Disregard for coastal dynamics not only may result in major property damage, it also endangers lives and has serious environmental consequences.

To lessen the risk of construction in the coastal zone, the state of Florida limits where new coastal construction may take place, taking into account both public safety and environmental protection.

Coastal construction control lines are established to preserve beaches and dunes and to protect adjacent coastal property. No construction is allowed seaward of these lines except by special permit.

The coastal building zone is the area from the seasonal high water mark to a line 1,500 feet landward of the coastal construction control line for sandy beaches. On Florida’s barrier islands, the coastal building zone extends landward 5,000 feet or the entire island, whichever is less. In some areas the coastal building zone may extend farther inland due to local conditions.

Construction in the coastal building zone is subject to more stringent requirements than structures built farther inland. Structures must conform to minimum state building codes, national flood insurance regulations and local ordinances.

The coastal zone will vary depending on local conditions

There are several restrictions in Florida to protect the immediate shore-line. Any construction that requires altering or removing dunes - including constructing walkways - requires a special permit.

The owners of this home may one day pay an unexpected price for their view.

Further, it is against Florida law to remove sea oats and grasses from the dunes. Coastal property may also be affected by the right of the public to have access to the beach, or by special sea turtle protection plans.

In certain areas on barrier islands, the federal Coastal Barrier Resources Act prohibits the use of federal funds for new structures, erosion control projects, roads, bridges, or sewer systems. This means that federal flood insurance coverage is not available for structures in the designated areas.