NOAA

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

All of the local beaches are within the NOAA Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area offshore of California's central coast. MBNMS was established for the purpose of resource protection, research, education and public use. Human uses include commercial fishing and recreational activities like diving, kayaking, boating and surfing. However some activities that could harm the sanctuary's health—such as oil drilling, ocean dumping or seabed mining—are not allowed.

The Marine Sanctuary rules can be found at Marine Sanctuary Rules

Information about enforcement of the Sanctuary rules can be found at:

Enforcement procedures for Sanctuary Violations

The “Report a Violation” link option provides the following instructions:

Sanctuary Violations - In Progress

Sanctuary Violations in progress should be reported to the NOAA Hotline at 1-800-853-1964. Use the reporting guidelines as an aide when providing information by phone.

Sanctuary Violations - Not In Progress

Sanctuary Violations not in progress should be reported to the Sanctuary Law Enforcement Officer at 831-647-4203 or the Sanctuary Regulatory Coordinator at 831-647-4251. Use the reporting guidelines as an aide when providing information by phone.

Last Updated 5/30/16