Wastewater Management / Environmental Health

The Environmental Health office reviews project plans to ensure existing onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) can accommodate proposed flows, evaluates projects for newly proposed OWTS, and ensures the proper functioning of OWTS through the Operating Permit program.

City staff is available by phone or email to assist with City business. For general department questions, contact staff at 310-456-2489, extension 390 and via email Mbuilding@malibucity.org.

In-Person Counter Services 

Walk-ins and appointments Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The public counter will be closed on Wednesdays from 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM.

The public will need an appointment for in-person assistance for all other times. Schedule an appointment with the online system or sign in at City Hall to get in the queue.

 Visit MalibuRebuilds.org for information specific to Woolsey Fire rebuilds.

Submitting for Project Review 

The City has developed an online Development Portal to submit projects, view status updates, and manage documents and fees. Applicants and owners can register and create a login for the Portal to access these features. OWTS plan checks are initiated by directly emailing Environmental Health staff. An OWTS plan check checklist will be provided listing all required documents for submittal. 

Operating Permit Submittal

Application forms (inspection report, transfer of ownership, certificate of inspection) and fees for Operating Permits now can be submitted by mail or electronically.

  • Submittal by Mail – Applicant may send the application forms with a check payable to City of Malibu to: City of Malibu, c/o Environmental Health, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA  90265.
  • Electronic Submittal – Applicant may send the application forms by email to mbuilding@malibucity.org. Staff will respond with electronic fee payment information. Or to submit payment in-person, schedule an appointment with the online Appointment Request Portal.

 After processing the Permit application and fees, staff will email the Applicant.

Code Questions 

Malibu's wastewater program includes plan review, permitting, and construction of OWTS in accordance with Malibu Municipal Code (MMC) 15.40, 15.42, Local Agency Management Plan (LAMP), LCP-LIP, OWTS Manual, and California Plumbing Code, and the management of OWTS through the Operating Permit Program in accordance with MMC 15.44 and 5.38.