Del Mar City Council approves changes to Central Commercial and Public Facilities zones as recommended by the Coastal Commission.

The Del Mar City Council has taken significant steps toward finalizing zoning changes essential for the city’s housing element, with a recent decision passed on April 7, 2024. The council approved several modifications requested by the California Coastal Commission, paving the way for the ordinance, which awaits a second reading at the upcoming council meeting before receiving final approval from the Coastal Commission.

As part of California’s sixth cycle of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) process, which spans the period from 2021 to 2029, Del Mar is mandated to adjust its zoning to accommodate the development of 175 new housing units across a range of income levels. This housing element was initially adopted by the City Council in 2021 and subsequently received approval from state regulators approximately two years later.

The zoning modifications, which are integral to this housing initiative, enable the city to accommodate up to 20 dwelling units per acre in two primary zones: the Central Commercial Zone and the Public Facilities Zone. The Central Commercial Zone, situated along Camino Del Mar in downtown Del Mar, across 56 parcels, could potentially support up to 113 new housing units. Meanwhile, the Public Facilities Zone, located on city-owned properties on 10th and 28th streets, could house 86 units, including at least seven designated for lower-income residents.

Notably, both zones are subject to height limitations of 26 feet, with an additional restriction of 14 feet for structures oriented toward the west along Camino Del Mar. The amendments require adjustments to the city’s Local Coastal Program, which are subject to the Coastal Commission’s scrutiny.

In February, Coastal Commissioners provided conditional certification for these zoning changes, contingent upon certain modifications. These include the requirement for disclosure regarding the 28th Street lot’s designation within the Floodplain Overlay Zone and the exclusion of redundant language found in existing city regulations, as described in a report prepared by city staff.

City officials assert that these amendments will ensure that development remains pedestrian-friendly and minimally disruptive to local neighborhoods. Councilmember Tracy Martinez emphasized the importance of protecting the unique character of Del Mar, expressing concern over the potential for these zoning changes to alter the village atmosphere that residents cherish.

As Del Mar moves forward with its housing initiatives, the ongoing dialogue surrounding community character and responsible development continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this coastal city.