A homeowners association in Santa Cruz County, California, has escalated a long-running feud over public beach access by erecting a chain-link fence to block a coastal path. The Rio Del Mar Beach Island Homeowners Association installed the fence last month, despite a $4.7 million fine from the California Coastal Commission for obstructing the route.
The dispute dates back to 1980, when storms damaged a retaining wall between the beachfront condos and Seacliff State Beach. The homeowners formed an HOA and received a permit from the Coastal Commission to rebuild, on condition that they allow public access along the path. By 1982, the HOA began blocking access, leading to violations from the commission starting in 2002.
In 2018, county workers tore down a previous fence, which the HOA's lawyers called unconstitutional. Last year, a superior court ruled the path was private, contradicting the commission's stance. The HOA argues the commission cannot overrule a court decision, while the commission insists its permit required public access.
Beaches in California are publicly owned up to the high tide line, but access has historically been restricted in many communities. Supervisor Zach Friend, who represents Rio Del Mar, said the HOA's actions seem aimed at preventing safe public access, despite significant fines and legal efforts.
