HB631 brought confusion. Signs, armed security and even law enforcement officers and chains began popping up on some beachfront owners' properties, adding to the chaos.

​

After the existence of many decades of Customary Use, why would the beaches suddenly become private?

​

The bill indicated that the public could freely
use beaches seaward of the 19-year MHWL
(mean high water line). But finding that and adhering to it prove challenging at best. Public workers / officials began to refer to 'wet sand'
as the area for public use. 

​

But this standard is an incorrect one; limiting
at best and dangerous in some cases.
Confusion remains.

What's Happened Since?

​

Walton County attorneys filed a lawsuit
{ Circuit Court, December 2018 } requesting immediate reaffirmation of CU.

​

600+ beachfront property owners + their lawyers filed to intervene in the lawsuit, fighting against the preservation of Customary Use.

​

The lawyers for Walton County represent
the Board of County Commissioners; not
the beach-going public. But the public
needs a dedicated voice.

 

So Florida Beaches for All petitioned the county requesting to be allowed to intervene
IN SUPPORT OF CU.

​

On April 16, 2019 our Motion was GRANTED.

​

How Do I Use the Beach?

Check out these SoWal Beach Access Points.

Please stay tuned for more information.