Beverly Hills : Limits OKd for Neighborhood

The City Council on Tuesday passed a law limiting development in Trousdale Estates, a posh hillside neighborhood where homeowners have complained that recent construction of large homes and extensive remodeling of existing structures has lessened the quality of the area.

The ordinance, which was passed unanimously, limits heights of future homes in the area to 14 feet and prohibits construction of decks that extend over slopes beyond the level portion of properties. The law permits limited additions to structures that are already higher than 14 feet or that already have decks.

The vote was a victory for a homeowner group that said two-thirds of the residents signed a petition favoring the restrictions. The group said the decks and extensive remodeling of homes are obstructing views for many residents, lowering property values and cheapening the quality of the neighborhood.