Local Assistance
Grant Program

Learn about grant funding opportunities to support development of Local Coastal Programs (LCPs)

Local Coastal Program
Information

Learn about the Commission’s LCP Program, LCP requirements and LCP activity

Materials & Resources for Coastal Jurisdictions

Learn about Local Coastal Program development, amendment processes, and various Coastal Act topics

LLocal governments play an essential role in coastal management, as partner agencies with a shared stewardship responsibility to protect and enhance coastal resources. The Coastal Act requires that local governments develop Local Coastal Programs (LCPs) (consisting of Land Use Plans and Implementing ordinances) to carry out policies of the California Coastal Act at the local level. Once certified by the Coastal Commission as consistent with and adequate to carry out the Coastal Act, responsibility for issuance of most Coastal Development Permits under the certified LCP is delegated to the local government. The Commission retains some continuing permit and appeal jurisdiction following LCP certification, and responsibility to certify any amendments to the LCP.

News, Important Dates & Upcoming Events

  • AB 1217 Extension of Parking Closures for Outdoor Dining Programs

    The Commission released a memo on AB 1217 regarding the extension of parking closures for outdoor dining programs.

  • “Introduction to LCPs” Webinar

    Commission staff hosted an “Introduction to LCPs” webinar for local government staff and other interested parties on June 26, 2023. This webinar gives a basic overview of what LCPs are, why they are important, how they are processed, and where important resources for local governments working on LCP amendments can be found.

  • Adopted Public Trust Guiding Principles & Action Plan

    The Commission adopted the Public Trust Guiding Principles & Action Plan at their May 10, 2023 hearing. This document is intended to assist the Commission and local governments in determining how to carry out the Coastal Act and address sea level rise in a manner that is consistent with the public trust doctrine.

  • Public Trust Doctrine Webinar

    Coastal Commission staff and State Lands Commission staff co-hosted a webinar on the public trust doctrine on June 14, 2023. The webinar introduces the basics of the public trust doctrine, discusses both agencies' roles in applying the doctrine particularly as sea levels rise, and highlights the recently adopted Public Trust Guiding Principles & Action Plan.

  • Senate Bill 9 and the Coastal Act Webinar

    Commission staff hosted a webinar about Senate Bill 9 (SB 9, Atkins, 2021) on June 19 and July 10, 2023. This webinar provides an overview of how local governments should apply SB 9 in the coastal zone.