TO:
Honorable Planning Commission Chair and Commissioners
THROUGH:
Michael Codron, Interim Community Development Director
FROM:
Adam Finestone, AICP, Planning Manager
Jaehee Yoon, AICP, Senior Planner
Maricela Guillean, Associate Planner
SUBJECT:Title
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission conduct a study session to discuss and provide input on proposed rear yard setback regulations for accessory structures in single-family residential zones.
Body
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RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission conduct a study session to discuss and provide input on proposed rear yard setback regulations for accessory structures in single-family residential zones.
BACKGROUND
At the June 18, 2024, City Council meeting, the City Council requested a future agenda item to discuss the City's existing rear yard setback requirements for accessory structures in the single-family residential (RS) zone. The concern stemmed from provisions that allow accessory structures in rear yards with zero side or rear setbacks. This regulation is codified in Manhattan Beach Municipal Code (MBMC) Section 10.52.050(D) (Relation to Property Lines), as provided in part below:
An accessory structure, any portion of which is located within a required rear yard, shall be located on a rear or interior side property line, or shall be not less than three feet (3 ') from said property line(s).
For the purpose of this report, rear yard setbacks for accessory structures in the rear yard of a property shall be assumed to mean both the rear and interior side yard unless specifically stated otherwise.
On February 4, 2025, staff presented the agendized item before the City Council for discussion and was directed to further explore alternative setbacks and their implications and obtain the Planning Commission's input.
On June 11, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a study session (see Attachment 4 to this report) to discuss ...
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