Pacific Ocean AquaFarms filed a permit application to build an offshore yellowtail farm in the coast of San Diego, California. The company proposes the construction and operation of a new commercial-scale, offshore farm at approximately 7.4 kilometers off the coast of San Diego. An area of approximately 4 square kilometers is sited as suitable for potential use.

Initial production is projected to yield 1,000 metric tons annually growing up to 5,000 metric tons after environmental monitoring confirms that each successive scale of expansion has not resulted in any substantial environmental or space-use impacts. California yellowtail (Seriola dorsalis) would be the initial cultivated species, as it is native to California waters. Other local species, such as white seabass (Atractoscion nobilis), may be grown in addition or in lieu of California yellowtail when the project has become operational under federal and state permit requirements.

NOAA presented the project for public review and comment. Furthermore, the facility will require two permits, from the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The application follows the U.S. executive order to promote American seafood competitiveness and economic growth.