City Commission Zeroes in On Construction Noise in Neighborhoods

Pasadena’s Planning Commission will begin discussions on Wednesday, July 22, about two proposed amendments to the Zoning Code that would impact single-family residential development.

Recommended by the Department of Planning and Community Development, the first amendment is related to requiring new standards for basement excavations in single-family residential neighborhoods.

A preliminary report from the Department showed the amendments are necessary to respond to complaints regarding excessive construction-related vibration and noise due to excavation work on basement projects on single family sites.

The report said existing regulations related to this include a noise ordinance which prohibits construction in any residential district or within a 500-foot radius during any time other than 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.  The ordinance also prohibits operation of any powered construction equipment exceeding 85 decibels, measured within 100 feet from such equipment.

The Department said there are currently no established regulations for construction-related vibrations, except for projects subject to CEQA standards.

During Wednesday’s Planning Commission meeting, the Planning Department will report on potential impacts of the vibration and noise during basement construction in single-family residential sites, which include damage to nearby structures as well as human annoyance. The Department is also expected to present recommended approaches that the Planning Commission may consider in responding to noise and vibration related concerns.

The second proposed amendment up for discussion will consider the entitlement process related to construction of detached garages in front of the primary residential structure within the Hillside Overlay District.

After the virtual Planning Commission meeting, staff is expected to prepare the formal Zoning Code amendments and return to the Planning Commission with fixed recommendations.

Members of the community may access the virtual meeting through Zoom, at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81244094396, or by calling (669) 900-6833 and using the webinar ID 812 4409 4396.

Public-comments may be submitted in advance by email to tmolinar@cityofpasadena.net prior to the meeting day.