Laguna Beach Administrative Community Development Director Meeting - April 29, 2026

April 29, 2026

Executive Summary

- Planning Manager Bill Rodriguez conducted an administrative hearing on April 29, 2026, addressing three design review applications for properties in Laguna Beach. - The most controversial item was Design Review Application 2026-0697 for the police shooting range at 650 Laguna Canyon Road, which drew six public speakers expressing strong opposition to the facility's continued operation due to noise impacts and gun trauma. - The 983 Noria Street project was conditionally approved with specific requirements regarding a proposed deck extension's compliance with additional building setback regulations. - The 650 Laguna Canyon Road shooting range maintenance project was approved despite community concerns, with the hearing officer clarifying that the decision addressed only physical improvements, not operational use. - Residents cited frequent noise disruptions (6-8 hours per day, 2-4 times monthly for scheduled and unscheduled sessions), impacts on property values, trauma for residents from war-torn countries, and inadequate sound mitigation. - The 1565 Via Majorca swimming pool replacement project was approved without opposition, involving replacement of an existing kidney-shaped poo

Key Decisions

- Approved Design Review Application 2025-1915 for 983 Noria Street with conditions requiring verification that the proposed deck extension complies with the 20% projection allowance into the required rear yard setback; if non-compliant, that portion is denied. - Approved Design Review Application 2026-0697 for 650 Laguna Canyon Road police shooting range maintenance work, including asphalt resurfacing, drainage improvements, and post replacement. - Adopted Categorical Exemption pursuant to CEQA Section 15301 for the 650 Laguna Canyon Road project. - Approved Design Review for 1565 Via Majorca