California Code, Fish and Game Code - FGC § 9054

Sea urchins shall not be taken for commercial purposes except under a valid sea urchin diving permit issued to that person that has not been suspended or revoked, subject to regulations adopted by the commission. Rakes, airlifts, or other handheld appliances may be used to take sea urchins. The commission may, whenever necessary to prevent overutilization or to ensure efficient and economic operation of the fishery, limit the number of permits that may be issued. The commission, as it determines appropriate to protect the resource, may limit the number of permits either on a statewide basis or within selected geographical areas.