San Diego, CA Environmental Rules: Shoreline Management (2026)

San Diego's coastline is regulated under the California Coastal Act and the city's certified Local Coastal Program (LCP). The Coastal Overlay Zone in SDMC Chapter 13, Article 2 requires a Coastal Development Permit for most construction, demolition, or grading within the coastal zone. The city's Environmentally Sensitive Lands (ESL) regulations protect coastal bluffs, wetlands, lagoons, and beaches. Development must be set back from coastal bluff edges, with setbacks typically based on a 75-year erosion rate analysis prepared by a licensed geologist. Shoreline protective devices such as seawalls and riprap require demonstration that existing structures are at risk and that no feasible alternative exists. The city's Public Facilities Financing Plan requires maintenance of lateral and vertical public access to beaches. San Diego also participates in the SANDAG Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program to track beach erosion and sand replenishment needs. Properties in the Sensitive Coastal Overlay Zone face the strictest requirements.