Laguna Beach Administrative Community Development Director Meeting - March 11, 2026

March 11, 2026

Executive Summary

- Planning Manager Bill Rodriguez conducted an administrative design review hearing on March 11, 2026, for an expanded elevated deck at 31652 Wildwood Road (also referenced as 31656 Wildwood Road). - The applicant team, represented by project manager Avishai and designer Eva, submitted revised plans addressing concerns from a previous meeting, including material changes to the deck railing and details on the removal of a planter wall. - The applicant consulted with arborist Peter Harnish, who identified fungus on one side of a eucalyptus tree and recommended pruning, which the homeowner completed. - Neighbor Sue Kempf raised concerns about the lack of a formal arborist report, harsh tree pruning, and out-of-character glass railings. - Hearing Officer Rodriguez approved Design Review 25-2544 with specific conditions regarding glass panels, wood posts, and trim cap, as well as verification of plan dimensions. - The project's parking and wall components were identified as outside the scope of administrative review, with encouragement to work with staff during plan check to preserve existing neighborhood character. - The Revocable Encroachment Permit 25-2543 was withdrawn and not part

Key Decisions

- Approved Design Review 25-2544 for an expanded elevated deck at 31652 Wildwood Road with specific conditions regarding glass panels, wood posts, and trim cap. - Adopted a categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Section 15301 for the project. - Removed Revocable Encroachment Permit 25-2543 from the project scope. - Required that the elevated deck glass panels be clear glass without tint, film, or any treatment that would darken or shade the glass. - Required that the color and material of the wood posts and trim cap complement the home and be of a dimension/size/scale that is complementary to