Building in Ventura (Santa Monica, Malibu: how much, home, rated)

[efoda]

Hi, I'm new to the forum and I'm interested in building a home in an unicorporated coastal area of Ventura County. This isn't on the beach, rather quite a ways up in the Santa Monica Mountains, but still considered coastal from a planning perspective.

I'm wondering if anyone has gone through the permit process for a similar build, and could give an idea on permitting timeframes? Even if you haven't, I'd be interested in hearing any rumors as well. I've heard horror stories of residents of Malibu saying it takes a minimum of 2 years and have met more than a few that it has taken up to 5 years just to get to the point of breaking ground. Most I have talked to say it should be faster in Ventura, but I haven't heard any specifics yet as to how much.

I'm not sure about this, but one of the reasons I could imagine it might being faster, is that Ventura has its own Local Coastal Plan approved by the California Commission, so planning doesn't need to go through the state body? Please correct me if I'm wrong on that.

Anyway, would definitely appreciate any feedback on this question, and any comments you have on building in Ventura in general would be well received.

Best, Ed Foda

[HSP1161]

I'd only add that there is a huge difference between "building in Ventura" and "building in unincorporated Ventura County." Rumors or stories about the former will have little relevance to the latter. I doubt you'll be dealing with the City of San Buenaventura, its Planning Commission nor its City Council (as a whole) in your project.

For what it's worth, I've had a very good experience with the folks at the county for a number of other matters. They are very responsive to email, all the way up to the county supervisor & executive director level. But if you're dealing with the Coastal Commission there will be a number of other parties in play.

Good luck!