Buena Park Zoning, Code Rule Changes Proposed

Planning officials have suggested taking minor zoning and building applications out of the formal review process to streamline procedures.

The changes would allow the director of the Development Services Department, which includes planning, building and code enforcement, to give or deny permit approval for minor construction work such as security fencing. Currently, these permits need approval from the full Planning Commission.

“We were not looking at a large level of blanket authority--just enough to cure minor deficiencies,” said Thomas E. Lynch, director of development services.

The changes would have to be incorporated into the city’s zoning code, said Rick Warsinski, assistant director of the department. The amendments would go to the Planning Commission for approval and then on to public hearings before the City Council, he explained.

The city would also have to establish an appeals process for applicants who were denied permits, the staff report said.

City Council members gave the go-ahead to most of the 10 items on the Planning Department list but withheld several for further clarification. Waivers for underground utilities, extensions of time for construction projects and reduction of required parking all need a more detailed proposal, council members said.

“My experience over the years is that administrative approval is very workable,” said Mayor Don R. Griffin. “It knocks a lot of weeks out of the process.”