SB79 – New Development – Major Concern
Recently met with Kevin Keller and received an alarming update:
- Planning is considering recommending rear setbacks of ONLY 4 feet
- Current standard: 15 feet
- Applies to areas impacted by SB 79 implementation
This is exactly what stakeholders warned about—and why outreach was critical.
Why This Matters
Reducing setbacks from 15 ft to 4 ft would:
- Eliminate usable backyard space
- Reduce or eliminate trees and open space
- Create overcrowded conditions in existing neighborhoods
- Set a dangerous precedent for future legislation impacting single-family areas
“Existing” reduced setbacks could become the new citywide standard
No Justification Provided
- Planning has not provided data showing this reduction is necessary
- Stakeholders submitted graphics and analysis demonstrating:
- SB 79 density targets can be achieved with 15 ft setbacks intact
Conclusion: This change appears policy-driven—not evidence-based.
Consistent with Broader Concerns
This issue directly reinforces what we heard in the recent PlanCheckNCLA meeting:
1. Over-Zoning Without Real Outcomes
- Increasing density alone is not producing housing
- Projects remain stalled due to:
- Cost, financing, insurance, labor
2. Infrastructure Still Not Addressed
- No comprehensive analysis of:
- Sewer capacity
- Aging infrastructure
- Yet density continues to increase
3. Loss of Community Input
- Decisions are being advanced with:
- Limited transparency
- Minimal stakeholder engagement
This setback reduction is another example of top-down decision-making
Where This Goes Next
- Draft goes to the Planning Commission (expected ~May 14)
- Then to City Council for final decision
Councilmembers will be the final decision-makers
Position / Recommendation
We strongly oppose the proposed reduction in rear setbacks and recommend:
Maintain Current Standards
- Retain 15 ft rear setbacks
- Do not establish new reduced baseline
Require Data-Based Planning
- Any changes must be supported by:
- Clear analysis
- Demonstrated necessity
Protect Neighborhood Livability
- Preserve:
- Open space
- Tree canopy
- Light and air
Pause Policy Changes Without Full Review
- Align zoning decisions with:
- Infrastructure capacity
- Real development feasibility
Call to Action
We are continuing outreach and need your help:
- ✔ Continue sending letters to Councilmembers
- ✔ Request meetings with your representatives
- ✔ Watch for upcoming “click & send” letter campaign for Planning Commission
- ✔ Prepare comments for Planning Commission hearing (mid-May)
For United Neighbors – Maria, Jeff, Cindy, Marc. email: mpkalban@gmail.com
The louder and more consistent we are, the more impact we have.
Closing
This is a critical moment.
Reducing setbacks may seem like a small technical change—but it has major, long-term consequences for neighborhoods across Los Angeles.
We must ensure that planning decisions are:
- Thoughtful
- Data-driven
- Balanced with community needs
We will continue to advocate strongly—and we appreciate everyone standing with us.