Staking a Design Review Project in Laguna Beach, CA
The City’s Design Review process requires stakes to be constructed which depict the elevations and silhouette of
a proposed structure or an addition to an existing building. These stakes are commonly called “story poles” and
are used by staff, the design review authority and neighbors to help evaluate a project application. Staking is
required for projects that involve a new structure, additions greater than 50% of the original floor area, second-
story additions to an existing structure, and any addition, which in the estimation of staff or the design review
authority, may cause concerns about bulk and mass or view blockage. In the event that required story poles are
not erected or incorrectly installed, an application may be continued from its scheduled hearing date to a
subsequent meeting so that the story pole requirements can fully be met.
The Staking and Installation Process
Step 1 – Staking Plan Submittal: One of the requirements of the Zoning Plan Check process is the submittal of a
“Staking Plan.” This staking plan must be shown as notes and diagrams directly on a copy of the required full-
size roof plan
Step 2 – Story Pole Construction Story poles shall be erected at least 21 days prior to the design review
authority’s first noticed public hearing date (or 14 days prior to administrative design review hearing or a design
review continuance), and shall remain in place until action on the project has taken place and the 14-day appeal
period has expired.
Step 3 – Story Pole Certification and Inspection: A licensed civil engineer or land survey must certify with
signature and stamp placed directly on the full-size staking plan that the location and height of the constructed
story poles is true and accurate at least 21 days prior to the design review authority’s first noticed public hearing
date.
Step 4 – Removal of Story Poles: Story poles shall be removed within 20 days after the final project decision and
the 14-day appeal period expires.
Why Choose Us
Choosing All American Story Poles means gaining clarity, efficiency, and confidence in your project. Our story poles help:
- Simplify approval processes with accurate visual references
- Improve communication with neighbors and city officials
- Provide fast turnaround to keep your project on schedule with assigned hearing dates.
Story Pole Staking and Certification
We coordinate staking and certifications with our team of surveyors or with the project surveyors, associated with the project. Coordinated staking and certifications help ensure your submittal meets local requirements.