Laguna Beach Planning Commission - January 17, 2024

January 17, 2024

Executive Summary

- The Planning Commission meeting on January 17, 2024 featured primarily continuances and approvals for temporary outdoor dining permits, with most substantive policy items postponed for the new City Attorney's review. - Staff recommended continuing two major ordinance amendments (appeal procedures and accessory dwelling units) to allow the new City Attorney to review the proposed changes before final action. - The Commission approved a Coastal Development Permit for re-installing seven fire pits at Aliso Creek Beach (31151 Coast Highway) after receiving public testimony both in support and opposition. - The Commission approved Temporary Use Permits and Coastal Development Permits for ten outdoor dining establishments to continue operations as an interim measure while staff evaluates a permanent Outdoor Dining and Parklet Program. - Two outdoor dining applications (853 Laguna Canyon Road and 361 Cliff Drive) were continued to February 7, 2024, for further review. - The Commission approved outdoor dining for AhbA restaurant at 31726 Coast Highway. - All previously approved Temporary Use Permits had expired on January 1, 2024, making these renewals time-sensitive for affected busines

Key Decisions

- Approved Coastal Development Permit 23-2082 for re-installation of seven fire pits at Aliso Creek Beach (31151 Coast Highway) with categorical exemptions under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301, 15302, 15303, and 15304. - Approved Temporary Use Permits and Coastal Development Permits for outdoor dining at ten locations: 342 Ocean Ave (Zinc Café & Market), 220 Beach Street (Salerno's Ristorante), 1826 South Coast Highway (Rumari, LLC), 460 & 470 Ocean Ave (Anastasia Café), 859 Laguna Canyon Road (Laguna Beach Beer Company), 1915 South Coast Highway (Maro Laguna), 214 Ocean Ave (Marine Room Taver