PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Hurricane Helene left an unprecedented amount of beach sand on resident and business properties. Here's what to do — and what not to do — with it, according to Tampa Bay-area officials.
Return the sand to the beach
Clean sand can be returned to the beach above the high tide line, also known as the high water line. The sand must not have stains, odors or debris. Officials ask that sand is not placed over dune plants, turtle nests, storm debris or construction debris.
If the sand does not check those boxes, residents and businesses must request permission from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection by calling 840-245-2094 or emailing CCCL@FloridaDEP.gov.
Once permission is granted, the sand can be placed on the beach — just not in any of the restricted spots. Officials said failure to follow these rules may result in civil penalties.
If any heavy equipment is used to remove or transport the sand, be cautious of buried water lines and other infrastructure, officials said.
Sea wall damage
For properties with a sea well, if the seaward side is exposed, residents and businesses should consult with a structural engineer or licensed marine contractor before covering the wall with sand. Placing sand on a damaged wall could cause further damage, officials said.
If using a contractor, officials say you should first confirm that they are licensed. In the aftermath of hurricanes, unlicensed or fraudulent contractors can often target "desperate home and business owners." Licensed contractors can be verified at contractorsearch.pcclb.com.
Sand restrictions
Sand is not allowed to be put in the trash or placed in the road or any right-of-way. Officials ask that people do not attempt to clear public roads as the Public Works Department is working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to remove debris from clean sand to return it to the beach.
