Florida Coastal Construction Control Line Limits

F.S. 161.053 directs the Department of Environmental Protection to establish CCCLs along Florida's sandy beaches, defining the area subject to severe storm and erosion impacts. Any construction or excavation seaward of the CCCL, including dwellings, swimming pools, fences, and additions, requires a state DEP permit independent of local building approvals. Permits impose minimum elevation, foundation, and structural design criteria intended to withstand a 100-year storm event, and may restrict structure height, footprint, and dune impacts. Local governments cannot waive CCCL requirements, though they may impose additional setbacks. F.S. 161.052 separately establishes a 50-foot construction setback from the mean high-water line in non-CCCL areas.

Construction without a CCCL permit is a third-degree misdemeanor under F.S. 161.054, with fines up to $10,000 per day per violation, plus restoration orders.