Santa Monica, CA Environmental Rules: Shoreline Management (2026)

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.