The Pasadena Planning Commission held a study session Wednesday, July 8, on whether to expand the zones where safe parking programs for vehicle-dwelling residents can operate. No vote was taken.

The session, held at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at 100 N. Garfield Ave., put a politically charged land-use question before the commission for the first time. At least one existing safe parking site in Pasadena has already generated a lawsuit.

Safe parking programs provide designated, monitored lots where people who live in cars, vans, or RVs can park overnight without fear of citation. The city's 2026-27 budget includes funding for safe parking, though the specific dollar amount was not identified in available budget documents.

What was on the agenda

The Planning Commission agenda listed two questions for discussion: whether to allow safe parking on city-owned property, and whether to open entirely new zones to the programs. Acting Planning Director Jason Mikaelian led the session, which was informational only.

Any formal expansion would require a Zoning Code amendment. The commission's role is advisory. After additional public hearings, it would send a recommendation to the City Council for a final vote.

Litigation backdrop

The City Council met in closed session Monday, June 22, to discuss ongoing litigation stemming from its approval of a safe parking program at All Saints Episcopal Church, according to the council's agenda. That program drew opposition from nearby residents, and the legal challenge remains unresolved.

All Saints is the only confirmed safe parking site in Pasadena based on available public records.

What's next

No date has been set for the next public hearing or a formal vote on expanding safe parking zones. The process requires further Planning Commission hearings and review by the Housing, Homelessness, and Planning Committee before reaching the full City Council.

Residents who want to weigh in can monitor the Planning Commission's posted agendas at cityofpasadena.net or attend future meetings in Council Chambers at 100 N. Garfield Ave.