Miami Beach, FL Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)

Miami Beach adopted Ordinance 2017-4123 establishing Sea Level Rise and Resiliency Review Criteria that require all boards to incorporate climate adaptation into development approvals. The city is designated as an Adaptation Action Area (AAA), requiring land development regulations to address projected sea level rise. Properties seaward of the Florida Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) must obtain a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in addition to local building permits. Construction in FEMA V-Zones along the oceanfront must elevate the lowest horizontal structural member to or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), with the space below remaining free of obstructions. FEMA A-Zones on the bay side require the lowest floor to be at or above BFE. The city requires freeboard above minimum FEMA requirements to account for sea level rise projections. Elevation Certificates using the current FEMA form must be submitted for all properties in flood zones. Dune protection regulations prohibit disturbance of the beach-dune system without DEP approval. All coastal development must consider impacts on sea turtle nesting habitat during nesting season from April 1 through October 31.