Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do coastal development rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Clearwater and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Coastal development in Clearwater is shaped by Florida's CCCL program plus Community Development Code Article 3 Division 13 outdoor lighting standards that protect nesting sea turtles on Clearwater Beach and Sand Key.
View full Clearwater rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs adopted Ordinance 2022-24 amending Land Development Code Article IX, Section 149.01, requiring elevated construction standards in the Coastal High Hazard Area, including 3 feet above FEMA BFE or the 500-year elevation, whichever is higher.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | CDC Article 3 Division 13 | - |
| Companion rules | CDC Chapter 51 flood | - |
| State layer | FDEP CCCL Chapter 62B-33 | - |
| Lighting | Shielded, sea-turtle compliant | - |
| Coverage | Clearwater Beach, Sand Key | - |
| Code section | - | LDC Article IX § 149.01 |
| Multi-family CHHA | - | BFE+3 ft or 500-yr |
| Single-family AE-11 | - | 12 ft minimum |
| Multi-family AE-11 | - | 14 ft minimum |
| Floodproofing | - | Not allowed for dwellings |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Do I need a state permit to build seaward of the CCCL on Clearwater Beach?
Yes. Construction seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line requires an FDEP permit under Chapter 62B-33 in addition to Clearwater building, flood, and zoning approvals.
What lighting rules apply to my Sand Key condo during turtle season?
Article 3 Division 13 of the Community Development Code requires shielded, long-wavelength fixtures and management of beach-visible windows during the May through October sea turtle nesting season.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
How high must a new Tarpon Springs home be elevated in the CHHA?
Single-family detached homes in AE-11 must reach 12 feet, AE-12 must reach 13 feet, and multi-family residential must meet BFE plus 3 feet or the 500-year elevation, whichever is higher.
Can I floodproof instead of elevating my Tarpon Springs home?
No. Dry or wet floodproofing is not permitted for residential dwellings under § 149.01. Residential structures in the CHHA must be elevated to the required levels.
Compare other topics
See how Clearwater and Tarpon Springs 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