Coastal Development: Anaheim vs Huntington Beach
How do coastal development rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Anaheim has fewer restrictions than Huntington Beach.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim is not within the California Coastal Zone and is not subject to the Coastal Act or California Coastal Commission permit requirements. The city is approximately 10 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean.
View full Anaheim rules →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach requires Coastal Development Permits for most development activities within the Coastal Zone under HBZSO and the California Coastal Act. Titles 20-25 constitute the Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Zone | Not applicable | - |
| Distance | ~10 miles inland | - |
| Permits | No CCC permits needed | - |
| Focus | Inland flood/stormwater | - |
| Permit Required | - | CDP for most Coastal Zone development |
| LCP Titles | - | Titles 20-25 of Municipal Code |
| Height Limit | - | Generally 35 ft in Coastal Zone |
| Appeal Authority | - | California Coastal Commission |
| Code Section | - | HBZSO — Coastal Development Permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Does Anaheim require coastal development permits?
No. Anaheim is approximately 10 miles inland and entirely outside the California Coastal Zone. No Coastal Commission permits are required.
What environmental permits does Anaheim require?
Depending on the project: CEQA review, stormwater permits, floodplain development permits under AMC 17.28, and SCAQMD air quality compliance.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Do I need a Coastal Development Permit in Huntington Beach?
Most development in the Coastal Zone requires a CDP including new construction, significant remodels, grading, and vegetation removal.
Can I appeal a CDP decision?
Certain CDP decisions may be appealed to the California Coastal Commission.
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