Living Seawall Permit Fee Assistance Program

Living seawalls are shoreline protection structures designed to mimic natural habitats. By incorporating habitat‑enhancing features, they help improve water quality, support marine life, reduce wave energy and add aesthetic value to waterfront communities.

To encourage the use of these environmentally beneficial systems, the City of Fort Lauderdale offers a Living Seawall Permit Fee Assistance Program that provides a 100% discount on seawall building permit base fees. These base fees are calculated at 1.75% of the job cost value.
 

Maximum Assistance

  • $3,500 for residential properties (single-family)
  • $7,000 for commercial properties (including condominiums, townhomes, multi-family, etc.)

Program Qualification Requirements

To qualify, a project must meet the following criteria:

  • Install a vertical seawall structure made of concrete, steel, vinyl or similar rigid material, with habitat‑enhancing modifications on the waterward side, such as modular retrofit panels or textured elements that promote marine organism attachment.
  • Include permanent enhancements designed to mimic natural environments (e.g., mangrove‑root‑like textures, tidal pool features).
  • Ensure at least 51% of the seawall surface is “living” and meets the required NAVD elevation outlined in ULDR Section 47‑19.13.D.

Interested in Learning more? 

Property owners can complete the interest form below to share preliminary project details. After the form is submitted, City staff will contact you for an initial review and to answer any questions you may have about the program.

Ready to Apply?

Applications open on Monday, June 1. Application link coming soon.
 
Applicants must submit a completed application to the Development Services Department as part of their seawall permit package. The Public Works Department, through the Chief Waterways Officer or designee, will review living seawall components to confirm program eligibility.

 

Click here to view form.

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