Subject:
Title
Proposed Countywide Ordinance for Dune Protection.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Conduct a public hearing and adopt a proposed countywide ordinance creating Chapter 58 (Environment), Article XVIII (Coastal Protection), Division 1 (Dunes), establishing provisions for the following:
• Protects the integrity of dunes along Pinellas County barrier islands by preventing traversing the dunes outside of certain exemptions and as such,
o May provide additional assurances for property owners to consider signing easements for beach nourishments based on the protection of dune areas.
• Prohibits any activity on a dune that requires a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection under F.S. § 161.053 (Coastal Construction and Excavation).
• Recognizes that dune protection is not a special power under the County Charter so any effective municipal ordinance that conflicts will prevail over this ordinance.
• Provides for fines and civil penalties within existing county environmental compliance programs.
• Includes the statutorily required Business Impact Estimate noting no direct financial impact is associated with this ordinance.
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Strategic Plan:
Ensure Public Health, Safety and Welfare
2.1 Provide planning, coordination, prevention, and protective services to create and enhance a safe, secure, and healthy community
Practice Superior Environmental Stewardship
3.2 Preserve and manage environmental lands, beaches, parks, and historical assets
Deliver First-Class Services to the Public and Our Customers
5.1 Be responsible stewards of the public’s resources
Summary:
Summary
The Ordinance protects the integrity of the dunes along Pinellas County’s barrier islands, including the sediment forming dunes and vegetation such as sea oats and sea grapes, by preventing the traversing the dunes outside of certain exemptions. The Ordinance also makes it unlawful to perform activities regulated by F.S. § 161.053 without a valid state permit when one is required. Finally, this Ordinance will allow for penalties and civil remedies against persons who are violating the Ordinance.
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Background Information:
The County recognize dunes’ value in protecting its coastline from erosion damage caused by storms. The County does not currently have a dune protection ordinance. The new Ordinance will allow the County to protect dunes and dune vegetation from damage caused by human activities. May provide additional assurances for property owners to consider signing easements for nourishments where they can protect dune areas.
Fiscal Impact:
None - Regulatory costs will be coordinated through Public Works Environmental Compliance programs with partner cities. No fees are associated with the ordinance.
Staff Member Responsible:
Kelli Hammer Levy, Director, Public Works
Partners:
N/A
Attachments:
Ordinance
Budget Impact Estimate