During a recent visit to the Gulf Coast, I was struck by the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and powdery sand beaches. It's a truly remarkable place. While enjoying the scenery, my son asked a simple yet thought-provoking question:
Who owns the Florida coastline?
Despite my background in Lake County real estate, I decided to delve into this coastal property matter. Ownership along the Florida coastline involves several parties, including:
1. Private Property Owners: Much of Florida's coastline is in private hands. Beachfront properties are typically privately owned, extending up to the "mean high water line" (MHWL), a key concept in coastal property rights.
(Note - “mean high water line” (MHWL) & “mean high tide line (MHTL) are often used interchangeably)
2. Mean High Water Line (MHWL): This line represents the average height of high tide over an 18.6-year lunar cycle. It's crucial for distinguishing public land from private property. Land seaward of the MHWL is generally considered public and subject to regulations.
Source: www.flseagrant.org
3. Public Access: In Florida, legal provisions grant public access to the beach below the MHWL, even on privately owned land. However, private property owners generally control the land between the MHWL and their property line.
4. Public and Government Ownership: Some sections of Florida's coastline are publicly owned and managed by the state or local governments. These areas include public parks, nature preserves, and government-owned beachfront properties.
5. Federal Ownership: Federal agencies like the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may own and manage coastal areas for conservation or public use.
It's crucial to note that rules and regulations governing property ownership, public access, and coastal management can vary by location. Local ordinances, state laws, and federal regulations influence these factors.
Moreover, coastal property rights and ownership can change over time due to factors like erosion and sea-level rise. Therefore, consulting local authorities and seeking legal advice is essential to understand the specific conditions of a particular area on the Florida coastline.
In practical terms, if you're on the beach, in a residential area with ocean-front homes during high tide, you're likely on private property. However, during low tide, you're more likely within your rights to be there.
Are you interested in selling your Lake County home and moving to the coast? Let's talk!
Eric Wood
eXp Realty
South Lake County, FL
352-617-8583 (call/text)