Board OKs Measure to Ban Floating Homes in Marina

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved a measure designed to force so-called floating homes out of Marina del Rey.

The ordinance requires all boats docked in the marina to be seaworthy and have proper sanitation systems. The measure also prevents further floating homes from docking in the marina and requires those already in place to be removed after 20 years.

There are about 60 floating homes in the marina, according to Kerry Gottlieb, deputy director of the Department of Beaches and Harbors.

“Floating homes” is a termed used for dwellings built on the water that are not capable of floating like regular boats, Gottlieb said.

Opponents of the law say officials are trying to get rid of the houseboats and turn the marina into a “yacht club” full of expensive boats.

Ted Freedman, who lives in the marina, pointed out that the homes have sealed sanitation devices that are regularly pumped out, rather than dumped into the harbor. He portrayed harbor residents as good citizens who care deeply about the marina and are careful to preserve its environment.

“This ordinance will greatly decrease the value of our homes,” he said.