HomeMy WebLinkAbout06_Camp James LTP and CDP_PA2025-0003CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
ZONING ADMINISTRATOR STAFF REPORT
April 24, 2025
Agenda Item No. 6
SUBJECT: Camp James (PA2025-0003)
Limited Term Permit
Coastal Development Permit
SITE LOCATION: 1131 Back Bay Drive
APPLICANT: Phillip Ravenna, Newport Dunes Resort and Marina
PLANNER: Jerry Arregui, Assistant Planner
jarregui@newportbeachca.gov, 949-644-3249
LAND USE AND ZONING
General Plan Land Use Plan Category: Parks and Recreation (PR)
Zoning District: Newport Dunes Planned Community (PC48)
Coastal Land Use Plan Category: Parks and Recreation (PR)
Coastal Zoning District: Newport Dunes Planned Community (PC48)
PROJECT SUMMARY
The applicant requests a limited term permit (LTP) and coastal development permit (CDP)
to allow the operation of an outdoor summer camp for children (Camp James), on a
portion of the Newport Dunes property, for less than 90 days. The camp will operate on
weekdays, from June 9, 2025, through August 15, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m. The camp will offer recreational programming including drama, dance,
martial arts, sports, swimming, boating, and nature education to approximately 400
children per week. Camp James will use a combination of temporary facilities and facilities
that are already onsite. All temporary items specific to the camp will be removed at the
conclusion of this permit and no permanent improvements to the property are proposed.
RECOMMENDATION
1) Conduct a public hearing;
2) Find this project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Section 15304 under Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land) of the CEQA
Guidelines, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the
environment; and
3) Adopt Draft Zoning Administrator Resolution No. approving the Limited Term Permit
and Coastal Development Permit filed as PA2025-0003 (Attachment No. ZA 1).
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Camp James (PA2025-0003)
Zoning Administrator, April 24, 2025
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DISCUSSION
The subject property is located at 1131 Back Bay Drive and is known as the
Newport Dunes Waterfront Marina and Resort (Newport Dunes).
Newport Dunes is zoned Newport Dunes Planned Community (PC48) and is
categorized as Parks and Recreation (PR) by the Land Use Element of the General
Plan. The Coastal Zoning District and Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) designation
are PC48 and PR, respectively.
While PC48 does not have an adopted planned community development plan, land
uses and development standards are established pursuant to the Newport Dunes
settlement agreement (Settlement Agreement) as adopted by the City Council on
July 10, 2012.
Newport Dunes is located on approximately 100 acres of State tidelands in the
Upper Newport Bay. The property is held in trust by the County of Orange and is
leased to the applicant. Newport Dunes is developed with a variety of uses
including a 427-slip marina, clubhouse, marina support facilities, a 387-space
recreational vehicle park with support facilities, various dry boat storage areas, a
restaurant, boat launching facilities, various surface parking lots, and beach day
use facilities as shown in Figure 1 below.
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Camp James (PA2025-0003)
Zoning Administrator, April 24, 2025
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Figure 1: Image of Newport Dunes Property
Camp James will operate within a small portion of the Newport Dunes property
(Project Site). Camp James will offer recreational programming to approximately
400 children per week, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Camp James
will use a combination of temporary facilities, such as canopies, storage bins, a
mini-golf course, and a portable basketball court, and facilities that are already
onsite, including a portable office, portable restrooms, portable stage, and portable
tables. All temporary items specific to Camp James will be removed after the
expiration of this permit. No permanent improvements to the property are
proposed.
Camp James has operated at Newport Dunes for several years without the benefit
of a permit. However, to implement the project, an LTP is required. The project also
requires a CDP, as the project is a temporary use that would occur between
Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day and would occupy a portion of a public
sandy beach.
Marina
RV Park
Public
Beach
Dry Boat
Storage
Boat
Launch
Public
Beach
Camp
James
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Camp James (PA2025-0003)
Zoning Administrator, April 24, 2025
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While a LTP for less than 90 days does not require a public hearing, a CDP requires
approval via a public hearing by the Zoning Administrator. The NBMC requires
projects with multiple applications to be reviewed concurrently, therefore, the project
will be heard at a Zoning Administrator public hearing.
Newport Dunes has several surface parking lots. As shown below in Figure 2, the
nearest, paved parking lot serves the marina and provides 486 parking spaces. 60
of those parking spaces will be reserved for use by Camp James staff.
Figure 2: Image of Camp James, Pick-up/Drop-off Location, and Parking
There is an additional gravel parking lot, adjacent to the Project Site. The gravel lot
will provide a designated space for the pick-up and drop-off of students outside of the
public right-of-way. The gravel lot provides approximately 150 parking spaces which
can be used for parents, visitors, and any unanticipated or overflow parking demand
generated by the project.
The Public Works Department has reviewed the Project and has no objections,
subject to the appropriate conditions of approval. Condition of Approval No. 25 has
been included to require student drop-off and pick-up occurs onsite, and not within
the public right-of-way.
The Property is located between the nearest public road and the shoreline. Section
21.30A.040 (Determination of Public Access/ Recreation Impacts) of the NBMC
requires that the provision of public access bear a reasonable relationship between
the requirement and the Project’s impact and be proportional to the impact. In this
case, the Project is for a temporary outdoor camp at Newport Dunes and facilitates
access to coastal recreational opportunities and coastal education for children. Camp
James does not increase the demand for public access or recreational opportunities
Gravel Parking Lot
Pick-Up/Drop-off Camp
James Site
Staff Reserved
Parking
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Camp James (PA2025-0003)
Zoning Administrator, April 24, 2025
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but instead is an enhancement to the existing public access and recreational
opportunities located at Newport Dunes.
Camp James does not include any features that would obstruct access along the
Newport Dunes public walkway trail or any of the nearby beach access locations that
are maintained as part of the Settlement Agreement.
Camp James is located within the immediate vicinity of various designated public
coastal view points and coastal view roads, as identified in the CLUP. The nearest
public coastal viewpoint is approximately 1,600 feet to the south, at Back Bay View
Park. The nearest Coastal View Road is Coast Highway. Site investigation revealed
that the Project is visible from Bay View Park and Coast Highway. The tallest
temporary improvements, the canopies, are only 12 feet tall and would not exceed
the height of the marina clubhouse beyond. Because the canopies are small in
height, bulk, and scale, and are temporary, the Project is not anticipated to block
views of the Back Bay, the bluffs beyond, or degrade the visual quality of the coastal
zone.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This Project has been determined to be categorically exempt under the requirements of the
California Environmental Quality Act under Section 15304 under Class 4 (Minor Alterations
to Land).
The Class 4 exemption is for minor public or private alterations in the condition of land,
water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees
except for forestry or agricultural purposes. This includes minor temporary uses of land
having negligible or no permanent effects on the environment including but not limited to
carnivals or sales of Christmas trees. The Project is for a temporary outdoor summer
camp which utilizes temporary facilities and structures resulting in negligible effects on
the environment. Therefore, the Class 4 exemption is applicable.
There are no known exceptions listed in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 that would
invalidate the use of this exemption. The project location does not impact an environmental
resource of hazardous or critical concern, does not result in cumulative impacts, does not have
a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances, does not damage scenic
resources within a state scenic highway, is not a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as
a historical resource.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of this application was published in the Daily Pilot, mailed to all owners of property
within 300 feet of the boundaries of the site (excluding intervening rights-of-way and
waterways), including the applicant, and posted on the subject property at least 10 days
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Zoning Administrator, April 24, 2025
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before the scheduled hearing, consistent with the provisions of the Municipal Code.
Additionally, the item appeared on the agenda for this meeting, which was posted at City
Hall and on the City website.
APPEAL PERIOD:
This action shall become final and effective 14 days following the date the Resolution is
adopted unless within such time an appeal or call for review is filed with the Community
Development Director by the provisions of Title 21 of the NBMC. Final action taken by the
City may be appealed to the Coastal Commission in compliance with Section 21.64.035
(Appeal to the Coastal Commission) of the City’s certified LCP and Title 14 California Code
of Regulations, Sections 13111 through 13120, and Section 30603 of the Coastal Act. For
additional information on filing an appeal, contact the Planning Division at 949-644-3200
Prepared by:
JP/ja
Attachments: ZA 1 Draft Resolution
ZA 2 Vicinity Map
ZA 3 Applicant’s Project Description
ZA 4 Project Plans
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Attachment No. ZA 1
Draft Resolution
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RESOLUTION NO. ZA2025-###
A RESOLUTION OF THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, APPROVING A LIMITED TERM
PERMIT AND COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR
A TEMPORARY SUMMER CAMP LOCATED AT 1131 BACK
BAY DRIVE (PA2025-0003)
THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. STATEMENT OF FACTS.
1.An application was filed by Phillip Ravenna of the Newport Dunes Marina and Resort
(Applicant) on behalf of Camp James (Operator), with respect to property located at
1131 Back Bay Drive and legally described as Record of Survey RS_095_39-43
(Property).
2.The Property is located on approximately 100 acres of State tidelands in the Upper
Newport Bay held in trust by the County of Orange and leased to the Applicant. The
Property, known as the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina (Newport Dunes),
is currently developed with a variety of uses including a 427-slip marina, clubhouse, and
marina support facilities, a 387-space recreational vehicle park with support facilities,
various dry boat storage areas, a restaurant, boat launching facilities, various surface
parking lots, and beach day use facilities.
3.The Applicant requests a limited term permit (LTP) and coastal development permit
(CDP) to allow the operation of an outdoor summer camp for children on a portion of the
Newport Dunes Property for less than 90 days. The camp will operate on weekdays,
from June 9, 2025, through August 15, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. The camp will offer recreational programming including drama, dance, martial arts,
sports, swimming, boating, and nature education to approximately 400 children per
week. The camp will use a combination of temporary facilities and facilities that are
already onsite. All temporary structures and amenities specific to the camp will be
removed at the conclusion of this permit. No permanent improvements to the Property
are proposed (Project).
4.The Property is categorized as Parks and Recreation (PR) by the Land Use Element of
the General Plan and is located within the Newport Dunes Planned Community (PC48)
Zoning District.
5.The Property is located within the coastal zone. The Coastal Land Use Plan category is
Parks and Recreation (PR) and it is located within the Newport Dunes Planned Community
(PC48) Coastal Zoning District.
6.The PC48 District does not have an adopted planned community development plan;
however, land uses, and development standards are established pursuant to the Newport
Dunes settlement agreement (Settlement Agreement) as adopted by the City Council on
July 10, 2012.
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7. Section 20.52.040 (Limited Term Permits) of the NBMC specifies that LTP applications for
temporary uses that are less than 90 days do not require a public hearing and are reviewed
by the Community Development Director. However, Section 21.52.0150 (Coastal
Development Permits) of the NBMC specifies that CDP applications require approval
through a public hearing by the City Zoning Administrator. Section 20.50.30 (Multiple
Permit Applications) of the NBMC requires that multiple applications for the same project
be processed concurrently and be reviewed and approved, modified, or denied by the
highest review authority, which in this case is the Zoning Administrator.
8. A public hearing was held on April 24, 2025, online via Zoom. A notice of the time, place,
and purpose of the hearing was given in accordance with the Newport Beach Municipal
Code (NBMC). Evidence, both written and oral, was presented to and considered by the
Zoning Administrator at this hearing.
SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT DETERMINATION.
1. This Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section
15304 under Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code
of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3 because it has no potential to have a
significant effect on the environment.
2. The Class 4 exemption is for minor public or private alterations in the condition of land,
water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees
except for forestry or agricultural purposes. This includes minor temporary uses of land
having negligible or no permanent effects on the environment including but not limited
to carnivals or sales of Christmas trees. The Project is for a temporary outdoor summer
camp which utilizes temporary facilities and structures resulting in no permanent effects
on the environment. Therefore, the Class 4 exemption is applicable.
3. The exceptions to this categorical exemption under Section 15300.2 are not applicable.
The Project does not impact an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern,
does not result in cumulative impacts, does not have a significant effect on the
environment due to unusual circumstances, does not damage scenic resources within
a state scenic highway, is not a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as a historical
resource.
SECTION 3. REQUIRED FINDINGS.
Limited Term Permit
In accordance with Section 20.52.040(G) (Limited Term Permits – Finding and Decision) of the
NBMC, the findings and facts in support of such findings are set forth as follows:
Finding:
A. The operation of the limited duration use at the location proposed and within the time period
specified would not be detrimental to the harmonious and orderly growth of the City, nor
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endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health,
interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working in the neighborhood of
the requested limited duration use.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Limited Term Permit will allow the operation of the outdoor summer camp on the
Newport Dunes property for a term of less than 90 days. Conditions of Approval No. 2
establishes the duration of the camp from June 9, 2025, through August 15, 2025. The
Project will provide additional childcare options and an educational opportunity which serve
as additional amenities for the community.
2. Conditions of Approval No. 3 limits the hours of operation for the Project to weekdays,
between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. These daytime hours help reduce the potential for noise
and traffic impacts to the surrounding residential uses during the early morning, evenings,
and weekends.
3. The Project will use combination of temporary facilities and facilities that are already
onsite. The Property currently has a portable office, portable restrooms, a portable
stage, portable storage bins and tables. The Project will set up temporary canopies and
activities for children including a mini-golf course and a portable basketball court on an
existing concrete slab. All temporary structures and amenities specific to the Project will
be removed at the conclusion of this LTP. No permanent improvements to the Property
are proposed.
4. Condition of Approval No. 10 requires the Operator to have trash receptacles conveniently
located around the camp and ensure the public beach and premises are maintained free
of trash and debris.
5. The Property is bounded to the west by the Bayside Village Mobile Home Park, to the
north by the Back Bay and marina slips with single-unit dwellings beyond, to the east by
a multi-unit senior living complex, Back Bay Drive, and the Hyatt hotel beyond, and to
the south by Coast Highway with multi-unit dwellings beyond. Back Bay View Park abuts
the Property to the southeast. The nearest residential properties are the mobile homes,
located approximately 1,000 feet east of the Project. The Project is separated from the
mobile home park by a boat storage lot, two surface parking lots, and a block wall. Due
to the Project’s location on the Property, intervening distance, and proposed operations,
the Project is not expected to be detrimental to surrounding land uses.
Finding:
B. The subject lot is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the limited duration use
without material detriment to the use and enjoyment of other properties located adjacent
to and in the vicinity of the lot.
Facts in Support of Finding:
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1. The Property is an irregular “U” shaped parcel, approximately 100 acres in area, and is
developed with the Newport Dunes complex. The Project is situated on a small portion of the
Property’s public beach, near northwestern point of the “U” shape. The specific Project site is
bounded to the north by the marina parking lot, to the east and south by the pedestrian trail
and public beach, and to the west by a dry boat storage area (Project Site). The Project Site
will occupy approximately 1.4 acres, or less than 2%, of the Property. Based on the Property’s
large size and small footprint of the Project Site, there is adequate area on the Property for
the proposed outdoor camp.
2. While the Project is not in operation, the Project Site is part of the public beach. The Project is
not anticipated to impact the normal operations to the Newport Dunes or impact usage of the
public beach due to the small footprint of the Project Site on the Property.
3. Facts 2 and 5 in support of Finding A are hereby incorporated by reference.
Finding:
C. The subject lot is adequately served by streets or highways having sufficient width and
improvements to accommodate the kind and quantity of traffic that the limited duration use
would or could reasonably be expected to generate.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is accessed through Bayside Drive, a two-lane street that is approximately
40 feet wide. Bayside Drive leads into the Property and provides access to two parking lots
serving the Project.
2. The Project offers an hour and a half range for regular drop-off and pick-up times to reduce
traffic congestion. Students may be picked up at any time of the day, and outside of PM
peak hours, further reducing traffic congestion that may occur with the operation of a
summer camp.
3. The Public Works Department has reviewed the Project and has no objections, subject to
the appropriate conditions of approval. Condition of Approval No. 25 has been included
which requires that student drop-off and pick-up occur onsite, and not within the public
right-of-way.
Finding:
D. Adequate temporary parking to accommodate vehicular traffic to be generated by the
limited duration use would be available either on-site or at alternate locations acceptable
to the Zoning Administrator; and
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property has several surface parking lots throughout. The nearest, paved parking lot
serves the marina and includes 486 parking stalls. The Applicant has committed to reserve
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60 parking spaces for use by the Project staff within the marina parking lot. The Applicant
has indicated that there is sufficient on-site parking to accommodate the Project.
2. There is an additional gravel parking lot located on the Property, adjacent to the Project
Site. The gravel lot will provide a designated space for the pick-up and drop-off of students
outside of the public right-of-way. The gravel parking lot provides approximately 150
parking spaces which can be used for parents, visitors, and any unanticipated or overflow
parking demand generated by the Project.
3. Based on the Project’s temporary nature and available onsite parking spaces, the Project
is not anticipated to impact the normal operations of the Newport Dunes or be a nuisance
to the nearby residential uses.
4. Fact 3 in Support of Finding C is hereby incorporated by reference.
Finding:
E. The limited duration use is consistent with all applicable provisions of the General Plan,
any applicable specific plan, the Municipal Code, and other City regulations.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Land Use Element of the General Plan categorizes this Property as Parks and
Recreation (PR). Table LU 1 (Land Use Plan Categories) of the Land Use Element
specifies that the PR category applies to land used or proposed for active public or private
recreational use. Examples of appropriate uses include parks (both active and passive),
golf courses, marina support facilities, aquatic facilities, tennis clubs and courts, private
recreation, and similar facilities. The Project is for a temporary outdoor summer camp
located within the Newport Dunes which provides recreational opportunities for children.
The Project is therefore consistent with the General Plan designations.
2. Policy NR 16.6 (Water-Related Education and Research within Upper Newport Bay) of the
Natural Resources Element of the General Plan promotes facilities in and around the
Upper Newport Bay to adequately serve as water quality and estuarine education and
research programs. The Project is for a temporary outdoor summer camp in the Upper
Newport Bay where children are introduced to marine education and participate in boating
and other aquatic activities. The Project is, therefore, consistent with Policy NR 16.6.
3. The Settlement Agreement which serves as the zoning document for the Property and lists
uses which are specifically allowed and prohibited on the Property. None of the specified
allowed or prohibited uses are similar to the Project. While the Settlement Agreement does
not specially preclude the Project or similar land uses, the Property is designated as PR
by the General Plan which directly aligns with the Project’s intent to provide additional
recreational opportunities. Allowing a temporary outdoor camp for children at this Property
also directly aligns with the intended use of the Property, which is a place for outdoor
recreation and education.
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4. The Property is not located within a specific plan area.
Coastal Development Permit
In accordance with Section 21.52.015(F) (Coastal Development Permits - Findings and
Decision) of the NBMC, the following findings and facts in support of such findings are set
forth:
Finding:
F. Conforms to all applicable sections of the certified Local Coastal Program.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. Pursuant to Section 21.52.035(D) (Projects Exempt from Coastal Development Permit
Requirements – Special and Temporary Events), the Project is not exempt from a CDP
requirement because the Project would occur between Memorial Day weekend and
Labor Day and occupy a portion of a public sandy beach. Therefore, approval of a CDP
is required for the Project.
2. The Land Use and Development Element of the Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP)
categorizes this Property as Parks and Recreation (PR). The PR category applies to land
used or proposed for active public or private recreational use. Examples of appropriate
uses include parks (both active and passive), golf courses, marina support facilities,
aquatic facilities, tennis clubs and courts, private recreation, and similar facilities. The
Project is for a temporary outdoor summer camp located within the Newport Dunes and
provides recreational opportunities for children. The Project is therefore consistent with the
CLUP designation.
3. Policy 2.1.7-1 (Newport Dunes) of the CLUP intends to protect, and if feasible, expand and
enhance, the variety of recreational and visitor-serving uses with emphasis on lower cost
uses. The Project is for a temporary outdoor summer camp which provides recreational
opportunities for children within the Newport Dunes. The Project is, therefore, consistent
with Policy 2.1.7-1.
4. The Property is located within the PC48 Coastal Zoning District which does not have an
adopted planned community development plan; however, land uses and development
standards are established pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.
5. The Project Site is located within the immediate vicinity of various designated coastal
views, as identified in the CLUP. The nearest coastal viewpoint is approximately 1,600 feet
to the south, at Back Bay View Park. Site investigation revealed that the Project is visible
from Bay View Park. The tallest temporary improvement proposed, a canopy, is only 12
feet tall and would not exceed the height of the marina clubhouse beyond. Because the
improvements are small in height, bulk, and scale, and are temporary, the Project is not
anticipated to block views of the Back Bay, the bluffs beyond, or degrade the visual quality
of the coastal zone.
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6. There are additional viewpoints within proximity of the Project including West Cliff Park,
approximately 1,700 feet to the north, and both Castaways and Lower Castaways Park
approximately 3,000 feet to the west. The Project is generally not visible from these
viewpoints due to the substantial distance from the Project and intervening structures
including the Newport Dunes Marina club house, landscaping, and the Bayside Village
Mobile Home Park.
7. The Property is located adjacent to Coast Highway and Back Bay Drive which are
designated as coastal view roads by the CLUP. The Project is visible from portions of
both Coast Highway and Back Bay Drive. Because the improvements are small in height,
bulk, and scale, and are temporary, the Project is not anticipated to block views of the Back
Bay, the bluffs beyond, or degrade the visual quality of the coastal zone.
Finding:
G. Conforms with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the
Coastal Act if the project is located between the nearest public road and the sea of
shoreline of any body of water located within the coastal zone.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is located between the nearest public road and the shoreline. Section
21.30A.040 (Determination of Public Access/ Recreation Impacts) of the NBMC requires
that the provision of public access bear a reasonable relationship between the requirement
and the Project’s impact and be proportional to the impact. In this case, the Project is for a
temporary outdoor camp at the Newport Dunes and facilitates access to coastal
recreational opportunities and coastal education to children. The Project itself does not
increase the demand for public access or recreational opportunities but instead is an
enhancement to the existing public access and recreational opportunities located on the
Property.
2. While the CLUP does not have any designated beach access locations at the Property,
there are several beach access locations on the Property and around the central lagoon.
The Project is located within a small portion of the Property and does not include any
features that would obstruct access along the Newport Dunes public walkway trail or any
of the nearby beach access locations that are maintained as part of the Settlement
Agreement.
SECTION 4. DECISION.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1. The Zoning Administrator of the City of Newport Beach hereby finds this project is
categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under Section 15304
under Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of
Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3 because it has no potential to have a significant
effect on the environment.
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2.The Zoning Administrator of the City of Newport Beach hereby approves the Limited Term
Permit and Coastal Development Permit filed as PA2025-0003, subject to the conditions
set forth in Exhibit “A,” which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference.
3.This action shall become final and effective 14 days following the date this Resolution
was adopted unless within such time an appeal or call for review is filed with the
Community Development Director by the provisions of Title 21 (Local Coastal Program
Implementation Plan), of the NBMC. Final action taken by the City may be appealed to
the Coastal Commission in compliance with Section 21.64.035 (Appeal to the Coastal
Commission) of the City’s certified LCP and Title 14 California Code of Regulations,
Sections 13111 through 13120, and Section 30603 of the Coastal Act.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 24TH DAY OF APRIL 2025.
_____________________________________
Benjamin M. Zdeba, AICP, Zoning Administrator
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EXHIBIT “A”
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
(Project-specific conditions are in italics)
Planning Division
1. The Project shall be in substantial conformance with the approved site plan stamped
and dated with the date of this approval, except as modified by applicable conditions of
approval.
2. The Project shall be permitted on the Property, on weekdays, between June 9, 2025,
and August 15, 2025. Operation of the Project outside of this duration is prohibited
without subsequent review by the Planning Division and the potential processing of a
new limited term permit and coastal development permit.
3. The Project shall be permitted to operate between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
4. The Property shall be cleaned of all debris, litter, amenities and temporary structures
and amenities specific to the Project, within 30 days of the expiration of the LTP.
5. The Project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards, unless
specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval.
6. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. A material violation
of any of those laws in connection with the use may cause the revocation of this
approval.
7. All noise generated by the Project shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.26
(Community Noise Control) and other applicable noise control requirements of the
NBMC.
8. A Special Events Permit is required for any event or promotional activity outside the
normal operating characteristics of the approved use, as conditioned, or that would
attract large crowds, involve the sale of alcoholic beverages, include any form of on-
site media broadcast, or any other activities as specified in the NBMC to require such
permits.
9. The Property shall not be excessively illuminated based on the luminance
recommendations of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, or, in the
opinion of the Community Development Director, the illumination creates an
unacceptable negative impact on surrounding land uses or environmental resources.
The Director may order the dimming of light sources or other remediation upon
finding that the Property is excessively illuminated.
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10. The Operator shall install trash receptacles conveniently located around the Project
Site and ensure the public beach and premises are maintained free of trash and
debris.
11. The Applicant shall ensure that the trash dumpsters and/or receptacles are maintained
to control odors. This may include the provision of either fully self-contained dumpsters
or periodic steam cleaning of the dumpsters, if deemed necessary by the Planning
Division. Cleaning and maintenance of trash dumpsters shall be done in compliance
with the provisions of Title 14, including all future amendments (including Water Quality
related requirements).
12. Prior to the operation of the Project, the Applicant shall pay any unpaid administrative
costs associated with the processing of this application to the Planning Division.
13. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers,
employees, and agents from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations,
damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities,
costs and expenses (including without limitation, attorney’s fees, disbursements and
court costs) of every kind and nature whatsoever which may arise from or in any
manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City’s approval of the Camp James including,
but not limited to the Limited Term Permit and Coastal Development Permit filed
as PA2025-0003. This indemnification shall include, but not be limited to, damages
awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorneys' fees, and other expenses
incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action, suit or proceeding
whether incurred by Applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating or bringing such
proceeding. The Applicant shall indemnify the City for all of City's costs, attorneys' fees,
and damages which City incurs in enforcing the indemnification provisions set forth in
this condition. The Applicant shall pay to the City upon demand any amount owed to
the City pursuant to the indemnification requirements prescribed in this condition.
Building Division
14. Any areas used for temporary commercial or institutional use shall be assessable to
disables persons.
15. An assessable path of travel to all functional areas shall be provided.
16. Access to restrooms shall be provided at all times.
17. Accessible parking stalls shall not be used for seating areas when onsite parking is
provided.
18. Detectable warnings shall be required when pedestrian paths cross or are adjacent to
a vehicular way where no physical barrier are provided to separate the two.
19. A minimum of 5% accessible seating shall be provided at tables and counters with knee
clearances of at least 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 19 inches deep.
17
Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2025-###
Page 11 of 11
20. The tops of dining surfaces and work surfaces shall be 28 to 34 inches above the finish
floor.
21. All exiting paths shall be a minimum of 48 inches free and clear. All public walks and
sidewalks shall be a minimum 48 inches free and clear.
22. All building exits shall remain free and clear of any obstacles that would impede exiting
from a building or suite and accessing the nearest public right-of-way
23. Accessible routes, including under canopy(ies) and other overhead improvements shall
maintain a minimum clear height of 80 inches.
24. All electrical distribution lines shall be in good working order and shall be protected from
pedestrian and vehicular traffic and shall accommodate accessibility.
Public Works Department
25. The Applicant and/or Operator shall ensure that student drop-off and pick-up areas do
not occur within the public right-of-way.
18
Attachment No. ZA 2
Vicinity Map
19
VICINITY MAP
Limited Term Permit
Coastal Development Pemrit
(PA2025-0003)
1131 Back Bay Drive
Subject Property
20
Attachment No. ZA 3
Applicant’s Project Description
21
Camp James Summer Day Camp would operate for 10 weeks each summer and follow the
local school districts’ summer break schedule. For 2025, we would open June 9th and end
August 15, 2025 and would expect our 2026 dates to be June 8th to August 14th, 2026. Camp
only operates Monday - Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. We are always closed on the 4th of
July (and for 2025 will be closed on Thursday July 3rd as well). So for 2025 we would operate
for a total of 48 days and for 2026 50 days.
Camp James has leased land from the Newport Dunes since 2012 and plans to operate exactly
as we have these past 13 years. Our entire camp takes place outside and provides child care
and recreation for children ages 5 - 17 years of age. We employ over 100 local teens and
young adults and have a Teen Leadership Program for high school students which usually has
over 80 participants each summer. On any given day we have approximately 60 paid
employees on property and 15-25 campers in leadership training, which are included in our daily
camper count. Campers participate in 4 main activities a day including drama, dance, sports,
swimming, boating, STEM, martial arts and nature education. Camp James serves about 250 -
400 children each week providing daycare for many families for the entire summer. Camp limits
enrollment by age and group and is not always at capacity (400) each week.
Camp James is open to the public and serves children of all abilities. Camp will provide a teen
buddy for no additional cost for campers that have a diagnosis/disability and need a little extra
help. Camp James has been the recipient of the National Inclusion Grant and recognized as a
Camp Of Excellence by the American Camp Association.
Camp James is accredited by the American Camp Association which requires that we fulfill
hundreds of health and safety standards. Camp James has been in operation since 1999 and
has an excellent reputation and safety record.
Camp James has portable storage units to store our equipment as well as 2 that serve as an
office and first aid area. We also have a portable restroom and portable stage. Camp James
sits on an area that was previously a boat, dock and junk storage area as well as a general
repair station for the Marina and Dunes. We utilized the same asphalt that was already there.
Camp James does not impede public access to any paths or the beachfront. The area is also
used by the Newport Dunes for special events and private rentals during the weekends, nights
and the nine months camp is not in operation. In addition, the city utilizes the Camp James area
for ten weeks in the fall when they operate the Fostering Interest In Nature camp. Camp James
offers STEM and nature education as part of their curriculum similar to the FIIN camp.
20.52.040 G.
1. Camp James has operated since 2012 in the area in question,providing day camp services to
thousands of local children We have honed our practices over the last 12 years to be
harmonious with the Newport Dunes Maria office and boat owners, FIIN camp, the Newport
Dunes sales, security and operations, the public using these areas as well as the homeowners
that are directly outside the front entrance to the Newport Dunes Marina parking area. We have
ensured that no pathways are blocked by our campers, staff or equipment and have additional
22
safety signs leading into the property for safer driving, walking and biking. Our improvements to
what was an old storage area is a beautiful event/picnic area. Our picnic tables are available for
the public anytime there is no event or camp/school in operation. We contact
Traffic@dot.ca.gov at the start of our session to help alleviate any traffic issues at the
Bayside/PCH intersection. We believe that it is a testament to our operation that we have had
campers as well as volunteers and employees from the nearby houses, RV park, boat owners
and Newport Dunes employees.
2. The physical space where Camp James operates is more than adequate to serve our
needs.Camp James limits their enrollment to abide by the American Camp Association ratios
but also for the space we operate in. We have a close relationship with both the Marina and
Dunes staff regarding landscape, maintenance and general operations.
3. Camp James has an open door policy so that parents can come at any time and give an hour
and a half range for regular drop off time and an hour for pick up time as a way to reduce any
traffic congestion.
4. We operate a drive thru drop off system in the mornings to eliminate parents needing to park.
However, for parents who prefer to park and walk in, we have a large gravel parking lot that
easily accommodates our parents. On the occasion of a Marina or Dunes event that reduces
parking, the Marina staff allow us to use the asphalt lot as needed.
5. Camp James fits within the General Plan of the Newport Dunes that serves as a recreation
destination which includes their own activity planning for children and compliments other
businesses on the property such as Newport Beach Junior Guards and Pirate Coast Paddle Co.
23
Attachment No. ZA 4
Project Plans
24
1. Portable Camp Green Storage Bin - 8’ x 24’ x 117‘’
2. Portable Maintenance Bin - 8’ x 20’ x 102”
3. Portable Activity Program Bin - 8’ x 24’ x 117”
4. Portable Bathroom Trailer - 8.5’ x 40‘ x 103”
5. Portable Office Trailer - 22’ x 40’ x 144”
6. James Events Portable Storage Bin - 8’ x 40’ x 102”
7. Portable Lifeguard & First Aid Bin - 8’ x 50’ x 144”
(Aka As Fiin Overnight For Teachers Area & Area 51)
8. Portable Activity Storage Bin - 8’ x 40’ x 102”
9. Portable Activity / Storage Bin - 8’ x 40’ x 102”
10. Portable Stage Trailer - 8.5’ x 32’ x 144”
11. Small Fenced Portable Storage - 8’ x 30’ x 75”
(Life Jackets & Waterfront Supplies)
A. Portable Mini-Golf Course
B. Activities Area
C. Lunch & Gathering Area
D. Portable Basketball Hoops
on Existing Cement Slab
(Fiin Campers' Tents, Dunes Special Events)
E. Activities Area
F. Activities Area
G. Activities Area
H. Portable Rockwall & Ball-Pit Trailers
I. Activities Area
J. Activities Area
1 2
3
4
5
67
8
9 10
11A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Dunes
Dry Boat
Storage
H
I J
= Fire Extinguisher 25
From: Susan Hoffman <bikc209@gmail.com>
Sent: April 18, 2025 11:45 AM
To: Arregui, Jerry <JArregui@newportbeachca.gov>
Cc: Brown, Leilani <LBrown@newportbeachca.gov>
Subject: NO on Camp James
Dear Jerry,
As a resident of Bayside Village, Camp James has been a problem ever since it began several years
ago. No compliance for speed, traffic congestion and limited access to the community who may want
to use the Dunes during the summer when they take over.
The parents speed on Bayside drive in the morning and afternoon during pick up and drop off of
kids. Congestion escalates in the afternoon when they clog the access to PCH because they all want
to turn left? This causes residents to be stuck sitting there instead of being able to to turn right?
In the past, Brad Sommers, has been notified.
We had suggested an alternate access for parents on the Bayview entrance where surrounding
residents are not inconvenienced.
Thank you,
Susan Hoffman
Zoning Administrator - April 24, 2025 Item No. 6a - Additional Materials Received Camp James Limited Term Permit and Coastal Development Permit (PA2025-0003)
From:Jim Mosher <jimmosher@yahoo.com>
Sent:April 23, 2025 12:00 PM
To:CDD
Subject:Comment on ZA Item 6 (4/24/2025 meeting)
[EXTERNAL EMAIL] DO NOT CLICK links or attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report phish using
the Phish Alert Button above.
With regard to Item 6, Camp James (PA2025-0003), on the April 24, 2025, Zoning Administrator agenda:
1. It is good to see the applicant is finally seeking a CDP.
2. To approve a CDP, since as part of their activities, campers and their equipment will presumably be
moving between the property and the water, shouldn't there be a condition ensuring the approved use will
not be conducted in such a way as to impede public access to the adjacent public path or beach?
3. As to the conditions that have been imposed, there seem to be a number of typos:
* In Nos 14 and 15, shouldn't "assessable" be "accessible"?
* In No. 14, shouldn't "disables" be "disabled"?
* In No. 20, shouldn't "finish" be "finished"?
* In No. 25, should "student" be "camper?
-- Jim Mosher
Zoning Administrator - April 24, 2025 Item No. 6b Additional Materials Received Camp James LTP and CDP (PA2025-0003)