The move will address effects related with the construction and operation of seawater desalination plants.
As per the amendment, ocean water must be used as a supplement to traditional water supplies and protect marine life as well as water quality.
Regional water boards will get assistance on permitting desalination facilities with a statewide, uniform and consistent process.
A multi- year process was undertaken to develop the amendment, which provides specific implementation, monitoring, and reporting requirements.
Experts were commissioned to study the best methods of minimizing and mitigating the effects of seawater intakes and brine discharges.
The amendment requires developers to use the best available site, design, technology, and mitigation measures in new or expanded seawater desalination facilities. The water board said it will minimize intake and mortality of all forms of marine life.
Water Board Chair Felicia Marcus said: "Desalination is one of several tools communities can use in appropriate circumstances to gain greater water security.
"This amendment will provide a consistent framework for communities and industry as they consider desalination, while protecting the coastal marine environment."
