ENCINITAS, CA — San Diego officials confirmed Monday they are closely monitoring a dead whale floating off the coast of San Elijo State Beach to determine whether the animal has secured the proper permits to be in the ocean.
According to several agencies standing near clipboards, the whale appeared to be occupying coastal waters without displaying a visible ocean-use placard, temporary marine presence sticker, or laminated proof that it had paid the required coastal impact fee. Any large species that attracts a large crowd of sharks and other sea life requires a permit according to San Diego County officials.
“We’re not saying the whale is in violation,” one official said while staring at the Pacific like it was a zoning map. “We’re simply saying that anytime something large, unexpected, and extremely inconvenient appears near Encinitas, there is a process.”
City staff said next steps may include a marine assessment, environmental review, neighborhood feedback session, and three follow-up meetings to decide who should schedule the first meeting. Officials also reminded residents that patience is essential during any situation involving tides, paperwork, or Encinitas people seeing something unusual.
At press time, the whale remained offshore, making it one of the few things in San Diego currently occupying coastal space without paying $4,200 a month.
