Zone.
6.The date, time, location, review authority, and purpose of the public
hearing or the date of action when no public hearing is required;
7.A statement indicating the level of environmental review that is
applicable to the project and the location and times any
environmental impact assessment prepared in connection with the
application may be viewed by the public;
8.A statement that any interested person or authorized agent may
appear and be heard;
9.A statement describing how to submit written comments; and
10. For matters which the Planning Commission makes a
recommendation to the City Council, or when the Planning
Commission’s decision is appealed to the City Council, the notice
shall also include a summary of the Planning Commission’s action.
The omission of a component of the public notice content shall not
automatically invalidate a public notice.
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J.Failure to Receive Mailed Notice. The validity of the proceedings shall not
be affected by the failure of any property owner, resident, or community
organization to receive mailed notice.
17.03.060 Conduct of Public Hearings
Whenever the provisions of this Title require a public hearing, the hearing shall be
conducted in compliance with the requirements of State law as follows.
A.Generally. Hearings shall be conducted pursuant to procedures adopted
by the hearing body.
B.Scheduling. Hearings before the City Council shall be scheduled by the City
Clerk. All other hearings shall be scheduled by the Director .
C.Public Hearing Testimony. Any person may appear at a public hearing and
submit oral or written evidence, either individually or as a representative of
a person or an organization.
D.Time Limits. The City Council may establish time limits for individual
testimony.
E.Continuance of Public Hearing. The body conducting the public hearing
may by motion continue the public hearing to a fixed date, time and place
without additional hearing notice or may continue the item to an
undetermined date with public notice of the continued hearing.
F.Decision. The public hearing shall be closed before a vote is taken.
17.03.070 Findings and Notice of Action
When deciding to approve, approve with conditions, modify, revoke, or deny any
discretionary permit under this Title, the review authority shall issue a Notice of
Action and make findings of fact as required by this Title.
A.Findings. Findings, when required by State law or this Title, shall be based
upon consideration of the application, plans, testimony, reports, and other
materials that constitute the administrative record and shall be stated in
writing in the resolution or notice of action on the permit.
B.Date of Action. The review authority shall decide to approve, modify,
revoke, or deny any discretionary permit following the closure of the public
hearing, or if no public hearing is required, within 30 days of the date the
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City has determined an application to be complete.
C.Notice of Action. Upon approving, modifying, or denying a land use permit
by the review authority, a notice of action shall be issued. The Notice shall
describe the action taken, including any applicable conditions, the findings
that were the basis for the decisions, and if the decision is subject to appeal.
1.Director’s Action. The Director shall mail the Notice to the applicant
and to any other person or entity that has filed a written request for
such notification with the Community Development Department
within the five days of the decision being made.
2.Planning Commission Action. The Director shall mail a Notice of
Action to the applicant and to any other person or entity that has
filed a written request for such notification with the Community
Development Department within five days of the Planning
Commission action. Additionally, the City Council shall receive
notification pursuant to Section 2.52.040 City Council Review of
Decisions of the Planning Commission the.
3.. City Council Action. Within five days of City Council action, the City
Clerk shall mail a Notice of Action to the applicant and to any other
person or entity that has filed a written request for such notification
with the Community Development Department.
17.03.080 Scope of Approval
A.Scope. The scope of approvals includes only those uses and activities
proposed in the application.
B.Conditions. The site plan, floor plans, building elevations, and/or any
additional information or representation indicating the proposed structure
or manner of operation submitted with an application or submitted during
the approval process shall be deemed conditions of approval. Any
approval may be subject to requirements that the applicant guarantees,
warranties, or ensures compliance with submitted plans and conditions in
all respects.
C.Actions Voiding Approval. If the construction of a building or structure or
the use established is contrary to the description or illustration in the
application, to either violate any provision of this Title or require additional
permits, then the approval shall be subject to the revocation as set forth in
Section 17.03.110 Revocation of Permits.
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D.Periodic Review. All approvals may be subject to periodic review to
determine compliance with the permit and applicable conditions. If a
condition specifies that activities or uses allowed under the permit are
subject to periodic reporting, monitoring, or assessments, it shall be the
responsibility of the permit holder, the property owner, or successor
property owners to comply with such conditions.
17.03.090 Effective Dates: Expiration and Extension
A.Effective Dates. A decision shall be effective on the date of action except
as provided below. No building permit or business license shall be issued
until after the effective date.
1.City Council Decisions. All City Council actions shall become
effective immediately, with the exception of Amendments to the
Zoning Ordinance or Zoning Map, and any new or amended Specific
Plan, which . shall take effect 30 days after the second reading of
the ordinance, unless adopted by urgency in accordance with
applicable law.
2.Planning Commission Decisions. All Planning Commission actions shall
become effective 15 days after the decision unless :
a.City Council initiates review pursuant to Section 2.52.040, City
Council Review of Decisions of the Planning Commission, of
this code.
b.After the expiration of the 15-day appeal period following the
date of action, unless an appeal is filed pursuant to Section
17.03.120.
3.Director Decisions. A Director’s decision on an application for any
approval subject to appeal shall become effective after the
expiration of the 15-day appeal period following the date of action,
unless an appeal is filed pursuant to Section 17.03.120.
B.Expiration. The review authority, in the granting of any permit, may specify
a time, consistent with the purposes of the use and necessary to safeguard
the public safety, health and welfare, within which the proposed use or
development must be undertaken and actively and continuously pursued.
If no time period is specified, any permit granted under this Title shall
automatically expire when no project or use has been exercised or
extended within two years after the date of the approval, except as
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provided below.
1.Extension for Permit Where a Coastal Development Permit is
Required. The time limits for any permit for development that also
requires a Coastal Development Permit shall be automatically
extended to be the same as the term of such Coastal Development
Permit.
2.Extension for Permit Granted in Conjunction with Tentative Map. The
time limits for any permit granted in conjunction with an approved
tentative map shall be automatically extended to be the same as
the term of such tentative map.
3.Extensions for Permits Associated with Development Agreements.
The time limits for any permit granted in conjunction with a
Development Agreement shall be extended to the same as the term
of such Development Agreement.
4.Other Extensions. The Director may approve a one-year extension of
any permit or approval granted under this Title upon receipt of a
written application with the required fee at least 30 days prior to the
expiration date.
C.Exercise of Permit. An approval or permit for the use of a building or
property shall be considered exercised when any of the following occurs:
1.A valid City business license has been issued, and the permitted use
has commenced on the site.
2.A valid City building permit is issued, and construction has
commenced and is diligently pursued to completion.
17.03.100 Minor Modifications and Amendments
No revision in the use or structure for which a permit or other approval has been
issued is permitted unless the permit is revised as follows:
A.Minor Modifications. The Community Development Director may approve
minor revisions to approved plans and permits, excluding late-night
establishments and outdoor uses, when it can be found that the
modification is consistent with the original application findings,
environmental analysis, and conditions approved by the original Review
Authority. The modifications may not substantially expand or intensify the
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use or approved floor area by a cumulative amount greater than ten
percent or 1,500 square feet, whichever is less.
B.Amendment. Any revision, modification, or amendment to a permit, which
does not meet the qualifications for a Minor Modification set forth in
subsection A, for a use or structure may be modified by the original
approval authority for said use or structure. The manner in which the
revision, modification, or amendment shall be considered shall be the same
in which a new permit for a use or structure would be considered.
17.03.110 Revocation of Permits
Any permit granted under this Title may be revoked or revised for cause if any of
the conditions or terms of the permit are violated or if any law or ordinance is
violated.
A.Initiation of Proceeding. Revocation proceedings may be initiated by the
City Council, Planning Commission, or Director.
B.Public Notice, Hearings, and Action. After conducting a duly-noticed
public hearing, the Planning Commission shall act on the proposed
revocation, pursuant to Chapter 17.03.050.
C.Required Findings. The Planning Commission may revoke or modify the
permit if it makes any of the following findings:
1.That the approval was obtained by fraud or material
misrepresentation that vitiates one of the required findings of the
permit;
2.That the use or activity for which such approval was granted has
permanently ceased to exist as evidenced by demolition, alteration,
subsequent use of the space, or similar conditions;
3.That the use or activity for which such approval was granted has
been suspended or dormant for longer than 12 consecutive months,
as demonstrated by any form of evidence or documentation.
4.That the permit or variance granted is being, or recently has been,
exercised contrary to the terms or conditions of such approval, or in
violation of any statute, ordinance, law or regulation;
5.That the use for which the approval was granted was or is so
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exercised as to be detrimental to the public health or safety, or so as
to constitute a nuisance;
6.That the circumstances under which the permit was granted have
been changed by the owner or operator to such a degree that one
or more of the findings contained in the permit is no longer valid and
the public health, safety, and welfare merit revocation of the permit;
or
7.That the conditions of approval are found to be inadequate to
mitigate the impacts of the use allowed by the permit, and the public
health, safety and welfare merit modification of the permit.
B.Notice of Action. Following Planning Commission action to revoke or modify
a permit, the Director shall issue a Notice of Action within five business days.
The Notice shall describe the Commission’s action with its findings. The
Director shall mail notice to the permit holder and to any person or entity
who requested the revocation proceeding.
17.03.120 Appeals and Calls for Review
A.City Council Calls for Review. Two members of the City Council may initiate
review of any actions of the Planning Commission pursuant to Section
2.52.040 of this Code.
B.Appeals.
1.Applicability. Any action by the Director or Planning Commission in
the administration or enforcement of the provisions of this Title may
be appealed in accordance with this Section.
a.Appeals of Director Decisions. Decisions of the Director may
be appealed to the Planning Commission by filing a written
appeal with the Community Development Department. The
Planning Commission’s decision is final and may not be
appealed to City Council.
b.Appeals of Planning Commission Decisions. Decisions of the
Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council
by filing a written appeal with the City Clerk. The City
Council’s decision is final.
2.Rights of Appeal. Appeals may be filed by the applicant, by the
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owner of property, or by any other person aggrieved by a decision
that is subject to appeal under the provisions of this Ordinance.
3.Time Limits. Unless otherwise specified in State or Federal law, an
aggrieved member of the public, including the applicant, may file
an appeal in writing fifteen (15) calendar days following the date
which the action was taken. However, the City Council may call up
a Planning Commission decision within the 15-day period in
accordance with Section 2.52.040. In the event an appeal period
ends on a day the City is closed, the appeal period shall end at the
close of business on the next consecutive business day.
4.Procedures.
a.Filing. The appeal shall identify the decision being appealed
and shall clearly and concisely state the reasons for the
appeal. The appeal shall be accompanied by the required
fee.
b.Proceedings Stayed by Appeal. The timely filing of an appeal
shall stay all proceedings in the matter appealed including,
but not limited to, the issuance of City building permits and
business licenses.
c.Transmission of Record. The Director, or in the case of appeals
to the City Council, City Clerk, shall schedule the appeal for
consideration by the authorized hearing body. The Director
shall forward the appeal, the Notice of Action, and all other
documents that constitute the record to the hearing body.
The Director shall also prepare a staff report that responds to
the issues raised by the appeal and may include a
recommendation for action.
5.Standards of Review. When reviewing any decision on appeal, the
appeal body shall use the same standards for decision-making
required for the original decision. The appeal body may revise or
adopt the same decision and findings as were originally approved; it
also may request or require changes to the application as a
condition of approval.
6.Public Notice and Hearing. Public notice shall be provided, and the
hearing conducted by the applicable appeal body pursuant to
Section 17.03.050. Notice of the hearing shall also be given to the
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applicant and party filing the appeal and any other interested
person who has filed with the City Clerk a written request for such
notice.
7.Action. An action to grant an appeal shall require a majority vote of
the hearing body members. A tie vote shall have the effect of
rejecting the appeal.
17.03.130 Zoning Determination and Similar Use Determinations
Requests for determinations of this Title and verifications relating to prior approvals
or permits may be made to the Director. Requests shall be in writing.
A.Zoning Determination. A request for an interpretation of the Zoning
Ordinance may be made for provisions that are unclear.
1.Community Development Director Interpretations:
a.Director’s Administrative Zoning Determination. As part of the
director’s administrative authority, the Director my initiate a
code interpretation whenever necessary to clarify a
conflicting provision or procedure of the code.
b.Director’s Formal Zoning Determination. The Director may
respond to formal inquiries regarding code provisions. The
interpretation shall be in writing and will be made available
by the Community Development Department pursuant to
this section. Formal Director’s Interpretations are binding and
may be appealed pursuant to Chapter 17.03.050. A fee for a
formal interpretation shall be assessed in accordance with
City’s Fee Schedule.
2.Procedures. The Community Development Director shall file a formal
Zoning Determination with the Planning Commission within 60-days of
the determination. Following the acceptance of the determination
the Community Development Director shall:
a.Publish the determination to the City’s website; and
b.Update the Zone Code to reflect the determination within a
reasonable timeframe.
B.Similar Use Determination. A request for a Similar Use Determination may be
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made for a use not listed in the Zone.
1.Findings. The Community Development Director may find a use that
is not listed in the zone is allowed provided the following findings can
affirmatively be made:
a.The characteristics of, and activities associated with, the
proposed use are not more intense than those uses listed in
the zoning district as allowable, and will not involve a greater
level of activity, population density, intensity, traffic
generation, parking, dust, odor, noise, or similar impacts than
comparable uses in the zone;
b.The proposed use will meet the purpose of the zone that is
applied to the location of the use;
c.The proposed use will be consistent with the goals, objectives,
and policies of the General Plan, or any applicable Specific
Plan; and
d.The proposed use is not specifically prohibited.
2.Procedures. The Community Development Director shall file the use
determination findings with the Planning Commission within 60-days
of the determination. Following the acceptance of the
determination the Community Development Director shall:
a.Publish the determination to the city’s website; and
b.Update the Zone Code to reflect the determination within a
reasonable timeframe.
17.03.140 Reasonable Accommodation for Disability
A.Purpose and Applicability. In compliance with Federal and State fair
housing laws, it is the purpose of this section to provide reasonable
accommodations in the City’s zoning and land use regulations, policies,
and practices when needed to provide an individual with any disability an
equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling.
B.Notice to the Public of Availability of Accommodation Process. The City
shall prominently display in the public areas of the Community
Development Department at City Hall a notice advising those with
disabilities or their representatives that they may request a reasonable
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accommodation in accordance with the procedures established in this
section. City employees shall direct individuals to the display whenever they
are requested to do so or reasonably believe that individuals with disabilities
or their representatives may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation.
C.Application Submittal. Any person with a disability may request a
reasonable accommodation on a form supplied by the Community
Development Department.:
1.Timing. A request for reasonable accommodation may be filed at
any time that the accommodation may be necessary to ensure
equal access to housing.
2.Obligations. A reasonable accommodation does not affect or
negate an individual’s obligations to comply with other applicable
regulations not at issue in the requested accommodation.
3.Assistance. If an individual needs assistance in making the request for
reasonable accommodation, the City shall provide assistance to
ensure that the process is accessible.
4.Concurrent Filing. Should the request for reasonable
accommodation be made concurrently with a discretionary permit,
then the fee for a reasonable accommodation application may be
waived provided that the prescribed fee shall be paid for all other
discretionary permits.
D.Reviewing Authority. Applications for reasonable accommodation shall be
reviewed by the Community Development Director or their designee.
E.Findings. The reviewing authority shall approve the request for a reasonable
accommodation if, based upon all of the evidence presented, the
following findings can be made:
1.The housing, which is the subject of the request for reasonable
accommodation, will be occupied by an individual with disabilities
protected under Fair Housing Laws;
2.The requested accommodation is reasonable and necessary to
make housing available to an individual with disabilities protected
under the Fair Housing Laws;
3.The requested accommodation will not impose an undue financial
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or administrative burden on the City, as defined in the Fair Housing
Laws and interpretive case law; and
4.The requested accommodation will not require a fundamental
alteration in the nature of the City’s zoning or building laws, policies
and/or procedures, as defined in the Fair Housing Laws and
interpretive case law. The City may consider, but is not limited to, the
following factors in determining whether the requested
accommodation would require a fundamental alteration in the
nature of the City’s zoning or building program:
a.Whether the requested accommodation would introduce
uses not otherwise permitted in the neighborhood; and
b.Whether granting the requested accommodation would
substantially undermine any express purpose of either the
City’s General Plan or an applicable Specific Plan.
F.Decision.
1.The review authority shall consider an application and issue a written
determination within forty (40) calendar days of the date of receipt
of a completed application.
2.If necessary to reach a determination on any request for reasonable
accommodation, the review authority may request further
information from the applicant consistent with this section, specifying
in detail what information is required. In the event a request for further
information is made, the applicable time period to issue a written
determination shall be stayed until the applicant reasonably
responds to the request.
3.The review authority’s written decision shall set forth the findings, any
conditions of approval, notice of the right to appeal, and the right to
request reasonable accommodation on the appeals process, if
necessary. The decision shall be mailed to the applicant.
4.The reasonable accommodation shall be subject to any reasonable
conditions imposed on the approval that are consistent with the
purposes of this section.
5.In making the approval findings in subsection (D) of this section, the
review authority may approve alternative reasonable
accommodations that provide an equivalent level of benefit to the
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applicant.
6.The written decision of the reviewing authority shall be final unless
appealed in the manner set forth below.
7.While a request for reasonable accommodation is pending, all laws
and regulations otherwise applicable to the property that is the
subject of the request shall remain in full force and effect.
8.Where the improvements or modifications approved through a
reasonable accommodation would generally require a variance, a
variance shall not be required.
9.The applicant may request additional time beyond that provided for
in this section or may request a continuance regarding any decision
or consideration by the City of a pending appeal. Extensions of time
sought by applicants shall not be considered delay on the part of the
City, shall not constitute failure by the City to provide for prompt
decisions on applications and shall not be a violation of any required
time period set forth in this section.
G.Appeals. An appeal of the Director’s decision may only be filed by the
applicant of the reasonable accommodation request. Appeals shall be
processed pursuant to 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
H.Expiration, Extensions, and Revocations.
1.Expiration and Extensions. Approved reasonable accommodations
may expire or be extended pursuant to 17.03.090 (Effective Dates:
Expiration and Extension).
2.Revocation. Reasonable accommodations that have been
previously approved, may be revoked pursuant to Section 17.03.110
(Revocation of Permits).
3.Amendments. A request for changes in conditions of approval of a
reasonable accommodation, or a change to plans that would affect
a condition of approval shall be processed pursuant to Section
17.03.100 (Minor Modifications and Amendments).
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EXHIBIT D
CHAPTER 17.04 – DEFINITIONS
Section 17.04.040 (General definitions) of Chapter 17.04 (Definitions) of Title 17
(zoning) is hereby amended to include the following definitions in alphabetical
order. Unless modified herein, all other definitions shall remain as currently written.
Section 17.04.040 – General Definitions
Aggrieved Person means any person who, in person or through a
representative, appeared at a public hearing or responded to a public notice, in
connection with a city decision or action, or who, by other appropriate means
before a hearing, decision or action by the review authority made their concern
known or who for good cause was unable to do either.
Building Official means the Building Official of the City of Hermosa Beach.
Director means the same as “Director of community development”.
Ministerial Review means an action process that requires a review of
objective criteria established in the code and requires no personal judgment.
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EXHIBIT E
CHAPTER 17.60 – ZONING CLEARANCE
Chapter 17.60 (Determination of Legality of Nonconforming Residential Buildings)
is hereby deleted in its entirety and new Chapter 17.60 (Zoning Clearance) is
added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as
follows:
Chapter 17.60 Zoning Clearance
17.60.010 Purpose.
The purpose of a Zoning Clearance is to ensure that a proposed use, structure, or
matter requiring ministerial review complies with the standards, limitations, and
other applicable regulations of the Title.
17.60.020 Applicability
A Zoning Clearance is required for any proposed construction or the
establishment of a use requiring a ministerial review as specified in this Title.
17.60.030 Review Authority
The Community Development Department may grant a Zoning Clearance when
required by this Title.
17.60.040 Procedures.
A.Application. Applications for Zoning Clearance shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms prescribed by
the Director. Zoning clearance applications for proposed uses or structures
may be processed independent of or concurrently with other applications
as determined by the Community Development Director.
B.Processing. Applications for Zoning Clearances shall be processed in a
timely manner with a decision rendered no more than 15-days from receipt
of a complete application.
1.Notwithstanding above, permits for accessory dwelling units and/or
junior accessory dwelling units shall be decided within 60-day days
of receipt of a complete application and subject to the provisions
outlined in Chapter 17.21.
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C.Report of Decision and Findings. Action by the Director shall be made
pursuant to Section 17.03.070 (Findings and Notice of Action).
17.60.050 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Ministerial or non-discretionary Zoning Clearances are not eligible
for appeal, except where required by State law and in such case shall be
processed pursuant to Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Zoning Clearance may expire or be
extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Zoning
Clearance shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of
Permits).
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EXHIBIT F
CHAPTER 17.62 – ADMINISTRATIVE PERMITS
Chapter 17.62 (Planning Commission Authority – Building Code) is hereby deleted
in its entirety and new Chapter 17.62 (Administrative Permit) is added to Title 17
(Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.62 Administrative Permit
17.62.010 Purpose
The purpose of an Administrative Permit is to ensure that a proposed use or matter
for which an Administrative Permit is required complies with the standards,
limitations and other regulations applicable to the subject use or matter.
17.62.020 Applicability
Approval of an Administrative Permit is required for uses or developments
specifically identified in any section of this Title.
17.62.030 Review Authority
The Community Development Director of their designee may grant Administrative
Permits for all such uses and matters required by this Title to be reviewed and
allowed only upon the granting of an Administrative Permit.
17.62.040 Procedures
A.Application Filing. Applications for Administrative Permits shall be filed with
the Community Development Department on the prescribed application
forms pursuant to Section 17.03.020 (Application Forms and Fees) and
Section 17.03.0.30 (Review of Applications). The application for an
administrative application shall include data or evidence supporting the
required findings.
B.Report of Decisions and Findings. Approval will be based upon determining
the request complies with applicable standards and regulations and may
include conditions necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare.
17.62.050 Required Findings
The Director shall make all of the following findings to approve or conditionally
approve an Administrative Permit application. The inability to make one or more
of the findings is grounds for denial of an application. Written findings shall be
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prepared when a denial decision is rendered.
A.The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zone with Administrative
Permit approval, and complies with all other applicable provisions of this
Zoning Ordinance and the Municipal Code;
B.The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable
specific plan;
C.The site is physically adequate for the type, density, and intensity (e.g.,
number of employees and customers) of use being proposed, including
provision of services (e.g., sanitation and water), public access, and the
absence of physical constraints;
D.The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
use are compatible with the land uses on site and in the vicinity of the
subject property; and
E.The establishment, maintenance, or operation of the proposed use at the
location proposed will not endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a
menace to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or the general
welfare of persons residing or working in the vicinity of the proposed use.
17.62.060 Conditions of Approval
The Community Development Director may impose reasonable conditions
deemed necessary to ensure compliance with the findings for an Administrative
Permit.
17.62.070 Appeals; Expiration, Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Administrative Permits shall be processed pursuant to
Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Administrative Permits may expire
or be extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration
and Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any
Administrative Permits shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110
(Revocation of Permits).
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EXHIBIT G
CHAPTER 17.66 – MINOR EXCEPTION
Chapter 17.66 (Amendments) is hereby deleted in its entirety and new Chapter
17.66 (Minor Exception) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.66 Minor Exception
17.66.010 Purpose
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish a means of granting minor relief
development standards..
17.66.020 Applicability
The following changes to development standards may be approved through a
Minor Exception.
A.Up to ten percent reductions in setback and open space requirements for
existing buildings;
B.Projections where existing setbacks conform except for projections at local
points in the building walls, such as for bay windows when the length
parallel to the wall of any such projection is no greater than eight feet, or
when the existing projecting element is no closer than three feet from the
property line and no greater than one-quarter of the total length of the wall
from which it projects;
C.Eaves, to match the existing eave projection when adding to an existing
building, and when the new eave will also conform to the requirements of
the California Building Code;
D.The enlargement of windows in nonconforming buildings, and other minor
structural alterations in nonconforming buildings, provided there is no
increase in total floor area;
E.Up to a ten percent reduction in parking stall dimensions for structural
reasons, when providing parking in existing buildings;
F.Arbors or trellises in rear yards, for privacy, when the grade of the adjacent
property is higher than that of the subject property. Sides and tops of arbors
and trellises are to be made only of framework or latticework, and must be
at least fifty (50) percent open.
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17.66.030 Review Authority
The Community Development Director shall act as the review authority for Minor
Exceptions. However, the Director may refer any application for a Minor
Exception for a project that may generate substantial public controversy or
involve significant land use policy decisions to the Planning Commission for
decision.
A.Concurrent Processing. If a request for a Minor Exception is being submitted
in conjunction with an application for another approval, permit, or
entitlement that requires Planning Commission action, it shall be heard and
acted upon at the same time and in the same manner as that application.
17.66.040 Procedures
A.Application. An application for a Minor Exception shall be filed to the
Community Development Department on the application forms prescribed
by the Director.
B.Public Notice. An application for a Minor Exception shall require a public
notice prior to the Director’s decision pursuant to Section 17.03.050 (Public
Notice).
C.Report of Decisions and Findings. Except as set forth below, the Community
Development Director shall issue the Minor Exception no more than thirty
(30) days following the filing of a complete application.
17.66.050 Required Findings
The Community Development Director shall make all of the following findings to
approve or conditionally approve a minor exception application. The inability to
make one or more of the findings is grounds for denial of an application.
1.The requested minor exception is warranted by practical difficulties;
2.The requested minor exception is necessary to avoid inconsistencies with
the general intent of this Title; and
3.The requested minor exception for the same development standard has
not been approved within the last 10 years.
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17.66.060 Conditions of Approval
In approving a Minor Exception, the review authority may impose reasonable
conditions or restrictions and/or require reasonable guarantees and evidence
that such conditions are being, or will be, complied with, to achieve the findings
for a Minor Exception.
17.66.070 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Minor Exceptions shall be processed pursuant to
Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Minor Exception may expire or be
extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Minor
Exception shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of
Permits).
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EXHIBIT H
CHAPTER 17.68 – MINOR USE PERMITS
Chapter 17.68 (Procedure, Hearings, Notices and Fees) is hereby deleted in its
entirety and new Chapter 17.68 (Minor Use Permits) is added to Title 17 (Zoning)
of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.68 Minor Use Permits
17.68.010 Purpose
The Minor Use Permit review and approval process is intended to apply to uses
that are consistent with the with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General
Plan and purposes of the zone where they are proposed but require special
consideration to ensure that based on the specifics can be designed, located,
and operated in a manner that will be compatible with the surrounding area and
uses.
17.68.020 Applicability
Approval of a Minor Use Permit is required for uses or developments specifically
identified in any section of this Title which requires a Minor Use Permit.
17.68.030 Review Authority
The Community Development Director or designee shall be the review authority
for Minor Use Permits. However, the Director may refer any application for a Minor
Use Permit for a project that may generate substantial public controversy or
involve significant land use policy decisions to the Planning Commission for
decision.
17.68.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Minor Use Permits shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms as prescribed
by the Director.
B.Public Notice and Hearing. All applications for Minor Use Permits shall
require a public notice prior to the Director or designee decision, pursuant
to Section 17.03.050 (Public Notice).
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C.Report of Decisions and Findings. Except as set forth below, the Community
Development Director shall issue the Minor Use Permit no more than thirty
(30) days following the filing of a complete application.
17.68.050 Required Findings
The Community Development Director or designee must make all of the following
findings to approve or conditionally approve a Minor Use application. The inability
to make one or more of the findings is grounds for denial of an application.
A.The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zone and complies with
all other applicable provisions of this Title and all other Titles of the Hermosa
Beach Municipal Code;
B.The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable
specific plan;
C.The proposed use will not be averse to the public health, safety, or general
welfare of the community, nor detrimental to surrounding properties or
improvements;
D.The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
activity are compatible with the land uses and circulation in the vicinity;
and
E.The site is physically suitable for the type of the use being proposed,
including access, utilities, and the absence of physical constraints.
17.68.060 Conditions of Approval
In approving a Minor Use Permit, the review authority may impose reasonable
conditions or restrictions and/or require reasonable guarantees and evidence
that such conditions are being, or will be, complied with, to achieve the following
outcomes:
A.Ensure that the proposal conforms in all significant respects with the
General Plan and with any other applicable plans or policies adopted by
the City Council;
B.Achieve the general purposes of this Title or the specific purpose of the zone
in which the project is located;
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C.Achieve the findings for a Minor Use Permit listed in Section 17.68.050; or
D.Mitigate any potentially significant impacts identified because of
environmental review conducted in compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act.
17.68.070 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Minor Use Permits shall be processed pursuant to
Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Minor Use Permit may expire or be
extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Minor Use
Permit shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of
Permits).
D.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Minor Use Permit has
become final, no further application for the same use shall be filed for the
same property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to
resolve the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said
revision shall require a new application process and payment of fees.
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EXHIBIT I
CHAPTER 17.70 – CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS
Chapter 17.70 (Revocation and Expiration) is hereby deleted in its entirety and
new Chapter 17.70 (Conditional Use Permit) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the
Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.70 Conditional Use Permits
17.70.010 Purpose.
The purpose of a Conditional Use Permit shall be to provide for the individual
review of certain uses, which due to the nature of the use, size, or intensity of the
use requires a Planning Commission review.
17.70.020 Applicability
Approval of a Conditional Use Permit is required for uses or developments
specifically identified in any section of this Title which requires a Conditional Use
Permit.
17.70.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission may grant Conditional Use Permits to determine if the
use proposed, or the location of that use, is compatible with the surrounding uses,
or may be made compatible with the imposition of conditions of approval.
17.70.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Conditional Use Permits shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms prescribed by
the Director.
B.Public Notice. An application for a Conditional Use Permit shall require a
public notice prior to the Planning Commission hearing, pursuant to Section
17.03.050 (Public Notice).
C.Public Hearing. An application for a Conditional Use Permit shall require a
public hearing before the Planning Commission pursuant to Section
17.03.060 (Conduct of Public Hearings).
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D.Report on Findings and Decision. Not more than twenty (20) days following
the public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit, the Planning Commission
shall announce its findings by formal resolution and said resolution shall
recite, among other things, the facts and reasons which, in its opinion, make
the granting or denial of the Conditional Use Permit and when granted,
shall recite such conditions and limitations as it may impose.
17.70.050 Required findings.
The Planning Commission must make all of the following findings to approve a
Conditional Use Permit application. The inability to make one or more of the
findings is grounds for denial of an application.
A.The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zone and complies with
all other applicable provisions of this Title and all other Titles of the Hermosa
Beach Municipal Code;
B.The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable
specific plan;
C.The proposed use will not be averse to the public health, safety, or general
welfare of the community, nor detrimental to surrounding properties or
improvements;
D.The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed
activity are compatible with the land uses and circulation in the vicinity;
and
E.The site is physically suitable for the type of the use being proposed,
including access, utilities, and the absence of physical constraints.
17.70.060 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Conditional Use Permits shall be processed pursuant
to Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Conditional Use Permit may expire
or be extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration
and Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Conditional
Use Permit shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of
Permits).
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D.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Conditional Use Permit has
become final, no further application for the same use shall be filed for the
same property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to
resolve the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said
revision shall require a new application process and payment of fees.
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EXHIBIT J
CHAPTER 17.72 – PARKING PLAN
Chapter 17.72 (Permits, Licenses, Restrictions and Covenants) is hereby deleted in
its entirety and new Chapter 17.72 (Parking Plan) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of
the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.72 Parking Plan
17.72.010 Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow for an alternative configuration of parking
to wholly or partially satisfy the Off-Street Parking Chapter of Title 17.
17.72.020 Applicability
Parking Plans may be requested by a property owner in accordance with the Off-
Street Parking Chapter of Title 17.
17.72.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the review authority for all Parking plans.
17.72.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Parking Plans shall be filed with the Community
Development Department on application forms prescribed by the
Community Development Director.
B.Public Notice. An application for a Parking Plan shall require a public notice
prior to the Planning Commission decision, pursuant to Section 17.03.050
(Public Notice)
C.Public Hearing. An application for a Parking Plan shall require a public
hearing before the Planning Commission pursuant to Section 17.03.060
(Conduct of Public Hearings).
17.72.050 Required Findings
The Planning Commission must make all of the following findings to approve or
conditionally approve a Parking Plan application. The inability to make one or
more the findings is ground for denial of an application.
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A.The Parking Plan conforms in all significant respects with the General Plan
and with any other applicable plans or policies adopted by the City
Council;
B.The Parking Plan is consistent with the purposes of this Title and the specific
purpose of the Zone in which the project is located;
C.The Parking Plan satisfies all the applicable criteria for the Parking Plan
configuration requested in accordance with the Off-Street Parking Chapter
of Title 17; and
D.The granting of the requested modification would not be detrimental to the
public, health, safety or welfare of the public.
17.72.060 Conditions of Approval
In approving a Parking Plan, the review authority may impose reasonable
conditions or restrictions and/or require reasonable guarantees and evidence
that such conditions are being, or will be, complied with, to achieve the following
outcomes:
A.Ensure that the proposal complies with the general purpose of Title 17 or the
specific procedures of the zone in which the project is located;
B.Achieve the findings for the Parking Plan listed in Section 17.72.050
(Required Findings).
C.A covenant with the City a party thereto, may be required limiting the use
of the property and/or designating the method by which the required
parking will be provided at the time that the Planning Commission
determines that inadequate parking exists.
17.72.070 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Parking Plan shall be processed pursuant to Section
17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Parking Plan may expire or be
extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension).
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C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Parking Plan
shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of Permits).
D.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Parking Plan has become
final, no further application for the same use shall be filed for the same
property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to resolve
the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said revision shall
require a new application process and payment of fees.
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EXHIBIT K
CHAPTER 17.74 – PRECISE DEVELOPMENT PLANS
Chapter 17.74 (Penalty) is hereby deleted in its entirety and new Chapter 17.74
(Precise Development Plan)) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.74 Precise Development Plans
17.74.010 Purpose
This Chapter establishes Precise Development Plan procedures to ensure that new
development supports the goals and objectives of the General Plan and other
adopted plans and guidelines. The specific purposes of the Precise Development
Plan process are to:
A.Promote excellence in design, layout, and other physical features of
development to achieve a reasonable level of quality, compatibility, in
harmony with the community’s social, economic and environmental
objectives;
B.Ensure that new and altered development will be compatible with the
existing and potential development of the surrounding area; and
C.Supplement other City regulations and standards in order to ensure control
of physical features of development that are not otherwise addressed.
17.74.020 Applicability
A Major or Minor Precise Development Plan, as specified in Section 17.74.025, is
required for all projects that require a permit for new construction, reconstruction,
rehabilitation, alteration, or other improvements to a structure, site, or a parking
area except for:
A.New construction or additions of less than 1,500 square foot addition any
zone.
B.Interior remodel of 3,000 square feet or less, with no exterior changes, in any
zone.
C.Single Family (one unit) residential projects and any related accessory
structures.
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D.New residential projects with two (2) or more dwelling units including a
minimum of 20% lower-income units.
E.Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units.
F.Dwelling Units provided pursuant to California Government Code Section
6585.21, commonly referred to as SB 9 units or urban dwelling units.
17.74.025 Minor and Major Precise Development Plan
A.Minor Precise Development Plan. A Minor Precise Development Plan shall
be required for the following:
1.Residential only projects with only 2-4 dwelling units.
2.Mixed use projects that do not exceed four dwelling units or 3,000 square
feet of non-residential floor area.
3.Interior remodel greater than 3,000 square feet, with no exterior
changes, in any zone.
B.Major Precise Development Plan. A Major Precise Development Plan shall
be required for the following:
1.Residential only projects with 5 or more dwelling units.
2.Mixed use development with five or more dwelling units or include a
nonresidential floor area of 3,001 square feet or greater, regardless of
the number of units.
3.Any nonresidential project that is not exempt or qualifies for a Minor
Precise Development Plan.
17.74.030 Review Authority
The Director shall act as the review authority of Minor Precise Development Plans
and the Planning Commission shall act as the review authority for Major Precise
Development Plans.
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17.74.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Precise Development Plan shall be filed with
the Community Development Department on application forms prescribed
by the Director.
B.Public Notice. An application for a Precise Develop Plan shall require a
public notice prior to the review authority’s decision, pursuant to Section
17.03.050 (Public Notice).
C.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Parking Plan has become
final, no further application for the same Parking Plan shall be filed for the
same property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to
resolve the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said
revision shall require a new application process and payment of fee.
D.Public Hearing. No public hearing shall be required for an application for a
Minor Precise Development Plans. An application for a Major Precise
Development Plan shall require a public hearing before the Planning
Commission pursuant to Section 17.03.060 (Conduct of Public Hearings).
17.74.050 Required Findings
The review authority must make all of the following findings to approve or
conditionally approve a Precise Development Plan application. The inability to
make one or more of the findings is grounds for denial of an application.
A.The design, layout, and other physical features of the project complies with
all other applicable provisions of this Title and all other Titles of the Hermosa
Beach Municipal Code;
B.The design, layout, and other physical features of the project is consistent
with the General Plan, and any applicable specific plan or design
guidelines;
C.The design, layout, and other physical features of the project complies with
any design or development standards applicable to the zone or the use in
question, unless waived or modified pursuant to the provisions of this Title;
and
D.The design, layout, and other physical features of the project are
compatible with the desired form and character of the area, as established
in the General Plan.
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17.74.060 Conditions of Approval
In approving a Precise Development Plan, the review authority may impose
reasonable conditions or restrictions and/or require reasonable guarantees and
evidence that such conditions are being, or will be, complied with, to achieve
the following outcomes:
A.Ensure that the proposal conforms in all significant respects with the
General Plan and with any other applicable plans or policies adopted by
the City Council;
B.Achieve the general purposes of this Title or the specific purpose of the zone
in which the project is located;
C.Achieve the findings for a Precise Development Plan listed in Section TBD,
Required Findings; and
D.Mitigate any potentially significant impacts identified because of
environmental review conducted in compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act.
17.74.070 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Precise Development Plan shall be processed
pursuant to Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Precise Development Plan may
expire or be extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates:
Expiration and Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Precise
Development Plan shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110
(Revocation of Permits).
D.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Precise Development Plan
has become final, no further application for the same use shall be filed for
the same property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised
to resolve the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said
revision shall require a new application process and payment of fees.
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EXHIBIT L
CHAPTER 17.76 – VARIANCES
Chapter 17.76 (Conditional use permits) is hereby deleted in its entirety and new
Chapter 17.76 (Variances) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa Beach
Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.76 Variances
17.76.010 Purpose
This Chapter is intended to provide a mechanism for relief from the strict
application of this Title where it would deprive the property owner of privileges
enjoyed by similar properties because of the subject property’s unique and
special conditions.
17.76.020 Applicability
Variances may be granted to vary or modify development standards but may
not be granted to allow uses or activities that this Title does not authorize for a
specific lot or site.
17.76.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the review authority for Variance
applications based on consideration of the requirements of this Chapter.
17.76.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for a Variance shall be filed with the Community
Development Department on application forms prescribed by the
Director.
B.Public Notice. An application for a Variance shall require a public notice
prior to the Planning Commission decision, pursuant to Section 17.03.050
(Public Notice).
C.Public Hearing. An application for a Variance shall require a public hearing
before the Planning Commission, pursuant to Section 17.03.060 (Conduct
of Public Hearings).
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17.76.050 Required Findings
After conducting a public hearing, the Planning Commission must make all of the
following findings in order to approve or conditionally approve a Variance
application. The Commission shall deny an application for a Variance if it is unable
to make any of the required findings, in which case it shall state the reasons for
that determination.
A.There are exceptional or extraordinary physical circumstances or
conditions applicable to the property involved that do not apply generally
to property in the vicinity and identical zone, and that the granting of a
Variance will not constitute a granting of a special privilege inconsistent
with the limitations on the property in the vicinity and identical zone;
B.The granting of the Variance is necessary to prevent a physical hardship
which is not of the applicant’s own actions or the actions of a predecessor
in interest;
C.The granting of the Variance will not be detrimental or injurious to property
or improvements in the vicinity, and will not be detrimental to the public
health, safety, general welfare or convenience; and
D.The granting of the Variance will be consistent with the general purposes
and objectives of this Title, any applicable specific plans, and the General
Plan.
17.76.060 Conditions of Approval
In approving a Variance, the review authority may impose reasonable conditions
or restrictions and/or require reasonable guarantees and evidence that such
conditions are being, or will be, complied with, to achieve the following
outcomes:
A.Ensure that the proposal conforms in all significant respects with the
General Plan and with any other applicable plans or policies adopted by
the City Council;
B.Achieve the general purposes of this Title or the specific purposes of the
zone in which the project is located;
C.Achieve the findings for a Variance granted; or
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D.Mitigate any potentially significant impacts identified because of review
conducted in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
17.76.070 Appeals; Expiration, Extensions, and Revisions; Revocation
A.Appeals. Appeals of Variances shall be processed pursuant to Section
17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
B.Expiration and Extension. An approved Variances may expire or be
extended pursuant to Section 17.03.090 (Effective Dates: Expiration and
Extension).
C.Revocation and Expiration. Revocation and Expiration of any Variances
shall be processed pursuant to Section 17.03.110 (Revocation of Permits).
D.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Variances has become
final, no further application for the same use shall be filed for the same
property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to resolve
the review authority’s previous objections to the project. Said revision shall
require a new application process and payment of fees.
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EXHIBIT M
CHAPTER 17.78 – COASTAL CLEARANCE
Chapter 17.78 (Coastal Clearance) added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa
Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.78 Coastal Clearance
17.78.010 Purpose
The purpose of this section is to ensure all public and private development in the
Coastal Zone receives a clearance confirming the development conforms to all
provisions of Title 16, Title 17, and any Land Use Plan or Coastal Development
Permit.
17.78.020 Applicability
This Section shall apply to all development in the Coastal Zone, as defined by the
Coastal Act.
17.78.030 Review Authority
A request for Coastal Clearance may be submitted with another application. The
review authority shall be in accordance with the Section 17.02.050 Review
Authorities for Decisions and Appeals.
17.78.040 Procedure
A.Application. Applications for Coastal Clearance shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms prescribed by
the Director.
B.Conditions of Approval. Prior to permit issuance of any development within
the Coastal Zone the applicant shall demonstrate an approval, wavier, or
exemption by the California Coastal Commission.
C.Post-Approval. Before permit issuance, the Community Development
Director or designee shall review the California Coastal Commission’s
approval, waiver, or exemption for consistency with the Director’s approval
in concept.
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EXHIBIT N
CHAPTER 17.80 – DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS
Chapter 17.80 (Certificates of occupancy) is hereby deleted in its entirety and
new Chapter 17.80 (Development Agreements) is added to Title 17 (Zoning) of
the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.80 Development Agreements
17.80.010 Purpose
This Chapter establishes procedures and requirements for considering and
entering into a voluntary legally binding agreements, with applicants for
development projects, as authorized in Government Code Sections 65864-
65869.5. The development agreement is intended to provide assurance to the
City that a proposed project will proceed to its completion in compliance with
the plans submitted and provides assurance to the applicant that the project can
proceed to its completion in accordance with the rules and regulations in effect
at the time of project approval.
17.80.020 Applicability
A voluntary agreement that may be initiated by a property owner, or by the
Director, for a complex or multi-phase development project that is consistent with
the General Plan.
17.80.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the advisory body for all Development
Agreements and provide its recommendation to the City Council. The City
Council shall act as the review authority, and after receiving recommendations
from the Planning Commission, may adopt, reject, or modify a Development
Agreement.
17.80.040 Procedures
A.Processing Proposed Development Agreements. A Development
Agreement which may be proposed by the City or any person having a
legal or equitable interest in real property shall be processed in the manner
of a Zone Change as provided in Article 15 and shall conform to the
requirements of Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 65864) Division 1, of
the Government Code entitled "Development Agreements."
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B.Development Agreement Content All development agreements shall
contain the following provisions:
1.Duration of the agreement;
2.Permitted uses for the subject property;
3.Density or intensity of the permitted uses;
4.Approved site plans, elevations, floor plans and sections, including
the maximum height and size of proposed buildings;
5.Provisions, if any, for reservation or dedication of land for public
purposes or other contribution to public improvements and amenities
of benefit to the City;
6.Protection from either a future growth control ordinance or a future
increase in development impact fees;
7.Provisions that address the applicable environmental review for the
project;
8.Provisions requiring periodic review of the Development Agreement;
9.Provisions that would necessitate a reconsideration or amendment
of the development agreement if any health and safety issues of
compelling public necessity are discovered (i.e., a new
environmental health hazard is discovered);
10. Provisions for the expiration and extension of said expiration of the
agreement.
11. Provisions to amend or cancel, in whole or in part, by mutual consent
of all parties to the agreement, or their successor-in-interest, in
compliance with state law (Government Code Section 65868).
12. Provisions which are appropriate and acceptable to the City
Attorney, that the developer shall commence construction or satisfy
other requirements within a specified timeframe; and
13. Any other terms determined to be appropriate and necessary
including provisions for payment to the City.
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C.Periodic Review Requirement.
1.The Planning Commission shall review the Development Agreement
every 12 months, unless otherwise specified in the Development
Agreement, after the approval of the agreement for the life of the
project to determine whether the contracting party or the successor
has complied in good faith with the terms and conditions of the
Development Agreement.
2.The applicant shall initiate the review by filing a request for review
along with the corresponding fee established by City Council within
60 days prior to the anniversary of the date of approval. The
applicant shall submit evidence demonstrating the applicant’s
good-faith compliance with the Development Agreement.
3.If as a result of this review, the Planning Commission finds and
determines time of annual review, on the basis of substantial
evidence, that the contracting party or the successor in interest has
not complied with, a report shall be made the City Council, and
referred to the City Attorney’s office for action.
17.80.050 Required Findings
The following findings shall be made before approval of a Development
Agreement or amendment:
A.The Development Agreement is in the best interests of the City, promoting
the public interest and welfare through public benefits; and
B.The Development Agreement is consistent with all applicable provisions of
the General Plan, any applicable specific plan, and this Zoning Ordinance.
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EXHIBIT O
CHAPTER 17.82 – SPECIFIC PLANS
Chapter 17.82 (Specific Plans) is hereby added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Hermosa
Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.82 Specific Plans
17.82.010 Purpose
This Chapter establishes procedures for the consideration, adoption, and
implementation of specific plans for the purpose of implementing the General
Plan on an area-specific basis.
17.82.020 Applicability
A.The procedures in this Chapter shall apply to all proposals to establish a
Specific Plan Area, amend or a Specific Plan Area. When changes to the
Zoning Ordinance or zone or boundary line shown on the Zoning Map are
required, a Zoning Amendment shall also be required.
B.Initiation of Amendment. A Specific Plan or amendment to a Specific Plan
may be initiated by the owner of the subject property, the Director, by
motion of the Planning Commission, or by a motion of the City Council
17.82.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the advisory body for all proposed Specific
Plans and Specific Plan Amendments. The Planning Commission shall provide
recommendations to the City Council. The City Council shall act as the final
review authority and upon receiving a recommendation from the Planning
Commission, may adopt, reject, or modify a Specific Plan.
17.82.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Specific Plans shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms prescribed by
the Director.
B.Public Hearing and Notice. All Specific Plan and Specific Plan Amendments
shall be referred to the Planning Commission, which shall conduct at least
one public hearing on any proposed amendment prior to submitting a
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recommendation report to the City Council. At least ten (10) days before
the date of any public hearing, the City shall provide notice as provided for
in Section 17.03.050 (Public Notice).
C.Planning Commission Hearing. Before submitting a recommendation to the
City Council, the Planning Commission shall conduct at least one public
hearing.
D.Recommendation to City Council. Following the public hearing, the
Planning Commission shall make a recommendation on the Specific Plan
to the City Council. Such recommendation shall include the reasons for the
recommendation, findings related to General Plan consistency, and a
discussion of the relationship of the proposed amendment to other
adopted documents. The recommendation shall be transmitted to the City
Council with a copy of the approved minutes from the Planning
Commission hearing.
1.Approval. If the Planning Commission has recommended approval
of the proposed amendment, the City Council is required to take final
action pursuant to Section TBD, City Council Hearing and Action.
2.Denial. If the Planning Commission has recommended against the
proposed amendment, the City Council is not required to take any
further action unless an appeal is filed in accordance with Section
17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review)
E.City Council Hearing and Action
1.City Council Hearing. After receiving the recommendation from the
Planning Commission, the City Council shall hold a hearing in
accordance with Section TBD, Conduct of Public Hearings. The
notice for the hearing shall include a summary of the Planning
Commission recommendation.
2.City Council Action. After the conclusion of the hearing, the City
Council may approve, modify, or deny the proposed Specific Plan or
Specific Plan amendment.
F.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Specific Plan has become
final, no further application for the same Specific Plan shall be filed for the
same property for the ensuing 12 months, unless the project is revised to
resolve the review authority’s previous objections to the project.
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1.Determination if the new application has resolved the review
authority’s previous objections shall be made by the Director.
2.Said revision shall require a new application process and payment of
fee.
17.82.050 Required Findings
The following findings shall be made prior to approval of any specific plan or
specific plan amendment:
A.The specific plan or amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives,
and policies of the General Plan;
B.The specific plan or amendment will not create conditions materially
detrimental to the public health, safety, and general welfare;
C.The specific plan or amendment is compatible with zoning on adjacent
properties, and ensures development of desirable character that will be
harmonious with surrounding properties;
D.The specific plan or amendment is suitable and appropriate for the
location, access, and topography for the development of the subject
property;
17.82.060 Amendments
A Specific Plan may be amended in the same manner as a new Specific Plan is
adopted.
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EXHIBIT P
CHAPTER 17.84 – ZONING AMENDMENTS
Chapter 17.84 (Zoning Amendments) is hereby added to Title 17 (Zoning) of the
Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.84 Zoning Amendments
17.84.010 Purpose
This Chapter establishes procedures by which changes may be made to the text
of this Zoning Ordinance and to the Zoning Map, whenever the public necessity,
convenience, general welfare, or good practice justify such amendment,
consistent with the General Plan.
17.84.020 Applicability
A.The procedures in this Chapter shall apply to all proposals to change the
text of this Zoning Ordinance or to revise a zone or boundary line shown on
the Zoning Map.
B.Initiation of Amendment. An amendment to the Zoning Ordinance may be
initiated by the Director, by motion of the Planning Commission, or by a
motion of the City Council. An amendment to the Zoning Map may be
initiated by the owner of the subject property, the Director, by motion of
the Planning Commission, or by a motion of the City Council.
17.84.030 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the advisory body for all amendments to
the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map and provide recommendations to the City
Council. The City Council shall act as the final review authority and upon receiving
a recommendation from the Planning Commission, may adopt, reject, or modify
all zoning amendments.
17.84.040 Procedures
A.Application. Applications for Zoning Amendments shall be filed with the
Community Development Department on application forms prescribed by
the Director.
B.Public Hearing and Notice. All amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and
Zoning Map shall be referred to the Planning Commission, which shall
conduct at least one public hearing on any proposed amendment prior to
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submitting a recommendation report to the City Council. At least 20 days
before the date of any public hearing, the City shall provide notice as
provided for in Section 17.03.050 (Public Notice).
C.Planning Commission Hearing and Recommendation
1.Planning Commission Hearing. Before submitting a recommendation
to the City Council, the Planning Commission shall conduct at least
one public hearing.
2.Recommendation to City Council. Following the public hearing, the
Planning Commission shall make a recommendation on the
proposed amendment to the City Council. Such recommendation
shall include the reasons for the recommendation, findings related to
General Plan consistency, and a discussion of the relationship of the
proposed amendment to other adopted documents. The
recommendation shall be transmitted to the City Council with a copy
of the approved minutes from the Planning Commission hearing.
a.Approval. If the Planning Commission has recommended
approval of the proposed amendment, the City Council is
required to take final action.
b.Denial. If the Planning Commission has recommended against
the proposed amendment, the City Council is not required to
take any further action unless an appeal is filed in accordance
with Section 17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
c.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Zoning
Amendment has become final, no further application for the
same Zoning Amendment shall be filed for the ensuing 12
months, unless the project is revised to resolve the review
authority’s previous objections to the project.
i.Determination if the new application has resolved the
review authority’s previous objections shall be made by
the Director.
ii.Said revision shall require a new application process and
payment of fee.
D.City Council Hearing and Action
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1.City Council Hearing. After receiving the recommendation from the
Planning Commission, the City Council shall hold a hearing in
accordance with Section 17.03.060 (Conduct of Public Hearings).
The notice for the hearing shall include a summary of the Planning
Commission recommendation.
2.City Council Action. After the conclusion of the hearing, the City
Council may approve, modify, or deny the proposed amendment. If
the Council proposes any substantial revision not previously
considered by the Planning Commission during its hearings, the
proposed revision shall first be referred to the Planning Commission
for report and recommendation, but the Planning Commission shall
not be required to hold a public hearing. The failure of the Planning
Commission to report within 45 days after the referral shall be
deemed a recommendation for approval and the amendment shall
be returned to Council for adoption.
17.84.050 Required Findings
The following findings shall be made prior to approval of any Zoning Amendment:
A.The amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health,
safety, convenience or welfare of the City;
B.The amendment is consistent with the intent of the vision, goals and
objectives, and policies of general plan; and
C.The amendment is consistent with the purpose of the Zoning Ordinance,
Title 17.
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EXHIBIT Q
CHAPTER 17.84 – ZONING AMENDMENTS
Chapter 17.86 (General Plan Amendment) is hereby added to Title 17 (Zoning) of
the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 17.86 General Plan Amendment
17.86.010 Purpose
This chapter establishes procedures for making changes to the General Plan as
provided for in State Law when there are necessary reasons to do so as a result of
changes in conditions or circumstances unforeseen at the time of adoption or last
amendment of the General Plan. These circumstances include, but are not
limited to, changes in State or Federal law and problems and opportunities that
were unanticipated at the time of adoption or last amendment.
17.86.020 Applicability
The procedures in this Chapter shall apply to all proposals to change the text of
the General Plan or to change a general plan designation or boundary line as
shown on the General Plan Map.
17.86.030 Initiation of Amendment.
An amendment to the text of the General Plan may be initiated by the Director,
by motion of the Planning Commission, or by a motion of the City Council. An
amendment to the General Plan Land Use Map may be initiated by the owner of
the subject property, the Director, by motion of the Planning Commission, or by a
motion of the City Council.
17.86.040 Review Authority
The Planning Commission shall act as the advisory body for all amendments to
City’s General Plan and General Plan Map and provide recommendations to the
City Council. The City Council shall act as the final review authority and upon
receiving a recommendation from the Planning Commission, may adopt, reject,
or modify all general plan or general plan map amendments.
17.86.050 Procedures
B.Application. Applications for General Plan Amendment shall be filed with
the Community Development Department on application forms prescribed
by the Director.
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C.Public Hearing and Notice. All amendments to the General Plan and
General Plan Land Use Map shall be referred to the Planning Commission,
which shall conduct at least one public hearing on any proposed
amendment prior to submitting a recommendation report to the City
Council. At least 20 days before the date of any public hearing, the City
shall provide notice as provided for in Section 17.03.050 (Public Notice).
D.Planning Commission Hearing and Recommendation. Before submitting a
recommendation to the City Council, the Planning Commission shall
conduct at least one public hearing.
E.Recommendation to City Council. Following the public hearing, the
Planning Commission shall make a recommendation on the proposed
amendment to the City Council. Such recommendation shall include the
reasons for the recommendation, findings related to General Plan
consistency, and a discussion of the relationship of the proposed
amendment to other adopted documents. The recommendation shall be
transmitted to the City Council with a copy of the approved minutes from
the Planning Commission hearing.
1.Approval. If the Planning Commission has recommended approval
of the proposed amendment, the City Council is required to take final
action.
2.Denial. If the Planning Commission has recommended against the
proposed amendment, the City Council is not required to take any
further action unless an appeal is filed in accordance with Section
17.03.120 (Appeals and Calls for Review).
3.Reapplication Upon Denial. After the denial of a Geneal Plan
Amendment has become final, no further application for the same
General Plan Amendment shall be filed for the ensuing 12 months,
unless the project is revised to resolve the review authority’s previous
objections to the project.
a.Determination if the new application has resolved the review
authority’s previous objections shall be made by the Director.
b.Said revision shall require a new application process and
payment of fee.
F.City Council Hearing and Action.
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1.City Council Hearing. After receiving the recommendation from the
Planning Commission, the City Council shall hold a hearing in
accordance with Section 17.03.060 (Conduct of Public Hearings).
The notice for the hearing shall include a summary of the Planning
Commission recommendation.
2.City Council Action. After the conclusion of the hearing, the City
Council may approve, modify, or deny the proposed amendment. If
the Council proposes any substantial revision not previously
considered by the Planning Commission during its hearings, the
proposed revision shall first be referred to the Planning Commission
for report and recommendation, but the Planning Commission shall
not be required to hold a public hearing. The failure of the Planning
Commission to report within 45 days after the referral shall be
deemed a recommendation for approval and the amendment shall
be returned to Council for adoption.
17.86.060 Required Findings
A.The proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest,
health, safety, convenience or welfare of the city, as specified under
Government Code Section 65358(as);
B.That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not exceed
the annual limit on amendments specified under Government Code
Section 65358(b); and
C.The amendment is consistent with the intent of the vision, goals and
objectives, and policies of the General Plan and internally consistent.
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Introduced 05/26/2026
Adopted: 06/23/2026
State of California )
County of Los Angeles )ss
City of Hermosa Beach )
June 30, 2026
Certification of Council Action
ORDINANCE NO. ORD-26-1500
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HERMOSA
BEACH, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING, REPLACING, RENAMING, AND
AMENDING PORTIONS OF TITLE 17 OF THE HERMOSA BEACH
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES,
ZONING REVIEW AUTHORITIES, AND RELATED LAND USE ENTITLEMENT
PROCEDURES AS PART OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING CODE
UPDATE; AND DETERMINE THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
I, Martha Alvarez, City Clerk of the City of Hermosa Beach, California, do
hereby certify that the above and foregoing Ordinance No. ORD-26-1500 was
duly approved and adopted by the City Council of said City at its regular meeting
thereof held on the 23rd day of June 2026, and passed by the following vote:
AYES: MAYOR DETOY, MAYOR PRO TEM KEEGAN, COUNCILMEMBERS
JACKSON, FRANCOIS, AND SAEMANN
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
_____________________________
Martha Alvarez
City Clerk
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