Coastal Development: Miami Beach vs Miami
How do coastal development rules compare between Miami Beach, FL and Miami, FL?
Miami Beach and Miami have similar restriction levels.
Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami Beach enforces strict coastal development controls through its Sea Level Rise and Resiliency Ordinance (2017-4123), Florida's Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) requirements, and local land development regulations. Properties seaward of the CCCL require DEP permits and elevated construction above base flood elevation.
View full Miami Beach rules →Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
The City of Miami enforces HVHZ building code, the strictest in the US. Impact-resistant windows and reinforced roofing required for all new construction. Sea level rise adaptation policies are in the Comprehensive Plan.
View full Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami Beach | Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Resiliency Ordinance | 2017-4123 | - |
| CCCL | DEP permit required seaward | - |
| FEMA V-Zone | Lowest member at/above BFE | - |
| Freeboard | Above FEMA minimum required | - |
| Turtle Season | April 1 - October 31 | - |
| HVHZ | - | Strictest code in US |
| Impact Windows | - | Required |
| Sea Level | - | Adaptation policies |
| Mangroves | - | State-protected |
| Climate Plan | - | Miami Forever |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami Beach FAQ
What is the Coastal Construction Control Line in Miami Beach?
The CCCL marks the area subject to severe damage from a 100-year storm. Properties seaward of the line must obtain a Florida DEP permit in addition to local building permits. Construction must meet enhanced structural standards for wave action and storm surge.
How does sea level rise affect building permits in Miami Beach?
Ordinance 2017-4123 requires all development review boards to consider sea level rise projections when evaluating permits. The city requires freeboard above minimum FEMA base flood elevations and designates the entire city as an Adaptation Action Area.
Can I build on the beach in Miami Beach?
Construction on the beach or dune system is heavily restricted. You need a Florida DEP Coastal Construction Control Line permit, local building permits, and must demonstrate no adverse impact on sea turtle nesting habitat. Dune disturbance without DEP approval is prohibited.
Miami FAQ
Do I need impact windows in Miami?
Yes. All new construction and major renovations require impact-resistant windows and doors or approved shutters under the HVHZ building code.
What is Miami Forever?
Miami Forever Climate Ready is the city's climate adaptation plan addressing sea level rise, flooding, and extreme heat through infrastructure and policy changes.
Compare other topics
See how Miami Beach and Miami 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