Coastal Zone Management — Definition

Definition

Coastal zone management is the coordinated planning and regulation of land, water, ecosystems, hazards and human activities at the land–sea interface. It exists because tides, sediment, drainage, habitats and livelihoods connect places beyond a single project boundary.

A road or protective structure can affect neighbouring shorelines and communities as well as its intended site. Coastal regulation provides legal categories and activity controls, while wider management includes restoration, risk reduction, consultation and monitoring.

A mapped category or a general distance rule is therefore not a complete project assessment. The applicable notification, approved plan, site evidence and competent permissions must be examined together.