CSAC Advocacy Secures Statewide Permitting Relief Ahead of El Niño
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California counties can now move faster to prepare for potentially catastrophic flooding this winter.
Following weeks of sustained advocacy by a CSAC-led coalition of local governments and associations, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-14-26 on October 27, temporarily suspending major environmental permitting requirements for qualifying flood preparation, mitigation, and groundwater recharge projects statewide.
The executive order removes significant regulatory barriers that could delay critical public safety work. Temporary exemptions include:
- California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
- California Endangered Species Act
- Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements
- California Coastal Act
- Native Plant Protection and Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act
- Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act
- Additional Fish and Game Code provisions protecting wildlife
It also waives certain local planning requirements for floodwater diversion and groundwater recharge, expedites qualifying Central Valley Flood Protection Board permits, and eliminates associated fees.
Counties should act quickly to take advantage of this relief. The exemptions are scheduled to expire January 31, 2027, unless extended. Projects must meet specific eligibility requirements and comply with state reporting obligations.
While it does not include additional Water Code permit exemptions requested by the coalition, the executive order represents a significant step toward removing regulatory obstacles before disaster strikes.
For weeks, CSAC and its coalition partners pressed the Administration to act before severe storms threaten California communities. The executive order responds to that call with statewide regulatory relief.
CSAC will continue working with the Governor’s Office and state agencies to maximize implementation, address remaining permitting barriers, and ensure counties can move quickly to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.