Bolsa Chica State Beach Dune Restoration Project
Summary
SCH Number
2026030933
Public Agency
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Document Title
Bolsa Chica State Beach Dune Restoration Project
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
3/23/2026
Document Description
The proposed project consists of installing up to 2,250 linear feet of 4-foot-tall sand fencing and 3,000 linear feet of post-and-cable (“symbolic”) fencing at Bolsa Chica State Beach. Sand fencing will be installed at up to five locations in clusters of three 50-foot segments, oriented perpendicular to prevailing winds to facilitate dune formation. Fencing will consist of wood slats and wire supported by metal T-posts driven approximately 1.5 feet into the sand, with no permanent footings. Project objectives include reducing sand encroachment onto the multi-use path, restoring native habitat, enhancing shoreline resilience during high-tide and storm events, and supporting long-term sea level rise resiliency.
Contact Information
Name
Riley T Pratt
Agency Name
Parks and Recreation
Job Title
Sr. Environmental Scientist
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency / Project Applicant / Parties Undertaking Project
Phone
Email
Location
Coordinates
Counties
Orange
Regions
Southern California
Cross Streets
Bolsa Chica State Beach (17851 Pacific Coast Hwy)
Zip
92649
Total Acres
2
Jobs
1
Parcel #
110-017-04
State Highways
Pacific Coast Highway
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class 4, Section 15304
Reasons for Exemption
The project qualifies for a Class 4 Categorical Exemption (CCR § 15304) because it involves minor alterations to land through the installation of temporary sand fencing and post-and-cable fencing to facilitate dune formation and habitat restoration, with no permanent structures or significant grading. All work is low-impact, reversible, and designed to enhance natural processes and native vegetation, with fencing removed once dunes are established. No potential for significant impacts to the environment are anticipated in compliance with Section 15300.4. The action falls under the Departmental List of Exempt activities according to CEQA §15300.4 as outlined in the Department of Operations Manual, Chapter 0600: Class 4, Section 15304: “Minor Alteration of Land”.
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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