California Supplemental (CSE) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT required to obtain a Coastal Development Permit?

1. Placement of any solid material or structure

2. Changes in land use density or intensity

3. Maintenance of existing navigation channels

4. Removal of major vegetation

The correct answer is: Maintenance of existing navigation channels

The correct answer highlights a key distinction in the requirements for obtaining a Coastal Development Permit. A Coastal Development Permit is necessary for various activities that could impact the coastal environment, such as placing structures, altering land use, or removing major vegetation. However, the maintenance of existing navigation channels typically does not fall under these requirements. Maintaining existing navigation channels is considered a necessary activity for ensuring safe passage for boats and other vessels and is generally regulated under different authorities, specifically focusing on navigational safety rather than coastal development impacts. This makes it less likely to require a Coastal Development Permit, as its primary purpose serves an existing infrastructure function rather than promoting new development that could impact coastal resources. On the other hand, the other options involve alterations or additions to the coastal environment that could significantly affect the ecosystem, visual aesthetics, or resource availability, making them essential topics for review under the Coastal Act provisions.