Sand Fencing Guidelines for Property Owners

Sand fencing is a proven, cost-effective tool used in coastal dune management to promote natural sand accumulation and support the growth and stabilization of dune vegetation. Volusia County's Coastal Division utilizes sand fencing as part of a broader strategy to protect and restore the county's coastal dune system, which serves as a critical natural buffer against storm surge, erosion, and wave action.

How Sand Fencing Works

Sand fencing is typically constructed of wooden or synthetic slats arranged in a permeable lattice pattern. As wind-driven sand travels across the beach, the fencing reduces wind speed at ground level, causing sand to deposit and accumulate along the fence line. Over time, this process builds dune elevation and width, creating a more resilient coastal profile. Dune-stabilizing vegetation, such as sea oats (Uniola paniculata), is often planted in conjunction with sand fencing to further anchor accumulated sand and encourage long-term dune development.

For more information about dune planting practices and native coastal vegetation, visit Volusia County's Dune Planting page.

Importance to Beachfront Property Owners

A healthy, well-developed dune system provides natural protection for beachfront properties by:

• Absorbing and dissipating wave energy during storm events
• Reducing the risk of storm surge and overwash onto private property
• Providing a natural sediment reservoir that helps maintain beach width over time
• Supporting native coastal ecosystems and wildlife habitat

Beachfront property owners play an important role in dune preservation. Avoiding activities that disturb or damage dune vegetation and fencing helps ensure the long-term integrity of this natural protective barrier.

Regulatory Considerations

Coastal dune systems in Florida are protected under state law. Any alteration, excavation, or construction within the coastal construction setback area — including the placement of sand fencing — may require authorization from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Property owners interested in installing sand fencing on or adjacent to their property are encouraged to review applicable FDEP permitting requirements prior to undertaking any work. For FDEP permitting inquiries, property owners may contact Melanie Cain at (386) 895-1958 or melanie.cain@floridadep.gov.

For more information about Volusia County's dune management, please contact Jennifer Winters, Protected Species Manager, at 386-736-5927, ext. 12009 or jwinters@volusia.org. For more information about beach restoration programs, please contact Paul Whiting at 386-248-8072, ext. 20354 or pwhiting@volusia.org.