Coastal Development: Long Beach vs Santa Monica
How do coastal development rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Long Beach and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach has extensive coastal zone regulated by the California Coastal Commission. Development in the coastal zone requires a Coastal Development Permit. Tree removal requires 2:1 replacement ratio within the coastal zone.
View full Long Beach 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 | Long Beach | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Coastal Development Permit required | - |
| Authority | California Coastal Commission | California Coastal Commission |
| Tree Replacement | 2:1 ratio in coastal zone | - |
| Migratory Birds | Protected under federal treaty act | - |
| CDP | - | Required from Coastal Commission |
| LCP | - | Not yet certified |
| Housing | - | CDP before building permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Do I need a coastal permit?
If your property is in Long Beach's Coastal Zone, most development requires a Coastal Development Permit.
What about the port area?
The Port of Long Beach has separate environmental and development regulations administered by the port authority.
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 Long Beach and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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