What it says:

The Isla Vista Bluff Policy, updated in August 2024, is designed to address the risks associated with coastal erosion in Isla Vista. The policy specifically focuses on protecting public safety and ensuring property owners take responsibility for managing the impact of bluff erosion on their structures, introducing biannual mandated measurements of properties and more strict enforcement of this policy.

Key Provisions Include:

1. Assessment Requirements:
   • If a structure’s foundation is located within 20 feet of the bluff edge, property owners are required to hire a California licensed surveyor or civil engineer to evaluate the structural integrity and safety of the building twice per year. These studies aim to more frequently and precisely monitor the ongoing erosion of the bluffs and determine the likelihood of their collapse at specific locations. The measurements must be submitted to the Santa Barbara County Building Safety Division every April and October.
2. Mandatory Action:
   • Buildings with foundations within 10 feet of the bluff are at greater risk. In these cases, the County has the authority to issue a Notice to Vacate to ensure public safety, especially if the structure is deemed hazardous due to potential bluff failure.

This initiative is specific to Isla Vista’s building safety concerns and is part of a rental inspection pilot program that is scheduled to begin next summer. The policy also outlines action options for owners whose properties are determined to be within 20 feet of the bluff face and the requirements for the geotechnical reports.

Residents who notice substantial changes in bluff stability are advised to report these concerns to property owners and the county building inspector. Information for contacting these officials is available on the Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD) website.

What this means for Isla Vista Residents:

1. Improved Bluff Safety:
   • Twice-Yearly Measurements
     • If you’re renting a property within 20 feet of the bluffs, you might see surveyors or engineers inspecting the property twice a year. This ensures that erosion risks are closely monitored, providing an extra layer of safety for tenants. If the surveys detect significant erosion, early action can be taken to prevent accidents.
   • Accurate Bluff Data
     • Regular data submissions to the county provide a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of erosion patterns, enabling more effective safety and planning measures.
2. Enhanced Accountability for Property Owners:
   • If you live in a building near the bluffs and notice cracks forming in the foundation, this policy requires your landlord to address the issue. Landlords who ignore these signs could face stricter enforcement, ensuring they take action to maintain tenant safety.
   • If a property is deemed unsafe (e.g., its foundation is within 10 feet of the bluff), the county can issue a Notice to Vacate to protect tenants. While inconvenient, this prevents dangerous situations where the building could collapse.
3. Involvement in Reporting:
   • Residents are encouraged to promptly report noticeable changes in bluff stability. This emphasizes community involvement in maintaining safety and responding to potential hazards.
   • You can check bluff safety updates and compliance statuses online through the Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD) website. This makes it easier to stay informed about the safety of your rental property. Additionally, free resources like the IV Tenants Union (IVTU) and the Legal Resource Clinic (LRC) are available if you need help navigating the policy or addressing landlord negligence.

This policy reflects the County’s commitment to managing erosion while addressing the unique challenges posed by living near rapidly changing coastal landscapes.