Coastal zone management—a new approach in California

Abstract

Abstract California's eight‐month‐old comprehensive coastal zone planning and management program was enacted by vote of the people through the initiative process (Proposition 20). The new law created one state, and six regional commissions and requires them to prepare a comprehensive, long‐range plan for the conservation and use of California's coastal zone resources. During the planning process, the commissions must exercise strict permit controls over all new developments in the coastal zone. The major objectives of Proposition 20 include: 1) preparation of a comprehensive, long‐range and enforceable plan; 2) increased public access and recreational opportunities in the coastal zone; 3) slow coastal development pressures; 4) assure that coastal developments, undertaken during the planning process, are consistent with the intent of the Act; 5) provide a coordinated statewide coastal zone land and water use control system that protects regional, state and national interests. Although confronted by problems such as the logistics of commencing operations, and enforcement and funding deficiencies, the new coastal commissions have compiled a commendable record during their first eleven months. It is still too early to reach any definitive conclusions with regard to the new Act's effect on the state's economy, the value of coastal properties and the quality of the coastal environment.