FL S0178

Effective July 1, 2021, state-financed constructors must conduct a sea level impact projection (SLIP) study before commencing construction of coastal structures in the coastal building zone.

The Department of Environmental Protection must develop rules by July 1, 2021, establishing standards for SLIP studies, which must assess flooding and inundation risks over the structure's expected life or 50 years (whichever is less) and account for sea-level rise and storm risk.

SLIP studies must include scientific and engineering evidence of risks, mitigation methods, alternatives for design and siting, and the mean average annual chance of substantial flood damage (defined as damage exceeding 25 percent of market value from a single event).

State-financed constructors must submit completed SLIP studies to the department and wait 30 days after the study is published on the department's website before commencing construction.

The department may seek injunctive relief or recover state funds if a state-financed constructor begins construction without complying with SLIP study requirements; the rule applies only to projects not yet commenced when the rule is finalized.