Updates on projects, policies and the future of our City.
With all of our upcoming planning initiatives, we encourage you to join us in our upcoming events to learn more!
OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS: Help Shape the Look of Future Development in South Pasadena
The City of South Pasadena is developing new Objective Design Standards (ODS) for future multifamily and mixed-use development projects. ODS are clear and measurable design standards that address items such as building size, materials, architecture, and site design. These standards will help ensure new development fits the character of South Pasadena while creating a more transparent and predictable review process.
Thank you to everyone who has participated so far through our Walk & Talk, survey, focus groups, and the joint Planning Commission and City Council meeting held on April 8, 2026. Staff is currently drafting the standards and looks forward to sharing them with the community soon.
Please check back for upcoming community meeting dates and opportunities to provide feedback.
For questions, please contact:
Erika Ramirez, Community Development Director – eramirez@southpasadenaca.gov or Dean Flores, Senior Planner – dflores@southpasadenaca.gov
****
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU) PRE-APPROVED PROGRAM
Pre-Approved ADU Plans Coming Soon!
The City of South Pasadena is launching a Pre-Approved ADU Program to help residents save time and reduce costs when building an ADU.
The program will include ready-to-use ADU plans that streamline the permitting process and reduce design and review time. The City plans to offer several ADU sizes and architectural styles designed to reflect the character of South Pasadena neighborhoods. The program will also include an easy-to-use ADU Guide with information about the application process and available resources.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey, tour, and homeowner focus group. Community input is helping shape the draft plans.
The draft plans will be presented to the Planning Commission on July 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, located at 1414 Mission Street. We encourage the community to attend and share feedback.
For questions, please contact:
Erika Ramirez, Community Development Director – eramirez@southpasadenaca.gov or Michael Donovan, Associate Planner – mdonovan@southpasadenaca.gov
****
SENATE BILL (SB) 79
Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act
SB 79, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, becomes effective on July 1, 2026. The law allows increased residential density and building heights near qualifying transit stops, including the Metro A Line station in South Pasadena.
On January 14, 2026, the City Council and Planning Commission held a joint meeting to provide an overview of SB 79 and its potential impacts on South Pasadena.
On May 19, 2026, the Planning Commission made a recommendation to the City Council. The staff report on the item regarding SB79 can be found here. The City Council is scheduled to consider the recommendation on June 3, 2026.
On July 15, 2026 the City Council will hear an overview and decide on temporarily delaying qualifying sites from SB 79.
Upcoming Community Meetings
The City of South Pasadena invites residents to attend a community meeting to learn about the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act (SB79). City Staff will provide an overview of the bill and the City's obligations under state requirements, answer questions, and discuss priorities the City is considering for implementing the legislation while balancing local priorities and community concerns. Residents are invited to attend either of the following meetings:
Monday, July 27, 2026
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Library Community Room,
1115 El Centro St.
Thursday, July 30, 2026
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
City Council Chambers
1424 Mission St.
For questions, please contact:
Erika Ramirez, Community Development Director – eramirez@southpasadenaca.gov or Dean Flores, Senior Planner – dflores@southpasadenaca.gov