We wanted to share some important information regarding a new emergency permitting process that may help protect your waterfront property from future flooding.
The City of Newport Beach is now offering expedited emergency permits that may allow homeowners to extend their existing seawalls by up to 18 inches, without the need for engineering plans.
I recently went through this process for my own bayfront home and was able to obtain a permit in less than an hour.
This opportunity is particularly timely. During last week's October King Tides, unusually warm ocean temperatures and the Kelvin wave contributed to water levels reaching as much as 22 inches above predicted tides, resulting in seawall overtopping at numerous properties throughout Newport Harbor.
Of even greater concern, the upcoming King Tides around Thanksgiving and Christmas are predicted to be approximately 4 to 6 inches higher than those we experienced in October. If the unusually elevated water levels persist, we could face even more significant flooding during the upcoming holidays.
Fortunately, the emergency permit application is relatively straightforward. Based on my experience, the City requires:
- A photograph of your existing seawall.
- A property map, available through the City's GIS Mapping System.
- A couple of signatures on paperwork prepared by the City.
I was advised that engineering plans are not required for extensions of 18 inches or less under this emergency process. Extensions exceeding that height would require additional engineering and review.
I worked directly with Melinda Whelan at the City of Newport Beach, who was extremely helpful.
Melinda Whelan
City of Newport Beach
Phone: 949-644-3221
Email: [email protected]
The City has indicated that it will be updating its website with additional details regarding this emergency permitting process. You can also visit the City's Coastal Flood Recovery Program.
With the next series of King Tides approaching, I would encourage concerned bayfront homeowners to investigate this opportunity promptly and confirm their property's eligibility and permit requirements directly with the City.
As a longtime Newport Beach bayfront resident, I wanted to share this information in the hope that it may help others protect their homes.
Best regards,
Steve High
Pacific Sotheby's International Realty
