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

North Miami borders Biscayne Bay and contains significant coastal development areas regulated through multiple overlapping frameworks. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection establishes Coastal Construction Control Lines (CCCL) that define the area where coastal construction requires FDEP permits in addition to local permits. Development seaward of the CCCL must demonstrate that it will not cause adverse impacts to the beach-dune system, adjacent properties, or marine turtles. North Miami's Comprehensive Plan includes a Coastal Management Element that identifies the Coastal High Hazard Area (CHHA) as the area below the Category 1 hurricane evacuation zone. The city restricts density increases within the CHHA and requires hurricane evacuation planning for new development. FEMA flood zones AE and VE apply to coastal areas, requiring structures to be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation plus any applicable freeboard. Zone VE (velocity zones) along the immediate waterfront impose additional requirements including breakaway wall construction and prohibition of fill below the BFE. Mangrove protection applies under Florida Statute 403.9321-403.9333, prohibiting trimming or alteration of mangroves without an FDEP permit. Sea turtle lighting ordinances require coastal properties to minimize artificial lighting visible from nesting beaches during nesting season (March 1 through October 31).