From the 5DCA:
"Florida's Supreme Court first recognized the public's "customary" right to the use of Florida's privately17 owned dry sand beaches in the Tona-Rama decision. 294 So. 2d at 74. There the court said:
"The beaches of Florida are of such a character as to use
and potential development as to require separate
consideration from other lands with respect to the elements
and consequences of title. The sandy portion of the beaches
. . . [have] served as a thoroughfare and haven for fishermen
and bathers, as well as a place of recreation for the public.
The interest and rights of the public to the full use of the
beaches should be protected. 294 So. 2d at 77. The court recognized that the public may acquire a right to use the sandy area adjacent to the mean high tide line by custom when ?the recreational use of
the sandy area . . . has been ancient, reasonable, without interruption and free from dispute . . . .? Id. at 78.
(A period of twenty years was specifically defined as "ancient." )
Yes, it is a good idea. But this typically works when 2 ADJACENT properties share a walkover that is built on the property line. That way each neighbor does not have to cross over the other's property. I know of two occasions near me in BMB where this is done. Old Florida Beach is another example of "community" walkovers (there are others). However this should only be a "voluntary" thing. Hopefully the economics and aesthetics would encourage more of it. But then you may have a neighbor you don't get along with, and ANDY A's desire for solitude, becomes fully understandable to want your own walkover.BMBV, do you think it would be a good idea for neighboring beach front owners to get together and share walkovers? I am addresing this point because i truly believe that 1.they are ugly and detract from the natural beauty of the forward dune system and 2. they are expensive to remove from the beach as was done twice for many if not most of them in 04/05 after storms.
A structure (stairs) is the only practical way to access the beach from our elevation.If you already do this then BRAVO. If this is not an option in your case for some reason then might you consider a path type walkover instead of a large wooden structure?
Bugs the heck out of me!How do you feel about the 3 county vehicles a day driving on your beach?
I see no need for the sheriff to routinely patrol the beach. It's just a bad use of manpower and a waste of fuel. And in my opinion, it does not help Walton County's image, in light of the private/public beach issues. An UNSCHEDULED patrol every now and then would be just as effective.i think many residents, beach owners and non owners feel the tire tracks detract from the natural beauty, are dangerous to a small degree, and are not the best way to serve the beaches.
Yes, it is a good idea. But this typically works when 2 ADJACENT properties share a walkover that is built on the property line. That way each neighbor does not have to cross over the other's property. I know of two occasions near me in BMB where this is done. Old Florida Beach is another example of "community" walkovers (there are others). However this should only be a "voluntary" thing. Hopefully the economics and aesthetics would encourage more of it. But then you may have a neighbor you don't get along with, and ANDY A's desire for solitude, becomes fully understandable to want your own walkover.
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