The California Coastal Commission is charged with implementing the California Coastal Act of 1976. The Coastal Act was enacted by the Legislature to continue carrying out the original mandate of Proposition 20, which was passed by the citizens of California in 1972.
The Coastal Act establishes strong resource protection and coastal development policies for California’s coastal zone, which extends three miles seaward to the outer extent of State jurisdiction, and which on land can be as narrow as several blocks in certain urban areas and up to five miles inland in more rural areas.
The Commission is committed to protecting and enhancing California’s coast and ocean for present and future generations. It does so through careful planning and regulation of environmentally sustainable development, rigorous use of science, strong public participation, education, and effective interagency coordination.