Board approves ADU and clarifies deck measurements at 477 Center Street

The Laguna Beach Design Review Board unanimously approved design review and a coastal development permit Sept. 24 for a 760-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and associated decks at 477 Center Street, a property on the city’s historic register.

Staff told the board that Heritage Committee recommended approval and that the total deck area for the property is 379.61 square feet; staff said it would add the exact number to the resolution so the record is consistent. Staff also reported that a neighbor identified incorrectly listed lot-line lengths; staff inserted a draft condition requiring corrected lot lines (147.93 feet) so the ADU remains compliant with the 4-foot rear setback.

Board members described the house as a strong historic asset and found the ADU and deck changes visually compatible and unlikely to harm privacy or view equity. The board adopted Resolution 2026-1622 approving Design Review 2026-1622 and Coastal Development Permit 2026-1623; the vote was 5–0.