HomeMy WebLinkAbout(1996, 06/24) - G-8 - AdoptedG-8
BEACH 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 General Services Department has traditionally maintained the oceanfront beaches
in a manner in which the health, safety, and welfare of persons using the beaches,
walls, 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 General Services
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 General Services, Public Works, and Fire and
Marine Departments will collectively 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 an emergency permit from the Executive Director of the Coastal
Commission. An application will be submitted prior to commencement of the
emergency work if time permits, or within 72 hours of the action taken. An emergency
permit must be followed up by a regular coastal development permit. The application
for the follow-up permit must be submitted to the Coastal Commission’s South Coast
District office within 60 days of the date of the emergency permit. If no such
application is received the emergency work must be removed in its entirety within
1
G-8
150 days of the date of the emergency permit unless waived by the Executive Director
of the Coastal Commission.
The General Services Department currently performs many routine maintenance
activities within the coastal zone. This includes activities such as 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.
Adopted - June 24,1996
2