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 is launching a City-initiated effort to develop Objective Design Standards (ODS) with the help of consulting team, Torti Gallas+ Partners, for new multifamily and mixed-use projects- and we invite the community to help shape them. ODS are clear, measurable design guidelines (such as building scale, architecture, materials and site layout) that ensure new development fits South Pasadena’s character while providing a more transparent and predictable review process.
Participate in the development of ODS:
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Join the Community Walk and Talk – Saturday, March 14th, Departs at 9:30am or 11:30am from the Mission/Meridian Metro A Line Station. City community members are invited to come out for a walk in the sunshine and experience South Pasadena’s unique architecture up close and discuss its role in shaping the City’s future development. We look forward to seeing you there!
- City Council/Planning Commission Special Joint Meeting on April 8th @ 5pm in City Council Chambers to hear the survey and ODS Walk and Talk input, discussion and policy direction.
- Community Meeting(date and details coming soon)
Your input will directly inform the development of the City’s Objective Design Standards. We look forward to your participation.
Project contacts: Erika Ramirez, Community Development Director eramirez@southpasadenaca.gov & Dean Flores, Senior Planner dflores@southpasadenaca.gov.
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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 in partnership with non-profit group Office to: Office, to help residents save time and money building new ADUs in their backyards!
Pre-Approved ADU Plans will be developed that are ready-to-use designs that streamline the permitting process, reducing both design costs and review time. The City will offer three sizes and architectural styles that reflect the character of our South Pasadena neighborhoods and meet the needs of local homeowners. This program will also include a comprehensive ADU Guide that will provide information on the application process and resources.
Participate by:
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ADU City Tour – Monday, March 9 from 9am to 3pm, City consultants Office of: Office will be in your neighborhood visiting properties with ADUs. If you are available to speak to them to share your personal account please contact Michael Donovan, Associate Planner at mdonovan@southpasadenaca.gov or 626-403-7220.
- Homeowner Focus Group Meeting – Thursday, March 26th from 6:30pm to 8:00pm in the South Pasadena Library’s Community Room located at 1115 El Centro St.
This will present an opportunity to provide firsthand perspectives on needs, challenges, and priorities when considering pre-approved ADUs. Their input will help the City develop new Pre-Approved ADU prototypes and designs that truly reflect the lived experience of residents. Please join us. Food and childcare will be provide.
Your input is invaluable to a successful program. We look forward to your participation.
Project contacts: Jasmin Kim, Planning Manager jkim@southpasadenaca.gov & Michael Donovan, Associate Planner mdonovan@southpasadenaca.gov.
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Senate Bill (SB) 79: Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act
SB 79, introduced by Senator Scott Wiener and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, becomes effective on July 1, 2026. The law adds Government Code Sections 65912.155 through 65912.162 and overrides local zoning requirements to allow increased residential density and increased building heights near qualifying transit stops, including the Metro A Line station in the City of South Pasadena.
On January 14, 2026, the City Council and Planning Commission had a special joint meeting to receive an overview of SB 79. You can watch the meeting here and review materials here.
The City Council and Planning Commission directed staff to return with additional analysis and visual exhibits illustrating: (1) the densities permitted under SB 79, and (2) potential redistribution of those densities to inform future policy direction.
Project contacts: Erika Ramirez, Community Development Director eramirez@southpasadenaca.gov & Dean Flores, Senior Planner dflores@southpasadenaca.gov.