Coastal Development: Midway City vs Orange
How do coastal development rules compare between Midway City, CA and Orange, CA?
Orange has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
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 →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange is an inland community located approximately 10 miles from the Pacific coast and is not within the California Coastal Zone. Coastal Commission permits are not required for development in Orange.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Midway City | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | 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) | - |
| Coastal Zone | - | Not in Coastal Zone |
| CCC Permits | - | Not required |
| Distance to Coast | - | Approximately 10 miles |
| Local Authority | - | OMC Title 17 Zoning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Orange FAQ
Do I need a Coastal Commission permit in Orange?
No. The City of Orange is inland and outside the California Coastal Zone, so Coastal Commission permits do not apply.
Are there any coastal regulations in Orange?
No. Orange is approximately 10 miles from the coast. Development near waterways may require separate water quality permits, not coastal permits.
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