LAGUNA NIGUEL : Firmer Rules Studied for Yard Structures

The Planning Commission is considering a change in city laws that govern back-yard structures, including swing sets, satellite dishes and toolsheds, commission Chairman James Olmsted said Wednesday.

Commissioners took up the issue Tuesday, six days after an emotional debate over play sets erupted at a homeowners’ meeting for the Crest De Ville community. While the two issues are related, Olmsted said that Crest De Ville residents would not be affected by a change in city laws because their play sets are governed by more restrictive community regulations.

Olmsted said city laws now on the books regarding “accessory structures” may have been more suited to the community’s rural past than to its present-day “urban environment.” Therefore, the city will consider tightening those regulations, he said.

Currently, a property owner is allowed to build a 10-by-12-foot structure up to 12 feet high.

While discussions are still in the preliminary stages, commissioners say the regulations may be changed to allow different sizes, heights and setbacks for back-yard structures.

Commissioner Marc Winer said the commission is likely to be more lenient when considering “airy structures” such as play sets or gazebos.

Generally, commissioners say they encourage families to have back-yard play sets for children so youngsters will have a safe place to play.

“We may regulate how high they are going to be, but that’s it,” Olmsted said. Added Winer, “It’s much better to have children playing in their own back yard than in the street.”

Any proposed change in the law regarding such structures will ultimately require City Council approval.