CA AB500

Local governments in the coastal zone with a certified land use plan or local coastal program must adopt streamlined permitting procedures by January 1, 2024, for accessory dwelling units, junior accessory dwelling units, affordable housing projects, and Low Barrier Navigation Centers in nonhazardous areas.

Streamlined procedures must include provisions for administrative permits, coastal development permit waivers, or other expedited processes in nonhazardous areas where coastal resources and public access will not be negatively impacted.

The California Coastal Commission retains authority to deny permit waivers, process appeals, and impose conditions necessary to ensure consistency with Coastal Act policies.

The Coastal Commission must provide guidance with sample language by July 1, 2022, to assist local governments in complying with these requirements.

Nonhazardous areas exclude zones vulnerable to sea level rise or areas within very high fire hazard severity zones.