Los Angeles’ Planning and Land Use Management Committee voted 4-0 to bring a section of land in the eastern Santa Monica mountains under new environmental regulatory controls. Known as the Wildlife District Ordinance, the measure is designed to minimize the impact of hillside homes on the surrounding environment.
Not all are happy about the proposal, though, as some homeowners, including the the Bel-Air Association, say that the ordinance’s would apply restrictions to areas that are already fully developed. The proposed ordinance would regulate development standards for lot sizes; set grading and height limitations; set standards for fences and trash enclosures; and establish window and lighting requirements.
The regulations would apply only to new developments and major remodels of existing homes and property. Still, some homeowners argue that requiring easements and deed restrictions in perpetuity to protect wildlife habitat will depress home values.
“Over the last few decades we’ve seen development in the hillside scale out of proportion, resulting in unsafe conditions not only for wildlife, but also for people,” said Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, according to the local NBC affiliate. “The wildlife is already here. It’s our responsibility to care for it to allow it space to flourish and to recognize the positive intangible benefits.”
According to NBC, the plan will be piloted in an area between Griffith Park and the 405 Freeway, including communities in Sherman Oaks, Hollywood Hills, Bel Air, Laurel Canyon and Beverly Crest.