New changes eliminates non-residents without existing permit, limits boat captains to 20

Walton County Commissioners voted 5-0 in favor of a new beach permit ordinance on Jan. 12, tightening the amount of beach access permits issued.  The new ordinance prohibits non-residents from attaining new permits unless they already have current permit issued. In addition, there will be no more than 20 charter fishing operation permits issued, and charter operations must pay additional fee for trailer.

Highlights of the new ordinance include:
For residents:
• Owner’s property must have constructed on it a habitable residence and proof of real property ownership must be presented to tax collector
• Vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder

For non-residents:
• Non-residents applying for the permit must have had a permit as of the effective date of the ordinance and for the year preceding the date of application.
• Property must have constructed on it a habitable residence and proof of real property ownership must be presented to tax collector
• Vehicle being registered must be titled in the name of the permit holder

Charter boats:
• The vehicle and boat trailer being registered shall be owned by the Charter Operator and used for the charter operation.
• Proof of residency (such as voter’s registration card, homestead exemption card, or driver’s license) must be presented to the Tax Collector at the time of application.
• Proof of a current Coast Guard Captain’s license.
• Proof of a current Florida charter fishing license.
• Additional $30 for charter boat trailer decals

New beach permits are issued June 1 of each year. To find out more about beach access permits, go to: http://www.waltontaxcollector.com/forms.asp?type=6