Los Angeles County, CA Environmental Rules: Boat Dock Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permitted zone
- O-S (Open Space) only, via CUP
- Barred zones
- A-1, A-2, R-R, Watershed
- Permit chapter
- Chapter 22.158, Conditional Use Permit
- Scope
- Unincorporated LA County only
- Violation class
- Misdemeanor/infraction, § 22.242.030
Summary
In unincorporated Los Angeles County, marinas, docks, piers, and boat launches need a Conditional Use Permit in the Open Space (O-S) zone and are barred outright in the A-1, A-2, R-R, and Watershed zones.
TABLE 22.16.030-B ... CUP Conditional Use Permit Chapter 22.158 ... A-1 A-2 O-S R-R W ... Marinas, small boat harbors, docks, piers, boat launches, and similar recreational facilities - - CUP - -
Full Breakdown
County Code Title 22's zoning use table, Table 22.16.030-B, lists "marinas, small boat harbors, docks, piers, boat launches, and similar recreational facilities" as a regulated land use for the Agricultural, Open Space, Resort and Recreation, and Watershed Zones. It shows a Conditional Use Permit (Chapter 22.158) required only in the O-S zone, with a dash (not permitted) in the A-1, A-2, R-R, and W columns. Regional Planning processes the CUP; the table governs only the unincorporated area, not incorporated cities.
Violations & Fines
Building or running a dock, pier, or marina without the required CUP, or in a zone where the table bars it outright, is a Title 22 misdemeanor or infraction under § 22.242.030 and a declared public nuisance under § 22.242.040, subject to abatement and a noncompliance fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a private dock on unincorporated LA County land?
Does this rule cover the City of Los Angeles?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
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