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FDOT rules limit plantings near A1A; Highland Beach staff to notify residents after Triple R completion
Summary
Town staff said July 15 that Florida Department of Transportation guidance restricts new landscaping near State Road A1A after the Triple R project and that the town will notify property owners and condominium associations about spacing, permit requirements and maintenance rules.
Town planning and building staff told the commission on July 15 they contacted the Florida Department of Transportation about what landscaping can be reinstalled in the A1A right-of-way after the Triple R project finishes. Staff said FDOT advised that new landscaping will be limited and that sod will be allowed up to 2 feet 8 inches from the edge of pavement; other plantings within the state right-of-way will trigger FDOT permitting and require an amendment to the town's maintenance memorandum of agreement.
Staff explained that town code already requires a right-of-way permit for many improvements and that certain small items (mailboxes, underground sprinkler systems, replacement plants in the same location) are exempt from a town right-of-way permit but may still require FDOT approval. The town code also contains swale-protection language and specific limits on hedges: hedges on the west side of A1A must be located at least 2.5 feet from the westerly portion of the pedestrian/bike path, and planting height and placement may be limited for sight lines and drainage.
Staff and the building official said FDOT told them that plantings the department left in place during construction may remain (they are, in effect, grandfathered), but new plantings closer to the path or edge of pavement will not be permitted. Staff recommended outreach: a plain-language notice mailed or posted to property owners and condo boards summarizing FDOT's guidance, and that the town's website and upcoming app communications include FAQs so homeowners and landscaping contractors understand permitting and spacing rules.
The commission directed staff to prepare outreach materials (hard-copy mailed notices, a news flash and FAQs on the town's channels) explaining FDOT's limits, reminding owners that FDOT permits are required for landscaping in state right-of-way and that existing hedges left by FDOT must be maintained to avoid obstructing drainage or sight lines. Staff said code enforcement and public works will proactively monitor and follow up on violations rather than waiting for complaints.
Commissioners and staff noted that consistent permitting rules and proactive education would reduce disputes, and the commission asked that staff return with final outreach material after FDOT's follow-up clarification.
