FAQs

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Areas of Special Biological Significance (ASBS)

1. What is an ASBS?: The Areas of Special Biological Significance (ASBS) are coastal areas designated by the State of California where fragile biological and marine communities must be protected. Malibu is adjacent to ASBS No. 24 (designated in 1974), which stretches from Latigo Point to Laguna Point. The regulations set forth by the State to protect these coastal habitats are intended to maintain natural water quality standards by preventing pollution from entering the ASBS.

2. Can I irrigate my landscaping?: Yes, residents may irrigate landscaped areas, but should not over-irrigate plants to the point where the plants and soil cannot absorb the water and it flows off the property and into the street. Overspray from sprinklers or other irrigation methods set too close to the street can mistakenly water the pavement instead of plants.

It is common to overwater plants, which not only causes runoff but makes it difficult for plants to survive. Try irrigating less, and you will likely be surprised that your plants do just as well or better with less water. Remember to adjust irrigation practices for seasonality and weather. Try using native plants that are naturally adapted to the moisture levels in Malibu and need very little to no water at all.

3. Is car washing or watering outdoor plants prohibited?

No. However, residents may not allow fluids to runoff of their property because the runoff can enter the storm drain system or deposit pollution on the street that will be carried to the ocean with the next rain. These runoff restrictions derive from the requirements in the Federal Clean Water Act, the California Water Code Section 13000 et. seq., the California Ocean Plan, and the Los Angeles Region Water Quality Control Plan (also referred to as the Basin Plan).

These regulations are implemented locally through Malibu's Municipal Code (MMC), including the following sections:

MMC Section 9.08.060, Causing or permitting certain substances to flow onto highways or into drainage channels prohibited
MMC Section 13.04.060, Stormwater management and discharge control - Prohibited activities
MMC Section 13.04.080, Requiring good housekeeping practices
MMC Section 8.28.020, Duty of owner or possessor of property
MMC Section 9.20.020, Regulation of irrigation practices
MMC Section 9.20.030, Regulation of exterior washing practices

The requirements for new landscaping can be found in MMC Section 9.22.090, Landscape water conservation design standards.

MMC, Title 1

4. What can I do to prevent runoff and protect the ASBS?: Living next to the majestic Pacific Ocean comes with a price and, in Malibu, everyone is obligated to do their part to protect the ocean and its fragile marine communities. The key to eliminating runoff is preventing water from leaving your property and flowing into the street. If water is leaving your property, the first step is to locate the water's source. The most common sources of runoff are over-irrigation, car washing, and hosing down sidewalks or driveways, but runoff can also come from broken pipes, greywater connections or pool backwash, among other things. Once the source of the runoff is determined, you can assess the best remedy for the problem.

5. What is an Ocean Friendly Garden?

An Ocean Friendly Garden (OFG) utilizes the concepts of Conservation, Permeability, and Retention (CPR) to keep water onsite and reduce pollution to the ocean from runoff and stormwater:

Conservation requires reducing irrigation (because 30-70% of a household's water is used outdoors), and reducing the use of garden chemicals. Using less water creates a drier landscape, which allows the garden to hold more rainwater. By reducing or eliminating pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer, landscaped areas will not contribute toxic chemicals to the water that runs off landscaping after a storm. This can be achieved by using native plants that are naturally adapted to Malibu's climate and require very little water, and by using non-toxic alternatives to traditional fertilizers and pesticides, like compost and integrated pest management.
Permeability increases a landscape's ability to slow and hold water in order to allow the water to sink into the ground, which feeds the plants and ground water, instead of rushing across a hard impervious surface. Permeability can be achieved by increasing landscaped areas, maintaining healthy soils, and opting for permeable or semi-permeable hard surfaces (brick, stone, decomposed granite) in your yard and driveway instead of concrete.
Retention involves strategies that allow landscapes to collect water by capturing and storing it for later use. Retention methods often include bioretention basins, infiltration trenches, or rooftop rainwater collection systems.

Ocean Friendly Gardens

6. What is the City doing to protect ASBS #24?

The State Water Resources Control Board adopted a plan (officially "Special Protections") on March 20, 2012, which provides more detail on how the waste discharge prohibition is to be applied in local communities. These protections specify what concrete actions must be taken to protect California's ASBS.

The protections require the elimination of nearly all non-stormwater discharges to the ASBS. The City applied for and received two grants from the State to install structural Best Management Practices (BMP), structural facilities that can catch and treat polluted runoff before reaching the ASBS. In 2015, the City completed installation of structural BMPs at storm drains on Wildlife Rd and Whitesands Pl in Point Dume, and along Broad Beach Rd. The structural BMPs will improve the water quality of stormwater runoff that drains to those catch basins, which will complement residents' efforts to stop non-stormwater runoff and comply with the Special Protections. The grant also funded the City's Coastal Preservation Specialist position, a two-year staff position dedicated to conducting ASBS education and outreach with the Malibu community. A permanent Environmental Programs Specialist position was added to City staff upon the conclusion of the two-year, grant-funded term.

Learn more about ASBS Protection

7. How is the ASBS regulated?: The California Ocean Plan, adopted by the State Water Resources Control Board, prohibits waste discharges into the ASBS. One way waste is discharged to the ASBS is through pipes that drain directly to the ASBS; another way is through dry-weather runoff (runoff not from precipitation) that flows over the land and eventually drains to the ocean. Runoff, no matter where it starts, may pick up pollutants as it flows over impervious surfaces. That polluted water eventually drains to the ocean through storm drains or natural streams and creeks. This runoff may harm the fragile biological and marine communities, which is why the State prohibits "waste" discharges into the ASBS and why best management practices (BMPs) must be used to prevent such discharges.

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Beaches, Parks & Attractions

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1. Can I smoke cigarettes on Malibu beaches?: No, smoking is prohibited on all beaches in Malibu. However, smoking is permitted in the parking lots. Remember that Malibu is in a high fire danger zone - be sure to fully extinguish all cigarettes, and dispose of them properly.

2. Where can I have a barbecue or fire?: Fires (including barbecues) are not allowed on any beach in Malibu. The exception is that you may have a fire in designated spots at some State beaches.
The City of Malibu does NOT allow BBQs, open fires, or smoking at any of its parks or facilities. State Beaches

3. Which beaches allow alcohol?: Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beaches in Malibu. There is a no tolerance policy, and a citation will be issued. (Los Angeles County Code Section 17.12.320)

4. Where can I have a wedding on the beach?: If you want a wedding on a private beach, you will first need to get the property owner's permission, and then obtain a Temporary Use Permit from the City of Malibu. If you want to have a wedding on a public beach, contact L.A. County Department of Beaches and Harbors for a permit.

5. Is it hard to find a place to park?: Zuma Beach has an abundance of parking in its fee parking lots. On hot summer days (especially holidays), the parking lots sometimes fill up, and are closed for an hour or two until spaces become available. If you are coming to the beach on a busy weekend, come early.

6. May I take my dog to the beach?: Dogs are not allowed on any beach in Malibu. If you bring your dog to the beach, you will be asked to leave, and you may also be cited. Leo Carrillo State Beach (near the Malibu/Ventura County line) does allow dogs on leash in some areas.
Malibu does have a designated dog park area located in Trancas Canyon Park.

7. I've seen people at parties drinking - how do I get a permit for that?: The Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors does issue permits for parties on the beach, and may allow alcohol if certain conditions are met. Visit http://beaches.lacounty.gov/ for more information. Beaches and Harbors

8. Where is the nude beach I've heard about?: Nude sunbathing is not allowed on any beach in Malibu (or anywhere in Los Angeles County).

9. I received a citation for drinking on the beach. Where can I read the law?: The City of Malibu adopted Los Angeles County Code Section 17.12.320, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol on the beach. Visit https://www.municode.com/library/ca/los_angeles_county/codes/code_of_ordinances L.A. County Code

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Building Safety

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1. Who can obtain permits?: A property owner or a licensed contractor. An authorized agent may pull permits if either the property owner or licensed contractor provides the agent with a notarized letter of authorization. Owner/Builder Verification Form

2. What does it mean to pull a permit as an "Owner / Builder?": Refer to the Contractor's State License Board website (www.cslb.ca.gov) for an overview of permitting for Owner / Builders.
Contractor's State License Board

3. When do issued permits expire?: Within 365 days after issuance, or if the work is suspended / abandoned for a period of 365 days after the time the work is commenced.

4. Are combination permits available from the City of Malibu?: No. Separate, individual permits are issued for building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical work.

5. Are permits needed for tile work or painting?: No. Cosmetic upgrades, such as floor tile, paint, and window coverings, do not require a permit. Complete List of Exempt Work

6. Where is the Los Angeles County Fire Department?: 26600 Agoura Road, Calabasas, CA 91302. Call 818-880-0341 for counter hours and specific project requirements.

7. What are the seismic loads, wind, rain, and other design factors specific to the City of Malibu?: • Climate Zone - 6
• Wind speed - 110 mph
• Exposure velocity – C or D
• Rainfall - 2.0”/hour
• Fire – Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ)
• Seismic Design – D or greater

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Civic Center Water Treatment Facility

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1. Why is the City making property owners connect to the sewer project?

The City is providing one State-approved mechanism for property owner compliance with orders from two State agencies, the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), that were recorded into state law through a Basin Plan amendment in 2010. The order is a prohibition of discharge from onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) in a specific zone by specific dates. Penalties for violating the Prohibition Order will be directed at individual property owners, not the City (except as a property owner). The City of Malibu is NOT making property owners connect to the proposed sewer project.

A property owner who violates the Prohibition and continues to discharge wastewater to an OWTS could be subject to individual orders from the RWQCB. These orders could range from a mandate to convert septic tanks to sewage holding tanks (with associated truck hauling of the stored flow) to fines of up to $10,000 per day for large volume, high impacting discharges.

The RWQCB and SWRCB provided a compliance mechanism via a 2011 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that the City is currently following. If property owners had rejected this approved option (such as through a negative vote on assessment district formation), the consequences would have been imposed by the RWQCB on the individual property owners within the Prohibition Zone, not the City of Malibu.

More details about the Basin Plan Amendment and the State’s proceedings to establish the prohibition can be found on the City’s website at: www.malibucity.org/index.aspx?NID=263 and on the SWRCB website at: http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/rwqcb4/water_issues/programs/basin_plan/index.shtml

2. What is the scientific basis for implementing this project? How do we know it will work to clean up Malibu Creek and Lagoon?

The City of Malibu commissioned various studies by Stone Environmental and the USGS related to hydrology, geology, bacteria, and nutrients that are available at http://www.malibucity.org/index.aspx?nid=531.

Property owners may direct their concerns about the credible scientific basis used in the findings for the Prohibition to the Regional Water Quality Control Board and the State Water Resources Control Board. The Prohibition is a state law, not a local law.

The City studies disagree with some of the Regional Board’s findings and partially agree with others. It was through the City’s effort that a phasing plan was incorporated into the MOU that will evaluate the results of additional water quality monitoring before initiating Phase 3.

3. Why is the Winter Canyon property the preferred site for the treatment plant? Why were other sites rejected?

This is the preferred site because it is the only site with the following combination of advantages:

• The site has sufficient land area to locate treatment facilities for all Phases of the Prohibition
order. The treatment plant ‘footprint’ for all three phases is approximately 2.5 acres.
• The site overlays the Winter Canyon groundwater basin, which is distinct from the Malibu Valley Groundwater Basin underlying the rest of the Civic Center. This adds needed disposal capacity for the project by allowing some of the fully treated water to be disposed of on the treatment plant site itself, rather than just through recycled water use and deep well injection in the Malibu Valley Groundwater Basin.
• The proposed use is similar to what is existing on the site, but will be state of the art technology, odor-scrubbed, and visually screened.
• The site is located outside the 100-year flood zone, avoiding the cost of flood-proofing the treatment facilities.
• The site has a willing seller.

Other sites were considered including the Wave property, the La Paz Development site, and Legacy Park. However, these sites did not provide the combination of advantages listed above.

4. How is it safe to locate a treatment plant across the street from a school and dense multifamily development? What other examples are there of treatment plants being sited in this type of location?

The project will increase the public health, safety, and local amenity of school-goers and local residents.

The new facility will replace four aging wastewater systems (the Webster Elementary OWTS, Our Lady of Malibu OWTS, Malibu Colony Shopping Center treatment plant, and County-operated plant at Vista Pacifica St) that serve the two schools and the multifamily residences across from the site. Faculty, students, and residents have complained of odors and daylighting of sewage from failing systems for years. The RWQCB notified the schools that they must meet new water quality standards because of either failing or inadequate treatment in the aging onsite systems.

The new facility will have state of the art wastewater treatment equipment that will be fully covered, or enclosed within buildings. All treatment facilities will include full odor control. None of the four existing treatment systems in the vicinity have these features. The treatment facility will have an increased factor of safety because standby equipment and standby power will be built into the treatment systems to allow uninterrupted treatment in the event of equipment or power failure. This degree of safety is not provided by the existing treatment facilities in the area.

The treatment facility will be further away from the school and local residences than the County treatment plant, which is not odor scrubbed, is not fully enclosed or covered, and provides little visual screening of its process tanks.

The closest example of a treatment plant being sited in this type of location is the County treatment plant, which treats flow from the nearby condominiums. As stated previously, this plant is closer to the condominiums than the proposed new treatment plant. Los Angeles’ Hyperion wastewater treatment plant, which treats 800 times the projected flow of the Malibu plant, is within 400 feet of residential structures.

5. Was any consideration given to the effects the new treatment plant will have on property values for residents across the street?

The proposed facility is likely to improve property values over conditions that exist today. As described above in the response to Question 4, the new wastewater service will replace four aging systems that have chronic odor, and other complaints that affect children and adults, with a safe, reliable, state-of-the-art treatment facility.

While the treatment plant property will be visible from properties across the street, views over the plant site will greatly improve. The unkempt current appearance of the site will be replaced with new onsite buildings that will be architecturally treated with a neutral rural style that is compatible with the site and surrounding area. Equipment has been sited underground whenever possible, and the existing four large white vertical tanks will be removed.

Extensive landscape screening will be used to hide above-ground equipment and the new treatment buildings from views across the street, and will be properly maintained for a neat appearance. The City acknowledges that it will take some time for newly planted foliage to substantially screen the project, but is committed to making the design as compatible as possible with the surrounding area.

6. What are the water quality standards that will be met for treated wastewater that is used for recycling and for dispersal into the lower aquifer that flows to the ocean?: All water will be treated to the same high standard and will be highly disinfected, filtered water that exceeds all requirements set forth in California Title 22 standards for unrestricted non-potable water reuse. It will also be free of ammonia, low in nitrogen, and virtually free of suspended solids. This level of treatment will be protective of the public health of the water users and the water quality of the groundwater and ocean. Furthermore, extensive groundwater studies conducted for the project indicate that injected flows will not reach Malibu Creek or Lagoon. It should be noted that the project will eliminate the current septic tank flows that reach Malibu Creek and Lagoon.

7. Are there airborne pathogens or odors that will leave the treatment plant site and affect the schools / residences across the street?: No airborne pathogens are associated with the treatment processes. Furthermore, all treatment processes will be enclosed within buildings or will be covered, and all processes will be odor-scrubbed to prevent odor releases to the environment. The odor-scrubbing processes use naturally occurring bacteria growing on wood chips to breakdown the odor-causing sulfur compounds. It is an odor control process that is used with great success on treatment plants throughout the country.

8. Are there violations in effect for the two other treatment plants- the County-operated plant serving the condominiums and the former plant on the new CCWTF site?

According to materials presented by the Regional Board during the Prohibition proceedings (between 2004 and 2009), both facilities had violations:

- Malibu Colony Plaza – 55 total violations
- Malibu Water Pollution Control Plant – 644 violations

It should be noted that the totals include a variety of violation types, such as late or missing submittals, reported parameters, discharge violations, etc.

9. Will any parking spaces lost to the injection well installation on Malibu Road be replaced?: The design team is trying to avoid the use of ‘bump outs’ into the parking lane on Malibu Road. However, if the injection wells cannot be sited between the existing underground utilities, approximately two parking spaces would be lost. The total linear footage of on-street parking in the area of the proposed injection wells along Malibu Road is approximately 1,020 feet, which equates to approximately 51 twenty-foot long parallel spaces. It is not likely the loss of two spaces would be noticed, given the nearest public beach or access way is over 1,000 feet away.
Furthermore, the potential loss of two public parking spaces, if needed, would be more than offset by the addition of more than 100 parking spaces when nearby Legacy Park was constructed.

10. Does the Phase 1 project include storage for delivery of recycled water to properties for irrigation?: An existing 50,000-gallon underground fiberglass storage tank on the treatment plant site will be reused for recycled water. The tank provides the capacity necessary to deliver recycled water to properties within Phase 1 that can be used for irrigation.

11. Will Phase 2 and 3 property owners have to pay for a 10 million-gallon recycled water storage tank?

There is no intention to build a 10 million-gallon recycled water storage tank as part of any phase of the project. Reference in the EIR to this amount of storage is because the Regional Water Quality Control Board asked the City to explore different storage scenarios as part of studies and reports it requested.

Maximizing reuse of recycled water is one of the project objectives. Although availability of 10 million gallons of storage would allow for maximum reuse of the recycled water produced by the treatment facility, maximized reuse is not feasible and not needed to make the project ‘work.’ Extensive field testing and modeling of the groundwater basin indicate that there is sufficient injection capacity to dispose of the total volume of effluent from all phases of the project, assuming zero recycled water use.

The siting difficulties and expense of providing 10 million gallons of storage would jeopardize the feasibility of the project, and is not an essential part of the project. Therefore, it is not a recommended project component.

When the project moves into Phase 2 (or when it moves into Phase 3), additional recycled water storage may be considered, but would only be implemented if acceptable sites are found in proximity to areas that would use the recycled water. This may require additional environmental (i.e., CEQA) documentation, depending on the site sizes, locations, etc.

12. Will Phase 2 and 3 property owners be paying for infrastructure, including recycled water storage, required for Phase 1?

In practical terms, the opposite is true. Phase 1 property owners will pay for some of the costs associated with future phasing and are not likely to be fully reimbursed by subsequent phases.

Phase 1 was designed, and is being implemented, so that the infrastructure necessary to operate Phase 1 is fully constructed. The Phase 1 owners will shoulder the costs of the entire plant for several years until a future phase is constructed.

Property owners in Phase 2 and Phase 3 will be assessed for costs related only to collection, treatment, and management of wastewater that their individual parcel(s) produce(s).

Phase 1 includes some treatment equipment and processing tanks that will eventually benefit Phases 2 and 3. If, and when, subsequent phases are implemented, a reimbursement formula will be calculated by a qualified assessment engineer to allow a cost sharing that results in all property owners, from all phases, paying for only their prorated share of total facilities.

13. Will Serra Canyon households be charged for use of recycled water? If Serra Canyon does not vote to hook up in Phase 2, will there be any change to the recycled water dispersal plans or constraints fo: The cost associated with treatment and distribution of recycled water to Serra Canyon will be calculated when the assessment engineer is contracted for Phase 2. The proposed Phase 1 project meets environmental objectives and will ‘work’ even with zero recycled water reuse in all areas of the project. Therefore, recycled water use in the Serra Canyon area, or in any other area, is not needed to make the project ‘work.’
However, the opportunity to reduce dependence on dwindling imported potable water supplies affords Malibu a resource that will be maximized to the extent feasible. If Serra Canyon does not want recycled water, expanded use opportunities west of the Civic Center would be accelerated.

14. How far do the Phase 1 collection and distribution systems extend?: The Phase 1 pipelines will run as follows:
• Along the length of Civic Center Way, between Cross Creek Rd and Malibu Canyon Rd
• Along public portions of Cross Creek Rd, between Pacific Coast Hwy and approximately 3661 Cross Creek Rd. In Phase 1, no pipelines will extend beyond the private gates of Serra Canyon.
• Along Malibu Rd, west from Webb Way to the end of the Malibu Creek Plaza (Ralphs shopping center) property
• Along Stuart Ranch Rd, from City Hall south to where it becomes Webb Way, where it continues to the point where Webb Way reaches Malibu Rd
• Along Malibu Canyon Rd, extending from Bluffs Park north to Civic Center Way
• Along Winter Canyon Rd to Our Lady of Malibu Church and School

15. Serra property owners commissioned a study that shows no impact on Malibu Creek and Malibu Lagoon from these properties. Why is the City requiring them to be in the prohibition zone?: The City did not set the water quality standards and did not adopt the prohibition regulations or set the prohibition boundaries. A request by property owners to change any of the above points must be made to the Regional Water Quality Control Board and the State Water Resources Control Board, not to the City. It is the City’s understanding that the Serra property owners’ representatives met with staff of the Regional Board, and that Regional Board staff will prepare comments on the claims and requests made by Serra property owners.
The City has not been provided a copy of the Serra property owners’ commissioned study report and cannot comment on whether the study was conducted using standards that will be accepted by the Regional Board with respect to quality assurance protocol used for studies of this type.

16. What infrastructure will be in the floodplain and how protected is this infrastructure?: All of the Phase 1 facilities will be located outside the 100-year flood zones, or above the 100-year flood elevations, as shown on FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps. This includes the groundwater injection facilities, the treatment plant, the Bluffs Park Pump Station, and the Legacy Park Pump Station. Nevertheless, all well heads will be sealed as an extra margin of safety.
It should be noted that FEMA’s maps do not show the re-contouring of elevations at Legacy Park, and, therefore, show much of the park within the 100-year flood zone. However, many areas of the park are currently above the 100-year flood elevations, and the pump station facilities are located in these areas.

17. What happens if there is a major earthquake?: All of the facilities are designed to withstand an earthquake without damage. The pipelines will be plastic material with substantial ability to flex during earth movement.
The project includes backup power generators for the pump stations and treatment plant to allow continued operation in the event that an earthquake disrupts electric power supply to the facilities.

18. What will prevent sewage or treatment chemicals from spilling into the wetlands on the treatment plant site, or flowing under Pacific Coast Hwy, if there is a power outage or a major backup?: The project includes backup power generators for the pump stations and treatment plant to allow continued operation in the event of power failures from Southern California Edison.
With regard to spills and flow backups at the plant site, onsite spills drain to a system that conveys flow back into the plant for treatment.

19. What about homes that sit below the level of the street, such as in the Malibu Knolls area?: Properties that are below street level will need to install a sewage pump to convey their flow to the street sewer. These are widely used in hillside residential areas on down-slope properties.

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Code Enforcement

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1. What is the process once a complaint is submitted?: The handling of complaints is done on a system of priority, based on the nature of the alleged violations. Highest priority is given to septic system overflows, building without a permit, and grading without a permit. Other complaints are prioritized based on a variety of factors, including impact on public health and safety. Please note that staff does not provide status updates. Open Code Enforcement Cases

2. How do I submit a septic system complaint?

The City places a high level of response priority to Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (septic system) overflows and failures. The Pollution Prevention Hotline is the appropriate communication source for the public to provide immediate notification of such events to the City. The hotline is staffed 24/7 with bilingual (English & Spanish) operators to assist callers. Operators will immediately notify appropriate City staff to respond to the incident. Depending upon the type of incident reported, City staff may contact the caller to obtain additional information. All caller information will be kept confidential.

Water Pollution Hotline: 310-359-8003

Examples of prohibited activities include:
• Sewage discharges onto the ground, into storm drains, or surface waters (creeks and oceans)
• Overflowing onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS, also known as septic systems)
• Septic or greywater (soapy water from washing machines or car washing) flowing towards storm drains or surface waters
• Pollution entering storm drains or surface waters
• Contamination to creeks, lagoons, or the ocean
• Dry-weather discharge from pipes
• Dumping into drains and/or surface waters
• Construction site soil or debris entering the streets, storm drains, or surface waters
• Polluted runoff from construction storage or leaking dumpsters

You can also notify the City of suspected violations by filing an Online Pollution Report.

3. Are building permits always required?: Construction and development without required Building Permits or Planning Department approvals is prohibited by the Malibu Municipal Code. Although some construction projects do not require building permits, exempt projects may still require Planning Department approval. For example, fences which are six feet or less in height, and storage sheds 120 square feet or less, do not require Building Permits but do require approval from the Planning Department. If you are not sure whether your project requires a building permit or Planning Department approval, contact the Planning Department or Building and Safety Division staff at 310-456-2489, ext. 484.

If you are found to be engaged in construction or development without required Building Permits or Planning Department approval, a Stop Work Order will be issued. This is a notice which requires that you cease all work on the property. Continuing to work after issuance of a Stop Work Order is a misdemeanor violation of the Malibu Municipal Code.

4. What are the construction hours allowed in the City of Malibu?: You may work from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM on weekdays, and from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Construction is not allowed on Sundays or holidays (New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.)

To report a violation, contact the Code Enforcement Office at 310-456-2489, ext. 484.

5. What are the beach ordinances in Malibu?

Malibu adopted Title 17, Chapter 12 of the Los Angeles County Code regarding beach activities. The following are some of the restrictions applicable to local beaches:

Alcohol - The consumption of alcohol on any beach in Malibu is strictly prohibited. Violation of this law is a misdemeanor. A No Tolerance policy for alcohol on Malibu beaches has resulted in a decrease in alcohol-related accidents on Pacific Coast Highway, as well as a decrease in alcohol-related water rescues.
Animals - Animals are not allowed on any public beach in Malibu. Owners on private beaches may have their dogs on their own beach, but dogs must always be on a leash. Even on private beaches, dogs are not allowed on the public part of the beach below the mean high tide line.
Fires - Fires, including barbecues, are not allowed on any Malibu beach.
Nude Sunbathing - There are no nude beaches in Malibu. Violation of this ordinance is a misdemeanor.

Enforcement of these beach ordinances is by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Questions can be directed to the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station at 310-456-6652.

6. What are the rules regarding habitable trailers on a property?: Trailers may be lived in only in a designated trailer park or at a construction site, with approval from the Planning and Building Departments. Refer to Malibu Municipal Code Section 17.40.040(A)(18). Malibu Municipal Code

7. What are the laws related to abandoned and non-operative vehicles?: The Malibu Municipal Code prohibits abandoned and non-operative vehicles from being stored where they are visible from a street or neighboring property. To report a suspected violation, submit an Investigation Request Form. Investigation Request Form

8. What can the City do about animal noise complaints?: Excessive animal noise is regulated by California Penal Code Section 373A, Los Angeles County Code Title 10, Section 10.40.010D, and Malibu Municipal Code Section 8.24.050.J. If you have a problem with a neighbor's barking dog, it is recommended that you first speak with your neighbor about the problem. It is possible that the neighbor is not aware of the problem.
If you are unable to resolve the problem with your neighbor, you may submit an Animal Noise Complaint form with Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control at AnimalCare.LAcounty.gov.

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Conserving Water

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1. What are the outdoor watering restrictions?

You may only irrigate two days per week
You may not water outdoor landscapes in a manner that causes excess runoff
You may not irrigate within 48 hours of a rain event
You may only irrigate between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM
Irrigation is prohibited during high winds if over-spray is caused

2. Can I wash my car?: You may wash your car if the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle and if all water runoff is absorbed by landscaping on the property where the vehicle is washed. Car washing cannot cause runoff into or upon any street, drainage ditch, storm drain, flood control channel, or drainage leading to creeks or ocean.

3. What about mobile car washes?: Mobile car wash companies must use a mat or containment system that prevents water runoff and captures water for reclamation and reuse in car washing, or for disposal at a permitted facility that recycles water.

4. Are there any other water conservation rules?

You may not wash down sidewalks or driveways
Fountains or decorative water features must have a recirculating water system
The operation of fountains or other water features are prohibited during high winds if over-spray is caused
Restaurants and other food service establishment may only serve water to customers on request
Hotels and motels must provide guests with the option of choosing not to have towels and linens laundered daily and prominently display notice of this option
Recycled or reclaimed water should be used for grading and construction sites when available. If recycled or reclaimed water is not available, the amount of potable water used must be minimized and may not runoff the site or pond.

5. How do I report someone who is wasting water?: Water waste may be reported at www.malibucity.org/waterwaster or by calling One-Call-to-City-Hall after hours at 310-456-2589, ext. 310. Your identity will be kept confidential when a report is submitted by phone or online.

6. How can I save water indoors or outdoors?: Residents and businesses may conduct an easy self-audit but may also request a free water audit from water retailer Los Angeles County Waterworks District 29 by sending a request for a water audit to wateraudit@dpw.lacounty.gov. There are also easy and practical water saving measures, including using water efficient hardware which is often eligible for rebates. See www.malibucity.org/rebates for more information on rebates.

7. Are there other water conservation rebates available?: There are a number of rebates available including for high efficiency washing machines, weather-based irrigation controllers, rotary sprinkler nozzles, rain barrels, cisterns, and more. For information on rebate and incentive programs visit www.socalwatersmart.com.

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Elections

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1. How do I become a registered voter in Malibu?: Any person who is at least 18 years of age on Election Day, a citizen of the United States, or a naturalized citizen, and a resident of the City of Malibu can register to vote with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk by filling out a Voter Registration Form. If you move, change your name, or wish to change your political party affiliation, you must re-register to vote. You must be registered to vote at least 15 days before an election to be eligible to vote in that election. (NOTE: AB 1436 may allow registration up to and including the date of election if certain requirements are met.) Registration Forms are available at Malibu City Hall, all US Post Offices, or online at
www.lavote.net.

2. What are the eligibility requirements to run for Malibu City Council?: To hold any elective office within the City of Malibu, a person must be a United States citizen, 18 years of age or older, and be a registered voter of the City of Malibu at the time the nomination paper is issued. The City Clerk will not issue a nomination paper if the candidate is not a registered voter. (California Elections Code ["E.C."] §201.)

If an elected official moves his or her place of residence outside of the City limits or ceases to be an elector of the City during his or her term of office, the office of that elected official shall immediately become vacant. (California Government Code ["G.C."] §36502.)

3. Is there a filing fee involved for my candidacy?: No. The governing body has the discretion to establish a filing fee, but the City of Malibu has not done so. The City provides equal opportunity for all candidates to fully participate by not charging a filing fee.

4. Is there a fee for my candidate's statement?: Yes. The fee covers the cost of printing your statement in the Sample Ballot. The total deposit required for your statement is $418. Should the actual cost be less than the deposit, the difference will be refunded. Should the actual cost be more than the deposit, a bill for the difference will be mailed to you.

5. Who can sign my nomination paper?: Any registered voter in the jurisdiction, the City of Malibu, may sign a nomination paper. This includes the candidate and/or the circulator. If the circulator is different than the candidate, the circulator must also be a registered voter of the jurisdiction. Each seat on the governing board is a separate office. A voter may sign the number of nomination papers as there are seats available. A nomination paper must contain at least 20, but not more than 30 nominations. A minimum of 20 must be verified for your nomination to be valid.

6. What if some of the signatures I obtain on my nomination paper are not registered voters or do not live within the City limits?: These signatures will not be counted toward the 20 signatures required for you to run for office. The City Clerk must verify the signatures on all nomination papers, so file your nomination paper early to avoid this problem. If you wait until the last day of the filing period to file and any sponsor signature, for any reason, is insufficient, it will not be counted toward the required signatures and you may not qualify as a candidate. If you file early, there will be time to check the signatures and notify you of any discrepancies, and you will then have an opportunity to circulate and submit a supplemental nomination paper.

7. Who is responsible for conducting Malibu General Municipal Elections?: City of Malibu elections are consolidated with the County of Los Angeles. The City Clerk, as the Local Elections Official, assists candidates in meeting their legal responsibilities before, during, and after an election. From election pre-planning to the certification of official election results from the County, and filing of final campaign disclosure documents, the City Clerk manages the process that forms the foundation of our democratic system of government.

8. Where can I obtain information on elections?: To determine the Vote Center closest to you or to obtain voter information, visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website at:
www.lavote.net.

9. What happens if I change my mind about running for office after filing the nomination paper?: You may withdraw as a candidate at any time prior to the close of the nomination period. After that date, you may not withdraw, and your name will appear on the ballot.

10. May I change or correct the wording or spelling on my candidate's statement after submission?: No. Check your candidate’s statement carefully before submitting it, as it will be printed exactly as submitted.

11. If I submit a voluntary candidate's statement and I change my mind, may I withdraw the statement?: The candidate’s statement may be withdrawn but not changed until 5:00 PM the business day following the close of the nomination period.

12. Can someone deliver my nomination paper to the City Clerk for me?: Yes. Please be sure that all forms are properly completed. If there are any questions on any form or they are not completed properly, your nomination paper may not be accepted.

13. How often does the City Council meet?: The City Council holds its Regular meeting on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. Other adjourned or special meetings are scheduled as City business necessitates. These meetings are open to the public.

14. Is the City Council position paid?: Yes. Pursuant to Malibu City Council Resolution No. 04-48, Councilmembers receive a monthly stipend of $565.68. In addition, Councilmembers are eligible to receive some benefits. A complete list of compensative benefits is available from the Human Resources Department.

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Enviro Health

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1. How do I find a record of my onsite wastewater treatment system (septic system)?: The City of Malibu utilizes OnBase, a specialized software product that allows for the scanning and storage of City documents, as well as easy access to those documents by City staff and the public.

2. How do I report an illicit discharge?: You can report flows into the storm drain system (or onto any public street) online or call 310-456-CITY (456-2489) ext. 310.

3. What is an Operating Permit?: All onsite wastewater treatment systems (septic systems) in the City must have a permit to ensure they comply with building standards and environmental protection. Operating Permits are valid for the following types of systems: Residential (conventional) 5 years; Residential (advanced) 3 years; Commercial & Multi-Family 2 years.

The City shall issue an operating permits when:
1. Prior to a purchase or change in ownership
2. Repair, modification, replacement, and/or upgrade
3. Construction of new onsite wastewater treatment system
4. Failing system

4. Who can I contact regarding an Operating Permit and/or a City notice I received?: Email ESD Staff or call 310-456-2489, ext. 390

5. Who do I contact to inspect my septic system?: Find a City Registered Inspector or other registered practitioners such as Designers, Maintenance providers and Installers.

6. Where do I find a form?: Environmental Health forms and fees are available online.

7. What are the types of onsite wastewater treatment systems (septic systems)?: There are two main types of onsite wastewater treatment systems - conventional and advanced. Conventional systems include a primary tank and distribution of effluent from the tank to the dispersal area. Advanced systems incorporate treatment tanks with devices and disinfection which treats wastewater to a higher degree than conventional systems.

8. When is an upgrade to my onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS or septic system) required?: An upgrade of the OWTS may be required for any alteration, modification, remodel, or repair of any structure on the property that involves the addition of bedroom equivalents or plumbing fixture units which increases the wastewater load to the existing OWTS. In addition, an upgrade may be required for any modification to an existing onsite wastewater treatment system (septic system or an inspection of the OWTS shows that the system is failing, an upgrade may be required to protect the environment, and public health.

9. How do I apply for a new onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS or septic system)?: For any new OWTS in Malibu, a coastal development permit (CDP) from the Planning Department is required. A list of City Registered OWTS Designers is available online.

10. What is the status of my project?

To check the general status of your project, contact Planning staff or Building Safety staff.
To check the status of Environmental Health review, email ESD Staff or call 310-456-2489, ext. 390

11. What is the Prohibition Area?

In 2010, the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board adopted Resolution No. R-4-2009-007, a Basin Plan Amendment to the State Water Code to

“Prohibit On-Site Wastewater Disposal Systems in the Malibu Civic Center Area.” The City's Policy for Environmental Health Review of Development Projects within the Civic Center Prohibition Area includes the boundaries of the prohibition area (Exhibit A).

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Fire Services

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1. Will my gate prevent the Fire Department from getting to me in time?: If you have a gated access to your property, the Fire Code requires that you install an approved key switch or key box.

This box will allow the Fire Department to access your property without delay in the event of an emergency.

To find out whether your gate requires a key box, contact your local fire station. Malibu Fire Stations

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HHW E-Waste

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1. Which haulers have City permits?: View current permitted hauler list valid through June 30.

2. What is household hazardous waste (HHW)?: Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) includes paints, stains, varnishes, solvents, pesticides, antifreeze, transmission fluids, oil filters, cleaning supplies, drain openers, nail polish remover, batteries, pool chemicals, smoke detectors, medications, and other materials or products containing volatile chemicals that can catch fire, react or explode, or that are corrosive or toxic.

3. What materials are considered E-waste?: Electronic waste (E-waste) includes computers, monitors, televisions, cell phones, printers, fax machines and keyboards. Certain components of some electronic products contain materials that render them hazardous, depending on their condition and density.

4. How do I dispose of HHW and E-Waste?

Malibu hosts HHW/E-Waste roundups on a bimonthly basis at City Hall. Free collection events hosted by Calabasas and Agoura Hills are also open to residents.

The schedule of LA County’s larger HHW collection events is available at www.CleanLa.com.

5. What is accepted at Malibu HHW/E-Waste event?

Residents can bring the following items. Remember that transportation laws only allow 15 gallons or 125 pounds of hazardous waste per trip.

Anti-freeze
Automotive and household batteries
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (unbroken)
Electronics
Latex paint
Motor oil and filters

6. What is universal waste?: Universal wastes are common household wastes considered hazardous that should be recycled and properly disposed of, usually items such as batteries, thermostats, and obsolete pesticides. Each Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulb and fluorescent tube contains a small amount of mercury. Dry-cell batteries (alkaline, button cells, rechargeable) contain many potentially hazardous compounds, such as mercury, cadmium, nickel, lead, zinc, silver, manganese, and alkalines. Mercury thermostatsare also subject to special disposal requirements.

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Homelessness

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1. What should I do when I see someone I think may need help?: You can contact the Malibu Outreach Team directly at 310-460-2638 or MalibuOutreach@ThePeopleConcern.org. Be sure to provide as much information as possible regarding the individual and their location. You can provide your contact information or remain anonymous - in either case, an outreach worker will reach out to that individual as quickly as possible to offer any services they may need.

2. What/who is The People Concern?

One of the largest agencies in Los Angeles County providing services to the homeless population, The People Concern, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, works to build self-sufficiency, restore dignity, and help the most vulnerable to become contributing members of the community, enhancing the quality of life for everyone concerned. Their ultimate goal is to transition homeless individuals from living on the street to achieving and maintaining permanent housing.

Since 2016, The People Concern has fielded two, full-time outreach workers in Malibu to engage regularly with the City's homeless population. The workers locate, engage and build relationships with each individual and, once they gain their trust, offer appropriate assistance, including necessary social services, medical care, substance addiction treatment, and more. Throughout the process, they work with the individuals to complete the process of being placed in permanent housing. Through mid-2018, the outreach workers have successfully assisted 30 homeless persons in Malibu to get off the street and into permanent housing with another 18 placed in interim housing.

To leave a message directly for the outreach workers of The People Concern, call 310-460-2638 or email MalibuOutreach@ThePeopleConcern.org. For more information about The People Concern, visit ThePeopleConcern.org.

3. What should I do if I feel a homeless person is a threat to themselves or someone else?: If you have an immediate safety concern about yourself or anyone else, you should immediately call 911 or call the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station directly at 310-456-6652.

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Main

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1. Am I required to get a permit for a party at my home?: Effective April 24, 2008, a Special Event Permit is required in a residential zone for any 'large' event or for any event that has a "commercial component." A large event is any event at which 100 people or more are expected. "Commercial component" includes events where the house is being rented for the event or where there is advertising or fundraising. Special Event Permit Requirements

2. Do I need a business license to do business in Malibu?

The City of Malibu adopted the Los Angeles County Code regarding business licenses. That ordinance lists those businesses that must be licensed. For additional information or for a business license application, contact the County Business License Office at 213-974-2011 or go to the County Treasurer's website.

If you plan to run a business out of your home, you must also comply with the Home Occupation Rules.

3. Is the Malibu Pier open?: The Malibu Pier, owned and operated by California State Parks, celebrated its grand reopening on June 29, 2008. The pier is currently open to the public with services including restaurants, sport fishing boat excursions, private charter boats and pier fishing. California State Parks - Malibu Pier

4. Can I apply for a U.S. passport at City Hall?: Yes. Malibu City Hall is designated by the U.S. Department of State as an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility. Services offered include: processing of new applications or replacement of lost or stolen passports, requests for changes or amendments to a current passport, passport photos and more. For more information, including links to forms, current fees and instructions, go to the City Clerk's Passport Acceptance Office.

5. My neighbor is remodeling, how early may he begin work?: Construction is allowed between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays. On Saturdays, construction is allowed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Construction is not allowed on Sundays and holidays.

To report a violation of these hours, you may contact the Code Enforcement Officer at 310-456-2489, ext. 359. On weekends or after hours, you may also contact the Malibu / Lost Hills Sheriff's Station at 310-456-6652.

6. I am moving to Malibu - who do I call to hook up utilities?: Contact information for the various utilities that service Malibu can be found on the Malibu Utilities information page

7. When and where may I drop off oil and similar items for recycling?

The City hosts a bi-monthly Used Oil and Paint Roundup in February, April, June, August, and October on the third Saturday of the month at Malibu City Hall (23825 Stuart Ranch Rd). Used motor oil, oil filters, anti-freeze, latex paint, and car batteries are accepted.

An E-Waste Collection Event is held in conjunction with the bi-monthly roundup in February, April, June, August, and October. Items such as computer equipment, old cellphones, radios and TVs, household batteries, and compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFL) can all be safely recycled at this event.

Please do not drop these items anytime other than on the designated day and at the designated location. During rainy weather, these events are generally cancelled.

For more information, contact Environmental Programs staff at 310-456-2489, ext. 275.

8. When is City Hall open?

In accordance with Malibu Municipal Code Section 2.04.030, City Hall is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

View the holidays observed by City Hall.

9. Where can I have a wedding in Malibu?: If you want to have a wedding on a public beach (for example, Zuma Beach or Point Dume Beach), you need to obtain a permit from the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors. You can contact Beaches and Harbors at 424-526-7880.

If you want to have a wedding on a private beach or if you rent a private residence for your wedding, you will need the permission of the property owner and a Special Event Permit from the city. Contact the Planning Department at 310-456-2489, ext. 353 if you have further questions.

If you would like to hold your wedding at a city-owned park, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 310-456-2489, ext. 363.

You must have obtain your marriage license prior to the ceremony. Marriage licenses are not issued by the City of Malibu - you must request it from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder / County Clerk. For more information, including an online application, go to the County Clerk's website.

10. Where can I obtain a Marriage License?: Marriage licenses are not issued by the City of Malibu. Contact the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder / County Clerk.

11. Does Malibu Have a Rent Control Law?: Malibu has rent regulations only with respect to mobilehomes. Refer to Chapter 5.16 of the Malibu Municipal Code.

If the property you rent is other than a mobilehome in an established mobilehome park, Malibu does not have any specific rent regulations. Your situation would be governed by the general California law. You may want to contact an attorney for information regarding your rights and responsibilities. Malibu Municipal Code

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New School District

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1. How can the community help the effort to form a locally controlled Malibu Unified School District?: Residents may forward letters to the City describing any interaction, unfilled curricular needs, and experiences as a Malibu resident of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD). An online survey is available to easily submit these testimonials.

2. Will a new Malibu District require increased funding and/or will taxes go up?: No, the new district will be funded on its pro-rata share of property taxes and minimum State aid according to already established formulas.

3. Why did the City of Malibu stop negotiations with SMMUSD?: The Malibu City Council approved the effort to establish a locally controlled school district in 2015. Committees were formed, reports and recommendations submitted, but all were rejected by the SM-MUSD Board of Education. Negotiations between the City and the school district began in 2018. Many financial/revenue proposals were submitted and rejected. The main sticking point was a permanent redistribution of Malibu property taxes to the new Santa Monica School District. After years of negotiations with no agreement, the City decided it would be best to move forward on a petition for school district separation.

4. Will enrollment in the new Malibu Unified School District be too low for it to exist?: With local control, it is expected that enrollment will rise in the newly formed Malibu Unified School District (MUSD). In other California school districts that reorganized, students who were in private schools and/or home schooled enrolled in the newly formed district. It is forecasted that the newly formed district will be a Basic Aid district, or a district that is primarily funded on local property taxes; therefore, it will be less of a burden to the State of California. Because of that, the number of enrolled students will not financially hurt the State/District, making a smaller enrolled student population a non-issue.

5. Will Santa Monica and Malibu vote to decide if there will be a Malibu Unified School District?: Approvals by the Los Angeles County Committee on Reorganization and the California State Board of Education are needed first. In other petitions reviewed throughout the state, traditionally only the affected area was chosen as the voter area. We cannot be sure what the voter area will be until it is decided by the State Board of Education.

6. Once established, will the two new districts have unequal per pupil funding?: Yes, California school districts are funded based upon the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), and no two school districts are the same – many factors go into the formula to determine the funding rate. The great thing is that both new districts will receive funding ABOVE the calculated LCFF amount, making them two of the few school districts in the state to enjoy that level of funding. Once the Districts split, each will have different rates of growth in revenue based upon the assessed valuation growth rate in the property taxes. Malibu and Santa Monica will certainly grow at different rates, thus the differences in the per pupil funding.

7. Should we freeze the unification process at this time due to the pandemic?: The path to unification is a long, winding road. In Los Angeles County, no two petitions are the same. In a best case scenario, it will take several years for the process to conclude, Therefore, it is unlikely that the pandemic will be an issue.

8. What will happen to the current employees in the new Malibu Unified School District?: California law dictates that all employees at the existing school of the newly formed district will have the same employment rights, salaries and seniority as they had in the former District.

9. SM-MUSD has asserted that under Malibu’s proposal per pupil funding in MUSD will be over $75,000 in ten years. Is this true?: No. SM-MUSD’s figures are based on financial projections of Malibu’s future property tax revenue. These projections assume that Malibu’s tax base would triple in the next 10 years. The reality is it hasn’t even doubled in the last 10 years.

10. SM-MUSD has asserted that under Malibu’s proposal Santa Monica programs for English learners, at-risk students and special education will be cut. Is this true?: No. The federal law requires that a school district provide services to vulnerable populations and the federal government provides dedicated funding for them. SM-MUSD will not see any reduction in the amount of funding for these programs on a per-student basis as a result of the proposed separation.

11. Will separating SM-MUSD change where students currently go to school?: No. SM-MUSD already has separate K-12 pathways for students in Santa Monica and Malibu. Students in Santa Monica will continue to go to Santa Monica schools and students in Malibu will continue to go to Malibu schools.

12. What are the funding sources for the SM-MUSD?: SM-MUSD currently receives funding from the State and federal government, property tax, parcel tax, and other local funding sources including sales tax and rents generated from SM-MUSD owned properties. In 2018, the SM-MUSD’s “other funding” sources equaled approximately $50 million, almost 35% of its General Fund Budget.

13. How will school funding be impacted by the proposed separation?

After the proposed separation, the property and parcel tax revenue generated in Malibu would be allocated to MUSD along with applicable state and federal funding. The proposed Santa Monica Unified School District (SMUSD) would receive property and parcel tax funding generated in Santa Monica, State and federal funding, and its other local funding sources: namely sales tax and rents from SM-MUSD properties.

The City estimates that SMUSD’s “other funding” sources generate approximately $50 million per year. This is funding which SMUSD would retain after separation and would largely offset the loss of property tax revenue from Malibu.

14. Will student funding decrease in Santa Monica or Malibu as a result of the proposed separation?: Per pupil funding is expected to increase in SMUSD and MUSD as a result of separation. Although it unlikely to be needed, Malibu has offered to provide a 10-year revenue sharing plan in which MUSD would transfer funding to SMUSD to ensure that per pupil funding in both districts remains at current, pre-separation levels.

15. Will per pupil funding be negatively impacted by the proposed separation?: SM-MUSD is currently ranked 3^rd in per pupil funding in Los Angeles County. The City has proposed a 10-year revenue sharing plan that guarantees that the Santa Monica Unified School District (SMUSD) will remain at lease at its current per pupil funding level. After separation, the City anticipates that MUSD will rank 3^rd and SMUSD will rank 4^th in per pupil funding in Los Angeles County.

16. How much does Malibu pay in property taxes to SM-MUSD?: In 2021, the greater Malibu area is expected to pay almost $38 million in property and parcel taxes which represented approximately a third of SM-MUSD’s total property tax revenue.

17. Will the racial and socio-economic demographics of the schools change under the proposed separation?: No. Attendance boundaries will not change. Students will still be able to attend their current schools if the split is approved.

18. How is school property tax funding formulated?: Property tax allocations for schools and other special districts are set by geographic Tax Rate Areas (TRAs) locally administered by the County of Los Angeles. There are approximately 40 TRAs in the SM-MUSD territory. As part of the separation, the City is proposing that revenue from the TRAs with Santa Monica be used to fund SMUSD and the TRAs in Malibu be used to fund MUSD. You can find out more about your property taxes and TRAs here: auditor.lacounty.gov

19. What are the boundaries of the proposed MUSD?: The proposed boundaries extend beyond the Malibu city limits into the unincorporated areas currently served by the SM-MUSD.

20. Will the proposed MUSD boundaries be limited to the Malibu City limits?: No. The proposed MUSD boundaries include the greater Malibu area, including areas of unincorporated Los Angeles County, that are currently part of SM-MUSD.

21. Why doesn’t Malibu have local control over its schools now?: Currently, SM-MUSD Board Members are elected at-large. Malibu only represents a small fraction of the total voters in the SM-MUSD territory. Malibu voters are outnumbered and there is no guarantee that Malibu will have any representation the SM-MUSD School Board. In fact, there have been times when not one of the seven SM-MUSD Board Members lived in Malibu. Without representation on the school board, the wishes of the Malibu community have not been adequately addressed by the Santa Monica-focused school board.

22. Will the proposed separation allow Malibu families to have local control over their children’s education?: Yes. If a MUSD is formed, Malibu voters will elect Schools Board members.

23. Why are separate communities of Santa Monica and Malibu combined into one school district?: SM-MUSD was formed over 150 years ago to create financial and educational efficiencies at a time when the populations of both areas were relatively small. The district could never be formed under current laws. The state requires school districts to represent contiguous areas. Malibu and Santa Monica aren’t geographically connected. You have to leapfrog parts of the City of Los Angeles, served by LA Unified, to get from Malibu to Santa Monica.

24. How long has Malibu been seeking separation from SM-MUSD?: Malibu families have been seeking separation for decades. Organized separation efforts began as early as the 1970s. In 2010, Malibu residents formed Advocates for Malibu Public Schools. In 2015, the community approached the City to get involved on behalf of its residents.

25. SM-MUSD claims that the proposed separation will cause the reduction or elimination in educational programs, is this true?: Despite the City’s proposed 10-year revenue sharing plan to ensure that per pupil funding remains at the current, pre-separation levels, SM-MUSD has claimed that educational programs will need to be cut. The City does not believe that the separation will result in the need for program cuts, it is more likely that an existing structural budget deficit will drive the need for such cuts. Ironically, many of the programs SM-MUSD allege will be cut aren’t even offered in Malibu now including English as a Second Language programs, summer language academy, project based learning, music and art programs.

26. SM-MUSD is a Basic Aid district, doesn’t that mean that they are wealthy?: SM-MUSD is currently a Basic Aid district, meaning they received property taxes in excess of their state calculated Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), school funding amount. Although they are one of the highest funded school districts in Los Angeles County, on a per pupil basis, in 2020-21, they only collected excess property taxes of approximately $4 million. This equates to about 4% of their total budget. The District’s other funding sources drive their high funding levels.

27. Why is the City of Malibu the petitioner for school district separation?: The Malibu community has desired school district separation for decades. Several citizens groups have attempted to initiate the reorganization process. Due to many complexities related to school district separations, Malibu citizens requested the City to get involved on behalf of its residents. The law allows for all expenditures made by the City related to school district separation to be reimbursed by the future Malibu USD.

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Plastic Bag Ban

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1. When does the Plastic Bag Ban go into effect?: The law is in effect now. The ordinance's effective date is April 27, 2017.

2. What businesses does the ordinance apply to in Malibu?: The ordinance applies to any retail establishment, grocery store, restaurant, pharmacy, vendor or non-profit vendor doing business within city limits.

3. What are the requirements of this ordinance?

No plastic bags may be distributed at the point of sale.
No compostable or biodegradable plastic bags may be distributed at the point of sale.
Businesses must collect a Recycled Paper Bags Cost Pass-Through fee if providing a paper bag to customers.
Businesses must charge a minimum fee of 10 cents per paper bag provided.
Businesses are not permitted to rebate or reimburse any part of the fee to customers.
Businesses may only use funds collected from the Recycled Paper Bags Cost Pass-Through fee for the purposes stated in P.R.C. § 42283.7.

4. Is the City of Malibu Plastic Bag Ban ordinance affected by the State Single-Use Bag Ban (SB270)?: Malibu stores must comply with the requirements of the City of Malibu Plastic Bag Ordinance, as the state law does not preempt or take precedence over city or county ordinances adopted prior to September 1, 2014.

5. How is the City of Malibu Plastic Bag Ban different from the State Single-Use Bag Ban?

The City ordinance does not allow reusable plastic bags to be provided with a 10 cents fee, only recycled paper bags. The State allows for reusable plastic bags and recycle paper bags with a 10 cents fee.
The City ordinance does not allow bioplastic or compostable bags as compliant bags. The State law does.
The City ordinance covers all retail stores. The State law does not.
The City ordinance covers restaurants and eating establishments. The State law does not.
The City ordinance covers vendors (including nonprofit vendors). The State law does not.
Violations within city limits are governed by the City's ordinance and enforced by the City Manager. Keep in mind that Malibu stores must comply with the City ordinance, even where different from the State law.

6. What is the purpose of the ban?: The purpose of the ban is to reduce plastic debris in our creeks and ocean, protect aquatic life, and lessen the economic impact of litter abatement. Plastic bags, bio-based (such as corn or polylactic acid), biodegradable, and compostable plastic bags cause litter and dispersal concerns, and can harm wildlife.

The Recycled Paper Bags Cost Pass-Through fee is intended to provide a disincentive to customers to use single-use paper bags and to promote the shift to reusable bags.

7. Do reusable bags have to be certified?

Yes. All reusable grocery bags must be certified as meeting requirements set out in the statute. The requirements vary based upon the kind of material used to make the bags. A reusable grocery bag must:

Have a handle and be designed for at least 125 uses;
Have a volume capacity of at least 15 liters (about 4 gallons);
Be machine washable or capable of being cleaned and disinfected; and
Have the manufacturer’s name, country, and a statement that the bag is a reusable bag designed for at least 125 uses printed on the bag or on a tag, as well as recycling instructions if the bag is recyclable.

8. Who is responsible for enforcement?: Cities, counties, and the State of California enforce the bag ban. The City is committed to conducting education and outreach to businesses to ensure a smooth transition to safer alternatives. Penalties for non-compliance will be issued as a last resort and may result in fines.

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Polystyrene Ban

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1. When does the Polystyrene Foam Ban go into effect?: The law is in effect now. The ordinance's effective date is January 1, 2017.

2. What businesses does the ordinance apply to in Malibu?: The ordinance applies to anyone who sells or distributes food ware, packing materials, and other specified products.

3. What are the requirements of this ordinance?

The ordinance bans the sale or distribution of the following products made, in whole or in part, from polystyrene foam:

Food ware (including cups, plates, clamshells, and other containers)
Meat and fish trays, and egg cartons
Packing materials* (including “peanuts” and shipping boxes, and when using within Malibu to pack items sold, unless packing materials were donated or are reused and not sent to consumer or end user)
Coolers, ice chests or similar containers*
Pool or beach toys*
Dock floats, mooring buoys, or anchor or navigational markers*

* Unless they are wholly encased within a more durable material

4. What is polystyrene foam?: Polystyrene foam is extruded, blown or expanded polystyrene (EPS). It is a thermoplastic petrochemical material made with styrene. It is usually white and often used for packaging, such as loose fill packaging “peanuts” or blocks, and food ware.

5. What products are acceptable alternatives to polystyrene foam?: Packing materials and disposable food ware sold or distributed in Malibu must be compostable or recyclable. Examples include those made with paper, cardboard, molded or rigid pulp or plastic, or certified compostable starch “peanuts”, loose fill or foam. Examples of products not compostable or recyclable include those made with polyurethane or polyethylene foam, or metallized film or paper.

6. What is the purpose of the ban?

Restricting the use of polystyrene foam and requiring it to be replaced with less hazardous, compostable, or readily recyclable products will further protect the public health and safety of Malibu’s residents, as well as its natural environment, waterways, and wildlife.

Polystyrene foam is one of the most commonly found plastic items on beaches and inland creeks, often breaks down into smaller pieces, making it more challenging to recover, and is easily ingested by wildlife. Polystyrene foam does not biodegrade in the environment and may persist for hundreds of years. It is a pollutant that breaks down into smaller pieces that are often mistaken for fish eggs by seabirds and other marine life. Unlike harder plastics, polystyrene contains a chemical used in the production process called “styrene” that is metabolized after ingestion and contaminates the food chain, including humans who consume contaminated marine wildlife.

7. Isn’t polystyrene foam already banned in Malibu?: Malibu food service providers are already prohibited, under Malibu Municipal Code Chapter 9.24, from using polystyrene foam food containers, and this ordinance extends such prohibition to the sale and distribution of food ware and additional products in the city, where there are acceptable alternatives.

8. How is this ordinance different from the 2005 ordinance?: Since 2005, Malibu has had a ban on polystyrene foam food ware for food prepared and served in the city, which has successfully reduced polystyrene litter. However, remaining polystyrene foam is still having a negative impact on the environment in that it is easily transported by wind and water, does not biodegrade, and is ingested by wildlife. This ordinance expands on the success of the food service ware ban in reducing polystyrene foam use and litter.

9. Who is responsible for enforcement?: The City Manager is responsible for enforcement of the ordinance. The City is committed to conducting education and outreach to businesses to ensure a smooth transition to safer alternatives. Penalties for non-compliance will be issued as a last resort and may result in fines.

10. Are there waivers available?

The City Manager may waive provisions of the ordinance in the following circumstances:

If no reasonably feasible alternative exists for a specific product or product category
If a business demonstrates compliance is unreasonably financially prohibitive
If strict application of the specific application would create undue hardship not generally applicable to other persons in similar circumstances

Requests for waivers must be submitted on a written application on a form approved by the City Manager. In no case shall a waiver be retroactive or continue past January 1, 2020.

11. Is polystyrene foam recyclable in Malibu?: Polystyrene foam packaging and food service ware cannot be recycled through Malibu’s recycling (blue bin) collection program as it can break into small pieces that are too difficult to handle. Polystyrene foam is otherwise difficult, uneconomical or impossible to recycle, especially if food soiled, and is not compostable.

The City supports Sustainable Surf's Waste to Waves Program by hosting several events annually. White block foam is collected and recycled into surfboard blanks. To receive event reminders by email or text, sign up for the Environmental Programs Calendar with the City’s Notify Me system.

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Rebuilding

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1. How do I find existing permits for my destroyed or damaged structures?: To review and approve expedited rebuild applications, staff will need to determine what was legally on the property previously through the review of any available documentation. Records can come from a variety of sources, including but not limited to: previously issued coastal development permits, building permits, approved plans, tax assessor information, and aerial photographs. The City understands that some people may have lost records and plans in the fire. Staff is ready to help guide your research, help you complete any City public records request forms, and work with you on deciphering other types of documentation. A combination of sources may be used for permit research in order to establish building square footage, siting, height, number of bedrooms, and number of plumbing fixtures. For information on public records, visit MalibuCity.org/PermitSearch or access printer-friendly instructions for searching OnBase.

2. What steps toward rebuilding can I take now?

City staff at the Rebuild Help Desk at City Hall is available to discuss your project; or view the rebuilding steps online. Staff recommends taking care of the following:

Confirm if your property is in the City of Malibu limits by visiting http://www.malibucity.org/gis. The Malibu city limits are indicated by a red line on this map. If your property is in unincorporated Los Angeles County, visit the County office at 26600 Agoura Road, Calabasas, CA 91302 during regular counter hours (Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM), call 213- 974-0051, or email CoastalPermits@planning.lacounty.gov.
Contact a design professional to help you assess options and prepare construction plans. Visit MalibuRebuilds.org and select Contractors under the Rebuilding tab for ideas.
Research public records for your property – these will be needed to demonstrate what you are allowed to rebuild. Go to MalibuCity.org/PermitSearch for instructions on how to find permits and plans on file with the City.
Contact a City-registered practitioner to inspect your onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS).
Contact the Los Angeles County Fire Department to confirm rebuild requirements, such as vehicular access and water pressure at 818-880-0341 or visit the County office at 26600 Agoura Road, #110, Calabasas, CA (8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Monday through Thursday, or 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM).

3. How do I request a fee waiver or fee refund for a fire rebuild?: The Malibu City Council adopted a resolution authorizing the waiving of City fees for rebuilding like-for-like or like-for-like plus 10% for rebuilding structures destroyed or damaged in the Woolsey Fire. The fee waiver will be offered for the period of November 8, 2018 through December 30, 2021. The fee waiver only applies to an owner that used the property as a primary residence at the time of the Woolsey Fire. If the property is sold, the new owner is not eligible for the waiving of fees. Learn more about the fee waiver and important deadlines.

4. When is the deadline to apply to rebuild?: Fire rebuild applications must be submitted to the Planning Department by November 8, 2021 (three years from the date of damage or destruction) if the applicant wishes to maintain any previously existing legal non-conformities, such as a house sited within normally required setbacks, etc., and a building permit must be diligently pursued and obtained within five years from the date of damage or destruction. A request for an extension of time to the three-year or five-year periods may be granted by the Planning Commission where it finds, based on substantial evidence, that due to unusual circumstances, strict compliance with the three- or five-year limit creates an undue hardship. Extensions may not total more than six years. Applications submitted more than three years from the date of damage or destruction may still be exempt from having to apply for a CDP; however, they may not maintain any previously existing non-conformities. Learn more about the fee waiver and important deadlines.

5. Am I able to stay on my property while I process an application to rebuild?: A temporary, owner-occupied trailer or mobile home may be placed onsite if permits are obtained with certain conditions of approval. Debris clearance must be completed and a City-registered OWTS practitioner must verify that there is a functioning onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS, also known as a septic system) before permits may be issued. A Temporary Housing Brochure and Application, as well as other information, can be found at MalibuRebuilds.org.

6. If I choose to rebuild or repair my home, what kind of permits will I need?

Projects must have a zoning approval, which is handled by the Planning Department, and a building permit, which is handled by the Building Safety Division of the Environmental Sustainability Department. Zoning rules primarily deal with where a structure can be placed on a site, its square footage, and its height, among other things. The building code specifies how a structure is actually constructed, such as materials and methods. The City has both zoning and building codes, so both approvals are necessary.

Those to rebuild an in-kind replacement of legally-permitted structures lost may submit a Planning Verification (PV) Application. Visit MalibuCity.org/PermitSearch for information on how to research documentation needed to verify previously existing structure(s). As of March 28, 2019, those planning to rebuild legally-permitted structures, in-kind plus 10% height, bulk, or square footage, may also submit a PV application, as long as the new area is built to development standards, below 18 feet, on slopes flatter than 3:1 or 4:1 on Point Dume, and does not encroach into setbacks. Call the Planning Department at 310-456-2489, extension 485, or emailing at mplanning@malibucity.org to set up a pre-submittal appointment. The application form and checklist are available at MalibuCity.org/PV.

If you wish to add more than 10%, or the new area does not conform to the standards listed above, review other options that may be available to you at MalibuRebuilds.org.

7. Do I need a permit to install erosion control devices for storm preparation?: Erosion control devices help control or prevent wind- or water-induced erosion of exposed soil and debris. Normally, review and approval from the Building Safety Division is required before these devices can be installed. This will help ensure they are installed properly and do not cause further damage to the property or a neighboring property. However, if rain is expected in the upcoming 24 to 48 hours, property owners may proceed to put erosion control measures in place without obtaining a permit. For additional information, visit the Storm Preparation page on the MalibuRebuilds.org site.

8. Can I use any remaining structural elements?

OWTS - Onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS), sometimes called septic systems, need to be inspected by a City-registered OWTS practitioner to verify their functionality before they can be used for either a permanent rebuild or a temporary trailer. Most of the components of an OWTS are located below ground and are typically more resistant to fire damage. Damage to an OWTS may have occurred due to high heat, exposure to flames, smoke, ash, and power outages or equipment failure. Heavy firefighting equipment and heat from fires may also damage underground OWTS components, such as fiberglass tanks, piping, and old system components. In addition, fire materials may have contaminated the contents of tanks, and the liquid and waste may need to be pumped out. A City-registered Practitioner must inspect the OWTS for signs of damage and functionality of components and submit an inspection form prior to utilization of the system. View the OWTS Post-Fire Information sheet for additional information about fire-damaged OWTS and a list of practitioners.
FOUNDATIONS - The re-use of other structural elements, such as existing foundations in fire-damaged buildings and structures require a feasibility review by the City's Environmental Sustainability Department. This review only considers the durability and soundness of concrete foundations, including slabs, footings, piles, and retaining walls, based on the testing data described below. Find out more information about foundation feasibility reports by viewing the Foundation Feasibility Report for Fire-Damaged Structures and Foundation Re-Use after the Woolsey Fire.
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES - The re-use of chimneys and fireplaces still standing after the completion of the debris removal process requires the confirmation of structural stability by a structural engineer. Fireplaces and chimneys destroyed or removed may be replaced per the permit process described below however, note that all new fireplaces must be gas-burning, as state law prohibits the construction of new wood-burning fireplaces.

9. What if I have no plans to rebuild?: If you choose not to rebuild your home, you still need to clear the site through the debris removal process. In addition, you may need to stabilize the site from potential mudslides or other types of erosion to prevent further damage to the property or neighboring property. Visit MalibuRebuilds.org for helpful information about Storm Preparation.

10. If I sell my property, is the new owner able to take advantage of the expedited processes and exemptions?: The in-kind rebuild property rights “go with the land” and, in the event of a change of ownership for a property affected by the Woolsey Fire, the new owner is able to take advantage of the expedited processes and CDP exemptions if all deadlines for submitting a rebuild application are met. However, if the owner, at the time of the fire, qualified for a fee waiver, this benefit is non-transferable.

11. What are the property rights if a Woolsey affected property is sold?: The new owner may take advantage of certain benefits before the deadline; see the Transfer of Ownership document for details. However, if the owner, at the time of the fire, qualified for a fee waiver, this benefit is non-transferable.

12. What if I have charred landscaping but no structural damage?

Properties that have charred landscaping but no structural damage are not required to have a HazMat Clearance to remove this type of debris. Charred landscaping on these properties can be placed in green waste bins or removed by a City-permitted hauler.

Before removing any trees or Environmentally-Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHA), residents must get approval from the City Biologist who is available at City Hall on Tuesdays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Native trees (Western Sycamore, Coast Live Oak, California Black Walnut, Toyon and Alder trees) with a trunk size more than six inches measured at a height of 4.5 feet above the ground MAY be removed without a permit if:

The tree was planted for ornamental purposes as part of an approved Coastal Development Permit (CDP) and was not required by the LCP or Coastal Act for mitigation or reservation. To check if a CDP was issued for your house, go to MalibuCity.org/PermitSearch to search existing records for your property.
The tree is threatening health or safety due to risk of falling, where the instability cannot be remedied as determined by a licensed arborist’s report and confirmed by the City Biologist after a site inspection of the tree.
The tree is destroyed or damaged by natural disaster. A damaged tree shall be exempt only if the general health of the tree is so poor that efforts to its long-term health and survival are unlikely to be successful as determined by an arborist’s report and confirmed by the City Biologist after a site inspection of the tree.

13. Am I able to install temporary fencing to secure my property?: Yes, temporary fencing may be installed to secure developed areas of the property, meaning the building pad(s) and any swimming pool or spa. No permit is required for this temporary fencing as long as it meets the parameters established for Post-Fire Temporary Fencing.

14. What are some resources to keep informed?

Visit the Storm Preparation Information webpage for how you can prepare for rain and associated debris flows and mudslides,
Sign up for the City E-notifications to receive alerts (Emergency, Traffic, Utility, etc.) and information notifications (select the Woolsey category for information specific to the recovery and rebuilding) by email and/or text.
Visit LACounty.gov/Recovery for information on mental health services, insurance tips, tax relief, and more.
Monitor www.MalibuRebuilds.org and follow the City on social media: (@CityofMalibu on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) to get the latest updates, forms, and other information about rebuilding and recovery.
Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage. Be sure to ask your provider if you have coverage for any code-related upgrades that may be required, including those related to seismic safety and fire safety. Not all policies provide coverage for reconstructing up to current building codes.

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View Preservation & View Restoration

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1. There are trees that are blocking my view. What can I do?: The City’s View Ordinance was adopted to provide residents and property owners a legal process to resolve these issues. The intention of the View Ordinance is to provide a framework that encourages view owners and foliage owners to work together to resolve issues amicably and civilly. Review the View Restoration process or View Preservation process to see which might be appropriate for your situation. If you have questions after reading these two sections, call the City Planning Hotline at 310-456-2489, extension 485. View Preservation & View Restoration webpage

2. What is the difference between View Preservation and View Restoration?

The easiest way to differentiate between the Preservation process and Restoration process is by what photos are being used as evidence of the view:

- If you have personal photos you want to use to show a foliage owner the view you had in the past and would like to “restore,” then you follow the View Restoration process.
- If you obtained a Primary View Determination from the City to document your view, and this view has been impaired by the growth of trees and foliage, you would “preserve” your documented view through the View Preservation process.

The View Preservation process also allows a party to obtain a View Preservation Permit, which can be enforced pursuant to the penalty provisions of MMC 17.45.080 or pursuant to a private right of action to require compliance with the permit. If, through such an action to enforce the permit, the terms of the permit cannot be reopened, the court will only decide whether there is a violation of the permit.

View Restoration can only be enforced through a private right of action if the parties are unable to reach agreement. In such an action, an advisory opinion from the City can be considered by the court, and should be given deference, but it is not binding on the view issues. View Preservation & View Restoration webpage

3. If I have a Primary View Determination conducted at my property, and the view improves due to tree or foliage removal, can I get a new Primary View Determination?: Yes, the same procedure used to obtain the original Primary View Determination can be used to update the view determination. However, the viewing spot cannot be changed. Primary View Determination webpage

4. Whose responsibility is it to pay for tree trimming, the view owner or the foliage owner?: Unless otherwise agreed to by all parties, or required by an arbitration decision or court order, M.M.C. Section 17.45.130(C) states the view owner is responsible for the cost of restorative action (initial trimming or foliage removal needed to restore a view). The foliage owner is responsible for paying the costs of any subsequent maintenance of foliage.

5. If my neighbor with the trees and I reach an agreement, what do we do next?: If you and your neighbor have come to an agreement over the trimming or removal of trees or foliage, including future maintenance of the foliage, the agreement needs to be put into writing.
Once an agreement has been reached, you (as the view owner/claimant) can apply for a View Preservation Permit from the Planning Director to memorialize the agreement for future use. (See Step 5 under View Preservation)
View Preservation webpage

6. Do I have to follow the View Preservation process before requesting a View Preservation Permit from the City?: Yes, a View Preservation Permit will not be issued unless this process is followed.

7. What happens once the Planning Commission issues a View Preservation Permit for restorative action, and who enforces these permits?: To comply with the City's View Ordinance, the view owner is responsible for the initial trimming of trees and foliage. After the initial trimming, the foliage owner is responsible for ongoing maintenance of the foliage. If the foliage owner fails to comply with the permit, the foliage owner will be subject to the penalty provisions of MMC Section 17.45.080. The view owner may also initiate a civil action to enforce the terms of the permit. MMC Section 17.45.080

8. I'm in a Woolsey Fire area, can I obtain a Primary View Determination?: On September 9, 2019, the City approved Ordinance 450 to protect victims of disasters from having primary view corridors established over their properties that would unfairly limit the size and/or location of future replacement structures or replacement landscaping damaged or destroyed by a disaster. Please review Chapter 17.45.150 of the Municipal Code for expiration of prohibition information and timelines. If you have additional questions after reading that section, call the City Planning Hotline at 310-456-2489, extension 485.

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Water Resources

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1. How is a TMDL developed?: A TMDL is developed by determining the maximum daily load of a pollutant that a waterbody can assimilate and meet Water Quality Standards. This load is then allocated to point source discharges, non-point source discharges, and a margin of safety reserve (to account for technical uncertainties). Following development of a draft, a TMDL is noticed for public comment. After making any appropriate modifications in response to the public comment, the TMDL is sent to the United States Environmental Protection Agency for approval. Once approved, the state is required to implement the TMDL so the waterbody will meet Water Quality Standards. The TMDL is implemented through existing programs, such as NPDES permits for point source discharges and non-point source control programs, to achieve the necessary pollutant reductions.

2. How is it decided which waterbodies need TMDLs?: Each state identifies waterbodies within its boundaries which are not meeting Water Quality
Standards and the reason why (for example, excess nutrients). For example, both Malibu Creek
and the Santa Monica Bay have been named as requiring TMDLs.

3. Who is responsible for meeting these water quality standards?: The quality of our receiving waters has deteriorated due to expanding populations and continued urbanization. We are all responsible and the only way to change course is for us to begin changing our behavior. By implementing best management practices (BMPs) at home and at work, we can each make a difference and preserve our natural habitat for future generations.

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