Southern California Edison Property in East Pasadena Could House New Commercial Nursery

The City’s Hearing officer will consider a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) that would establish a commercial nursery at 3120 E. Sierra Madre Blvd. on Aug. 7.  

The property is owned by Southern California Edison (SCE) and zoned for Open Space (OS). 15303(c),

The nursery, proposed by Nick Gomez, will feature three modular structures totaling 480 square feet—comprising one office container and two storage containers. This development falls within the CEQA exemption criteria, as the total construction area is below the 10,000-square-foot threshold.

The 3.65-acre site, located between Lomora Avenue and Canyon Wash Drive, is currently equipped with 12 utility poles and two transmission towers owned by SCE. The project involves minimal modifications, preserving the existing fencing and installing a new driveway gate and fence near Sierra Madre Boulevard.

Operating hours for the commercial nursery will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. The project includes 10 parking spaces—well above the minimum requirement—and ensures compliance with local zoning regulations regarding truck loading and unloading to minimize disturbances to nearby residential areas.

The nursery’s outdoor display area will feature plants, pots, soil, and gardening tools, all screened from public view by hedging. The use of fertilizers will be limited to packaged forms only, adhering to performance standards designed to address potential odor issues.

This development aligns with the City’s General Plan by enhancing urban open spaces and maintaining the property’s current character. The proposal, which received approvals from various City departments, is expected to operate harmoniously with the surrounding land uses.

The Hearing Officer’s approval of the Conditional Use Permit includes conditions to ensure compliance with zoning codes and minimize impact on neighboring properties.