Commission Grants One‑Year Extension for Coastal Permit After Finding Extraordinary Circumstances

The Malibu Planning Commission voted Dec. 1 to grant a one‑year time extension to Coastal Development Permit 17‑1, moving the permit expiration date to Feb. 16, 2027.

Staff told the commission the applicant requested a one‑year extension in excess of the Local Coastal Program's five‑year aggregate limit, citing extraordinary circumstances summarized in staff materials: delayed department review tied to the Palisades fire, and owner health issues (multiple COVID infections). Staff noted prior extensions had been granted and that the applicant submitted a substantial conformance request and later received approval.

Don Schmitz, representing the Zodd Family Trust, said geotechnical complications (older pad requiring deep caissons), a lengthy review by county geotechnical reviewers, and building‑safety plan check timing prevented construction before the existing permit expiration. A public speaker, Dennis Smith, urged approval on humanitarian grounds.

Commission debate focused on whether the illness and fire delays constituted "extraordinary circumstances" and whether the timing of the illness predated the delay. Vice Chair Mazza voted no, stating that the cited illness occurred in 2022 and did not account for the more recent delays; other commissioners voted yes and the motion carried on roll call.

What happens next: The permit's new expiration date will be Feb. 16, 2027; staff will continue processing building plan‑check documents and applicants must comply with applicable code and grading blackout windows before construction can begin.