Chapter 21.28 — OVERLAY COASTAL ZONING DISTRICTS (MHP, PM, B, C AND H)

The purposes of the individual overlay coastal zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are outlined below. An overlay district may be initiated as a Coastal Zoning Map amendment in compliance with Chapter 21.14 (Coastal Maps). All development shall comply with the applicable development standards (e.g., setbacks, height) of the underlying coastal zoning district in addition to the standards provided in this chapter, if any. In situations where an inconsistency occurs between the development standards of the underlying coastal zoning district and the standards in this chapter, the standards of the overlay district shall prevail.

A. MHP (Mobile Home Park) Overlay Coastal Zoning District. The MHP Overlay Coastal
Zoning District is intended to establish a mobile home district on parcels of land developed
with mobile home parks. The regulations of this district are designed to maintain and
protect mobile home parks in a stable environment with a desirable residential character.

B. PM (Parking Management) Overlay Zoning District. The PM Overlay Zoning District is
intended to provide for areas where parking management plans are appropriate to ensure
adequate parking.

C. B (Bluff) Overlay Coastal Zoning District. The B Overlay District is intended to establish
special development standards for areas of the City where projects are proposed on
identified bluff areas. The specific areas are identified in Part 8 of this Implementation Plan
(Maps).

D. C (Canyon) Overlay Coastal Zoning District. The C Overlay District is intended to
establish development setbacks based on the predominant line of existing development for
areas that contain a segment of the canyon edge of Buck Gully or Morning Canyon. The
specific areas are identified in Part 8 of this Implementation Plan (Maps).

E. H (Height) Overlay District. The H Overlay District is intended to establish standards for
review of increased building height in conjunction with the provision of enhanced project
design features and amenities.

F. Special Flood Hazard Area (VE) Overlay Zoning District. The VE Overlay District is
intended to modify certain development standards for properties subject to special flood
hazards as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the Flood
Insurance Study (FIS) for Orange County, California and Incorporated Area with
accompanying FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM).
(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016; Ord. 2021-26 § 4, 2021; Ord. 2025-33, 10/28/2025)

A. Uses Allowed. Uses allowed in the MHP Overlay Coastal Zoning District include only those uses listed below. When an MHP Overlay Coastal Zoning District is applied to an area, all uses previously allowed in the underlying coastal zoning district are no longer allowed.

1. Mobile Home Parks. Mobile home parks as regulated by the State of California
pursuant to the Mobile Home Parks Act (California Health and Safety Code Section

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.020 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.030

18300) and the California Coastal Act (California Public Resources Code Division
20).

2. Accessory Structures and Uses. Accessory structures and uses incidental to the
operation of mobile home parks (e.g., recreation facilities and/or community centers
of a noncommercial nature, either public or private, storage facilities for the use of
the mobile home park residents, and any other structures or uses that are incidental to
the operation of a mobile home park).

B. Land Use and Development Standards. The standards are those established by the base
zoning district (e.g., RM). The MHP Overlay does not modify land use or property
development regulations.

C. Removal of the Mobile Home Park Overlay District. Removal of the MHP designation
shall be initiated as a Coastal Zoning Map amendment through a Local Coastal Program
amendment. The Council shall not approve a Coastal Zoning Map amendment that would
remove the MHP designation from a property, unless all of the following findings have first
been made:

1. The proposed coastal zoning is consistent with the Coastal Land Use Plan, and in the
event the proposed coastal zoning is Planned Community, the PC Development Plan
has been submitted and is consistent with the Coastal Land Use Plan;

2. The property which is the subject of the Coastal Zoning Map amendment would be
more appropriately developed in compliance with the uses allowed by the underlying
base coastal zoning, or proposed coastal zoning, and if the underlying base coastal
zoning or proposed coastal zoning is Planned Community, that a PC Development
Plan has been submitted and the property would be more appropriately developed
with the uses specified in that development plan; and

3. A mobile home park phase out plan and report on the impact of conversion, closure,
or cessation of the use on the displaced residents of the mobile home park has been
prepared, reviewed, and found to be acceptable and consistent with the provisions of
the California Government Code.

a. A phase out plan shall not be found to be acceptable unless it includes all of the
following:

i. A time schedule and method by which existing mobile homes, cabanas,
ramadas, and other substantial improvements and tenants are to be
relocated or appropriately compensated;

ii. Methods of mitigating the housing impacts on tenants having low and
moderate incomes, elderly tenants, and tenants who are handicapped; and

iii. The programs or other means that are to be implemented properly address
the housing impacts on those described in subsection (C)(3)(a)(ii) of this
section are mitigated.

b. For purposes of this finding, “low and moderate incomes” shall be defined in
compliance with the provisions of the City’s Housing Element.
(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016; Ord. 2025-14 § 1 (Exh. A § 8), 2025)

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.030 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.030

A. Parking Management District Plan Required. Every Coastal Zoning Map LCP amendment reclassifying land to create a new Parking Management (PM) Overlay District shall have a parking management plan reviewed by the Commission and approved by the Council.

B. Establishment of Parking Management Program(s). The parking management district plan
shall identify existing and planned parking facilities and establish parking management
programs necessary to adequately serve the parking needs of the area and address the
following issues:

1. The provision of adequate, convenient parking for residents, guests, business patrons,
and visitors of the coastal zone;

2. Optimizing the use of existing parking spaces;

3. Providing for existing and future land uses;

4. Reducing traffic congestion;

5. Limiting adverse parking impacts on user groups;

6. Providing improved parking information and signage;

7. Generating reasonable revenues to cover City costs; and

8. Accommodating public transit and alternative modes of transportation.

C. Exemptions. The parking management district plan shall also include a formula or
procedure establishing the extent to which commercial, residential, and mixed-use
properties shall be exempted from the requirements of Chapter 21.40 (Off-Street Parking).

D. Local Coastal Program Amendment Required. The creation of any future parking
management district plan as a PM Overlay District shall require an amendment to the LCP
approved by the Coastal Commission.

E. Coastal Development Permit Required. The parking management district plan required by
subsection (A) of this section, or any successor section, shall not become effective until the
approval of a coastal development permit by the Commission. The coastal development
permit shall implement the required parking management district plan implementation
components contained in subsection (B) of this section, or any successor section, and as
detailed for that overlay district in subsection (F) of this section. Any change to the parking
management district plan shall only be approved in compliance with Section 21.54.070
(Changes to an Approved Coastal Development Permit), or any successor section. These
provisions do not amend, supersede or replace the conditions of any previously issued
coastal development permit and an amendment to said coastal development permit from
the permit issuing authority is required to implement any of these new parking management
district plan provisions.

F. Parking Management Overlay Districts and Plans Established. The parking management
districts identified in this section and depicted in the referenced map exhibits adopted in
Part 8 of this title are established.

1. Balboa Village Parking Management Overlay District Plan (PM-1). Balboa Village

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.030 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.030

Parking Management Overlay District PM-1 applies to all property located within
Balboa Village between the Pacific Ocean, A Street, Newport Bay, and Adams Street,
as depicted in the map of PM-1 - Balboa Village Parking Management Overlay
District referenced in Section 21.80.035, or any successor section.

a. Purpose. The purposes of the PM-1 are as follows:

i. To protect the special community character of Balboa Village and enhance
the pedestrian-oriented, traditional storefront character of Balboa Village
by reducing requirements for new off-street parking facilities and the need
for driveway curb cuts, traffic control devices and other parking-related
improvements that are disruptive to this environment or result in a loss of
public on-street parking.

ii. To establish parking programs to adequately serve the parking needs for
Balboa Village residents, visitors and businesses and for recreational
visitors to Balboa Pier and adjacent beaches and parks.

iii. To modify the requirements of Chapter 21.40 (Off-Street Parking), or any
successor chapter, to optimize the use of existing public and private
parking spaces reflecting that Balboa Village has a large supply of public
parking that is underutilized during the beach off-peak season.

iv. To provide improved parking information and signage.

v. To provide greater accommodation of public transit and alternative modes
of transportation.

b. Existing Municipal Parking Facilities. PM-1 includes the five public parking
lots within the district: (i) A Street lot, (ii) Washington Street lot, (iii) Palm
Street lot, (iv) Balboa Metered lot, and (v) Balboa Pier lot. In addition, PM-1
includes public on-street parking spaces along Balboa Boulevard, Palm Street,
Adams Street, and Bay Avenue.

c. Planned Parking Facilities. Due to the high cost of land acquisition and
construction and the underutilization of existing parking in the off-peak season,
additional off-street parking facilities are not necessary to meet the demand of
existing uses; however, parking demand shall be monitored and evaluated by the
City every two years to determine whether additional District parking is
necessary, economical, appropriate, and desirable. The City may acquire or
lease parking facilities to make them available to the public.

d. Implementation Components.

i. Parking Supply. Sufficient public parking spaces shall be provided to meet
the parking demand generated by visitors to the commercial district,
Balboa Pier and adjacent beaches and parks. The PM-1 shall maintain the
availability of spaces in public parking facilities; however, should the need
arise, the City may modify, add, or remove parking spaces to ensure safe
and efficient operations and to meet parking demand. Any change to the
number of spaces shall be processed through an amendment to the coastal
development permit.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.030 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.030

ii. Required Off-Street Parking.

(A) Nonresidential Uses. No off-street parking shall be required for any
new nonresidential use or intensification of an existing nonresidential
use, except for the following uses, as defined by Chapter 21.70
(Definitions), or any successor chapter: assembly/meeting facilities,
commercial recreation and entertainment, cultural institutions, all
marine services uses, schools, and visitor accommodations. Uses that
require off-street parking shall provide said spaces in accordance
with Chapters 21.40 (Off-Street Parking) and 21.38 (Nonconforming
Uses and Structures), or any successor chapters.

(B) Residential Uses. Residential uses, including residential uses within
a mixed-use structure, shall provide parking in accordance with
Chapters 21.40 (Off-Street Parking) and 21.38 (Nonconforming Uses
and Structures), or any successor chapters.

(C) Preservation of Existing Off-Street Parking. Existing off-street
parking spaces on a development site shall be preserved unless the
elimination of spaces is authorized by the approval of a coastal
development permit application.

(D) Shared Parking for Nonresidential Uses. Notwithstanding the
requirement of this title that off-street parking be reserved for the use
it serves, the shared use of parking is allowed and encouraged.
Shared parking shall be subject to the following requirements:

(1) Required Off-Street Parking. Required parking for
nonresidential uses may be satisfied by leasing nearby parking
spaces at off-site locations within one thousand two hundred
fifty (1,250) feet of the parcel it serves. Development on
multiple parcels with reciprocal access agreements is
considered one site for parking purposes. If the spaces are
required or otherwise leased to other uses, the hours of
operation shall not significantly overlap. The distance between
the parking facility and the use it serves shall be measured along
public walkways from the closest portion of the parking facility
to the main entrance of the use. The leasing of off-site parking
to satisfy required parking shall be maintained in perpetuity
when the use requires it and may only be discontinued if the use
is discontinued.

(2) Excess Parking. Parking that is associated with an existing
private parking lot which is not necessary to satisfy off-street
parking requirements for the current use may be leased to other
uses or made available to the general public.

(3) Parking within Mixed-Use Buildings. Parking for different uses
within a new, mixed-use building may be shared subject to the
review and approval of a coastal development permit
application.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.030 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.030

(4) Parking Reduction. The reduction of required parking
associated with a shared parking arrangement shall be subject
to the review and approval of the Director when in compliance
with the following conditions:

(a) Shared parking spaces are within one thousand two
hundred fifty (1,250) feet as described in subsection
(F)(1)(d)(ii)(D)(1) of this section, or any successor
section.

(b) There is no significant overlap in the hours of operation or
peak parking demand of the uses sharing the parking.

(c) The use of the shared parking facility will not create
traffic hazards or impacts to surrounding uses.

(d) The property owners involved in the shared parking
facilities provide a binding agreement or other legal
instrument assuring the joint use of the parking facilities
subject to the satisfaction of the Director.

(e) The Director may require the preparation and
implementation of a parking management program for the
development site to address potential parking conflicts.

(5) Section 21.40.110(A)(2) (Joint Use of Parking Facilities), or
any successor section, does not apply to the Balboa Village
Parking Management Overlay District.

(E) Private Parking Facilities Available to the General Public.
Nonresidential, off-street parking facilities are encouraged to be
made available to the general public, even if the parking facility is
required for existing developments. Subject to City Council review
and approval, the City may enter into an agreement with the property
owner for the use and/or management of the parking facility.
Allowing general public access to private off-street parking facilities
shall not affect the property’s conformance with its required off-
street parking. The agreement should, at a minimum, address the
hours of availability for use by the general public, signage,
maintenance, duration of agreement, and liability. General public
parking fees at said private parking facilities shall reflect municipal
parking facility rates.

iii. Suspension of In-Lieu Parking. Uses within the Balboa Village Parking
Management Overlay District shall not be eligible for in-lieu parking
pursuant to Section 21.40.130 (In-Lieu Parking Fee), or any successor
section. The requirement that existing uses within the Balboa Village
Parking Management Overlay District participate in the in-lieu parking
permit program shall be discontinued as of the effective date of PM-1.

iv. Voluntary Employee Parking. The City shall operate a voluntary Balboa
Village Employee Permit Program that will include reduced fees and

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.030 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.040

designated parking locations (excluding beach parking lots during peak
summer months and peak use times) for employee parking during
specified hours. The City shall encourage employers to provide incentives
for transit ridership and other transportation demand measures.

v. User Groups. PM-1 shall provide sufficient parking to meet the needs for
Balboa Village and visitors to Balboa Pier and adjacent beaches and parks,
while taking into consideration time of use and seasonal demand
variations. Parking shall be convenient and easily accessible for all user
groups.

vi. Parking Restrictions. Restrictions on time of use and duration of parking
shall be implemented to optimize use of both existing off-street and on-
street parking spaces.

vii. Wayfinding Program. PM-1 shall include a wayfinding program to direct
visitors to parking and bicycle facilities, public transit, pedestrian and
bicycle access routes and important destinations. The wayfinding program
may include the display of real-time availability data by signage or by
mobile phone applications.

viii. Alternative Transportation. PM-1 shall accommodate and encourage the
use of alternative transportation, including, but not limited to, the
following:

(A) Nonmotorized use of the Balboa Island Ferry;

(B) The Newport-Balboa Bike Trail;

(C) Bus parking in the Balboa Pier Main Lot;

(D) New or additional public bicycle racks at street ends and other
locations determined by the Public Works Director; and

(E) The accommodation of the summer trolley/shuttle service hours and
stops and of ride-sharing services including appropriate loading
zones.
(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016; Ord. 2021-4 § 3, 2021)

A. Applicability. This section applies to lots located in the Bluff (B) Overlay District as indicated on the Coastal Zoning Map. All development shall comply with the applicable development standards (e.g., setbacks, height) of the underlying coastal zoning district in addition to the standards provided in this section. In situations where an inconsistency occurs between the development standards of the underlying coastal zoning district and the standards in this section the most restrictive standard shall prevail.

B. Uses Allowed. Land uses allowed in the Bluff (B) Overlay District are all those uses
allowed in the underlying coastal zoning district.

C. Development Area Defined. For the purpose of this section the development area of a lot is
an area delineated for the purpose of regulating the placement and location of structures.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.040

Each lot within the B Overlay District shall be divided into two or more development
areas. Development areas are delineated on the Development Area Maps attached to the
ordinance codified in this Implementation Plan and are consistent with the development
areas listed in subsection (D) of this section, unless modified pursuant to subsection (O)
of this section. The setbacks provided in Tables 21.18-2 and 21.18-3 in Section 21.18.030
(Residential Coastal Zoning Districts General Development Standards) are not used to
determine development areas, but are only used to determine the maximum floor area limit
for the lot, if applicable.

1. Development Area A—Principal and Accessory Structures. Area A allows for the
development and use of principal and accessory structures. Accessory structures
allowed in Areas B and C are allowed in Area A.

2. Development Area B—Accessory Structures. Area B allows for the development and
use of accessory structures listed below. Principal structures are not allowed.

a. Allowed Accessory Structures. The following accessory structures are allowed
in Area B:

i. Accessory structures allowed in Area C are allowed within Area B.

ii. Barbecues.

iii. Decks.

iv. Detached or attached patio covers (solid or lattice).

v. Fences, walls, and retaining walls in compliance with Section 21.30.040
(Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).

vi. Fireplaces and fire pits.

vii. Gazebos.

viii. Outdoor play equipment.

ix. Patios.

x. Platforms.

xi. Porches.

xii. Above ground spas and hot tubs.

xiii. Swimming pools (twenty-five (25) foot setback required on bluffs subject
to marine erosion).

xiv. Terraces.

xv. Similar structures.

xvi. Benches.

xvii. Guardrails and handrails required by building code.

xviii. Property line fences and walls, not including retaining walls.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.040

b. Development Standards for Accessory Structures. The following development
standards apply to Area B:

i. Covered accessory structures (e.g., trellises, gazebos, patio covers) shall
not exceed twelve (12) feet in height from existing grade or finished grade
or exceed four hundred (400) square feet in cumulative total area.

ii. Retaining walls shall comply with Section 21.30.040 (Fences, Hedges,
Walls, and Retaining Walls).

iii. Surficial grading for at-grade structures only; no caissons or accessory
structures with deepened foundations allowed in Area B, other than the
exemptions made for in subsection D of this section listed below.

3. Development Area C—Limited Accessory Structures. Area C allows for the
development and use of limited accessory structures. The following accessory
structures are allowed in Area C:

a. Allowed Limited Accessory Structures. Area C allows for the development and
use of limited accessory structures.

i. Lots Not Subject to Marine Erosion. For lots located on bluffs not subject
to marine erosion, the following accessory structures are allowed in Area
C:

(A) Benches.

(B) Drainage devices.

(C) Guardrails and handrails required by building code.

(D) Landscaping/irrigation systems.

(E) On-grade trails (allowed only in Irvine Terrace (Maps B-2 and B-3)).

(F) On-grade stairways (allowed only in Irvine Terrace (Maps B-2 and
B-3)).

(G) Property line fences and walls, not including retaining walls.

(H) Underground utilities, only if not feasible to be placed elsewhere on the site.

ii. Lots Subject to Marine Erosion. For lots located on bluffs subject to
marine erosion, the following accessory structures are allowed in Area C,
unless prohibited in subsection (D) of this section:

(A) Drainage devices, only if not feasible to be placed elsewhere on the
site.

(B) Landscaping/temporary irrigation systems.

(C) On-grade public trails.

(D) On-grade public stairways.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.040

(E) Underground utilities, only if not feasible to be placed elsewhere on
the site.

(F) Shoreline protective devices in compliance with Section
21.30.030(C)(3).

D. Location of Development Areas. The development areas are listed below and depicted in
the referenced map exhibits adopted in Part 8 of this Implementation Plan. The placement
of structures and grading is limited by development areas as defined in subsection (C) of
this section and in this subsection (D). The development areas for each parcel are polygons
established by the property lines and the following development lines (See Map Exhibits
B-2 through B-9, attached to the ordinance codified in this Implementation Plan).
Development areas may be modified pursuant to subsection (O) of this section. All contour
lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.

1. Map B-2—Irvine Terrace (Not Subject to Marine Erosion).

a. Dolphin Terrace.

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to Dolphin
Terrace and a ten (10) foot setback from the top of the existing bluff.

ii. Development Area B. Between the ten (10) foot setback from the top of
the existing bluff and a line established at an elevation that is thirteen (13)
feet below the average elevation of the top of the curb adjacent to the lot.

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Areas A and B.

iv. Development Area Exemption. The basement of a principal structure in
Area A is allowed to daylight into Area B. On-grade trails and stairways
are allowed in Development Area C.

2. Map 3—Irvine Terrace (Not Subject to Marine Erosion).

   a. Bayadere Terrace (1607).

   i. Development Area A. The extent of the existing principal structure.

   ii. Development Area B. Between the extent of the existing development and
   a development line established at an elevation that is thirteen (13) feet
   below the average elevation of the top of the curb adjacent to the lot.

   iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Areas A and B.

   iv. Development Area Exemptions. The basement of a principal structure in
   Area A is allowed to daylight into Area B. On-grade trails and stairways
   are allowed in Development Area C.

   b. Bayadere Terrace (1615-1638) (Not Subject to Marine Erosion).

   i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to
   Bayadere Terrace and the forty-eight (48) foot contour line.1

   1. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.040

ii. Development Area B. Between the forty-eight (48) foot contour line2 and
a development line established at an elevation that is thirteen (13) feet
below the average elevation of the top of the curb adjacent to the lot.

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Areas A and B.

iv. Development Area Exemptions. The basement of a principal structure in
Area A is allowed to daylight into Area B. On-grade trails and stairways
are allowed in Development Area C.

c. Bayadere Terrace (1701-2201).

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to
Bayadere Terrace and the fifty (50) foot contour line.3

ii. Development Area B. Between the fifty (50) foot contour line and a
development line established at an elevation that is thirteen (13) feet below
the average elevation of the top of the curb adjacent to the lot.

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Areas A and B.

iv. Development Area Exemptions. The basement of a principal structure in
Area A is allowed to daylight into Area B. On-grade trails and stairways
are allowed in Development Area C.

3. Map 4—Avocado Avenue/Pacific Drive (Not Subject to Marine Erosion).

   a. Avocado Avenue.

   i. Development Area A. Above the sixty-eight (68) foot contour line for 415
   Avocado Avenue, above the fifty (50) foot contour line for 411 Avocado
   Avenue and the prolongation of such contour line along the shortest
   segment to the thirty-five (35) foot contour line4 for 401 Avocado Avenue.

   ii. Development Area C. Below the sixty-eight (68) foot contour line at 415
   Avocado Avenue, fifty (50) foot contour line at 411 Avocado Avenue, and
   below the thirty-five (35) foot contour line5 along 401 Avocado Avenue.

   b. Pacific Drive (2235-2329).

   i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to Pacific
   Drive and the fifty-three (53) foot contour line.6

   ii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A.

   4. Map 5—Carnation Avenue (Only 201-203 Subject to Marine Erosion).

   a. Carnation Avenue (201-233).

   2. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.
   3. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.
   4. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.
   5. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.
   6. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.040

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to
Carnation Avenue and the 50.7-foot contour line.7

ii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A.

b. Carnation Avenue (239-317).

i. Development Area A. As indicated by the specified distance (in feet) from
the front property line adjacent to Carnation Avenue on the development
area map.

ii. Development Area B. Between the Area A development line and the
seventy (70) foot contour line.*

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or B.

iv. Additional Development Standards. If Area A overlaps Area B, the area of
overlap shall be regulated as Area A.

5. Map 6—Ocean Boulevard/Breakers Drive (Subject to Marine Erosion).

a. Breakers Drive (3100-3200).

i. Development Area A. Between the fifty-two (52) foot contour line* and the property line adjacent to Breakers Drive.

ii. Development Area B. Between the forty-eight (48) foot contour line* and
the thirty-three (33) foot contour line.*

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or B.

iv. Additional Development Standards. Structure height may not exceed the
fifty-two (52) foot contour line.* No fences or walls allowed in Area C.

b. Ocean Boulevard (3207-3309).

i. Development Area A. Between the forty-eight (48) foot contour line* and
the property line adjacent to Ocean Boulevard and between the thirty-three
(33) foot contour line* and the property line adjacent to Breakers Drive.

ii. Development Area C. Between the thirty-three (33) foot and forty-eight
(48) foot contour lines.*

iii. Additional Development Standards. Covered walkways connecting a
conforming garage and principal structure are allowed in Area C.

c. Ocean Boulevard (3317-3431).

i. Development Area A. Between the forty-eight (48) foot contour line* and
the property line adjacent to Ocean Boulevard.

ii. Development Area B. Between the forty-eight (48) foot contour line and
the thirty-eight (38) foot contour line.*

7. All contour lines refer to NAVD 88 contours.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.040

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or B.

iv. Additional Development Standards. No fences or walls in Area C.

d. Ocean Boulevard (3601-3729).

i. Development Area A. Between the property line adjacent to Ocean
Boulevard and the seaward extent of the existing development area.

ii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A.

iii. Additional Development Standards. New development shall not extend
further onto the bluff face beyond existing development.

6. Map 7—Shorecliffs (Subject to Marine Erosion).

a. Shorecliff Road.

i. Development Area A. As indicated by the specified distance (in feet) from the front property line on the development area map. Setbacks shall be not less than twenty-five (25) feet from the bluff edge for principal structures and major accessory structures such as guesthouses and swimming pools, and not less than ten (10) feet from the bluff edge for accessory structures.

ii. Development Area B. Between the seaward boundary of Area A and a line
established by a ten (10) foot setback from the bluff edge (not all lots have
an Area B).

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or B.

iv. Additional Development Standards. If Area A overlaps Area B, the area of
overlap shall be regulated as Area A. No fences or walls shall be allowed
in Area C.

7. Map 8—Cameo Shores (Subject to Marine Erosion).

a. Brighton Road.

i. Development Area A. As indicated by the specified distance (in feet) from
the front property line on the development area map. Setbacks shall be not
less than twenty-five (25) feet from the bluff edge for principal structures
and major accessory structures such as guesthouses and swimming pools,
and not less than ten (10) feet from the bluff edge for accessory structures.

ii. Development Area B. Between the seaward boundary of Area A and a line
established by a ten (10) foot setback from the bluff edge (not all lots may
have an Area B).

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or B.

iv. Additional Development Standards. If Area A overlaps Area B, the area of
overlap shall be regulated as Area A. No fences or walls shall be allowed
in Area C.

8. Map B-9—Upper Newport Bay Bluffs.

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.040

a. 1310-1542 and 1638-2018 (even numbers only) Galaxy Drive and 930 and
1001-1033 (odd numbers only) Mariner’s Drive (Subject to Marine Erosion).

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line and (A) a line not less than twenty-five (25) feet from the bluff edge or (B) the rear setback line, whichever is more restrictive, for principal structures and major accessory structures such as guesthouses and swimming pools.

ii. Development Area B. Between the seaward boundary of Area A and a line
not less than ten (10) feet from the bluff edge (not all lots may have an
Area B).

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or Area
B (not all lots may have an Area C). No development allowed in Area C.

b. 2024-2042 Galaxy Drive and 2036-2130 Santiago Drive (Even Numbers
Only)—Not Subject to Marine Erosion.

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line and the rear setback
line.

ii. Development Area B. Between the rear setback line and the rear property
line.

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or Area
B (not all lots have an Area C). No development allowed in Area C.

c. 1200-1244 Polaris Drive (Even Numbers Only)—Not Subject to Marine
Erosion.

i. Development Area A. Between the front property line adjacent to Polaris
Drive and the seaward extent of the predominant line of existing principal
structure development.

ii. Development Area B. Between the seaward extent of Area A and the
seaward extent of the predominant line of existing accessory structure
development.

iii. Development Area C. All portions of the lot not located in Area A or Area
B (not all lots have an Area C).

iv. Additional Development Standards. New development shall not extend
further onto the bluff face beyond existing development.

E. Basements. Basements are allowed in Area A and may be constructed at an elevation
(NAVD 88) below any specified contour elevation. Basements shall not daylight on the
bluff or slope face beyond Area A.

F. Grading—All Development Areas. Grading in Development Area A is limited to the minimum necessary for the construction and placement of allowed structures. Surficial grading in Development Area B is limited to the minimum necessary for the placement of allowed structures with the exception of Map B-2 and Map B-3 (Irvine Terrace).

G. Swimming Pools. Swimming pools shall be of double wall construction with subdrains

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.040

between the walls and leak detection devices or an equivalent method.

H. Landscaping and Irrigation. See Sections 21.30.030(C)(2), 21.30.075 (Landscaping), and

I. Coastal Hazards and Geologic Stability Reports. Coastal hazards and geologic stability reports shall be provided pursuant to Section 21.30.015(E) (Development in Shoreline Hazardous Areas).

J. Erosion Control Plan. An erosion control plan shall be required pursuant to Section
21.30.015(E)(7) (Erosion Control Plan).

K. Natural Landform and Shoreline Protection. See Section 21.30.030 (Natural Landform and
Shoreline Protection).

L. Scenic and Visual Quality Protection. See Section 21.30.100 (Scenic and Visual Quality
Protection).

M. Encroachments.

1. Above Grade Encroachments. Balconies, bay windows, eaves, architectural features,
and shading devices attached to principal or accessory structures may encroach from
Area A into Area B without limitation, provided they do not require ground support.
Balconies, bay windows, eaves, architectural features, and shading devices attached
to principal or accessory structures may encroach from Area A or Area B into Area
C, provided they do not require ground support and encroach no farther than five feet
into Area C and comply with any required minimum setbacks.

2. Subterranean Structural Encroachments. Foundations, basement walls, structural
supports, and shoring for principal structures may encroach a maximum of twenty-
four (24) inches into an adjacent development area (B).

N. Nonconforming Structures. Principal and accessory structures that do not conform to the
development standards of this chapter shall comply with Section 21.38.040
(Nonconforming Structures) of this Zoning Code.

O. Adjustment of Development Area Boundary.

1. Reduced Development Area(s). A bluff development area shall be reduced whenever
necessary to:

a. Ensure safety and stability against slope failure (i.e., landsliding) for the
economic life of a development. At a minimum, the development area shall be
adjusted to ensure a slope stability factor greater than or equal to 1.5 at the end
of the economic life of the development for the static condition of the bluff or a
factor of safety greater than or equal to 1.1 for the seismic condition of the bluff,
whichever is further landward;

b. Ensure that the principal structures are safe from hazards due to erosional factors
and coastal hazards for the economic life of the building; and

c. Ensure a minimum setback of twenty-five (25) feet from the bluff edge for the
principal structure and major accessory structures such as guest-houses and
pools and not less than ten (10) feet from the bluff edge for accessory structures

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.040 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.050

on bluffs subject to marine erosion.

(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016)

A. Applicability. This section applies to lots located in the Canyon (C) Overlay District as indicated on the Coastal Zoning Map. All development shall comply with the applicable development standards (e.g., setbacks, height) of the underlying coastal zoning district in addition to the standards provided in this section. In situations where an inconsistency occurs between the development standards of the underlying coastal zoning district and the standards in this section the most restrictive standard shall prevail.

B. Uses Allowed. Land uses allowed in the C Overlay District are all those uses allowed in
the underlying coastal zoning district.

C. Development Stringline Setback. Development within the C Overlay District shall not
extend beyond the predominant line of existing development on canyon faces by
establishing a development stringline where a line is drawn between nearest adjacent
corners of existing structures on either side of the subject property. Development
stringlines shall be established for both principal and accessory structures.

1. Adjustments to the Development Stringline. The review authority may adjust the
development stringline under the following circumstances:

a. To ensure a slope stability factor of safety greater than or equal to 1.5 at the end
of the economic life of the development for the static condition of the canyon or
a factor of safety greater than or equal to 1.1 for the seismic condition of the
canyon, whichever is farther upward from the canyon base;

b. To provide adequate protection from erosional factors for the economic life of
the development;

c. To provide an adequate open space protective buffer to sensitive habitat areas;

d. To protect existing public views and where feasible enhance visual qualities of
the coastal canyons as viewed from public areas.

2. Approved Future Development. The review authority may permit the stringline
setback lines to be drawn from approved, yet undeveloped, buildings and structures
authorized by a coastal development permit.

D. Floor Area Limit Calculation. The development stringline setback shall be used only to
establish the development area on the site and shall not be used to determine the maximum
floor area limit for the lot.

E. Swimming Pools. Swimming pools shall be of double wall construction with subdrains
between the walls and leak detection devices or an equivalent method.

F. Landscaping and Irrigation. See Sections 21.30.030(C)(2), 21.30.075 (Landscaping), and

G. Coastal Hazards and Geologic Stability Reports. Coastal hazards and geologic stability reports shall be provided pursuant to Section 21.30.015(E) (Development in Shoreline

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.050 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.060

Hazardous Areas).

H. Erosion Control Plan. An erosion control plan shall be required pursuant to Section
21.30.015(E)(7) (Erosion Control Plan).

I. Natural Landform and Shoreline Protection. See Section 21.30.030 (Natural Landform and
Shoreline Protection).

J. Scenic and Visual Quality Protection. See Section 21.30.100 (Scenic and Visual Quality
Protection).

K. Habitat Protection. See Chapter 21.30B (Habitat Protection).

L. Waiver of Future Protection. New development shall require a waiver of future protection
as required by Section 21.30.015(E)(5).
(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016)

A. Applicability. The Height Overlay District includes properties located in the Multiple Residential (RM) Zoning District within Statistical Area A2 (See Map A-14 in Part 8 (Maps) of this Implementation Plan).

B. Discretionary Review. A request for an increase in building height under the provisions of
the Height (H) Overlay District requires discretionary review through a coastal
development permit.

C. Eligibility. Properties eligible for the Height (H) Overlay District must have a minimum lot
size of one acre.

D. Maximum Height. The maximum height limit is forty (40) feet for a flat roof and forty-five
(45) feet for a sloped roof. The development shall be three stories maximum.

E. Required Findings. The review authority may approve a coastal development permit to
allow a project in compliance with this section only after finding all of the following in
addition to the findings required for the coastal development permit application in Section
21.52.015(F) and the findings required by Section 20.30.060(C)(3):

1. The proposed project provides increased building setbacks from public streets and
property lines above code requirements;

2. The proposed project provides project enhancements and on-site recreational
amenities for the residents above code requirements; and

3. The proposed project provides quality architecture and quality materials.

F. The following standards should be considered for compliance with subsection (E)(3) of this
section:

1. Enhanced treatment of building elevations facing public streets with respect to
architectural treatment to achieve a high level of design and neighborhood quality
(e.g., high quality doors, windows, moldings, metalwork, finishes, stoops, porches,
etc.).

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.060 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.070

2. Building materials and colors should be selected that will complement the proposed
design and existing buildings in the surrounding area.

3. Building materials should be high quality, durable, authentic to the architectural style,
and applied in a quality fashion.

4. If stucco is used it should have a smooth finish. Sand and lace stucco finishes should
be avoided.

5. Lighting should be selected to provide ambiance, safety, and security, without
unnecessary spillover or glare.

6. Building owners and tenants should keep the building exteriors and facades clean and
in good repair.

G. Subdivisions. Projects that include a subdivision shall adhere to the following criteria in order to ensure the provision of enhanced project design features:

1. Overall Lot Setbacks. The Multiple Residential (RM) Zoning District setback
requirements are applicable to the overall development lot.

2. Primary Structure Front Setback. The minimum setback for primary structures is
twenty-five (25) feet from any front property line abutting a public street.

3. Street Enhancements. A landscaped area is required within the first fifteen (15) feet
of the front setback, and shall include trees, shrubs, and ground-cover. Fences, walls,
or hedges are allowed beyond the fifteen (15) foot front landscape setback.

4. Side Landscape Setback. A minimum five-foot landscape setback is required from
any side property line abutting a public street, and shall include trees, shrubs, and
groundcover. Fences, walls, or hedges are allowed beyond the five-foot setback.

5. Public Sidewalks. Sidewalks are required to be a minimum width of eight feet. A
meandering sidewalk design is preferred for lots greater than three hundred (300) feet
in width and must be designed to be compatible with abutting properties.

6. Common Open Space. A minimum of one hundred (100) square feet of common open
space per unit is required, not including pathways, and must be dedicated to
recreational amenities.

7. Recreational Amenities. Recreational amenities are required and may include a
recreation building, seating areas, barbecue/grill, fire pit/fireplace, swimming pool/
spa, bicycle racks/storage, activity area (such as playing field/lawn, sport court,
horseshoe pit, playground, etc.), or similar amenities.

8. Additional Guest Parking. Where limited offsite, on-street parking is available, guest
parking is required above the code requirement and must be distributed throughout
the site.
(Ord. 2016-19 § 9 (Exh. A)(part), 2016)

A. Applicability. This section applies to encroachments for residential properties identified as VE 13 or VE 15 on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's "Flood Insurance Study

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.070 NEWPORT BEACH CODE § 21.28.070

(FIS) for Orange County, California and Incorporated Area" revised March 21, 2019.
For purposes of this section, "encroachments" are limited to balconies, decks, landings,
patios, platforms, porches, steps, raised walkways, or terraces required for access. With the
exception of the encroachments authorized herein, all development shall comply with the
applicable residential development standards (e.g., floor area limit, setbacks, parking) of
the underlying zoning district set forth in the NBMC. In situations where an inconsistency
occurs between the development standards of the underlying zoning district and the
standards in this section related to encroachments, the standards related to encroachments
in this section shall apply.

The encroachments allowed by this section shall only apply when the project is required
to comply with Chapter 15.50 (Floodplain Management) for residential properties where
the structure is required to raise the foundation above the design flood elevation. Nothing
in this section shall be construed to constitute a waiver of, or exclusion from, the building
standards set forth in Chapter 15.50 (Floodplain Management).

B. Allowed Encroachments in Side and Rear Setbacks. An encroachment may be located
within a required side or rear setback area other than those abutting an alley subject to the
following restrictions:

1. For interior lots, the encroachment may be located in one or more side or rear setback
and may extend to the property line abutting the side or rear setback. Encroachments
in an interior side or rear setback may only be permitted to the minimum extent
necessary to provide access to the dwelling from both the front and the rear of the
property.

2. For corner lots, the encroachment may be located in the interior side or rear setback.
Encroachments in a side or rear setback facing a street may only be permitted to the
minimum extent necessary to provide access to the dwelling from both the front and
the rear of the property. The encroachment shall comply with all other development
standards of the underlying zoning district including § 20.30.130 (Traffic Safety
Visibility Area).

3. Excluding required guardrails or handrails, the finished surface of the encroachment
shall not exceed six inches above the finished floor of the dwelling unit(s).

4. Guardrails and handrails in the side and rear setback shall be constructed of either transparent material (except for supports) or opaque material (e.g., decorative grillwork, wrought iron, latticework, or similar materials) so that at least 40% of the guardrail or handrail is open. Handrails and guardrails shall not exceed the minimum height requirements set forth in the California Building Code for safety purposes.

   C. Allowed Encroachments in Front Setbacks. Encroachments may be located within a required front setback area subject to the following restrictions: 1. For interior lot and corner lots, one set of access stairs from the grade level to the first elevated floor is allowed to encroach up to three feet into the front setback. Excluding the required guardrails or handrails, the finished surface of the encroachment shall not exceed six inches above the finished floor of the dwelling unit(s). Encroachments are subject to compliance with all other development standards of the underlying zoning district including § 21.30.130 (Traffic Safety Visibility Area).

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City of Newport Beach, CA § 21.28.070 LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION § 21.28.070

a. Corner lots shall be developed in a manner that ensures visibility across the
corners of the intersecting streets, alleys, sidewalks, private driveways, and the
Ocean Front Boardwalk. Notwithstanding the requirements of this subsection
(C), no encroachment over 30 inches in height from existing grade shall be
located within the traffic visibility triangle (i.e., the triangular-shaped area on a
corner lot formed by measuring the five feet from the intersection of the front
and street side property lines adjacent to the Ocean Front Boardwalk).

b. Improvements or structures that exceed the allowable height limit for visibility
in the traffic safety visibility area may be approved by the City Traffic Engineer
if he/she determines that the location and/or height of the existing or proposed
improvement or structure allows for the unobstructed view of oncoming traffic
including bicyclists, and pedestrians by a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian
approaching an intersection.

2. Guardrails and handrails in the front setback shall be constructed of either transparent
material (except for supports) or opaque material (e.g., decorative grillwork, wrought
iron, latticework, or similar materials) so that at least 40% of the guardrail or handrail
is open. Handrails and guardrails shall not exceed the minimum height requirements
set forth in the California Building Code for safety purposes.
(Ord. 2025-33, 10/28/2025)

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City of Newport Beach, CA

Part 3

Site Planning And Development Standards