Malibu : Council OKs Parcel Map

The City Council has voted unanimously to have the city staff draw up a detailed parcel map to make it easier for residents to understand restrictions on new construction that will go into effect next month.

A temporary zoning law that prohibits the development of new multifamily dwellings and allows less intensive uses of some properties goes into effect after the building moratorium expires March 25. The moratorium was passed two years ago when the city incorporated.

The temporary law is intended to regulate new development at least until September, when a citizens panel is expected to introduce the city’s General Plan.

The council agreed Monday that a map itemizing the zoning changes parcel by parcel was needed, after some residents complained that a more general land use map was difficult to read and contained inequities.

One long-term resident said that his property was surrounded by condos, churches and apartments but that under the new law, he would only be able to build one dwelling for every 20 acres. “It must be a typo,” said Michael LaBerge, looking incredulous.

Mayor Walt Keller, who proposed the temporary parcel map, said the city’s attorney would review the map and investigate any inequities with city staff.