Geophysical Permit Program
NOTICE TO PERMITTEES
The California State Lands Commission would like to remind all those currently holding or in the process of acquiring an Offshore Geophysical Permit of some of the more significant aspects of the Commission’s geophysical permit program:
- Public Resources Code 6826 gives the Commission authority to require permits to conduct general geophysical surveys.
- Permits are required for all geophysical surveys conducted by individuals, private companies, and government agencies in State waters from the mean high tide line to three (3) miles offshore.
- All ocean floor surface mapping (including bathymetric surveys using multibeam sonar equipment), and subsurface mapping and testing are activities that are covered by the permit.
- The Commission requires compliance with all provisions of the permit, including, but not limited to provisions relating to notice of this agency at least 15 days in advance of any survey activity and the requirement that a NOAA-approved Marine Wildlife Monitor be present during all survey operations (including transit to and from port).
- Night surveys must be reported to the Commission at least 14 calendar days in advance. Notification shall include those measures that will be implemented to ensure avoidance of impacts to marine mammals and reptiles.
Please address your comments and questions regarding permit requirements to our Statewide Geophysical Coordinator at greenwr@slc.ca.gov., or by mail to: Richard Greenwood, California State Lands Commission, 12th Floor, 200 Oceangate, Long Beach, CA 90802.