Bill > AB452

This bill establishes a process for designating state surfing reserves along California's coastline, recognizing the cultural, historical, and ecological importance of surf zones. By July 1, 2026, the State Coastal Conservancy must create criteria and an application process for local governments to nominate specific coastal areas as state surfing reserves. Applicants must provide details about the proposed reserve, including its geographic location, coastal access, cultural and historical significance, and management priorities. The conservancy will evaluate applications based on factors like wave quality, surf culture, environmental characteristics, and management priorities. If approved, the conservancy will designate the area as a state surfing reserve, publicize its status, and work with local governments to erect identifying signs. The bill connects this initiative to California's 30x30 goal, which aims to conserve 30 percent of the state's lands and coastal waters by 2030, and builds upon California's recognition of surfing as the official state sport. The conservancy can revoke a reserve's designation if it no longer meets the established criteria, and will report approved reserves to the Ocean Protection Council for consideration in the state's conservation efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB452