DeSantis Signs Landmark Bill to Restore Local Beach Access in Florida

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, USA - On June 25, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis made waves in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, by signing Senate Bill 1622, a significant piece of legislation aimed at restoring and protecting public beach access across the state. This new law not only reaffirms local authority over customary recreational use but also streamlines beach restoration efforts, notably benefiting small Gulf Coast counties.

The legislation reinstates the ability of counties and cities to adopt ordinances for recreational activities such as walking, fishing, and swimming on beaches without the burdensome requirement of costly judicial declarations. Governor DeSantis highlighted the economic value of Florida’s beaches during the signing event, emphasizing their contribution of over $50 billion annually to tourism and support for over 900,000 jobs. Furthermore, he noted that since 2019, over $550 million has been put into beach renourishment efforts, showcasing the state’s commitment to its coastal regions.

The Importance of Beach Access

The bill is particularly significant in light of a controversial 2018 law, which had limited public beach access in certain areas, creating complications for local governments trying to uphold the state’s beach access traditions. As outlined by WGCU, the complaints from residents in Walton County, where waterfront property owners restricted access to these public spaces, ultimately led to the swift passage of this new legislation.

SB 1622 now grants local authorities greater control, allowing the adoption of regulations that facilitate public access to the dry sand areas above the mean high water line—often deemed private property but crucial for public enjoyment. The Florida Constitution guarantees access to beach areas below this line, making this law a vital tool for preserving the cherished coastal culture of the state.

Local community members, such as Judy Smith from Treasure Island, expressed optimism over the law’s implications for beach recovery and tourism growth. Hotel manager Valerie Drygal echoed these sentiments, underscoring the necessity for public beach access and improved conditions following storm damage, which has been a recurring challenge in the region.

Streamlining Restoration Efforts

One of the standout features of this bill is its provision to streamline the beach restoration process, particularly for smaller Gulf Coast counties with populations under 275,000 and multiple municipalities. By using the mean high-water line as the erosion control line, the bill cuts down on duplicative procedures that had previously delayed vital restoration efforts. Not only does this empower local governments, but it also positions Florida to respond more effectively to storm damage which has plagued the coastline, further safeguarding the economic and environmental health of these areas.

The laws surrounding beach access and property rights can often lead to complex situations. In Pinellas County, for instance, the repeal of the previous statute surrounding customary use is expected to allow local governments more flexibility in regulating public recreational use near private homes, providing a much-needed balance between personal property rights and public enjoyment.

Overall, SB 1622 is a refreshing step forward in protecting Florida’s beaches and facilitating necessary restoration efforts after storms. As the state continues to confront the challenges posed by natural disasters, this legislation is poised to play a pivotal role in preserving the state’s beaches as a valuable resource for both local communities and tourists alike.

For more details regarding this legislation, you can find the full report from the Alachua Chronicle, explore further insights from WGCU, and discover potential impacts on beach access in ABC Action News.