Los Angeles Coastal Development Permits

Specialized permit services for coastal development projects in Los Angeles, California.

Los Angeles coastal area

About Los Angeles's Coastal Zone

Los Angeles encompasses over 30 miles of coastline, from the Port of Los Angeles to Pacific Palisades. The city's coastal zone is governed by a patchwork of certified and uncertified Local Coastal Programs, requiring specialized knowledge to navigate effectively. Our team has extensive experience with LA's complex regulatory framework and can help guide projects through both city and Coastal Commission jurisdictions.

Quick Facts

  • Region: South Coast
  • LCP Status: Partially certified (varies by segment)
  • Permit Authority: Los Angeles Department of City Planning and California Coastal Commission
  • Typical Processing Time: 6-12 months for standard projects
  • Key Regulations: Dual permit jurisdiction in some areas, public access, view protection

Local Contacts

Los Angeles Permit Process

Understanding Los Angeles's specific coastal permit process is essential for successful project approval.

1

Jurisdiction Determination

Determine whether your project falls under the City of Los Angeles jurisdiction, Coastal Commission jurisdiction, or dual jurisdiction.

2

Pre-Application Consultation

Consult with City Planning staff and/or Coastal Commission staff to understand specific requirements for your project.

3

Application Preparation

Prepare application materials including plans, site analysis, and supporting documentation based on jurisdiction requirements.

4

Application Submission

Submit your application to the appropriate agency (City of Los Angeles and/or Coastal Commission).

5

Application Review

Agency staff reviews your application for compliance with applicable regulations and may request additional information.

6

Public Hearing

Projects requiring discretionary approval will be scheduled for a public hearing before the appropriate decision-making body.

7

Decision and Appeals

After a decision is made, there is an appeal period during which the decision may be appealed to the Coastal Commission (for city decisions) or the Commission itself.

Local Requirements

Los Angeles has specific requirements for coastal development permit applications that may differ from other jurisdictions:

  • Mello Act compliance for residential projects in the coastal zone
  • Specific coastal-specific parking requirements
  • View analysis from designated vantage points
  • Beach impact assessment fees in some areas

Our Los Angeles Permit Services

We offer specialized services tailored to Los Angeles's unique coastal development requirements.

Venice Specific Plan Compliance

Expert guidance navigating the unique requirements of the Venice Coastal Zone Specific Plan.

Port of Los Angeles Projects

Specialized permit services for industrial and commercial developments within the Port's jurisdiction.

Pacific Palisades Residential

Tailored permit strategies for high-end residential projects in Pacific Palisades and Castellammare.

Commercial Development

Comprehensive permit services for retail, restaurant, and mixed-use projects in LA's coastal communities.

Our Projects in Los Angeles

We've successfully helped numerous clients navigate Los Angeles's coastal permit process for a variety of project types.

Venice Beach Mixed-Use Development

Commercial/Residential

Secured coastal development permits for a three-story mixed-use project with ground-floor retail and residential units above.

  • Navigated complex Venice Specific Plan requirements
  • Addressed community concerns through thoughtful design modifications
  • Implemented successful Mello Act compliance strategy

Pacific Palisades Luxury Residence

New Construction

Obtained approvals for a 6,500 sq. ft. single-family residence on a challenging hillside lot with significant view considerations.

  • Secured approval despite initial neighborhood opposition
  • Incorporated innovative geotechnical solutions
  • Preserved public view corridors through strategic design

San Pedro Waterfront Restaurant

Commercial

Permitted a new waterfront restaurant with outdoor dining in the Port of Los Angeles area.

  • Coordinated dual permits from City and Coastal Commission
  • Enhanced public access along the waterfront
  • Expedited approval timeline through strategic processing

Los Angeles Coastal Resources

Helpful resources for understanding Los Angeles's coastal development regulations and procedures.

Helpful Links

Ready to Start Your Coastal Permit Process?

Our experts are ready to guide you through every step of obtaining your Coastal Development Permit. Schedule a free consultation today.

Schedule a Call With a Permit Specialist

Or call us directly at (323) 591-3717