Los Angeles County enforces shoreline management regulations for its extensive coastline and waterways in unincorporated areas. Development within the coastal zone requires compliance with the California Coastal Act and the county's Local Coastal Program. Projects near beaches, harbors, and coastal bluffs are subject to stringent setback, access, and environmental review requirements administered by the Department of Regional Planning.
Los Angeles County's shoreline management is governed by the California Coastal Act and the county's certified Local Coastal Program (LCP). Development within the Coastal Zone of unincorporated areas requires a Coastal Development Permit. The county's LCP establishes policies for protecting shoreline resources including beaches, wetlands, coastal bluffs, and marine habitats. Setback requirements vary by location but are designed to protect coastal access and prevent development from encroaching on dynamic shoreline areas. Blufftop development is subject to geotechnical review and setback standards based on erosion rates. The county also manages development along inland waterways including the Los Angeles River and its tributaries through stream protection ordinances and setback requirements. Projects near waterways may require compliance with the Clean Water Act, California Fish and Game Code, and the county's Low Impact Development standards. The Department of Regional Planning coordinates with the California Coastal Commission on permit appeals and policy consistency.
Violations of coastal development regulations may result in enforcement action by both Los Angeles County and the California Coastal Commission. Penalties can include fines, required restoration of affected areas, and removal of unpermitted development. The Coastal Commission has independent enforcement authority.
See how Lakewood's shoreline management rules stack up against other locations.
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