San Francisco Coastal Development Permits

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

San Francisco coastal area

About San Francisco's Coastal Zone

San Francisco's coastal zone includes the western shoreline along the Pacific Ocean and portions of the San Francisco Bay. The city has a certified Local Coastal Program with stringent requirements focused on public access, environmental protection, and visual resources. Our team specializes in navigating San Francisco's complex regulatory framework and securing approvals for challenging coastal projects.

Quick Facts

  • Region: Central Coast
  • LCP Status: Certified Western Shoreline Area Plan
  • Permit Authority: San Francisco Planning Department
  • Typical Processing Time: 8-14 months for standard projects
  • Key Regulations: Height limits, public access requirements, design guidelines

Local Contacts

San Francisco Permit Process

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

1

Pre-Application Meeting

Schedule a mandatory pre-application meeting with the Planning Department to discuss your project and identify potential issues.

2

Neighborhood Notification

Conduct required neighborhood outreach and notification for projects of certain sizes and types.

3

Application Submission

Submit your Coastal Development Permit application along with required plans, studies, and documentation.

4

Initial Review

Planning Department staff conducts an initial review and may request additional information or modifications.

5

Environmental Review

Project undergoes review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which may require preparation of environmental documents.

6

Public Hearing

Most coastal projects require a public hearing before the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator.

7

Decision and Appeal Period

After a decision is issued, there is a period during which appeals may be filed with the Board of Supervisors and/or Coastal Commission.

Local Requirements

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

  • Design review for projects in designated scenic areas
  • Required public access improvements for waterfront projects
  • Special area plans for Ocean Beach and other priority areas
  • Historic resource evaluation for older structures

Our San Francisco Permit Services

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

Ocean Beach Master Plan Compliance

Expert guidance on navigating the specific requirements of the Ocean Beach Master Plan area.

Historic Property Adaptation

Specialized approach for modifying historic structures while maintaining compliance with preservation standards.

Community Engagement Strategy

Effective community outreach and engagement to build support for challenging projects.

Sea Level Rise Planning

Forward-thinking approaches to address sea level rise considerations in coastal development.

Our Projects in San Francisco

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

Outer Sunset Residential Development

Multi-Family Residential

Secured approvals for a 12-unit residential development in the Outer Sunset neighborhood within the coastal zone.

  • Navigated complex design review process
  • Addressed neighborhood concerns through community meetings
  • Incorporated sustainable design features that exceeded requirements

Richmond District Mixed-Use Building

Commercial/Residential

Obtained permits for a four-story mixed-use building with ground-floor commercial and residential units above.

  • Secured approval despite initial planning staff concerns
  • Successfully addressed design compatibility issues
  • Expedited processing through strategic application management

Ocean Beach Restaurant Renovation

Commercial

Permitted the renovation and expansion of an existing restaurant near Ocean Beach with enhanced public amenities.

  • Navigated complex public access requirements
  • Incorporated sea level rise adaptation measures
  • Maintained historic character while modernizing facilities

San Francisco Coastal Resources

Helpful resources for understanding San Francisco'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