Coastal Development: Altadena vs Pasadena
How do coastal development rules compare between Altadena, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Pasadena has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Several unincorporated LA County areas fall within the California Coastal Zone, including communities near Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains. Coastal development permits from the California Coastal Commission may be required. LA County DRP administers local coastal programs for unincorporated coastal areas.
View full Altadena rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena is an inland city approximately 15 miles from the coast. California Coastal Commission regulations do not apply. No coastal development permits are required.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Zone | Parts of unincorporated county included | Not applicable |
| Permit | Coastal development permit may be needed | - |
| CCC | California Coastal Commission oversight | - |
| Local Program | LA County DRP administers | - |
| CCC Jurisdiction | - | None |
| Location | - | Inland city |
| Nearest Coast | - | Approximately 15 miles |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a Coastal Development Permit in LA County?
If your property is in the California Coastal Zone (parts of Marina del Rey, Santa Monica Mountains, and other coastal unincorporated areas), most development requires a CDP. Contact the Department of Regional Planning at (213) 974-6411 to check.
How long does a Coastal Development Permit take?
CDPs typically take 3-6 months for standard projects. Projects in environmentally sensitive areas or requiring Coastal Commission review may take 6-12 months or longer.
Can I appeal a CDP decision?
Yes. CDP decisions can be appealed to the California Coastal Commission within 10 working days of the local decision. Appeal fees and procedures are set by the Commission.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a coastal permit?
Most development within the coastal zone requires permits from both Pasadena and the state coastal commission. Check if your property is in the designated coastal zone.
Can I build a seawall on my property?
Seawalls and shoreline armoring face strict review and may be denied if alternatives exist. Living shoreline approaches are increasingly preferred.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Pasadena compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool