Views Left Unprotected in Palos Verdes Estates After Vote

The City of Palos Verdes Estates was purposely designed so that as many residents as possible could enjoy scenic views, and those views can account for at least 10-15% of a home's value. Unlike all of the other cities on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Palos Verdes Estates does not have a view protection ordinance. Views in Palos Verdes Estates are protected by the Palos Verdes Homes Association through enforcement of the deed restrictions and protective covenants.

 

Though you probably aren't aware, for some time now, the PVHA has been systematically reducing the view protection it provides to residents. On May 10, 2019, the Association voted to limit the availability of its view protection process only to those who live right next door to the view-obstructing tree owner’s property, and whose property lines touch. This means that scenic views obstructed by trees across the street or one property away will no longer be protected by PVHA.

 

Views that would not be protected now in PVE:  

      

 

Because neither the state nor the City of Palos Verdes Estates has a view protection law or ordinance, residents have no recourse other than to the PVHA to protect their views. In fact, it is a requirement that residents utilize the PVHA's process before they can go to court. The latest decision of the Association is as short-sighted as it is counter-productive as bona fide view obstruction claims now have no recourse, and property values are undoubtedly negatively impacted.


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