Jacksonville, FL Environmental Rules: Sea Wall & Bulkhead (2026)

Waterfront property owners in Jacksonville are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their seawalls, bulkheads, and other shoreline stabilization structures. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulates the construction, repair, and replacement of seawalls under Florida Statute Section 403.813, which provides exemptions from DEP permitting for certain maintenance activities. Exempt activities include repair or replacement of existing seawalls in the same location and of similar materials, provided the work does not expand the footprint seaward. Non-exempt seawall construction requires an Environmental Resource Permit from the DEP or the St. Johns River Water Management District. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also regulates activities in navigable waters and may require a separate permit under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act and/or Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Jacksonville's Property Safety and Maintenance Code (Chapter 518) requires all structures, including seawalls, to be maintained in a safe condition. Failing seawalls that create erosion hazards, undermine adjacent properties, or threaten public infrastructure may be cited. The city's Environmental Quality Division monitors shoreline conditions and can require repairs when public health or safety is threatened.