BOEM Launches Public Consultation on Offshore Drilling in California for 2027
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is soliciting comments from industry and the public on two potential oil and gas lease areas off the California coast. The first sales could take place as early as 2027.
| Countries | États-Unis |
|---|---|
| Companies | Bureau of Ocean Energy Management |
| Sector | Pétrole |
| Theme | Régulation & Gouvernance |
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), the federal agency responsible for energy resources on the continental shelf, has issued two Calls for Information and Nominations concerning offshore areas in Southern California and Central California. This initiative is part of the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Program under the Trump administration. The documents were registered in the Federal Register on January 27, 2026, opening a 30-day comment period.
Two California Areas Targeted
The calls cover areas identified in the Draft Proposed Program 2026-2031 announced on November 20, 2025 by the Department of the Interior. According to the indicative timeline communicated by the agency, the first lease sales are tentatively scheduled for 2027, for both the southern and central areas. BOEM is seeking information on environmental conditions, socioeconomic considerations, and other relevant factors from the public, tribal governments, and stakeholders.
Matt Giacona, BOEM Acting Director, stated that these calls constitute a first step toward analyzing areas with resource potential on the continental shelf. The agency highlights the goals of American energy security and job creation, while affirming its commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.
A Process Without Firm Commitment
BOEM specifies that issuing these calls does not constitute a decision to hold a lease sale. Areas could be removed from future consideration. Final determinations regarding leasing will be made later, in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and departmental procedures. The information gathered will help BOEM and the Secretary of the Interior decide whether to continue the pre-sale steps.
Comments can be submitted electronically through Regulations.gov using the docket numbers listed in the Federal Register Notices. This consultation takes place in a context where offshore oil drilling in California remains a subject of debate between proponents of domestic energy development and advocates for California coastline protection.
