40th Environmental Permitting Summer School

This panel of experts will discuss the results of an active 2026 legislative session, the latest with the Live Local Act and how local governments are responding, as well as the latest Florida planning trends. The panel will also discuss the direction of land use in the state, including discussion of state preemption. This course is updated every year to discuss new and anticipated legislation, emerging issues and problems, and examples of local government innovation. Bring your questions, as audience participation and debate is highly encouraged!

Beaches are a valuable resource in Florida, as they provide storm protection to upland infrastructure, nesting habitat to sea turtles, and recreational value to tourists and locals. Since coastal development and navigation inlets have interrupted the natural littoral drift of sediment along much of Florida’s coastline, it is necessary to nourish these sandy beaches on a recurring basis. Additional development within this dynamic and sensitive coastal beach environment requires a special permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This course examines the regulatory framework and practical aspects of Florida’s beach management and Coastal Construction Control Line programs and covers current agency procedures and practices; emerging agency policy; and special permitting considerations for storm impact planning and emergency response, including appropriate use of coastal armoring structures. Always a timely and informative course.