Commission approves use permit for Barking Bliss dog daycare and boarding

The Lake Forest Planning Commission on Feb. 5 approved a use permit to establish Barking Bliss, a pet daycare, grooming and boarding facility in a 1,383‑square‑foot suite at the Lake Forest Quarter Shopping Center.

Assistant planner Xiomara Solas presented the application and said the suite already has air conditioning and that proposed sound‑attenuating materials are included to meet city code. The applicant is proposing to accommodate up to 35 dogs and 15 cats, with daytime hours Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday by appointment. Overnight boarding would be offered daily with limited drop‑off and pickup hours. City rules require animal service businesses to be in sound‑attenuated, climate‑controlled buildings, provide animal‑waste receptacles near the entrance, obtain an Orange County Animal Care permit, and maintain a minimum 50‑foot separation from residential properties; the proposed location meets that separation standard.

No public speakers addressed the item and staff provided a draft resolution recommending approval. A commissioner moved to approve the staff recommendation; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

What happens next: The applicant will pursue building and animal‑service permits and an Orange County Animal Care permit as required by city regulations.