Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Updates to BCDC permitting regulations

BCDC is proposing amendments to its regulations as part of an ongoing effort to modernize its permitting program.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking provides information regarding the proposed amendments and the public comment period.

What’s being proposed?

In summary, the rulemaking includes the following:

1. Streamline and improve the regionwide permit program

Combines two similar permit types (the regionwide and abbreviated regionwide permits) into one program to reduce confusion for people applying for a permit.
Clarifies steps about how to apply and how applications are reviewed.
Expands the regionwide permit program to cover the Suisun Marsh.
Uses plain language to make the rules easier to understand.

2. Reduce permitting burdens for straightforward and routine activities

Defines small, low impact activities that no longer need a permit within BCDC’s shoreline band jurisdiction, including many minor repairs and accessory structures.
Clarifies that backfilling and sealing small-diameter borings for environmental testing and monitoring wells do not require BCDC permits.

3. Make other targeted updates to clarify and improve permitting rules

Adds a summary of all BCDC permit types to help people understand which permit to apply for.
Explains how deadlines are calculated.
Clarifies certain terms and concepts about BCDC’s jurisdiction.
Enhances noticing around administrative actions the Executive Director takes on behalf of the Commission.

You can comment on the proposed regulations through November 21, 2025 at 5 p.m.

Send your comment to BCDC:

By email: publiccomment@bcdc.ca.gov (Subject: Proposed rulemaking)
By mail: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, Attn: Ethan Lavine, 375 Beale Street, Suite 510, San Francisco, CA 94105

You can also submit your comment verbally at a public hearing which will be held at BCDC’s Commission meeting on November 20, 2025 at 1 p.m.