Coastal Development: Huntington Beach vs Midway City
How do coastal development rules compare between Huntington Beach, CA and Midway City, CA?
Huntington Beach and Midway City have similar restriction levels.
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 →Midway City, CA
Orange County
Development within the coastal zone of unincorporated Orange County requires a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) under OCCO §7-9-127 and the California Coastal Act. The County has certified Local Coastal Programs for the Newport Coast, Emerald Bay, and Aliso Viejo segments, with the California Coastal Commission retaining jurisdiction over uncertified segments.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Huntington Beach | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | OCCO §7-9-127 |
| State Law | - | CA Coastal Act (PRC §30600) |
| Certified LCPs | - | Newport Coast, Emerald Bay, Aliso Viejo |
| Appeal Zone | - | Within 300 ft of beach/mean high tide |
| Max Penalty | - | $15,000/day (Coastal Commission) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Midway City FAQ
Do I need a coastal development permit in unincorporated Orange County?
If your property is within the designated coastal zone, any new development or significant alteration likely requires a Coastal Development Permit under OCCO §7-9-127. Check with OC Development Services to determine if your parcel is in the coastal zone.
Who issues coastal development permits in unincorporated Orange County?
The County issues CDPs in areas with certified Local Coastal Programs (Newport Coast, Emerald Bay, Aliso Viejo). In uncertified segments, the California Coastal Commission retains jurisdiction. Decisions in the appeals zone can be appealed to the Commission.
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