The California Coastal Commission has imposed a record $18 million fine on oil company Sable Offshore Corp. for failing to stop work on a corroded pipeline in Santa Barbara County that caused a major oil spill in 2015. The spill resulted in environmental damage, closed fisheries, and harmed marine life and coastal habitats. The company had purchased the pipeline from Exxon Mobil and is seeking to restart the Santa Ynez offshore oil operation, despite multiple cease-and-desist orders from the Coastal Commission.
The commission emphasized that Sable’s work posed risks to the environment and violated coastal laws by undertaking major construction without the required permits. The company argued that it had the right to proceed under old permits issued by Santa Barbara County. The dispute has raised concerns about the county permit’s validity and whether Sable has the financial capacity to handle an oil spill.
The decision to fine Sable follows a public hearing where many urged the commission to penalize the company and halt its work. Environmental groups have called for a full environmental review of the pipeline, while local advocates and organizations are opposing the project. The Coastal Commission’s action against Sable represents a significant step in holding the company accountable for its actions and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations along the California coast.
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