Manhattan Beach : Satellite Dish Law Change

The City Council introduced an ordinance Tuesday that would make it easier for businesses to have satellite dish antennas.

The ordinance, which will take effect in late June if it receives final approval this month, would eliminate a provision in the existing ordinance that requires dish antennas to be screened from public view.

The new ordinance would also allow businesses to apply to the city for special permission to erect dishes larger than eight feet in diameter, the current maximum.

Residences, however, would still be restricted to eight-foot dishes. All dishes would have to be within existing height limits.

The separate standard for commercial zones is intended to accommodate businesses such as bars and restaurants that may need a larger dish to receive sports events and other special programs, according to City Manager David Thompson.