Coastal Development: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do coastal development rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica lies within the California Coastal Zone. A Coastal Development Permit (CDP) from the Coastal Commission is required for most development, as the city does not yet have a certified Local Coastal Program (LCP). Housing projects need CDP before city building permit.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Zone | Parts of unincorporated county included | - |
| Permit | Coastal development permit may be needed | - |
| CCC | California Coastal Commission oversight | - |
| Local Program | LA County DRP administers | - |
| CDP | - | Required from Coastal Commission |
| LCP | - | Not yet certified |
| Authority | - | California Coastal Commission |
| Housing | - | CDP before building permit |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Do I always need a coastal permit?
Almost all development in Santa Monica requires Coastal Development Permits since the entire city is in the Coastal Zone.
Can I build near the bluffs?
Bluff-top development faces strict setback, height, and view preservation requirements.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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