Volusia County Approved to Continue Coastal Rebuilding Efforts Throughout Remainder of Year

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has again authorized the continuation of permitted construction along the Volusia County coastline during the 2024 sea turtle nesting season, May 1 through Oct. 31. This approval is critical for residents, businesses, and cities within Volusia County still addressing the severe damages caused by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. It enables them to start or continue with permitted repairs to public beach access points and coastal armoring for businesses and residential properties.

"Being authorized to conduct construction along the beach during the nesting season last year demonstrated that we can balance construction activities with the preservation of our marine environment through effective oversight," said Public Information Officer Clayton Jackson. "The storms left a significant mark on our community, but with this permission to continue construction, we're given the necessary means to heal and rebuild while always being mindful of our precious ecosystem."

The authorization also facilitates Volusia County's ongoing projects to repair public beach walkovers and other facilities damaged in the storms. Since Hurricane Nicole, the County has already completed repairs on nearly 80 walkovers, with plans to refurbish or rebuild more throughout the year. All coastal parks have been reopened, except for Edwin W. Peck Sr. Park, which remains under repair, and all vehicle access ramps, except for Boylston Avenue, have been reinstated.

Individuals and entities planning to undertake construction on the beach after April 30 will be required to follow strictly enforced permit conditions similar to those established the previous year to ensure environmental and wildlife protection. These include daily third-party surveys for sea turtle activity at all construction sites, using specific access ramps for construction equipment, adhering to approved construction hours, and obtaining the necessary permits. Following last year's effective model of coastal construction during this period, the County will again oversee contractors' and property owners' adherence to strict environmental requirements, protecting marine ecosystems during ongoing repairs.

Required permits must be obtained from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Volusia County, and, in some cases, city governments to carry out construction along the coast. The County encourages those who need to secure permits or have inquiries to contact the Growth and Resource Management Department at 386-822-5013.