San Diego Coastal Development Permits

Specialized permit services for coastal development projects in San Diego, California.

San Diego coastal area

About San Diego's Coastal Zone

San Diego features 70 miles of coastline with diverse environments from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs. The city has a certified Local Coastal Program that divides the coastal zone into distinct segments, each with specific development standards. Our team specializes in navigating San Diego's complex coastal regulations and has extensive experience with projects throughout the city's coastal communities.

Quick Facts

  • Region: San Diego
  • LCP Status: Certified with periodic amendments
  • Permit Authority: City of San Diego Development Services
  • Typical Processing Time: 4-8 months for standard projects
  • Key Regulations: Height limits, view corridors, public access requirements

Local Contacts

San Diego Permit Process

Understanding San Diego's specific coastal permit process is essential for successful project approval.

1

Pre-Application Meeting

Schedule a preliminary review meeting with San Diego's Development Services staff to discuss project requirements.

2

Application Submission

Submit your Coastal Development Permit application along with required plans and documentation to the Development Services Department.

3

Staff Review

City staff reviews your application for compliance with the Local Coastal Program and zoning requirements.

4

Environmental Review

Project undergoes review for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

5

Public Notice & Hearing

Public notices are distributed, and a hearing is scheduled for projects requiring discretionary review.

6

Decision & Appeals Period

A decision is made on the permit, followed by a 10-day appeal period for potential appeals to the Coastal Commission.

Local Requirements

San Diego has specific requirements for coastal development permit applications that may differ from other jurisdictions:

  • View corridor analysis for projects in La Jolla, Point Loma, and other specified areas
  • Sea level rise vulnerability assessment for shoreline properties
  • Enhanced public access provisions for beachfront development
  • Sensitive habitat buffer requirements in areas adjacent to lagoons and preserves

Our San Diego Permit Services

We offer specialized services tailored to San Diego's unique coastal development requirements.

La Jolla Community Plan Compliance

Specialized guidance for navigating La Jolla's strict coastal regulations and community plan provisions.

Bluff-Top Development

Expert assistance with geotechnical requirements and setbacks for projects on San Diego's coastal bluffs.

Mission Bay Special District

Navigating the unique requirements for development within the Mission Bay Park Master Plan area.

Residential Remodels & Additions

Strategic permitting approaches for home improvements in San Diego's coastal neighborhoods.

Our Projects in San Diego

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

La Jolla Single-Family Residence

New Construction

Secured coastal development permit for a new 4,200 sq. ft. residence in La Jolla with complex view corridor considerations.

  • Obtained approval in 6 months
  • Successfully addressed community concerns
  • Incorporated sea level rise adaptation strategies

Ocean Beach Mixed-Use Building

Commercial/Residential

Obtained permits for a three-story mixed-use development with ground-floor retail and upper-floor apartments.

  • Navigated parking requirement challenges
  • Secured public access easements
  • Implemented sustainable design features

Point Loma Home Addition

Residential Addition

Secured approval for a second-story addition to an existing home in the Peninsula community planning area.

  • Preserved neighborhood character
  • Maintained view corridors
  • Fast-tracked through ministerial review

San Diego Coastal Resources

Helpful resources for understanding San Diego'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