Guide to Leasing, Permitting, and Authorizing Commercial Aquaculture Operations off the California Coast
A guide for those interested in learning about the aquaculture permitting processes for growing shellfish, seaweed or fish commercially in California.
The “Guide to Leasing, Permitting, and Authorizing Commercial Aquaculture Operations off the California Coast” (hereafter “guide”) is intended to assist individuals or groups seeking information about permitting and other requirements for new commercial aquaculture projects, or the expansion of existing aquaculture operations in state or federal waters off the coast of California. This was developed collaboratively among federal and state agencies involved in California aquaculture permitting with support from Seatone Consulting.
Before Starting the Application Process
Aquaculture operations conducted in state and federal waters off the coast of California must meet many regulatory requirements such as leases, permits, certifications, and authorizations from state and federal agencies. There are major differences between operating in state and federal waters, including different lease requirements, the application of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) vs the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and various local, state and federal permitting processes.
Considerations for Your Operations
When planning commercial aquaculture operations in state or federal waters, consider and research the following questions before meeting with your State Aquaculture Coordinator or Federal Regional Aquaculture Coordinator so you may have an informed and productive introductory conversation.
- What motivates you to start an aquaculture operation in California? What markets will you serve?
- What species do you intend to culture?
- What culture and harvest methods do you plan to use?
- Where will your operation be located?
- What is your business plan?
- Have you considered costs associated with operations?
Steps to Permitting
The following flowcharts provide a simplified overview of a more complex permitting process. Each step contains multiple responsibilities and requires coordination with various government agencies. The tables and descriptions provided in the guide offer more detailed guidance on how to navigate the permitting process and engage with the relevant agencies.
Leasing and Permitting Process in California State Waters
Permitting and Authorizations in Federal Waters
Ongoing Costs and Requirements of Your Permits
Your aquaculture project will carry permit conditions that require monitoring and reporting on construction, operations, and mitigation. These requirements are unique to each project. As with any business, you will also face ongoing costs associated with general operations.
As mentioned before, your NOAA Fisheries Regional Aquaculture Coordinator and California State Aquaculture Coordinator will help guide you through the specific requirements for your operation in federal and state waters, respectively.
Contacts
Regional Aquaculture Coordinator for California (Federal)
Celia Barroso
NOAA Fisheries West Coast Region
Office: (562) 432-1850
celia.barroso@noaa.gov
State Aquaculture Coordinator - California
Randy Lovell
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Office: (916) 376-1650
aquaculturecoord@wildlife.ca.gov