RELEASE: Climate Resiliency Bill Approved by the Legislature-- AB 1011 Incentivizes Habitat Restoration Projects to Protect the California Coast

SACRAMENTO – In an effort to incentivize nonprofits to undertake projects that provide habitat restoration and improved public access to coastal resources, Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris (D–Laguna Beach) is working with the Coastal Commission on AB 1011 to provide fee-waivers to nonprofits. This legislation was unanimously approved by the Senate (39-0) and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for signature.

“For a nonprofit, a $2,500 to $40,000 permit for a coastline restoration project can be incredibly cost prohibitive,” said Assemblywoman Petrie-Norris. “The fee-waiver allowance in AB 1011 will encourage the much-needed participation of nonprofits in habitat restoration projects to protect our coastline in the face of climate change.”

Any development activity in the coastal zone requires a Coastal Development Permit from the Coastal Commission. Assembly Bill 1011 authorizes the Coastal Commission to provide additional consideration of Coastal Development Permit applicant fee waivers to 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking permits for public access and habitat restoration. Providing a clear legislative intent to bolster the participation of nonprofits will incentivize critical projects that improve the quality of our coastline and make California more resilient.

Once AB 1011 reaches the Governor’s desk, he will have twelve days to take action on this climate resiliency legislation.