NEWPORT BEACH : Beach Encroachment Changes Considered

The City Council tonight is scheduled to discuss changes to its new beach encroachment policy that would extend the deadline for homeowners to apply for permits and allow some administrative leniency for residents.

The changes to the controversial policy, which regulates building on public beachfront property, are intended to clarify the new rules to encourage compliance.

The changes would eliminate the earlier October, 1990, date that differentiated between existing and new encroachments and establish May 30 as the new deciding date.

That new date extends the time for homeowners to apply for permits, which had been set at Sept. 30, 1991.

The amendments would also acknowledge that the property line in the area between 36th Street to A Street is one foot beyond the edge of the existing sidewalk and that improvements there would not be considered encroachments.

Finally, the changes would allow some minor encroachments on an individual basis, contingent upon approval by the Public Works Department.

Since the new policy went into effect last July, about one-third of the estimated 245 property owners with home improvements that encroach on public beachfront have complied.

Those homeowners have submitted permit forms and fees. Those who have not yet complied would need to do so by May 30 or face penalties under the new proposal.