Hollywood's Environmental Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles environmental rules a little differently. In Hollywood, Florida, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Coastal Development

Hollywood FL has a barrier island (Hollywood Beach) subject to coastal construction standards. Properties in FEMA V-Zones and coastal high-hazard areas must meet elevation requirements. If damage or improvements exceed 50% of market value, full compliance with current standards is required. The Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan addresses sea-level rise.

Key details: Barrier Island: Hollywood Beach. V-Zone: Elevated construction required. 50% Rule: Full compliance if improvements >50% value. Stormwater Plan: $2 billion master plan. Sea-Level Rise: Active adaptation planning.

Construction in coastal zones without proper permits and elevation compliance is a serious violation. Non-compliant structures may require elevation or removal.

Compared to other cities, Hollywood takes a harder line on coastal development. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Grading & Drainage

Hollywood FL requires permits for grading changes and drainage modifications. The city's aging stormwater system is being upgraded through a $2 billion master plan. Grading must not direct water onto neighboring properties. All development must meet peak runoff control standards.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes — for grading/drainage changes. Stormwater Plan: $2 billion master plan underway. Water Direction: Must not flow onto neighbors. Peak Runoff: Control standards required. Infrastructure: Aging system being upgraded.

Grading without permits is a code violation. Redirecting water onto neighbors may result in enforcement action and mandatory corrective work.

Stormwater Management

Hollywood FL's stormwater system manages rainwater runoff across the city including the barrier island. The Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan involves approximately $2 billion in improvements. New development must meet peak runoff control standards. The system includes drainage trenches, canals, lakes, and other water bodies.

Key details: Master Plan: ~$2 billion in improvements. System Components: Trenches, canals, lakes. Development Standard: Peak runoff control required. Coverage: Mainland + barrier island. Funding: Stormwater utility fees.

Unauthorized modifications to the drainage system are violations. Failure to meet stormwater management requirements results in permit denial.

Flood Zones

Hollywood participates in NFIP and the CRS (Community Rating System), earning insurance discounts for residents. Broward County FEMA FIRMs updated — most recent effective July 31, 2024. Hollywood's coastal location creates significant flood and storm surge risk. FL Building Code and HVHZ standards apply to all development.

Key details: NFIP: Hollywood participates; flood insurance required for SFHA properties. CRS: Hollywood participates — residents may receive premium discounts. FEMA FIRM: Broward County: effective July 31, 2024. HVHZ: Broward County — 170 mph wind design for all structures. FEMA Maps: msc.fema.gov.

Building without meeting BFE requirements: building code violation. Substantial improvement thresholds trigger compliance. Enforced by Hollywood Building Division.

Compared to other cities, Hollywood takes a harder line on flood zones. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Erosion Control

Hollywood FL requires erosion and sedimentation control for all construction projects. Best management practices including silt fencing are required. The city's stormwater system management addresses erosion from heavy rains and tidal flooding. Beach renourishment programs manage coastal erosion.

Key details: BMPs Required: Silt fencing, sediment traps, etc.. Beach Erosion: Managed through renourishment. Waterway Construction: Additional protections apply. Review: During building permit process. Stormwater Plan: Comprehensive citywide plan.

Failure to implement erosion control results in stop-work orders. Sediment discharge into waterways triggers additional environmental penalties.

The Bottom Line

Hollywood is tougher than many cities when it comes to environmental rules. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Hollywood, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Hollywood can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.