Neighbors allege unfair code enforcement over portable basketball hoops; council asks staff to review ordinance

Several Placentia residents raised concerns July 21 about enforcement of the city’s portable basketball‑hoop rule, saying the notices they received were inconsistent and possibly retaliatory.

Tracy Minor said she and neighbors received a first notice asking them to move portable hoops off the parkway, which they did. Two weeks later she said she received a second notice citing Placentia Municipal Code 80630 subsection 1 and demanding removal ‘‘from public view.’’ Minor said she complied with the initial request and asked staff to close the matter; she also told the council she believes the complaint was submitted by the owner of a nearby short‑term rental after neighbors advocated for stricter STR enforcement.

Lindsay Fox spoke in support of Minor, saying her entire driveway is visible to the public and that she cannot physically hide a hoop while allowing children to play. Fox asked the council to allow hoops in driveways so long as they don’t obstruct sidewalks.

Councilmembers thanked residents for bringing the issue forward. Mayor (transcript identification: Ivanka) and other members said code enforcement’s role is to enforce adopted code and that, where code seems overly restrictive, they can direct staff to review the ordinance and return with options. One councilmember requested staff prepare a review and possible alternatives.

The council did not change enforcement policy at the meeting but directed staff to look into the ordinance and return with recommendations.