Welcome to the newport Mooring Association

The Newport Mooring Association is dedicated to Preserving Affordable Harbor Access by advocating for Fair Mooring Rates and Equitable Terms.

UPDATE: 

On February 5, 2025, the California Coastal Commission denied Coastal Development Permit 5-23-0753, which was submitted by the City of Newport Beach to relocate already dense public moorings even closer together, while exempting exclusive yacht club moorings.  The Commissioners based their denial on concerns over public safety and the City's lack of meaningful engagement with affected stakeholders. Additionally, Commissioners raised significant concerns about the preferential treatment of yacht club-controlled moorings compared to public mooring fields within Newport Harbor. 

The NMA appreciates the Coastal Commissioners’ commitment to prioritizing public safety and equitable access in their review and denial of Coastal Development Permit 5-23-0753. We also value the Commissioners’ recognition of the importance of ensuring Newport Harbor remains a resource for all Californians. Looking ahead, the NMA hopes to engage in collaborative decision-making with City leaders to address mooring-related issues, explore solutions that enhance access, and uphold the safe and equitable use of our shared harbor.

Key Issues Facing Mooring Holders - February 2025

• Threat to Low-Cost Mooring Permits: Resolution 2024-47, passed by the Newport Beach City Council on July 9, 2025 but currently on hold, seeks to convert low-cost mooring permits into short-term, high- cost, city-owned licenses, jeopardizing the long-standing system that provides affordable harbor access for permittees. NMA opposes the conversion of low-cost moorings to high-cost City licenses.
• Loss of Transferability: If enacted, the resolution would strip mooring holders of their right to transfer their moorings within four years, significantly devaluing mooring permits and undermining permittee rights.
• Rate Structure Discrepancy Under Review: The State Lands Commission (SLC) is examining Newport's mooring rates, with the SLC Executive Officer noting a stark discrepancy between mooring fees and other harbor rates, emphasizing the need for equitable pricing.