New construction · Malibu
Can I tear down and rebuild my house in Malibu?
Tear-down and rebuild is allowed in Malibu on most legally conforming parcels, but the path depends on the parcel's zoning, lot conformance, and any historic / hillside / coastal overlays. Bluff setbacks, ESHA buffers, septic feasibility, and access width often determine buildable area more than zoning FAR.
What changes the answer in Malibu.
Entire city is within the California Coastal Zone; Local Coastal Program governs land use. Hillside, beach-front, and ESHA (Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area) overlays are common. Coastal Development Permits are nearly universal; ESHA, biology, and fire-department review are routine. Planning Commission hearings frequent.
- Bluff setbacks, ESHA buffers, septic feasibility, and access width often determine buildable area more than zoning FAR.
- Coastal Development Permits are nearly universal; ESHA, biology, and fire-department review are routine. Planning Commission hearings frequent.
- Hillside grading + slope stability central to most projects.
- Coastal Zone city-wide; CDP for all development. Sea-level-rise overlay considerations for bluff and beach parcels.
- All of Malibu is in VHFHSZ. Chapter 7A + LA County Fire fuel modification (Zone A/B) required.
Source-backed note
Demolition + new construction are reviewed by City of Malibu Building Safety alongside any required planning / coastal / hillside review.
Local authority: City of Malibu Building Safety
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