Construction Law

An Introduction to the Coastal Construction Control Line Program featured image

An Introduction to the Coastal Construction Control Line Program

The Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) Program regulates structures and activities along Florida’s iconic coastal areas. The CCCL Program aims to protect Florida’s coastal areas from beach erosion, destabilized dunes, damaged upland properties, and public access interference. The CCCL Program’ expansive mission includes the protection of indigenous flora and fauna, too.

In this article, the Ft. Myers construction lawyers at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants will introduce the CCCL Program and review some of the fundamental operations being used to protect Florida’s coastal areas.

The CCCL Balancing Act

Florida is best known for its pristine, white sand beaches. Some of the most stunning real estate in the U.S. is situated along Florida’s scenic coastal areas. The CCCL Program aims to strike a balance between development and preservation by focusing on the protection of Florida’s beaches and dunes while facilitating the fair-minded use of private property.

The Florida legislature launched the CCCL Program as an acknowledgment of the value of Florida’s beaches, which would undoubtedly require protection from improperly sited and designed structures. To protect Florida’s coastal regions from destabilization and destruction, the CCCL program established a zone of jurisdiction in which “special siting and design criteria” are utilized for construction and development.

The Future of Florida’s Beaches and Wildlife

Florida’s delicate coastal ecosystem is easily disrupted by human interference. Once destabilization occurs, Florida’s important coastal resources are lost. Although Florida’s beaches act as habitats for countless animal species, they are also important for human recreation and upland property protection.

One important responsibility of the CCCL Program is the preservation of the dwindling population of sea turtles that use Florida’s coastline as a breeding ground. Sea turtles have existed for 110 million years, but habitat encroachment from coastal construction and pollution have created unfit living conditions that challenge their future. The Division of Habitat and Species Conservation Imperiled Species Management Section (ISM) reviews permits for coastal construction that pose a threat to sea turtles.

Beaches and Coastal Systems Rules & Statutes

The CCCL Program utilizes an amalgamation of rules and statutes from various sections of Florida’s environmental protection legislation to establish guidelines for coastal development and preservation. Some of the most important statutes that deal strictly with beaches and coastal systems are outlined below:

  • 62B-26: Describes the location of the CCCLs in the coastal counties of Florida.
  • 62B-33: Rules and procedures to obtain permits for construction seaward of the CCCL.
  • 62B-36: Outlines a series of guidelines for a far-reaching, statewide beach management strategy aimed at protecting Florida’s “critically eroded shoreline.”
  • 62B-41: Outlines the process for obtaining a coastal construction permit.

If you would like to speak with Ft. Myers construction attorneys, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.