§ 50-348. Access standards.

(a)

Beach and dune walkovers may be constructed for the purpose of maintaining or enhancing pedestrian access to the beach and to minimize habitat impact where there is currently no walkover. A valid permit is required prior to the start of construction of beach and dune walkovers from the appropriate state and local agencies.

(b)

Walkovers are required at all new public access points and adjacent to all new multifamily dwelling structures, hotel/motel complexes and other commercial establishments which allow ingress and egress to the beach, and lack access to existing walkover structures or ramps.

(c)

All applicable permits from other regulatory agencies, such as the state department of environmental protection, shall be received before issuance of a county or local government building permit for the walkover.

(d)

Walkovers shall be constructed in a manner that minimizes short-term disturbances to the dune system and existing vegetation. The walkover shall be posted with signs containing information including the laws concerning the prohibition of disturbing sea turtle nests, dates indicating sea turtle nesting season (May 1—October 31), applicable lighting regulations effective during the nesting season and prohibitions against disturbing state protected vegetation and dunes.

(e)

Replacement of any vegetation destroyed during construction of the walkover with similar plants suitable for beach/dune stabilization is required. Replanting must be accomplished with native coastal vegetation suitable for beach and dune stabilization in accordance with the list of acceptable plants referenced in section 50-347(c)(2) of this division.

(f)

Walkovers constructed over vegetated dunes or over vegetated beach berms shall be elevated above the vegetation and dune system.

(g)

All walkovers shall be designed to protect the conservation zone, natural areas, and beach habitat from construction impacts and long-term pedestrian impacts.

(h)

All new or replaced walkovers shall be constructed in accordance with the state department of environmental protection regulations, which mandates the preservation and restoration of the associated dune system.

(Ord. No. 88-15, § 902, 5-19-88; Ord. No. 91-42, § II, 12-5-91; Ord. No. 01-03, § 1, 1-18-01; Ord. No. 2004-17, § II, 10-21-04)