HomeMy WebLinkAbout(2017, 08/08) - G-8 - AmendedBEACH MAINTENANCE POLICY
Purpose
This policy sets forth guidelines for emergency and routine beach maintenance activities
occurring within the coastal zone designated by the Coastal Act.
History
The Municipal Operations Department has traditionally maintained the oceanfront
beaches in a manner in which the health, safety, and welfare of persons using the beaches,
walks, and bike paths is protected. Due to the changing sand levels resulting from wind,
storm, and tidal conditions, it is imperative to remove the built-up sand before it
accumulates on the oceanfront paths, which could result in serious liability concerns for
the City.
Shifting sands also result in damage to oceanfront properties due to increased pressure
on retaining walls which can cause the walls to fall. As a service, the Municipal
Operations Department has, on request, pulled back the built-up sand from the affected
properties in order to reduce potential damages. A sand waiver or hold harmless
agreement is provided by the resident before City crews begin work.
Policy
In times of potential oceanfront and bayfront emergencies which could result from above-
average tides, surf, or erosion, the Municipal Operations Department in conjunction with
the, Public Works, and Fire and Marine Departments will determine when, where, and
how to best protect properties and residents in the most effective manner. An emergency
is a sudden unexpected occurrence demanding immediate action to prevent or mitigate
loss or damage to life, heath, property or essential public services. Action taken could
include the cutting, placement, and construction of sand dikes or berms, the installation
of sandbag barriers, or the pumping and diversion of water. Such development requires
approval of a coastal development permit consistent with the City's certified Local
Coastal Program. Temporary sand berms and/or permanent sand dunes shall be sited
and designed to minimize significant impacts to coastal access and resources. Temporary
sand berms shall avoid all areas of existing southern foredune and southern dune scrub
habitat. When feasible, nonstructural methods (e.g. dune restoration, sand nourishment,
etc.) shall be used instead of shoreline protective measures.
The Municipal Operations Department and its contractors currently performs many
routine maintenance activities within the coastal zone. This includes activities such as
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trash collection, sidewalk, beach and fire ring cleaning, and sand removal from areas
adjacent to walkways, parking lots, and roads.
Maintenance programs, such as the pulling back of sand away from oceanfront
properties, as needed to protect existing development and public thoroughfares, are
established programs instituted prior to the adoption of the Coastal Zone Management
Act, and as such, are exempted from the coastal development permit process.
History
Adopted G-8 - 6-24-1996
Amended G-8 - 8-8-2017
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