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REGIONAL
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LEGISLATIVEUPDATE
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San Marcos City Council adopts new rules on Targeted Protests
While general protests remain allowed in residential neighborhoods, the ordinance prohibits protesters from protesting in front of a specific residential property requiring protesters to maintain a distance of at least 300 feet from the property. Protesters violating the ordinance could receive an infraction resulting in a fine. The ordinance takes effect within thirty days of its adoption.
At the May 11 hearing, representatives from several tenant groups and their supporters voiced opposition to the language saying it limits their First Amendment right to protest. Over the past several months, several tenant groups organized targeted protests in San Marcos in front of several rental properties and the mayor’s residence.
SCRHA members are encouraged to contact the Association if a targeted protest was organized at their rental property. Download our white paper, Responding to Protests for more information.
Council members that approved the ordinance change and its supporters say the ordinance was not in response to several recent protests, but to promote right to privacy, peaceful enjoyment, and maintain public health, safety, and welfare. The language is intended to prevent protests that harass and intimidate residents living on the property. The language does not restrict protests held in public places, but it does allow people and properties to maintain their safety and well-being. Advocates say cities such as San Diego have similar ordinances limiting targeted protests in place.
San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a Land Use Transportation and study of a proposed fee on development last month. The fee would be assessed on new developments depending on the “vehicle miles traveled” (“VMT”) caused by the project.
Last month, San Marcos City Council voted 4-1 to approve new language amending the city’s ordinance regarding protests targeting specific residences in the city’s residential neighborhoods. The new language sets limits on protests and picketing in front of private residences.
SD Supervisors consider new Development Fee based on “Vehicle Miles Traveled”
Under the VMT Fee proposal, new residential and commercial projects built in suburban and urban communities that offer multiple transit options (bus, bike, trolley etc.) located closer to employment centers would pay a lower fee; however, similar June 2021 socalrha.org | 9
