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.
Los Angeles County, CA
The 2022 LA County Curb Management Strategy prioritizes pickup and dropoff over parking and loading in commercial corridors. DPW retrofits curb zones using a...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Code Title 12.84 bans expanded polystyrene takeout containers at unincorporated-area food businesses. California AB-1201 sets ASTM compostability l...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Code Title 12.84 (Ord. 2008-0006) bans expanded polystyrene foam cups at all county facilities and food vendors operating on county property. Calif...
Los Angeles County, CA
California AB-1276 prohibits restaurants and food vendors from automatically providing single-use foodware accessories. Utensils, straws, condiments, and sti...
Los Angeles County, CA
FilmLA processes commercial filming permits for unincorporated LA County, coordinating with Public Works on road closures, LA County Sheriff for traffic and ...
Los Angeles County, CA
LA County Fire Code Title 32 §6101 caps propane patio heaters at one 20-pound cylinder per heater on commercial patios with 10-foot clearance from buildings....
See how Los Angeles County's shoreline management rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.