Visitors to St. Pete Beach will see new restrictions on beachfront signs following approval of an ordinance aimed at regulating how signs are placed along the shoreline.
The St. Pete Beach City Commission approved Ordinance 2026-11, which prohibits permanent signs, stakes, poles, and similar structures within 50 feet of the Gulf shoreline. Removable A-frame signs are still permitted outside the restricted area under specific conditions.
City officials said the ordinance was adopted in response to public safety concerns after metal rebar, wooden posts, and other sign structures were installed to mark private property boundaries along sections of the beach. Commissioners also cited environmental concerns, noting that permanent structures near the shoreline could interfere with sea turtle nesting.
The issue has sparked debate between beachfront property owners and residents over private property rights and public beach access.
Some hotel owners said signs are necessary to identify private property, protect guests, and assist law enforcement with trespassing complaints. They also raised concerns about liability and argued that property owners have the right to mark their land. Some owners have questioned whether the ordinance could withstand legal challenges.
Residents who supported the ordinance argued that large “Private Beach” and “No Trespassing” signs discourage public access to beaches that have historically been used by the public. Some also expressed concerns about signs containing restrictions such as prohibiting chairs, coolers, umbrellas, or stating that bags are subject to search.
Commissioners said the ordinance is intended to address the placement of permanent structures while broader discussions continue regarding public access, private property rights, and Florida’s customary use doctrine.
City officials indicated the new rules are a first step in addressing the issue, acknowledging that additional discussions and possible future actions may be needed.
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