Coastal Development: Biloxi vs Gulfport
How do coastal development rules compare between Biloxi, MS and Gulfport, MS?
Biloxi and Gulfport have similar restriction levels.
Biloxi, MS
Harrison County
Harrison County enforces strict coastal development rules under MS Coastal Wetlands Protection Act §49-27. Mississippi DMR permits required for any work waterward of mean high water. Katrina rebuilding codes set elevated construction standards Gulf-wide.
View full Biloxi rules →Gulfport, MS
Harrison County
Harrison County enforces strict coastal development rules under MS Coastal Wetlands Protection Act §49-27. Mississippi DMR permits required for any work waterward of mean high water. Katrina rebuilding codes set elevated construction standards Gulf-wide.
View full Gulfport rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Biloxi | Gulfport |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | MS DMR + USACE | MS DMR + USACE |
| State Law | MS §49-27 | MS §49-27 |
| Elevation | ABFE required post-Katrina | ABFE required post-Katrina |
| Public Access | State trust doctrine | State trust doctrine |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Biloxi FAQ
Can I build a pier or dock on my Harrison County waterfront property?
You need a DMR Tidelands permit and likely a USACE §404 permit. Both have public notice periods and habitat review requirements.
Who enforces coastal development rules in Harrison County?
Harrison County's code enforcement division is responsible for environmental ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Harrison County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
Gulfport FAQ
Can I build a pier or dock on my Harrison County waterfront property?
You need a DMR Tidelands permit and likely a USACE §404 permit. Both have public notice periods and habitat review requirements.
Who enforces coastal development rules in Harrison County?
Harrison County's code enforcement division is responsible for environmental ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Harrison County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
Compare other topics
See how Biloxi and Gulfport compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool