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.

California law (SB 272) requires all local governments within the coastal zone to develop a sea level rise plan as part of a new or updated Local Coastal Program (LCP) by January 1, 2034. Coastal Commission staff are here to help.