Santa Monica Coastal Permitting Bill Advances Amid Controversy. Bill Exempts Santa Monica From Commission Overview

Santa Monica - Legislation that would exempt certain types of development in Santa Monica from individual California Coastal Commission permits is moving forward in the state Assembly, drawing both support for streamlining and criticism over reduced state oversight.

AB 1740, introduced by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Santa Monica/West Hollywood), originally proposed broader changes for multiple urban coastal cities. It was amended in April 2026 to apply exclusively to the City of Santa Monica.

On April 22, 2026, the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee advanced the bill on a 6-0 vote.

The bill would allow the City of Santa Monica to approve certain projects within its coastal zone without requiring separate coastal development permits from the California Coastal Commission.

Exempted activities are expected to include infill housing, building renovations and reuse, outdoor dining, temporary events, bicycle infrastructure, parking management, and certain transportation improvements - provided they do not impact sensitive coastal resources or reduce public access. The exemptions would sunset on January 1, 2037.

Councilmember Dan Hall traveled to Sacramento to testify in support of the legislation on behalf of the City of Santa Monica, which has co-sponsored the measure.

Key Context

California's Coastal Act of 1976 established the framework for protecting the state's coastline. Most coastal cities operate under certified Local Coastal Programs or direct Commission review.

Santa Monica does not currently have a fully certified Local Coastal Program for all areas. Critics of AB 1740 argue the bill removes an independent layer of state oversight unique to Santa Monica among California coastal communities.

Supporters, including the City and proponents of housing and active transportation projects, say the current Commission review process creates unnecessary delays for low-impact projects in a highly urbanized area already subject to local planning rules, environmental laws, and public input requirements.

No other California coastal city is covered by the current version of AB 1740. The bill remains subject to further amendments and must pass additional committees and both houses of the Legislature before reaching the Governor.

Local opinions are divided. Some residents and environmental advocates worry the change could facilitate more intensive development near the coast without sufficient independent review. Others view it as a practical step toward local control and faster approval of needed housing and infrastructure.