Planning Commission approves October 7, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes, 4–0

Approval of October 7, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes

4 yes, 0 no, 1 abstain

Continuance of PHP 26-140 and AP 26-167 (116 El Levante)

4 yes, 0 no

Approval of CUP for CODA on Del Mar Full Alcohol Sales (124 Avenida Del Mar)

5 yes, 0 no

Adoption of Resolution No. 26-174 Ratifying Local Emergency (Norte Fire)

5 yes, 0 no

Adjournment to Regular City Council Meeting

5 yes, 0 no

Proclamation of Local Emergency Related to Tropical Storms and Hurricane Marie

5 yes, 0 no

Introduction of Ordinance No. 1814 regarding Enhanced Fireworks Enforcement

5 yes, 0 no

Approval of Consent Calendar Items

5 yes, 0 no

Coda on Del Mar Full Alcohol

124 Avenida Del Mar

A conditional use permit to allow full alcohol sales at a restaurant operating in the former Rancho Capistrano Winery space.

approved (5-0) · still approved

Edifica Residence / 116 Elevante

116 Elevante

An architectural permit for a modern style residence with an attached garage.

still continued

Enhanced Fireworks Enforcement Ordinance

The council introduced a new municipal code chapter to crack down on illegal fireworks using stricter local penalties and exploring modern surveillance and drone technologies.

What it means: All community members seeking increased safety and reduced wildfire hazards caused by illegal fireworks.

Raised 2 times this week

Citywide Emergency Management Strategic Plan Implementation

The council will consider declaring a local emergency for Tropical Storm Rachel while extending the existing emergency proclamation for Hurricane Marie.

What it means: The entire municipal corporation and residents requiring disaster recovery and emergency response coordination.

Fourth of July Public Safety and Crowd Control

The city is considering a new ordinance to crack down on illegal fireworks and strengthen local enforcement mechanisms.

What it means: San Clemente residents seeking a quieter, safer neighborhood environment free from illegal fireworks.

Emergency Proclamations for Tropical Storm Rachel and Hurricane Marie

The council will consider declaring a local emergency for Tropical Storm Rachel while extending the existing emergency proclamation for Hurricane Marie.

What it means: The entire municipal corporation and residents requiring disaster recovery and emergency response coordination.

Fire Chief Labor Negotiations

The council was scheduled to discuss labor negotiations concerning the Fire Chief position in a closed session.

What it means: City administrative operations and fire department leadership.

Norte Fire Local Emergency Ratification

Following the Norte Fire that destroyed several homes and forced massive evacuations, city and fire officials are rushing to install sandbags and clear storm drains before impending El Nino rainstorms trigger dangerous mudslides and debris flows.

What it means: Initial estimates indicate approximately $8 million in emergency costs, with 75% eligible for federal reimbursement through FMAG and additional support via state CDAA funds.

Modern Architectural Design Review for 116 Elevante

The commission will review an architectural permit application for a residential project on El Levante, ensuring it fits local design codes.

What it means: The property owner and future occupants of the residence.

San Clemente Materials Guide Standardization

The Planning Commission is hosting a special training session with architect Henry Lenny to review the history and core principles of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, which defines San Clemente's visual identity.

What it means: Local architects, designers, and residents interested in preserving the city's architectural heritage.

Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture & Zoning Height Regulations

The Planning Commission explored ways to encourage Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in residential zones, potentially offering height or pitch exemptions to help architects achieve modern ceiling heights without sacrificing traditional pitched roofs.

What it means: Local architects, homeowners, and residents interested in preserving San Clemente's architectural heritage.

Coda on Del Mar Full Alcohol Permit

A new downtown restaurant at 124 Avenida Del Mar secured approval to serve full alcohol alongside food, replacing a previous winery establishment.

What it means: Restaurant patrons and downtown business operators.