Santa Monica Coastal Development Permits

Specialized permit services for coastal development projects in Santa Monica, California.

Santa Monica coastal area

About Santa Monica's Coastal Zone

Santa Monica features 3.5 miles of iconic beachfront along the Pacific Ocean, including the famous Santa Monica Pier and beach. The city has a certified Local Coastal Program with strong emphasis on beach access, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Our team has extensive experience with Santa Monica's unique coastal requirements and can navigate the city's rigorous review process.

Quick Facts

  • Region: South Coast
  • LCP Status: Certified with periodic amendments
  • Permit Authority: City of Santa Monica Planning Division
  • Typical Processing Time: 6-10 months for standard projects
  • Key Regulations: Height restrictions, view corridors, public access, sustainability requirements

Local Contacts

Santa Monica Permit Process

Understanding Santa Monica's specific coastal permit process is essential for successful project approval.

1

Pre-Application Meeting

Schedule a preliminary consultation with Planning staff to discuss project parameters and potential issues.

2

Design Review Consultation

For larger projects, an informal review by the Architectural Review Board may be recommended before formal application.

3

Application Submission

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

4

Staff Review

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

5

Environmental Review

Project undergoes California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review as applicable.

6

Design Review

Projects requiring design review will be presented to the Architectural Review Board.

7

Public Hearing

Depending on the project, a public hearing may be required before the Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator.

8

Decision and Appeals

After a decision is issued, there is an appeal period during which appeals may be filed with the City Council and/or Coastal Commission.

Local Requirements

Santa Monica has specific requirements for coastal development permit applications that may differ from other jurisdictions:

  • Sustainability and green building requirements exceeding state standards
  • Transportation demand management programs for larger developments
  • Public art requirements for projects over certain thresholds
  • View corridor analysis for oceanfront development

Our Santa Monica Permit Services

We offer specialized services tailored to Santa Monica's unique coastal development requirements.

Sustainability Compliance

Expert guidance on meeting Santa Monica's progressive sustainability requirements for coastal development.

Hotel & Tourism Projects

Specialized permit services for hotel renovations and tourism-related development in the coastal zone.

Mixed-Use Development

Comprehensive approach to securing approvals for mixed-use projects that satisfy complex requirements.

Residential Remodels

Streamlined strategies for securing permits for home improvements in Santa Monica's coastal neighborhoods.

Our Projects in Santa Monica

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

Ocean Avenue Mixed-Use Building

Commercial/Residential

Secured approvals for a four-story mixed-use development with ground-floor retail and upper-floor condominiums on Ocean Avenue.

  • Navigated complex view corridor requirements
  • Achieved LEED Gold certification
  • Incorporated significant public space improvements

Beachfront Hotel Renovation

Commercial

Obtained permits for comprehensive renovation and partial expansion of an existing hotel property near the pier.

  • Preserved historic façade elements
  • Enhanced public beach access
  • Incorporated state-of-the-art sustainability features

Ocean Park Residence

Residential

Secured approval for a new single-family residence in the Ocean Park neighborhood within the coastal zone.

  • Design compatible with neighborhood character
  • Exceeded energy efficiency requirements
  • Streamlined approval through careful application preparation

Santa Monica Coastal Resources

Helpful resources for understanding Santa Monica'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