Image courtesy of Eli Freidus Photography
PROTECTING OUR COASTAL DUNES: VOLUSIA COUNTY
The sand dunes along the coastline of Volusia County are more than just beautiful—they are crucial protectors of our homes and ecosystems. These natural barriers guard against storms, prevent erosion, and provide a habitat for unique wildlife. Safeguarding these dunes takes a unified community effort and understanding of Volusia County's specific needs.
COMMON GOALS AND CHALLENGES
Volusia County is commited to preserving the dunes through:
CONSERVATION INITIATIVES: The County works tirelessly to maintain healthy dunes, which act as natural buffers against storms and rising tides.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION: Residents and visitors are encouraged to respect dune areas, avoid walking on them, and use designated beach access points.
RESTORATION PROJECTS: Ongoing projects in Volusia County focus on repairing storm damage and reinforcing dune stability to prepare for future weather events.
UNIQUE ASPECTS
VOLUSIA COUNTY
DREDGING AND DIRECT SAND PLACEMENT: Volusia County is using sand dredged from the Intracoastal Waterway and inlet areas, pumping it onto the shore to help rebuild dunes and reinforce seawalls in sections that were hit hard by recent hurricanes. This approach focuses on restoring some of the natural sand buffer and improving storm protection for oceanfront properties. While it will add sand back to the system, you may not see a dramatically wider beach right away—the primary goal is dune and shoreline stabilization rather than creating a much larger beach area.
URGENT, ONGOING PROJECTS: The county prioritizes rapid action to stabilize areas at risk of further loss, recognizing that multiple phases may be needed for full restoration.
COMMUNITY COMMUNICATION: Regular project updates are provided, and public feedback is encouraged as work progresses. The county tries to minimize disruptions, but some beach access points may be closed temporarily during construction.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN VOLUSIA COUNTY
Visit the Volusia County website and look for “Coastal Division” or “Beach Projects” for the latest news and volunteer options.
Sign up for email updates or attend local meetings about coastal projects.
Get involved in volunteer days for dune planting or debris removal.
VOLUSIA COUNTY CONTACTS
VOLUSIA COUNTY BEACH PROJECTS AND COASTAL MANAGEMENTVOLUSIA COUNTY COASTAL DIVISION
COASTAL DIVISION DIRECTOR
JESSICA FENTRESS
JFENTRESS@VOLUSIA.ORG
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
RECPROCOASTAL@VOLUSIA.ORG
DAYTONA BEACH
386.248.8072
DELAND
386.736.2700, EXT. 18072
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
386.423.3300, EXT. 18072
Volusia's beach restoration updates and volunteer opportunities are often posted here. If you want event-specific info, check their news section or contact the division directly.
QUICK ACTION STEPS FOR RESIDENTS & VOLUNTEERS
Sign up for county updates and meeting notifications.
Volunteer for dune planting or beach clean-up events.
Respect fencing and signage on new dunes—avoid walking on them to help plants take root.
Share information with neighbors about why dunes matter for storm protection and wildlife.
If you’re a property owner, complete any paperwork needed for restoration access as soon as possible.
HOW YOU CAN HELP PROTECT OUR DUNES
USE DESIGNATED PATHS: Always use marked walkways to access the beach, avoiding any disturbance to dune vegetation.
RESPECT SIGNS AND BARRIERS: Roped-off areas are crucial for protecting sensitive habitats and ongoing restoration projects.
KEEP BEACHES CLEAN: Carry out all trash and belongings to prevent debris from harming the dunes and wildlife.
PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL EVENTS: Join beach clean-ups, restoration projects, or volunteer with local conservation groups to make a difference.
GET INVOLVED IN DUNE CONSERVATION
JOINING A LOCAL CONSERVATION EFFORT
RESEARCH LOCAL PROGRAMS: Start by exploring local conservation organizations or community groups that focus on dune protection. Many have websites or social media profiles with information on how to get involved.
SIGN UP FOR EVENTS: Look for upcoming beach clean-ups, dune restoration days, or educational workshops. These are often organized by local environmental groups or county agencies.
VOLUNTEER FOR DUNE PLANTING: Participate in events where native dune grasses are planted. These plants are essential for stabilizing the sand and preventing erosion.
EDUCATE YOURSELF AND OTHERS: Attend talks or workshops to learn more about the importance of dune ecosystems. Share this knowledge with friends and family to spread awareness.
CONTRIBUTE TO FUNDRAISING EFFORTS: Many conservation projects rely on donations. Consider contributing financially or helping with fundraising events to support ongoing efforts.
VOLUSIA COUNTY DUNE RESTORATION PROGRAMS
VOLUSIA COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT - DUNE RESTORATION & EDUCATION
This county division coordinates restoration projects, beach vegetation plantings, educational outreach, and opportunities for volunteers to participate in hands-on coastal conservation.
VOLUSIA COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
VOLUSIA COUNTY CONSERVATION PROJECTS
DAYTONA BEACH & SPACE COAST COASTAL AND MARINE CONSERVATION
Programs in Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach focus on stabilizing dunes and protecting sea turtle nesting habitats, with frequent opportunities for beach cleanups and habitat restoration.
CLEAN EARTH INITIATIVE – DAYTONA BEACH
UF/IFAS & SEA GRANT - DUNE MONITORING (VOLUSIA & FLAGLER)
UF/IFAS supports citizen science and monitoring programs for dunes and marine habitats across both counties.
UF/IFAS VOLUSIA/FLAGLER MARINE SCIENCE
VOLUSIA COUNTY SAND DUNE LAWS & REGULATIONS
STAY OFF THE DUNES
It is strictly prohibited to walk, trample, drive, dig, or allow pets on sand dunes in Volusia County. Dune vegetation is fragile and essential for holding the sand in place, protecting properties, and absorbing storm impacts. Always use designated walkovers and official beach access points—never shortcut across the dunes.
VOLUSIA COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES – PARKS AND RECREATION (SEC. 82-71, 82-72)
PERMIT FOR ANY DUNE WORK
Any construction, restoration, planting, or modification of dunes—including walkovers, sand fencing, and adding vegetation—requires permits. In Volusia County, dune-related work is regulated to protect the beach and dune system, as well as the wildlife that depends on it.
Permits for dune work are coordinated through Volusia County and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Before starting any project on or near the dunes, property owners should contact Volusia County’s environmental / beach management staff to confirm what permits are needed and how to apply.
Projects must be designed to protect native plants, maintain dune stability, and avoid disturbing sea turtles, shorebirds, and other sensitive wildlife habitats. Unauthorized grading, removal of vegetation, or construction in the dune area can result in violations and costly restoration requirements.
For questions about dune permits and requirements in Volusia County, property owners should reach out to the county’s environmental/beach management office and FDEP’s Beaches Program for current permitting guidance and standards.
Volusia County – Coastal / Beach Management
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Volusia County Coastal Division – Beach Management & Sand Placement
(Coastal engineering, dune and beach projects, feasibility study, and sand placement updates)
Department of Public Works – Coastal Division, Daytona Beach
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Volusia County Beach Department (operations & regulations)
Phone: 386‑423‑3373 (New Smyrna Beach office)3
Florida DEP – Volusia County & Coastal Permitting
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Volusia County Resources
(Local DEP field office contact, environmental and coastal permitting info)6
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FDEP Beaches Program – Permitting & Restoration
(State program that reviews and issues permits for work on the beach and dunes)
FLAGLER COUNTY BEACH MANAGEMENT PLAN
FDEP BEACHES PROGRAM – PERMITTING & RESTORATION
NO SAND REMOVAL WITHOUT APPROVAL
Sand cannot be taken from the beach or dune systems without explicit county and state authorization. Any sand moved during construction or restoration must remain within the local beach system to support ongoing dune health.
BEACH ACCESS & DRIVING RULES
Access to the beach must be through authorized walkovers and public access points.
Flagler County: No beach driving is permitted.
Volusia County: Beach driving is allowed in specific areas and is carefully managed to protect dunes and wildlife. Vehicles must stay on marked drive lanes and are never permitted on the dunes.
FLAGLER COUNTY PARKS & BEACH ACCESS INFO
VOLUSIA COUNTY BEACH DRIVING & PARKING PERMITS
DUNE RESTORATION & PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Both counties regularly conduct restoration projects, including planting native dune grasses, installing sand fencing, and hosting public education events. Residents and visitors are encouraged to join community clean-ups and restoration days.
FLAGLER COUNTY DUNE RESTORATION INFO
VOLUSIA COUNTY COASTAL PROTECTION EFFORTS & PUBLIC MEETINGS
STATEWIDE RULES & GUIDANCE
Florida law protects all coastal dunes. The FDEP is responsible statewide for permitting, management, and enforcement to protect these important habitats
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION – BEACHES & DUNES
FLORIDA STATUTE 161.053 – COASTAL CONSTRUCTION CONTROL LINE
Together, we have the power to make a lasting impact on the vibrant ecosystems of Flagler and Volusia Counties. Each small action—whether it’s participating in a beach clean-up, planting native vegetation, or simply spreading awareness—contributes to the health and resilience of our coastal environment. By supporting these efforts, we help protect a sanctuary for wildlife and ensure that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of our beaches. Let's continue to work hand in hand, fostering a community that champions conservation and cherishes the incredible wildlife that calls our shores home.
