Guides
Evergreen guides to Laguna Beach: how the city works, what to know.
Updated October 10, 2026
LAGUNA BEACH
Coastal rules in Laguna Beach: where the Coastal Commission ends and the city begins
Since 1993 the city has issued its own coastal permits under a state-certified plan. Here is how the permit chain works, what the Commission can still overrule, and why the 300-foot rule matters.
By Elise Ramsey · October 1, 2026
LAGUNA BEACH
How Laguna Beach City Hall actually works
Five councilmembers, a city manager, four decision-making boards, and a stack of advisory committees: a plain-English map of who decides what in this town.
By Casey Brandt · October 1, 2026